Good morning, Bismarck.

Prairie Grit Adaptive Sports received $23,800 from Hess Corporation on March 27th to support its 2025 summer programs that offer adaptive sport camps, a fishing day, and soccer for youth and adults with disabilities.

The donation will help expand these activities in north central North Dakota — strengthening inclusive recreational opportunities.

The American Red Cross held a recognition event in Minot to honor volunteers for their work in disaster response, safety planning, and support for military families in western North Dakota.

Bismarck honorees included Kyle Pearson, Mary Mahoney, and Brian Weigel, while Judi Leonard was recognized for over 6,000 hours of service—showing how hard work makes a big difference.

A report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows the U.S. had an estimated 42,795 car crash fatalities in 2022 while North Dakota recorded 4.2 drunken driving fatalities per 100k residents—making up 33% of its crash deaths and ranking 20th among 52 states and territories.

Old cursive skills are fading as digital messages replace handwritten texts—historical documents like soldier letters and early state records are now harder to read—and the National Archives is seeking volunteers to help read records from the Revolutionary War.

Families can visit the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum on Saturday, April 12, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Furs, Frogs, Flowers, and Feathers: Springtime Exploration Day—a free, hands-on event where elementary-aged kids explore nature's cycles through interactive stations.

Residents can learn to play Mahjong at the Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library where the Dragon Players host a drop-in group meeting every week.

The group will meet Thursdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Missouri River Room starting April 10 through June 26—no registration is needed.

Three Bismarck State College students were chosen for the 2025 All-North Dakota Academic Team for their academic achievements, leadership and service.

The honors went to Millie Hyatt, a Performing Arts major, Alisa Piper, a Graphic Design and Communications major, and Blaize Morris, a Computer Science major.

After next week, every bill and resolution will have been sent to committee and lawmakers will work on appropriations and settle details — conference committees will finish the job.

Lawmakers plan to take up House Bill 1176 on property taxes, prepare several education bills on school choice, and vote on overriding the governor’s veto on business tax incentives.

The Bismarck Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast will be held on May 20 and will feature Alan Dohrmann as the featured speaker—organizers have confirmed his role in this year’s event.

Egg shortages are affecting grocery stores as many locals look for protein alternatives.

Health expert Kevin David Rail of Training Nets recommends eight substitutes—such as Greek yogurt, tofu, and lean meats—to keep up a high-protein diet amid the ongoing shortage.

North Dakota EMS Rendezvous Conference and Tradeshow

9:00 AM – 6:45 PM — Bismarck Event Center — Registration fees apply — Explore the latest in emergency services at this engaging tradeshow.

Boxers & Beer Fundraiser

4-10 p.m. — Elks Lodge #1199 — Tickets available — Back and bigger than ever, this fundraising event supports the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation.

Dakota Garden Expo

3-8 p.m. — Bismarck Event Center — Check website for entry details — Explore a wide array of exhibitors showcasing garden supplies and resources for all gardening enthusiasts.

DIY Time Crunch Mini Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio — Check for registration fees — Create a personalized sign with step-by-step guidance while enjoying the creative atmosphere.