Features Archives - Page 2 of 57

Coffee Conversation: Midweek Mindfulness Launches Free Meditation Series in Duluth

June 23, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — Generations Health Care Initiatives and Mindfulness Works are inviting community members to Midweek Mindfulness—a free guided meditation series on Wednesday’s at Gichi-ode’ Akiing Park in Duluth. Local yoga and meditation instructor Katrina Pierson, along with Jessie Peterson from Generations Health Care, appeared on Fox 21’s Monday morning newscast to discuss the importance of mindfulness and share details…

Coffee Conversation: A Runner’s Journey of Hope Through Cancer

June 20, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — Tomorrow morning, thousands of runners will gather at the starting line for Grandma’s Marathon. Among them is Tony Loyd—a familiar face at the race—returning to the course with a new lung cancer diagnosis and a renewed perspective. On Friday morning, Tony was on the Fox 21 morning newscast to share his story of hope, resilience, and the…

Coffee Conversation: Local Author’s New Novel Inspired by APD

June 18, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — On Wednesday morning’s Fox 21 newscast, local author Erika Lynn Adams joined the show to introduce her new young adult novel, Allie’s Adventure on the Wonder. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, the book follows Allie, a young girl with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), as she navigates a world that often misunderstands her. The story is semi-autobiographical, drawing…

Coffee Conversation: Make Music Day Returns to Superior with New Energy

June 17, 2025

Maria Vollom,

Superior, WI – Get ready to turn up the volume! Make Music Day returns to Superior this weekend on June 21, bringing a fresh wave of local energy and global spirit. This year’s celebration is led by new event director Traxx Nelson-Kavajecz, who aims to make the event louder and livelier than ever. Traxx and his sister, rokkyn, are members…

Coffee Conversation: The Chicken Hat Plays Return for 2025

June 12, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, MN — The 2025 Chicken Hat Plays are officially back, bringing another round of spontaneous theater from Duluth’s own Rubber Chicken Theater. Brian Matuszak, Executive Producer of Rubber Chicken Theater, appeared on the morning newscast Thursday to share more about the fast-paced, 24-hour theater challenge. This year’s event takes place Saturday, June 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the Harbor…

Coffee Conversation: Boat Club Productions Debuts “Doubt, A Parable” Friday the 13th

June 11, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — On the morning newscast Wednesday, June 11, Boat Club Productions stopped by the studio to preview their latest theatrical production, Doubt, A Parable, debuting this Friday the 13th. Cast members Jacque Black and Ellie Martin joined us to discuss the themes of Doubt, A Parable and what audiences can expect from the production. You can catch the…

KYN: Bailey Builds Crafts a Coffee Shop

June 10, 2025

Emily Halling,

DULTUH, Minn. — Bailey Builds is a community driven space right off of North 56th Avenue in Duluth. They’re known for their impressive art display, or simply a place to get to know some peers. But now, they recently crafted something new for everyone to enjoy. “I know they love community. You know, it’s that’s the whole, the whole idea of…

Coffee Conversation: Flag Day Celebration and Pinning Ceremony in Superior

June 10, 2025

Maria Vollom,

SUPERIOR, WI – American Legion Post 435 will host a Flag Day Celebration and pinning ceremony on Friday, June 14, at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior. Mary Houk, Registrar and Honorary Regent of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and American Legion Commander Butch Liebart joined FOX 21’s morning newscast on Tuesday to share more about…

Coffee Conversation: Science on Deck Sets Sail with UMD’s Large Lakes Observatory

June 9, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, MN – The University of Minnesota Duluth’s Large Lakes Observatory is launching its 2025 Science on Deck series this summer, inviting the public aboard the research vessel Blue Heron for hands-on science experiences. Scientist Cody Sheik joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast with more information. The first event is set for Friday, June 27 from 11 a.m….

Coffee Conversation: Glensheen Mansion Announces Full Lineup of Summer Fun

June 5, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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”

June 4, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

June 3, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

May 29, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

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

May 27, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

May 23, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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: The Link Between Mental and Physical Health

May 22, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and staying active can play a powerful role in supporting a healthy mind. On Tuesday morning’s newscast, Rosa Gargiulo, a trainer at Planet Fitness, joined Fox 21 live to share more insight. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Northern Star: Duluth Harbor Monsters

The Harbor Monsters host the Knoxville Bandits on Saturday.

May 21, 2025

Isaiah Wiita,

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Harbor Monsters are coming off a spectacular first season in the arena league. Reaching the top of the mountain as they won the ArenaMania championship last season, defeating the Iowa Woo 46-to-44. The Harbor Monster return key pieces from their championship roster. Including quarterback Hassan Brockman, who is ready to hit the ground running in year…

Coffee Conversation: Runaway Sheep Brad Stars in Maria Vollom’s New Book

May 21, 2025

KQDS Staff,

DULUTH, Minn. — He ran, he roamed, and now he’s in a kid’s book. The Great Sheep Escape: Brad’s Big Adventure follows Brad, the runaway sheep who captured hearts across the Northland. Brad’s owner, Farmer Ryan Osvold, joined FOX 21 Morning News anchor and author Maria Vollom on Wednesday to share more about Brad’s unforgettable journey. Written by Vollom and…

Coffee Conversation: 30th annual Kolar Toyota ALS Fishing Tournament

May 20, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

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

May 19, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

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

May 16, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Northern Star: Kale Smith

Smith recently tallied his 100th career point.

May 14, 2025

Neil Vierzba,

HERMANTOWN, Minn.-There’s always something special about seeing an athlete reach a century mark. It was no different on May 6th, when Hermantown/Proctor attacker Kale Smith tallied his 100th career point. “I actually still have my first goal ball in my bedroom on my dresser. So I kind of still see that everyday to day and now I have my 100th…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Art Institute Annual Member Show

May 14, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Coffee Conversation: 17th Annual Continental Ski & Bike Swap

May 14, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — The Continental Ski & Bike Swap is rolling into its 17th year, and this weekend promises to be another great opportunity for the Duluth community to give old bikes new life — all while supporting a great cause. Joining FOX 21 Morning News to talk about the event were Patrick Greehan, head coach with the Duluth DEVO…

Coffee Conversation: UMD Career Specialist Shares Job Market Insight

May 13, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

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

May 12, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

May 9, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Northern Star: Ellie Macal

The senior catcher leads the team in home runs with six.

May 7, 2025

Isaiah Wiita,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The competitive nature of sports is an aspect that athletes use as motivation during their careers. For UWS senior catcher Ellie Macal, that competitive nature helped her fall in love with softball. “I chose softball because my brother played baseball when I was younger and he was a catcher, and I wanted to be better than him,” said…

Coffee Conversation: Gender Joy Art Show Returns to Zeitgeist

May 7, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Coffee Conversation: Helping Grads Gain Financial Confidence

May 6, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

May 2, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Northern Star: Melania Luostari

Luostari is set to play for Auburn next year.

April 30, 2025

Neil Vierzba,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Former Athletics GM Billy Beane once said “You get on base, we win. You don’t, we lose.” Superior senior infielder Melania Luostari has done a lot of hitting in her four years. Which of course, leads to plenty of victories. “Softball is a large part of my life, but it’s not everything. When I don’t go 3 for…

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

April 30, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

April 30, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

KYN: Little Waldo Farm Has Large Community Impact

April 29, 2025

Emily Halling, Nathaniel LeCapitaine,

TWO HARBORS, Minn.– Oftentimes in life, you can get lost trying to figure out different times of hobbies to get into. This was the case for Jadell Cavallin of Two Harbors. When back in 2013, she decided she was going to dabble into gardening. “I loved gardening, mostly because I loved food. And so realized that the best tasting food…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Lions Club Pancake Day at the DECC

April 29, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — The 66th Annual Duluth Lions Club Pancake Day Returns to the DECC on Thursday, May 1, 2025 | 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM. Lions Club members Sarah Mayne and Jim Pratt joined FOX 21’s morning newscast to share details about this year’s event. Pancake Day will be held in Pioneer Hall at the DECC. Tickets are $8…

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

April 24, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Northern Star: Brett Kurth

Kurth is one of the captains for the Duluth Wolfpack.

April 23, 2025

Isaiah Wiita,

DULUTH, Minn.- The game of Lacrosse has been described as a mix of soccer and hockey. That takes many different athletic skills. For Duluth Wolfpack Senior Brett Kurth, he has worked all off-season on his lacrosse craft. “He’s really put in some effort this off-season and kind of taken his work ethic and putting in focus into his athleticism, said…

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

April 23, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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: Dance TV Launches Season with Spring Fling Party

April 22, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — Dance TV kicks off its new season with Spring Fling, a dance party at The Flame on April 26 from 7–10 PM. Creative director Andy Frye joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast Tuesday with the details. The night features DJs Low End Frequency, special guest Domita Sanchez, dancing, and a live auction for a chance to…

KYN: Twin Ports Artist Takes Over ‘Duluth Studio Market’

April 22, 2025

Emily Halling, Adam Jagunich,

DULUTH, Minn.– Chances are, you’ve probably seen artist Amber Nichols at Lake Superior Art Glass in Canal Park. But now, tables are turning in her favor. And she is now able to grow her passions even more. “Being in that environment, surrounded by beautiful art and artists and creative people really drove me to want to my own place, and…

Northern Star: Aiden Williams

Williams is looking to become the first Bulldog drafted since 1990.

April 16, 2025

Neil Vierzba,

DULUTH, Minn.- UMD offensive lineman Aiden Williams has dreamed of this moment his whole life. No, it wasn’t when he scored a touchdown this past September against Southwest Minnesota State. It’s the upcoming NFL Draft in Green Bay. “Just kind of looking forward to what’s next. I’ve just been working out and lifting every day, doing drills, stuff like that,…

Coffee Conversation: Jason Young Leads Depot Foundation Forward

April 16, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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”

April 15, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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

April 14, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

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

April 11, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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…

Northern Star: Ben Welle

Welle has posted two complete games for UWS this season.

April 9, 2025

Isaiah Wiita,

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The UWS baseball team has been building a successful program in the last several seasons with head coach TJ Oakes at the helm. Over the years the foundation of the program has been built off of the team’s ability to make plays in the field. “Pitching and defense has been kind of our program the last couple of…

Knowing Your Neighbor: ‘Kindred Heart’ Introduces Unique Community Outlet

April 8, 2025

Emily Halling,

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Tower Avenue in Superior is filled with traffic. And after listening around, one can quickly become overwhelmed with the sounds of everyday life. But since Kindred Heart has opened it’s doors, customers are able to hone in on a peaceful, quiet, and calm atmosphere. “I do astrology, tarot and chakra work. I’m a registered holistic therapist. But…

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

April 8, 2025

Maria Vollom,

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: Minnesota Ballet Closes 60th Season with Romeo and Juliet

April 7, 2025

Maria Vollom,

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Ballet is preparing to wrap up its 60th season with a final production of Romeo and Juliet. Dancer Karl von Rabenau appeared on Monday’s morning newscast to share more details about the performance. You can see the show on April 10, 11, and 12 at 7:00 PM, with an additional matinee on April 13 at…