Author: Maria Vollom

Coffee Conversation: Rubber Chicken Theater Holiday Sketch Comedy Shows

DULUTH, Minn. — Rubber Chicken Theater is wrapping up 2024 with a pair of holiday sketch comedy shows sure to bring festive laughter to the Twin Ports. Co-founder Brian Matuszak joined us this morning to discuss the upcoming performances. First up is A Christmas Comedy Carol, or, How I Learned to Stop Scrooging and Keep Laughing, running December 20-21 and…

Coffee Conversation: Boat Club Productions Presents the Winter Wonderettes

DULUTH, Minn. — The holiday season just got a little brighter with the debut of Winter Wonderettes, presented by Boat Club Productions. This morning, Producer Jason Vincent and Denfeld High School senior Reagan Kern, who plays Betty Jean, joined us in the studio to talk more about the production and what audiences can expect. Winter Wonderettes continues the beloved story of…

Coffee Conversation: UWS Presents its 27th Annual Season of Song Concerts

SUPERIOR, WI. — On Sunday, Dec. 8, and Tuesday, Dec. 10, UW-Superior will present its annual Season of Song concerts at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Superior. Dr. Michael Fuchs, Director of Choral Activities, Associate Professor, and Chair of the Music Department at UW-Superior, along with student choir performer Sara Vindel were on the morning newscast Thursday to…

Coffee Conversation: Julebyen Christmas Village Returns to Knife River This Weekend

Knife River, MN – The Julebyen Christmas Village is back this weekend, offering a festive experience in the heart of Knife River. The popular holiday event, taking place on Saturday, Dec. 7 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and Sunday, Dec. 8 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), celebrates a centuries-old Nordic tradition with ethnic foods, crafts, holiday decorations, and music. Festival…

Coffee Conversation: Author Trish Berger’s New Book, “Little Baby Santa”

DULUTH, Minn. — This morning on Fox 21’s Morning Newscast, author and illustrator Trish Berger joined us live in the studio to share her heartwarming new children’s book, Little Baby Santa. The interactive social-emotional learning book provides a unique learning experience for young readers, combining fun, creativity, and important life lessons. The book is available for purchase online and in…

Cooking Connection: Chicken Wellington with Chef Chris at Ledge Rock Grille

TWO HARBORS, Minn. — If turkey isn’t your preferred choice for Thanksgiving, why not try Chicken Wellington instead? Fox 21’s Maria Vollom joined Chef Chris to prepare the dish at Ledge Rock Grille ahead of the holiday. The restaurant will be hosting a Thanksgiving buffet on Thursday, November 28, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Cooking Connection, Minnesota,…

Coffee Conversation: Local Music Duo North of Montgomery Performs

Northland — The local musical duo North of Montgomery, featuring Ava and Kaleb, appeared live on Fox 21’s morning newscast on Tuesday, November 26, for an interview and performance. Stay connected with North of Montgomery on all social media platforms. Catch their next performance at SandRocks in Sandstone on December 5 at 6 PM. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News…

On the Farm: Brad the Sheep is Home Safe after Wild Escape

CARLTON, Minn. — After weeks of suspense, close calls, and multiple failed capture attempts–Brad the sheep is finally back home in Carlton. Brad, the runaway sheep turned local celebrity, returned late Tuesday night, much to everyone’s relief. “I still feel like I’m processing it, but being here today is like “oh year, he’s safe, he’s fine, he doesn’t have to…

Coffee Conversation: Benefit Concert & Dinner to Support Local Musician

DULUTH, Minn. — Local music legend Marvin Pomeroy recently underwent major surgery. Now, fellow musicians are rallying together for a benefit event this weekend to help raise funds for his recovery. On Friday, Musician Gina Lee was on the morning newscast to talk more about it. The benefit will be held this Sunday from 12 PM to 6 PM at…

Coffee Conversation: Holiday Budgeting Tips; Make the Most of Your Money

DULUTH, Minn. —  With the holidays fast approaching, many of us are bracing for an increase in expenses. To help us navigate this busy time without breaking the bank, Amanda Bruggman from Affinity Plus was on the morning newscast Thursday with some valuable advice. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: 23rd Veteran Inaugural Gala to Support Military Heroes

DULUTH, Minn. — On December 6th, 23rd Veteran, a national nonprofit, will host its inaugural Winter Gala at the Greysolon Ballroom in Duluth to support military heroes living with trauma. Board Member Bryan Maslowski and Executive Assistant Sarah Herrick-Smisek joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk more about the gala and its mission. The event, designed to…

Coffee Conversation: Shop Small This Holiday Season at Apricot Lane

DULUTH, Minn. — The holiday shopping season is here, and Apricot Lane Duluth is getting ready with three days of discounts: Pink Friday (11/22), Black Friday (11/29), and Small Business Saturday (11/30). Owner Wendy Meyers was on Fox 21’s morning newscast Tuesday to preview the upcoming events and discuss the importance of supporting small businesses during the holiday season. Stay…

19-year-old Pedestrian Hit and Killed in Hibbing

HIBBING, Minn. — A 19-year-old man was killed after being struck by a vehicle while walking Thursday (November 14) night. The Minnesota State Patrol reports that the incident occurred at 10:07 p.m. when a Ford Edge, traveling northbound on Highway 169 near East 25th Street, struck a pedestrian walking eastbound. The victim, 19-year-old Dennis Anderson of Biscay, was pronounced dead…

Coffee Conversation: Festival of Trees Returns to Duluth for Holiday Shopping

DULUTH, MN – The Junior League of Duluth is gearing up for its annual Festival of Trees, an arts, crafts, and gifts show set for this weekend at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC). Junior League of Duluth President Lauren Farden and Director of Community Patty Salo Downs were on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about the purpose of this…

Coffee Conversation: Hibbing Singer-Songwriter Will Durie talks Debut Album

HIBBING, Minn. — Local artist Will Durie, a singer-songwriter from Hibbing, was on the morning newscast to discuss his debut album, Mischief Makin’, which was released in May 2024. Durie shared insights about the album and his plans for the next steps in his music career. He performed his song, Educators, live in-studio. Fans can stream Will Durie’s music on all major…

Coffee Conversation: Veteran’s Day Ceremony at the Depot in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — A Veteran’s Day Ceremony will be held on Monday, November 11, at 11:00 a.m. in the Great Hall of the St. Louis County Depot, hosted by Duluth Women of Today in partnership with Veterans Memorial Hall. Sharon Bergquist of Duluth Women of Today appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast to discuss the event’s significance. The ceremony will…

Coffee Conversation: UW-Superior Theatre Presents “The Wolves” Production

DULUTH, Minn. — The UW-Superior Theatre Department presents “The Wolves,” a play about a high school girls’ soccer team, and the shaping of young identities when personal traits collide with external pressures. UW-Superior performer Elle Evenson and College of St. Scholastica performer Emmie Hinnenkamp appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast Thursday ahead of the production. Directed by Jess Hughes, The…

Coffee Conversation: Local Political Analyst Shares Insights on Upcoming Elections

DULUTH, Minn. — We are in the final stretch until election day, with candidates—both local and presidential—ramping up their efforts to connect with voters. Dr. Cynthia Rugeley, Associate Professor of Political Science and Department Head at UMD, shared her election insights on the morning newscast Friday. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Area Chamber Celebrates 154 Years with Annual Dinner

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for its 154th Annual Meeting & Dinner Celebration on November 7 at the DECC’s Lake Superior Ballroom. Chamber Vice President of Strategy & Policy Daniel Fanning appeared on Fox 21’s morning newscast Thursday to discuss growth opportunities and challenges facing the business sector. This year’s event will focus…

Coffee Conversation: LOON Celebrates 20 Years with Comedy Double Bill

DULUTH, Minn. — The Lyric Opera of the North (LOON) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this weekend with a comedy double bill featuring The Impresario and Circe on Superior. Conductor Maria Sensi-Sellner and Singer Sarah Lawrence, who is also LOON’s General Artistic Director, joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday ahead of opening night. The performances, set for Friday,…

Battling Breast Cancer with Hope: A Young Mom’s Journey

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re sharing the inspiring story of a young mom from International Falls who is bravely fighting Stage 3 breast cancer. “Statistically, I would much rather have done the preventative measures than to go through chemo weakly and drive three and a half hours and then do multiple surgeries and…

Semi Driver Hospitalized After Single-Vehicle Roll Over Crash

VIRGINIA, Minn. — A semi driver was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after a single-vehicle accident this morning. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the driver, a 50-year-old male from Iron, Minnesota, was traveling northbound on Highway 53 near County Road 142 when he swerved onto the shoulder, overcorrected, and rolled onto his side. He was not wearing a seat belt…

Duluth Police Officer Involved in Pedestrian Accident

DULUTH, Minn. — A pedestrian was hospitalized with minor injuries following an accident involving a Duluth police officer, leading to an investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol. According to state patrol, a 26-year-old female officer was heading east on 2nd Street to turn onto 6th Avenue East when she hit a 47-year-old woman who was walking. The incident happened at…

Garage and House Fire in Chisholm Causes Severe Damage

Chisholm, Minn. — A garage and house fire in Chisholm caused severe damage on the evening of Thursday, October 17, but thankfully, no injuries were reported. Photo Courtesy: Friends of the Northland FireWire According to Friends of the Northland FireWire, the fire was reported around 9 p.m. in the 600 block of 13th Street Northwest. Firefighters from Chisholm, Hibbing, and…

Early Voters Cast Their Ballots in Minnesota

Duluth, Minn. — Early voting is officially open in Minnesota, giving you the chance to cast your ballot ahead of November 5. For City of Duluth residents, like Corey Salmela, the early polling site is City Hall. Corey will be gone on election day, so he stopped by to vote today, with the presidential race in mind. “Well I think…

Fallen VNP Park Ranger Honored at Memorial Service

International Falls, Minn. — A memorial service was held Sunday for a park ranger who tragically lost his life during a rescue mission on October 6th. Photo Courtesy of the Rainy Lake Gazette. Law enforcement, local officials, and community members gathered outside of Falls High School to honor Kevin Grossheim. According to officials, Grossheim died while attempting to rescue a…

Update: 63-Year-Old Man Dies from Injuries Suffered in Eveleth House Fire

UPDATE (October 12, 3:15 p.m.) EVELTH, Minn. — The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office reports that the victim, who has been identified as 63-year-old Dale Wallander of rural Eveleth, has died from his injuries suffered in the fire. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and the MN State Fire Marshalls Office. ORIGINAL POST: EVELETH,…

Coffee Conversation: Author Bill Burleson Releases New Novel “Ahnwee Days”

Minn. — On Thursday, October 10, Minneapolis-based author Bill Burleson joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast to discuss his latest fictional work, “Ahnwee Days,” which was officially released on October 1, 2024. In addition to his literary pursuits, Bill founded Flexible Press to support both authors and non-profits. He resides in Minneapolis with his wife and two dogs….

Coffee Conversation: New Superhero Play Celebrates Indigenous Culture at Norshore Theatre

DULUTH, Minn. — New Native Theatre, in collaboration with Duluth Playhouse, is set to present “Fallenstar: The Watchoverers,” a captivating new superhero play by RamĂłn Esquivel, running from October 11 to 13, 2024, at the NorShor Theatre. NNT Artistic Director Rhiana Yazzie and Fallenstar Actor Shinaana Secody joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the significance…

Coffee Conversation: 18th Annual Minnesota Ballet Celebrity Dance Challenge

DULUTH, Minn. — On Friday, October 11th, the Depot Theater will host the 18th Annual Minnesota Ballet Celebrity Dance Challenge, pairing local celebrities with professional dancers for a an evening of performances. Supervisor at Northwood Children’s Services Ian LaFont and Minnesota Ballet dancer Cecilia Hernandez previewed the show on the morning newscast Tuesday. The event kicks off with a social…

Aitkin Woman Arrested After Fentanyl Seizure

Hazelton Township, Aitkin County. — A 28-year-old woman from Aitkin faces charges after authorities seized over 200 fentanyl pills and several grams of fentanyl powder on October 2, 2024. The Aitkin-Itasca-Mille Lacs Violent Crime Enforcement Team and Aitkin County Sheriff’s deputies conducted search warrants in Hazelton Township, according to a press release, leading to the arrest for 1st Degree Possession…

Coffee Conversation: Lundeen Productions Presents Senior Go Show/Pub Crawl & Music Festival

Twin Ports — Mark your calendars for two upcoming events; the 20th annual Duluth Senior GO Show, happening on Tuesday, October 22, at the DECC. Then, on October 26, get ready for the Goin Postal Poltergeist Pub Crawl and Music Festival in Superior, Wi. Tracy Lundeen and Andy Perfetti discussed these events on the morning newscast Thursday, Oct. 3. The…

Heli-Color: Aerial Tours Showcase Duluth’s Fall Foliage

Duluth, Minn. — As autumn settles in, cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors transform the region. In Duluth, a local helicopter company is seizing the opportunity to showcase the stunning scenery through aerial tours. Fox 21’s Maria Vollom takes us along for the ride. There’s a certain magic in being high above, where the bustling city seems so small. Alec…

Coffee Conversation: UDAC Hosts “Include” Exhibit for National Disability Employment Awareness Month

DULUTH, Minn. — In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Upper-Duluth Area Coalition (UDAC) will hold an “Include” Exhibit Tuesday, October 1, from 10 AM to noon. Karen Herman, Executive Director of UDAC, expressed enthusiasm for the event on the Fox 21 morning newscast, highlighting its importance in honoring the contributions of individuals impacted by Minnesota’s disability history….

Coffee Conversation: Local Author & Artist Sarah Seidelmann Shares New Book on Boundaries

DULUTH, Minn. — On the Fox 21 morning newscast Wednesday, Sarah Seidelmann, an accomplished author, fourth-generation physician, artist, and shamanic healer, unveiled her new workbook, Boundaries Make Love Possible. This colorful guide captures her transformative 100-day journey to mastering boundaries, a process that has not only strengthened her personal relationships, but also reignited her creative spark. With the workbook, Seidelmann…

Duluth Man Arrested for Drive-By Shooting and Protection Order Violation

DULUTH, Minn. — A 43-year-old Duluth man has been arrested on charges of felony drive-by shooting and violating an order for protection. The arrest follows an investigation into a shooting incident on September 22 in the 5400 block of Oakley Street, where home occupants were present, but fortunately uninjured. The suspect and residents are known to each other, according to…

Coffee Conversation: Local Author Heather Wilde Launches New Book

DULUTH, Minn. — On September 22, 2024, local author and publisher Heather Wilde appeared on Fox 21 Morning Newscast to discuss her new book, “Sell Your Book, Not Your Soul.” The book offers essential marketing strategies for authors and entrepreneurs while encouraging authenticity. Wilde celebrated the launch alongside her husband, who also released a memoir on the same day. As the…

Coffee Conversation: Lester River Rendezvous Returns to Celebrate 25 Years of History

DULUTH, Minn. — Next weekend, the heart of Lester Park will transform as the Lester River Rendezvous takes attendees on a journey back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Committee chair Lindsey Whitlinger shared insights during an interview this morning, highlighting the event’s vibrant celebration of local history and community. From September 26th to 28th, the Rendezvous showcases life in…

Coffee Conversation: Junior League of Duluth to Celebrate Community Contributions

DULUTH, Minn. — The Junior League of Duluth (JLD) will host a news conference on September 19, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in the lobby at The Depot, highlighting 15 local organizations that received a total of $30,250 in grants to support their initiatives benefiting women and children. JLD President Lauren Farden and Director of Community Patty Salo Downs joined Fox…

Investigation Underway into Death at Minnesota Correctional Facility

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. — The death of a 39-year-old man is under investigation at the Minnesota Correctional Facility in Moose Lake. On September 17, at 10:40 a.m., a fellow inmate reported that the man appeared unresponsive. Corrections staff quickly responded and attempted life-saving measures, but were unsuccessful. The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office is set to perform an autopsy to determine…

Coffee Conversation: Chester Bowl’s 40th Annual Fall Fest Returns This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — Chester Bowl’s beloved Fall Fest is back for its 40th year, happening this Saturday, September 21, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with a rain date set for Sunday, September 22. Programs and Operations Director Sam Luoma joined us to share highlights of this year’s festivities. The event promises a day full of community spirit and local…

Vehicle Crashes into Duluth Elementary School Gymnasium

DULUTH, Minn. — A vehicle crashed into the gymnasium of Myers-Wilkens Elementary School in Duluth this morning, causing significant damage. No injuries to students or staff, but the two occupants of the vehicle were hospitalized for treatment. At around 8:25 a.m. Friday, Sept. 13, Duluth Police responded to an incident involving a vehicle that crashed into the gymnasium of Myers-Wilkens…

Coffee Conversation: ShelterBox Highlights the Urgency of Disaster Planning

DULUTH, Minn. — September is National Emergency Preparedness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of having a plan in place. Bill Tobin with ShelterBox, a global non-profit dedicated to providing aid to those displaced by disasters and conflicts, joined Fox 21 live in-studio Thursday to talk about being prepared. ShelterBox’s mission is to ensure that no one is left…

Ely Under Boil Water Advisory Following Water Outage

ELY, Minn. — The City of Ely has restored water service following a watermain break, but remains under a Boil Water Advisory, urging residents to boil or use bottled water for all consumption and food preparation until further notice. As of 12:30 AM, city officials report that water service has been restored following recent disruptions. City crews are actively flushing…

Denfeld High Security Lockdown Lifted After Disturbance

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Police responded to a disturbance call near Denfeld High School Wednesday morning, which initially triggered a security lockdown that has now been lifted. Duluth Police were dispatched to the 4600 block of Grand Avenue following reports of an armed individual, according to a press release, prompting the SECURE protocol at Denfeld High School. After investigating, authorities…