Good morning, Williston.

A send-off party and meet-and-greet fundraiser for Miss North Dakota 2026 Emma Tong is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug.

2 at the Great Northern Event Center, with refreshments, a silent auction and a preview of her Miss America wardrobe before she travels to Florida to compete.

Paula Bergstrom opened NovelTea Bookstore at 116 Main Street in downtown today, fulfilling her lifelong dream with a shop offering thousands of used books.

The shop (sourced from local hidden gems) will soon serve tea and host community events to bring neighbors together.

Wanda Bachmeier and Karla Thompson have worked together for 19 years running the Fair’s Open Class floral exhibit at the All-Seasons Arena.

Their America 250 display was featured this year, and next year they plan a Gone Fishin’ theme.

ND oil officials said on July 22 that May production reached 1.12 million barrels per day (below forecast) and market prices spiked above $100 per barrel amid renewed U.S.-Iran tensions, a trend that could impact future pricing in North Dakota's oil sector.

The Tioga School Board kept meal prices unchanged for the upcoming school year — relying on oil and gas revenues and flood control funds to set breakfast at $1.50 and lunch at $3, marking over a decade without an increase while keeping prices below statewide averages.

Williston State College recorded its highest summer enrollment ever with 234 students enrolled— a 23.8% increase from summer 2025.

College officials say flexible classes helped attract more students from around the region.

North Dakota was declared free of high-risk cesium-137 after the last irradiator was removed from the University of North Dakota in May.

The DOE (Department of Energy) said this move cuts radiological risks and joins 13 other regions in securing communities.

Tioga Medical Center was honored with the American Heart Association's Bronze Rural Recognition award for its stroke care in rural northwest communities.

The award highlights its efforts to improve treatment and overcome challenges such as longer travel times (a common hurdle in rural settings).