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Katarina Louthain, the six-year-old girl who was killed in an accident involving alcohol.

Katarina Louthain, the six-year-old girl who was killed in an accident involving alcohol.

N.D. Supreme Court upholds appeal in Bell case

In a surprise decision, the North Dakota Supreme Court on Thursday, Dec. 4, ruled that results of a chemical breath test will be admissible in court in the case of a Fordville man accused of criminal vehicular homicide and criminal vehicular injury resulting from a June 2024 accident that caused...

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Grafton man submits guilty pleas A Grafton man named in a trio of criminal cases submitted guilty pleas on Monday. Mark James Votava, 63, was charged with eight criminal offenses – seven being drug related and the eighth being a refusal to halt misdemeanor.
Levi Bachmeier, State Superintendent of Schools, when asked about how he feels about the opportunities and challenges of AI in schools, said: “I think it’s inevitable. It makes me nervous. And it also makes me excited.” Photo provided by the DPI.

Levi Bachmeier, State Superintendent of Schools, when asked about how he feels about the opportunities and challenges of AI in schools, said: “I think it’s inevitable. It makes me nervous. And it also makes me excited.” Photo provided by the DPI.

Schools hope to embrace the best of AI, shun the worst

Educators navigate delicate balancing act amid swift AI development Talk with K-12 teachers and administrators about AI in schools and there’s a sense of exasperation. Not enough time to learn fast moving development of AI tools.

ND improves grade In financial literacy

BISMARCK, N.D. – State School Superintendent Levi Bachmeier lauded North Dakota’s improvement on a national financial literacy report card, saying the result strengthens efforts to make N.D. the nation’s most financially literate state.
DAKOTA DATEBOOK: Splitting Dakota

DAKOTA DATEBOOK: Splitting Dakota

DAKOTA DATEBOOK: Splitting Dakota

December 15, 2025 – This date in 1885 was one piece of the timeline moving Dakota Territory to statehood as John Sherman, president pro tempore of the 49th U.S. Congress, was presented with a constitution and memorial assembled by Dakota Territory's legislature.
The Grinch and company plays at Walla

The Grinch and company plays at Walla

The Grinch and company plays at Walla

Thanks to the Gorge Arts and Heritage Council, the Walla Theatre was bright and alive on Saturday, Dec. 6. This was a second fundraiser of the season, and a premiere of The Grinch was played on the big screen for movie-goers.
The North Border Pembina Honor Society is currently collecting pop tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House, a non-profit which provides support for families with children undergoing medical care.

The North Border Pembina Honor Society is currently collecting pop tabs to benefit the Ronald McDonald House, a non-profit which provides support for families with children undergoing medical care.

North Border Pembina National Honor Society launches pop tab collection drive

The North Border Pembina chapter of the National Honor Society has kicked off a community-wide fundraising initiative to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Red River Valley.
Joe, Amy, and Dale Phillips at a previous Walhalla’s Annual Christmas Dinner. Photo by Melanie Thornberg.

Joe, Amy, and Dale Phillips at a previous Walhalla’s Annual Christmas Dinner. Photo by Melanie Thornberg.

CARRYING ON COMPASSION AND COMMUNITY

Eleven years ago, Amy Phillips was leaving mass on Christmas Eve when she noticed the people that were behind her, and especially those who were alone. Questions flurried in her mind - where will they spend Christmas? Will they have a nice meal? Will they be alone or have the warmth of fellowship?
Leaders. Maddy Steele.

Leaders. Maddy Steele.

Steele selected to the 4-H Ambassador Program

Eight young leaders from North Dakota have been welcomed into the 4-H Ambassador program, including Pembina County 4-Her Maddy Steele of Cavalier. The 4-H Ambassador leadership program is a prestigious initiative designed for youth aged 16 to 22.
Gordy “Crazy Fingers” Lindquist playing one of his most iconic performances - playing the piano while laying on his back! Photo by Heather Duerre.

Gordy “Crazy Fingers” Lindquist playing one of his most iconic performances - playing the piano while laying on his back! Photo by Heather Duerre.

Well-known local musician passes

People across North Dakota are remembering a well-beloved musician who went by the name of “Crazy Fingers.” Gordy Lindquist of Bottineau was known for his piano skills as well as his personality. He was a staple at many events across the Peace Garden State, most notably Norsk Hostfest.