Author: Maria Vollom

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…

Coffee Conversation: Essentia Health Raises Awareness for Colorectal Cancer

DULUTH, Minn. — March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. On Tuesday, March 25, Dr. Jon Reich from Essentia Health highlighted the signs, symptoms, and treatment options. With over 100,000 expected diagnoses in 2025, Dr. Reich spoke on the importance of early detection and regular screenings. Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, but with proper care…

Coffee Conversation: Time Arc Theater Presents “12 Angry Men” in Superior

SUPERIOR, WI. — Time Arc Theater is bringing the powerful drama 12 Angry Men to the stage, starting this weekend. Cast members Rob Larson, Jerry Bacon, and Ben LaBerge joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Thursday ahead of opening night. The play explores the complex dynamics of a jury deliberating the fate of a 19-year-old boy accused of murder….

Coffee Conversation: Motorhead Madness Returns to the DECC This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The highly anticipated Hunt Electric Motorhead Madness is cruising back to the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) this weekend, March 22 and 23, 2025. Co-Owner Mike Podgornik joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Friday to talk more about the event’s history and significance. The northland’s biggest indoor custom car show promises to be a thrilling event…

Coffee Conversation: The Northland’s First Mock Wedding at Norway Hall

DULUTH, Minn. — Wild Rose Company invites the community to The Northland’s First Mock Wedding on Sunday, March 23rd, at Norway Hall Event Center (upstairs). Amber Brostrom and Maggie McLeod-Shovein from Wild Rose Company appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast to talk about the event. The venue, located on the second floor of historic downtown, is accessible by stairs or…

‘Metamodernity’ by Local Filmmaker at Ely Festival

DULUTH, Minn. — The 3rd Annual Ely Film Festival will take place from Wednesday, March 12 through Saturday, March 16, at the Historic State Theatre. Local filmmaker Drew Kerner appeared on the Fox 21 morning newscast to talk about his film Metamodernity, which will be featured at the festival. Kerner’s short film is an experimental documentary that tells its story…

Coffee Conversation: Spruce Budworm Outbreak Raises Wildfire Risks

DULUTH, Minn. — A spruce budworm outbreak is damaging trees across Northern Minnesota, raising concerns over increased wildfire risks as a dry spring approaches. In a live interview on Fox 21 Morning News, Sean Klongerbo of Red Beard Cutting & Clearing urged homeowners to clear dead trees and create defensible spaces to prevent a repeat of the 2021 Greenwood Fire….

Garage Destroyed in Fire in Grand Lake Township

Grand Lake Township — A detached garage was completely destroyed in a fire on March 3, 2025, in Grand Lake Township, likely caused by a diesel heater. At approximately 8:30 PM, deputies were called to the 5900 block of Old Miller Trunk Hwy for a report of a detached garage fire. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, the…

72-Year-Old Killed in Crane Lake Snowmobile Crash

CRANE LAKE TOWNSHIP, Minn. — A 72-year-old man from Glenville, MN, has died after a snowmobile crash in Crane Lake Township. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews responded at 9:15 P.M. on February 20th, 2025, after reports of an injured rider. The man, who was riding with friends, veered off the trail and struck a tree….

Coffee Conversation: UMD’s Feast of Nations Celebrates Global Cultures

DULUTH, Minn. — On Saturday, February 22, UMD will host its annual Feast of Nations event, celebrating cultural expressions from around the world. Yagna Manasa Boyapati, Graduate Student Representative of the IC Club, and Harika Yarlagadda, Treasurer of the IC Club, appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast to preview the event. The Feast of Nations will be held from 4:30…

Coffee Conversation: Chum Duluth Mardi Gras Fundraiser for Shelter Expansion

DULUTH, Minn. — Chum Duluth is gearing up for a Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser to support its shelter expansion, set for February 27th. Bradley Zwagerman, Director of Communications and Marketing at Chum Duluth, joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast to talk more about it. The event, known as the Expansion Extravaganza, aims to raise critical funds to expand the shelter…

Fire Destroys Vacant Duluth Duplex on W. First Street

DULUTH, Minn. — A massive fire destroyed a vacant duplex at 2226 W. First Street in Duluth late last night.   According to a press release, firefighters responded around 10:20 PM and found heavy flames spreading through the two-and-a-half-story building. They called for extra help before even arriving, due to the intensity of the smoke. The fire, which had spread…

Boat Club Productions Debuts New Show, The Last 5 Years

DULUTH, Minn. — Boat Club Productions presents The Last 5 Years, debuting Thursday, Feb. 13, at Spirit of the North Theatre. This emotional musical by Jason Robert Brown tells the story of a marriage in reverse and chronological order, starring Stuart Gordon as Jamie. Gordon joined Fox 21’s morning newscast Thursday to share more about the show. Performances run through…

“Love, Judy” Brings Valentine’s Joy to Senior Residents

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — This Valentine’s Day, local teacher Karla Line is honoring her late mother with a heartfelt project titled “Love, Judy.” Students of Karla, a teacher in International Falls, have been crafting sweet Valentine’s cards for residents of a nursing home. Karla started this project last year in memory of her mother, Judy, who passed away in 2023,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth & St. Louis County Capitol Days

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth and St. Louis County at the Capitol Days will be held on February 12-13, 2025, to advocate for key legislative priorities that will benefit Northeastern Minnesota, including housing, economic development, workforce support, and local projects. Daniel Fanning, Duluth Area VP of Strategy & Policy and Executive Director of the Chamber Foundation, joined Fox 21 on the…

Walz Announces $6 Million in Child Care Grants

MINNESOTA — On Thursday, January 6, Governor Tim Walz announced $6 million in new grants to expand child care access for working families statewide. This follows record funding announced in May, expected to create thousands of new child care slots. In a press release, Governor Walz stressed that affordable child care is key for parents to return to work, benefiting…

Coffee Conversation: Minnesota Ballet Presents “Harvest Moon” Performance

DULUTH, Minn. — On Wednesday, dancers Juliana DeBellis and Karl Von Rabenau joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast to discuss the upcoming Harvest Moon performance, presented by the Minnesota Ballet. The story follows the adventures of three WW2 servicemen enjoying their last night out before being deployed. The performance will also include original works by Minnesota Ballet company members….

Coffee Conversation: NYS Black History Month Brunch & BIPOC Business Showcase

DULUTH, Minn. — Neighborhood Youth Services presents a Black History Month Brunch and BIPOC Business Showcase this weekend. Pez Davila from NYS joined Fox 21 Local News on Monday morning to chat more about the brunch and business event. The brunch will be held on Saturday, February 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 300 E. 2nd St., Duluth,…

Coffee Conversation: Cold Front Winter Celebration at Bayfront Park This Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — Megan Lidd, Recreation Specialist with Duluth Parks and Rec, joined us on the FOX 21 morning newscast to preview the Cold Front event happening this Saturday, February 1, from noon to 6 p.m. at Bayfront Park. This free, family-friendly event will feature snow play, dog sled rides, curling, ice skating, sledding, fat biking, and more. Categories: Coffee…