Good morning, Minot.

On February 20 the Magic City Discovery Center found a burst pipe had caused water damage—forcing it to close and delay events until it reopened on March 3.

Staff now need community donations to help cover repairs, including a $58,000 insurance deductible and rebuilding bathrooms.

The U.S. Air Force Academy Band’s Stellar Brass will perform a free concert at Ann Nicole Nelson Hall at Minot State on Wednesday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. — the event will include a mix of patriotic, classical, and jazz music while senior leaders from the 5th Bomb Wing and the 91st Missile Wing speak about their service.

The Minot AFB School Liaison Office is counting military-connected high school graduates as it plans to honor them with purple cords for graduation + their senior banquet.

The office asks families to complete a survey so they can include every eligible student, and next steps will be shared soon.

Representatives from Minot and Grand Forks met on March 6, 2025 at the legislative building where Minot Air Force Base commanders shared details on mission readiness and the base’s economic impact.

Leaders stressed that modernization of the nuclear triad remains a priority—next steps include addressing related legislative measures.

Minot Air Force Base reversed a policy that did not allow Veteran Health Identification Card holders to sponsor their caregivers—now these holders may sponsor adults 18 or older who check their identity at the visitor center on their first visit.

The change took effect on Thursday.

Airmen from the 5th Munitions Squadron at Minot Air Force Base work at RAF Fairford to build and maintain munitions for B-52 bombers— their team earned a strong second place in a recent competition that highlights their skill and teamwork.

At Minot Air Force Base, Col. Rofelio Grinston left 16 years of Navy service to become an officer and now leads the 5th Maintenance Group.

He worked hard by learning from his mentors and pushing for extra education—encouraging his team to aim higher.

After the holiday rush, Minot residents are encouraged to enjoy a staycation to relax and save money by staying local (with pet-friendly hotels and nearby attractions offering a stress-free break), rather than facing long travel hassles.

Peter Wake, a senior at Minot North High School and a Minot AFB representative, finished 6th in the 100 breaststroke with a record time of 59.27 seconds at the state swim meet in Fargo on March 6 and 7.

He also raced in relay events and passed his swim cap to a younger teammate as tradition — he will serve a church mission and attend BYU to study surgery after graduation.

Minot Air Force Base Running Club members are set for the Fargo Marathon as the Strong Bonds program sponsors 35 runners — 15 in the full marathon, 15 in the half marathon, and 5 in the 5k race.

The club meets every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Dome and will support additional local races this summer.

Neal McCoy Live Performance

Country music legend Neal McCoy will perform live at The Original Bar and Nightclub, promising an energetic night of fan-favorite songs in an intimate atmosphere.

Magic City Car and Trade Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — North Dakota State Fair Center — Free entry — Check out classic cars and meet special guests at this vibrant community car show.

North Central Spring Job Fair

11 a.m. — Minot Municipal Auditorium — Free entry — Connect with local employers to explore a variety of job opportunities in the region.

The Big One – Spring Art and Craft Fair

10 AM – 8 PM — North Dakota State Fair Center — Admission fee TBD — Explore over 250 booths bursting with handmade arts, crafts, and delicious baked goods.

SVAS Gala 2025

6-10 p.m. — Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Center and Water Park — Ticket information available — Celebrate animal welfare with live entertainment and a special auction.