Today in Minot
A New Way to do the Local News!
Today in Minot
Today is Wednesday, February 5th. The sun will rise on the 47th day of winter, and the 36th day of the year at 8:08 AM. We will see 9 hours 42 minutes of daylight before it sets at 5:50 PM.
Today is: National Weatherperson’s Day, National Shower With A Friend Day
The Weather
Currently we have overcast sky conditions. The temperature is 5 degrees. The wind is 15 mph out of the Southeast. With wind and humidity factored, it feels like -10 degrees. Today we are expecting overcast skies with snow later. The temperature will reach a high of 8°F with winds 10 mph out of the Southeast. There is a 80% chance of snow.
On This Day
On this day, we were angry about immigration and taking it out on the Asians. The Air Force had a pretty big “whoopsie” off the coast of Georgia, and Colin Powell was imagining weapons of mass destruction. In Minot, we were hosting the lynched man’s father in the county jail, we were protecting against going to jail unjustly, there was a tragic case for better food regulation, and those Scandinavians were sailing again just because they could.
The news we share here is ForMinot. You can learn more about what guides our editorial leanings here.
Imagine one of your town’s busiest streets, free of the usual car chaos, transformed into a lively hub just for people. That’s exactly what happened to Santa Barbara’s main street during the pandemic, and the community thrived. Now, Sully Israel and the Strong Towns Santa Barbara group are on a mission to keep this slice of pedestrian paradise car-free. Join host Norm Van Eeden Petersman in this episode of Bottom-Up Shorts as they explore how reimagining urban spaces can meet the community’s needs and keep the momentum rolling.
Housing prices are spiraling, and America’s housing crisis is only deepening. The solution might seem like adding massive blocks of new developments, but big doesn’t always mean fast or efficient. Instead, imagine a world where every neighborhood chips in, turning spare bedrooms or backyards into cozy homes. This isn’t just a vision—it’s what Strong Towns advocates. By embracing a bottom-up approach, cities can foster affordability and empower homeowners rather than alienate them. This is housing change that’s both mindful and rapid.
That’s the gist of it. If you want a larger plate of what real, achievable solutions in housing look like, Charles Marohn’s commentary at Strong Towns provides a healthy serving.
In St. Cloud, Minnesota, two entrepreneurs are redefining the spirits industry amid changing consumer preferences. Mark Schiller and Simeon Rossi, co-founders of Loon Liquors, have cultivated a successful partnership with local organic farmers to produce a range of unique spirits, including pre-mixed cocktails. As they gear up for the opening of a new facility in 2025, Loon Liquors aims to expand production while maintaining a focus on quality, sustainability, and community. Their journey emphasizes the importance of transparency in alcohol production and local sourcing.
Get the full story on a locally-sourced business model that’s bucking a larger trend from Michael Johnson writing for inforum.com.
Fargo city leaders are reassessing the structure of their boards and commissions as they kick off 2025. With discussions underway about streamlining these groups, they aim to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, which can run up to $52,000 annually for some boards. As various commissions, some dormant for years, come under scrutiny, the goal is to ensure each has a clear purpose that aligns with the city’s current objectives. This could lead to reshaping or dissolving certain groups altogether.
Why does it matter in Minot? Comments at recent meetings that suggest a similar exercise is underway. We’ll be looking in.
North Dakota’s air travel industry soared to new heights in 2024, setting an all-time record for airline passenger boardings at the state’s eight commercial service airports. According to the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission’s (NDAC) newly released annual report, a total of 1,246,520 passengers boarded flights in the state this year—a 10% increase from 2023 and a figure that surpasses the previous record set during the oil boom of 2014.
“This success reflects the dedication of our airports, airlines, and communities in ensuring that North Dakota remains a leader in air service quality and accessibility,” said Kyle Wanner, NDAC Executive Director. “We are proud of these accomplishments and remain focused on supporting continual growth and expanding the opportunities that aviation provides for our residents, visitors, and businesses.”
The report also noted that 2024 marked the eighth consecutive month of record-breaking passenger totals across North Dakota’s commercial service airports. A total of 2,486,510 passengers traveled through the state’s airports when combining both arrivals and departures.
Growth Across the State
Several of North Dakota’s airports achieved notable milestones in 2024:
- Fargo Hector International Airport recorded 546,787 boardings, surpassing its previous record of 516,071 set in 2023. The increase has driven forward a terminal expansion project, which began in early 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2026.
- Devils Lake Airport also set a new passenger record with 9,538 boardings, exceeding its 2023 record of 8,087.
- Six of North Dakota’s commercial airports saw year-over-year passenger growth, reflecting a statewide increase in air travel demand.
Strengthening Air Travel and Aviation Careers
The NDAC’s report highlights the resilience of North Dakota’s aviation sector following the sharp downturn in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, when annual boardings dropped below 600,000 passengers. Since then, the state’s airports have recovered and surpassed pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the importance of aviation in connecting North Dakota to the national and global economy.
With six year-round nonstop destinations and four additional seasonal routes, North Dakota airports continue to expand air travel options for residents and businesses. The NDAC also noted that the ongoing growth presents new opportunities in the aviation workforce, with increasing demand for pilots, aircraft mechanics, airport operators, and unmanned aircraft technicians.
As North Dakota’s aviation industry looks ahead, the commission remains focused on infrastructure improvements, expanding flight availability, and strengthening economic opportunities within the sector.
The push for green energy in Scandinavia is running headfirst into Indigenous rights. A new Amnesty International report warns that “green colonialism”—using land for environmental projects without Indigenous consent—is threatening Sámi culture in Sweden, Norway, and Finland. From wind farms to mining projects, Sámi communities say they are losing control over their homelands, despite international protections. The report urges stronger legal safeguards and fair compensation, highlighting a growing global conflict: how to balance environmental progress with the rights of those who have stewarded the land for generations.
Get the full story from Grist.
Canadian visitors are a big part of Minot’s economy, filling hotels, shopping local, and keeping businesses busy. But with tensions rising over U.S. trade policies, some Canadians are rethinking their trips south—opting for Mexico or simply spending more at home.
The latest tariff threats, even postponed, are pushing travelers like Igor Murashko to cancel U.S. vacations and switch loyalties at the grocery store. It’s a stark reminder that trade disputes don’t just play out in boardrooms; they ripple through communities like ours, where every visitor counts. Check the article from the Reginal Leader-Post linked below to get a sense of what’s being said on the streets up North.
Libraries are more than books—they’re community lifelines. They provide knowledge, resources, and a space where anyone, regardless of means, can explore the world. But in North Dakota, a new bill could force libraries to restrict access to entire sections of their collections, potentially locking away works by Cormac McCarthy, Stephen King, and even Shakespeare. Supporters call it protecting children. But it’s not; it’s censorship. At stake isn’t just what’s on the shelves—it’s whether we can decide for ourselves what we and our families read.
Rob Port has the full commentary; it should make you angry.
SB 2307
A BILL for an Act to create and enact a new subsection to section 12.1-27.1-01 and two new sections to chapter 12.1-27.1 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the definition of a public library, required safety policies and technology protection measures, and the attorney general’s review of public libraries, school districts, and state agencies for compliance with statutes protecting minors from explicit sexual material; to amend and reenact subsection 5 of section 12.1-27.1-01 and sections 12.1-27.1-03.1, 12.1-27.1-03.5, and 12.1-27.1-11 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to obscenity control; to provide for a report to the legislative management; and to provide a penalty.
House Sponsors: Steiner (R, District 37), Tveit (R, District 33),
Senate Sponsors: Boehm (R, District 33), Erbele (R, District 28), Hogue (R, District 38), Weston (R, District 15),
South Dakota is stepping up its cybersecurity game. The state is looking for a company to assess the vulnerabilities in local government networks, a critical move given the rising threat of cyberattacks. With $7 million in state funds on the table, the initiative—led by Attorney General Marty Jackley’s office and Dakota State University—aims to shore up defenses for key systems handling elections, taxes, and public records. Given past breaches and a nationwide spike in cybercrime, this effort is long overdue.
Advocating for change in politics involves understanding the legislative process and developing clear communication with your elected officials. Engaging with your legislator can significantly influence the outcome of proposed bills, especially when you consider their unique backgrounds. Personal meetings, whether at the Capitol or a local café, set the stage for meaningful dialogues. Handwritten letters, memorable gestures, and timely follow-ups can further amplify your message.
That’s the gist of this “how to” from the Iowa Capital Dispatch, and in this moment of political disruption, when many are feeling left out, here’s a starting point. It’s not fast or glamorous, but it is the beginning; that’s usually a pretty good place to start.
North Dakota’s House has voted to eliminate state funding for public broadcasting, a move that contrasts with earlier committee recommendations. House Bill 1255 passed with a 61-32 vote and is slated for further consideration by the Appropriations Committee before heading to the Senate. Supporters argue that the bill addresses perceived biases in Prairie Public Broadcasting, while opponents stress the organization’s essential role in providing crucial services and programming to the community. This decision raises important questions about the future of public media in the state.
Grant Coursey with the Bismarck Tribune has the full story that’s worth reading. Bill details are below.
A North Dakota federal judge has ruled that the Council on Environmental Quality, established by Congress in 1969, has been operating beyond its intended role as an advisory body. U.S. District Court Judge Dan Traynor struck down a 2024 regulation that altered the federal environmental review process, affirming the recent D.C. Circuit Court’s finding that the agency lacks rulemaking authority. This decision highlights ongoing tensions regarding regulatory power and the balance between environmental protection and infrastructure development.
North Dakota has seen a notable decline in MMR vaccination rates—over 6% from 2012 to 2021, according to a recent CDC study. Immunization experts in Fargo are raising alarms, pointing to a rise in misinformation linked to social media as a contributing factor. The MMR vaccine is critical in protecting children from measles, mumps, and rubella, with the first dose recommended around age one. Experts advise parents to consult their child’s healthcare provider to address any concerns about vaccines.
Minot’s efforts to upgrade roads and replace lead service lines are moving forward—though a presidential order is creating some uncertainty. The City Council approved bidding for a $12 million reconstruction of 16th Street Southwest and is seeking federal loans to identify aging water lines. But federal funding tied to both projects is now paused, potentially delaying work. City officials remain optimistic, with bids expected in March and lead pipe assessments still on track for summer—assuming the funds arrive on time. For now, it’s a waiting game.
Jill Schramm has the full story on how far downhill the federal disruptions we’re currently watching are likely to roll. It’s also a lesson in how resilient Minot really is. If we’re dependent on money from outside here to do the things we identify as needed, are we really in control of our place?
Rejected outright – that’s Saudi Arabia’s response to Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Gaza’s population and turn the devastated enclave into a luxury resort. Turkey’s comment was simply, “Unacceptable.” France warns it would be a “serious violation of international law.” The reaction to Trump’s plan has been swift and overwhelmingly negative, with key global powers rejecting the idea outright. While Trump insists regional leaders will “open their hearts” to the proposal, critics see it as a destabilizing move that ignores Palestinian sovereignty and the decades-old framework of a two-state solution.
Wherever this proposal and negotiating tactic leads, it certainly looks like President Trump caught potential partners and regional allies off guard with his comments. Whether we like it or not, we’re all going to find out if his brash pollical style translates into stability in the region where memories of past wrongs are only exceeded in length by the grudges held against them.
The Russian peasants are being told that if they will only starve long enough the political millennium is sure to arrive. They are in the position of the dog whose master undertook to show the world that the hound could live on sawdust, the only difficulty being that the dog died before the experiment was complete.
Why we published it: Because we could only pick one quote from this vignette.
Oh, little country paper, with your little weekly talks! I like to wander with you down remembered roads and walks.
Why we published it: It's a tribute what to what the news used to be, and perhaps a calling to what it can be again.
That is why the criminal practice has surrounded accused persons with many protections which gall prosecuting attorneys. Because there is so much crime, there is a tendency now to remove those protections. Frank Howell, anyway, would agree that that is a very bad idea.
Why we published it: This sentiment is important today -- at a moment when an angry mob seems to be out for some form of indefinable justice. In that environment we don't have to ask when, only where the hardest break will hit next.
Capt. Folgero with his crew of three, Oscar Rones, Harold Lorentsen, and Hans Opsal with a little black kirren yclept Roald Amundson, for luck, sailed out of a little fjord at Gorgen in the northern part of Norway May 11, 1929, bound for America by way of Spain. Their ship was a replica of the little viking boats used between 800 and 1000 A.D. The small boat buffeted its way thru two hurricanes and was nearly a year on the trip.
Why we published it: There may be a glitch in the matrix; this story seems to be repeating every fifty years with the most recent iteration celebrating the voyage of the Restauration. Details on that are just below. And even if we are living in a simulation, we have to admire the persistent adventurous spirit of our ancestors. [edition_news post_ids="27072"]
With the mercury standing at 54 degrees above zero in Minot, and about the same Friday, the balmy weather bids fair to break all records for mildness. The spring-like days continued so long in January that they ceased to create a great deal of comment, except that many expressed sympathy for those North Dakotans who went to California for the winter.
Why we published it: A remarkable stretch indeed that it would quiet our small talk on the most timeless of North Dakota topics. We can only assume that every knew not to put a jinx on a good thing while it's going.
John Ehr, pioneer Minot citizen, and for many years a prominent banker, real estate holder and farmer, has made an offer of 160 acres of land along south hill with a beautiful view of the city and valley, providing the capital of the state be moved to this point.
Why we published it: If we're not trying to steal the capital out from Bismarck, are we even trying to be the best little city in North Dakota? Besides, we had already pulled the trick successfully with Burlington and the county seat 😉 Why not take an at bat in the next league up? Well played Mr. Ehr, we tip or cap to you.
James F. Bannon, 54, who saw his son, Charles Bannon, 22, taken by a mob from the county jail at McKenzie county, early last Thursday morning, to be lynched, was brot to the Ward county jail Friday night, by sheriff Thompson of McKenzie County.
Why we published it: This a significant story in North Dakota's history, and here it is for you, as if it happened yesterday.
The little boy, who later was to commit the most atrocious crime in the annals of North Dakota, played about he Hestikind farm yard. Mrs. Hestikind recalls that he played with the corn cobs which he imagined were horses, tying each one with a string.
Why we published it: The innocence of youth.
IT was not until nearly 48 hours after the party that the poison's fatal effects became apparent. Then, one by one, afflicted members of the gathering, were stricken, the first fatalities occurring Saturday night. Others died Saturday night and Sunday, while the 11th and 12th succumbed Monday.
Why we published it: It's a tragic story; it's also a reminder of why those who regulate our food and health codes do so passionately and appropriately. They have better access to the reasons why we have the laws and regulations we have. Perhaps if we knew what they knew, we'd be less likely to assume they were making laws just for the sake of making laws. Need a modern example of this? It's just below. [edition_news post_ids="27045"]
Olson & Orheim, Minot contractors, have been awarded the contract to build a convent in Minot for the Siters of St. Francis. The structure will cost $30,000 exclusive of the cost of the lot, will be built early in the spring.
Why we published it: A sign of a growing and diverse little city.
On the Deeper Knowledge of Man
“The History of Religions is destined to play an important role in contemporary cultural life. This is not only because an understanding of exotic and archaic religions will significantly assist in a cultural dialogue with the representatives of such religions. It is more especially because … the history of religions will inevitably attain to a deeper knowledge of man. It is on the basis of such knowledge that a new humanism, on a world-wide scale, could develop.”
— Mircea Eliade, The Quest: History and Meaning in Religion
Upcoming Fun
Fun coming up that’s worth knowing about. Scroll for more at SavorMinot.com.
- The Orchestra Moves
@MinotSymphony | Saturday, February 8th - Super Bowl Bingo
@BlueRider | Sunday, February 9th - Full Snow Moon Candlelight Hike
@FortStevenson | Saturday, February 15th
Today’s Markets
These are the commodities that move Minot’s economy. See how they’re doing here.
Today’s Happenings
Performances & Exhibitions
Extraordinarily Ordinary @NorthwestArtsCenter
Thursday, January 9th — Thursday, February 20th
Discover the intriguing world of Michael Reedy’s “Extraordinarily Ordinary” at the Northwest Arts Center, where anatomical illustrations meet whimsical cherubs. Visit this captivating exhibition in Minot from January 9th to February 20th. #ArtExhibition #VisualArt #SavorMinot
Monthly Features
February’s – Hoagie of the Month! The Cali Club @MagicCityHoagies
Tuesday, February 4th — Friday, February 28th
Indulge in Magic City Hoagies’ February feature, the Cali Club, packed with turkey, crispy bacon, and avocado, all drizzled with Boom boom sauce. Visit their downtown Minot location to savor this delicious creation before it’s gone! #CaliClub #MagicCityHoagies #SavorMinot
Seasonal Sales & Celebrations
SWEET HEART OF A DEAL SALE @Artmain
Saturday, February 1st — Friday, February 28th
Celebrate love and savings this February at Artmain’s Sweet Heart of a Deal Sale in Downtown Minot! Discover custom framing, art supplies, and boutique gifts perfect for Valentine’s Day from February 1st to 28th. #ValentinesDeals #ArtmainLovesYou #SavorMinot
Specials & Sales
Watch Battery Wednesdays @RicksJewelry
Wednesday, February 5th
Give your watch some TLC at Rick’s Jewelry in downtown Minot every Wednesday with a battery replacement special. Mention “SavorMinot” at checkout to save $2 on your service! #WatchCare #JewelryDeals #SavorMinot
Happy Hour
Pull Tab Happy Hour! @BlueRider
Monday, February 3rd — Wednesday, February 5th
Get ready for Pull Tab Happy Hour at Blue Rider in downtown Minot from February 3rd to 5th, where a little luck could score you discounts or free drinks! Enjoy the dive bar vibes with stiff drinks, free popcorn, and a $7 beer and Fernet special. #PullTabFun #BlueRiderVibes #SavorMinot
Monthly Features
Taste the LOVE! Strawberry Shortcake Waffle Cones for V-Day @MagicCitySweets
Tuesday, February 4th — Friday, February 28th
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a sweet twist at Magic City Sweets Ice Cream Shop, where Strawberry Shortcake Waffle Cones are the star of the month. Indulge in this delightful treat with your sweetheart from February 4th to 28th in downtown Minot. #ValentinesDayTreat #MagicCitySweets #SavorMinot
Play & Participate
Wednesday: The Toughest Trivia in Minot @BlueRider
Wednesday, February 5th
Test your wits at Minot’s toughest trivia night this Wednesday at Blue Rider! Enjoy stiff drinks, free popcorn, and a chance to win with creative team names starting at 7 PM. #TriviaNight #BlueRider #SavorMinot
Performances & Exhibitions
INT’L Paperworks 2025 @NorthwestArtsCenter
Thursday, January 9th — Thursday, February 20th
Explore the captivating world of paper art at the “INT’L Paperworks 2025” exhibition, hosted by the Northwest Arts Center at Minot State. Discover 40 unique artworks from January 9 to February 20 in the Walter Piehl Gallery. #ArtExhibition #MinotArts #SavorMinot
Hot, New, Fresh
On Tap Right Now! @Atypical
Tuesday, February 4th — Sunday, February 9th
Discover the latest brews at Atypical Brewery & Barrelworks in downtown Minot, where you can enjoy award-winning barrel-aged beers, live music, and food trucks from February 4th to 9th. Don’t miss out on this fresh and exciting experience! #CraftBeer #LiveMusic #SavorMinot
Hot, New, Fresh
Breakfast SANDOS by Magic City HOAGIES @MagicCityHoagies
Monday, January 6th — Wednesday, April 30th
Start your day right with Magic City Hoagies’ new handcrafted breakfast sandwiches, featuring 12 delicious flavors inspired by tastes from across America. Enjoy a free espresso drip coffee, hot chocolate, or bottled drink with every order, available for delivery or pickup in downtown Minot. #BreakfastSandos #MagicCityHoagies #SavorMinot
