News

Area communities receive AARP challenge grants

Local News June 25, 2026

BISMARCK – AARP has announced 11 organizations throughout North Dakota will receive 2026 Community Challenge grants to support improvements to improve social connections and strengthen neighbors. Marking the program’s 10th anniversary, the grants are part of an $8.3 million commitment by AARP, doubling last year’s total, to fund 750 quick-action projects nationwide aimed at making communities more livable for people of all ages, especially older adults. “These projects are about turning great local ideas into real improvements that make everyday life better, especially for ...

ND celebrates America’s story amid national divide

Local News June 25, 2026

As North Dakotans count down to America’s 250th anniversary, polling suggests Americans are divided over the country’s future and worried about the state of democracy. A recent survey from the Public Religion Research Institute showed nearly 70% of Americans think the nation is in real ...

Surrey school considers new bond issue, athletics cuts

Local News June 25, 2026

Tough decisions are on the horizon for the Surrey Public School District in the wake of a defeated $5.8 million bond issue during the June 9 school election. The Surrey Public Schools Board held a special meeting on Tuesday, June 23, to inform constituents of the district’s mitigation ...

Vitalant announces blood drives

Local News June 25, 2026

This summer, your next blood donation could do more than save lives; it could also land you an upgrade for your daily commute, according to Vitalant. All those who come to donate with nonprofit Vitalant from July 9 through Aug. 8 will automatically be entered for a chance to win a car of their choice. As a special thank-you to those who give blood with Vitalant July 1-11 and opt in to the Donor Rewards program, donors can select one of three limited-edition T-shirts. Plus, those who also use code JULYGIFT-2026-V when scheduling their appointment will receive a $20 gift card. To make an ...

New Amur leopard arrives at Minot zoo

Arts and Entertainment June 25, 2026

Visitors to Roosevelt Park Zoo may “spot” a new face in the Amur Leopard Forest Habitat. Zorinka, a 3-year-old female Amur leopard, has arrived from the San Diego Zoo following a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Amur Leopard Species ...

2026 ND State Parade to have 220 entries

Local News June 24, 2026

When entry applications closed on Sunday, June 21, for the 2026 North Dakota State Parade, the final tally was 220 entries, according to Twyla School, parade chairman. The 44th parade, with the theme, “Honoring 250 years of Heroes,” will be held Saturday, July 18. The parade starts at 9:15 a.m. and follows Burdick Expressway East from Broadway through the N.D. State Fairgrounds. This year the N.D. State Parade Committee has selected the Western North Dakota Honor Flight as the grand marshal.