• PIERRE, S.D. (AP) -- The South Dakota Arts Council has awarded nearly $1.2 million in grants and other funding for more than 225 artists, art organizations, schools and art projects.
• Arts Council Director Michael Pangburn says the state grants create nearly $15 million in local matching funds.
• Grants totaling nearly $607,000 were awarded to arts organizations and other nonprofit groups that produce arts activities. Another $157,000 will fund about 220 weeks of artist residencies in schools and other community groups.

• About $220,000 will support artist fellowships, apprenticeships and other projects, while more than $208,000 will fund special activities.
• State Tourism Secretary James D. Hagen says the arts enhance economic development by making South Dakota a vibrant place for residents and an inviting destination for visitors. The Arts Council is part of the Tourism Department.
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• RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) -- A giant 130-year-old tortoise that died last summer will be memorialized one year after its death.
• Methuselah was a beloved mascot of Reptile Gardens in Rapid City.
• The tortoise will be honored with a life-cast bronze statue on July 10 during a morning ceremony at the park.
• Public relations director Johnny Brockelsby says Methuselah has been in the park since 1954 and will be deeply missed by employees and visitors.
• A children's playground has also been created at Reptile Gardens in Methuselah's memory. Brockelsby says children loved Methuselah, and it's a fitting way to honor the tortoise.
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