Each November, National Adoption Month invites us to celebrate families formed through adoption and to reflect on the thousands of children and teens still waiting for a permanent, loving home. But honoring youth means more than celebrating successful matches, it means listening to their voices, respecting their experiences, and strengthening the systems that shape their futures.

Is it just me or are we celebrating Christmas earlier and earlier every year?
No, I am not a Scrooge, as one of my friends called me after I brought this up. I actually love Christmas and the Christmas season as much as anyone else.
But I also want to enjoy Halloween first, nevermind Thanksgiving.
I first noticed Christmas was already here when we were looking for Halloween candy.

There is no question small, tight-knit communities are good for many reasons.
Undoubtedly, one of those reasons is responding to the good and the bad.
Last month, we all witnessed it when members of the community rallied to collect food and other items for the local food shelves, in response to the pause on SNAP benefits and the federal shutdown.

American Education Week (AEW) took place Nov. 17–21. I enjoy this week each year because it offers an opportunity to reflect on and acknowledge the many contributions made in public schools.
As I was preparing to write an article this week, I thought AEW would be a good topic. As I started writing, I grew curious about the history and purpose of AEW and took some time to learn more.

The Byron school district’s future is looking much brighter than it did last year at this time. Last Monday night’s board meeting was the first one since voters passed a $1.9 million school levy referendum at the Nov. 4 special election.
Both Superintendent Nate Walbruch and Finance Director Shawn Elsbury told the board, that the district is getting back on track financially.

Byron school district makes changes following OSA report
Alex Malm
Staff Writer
The Byron school district is making changes to its purchasing procedures following a negative review by the State Auditor Office.

Robert Owen Boyum, 94, of Kasson, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025, at Prairie Meadows Senior Living in Kasson.    
Robert was born on April 28, 1931, to Selmer and Julia (Kyllo) Boyum in Rural Hayfield.  He was a lifelong member of South Zumbro Lutheran Church in rural Kasson.