Good morning, Bismarck.

Residents met with Stark Power reps last Thursday at an open house north of Mandan to learn about a planned data center that will be reviewed for noise, water use and safety — more meetings are set as planning moves forward.

Stage Stop Saloon and Grill in Mandan is temporarily closed starting Thursday (the owners announced the closure on Facebook and will update customers when plans are finalized).

Bismarck Public Schools kicked off the academic year on Thursday with students returning to classes, as Superintendent Jeff Fasnacht introduced the new theme Elevating Potential to build strong classroom connections and nurture unique talents.

Lila Schiele (managing diabetes) is preparing to return to school and must arrange extra health care along with her supplies.

Her routine shows the added challenge for students balancing chronic conditions with a new school year.

Sanford Health will open a new walk-in clinic in Mandan Sept.

1 to provide non-emergency care (treating allergies, back pain, flu symptoms and more).

Linton-HMB volleyball has regained head coach Jaime Richter as practices resume this week in Linton after her three-year hiatus.

The returning coach, whose championship leadership (with two state titles just four years ago) is well regarded, is eager to guide the team to success.

Senior center midfielder Camren Haase begins his final season with Bismarck High's Demons today, aiming to lead the team to its first state tournament appearance since his freshman year & honor his family's legacy.

New Salem Almont football is entering its second season under head coach Ben Kringstad (who spent 12 years with the team) as the squad adapts its style by spreading the field.

The team, led by junior wide receiver Justin Sanders, will open its season against Richardton-Taylor-Hebron in two days.