1. On August 13, 1883, the Northern Pacific Railroad completed its line through North Dakota, connecting the state to the national rail system for the first time. This opened up new opportunities for transportation and commerce, helping to spur the state's growth and development.

2. One hundred years later, on August 13, 1983, the town of Ashley celebrated its centennial with a parade, festivities, and a reenactment of the town's founding. Ashley was established in 1883 by German-Russian immigrants, and has since become known for its vibrant community life and annual German festival.

3. On August 13, 1934, the state held a referendum on whether to repeal the state's prohibition on alcohol. The measure passed overwhelmingly, with 73% of voters in favor of ending the ban. This marked a major shift in the state's social and economic landscape, as bars and breweries began to spring up in towns throughout North Dakota.

4. August 13, 1955, saw the opening of the world's first Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The charity, which provides accommodations and support to families of seriously ill children receiving medical treatment, has since expanded to dozens of locations around the world. This includes a Ronald McDonald House in Fargo, North Dakota, which opened in 1982.

5. Finally, on August 13, 2019, North Dakota State University announced the launch of a new program designed to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the state. The program, called InnovateND, provides training, mentorship, and resources to entrepreneurs and startups in North Dakota, with a focus on technology, agriculture, and energy. The goal is to build a more diverse and resilient economy for the state's future.