Good morning, Bismarck.

After 20 years of planning, the $1.6 million Car Bodies boat ramp on the Missouri River Natural Area opened today to give anglers a faster way to reach fish upriver.

Fisherman Steve Long said the ramp saves time from long bridge crossings—Cole Higlin of Mandan Parks and Recreation noted that a 90-foot pedestrian bridge and toilets are still under construction—while a fish cleaning station may come later.

Xcel Energy reminded locals to call 811 before digging so underground utilities such as electric, natural gas, water, and cable are marked free of charge — requests must be submitted at least three days before starting to prevent injuries and damage.

The reminder coincides with National Safe Digging Month as spring planting begins.

On April 4th, Deputy Bugbee helped during a traffic stop that led to the arrest of a woman for driving under suspension and possession of drug paraphernalia—her arrest revealed she was also trying to deliver pizzas—and he later delivered the order despite a tip offer.

Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library will host Families Around the World on April 28 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at its (Main Floor) venue where free cultural activities, music, dancing and diverse cuisines invite community members to explore different traditions.

Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library is partnering with the North Dakota Asian-American Arts and Cultural Initiative to host two book chats this spring focused on immigration, identity and resilience.

The first chat on "Oh My, Mother!" will be on April 26 at 3:00 p.m. and the second on "Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion" will be on June 28 at 3:00 p.m.—both events are free and open to all ages in the Missouri River Room.

125 women arrived in Hollywood on Sunday as part of Nexstar Media Group’s 2025 Remarkable Women trip—an event honoring community leaders; North Dakota’s Hope Burdolski, recognized for her work in education and outreach, will join awards events later this week with a program debut on Sunday, April 20 at 8 p.m. ET.

Bismarck Public Schools Peer-to-Peer groups held Neurodiversity Palooza Monday night at Wachter Middle School where students and their siblings played carnival games to celebrate inclusion.

Student advisors and community leaders shared information about neurodivergence—emphasizing that every brain is unique.

Wildfires have burned across North Dakota this week—one near McClusky injured two firefighters and destroyed a rescue truck, while another east of Highway 1804 in Emmons County burned 3,000 acres before being extinguished.

The Cedar River fire in Adams County burned roughly 9,000 acres and destroyed eight outbuildings, and officials confirmed it is 100 percent contained.

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.

Sisterhood Saturday

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Historic Downtown Bismarck — $30 for bouquet making — Celebrate community and creativity by crafting a beautiful bouquet with flowers from various locations.