September 5, 2025

Jannik Sinner, of Italy, reacts after defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime, of Canada, during the men's singles semifinals of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Sinner beats Auger-Aliassime at the U.S. Open and faces Alcaraz for a 3rd Grand Slam final in a row

September 5, 2025

Jannik Sinner has overcome a mid-match lull before retaking control for a 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4 victory over Felix Auger-Aliassime in the U.S. Open semifinals. Friday night’s victory moved Sinner closer to becoming the first repeat men’s champion in New York since Roger Federer took five trophies in a row from 2004-08. The No. 1-seeded Sinner, a 24-year-old from Italy, will face No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz, a 22-year-old from Spain, on Sunday, making them the first men in tennis history to meet in three straight Grand Slam finals within a single season, according to the ATP. The No. 1 ranking will be at stake, too.

People play mahjong at an event organized by the YLL Mahjong Club on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Terry Chea)

Mahjong nights draw young crowds to San Francisco bars and restaurants

September 5, 2025

Ryan Lee has turned his love of mahjong into a thriving social scene in San Francisco. After getting hooked on the classic Chinese tile game two years ago, he started hosting mahjong nights in his apartment. These gatherings grew into the YLL Mahjong Club, which now hosts bimonthly events with up to 200 guests. The club attracts a diverse crowd with its nightclub atmosphere, live DJs and custom cocktails. Mahjong is gaining popularity as people desire more opportunities to socialize offline. Eventbrite reports a 179% increase in U.S. mahjong events from 2023 to 2024. Lee plans to expand the club to other U.S. cities.

FILE - Florida Department of Health Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo speaks during a Patient Freedom news conference on March 5, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File)

Florida surgeon general Ladapo’s vaccine mandates opposition goes against medical mainstream

September 5, 2025

Dr. Joseph Ladapo, a Nigerian-born physician with impeccable U.S. medical credentials, says that requiring vaccinations for diseases like measles, polio and chickenpox amounts to government-imposed “slavery.” It’s far from the first time Florida’s surgeon general has cut against the medical establishment grain. Ladapo, an appointee of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, made worldwide headlines this week by announcing Florida would seek to eliminate all mandated vaccinations for schoolchildren and others. He cast the immunization requirements, which date back decades and are considered a major medical achievement, as improper government intrusion in personal health decisions.

Fabio Fernandez arranges clothes for his residency at Definitive Selection clothing store, one of many businesses in the predominantly Latino neighborhood that has seen a slowdown in foot traffic since President Donald Trump's threats of a federal law enforcement intervention, on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025 in Chicago. (AP Photo/Mark Vancleave)

Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day celebrations shadowed by Trump’s threats for the city

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump’s plan to dispatch National Guard troops and immigration agents into Chicago has put many Latino residents on edge. Some people are carrying their U.S. passports. Others are considering whether to openly celebrate the upcoming Mexican Independence Day. Vianney Alarcon said she expects people to be targeted regardless of their legal status. But in an act of defiance, she said she’ll be taking part in the festivities, while bringing along her passport. Alejandro Vences became a U.S. citizen this year. He said that gives him some comfort. Still, he said the anxiety is palpable in his heavily Mexican neighborhood of Pilsen.

An electronic sign reads $1.8 billion as crowds wait in line to buy lottery tickets at the Bluebird Liquor store in Hawthorne, Calif., on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Drawing set for a Powerball jackpot that has ballooned to $1.8 billion

September 5, 2025

A Powerball drawing will be held for what would be second highest lottery jackpot on record: an estimated $1.8 billion. Saturday’s prize ballooned after the lottery held more than 40 consecutive drawings without anyone matching all of the game’s six numbers. Whenever a drawing fails to get a winner, the lottery rolls over the winnings until the next drawing. The game’s terrible odds of 1 in 292.2 million are designed to generate big jackpots and ever-larger prizes. There are three drawings each week. The largest jackpot on record, $2.04 billion, was drawn in 2022 and went to a California ticket buyer.

President Donald Trump speaks at a dinner in the Rose Garden of the White House, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump’s job market promises fall flat as hiring collapses and inflation ticks up

September 5, 2025

The U.S. job market has gone from healthy to lethargic during President Donald Trump’s first seven months back in the White House. Friday’s jobs report showed employers added a mere 22,000 jobs in August, as the unemployment rate ticked up to 4.3%. Factories and construction firms shed workers. The new data exposed the widening gap between the booming economy Trump promised and the more anemic reality of what he’s managed to deliver so far. The White House prides itself on operating at a breakneck speed, but it’s now asking the American people for patience, with Trump saying better job numbers might be a year away.

Carlos Alcaraz, of Spain, celebrates after defeating Novak Djokovic, of Serbia, during the men's singles semifinals of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Alcaraz beats Djokovic at the US Open and now meets Sinner for the 3rd Grand Slam final in a row

September 5, 2025

Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner will meet for the third Grand Slam final in a row when they play for the U.S. Open title. And the No. 1 ranking will be on the line Sunday, too. Current No. 2 Alcaraz defeated 24-time major champion Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-6 (4), 6-2 in the semifinals Friday, before No. 1 Sinner eliminated No. 25 Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-1, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4. Alcaraz is seeking his sixth major title and Sinner his fifth. Both have won the U.S. Open once, with Sinner’s trophy coming last year. Alcaraz beat Sinner at the French Open in June, and Sinner won the rematch at Wimbledon in July.

Scoopers Shutout Patriots

September 5, 2025

BOX ELDER, SD – The Sturgis Scooper football team, ranked #4 in the latest 11AA poll, blanked the winless Douglas

Members of Congress listen as President Donald Trump speaks at a dinner in the Rose Garden of the White House, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump hosts White House dinner for GOP lawmakers at paved space he dubbed ‘Rose Garden Club’

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump hosted a dinner Friday night for members of Congress in the newly paved White House Rose Garden, telling them they were the first gathering of what he dubbed the “Rose Garden Club.” The president held a microphone as he addressed about 100 people, mostly House Republicans along with some GOP senators, thanking them for their support of his legislation. After Trump decided to pave over the grassy lawn in the Rose Garden, the White House set up tables, chairs and umbrellas that look strikingly similar to the outdoor setup at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach, Florida.

Taylor Townsend, of the United States, left, and Katerina Siniakova, of the Czech Republic, pose for a photo with Erin Routliffe, of New Zealand, left, and Gabriela Dabrowski, of Canada, Routliffe and Dabrowski won the women's doubles final of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in New York.of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

Dabrowski and Routliffe win US Open women’s doubles title, ending Townsend’s whirlwind tournament

September 5, 2025

Gabriela Dabrowski and Erin Routliffe won the U.S. Open women’s doubles title for the second time in three years by beating the top-ranked duo of Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova. It is Dabrowski’s first major triumph since undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Townsend’s whirlwind time in Flushing Meadows comes to an end just short of what would have bene a third Grand Slam championship for her and Siniakova. Townsend was part of one of the biggest stories at the U.S. Open after reporting that opponent Jelena Ostapenko told her after their match she had “no class” and “no education.”

CORRECTS TO POOL PHOTO - Maryland Gov. Wes Moore takes selfies with attendees ahead of a Community Walk in northwest Baltimore, Md., on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. (Ulysses Muñoz/The Baltimore Banner via AP, Pool)

Maryland leaders tell Trump they don’t need the National Guard to curb gun violence

September 5, 2025

In a pointed show of solidarity against President Donald Trump, state and local leaders walked through one of Baltimore’s most historically underserved neighborhoods amid ongoing efforts to curb gun violence. They were sending a clear message to Trump that the last thing they need is the National Guard deployment he has threatened. Homicides in Baltimore have reached historic lows with sustained declines starting in 2023. Officials attribute the progress to their crime-fighting strategies, which include social services meant to address the root causes of violence.

This year’s song of the summer is a ballad, not a banger. Here’s what that says about us

September 5, 2025

Every summer, one song emerges as the inescapable summer anthem. It’s a phenomenon so reliable it’s earned its own term in the media zeitgeist. But this year, the typical song of the summer seems to have gone missing. In its place is the slow, romantic ballad “Ordinary” by Alex Warren. But why? Listeners are gravitating toward nostalgia, favoring older hits from the “recession pop” era and streaming fewer new releases. Experts also suggest the appeal of “Ordinary” reflects the state of the world and the well-being of listeners in general.

President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Donald Trump to attend US Open men’s singles final as a client guest

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump is planning to attend the men’s singles final at the U.S. Open on Sunday as a client guest and will watch the match from a suite, a spokesperson for the U.S. Tennis Association said Friday. It’s set to be Trump’s first appearance at the Grand Slam tournament in New York since 2015. He frequently attended in the years before that when he lived in New York and before he launched his political career. It’s the latest high-profile sporting event for Trump after going to the Super Bowl, Daytona 500, UFC fights and the FIFA Club World Cup since beginning his second White House term

FILE - New York Mayor Eric Adams speaks during a campaign launch rally at City Hall, Thursday, June. 26, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

NYC Mayor Eric Adams says he won’t quit the race and is the only one who can beat Mamdani

September 5, 2025

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has said again that he won’t end his reelection campaign. During a hastily convened news conference Friday, Adams stressed that he will remain in the race as reports swirl that he’s been approached about possibly taking a job in the Trump administration. He told reporters “I am running for reelection” and vowed to defeat the Democratic nominee, Zohran Mamdani. The mayor has spent the week fending off news reports that intermediaries for President Donald Trump have contacted people in his orbit to talk about whether he would consider abandoning his campaign to take a federal job.

Attorney General Pam Bondi speaks during a human smuggling news conference Thursday Sept. 4, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)

Justice Department talks about banning transgender gun owners spark fury across political spectrum

September 5, 2025

The Justice Department is drawing swift condemnation from gun rights groups and LGBTQ advocates alike after floating that it was considering restricting transgender people from owning guns — a move that would all but certainly face immediate constitutional challenges if ever implemented. The discussions come in the wake of the shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school that federal officials have said was carried out by a transgender shooter, according to a person familiar with the matter. The person, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, cautioned that the talks were in the early stages and no proposal has been finalized.

The Presidents of Latvia Edgars Rinkevics, 1st left, Lithuania President Gitanas Nausėda, second left, Estonia President Alar Karis, and the Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen, right, pose at a meeting with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, center, in Warsaw, Poland, Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

European countries near Russia puzzled by US plans to cut defense funding

September 5, 2025

Confusion has emerged over Trump administration plans to halt some security assistance funding to European countries along the border with Russia. Some Baltic defense leaders say they haven’t received official notification. A person familiar with the discussions and a congressional aide say Pentagon funding for programs that provide training and equipment to reinforce security is being cut. It wasn’t clear exactly how much funding would be affected, though it could be hundreds of millions of dollars. A White House official said the action has been coordinated with European countries and is part of President Donald Trump’s plan to ensure “Europe takes more responsibility for its own defense.”

Republican Winsome Earle-Sears greets voters at her military-themed rally at Saucy’s Sit-Down Bar.B.Q in Hopewell, Va., on Aug. 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Olivia Diaz)

Democrats, GOP test their playbooks as Trump looms over elections in Virginia and New Jersey

September 5, 2025

Democrats and Republicans are testing dueling playbooks in fall elections that will decide the leadership of Virginia and New Jersey — and perhaps a new direction for the parties heading into next year’s midterms. In both states, Democratic candidates for governor are distancing themselves from their party’s far-left wing in campaigns focused instead on rising costs and the economy under President Donald Trump’s leadership. The move reflects what some see as a critical lesson from the 2024 national elections, in which Democrats faced a backlash for supporting so-called “woke” social policies. Republicans in Virginia and New Jersey are largely unwilling to separate themselves from Trump.

Novak Djokovic, of Serbia, acknowledges the crowd after losing to Carlos Alcaraz, of Spain, during the men's singles semifinals of the U.S. Open tennis championships, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

Novak Djokovic won’t give up on trying to win a 25th major title after another semifinal loss

September 5, 2025

Novak Djokovic says he wants to keep striving to claim a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, but it’s hard to compete with someone as talented and young as Carlos Alcaraz in best-of-five-set matches. The 38-year-old Djokovic lost to the 22-year-old Alcaraz in three sets in the U.S. Open semifinals on Friday. There was a moment, albeit a brief one, that Djokovic appeared to be making a match of it, up 3-0 in the second set. But Alcaraz soon regained control. It was the fourth time in four Slam events in 2025 that Djokovic reached the semifinals — and fourth time he exited in that round.

Houston Astros' Taylor Trammell hits a double off of New York Yankees relief pitcher David Bednar during the ninth inning of a baseball game Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Houston. (AP Photo/Karen Warren)

Astros’ Taylor Trammell facing no discipline after bat confiscated following double vs. Yankees

September 5, 2025

Houston Astros outfielder Taylor Trammell is facing no discipline from Major League Baseball after umpires confiscated his two-color bat when New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone asked for it to be checked after he hit a double. Trammell says he spoke to MLB officials Friday. He says he understands and appreciates their explanation for what happened Thursday night because of some discoloration on the dark-colored barrel of the bat. Boone says he he never thought Taylor was up to anything in the ninth inning of an 8-4 win by New York. He says he’s also satisfied with the ruing and explanation..

FILE - Joseph David Emerson, back, appears in Multnomah County Circuit Court for an indictment hearing in Portland, Ore., on Dec. 7, 2023. (Dave Killen/The Oregonian via AP, Pool, File)

Ex-Alaska Airlines pilot who tried to cut a flight’s engines pleads guilty

September 5, 2025

A former Alaska Airlines pilot who tried to cut the engines of a passenger flight in 2023 has pleaded guilty or no-contest to all charges against him. Joseph Emerson was riding in an extra seat in the cockpit of a Horizon Air flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco and was subdued by the crew. The plane landed safely in Oregon. Emerson appeared in state and federal court in Oregon on Friday to enter the pleas. His attorney says Emerson reached plea agreements to take responsibility and he hopes to avoid further time behind bars. Emerson told police he’d taken psychedelic mushrooms two days earlier and hadn’t slept in over 40 hours.

Washington Metropolitan Police officers and military police soldiers with the District of Columbia National Guard watch as activists protest President Donald Trump's federal takeover of policing of the District of Columbia, Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Congress is expected to allow Trump’s takeover of DC police to expire

September 5, 2025

Congress is expected to allow President Donald Trump’s temporary takeover of Washington’s police department to expire next week as the 30 day limit comes to an end. Trump took control of the Metropolitan Police Department in August for 30 days in addition to deploying hundreds of National Guard troops, saying he was going to “take our capital back” from criminals. Congress would have to approve an extension, and Republicans on Capitol Hill have no plans to do so in the next week. Mayor Muriel Bowser has said the city will continue to coordinate with federal law enforcement.

FILE - Hagi Abucar places flowers for his former coworker Lindsey Herkness on the south reflecting pool during the 9/11 Memorial ceremony on the 23rd anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, Sept. 11, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura, File)

Trump seeking ways to take over 9/11 memorial in NYC

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump’s administration says it’s looking at ways the federal government can assume operation of the 9/11 memorial in New York City. The White House on Friday said the administration has had “preliminary exploratory discussions” about the idea but declined to elaborate. The office noted that the Republican pledged during his campaign last year to make ground zero a national monument. Beth Hillman, president and CEO of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, says the idea of the government taking on the costs “makes no sense” as the Trump administration pares back federal spending. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul was also critical of the idea.

FILE - Vice President of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, addresses the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Sept. 26, 2024, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)

US set to ease travel restrictions on African leader accused of corruption

September 5, 2025

The Trump administration is set to allow a West African leader accused of flagrant corruption to travel to the United States for this month’s U.N. General Assembly and cities outside New York that he has previously been barred from visiting. Two officials familiar with the matter said the State Department is processing a temporary sanctions waiver for the vice president of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro “Teddy” Obiang, following recommendations that it is in the U.S. national interest to blunt growing Chinese influence in the country and boost American business interests there. Obiang has been accused, and in some cases convicted, of pilfering his impoverished country’s resources to feed a lifestyle of luxury cars, mansions and superyachts.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro speaks with reporters as President Donald Trump, from left, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth listen in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Two DC teens arrested in congressional intern’s fatal shooting

September 5, 2025

Two teenagers have been arrested on murder charges in the killing of a congressional intern who was struck by stray bullets during a shooting in the nation’s capital. It’s a crime that President Donald Trump cited in announcing a law-enforcement surge in Washington. Eric Tarpinian-Jachym, of Granby, Massachusetts, was fatally shot on the night of June 30. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Friday’s arrests. She said both suspects in his killing are 17-year-old juveniles but are charged as adults with first-degree murder while armed. Police were searching for a third suspect whose name and age weren’t immediately released.

Trump signs order to change name of Department of Defense to Department of War

September 5, 2025

An aerial of the the Pentagon, May 12, 2021. (Photo by Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brittany A. Chase) President Donald

[UPDATE] Sheridan Lake Road Water Break Impacts Traffic

September 5, 2025

8:18PM Crews have repaired the water line, service is restored and traffic flow has returned to normal. RAPID CITY, S.D.

Rapid City Water Superintendent Eric Boyda adrdresses questions from local media regarding the city’s water supply

Rapid City Water Supply Secure Despite USGS Study Findings

September 5, 2025

RAPID CITY, SD – The City of Rapid City’s water superintendent, Eric Boyda, has provided assurances that the community’s water

President Donald Trump shakes hands with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth watches in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Trump’s push to change Department of Defense to ‘War Department’ would turn back the clock to WWII

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump’s push to rename the Department of Defense goes beyond subjective word choices about what to call the military agency. He argues that the historical name – the War Department – better reflects the bottom-line mission. But the idea also would continue Trump’s rejection of the international order established after World War II. Congressional action is still required. The original War Department name traces back to the first Congress after the Constitution was ratified. It carried through the War of 1812, the Civil War and two world wars. After World War II, Congress renamed the Pentagon agency “the Department of Defense,” and U.S. foreign policy and military rhetoric shifted to talking about “peace through strength.”

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey walks on the sideline during a preseason NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, in Santa Clara, Calif. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

49ers star Christian McCaffrey questionable for season opener after calf injury

September 5, 2025

San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey is questionable for the season opener after injuring his calf at practice. Coach Kyle Shanahan said McCaffrey got hurt on Thursday and didn’t practice Friday. His availability for Sunday’s game at Seattle will be a game-time decision. McCaffrey missed most of last season’s training camp with a calf injury and later had knee issues. If he can’t play, the 49ers will likely rely on Brian Robinson, who recently joined the team. Receiver Jauan Jennings is set to play after missing training camp with a calf injury and contract dispute.

FILE - U.S. Border Patrol agent David Maland is recognized with military honors before his burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis on Feb. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr, File)

Zizians group member pleads not guilty to murder and other charges in Vermont border agent’s death

September 5, 2025

A woman accused of killing a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont has made her first court appearance since prosecutors said they will seek the death penalty against her. Teresa Youngblut, a member of the cultlike Zizians group, pleaded not guilty Friday to murder and other charges. She is accused of killing U.S. Border Patrol agent David Maland in Vermont in January. New indictments last month made her eligible for the death penalty, and the U.S. Justice Department said it would seek it as part of the Trump administration’s push for more federal executions. Authorities had been monitoring Youngblut and her companion, Felix Bauckholt, before the shooting on Interstate 91. Bauckholt was killed, and Youngblut was wounded.

Trump signs order to designate nations that hold Americans as sponsors of wrongful detention

September 5, 2025

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday that would let the U.S. designate nations as state sponsors of wrongful detention, using the threat of associated sanctions to deter Americans from being detained abroad or taken hostage. The designation, similar to state sponsors of terrorism designation that the U.S. imposes, allow the State Department to target countries falling under the label with penalties such as economic restrictions, restrictions on visas for those involved and travel restrictions for Americans to those countries.

Federal judge blocks Noem from ending temporary protections for Venezuelans, Haitians

September 5, 2025

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem at a Nashville press conference on July 18, 2025, to discuss arrests of

Method Man’s passion earned him a spot in the Jets’ fan hall of fame. He predicts a win vs. Steelers

September 5, 2025

Method Man, known for his role in Wu-Tang Clan, has been a passionate New York Jets fan since childhood. This Sunday, before the Jets’ season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, he’ll be introduced along with three others as 2024 inductees into the team’s fan hall of fame. Although he can’t attend because of commitments at the Toronto International Film Festival, he’s thrilled about the honor. Method Man has been a season-ticket holder since 2012 and cherishes his connection to the team. Despite the Jets’ ups and downs, he remains hopeful for the new season under coach Aaron Glenn and quarterback Justin Fields. And he predicts a win Sunday against Aaron Rodgers.

FILE - Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, right, looks toward the scoreboard during the second half of an NBA basketball game, May 1, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, file)

Clippers owner Ballmer welcomes NBA probe, tells ESPN he wasn’t involved in Leonard endorsement deal

September 5, 2025

Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer welcomes the NBA’s investigation into alleged salary cap rule violations. He denies involvement in a $28 million endorsement deal between Kawhi Leonard and a sustainability company. Ballmer said in an interview with ESPN that he would want the NBA to investigate any team accused of similar violations. He introduced Leonard to Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC, a company he once invested in, which is now bankrupt. The Clippers denied breaking any rules. The NBA could impose penalties if violations are found. The Clippers ended their partnership with Aspiration after two years due to contractual default.

Neurosurgeon says there are ‘rays of hope’ for girl critically hurt in Minneapolis church shooting

September 5, 2025

A neurosurgeon says there are “rays of hope” for a 12-year-old girl critically injured in a Minneapolis church shooting. Sophia Forchas was among the most seriously wounded when a shooter opened fire at the Church of the Annunciation on Aug. 27. Two students were killed, and 21 people were injured. Sophia remains in intensive care with a bullet lodged in her brain. Her doctor says her young brain’s ability to heal offers hope. On Friday, students across Minnesota and other U.S. cities staged walkouts, demanding lawmakers ban assault weapons. Sophia’s father expressed gratitude for global prayers and support.

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro walks outside the White House, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Prosecutors drop federal case against woman accused of threatening to kill Trump

September 5, 2025

Justice Department prosecutors are dropping their federal case against a woman who was charged with threatening to kill President Donald Trump. It’s the latest in a string of self-inflicted setbacks for prosecutors during Trump’s law-enforcement surge in the nation’s capital. A grand jury refused to indict Nathalie Rose Jones before U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s office asked a judge on Friday to dismiss her case in district court. A one-page court filing by Pirro’s office says dismissing the case against Jones “is in the interests of justice,” but it doesn’t elaborate.

Music Review: Justin Bieber has more to say about love on ‘Swag ll’

September 5, 2025

If it wasn’t clocking to you before, it should be now. Justin Bieber is doing whatever he wants. Friday’s “Swag ll” follows the July release of “Swag.” In a review, The Associated Press music writer Maria Sherman says “Swag ll” is an obvious companion piece, not only in name but also in sound, theme and zeal. Collaborators repeat. There are songs about his wife and references to his religion. But Sherman says there is also a kind of lightness to “Swag ll.” That is likely because Bieber spends less time considering how he is depicted in the media on this release. Sift and find gold.

FEMA would be a Cabinet-level agency under bipartisan bill approved by US House panel

September 5, 2025

A sign is seen outside the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at Weaverville Town Hall on March 29, 2025 in Weaverville,

Inter Miami forward Luis Suárez, third from left, is separated from Seattle Sounders players and staff as Sounders midfielder Kalani Kossa-Rienzi, center right facing, holds a staff member back during a fight after the Sounders won the Leagues Cup final soccer match Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson)

Inter Miami’s Luis Suárez suspended for 6 Leagues Cup matches after spitting incident

September 5, 2025

Inter Miami forward Luis Suárez has been suspended yet again for on-field antics, this time getting a six-match ban from future Leagues Cup matches in response to his conduct — including spitting at someone — after his team lost Sunday’s final to the Seattle Sounders. Suárez will not be able to play in the tournament next season, and the ban could stretch into future seasons. Inter Miami played six Leagues Cup matches this year on its way to the final. The ban would not apply to Major League Soccer matches, though it is possible that Suárez could still face sanctioning from that league as well. The Leagues Cup is a separate competition.

Technical colleges plan to request $11 million in one-time state funding for building projects

September 5, 2025

The campus of Lake Area Technical College in Watertown. (Courtesy of Lake Area Technical College) Leaders of the state’s technical

President Donald Trump, right, shakes the hand of Russia's President Vladimir Putin during a joint press conference at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Friday, Aug. 15, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

US and EU plan to discuss new Russia sanctions: What could be next for Putin?

September 5, 2025

European officials, led by EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan, plan to visit the U.S. Treasury Department on Monday to discuss economic pressure on Russia, including new sanctions. A person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press about the meeting. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent spoke with European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen on Friday to prepare. White House, State Department and Trade Representative officials are expected to participate. The meeting comes as President Donald Trump has grown increasingly frustrated by his inability to end the 3 1/2-year Russian war in Ukraine.

Car, furniture and other junk pulled from McCook Lake as state completes $1 million flood cleanup

September 5, 2025

Grass grows on Sept. 5, 2025, along a part of the McCook Lake shore that was previously inundated with sediment.

FCC taking steps that would allow US prisons to jam prisoners’ cellphone signals

September 5, 2025

Federal officials are moving a step closer to allowing state and federal prisons to jam cellphone signals from devices smuggled to inmates. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr on Friday announced the agency’s plan to vote on September 30th to lift a restriction that currently prohibits signal jamming in prisons. Officials argue that smuggled phones enable prisoners to plot violence and run criminal enterprises. The debate has been ongoing for years, with prison directors saying the smuggled devices are dangerous because they allow inmates to continue committing crimes from behind bars.

Members of the District of Columbia National Guard standing next to an MATV vehicle scan the area as they patrol outside Union Station, Monday, Sept. 1, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

Georgia sends troops to DC in sign that Trump’s policing push will continue

September 5, 2025

Georgia is becoming the eighth state to send National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., to support President Donald Trump’s law enforcement operation in the capital. Republican Gov. Brian Kemp said Friday that most troops would deploy later this month to relieve guard members from elsewhere. The District of Columbia is challenging Trump’s use of the National Guard as an illegal use of the military for domestic law enforcement. The White House says the deployment is within Trump’s authority. Kemp earlier mobilized 75 Georgia National Guard members to support immigration enforcement in Georgia. Those soldiers won’t be making arrests. Georgia is one of 11 states where the guard will be helping ICE.

FILE - Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., speaks during the confirmation hearing for Kash Patel, at the Capitol in Washington, Jan. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis, File)

National conservatism asserts its dominance in Trump’s Washington

September 5, 2025

National conservatism is reshaping the Republican Party in President Donald Trump’s second term. This week, its leaders gathered in Washington to celebrate their rise and lay out their next steps. Missouri Sen. Eric Schmitt delivered a speech titled “What is an American?” in which he criticized some legal immigration and declared, “America doesn’t belong to them — it belongs to us.” The conference featured top Trump officials, GOP lawmakers and right-wing figures. Panels focused on Christian identity, immigration and reversing same-sex marriage rights. Once seen as fringe, the movement now claims influence at the highest levels and shows no signs of slowing.

Sonic Powersports sets sales record at 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

September 5, 2025

STURGIS, S.D. — Sonic Powersports shattered sales records during the 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, with more than 1,100 motorcycles sold across its five Harley-Davidson dealerships in the Black Hills. The Charlotte, N.C.-based Sonic Automotive, one of the nation’s largest automotive and powersports retailers, said its flagship Black Hills Harley-Davidson in Rapid City again ranked as […]

Trump campaigned on closing the Education Department. Reality is more difficult.

September 5, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump stands with Secretary of Education Linda McMahon after signing an executive order to reduce the size

FILE - Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry speaks to reporters outside "Camp 57," a facility to house immigration detainees at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, La., Wednesday, with Attorney General Pam Bondi, , left, and ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan, partially visible right, Sept. 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)

Louisiana governor pays fine and discloses $13K in unreported free trips in deal to end ethics probe

September 5, 2025

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry has agreed to pay a $900 fine for failing to disclose a free trip to Hawaii and other complimentary trips while serving as the state’s attorney general. He also revealed he has accepted nearly 20 complimentary trips worth more than $13,000 since 2021. The settlement Landry reached Friday with the state ethics board ends a yearslong ethics investigation against the Republican governor. In reaching the settlement, Landry avoids having a panel of judges rule on whether he violated state law, which could have led to financial penalties exceeding $10,000 for each violation. Landry has overhauled the state ethics board since becoming governor in 2024.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) walks off the field after being disqualified for unsportsman like conduct before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Jalen Carter shames Super Bowl champion Eagles by spitting on Dak Prescott. What happens next?

September 5, 2025

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter faces backlash after being ejected for spitting on Dallas quarterback Dak Prescott. This incident occurred just six seconds into the Eagles’ 24-20 victory in the NFL season opener. Carter apologized, calling it a mistake, but he might face further penalties. The NFL has emphasized sportsmanship this season, cracking down on unsportsmanlike conduct. Carter’s past behavior, including multiple penalties, could lead to severe consequences. Meanwhile, Jalen Hurts excelled with multiple touchdowns, but Saquon Barkley and others struggled. The Eagles now prepare for a Super Bowl rematch against Kansas City.

FILE - This combo of file photos shows, left image, United States' Amanda Anisimova, facing camera, embracing Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka after losing at the the French Open tennis tournament on June 1 2025, in Paris; and right image, Sabalenka, facing camera, embracing Anisimova after losing in a semifinal match at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships on July 10, 2025, in London. (AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson, left, and Kin Cheung)

Amanda Anisimova faces defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the U.S. Open women’s final

September 5, 2025

It is impossible to look ahead to Amanda Anisimova’s U.S. Open final against defending champion Aryna Sabalenka on Saturday without viewing it through the prism of what happened less than two months ago at Wimbledon. Impossible for Anisimova. Impossible for Sabalenka. Impossible for anyone, really. That’s because Anisimova made it to her first title match at any Grand Slam tournament by beating the No. 1-ranked Sabalenka in the semifinals at the All England Club. And because Anisimova’s major final debut ended with a 6-0, 6-0 loss to Iga Swiatek. But Anisimova eliminated Swiatek in New York.

From slaughterhouse worker to literary giant: George Saunders wins National Book Award

September 5, 2025

George Saunders has been named this year’s winner of the National Book Award for Distinguished Contributions to American Letters. The National Book Foundation announced the honor on Friday. Saunders, known for his bestselling short story collection “Tenth of December,” is celebrated for his unique blend of humor, poignant narratives and social commentary. At 66, he is the youngest recipient since 2004. His work often combines dark humor with a deep faith in humanity. Saunders’ first novel, “Lincoln in the Bardo,” won the Booker Prize in 2017. His next novel, “Vigil,” is set for release early next year.

Officers Justified in Fatal Haakon County Shooting

September 5, 2025

RAPID CITY, S.D. – South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announced that an investigation by the South Dakota Division of

RCAS, State Schools Offer Free, Reduced Meals

September 5, 2025

RAPID CITY – The South Dakota Department of Education has announced its policy for free and reduced-price meals for the

Amy Allen poses with the award for songwriter of the year, non-classical during the 67th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2025, left, Julia Michaels appears at the 67th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2025, center, and Sebastian Kole appears at the 66th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 4, 2024. (AP Photo)

Long in the shadows, a new generation of songwriters gain recognition and success as artists

September 5, 2025

A new generation of songwriters are stepping into the spotlight, gaining recognition alongside the artists they write for. In recent years, figures like Muni Long and Julia Michaels have emerged as successful performers in their own right. This shift is partly due to fans’ growing interest in the creators behind their favorite songs. Platforms like TikTok and artists acknowledging their collaborators have also played a role. Songwriters are releasing music under their own names, seeking creative autonomy and financial benefits. Despite challenges, this trend highlights a new era where songwriters are celebrated for their talents, so says Amy Allen, Julia Michaels and PYNK BEARD.

South Dakota Library Announces Awards

September 5, 2025

PIERRE – The South Dakota State Library, a division of the South Dakota Department of Education, has announced the 2025-2028

WY to host congressional hearing on public lands maintenance

September 5, 2025

Grand Teton National Park will host a congressional hearing today on renewed funding for a law providing for maintenance on

Rush Add Defenseman Mike Van Unen to Roster

September 5, 2025

RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Rapid City Rush, the Black Hills’ ECHL team, announced the signing of defenseman Mike Van

Diaper Drive to Address Diaper Need in Rapid City

September 5, 2025

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Several city government offices in Rapid City will again serve as collection points for an annual

South Dakota Prep Volleyball Scoreboard for Thursday, September 4

September 5, 2025

UNDATED – The South Dakota Prep Volleyball Scoreboard for Thursday, September 4: Aberdeen Roncalli def. Tiospa Zina, 25-7, 25-8, 25-9

BHSU Drops Season Opener to Augustana in Five-Set Thriller

September 5, 2025

CHADRON, NEB.– The Black Hills State Yellow Jackets (0-1) were very close to pulling off a major comeback on the

Governor’s prison bill addresses some — not all — lawmaker concerns

September 5, 2025

The northeastern Sioux Falls site selected by Gov. Larry Rhoden’s administration for a new men’s prison. (John Hult/South Dakota Searchlight)

Hire the Hills September Hiring Event

September 5, 2025

PIERRE, SD – The Department of Labor and Regulation Rapid City Job Service is hosting its “Hire the Hills” hiring

The Daily Slice: Friday September 05, 2025

September 5, 2025

The Daily Slice, your Black Hills news podcast in under 10 minutes. Delivered every morning Monday-Friday at homesliceaudio.com/dailyslice Rapid City

Competitive cheer – Sturgis places second at Belle Fourche Invite

September 5, 2025

BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. – The Sturgis Scooper Competitive Cheer team had a strong second place finish at the Belle Fourche

St Thomas More wins Belle Fourche Challenge Cup

September 5, 2025

BELLE FOURCHE, S.D. – St Thomas More captured the title of the Belle Fourche Challenge in high school boys golf

Welcome to wplace: A chaotic, collaborative digital canvas where users ‘paint the world’

September 5, 2025

A new online platform called wplace invites users to “paint the world” on a massive digital canvas. This ever-evolving map allows people to create art using a limited number of pixels over time. Many team up to produce larger and more elaborate images. Users have painted tributes to pop culture and symbols of local identity, as well messages of protest and global conflicts. Experts say this reflects an ongoing desire for collaboration and expression in digital spaces. However wplace also faces challenges with content moderation. Some have raised concerns about hate speech, as well as frustrations about others “griefing” their artwork.

Students build a dragon out of LEGO bricks during class at Lively Elementary on Thursday, Aug. 21, 2025, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Ronaldo Bolaños)

The gender gap in math widened in the pandemic. Schools are trying to make up lost ground

September 5, 2025

Efforts to close the gender gap in STEM education are gaining momentum after setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nationwide, the gap between girls and boys in math test scores had largely closed before the pandemic. But girls lost ground in math test scores during COVID. And the gap has continued to widen. Boys have recovered faster in math since the pandemic, partly due to teaching methods that experts say may favor them. Schools are now working to reintroduce programs that boost girls’ confidence and interest in STEM, aiming to rebuild progress lost during the pandemic.

September 5, 2025.

Finance.