KSDM/KGHS Local and Regional News 9/24/2025
The United Way of Northeastern Minnesota’s Lunch Buddies mentoring program is returning to Falls Elementary next month.
Lunch Buddies pairs local elementary students with trained, screened volunteers from the community to share one lunch break each week. Since 2020, the program has grown from just two schools to 13 across the region.
Evaluations from last school year showed big impacts — with mentors, staff, and parents reporting improved self-esteem, attitudes, and attendance among students. Ninety-eight percent of participating kids said the program made them feel cared for, and every parent surveyed agreed.
UWNEMN’s Sarah Gardeski says the program may seem simple — just games and conversation over lunch — but it makes a serious difference in building confidence and resilience for local kids.
Applications are being accepted for mentors through the end of the month. If more students sign up than there are mentors, United Way will extend the deadline to ensure no child is left waiting.
For more information or to apply, visit unitedwaynemn.org/lunch-buddies.
Cooler September weather is settling in, but fishing conditions remain strong across Rainy Lake and area waters.
Anglers say many fish are starting to move shallower, though plenty are still being found on reefs as fall transition continues. This summer also featured a Creel survey, and results are expected later this year.
Bass activity typically tapers off this time of year, but diehards are still out chasing them. As for ice fishing — don’t expect it until late December.
Boaters are urged to wear life jackets as water temps drop, and to remember navigation buoys will be pulled soon by the Coast Guard.
That’s this week’s fishing update — conditions are good, the bite is strong, and anglers should take advantage of the mild September weather.
The Littlefork-Big Falls School District continues celebrating Homecoming with dress-up days with Wednesday is also Senior Citizen Day, and tonight features the Homecoming Coronation at 7 o’clock in the old gym, with a bonfire to follow. Then, Thursday wraps up with Spirit Day, encouraging students to wear orange and black. Jam-packed with the floats beginning to line up at 2, with the parade at 2:30, pep fest at 1 in the new gym, and varsity volleyball at home. Then Friday night, it’s the big game: varsity football at home, kickoff at 7, with a dance to follow for grades 7-11, ending at 11pm.
Finally, to wrap up our series with Mrs Christianson of ISD 361, she says Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance to break stereotypes and build understanding.
Even today, her kids sometimes get asked if they’re Mexican — but she uses those moments to educate and share.
Her message this Hispanic Heritage Month: ask questions, stay curious, and respect the diversity within Latino culture.