Author: Maria Vollom

MN Film Festival to Feature Actress/Comedian Mary Lynn Rajskub

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Film Festival to feature popular actress and comedian, Mary Lynn Rajskub, at Zeitgeist in Duluth. Rajskub, who you may know from “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and “24,” joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about her role in a local film along with her comedy show at the festival. The actress stars in…

Public Works Building Roof Shows “Signs of Distress” ahead of another Snow Storm

DULUTH, Minn. — Officials respond to Public Works Maintenance Facility on Jean Duluth Road whose roof was showing signs of distress Thursday morning following heavy snowfall, ahead of another winter snow storm. The Rice Lake Fire Department and Minnesota Power arrived on scene around 11 am to access the building after they say reports came in that the roof was…

Connecting Principles: Duluth Public Schools Current Happenings

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Connecting Principles segment, Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas stopped by the morning newscast to talk about all things happening in the district. Magas highlighted current successes and challenges at hand, along with steps moving toward the end of the school year and into next. Categories: Connecting Principles, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

School Closures, Delays, E-Learning (Monday, March 13)

Barnum Public Schools – 2-hour Delay Cloquet School District – 2-hour Delay Duluth Edison Charter Schools – Closed Duluth Public Schools – Closed Duluth Public Library – Opening at Noon Esko Public Schools – 2-hour Delay Montessori School – Closed Senior Connections – Closed South Shore Schools: 2-hour Delay Summit School Duluth – Closed Stella Maris Academy – Closed University…

Coffee Conversation: The Postpartum Period for News Moms and Spouses

DULUTH, Minn. — A deep-dive into perinatal mental health during the postpartum period for new moms and spouses. New moms experience a blend of physical, hormonal and emotional changes both during pregnancy and postpartum. Founder of Duluth Perinatal / Perinatal Mental Health Specialist / and new mom herself, Celleste Schnellbach, joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about postpartum…

Coffee Conversation: Local Author Presents Transformational Memoir

DULUTH, Minn. — Local Author Heather Wilde shared her personal story, “Tumbled: A Memoir of Perseverance, Personal Growth, and Magical Transformation,” on the morning newscast. The book features a collection of memories about codependency, budding sexuality, abuse, abandonment, introspection and the need for a new identity, according to Wilde. “I’ve learned that vulnerability is a superpower,” a quote from Wilde…

Coffee Conversation: DPD to hold Women in Law Enforcement Open House

DULUTH, Minn. — In efforts to draw in more women to the workforce, the Duluth Police Department is holding a Women in Law Enforcement Open House event on Saturday, March 18. DPD Public Information Officer Mattie Hjelseth joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the event and its purpose. The event is taking place Saturday, March 18 from…

Lone Movie Theatre in International Falls to Close

INT’L FALLS, Minn. — The only movie Theatre within a 60-mile radius of International Falls, Cine 5, announced plans to shut down due to a pipe issue following Tuesday, Feb. 28. The announcement came as multiple Facebook posts on Thursday. Owners stated that an ongoing pipe problem has prompted the closure. “Yes we are closing due to the pipe issue….

Minnesota Celebrates 7th Annual School Bus Driver Appreciation Day

MINNESOTA — Wednesday is all about our school bus drivers here in Minnesota as it’s School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. The day is held in hopes of drawing attention to these dedicated professionals and the statewide bus driver shortage. Governor Tim Walz proclaimed the day in the State of Minnesota saying: “Minnesota’s school bus drivers are in the fabric of…

Coffee Conversation: Lake Superior Modern Quilt Guild to hold Inaugural Quilt Show

DULUTH, Minn. — The Lake Superior Modern Quilt Guild (LSMQG) invites the public to its first ever quilt show to be held throughout the month of March in the Lincoln Park Craft District. LSMQG Leadership Team Members, Heidi Foltz and Jen Gustafson, joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the event. The LSMQG’s Modern Quilt Walkabout quilt show…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Women’s Expo to Return for 14th Year

DULUTH, Minn. — The 14th annual Duluth Women’s Expo will return to the DECC Pioneer Hall on Saturday (2/25) showcasing more than 100 vendors and a range of offerings. The Lundeen Group Vice President Kynze Lundeen joined the FOX21 morning newscast on Monday to preview the event. Onsite you can expect to find food and drinks, shopping, activities, pampering, a…

Coffee Conversation: Ojibwe Winter Games Returns to UMD

DULUTH, Minn. — Ojibwe Winter Games returns to UMD for second year, displaying traditional Ojibwe games and experiences for students and community members. Iris Carufel, Assistant Director of UMD’s American Indian Learning Resource Center, joined FOX21 on Friday’s morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. The event is taking place from 10:00am – 3:00pm at the Bagley Nature Area. People can…

Coffee Conversation: Sibling Duo to take on Northern Pines Sled Dog Race

IRON RIVER, WI. — The Iron River Chamber of Commerce presents Northern Pines Sled Dog Race at the at the Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center on Feb. 18, 2023. Musher siblings Talia (22) and Morgan Martens (16), along with sled dog Keisha, joined FOX21 on the morning show ahead of the race. There will be sprint and mid-distance races,…

Coffee Conversation: “Duluth Loves Local” Utilizes Social Media to Connect Small Businesses

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Loves Local is a social media platform built on supporting and promoting local businesses one post at a time. Duluth Loves Local Team Member Mallory Moore and Dream Cloud Coffee Co-Owner Emily Comnick joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about social media and small businesses. To stay up to date, visit Duluth Loves Local’s…

Coffee Conversation: Valentine’s Weekend Lake Superior Helicopters Tours

DULUTH, Minn. — Lake Superior Helicopter’s is offering a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s weekend from the skies above Duluth’s historical landmarks. You can spend Valentine’s weekend sipping champagne and taking flight over sites such as the Aerial Lift Bridge, Enger Tower, Glensheen Mansion, and more with LSH’s romantic tours. LSH’s Marketing Director Arron Martin joined FOX21 on the morning…

Coffee Conversation: Roses and Rosé Valentine’s Day Dinner at New London Cafe

DULUTH, Minn. — New London Café presents “Roses and Rosé” Valentine’s Day Dinner. New London Café Owner John Jenkins and Chef Sarah Severson joined FOX21 on the morning to preview the romantic event. Tickets include a four-course menu, four full pours to pair, a 2023 wooden keepsake, gratuity and live music from Gavin St. Clair. Tue, Feb 14, 4:30 pm to 9:30…

Coffee Conversation: Denfeld Theater Students’ Present “I Hate Valentine’s Day” Production

DULUTH, Minn. — Whether you love or hate Valentine’s Day, you’ll find comedic relief at Denfeld High School’s short production, “I hate Valentine’s Day,” this February. Cast members Madeline Juntunen and Reggie Frederick joined FOX21 on the morning newscast ahead of the show’s debut. “I Hate Valentine’s Day” will take place Feb. 10 at the Denfeld Auditorium, 7:00 pm. It’s…

Coffee Conversation: 26th Annual Duluth and St. Louis County Days at the Capitol

DULUTH, Minn. —  The 26th Annual Duluth and St. Louis County Days at the Capitol will be held Wednesday, Feb. 8, and Thursday, Feb. 9, in Saint Paul. Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President Daniel Fanning joined FOX21 on the morning show on Tuesday to talk about the top priorities at hand. The 2023 legislative priorities of the chamber…

Coffee Conversation: 3rd Annual BIPOC Business Showcase Returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The 3rd Annual Northland BIPOC Business Showcase to take place Feb. 11 at the St. Louis County Depot on Michigan Street. Family Freedom Center Youth Services Operations Director Pez Davila joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the event and its purpose. The showcase is held to highlight local, diverse artists and business owners while…

Coffee Conversation: Shakespeare Production of Twelfth Night takes to UMD’s Stage

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota Duluth Theatre Department presents “Twelfth Night,” a production by William Shakespeare at the Marshall Performing Arts Center. Cast member Mackenzie Ammon and Theatre Department Head Mark Harvey joined FOX21 on the morning newscast ahead of opening night. This Shakespeare comedy will take place from Feb. 7-12. For ticket information, click here. Free admission…

Coffee Conversation: Heart Health / National Wear Red Day

DULUTH, Minn. — Friday, Feb. 3 is National Wear Red Day, held to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease in women. More than 44% of women aged 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. St. Luke’s Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. Mary Boylan joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk heart health…

Ely Celebrates 30th Annual Winter Festival Event

ELY, Minn. — Just in time for the ice cold weather, Ely’s 10-day Winter Festival is kicking off this week. The Winter Festival has been taking place for the past 30 years, featuring all things snow and ice. A few things festival goers might find, include; Giant snow sculptures in Whiteside Park Local creations in the Ely ArtWalk End of…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Fat-Tire Bicyclist to Tackle Alaskan Iditarod

DULUTH, Minn. — Local fat-tire bicyclist Leah Gruhn gears up for Alaskan Iditarod 1,000-mile race, becoming the first person from Minnesota to do so on the Southern Route. Gruhn joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about race preparations and prior success. The Iditarod Trail Invitational will feature qualified athletes and adventurers from around the world in late February….

Wasabi Restaurant In Superior Destroyed By Fire; Owners: ‘We Will Be Back’

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The Wasabi Restaurant building was declared a complete loss after an early Monday morning structure fire, according to the Superior Fire Department. Crews were dispatched to a report of a structure fire at 3333 Tower Avenue at 12:27 am. First arriving fire crews found heavy smoke coming from the back of Wasabi, the department said. Interior attack…

Coffee Conversation: AICHO to Host Concert Fundraiser For DV Shelter Expansion

DULUTH, Minn. — The American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO) presents concert fundraiser for its domestic violence shelter expansion project. AICHO is expanding its DV shelter Dabinoo’Igan to increase resources and capacity to help more victims of domestic and sexual violence. A fundraiser concert will take place on April 6 at the NorShore Theater. AICHO Legal Advocate, Deanna Reder joined…

St. Luke’s Volunteer Receives State Award

DULUTH, Minn. — One community member now holds a commendable state award for more than 25 years spent volunteering at St. Luke’s. Wednesday, Linda Tezak was granted the “Presidents Award” from Minnesota Association of Healthcare Volunteers. Tezak is currently the MAHV Membership Chair and Interim District B Chair. She’s been volunteering with St. Luke’s for more than 25 years completing…

Coffee Conversation: Two Harbors Musher Gears Up for Beargrease Race

DULUTH, Minn. — Two Harbors Musher Colleen Wallin and sled dog Maple joined FOX21 on the morning show ahead of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon this weekend. The Beargrease Marathon starts at 10:00 am Sunday, Jan. 29 at Billy’s Bar in Duluth and will finish around 5:00 pm Tuesday, Jan. 31 at the Grand Portage Lodge and Casino. This…

Coffee Conversation: Steppers Dance Show Returns Post-Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. — Local dance groups are teaming up to present Steppers Dance Show for the first time since 2019. 13 different teams/studios will perform 30 routines at the Duluth East Gym on January 24 at 6:30 pm. Duluth East Coach Kimberly Chick Joined FOX21 on the morning show to preview the event. Special performances by both the CSS and UMD…

Coffee Conversation: Riverside Soy Candles and For Floral Sake Host DIY Winter Workshop

DULUTH, Minn. — Riverside Soy Candles and For Floral Sake team-up to hold DIY Winter Workshop. Create your own soy candle and build a colorful bouquet while sipping on morning mimosas at Riverside Soy Candles. Beth Hanson from For Floral Sake and Danette Thacker from Riverside Soy Candles previewed the workshop on FOX21’s morning newscast. The event is taking place…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Fiber Guild Celebrates 50 Years with Exhibition

DULUTH, Minn. —  Opening Tuesday, January 24, “The Duluth Fiber Handcrafters Guild” exhibition at the Tweed Museum of Art. For fifty years, the Duluth Fiber Guild has been gathering in fellowship around an appreciation of textile arts, sharing traditions and exploring the creative limits of the medium. Curator Annie Dugan and Fiber Artist Louise Young joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the…

Coffee Conversation: Realtor Tom Acton Talks Current State of Housing Market

DULUTH, Minn. — Some good news for those looking to buy or sell their homes, the red-hot housing market is starting to cool. However, high demand and limited selection still remains relevant. RE/MAX Realtor Tom “Action” Acton joined FOX21 on the morning show to talk about the current state of the housing market. For more information on RE/MAX Results or…

Coffee Conversation: MN Schools Seek Extended Covid-19 Relief Funds

DULUTH, Minn. — While the brunt of Covid clears out, so does its funding relief. However, there may be some hope for schools in Minnesota. Governor Tim Walz announced Tuesday plans for a $12 billion budget proposal focusing on kids and families — with a big portion on the education front. We caught up with Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John…

Coffee Conversation: “Best Date Ever” at Lake Superior Zoo

DULUTH, Minn. — In celebration of Valentines Day, Best Date Ever is returning to the Lake Superior Zoo on select dates in February. Zoo-goers and their dates will get to create a valentine’s themed enrichment for an animal of their choice, while also enjoying dessert and toasting champagne (or non-alcohol drinks.) Marketing Coordinator Caroline Routley talked about the fun event…