The Minot Daily News is the primary daily newspaper serving Minot, North Dakota, and the broader Ward County region. Published in a broadsheet format, it provides print editions six days a week (Monday–Saturday). The paper is owned by Ogden Newspapers, a well-known media company, which ensures consistent editorial standards and operational stability.
On weekdays, the Daily News has a circulation of around 11,500, making it one of the most significant local news sources in the region. Its reach extends beyond Minot, covering parts of north-central and northwest North Dakota, helping residents stay informed about civic affairs, community life, and public notices.
History of Minot Daily News
The roots of Minot Daily News stretch back to the early 20th century. Its lineage includes the Burlington Reporter, one of the earliest newspapers in the region, and the Daily Optic, which later merged to form what is now the Minot Daily News. Over time, the paper has evolved but maintained its local focus and commitment to serving Ward County.
Importantly, it has been designated as the official newspaper of Ward County, a role which gives it special importance in publishing legal and public notices. Historical versions of the paper are preserved in microfilm collections, underscoring its long-standing role in documenting local history and events.
Subscription Options & Digital Access
One of the strengths of the Minot Daily News is its flexible subscription model. There are three main plans:
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6-Day Home Delivery + Unlimited Digital: This package offers the print paper six days a week plus full digital access.
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Sunday Delivery + Unlimited Digital: For readers who want a weekend print edition along with full online access.
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Digital-Only: A fully digital plan that gives unlimited access to the website, e-edition, archives, and newsletters.
Digital subscribers enjoy several perks:
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Full, unlimited access to minotdailynews.com
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A replica “e-edition” that mimics the print newspaper layout
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Access to the archives, which is especially useful for research or catching up on past stories
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Regular email newsletters that highlight breaking news, trending local stories, and more
This model makes the newspaper accessible whether you prefer reading on paper or on your device.
Content & Coverage
The Minot Daily News covers a broad and vital spectrum of topics for local readers:
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Local Government & Public Policy: The paper publishes stories about the city council, county commission, and other civic bodies. It also plays a critical role in public notices, keeping citizens informed about hearings, zoning decisions, and legal actions.
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Public Safety: Reporting includes crime, emergency services, accidents, and other public-safety updates that affect Minot and Ward County.
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Community & Feature Stories: From human-interest pieces to local profiles and community events, the Daily News highlights the life and culture of Minot.
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Sports & Education: Local school sports, athletic achievements, and educational developments feature regularly.
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Obituaries & Editorials: The newspaper offers obituaries, op-eds, and letters to the editor, giving a voice to residents.
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Classifieds & Public Notices: It remains a go-to platform for classifieds (jobs, real estate, announcements) and legal notices.
This well-rounded coverage ensures that it remains relevant to a diverse local audience.
Advertising in Minot Daily News
For local businesses, the newspaper offers multiple advertising options:
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Display Ads: Standard print ads in the physical newspaper.
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Classified Ads: A traditional way for people to list items for sale, job postings, or real estate.
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Legal / Public Notice Advertising: Required for public hearings, foreclosures, and other official announcements.
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Digital Ads: Online display ads on the website for reach among digital readers.
While specific ad rates vary, some estimates suggest around US$30 per column inch for a black-and-white print ad — but businesses should contact the newspaper’s advertising team for accurate, up-to-date pricing and package details.
Minot Daily News and the Local Media Ecosystem
Minot’s media landscape isn’t limited to the Daily News. Here’s how it fits in:
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Television: The KX network (e.g., KXMB-TV) provides local news broadcasts in Minot. Their strength lies in real-time reporting, video, and weather coverage.
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Newsletters: Services like Daily Minot offer hyper-local, free daily newsletters — especially for community updates and feel-good stories.
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Radio: Minot is served by several local radio stations, though their journalism focus may be limited compared to print or TV.
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Student Media: The Red & Green is the student newspaper at Minot State University, offering a youthful and academic perspective on local issues.
In this mix, Minot Daily News holds a special place: it’s a deeply rooted institution, trusted for long-form reporting, legal notices, and community accountability.
Strengths & Challenges
Strengths:
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Trusted local brand with deep roots in Minot
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Balanced offering: both print and digital
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Vital for public notices and legal transparency
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Strong community presence, including historical archives
Challenges:
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Subscription cost may be a barrier for some readers
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Competing more with digital-native local media and community newsletters
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Geographic reach is largely local, limiting scale
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Need to continuously adapt to digital habits and younger audiences
Why Minot Daily News Matters for the Community
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Civic Accountability: By publishing local government news and legal notices, the Daily News supports transparency and civic engagement in Ward County.
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Historical Record: Its archives document Minot’s evolution over decades, serving as a resource for historians and residents alike.
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Community Connection: Through feature stories, editorials, and local reportage, the newspaper reflects the voices and values of Minot.
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Economic Role: Local businesses rely on the Daily News for advertising and reaching engaged, community-based audiences.
In short, it’s more than just a paper — it’s an institution that helps hold the fabric of Minot together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a Minot Daily News subscription cost?
A: Pricing depends on the plan: the six-day print + digital plan, Sunday-only + digital, or digital-only. For example, the digital plan is around $2.99/week, but other bundled options are available.
Q: Can I read the Minot Daily News online / via an e-edition?
A: Yes. Digital subscribers get full access to the website, a digital edition that mimics the print layout, and the archives of past issues.
Q: How do I place a classified ad in the Minot Daily News?
A: You can reach out to their classified advertising team to submit your listing. The newspaper offers help with job ads, real estate, items for sale, and more.
Q: Does the Minot Daily News publish public notices and legal announcements?
A: Yes, it’s a key platform for public and legal notices in Ward County, including city hearings, foreclosures, and government announcements.
Q: How can I submit news tips or opinion pieces to Minot Daily News?
A: The newspaper has a newsroom email where you can send news tips, story ideas, or letters. They accept local contributions from residents.
Conclusion
The Minot Daily News remains a pillar of local journalism in Minot, ND. Balancing tradition with modern delivery, it continues to serve its community with in-depth reporting, public notices, and local storytelling. Whether you read it in print, online, or via the e-edition, its role in maintaining civic engagement and local identity makes it more than just a newspaper — it’s a trusted voice for Minot.
If you live in or care about Minot, subscribing or engaging with the Minot Daily News is a smart way to stay connected, informed, and active in your community.
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