Author: Maria Vollom

Coffee Conversation: Spiritwood Foundation Concert at Veterans on the Lake

ELY, Minn. — Veterans on the Lake will host the Spiritwood Foundation’s first-ever Concert and 40th Anniversary of Veterans on the Lake Sat. July 15 starting at 7:00 pm. The event, ‘Under The Big Top,’ features the musical talent of Monroe Crossing, Ely Ledgerockin’ Chorus, Pat and Donna Surface by 7-time Minnesota State Fiddle Champion Mary LaPlant, Marina Whight, and Butch Schmidt….

Northland Rundown: Weekend of 7/7

NORTHLAND — If you want to know all the buzz taking place this weekend, here’s a list of events swarming through the region. (All Weekend) In Two Harbors, the annual four-day Heritage Days event is taking place; featuring arts, crafts, stage entertainment, a street dance, two parades and more. (July 7 & 8) In Duluth, the Freshwater Dance Collective presents…

Coffee Conversation: Overcoming Social Isolation Post-Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn — As we know, the pandemic disrupted “normal” living for everyone, but one group in Duluth is working on a new project to help people overcome social isolation post-pandemic, specifically, aging individuals and/or those living with disability, Social Worker Jessica Marquardt with Lighthouse Center for Vital Living, a disability/aging non-profit, joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk…

Coffee Conversation: ‘Visit Cook County’ Natural Attractions

COOK COUNTY, Minn. — FOX21 explored Cook County throughout this past waterfalls season, but wanted to dive deeper into the many natural attractions the North Shore has in the heart of summer. Visit Cook County Executive Director Linda Jurek joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about Cook County and its current happenings. Being that the area is stomping…

Coffee Conversation: Benefits of Summer Scheduling & Routine for Kids

DULUTH, Minn. — On the morning show Friday, Essentia Health Pediatrician Dr. Marit Knutson sat down live with FOX21 to talk about the importance of summer schedules for kids and how they benefit from some level of structure. Knutson discussed the things parents can do to help implement structure within a flexible summer schedule for their kids, all the while navigating…

Popular Band Hippo Campus Coming to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota based, now risen to fame indie rock band Hippo Campus is coming to Bayfront Festival Park on Sat, June 24. Born and raised in Saint Paul, five high school students came together to form a band called Hippo Campus in 2013 — and their sound would reach far beyond the state. “It happened really fast for…

Coffee Conversation: Make Music Day Returns to Superior

SUPERIOR, WI — For the second year, Superior is hosting Make Music Day; a global music celebration that happens on the summer solstice each year to bring people of all ages and skill levels together to make music. The event is put on with the help of Siggy’s Musical Garden Incorporated, a non-profit that’s all about supporting the local music…

Coffee Conversation: Runner, Author, and Activist — Alison Mariella Désir

DULUTH, Minn. — Runner, Author, and Activist Alison Mariella Désir made the trek to Duluth from Seattle this weekend for Grandma’s Marathon, but her mission here runs much deeper than the physical race. Her book, ‘Running While Black’, is one avenue she’s used to shed light on people not traditionally included in the world of running. Désir joined FOX21 on…

International Falls: Future of The River Golf Course Uncertain

Citizens and city officials say efforts to buy or re-open the course have been unsuccessful.

The golf season is in full swing, but the future of the only golf course in the city of International Falls remains uncertain. The privately owned course has not opened yet, and community members searching for answers say they are concerned. Nestled along the Rainy River in International Falls sits the 18-hole River Golf Course, used by longtime golfers, athletic…

Coffee Conversation: Summer Opportunities at GND Rec Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The heart of summer is on the horizon and many are itching to stay busy and fend off any summer boredom. The Gary New Duluth Recreation Area functions as a catalyst for community members of all ages to engage in programming, entertainment, exercise, group events, and more. ISD 709 Principal Nathan Glockle joined FOX21 on the morning…

Coffee Conversation: Summer Programming at Duluth Public Library

DULUTH, Minn. — As schools let out for the summer, some parents look to bridge the learning gap that many kids experience while on break; the library can be a a great, free option to assist with that. Duluth Library Services Supervisor Brianna Belanger joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about a range of programs and learning opportunities…

Coffee Conversation: Mental Health Benefits of Diaphragmatic Breathing

DULUTH, Minn. — The act of breathing is a natural process of the human body, but implementing diaphragmatic breathing with a focus on deep, controlled breaths, can help relax the mind and body in times of tension or crisis. Owner and Coach at Klear Water Coaching & Wellness Stacy Crawford joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk more about…

Coffee Conversation: Musician Rafe Carlson Embarks on Tour in Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — Local Musician Rafe Carlson is back in the Northland, after spending time in Nashville for the past several months furthering his career in music. He’s set to take the stage at multiple venues across the region as part of his June tour. Carlson joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about his time in Nashville and…

ALS Fishing Tournament: Casting for a Cure

DULUTH, Minn. — Saturday’s forecast made for mint fishing conditions, but over at Island Lake, fisherman were reeling for a much deeper purpose. The Kolar Toyota ALS Fishing Tournament overtook the waters, competitors there casting for a cure. The event is held to benefit individuals living with ALS and their families. ALS is a progressive neuro-degenerative disease that affects the…

The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health

DULUTH, Minn. — The deep sea of social media is vast and ever-evolving; and as experts report, it continues to impact the mental health of kids and teens. This leaving parents with one question: what to do next? Boundary-setting, balance, & mindfulness are potent to manage and combat the negative effects technology can have on its users, according to Licensed…

Connecting Principles: The Importance of Youth Programming Options in the Summer

DULUTH, Minn. — As the 2023 school year comes to a close, kids are gearing up for summer break. However, most parents continue working through the summer months, and some families turn to youth programming options to help keep kids entertained, engaged, and in a structured environment at little-to-no costs. The Family Freedom Center / Neighborhood Youth Services is a…

Connecting Principles: Post-Pandemic Mental Health Impacts on Students and Staff

DULUTH, Minn. — In this week’s Connecting Principles segment, we take a look at the increased trend of mental health effects post-pandemic on students and staff. Being an educator goes beyond just teaching academics. Educators play a vital role in student development and, right now, there’s a heightened need to connect and address student social, emotional, and behavioral needs post-pandemic….

Coffee Conversation: Growing Up Chester Fundraising Campaign

DULUTH, Minn. —  Chester Bowl is looking to expand and renovate its outdated Thom Storm Chalet by raising funds through the “Growing Up Chester” campaign. Chester Bowl exists to build community by helping people recreate outside in Chester Park. The Thom Storm Chalet is one of the necessary tools to put this mission into action. Unfortunately, the Chalet is outdated…

Coffee Conversation: Upcoming Flag Retirement Ceremony in Superior, WI

SUPERIOR, WI. — A flag retirement event will be held on June 10 at the Richard I. Bong Veteran’s Memorial Center featuring a flag exhibit, flag education, and a flag burning ceremony. The event will be hosted by the Lake Superior Chapter-Daughters of the American Revolution and the American Legion Post #435. Group leaders, Mary Houk and Glen Erickson, joined…

Coffee Conversation: ‘EarthKry’ Jamaican Reggae Band Performs in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — EarthKry, a reggae band from Kingston, Jamaica, stopped by Duluth to perform while on their international “Dandy Shandy Tour.” Keyboard Player Philip Mcfarlane and Vocalist/Guitarist Aldayne Haughton stopped by the morning newscast to talk about reggae music and its impact. The Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival 2023 is coming to Duluth Saturday, July 15 2023. Categories: Coffee…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Dylan Fest Returns to Northland

DULUTH / HIBBING, Minn. — In honor of Minnesota born-and-raised Novel prize winner Bob Dylan, the 2023 Duluth Dylan Festival is set to return to Duluth and Hibbing on Saturday, May 20 through Sunday, May 28. Festival Volunteer Laura Whitney joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event + Bob Dylan’s impact. The festival will feature a…

Coffee Conversation: Denfeld Theater Presents First Production in 5 Years, “Chicago”

DULUTH, Minn. — After a five-year hiatus, the Duluth Denfeld High School Theater Dept. is back in the limelight; presenting a rendition of the classic musical “Chicago” (May 18-20.) Cast members Reagan Kern (Roxie) and Madi Watts (Velma) joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the departments renewed momentum + the upcoming performance. The storyline of Chicago is…

Coffee Conversation: Leadership Duluth Launches “Just Breathe 988” Awareness Campaign

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2023 Leadership Duluth class has launched an area-wide campaign called “just breathe 988” to bring awareness to the new nation-wide 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. Campaign Leader Jerry Thoreson and Klear Water Coaching & Wellness Owner Stacy Crawford joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the campaign and its mission. Thoreson says, the goal…

Connecting Principles: Purposeful Parenting & the Healthy Launch of a Young Adult

Minn. — In this week’s Connecting Principles segment, we checked in with Minnesota-based Dr. Jack Stotlzfus to discuss what constitutes the healthy launch of a young adult transitioning out of the home. Stoltzfus connects the principles of purposeful parenting, whereupon parents can purposefully prepare their kids to enter into adulthood. Take a listen. For more information, resources, or to read…

Coffee Conversation: Matrescence & The Evolution of Motherhood

DULUTH, Minn. — While Mother’s Day quickly approaches, the entire month of May is dedicated toward Maternal Mental Health Awareness. FOX21 caught up with a local Perinatal Mental Health Specialist to talk about matrescence — or the physical, mental, emotional, and social transitions a person goes through when becoming a mother. The term matrescence was first coined by Dana Raphael…

Connecting Principles: SmartLab Coming Soon to Chisholm Public Schools

CHISHOLM, Minn. — In this week’s Connecting Principle’s segment, we checked in with Chisholm Public Schools as they gear up to add a new SmartLab class to school grounds. Principal Mark Morrison and English Teacher Brady Boehm joined FOX21 via zoom on the morning newscast to talk about the project plan and its purpose. While it’s not ready just yet,…

Coffee Conversation: New Wine Ministries Presents “The Sound Of Music”

CLOQUET, Minn. — Zion Lutheran’s New Wine Ministries group presents a classical rendition of “The Sound Of Music.” The performance is held to raise funds for the groups annual tour, this year to Washington D.C., in June. Group members Ben Meysembourg and Rebecca Nyberg joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the upcoming showcase. Meysembourg gave a…

Coffee Conversation: Bike Duluth Festival 2023

DULUTH, Minn. — The 9th annual Bike Duluth Festival will return to Spirit Mountain this summer (2023) at an earlier date, July 7 – 9. The festival draws in hundreds of mountain bikers of all skill levels for three days of races, non-competitive ride events, bike and equipment demonstrations, and family activities. Bike Duluth Chairperson Jeremy Jeannette joined FOX21 on the…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Lions Club’s 64th Annual Pancake Day

DULUTH, Minn. — How high can you stack ’em? The Duluth Lions Club community-favorite fundraiser, Pancake Day, is back for its 64th year at the DECC on Thursday, May 4. Pancake Day is a major fundraising event for the Duluth Lions Club. In 2022 over $50,000.00 was returned to the community to help fund programs for youth and people who…

Coffee Conversation: Law Day 5K Fundraiser in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Legal Aid Service of Northeastern Minnesota (LASNEM) is holding a Law Day 5K on April 30 to raise funds for its mission; providing civil legal services to low-income individuals and families. Nate Grizzle with LASNEM joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. It’s a family-friendly run/walk event open to…

Coffee Conversation: UMD Students Look for Support of Humanitarian Project in Kenya

DULUTH, Minn. — Students of UMD’s Engineers Without Borders chapter turn to community members for support of their well and water distribution system project in Nyansakia, Kenya. Alison Olson-Enamorado, Cody Barrett, Yohanis Hundessa, and Allicia Petrich joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the project and its purpose, along with an upcoming fundraiser. The well and water distribution…

Coffee Conversation: Local Musicians Austin Castle & Cole Mikel

DULUTH, Minn. — Two local musicians, Austin Castle and Cole Mikel, joined FOX21 on the morning newscast (Friday, April 21) to talk about an upcoming album release and play some tunes live in-studio. Castle was on the morning show back in November 2022 to talk about his album, “Northwoods.” This time around, Castle enlisted the help of his friend and…

Coffee Conversation: California Musician Jonathan Foster Performs in Northland

NORTHLAND — Award-winning songwriter Jonathan Foster from Redding, California is currently on his Ten Year Sabbatical Tour and made two stops in Minnesota. Foster joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday to chat about his career and give the northland a live TV performance. The artist performed in Grand Rapids, MN on April 19 and will take the stage next…

Coffee Conversation: Maryland Musician to Perform at Sir Ben’s in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Musician Eli Lev from Boonsboro, Maryland joined FOX21 on the morning newscast ahead of his performance at Sir Benedict’s Tavern on Saturday, April 22 in Duluth. The artist has just completed his Four Directions Project (2021) which includes four EPs that were inspired by indigenous traditions he learned while teaching on the Navajo Nation in Northern Arizona. His…

Voyageurs National Park Maintenance Team Receives Award Post 2022 Flood

INT’L FALLS, Minn. — Following a summer of massive flooding on the outskirts of International Falls, the Voyageur National Park maintenance team has been recognized for their contributions to protect and preserve park grounds and beyond. The park, located just outside of International Falls overcame a range of challenges amidst a record-setting flood. This leading the Midwest Regional Office of…

Vikre Distillery Breaks Down the Non-Alcohol Cocktail Trend

DULUTH, Minn. — Non-alcohol cocktails are making their way more and more into the booze industry, as places like Vikre Distillery offer a range of “zero-proof” drinks with all the flavor and artisanship of a classic cocktail. Owner Emily Vikre joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday morning to talk about why she finds it important to offer non-alcohol concoctions…