Author: Maria Vollom

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Oktoberfestival Returns to Bayfront Festival Park

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Oktoberfestival is back September 12–14, 2025, at Bayfront Festival Park. The celebration features German bier, Bavarian food, live music, games, and activities for all ages. Put on locally by Kern and Kompany, President Ryan Kern joined Fox 21 live on Thursday, Sept. 4, to talk more about the event and its authentic base. Recently named Minnesota’s…

Coffee Conversation: Nice Girls of the North Monthly Craft Show in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Nice Girls of the North will host their monthly craft show on Saturday, September 13, at the Spirit of the Lake Community Arts Center. Group president Theresa Hornstein joined FOX 21’s morning newscast Wednesday to share details about the event. Shoppers can browse a variety of handmade items, including jewelry, cards, home décor, hand-dyed yarn, candles, clothing,…

Coffee Conversation: Lake Superior Harvest Festival Returns to Bayfront Park

DULUTH, Minn. — A family-oriented event featuring a huge farmers market, live music all day, expanded Energy Fair experience, nonprofit exhibitors tent, educational demonstrations and more will take over Bayfront Festival Park on Saturday, September 6, 10 am to 4 pm. Julie Allen, Director of the Lake Superior Harvest Festival, joined Fox 21 live Thursday morning to talk more about…

UPDATE: Shooting at Annunciation School: 20 victims reported; 3 dead, sources say

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Several children were injured and multiple people, including the suspect, are dead in a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning. UPDATE (10:55 AM): According to FOX 9, “Reuters, citing a DOJ official, is reporting three people, including the shooter, are dead and about 20 people are injured. The Associated Press is reporting a…

Coffee Conversation: Second Harvest Northland Feeds Kids on Weekends

DULUTH, Minn. — Second Harvest Northland’s Backpack Program is gearing up to provide weekend meals for students facing food insecurity. On Monday, Aug. 25, Kelsey Miller, Director of Partnerships and Programs at Second Harvest, joined Fox 21 to highlight the growing need. Volunteers pack easy-to-open, nutritious meals, which are then delivered to schools across the Northland. Teachers and school staff…

Coffee Conversation: Northern Lights Foundation Charity Softball Game

DULUTH, Minn. — The 16th annual Northern Lights Foundation Charity Softball Game, also known as the “Battle of Badges,” is taking place Thu, Aug 21, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Wade Municipal Stadium. It’s played between the Duluth Fire Department and Duluth Police Department to raise money for local families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. Christy Strohm with the…

Coffee Conversation: Fuse Fest Celebrates Connecting Young Professionals in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Fuse Duluth, the young professionals division of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, is celebrating 20 years with its annual Fuse Fest networking event. Fuse Duluth Program Director Aubrey J. Hagen joined Fox 21 Wednesday morning to share more about the milestone event. This year’s gathering takes place Thursday, Aug. 21, from 5–7 p.m. at Glensheen Mansion &…

Coffee Conversation: Local Sailor Joins All-Amateur Crew in Legendary Transpac Race

DULUTH, Minn. — Local sailor Lizzie Easter joined Fox 21’s morning newscast Monday, August 18, to share her recent accomplishment: competing in the 2025 Transpacific Yacht Race, a 2,225-mile journey from Los Angeles to Honolulu. Easter, who grew up sailing in Minneapolis and now races out of Duluth, was part of an amateur crew aboard a fully restored 1981 Norseman…

Coffee Conversation: Local Musician to Perform National Anthem at Brewers Game

DULUTH, Minn. — Local musician Abrianna Schmidt joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast Friday, August 15, to share her latest milestone. After singing the national anthem at a Minnesota Twins game last summer, Schmidt has now been invited to perform the anthem at the Milwaukee Brewers game on August 25. Schmidt first made headlines last year after winning the Country Music…

Coffee Conversation: Art in Bayfront Park Returns to Duluth This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — Bayfront Festival Park will come alive with creativity this weekend as Art in Bayfront Park returns to the Duluth lakefront. Event Director Sara Collins joined Fox 21 live on the morning show Thursday, Aug. 14, to talk more about it. The free festival features more than 100 artists showcasing juried works, including jewelry, paintings, photography, ceramics, metalwork,…

Crash Involving Construction Equipment Sends Two to Hospital in Duluth

DULUTH, MN — A crash involving construction equipment sent two people to the hospital Thursday afternoon. According to Duluth Police, it happened around 4:48 p.m. in the 600 North Block of 6th Avenue East. The DPD says a small piece of construction equipment was crossing the avenue when it collided with a northbound vehicle. The slow-moving impact caused the vehicle…

Coffee Conversation: Minnesota Author Bree Bacon Tackles Burnout in New Book

DULUTH, Minn. — This morning, Minnesota author Bree Bacon joined the Fox 21 morning show to share insights from her powerful new book, Your Elite Energy: A Blueprint to Break Free from Burnout and Restore Your Vitality. Drawing from personal experience, balancing a high-pressure career, motherhood, and a battle with stage-three breast cancer—Bacon delivers a practical blueprint to help readers…

Coffee Conversation: Family Freedom Center Fundraiser, Empowered by Zenith City Radio

DULUTH, Minn. — The Family Freedom Center is set to host its fundraiser, It Takes a Village, on Wednesday, August 13th, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the historic Greysolon Ballroom. This year’s event is proudly presented in partnership with Zenith City Radio. Victor Martinez, CEO of Zenith City Radio, appeared on FOX 21 Tuesday morning to share details…

Coffee Conversation: St. Joseph’s Church Neighborhood Night Out

DULUTH, Minn. — St. Joseph’s Church is gearing up for its 2nd annual Neighborhood Night Out, happening Tuesday, August 5th, from 4:30 to 7:30 PM. Gloria Brunette and Father John Petrich from St. Joseph’s Church joined Fox 21 live on the Monday morning newscast to share more about the event. The event will feature free food, live music, a bounce…

Maria Vollom Jumps From Plane to Explore Psychology of Skydiving

DULUTH, Minn. — From skydiving to mountain climbing, extreme sports continue to attract thrill-seekers. To understand why, Fox 21’s Maria Vollom joined them—jumping from 12,500 feet with Skydive Duluth. A local psychotherapist, Makena Easker of Arrowhead Psychological Clinic, joined Maria live on the morning show to explore the psychology behind fear and thrill. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: Local Christian Band Presence Music Upcoming Performances

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of local Christian pop-worship band Presence Music stopped by to share exciting updates on their ministry and music. The band, led by owner, vocalist, and pastor Brandon Monson and his wife Leah Monson, has some major performances on the horizon. Fans can catch Presence Music live at: Recovery on the Hill – Thursday, July 31, 6:00–8:30 PM at…

Coffee Conversation: Local Musician Ross Thorn Releases New Album, Performs Live

DULUTH, Minn. — Local Musician Ross Thorn joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast Tuesday, July 29, to talk about his new album and an upcoming album release show. Thorn, a folk and country musician in Duluth, will be playing  an album release show at Bent Paddle on Wednesday, August 6th, before heading out on a national tour. He performed…

Coffee Conversation: FinnFest Returns to Duluth This Month

DULUTH, Minn. — FinnFest is making a much-anticipated return to Duluth from July 31 to August 3, bringing with it a vibrant celebration of Finnish culture, traditions, and innovation. Executive Director Ira “Mimmu” Salmela joined Fox 21 live Thursday morning to share the excitement. Held at the DECC, the four-day event will feature traditional and contemporary Finnish music, authentic cuisine,…

Coffee Conversation: Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival Kicks Off This Week

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2025 Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival is set to make a splash from July 24th to 27th, bringing four days of fun, family-friendly entertainment to the community. Joining the morning show live Wednesday morning to preview the event were committee members Nikki Swanson and Cherie Grams, along with reigning Queen Ashley Fossell. Highlights of the carnival include…

Minnesota Woman Turns Nature Passion into Kids’ Book Series

MINNESOTA — Jess DeWindt is turning her love for the outdoors into a children’s book series, Outdoor Kids, while also sharing her personal journey with infertility. The six-book collection encourages families to unplug and explore nature, inspired by Jess and her husband Kirk’s dreams of one day adventuring with children of their own. “We’ve struggled with infertility for a few…

Coffee Conversation: “Don’t Sweat It” Safe Haven Shelter Hygiene Drive

DULUTH, Minn. — On Saturday, July 19, “Don’t Sweat It”, a hygiene product drive supporting Safe Haven Shelter & Resource Center, will be held at 190 Coffee & Tea from 9 a.m. to noon. Safe Haven Community Engagement Coordinator Brittany Lind Libby joined Fox 21 on the morning Newscast Friday to talk more about the drive and its purpose. The…

IFalls Weighs Future of Ambulance Service Amid $2M Deficit

International Falls, Minn. — The future of International Falls’ ambulance service is facing big questions. At a recent special city council meeting, the entire discussion centered on the city-run service and the financial pressure it’s under. Right now, the ambulance fund is more than two million dollars in the red, and the city has been dipping into reserves just to…

Coffee Conversation: UMN’s NRRI Open House to Showcase Innovation

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota’s Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) is inviting the public to an open house on Friday, July 18, from 2 to 4 p.m. at NRRI Duluth, located at 5013 Miller Trunk Highway (Highway 53). Jamie Alexander, NRRI’s Director of External Affairs, appeared on the Wednesday morning newscast to discuss the institute’s mission and share…

Coffee Conversation: Kay Robinson Unveils Vision as UMD’s New Student Life Leader

DULUTH, Minn. — Kay Robinson, EdD, a seasoned student affairs leader with over 23 years of experience in higher education, has been appointed vice chancellor for student life at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). On Tuesday morning, July 15, Dr. Robinson appeared live on Fox 21’s morning newscast to discuss her new role and share her vision for supporting…

Coffee Conversation: Taste Twin Ports to Take Over Bayfront Festival Park Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — Taste Twin Ports, formerly known as Festival by the Lake, is set to take place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at Bayfront Festival Park. Pez Davilla and Joe Macor, the co-hosts of the Taste Twin Ports podcast and the creative minds behind the event, joined FOX 21 live on the Friday morning newscast to share more details….

Coffee Conversation: Annual Nordlager & North Star Chapter Show in Cloquet

CLOQUET, Minn. — Beer lovers, collectors, and nostalgia enthusiasts, mark your calendars — the Nordlager Beer Show is happening this Friday and Saturday, July 11–12, at the Northeastern Hotel. Bert Whittington and none other than Hammy the Bear joined the morning newscast on Thursday, July 10, to talk about this fan-favorite summer event: the Nordlager & North Star Chapter’s Annual…

Coffee Conversation: Festival of Sail Returns to Duluth July 10-13

DULUTH, Minn. — The Festival of Sail Duluth returns to the city this week, July 10-13, with an exciting new addition: a high dive competition. Festival organizer Craig Samborski and Owen Weymouth, national event coordinator for USA Diving, joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast with more. The annual celebration brings maritime history to life with towering ships, deck tours,…

Coffee Conversation: Downtown Duluth Days Kick Off This Week

DULUTH, Minn. — Downtown Duluth is gearing up for its biggest summer celebration with the newly rebranded Downtown Duluth Days, formerly known as Sidewalk Days. Kristi Stokes, Downtown Duluth President, joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast Monday to talk more about it. The event is taking place July 9 and 10. Click here for more information. Categories: Coffee…

Coffee Conversation: Great Lakes Woodwind Quintet Performs Live

DULUTH, Minn. — As part of Duluth Navy Week, members of the U.S. Navy Band Great Lakes Woodwind Quintet appeared live on Fox 21’s morning show Thursday. Petty Officer Third Class Cameron West and Lieutenant David Harbuziuk joined the broadcast to talk about their ensemble, Fair Winds. The group performed their rendition of the national march, “The Stars and Stripes…

Fire Destroys Home in Holyoke Township

Holyoke Township, MN — July 1, 2025 — A house fire late Tuesday night in the 1000 block of N Holyoke Drive resulted in a total loss of the home, according to the Carlton County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to the scene around 9:50 p.m. and found the residence fully engulfed in flames. The homeowners were not present at the…

Giant Peanut on Wheels Rolls Into Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The iconic PLANTERS NUTmobile, weighing the equivalent of 3 million peanuts, is hard to miss — and it’s making a stop in the Northland as part of its nationwide tour. “Everyone’s pretty shocked to see a 26-foot-long peanut on wheels driving down the road,” said Hudson Richie, one of three “Peanutters” traveling coast to coast. Richie and…

Coffee Conversation: 3-on-3 Basketball Tourney Returns to Pinehurst July 4

Cloquet, Minn. – The 6th annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament is set to return to Pinehurst Park in Cloquet on the Fourth of July. Organizer Paul Cameron joined FOX 21’s morning newscast to share more about the event. Teams are still welcome to register, and in past years, the tournament has drawn as many as 30 teams. Those interested in competing…

Coffee Conversation: Zenith City Radio Gears Up for Annual Business Gal

DULUTH, Minn. — Zenith City Radio is set to host its Annual Business Gala this Sunday, June 29, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Clyde Iron Works Event Center. The free, public event celebrates local businesses and honors community leaders. Creative Director and CEO Victor Martinez, along with President Solomon Witherspoon, joined FOX 21’s morning newscast on Tuesday to…

Coffee Conversation: Midweek Mindfulness Launches Free Meditation Series in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Generations Health Care Initiatives and Mindfulness Works are inviting community members to Midweek Mindfulness—a free guided meditation series on Wednesday’s at Gichi-ode’ Akiing Park in Duluth. Local yoga and meditation instructor Katrina Pierson, along with Jessie Peterson from Generations Health Care, appeared on Fox 21’s Monday morning newscast to discuss the importance of mindfulness and share details…

Severe Overnight Storms Light Up Northland Skies

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Severe storms rolled through the Northland overnight, painting a dramatic picture across the sky. One particularly striking moment was captured around 3:45 a.m. in Hermantown, where a powerful lightning bolt lit up the early morning darkness. Thanks to viewer Todd Carlin for sharing this incredible image of the lightning strike caught in action. Categories: Minnesota, News, News…

Coffee Conversation: A Runner’s Journey of Hope Through Cancer

DULUTH, Minn. — Tomorrow morning, thousands of runners will gather at the starting line for Grandma’s Marathon. Among them is Tony Loyd—a familiar face at the race—returning to the course with a new lung cancer diagnosis and a renewed perspective. On Friday morning, Tony was on the Fox 21 morning newscast to share his story of hope, resilience, and the…

Coffee Conversation: Local Author’s New Novel Inspired by APD

DULUTH, Minn. — On Wednesday morning’s Fox 21 newscast, local author Erika Lynn Adams joined the show to introduce her new young adult novel, Allie’s Adventure on the Wonder. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, the book follows Allie, a young girl with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), as she navigates a world that often misunderstands her. The story is semi-autobiographical, drawing…

Shelter-in-Place Lifted Following Shooting in Chisholm, MN

Chisholm, MN – A shelter-in-place order issued during an active law enforcement incident in Chisholm has been lifted. The response followed a shooting near the 100 block of 5th Street NW, prompting a large police presence and safety precautions for nearby residents. According to the Chisholm Police Department, there is no longer a threat to public safety. The Minnesota Bureau…

Coffee Conversation: Make Music Day Returns to Superior with New Energy

Superior, WI – Get ready to turn up the volume! Make Music Day returns to Superior this weekend on June 21, bringing a fresh wave of local energy and global spirit. This year’s celebration is led by new event director Traxx Nelson-Kavajecz, who aims to make the event louder and livelier than ever. Traxx and his sister, rokkyn, are members…

Coffee Conversation: The Chicken Hat Plays Return for 2025

DULUTH, MN — The 2025 Chicken Hat Plays are officially back, bringing another round of spontaneous theater from Duluth’s own Rubber Chicken Theater. Brian Matuszak, Executive Producer of Rubber Chicken Theater, appeared on the morning newscast Thursday to share more about the fast-paced, 24-hour theater challenge. This year’s event takes place Saturday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Harbor…

Coffee Conversation: Boat Club Productions Debuts “Doubt, A Parable” Friday the 13th

DULUTH, Minn. — On the morning newscast Wednesday, June 11, Boat Club Productions stopped by the studio to preview their latest theatrical production, Doubt, A Parable, debuting this Friday the 13th. Cast members Jacque Black and Ellie Martin joined us to discuss the themes of Doubt, A Parable and what audiences can expect from the production. You can catch the…

Coffee Conversation: Flag Day Celebration and Pinning Ceremony in Superior

SUPERIOR, WI – American Legion Post 435 will host a Flag Day Celebration and pinning ceremony on Friday, June 14, at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior. Mary Houk, Registrar and Honorary Regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and American Legion Commander Butch Liebart joined FOX 21’s morning newscast on Tuesday to share more about…

Coffee Conversation: Science on Deck Sets Sail with UMD’s Large Lakes Observatory

DULUTH, MN – The University of Minnesota Duluth’s Large Lakes Observatory is launching its 2025 Science on Deck series this summer, inviting the public aboard the research vessel Blue Heron for hands-on science experiences. Scientist Cody Sheik joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast with more information. The first event is set for Friday, June 27 from 11 a.m….