Features

Coffee Conversation: Kicking off Spring Racing Season with the Saint Fennessy 4K

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — With temperatures on the rise, it’s time to slip the running shoes back on and kick off the spring racing season. Enter the Saint Fennessy 4K on Saturday, March 16. Zach Schneider is the Marketing and Public Relations Director with the Young Athletes Foundation. He joined FOX 21 live on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about…

Hermantown’s Cyndi Lewis Paves the Way for Others in the Community

HERMANTOWN, Minn. — There are only so many hours in a day, and one local woman likes to make the most of them as she finds herself giving back to the community through various organizations. Hermantown mom Cyndi Lewis wears many hats throughout her day-to-day life. One is her role as the Director of Development at Duluth’s Salvation Army. “When…

Coffee Conversation: Addressing Health Needs Beyond the Clinical Space

DULUTH, Minn. — Addressing health needs goes beyond medicinal support; often times it’s rooted in the basics like access to transportation, food security and more. Essentia Health has 10 community health workers (CHW) who work to ensure that individuals are supported inside and outside of the hospital. CHW Sam Eades with Essentia Health joined Fox 21 on the morning newscast…

Wheels Turning as NextGen Robotics Creators Compete

110 high school teams at DECC reveal creative minds, imaginations and know-how for the future.

Football may have its Super Bowl Week, but it is not alone. The countdown is on in Duluth for super clashes between mechanical beings. The floor of the DECC Thursday was a sea of metal frames, wheels, mechanical limbs and electricity. It’s officially known as a FIRST Robotics competition. One hundred and ten high school teams are competing to make…

Coffee Conversation: Zenith Digital Marketing Conference in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Marketing agency Aimclear and young professionals networking group Fuse Duluth will host the Zenith Digital Marketing Conference on Thursday, April 11. Lea Scudamore with Aimclear and Aubrey Hagen with Fuse Duluth joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about the event and its purpose. The conference is designed for marketing pros of all levels…

Northern Star: Abe Soumis

Senior holds Hermantown's all-time scoring record

HERMANTOWN, Minn.- On Monday, Abe Soumis broke the all-time scoring record for the Hermantown boys’ basketball team when he put up 48 points against Chisago Lakes. For anyone who has watched the Hawks in the last two seasons, this didn’t come as a surprise. “You know, the thing about Abe is that he’s that kind of kid that every coach…

Art Mural Gets Students Thinking and Asking Questions

Native artist combines tangible images with scenes intended to trigger imaginations.

Some Duluth students will now have a lot to ponder as they walk through their school and look up. What they are going to see is art. Not just any art, but a mural. It now adorns Raleigh Edison Charter School and was done by local native artist Jonathan Thunder. Thunder was on hand to talk to the kids Wednesday….

Coffee Conversation: Miel Duluth Prepares for Busy Bee Season

DULUTH, Minn. — As spring nears and buds begin to bloom, bees will come out to forage nectar and pollen. Local honey and beeswax-based products business Miel Duluth is ready for the busy bee season. Owner of Miel Duluth Vanessa Roers joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the upcoming bee season and preparation. Roers also…

Young Student on a Mission to Give Back to Teachers

One young student has continued her mission to spread joy to her teachers through something many enjoy--snacks!

DULUTH, Minn. –It all started with a single dollar and a challenge from a teacher. How can you use that dollar to spread compassion? “In 3rd grade, my teacher gave us $1 and said do something great with it,” said Amelia Hanson, 5th Grade Student. “So, Amelia took that dollar and decided to use it to raise additional money, and…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Scottish Heritage Association Spring Concert

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Scottish Heritage Association Spring Concert is taking place on Saturday, March 2 at the Proctor High School Auditorium. Member of the Duluth Scottish Heritage Pipes and Drums group Jason Reid joined FOX 21 on the morning Tuesday to talk about the event and its purpose. Reid also piped some tunes live in-studio. The evening begins…

Coffee Conversation: UW-Superior Spring Career and Internship Fair

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of Wisconsin Superior is preparing to host a Spring Career and Internship Fair on Thursday, February 29 from 1 pm to 4 pm. UW-Superior Interim Senior Partnerships Officer Ilsa Hoeschen and UWS Career Development Manager Liza Shelquist joined FOX 21 on the morning newscast Monday ahead of the event. The fair is taking place at…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Band “Fish Heads” Play for Food Shelf

DULUTH, Minn. — The Fish Heads, a husband and wife duo band, host virtual concerts every other Friday evening to help raise money for the food shelf. Band Members Mike and Kim Monson joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday to talk about the concerts and play some tunes live in-studio. The band has raised about $8,000 since beginning the…

Drone Helps Find Missing Pine County Man

A new technology involving drones helped find the body of a missing Pine County man with dementia. The 86-year-old man was last seen near the Nemadji State Forest, which is a vast area over 92,000 acres. Earl Bakke is retired from law enforcement and started a drone business that helps to locate missing people. He reached out the Pine County…

Northern Star: Justin Jobe

Jobe will have a chance to qualify for his third individual state tournament.

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn.- “Pull the rope” is a mantra often used by the Grand Rapids’ high school wrestlers. It’s part of the reason why Justin Jobe treats wrestling as a team sport. “Just because it sucks so much,” Jobe smiles, alluding to the hard work required to be great on the mats. “You know, it sucks, but it’s awesome at…

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…