Good morning, Minot.

Xcel Energy grew at a half percent annual rate for 15 years but now faces pressure from growing data center projects, nuclear power calls and local resistance to new lines, CEO Bob Frenzel said at a recent economic conference.

The company is in talks with developers to protect rates.

Trinity Health in Minot awarded scholarships to seven college nursing students and two high school healthcare students, with amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 (some recipients have agreed to work for Trinity Health for 18 to 24 months after graduation).

North Dakota Game and Fish opened its Earth Day Patch Contest for kids, inviting K-12 students to design patches using five colors for themes like water quality and wildlife (a conservation chance), with entries due by Mar.

1 and winners in four grade categories receiving outdoor kits (binoculars and guides).

The new PaYS program offers job interviews for Army soldiers — connecting them with local employers to address the workforce shortage, Gov. Armstrong said.

Eight local companies have signed up with over 200 interviews available across the state.

Legacy senior Aleiya Cullinan earned her 200th career dual win earlier this week at the Rotary Dual and now seeks her third straight state championship to become only the second girl in Legacy history to achieve the feat.

The 4 Bears Roar basketball team is preparing for its inaugural season with head coach Wayne Casey (hired last month) building its coaching staff and roster.

The expansion team will open on Friday, Feb. 27 at Great Falls Electric and host first home game on March 13 in New Town.