Author: Maria Vollom

Icebox Days Winter Festival in the “Icebox of the Nation”

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — Just in time for the coldest temperatures of the season, the 44th annual Icebox Days returns on Friday to the “Icebox of the Nation.” The annual event in International Falls will stretch ten days in length, featuring everything from boot hockey and cribbage tournaments to wacky winter festivities like smoosh races and turkey bowling. Additionally, the…

Coffee Conversation: 15th Annual Fishin’ Chicks Fundraiser & Ice Fishing Tournament

IRON RIVER, WI. — The 2024 Laurie Soderlund Memorial Fishin’ Chicks Fundraiser and Ice Fishing Tournament will take place Saturday, January 20 in Iron River. The event was started in 2010 by Laurie and Jeff Soderlund. Laurie had been diagnosed with breast cancer and they wanted to become advocates for breast health. Laurie passed away in 2020, but her legacy…

Coffee Conversation: Impact of Dry January on Local Booze Industry

DULUTH, Minn. — “Dry January” is the latest trend taking the nation by storm in 2024, leaving businesses in the booze industry dry of sales in an already slow season. However, many have adapted their menus to include mocktails, or zero-proof cocktails, like Vikre Distillery. Emily Vikre of Vikre Distillery joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about…

Coffee Conversation: Scholarship Deadlines Fast Approaching in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — Scholarship deadlines are fast approaching for students looking to get their hands on “free money.” Marshall H. and Nellie Alworth Memorial Fund Executive Director Patty Salo Downs and Duluth Superior Community Area Foundation Community (DSCAF) Impact Specialist Amber Burns joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about $2 million in scholarships available to students in…

Aerial Lift Bridge Bay Side Pedestrian Walkway Closed Until Further Notice

DULUTH, Minn. — Due to unsafe conditions, the City of Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge Operations has closed the bay side pedestrian walkway to the public until further notice. The sidewalk on the lake side of the bridge will remain open for pedestrian use, but pedestrians should use extra caution when traveling the bridge by foot in winter, as walkways can…

Coffee Conversation: 36th Annual Duluth Wedding Show at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. — Lundeen Productions will host the 36th annual Duluth Wedding Show at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC) on Saturday, January 13. Organizer Kynze Lundeen joined FOX21 on the morning show Thursday to talk about this year’s event. The Duluth Wedding Show features a range of displays, exhibitors, and a runway fashion show — the largest of its…

Coffee Conversation: “Duluth for Mandela: A Northland Celebration”

DULUTH, Minn. — “Duluth for Mandela: A Northland Celebration” is a locally produced documentary that will be premiering Saturday, January 6 at Zeitgeist Zinema at 2:00 pm. Producer and Director Gerri Williams joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the film and its purpose. The film is based on community events that took place during 2018, commemorating the…

122 Fishermen Rescued from Detached Ice Chunk on Upper Red Lake

Upper Red Lake, Beltrami County, MN – Over 100 fishermen were stranded and needed to be evacuated from an ice floe on the southeastern area of Upper Red Lake Friday evening that detached from the main shoreline. PRESS RELEASE: At 4:57pm on December 29, 2023 the Beltrami County Emergency Communications Center received a call that around 100 people were stranded…

RSV, Influenza and Covid Cases On The Rise

DULUTH, Minn. — The holidays are a time to travel and gather with family and friends, but with that also comes an increase in the spread of seasonal sickness. Recently, there’s been a rise in RSV, influenza and covid cases nationwide and right here in the northland. St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Doctor Andrew Thompson said, they’re expecting influenza rates to…

Bentleyville “Tour of Lights” Tear Down Begins

DULUTH, Minn. — Volunteers gathered Wednesday to assist with day one of tearing down Bentleyville “Tour of Lights.” Roughly 30 to 40 people came together to help tear down five million lights and many displays. The no snow is actually helping the process move fast and efficiently, according to Mayor of Bentleyville Nathan Bentley. Further stating, they’re on track to…

One Person Hospitalized in Car vs DTA Bus Accident

DULUTH, Minn, — One person was hospitalized Tuesday morning after a car crashed head on with a Duluth Transit Authority (DTA) bus. According to Duluth Police Department Public Information Officer Mattie Hjelseth, the accident happened around 10:30 am on the ramp over Mesaba Avenue near Michigan Street and the M&H gas station. The initial investigation shows a vehicle was traveling…

Single-Vehicle Crash in Grand Rapids due to Intense Fog

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. — Two people were hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries in Grand Rapids after crashing due to dense fog. According to Minnesota State Patrol, it happened around 5:00 pm Friday evening. A pickup truck was traveling westbound on Highway 169 on Harristown Road when it couldn’t negotiate a stop sign due to fog. The driver passed the stop…

International Falls Mayor Harley Droba to Run for State Representative

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — International Falls Mayor Harley Droba is throwing his hat in the ring for State Representative, challenging incumbent Representative Roger Skraba in District 3A. Mayor Droba announced his candidacy on Wednesday. He highlighted two key reasons for his decision to run: the need to address rural healthcare and dynamic leadership and representation. A statement by Droba reads,…

New Minnesota State Flag and Seal Chosen

MINNESOTA — After selecting a base design for the state flag and seal last week, the Minnesota State Emblems Redesign Commission made final changes Tuesday morning. The new state flag (pictured above) was chosen by 11 of the 12 commission members. However, there is a noticeable change from the original winning design (pictured below.) The shape of the star is…

Superior Firefighters Rescue Deer Stranded On Ice

SUPERIOR, Wis. — A deer stranded on the ice of the St. Louis River was safely rescued Wednesday morning by fire crew members in Superior. Reports of the little guy stranded on the ice came in Wednesday morning. The Superior Fire Department says Platoon 3 crews then arrived on scene, put on their ice rescue suits, took out their inflatable…

Coffee Conversation: Uke the Halls Holiday Show in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Katy Vernon & The Two Harbors Ukulele Group presents ‘Uke the Halls’ holiday show at Sacred Heart Music Center on Saturday, December 9. Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter Katy Vernon joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. Vernon and the Two Harbors Ukulele Group will perform an evening of Christmas carols, holiday jingles,…

International Falls Bridge Toll Increase, Community Members Concerned

International Falls, Minn. — The International Bridge across the borderland of International Falls and Fort Frances has a new and higher price tag to cross, leaving some residents and local leaders concerned. The bridge is privately owned and the owners say the increase is necessary. For the people who live in International Falls and Fort Frances, the bridge between them…

Coffee Conversation: Zeitgeist Zinema Kicks Off Holiday Film Series

DULUTH, Minn. — Zeitgeist Zinema presents a holiday film series now through the end of the month. Die Hard, Little Women and A Muppet Christmas Carol are the feature films. Zinema Manager Jody Kujawa joined FOX21 live on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the holiday showings. Die Hard will hit the Zinema screen one day only on Wednesday,…

Coffee Conversation: Night Riders Snowmobile Club Fundraiser Dinner

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — The Night Riders Snowmobile Club is preparing to host its annual fundraising dinner and silent auction. Chris Jacobson joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Monday to talk about the event and its purpose. The dinner is taking place on Thursday, December 14 at the Buffalo House Event Center. Tickets are $40 person. Click here for more information. Categories: Coffee…

Floating Sauna to Open Saturday in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — You may have taken a sauna before, but have you experienced one from on top of Lake Superior? Well, you can do just that beginning on Saturday, December 2. Cedar and Stone Nordic Sauna presents a 10 person floating sauna experience located on the harbor at Pier B. While enjoying the sauna, you’ll see a view of…

Minnesota Duluth Mourns Death of Football Player Reed Ryan

In celebration of Reed's life, a memorial wake will be held on Friday, December 1 followed by a funeral service on Saturday, December 2.

DULUTH, Minn. — University of Minnesota Duluth football senior defensive lineman Reed Ryan passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at Essentia Health in Duluth at the age of 22. Ryan collapsed in the team’s weight room back on November 21st. He would fight for his life for a week before passing just short of midnight on Tuesday. Photo Courtesy: University…

Coffee Conversation: DSA Community Foundation Scholarship Opportunities

TWIN PORTS — Beginning on December 1, the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation will have $800,000 available for scholarships across the Northland. Community Impact Specialist Amber Burns joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about scholarship opportunities and the application process. Scholarships support students and job seekers who are pursuing post-secondary education throughout the region. High school seniors…

Coffee Conversation: AICHO’s Upcoming Biboon Bimaadizimin (Winter Good Life) Market

DULUTH, Minn. — AICHO’s Biboon Bimaadizimin (Winter Good Life) Market will return on Saturday, November 25 (10 am – 2 pm) at 212 W. 2nd Street in Duluth.  Indigenous First Coordinator Khayman Goodsky joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the event. The event feature over 30 vendors (artists, authors, entrepreneurs) – most come from Indigenous, BIPOC backgrounds…

Three-Vehicle Crash on the Corner of 21st Ave. E and London Rd

DULUTH,  Minn. — A three-vehicle accident took place on the corner of 21st Ave. E and London Rd in the early morning hours Wednesday, November 22. No injuries reported. According to the Duluth Police Department, officers responded at approximately 5:20 am to the report of a three-vehicle pileup crash. Initial investigation showed an individual failed to stop at a traffic…

Coffee Conversation: St. Luke’s on the Importance of Foot Care as a Diabetic

DULUTH, Minn. — November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. More than 37 million Americans live with diabetes, which is nearly 1 in 4 adults. One of the conditions that can occur because of diabetes is foot ulcers. That’s where St. Lukes Hospital in Duluth comes into play. St. Luke’s Advanced Wound Care & Hyperbaric Center can help with the wound-healing…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Fiber Guild Annual Fiber Fair & Sale

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Fiber Guild’s Annual Fiber Fair & Sale will return on November 18 to the First United Methodist Church (The Coppertop) in Duluth. Duluth Fiber Guild President Kit Sitter joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday ahead of the event. The sale will feature items such as handwoven scarves, jewelry, garments, fiber for spinning, handspun yarn, holiday…

Coffee Conversation: Christner and Roufs of Denfeld Girls Swim & Dive to Compete at State

DULUTH, Minn. — Two competitors from Denfeld High School Girls Swim & Dive will compete in Class A of the 2023 State Tournament November 16-18 at the Jean K. Freeman Aquatic Center. In the Section 7A standings, senior Liv Christner took 2nd place and will compete at state for the second year. Meanwhile, 10th grader Claire Roufs came in 4th…

Coffee Conversation: Rubber Chicken Theater Presents “What the Constitution Means to Me”

DULUTH, Minn. — Just in time for election season, the Rubber Chicken Theater presents “What the Constitution Means to Me” at Spirit of the North Theater this weekend. Director Ian Wallin and Performer Cheryl Skafte joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday ahead of the show opener. What the Constitution Means to Me is the autobiographical tale of playwright Heidi Schreck…

Coffee Conversation: 40 Years of Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation

TWIN PORTS — As the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation begins it’s 40th year of existence, it also looks to shift and expand its focus. Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation CEO Shaun Floerke joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Monday to talk about the future vision of the foundation. Floerke also emphasized the importance of upstream work in ensuring opportunities,…

Maine Mass Killing Suspect Found Dead, Associated Press Reports

LEWISTON, Maine (AP) — The man suspected of fatally shooting 18 people and wounding 13 in Maine has been found dead, authorities said Friday. Robert Card, who was wanted in connection with the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, is believed to have died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, a law enforcement…

Falls Elementary School Community Service Learning Day

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. — Students at Falls Elementary School spent the day on Thursday giving back to the local community. It was community service learning day Thursday (10/27) at the elementary school in International Falls. Each grade was involved in a different volunteering project. Third grade students were at the Borderland Humane Society. They made pet toys and baked homemade treats…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Chamber 153rd Annual Meeting & Dinner Celebration

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host its 153rd Annual Meeting & Dinner Celebration on November 2. Vice President of Strategy & Policy Dan Fanning joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the annual event and its purpose. This year’s event will be a celebration of membership, leadership and community progress….

Coffee Conversation: Getting to Know FOX21 Sports Anchor/Reporter Ben Burns

DULUTH, Minn. — Ben Burns joined the FOX21 team in August 2023 as a Weekend Anchor / Sports Reporter. Burns came on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about how he got his start in Wisconsin, his role in sports broadcasting today, and the latest headlines in Northland athletics. If you have a sports inquiry, email bburns@kqdsfox21.tv. Categories: Coffee Conversation,…

Coffee Conversation: Family Freedom Center/NYS Annual Trunk-Or-Treat Event

DULUTH, Minn. — With Halloween just around the corner, the Family Freedom Center: Neighborhood Youth Services is preparing to host its fourth annual Trunk-Or-Treat event. Operations Director Pez Davila joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about this years event and how its grown. Trunk-Or-Treat is taking place on October 28 from 12-4 pm at the Lake City Parking…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Public Schools Future Forward Referendum Vote

DULUTH, Minn. — On Monday, Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas joined FOX21 on the morning newscast ahead of the Future Forward 709 Referendum vote on 11/7. The referendum vote is in regards to a $7.9 million plan to protect and progress mental and academic support for students, the ability to offer a diverse range of class options and access…