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Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of Cloquet

Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of Cloquet

By Shelly Peterson

Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director Talk Business and Spotlight The Hidden Gems of Cloquet
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Cloquet Carlton County Airport - Wait We Have An Airport Here?

Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of CloquetAug 25, 2022

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Abundant Baby - More Than Just Baby

Abundant Baby - More Than Just Baby

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Abundant Baby.

Discover a World from Bump to Beyond: Are you ready to embark on a journey into a world where babyhood is celebrated, childhood is cherished, and motherhood is adorned with style and comfort? Abundant Baby is your one-stop destination for all things adorable, practical, and fashion-forward for babies, children, mamas, and moms-to-be.

The adorable children's boutique Abundant Baby opened in Cloquet in November 2022. Recently, they moved to Downtown Cloquet and are now located at 807 Cloquet Avenue, Suite 8, increasing the store's visibility. This past year, they have also been visible at several local and regional craft shows and festivals.

 This business is a family affair. Mother Colleen Sunnarborg and daughters Jenna Gilbert and Bethany Sunnarborg opened Abundant Baby, and their grandkids/children come to work, too! After having her son, Jenna noted there were no big boy clothes, so I had to sew my own. We wanted to start a store that offered quality lines of clothes, size up. Our store provides infant clothing and accessories, boys' and girls' clothing through size 10/12, mother maternity wear, and kid books/toys.


The items in store are constantly changing, featuring maternity, mom, baby, kid, gifts, and more. There are unique purses, bags, jewelry, and more, as well as unique gift baskets, birthday boxes, and gift certificates. Check out this fabulous store in Downtown Cloquet!


Abundant Baby

807 Cloquet Avenue, Suite 8

Cloquet, MN 55720

Email: info@abundantbabyllc.com 

(218) 878-2011

Website: Click Here

Facebook: Click Here

Instagram: Click Here

Digital Business Card: Click Here

Mar 27, 202405:17
Northwestern Survey & Engineering - Multifaceted Energy Infrastructure and Commercial Surveying Firm.

Northwestern Survey & Engineering - Multifaceted Energy Infrastructure and Commercial Surveying Firm.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Northwestern Surveying & Engineering.

Mar 26, 202403:36
218 Taphouse -

218 Taphouse -

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson

Mar 25, 202404:60
United Way of Carlton County - WHAT IS RAISED HERE, STAYS HERE!

United Way of Carlton County - WHAT IS RAISED HERE, STAYS HERE!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of United Way of Carlton County. The United Way is national in its branding, but each United Way Chapter has different needs and programs, which are hyper-local, finding pathways to give to where the needs are. The Carlton County Office in Cloquet covers the geographic areas of Pine and Carlton Counties and Tamarack, which is part of Atkin County. Sarah Buhs started as the United Way of Carlton County Executive Director in January 2022. 

In December 2023, United Way of Carlton County moved into its new location at 902 South Hwy 33 to be more visible from a branding perspective and functionally be poised to serve a new three-year grant program focused on homeless youth in the area. "With the Carlton youth shelter closing and Duluth the only other location for homeless youth which removes them from their school and community, we stepped up and partnered with the County to find solutions. 

We estimate about 100 homeless youth in the area," said Sarah Buhs, Executive Director of United Way of Carlton County. In short, host homes will be found through local churches, and members of these homes will be provided basic training and access to an embedded social worker. "Our goal is to find these kids host homes that allow them to stay in school and increase graduation rates," shared newly hired Tracy Ganter. Their new space on South Hwy 33 will provide safe access to bathrooms, showers, and basic need supplies. The grant will allow United Way to serve homeless youth from kindergarten through 12th grade. The program will prioritize homeless youth with a child, then homeless youth, and then a family member with a homeless youth. Teachers will be able to report trends regarding homelessness within the schools. 

Further, the grant project will bolster relationships with First Witness and Legal Aide and will leverage funding by working with Lakes and Pines for youth funding. "We are always looking for volunteers," shared Sarah Buhs, Director. 

Programs of the United Way office in Cloquet will continue to be emergency food shelves, crisis referrals, direct aid to families and individuals, or, more creatively, local volunteers virtually conducting storytime featuring books from a program they support, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. We have 400 kids in the program for Imagination Library and 40 on a waiting list," shared Ms. Buhs. The office continues to raise roughly $200,000, and staff is paid for locally, along with operations and items. What is raised here stays here—so remember to give where you live or work. This local office is not supported nationally by United Way, and it is a big deal to have a local office. Several area Cloquet employers launch workplace fundraising campaigns, and that funding allows the United Way of Carlton County to support local non-profits. In recent years, data has demonstrated that virtual campaigns are less successful than traditional workplace pledge cards.


To donate: https://www.unitedwaycarltoncounty.org/donate.


Since 1956, the United Way of Carlton County has mobilized community resources to support local non-profit programs. While the community has changed and grown throughout the years, the mission of the United Way has stayed the same: to fight for the health, education, and financial security of every person in every community.  Together, we can do so much more.  United Way fights for the health, education, financial security, and basic needs of every person in every community. United Way works with residents and public and private partners to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive. United Way commits to leveraging assets (convening, strategic investments, awareness building, advocacy) to create more equitable communities.  


Annually, they also host Operation Community Connect in the region, connecting those in need to the resources available. United Way focuses on cradle-to-career education strategies that provide a firm foundation at an early age and continue to help develop our children into successful adults who can contribute to their communities. This year, the United Way of Carlton County invested over $40,000 in the following programs to give kids a hand in their education and healthy development:

  • Carlton County Collaborative: Jump Start 4 Kindergarten

  • Catholic Charities: Foster Grandparent Program

  • Carlton County Historical Society

  • REACH: Mentor Program

  • Girl Scouts of Minnesota & Wisconsin Lakes & Pines: Girl Scout Leadership Pathways

  • Voyageurs Area Council Boy Scouts: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Venturing, and Exploring

  • Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Program

Sarah Buhs, Executive Director

902 S. Hwy 33, Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 879-8404 director@unitedwaycarltoncounty.org 

Website: Click Here

Facebook: Click Here

Instagram: Click Here

TO DONATE: Click Here


Mar 22, 202404:34
The Sass Boutique - Quality Affordable Clothing For ALL Sizes!

The Sass Boutique - Quality Affordable Clothing For ALL Sizes!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of The SASS Boutique.

Entrepreneur Emily Veno opened a storefront for Sass Boutique at 903 Cloquet Avenue downtown in November 2023. Emily grew up in Esko, MN, and completed her Bachelor's in Marketing and Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. She worked in retail on the floor and online customer service at a retail corporate office. She launched Sass Boutique as an online business with her knowledge in July 2018. With support from her family and husband, a local HVAC contractor for a company, this young mother ventured into opening her storefront.

"I want people to know that Sass Boutique is a place where folks can shop and get help finding their style. I work with various wholesalers, and Sass Boutique offers clothing sizes from Small to 3X, with some being exclusive to regular sizing and some being exclusive to extended sizing," said Emily Veno, Founder of Sass Boutique.

The Sass Boutique also offers E-Gift Cards, free shipping on orders over $50, no code needed, and "afterpay," splitting purchases into four payments payable every two weeks. Rooted in gratitude, Veno shared that she wants to thank all the Sassies she has met along the way for supporting her small business and making the downtown Cloquet storefront possible.

"Thank you for supporting my small business!" Emily Veno, Founder Sass Boutique.

The Sass Boutique

903 Cloquet Avenue

Cloquet, MN 55720


Email: admin@thesassboutique.com

Website: Click Here

Facebook: Click Here

Instagram: Click Here

Mar 12, 202403:31
Holy Smokes Coffeehouse & BBQ - Good Meat Doesn't Need Sauce!

Holy Smokes Coffeehouse & BBQ - Good Meat Doesn't Need Sauce!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Holy Smokes Coffeehouse and BBQ.

Lee and Julie Harris, owners of Holy Smokes, known for its smoked pork, beef, and turkey, choose to avoid working with chicken as it often becomes too dry during the smoking process. They make their seasonings and are known for their authentic quality. Their niche comes from their process, which is 100% wood-fired smoked meat; they don’t add smoked flavoring (liquids are often added to fires). Their work is artistic and all in the hands. Their meat is priced by the pound, not per person, and they can inform you of how many people are fed by volume. As Lee Harris told us, “Good meat doesn’t need sauce!”   Lee and Julie have continued their journey in business, evolving from a food truck business to purchasing a commercial building in Cloquet and adding a commercial kitchen for their meat business and creating it into their home, and in November 2023, opening a restaurant and coffeehouse in the historic Chief Theater at 103 Avenue C in Cloquet. The family medical leave of their coffeehouse manager created an opportunity to consider opening the restaurant. The board for Kingdom Builders, who owns 103 Avenue C, decided it was an excellent opportunity to use the commercial storefront for Holy Smokes, retain the coffeehouse, and build and retain employment. Holy Smokes currently has eight employees.   Lee and Julie Harris “pulled the plug,” working as medical professionals for decades, switched gears to face their calling, and launched the dream of a meat-smoking catering and food truck business. After they purchased a food truck, they realized how critical having storage for it is and examined pole-building options on their property. Eventually they decided to sell their Esko home and purchase a building in downtown Cloquet, renovating the second level as their home and building a commercial kitchen on the main floor. With the time smoking takes, you need to be around to monitor the meat; therefore, building their home onsite with the business became the logical goal.  

“The menu is constantly changing, and we will look for creative ways to evolve the Holy Smokes business,” said owner Lee Harris. “We are full of ideas for this business,” shared Julie Harris. Stop into the new Cloquet restaurant and their food truck, or book them for your next catering event; you won’t be disappointed! 

For Catering & Food Truck Information: Call (218) 340-5008

Holy Smokes Catering and Coffeehouse

103 Ave C

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 499-8030

Email: woodsmokedmeat@gmail.com

Website: https://www.holysmokesmn.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HolySmokesCloquet/ 

Feb 27, 202403:59
Lake Superior Medical Supply - We are here for you when you need us!

Lake Superior Medical Supply - We are here for you when you need us!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Lake Superior Medical Equipment.

Lake Superior Medical Equipment has been operating in the Twin Ports since 2002 and has had its Duluth office and Stanley Avenue location in Cloquet for the past eight years. Tom Jameson has been the owner since 2015.  Lake Superior Medical rents and sells equipment and supplies such as hospital beds, wheelchairs, scooters, CPAP and set-up, diabetic shoes, and safety equipment. In September 2022, the Duluth Lake Superior Medical Equipment building burned, and all employees were relocated to the Cloquet office while navigating the shutdown of the Duluth office.


They service families, clinics, hospitals, case workers, and patients. Their office has constant customers, and the phones are ringing.

“People don’t know about us until they need us, and when they need us, we will be here to help and navigate their medical insurance,” shared Maddi Ellis

Ellis has worked for Lake Superior Medical for the past six and a half years. Maddi lived in Cloquet and relocated from the Twin Cities after high school to be near family there. She has found that medical insurance reimbursement rates and those negotiations have been the most challenging aspect of the job in light of customer needs.


They are a great medical equipment supplier when you need them. Check them out in their Cloquet and Duluth locations!


907 Stanley Ave. 

Cloquet, MN 55720

 (218) 879-2211


Website:  Click Here

Facebook: Click Here

Feb 21, 202402:33
Family Pathways - Small But Tenacious Staff Serving a Strong Cloquet Area

Family Pathways - Small But Tenacious Staff Serving a Strong Cloquet Area

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Family Pathways - Cloquet.


The Minnesota headquarters for Family Pathways is in North Branch and was founded in 1978. Across Minnesota locations include Cambridge, Pine City, Carlton County, Chisago County, and Kanabec County.

 

We sat down with Robin, a Community Advocate in the Cloquet office, to learn more about the "Community Services" provided by Family Pathways. Robin shared that she grew into her career in counseling working at the Haven and then transitioning to Family Pathways. She has found a calling in the work to help people through criminal and civil justice issues. "My job is to advocate for others until they can find their voice again," shared Robin. Family Pathways has found that sex trafficking, drug addiction, high poverty rates, and generational trauma are more prevalent in rural areas. "This work makes me aware of what I have to be grateful for, and for what others have been through," said Robin.

 

Family Pathways maintains a solid client base through customer referrals, office calls, and strong relationships with county prosecuting attorneys and local law enforcement. With a small but tenacious staff in the Cloquet office, they have found that they can usually use additional advocate staffing. Their services are available for men, women, and across the gender spectrum with much of the Cloquet office's work focused on core services related to domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and parenting time services. Overall there are five community services offered in Cloquet at Family Pathways:

1) Personal and Legal Advocacy

Case management and follow-up.

Assistance with resources for independence. 

Assistance with filling out or eliminating protective orders.

Support through the court process.

2) Sexual Assault Advocacy

Respond to emergency room and law enforcement calls.

Support through medical and criminal processes.

3) Criminal Justice Advocacy

 Offer victim support after law enforcement intervention.

Assistance with police reports.

Support through the criminal court process.

 Attend criminal court hearings for support.

Assistance in pursuing civil, criminal, and family court remedies.

4) Support Groups

 Helping victims of domestic and sexual violence to become empowered by gaining strength, understanding, and healing.

5) Education

 Community awareness about domestic/sexual violence.

 Advocate for social change.

 

Family Pathways

1003 Cloquet Avenue

Cloquet, MN 55720

https://www.familypathways.org/

Feb 15, 202402:44
New Life Construction - Small Enough to Listen. Big Enough To Deliver.

New Life Construction - Small Enough to Listen. Big Enough To Deliver.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of New Life Construction.

Locally owned and operated, New Life Construction is named for its integrity to deliver quality construction services. New Life Construction was founded by third-generation construction worker Brandon Gilbert, CEO, who grew up with his father and grandfather working in the construction industry, teaching him the skills of the trade as he worked with them side-by-side on their job sites. “I like a challenge and found myself drawn to bathroom and kitchen remodeling,” shared Gilbert.    

  

Brandon grew up in Dassel, MN, and struggled as a teen and in his 20s to stay on a solid pathway, finding himself instead in institutions at times. “Through my journey in faith, I’ve been sober over nine years now, I’ve built a team at New Life Construction focused on accountability, and trained in effectively communicating with our clients,” shared Gilbert.  

“My adolescent years and young adult life were very challenging for me, and my life choices and behavior were not giving me the life I wanted for myself. As a result, I relocated to the Northland in 2015, when I had the opportunity to come to Duluth and attend the MN/Adult Teen Challenge and graduated with honors.​ When I needed it, God came into my life and showed me love, helped me change my life, and opened my eyes to a vision for a construction company. It is more than just a company that provides service. One that would also invest in the lives of others, especially those that had struggled as I had,” said Brandon Gilbert.

New Life Construction is a full-service general contractor serving residents in the Northland. 

Their services focus on new additions and construction, remodeling and renovations, and exterior updates. New Life Construction provides start-to-finish construction services. “We typically sub-contract electrical and plumbing work,” said Brandon Gilbert. New Life Construction holds a BC license, and Gilbert continues to grow his construction team and train and manage staff to be a well-oiled machine in delivering comprehensive construction services. Gilbert is a National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI) member and markets his business predominantly online via Facebook, Angie’s List, and Yelp.


If you have residential construction needs, contact New Life Construction to learn more!


New Life Construction LLC 

4 13th Street 

Cloquet, MN 55720

218-310-6410; www.new-lifeconstruction.com


Brandon Gilbert, Founder and CEO

brandon@new-lifeconstruction.com

https://promotingme-ecard.com/brandon-gilbert/

Feb 08, 202403:17
Game - Play - Stay - Offering Welcome Space For Teens and Young Adults

Game - Play - Stay - Offering Welcome Space For Teens and Young Adults

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Game Play Stay.

Sara Kenwood opened Game Play Stay at 305 Broadway Street in Cloquet in 2023. The specialty game store sells board games and Pokémon games. In-store tables can be rented by the hour or half-hour as a space for teens to play board games and Pokémon and Yu-Gi-Oh! Cards (decks can be rented too). The store space is excellent for holding birthday parties or other hosted game events.

 "We have a Chronicles game night," said Game Play Stay's owner, Sara Kenwood. 


By day, Sara Kenwood is an employee of Sappi in Cloquet. By evening, Sara works in gaming. She grew up a "game nerd" through school, and the dream for this business has been to sell games and create a space for kids and young adults, in particular, to learn how to play games and meet up with their friends in a safe space. Sara stocks snacks and drinks for purchase at the store, so the experience is very relaxing and welcoming. She and her sister help staff the store. You may also have seen her name featured in a Cloquet Public Library event she held for local homeschooled students. Her future goals include adding Dungeons and Dragons and Magic the Gathering, more trading cards, more board and card games, and adding game tournaments. In need of a gaming gift? Let Sara and her team assist you. Check them out today!


Jan 30, 202403:01
NDGNS BEADS N GIFTS – The First Indigenous, Veteran, and Woman Owned Storefront in Downtown Cloquet

NDGNS BEADS N GIFTS – The First Indigenous, Veteran, and Woman Owned Storefront in Downtown Cloquet

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of NDGNS BEADS N GIFTS.


NDGNS (pronounced indigenous) BEADS N GIFTS is located at 612 Cloquet Avenue and is owned and operated by Jennifer S. Martineau. Martineau is a proud woman, native, and veteran (Dessert Storm) business. The shop showcases a variety of native artists and local bead artists. The shop also has an online platform involving auctions throughout the United States.


Martineau is an enrolled member of the Bad River Tribe of Lake Superior Ojibwe. She grew up in Duluth until age 13 when she moved to Bemidji and graduated from the Fond du Lac Ojibwe School in Cloquet. At age 19, she joined the military and actively served for eight years, sharing that the military saved her life. She had her children in the 1990s and, in the 2000s, gained college and graduate school education with an undergraduate degree in psychology from Bemidji State and a Master of Social Work graduate degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth. By day, Jennifer is a licensed clinical social worker and hypnotherapist in the behavioral and mental health field.


Martineau started her business after her mother's death, opening as an online business via a Facebook page in 2013. In 2018, she moved back to Cloquet to be closer to her father, who was sick. She was a vendor at pow-wows and vends at pow-wows all over the Midwest. She has a toy hauler with a walk-in shop.


Opening this storefront has been her dream. "This is my happy place; my daughter helped me set up this store," she shared. The vision for NDGNS BEADS N GIFTS is family community-based. The closest bead store is in Bemidji or the Twin Cities; people are driving hours away to get to this store. "This store is a place to express culture, to be seen and heard, appreciated, and acknowledged," said Jennifer S. Martineau.

Jan 23, 202404:08
Cloquet VFW Post 3979 - Here to Support Veterans and Their Families

Cloquet VFW Post 3979 - Here to Support Veterans and Their Families

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson, Founder and CEO of Promoting Me LLC and Holly Hansen, Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the hidden gem of Cloquet VFW Post 3979.

Hebert-Kennedy Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3979 was named in honor of Arthur Herbert and Wallace and John Kennedy, who heroically died in WWII as members of the U.S. Air Force. The VFW Post 3979 has been located at 210 Arch Street since it was purchased in 1947. The VFW is open to the public to enjoy food, beverages, events, and more. Their VFW Bar and social clubs offer happy hour specials, excellent food, pool and dart leagues, entertainment such as BINGO, karaoke, games like smear and cribbage, and gambling. They also have a spacious Banquet Hall for rent and a commercial kitchen.

 We interviewed Ron Stigers, Commander of Post 3979, and Gary Dahl, past Commander of Post 3979, both huge advocates of the VFW and veterans. The mission of the VFW is to provide comradeship, assist families and veterans in accessing services and programs, foster patriotism, and more. They have several programs, including the Honor Guard, Community Service, POW / MIA, and Veteran Outreach. VFW Post 3979 continues to support improvements to Cloquet’s Veterans Park and has been instrumental in developing memorials such as the Veterans Memorial Wall and Plaza. 

 In recent years, the Cloquet American Legion #262, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 18 of Carlton County, and Cloquet Eagles #1163 have consolidated their location at the Cloquet VFW. The Cloquet American Legion is a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. The Carlton County DAV is an organization that ensures veterans and their families have access to the full range of benefits available to them as they transition back to civilian life. The Cloquet Eagles is a fraternal organization providing social events for members.

 The VFW began in 1899 with the core mission of securing rights and benefits for veterans who have served their country. The VFW has been instrumental in establishing the Veterans Administration, creating a G.I. bill for the 20th Century, the development of the national cemetery system, and the fight for compensation for Vietnam vets exposed to Agent Orange and for veterans diagnosed with Gulf War Syndrome. In 2008, VFW won a long-fought victory by passing a GI Bill for the 21st Century, giving expanded educational benefits to America’s active-duty service members and members of the Guard and Reserves fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. The VFW has also fought to improve V.A. medical center services for female veterans.

 Those wishing to become VFW members must be U.S. citizens, having had Honorable Service, a Service in war, a campaign, or an expedition on foreign soil or hostile waters. Those with family members who meet these criteria may join as VFW Auxiliary members.  

Jan 08, 202403:29
The Nest Wellness Studio - Finding and Releasing Issues in Your Tissue

The Nest Wellness Studio - Finding and Releasing Issues in Your Tissue

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson, founder and CEO of Promoting Me and Holly Hansen, Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet, introduce the Hidden Gem of The Nest Wellness Studio.

Carolyn Ripp, or CJ Ripp as she also goes by, has owned The Nest Studio at 207 Avenue C, in Cloquet’s West End Historic District for almost ten years. Carolyn met her husband in Utica, New York, working at St. Joe’s Hospital, and later moved to Duluth, Minnesota. Carolyn moved to Cloquet in 1994 with her husband, who was employed at Community Memorial Hospital. They chose Cloquet to raise their children and be proximate to schools and sporting facilities.

Her yoga journey started by teaching fitness classes in the late 1980s. She later became certified as a Physical Therapist and Registered Nurse and obtained her Master of Education from UMD in Health and Wellness. She is a RYT-500 (Registered Yoga teacher with over 500 hours of training), ACE Certified Fitness Instructor, and Usui Reiki 2 Certified. She particularly enjoys helping those injured or recovering post-surgery heal effectively through yoga.

She has found her RN background and depth of medical knowledge and parasympathetic nervous system particularly useful as a yoga instructor.

She offers a variety of live classes, from chair yoga, basic yoga, and slow flow to advanced yoga, and for established yoga clients, classes can also be accessed via Zoom (and in weather emergencies). “I love to motivate people to stay active; the calm of yoga drew me in,” said Ripp.

Carolyn has taught yoga at various locations in Cloquet, including the Cloquet Library, Park Avenue Fitness, Evergreen Knoll Senior Living, and WebMed, helping those with addiction get centered and focused on healing. She teaches classes at the local community college FDLTCC.

The meaningful depth of yoga has been Carolyn’s hook. She loves to bring about awareness to help others awaken on the mat. “Yoga is emotional and body self-care; it’s about breath, awareness of negative self-talk is about release and being your best secure self,” said Ripp. “I love what I do and am passionate about it; my passion is meant to be shared; there is nothing here you can get in a Hallmark card.” She teaches 2-3x/day, five times a week. She recently received a grant to help kids utilize yoga classes held at the library. “Yoga is about communication between the body, mind, and heart. I ask my clients to have an open mind and open heart, which will flow communication within their body,” said Ripp. If you’re ready to invest in yourself and commit to attending, check out The Nest's offerings.

Dec 19, 202303:34
Atkins-Northland Funeral Home & Cremation Service – Here to Help Families

Atkins-Northland Funeral Home & Cremation Service – Here to Help Families

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Atkins-Northland Funeral Home.


Losing a loved one is one of life's most overwhelming challenges. The first step toward finding a way to manage your grief and confusion is working with an experienced, compassionate advisor at Atkins-Northland Funeral Home & Cremation Service. They provide helpful information and trusted expertise so your arrangements accurately reflect your needs and budget. You get the support you need, from planning a personalized funeral or life celebration to selecting permanent memorialization.


Manager Ed Nielsen, originally of Kingston, MN, went to the University of Minnesota, where he studied mortuary science. He interned at a funeral home in Hutchinson, MN, to gain career experience. His family owns ten Gunderson Funeral Homes, most of which are in Wisconsin. He moved to Cloquet to be the Manager of Atkins-Northland Funeral Home, where he started in August 2021. "The goal here is to continue Bob and Karen Atkins's legacy, the former business owners," said Nielson. Atkins-Northland Funeral Home & Cremation Service is owned by Formation Partnerships of Orlando, Florida, which owns ten funeral homes in Minnesota and 225 across the United States.

"We are here to help families," said Nielson

During challenging times of loss, staff at Atkins-Northland Funeral Home can help you navigate the complexities of life insurance, death certificates, social security, pre-paid funeral services, and more. They provide the important services of cremation and burial, host funerals and life celebrations, and honor veterans. They also navigate the complexities of shipping related to this industry. They can guide you through selecting urns, stones, caskets, and more.

Last year, they served 167 families and had a strong core business surrounding the greater Cloquet area, often providing services to families in Barnum, Proctor, and Floodwood.

During the holidays, a particularly difficult time for many, they host a special banquet dinner where they light candles to remember loved ones lost during the year, which provides solace and healing for many families. They can host such events with the large banquet reception hall and kitchen added to the facility and seats 150 people where food is catered.

At Atkins-Northland Funeral Home & Cremation Service​, your comfort and safety are central to everything they do. If you cannot meet with them face-to-face, you can make burial or cremation arrangements by phone, online, or via video chat. They have many digital resources with easy-to-read, relevant information, including care guides and a monthly e-newsletter. Get the support you need through our website 24/7. Contact them today.

Dec 12, 202303:34
Stock Tire & Repair - From Treads to Transmissions. We've Got You Covered

Stock Tire & Repair - From Treads to Transmissions. We've Got You Covered

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Stock Tire & Repair located at 1309 Avenue B in Cloquet.

Scott Nelson launched Stock Tire & Repair in August 2023. Nelson purchased the former Stock Tire from Steve Stavang, who had owned the business for 38 years. Stavang had also been a part owner with his father; before that, his dad and uncle had owned it. Originally, Stock Tire was opened by former Cloquet Mayor Walter Stock in the 1960s.

Scott Nelson had worked at Stock Tire for the past four years and formerly owned automotive businesses. He retained the seven employees of Stock Tire but wanted to rename the company by adding “Repair” to market the array of other services they provide.

Nelson started sweeping the floor at his grandpa’s automotive shop in the 1970’s. “My grandpa taught me about vehicles,” said Nelson. 

Then, in the mid-1970s, Nelson worked for his uncle at a gas station, working on radiators, and ran that shop for 13 years. By 1980, Nelson had shifted to automotive bodywork. Nelson moved to southern Minnesota to work with his other uncle in Wilmington; from there, we worked in the Cities, at dealerships, and in apprenticeship programs. “I like figuring things out and helping people,” said Nelson. Nelson shared, “Stock Tire & Repair is a place to fix it right the first time.” Nelson is a father of six children.

As the business name describes, they stock an array of tires. They stock Goodyear, Kelly, Cooper, Firestone, Continental, Generals, and Bridgestone. Uniquely, they stock a semi-tire inventory close to Sappi, USG, and Upper Lakes Foods and have the equipment for big tires and forklifts. They also have RV and skid steer tires. They also stock batteries.  


While they don’t do exhaust work, the rest of their repair services are extensive, from transmissions to front and rear differentials, transfer cases, timing chains, and belts, or specialty muscle car work; their service list can be reviewed here: https://www.stocktire.com/ 


Contact Scott Nelson and his team today for your tire and repair service needs.

Dec 08, 202302:46
Tidy Details - We Sell a Lifestyle

Tidy Details - We Sell a Lifestyle

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Tidy Details.


Tidy Details isn’t so much a storefront to shop or visit; instead, it’s a customized session in your Twin Ports Area home with a team of experts trained to help you live your best lifestyle or to stage your home asset. Business owner Kaitlyn Beise described her business as Stage to Live - home décor and organization, Stage to Sell - home staging and Residential cleaning.


“About 70% of our business is Stay to Live / Stage to Sell, while 30% of our business is residential cleaning,” explained Beise. “We are one one-stop shop for realtors and help provide solutions to improve sales, offering a non-judgmental professional buffer between the seller and realtor, taking the time to educate involved parties,” said Beise. If this wasn’t enough, the team also makes natural cleaning products, soaps, and lotions for sale, most often found at regional festivals.


We met with Hillary and Kaitlyn, and they shared that the home-selling season kicks off with the Super Bowl Party, runs through Labor Day, and is their busiest season. Then their business transitions into fall, and people return to the home for organization projects and home restyling. Hillary shared, “We do walk and talk consults in homes, preparing them for sale and focusing on decluttering. We also do appliance and fridge cleanouts, with our end goal being more money for our clients related to sales. Investing in our services will show your home at its best.”


Kaitlyn and Hillary were social workers who found themselves depleted and heavy and wanted more joy. Kaitlyn started Tidy Details LLC as a business in 2019.

She was inspired to do so, having grown up watching her entrepreneurial parents run a small business in the Grand Rapids area. Tidy Details provided Kaitlyn with a positive and creative outlet. Hillary is a mother of three and lives in Proctor, while Kaitlyn is a mother of two and lives in Cloquet. The business is at 1401 Cloquet Avenue, where it stores home décor and furnishings used for staging to base its services for its nine employees. Kaitlyn became accredited in staging, and realtors have begun selecting their business due to their staging skills and knowledge. Hillary said, “If you sell in the fall, it may sit longer than the spring season. That is all the more reason to invest in staging your home effectively for sale.”


Kaitlyn described, “We sell a lifestyle, and people want our product.” They are talented interior designers and often stage for professional photo shoots, assisting architects in capturing professional photos of their work after a completed kitchen remodel. “Homes that are vacant don’t sell well,” said Beise, “we leverage sales by furnishing them as a lifestyle.”


Contact the Tidy Team for a “Walk and Talk” today for your home reset, stage for sale, or transition by cleaning.

Dec 01, 202303:60
Lake Superior Dental (Cloquet) - Your Smile is Our Reward

Lake Superior Dental (Cloquet) - Your Smile is Our Reward

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Lake Superior Dental, Cloquet Clinic.  

Lake Superior Dental Cloquet is staffed with 20 employees and is a bustling clinic located at 716 14th Street.  For 25 years this dental office was home to North Country Dental under the ownership of Paul Bartlam but during the pandemic, he consolidated and became a partner of Lake Superior Dental and rebranded. 

Lake Superior Dental is owned by six partners across four regional offices in Duluth, Hermantown, Cloquet, and Two Harbors.  They refer patients within these clinics to specialists and employ over 85 staff.  They offer comprehensive dentistry and a full spectrum of care.  An advantage of their clinic system is seamless charting for patient care. 

 “We estimate, then decide what to treat. Our motto is patient-first treatment plans,” said Hannah Serre the Operations Manager of Lake Superior Dental.  Kelsey Duffy the Business Office Manager for Lake Superior Dental shared their office mantra is, “Happy Team, Happy Patients!”  She shared that they are  a connected team of staff across the four clinics and hold events, meetings, and parties and are active stewards of their communities.

 They offer dental care for the whole family and love watching children grow up within their practice which provides the services of: Preventative (oral health and cleaning care)

  • Common procedures (root canal, fillings, extractions, prosthetics)
  • Additional services (TMJ, Implants, Sleep Apnea/Snoring, Botox/Juvederm)
  • In-house lab (dental prosthetics)
  • Cosmetic (teeth whitening services and custom at-home bleaching systems)

 

They provide care for clients with different insurance coverages and programs, uniquely offering their Oral Health Plan (OHP) which is a flat fee for those without insurance covering a 12-month period of care providing two child and two adult exams, cleanings, and x-rays, plus 15% off restorative care.  They also offer care credit.

 

Lake Superior Dental – Cloquet Clinic

716 14th Street

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 879-5271

https://lakesuperiordental.com/

https://www.facebook.com/lakesuperiordental

Nov 21, 202304:02
LOC Auto & Weld - Automotive Services From Bumper to Bumper

LOC Auto & Weld - Automotive Services From Bumper to Bumper

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of LOC Auto & Weld. Owners Luke and Elora Carlson opened LOC Auto & Weld in August 2023, located at 1503 Cloquet Avenue (former Pete and Son’s). LOC Auto and Weld offers all automotive services from bumper to bumper, except for alignments and air conditioning, and can order tires (they don’t stock them). They aim to provide quality, affordable, trustworthy services explaining customer options. They also offer welding services. Luke used to work at Ziegler Caterpillar of Duluth, where he gained welding and heavy equipment experience. “Welding is a big opportunity and service that we uniquely provide,” said Carlson. While we were onsite, they had the dunk tank from the Third Base in Carlton, which needed welding repairs. Growing up, his dad lived in Cloquet, and his Mom lived in Duluth, and he and his wife now live in Scanlon with two small children. At a young age, he was exposed to automotive repair services and loved the work. He wanted to begin owning a business to provide a positive customer experience.

Nov 16, 202303:17
US Bank - Banking Covering All Stages of Life and Career

US Bank - Banking Covering All Stages of Life and Career

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson, Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, and Holly Hansen, Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of US Bank.

Shelly and Holly toured the beautiful Downtown Cloquet US Bank Brach Office and met with Tony Vittorio, Assistant Vice President of Cloquet’s Downtown US Bank Office and Consumer Banking Manager, who has been with US Bank for 20 years. Caitlin Hurley, Assistant Vice President, Public Affairs & Communications, and Business Line Communications Manager with US Bank, accompanied him. They shared that local bankers are passionate about their skills in offering local support to customers. The Cloquet Branch employs seven staff who are embedded in community projects such as clean-ups on the Lakewalk. “We are embedded in our local communities and contribute to countless charities,” said Vittorio. The local Cloquet staff supports customers with personal interaction through the stages of life, such as setting up accounts for kids, a first car loan, a business loan, a house remodeling loan. They also help identify ways to save money to support your life goals, such as weddings or vacations. They also provide support, helping you through credit and debt hurdles to get stabilized.


Caitlin Hurley summarized, “Our value proposition is our customer service. We put our hearts and minds to power.” US Bank has over one million customers in Minnesota. Across the US, they offer a strong presence and access to banking facilities. Their digital resources are strong, offering co-browsing with your local banker to view your accounts during video meetings and virtual appointments jointly. US Bank accounts also offer Zel for online banking. They also promote financial IQ for all ages, empowering and educating people to be financially savvy, including young students.

Nov 09, 202303:43
ASP - Our Phone is Always Answered

ASP - Our Phone is Always Answered

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of All Service Providers (ASP).

All Service Providers (ASP) plumbing and Summit Mechanical (heating and cooling) were in the same building, owned by brothers – they consistently referred customers to each other when they decided to combine as a company. ASP provides the services of:

  • Plumbing contractor
  • Heating repair and emergency services, as well as replacement installations
  • Air conditioning installation, repair, maintenance, and replacement 
  • Extensive residential electrical services by licensed electricians
  • Septic pumping  
  • Water Treatment and services procedures
  • Annual Maintenance Program – The Advantage Club Program is a membership enrollment program offering yearly tune-ups and maintenance, priority service, and discounts on repairs or services.


ASP is expanding across the region; they have purchased several small businesses, building their footprint and outreach into Northern Minnesota. In 2021, ASP purchased Tollerud’s Heating and Cooling Inc., located at 1017 Cloquet Avenue. 

Mark Tollerud stayed for two years as part of the purchase transition, and all employees were retained – trained as part of the ASP program—with extensive customer service training involving client-worker role-playing.   


On September 22, 2023, ASP’s Hermantown headquarters facility held its grand opening planned by Natalie Gustafson, Marketing Director, who has been with ASP for three years. We interviewed Natalie and Matt Latola (15 years at ASP and Cloquet resident). They shared with us that small towns are very loyal places, and as such, in Cloquet, they plan to expand their local presence. 

Last year, they served cider as part of Santa’s Home for the Holidays celebration downtown and will continue to look for opportunities to get involved.


ASP uses workers in the area to work in their service area. The Cloquet satellite office is a place where they bring parts and serve local people. 

Their staff provides sales estimates for repairs or new replacements on existing appliances and mechanicals; they are not involved in new construction. Their phone is always answered during operations Monday through Friday, and they are on call 24 hours a day for plumbing/heating emergencies (Monday through Saturday). They have a solid social media presence, which they leverage for education, especially on their YouTube channel.  


They offer programs such as Advantage Club Program, an annual maintenance plan that is membership-based. ASP contacts you as a reminder for service. You can choose to tune up two appliances plus 15% off, plus a reduced dispatch fee. In winter, when emergency calls are received, they provide owners with a checklist of things to check for before they come out (e.g., thermostat batteries, change filters, etc.). Give them a call today!

Oct 31, 202305:16
SKB Environmental of Cloquet - A Culture of Trust

SKB Environmental of Cloquet - A Culture of Trust

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of SKB Environmental of Cloquet.


SKB Shamrock Environmental Industrial Landfill in Cloquet began accepting construction demolition and industrial waste streams in 2012. 


They have been operating in the Cloquet Area for over a decade and have 17 employees. Waste Connection purchased SKB in 2015, a company with over 30,000 employees. If you’ve recently reroofed your garage, remodeled your kitchen, resided in your house, or demolished your old garage, chances are that your contractor has hauled this debris to the SKB Shamrock Environmental Landfill in Cloquet. 


The facility accepts construction demolition and industrial waste as its service niche and provides a culture of trust and environmental care for these waste streams. The facility provides a regional need for industrial demolition waste from projects such as the Duluth office of MnDOT’s Can of Worms project, which is deconstructing a 1960s highway era of roadways, or the Munger Landing project, or dredge material (referred to as “impacted soils”) from Erie Pier in Duluth. 


SKB Shamrock is a designated federal CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act) facility, a difficult certification to obtain.


They are engaged in the community and region, donating to numerous organizations. They have developed and grown business relationships, providing services and reducing waste haul costs. They also offer local industry and business services, working closely with Cloquet facilities such as Sappi and USG.      


“In general, most people lack awareness of where their waste goes after it hits the curb. Our Industrial Landfill serves a purpose and stores waste in the correct environmentally approved manner,” said Site Manager Kyle Backstrom.

 

SKB Environmental of Cloquet is located on the west side of MN State Hwy 45, approximately ½ mile south of the I-35/Hwy 45 junction (Exit 239). To learn more:


SKB Environmental of Cloquet

 761 MN Highway 45

 Cloquet, MN 55720

Phone: (218) 878-0112

Oct 25, 202305:03
Cloquet Community Education & Recreation - Programming for Ages Zero to 110

Cloquet Community Education & Recreation - Programming for Ages Zero to 110

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Cloquet Community Education and Recreation.

The backbone of community programming in Cloquet is managed by Community Ed & Recreation. If you have had your middle schooler signed up for babysitting classes, or rented the Chalet at Pine Valley, or are signed up to learn to sew in an education course through the Lumberlog, chances are you’re a user of services provided by Cloquet Community Ed & Recreation.


Located in the Cloquet Middle School, the staff provides a strong work culture, and people love working for them in this small-town atmosphere. 

Community Ed & Recreation has 75 employees and manages 21 lifeguards for the Beach at Pinehurst. They have benefited from many long-term staff. A critical piece to realize for Cloquet is that the number of kids sets their funding, so they work to market and capture accurate enrollment numbers to maximize funding.


Community Ed & Recreation Director Erin Bates grew up north of Duluth, lived in various places, and then returned to the area in 1998 to work for the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation Department. She saw a position open for Community Ed & Recreation in Cloquet, took the position, and moved to the community. “I love the variety of my job. I get to bounce between several programming areas,” said Director Erin Bates.  


Community Ed & Recreation leverages partnerships and covers an array of education, including:

  • Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) School Readiness (preschool)
  • Early Childhood Screening (required before Kindergarten)
  • After-School Enrichment (Washington and Churchill Elementary schools)
  • Middle School After School Enrichment
  • Driver’s Education 
  • Adults with Disabilities
  • Adult Enrichment (classes, activities, and trips)
  • Age to age (generational gatherings)
  • Facility Reservations and rentals (schools and city parks)
  • Recreation (youth and adult)
  • Aquatics (youth and adult, plus WSI certification courses)
  • The Beach at Pinehurst
  • Kids Corner School Age Childcare (before and after childcare ages 5-12)
  • Li’l Lumberjacks and Li’l Thunder Learning Centers (preschool childcare for ages six weeks to Kindergarten) 


Mission Statement: Cloquet Community Education and Recreation promotes, provides, and facilitates learning opportunities and social activities to serve all individuals & families while bridging generations, inspiring collaboration, and building community.


Cloquet Community Education & Recreation

2001 Washington Avenue, Cloquet, MN 55720
Phone: (218) 879-1261

Website: https://www.isd94.org/domain/55

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CloquetCommEd

Oct 17, 202304:52
Kimiski Paving - Family Business Based on Reputation

Kimiski Paving - Family Business Based on Reputation

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Kiminski Paving.

Family owned and operated Kiminski Paving began in 1989 by Adam and Randy Kiminski’s father.  By 2008, twin brothers Adam and Randy owned the business 50%-50%.  The business model of Kiminski Paving has evolved to half earth work and half asphalt paving.  Earth work services include site preparation, new utility installations and removal/replacement of existing, grading and drainage contouring, utility construction, asphalt patching and maintenance, street striping, site sweeping, winter maintenance, and more.  “We work side by side with our staff and stand behind our work.  If something isn’t right, we fix it,” said Adam Kiminski.

 

Kiminski Paving is a union business with plenty of competition in the Twin Ports area.  They maintain 15 to 20 person staff, with about 10 who have been with the business for over 20 years.  The core geographic area that Kiminski Paving is from Two Harbors to Sandstone.  “We don’t advertise, we don’t need to, business referrals are how we get our work, people ask their neighbors and share their experience, and we appreciate people doing their homework and selecting us,” said Adam Kiminski. 

 

During the off-season, Kiminski Paving staff operates large business snow removal contracts and recharges for the busy summer season.  Call today for free estimates:

 

Kiminski Paving

1441 Moorhead Road

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 878-0503

Email: info@kiminskipaving.com

Oct 10, 202304:50
Body Connection - Age is a Stage of Body

Body Connection - Age is a Stage of Body

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Body Connection.

Body Connection has been in business in Cloquet for 24 years, operating first out of Park Avenue Fitness and then locating to the Lumberjack Mall, where they have been for over 20 years now. Certified Massage Therapists Jill Hough and sisters Marcy Bubb and Amanda Horvat trained at the Eagles Nest Institute. Body Connection provides the following massage services: relaxation, deep tissue, pregnancy, lymphatic, and senior. They also offer LaStone, neuromuscular, and cranial sacral therapy. Jill specializes in neck and head issues, Marcy focuses on the lower half of the body, and Amanda works on back problems.

Massage rates are the same for all therapists and are based on the length of the massage. They take appointments by phone.

Jill Hough has been a massage therapist since 1997, Marcy Bubb has been a massage therapist since 2000, and Amanda Horvat has been a massage therapist since 2000. All three women are certified by the American Bodyworkers and Massage Professionals (ABMP) as professional massage therapists. 

Oct 03, 202303:22
B&B Market - The Art of Customer Service, a Business Succession Success Story

B&B Market - The Art of Customer Service, a Business Succession Success Story

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of B&B Market.

Cloquet graduate Jake Richardson started working at B&B Market at the age of 16. He learned the art of customer service from former B&B Market owners John and Kim Lind and considers himself a people person. He also shared that his grandpa, former Carlton Mayor Denny Randelin, taught him to give back to his community.


Jake and Mikayla Richardson's story is similar to the " fasten your seatbelts " of the Lind family. Mikayla grew up in Hector, Minnesota, and met Jake in college at Mankato State. Her degree focused on health, while Jake's was in management and business. Jake married his wife Mikayla in May of 2021, and by August 2021, they purchased B&B Market, located at 506 Big Lake Road in Cloquet. Shortly after that, Mikayla went from working as a stenographer to owning a thriving meat market and gas station with 34 employees, including Jake's parents! Mikayla does payroll, office scheduling, and operational components of the business, while Jake focuses on ordering products and communications across the company.


Most people don't realize the components of the B&B Market. They are gas station, meat shop, catering, food truck/equipment rental, and lottery/gaming. Their catering and food truck demand remains strong; they are hyper-local in their focus, gearing up for Carlton Days, the Carlton County Fair, and more.


“Most people aren’t aware there has been a change in ownership of B&B Market because our reputation hasn’t changed,” said Jake Richardson, business owner.

The store is known for its large selection of meats, beef sticks, and cheeses and its specialty of over 25 different types of brats. They sell homemade salads, vegetables, fruit, baked goods, chips, canned goods, lottery tickets, gas, and seasonal items - pumpkins and Christmas trees. It is your one-stop specialty store. You can order a wide variety of meat bundles. They also provide catering for any event by providing a large variety of food options, beverages, desserts, and paper products at affordable prices. One of their most extensive services is their cookout trailers that can cook hotdogs, brats, burgers, steaks, and anything in between. They also have a B&B wagon outside the store during the summer to offer customers hotdogs, brats, and burgers all day. It's an excellent option for a quality lunch when you may be pressed for time or want to spend some time with the family.

Sep 17, 202304:05
Epic Nutrition - Behind Every Shake is a Friendly Face

Epic Nutrition - Behind Every Shake is a Friendly Face

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Epic Nutrition.

Next time you need to relax or warm up on a cool day, head to Northern Minnesota’s ONLY Himalayan salt room offers unique halotherapy in this fantastic Cloquet shake shop called Epic Nutrition located at 10 N. 12th Street! Epic Nutrition is under the new ownership of Syna Robinson who purchased the business this spring. A Proctor High School graduate who returned to the area after living in other states, is a new mom. Syna is fueled by the passion to promote wellness. Her academic degree is in health and wellness from UW-Superior where she played soccer. She is also a certified personal trainer and coach specializing in post-partum and prenatal fitness. All of these skills will leverage and help her grow this Epic Nutrition wellness business where she plans to incorporate challenges and coaching support.

“Meal replacement shakes are easier on your stomach in the mornings than a large meal, they make a light and easy breakfast,” said business owner Syna Robinson. Syna admits the most popular shakes are, “Anything with peanut butter in them – currently Peanut Butter with Heath is neck and neck with Smores with Peanut Butter.”

Epic Nutrition offers a full menu of protein shakes in various and specialty flavors such as Chunky Monkey, herbal teas (hot or cold), juice bar, and iced coffees! The products boost energy and metabolism. Epic Nutrition also offers beauty products by Nu Skin ranging from anti-aging skincare, body butter, firming cream, sole solutions, tanner, and toothpaste.

The Salt Room at Epic Nutrition is the newest health trend in the United States, Halotherapy. Some of the many benefits you’ll receive from the Halotherapy include:​

  • Abatement of bronchial inflammation
  • Removal of airborne pollen particles from airways
  • Strengthening of immune system that decreases allergic reaction to pollen
  • Cleansing and sanitation of the airways
  • Prevention & treatment of the common cold & flu
  • Improvement of dermatological disorders such as acne, dermatitis and psoriasis
  • Reduction of snoring
  • Better sleep
  • Reduction of anxiety

​Halotherapy has been around for hundreds of years in Europe. Thousands of salt rooms and caves are operating to provide salt therapy experiences. Halotherapy, or salt therapy, is a drug free and all natural, non-invasive treatment used to alleviate a multitude of health conditions.

Salt therapy appointments are taken on the hour and will last 45 minutes. The salt room is open Monday - Friday from 7 am - 3 pm and Saturday from 9 am - 1 pm. You can purchase single sessions or purchase a package of 3, 6, or 12 sessions for a discounted package price. They even offer a "Salt Room Spa Package." You can come to the salt room by yourself or come with a group. The salt room is a must-have experience.

Stop by and have a shake and tea, grab some whitening toothpaste and firming cream, and schedule an appointment in the salt room.

10 152th Street

Cloquet MN 55720

(218) 879-0971

Facebook: Click Here

Instagram: Click Here

Website: Click Here

Sep 17, 202304:41
Nu Luxe Salon Cloquet – Nu Location, Nu Options, Nu You!

Nu Luxe Salon Cloquet – Nu Location, Nu Options, Nu You!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Nu Luxe Salon. On July 5, 2023, Nu Luxe Salon opened their new Cloquet facility at 901 Stanley Avenue after being open along Hwy 33 since 2016.  The new facility offers a chic presentation with custom floors that are a must see, nine chairs, four private rooms for skin services, four sinks, and 2,000 square feet which is double the size of their former location.  Now across from Walmart, near Bearaboo Coffee Escape, and close to several food service options, it’s the perfect location to host your group.  “We can better accommodate our wedding parties in this space now,” said owner Bree Morton.  She currently employs one esthetician and seven stylists but could use two more with business demands!  

 

Locally owned and operated, offering various products and services to suit every style for men, women, and children. The salon is owned by Bree Morton, a stylist who married a Cloquet native and has a full life with four kids. Her team at Nu Luxe includes Dray, Hanna, Sam, and Meagan. They offer hair services, including Balayage coloring, are certified for Brazilian Blowouts, and Lahbee eyelash extensions and full body waxing. What you probably don’t know is that they are known for providing bridal updo hair services and makeup onsite and offsite, as well as reduced-price haircuts for military and public safety staff.

 

Perhaps most importantly if you’re wondering how to pronounce the business name, just say “new looks.”  Nu Luxe is open six days a week, with Sundays off.  Book your services today!

 

Nu Luxe Salon Cloquet

901 Stanley Avenue

Cloquet, MN 55720

Phone: (218) 878-1941 Email: nuluxesalon@gmail.com

 

Website: https://www.nuluxesalon.com/             

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nuluxesalon/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuluxesaloncloquet/

Aug 20, 202302:34
Shop on the Corner – A Gift Shop featuring the work of local artists and craftspeople, plus vintage and antiques!

Shop on the Corner – A Gift Shop featuring the work of local artists and craftspeople, plus vintage and antiques!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Shop on the Corner. Pam Hubbard opened Shop on the Corner at 612 Cloquet Avenue in downtown Cloquet just before the fourth of July in 2023.  Shop on the Corner is a specialty gift shop featuring local handmade products made by local artists and craftspeople.  They also offer vintage items, repurposed furniture and antiques.  In the future, they hope to add more Antiques and the Bergquist family will soon be adding Scandinavian products as well.  The customer following is growing with appreciation for the variety, reasonable prices, and beautiful store layout.

 

Hubbard, a talented graphic artist, sews, paints, makes hats, designs print letterhead and business cards, and sublimation design.  She grew up on the Iron Range in Aurora, Minnesota and has been in Cloquet for over sixteen years.  For the past five years, she has been an event planner coordinating craft shows at the Cloquet Armory and Pine Tree Plaza.

 

Shop on the Corner hosts over 75 vendors and is selective with artists they chose from, ensuring a good selection for men, women, and children.  Passionate entrepreneur Pam Hubbard says the Shop will offer classes and hopefully in the future she will get the commercial kitchen back into certified operation to offer deli sandwiches, soup, and French pressed coffee.

 

“I’ve always dreamed of owning a shop like this! There isn’t another art shop like this around for miles.  The dream of Shop on the Corner came together so quickly and naturally. Everything really fell into place like it was divine intervention. I feel so very blessed and a little lucky that I have great connections. I’ve always been a networker and I’m not afraid to talk to people, ask for help or put myself out there. I think I got that from my dad,” said owner Pam Hubbard.

 

Products from featured artists are ever changing so stop by today and follow the classes offered at the store online!

 

Shop on the Corner

612 Cloquet Avenue

Cloquet, MN 55720

Email: savoirfaire.artstudio@gmail.com

Website: https://www.allhandmadecraftshow.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopontheCorner.MN/

Aug 20, 202304:58
Cloquet’s Best Kept Secret the Moose Lodge 1274—Build Community and Find Your family!

Cloquet’s Best Kept Secret the Moose Lodge 1274—Build Community and Find Your family!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Moose Lodge 1274. The Moose Lodge is located in downtown Cloquet at 702 Cloquet Avenue is the Cloquet Moose Lodge 1274.  They have been located here since the 1970’s, prior to that they were located in the West End.  The building which can host an occupancy of 136 people is actually the historic fire department and the floors slightly slant towards the street – as illustrated by the pool table inside. 

 

Membership of Moose Lodge 1274 is vibrant and growing with over 400 men and women.  Membership is by invitation.  Most new members are empty nesters looking to give back to their community and to build community.  These folks often volunteer in the kitchen and work on Lodge events such as their golf tournament at Big Lake Golf Course and Cloquet Mini Golf event.

 

In Cloquet we saw firsthand that Moose Lodge 1274 members are people who like to help one another and have a good time.  Ever miss small-town American and wonder where it’s gone to?  GET HERE.  They are hosting Friday night bingo, Wednesday card night, a Tuesday night member cash drawing, a Monday night meat raffle, and participate in citywide pool and dart leagues.  They are rooted in community service with international purpose.  The Cloquet Moose Lodge has food and a bar that helps generate funding to maintain the building and taxes.  The only two paid positions are the bartender and gaming staff.  Last year along, gaming proceeds raised at the Cloquet Moose Lodge 1274 brought in $59,000 in donations for local community organizations – such as area robotics teams, and support for schools projects.  Members can rent the building for showers, funeral luncheons, and other space needs.  Its currently $40/year to become a member plus the initial $20 application fee.

 

“We care for each other like a family,” said Cloquet Moose Lodge 1274 Administrator Patti Haus member since the age of 21 whose father has Pilgrim Moose Lodge status, meaning he’s been a member for over 50 years. “I’m on an International Moose Lodge Board, I know people in every state,” said Haus.

 

Have you ever wondered what is the Moose Lodge all about? In short, they are a fraternal organization that serves children and seniors in need.  The Moose is an international organization with membership in Canada and England.  If you are a Moose Lodge member, you can visit any Moose Lodge across the country or internationally.  Funding they raise supports many activities but we want to note Mooseheart located west of Chicago, a facility for children without parents with a private school and activity center on a 1,000 acre campus referred to as a Child City and home for children and teens in need from infancy through high school.  There is also Moosehaven for seniors located in Orange Park, Florida a retirement community for Moose members with over 15 years of membership.


Loyal Order of Moose – Cloquet Moose Lodge 1274

702 Cloquet Avenue Cloquet, MN 55720

Phone: (218) 879-8423

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cloquet-Moose-Lodge-1274/210222412519908

Website Cloquet: https://www.mooseintl.org/location/1274-cloquet/

Website International: https://www.mooseintl.org/

Aug 20, 202304:19
Laugh and Learn - 4 Star Parent Aware Rated

Laugh and Learn - 4 Star Parent Aware Rated

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Laugh and Learn.


Laugh & Learn Childcare Center now has two locations in Cloquet. The original location of 1506 Washington Avenue is for infants and toddlers. There are two infant rooms, one toddler room, and one school-aged room. The new location is 1000 Washington Avenue had three preschool classrooms. With this recent expansion, they created 20 infant spots, seven toddler spots, and 41 preschool spots.    


Business owner Stacy Pohjola graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Superior in 2009 with an elementary education degree. 


Stacy also worked at University Nursery School in Duluth and landed in Cloquet as the Director at All We Can Be on Doddridge Avenue. She opened her business Laugh & Learn, on January 2, 2013, and today operates three buildings with over 35 staff and lease space in Hermantown’s Salem Lutheran. She recently purchased her Washington Avenue building and opened a new lease space inside Cloquet’s Zion Lutheran Church. 

“Our staffing is solid,” shared Pohjola.

Laugh & Learn Childcare Center is a four-star Parent Aware-rated facility for over eight years. They have a daily curriculum, conferences offered twice yearly, daily outside time, nutritious, catered meals, and kind, caring staff.“ We conduct conferences, monitor school readiness, and have an array of teaching styles we use. Because we participate in Parent Aware, Minnesota’s quality rating and improvement system, we are regionally eligible for scholarships for families at the poverty level offering up to $12,500 which is extremely helpful in this area,” said Pohjola.


Give them a call to learn more today!

Jul 24, 202303:38
TrueJourney Advisors - Cameron Nelson - Invest in What Matters

TrueJourney Advisors - Cameron Nelson - Invest in What Matters

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of TrueJourney Advisors - Cameron Nelson. Cameron Nelson opened his Cloquet office of TrueJourney this year in the Union Lofts building downtown. Cameron offers over twenty years of experience in investment planning and management and other financial services. TrueJourney is a Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network entity that offers independent offices additional marketing and compliance support.

“My company’s slogan is Invest in What Matters. I love that because it’s exactly what I work with my clients to achieve. What matters to one person is completely different than what matters to the next. It is my job to make sure we pinpoint exactly what is important to each client in order to move forward with a plan that will honor and safeguard those values,” said Cameron Nelson, Financial Advisor -Managing Director of the Cloquet TrueJourney office.Christine Schmidt, a Client Service Manager with extensive knowledge in the industry, joins Cameron. Both pride themselves on being available for calls and questions. They both love their downtown Cloquet office location and find it supports them in work-life balance and client access. Cameron shared, “I feel fortunate to have colleagues in this business who do a great job for their clients and represent this industry with dignity and a strong sense of responsibility. Living in a small town, we must support each other. There is plenty of room for all of us to succeed in making a positive difference for our clients.”

We asked Cameron and Christine what they offer clients and they responded, “Peace of mind.” Christine shared that taking care of people is her passion. Cameron shared that his niche is caring for people like he would care for his parents. “My goal is to deliver exceptional service. I go above and beyond in assisting my clients, it’s all about building relationships and understanding their financial goals.” He then shared, “I work with all kinds of clients, but I have a special place in my heart for helping those who have recently lost a spouse. I work hard to ensure that the role I play in handling the business side of things eases the burden for my widowed clients during a tremendously difficult time.”Cameron and Christine suggest that you introduce yourself to them next time you see them out at the grocery store or at a networking event. They love to meet new people and make connections.

Jul 23, 202304:38
Adolphson Real Estate - Helping the "Northland" Find Home

Adolphson Real Estate - Helping the "Northland" Find Home

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Adolphson Real Estate. Locally owned with office locations in Cloquet and Hermantown, Adolphson Real Estate was established in 1991 by Les Adolphson to serve the Twin Ports region, Northeast Minnesota, and Northwest Wisconsin. Adolphson has 32 licensed and experienced sales associates to assist with residential and commercial real estate transactions in a personal and professional way. Several associates are dual-licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Adolphson staff are engaged and active members of the Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce, the Duluth Area Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors, the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Hermantown Chamber of Commerce.

Adolphson's Mission Statement: The foremost objective at Adolphson Real Estate is to uphold our reputable high integrity by providing thorough and professional service to our primary interest, the client. Buying your first home can be a confusing process. It doesn’t have to be when you work with a professional realtor and do your homework. Adolphson Realtors can take you through each step of the process to ensure you find the right home for your lifestyle and budget. “We specialize in serving our clients, our business has grown by business referrals and repeat clients. We help educate our buyers and sellers and guide them in building wealth,” said Associate Gerald Gorbet.

“It’s a family atmosphere and a cohesive office with a sense of loyalty, we cover showings and the office for one another because we understand that life happens. Ultimately, Les is the broker and we represent him and are proud to work here,” said Associate Julie Antonutti.

“A trend that we have seen is the growth in FSBO (for sale by owner) listings, one thing to keep in mind for sellers is that agents offer ten times the network exposure for your property. We priced ourselves in match making and helping people build their dreams,” said Associate Cheryl Beck.


Adolphson Real Estate offers:·

A FREE market analysis.·

A personalized marketing plan for the sale of your home.·

Can show you any of the properties listed in the multiple listing area.·

Buyer Representation.·

Can answer your new buyer questions.·

Can REFER you to reputable real estate brokers outside our area.·

Have specialists in commercial real estate, land, lake property and residential sales!

Contact Adolphson Real Estate today! https://adolphsonrealestate.com/

Jul 23, 202304:31
Cloquet Public Schools - Small Town Feel Offering Big City Amenities

Cloquet Public Schools - Small Town Feel Offering Big City Amenities

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Cloquet Public Schools.


With over 400 full and part-time staff supporting over 2,500 students, Cloquet Public Schools (ISD 94) is an unhidden gem that provides an excellent option with supportive staff and a comprehensive range of programs and activities. Cloquet Public Schools has lots of opportunities in which you feel part of the community. “We have the most comprehensive programming offered in Carlton County; it’s comparable to offerings in the Twin Cities metro school districts but in a small town,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael Cary. Because of its strong reputation, Cloquet Public Schools attract students outside the ISD 94 boundaries. Both elementary schools are award-winning, Washington (Elementary Principals Association) and Churchill (Nation Blue Ribbon Schools Program), and Cloquet Middle School’s Tom Brenner was named Principal of the Year for the State of Minnesota.

Superintendent Dr. Michael Cary shared, “When I was interviewing for this position, I asked around, and everyone had such great things to say about the Cloquet Public Schools; I interviewed, and the rest is history.” Dr. Cary said that Cloquet Public Schools has been able to attract and retain good staff and families by offering a reasonable compensation package and high quality of life. Inclusion is also a key element of Cloquet Public Schools as they provide American Education in elementary and several levels of Ojibwe language in high school. Cloquet Public Schools provides additional educational support and is intentional across their curriculum to integrate and actively reflect upon Native American history. Their graduation ceremonies incorporate cultural traditions, including beaded sashes and eagle feathers.

Cloquet Public Schools offers small class sizes for elementary students and older students and provides a range of courses, including electives and courses for college credit. Cloquet Public Schools has invested significantly in Career and Technical Education (CTE) and partnered with the Trades to successfully poise students for the workforce. The CTE Department promotes automotive, woodworking, metals, and their creative Lumberjack Design and Fabrication Lab productions. These investments, such as the 3D print machine and CNC machine, were made by leveraging a regional cooperative schools equipment grant and then financially adjusting existing debt payoff and bonding for renovations within the Cloquet High School at no added expense to the taxpayers.

Cloquet Public Schools offers students a wide range of extracurricular activities in sports and the arts. Notably, the Cloquet Public Schools is constructing a new outdoor physical activity complex that will:

  • add turf for football, soccer, and lacrosse programs
  • add four additional tennis courts supporting physical education classes and enabling the school to host future tournaments, better circulate competitive teams; and
  • rehaul the track

The construction of this project will be done with no additional input of taxpayer money beyond existing state aid, as the school district will use some ARPA funding received during the pandemic and has a private sponsorship for a substantial portion of the project.If you're new to the region or considering school systems, Cloquet Public Schools provides an excellent option with supportive staff and a comprehensive range of programs and activities. The school system is nicely sized to provide a small town feel with the amenities and courses of a larger district.

Cloquet Public Schools

302 14th Street Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 879-6721

Website: Click Here

Facebook: Click Here

Jul 17, 202304:59
Hup Family Dentistry - Actively Taking New Patients

Hup Family Dentistry - Actively Taking New Patients

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Hup Family Dentistry.

Hup Family Dentistry is located at 1419 Cloquet Avenue and was purchased by Rebecca Hup in April 2021 (from Gunelson Dental). She has six employees and is actively taking new patients from as far away as Ely, McGregor, and Mountain Iron. She lived near Salem, SD, and practiced in Laverne, MN, for ten years before moving north.

When she was growing up, Rebecca had severe allergies; at the time, sugary medications were prescribed as the solution. The result was that at an early age, she had to have all her teeth pulled and found herself under the care of a pediatric dentist. Her experience led her to admire her dentist, and she wanted to be just like him; he was so inspirational that he led over 30 patients to become dentists. he was born in a small town and likes caring for people; she doesn’t want to sell patients something they don’t need or want. With the provider shortage in the area, her goal is to provide quality basic dental care for her customers, which she is passionate about. Rebecca is a talented businesswoman with goals, “I have a five-year plan and a ten-year plan for Hup Family Dentistry,” she said. Her current focus has been reinvestment into dental equipment and power chairs, which has been significant. Hup Family Dentistry provides preventative and restorative dental care, offers crowns, bridges, and dentures, and provides teeth whitening services and children’s dental care. She shared that they offer Sure Smile, restore, implants, laser, and provide same-day crowns. Check them out today!


Hup Family Dentistry1419 Cloquet Ave. Cloquet, MN 55720Open Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Website: https://www.hupfamilydentistry.com/Email: hupfamilydentistrydesk@gmail.com Phone: (218) 210-0252 or (218) 879-3341Request an appointment https://www.hupfamilydentistry.com/request-appointment-form

Jul 07, 202304:27
Cloquet Automotive - Your Transmission Fixed Right The First Time For A Long Time

Cloquet Automotive - Your Transmission Fixed Right The First Time For A Long Time

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Cloquet Automotive.

Cloquet Automotive has operated in business in Cloquet since 1982. Bruce Becker worked here starting in 1982 after gaining education and experience working with heavy equipment and machinery. He purchased Cloquet Automotive in January 1988 from former owner Dick Shikes and expanded the building in 2002, doubling its size. “The more you take on, the more space you need,” said Becker. As such, they specialize in manual and automatic drive transmissions, differentials, and transfer cases; they do not do alignments.  


Becker currently has two employees, himself and his son Kyle Becker, but typically employs four people. With the shortage of automotive techs across the United States, finding a skilled workforce has been challenging. Supply chain inconsistencies have led to more patient customers after the pandemic.


“Since the pandemic, the business has been overwhelming, with average repair shops not having the ability to custom build transmissions or make H.D. changes better than the original units. H.D. option parts allow us here to fix the vehicles better than the way they came from the factory,” said owner Bruce Becker. 

Becker explained that in the last five to ten years, repair shops have taken on transmission work via “boxed transmission units.” The differentiator is that Cloquet Automotive offers customization of transmissions with quality parts.


Cloquet Automotive has built its business on word of mouth and maintains a quality website. They offer the following services:   

  • Transmission Rebuild & Repair Service
  • Differential Repair & Service 
  • Battery and Charging System
  • Belts and Hoses
  • Brake Inspections & Repair Service
  • Clutch Repair & Service
  • Drivetrain Service & Repair
  • Oil, Fluid & Filter Change Service
  • Fuel & Electrical Systems Services
  • Heating & Cooling Systems services
  • Engine Repair & Service
  • Suspension service and repair

Jun 29, 202304:40
Members Cooperative Credit Union - All Your Financial Needs Covered Under One Roof

Members Cooperative Credit Union - All Your Financial Needs Covered Under One Roof

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Members Cooperative Credit Union.

Members Cooperative Credit Union (MCCU) was formed in 1936 from a group of eight people in the Cloquet area, seven men and one woman, who envisioned a better way of getting the financial services that their community needed. They became the charter members of Cloquet Co-op Credit Union, and each person deposited $5 and formed the organization with just $40 in capital.


Today with over 53,000 members and 250 staff, MCCU is the largest credit union north of the Twin Cities. They continue to grow with twelve locations, adding branches and expanding into Duluth, McGregor, Aitkin, Brainerd Lakes Area, and Baxter. In 2015, they merged with Lake State Credit Union adding Moose Lake Sandstone, North Branch, and Isanti locations. In 2017, they merged with Lakes Area Federal Credit Union, adding Grand Rapids. Growth has been proactive and necessary as credit unions compete with banks. MCCU is always looking to expand to serve and seek opportunities to build value in non-saturated lending markets. “MCCU has a person-centered mission; our base and culture are very nimble over banks. We are deliberate about growth and look for opportunities that align with our philosophy and people that fit our leadership,” said Marketing Director Lara Wilkinson.


We took in the beautiful building of the newly constructed Cloquet MCCU Office at 1299 Hwy 33 South, which felt like we were delicately placed in nature. “We designed this building to reflect the Frank Lloyd Wright heritage and architecture of this site,” said Wilkinson. The Cloquet Office site is located on the site of the former Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homestead called Mantyla, a house among the pines in Finnish. Wright designed this former homesite and gas station in Cloquet for the Lindholm family.


MCCU has boldly contributed to countless charities, causes, and special events. MCCU has a community-centered philosophy. As a not-for-profit credit union, MCCU is not in business to make money for a handful of shareholders; they are in business to serve members with a myriad of full-suite personal and commercial products and hometown service. There is much pride in MCCU ownership and openness as a result. “We operate on profit and loss, not commissions,” said Wilkinson.


MCCU offers excellent products and technology, along with several benefit membership perks. They have worked hard to keep pace with changing technology offering video banking but are still human in customer service.

Jun 22, 202303:37
Northwoods Credit Union - We Look For Ways To Say Yes

Northwoods Credit Union - We Look For Ways To Say Yes

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Northwoods Credit Union.

Northwoods Credit Union (NCU) started in 1936 in a small trailer on the Northwest Paper Company property in Cloquet. Five paper mill employees began the credit union with a vision to offer fairly priced products and excellent member service to their hard-working blue-collar coworkers. NCU remained at the Cloquet Paper Mill location from 1936 – 1996 until they moved off-site to their Avenue B location.  


Since then, NCU has continued to expand with over 12,000 members and a staff of 55. In 2007 their community charter was opened for banking common services. They now have three Cloquet locations, one on Avenue B near Sappi, one on Stanley Avenue near Walmart, and one on Tall Pine Lane, which houses their back-office staff. Their Stanley Avenue location offers consumer loans, while their Avenue B location offers mortgage loans. They also have a Moose Lake location which houses a mortgage representative, call center, collections department, and financial planners, and then have a Floodwood location which was acquired via a merger in 2018.  


Credit unions in Minnesota date to the 1930s when they were formed for financial improvement for members in a cooperative to lend to one another. Today, if you live, work, go to school, volunteer, or attend church in the following counties or townships of Carlton County; Pine County; St Louis County; Townships: Feeley, Wawina, Goodland, Ball Bluff, and Unorganized Township 52-22, you are now eligible to open an account at NCU. Additionally, you may join NCU if you live in the same household as a current member, including but not limited to the spouse of a member, the blood or adoptive relatives of them, and their spouses may be members. You may join if employed by one of our Select Employer Groups: https://www.northwoodscu.org/our-story-and-membership/.   


NCU provides consumer lending, not commercial lending. So what makes NCU unique? CEO Doug Wolf says the answer is “how we do lending; it is very gratifying. We look for ways to say yes. We strive to be distinct and don’t lend on credit scores; our lending process takes longer because we take the time to get to know our members and put them back on track, working to lend to those with less than stealer credit scores.” Wolf shared that operating costs are higher compared to NCU assets which are unique. When it comes time to hire, Wolf shared, “we hire people that reflect our values.”  


NCU values are summarized as the “Northwoods Spice” perfectly blended for member service, with the ingredients of servant mentality, progressive thinking, integrity, compassion, and empathy, and best if used every day.

NCU exists to support its members and member community. In 2013, they stepped up to support via naming rights the Northwoods Credit Union Arena; they recently also supported the Cloquet Library expansion for a period of ten years, invested in Carlton’s Four Seasons Mini Mites, and donated towards the scoreboards for Cloquet High School baseball as a few examples—they locally co-sponsor Senior Day with Reliable Insurance. Wolf says, “We do things because it is the right thing to do. This is our community.”  

Jun 15, 202304:42
Diamond Willow - Age in Place Assisted Living & Memory Care

Diamond Willow - Age in Place Assisted Living & Memory Care

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Diamond Willow.

Diamond Willow provides independent Assisted Living, Memory Care, and hospice care under one roof. Residents can age in place and never have to leave (as nursing home and hospice care are provided as needs advance). Diamond Willow has ten facilities in the region, plus Key Stone Bluffs, and employs a total of 300-400 staff. Proctor is the oldest facility, constructed in 2004, and the Cloquet facility was built in 2008. They then added Lester Park, Baxter, Alexandria, and more.  


The Cloquet facility was modeled to be built to be backed up into nature. With 30 employees, Cloquet is a star facility fully staffed, with good staff, under solid leadership. “Bigger isn’t always better,” said Samantha Anderson, the Onsite Manager/Administrator of Diamond Willow Cloquet. The setting is designed for fewer residents per suite. 

This design allows Diamond Willow to implement their model of care, person-centered care, in a home-like setting. Only 8-16 residents per home are provided the ultimate care by an integrated team of direct care staff, an onsite leadership team, and site-based registered nurses - all of whom work collaboratively to deliver the best-assisted living services.  


We met with passionate employees Samantha Anderson and Rudy Harvey. “At Diamond Willow, we are always admitting and hiring, and there are opportunities for CNAs, RNs, and LPNs at our facilities,” said Rudy Harvey, Admissions Director. We learned a lot about elder health care; not everything is apples to apples. Diamond Willow is proud to provide acuity staffing versus a price tag for care service. 

The care provided is census driven, so their staffing ratios for Cloquet are 6:1 (residents to staff). For private clients, they offer a flat rate with inclusive services versus other similar facilities which operate on point systems (points increase on care needs).


Interestingly, or perhaps ignorantly, we learned that Medicare stopped paying for nursing home care in 2004. “There is no boot camp for elder care education, you learn the process by assisting your parents, or you watch your parents help your grandparents. We need to better educate people at 60 and 70 on care options. There are two ways you gain entrance into our facility, that is by elderly waiver or private pay. Many elders stay at home in unsafe situations even though they are paying for long-term care insurance,” said Rudy Harvey. To learn more, contact them today.


Diamond Willow

130 W. North Road

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 878-1212

Website: https://diamondwillow.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiamondWillowCloquet/ 

Apr 29, 202304:52
Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce - Putting Relationships at the Forefront of Business

Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce - Putting Relationships at the Forefront of Business

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce is located at 225 Sunnyside Drive in Cloquet. Their mission is to add value to members by leading, informing, and advocating business interests. Their competitive niche is gathering people together to network and strengthen personal and business connections. Kelly Zink is the President of the Chamber, and Alyson Leno is the Chamber Office Manager. 

 

The Chamber also hosts various committees, programs, and educational opportunities. Chamber events currently include Chamber Chat (monthly luncheon), Chamber Cheers (end of the workday business open houses), the Leadership Program, Craft, Art and Vendor Fair, Annual Meeting, Home, Business and Sport Show, Golf Outing, Easter Coloring Contest, Christmas Lighting Challenge, and more. The Chamber also features Chamber Spotlights on businesses and organizations to market them. 

 

With five generations spanning our current workforce, member participation builds relationships and increases your visibility. People are likelier to do business with people they know, like, and trust. As a membership and member services organization, referrals are made to other Chamber members.  

 

We live where people vacation, and luckily the Chamber is also poised to help navigate tourism questions about the area by hosting the Visit Cloquet website: https://www.visitcloquet.com/ 

 

Get involved, attend an event, and grow your local business relationships!

Apr 29, 202303:45
Frandsen Bank and Trust - Real People. Real Results.

Frandsen Bank and Trust - Real People. Real Results.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Frandsen Bank and Trust.  

Frandsen Bank & Trust - Cloquet is located at 712 Highway 33 South in their fully remodeled facility to support growing staff. We sat down with President Mark Lanigan and Senior Vice President Joanne Treviranus to hear about what gives them energy each day and then toured the building and greeted staff.


The Cloquet Bank was purchased by Frandsen in 2009 and has doubled in size in the last three years with nineteen employees. Much of the regional growth of Frandsen Bank & Trust facilities stems from the support of the Cloquet office as the main hub. Cloquet Frandsen Bank & Trust staff are heavily involved in community groups and activities and are supported to do so.  


“At Fransen Bank & Trust, it’s all about getting behind your people and running on strengths, relationships are key, and our banking is not transactional,” said Mark Lanigan, President of Cloquet Frandsen Bank & Trust. “I love what I do, I like the variety of my job, and every day is different,” said Senior Vice President Joanne Treviranus. 

Lanigan shared that advisory banking is his passion for taking businesses to the next level and building wealth for business owners.   


Frandsen Bank & Trust offers community banking focused on personal banking, business banking, mortgage services, investment services, and wealth management planning. Frandsen Bank & Trust was launched in 1981 by Dennis Frandsen with the purchase of a bank in Luck, WI, and was founded in 1982, growing into what is today Frandsen Financial Corporation (FFC), a bank holding company with over 37 locations in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. FFC is based in Arden Hills, Minnesota.  


Dennis Frandsen’s philosophy is to let talented business people run his companies with the same entrepreneurial spirit that he has. His business entities have a reputation for honesty, fairness, and accountability. He allows senior management to run the businesses and has been recognized as one of Minnesota’s leading entrepreneurs. By employee opinion, Frandsen Bank & Trust has earned the Star Tribune Top Workplace for five consecutive years.  


Dennis Frandsen is also philanthropic, enhancing both technical school opportunities and high school academics. First, he funds two-year scholarships to technical college for every graduate of the high schools in Braham, Pine City, and Rush City, Minnesota, and Frederic and Luck, Wisconsin. Secondly, he funds a program called Frandsen Forward, a program that will award each of the six Minnesota high schools a $2,500 grant to enhance academic or extracurricular and community programs. Two schools will have their grant upgraded to $5,000. High school students, teachers, and staff members across Minnesota will be encouraged to apply for the grants by telling a compelling story for a specific project to enhance and increase their high school and community.


There is a need for talented young bankers in this area and jobs available, inquire at Fransen Bank & Trust for more details!  


FRANDSEN BANK & TRUST

712 MN-33

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 879-6000

https://www.frandsenbank.com/locations/cloquet/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=yext

https://www.facebook.com/FrandsenBank 

https://www.frandsenbank.com/about-us/frandsen-forward/

Apr 29, 202304:44
Woodlands National Bank - Experience The Woodlands Way!

Woodlands National Bank - Experience The Woodlands Way!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Woodlands National Bank.

Woodlands National Bank is located at 240 North Road in Cloquet. Owned by the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe as part of their economic diversification program, Woodlands National Bank is headquartered in Onamia, Minnesota, with seven banking locations spanning from Minneapolis northward to serve your needs. The bank was founded in 1908 and is the only minority-owned bank in Minnesota. They are also uniquely designated as a preferred lender and servicer with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), which allows them to streamline the process of reviews and approvals with standard operating procedures in place, reducing other packaging.

 

While banks generally have similar products for personal and commercial banking, personal relationships and local decision-making in financial needs are what sets them apart. Their staff is trained to think outside the box on options to do things differently than competitors. Their customer base has grown primarily through referrals who have had positive experiences working with the bank.  

 

In 2016 Woodlands National Bank was also named the Minnesota Commercial Lender of the Year with their commitment to putting dollars and jobs into Minnesota. Woodlands strives to partner on deals in the community. A new banking product they are proud to share is the business's fast cash loans ranging from $10,000 - $100,000 for working capital, equipment, and inventory with a simple application and quick turnaround. 

Criteria for this loan include:

  • Being in business for three years.
  • Having a credit score of 690 or higher.
  • Revenues over $100,000.

Interestingly, applicants don't need to be current customers but do need to be registered businesses in Minnesota. 

 

We met with Jamie Langhorst, Commercial Services Banker, and Shanna Wolf, Commercial Portfolio Manager. 

They reflected on the COVID-19 pandemic when all banks were closed, except for minority-owned banks in the United States. During the pandemic, staff was contacted by businesses across the country for SBA program aid to weather the business disruptions. The team dedicated long days, often working until midnight and weekends, ultimately approving over 1,000 SBA loans totaling $80 million for businesses nationwide. This also led to the Cloquet office gaining nationwide customers due to their customer service to businesses during the pandemic.  

 

With a gracious and fun working atmosphere, the average staff tenure is eight years, while officer staff tenure is twelve years. Woodlands National Bank allows staff to be active in their communities through volunteerism. Stop into their Cloquet office today to learn about personal and business banking opportunities!

Apr 29, 202304:33
Compensation Consultants LTD - Claims Administration with a Personal Approach

Compensation Consultants LTD - Claims Administration with a Personal Approach

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Compensation Consultants LTD. Shawn Wolverton’s father, Jon, and his business partner Diane Mitchell launched Compensation Consultants, Ltd. in 1987. Their office is located at 807 Cloquet Avenue, where they have been located since opening the business. Today Compensation Consultants comprises four local staff Shawn, Paul, Rose, and Nicole, providing top-notch customer service.

Compensation Consultants is a non-insurance affiliated contract administration service provider that administrates flexible savings accounts (FSA), health reimbursement accounts (HRA), voluntary employee beneficiary association (VEBA), health savings accounts (HAS), and continuation of health coverage (COBRA). Their work is focused on assisting employees in understanding how to utilize their employer’s benefit programs. “It’s rewarding to provide customer service; that’s our reputation,” said Shawn Wolverton, business owner. They also provide tools and resources to employees to leverage their employer’s benefit programs, such as consumer portals, debit cards to pay for qualified plan expenses on the spot, and website tools summarizing eligible spending products which accept payments from their debit cards or major credit cards.

Their busiest time of year is during open enrollment periods, which leads to significant travel and employee meetings. In this region and state, there are certainly larger contract administration service organizations, but their customer service reputation sets Compensation Consultants apart from their competition.

Compensation Consultants has over 200 clients and serves roughly 7,500 employee participants. “Ninety percent of our business is within a 150-mile radius of Cloquet,” said owner Shawn Wolverton.

Apr 29, 202303:42
Brittany Olson Insurance Agency - Leading with Respect and Responsiveness

Brittany Olson Insurance Agency - Leading with Respect and Responsiveness

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Brittany Olson Insurance Agency. Brittany Olson Dahl, owner, and agent of the Brittany Olson Insurance Agency in Cloquet, grew up in North Branch, MN, where she, at a young age, helped her grandpa and mom file insurance paperwork which was the family business. Her grandfather and mother were both independent insurance agents and insurance agency owners. Her grandmother cared for her while they worked, and she learned the insurance business from her family. As she does now, Brittany knew then how critical it is to have a relationship with an insurance agent who can advocate on your behalf.


She "officially" started in the insurance industry in 2004 - acquiring her Property, Casualty, Life, Health, and Accident licenses. She is licensed to sell insurance in MN, WI, and AZ. She is also NFIP certified to sell Flood Insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program.


Brittany Olson Insurance Agency has been in Cloquet for five years and is located in the Lumberjack Mall at 707 Hwy 33 South, in newly remodeled Suite 11. She is joined by her talent staff John and Tara, who actively assist insurance clients. In recent years she has gained clients who have had bad experiences online purchasing insurance and needed to understand that they were underinsured, making decisions only to save money with minimum coverages. Communication with an agent is vital, and Brittany sits down with every client individually and, together with the client, designs a policy that meets their insurance goals and financial needs.


Brittany shared there are misconceptions about insurance agents. Instead of buying directly from a company or specific online policy, insurance agents help you purchase insurance that meets your unique needs and examine multiple carriers for the best options. Proper coverages for insurance are critical and need to be reviewed.

Every person's needs are different, and insurance agents are your partner. "Responsiveness isn't taught, this is who I am, and insurance is what I know," said Olson.

She loves officing in Cloquet after moving to this area five years ago. She enjoys time with her family on their Angus farm in Tamarack and keeps busy attending her children's sporting events. Contact Brittany Olson Insurance today for more information.

Apr 29, 202305:22
Birch and Pine Counseling - Breathing New Life & Creating New Roots

Birch and Pine Counseling - Breathing New Life & Creating New Roots

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Birch and Pine Counseling. Birch and Pine Counseling opened in August 2022 at 1618 Cloquet Avenue. Primarily a group of original Cloquet natives educated in the region, who passionately banded together to counsel, teach, and mentor by launching a clinic believing that quality mental health care should be available in Cloquet directly. They have a full staff including Ashley Rhoads, Bailey Homstad, Sharlene Santmyer, Patty Grigsby, Alan Haney, Rachel Willgohs, Nicole Collins, Nicole Loukes, Katie Walkowiak, and more.

They stand on the mission that their clinic provides community health, which is much more than a private counseling practice. 

Their offices are approachable and down to earth, and the setting is comfortable and feels like home. They strive to place their client’s needs first and work to meet those individual needs by working as a team. Their staff also goes offsite. You may also find them working in various school districts, such as Esko, Wrenshall, and Northern Lights Academy. 

As such, their approach to mental health strives to also build outside support networks from teachers, coaches, pastors, and more.

There is anxiety in daily life at all ages, and it is hard to ask for help. That’s why Birch and Pine’s staff are here to help through the challenges of depression, grief, parent burn-out, trauma, early childhood challenges, anger management, drug and alcohol addictions, and more. Their staff works to help families, individuals, and couples through the challenges they face.


 Birch and Pine Counseling, PLLP

1618 Cloquet Ave, Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 451-2116

https://www.bpcounseling.info/

https://www.facebook.com/BirchandPineCounseling

Apr 28, 202304:05
Transfurmation Training and Grooming - Your Dog Grooming and Training Specialists!

Transfurmation Training and Grooming - Your Dog Grooming and Training Specialists!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Transfurmation Training and Grooming. Located at 5 N 15th Street (in the same building as Skutevik's Floral - with their main door along 15th Street), Transfurmation Training & Grooming is your Dog Grooming and Training Specialists! Emily Boulanger and Liam May opened Transfurmation Training & Grooming in Cloquet to fill the niche of dog grooming and training services customized for your pet. Emily specializes in grooming big dogs and is gifted in working with them through anxieties. She is now accepting cats for grooming as well. Emily is certified in AKC S.A.F.E. Handling and has been professionally grooming since 2017.

Grooming is done onsite to provide your pet with a safe, calm, and cozy experience. Pricing varies on the breed, size of the dog, haircut style, temperament of the dog, and the condition of the coat, so contact them directly for a quote. Full grooms provide:

  •  Thorough bath with high-quality shampoos and conditioners
  •  Fully hand-drying your pet's coat
  •  Coat treatments, if applicable
  •  Full haircut, trim, and/or style appropriate to your dog's coat type and your personal preference
  •  Nails trimmed and filed
  •  Ears cleaned (and plucked if applicable)

Liam is a gifted and passionate dog trainer offering onsite training services in their physical location or mobile training where the training is done where you are. Packages include:

  • Mobile one on one training (in-home and outside) 
  • Puppy packages (for six months and younger) focused on potty training, leash walking, and basic commands such as sit, down, stay, recall, and puppy behavioral mentoring.  
  • Basic Obedience training, including leash, crate, and behavioral corrections.
  • Advanced Obedience training  
  • Anxiety & Aggression Rehabilitation
  • Service Dog Training
  • Various Group training classes

Transfurmation Training & Grooming is proudly an LGBQT+-owned and operated facility serving the Twin Ports and surrounding areas. Check them out today! 

Transfurmation Training and Grooming

5 N 15th Street, Cloquet MN 55720

Mar 31, 202303:24
Lacuna Massage - Your Local Relaxation Escape

Lacuna Massage - Your Local Relaxation Escape

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Lacuna Massage. Lacuna Massage is owned and operated by Kimberly Christine and is located at 1111 Cloquet Avenue, Suite 1. She chose her business theme to resemble an escape to the beach for relaxation and self-care. Lacuna Massage was launched in August 2022 and is open by appointment only, offering a wide array of services from Ayurveda, Swedish, therapeutic, medical, and chair massages to Reiki healing, educational classes, the use of oils, and more. Her website and Facebook page feature Anti-Cellulite Massage, Spa Hand or Feet Warmers, Reiki Certification classes, hot stone massage, hot oil scalp massage, corporate chair massages for business employees, and animal massage. “This downtown building has great potential and other office space for rent if others are looking,” says Kimberly.

Kimberly grew up in Duluth and graduated from Denfeld High School. She’s lived around the country since then and recently has returned “home.”  During her journeys across the country, she worked on theater production crews and costume design for productions such as Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group. After years of bending her neck in costume designing, hairdressing, stage design, and more, she developed tendinitis in her hands and a bulging disc in her neck. That led her to her journey of self-care and learning the art of massage. Her former husband was from India and introduced her to Ayurveda massage, and on tours to India, she took classes on this technique. She explained that Ayurveda is the science of life, an ancient form of health and wellness, and was how doctors used herbs to diagnose people. It’s based on the life elements of air, fire, water, and earth. She’s passionate about Reiki using energy to heal physically and emotionally.

As a talented seamstress, she also has the hobby of designing dog costumes and is an experienced ghost tour-er launching a business providing ghost tours through Canal Park (https://duluthghosttours.com/). We are lucky to have this creative in our mix. Visit Kimberly Christine to find your relaxation escape today!

Phone: (323) 863-6681; Email: escape@lacunamassage.com

Website: https://lacunamassages.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lacunamassagecloquet

Mar 17, 202304:08
Holy Smokes Catering - Good Meat Doesn't Need Sauce

Holy Smokes Catering - Good Meat Doesn't Need Sauce

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Holy Smokes Catering.  Lee and Julie Harris recently purchased 1101 Avenue B in Cloquet and are building a commercial kitchen space in the former Viking Lumber.

After working as medical professionals for decades, they pulled the plug, switched gears to face their calling, and launched the dream of a meat-smoking catering and food truck business.

After they purchased a food truck, they realized how critical having storage for it is and examined pole-building options on their property.  Eventually, they decided to sell their Esko home and purchase a building in downtown Cloquet, creating their own home on the second level and building the commercial kitchen on the main floor.  With the time smoking takes, you must be around to monitor the meat.  Therefore making their home onsite with the business became the logical goal.

As Lee Harris informed us, “Good Meat Doesn’t Need Sauce.”  They specialize in smoking pork and beef and do not choose to work with chicken as it tends to become too dry during the smoking process.

They make their own seasonings and are known for their authentic quality.  Their niche comes from their process, 100% wood-fired smoked meat.  They don’t’ add smoked flavoring (liquids often added to fires).  Their work is artistic and all in their hands.  Their meat is priced by the pound, not per person, and they can inform you of how many people are fed by volume.

Down the road, they may have commercial kitchen space available for rent, perhaps even a restaurant opportunity in the future as well.  For now, they are focused on their food truck business, which can often be found open onsite at their Cloquet business, and book catering events.  Check them out.  You won’t be disappointed!
Mar 09, 202304:31
Heather's Cafe - Where Breakfast is Served All-Day, and Our Customers are Friends!

Heather's Cafe - Where Breakfast is Served All-Day, and Our Customers are Friends!

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Heather's Café. Looking for that small town American café experience in downtown Mayberry? We’ve got you covered, welcome to Heather’s Café, owned by Heather Gist, located at 1304 Cloquet Avenue. Heather’s Café is open weekdays offering destination breakfast and lunch specials for dine-in or takeout (no delivery), generally closing by 2 p.m. most days except Thursdays when they close at 5 p.m.

Heather grew up in the Twin Cities area and spent time in Sauk Center near her parents’ cabin. It was there that she began working at Hardees, because she hated fishing at the cabin. She has moved around the country and has worked at several restaurants including Pizza Hut, Perkins, and Spirits. Her Grandma had owned bars and restaurants, so the passion for working at a restaurant was in her bloodline. She loves to serve, cook, and bake. Heather’s Café is most known for their homemade hashbrowns, corn beef hash, and burgers. They also leverage baking talent in the region featuring various baked goods and pies.

“We are most well known for our breakfasts, our pancakes are made from scratch,” said Heather Gist, Owner of Heather’s Café.

Mar 09, 202303:09
Heart Berry - Contemporary Ojibwe Design by Inspired Natives, NOT Native Inspired

Heart Berry - Contemporary Ojibwe Design by Inspired Natives, NOT Native Inspired

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Heart Berry. Sarah Agaton Howes is an Anishinaabe artist, teacher, community organizer, author, and keynote speaker from the Fond du Lac Reservation in Cloquet, Minnesota.  She is known for her handmade regalia, designs that have inspired stained glass art installations in light rail stations and tribal colleges, and moccasins featuring her original Ojibwe floral designs.  Sarah owns and operates her own business, Heart Berry.  As a teacher of her culture, she shares her knowledge by teaching classes and video tutorials on beadworking.  She also has authored books such as Grandmother’s Gift Nookomis Obagijigan, a visual and textual tutorial on Ojibwe moccasin making, patterns, and stories.

Her business features amazingly beautiful and unique apparel, blankets, and gifts in her online store https://www.heartberry.com/, where she hand designs and screen prints in Duluth, MN, and Seattle, WA.  We met with Sarah and her co-worker Cassandra who were busy compiling shipments in their Cloquet, MN warehouse.  The interview was astounding and inspiring.  Sarah is passionately motivated to revitalize her culture by helping native artists become businesspeople.  She has found that across the country, people are hungry for native art, and therefore she is inspired to teach people how to create this native art.  She found her calling in business after meeting Louie Gong and his pacific northwest cultural style of Native American art.  He merged culture and business through community-invested work.  He inspired her to build a website, launch social media, and transfer pencil to digital art to be designed into contemporary products.

Through her journey, she has found that businesses in the country have had a tendency to steal from natives when that art should be from native artists.  Sarah’s business started at her kitchen table in Cloquet, MN, then spread quickly to her bedroom, shed, a trailer in her yard, and not into a warehouse in Cloquet.  Her artwork designs speak to the culture of the Fond du Lac Reservation’s culture of sugarbush, the cycles of seasons in nature, and the floral designs of spring and summer.  Art is a reminder of culture.  Sarah Agton Howes is a registered woman and minority-owned business in Minnesota and an inspired native.

Mar 09, 202305:03
Evergreen Senior Living - It Is Never Too Late to Live Your Happily Ever After

Evergreen Senior Living - It Is Never Too Late to Live Your Happily Ever After

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet  are talking about the Hidden Gem of Evergreen Senior Living. Evergreen, located at 1309 14th Street in Cloquet, is a senior living campus for adults who want to remain independent while accessing services and amenities. Evergreen is owned by HADC Services, LLC, whose sole member is Housing Alternatives Development Company, a Minnesota non-profit corporation. They offer:

  • Evergreen Knoll- the Assisted Living Residence
  • Evergreen Suites- the Our Higher Need Assisted Living Residences
  • Evergreen Cottages- the independent rental residences.

There are 39 assisted living units, 23 higher care units, and 24 independent cottage units.

There is a considerable need for senior housing, and Evergreen offers a vibrant community with social programs. Other than family watching over seniors, this is not a nursing home. It is a vibrant senior community. It is never too late to live your happily ever after, your best life, and there is no need for senior isolation. At Evergreen, there is an activities director – chair yoga was something we observed there. There are church services, programs, and peer connections.

Evergreen has a full commercial kitchen and excellent cooks; they do not have their food catered in.

We met with Terri Langevin, Executive Director of Evergreen, and Paul Abzug, President of HADC. In sitting down and meeting with them, their competitive advantage is Evergreen’s employee and resident culture. Leadership positions at Evergreen coach and develop employees who support one another, ensuring employees have each other’s backs.

Evergreen has 70 employees in Cloquet and a breadth of economic spin-off impact.  Evergreen was developed in 2001 and, shortly after that, was purchased by HADC. Terri Langevin helped open the facility 21 years ago and is still managing the facility today.

“You don’t just find someone like Terri Langevin. She is incredible, connects her staff to resources, and watches over them. Our staff knows our residents and the frequency of their needs and their health conditions, and we advocate for their care to families and medical facilities. ,” said Abzug.
Feb 05, 202303:10