Today in Minot

Brazil is using its turn as host of COP30 to push an ambitious idea: that a country can grow its economy while sharply cutting emissions and reducing inequality. Recent gains — including a major drop in deforestation — are fueling that confidence. Now Brazil is advancing two initiatives that could reshape global climate finance: a massive forest-preservation fund built on investment returns instead of aid, and an international coalition to bring coherence to the world’s fragmented carbon markets. Together, they outline a model for development that rewards sustainability rather than sacrifices it. Carolina Grottera with Nature has the full story.

MINOT, N.D. — The City of Minot will host a public input meeting on Thursday, November 20, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. to discuss the proposed reconstruction of Third Street from Fifth Avenue Southeast to First Avenue Northeast, and Central Avenue from Third Street Northeast to...

Minot State undergrads stepped into a new spotlight this week, sharing original research at a campus forum traditionally reserved for faculty work. Students like junior Kinsey Fjeld and senior Alex Engel presented projects built from the ground up—from honeybee health to sports psychology—gaining experience in both scientific communication and collaboration. Organizers say the strong turnout and engaged discussions suggest this first-time event will become a new academic tradition, reinforced by keynote speakers from Minot Air Force Base, industry partners, and UND. Kyona Rivera with KMOT has the full story.

The Minot Public Schools Board is moving ahead with plans to sell the now-closed Bell Elementary School, selecting Northern Auction to handle the property sale. The Highway 52 building has been vacant since the district closed it last year to reduce costs. Board members said they were surprised by the level of interest, interviewing multiple auction companies before making a choice. The district expects the sale process to unfold over the coming months as it looks to finalize a deal. Jack Meyer with KX News has the full story.

North Dakota’s high school football season comes to a head Friday as eight teams compete in the 33rd Dakota Bowl, with three programs returning from last year and two making their first appearance. The slate includes a 9-man rematch between unbeaten LaMoure/Litchville-Marion and New Rockford-Sheyenne-Maddock, a first-ever trip for Bottineau in Division A, a west-region showdown between Minot North and Devils Lake in Division AA, and a Division AAA title chase between Fargo Davies and Bismarck Century. Each matchup brings a different storyline, but all four share the same stakes: one game for a championship. Edward Segal with KX News has the full preview, WDAY+ will be streaming the games starting at 9:00 am.

The debate over presidential pardons is back in the spotlight after President Donald Trump dismissed concerns about his decision to pardon Binance founder Changpeng Zhao — a billionaire who admitted to violating federal anti–money laundering laws. In a recent “60 Minutes” interview, Trump claimed he barely knew Zhao, even as critics point to the criminal case’s national-security implications and Zhao’s financial ties to Trump’s sons. The episode has revived long-running questions about abuse of the pardon power and renewed calls for Congress or even Constitutional action to place limits on it. Read David Adler’s full commentary at WyoFile.

An innocent-looking on-ice accident has ended the career of University of Mary hockey player Michael Heitkamp, who suffered a skull fracture during a collision with a Minot State skater on Oct. 31. What first looked like a simple cut turned out to require emergency surgery, and donations are now pouring in to help with medical costs. As Heitkamp recovers, his teammates and coaches say his presence — and resilience — continue to shape the program, even as he shifts from player to mentor. Rob Beer with InForum has the full story.

Montana’s property tax overhaul is about to enter a more complicated phase, and homeowners will need to pay attention. After a year of sweeping changes that reshaped tax bills statewide, the Department of Revenue is now proposing the detailed rules for a new second-home tax set to take effect next year. The goal is to ease costs for full-time residents and long-term rental housing, but the system hinges on a homestead exemption that many owners must actively apply for — or face sharply higher bills. Eric Dietrich with Montana Free Press has the full story.

Minnesota’s first look at 2026 property tax proposals shows a sizable jump on the horizon. New data from the Department of Revenue estimates local governments could seek nearly $1 billion more next year — a 6.9% increase statewide — as cities, counties, schools, and special districts grapple with rising labor and service costs. The preliminary levies aren’t final, but they set the ceiling before truth-in-taxation hearings begin and parcel notices go out. Final decisions must be made by December 29. Peter Cox with MPR has the full story.

A new pilot program aims to reward Manitoba farmers who shift marginal acres into perennial forage. Beginning with the 2026 crop year, growers who plant forage on low-performing land will receive a 15% discount on Forage Establishment Insurance, with additional savings available once the forage is producing. Federal and provincial officials say the effort is designed to promote soil health, strengthen climate resilience and support regenerative practices, all while reducing risk through MASC’s existing insurance programs. Betty Sawatzky with Discover Westman has the full story.

Mortgage rates ticked up again this week, adding a little more strain to buyers already weighing a shaky economy. Freddie Mac reports the average 30-year fixed loan at 6.24%, a slight rise that comes even as rates sit well below last year’s levels. But softer consumer confidence is slowing. Across national statistics, pending sales have slipped, and listings are sitting longer. Prashant Gopal with Bloomberg has the quick report.

Social media was supposed to open new doors for college athletes, but for many, it’s become a source of constant pressure and abuse. As Division I players face a growing wave of online harassment — often tied to gambling — the toll is reshaping how athletes think about public visibility and personal well-being. Coaches are rethinking it, too. What once looked like a path to branding and sponsorship now raises a tougher question: is the attention worth the cost? Becky Sullivan with NPR has the full story.

MINOT, N.D. – The Minot State University Native American Center and the MSU Native American Cultural Club, along with Minot State Student Affairs and the MSU Diversity Council, will host an Indigenous dinner as part of the University’s 2025 Native American Cultural Celebration. The Indigenous dinner,...