Good morning, Bismarck.

Landen Schmeichel of Bismarck Legacy High School was named the North Dakota History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and will receive a $1,000 award, a certificate, and historical resources—he is also a contender in the national competition.

Today, the Big Beautiful Bill signed into law cuts funding for programs that help families earning less than $50,000 — a move that may limit free school meals for children in North Dakota.

The bill will lower SNAP funds by about 20% from 2025 to 2034 — a change that could force legislators to revise eligibility for free meal programs.

Officials warn that the toxic buffalo bur weed, with its bright yellow flowers and sharp spines, spreads easily in open areas and poses health risks to both people and animals this summer + experts advise crowding it with other plants and using herbicide mixtures to control its spread.

Under the Big Beautiful Bill that became law in early July, new wind and solar projects must start construction by mid-2026 and be in service by the end of 2027 to qualify for federal tax credits—Michael Graalum of the Dakota Resource Council said planned projects will continue while noting the changes may increase electricity rates.

On Friday, the Department of Transportation sold more than 1,100 new blackout license plates that cost $50 a year plus registration fees — the move is expected to bring in about $6.7 million for road construction over the next four years.

Members of the Mandan Braves boys hockey team assembled 75 Bravery Backpacks with the 31:8 project to help children facing trauma—packs include hygiene products, clothing, coloring books and stuffed animals—and they wrote cards to encourage bravery.

AAPNAC Resident Assessment Coordinator Certification Workshop

Aug 12-14 — Courtyard Bismarck North — Member Rate: $777, Non-Member Rate: $996 — Enhance your clinical assessment skills and earn the RAC-CT credential in this comprehensive certification workshop.

Evening Exploration at ND's Gateway to Science

6-8 p.m. — North Dakota's Gateway to Science — $14 Non-members | $9 Members — Discover hands-on science and enjoy immersive planetarium shows just for adults.

Brew at the Zoo

6-9 p.m. — Dakota Zoo — $40 members, $45 non-members — Sample local brews and enjoy a unique tasting experience at the zoo.

Vendors Needed for Maleah Cares Talk Show

7-10 p.m. — Bismarck, ND — Showcase your products during an uplifting talk show highlighting inspiring stories.

FARMS to Table 2025

5:30-9 p.m. — North Dakota's Gateway to Science — Free entry — Celebrate Indigenous food traditions with a four-course meal curated by local chefs and learn about sustainable agriculture.