Features

Coffee Conversation: Big Donation Drive to Benefit Local Outreach Organizations

SUPERIOR, WI. — A big donation drive hosted through the Lenroot-Maetzold and Downs-Lesage Funeral Homes is taking place this weekend to benefit local outreach organizations. Donation Drive Coordinator RaeAnn Sojka joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday with more information. The Donation Drive is taking place on Saturday, Feb. 24 from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and Sunday, Feb….

Coffee Conversation: Importance of Exercise to Maintain Good Heart Health

DULUTH, Minn. — February is American Heart Month, a time to encourage people to focus on their cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association says only one in five adults get enough exercise to maintain good health. Planet Fitness weighed in on the conversation Tuesday. Bailey Romans from Planet Fitness joined FOX 21 live on the morning newscast to talk more…

Martens, Owls, Ermine, the Unexpected

Sax-Zim Bog wildlife attracts amateurs and pros, big lenses and small.

“Not only are you able to actually see nature. There’s a lot of travels I do, and I don’t see any animals, hardly any birds, and to be able to have this in our backyard is awesome,” said local photographer, Amber Nichols. “There are people that come here from all over the world, to see owls in particular, and the…

Coffee Conversation: Family Freedom Center to hold Black History Brunch

DULUTH, Minn. — In honor of Black History Month, the Family Freedom Center will hold a Black History Month Brunch at the Washington Center on Saturday, Feb. 16. Family Freedom Center Director of Teen Engagement Pez Davila joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday to talk about the event and its purpose. The brunch will take place from 11 am…

Northern Star: Mannon McMahon

10 goals, 15 assists through 30 games in 2023-24 season

DULUTH, Minn.- Entering this season, the UMD women had some huge skates to fill following the departure of their three captains. With the postseason in sight, it’s now clear that Mannon McMahon was the right woman for the job. “It definitely was a little daunting, just knowing that it is such a big role and such a big opportunity,” says…

Coffee Conversation: 218 Days Northland Celebration Returns

NORTHLAND — 218 Days returns for year two to northland communities this weekend, featuring live music along with art and local food. It runs Feb. 16-18. Director of Sales at Odyssey Resorts Sara Zeleznikar and Hakkon Nelson with Vikre Distillery joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the event and its purpose. A collection of events and…

Celebrating 3 Years of Duluth Ronald McDonald House Helping Families

Anniversary a time to reflect and be thankful.

There is nothing like an anniversary party to brighten up a gray February day. And Friday people were celebrating a place that has brightened up the day of many families. The Ronald McDonald House in Duluth has been a welcome landing place for three years. Friday, Essentia Health medical staff and others gathered to think about the resource it has…

Northern Star: AJ Reyelts

Finishing high school career with 1,000+ saves

PROCTOR, Minn.- Last week, Proctor’s AJ Reyelts put himself in rare company for high school goaltenders when he recorded his 1,000th save. “Ever since the Christmas tournament, we’ve been firing,” says Reyelts. “The team feels great. I mean, we’ve been winning a lot, so that’s always fun.” When Reyelts is in front of the net, life is good for the…

Zoo Animals Entertained by Duluth Fire Hoses

Firefighters reuse old hoses to create fun and challenge for the critters.

Many of us have kicked around in the garage and found that old garden hose that isn’t any good anymore. But what if you’re in the local fire station and it’s fire hose you’re talking about? Well, you take it to the zoo–of course! At least that’s what Duluth firefighters were doing Wednesday. Unique items and play toys–often known in…

Electric Vehicles Are On the Move In The Northland

DULUTH, Minn. — Jonathan Thornton has been fascinated by the electric vehicle industry for many years. He is a recent owner of an electric vehicle buying his sedan just a few years ago. Thornton says his parent’s sensibility around environmental issues provided the foundation for his interest in getting his first electric car. And when his kids bought one, he…

Northern Star: Madison Burns

Ashland wrestler coming off undefeated season

ASHLAND, Wis.- Madison Burns may get pre-match jitters, but once the clock begins to tick, her opponents are the ones who start to get nervous. “She gets mad at me because sometimes I don’t let her pin girls right away…I make her wrestle a little bit.” Ashland Wrestling Head Coach Joe Hasskamp has mentored Burns throughout her burgeoning career, including…

Coffee Conversation: New Series Highlights the Impact of Aging Loved Ones on Duluth Families

DULUTH, Minn. — Local families in Duluth are the subject of a new television series, Inside Senior Living, taking viewers on an intimate journey into the lives of seniors and their loves ones as they navigate the process of aging and make decisions about living arrangements. Creator and Executive Director Melissa Fritz joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk…

Coffee Conversation: AICHO Hosts Love-Themed Market Saturday

DULUTH, Minn. — The American Indian Community Housing Organization is hosting its first-ever love-themed market on Saturday. The Zaagi’idiwin Tour 2024 will include 22 vendors offering love-themed art, merchandise, and pastries. The market is all about making Valentine’s Day gift shopping easy and less stressful. It’s all taking place at the Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center, 212 W. 2nd Street,…

Northern Star: Isaac Asuma

Minnesota Mr. Basketball finalist surpassed 3,000 points Monday

CHERRY, Minn.- The Cherry boys basketball team always seems to amass large crowds whenever they play on the road. Even if those fans aren’t Tigers fans, it’s clear they’re there to see Isaac Asuma. “It’s just a blessing,” says Asuma. “I’m thankful for it. I know it’s a big weight to carry but it’s just a great experience.” As he…

Northern Star: Superior Boys Basketball

Spartans raise money for childhood cancer victims

SUPERIOR, Wis.- On Monday, the Superior boys basketball team put on a show in their 54-40 win over Hudson. However, the play of the game didn’t happen on the hardwood. The Spartans’ “Shoot Out Childhood Cancer” night raised money for the St. Luke’s Foundation, as well as for Amelia, who’s a student at Cooper Elementary School currently battling acute Lymphoblastic…

Citizens Gather for March on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Even the cold temperatures could not keep away the passion and excitement of supporters at the Martin Luther King, Jr. march Monday. Monday’s gathering actually got started with a worship service Sunday night. St. Mark AME and other churches provided volunteers. For Reverand Galloway, the future cannot be taken for granted. Reverend Anthony Galloway at St. Mark AME Church said,…

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…

Remembering Veterans All Year Long

Gifts during the holidays a symbol of a year-round need.

Special efforts continue with a commitment to remember veterans at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Silver Bay. Gifts were delivered there Wednesday by the Bong Veterans Historical Center after their holiday collection drive. American Legion Bong Post 435 played an active role in the effort. Commander Butch Liebaert said it is the culmination of a year-round attempt to help all…

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…

Northern Star: Emily Montgomery

Averaging 25.8 PPG through 12 games

PORT WING, Wis.- The South Shore girls basketball team has produced some of the best players to ever come out of the state of Wisconsin. Emily Montgomery may soon join that list. Last season, Montgomery etched herself in South Shore basketball history when she scored her 1,000th point. “It was surreal, honestly. The energy was insane.” Five years before that…

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…

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…

Northern Star: Travis Elling

Duluth East senior swimming in long-distance races

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Boys’ Swim & Dive team has faced adversity this season following the graduation of All-American Grant Wodny. “Very big shoes to fill…Impossible shoes to fill, really.” smiles Travis Elling, a senior with the swim team. “With all the previous seniors leaving, it feels like it’s my time to shine and step up. I try and set…

Santa Delivers To Meet Salvation Army Goal

Hartel's Disposal "picks up" the tab; provides $25,000 to help reach holiday goal.

FOX21 reported earlier this week that an anonymous Santa stepped in to help the Duluth Salvation Army this year. Today we all learned who that special Santa is. The Salvation Army says it was Hartel’s Disposal that disposed of the donation shortage. It did so in the form of a check for $25,000 that the company delivered Thursday. The contribution…

Northern Star: Autumn Cooper

Superior senior wants state title before graduation

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior girls hockey team is well on their way to returning to the state tournament. Team captain Autumn Cooper has had an immeasurable impact on the Spartans’ success, and she’s hoping to do a little bit more before she heads to Bemidji State. On a Saturday afternoon, the Spartans took the ice on the same day as…

Duluth Salvation Army Receives Christmas “Miracle.”

Anonymous donor to step up with $25,000 donation.

It was a long, steady march, but the Duluth Salvation Army says they had another Christmas miracle. The organization said Tuesday that it had reached their kettle goal for this holiday season. During the past couple of weeks, they were far behind their goal as the end of the campaign approached. But the day before Christmas Eve, they heard from…

Salvation Army Hoping and Praying For Deadline Giving

The agency is thankful for generous giving so far, but is tens of thousands of dollars behind in its fundraising goal, with program cuts a possibility.

DULUTH, Minn. — If you’re making a push to the Christmas finish line, you are not alone. For some it means serious shopping down the stretch. For others it means serious giving. The kettles were ready for every sixpence they could get Thursday. To reach its funding goal, the Salvation Army needs $22,000 a day through Saturday. It is a…

Northern Star: Elise Besonen

UWS junior leads UMAC in 3PT% and FT%

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Anyone who’s been to a UW-Superior women’s basketball game this season is well aware that Elise Besonen has been given the green light to shoot the ball. “I know that if she doesn’t pass it to me, she’s making it for sure,” smiled Katie Dobson, both a teammate and roommate of Elise’s. “She’s one that’s not selfish, but…

Knowing Your Neighbor: 20 Years of Bentleyville

DULUTH, Minn. — Nathan Bentley, the founder and Mayor of Bentleyville, says, looking back, he never would’ve imagined his creation would grow to today’s size. It all started at his home in Esko Minnesota, after a few years of decorating for passing cars, Bentley decided to make it a walkthrough experience in 2003. “With Bentleyville never actually being a planned…

Northern Star: Bauer Murphy

Grand Rapids senior named team captain

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn.- The Grand Rapids boys’ hockey team is undergoing some changes with Grant Clafton as their new head coach. One thing that hasn’t changed: Bauer Murphy imposing his will on the defensive side of the puck. The Thunderhawks’ season got off to an electric start in their home-opening win against Hibbing-Chisholm. “That was really awesome,” recalls Murphy. “It…

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…

Northern Star: Dashawn Moore

Senior brings energy, defense to hungry Hunters team

DULUTH, Minn.- On a team full of playmakers, sharpshooters, and athletic specimens, Duluth Denfeld’s Dashawn Moore has found a way to make his presence known. “I bring the energy and it just feeds off,” says Moore. “We’re going to ball out, we’re going to do what we’re supposed to do.” As a football player at heart, Moore brings the same kind…

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,…

Knowing Your Neighbor: Morgan Music

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Whether you’re playing the Amsoil or just learning the chords, Morgan Music on Banks Avenue in Superior is here for you. “We employ friendly gear gurus,” said Tal Morgan, owner of Morgan Music. “Noncommissioned. They’re just here to help you on your journey.” Opening their doors in November they’ve already seen a healthy flow of local musicians….

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…

Northern Star: Ilsa Lindaman

St. Thomas commit leads Hilltoppers in goals, points

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Marshall girls hockey team will once again be in contention for the Section 7A championship with senior Ilsa Lindaman leading the Hilltoppers onto the ice. “Obviously as a senior captain, you have to take on a little bit of responsibility, provide for those points, and then also you have to be sure that it’s definitely a…

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…

Northern Star: Jordan Zubich

Mountain Iron-Buhl Senior to play for UNC in 2024

MOUNTAIN BUHL, Minn.- After winning their first-ever Class A State Championship, Jordan Zubich and her Mountain Iron-Buhl teammates are now in title defense mode. “Just going out the way we did last season, I think it added like extra motivation to come back this year,” says Zubich, who averaged a team-high 26.5 points per game in 2022-23. “(Winning state is)…

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…

Proctor High School Drama Club Talks Upcoming Production: ‘The Canterville Ghost’ 

PROCTOR, Minn. — Every day after school the Proctor High School Drama Club meets to practice their skills and rehearse their upcoming production. With a group of young students, the Drama Club have created their own family. “It is a family, it’s nice to come here and just relax and to have fun and just kind of forget about all…

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…

Northern Star: Jacion Owens

Esko junior had breakout season as starting quarterback

ESKO, Minn.- The Esko football team is likely still feeling the pain of Saturday’s state quarterfinals loss to Annandale, but with Jacion Owens returning as their starting quarterback, they should once again be contenders in 2024. “I feel like coming out here and having a good mood helps everyone get through practice,” says Owens, who started practice sharing his Aaron Rodgers…

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…

Animal Allies Loses Lovebug To ‘Worst Case Of Abuse’

Lovebug was a dog whose story captured the hearts and minds of the Duluth community. Starving and emaciated, he was brought to Animal Allies late Friday afternoon. A team of staffers there kicked into emergency mode. Lovebug being comforted Nichole Facciotto, Humane Education Manager for Animal Allies said, “His body temperature was so low we couldn’t even get a reading…