Today in Minot

Kids are natural question-askers — but somewhere between preschool and adulthood, that instinct fades. In the workplace especially, curiosity often gets mistaken for weakness or defiance, leaving leaders reluctant to ask or entertain questions. Author Warren Berger argues the opposite: that good questions spark creativity, build trust, and tackle complex challenges. His advice to leaders is simple but radical — balance humility with confidence, embrace “How might we?” questions, and create a culture where curiosity isn’t punished but encouraged. Matthew Fray with Quartz has the full story.

Viewers across North Dakota may soon lose access to local NBC stations on YouTube TV. A contract dispute between NBC and Google, which runs the streaming service, could lead to KFYR, KMOT, KQCD, and KUMV being dropped as of Oct. 1. The stations stress that they remain available free with an antenna and through their own streaming apps, as well as other providers. For now, they’re urging both sides to reach a deal — and asking viewers to make their voices heard.

North Dakota’s attorney general has decided not to pursue a lawsuit against South Dakota over its new limits on carbon pipeline projects. Drew Wrigley said Monday his office found no legal pathway to challenge South Dakota’s ban on using eminent domain for CO2 pipelines, though he called the law “a hostile act” against North Dakota. The decision underscores the deep tension between states, landowners, and pipeline developers like Summit Carbon Solutions — where questions of energy, commerce, and property rights continue to collide.

For those who care about shaping the future of their hometown, Mandan is opening the door. The city is seeking volunteers to serve on 10 different boards and committees — from beautification and planning to airport oversight and code appeals. In all, 20 positions are available, with terms beginning in 2026. These roles may not grab headlines, but they’re where decisions about growth, design, and quality of life get made. Applications are open through October 31 on the city’s website. Edward Segal with KX News has the full story.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has confirmed the presence of invasive zebra mussels in Smishek Lake, Burke County, after detecting zebra mussel veligers in routine plankton tow net samples. Ben Holen, Department aquatic nuisance species coordinator, said subsequent follow-up sampling found additional adult mussels in...

In North Dakota politics, a minor misstep has sparked an uproar. Newly appointed Rep. Dustin McNally admits he mistakenly used his UND email to jot down talking points — a technical violation, but hardly a scandal. Still, former lawmaker Brandon Prichard and his activist group are demanding McNally resign. Critics note the irony: Prichard has overlooked far more troubling behavior from allies while seizing on this trivial slip. The fight highlights a broader problem — ethics wielded less as principle, more as a political weapon. Rob Port with InForum has the full story.

For nearly a century, the Manitoba Pool Elevator in Lyleton has towered over the prairie landscape, a reminder of the town’s farming roots and the rail line that once connected it to the wider world. Built in 1928, the wooden structure has long been empty, its frame now twisted by wind and time. Local officials say the elevator is no longer safe, and demolition is the only option. Its loss is bittersweet — another prairie sentinel fading into memory, even as others still endure.

Governments are often criticized for moving too slowly, but a new approach is changing that. Google Public Sector’s Rapid Innovation Team is working with agencies to design custom AI prototypes in weeks, not years — tackling everything from subway safety in New York to unemployment claims in New Hampshire. By testing ideas quickly and scaling what works, the team is helping public institutions modernize without the usual red tape, showing how technology can solve practical problems in real time.

Massachusetts is seeing early results from a new housing law aimed at easing costs and expanding options. In just six months, more than 800 homeowners applied to build accessory dwelling units — small, independent spaces often called “granny flats” or “in-law apartments” — and over 500 were approved. Gov. Maura Healey says ADUs can help seniors stay put, give families income opportunities, and provide independence for people with disabilities. The state hopes streamlined approvals will add thousands of affordable homes in the coming years. Ryan Kushner with SmartCitiesDive has the full story.

In Minot this week, veterans and community members came together for a difficult but urgent conversation: preventing suicide among those who’ve served. At the Together with Veterans symposium, speakers like Army veteran Davina French shared deeply personal experiences, reminding attendees that the issue isn’t just military — it’s community-wide. With limited mental health services in rural areas, organizers stressed the importance of every dialogue, every connection. As one leader put it, the ultimate goal is simple but profound: saving lives. Kyona Rivera with KMOT has the full story.