Author: Dan Hanger

Coffee Conversation: 311 Lead Singer Talks Saturday Show At Earth Rider Brewery Fest Grounds

DULUTH, Minn. – Alternative rock band 311 exploded to fame in the 90s with a mix of rock, rap, reggae and funk!  And the band is making a tour stop this Saturday, May 28, at the festival grounds at Earth Rider Brewery in Superior.  Lead singer Nick Hexum, 52, who was born in Madison, Wisconsin, talked with FOX 21’s Dan…

Coffee Conversation: Mark Rubin Talks Memorial Day Ceremonies In Duluth, Sings ‘Let Them In Peter’

DULUTH, Minn. — Former St. Louis County Attorney Mark Rubin stopped by the morning show Thursday to talk about two Memorial Day ceremonies happening in Duluth on Monday. The first ceremony is at 9 a.m. at the Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial located at the corner of Commonwealth Avenue and Stowe Street. The second ceremony happens at 6 p.m. at…

Coffee Conversation: The Promethean — Covering UWS For 102 Years

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The UW-Superior student-run newspaper, The Promethean, has been covering campus news now for 102 years. The paper’s student editor, Drew Kerner, and his faculty advisor, Tom Hansen, stopped by the morning show Tuesday to talk about the paper’s legacy and how it is a learning opportunity for any major of study.  Click the video for the conversation!…

Some Park Point Residents Buried In Silt After Beach Nourishment Project

City officials say the 'nuisance' is better than Lake Superior swallowing up property from chronic erosion.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some homeowners on Park Point are getting buried in fine sand and silt, and some are even losing their yards to inches of the super fine particles. The problem is a result of the beach nourishment project from last year that built back multiple feet of beach by using dredging leftovers from the harbor. The city calls…

Duluth Schools Supt. Talks Staff Mask Mandate, Graduations, Strategic Planning Process

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth School District began a new mask mandate Monday for faculty and staff inside all district buildings. Meanwhile, students, parents, and others are being encouraged to mask up. This comes as COVID cases in Duluth are up and the county is now considered at a high level for transmission. Duluth Schools Supt. John Magas stopped by…

Coffee Conversation: Michelle Lee Talks Getting Fired, KBJR-TV, Bodybuilding, Retirement

DULUTH, Minn. – Michelle Lee, 70, is best known for her decades at KDLH-TV and KBJR-TV before retiring about five years ago. FOX 21’s Dan Hanger recently went to Michelle’s home in Moose Lake to see what she is up to these days and look back at some life lessons made in her career – from getting fired, to bodybuilding,…

Coffee Conversation: Former Longtime KBJR-TV Sportscaster Tom Hansen Then & Now

DULUTH, Minn.  — Former longtime Duluth sportscaster Tom Hansen stopped by the morning show Wednesday to talk about his 20-plus years at KBJR-TV, his time in radio and some of what he’s up to as a faculty member at UWS.  Click the videos below for the conversation! Part 1: Part 2: Categories: Coffee Conversation, Community, Minnesota, News, News – Latest…

Swollen St. Louis River In Scanlon Means More Business For Some

SCANLON, Minn. – Weeks of heavy rainfall after the snowmelt have sent the St. Louis River on a wild ride, including in Scanlon. “It’s the highest we’ve seen in 10 years, 2012 obviously — the 500-year flood was the highest,” explained Aaron Hanson, co-owner of River Inn Bar & Grill, which sits along the river. During the 2012 flood, Hanson…

Coffee Conversation: DogApproved.biz Launching Dog-Friendly Resource Guide

DULUTH, Minn. – Northland businesses in and around the Twin Ports are taking the pledge to be “dog approved” as part of a new dog-friendly resource guide that’s launching in June by DogApproved.biz. The guide will be online and also found in participating businesses around town as a way to let dog owners know the best dog-friendly patios, special doggy…

Coffee Convo: Foster Advocacy Nonprofit ‘New Hope For Families’ To Host Community Carnival

DULUTH, Minn. — New Hope For Families is getting ready to host a Community Carnival Saturday, May 21, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at its Duluth facility to show off all they offer to help support parents and children in the community, while increasing the number of foster families in the Northland. For more on the Community Carnival event…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Flame To Host Kid-Friendly Drag Show Sunday

DULUTH, Minn. — Drag Queen Mama Dukes joined FOX 21’s Dan Hanger on the morning show Friday to talk about the Duluth Flame’s upcoming kid-friendly drag show this Sunday, May 15 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.   It’s called Mama’s Toybox. The drag show is a dry event and free for kids.   For more on the morning show chat, watch…

Blush Entertainment Venue Closing In Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – One of Duluth’s most eclectic entertainment and bar venues is preparing to close its doors. Blush opened in 2017 on First Avenue West. It’s been known for being an accepting space for all types of artists, musicians and people looking for that collective sense of belonging. The venue’s owners posted on Blush’s Facebook page saying their lease…

Coffee Conversation: New Wine Theater Group’s Production Of ‘Bright Star’

CLOQUET, Minn. – Members of New Wine, a Christian theater group at Zion Lutheran Church in Cloquet, stopped by the FOX 21 morning show to talk with Dan Hanger about their production of “Bright Star,” which runs from May 11-15th at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 and include dessert and beverages during intermission. Tickets can be purchased at: newwine.ludus.com. Click…

Coffee Conversation: ‘Art In The Alley’ Celebrates 14 Years Of Artwork, Clothing, Jewelry

DULUTH, Minn. — The owner of Art in the Alley, Tami LaPole Edmunds, stopped by FOX 21’s morning show Thursday to talk to Dan Hanger about the ups and downs of being in business for 14 years and how the business has evolved into its current space in the Miller Hill Mall.  Check out the conversation below and click here…

American Heart Association Talks Heart Health Awareness

DULUTH, Minn. — The American Heart Association hosted its Go Red For Women luncheon event at the DECC Wednesday to raise awareness about heart disease, which is the No. 1 killer in women and men in the United States. Click the video above to learn more about your hearth health, and check out the American Heart Association’s website for all…

Coffee Conversation: Saginaw Woman Discovers Hidden Talent To Draw

SAGINAW, Minn. – Imagine having a talent you never knew you were capable of until your adult years in life. That’s exactly what happened to Barb Fremling who two years ago discovered she is a talented artist who can draw amazing portraits of dogs, cats and horses. Click the video above to hear Barb’s story! And if you’re interested in…

Coffee Conversation: North Shore Scenic Railroad Revs Up For Season

DULUTH, Minn. — The North Shore Scenic Railroad is revving up for the season, especially National Train Day this Saturday, May 14.  Click the videos below for a conversation with NSSR Station Master Josh Miller and Executive Director Ken Buehler.  And for everything trains, visit duluthtrains.com. Part 1: Part 2: Categories: Coffee Conversation, Community, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest…

MN Ovarian Cancer Alliance ‘Disappointed’ New Lift Bridge Lighting Policy Won’t Include Requests

The Lift Bridge will be lit for nine national holidays/special days decided by Mayor Emily Larson's administration. Enger Tower will accept public requests.

DULUTH, Minn. – One of the most vocal organizations in support of lighting Duluth’s Lift Bridge for special causes is “disappointed” Mayor Emily Larson’s new policy still restricts that from becoming a reality after public scrutiny on her prior policy. It was late Friday when Larson released the new policy, which will light the iconic structure for nine national holidays…

Coffee Conversation: Oasis Del Norte To Expand To Restaurant In Duluth’s Lincoln Park

DULUTH, Minn. – The owner of Oasis Del Norte, Eduardo Sandoval-Luna, talked to FOX 21’s Dan Hanger about the success of his food trailer and his plans to expand the brand into a restaurant in the Lincoln Park Craft District. Click the video above for that conversation, and click here to find out where Oasis Del Norte will have its…

Coffee Conversation: Barbara Reyelts Talks New Book, Journalism, Retirement

DULUTH, Minn. — Barbara Reyelts, who retired from broadcasting three years ago after spending nearly 40 years as an anchor, investigative reporter and news director at KBJR-TV, stopped by FOX 21’s morning show Friday to talk to Dan Hanger about her new book, “Dying To Live.” The book is about an elderly medical scientist who awakes in a hospital to…

Coffee Conversation: Spiritual Coach Monique Forcier

DULUTH, Minn. — Spiritual Coach Monique Forcier stopped by the morning show Thursday to talk to FOX 21’s Dan Hanger about different ways to help people heal and become more mindful and awake in their lives. Click the video above for that conversation, and click here to view Monique’s website of services. Categories: Business, Coffee Conversation, Education, Health, Minnesota, News,…

Coffee Conversation: Ventriloquist Jeremy Lepak

DULUTH, Minn. – Ventriloquist Jeremy Lepak joined FOX 21’s Dan Hanger during the 7 a.m. hour of the morning show Thursday to talk about his 15 years of perfecting his craft. Click the video above for that fun conversation, and check out Jeremy’s website for booking opportunities. Categories: Business, Coffee Conversation, Entertainment, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: Tickets Available For North Country Ride’s Derby Gala Saturday

The non-profit in Esko helps people with special needs live their best lives through interactions with horses.

DULUTH, Minn. – North Country Ride’s Derby Gala is happening this Saturday, May 7, at the Buffalo House Junction, and one of the non-profit’s board members joined Dan Hanger, who is emceeing the gala, on the morning show to talk about what to expect.  Click the video above for that conversation. For ticket information for the Derby Gala, click here….

12-Unit Apartment Building Catches Fire In Duluth

  DULUTH, Minn. – An apartment building fire in Duluth has displaced multiple tenants. The fire was reported around 10:15 p.m. Monday on the 600 block of West 2nd Street. A resident woke up to sounds of smoke detectors, according to officials. Fire crews responded within two minutes. Everybody was evacuated. One tenant was hospitalized for possible smoke inhalation. Two…

Live Interview: Duluth East Theatre Students Talk Production Of ‘Harvey’

Performances run May 4-6 at 7 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth East High School theatre students joined FOX 21’s Dan Hanger during the 7 a.m. hour Monday to talk about their upcoming performances of “Harvey,” which is a play that was made into a 1950 American comedy drama movie starring James Stuart. Performances are May 4-6 at 7 p.m. at the high school — 301 N. 40th…

Melanoma Awareness Month Kicks Off On Melanoma Monday May 1

DULUTH, Minn. – Health experts are raising awareness about skin health as we approach Melanoma Awareness Month starting May 1. It’s all about focusing on skin health, sun safety, tanning prevention and skin cancer screenings. The owner of Twin Ports Dermatology, Heather Smith, said it’s important for everyone to get their skin professional screened once a year, especially if you…

Mayor Larson: New Lift Bridge, Enger Lighting Policy To Be Released Week Of May 1

Duluth’s Lift Bridge lit for Ukraine DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Mayor Emily Larson told FOX 21’s Dan Hanger on Friday that she’ll be releasing her updated lighting policy sometime next week after getting heavy scrutiny from the public two months ago over the previous policy that did not accept any special requests to light the iconic Lift Bridge different colors…

Twin Ports Dermatology Talks Annual Skin Checks, Protection, Cancer Treatment

DULUTH, Minn. — Melanoma Awareness Month starts May 1, and health experts are taking extra steps to inform people about their skin health. FOX 21’s Dan Hanger talked to Heather Smith, owner of Twin Ports Dermatology, which has been serving the Duluth area for more than seven years now. Smith talks about the importance of annual skin checks, the proper…

Live Interview: Author Talks ‘The Sower,’ Independent Bookstore Day At Fitger’s

DULUTH, Minn. — FOX 21’s  Dan Hanger sat down with Rob Jung, author of “The Sower,” during the 7 a.m. hour of the morning show to talk about his book signing at The Bookstore at Fitger’s Saturday afternoon to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day.   For more on that conversation, watch the video above.  And see a press release below about the…

Live Interview: Nearly 15 Years Of Rubber Chicken Theater

DULUTH, Minn. — Rubber Chicken Theater in Duluth has been around since 2008, and the team of talent behind the sketches, live reads and plays is showing no signs of slowing down. Click the video above for a conversation with Rubber Chicken Theater’s executive producer, Brian Matuszak, who joined Dan Hanger on the morning show Thursday during the 8 a.m….

One-On-One: Duluth Pack CEO Talks 140 Years Of USA-Made Company

DULUTH,  Minn. — Homegrown Duluth Pack is the oldest canvas and leather bag/pack maker in the USA, and the company is celebrating its 140th anniversary with a limited edition Legacy Pack. FOX 21’s Dan Hanger recently chatted with Duluth Pack CEO Tom Sega about the new product and the company’s long success. Click on the video for that conversation and…

Live Interview: New Incentives Offered To Recruit, Retain Duluth Police Officers

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police Lt. Steve Ring, who has been on the department for more than 20 years, stopped by FOX 21 during the 7 a.m. hour to talk to Dan Hanger about new incentives being offered to recruit and retain Duluth police officers.   Click the video above for more on that conversation, and see below for a press…

Hoops Brewing Owner Dave Hoops Talks Beer Industry, Community, His Legacy

DULUTH, Minn. – Dave Hoops, owner of Hoops Brewing in Canal Park, is one of a select group chosen to judge the World Beer Cup in Minneapolis next month. In the meantime, Hoops talked to FOX 21’s Dan Hanger about the beer industry, community and his legacy.  Click the video above for the conversation. Categories: Business, Coffee Conversation, Community, Entertainment,…

Hoops Brewing Owner Dave Hoops Tapped To Judge World Beer Cup

DULUTH, Minn. – Veteran Duluth brewer Dave Hoops, who owns Hoops Brewing Company in Canal Park, is getting his palate ready as one of only 200 people chosen from around the world to judge the World Beer Cup in Minneapolis next month. It’s the most prestigious beer competition in the world. FOX 21’s Dan Hanger caught up with Dave to…

‘Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure’ At DECC This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. – Very important pups are invited to the DECC this weekend for “Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure.” It involves the discovery of a secret pirate treasure map. And the Paw Patrol is on the hunt. “Paw Patrol Live” is that first introduction to live theatre and is described as a rock concert for kids. The performers…

Live Interview: WLSSD Talks Recycling, Reducing, Reusing On Earth Day

DULUTH, Minn. – AJ Axtell, environmental program coordinator at the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD), stopped by the 8 a.m. hour of FOX 21’s morning show to talk about ways to be better to the planet.  Click the video for Axtell’s chat with Dan Hanger and Ken Slama, and see some information below. “Earth Day is an opportunity to…