Features

Northern Star: John Bonner

71 total tackles, 5 tackles for loss in 2023 for Grand Rapids alum

DULUTH, Minn.- This Saturday will mark the end of St. Scholastica’s football season. Standing at 2-7 overall, things haven’t gone the Saints’ way this fall, but one of their defensive captains is committed to turning CSS around in 2024. “After each week, we’ve gotta take a look in the mirror and make sure we’re getting better and fixing the mistakes…

Two Sisters Search for Answers After a Ship Sinks

Their Great Uncle went down with the US Henry Steinbrenner. For decades, they pieced together the facts, and found their family's story

DULUTH, Minn -When Madge and her sister Beth were kids growing up in Duluth, they loved looking out at the ships on Lake Superior. The sisters graduated from Duluth East High School and lived across the street from UMD. “It was not a neighborhood as such on St. Marie Street on the West side of UMD. So I walked to…

Coffee Conversation: Rubber Chicken Theater Presents “What the Constitution Means to Me”

DULUTH, Minn. — Just in time for election season, the Rubber Chicken Theater presents “What the Constitution Means to Me” at Spirit of the North Theater this weekend. Director Ian Wallin and Performer Cheryl Skafte joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday ahead of the show opener. What the Constitution Means to Me is the autobiographical tale of playwright Heidi Schreck…

Northern Star: Kyra Johnson

Esko senior to play for Gustavus Adolphus

ESKO, Minn.- Esko’s class of 2024 has produced several students who will go on to play college athletics. That includes Kyra Johnson, who will play volleyball for Gustavus Adolphus next fall. Johnson hasn’t been shy of sharing her admiration for both volleyball and her Esko teammates. “This season has been so much fun with all of them,” she says while…

Coffee Conversation: 40 Years of Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation

TWIN PORTS — As the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation begins it’s 40th year of existence, it also looks to shift and expand its focus. Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation CEO Shaun Floerke joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Monday to talk about the future vision of the foundation. Floerke also emphasized the importance of upstream work in ensuring opportunities,…

Northern Star: Ashton Dahms

10 goals in 9 games for Minnesota Wilderness

CLOQUET, Minn.- The Minnesota Wilderness have been nearly unstoppable in the last three weeks, and that has a lot to do with Ashton Dahms and his knack for getting to the net. “I came in here knowing that I was going to have to produce, and I think I just stepped up to the plate and everything’s gone well so…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Chamber 153rd Annual Meeting & Dinner Celebration

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host its 153rd Annual Meeting & Dinner Celebration on November 2. Vice President of Strategy & Policy Dan Fanning joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the annual event and its purpose. This year’s event will be a celebration of membership, leadership and community progress….

Coffee Conversation: Getting to Know FOX21 Sports Anchor/Reporter Ben Burns

DULUTH, Minn. — Ben Burns joined the FOX21 team in August 2023 as a Weekend Anchor / Sports Reporter. Burns came on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about how he got his start in Wisconsin, his role in sports broadcasting today, and the latest headlines in Northland athletics. If you have a sports inquiry, email bburns@kqdsfox21.tv. Categories: Coffee Conversation,…

Coffee Conversation: Family Freedom Center/NYS Annual Trunk-Or-Treat Event

DULUTH, Minn. — With Halloween just around the corner, the Family Freedom Center: Neighborhood Youth Services is preparing to host its fourth annual Trunk-Or-Treat event. Operations Director Pez Davila joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about this years event and how its grown. Trunk-Or-Treat is taking place on October 28 from 12-4 pm at the Lake City Parking…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Public Schools Future Forward Referendum Vote

DULUTH, Minn. — On Monday, Duluth Public Schools Superintendent John Magas joined FOX21 on the morning newscast ahead of the Future Forward 709 Referendum vote on 11/7. The referendum vote is in regards to a $7.9 million plan to protect and progress mental and academic support for students, the ability to offer a diverse range of class options and access…

Coffee Conversation: Northern Spotlight Theatre Presents “Zombies from the Beyond”

DULUTH, Minn. — The Northern Spotlight Theatre presents musical comedy “Zombies from the Beyond” at the Denfeld High School Lecture Hall, October 26-28. Music Director Steve Solkela, Director Miranda Stachowtcz and Performer Keely Waechter joined FOX21 live on the morning newscast ahead of the showcase. Zombies from the Beyond is a tribute to the cheap, 1950s sci-fi movies with tongue-in-cheek…

Coffee Conversation: UMD to hold Climate Change Conference

DULUTH, Minn. — The University of MN Duluth, Institute on the Environment and Office of Sustainability are hosting a two day, in person conference, Our Climate Futures, October 23-24, 2023, at the UMD Kirby Student Center. Institute on the Environment Director Julie Etterson and Office of Sustainability Director Jonna Korpi joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about…

Northern Star: Alex Hanson

UWS Defender growing as a person and player

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The UWS men’s soccer recently went on a seven-game win streak — six of which ended in shutouts. On a team full of playmakers, it may be difficult for one single player to stand out from the crowd. Enter Alex Hanson. Countless athletes from around the world have played at Superior’s NBC Spartan Sports Complex, but few share…

Coffee Conversation: North End Nightmare 5K Returns to Superior

SUPERIOR, WI. — The North End Nightmare 5K is set to take place on October 28 at 11:00 am in Superior. Grandma’s Marathon Marketing & Public Relations Director Zach Schneider joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the event. In coordination with the annual Superior Spooktacular, this event offers participants a mix of scary surprises and haunted…

Northern Star: Ella Walker

Proctor senior committed to University of Sioux Falls

PROCTOR, Minn.- As the daughter of a former UMD volleyball player, Ella Walker has been around the sport her entire life. However, her passion and desire to compete has never diminished. “We’re definitely playing hard, and that’s what matters.” Standing at 6’2″, Walker has solidified herself as Proctor’s enforcer at the net? “Do you like being tall?” I asked. Walker…

Time of Reflection and Inspiration on Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Generations united through song, words and determination.

Duluth commemorated Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a holiday Monday. The cold winds were swirling around City Hall, but they did not lessen the resolve of those in attendance. The group gathered with music and the spoken word to acknowledge the painful history indigenous people have had, and to celebrate the promise of the future. No one exemplifies that promise of…

Coffee Conversation: Chum’s Golden Gala Commemorating 50th Anniversary

DULUTH, Minn. — Chum will host a Golden Gala on Tuesday, October 17 at the DECC commemorating 50 years of assisting those experiencing homelessness. Chum Director of Communications and Marketing Bradley Zwagerman joined FOX21 live on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. There will be a gourmet dinner, silent and live auctions, inspiring stories, and…

Coffee Conversation: North of Nashville Fall Festival

SILVER BAY, Minn. — North of Nashville is coming to the Silver Bay Reunion Hall on Friday, October 13 for a Country Music Fall Festival. Musician Bo Allen joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Friday to talk about the event and play some tunes live in-studio. North of Nashville is the Midwest’s connection to premier country music, talent, and entertainment….

Coffee Conversation: Bill Hinden Presents “The Great Jewish American Songbook” at Temple Israel

DULUTH, Minn. — Temple Israel will host a live presentation and performance by Bill Hindin of Songs and Stories of the Jewish Composers of Popular Music of the 20th Century. Temple Israel Board Member Jack Seiler joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about the event and its purpose. Hindin uses multi-media, jokes, piano playing and song to…

Northern Star: Sydney Friedrich

Superior senior learned tennis during pandemic

SUPERIOR, Wis.- As the high school girl’s tennis season begins to wrap up, the Superior Spartans will bid farewell to senior Sydney Friedrich, who went an astounding 17-3 during the regular season in singles competition. “I’m sad, but I’m also really happy because I’ve had a great season, and that’s all I can ask for right now.” reflected Friedrich. “This…

Knowing Your Neighbor: Lake Superior Brewing

DULUTH, Minn. — After purchasing Lake Superior Brewing back in 2020, Sarah and Seth Maxim chipped away at building their new vision for the brewery now located in the East Lakeside Neighborhood.  After nearly three years of renovations and dealing with supply chain issues, Lake Superior Brewing finally started serving beer this summer. “We started brewing in May. We tapped…

Coffee Conversation: Animal Allies Fur Ball Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — Animal Allies 2023 Fur Ball Gala is taking place on Saturday, October 14 at Northland Country Club. The purpose of the event is to raise funds to help take care of the animals. This year’s event will feature mingling, eating, gaming and winning. Fundraising goal is set at $100,000.00. Click here for ticket information. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota,…

Northern Star: Denzel Majwega

Duluth Marshall senior leads team in goals

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Marshall boys soccer team has been climbing atop their competition in through the month of September, but when you watch Denzel Majwega move downfield with the ball, there’s not much of a secret behind their success. “He’s very slippery, right?” smiled Mike Sengbush, the head coach of the Hilltoppers. “His skill allows him to kind of…

Coffee Conversation: 24th Annual Lester River Rendezvous in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The 24th Annual Lester River Rendezvous will take place this weekend (9/30) in the heart of Lester Park. Committee Chair Lindsey Whitlinger joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday to talk about the event and its purpose. The fall festival will feature a range of vendor booths, food, fun and a rewarding school program that offers a…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Cider’s 5th Annual Big Bad Apple Bash

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Cider is cheers-ing to five years of cider making with its Annual Big Bad Apple Bash of Saturday, September 30. Duluth Cider Owner Jake Scott joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the celebration and its purpose. Bring your apples and your appetite, your friends and your family, your doggo and your dancing…

Coffee Conversation: ‘Ready North’ Helps Homeowners/Renters Prepare in Case of Disaster

DULUTH, Minn. –With the recent rain and flooding in Duluth and surrounding areas, the Ready North network is reminding renters and homeowners to be prepared in case of disaster. Members Karen Sunderman and Dan Williams joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Tuesday to talk about the mission and purpose of Ready North. September also marks National Disaster Preparedness month, coinciding…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Playhouse Kicks Off New Season with ‘Young Frankenstein’

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Playhouse is launching its 2023 – 2024 season with the musical comedy Young Frankenstein, running September 15 to October 1 at the historic NorShor Theatre. Duluth Playhouse Executive Director Wes Drummond joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Thursday to talk about the spooky, funny show and the rest of the season. Young Frankenstein is filled with…

Northern Star: Jared Schultz

Named Lakeland East 8-Player OPOY in 2022

MINONG, Wis.-Over the past decade, 8-player football has grown in Wisconsin, and so have the high school athletes lacing up on Friday nights. Take Northwood-Solon Springs quarterback Jared Schultz, who was last season’s Lakeland East 8-player offensive player of the year as a sophomore. On homecoming night last week, Schultz stole the show with five touchdowns, including a 75-yard score…

Coffee Conversation: Local Authors to Participate in Discussions at Twin Ports Libraries

DULUTH, Minn. — The Twin Ports Perceptions project will host panel discussions with six local authors at Superior Public Library on September 26 and Duluth Public Library on October 10. Superior Public Library Programming and Partnerships Manager Leslie Mehle and Featured Author Jayson Iwen joined FOX21 on the morning newscast Wednesday, September 20 to talk about the upcoming events and their…

Coffee Conversation: Brain Injury Survivor Shares Story in Honor of ‘Walk for Thought’

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance will host its annual Walk for Thought event on Saturday, Sept. 16 in Duluth and in the Twin Cities/New Brighton. Brain Injury Survivor and Walk for Thought Honoree Jon Wiggins shared his story of recovery on the FOX21 morning newscast. St. Luke’s Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit Admissions Coordinator Amanda Johnson also weighed in…

Northern Star: Alyssa Doyle

Denfeld Senior to play for UMD in 2024

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Denfeld’s Alyssa Doyle is currently in her senior year, and she’s already cemented her status as a Hunters legend on the soccer field. However, she’s not letting that get to her head. “I know that I couldn’t do this without my teammates behind me and without the support that I’ve gotten.” Says Doyle, who recorded 19 goals…

Coffee Conversation: Zeitgeist ‘Spirit of the Times’ Annual Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — Zeitgeist will hold its annual Spirit of the Times fundraiser on Superior Street in the form of a block-style party on Friday, September 15. Zeitgeist Executive Director Tony Cuneo joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. Onsite will be live music and entertainment, local creative talent throughout the evening, unique…

Knowing Your Neighbor: Spirit Creek Farm

WRENSHALL, Minn. — Two farms in Wrenshall Minnesota have been growing cabbage for a Wisconsin based sauerkraut company for over a decade, and after the previous owners decided to step away from the business, the Minnesota farmers have now taken over the creation side of things as well. “Spirit Creek Farm was an existing business that was run by Andrew…

Coffee Conversation: 10th Annual Light Duluth Teal Gala

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance is holding its 10th annual Light Duluth Teal Gala on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023. Ovarian Cancer Survivor and Light Duluth Teal Gala Chair Kristine Greer joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the gala. The event also marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and will benefit MOCA’s ovarian cancer research and…

Coffee Conversation: Lake Superior Harvest Festival at Bayfront Park

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2023 Lake Superior Harvest Festival returns on Saturday, Sept. 9 to Bayfront Festival Park. The Harvest Festival is a project of the Lake Superior Sustainable Farming Association, and was founded as an educational outreach program aimed to showcase the local agricultural production of food throughout the Lake Superior region of northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. Festival…

Coffee Conversation: 17th Annual Minnesota Mile Friday in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — The 17th Annual Minnesota Mile will take participants on a 1-mile course along the scenic Skyline Parkway in Duluth on Friday, September 8. Grandma’s Marathon Public Relations & Marketing Director Zach Schneider joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and the fall running season. The race is an excellent option for participants of all…

Coffee Conversation: UMD’s NRRI to hold Open House Focused on the Future

DULUTH, Minn. — University of Minnesota Duluth’s Natural Resources Research Institute is opening its doors to the public (Sept. 16) to highlight research focused on the future. NRRI Marketing & Communications Manager June Breneman joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to discuss current areas of integrated research aimed at challenges today. The open house is taking place Saturday, Sept.16 from…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Bethel Celebrates 150 Years, Concert for Recovery Returns

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Bethel is celebrating 150 years with a two-day event, featuring the third annual Concert for Recovery. Executive Director Dennis Cummings joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the gathering and its purpose. This event is in celebration of mental health and recovery from substance abuse disorders sponsored by the Bethel and supporters. It’s free…

Coffee Conversation: 19th Annual Cornucopia Art Crawl

Cornucopia, WI — The Cornucopia Art Crawl is returning to the charming town for its 19th year on Saturday, Sept. 9 and Sunday, Sept. 10. On Tuesday, Aug. 29, Art Crawl Committee Members Nancy Moye and Dorothy Hoffman joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. Over 40 artists are taking part, and that includes photographers,…

Coffee Conversation: Backpack Drive at Bayfront Festival Park

DULUTH, Minn. — School is right around the corner, and the Family Freedom Center: Neighborhood Youth Services will be giving out over 2,000 backpacks filled with school supplies at “Unity In Our Community,” a back-to-school event held by Duluth Public Schools on August 21. Operations Director Pez Davila joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the backpack drive…

Coffee Conversation: Tig’s Smok’n Pig BBQ Third Annual Cancer Fundraiser

DULUTH, Minn. — Tig’s Smok’n Pig BBQ is preparing to hold its third annual cancer fundraiser to raise money for a Two Harbors woman, Tammy Churness, who is currently battling cancer. Owner Troy Fralich (Tig) and friend of Tammy, Brooke, joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the fundraiser and its purpose. The benefit is taking place on…

Knowing Your Neighbor: PGA HOPE

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Nemadji Golf Course in Superior is teaching military veterans to golf through a six week long program called PGA HOPE. The program looks to improve veterans’ golf skills and wellbeing. PGA HOPE is a branch of the PGA Reach, the charitable foundation of the Pro Golfers Association. Throughout Minnesota and part of Wisconsin, PGA HOPE lessons are…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Public Schools Back-to-School Event

DULUTH, Minn. — For the second year, Duluth Public Schools will host “Unity in Our Community,” a back-to-school event at Bayfront Festival Park on Mon. August 21 from 4-7 pm. On Mon. August 14, Assistant Superintendent Anthony Bonds joined FOX21 on the morning newscast to talk about the event and its purpose. Food, entertainment, vendors, and a large backpack giveaway…