Good morning, Bismarck.

Bobcat, one of the state's largest companies, has sued Caterpillar for patent infringement in federal and international courts; the legal action may affect local machinery interests.

In November, small business owners in North Dakota reported a modest rise in optimism as the NFIB index increased by 0.8 points to 99, slightly above the 52-year average.

They noted hopes for higher sales amid ongoing labor shortages and uncertainty over near-term capital investments.

Next year, the Big Beautiful Bill will reduce crop insurance payouts for farmers.

North Dakota Farmers Union President Mark Watne said the change could leave growers with less financial protection if crops are lost.

The North Dakota University System began accepting applications for the vacant president position at Bismarck State College on Wednesday + review of submissions is expected to follow.

The North Dakota Teachers’ Fund for Retirement received the 2025 Public Pension Standards Award for Funding and Administration from the Public Pension Coordinating Council, marking its ninth straight national honor and eleventh overall.

It serves over 26,000 educators and state employees with statutory contributions aimed at full funding by 2042.

State lawmakers met Wednesday to discuss the cost of a proposed free school meals program.

The Department of Public Instruction reported about 126000 kids are on the lunch program (proposal changes are due by Dec. 26) as review continues.

North Dakota’s SNAP food-choice waiver was approved today by the USDA to limit purchases of items such as soft drinks and candy — restrictions set to take effect in September 2026.

The change is expected to help improve nutrition and reduce chronic disease rates for local residents.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation will launch its Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign Friday, Dec.

12, and run it until Jan. 31 to remind drivers to stay sober and buckle up during the holiday season (officials warn impaired driving still leads to tragic consequences).

ND State Trooper Chris Pulver delivered winter storm safety tips using Gen Z slang as an incoming system prompted caution; his video reached 1.7 million views on Instagram and thousands more on other platforms.

North Dakota TSA agents worked 43 days without pay during the government shutdown and are now focused on holiday travel safety at the airport.

They have received back pay while awaiting bonus checks for exemplary service from the Department of Homeland Security.

Minot Hot Tots and Honeybees released their summer 2026 schedules with 17 home games against North Dakota teams — Tots begin on Memorial Day, May 25 at Corbett Field with a finale in Bismarck on Aug.

4 while Honeybees open on June 9 with a rematch on June 12.

University of Mary's 6-foot-7 forward Dain Sardelli is enjoying his hometown return as he plays today in Jamestown and the Marauders close the season's first half with three straight games; he has earned 18 points this semester and draws strong support from family.

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.