Today in Minot

A decade after starting as a small program helping kids explore creativity through science and art, Full STEAM Ahead is finally putting down roots. The Minot-based nonprofit just received a $50,000 grant from the Minot Area Community Foundation to support its first permanent home — a space where classrooms, labs, and performances can thrive under one roof. With a matching-donor campaign now underway, the group hopes this new chapter will give more kids the confidence to dream, build, and express themselves right here in Minot. Jack Meyer with KX News has the full story.

In a small Wisconsin town where local papers have faded, the Pulaski News still lands on doorsteps every other Thursday — written entirely by high school students. For 83 years, it’s been more than a class project; it’s been Pulaski’s paper of record. Guided by teacher Amy Tubbs, students learn to report, photograph, and connect with their community — one story at a time. In a world of shrinking local journalism, these young writers are keeping hometown news alive, print by print. Miranda Dunlap with Wisconsin Watch has the full story. Miranda Dunlap with Wisconsin Watch has the full story.

President Trump has again dismissed a key government watchdog — this time the inspector general for the Export-Import Bank — deepening tensions over the independence of federal oversight. Critics, including Sen. Chuck Grassley, say the firing violates federal law requiring Congress to be notified in advance. The move follows a pattern of inspector general removals and funding cuts that have weakened government accountability. Supporters call it part of Trump’s effort to root out bias; opponents warn it erodes transparency and trust. Sean Michael Newhouse with Government Executive has the full story.

Two familiar programs from Region 3 are gearing up for another playoff run. Defending state champions Velva/Drake-Anamoose/Garrison enter as the No. 4 seed, hosting Southern McLean in their bid for a repeat title. Just down the road, Des Lacs-Burlington heads west to face Dickinson Trinity after a strong 7-2 season that proved their grit in close games. Both teams have shown they can win under pressure — and now, with the postseason underway, it’s time to see who can keep the momentum alive. Mike Kraft with Minot Daily News has the full story.

North Dakota lawmakers are preparing for a special session in January — but their hands will be mostly tied. The session’s purpose is to formally accept roughly $500 million in federal funds for rural health care, yet how that money is spent will already be locked in by a federally approved plan. Crafted by the state’s Health and Human Services Department with legislative input, the plan sets priorities for the next five years, leaving legislators to do little more than give the final “rubber stamp.” Jacob Orledge with North Dakota Monitor has the full story.

After decades of serving central North Dakota towns, Krause’s Market — a family-owned grocery staple in Hazen, Garrison, and Washburn — is preparing for a new chapter. Siblings Dalles Krause and Kari Olson announced they’re selling the business to Darin and Valerie Hill, owners of “The Market,” a regional chain spanning seven states. The change, set for January, marks the end of a family era but promises expanded resources and stronger competition against big-box retailers in North Dakota’s rural communities. Lindsey Miller with KMOT has the full story.

MINOT, N.D. – Minot State University will host the 73rd annual International Peace Garden Conference at Hartnett Hall on Friday, Oct. 24. The International Peace Garden Conference, held in conjunction with Minot State University and Brandon University (Manitoba), is an opportunity for students from MSU and...

Fifteen years ago, Kevin Cramer stood shoulder to shoulder with North Dakotans who felt dismissed by Washington elites. Back then, he spoke at tea party rallies defending the same kind of grassroots anger now fueling the “No Kings” protests. But this time, the senator is on the other side of the microphone — calling demonstrators “left-wing nut jobs.” It’s a striking reversal for a politician who once built his career on understanding populist frustration, and a reminder of how power can shift a person’s perspective. Rob Port writes the full story at Inforum, much of it he witnessed first hand.

North Dakota ranchers are pushing back after President Trump suggested the U.S. might buy Argentine beef to lower consumer prices. To them, it’s more than a policy idea — it’s a threat to their livelihoods. Rancher George Leingang, whose family has worked the same Mandan-area land for over a century, says remarks like this rattle markets and deepen uncertainty in an already strained industry. With rising costs and shrinking herds, many say what ranchers need most right now isn’t foreign beef — it’s stability. Michael Anhalt with KFYR has the full coverage and pointed comments.

What began as a tool to fight a virus may now help fight cancer. Researchers at the University of Florida have found that mRNA vaccines — the same kind used against COVID-19 — could supercharge the immune system’s ability to destroy tumors. Patients with advanced melanoma or lung cancer who received a COVID-19 vaccine during immunotherapy were more than twice as likely to survive after three years. If confirmed, this discovery could transform cancer care using an inexpensive, globally available treatment. Adam Grippin, the researcher who offered the theory shares their findings in this short article from The Conversation. You can also watch a quick recap of the work below.