Good morning, Bismarck.

After sunrise on Veterans Day, volunteers from the Bismarck Optimist Club set up 120 American flags along State Street and Boulevard Avenue to honor veterans — drivers and veterans sent thanks as they passed.

The club will soon launch its Christmas Toy Drive with drop-off sites in Bismarck and Mandan and will offer gift wrapping at Kirkwood Mall.

In 2024, community nonprofits provided services to over 3,800 people facing homelessness statewide, according to the state monitor—prompting one veteran to say more support is needed for homeless veterans.

Dick Heidt, a longtime KFYR newsman and Navy veteran, died Monday morning at age 78—he began his career in 1969 and his funeral is set for Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Pro-Cathedral of St. Mary.

The University of Mary in Bismarck held a music performance on Veterans Day to honor veterans with patriotic songs.

The band played two pieces — one Russian and one classic American tune — in a tribute for those who served.

Bismarck Texas Roadhouse gave free meal vouchers to veterans on Veterans Day — the restaurant estimated over 10% more vouchers were distributed than in a typical year amid growing concerns over veteran food insecurity and SNAP pauses during the government shutdown.

General manager David Skur said the tradition honored veterans in a state with a strong military presence.

North Dakota State University president David Cook has been named Iowa State president and will start his new role in fall 2026 — he was chosen over a second finalist at November 11 forums and will remain at NDSU as the search for his successor begins.

The Heritage Center Veterans Day ceremony went on despite a government shutdown as local veterans organizations hosted the event at the Heritage Center in Bismarck.

A large crowd honored veterans with video messages from Representative Julie Fedorchak and Senator Kevin Cramer — and a debut performance by the Minot Heritage singers added to the tribute.

On Veterans Day, North Dakota honored its veterans with the release of the 2024 North Dakota Military Data Book by ND Cares—showing an estimated 49,788 to 60,000 veterans, mostly older men, face challenges like mental health and housing while a statewide coalition partners with local, state and federal groups to improve support.

Hospitalized veterans at Sanford Health received care packages with snack items Tuesday—an effort the hospital says shows its care beyond routine treatment.

Dr. Andrew Stahl said the initiative was part of a long-standing commitment to supporting veterans.

The McLaughlin Mustangs won their first All Nations Conference Title with a 28 to 8 victory over White River — turning a winless 2024 season into a historic win.

They dedicated the championship to missing former player Renzo Bullhead — a loss that united the team, and Coach Kenny Comeau said the title will boost program participation.

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.

Holiday Pizza Bash

4-6 p.m. — Bismarck Event Center — Enjoy a festive evening sampling pizza and holiday-themed fun for the whole family.

62nd Annual Joint North Dakota Water Convention and Irrigation Workshop

December 9-11 — Bismarck Hotel & Conference Center — Registration required — Explore water management and irrigation practices at North Dakota's premier water convention.