Good morning, Fargo.

Five NDSU alumni were honored on the Prairie Business 40 Under 40 list for leadership in business, education, engineering and public service, including Fargo-based Laura Bowles + Ty Pritchard.

The announcement underscores NDSU’s role in cultivating regional leaders.

Gas prices in North Dakota fell below $3 a gallon this month as the state average dropped from $2.98 to $2.94, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, with lower crude oil prices & rising fuel efficiency credited for the decline.

Officials expect further price drops later.

NDSU Distinguished Professor Chad Ulven is testing new composite material 3D printing methods to create stronger parts for various industries+ his work includes mentoring students and working with researchers to drive innovative manufacturing solutions.

Over 300+ students from Minnesota State Moorhead will graduate in three ceremonies Wednesday and Thursday, including a first-ever graduate students-only service with speaker Dr. Stefanie Gefroh and an undergraduate event featuring alumna Katie Merrick.

Graduating NDSU student Wendi Wheeler, earning a master’s in counselor education, will speak as student representative during the commencement ceremony on Friday, Dec.

19 at 2 p.m. Her speech will share her journey of resilience and overcoming personal challenges (including support from advisor Jessica Danielson) with fellow graduates.

NDSU graduate student Josi Solsaa will receive her master’s degree in animal science and serve as class representative at a ceremony on Friday, Dec.

19 at 5 p.m. in Fargo. She credits her NDSU experience (cultivating strength, resilience and passion for agriculture) with shaping her future.

Matt Perdue was elected president of the ND Farmers Union at the 99th annual convention in Bismarck.

The 33-year-old family farmer from Ray will lead the state’s largest farm organization after former President Mark Watne stepped down.

North Dakota lawmakers are working to secure up to $500 million over five years to boost rural healthcare access and quality.

The funding decision will be announced on Dec. 31 and a committee will meet the week of Jan. 12 - officials say the program emphasizes prevention and wellness.

State-owned minerals are projected to produce $8.4 billion in future oil and gas royalties that will boost the Common Schools Trust Fund for K-12 education (board meeting on Dec.

11) as analysts note promising industry developments despite a 12% drop in mineral value.

Downtown snow removal continued Monday night along north/south streets between 2nd Ave South and 7th Ave North from 2nd St to University Drive; vehicles parked there will be impounded at 2:00 a.m. Tuesday+ so drivers are urged to move their cars+ to avoid towing.

The Classic Nutcracker

7 p.m. — Fargo Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the magic of this beloved holiday classic brought to life on stage.

Post-Traumatic Funk Syndrome’s Have Yourself a Funky Little Christmas!

Post-Traumatic Funk Syndrome’s Have Yourself a Funky Little Christmas! returns to the Sanctuary Events Center on Friday, December 19 — a beloved Fargo holiday tradition powered by their iconic 12-piece horn band and festive, feel-good classics. If you can't make it to Friday, don't worry; they bring the groove back for a second night on Saturday, December 20.

Christmas Pop-up Painting Party

6-9 PM — THE ART BAR — Pre-registration required — Paint an adorable 'Christmas Highland Cow' with a community group on a 16x20 canvas.

Gnome Craft Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium at Brewhalla — Registration required — Create your own festive gnome while learning about Norwegian folklore in a fun crafting experience.

Stained Glass Mosaic Gnome Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium — Costs vary — Create colorful stained glass mosaic gnomes in this hands-on art class.

2025 Essentia Health West Fargo Winter Classic

10 a.m. — Essentia Health Plaza — Check event details for entry fees — Experience thrilling competition as top teams from North Dakota and Minnesota battle it out in the Winter Classic.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

3-5 p.m. — FARGODOME — Tickets on sale starting September 12 — Experience the spectacular holiday fusion of rock and classical with a tribute to Beethoven's Last Night.

Fargo Force vs Lincoln Stars

6:05-7:35 p.m. — Scheels Arena — Cost info not provided — Catch the thrilling hockey action between the Fargo Force and Lincoln Stars on FloHockey.

Hygge Charm Jewelry Workshop

6-12 p.m. — Unglued Craftatorium — Ticket required — Create a cozy charm necklace or bracelet while embracing the Danish concept of hygge.

Nice Boy Haircut Concert

9:30 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. — Dempsey's Public House — Free entry — Enjoy a polished, high-energy cover band that keeps the dance floor moving all night long.