Features

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

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

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:…

Northern Star: Duluth Harbor Monsters

The Harbor Monsters host the Knoxville Bandits on Saturday.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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: UMD Career Specialist Shares Job Market Insight

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

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…

Northern Star: Ellie Macal

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

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

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

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…

Northern Star: Melania Luostari

Luostari is set to play for Auburn next year.

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

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…

KYN: Little Waldo Farm Has Large Community Impact

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: 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…

Northern Star: Brett Kurth

Kurth is one of the captains for the Duluth Wolfpack.

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

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…

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

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.

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

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…

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…

Northern Star: Ben Welle

Welle has posted two complete games for UWS this season.

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

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

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…

Northern Star: Donald West

West is entering his 4th straight year as the starting quarterback for CSS.

DULUTH, Minn.-Spring ball is usually a time for team’s to freshen up their skills and focus on the fundamentals. But for St. Scholastica quarterback Donald West and his teammates, they’re also adjusting to a new head coach in Matt Bremer. “They’ve been smoothly. The guys took the change and ran with it. It wasn’t as much change, it was just…

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…

Northern Star: Nicole Schmitt

Schmitt leads the team in home runs with 10.

DULUTH, Minn.- The UMD softball team enters the 2025 season with a young squad, with only two seniors on the team. One of the two seniors is infielder Nicole Schmitt who has been making plays in the field and at the plate for the Bulldogs. ” She’s fantastic, just a gifted hitter. Very high standards for herself. There is an…

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…

KYN: ‘Miigwitches Brew’ Coffee Shop Fuels the Community

FOND DU LAC RESERVATION, Minn. — Out in the middle of the of the Fond Du Lac Reservation, an idea was brewing for coffee shop owner Jackson Ripley. “We didn’t know what to expect. Neither my wife nor I am actual businesspeople, you know, so we weren’t sure what to expect. The summer was amazing, and people started to ask if…

Protestors Shout Down Pastor’s ‘Last’ Service After Past Abuse Comes to Light

DULUTH, Minn. – Tensions ran high as police, protestors, and parishioners stood off outside of Revive City Church of Duluth after records showed the lead pastor pled guilty to sexually abusing two girls in 2000-2001 while he was working as a youth minister for a different church.  On Friday, Revive City Church’s Facebook page created an event titled “One Last…

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…