Today in Minot

Rural economies across the Midwest and Plains are showing cautious signs of growth despite ongoing challenges with low commodity prices, higher input costs, and falling exports. Creighton University’s June Rural Mainstreet survey climbed to 51.9, signaling growth for only the third time in two years. Yet, one in four farmers is still expected to face negative income this year. North Dakota stood out with strong manufacturing exports and a rising overall index, even as agricultural exports slipped, reflecting a mixed but resilient economic landscape. Get the full story from theBismarck Tribune.

Set against the rugged backdrop of the Badlands, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is racing toward a historic debut on July 4, 2026 — perfectly timed with the nation’s 250th birthday. With two-thirds of the construction complete and $286 million in private funding secured, the project is shaping up to be both a cultural landmark and a model of sustainability. From its living roof to a nearly mile-long boardwalk, every detail reflects Roosevelt’s conservation ethos while drawing on North Dakota craftsmanship and vision. Evan Butow with Dickinson Press has the full story.

France has taken a historic step by announcing it will recognize Palestine as a state, with President Emmanuel Macron pledging to formalize the decision at the United Nations General Assembly in September. While Macron has supported Israel since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, he has grown increasingly critical of the war in Gaza, especially as famine and civilian suffering deepen. As Europe’s most influential power to make this move, France is pushing for renewed momentum toward a two-state solution, even as tensions and global divisions intensify. Angela Charlton with Associated Press has the full story.

For more than a century, one food stand has been a constant at the North Dakota State Fair, serving up tradition with every plate. First Lutheran Church has operated on the fairgrounds for 102 years, with its homemade pies — a staple since 1928 — becoming a beloved favorite. Karen Krebsbach, now 84, recalls volunteering there at 23, peeling potatoes and brewing coffee the old-fashioned way. In the southeast food court, the stand continues to carry the flavors — and memories — of generations past. Kyona Rivera with KMOT has the full story.

UND and NDSU may be rivals on the field, but their leaders are proving collaboration can run deeper than competition. At TEDxFargo, Presidents Andrew Armacost and David Cook highlighted how the two universities are driving innovation, from health care and agriculture to energy and national defense. Together, they bring in billions to the state’s economy and lead cutting-edge research with global impact — even launching satellites. Their message was clear: when both schools thrive, North Dakota’s future is stronger. Grant Hubbard with InForum has the full story.

A new study underscores a simple truth: the more people who get flu shots, the better off everyone is — but the vaccinated benefit most. Using simulations of 1.2 million people, University of Pittsburgh researchers found that once vaccination rates hit 51 percent, flu cases dropped by up to 41 percent. Even the unvaccinated saw reduced risk, thanks to fewer infectious encounters. But the study also highlights a hard limit — for fast-spreading viruses, only widespread vaccination keeps communities safe. David Nield with Science Alert has the full story.

The race for Minot mayor has taken a sharp turn into legal territory, with candidate Rob Fuller sending a cease-and-desist letter to opponent Paul Pitner over references to Fuller’s 2009 domestic violence conviction in Colorado. Pitner, who shared a news article detailing Fuller’s case, says he won’t remove his posts, calling the move an attempt to silence criticism. The dispute has now tangled in a broader debate over campaign tactics, free speech, and how past actions should factor into public leadership. Rob Port with InForum has the full story.

“I need you to stay out of the kitchen for a while. I am pressure canning green beans,” my mom would say. I’d be stationed at the picnic table on the patio, trimming and slicing green beans. After the beans were cut in uniform lengths, I...

That scoop of ice cream on a hot day may taste sweet, but for dairy farmers, the payoff isn’t nearly as rich. In 2024, farmers earned just 19 percent of the retail price of ice cream — a stark contrast to the 57 percent they receive from butter. The difference comes down to processing: ice cream’s blend of ingredients, packaging, and marketing adds layers of cost, while butter remains closer to its raw form. It’s a reminder of how complex — and costly — our food systems have become. Mónica Cordero with Sentient has the full story.