Features

Knowing Your Neighbor: Harry Welty

DULUTH, Minn. — Harry Welty has lived in Duluth for over 50 years, spending time on the school board, but he’s better known for his snow sculptures outside his house. Welty’s work can be seen, driving up 21st Ave. He’s been making snow sculptures for 38 years. Welty said that his mother was an artist and wanted him to be…

Northern Star: Bennett Scissons

Scissons has scored 12 goals this season with the Hilltoppers.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Marshall Boys hockey team has proven that they’re a top contender for the section 7AA title this year. One of the pieces to the Hilltoppers success is senior forward Bennett Scissons. “He’s definitely one of the leaders on this team. One of the guys that gets everyone ready to go. He just surpassed 100 points in…

With caviar McNuggets and heart-shaped pizza, fast food chains hope to win Valentine’s diners

McNugget® Caviar (AP) – It’s a tale as old as time, or at least as old as TikTok: chicken nuggets lovingly topped with a dab of caviar. McDonald’s is embracing the trend this Valentine’s Day with a limited-time McNugget Caviar kit. The free kit, which will be available on McNuggetCaviar.com on Feb. 10, pairs a one-ounce tin of Paramount’s Siberian…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Playhouse brings suspense with production of “Dial M For Murder”

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Playhouse is welcoming in the Twin Ports theatre community for an evening of mystery and suspense with their production of “Dial M For Murder”. Two of the show’s stars, Jess Hughes and Dan Prevette, stopped by the morning show to talk about their preparation for the show, and what audiences can expect from the wild…

Northern Star: Carter Brown

Brown is currently in the top 10 for scorers in the state.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Denfeld forward Carter Brown has made quite the leap from his sophomore season to his junior season. He’s currently averaging 28 points per game, which is 15 points higher than his average the year prior. “I feel like my team trusts me with the ball. I know I can shoot the ball so whenever I get it,…

Northern Star: Kloey Lind

In her junior campaign, Lind averages 12.7 points per game for the Saints.

DULUTH, Minn.- The CSS women’s basketball team is off to their best start since the 1987 season. A key piece to the Saints success is thanks to junior forward, Kloey Lind. “I truly believe she’s the hardest post to guard in the league. She’s got some guard skill to her. She can run the floor, lead the break. She’s a…

Coffee Conversation: 2026 Twins Winter Caravan stops through Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Players and staff of the Minnesota Twins are making Duluth one of their stops along their 2026 Twins Winter Caravan. Bruce Ciskie of Midwest Communications, one of the presenters of the event, stopped by the morning show to preview what people can expect from the open-to-the-public event. The Twins Winter Caravan stops through the Elite Sports Complex…

Coffee Conversation: TEDxDuluth welcoming in Minnesotan speakers

DULUTH, Minn. — Speakers and presenters from across Minnesota are uniting in the Twin Ports for TEDxDuluth. The event’s organizer, Star Gump, sat down with Fox 21 to discuss why these types of events are important for continuing to expand the minds of audiences. TEDxDuluth will be taking over the Harborside Ballroom at the Duluth Entrainment Convention Center on Feb….

Coffee Conversation: Upper Midwest Ronald McDonald House hosts 5th annual “Brew Love North”

DULUTH, Minn. — An annual fundraising favorite is returning to the Northland, as the Upper Midwest Ronald McDonald House is bringing its “Brew Love North” event back for another year. Paula Broschofsky, a project manager with the house, stopped by the studio to talk about the fundraiser and what makes these types of events so important for families in need….

Coffee Conversation: Lyric Opera of the North brings back “Amahl and the Night Visitors”

DULUTH, Minn. — Lyric Opera of the North is bringing back its family-friendly favorite Amahl and the Night Visitors later this month. Joining FOX 21 on the morning newscast to talk about the upcoming performances were cast members Vicki Fingalson, who plays Amahl’s mother, and Ryan Wolfe, who portrays King Balthazar. The opera runs January 23–25 at The Depot Theatre in downtown Duluth….

Northern Star: Calvin Anderson

Anderson became the school's all-time scoring leader in December.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Earlier this season, Superior senior forward Calvin Anderson became the all-time scoring leader for the Spartans. A feat he says that’s not possible without the ones that compete alongside him. “My teammates really helped me more than anything. Finding me when I’m open and getting me the confidence to knock down shots and taking the pressure off them…

Coffee Conversation: Free community yoga Wednesdays at 190º Coffee and Tea

DULUTH, Minn. — Community yoga is held every Wednesday at 190º Coffee and Tea in partnership with Roam Yoga. Roam Yoga co-owners Kate Horvath and Miriam Hanson Rogotzke joined FOX 21 live on the Morning Show to talk about the free Wednesday classes, upcoming retreats, and the benefits of yoga. Classes run from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and feature…

Coffee Conversation: Wonder Wednesday at the Great Lakes Aquarium

DULUTH, Minn. — Families can explore the Great Lakes Aquarium at a discounted rate this winter through its weekly Wonder Wednesday program. Elleyna Igo, Early Childhood Coordinator at the Great Lakes Aquarium, joined FOX 21 live on the Morning Show Wednesday to share more about the program and what families can expect. Wonder Wednesday runs every Wednesday from November 5,…

How to navigate misinformation on social media

DULUTH, Minn. — In today’s social media landscape, information can be published instantly by virtually anyone, increasing the potential for misinformation to spread. “The flood of information is so much,” said Mags David, a social sciences librarian at the University of Minnesota Duluth. That information — whether verified or not — has an impact. “There’s a good in having anyone…

Northern Star: C.J. Ham

Now with year 10 under Ham's belt, the future of his career is up in the air.

DULUTH, Minn.- In the state of Minnesota, everyone knows who the Minnesota Vikings are. In the city of Duluth, there’s one Viking that all Duluthians will always remember. That player is C.J. Ham. The former Duluth Denfeld Hunter, dominated in high school for the Hunters. Rushing for more than 1,800 yards between his junior and senior year. After playing college…

Influenza rates at highest level in 25 Years, CDC says

DULUTH, Minn. — Influenza cases are climbing across the region, putting added strain on health systems like Essentia Health as more patients seek care. Christie Erickson, a nurse practitioner at Essentia Health in Hermantown, says flu activity continues to rise — and she doesn’t expect relief anytime soon. “What’s unique is this is happening later in the season and at…

Northern Star: Mary Kate O’Brien

O'Brien is the granddaughter of an irish immigrant.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s not very often you get to play a college hockey game overseas. But the UMD women’s hockey team is doing just that as they’ll face Harvard in Northern Ireland. “Very excited to go to Ireland,” with a laugh said O’Brien. All joking aside, it’s a pretty special occasion for UMD forward Mary Kate O’Brien. “My grandpa was…

Northern Star: AJ Reyelts

Last skated for Rails in the 2023-24 season.

DULUTH, Minn.- Former Proctor Rails goaltender AJ Reyelts has suited up for several junior ice hockey teams since his time with the Rails. But this past week, Reyelts has donned the red, white, and blue for the U.S National Junior Preliminary team. Participating in their training sessions right here at Amsoil Arena for a final roster spot. “Obviously first time putting…

Northern Star: Max Plante & Adam Kleber

Team USA's first exhibition game is on Sunday at 4 PM against Germany.

DULUTH, Minn.- The holidays usually give college athletes a time to rest and recover in advance of the 2nd half of the season. But for current UMD players Max Plante and Adam Kleber, they’re trying to win gold at the 2026 World Juniors. “Sometime last year when we heard it was going to be here, it was just a goal…

Coffee Conversation: Local musicians to perform Friday at Cedar Lounge in Superior

SUPERIOR, WI. — Three local musicians will be performing alongside other talent this Friday, December 19, at Cedar Lounge in Superior. Ross Thorn, Clif Nesseth, and Jen Krussow joined FOX 21 live on the morning newscast for an interview and live performance. Categories: Coffee Conversation, News, News – Latest News, Wisconsin

Coffee Conversation: MNSAVES highlights expanded benefits of 529 College Savings Plans

DULUTH, Minn. — Emmanuel Torres, a College Savings Consultant with the MNSAVES 529 College Savings Plan, joined FOX 21 live in studio to share information about how families can plan ahead for a child’s education. MNSAVES works to educate parents and caregivers on the benefits of investing early in a 529 savings account, helping set children up for future educational success….

Coffee Conversation: Rubber Chicken Theater wraps up 2025 with holiday comedy shows

DULUTH, Minn. — Rubber Chicken Theater is wrapping up 2025 with two holiday-themed sketch comedy shows bringing local humor and seasonal silliness to downtown Duluth. Brian Matuszak, owner of Rubber Chicken Theater, joined FOX 21 live on the morning show to talk more about it. The first production, “Talk Duluthy to Me This Christmas, or, Santa’s Big DECC Energy,” runs…

Coffee Conversation: Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel gives exclusive live interview

DULUTH, Minn. — Twiggy the water-skiing squirrel joined FOX 21 live on the morning show today, ahead of her performances this weekend at the Arrowhead Ice Fishing & Winter Show. FOX 21 was also joined live by Twiggy’s handlers, Chuck and Toni, as well as Trio — another squirrel hitting the water skis this weekend. You can catch Twiggy and…

Northern Star: Caitlin Kraemer

The Waterloo, Ontario native has an opportunity to don the red and white for Canada's National Team for the second time in her hockey career.

DULUTH, Minn- UMD Forward Caitlin Kraemer took the ice by storm in her freshman year with UMD. Fast forward to her sophomore season, and she picked up right where she left off. Knocking down 9 goals and tallying 6 assists for the Dogs. “She’s just a pro in everything that she does, she gets to the rink early. That’s one…

Coffee Conversation: MN Ballet puts a Duluth twist on “The Nutcracker” this weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The Nutcracker: A Duluth Tale returns to Symphony Hall at the DECC this weekend, bringing a magical Northland twist to the holiday classic. Minnesota Ballet’s Karl von Rabenau and Juliana DeBellis stopped by the FOX 21 studio to share what audiences can expect from this year’s production. The story follows Clara as her Nutcracker doll comes to…

The “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” to be back on public display after 40+ years

KNIFE RIVER, Min. – Following more than 40-years of restoration the “Leif Erikson Viking Ship” will be on display and open to the public. Viking Ship Restoration Project Save Our Ship, Inc. has been working on the restoration. It will debut at the annual “Julebyen Christmas Village” celebration in Knife River. The boat was built in Norway in 1926 as a…

Esko-native to retire after more than 37-years of military service

Command photo of Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson, the Minnesota National Guard’s Command Senior Enlisted Leader taken in Cottage Grove, Minnesota on Oct. 16, 2024. ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota National Guard is honoring Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Erikson. Chief Master Sgt. Erikson will be honored in a Saturday, December 6, 2025 ceremony. The ceremony…

Coffee Conversation: Christmas City Express returns to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The Christmas City Express is officially on the tracks in Duluth. Executive Director of the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and North Shore Scenic Railroad Ken Buehler joined Fox 21’s morning newscast to talk more about it. Click here for details and ticket information. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Road to gold: Duluth’s Korey Dropkin talks Olympic pursuit

Duluth, Minn. — Duluth curler Korey Dropkin is headed to the biggest stage, the 2026 Olympics. He’ll compete alongside his curling partner, Cory Thiesse. FOX 21’s Maria Vollom sat down with Dropkin to talk about his journey on the ice and the road ahead. COMING SOON: Dropkin teaches Vollom how to curl like an Olympian. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News,…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Salvation Army seeks toys, volunteers, and donations

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Salvation Army Community Engagement Director Cyndi Lewis joined FOX 21 to share how residents can get involved with giving back this holiday season. Hartel Disposal is matching donations up to $75,000. The Salvation Army is especially in need of toys for children, plus volunteers to serve as bell ringers at Red Kettles around the region. Shoppers…

Coffee Conversation: “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” brings holiday spirit to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Boat Club Productions is bringing a little nostalgia to the Northland this holiday season. “A 1940’s Radio Christmas Carol” opens this Thursday at the Spirit of the North Theatre inside the Fitger’s Complex. John Ryde-Crane, who plays Isadore “Buzz” Crenshaw, and Keith Russell, who takes on the role of Clifton Feddington, joined FOX 21 live in studio….

Northern Star: Chloe Carlson

Carlson is the captain of the Proctor girls basketball team.

PROCTOR, Minn.- Proctor senior guard Chloe Carlson has already built up quite the impressive resume. She’s the team captain. A Division II commit. And she’s already surpassed 1,000 career points. “She’s a lead by example player. She’s not a fire and brimstone type kid. She does everything right. Get on board and follow me, I’ll take you there,” said head…

Coffee Conversation: Minnesota author inspires kids to live their ‘Best Life Ever’

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesota author Clancy Clark joined FOX 21 Tuesday morning to share his new children’s book, Best Life Ever! with The Fulfillment Kids™. Clark — a writer, speaker, and coach — says kids rarely hear about purpose or fulfillment, which inspired him to bring that message to a younger audience. The book follows Sophie and Seymour, two elementary-aged…

Duluth-Native and Red Bull extreme skydiver talks about his latest ground breaking stunt

DULUTH, Min. & MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN, Cal. – Duluth-native Mike Swanson is on the the “Red Bull Air Force” and they just pulled off what has been labeled the “Most Extreme Flying Obstacle Course Humans Have Ever Attempted”. The “Ultimate Aerial Obstacle Course” is a 15-stage airborne flight connecting open skies, mountains, and city skylines in what appears to be one…

Coffee Conversation: Disney’s Frozen comes to life at Duluth Playhouse

DULUTH, Minn. — Frozen the Musical is bringing the winter magic to Duluth Playhouse. Amelia Barr, who stars as Elsa, and Jonah Hale, who plays Kristoff, joined FOX 21 this morning to share a preview of the production. Running November 22 through December 21, 2025, the show promises wonder, laughter, and unforgettable songs as the NorShor Theatre transforms into a…

Northern Star: Taye Manns

In Manns freshman season with the Royals, he led the team in rushing yards with 815.

DULUTH, Minn.- Former Duluth Denfeld running back Taye Manns has been tearing up the football field at the college level at Bethel. In his freshman season with the Royals, Manns led the team in rushing yards with 815. He also found the end zone 15 times this year. But Manns doesn’t take all the credit for his breakout season. “I…

Coffee Conversation: Local band Blue ObCityon rocks the FOX 21 morning show

DULUTH, Minn. — Blue ObCityon co-founders Ethan Warn and Tracy Christian joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast live on Friday for an interview and in-studio performance. The local band draws inspiration from both past and present, blending elements of classic rock, grunge, blues, and modern rock into their signature sound. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Northern Star: UW-Superior Men’s & Women’s Soccer

Another year and another UMAC title for both the UWS men's & women's soccer teams.

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Another year and another UMAC title for both the UWS men’s & women’s soccer teams. But at times this season, it didn’t look like that was a possibility. The Yellowjacket men overcame a slow start amidst plenty of veteran changes on the roster. “We knew that leadership was going to be great. It takes a minute for guys to…

Coffee Conversation: WinterFest at Fitger’s Returns This Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — WinterFest is back at Fitger’s this Saturday, November 15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Organizer Linda Nervick and Casey Sims from Trailfitters joined FOX 21 live to share more about how to embrace the winter season in style. The one-day expo features local and regional exhibitors, prizes and giveaways, and is dog-friendly — yes, you can…

Coffee Conversation: Veterans Day Ceremony to Honor 250 Years of U.S. Military Service

DULUTH, Minn. — Jay Hagen from the St. Louis County Historical Society and Veterans Memorial Hall, along with Sharon Bergquist from Duluth Women of Today, joined FOX 21 Morning News to share details about this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the St. Louis County Depot. The 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony marks the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Navy, and…