Good morning, Grand Forks.

Lightning struck two East Grand Forks homes early Monday, causing fires that displaced two families, with firefighters splitting their crew + requesting extra help while St. Mary’s Catholic Church collects donations to support one family rebuilding.

North Dakota Game and Fish Department set 2026 hunting rules with changes for waterfowl, small game and furbearer seasons.

Waterfowl hunting opens Sept. 26 for residents + nonresidents and the early Canada goose season starts Aug. 15, with swan lottery applications due until Aug. 19.

Grand Forks City Council voted Monday to restore $159,135 in arts funding to the 2027 budget after discussions with community members; a public hearing and final vote is scheduled for Sept.

8.

Altru Health Systems hospital in Grand Forks posted a 7.5% rise in births in 2025 (1,511 newborns compared to 1,406 in 2024).

The increase comes as statewide birth rates have fallen over nearly a decade.

Dak Minn Blood Bank is holding an emergency blood drive today at Altru Hospital from 12 noon to 3 p.m. (all blood types are welcome, with a special need for O positive) as part of a nationwide effort to boost supplies.