Good morning, Minot.

A survey by First Children’s Finance found many local families struggle with nontraditional weekend and evening child care hours.

The Minot City Council child care committee met Jan. 6 and will share the results with local legislators to guide possible changes.

The Air and Space Forces Association is seeking new members and community sponsors for the David C.

Jones 135 chapter to support local Airmen and STEM programs. Meetings take place the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Rocker's on MAFB + sponsors help fund events like the Commanders Choice Awards.

Souris Valley United Way is in the final weeks of its $625,000 campaign — now 80% funded — to support programs like Backpack Buddies and early literacy before it ends Jan.

31. Community donations fund essential services for children, families and individuals.

The Minot Shrine Circus will return to the local auditorium this spring after 15 years at the State Fair Center.

The event will run May 7—9, with tickets on sale Feb. 15 and proceeds benefiting the Shriners Hospital for transporting young patients.

Tourism in Minot declined by 6.7% in 2025, with Canadian visitors down about 20%, Visit Minot reported at a Jan.

5 city council meeting. The office is adjusting strategies to attract more visitors + boost business through improved sports tournaments and events.

Ray Public School released its Quarter 2 Honor Roll recognizing students from grades 7 to 12 in Highest Honors (3.667–4.000+), High Honors (3.333–3.666) and Honors (3.000–3.332), celebrating academic achievements.

North Dakota approved public charter schools in the last legislative session, with the first set to open this fall.

Superintendent Levi Bachmeier said each school must adhere to strict performance and operational agreements — any issues will prompt state intervention as all school data is made public.

Local residents can nominate an outstanding teacher who makes a real difference in the classroom; nominations remain open until Feb.

8 and county winners will qualify for the state Teacher of the Year contest.

Erin Park began her role as Military and Family Life Counselor at Minot Air Force Base’s child and youth center last month, offering free confidential counseling to help children, youth, families, and staff with school performance and personal challenges + her strength-based approach supports resilience among military-connected youth.

The Lofts at Frost Fire Park is now open as a luxury cabin retreat in Walhalla, offering ski-in/ski-out access to Frost Fire Ski Resort and outdoor activities.

Visitors can book stays via VRBO, Airbnb, and Booking.com (a popular choice for military families).

Since Dec. 15, Minot North athletics have taken on tough opponents as girls basketball scored big wins and boys basketball, wrestlers, and ice hockey players built skills from losses — all while preparing for upcoming conference play.