Good morning, Bismarck.

At the Capitol, people who lost loved ones in auto crashes gathered for a memorial service as the Department of Transportation urged safer driving after nearly 75 deaths were recorded on state roads this year—families shared personal memories to highlight that many crashes are preventable.

North Dakota rancher August Heupel said he has not sold any beef calves raised this year—he noted that falling cattle prices have not forced him to lower his asking price as he waits for better market conditions.

Tribal college leaders in New Town remain uneasy about US funding even after a federal boost for tribal colleges was announced.

They worry that cuts in other grants and government layoffs could weaken programs that pass on Indigenous traditions—raising questions about how future plans will meet trust responsibilities.

North Dakota Lt. Gov. Michelle Strinden pardoned her first turkey on Monday—continuing a decadeslong state tradition started by Gov. Art Link in the 1970s—adding a festive note to the annual event.

The USDA announced it will start a second stage of crop disaster aid to help farmers with losses not covered by insurance — the program has already given over $5.5 billion, including $287 million for North Dakota.

FSA county offices will begin accepting SDRP applications on November 24 and farmers can apply until April 30.

Senator John Hoeven said at a meeting at NDSU that more than $50 million in research funding will help agriculture projects in FY26.

The package will provide $25 million through ARS and NIFA, $18.5 million to study new farming tools and $2.5 million for the Agricultural Risk Policy Center—money that will also help ranchers meet EID rules, start a cattle program and control blackbirds—and fund work to fight bird flu and chronic wasting disease.

The EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers announced on November 17 that they approved a proposed rule to redefine Waters of the United States by clarifying terms and reinstating definitions for features like ditches and tributaries—an effort that reflects the Supreme Court's ruling and aims to balance water protection with state rights. Sen. Kevin Cramer said the rule will bring stability for local farmers and energy producers after years of shifting regulations.

Bismarck Memory Cafe gives local caregivers practical advice and emotional support amid a statewide shortage of dementia-care providers—meeting every second and fourth Saturday at Dream Center Bismarck.

Founded by Denise Fettig-Loftesnes after her own caregiving challenges, the cafe will host a course on caregiver stress in December ahead of the holidays.

Bismarck Burleigh Public Health urges smokers and vapers to set Nov 20 as their quit date for the Great American Smokeout—free coaching and tools are offered through NDQuits to help lower risks of COPD, cancer, and heart disease.

As colder weather arrives, health experts from VitellaCare advise staying hydrated—drinking enough fluids, getting 7–9 hours of sleep each night, and eating balanced meals—to help keep your body and mood strong.

They also urge scheduling an annual wellness visit if you have not had one yet.

Incoming Bismarck State College Athletic Director Jason Harris, who coached women's basketball, will assume his role in January after Myron Schulz's retirement — he appeared on The Dakota Drive alongside volleyball coaches Lou Hansana and Whitney Jangula.

Lou Hansana discussed his team earning a No. 8 seed in the Class A state tournament after a 3-2 win over Dickinson Trinity, while Whitney Jangula noted her Cougars advanced to state for a second season after winning a play-in game.

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.