Good morning, Bismarck.

A fire damaged an unoccupied home in Bismarck — local crews are investigating the cause and reported no injuries.

The North Dakota Highway Patrol warns residents of a scam where callers, posing as a trooper named Gary Thomas, claim they have won $2 million—residents should hang up immediately as troopers do not deliver prize money.

Hope Burdolski of Bismarck was named North Dakota’s 2025 Remarkable Woman for her work in education and community outreach.

Her Gateway to Science program reached over 14,000 people, and she will compete as Miss Capital A’Fair on June 7 — using her platform to encourage STEM learning.

South Prairie School finished its first esports season with 12 team members who learned teamwork and gaming skills, and the program plans to expand next season.

Students in grades seven to 12 can join and build on their passion for gaming.

Senators passed House Bill 1361 to impose mandatory minimum sentences for state human trafficking charges.

The bill sets minimums of 20 years for AA felonies, 10 years for A felonies and 5 years for B felonies — affecting only district court cases — and Representatives will decide on the changes later.

Local parents who use a manufacturer’s assistance for hemophilia medication say that some insurance plans do not count these payments toward deductibles—forcing long-term financial challenges for families.

A bill to change this issue has passed its first Senate vote and will head to the governor’s desk soon—sought by local lawmakers to help patients in need.

North Dakota now has designated Highway 200 as the Fallen Peace Officers Memorial Highway—Senate Bill 2277 passed unanimously, was signed into law on March 18, and will go into effect on Aug.

1.

State senators approved House Bill 1549 Tuesday to set up a grant fund that will help parolees get state IDs and Medicaid—funds that counties will use to cover these costs.

The bill also asks the Department of Corrections to create a task force to study housing barriers—Governor Kelly Armstrong supports the reform effort.

Local government boards may soon be required to include time for public comment during regular meetings—Senate Bill 2180 mandates a set period for comments on relevant topics.

The Senate will vote on the bill soon, while many boards already have guidelines in place.

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.