Good morning, Bismarck.

Kevin Burckhard and his daughter Bella are featured this week in a profile that highlights how adopting a little girl with Down syndrome has enriched their family—showing how unexpected challenges can bring love and important life lessons.

Kevin explained that each adoption has taught him about forgiveness and joy, and Bella said she loves being part of their unique family.

The Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck is holding a donation drive where people can drop off new baby wipes, books, baby bottles and diapers sized newborn through seven—donations will benefit the Women’s Care Center and are accepted daily between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. through Sunday, Dec. 7.

Meg-a-Latte is joining the Giving Tree project — started in 2017 by Michelle Hintz — by teaming with House of Prayer and Ministry on the Margins to help over 900 individuals from more than 200 households this holiday season.

People can pick up gift-wish tags at Meg-a-Latte or Trinity Lutheran, and all wrapped gifts must be returned by December 10.

Officials in Morton County moved to the new Hyper-Reach emergency alert system after hackers accessed CodeRED and urged subscribers in Bismarck, Mandan and Burleigh County to update their passwords— a group also filed ballot paperwork to offer free school meals in public schools as the Native Green Grow Greenhouse opened in Parshall for fresh local produce. Weather forecasts show fog clearing by midday before snow arrives tomorrow— drivers are advised to expect travel delays.

Before Black Friday begins, the Bismarck Police Department advises residents to be extra alert as extra pedestrian and vehicle traffic is expected from early shop openings and darkness—drivers should store bags in trunks, park away from other vehicles amid recent snowfall, and use one credit card for purchases to keep their funds secure. These tips aim to help everyone stay safe while heading out for deals.

At UMary women's basketball, redshirt sophomore center Allison Undlin is averaging 13 points and nearly 10 rebounds as the Marauders start the season undefeated — a strong comeback after two ACL injuries.

She overcame long rehab delays to earn her role, and the team will play Washington State today and Saturday — returning to Bismarck on December 4.

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.

Candlelight: Tribute to Adele

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Russell Reid Auditorium - North Dakota Heritage Center — Tickets required — Experience a mesmerizing tribute to Adele performed by Listeso String Quartet in a candlelit ambiance.