Miles for MnFIRE Day 2: Esko to Mahtowa

Miles for MnFIRE is a walk across Minnesota that raises awareness and much-needed funds for firefighter health. The more than 150-mile journey kicked off on Sept. 13 in Duluth and is making its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Esko, Mahtowa, Willow River, Hinckley, Rush City, North Branch, Hugo and Vadnais Heights. The walk ends Sept. 21 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.

Day 2:

Starting location: Esko, MN
Finish for the day: Mahtowa, MN
Miles completed: 17
Weather report: 63°F and misty

Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode started day two of Miles for MnFIRE, the more than 150-mile journey from Duluth to St. Paul. On Sunday, Sept. 14, the team began at the Willard Munger State Trail near Esko, Minn.

Keeping a steady pace of approximately 19 minutes per mile, Foote and Bode made various stops to recharge, including a longer break at Carlton Fire Department, where Chief Derek Wolf chatted with the walkers and Wired Loon Coffee supplied some delicious fresh muffins.

The team finished the day in Mahtowa and was joined by Marley the service dog for the last leg of the journey!

The story of Miles for MnFIRE continues to reach every corner of our state. As the walk and coverage continues (including a new story by KARE 11 on its website), we’re excited to share that Miles for MnFIRE has raised $35,250 so far. We appreciate all of the support as we aim for our goal of $100,000. For more details or to donate, click here.

Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for updates along the way as our walkers, Doug and Kyle, head toward the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul, where they are scheduled to arrive on Sunday, Sept. 21. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.

Photos by Ric Rosow

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Introducing our first Firefighter Health Forum speaker: Megan Lautz of Rescue RD - Megan Lautz!

Megan Lautz is an award-winning registered dietitian specializing in first responders. At the forum, Megan will teach simple, real-life strategies including:

🍽️ how to eat better during 24+ shifts
🍽️ what to grab when gas station cuisine is the only option
🍽️ how to avoid the energy crash that hits halfway through shift
🍽️ tips for optimizing hydration and choosing electrolyte products

Register for the Jan. 23-24 Firefighter Health Forum today! www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-firefighter-health-forum-registration-1964377725657?aff=social
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The beginning of December brings Giving Tuesday – showcasing the power of giving and how generosity can transform lives.

The lives that we work to transform are those of firefighters and their family members. To be part of that powerful change, consider making a donation to MnFIRE. Thank you for supporting Minnesota's hometown heroes! mnfireinitiative.com/ways-to-help/#donate

#GivingTuesday
... See MoreSee Less

The beginning of December brings Giving Tuesday – showcasing the power of giving and how generosity can transform lives.

The lives that we work to transform are those of firefighters and their family members. To be part of that powerful change, consider making a donation to MnFIRE. Thank you for supporting Minnesotas hometown heroes! https://mnfireinitiative.com/ways-to-help/#donate

#GivingTuesday

We are filled with gratitude for our hometown heroes and their selfless commitment to keeping us safe. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at MnFIRE! 🧡 ... See MoreSee Less

We are filled with gratitude for our hometown heroes and their selfless commitment to keeping us safe. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at MnFIRE! 🧡

We send our thoughts and support to all who knew and loved Chief Jim Fundine of Mahtowa Fire & Auxiliary. Chief Fundine's department was one of our first stops on the Miles for MnFIRE trail back in September, and he welcomed us with warmth and open arms. Rest in peace, Chief Fundine. ... See MoreSee Less

We send our thoughts and support to all who knew and loved Chief Jim Fundine of Mahtowa Fire & Auxiliary. Chief Fundines department was one of our first stops on the Miles for MnFIRE trail back in September, and he welcomed us with warmth and open arms. Rest in peace, Chief Fundine.
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