Good morning, Bismarck.

Legacy United Methodist Church in Bismarck said its toy drive for the BPD collected many plushies and fidget toys from local donors plus boxes sent from Montana to help officers comfort children in traumatic situations.

The donations, gathered over the past month, support efforts to ease fear in children during difficult times.

Super Slide Amusement Park in Sertoma Park hosted its opening day on Saturday and welcomed families with rides such as a roller coaster, go-karts, a carousel, mini golf, and batting cages — owner Nicole Schumaker said the family-run park will operate daily until it closes in mid-September.

Belcourt fire crews battled at least four fires in the Turtle Mountains on Saturday that threatened many homes, and the ND Forest Service joined the response + local supporters provided food and water for the crews.

A high school student from Valley City won Best of Show at the state Junior Duck Stamp Competition in North Dakota, a contest that teaches students about wetland habitats and waterfowl conservation.

The winner placed 12th nationally — a sign of strong local talent in a program that uses duck stamps as permits for hunting migratory birds.

State transportation officials announced that the Interstate 94 Interchange at Exit 161 on the east side of Bismarck will see a major change in traffic patterns as reconstruction continues.

Governor Armstrong vetoed Senate Bill 2160 that would end special health plans for state workers+he said these plans help keep good workers+the Senate did not get enough votes to override his veto.

State lawmakers wrapped up the session Saturday morning, and Governor Kelly Armstrong later signed HB 1176 at the capitol—this bill raises the primary property tax credit for homeowners from $500 to $1,600 and uses over $470 million from the Legacy Fund to cap local property tax hikes at 3%. The law also offers a $600 refund for renters and increased benefits for disabled veterans and Homestead credit recipients while the senate approved a transportation budget without a gas tax increase.

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.

AARP Smart Driver Course

10-11 a.m. — Burleigh County Senior Adults — $20 for members, $25 for non-members — Learn defensive driving skills and possibly save on car insurance.

STEM Expo 2025

10 AM – 1 PM — Bismarck Municipal Ballpark — Free entry — Experience hands-on STEM learning with exciting activities and prizes for kids of all ages.