Good morning, Bismarck.

Operation Warm, a national nonprofit, is helping families in need by providing new winter coats and athletic shoes to children facing harsh weather in cities like Bismarck and Minot — last year the program received over one million requests and has supported more than 7 million children overall.

A Bismarck man pleaded guilty to a reduced meth charge on Monday—he received a sentence of one year and one day in prison under a plea agreement with prosecutors.

State officials announced that four communities will receive a total of $36.2 million in loans today from the State Revolving Fund programs to improve water infrastructure, with Minot receiving $29.6 million for replacing lead service lines, Cando awarded $3.3 million for upgrading a water main, Jamestown using $2 million to replace aging pipes, and Grand Forks getting $1.3 million for a new storm sewer system (EPA provides partial funding).

A Norway maple in Kenneth Birst's backyard and a Japanese tree lilac at Terry Wolf's property were named state champion trees in 2024—raising Bismarck's total to 17 champion trees.

The state Forest Service measured both trees and noted the growing local interest in the program.

The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association mailed out 2025 brand renewal forms to over 16,000 brandowners during the first week of August—covering more than 20,000 registered brands that must be renewed by Dec.

31 to avoid expiration. The process requires a $50 fee per brand by species and location, and updated cards will be mailed after successful renewal.

The third annual Gateway to Health will take place at the Gateway to Science on August 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. where visitors will enjoy free two-hour entry to interactive exhibits including virtual reality demos and CPR training—sponsored by HHS, BSC, and local partners.

86-year-old Bismarck resident Myrna Schedel bowled in the finals of the United States Bowling Congress National Senior Bowling Championship in Texas and finished sixth in her 75+ group, which had 30 competitors — she was North Dakota's only bowler — after scoring a personal best of 178.

Sanford Sports Academy in Bismarck is expanding its facility by 6,000 sq ft to add a turf area for baseball and softball training, an 80-yard indoor sprint track, and additional space for physical therapy and performance training.

Academy manager Michael Silbernagel said the upgrade will create a safer training environment—allowing athletes to benefit from better coordination between strength and conditioning and sport-specific coaching.

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.