Here is the latest South Dakota news from The Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) For the third straight month, a survey of rural bankers in the Midwest and Plains suggests the weak economic conditions are strengthening, if slowly. A report issued by economist Ernie Goss of Creighton University says the overall index for the Rural Mainstreet economy rose to 38.4 this month, compared to the record low of 16.9 set in February.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) Authorities have positively identified a Mitchell teenager as the victim in a slaying this month that involved a body found in the trunk of a burned car. Attorney General Marty Jackley says DNA testing at the South Dakota Forensic Laboratory led to the identification of 16-year-old Jasmine Guevara.

MOORHEAD, Minn. (AP) Educators from around the country are brainstorming about American Indian college students in Moorhead (Minnesota) today. The Indigenous Peoples education Conference covers topics including preparing Native Americans for college, supporting students at tribal colleges and serving Indian students who attend mainly white institutions.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) The stray cat Becky Fisher found in her Rapid City yard when she returned home from the grocery store was not the typical tabby. When she got closer, Fisher realized it was a young mountain lion sitting in a tree. Officials with the state Game, Fish and Parks Department tranquilized the big cat yesterday and eventually euthanized it.

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