Good morning, Bismarck.

Furry Friends Rockin’ Rescue today welcomed a few-week-old puppy named Andi as part of a growing wave of intakes while Julie Schirado urged locals to consider fostering as she braved the rain.

The rescue is sponsoring two events— a Bismarck Marathon at 9 a.m. in Sertoma Park and a pet day at Kiwanis Park from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.— that let the community meet the animals.

Chord Energy will buy ExxonMobil’s North Dakota inventory for $550M — expanding its footprint in the Bakken.

Belle Mehus Auditorium in Bismarck is getting a $100,000 upgrade from two Historical Society grants, and city staff will replace carpeting and railings to preserve its historic charm—shows will continue as scheduled.

North Dakota’s rural economy showed modest strength in September as its Rural Mainstreet Index rose to 52.2 from 50.4 while farmland prices dropped and hiring slowed.

Bank CEOs reported that falling commodity prices and tariff pressures hurt farms—regional index slid to 38.5.

The Bismarck State College Board of Higher Education committee approved a plan today for a 350-unit residence hall to be built by a private firm on campus—construction will begin once additional approvals and funding are secured.

Ben Enzminger was crowned homecoming king at Legacy High School on Friday and will lead Team Ben (his therapists, teachers and friends) in the Bismarck Marathon relay run today.

State environmental officials warn hunters that lakes and wetlands may contain toxic blue-green algae that produce cyanotoxins harmful to people and pets—officials advise checking the state’s Harmful Algal Blooms Story Map and rinsing off with fresh water after exposure.

North Dakota Attorney General Drew Wrigley said he is reviewing legal options after South Dakota passed a law blocking CO2 pipeline projects, a decision that stopped Summit Carbon Solutions from moving forward.

He said he has already held talks with state officials and will continue examining measures to protect property rights—ensuring commerce continues across states.

A horse at Theodore Roosevelt National Park contracted West Nile Virus and showed neurologic symptoms before staff euthanized it.

State veterinarian Ethan Andress said the disease—spread by mosquitoes from birds—is common in the North Dakota wilderness.

Bismarck hosts its 44th annual marathon today as hundreds of runners compete in several races throughout a daylong event—drawing athletes from nearby areas.

Creepy Classic Tennis Tournament

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM — Capital Racquet & Fitness Center — Registration required — A fun-filled tennis competition for all skill levels with a spooky twist.

Bismarck Fall & Holiday Market

10 AM - 5 PM — Bismarck Event Center — $5 entrance fee for adults — Discover over 100 vendors and meet live reindeer and alpacas.

St. Olaf Orchestra Concert

7-9 p.m. — Bismarck High School — Tickets available — Experience the rich artistry and tradition of the St. Olaf Orchestra under conductor Chung Park during their Fall Tour.