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Community Roundup: April 13, 2026

▸ This article was created with AI assistance

AI Model: Claude Opus 4 by Anthropic

Sources:

AI-generated content may contain errors. Community members are encouraged to verify important details independently.

Report an Error · info@ifalls.news

It’s a busy Monday in the Borderland as ISD 361 puts out a call for vendors to run an online Broncos school store and reminds families that MCA testing kicks off this week. Meanwhile, Rainy Lake Medical Center is shining a spotlight on its care teams across several specialties.

Weather — Patchy fog gives way to mostly cloudy skies today with a high of 45°F and a low tonight around 32°F. There’s a chance of rain showers overnight into Tuesday, when rain becomes likely with highs again near 45°F. Rivers remain well below flood stage — the Rainy River at the Falls sits at 15.17 ft, while the Little Fork (4.25 ft) and Big Fork (3.95 ft) are running low and quiet. Full forecast →
What’s Happening Today

  • • Sammy’s Pizza Monday Night Buffet (all day) — Sammy’s Pizza, International Falls
  • • Budget & Finance / Committee-of-the-Whole Meeting (10 a.m. – 12 p.m.) — Council Chambers, 600 4th Street
  • • Grief Group (10 a.m.) — Backus Community Center
  • • Special City Council Meeting (4:30 p.m.) — Council Chambers, 600 Fourth Street
  • • Special City Council Meeting (5:30 p.m.) — City of International Falls
  • • Volleyball (6 p.m.) — Backus Community Center

Full calendar →


Schools & Education

ISD 361 is accepting proposals for an Online Broncos School Store for the 2026–27 school year. The district is looking for a vendor to host and manage a branded store featuring apparel, alumni gear, and more, with a percentage of sales supporting PreK–12th grade PBIS programs. A pilot two-year commitment is required.

  • Proposal Deadline: June 1, 2026
  • Launch Date: August 26, 2026
  • Submit to: Office of the Superintendent — bshermoen@isd361.org or 1515 11th St, International Falls, MN 56649
  • Questions: Beth Shermoen at 218-283-2571 ext. 1112
ISD 361 Broncos Online Store vendor proposal announcement
ISD 361 is seeking a vendor to launch an online Broncos store — ISD 361

ISD 361

It’s an important few weeks ahead for Broncos students as MCA testing (Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments) begins. ISD 361 is encouraging families to support their students with regular attendance, adequate sleep, and proper nutrition during the testing window.

The district notes that consistent attendance keeps students engaged and gives them access to teachers for support on challenging material. A well-rested, well-fed student is better equipped to handle test-day stress and perform at their best.

ISD 361 MCA testing tips for parents and students
Tips for supporting students during MCA testing — ISD 361

ISD 361


Health & Wellness

Rainy Lake Medical Center is celebrating Occupational Therapy Month this April, recognizing the work of OT team members Meghann, Krista, and Sydney. The team works with patients of all ages — from children with developmental challenges to adults recovering from injury to seniors maintaining their independence.

Rainy Lake Medical Center

RLMC is also spotlighting Dr. Rachel Knudson, the hospital’s General Surgeon, who provides expert surgical care right here in the Borderland — from routine procedures to specialized care. To schedule an appointment, call 218-283-5503.

Rainy Lake Medical Center

And a reminder that RLMC’s OB/GYN team provides comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care for patients at every stage of life — from adolescence through pregnancy, menopause, and beyond. Learn more at rainylakemedical.com/services/ob-gyn/.

Rainy Lake Medical Center


Business Happenings

The International Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is spotlighting member business Borderland Insurance Agents, Inc., located in downtown International Falls with easy off-street parking. As an independent agency, Borderland compares rates across multiple carriers to find the best coverage and price. The Chamber highlights staff members Tammi and Shana for their friendly, knowledgeable, personalized approach to insurance.

IF Area Chamber of Commerce

Ronnings has a new drink of the week: the Cinnamon Roll Latte — made with brown sugar and cinnamon syrups, espresso, and frothed milk. Add whip for a little extra sweetness.

Cinnamon roll latte at Ronnings
This week’s featured drink: the Cinnamon Roll Latte — Ronnings

Ronnings

Coffee Landing Cafe had cream cheese muffins available by request over the weekend — keep an eye on their page for more fresh-baked specials.

Coffee Landing Cafe

Heads up from Sammy’s Pizza: the restaurant will be closed on Sunday, April 26 for team meetings and a kitchen deep cleaning ahead of summer business.

Sammy’s Pizza

Thunderbird Lodge had their buffet running today through 2 p.m., and guests have been raving about it.

“Best looking and tasting buffet today.”

Thunderbird Lodge


Community Events & Activities

Mark your calendars, Bronco fans — Boondocks Bar & Grill is hosting a Bingo fundraiser to support FHS Bronco Baseball on Saturday, May 3. Daily prize reveals are underway, and the first bingo prize package includes a Weber Charcoal Grill from Northern Lumber and Hardware, a $25 gift certificate from The Blind Pig Tap House on Lake Kabetogama, and two sweatshirts from the International Falls Chamber of Commerce.

  • Date: Saturday, May 3
  • Doors Open: 11 a.m.
  • Games Start: 1 p.m.
  • Location: Boondocks Bar & Grill
Boondocks Bingo fundraiser for FHS Bronco Baseball on May 3
Bingo prizes are being revealed daily ahead of the May 3 fundraiser — Boondocks Bar & Grill

Boondocks Bar & Grill


Faith & Community Organizations

Birchdale United Congregational Church held Sunday services this weekend with Soren, Roger, and Christine leading the service, scripture readings, and hymns. Soren’s message focused on the meaning of “Peace Be With You” — or Shalom — explaining that the peace Jesus speaks of is not simply relaxation but something tangible and shared. He passed around a clay pot to demonstrate how peace is both given and received. Sunday school covered Moses and Jesus, Bible verses, and coloring activities.

Sunday service at Birchdale United Congregational Church
Sunday service at Birchdale — Birchdale United Congregational Church

Birchdale United Congregational Church


Recent Articles

Voyageurs National Park names Jennifer Onufer superintendent; RLMC health fair Oct. 8, Ronnings appreciation event Oct. 8-11, and a Hall of Fame class is named.
The International Falls City Council approved a $4,609,654 preliminary 2027 levy, up 4.72%, in a 4-1 vote on Sept. 21. Minutes cover every motion.
Rainy Lake hazard markers are coming out, Ronnings Community Care Days run through October 6, and Bronco volleyball beat Warroad.
Voyageurs buoy removal can start Oct. 5, KOOTASCA collects Halloween costumes through Oct. 19, and Servants of Shelter marks World Homeless Day Oct. 10.
Falls Elementary celebrated Homecoming, named September Students of the Month and Bronco Pride winners, and set Responsibility as the October focus.
A Freeze Warning covers Koochiching County from 1 a.m. to 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 5, with temperatures as low as 28 expected, the National Weather Service says.

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