Author: Maria Vollom

Coffee Conversation: Glensheen Mansion Announces Full Lineup of Summer Fun

DULUTH, Minn. — Glensheen Mansion is gearing up for an exciting summer season, with free events, specialty tours, and scenic experiences on the shores of Lake Superior. Marketing Manager Mike Mayou joined FOX 21 to share what’s ahead, including the return of the popular Concerts on the Pier, celebrating its 10th anniversary this July and August. Starting June 4th, Glensheen’s…

Coffee Conversation: LOON Celebrates 20 Seasons with “Die Fledermaus”

DULUTH, Minn. — The Lyric Opera of the North is raising the curtain on a milestone—its 20th anniversary season—with a new production of Die Fledermaus. Conductor Dirk Meyer and star baritone Lee Gregory joined Fox 21’s morning newscast Wednesday to share more about the upcoming production. The operetta, filled with bubbles, waltzes, and masked ball mischief, holds special meaning for…

Coffee Conversation: Local Entrepreneur Makes Bug Repellent Stylish

NORTHLAND, Minn. — Mosquito season has arrived, but one local entrepreneur is adding a fashionable twist to bug repellent. Barb Owen-Boerger, founder of Getaway Kimonos, joined FOX 21’s morning show to showcase her stylish solution for keeping insects at bay. Click here for more information. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: Gordy’s Hi-Hat Gears Up for Curbside Classic Car Show

Duluth, Minn. — Gordy’s Hi-Hat is revving up for its annual Curbside Classic Car Show, happening Thursday, May 29 from 5 to 7 PM! Co-owner Sever Lundquist, along with his kids Wilk and Kennedy, joined Fox 21 on the morning show to share more about the beloved event. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Cloquet Police Ask for Help Finding Missing Couple

CLOQUET, Minn. — Authorities are seeking the public’s help in locating two vulnerable individuals who have been missing since Sunday, May 25th. 64-year-old Daniel Latterell and 62-year-old Jane Korpela were last seen near Cloquet Avenue and 16th Street in Cloquet. Police have expressed concerns for their mental health and overall safety. Daniel Latterell is described as 5 feet 9 inches…

Coffee Conversation: Self-Taught Mushroom Expert Turned Kid’s Book Author

DULUTH, Minn. — Self-taught mushroom identification expert turned local author Ariel Bonkoski joined FOX 21’s morning newscast Tuesday to share details about her new children’s book, Mushrooms & Fungi for Kids: An Introduction to Mycology. Click here for more information on Bonkoski, mushroom foraging, and her book.  Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: Reba the Chicken Survives Wildfires in Northern MN

NORTHLAND – As wildfires tear through the Northland, destroying homes and displacing families, one unlikely survivor—a chicken named Reba—is offering a spark of hope amid the ashes. On the Fox 21 morning newscast Friday, May 23, Mikala Schliep, Reba’s owner, shared the incredible tale of how this resilient bird survived when the rest of her flock tragically did not. Categories:…

Coffee Conversation: 30th annual Kolar Toyota ALS Fishing Tournament

DULUTH, Minn. — The 30th annual Kolar Toyota ALS Fishing Tournament returns to Duluth on May 30–31, 2025. David Kolquist, president of Never Surrender Inc., joined FOX 21 to discuss the event and its mission: supporting individuals and families affected by ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease with no known cure. On Saturday, May 31, The Light of Hope ALS Conference…

Viral Runaway Sheep Named Brad Is Now a Dad

CARLTON, Minn. — Last November, we brought you the story of Brad—the runaway sheep turned local celebrity. Now, we’re back on the farm in Carlton with to check in on Brad’s latest chapter. It’s been nearly six months to the day since Brad’s great escape—and even greater homecoming. Now back at Golden Hour Acres, Brad is living the good life—lowkey,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Playhouse to Debut “Home, I’m Darling” at NorShor Theatre

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Playhouse is set to open its latest production, Home, I’m Darling, this Friday, May 23, at the historic NorShor Theatre. Cast member Jess Hughes, who stars as Judy, and director Mary Fox appeared live on FOX 21’s Tuesday morning newscast to share what audiences can expect from this sharp, entertaining show. Home, I’m Darling is…

One Injured in ATV Crash Near Orr

ELEPHANT LAKE, Minn. — One person is hospitalized with injuries after an ATV crash near Orr on the evening of May 18th. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office says the crash happened around 8:27 p.m. on a trail southeast of Elephant Lake, about 10 miles northeast of Orr, MN. A side-by-side ATV flipped over while navigating trail conditions. The passenger,…

Coffee Conversation: Junk Food Film Festival Hits Zeitgeist Zinema This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The Junk Food Film Festival is taking over the Zeitgeist Zinema in Duluth on May 16 and 17, serving up two days of bold, bizarre, and wildly fun films. Matthew Dressel joined the FOX 21 Morning Show to talk more about the festival and what audiences can expect. From cult classics to underground oddities, this event comes…

NORTHLAND: Two Major Wildfires Expand to Over 35,000 Acres

From wildfire.gov, Image by T. Krueger Northland, MN — Two major wildfires continue to burn in northeastern Minnesota, prompting evacuations and drawing additional firefighting resources to the region. As of Wednesday morning, the Jenkins Creek Fire in St. Louis County has grown to 20,593 acres, while the Camp House Fire near Brimson is now reported at 14,979 acres. The Jenkins…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Art Institute Annual Member Show

DULUTH, Minn. — Now through June 9, the Duluth Art Institute’s Annual Member Show is on display, celebrating the vibrant and diverse talents of local artists across a wide range of mediums. Christina Woods, Executive Director of the Duluth Art Institute (DAI), joined the broadcast to share details about the community exhibit. The Annual Member Show features around 140 works…

Camp House Fire Nears 12,000 Acres With No Containment

BRIMSON, MN – The Camp House Fire, burning north of Brimson since Sunday, May 11, has grown to 11,778 acres with 0% containment. The fire remains active and unpredictable, fueled by dry conditions and spruce budworm-infested forests. What Northlanders Need to Know: Fire Status: Crews continue aggressive suppression efforts, protecting nearby structures. Yesterday’s fire activity included torching and spot fires….

Coffee Conversation: UMD Career Specialist Shares Job Market Insight

DULUTH, Minn. — As graduation season kicks into high gear, many college seniors are feeling the pressure of entering a competitive and uncertain job market. On Tuesday, May 13, UMD Career Specialist Molly Stonesifer joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast to offer valuable advice and encouragement for recent and soon-to-be graduates. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

MN Camp House Fire Grows to 750 Acres; 0% Contained

Brimson, MN (May 12, 2025) – The Camp House Fire, reported Sunday afternoon north of Brimson, has burned approximately 750 acres and remains at 0% containment. DCIM100MEDIADJI_0453.JPG The blaze is threatening nearby structures and burning in dense, spruce budworm-infested forest near the Lake County boundary. Minnesota Incident Command Team C, led by Incident Commander Jeb Backe, assumed command at 7…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth’s Best Bread Wednesday Night Farmer’s Market

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s officially farmer’s market season — and this year, Duluth’s Best Bread is adding a fresh spin by hosting its own Wednesday night markets throughout May at both its Downtown Duluth and Superior locations. Co-owner Robert Lillegard appeared live on Fox 21’s morning show to share more about the event. The weekly market runs from 6:00 PM…

Coffee Conversation: Bent Paddle Celebrates 12 Years With Festiversary

DULUTH, Minn. — This Saturday, May 10, Bent Paddle Brewing Co. is marking 12 years of craft beer excellence with its annual outdoor celebration—Festiversary. Hannah Bourgault, Marketing Coordinator at Bent Paddle, joined Fox 21 News live Friday morning to share the details. From 2 to 8 p.m., West Michigan Street and the surrounding neighborhood parking lots will be transformed into…

Coffee Conversation: Gender Joy Art Show Returns to Zeitgeist

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2nd Annual Gender Joy Art Show is on display at Zeitgeist from May 2–31, celebrating expression and identity through community art. YWCA Duluth Executive Director Morgan Beryl joined FOX 21’s morning newscast Wednesday to share details. A special opening event is set for May 9 from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring a collaborative art project, light…

Amber Sadowski Seeks Re-election to Duluth School Board

DULUTH, Minn. — Amber Sadowski is running for a second term on the Duluth School Board At-Large, highlighting her leadership background and focus on youth development. With a background in teaching and 10 years in the nonprofit sector, Sadowski is focused on initiatives that help every child succeed. “I’m motivated to continue supporting our students and ensuring fiscal stability for…

Coffee Conversation: Helping Grads Gain Financial Confidence

DULUTH, Minn. — As high schools, colleges, and universities across the Northland gear up for commencement, families are celebrating a major milestone: graduation. With the transition into post-college life on the horizon, financial readiness is top of mind for many. Amanda Bruggman from Affinity Plus joined us this morning to share essential tips for new graduates and their families. She…

Coffee Conversation: Local Musician of Band “Slape” Evan Arnold Performs Live

DULUTH,  Minn — Viewers of the FOX 21 Morning Newscast were treated to a special in-studio performance on Friday, May 2, as local musician Evan Arnold, a member of the band Slape, joined the broadcast for a live musical segment. Fans can catch more of Evan and Slape live during this year’s Homegrown Music Festival, with a performance scheduled for…

Coffee Conversation: Fox 21’s Dan Pugleasa Live Musical Performance

DULUTH, Minn. — Wednesday morning’s FOX 21 newscast featured a special guest who’s both a familiar face and a creative force behind the scenes. Dan Pugleasa, local musician and FOX 21’s Creative Services Director, joined the show to share more than just his marketing expertise — this time, he brought his musical talent. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News –…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Schools Seek Tutors for Fall 2025

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth schools are among those across Minnesota looking to fill over 700 tutoring positions for the 2025-26 school year through AmeriCorps programs Reading Corps, Math Corps, and Early Learning Corps. Americorps Staff Member Lindsey Molstad joind Fox 21 live on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the need. The city needs 16 tutors to help students build…

Coffee Conversation: Salvation Army’s 2nd Annual Black and White Ball Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — The Salvation Army is preparing to host its 2nd Annual Black and White Ball on Friday, May 16, from 5:00 to 8:30 PM at The Malting Building. Cyndi Lewis from The Salvation Army, along with David Schere and Kristen Trump of Simply Ballroom, appeared on FOX 21’s morning newscast to share details about the upcoming event. Guests…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Junk Hunt Returns to the DECC This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — Get ready to dig for treasure! The Duluth Junk Hunt returns to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) this weekend, April 25–26, 2025. Organizer Emily Broman says shoppers can expect plenty of “rusty, chippy, vintage goodness” and one-of-a-kind finds. This two-day indoor vintage market brings together vendors from across Minnesota and beyond, offering a unique mix of…

Coffee Conversation: Jason Young Leads Depot Foundation Forward

DULUTH, Minn. — Jason Young, newly named Executive Director of the Depot Foundation, joined the Fox 21 morning newscast live in-studio to share exciting updates about the organization’s future. With a nonprofit background dating back to 2001 and fundraising experience since 2006, Jason brings deep expertise and passion to the role. On-air, he discussed what’s next for the Depot under…

Coffee Conversation: Denfeld High School Presents “Legally Blonde the Musical”

DULUTH, Minn. — Theater students at Denfeld High School are preparing to take the stage for their final performance of the year: Legally Blonde the Musical. Cast members Reagan Kern and Jacob Waechter were on Fox 21’s morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the upcoming show. Legally Blonde the Musical will be performed April 17, 18, and 19 at the…

Coffee Conversation: Final Performance Nears for UMD Percussion

DULUTH, Minn. — April is here, and that means the school year is coming to a close — but not before one final performance. That includes the talented musicians of the UMD Percussion Ensemble. Students from the University of Minnesota Duluth, along with Assistant Professor of Percussion Ryan Loken, were on Fox 21’s morning newscast Monday for an interview and…

Duluth City Councilor Mike Mayou Will Not Seek Reelection

DULUTH, Minn. — ​Duluth’s Second District City Councilor, Mike Mayou, has announced he will not seek reelection this November. Mayou explained his decision to not seek reelection, citing the need to focus on his family, including his wife, recently diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, and their infant child. Elected in 2021 at age 23, Mayou has served on multiple commissions, including…

Coffee Conversation: UMD Planetarium Debuting New Projector at Astronomy Day Event

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Minnesota Duluth Planetarium is getting ready to debut its brand-new projector—and it’s all taking place during their Astronomy Day event this Saturday, April 12. Planetarium Director Jessica Rogers joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Friday with the details. The family-friendly event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. and will feature hands-on activities indoors, free…

Coffee Conversation: Festival of History & Veterans Memorial Hall Re-Opening

DULUTH, Minn. — The Twin Ports Festival of History will be held on Tuesday evening, featuring a celebration of the grand re-opening of the restored Veterans Memorial Hall at the St. Louis County Depot. Veterans Memorial Hall Program Assistant Jay Hagen joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the event and its significance. The staff and…

Coffee Conversation: TLC’s Trading Spaces Star Laurie Smith at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — The Arrowhead Home and Builder’s Four-Day Showcase kicked off Thursday at the DECC, featuring interior designer Laurie Smith, known for her role on TLC’s Trading Spaces. Smith joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Friday to share more about her experience and offer design advice. Smith will host seminars offering design tips for attendees, with a chance to…

Coffee Conversation: Midwest Garden Gal Classes at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — Midwest Garden Gal Lisa Howard will be hosting classes throughout the Arrowhead Home & Builders Show at the DECC from Thursday, April 3 to Sunday, April 6. On Thursday, Howard appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast to share budget-friendly gardening tips and advice for gardening in every season. Click here for the Home Show schedule and here…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Financial Expert Offers Tips for Big Spring Purchases

DULUTH, Minn. — Amanda Bruggman, a financial expert from Affinity Plus, joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast to share tips for navigating big purchases this spring. For first-time homebuyers, she emphasized getting pre-approved for a mortgage and setting a realistic budget. Bruggman also discussed how Duluth’s market trends could affect buyers’ decisions. When it comes to cars, she explained…

Coffee Conversation: UW-Superior Theatre Presents Unique Twelfth Night Production

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Wisconsin-Superior Theatre Department is bringing a modern twist to Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Twelfth Night. Joining the production are Hailey Bault, who plays Olivia, and Elle Evenson, who portrays Maria. The two actors recently shared their excitement about the show on Fox 21’s morning newscast. This production marks the department’s first performance of the spring. The…

Coffee Conversation: 9th Annual Cabin Fever Reliever Returns to Two Harbors

DULUTH, Minn. — The 9th Annual Cabin Fever Reliever is back in Two Harbors this weekend, bringing together regional talent and community spirit. On Thursday, Two Harbors Community Radio spokesperson John Krengel and performer Steve Solkela appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast to discuss the upcoming event. Hosted by Two Harbors Community Radio (KTWH-LP), the event will take place on…