Author: Maria Vollom

Coffee Conversation: Rubber Chicken Theater wraps up 2025 with holiday comedy shows

DULUTH, Minn. — Rubber Chicken Theater is wrapping up 2025 with two holiday-themed sketch comedy shows bringing local humor and seasonal silliness to downtown Duluth. Brian Matuszak, owner of Rubber Chicken Theater, joined FOX 21 live on the morning show to talk more about it. The first production, “Talk Duluthy to Me This Christmas, or, Santa’s Big DECC Energy,” runs…

Coffee Conversation: Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel gives exclusive live interview

DULUTH, Minn. — Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel joined FOX 21 live on the morning show today, ahead of her performances this weekend at the Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show. FOX 21 was also joined live by Twiggy’s handlers, Chuck and Toni, as well as Trio — another squirrel hitting the water skis this weekend. You can catch Twiggy and…

Coffee Conversation: MN Ballet puts a Duluth twist on “The Nutcracker” this weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The Nutcracker: A Duluth Tale returns to Symphony Hall at the DECC this weekend, bringing a magical Northland twist to the holiday classic. Minnesota Ballet’s Karl von Rabenau and Juliana DeBellis stopped by the FOX 21 studio to share what audiences can expect from this year’s production. The story follows Clara as her Nutcracker doll comes to…

Coffee Conversation: Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show is back at the DECC starting Friday, December 12, bringing everything cold-weather fun under one roof. Russ Francisco with Marine General joined our morning show Monday to break down the new gear, biggest discounts, and vendors you’ll see this year. 📍 DECC — 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN 🕒 Show…

Coffee Conversation: Christmas City Express returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Christmas City Express is officially on the tracks in Duluth. Executive Director of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and North Shore Scenic Railroad Ken Buehler joined Fox 21’s morning newscast to talk more about it. Click here for details and ticket information. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Road to gold: Duluth’s Korey Dropkin talks Olympic pursuit

Duluth, Minn. — Duluth curler Korey Dropkin is headed to the biggest stage, the 2026 Olympics. He’ll compete alongside his curling partner, Cory Thiesse. FOX 21’s Maria Vollom sat down with Dropkin to talk about his journey on the ice and the road ahead. COMING SOON: Dropkin teaches Vollom how to curl like an Olympian. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Salvation Army seeks toys, volunteers, and donations

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Salvation Army Community Engagement Director Cyndi Lewis joined FOX 21 to share how residents can get involved with giving back this holiday season. Hartel Disposal is matching donations up to $75,000. The Salvation Army is especially in need of toys for children, plus volunteers to serve as bell ringers at Red Kettles around the region. Shoppers…

Coffee Conversation: “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” brings holiday spirit to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Boat Club Productions is bringing a little nostalgia to the Northland this holiday season. “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” opens this Thursday at the Spirit of the North Theatre inside the Fitger’s Complex. John Ryde-Crane, who plays Isadore “Buzz” Crenshaw, and Keith Russell, who takes on the role of Clifton Feddington, joined FOX 21 live in studio….

Coffee Conversation: Minnesota author inspires kids to live their ‘Best Life Ever’

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota author Clancy Clark joined FOX 21 Tuesday morning to share his new children’s book, Best Life Ever! with The Fulfillment Kids™. Clark — a writer, speaker, and coach — says kids rarely hear about purpose or fulfillment, which inspired him to bring that message to a younger audience. The book follows Sophie and Seymour, two elementary-aged…

Inside the new Guardian Shooting Range in Superior

SUPERIOR, WI — Guardian Shooting Range in Superior is under new ownership and undergoing a major upgrade, with a remodel that doubles the building’s square footage and adds new training features for shooters of all skill levels. FOX 21’s Maria Vollom underwent some training and stepped into the indoor range to take her first pistol shot on Friday. The facility…

Coffee Conversation: Disney’s Frozen comes to life at Duluth Playhouse

DULUTH, Minn. — Frozen the Musical is bringing the winter magic to Duluth Playhouse. Amelia Barr, who stars as Elsa, and Jonah Hale, who plays Kristoff, joined FOX 21 this morning to share a preview of the production. Running November 22 through December 21, 2025, the show promises wonder, laughter, and unforgettable songs as the NorShor Theatre transforms into a…

Coffee Conversation: Local band Blue ObCityon rocks the FOX 21 morning show

DULUTH, Minn. — Blue ObCityon co-founders Ethan Warn and Tracy Christian joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast live on Friday for an interview and in-studio performance. The local band draws inspiration from both past and present, blending elements of classic rock, grunge, blues, and modern rock into their signature sound. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Gilbert man critically injured after ATV crash in McKinley Township

The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an ATV accident that left a 40-year-old man from rural Gilbert with life-threatening injuries late Wednesday night. Deputies were called to Grand Avenue in McKinley Township around 10:15 p.m. on November 12th, where they found the man semi-responsive on the ground beside his ATV. Officials say he had been riding alone, and…

Coffee Conversation: WinterFest at Fitger’s Returns This Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — WinterFest is back at Fitger’s this Saturday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Organizer Linda Nervick and Casey Sims from Trailfitters joined FOX 21 live to share more about how to embrace the winter season in style. The one-day expo features local and regional exhibitors, prizes and giveaways, and is dog-friendly — yes, you can…

Coffee Conversation: Veterans Day Ceremony to Honor 250 Years of U.S. Military Service

DULUTH, Minn. — Jay Hagen from the St. Louis County Historical Society and Veterans Memorial Hall, along with Sharon Bergquist from Duluth Women of Today, joined FOX 21 Morning News to share details about this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the St. Louis County Depot. The 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Navy, and…

Coffee Conversation: UMD student athletes kick off winter clothing drive for kids

DULUTH, Minn. — UMD student-athletes are teaming up to make a difference this winter through a community-wide clothing drive. Led by members of the university’s DEI Council, including athletes Mattie Thompson and Emily Bastian, the effort aims to collect new or gently used winter gear — jackets, boots, hats, mittens, and more — for Duluth-area schoolchildren. The drive kicked off November…

Coffee Conversation: DECC expands its reach with national tours and productions

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center is expanding its reach — bringing a wider variety of performances to the Northland, from local favorites like the Minnesota Ballet to national touring productions. This winter, Minnesota Ballet’s The Nutcracker: A Duluth Tale will return to Symphony Hall, with performances December 12 at 7 p.m. and December 13–14 at 3 p.m….

Coffee Conversation: Minnesota Monsters join AF1 & debut new coach/logo

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Monsters are officially joining the new Arena Football One League, also known as AF1, and unveiling their new head coach and official team logo. Joining FOX 21 live in studio to share more about the big news were Jerry Kurz, CEO of the Arena League, and Steve Walters, General Manager of Minnesota Monsters. Categories: Coffee Conversation,…

Coffee Conversation: Time Arc Theatre Launches Season with “When Storms Come Calling”

SUPERIOR, WI. — Time Arc Theatre is opening its new season with When Storms Come Calling — a powerful blend of music and storytelling honoring the history and mystery of the Great Lakes. Written by Kathleen Laakso and composed by Bruce Nelson, the play explores 300 years of Great Lakes shipwrecks, from the Griffin in 1679 to the Edmund Fitzgerald…

Coffee Conversation: How to Keep Your Wallet Merry This Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. — The season of giving doesn’t have to mean overspending. Amanda Bruggman with Affinity Plus joined FOX 21 live on Tuesday, October 28, to share simple, practical ways families can keep their holiday budgets on track. From creative strategies to cut costs and track spending, to local events that bring holiday cheer without the hefty price tag —…

Duluth to Host Team USA, Finland, and Germany for World Junior Tune-Up Games

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth is about to become the center of the hockey world this December. Team USA, Team Finland, and Team Germany will face off in a series of exhibition games ahead of the 2025-26 IIHF World Junior Championship. The highly anticipated matchups will take place at AMSOIL Arena on December 19, 21, and 23, marking the final games…

Former Wisconsin Rep. Angie Sapik Releases New Memoir

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Former Wisconsin Representative Angie Sapik joined FOX 21 live Tuesday, Oct. 21, to discuss her new memoir, sharing insight into her time in office, the “political machine,” and a decision she says she made “for the good of the party.” Sapik, who represented District 73 from January 2023 to January 2025, reflects on her accomplishments in Madison…

Hermantown Council Approves Rezone for Potential Data Center

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — The Hermantown City Council has voted 4-0 to rezone land for a potential data center, officially changing the property from residential to business and light manufacturing. While the vote marks a major step forward for the proposed project, city leaders say it’s a rezone only and does not approve the data center itself. The decision came just…

Jebeh Edmunds Releases Liberian-Inspired Novella “The Orange Blossom”

DULUTH, Minn. — Educator, cultural-competency leader, and now author Jebeh Edmunds joined Fox 21 live to share her new book, The Orange Blossom. Published by Hezzie Mae Book Publishing, the novella draws inspiration from Liberian culture, weaving themes of identity, heritage, and resilience. The Orange Blossom is now available through Hezzie Mae Book Publishing and select retailers. Categories: Coffee Conversation,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Fiber Guild Gears Up for Annual Fall Sale & Seasonal Events

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Fiber Guild is gearing up for its annual Fall Sale on November 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church. Guild member Kit Sitter joined FOX 21 live Tuesday morning to share details about the upcoming sale and other seasonal events. The Guild will also be demonstrating at “Boo at the…

Former MN Reporter Shares Story of Addiction and Redemption

Once a familiar face delivering breaking news, Beth McDonough is now stepping into a new kind of spotlight—one defined by truth, healing, and transformation. The former TV crime reporter and anchor, known for her work at FOX stations in Philadelphia and Minnesota, is opening up about her personal journey in her new memoir, Standby. In the book, McDonough shares a…

Motorcyclist Injured After Crashing Into McDonald’s Sign in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. — A 29-year-old man was hurt after crashing his motorcycle into the McDonald’s welcome sign on in Grand Rapids late Wednesday night. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the crash happened around 11:34 p.m. on October 9. The man was turning from Pokegama Avenue onto SW 13th Street when he made a wide turn into the McDonald’s…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Honors Everyday Peacemakers with Peace Hero Awards

DULUTH, Minn. — The Waging Peace Project is flipping the script on violence with the return of the Peace Hero Awards. Founder Diana Oestreich joined us live on the morning newscast Thursday, October 9, to share how the initiative celebrates those quietly waging peace in our community. The $1,000 Peace Hero Award honors someone making a positive impact in Duluth, with a…

Coffee Conversation: MN Ballet Launches 60th Season in Duluth with Celebrity Dance Challenge

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Ballet is celebrating 60 years in Duluth with a season full of exciting performances, starting with the Celebrity Dance Challenge on October 9. Company dancer Taylor Phillips and drag performer ThatQueerIsa joined Fox 21 live to share more details about the upcoming showcase. The rest of the season lineup includes: Giselle – October 24–26 The…

Coffee Conversation: Laundry Love Hosts Fall Fest Fundraisers to Support Neighbors in Need

DULUTH, Minn. — Laundry Love, a national nonprofit dedicated to providing clean clothes to those in need, is partnering with the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd to host two upcoming fundraising events in October. Susan Boutin with Laundry Love joined Fox 21 live on Tuesday, October 7 to talk more about the fundraises and the organizations mission. A Fall Fest…

Coffee Conversation: The search continues for Bigfoot in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, Minn. – Whether you’re a seasoned Sasquatch seeker or just curious about the legend, the Minnesota Bigfoot Conference 2025 is taking over the Timberlake Lodge & Hotel in Grand Rapids, MN on Saturday, October 4, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT. Abe and Donovan appeared live on FOX 21 this Thursday to discuss Bigfoot research and the…

Duluth Man in Custody After Late-Night Shooting

DULUTH, Minn. — A Duluth man is in custody following a late-night shooting incident that occurred early Thursday morning. According to a press release from the Duluth Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire just before midnight on Wednesday, September 24, in the 500 block of North 57th Avenue West. Authorities say a 36-year-old man arrived at the location…

Coffee Conversation: Boat Club Productions Presents “Tick, Tick… Boom!”

DULUTH, Minn. — Helena Goei and Jace LeGarde from Boat Club Productions joined Fox 21 live to talk about their latest musical showcase, Tick, Tick… Boom! Running from September 26 to October 5, 2025, at the Spirit of the North Theatre (3rd Floor, Fitger’s Complex), the production tells the powerful, semi-autobiographical story of Jonathan Larson — the Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning…

Fall Fashion Finds at Apricot Lane Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Fall is officially here, which means it’s time to trade those summer staples for cozy layers and rich autumn colors. Fox 21 stopped by Apricot Lane Duluth to chat with store owner Wendy Myers and put together two must-have outfits for the season. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: DoDuluth Breaks Down Upcoming Fall Festivities

DULUTH, Minn. — Autumn has arrived in the Northland, and DoDuluth is breaking down all things fall happenings. Jess Worden, the creator behind the DoDuluth website and local event calendar, joined Fox 21 live Tuesday morning to share some upcoming seasonal events. Pumpkin Patches & Fall Farms: Ru-Ridge Corn Maze – Carlton, MN Whoopsa Daisy Farm – Duluth, MN Farmer…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth’s Sophie Hiroko Gains Buzz in Music Scene

DULUTH, Minn. — Born and raised in Duluth, local musician Sophie Hiroko is making waves across the region with her unique sound she calls “tender bubble grunge.” Hiroko joined Fox 21 live Friday, Sept. 19, on the morning newscast for an interview and two live performances. Her genre-defying style reflects both her roots and a bold creative vision that’s gaining…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Playhouse Kicks Off New Season with Million Dollar Quartet

DULUTH, MN — Duluth Playhouse is launching its 2025–2026 season with the high-energy musical Million Dollar Quartet, at the NorShor Theatre. New Associate Artistic Director Charlie Sutton, a Broadway veteran, joins the creative team, bringing fresh energy to the Playhouse. Davis Wood stars as Johnny Cash. Both Sutton and Wood appeared live on FOX 21’s morning newscast to share more…

Cloquet Police Seek Help Identifying Theft Suspect

CLOQUET, Minn. — The Cloquet Police Department is seeking assistance from the public to identify a suspect linked to a recent theft at a local business. If you have any information, you’re urged to contact police at 218-879-1247, or email tips@cloquetmn.gov. You can also remain anonymous by texting “TIP CLOQUETPD” followed by your message to 888777. Categories: Minnesota, News, News…

Coffee Conversation: Chester Bowl Fall Fest Returns This Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — Chester Bowl Fall Fest returns this Saturday, Sept. 20, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM at Chester Bowl (1801 E. Skyline Pkwy), celebrating the season and community. On Monday, Sept. 15, Programs and Operations Director Sam Luoma joined Fox 21 live to talk more about it. The event features 135+ local vendors, live music, food trucks, and…

Former UMD Turning Point Leader Reflects on Death of Charlie Kirk

DULUTH, Minn. — Political tensions on college campuses continue to rise, with students often caught between free speech and fierce backlash. The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk has reignited those debates, especially for one former UMD student who once led a chapter of Kirk’s organization. Charlie Kirk built a national movement by engaging young conservatives — including students at the…

Coffee Conversation: Ru-Ridge Corn Maze Opens for Fall Fun in Carlton

CARLTON, Minn. — The Ru-Ridge Corn Maze in Carlton, Minnesota, officially opens for the season on Friday, September 12. Spanning over eight acres, the maze offers a fun and challenging experience for both kids and adults. Ahead of opening day, owner and operator Angela Line joined FOX 21 live on the Thursday morning newscast to share what visitors can expect…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Children’s Museum Hosts 5th Annual Mini Harvest Festival

DULUTH, MN — The Duluth Children’s Museum is celebrating fall with its 5th Annual Mini Harvest Festival this Saturday, September 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Executive Director Drew Jensen shared more about the event during a live segment this week, inviting families to come celebrate the season together. Activities include playful harvesting, pumpkin decorating, sunflower science, and a…

Coffee Conversation: Lake Superior College Kicks Off 80th Anniversary Celebration

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior College will launch a year-long celebration marking 80 years of education in Northeastern Minnesota with a kickoff event on Thursday, Sept. 18, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. LSC Vice President David Kline discussed the celebration live on FOX 21 Monday morning. The event will feature hands-on demonstrations from programs such as Allied Health, Aviation, Firefighting,…

Coffee Conversation: St. Luke’s 22nd Annual Circle of Light Gala

DULUTH, Minn. — St. Luke’s Foundation will host its 22nd annual Circle of Light Gala – Ribbons of Hope – on Friday, September 5, at 5:30 p.m. at the DECC. Proceeds will benefit St. Luke’s Cancer Care Fund, supporting comfort, dignity, and hope for patients facing cancer. St. Luke’s Foundation Executive Director Catherine Carter Huber joined Fox 21 live on…