Good morning, Minot.

More than 1,000 exhibitors are on display at the free 55th KMOT Ag Expo at the ND State Fair Center — the event started Wednesday and runs through Friday with doors open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.

At the KMOT Ag Expo, running through Friday at the Northern Plains Equipment Hall, vendors like the Salford group are showing farm machinery (including spin spreaders and air booms) that helps growers manage costs and streamline operations, drawing local and regional farmers seeking efficient tools.

The Heritage Singers, a beloved local all-male choir, will hold their variety show at the Moose Lodge from Feb.

26-28 and March 1 at 5:00 p.m. The event features dinner, live performances, comedy by Mike Panko, and auctions with proceeds benefiting the local high school music department.

Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band will perform a tribute concert at Minot State University on Friday, Feb.

13 from 6:30 & 8:30 p.m. in Ann Nicole Nelson Hall. The event, part of the Magic City Jazz Festival, honors the late musician and supports student jazz ensembles from across the region.

At the KMOT Ag Expo, crop insurance agent Becky Braaten said producers will no longer be able to buy up the Prevented Planting option while other coverage choices remain available.

Producers are encouraged to meet with their agents to adjust risk management plans & boost overall coverage.

ND HHS officials say that a possible government shutdown on Jan.

31 will not affect local disease control operations because secured CDC funding and awarded state support ensure that lab testing, surveillance and outbreak response continue as normal. The statement comes amid a Senate standoff over DHS funding.

Minot State women's basketball defeated Wayne State 68-61 on Saturday, Jan.

24 at the MSU Dome after a strong third quarter. The Beavers will face Concordia-St. Paul on Friday, Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m.

Minot North Boys’ Swim & Dive team, in its inaugural season, qualified seven swimmers for the state meet in March.

They won their first dual against West Fargo Horace last Friday and will travel to the West Fargo Invite this Saturday to build on their new program.