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2024 Year in Review

Posted on 12/20/24

As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota.

Making communities more livable
In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in Community Challenge grants. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.

Bismarck Block Party
We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch this video to learn more.

Missing Middle Housing
We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. Read more here.

Keeping Your Utility Rates Down
This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. Learn more here.

Celebrating Volunteers
More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named Community Fraud Fighter of the Year and VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers for their longtime commitment to AARP.

Fraud
AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at aarp.org/fraud.

2024 AARP ND End of Year Review

This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the AARP North Dakota page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.

AARP Events for Bismarck

AARP Events for Bismarck

• Featured Event

  AARP ND-Day at the Capitol

  Sunday, Jan 19, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. CT

  North Dakota State Capitol

  Bismarck, ND

• The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. CT

  Zoom

  Online Event

• Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. CT

  Zoom

  Online Event

View All AARP Events

Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal

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• Discounts on travel and everyday savings
• Subscription to AARP The Magazine
• FREE second membership

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Bismarck</h2>
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										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-nd-advocacy-day-at-the-capitol-1202025-j6n26sgrxlc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-NDDAY-AT-THE-CAPITOL">AARP ND-Day at the Capitol</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Sunday, Jan 19, 2025 at 5:30&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
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					<p class="loc">Bismarck, ND</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-BISMARCK-ND">Renew</a> or 
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Bismarck</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:NDAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NDAARP@aarp.org</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP North Dakota</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-north-dakota/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-BISMARCK-ND" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP North Dakota</a></li>

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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-nd-advocacy-day-at-the-capitol-1202025-j6n26sgrxlc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-NDDAY-AT-THE-CAPITOL">AARP ND-Day at the Capitol</a></h2>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
							</div>
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-nd-advocacy-day-at-the-capitol-1202025-j6n26sgrxlc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-NDDAY-AT-THE-CAPITOL">AARP ND-Day at the Capitol</a></h2>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-nd-advocacy-day-at-the-capitol-1202025-j6n26sgrxlc.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-AARP-NDDAY-AT-THE-CAPITOL">AARP ND-Day at the Capitol</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Sunday, Jan 19, 2025 at 5:30&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">North Dakota State Capitol</p>
					<p class="loc">Bismarck, ND</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 12:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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					<p class="time">Sunday, Jan 19, 2025 at 5:30&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
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					<p class="loc">Bismarck, ND</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
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					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 5:00&nbsp;p.m. CT</p>
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
						<div class="posted-on">
				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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			<header><h1 class="article-headline">2024 Year in Review </h1></header>	
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				Posted on 12/20/24 
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        <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p>As 2024 comes to a close, we've been reflecting on how the hard work undertaken by staff and volunteers has positively impacted the people and communities of North Dakota. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/livablend"><b>Making communities more livable</b></a></span></span><br>In 2024, eight communities were awarded nearly $69,000 in <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/aarp-investing-69k-in-north-dakota-communities-as-part-of-nationwide-grant-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Community Challenge grants</a></span></span>. These projects are creating spaces for people to gather together and making outdoor spaces safe and accessible for all ages.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Bismarck Block Party</b></a></span></span><br>We made an ordinary park come alive with our block party this summer. Watch <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://youtu.be/swUIEm64IH8?si=btY6aL1MpunIpY6p" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">this video </a></span></span>to learn more. <br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners"><b>Missing Middle Housing</b></a></span></span><br>We sponsored a design competition to improve housing options for older adults in Fargo with exciting results. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/mmh-2024-winners">Read more here</a></span></span>. <br><br><b>Keeping Your Utility Rates Down</b><br>This past year we saved MDU and Xcel consumers nearly $2 million by coming to the table when they proposed rate increases that unfairly impacted residential customers. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/helping-north-dakotans-save-money-on-their-utility-bills">Learn more here.</a></span></span><br><br><b>Celebrating Volunteers</b><br>More than 500 people came together at Community Celebrations in Fargo and Bismarck to honor Marlene Batterberry of West Fargo, <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/marlene-batterberry-named-2024-andrus-award-recipient">the 2024 recipient of the Andrus Award for Community Service</a></span></span>. Parrell Grossman, Bismarck was named <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/bismarcks-parrell-grossman-named-2024-community-fraud-fighter">Community Fraud Fighter of the Year</a></span></span> and<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/north-dakota/two-legacy-volunteers-recognized-for-their-volunteerism"> VelRae Burkholder of Fargo and Carole Watrel of Bismarck were named Legacy Volunteers</a></span></span> for their longtime commitment to AARP.<br><br><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><b>Fraud</b></a></span></span><br>AARP ND is deeply engaged in sharing timely information and resources to help North Dakotans stay ahead of fraud. Nearly 1200 people attended our Fraud Lunch and Learns, and we shredded 27,238 lbs of paper at three drive-through shredding events. Learn more about our fraud resources at <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/fraud" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">aarp.org/fraud. </a></span></span><br></p><div class="Enhancement"   >
            
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		<p><i>This story is provided by AARP North Dakota. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-dakota/" target="_blank">AARP North Dakota</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p>
	
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        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$title_for_layout = '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP'
$asset_version = '230831'
$min = true
$nowrapper = false
$css = '        :root {
        --primaryColor: #ff1e3c;
        --primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a;
        --linkTextColor: #1f66bd;
        --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd;
        --secondaryTextColor: #000000;
        --secondaryColor2: #000000;
        --secondaryColor3: #000000;
        --secondaryColor4: #000000;
        --secondaryColor5: #000000;
        --black: #000000;
        --white: #ffffff;
        --grey: #f0efed;
        --gridGutters: 30px;
        --modulePadding: 60px;
        --pageWidth: 86.11%;
        --maxPageWidth: 1240px;
        --horizontalAlignment: center;
        --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif;
        --headerBackgroundColor:#000000;
        --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF;
        --headerHeight:50px;
        --footerbackgroundColor:#000000;
        --footerTextColor:#918883;
        }'
$highlighting = ''
$location = '<a href="/bismarck-nd/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HOME">Bismarck, ND</a>'
$no_header = false
$header_title = '<a href="/bismarck-nd/happenings/">News Feed</a>'
$header_subtitle = ''
$isPR = false
$navbar = '<nav class="section" role="button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="collapse">
<div class="containerx">
	<div class="section-toggle">Sections <i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></div>
	<ul class="secondary-menu containerx" id="secondary-menu" role="menu" aria-busy="true">
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/aarp-events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-OLE" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Online & Local Events</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/things-to-do/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-TTD" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-THINGSTODO">Things to Do</a></li>
		<li role="presentation" class="active"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/happenings/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-NF" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HAPPENINGS">News Feed</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/volunteering/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-VOL" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-VOLUNTEERING">Volunteering</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HC">Home & Community</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class=""><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem" href="/bismarck-nd/movies/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MFG" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MOVIESFORGROWNUPS">Movies for Grownups</a> </li>
		<li role="presentation" class="more nosep " id="submenu-more">
			<span role="menuitem" class="menuitem" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MORE">More<i class="fas fa-chevron-down"></i></span>
			<ul class="secondary-submenu animate slide-in" id="secondary-submenu">
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/discounts/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LO" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-OFFERS">Local Offers</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/local-resources/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-LR" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-LOCALRESOURCES">Local Resources</a> </li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/jobs/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-WJ" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-WORK&JOBS">Work & Jobs</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/events/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-CC" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-EVENTS">Community Calendar</a></li>
				<!--
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/healthy-living/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-HEALTHY_LIVING" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-HEALTHY_LIVING">Healthy Living</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/arts-entertainment/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-ARTS_ENT" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-ARTS_ENT">Arts & Entertainment</a></li>
				<li role="presentation"><a role="menuitem" class="menuitem " href="/bismarck-nd/museums/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-NAV-MUSEUMS" data-formelementid="LOCAL-LNK-CLK-MUSEUMS">Museums</a></li>
				-->
			</ul>
		</li>
		
	</ul>
</div>
</nav>'
$header_custom = ''
$breadcrumbs = array(
	(int) 0 => array(
		'title' => 'News Feed',
		'slug' => 'happenings'
	)
)
$row = array(
	'title' => 'Back to News Feed',
	'slug' => 'happenings'
)
$i = (int) 0
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
BlogsController::display() - APP/Controller/BlogsController.php, line 81
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118