Good morning, Bismarck.

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives released a study showing that counties without local newspapers see residents relying on social media for news.

The survey found that many feel less aware of community events and government actions — warning signs that the news deserts harm local participation.

Retired after 38 years with the North Dakota National Guard, Rick Rhone shared memories of his service—including building a medical clinic in the Marshall Islands—while now running Capital City Restaurant Supply in Bismarck.

He said his military career was his way of giving back to his community.

North Dakota native Alois Weigel served 18 months in Vietnam managing OV-1 Mohawk spy planes and earned medals for his work—he later joined the Western North Dakota Honor Flight in 2023.

He recalled a rocket attack that once roused his unit before returning home in December.

Bobcat has finished nearly $5M of renovations at its Bismarck office — the new layout is expected to help the company deliver products faster.

Kennedy Delap, 2025 Miss North Dakota, said her pageant experience changed her approach to public speaking by turning her fear into confidence as she went from addressing small groups to performing in front of 40,000 people — an achievement her family proudly noted while she balanced her studies with the competition. She urged others to pursue opportunities that lead to growth and learning.

MHA Nation said that water samples from the Parshall-Lucky Mound system measured 0.081 mg/L—above the EPA limit of 0.080 mg/L—while Fort Berthold Rural Water said no emergency exists and corrective actions such as repairing the chlorinator and replacing old equipment are underway to resolve the issue within 3–6 months.

Krystall Atkinson from the Bank of North Dakota explained how to balance planning for a secure future with enjoying life now.

Her clear tips help readers manage money wisely—ensuring they save for tomorrow without missing today.

Emergency responders and state officials met on Thursday to discuss plans for better wildfire preparation after last year's fires burned thousands of acres — they outlined staffing and funding challenges as lawmakers review Senate Bill 2340.

The meeting will guide future emergency planning in towns and counties.

Memorial Highway in Mandan is shifting its traffic pattern as reconstruction work continues on the corridor known as The Strip — local drivers should expect detours.

North Dakota Health and Human Services confirmed that if the federal shutdown continues to a second month, SNAP benefits will not be issued in November—this pause stops funds from being transmitted to EBT vendors.

Nearly 57,199 recipients relying on about $9.83 million in aid may face delays while Governor Armstrong's office monitors the situation and considers state-level remedies.

Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health invites the community to celebrate Red Ribbon Week from Oct.

23—31 by promoting a drug-free lifestyle and honoring DEA Agent Enrique Camarena. Local groups, parents and teachers are encouraged to support the campaign and may use NDQuits—an online tool—to get help quitting tobacco.

The Bismarck Larks ended their ninth season by drawing nearly 60,000 fans over 36 home games and attracting visitors from 30 U.S. states and one Canadian province.

They boosted local economic growth in the community & plan to launch big changes for their milestone 10th season next summer.

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Russell Reid Auditorium, North Dakota Heritage Center — Tickets required — Experience a spine-chilling musical journey with candlelit performances of Halloween classics.

Youthworks 40th Anniversary Celebration

11 PM – 1 AM — 930 N Griffin St, Bismarck, ND — Ticket required — Celebrate 40 years of Youthworks making a difference in the lives of youth across North Dakota.

16th Annual Bismarck Christmas Show 2025

Nov 21-22 — Bismarck Event Center — Free entry — Explore over 250 booths featuring unique handmade gifts and festive treats from local artisans.