Good morning, Bismarck.

In February 2023, mineral owners went to the Capitol asking lawmakers for clearer rules on how oil companies calculate royalty payments—lawmakers then set up an oversight program that has not resolved many owners' issues with unclear deductions.

State officials say the program helps with other payment concerns, but many owners still face unresolved complaints.

The University of Mary in Bismarck announced Monday that it is adding tuition-free scholarships in accounting and education to help tackle workforce shortages.

The program will attract more students to these high-demand fields and will begin with eligible applications this fall.

Bismarck State College has received a $50,000 grant from the Metallica Scholars Initiative that supports full-time students in Industrial Automation & Robotics, Mechanical Maintenance Technology and Automotive Collision Technology.

The scholarship offers up to $1,500 in aid with applications due by Sept. 5 as BSC remains the only college in North Dakota selected for the program.

Rachel Grossman from Bank of North Dakota advised college students and parents to contact their financial aid offices early — she detailed steps to navigate complex aid red tape.

She recommended checking the state-supported website — Smart With My Money for more guidance.

The traffic signal at Boulevard Avenue & 9th Street will be out of service for repairs on Thursday, August 14 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, weather permitting, and drivers will use an all-way stop during this time.

GlobalND, a volunteer-run nonprofit, is hosting eight Pakistani energy officials for six days as part of its Integrated Energy Planning efforts—meetings include state departments before the group travels to Tulsa.

Drivers are reminded to stop when a bus extends its red stop arm—violators face a $250 fine and six license points—while road closures affect 19th Street starting Tuesday and North 16th Street is closed this morning for tree removal until noon.

At its Monday meeting, the Bismarck city commission amended ordinance 6633 so drivers must now show ID during traffic stops—an action deemed obstructing law enforcement.

The council also approved releasing three additional Class D liquor licenses through sealed bids and set fall leaf collection twice in October, subject to weather conditions.

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.