Good morning, Bismarck.

Basin Electric and NextEra Energy Resources signed an agreement to explore a natural gas-fueled generation facility called River Run Energy Center in central North Dakota that could support a multi-gigawatt data center campus and be operational by 2030 — a project Governor Armstrong said will boost jobs and investment.

USDA announced a $12 billion FBA Program to provide one-time bridge payments to North Dakota farmers facing market disruptions.

Eligible producers must file accurate 2025 acreage reports by 5 pm ET on Dec. 19 and will receive payments by Feb. 28 with commodity rates released later this month.

Applications for 2026 specialty crop grants are now being accepted by the ND Department of Agriculture & USDA Agriculture Marketing Service, with Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring urging organizations, institutions, and individuals to submit proposals that boost specialty crop competitiveness in commercial fields like dry beans, peas, and potatoes.

North Dakota Game & Fish has launched Hunt Link, a new website that improves communication between hunters and landowners by offering managed access for antlerless deer, coyotes, and turkeys.

The tool is available now for both groups.

Insurance Commissioner Jon Godfread rescinded a 2018 rule that required North Dakotans to have a net worth 10 times their planned real estate investment, aligning the state’s policy with national standards.

The change took effect immediately to expand investment opportunities.

On Monday, customers shipping holiday packages at the main post office in Bismarck experienced long waits — one person reported waiting two hours.

Four satellite locations closed at Family Fare this fall as the post office modernizes operations to better handle the busy season.

According to the CDC, measles cases have reached over 1,800 nationally and ND recorded 36 cases (all among unvaccinated people) this year.

Local vaccination rates have fallen to 91, below the 95 needed for herd immunity.

UMary wrestler Sam Bruss returned for his first home dual Saturday night after recovering from life-threatening injuries from a fall that broke his pelvis and tore internal organs (he underwent emergency surgery in Minot).

He won his match in a strong comeback.

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.

Bismarck Bobcats Hockey Game

7:15-8:45 p.m. — VFW Sports Center — Check for ticket prices — Catch the exciting action of the Bismarck Bobcats in junior ice hockey.