Daily
Grand Forks
Saturday, January 31st, 2026
Good morning, Grand Forks. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 31st of January.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Directors of the Miss Norsk Høstfest Competition said they are exploring new sponsorship opportunities to preserve the festival's legacy after the event ended. Titleholder Erika Littlefield is preparing for the Miss North Dakota Competition in June in Williston. Valley News Live
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The State Board of Higher Education approved pilot programs letting colleges offer applied science degrees with 90 credits instead of the usual 120. The policy supports students aiming to join the workforce while still finishing required core courses, according to Deputy Commissioner Lisa Johnson. Knox News Radio
- ➤ UND's Nistler College of Business announced a new bachelor's degree program in real estate after the State Board approved renaming the department (honoring alumnus Bob Fransen), which will soon expand academic opportunities for students. Knox News Radio
- ➤ Grand Forks Public Schools is considering cuts to its music program amid a budget crisis. Officials updated the community 23 minutes ago that the proposal could reduce music classes for students. Valley News Live
- ➤ Morgan Forness, superintendent of the Central Cass public school in Casselton, was appointed to the State Board of Public School Education (which also seats him on the Board of Career and Technical Education) by Gov. Kelly Armstrong; he will serve until June 30, representing Barnes, Cass, Grand Forks, Griggs, Nelson, Steele, and Traill counties. Knox News Radio
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A new biography celebrates former Chief Justice Jerry VandeWalle’s 65-year legacy in state government — including 45 years on the bench and over half as chief. The work honors his nonpartisan service and leadership in national legal organizations. Knox News Radio
- ➤ Governor Kelly Armstrong unveiled the Legacy Soil Health and Habitat Program at the Capitol today; about 50 partners gathered as the two-year pilot secured $4.3 million from the Outdoor Heritage Fund (with $2.2 million in matching contributions) to boost cropland productivity and wildlife habitat. Knox News Radio
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The price of greatness is responsibility.
~ Winston Churchill
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