Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of Cloquet

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 KOA Campground.

For 27 years, the Higton Family has warmly welcomed guests to the Cloquet KOA Campground, a tranquil retreat nestled within Minnesota’s picturesque Northwoods. Ideally located just south of Duluth and near the stunning Jay Cooke State Park, this KOA offers a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore the region’s natural beauty, including the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior.

Spanning 15 acres, the Cloquet KOA Campground operates from May 1st to October 6th each year. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a heated outdoor pool that opens on Memorial Day Weekend and stays open through Labor Day. The campground features spacious pull-through RV sites with 50-amp service, accommodating rigs up to 80 feet long. Premium tent sites are also available, and the entire facility is well-lit for convenient after-hours check-in.

The Campground offers plenty of on-site activities, including a game room, playground, and a dog park. It’s a popular destination for motorcycle clubs, RV clubs, and other rally groups. A Campground store is stocked with essentials, and guests can purchase propane and firewood on-site.

With amenities like Wi-Fi, a hot tub/sauna, and ample space for large RVs, the Cloquet KOA Campground ensures a comfortable stay for all visitors. Whether you’re planning a day trip to nearby attractions or simply relaxing by the pool, the Cloquet KOA Campground has everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Check out the full list of amenities:

Book your reservation today and experience the best of Minnesota’s Northwoods at the Cloquet KOA Campground!

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 discussing the Hidden Gem of Fairchild Equipment.

Fairchild Equipment, a premier heavy equipment distributor and forklift provider, is a family-owned business headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Owned by Gary and Chad Fairchild, the company has expanded to eleven locations across the Midwest, employing 335 dedicated professionals. With a focus on collaboration and providing excellent service, Fairchild Equipment has built a loyal customer base that consistently returns for their extensive range of services and products.

Fairchild Equipment offers a wide array of services including sales, service, parts, rental, fleet management, training, and engineered storage systems. Their clientele spans Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and northern Illinois. The company also specializes in construction equipment distribution, warehouse layout and design, contractor rentals, docks and doors, and battery distribution. This broad spectrum of services ensures that Fairchild Equipment can meet the diverse needs of their customers.

A robust digital marketing team supports Fairchild Equipment’s operations, emphasizing digital advertising to reach a wider audience. The company’s website is a comprehensive resource featuring new, used, and rental equipment, with categories for forklifts, construction and agriculture equipment, floor cleaning machines, aerial lifts, utility vehicles, railcar movers, and warehouse automation. Customers can also browse through an extensive online catalog. Additionally, Fairchild Equipment provides financing options and offers group or individual safety training to achieve OSHA certification, further supporting their customers’ needs.

Outgrowing their West Duluth facility, Fairchild Equipment decided to consolidate their Duluth and Grand Rapids locations into a single, larger facility in Cloquet. They purchased the former Wear-A-Knit facility on 18th Street, which spans 20,300 square feet and features high ceilings, a drive-in door, and a loading dock—ideal for their operational needs. This new location allows them to stock parts, maintain rental inventory, and offer open shop service space, all while being centrally located for their major customers.

The company invested significant “sweat equity” into renovating the Cloquet facility, temporarily operating without a location for a year during the transition. The new facility currently supports 18 staff members, with plans to expand to 35 by adding more field-based technicians and parts representatives. Fairchild Equipment is committed to offering paid training, particularly for those with a background in construction equipment or automotive, and a technical college degree.

We had the opportunity to meet with Van Clarkson, the President of Fairchild Equipment and Chairman of the Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association, along with Justin Cheever, the Product Support Representative based in the Cloquet office. Their enthusiasm and deep understanding of the industry were evident.

Fairchild Equipment is dedicated to fostering career opportunities and partnerships within the regional business community and technical schools. The company is deeply embedded in the region, supporting various events and teams, and aims to continue their community involvement.

With a commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and community engagement, Fairchild Equipment is poised to remain a leader in the heavy equipment distribution industry. Their new Cloquet facility marks a significant milestone in their ongoing journey of growth and service.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

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 New Perspectives Senior Living.

New Perspectives Senior Living in Cloquet, MN, is redefining senior care with its comprehensive assisted living and memory care services. Nestled in a serene setting, New Perspectives offers residents a warm and welcoming environment through its four cozy cottage-style homes at Horizon Circle and one at Tall Pine Lane. Unlike many senior living facilities, New Perspectives focuses on providing a homelike atmosphere where residents can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle.

Cloquet Facility Highlights:

- Cottage-Style Living:** The facility features intimate cottage-style residences, designed to foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.

- Daily Activities:** Residents have access to a variety of engaging activities, including exercise classes, craft-making, music, storytelling, and board games, ensuring they stay active and entertained.

- Amenities:** A secured courtyard, library, and spacious patio and garden provide tranquil spaces for relaxation and socialization.

- On-site Services:** The facility offers on-site occupational and physical therapy services to meet residents' health needs.

- Chef-Created Dining:** Residents enjoy nutritious, made-from-scratch meals crafted by experienced chefs, enhancing their dining experience.

- 24/7 Nurse Availability:** A nurse is always on-site or on-call to ensure residents receive the best care possible.

- Community Outings:** Transportation is available for outings, allowing residents to maintain connections with the wider community.

- Housekeeping & Laundry:** Residents can enjoy a worry-free lifestyle with housekeeping and laundry services provided.

In addition to its Cloquet location, New Perspectives Senior Living operates two more cottage-style assisted living facilities in Barnum, MN. Altogether, these facilities offer a total of 86 housing units across Carlton County, supported by a dedicated team of 50 staff members.

The foundation of New Perspectives Senior Living is built on four pillars: physical fitness, social/spiritual life, dining experience, and brain fitness. These pillars guide the facility’s mission to provide a purposeful and meaningful life for its residents.

New Perspectives was founded by Todd Novacyzk, inspired by his personal experience when his mother-in-law, Betty, developed Alzheimer's disease. Witnessing Betty's journey led Todd to create a facility where the best interests of residents are prioritized, ensuring they live with dignity and joy.

Despite having relied solely on word-of-mouth referrals, New Perspectives Senior Living has grown significantly due to its commitment to excellence in care and quality of life. With a focus on nurturing each resident's physical, mental, and emotional well-being, New Perspectives is not just a place to live but a place to thrive.

For more information or to schedule a tour, contact Ross Jaeger, Associate Executive Director at New Perspectives Senior Living.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

The Haven, with locations throughout Minnesota including Woodbury, Waconia, Shakopee, Cloquet, and various telehealth centers, is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals struggling with chemical dependency. The Cloquet location, in particular, offers an adult day treatment program designed to eliminate all mood-altering chemicals, a vital step in maintaining long-term recovery.

Founded in 2000 by Bob Haven, The Haven was established to address the urgent need for treatment programs in rural Minnesota. Bob's passion for providing accessible and effective treatment led him to open an office in Cloquet. Although Bob Haven passed away in 2022, his legacy continues as Cresendo Chemical Health LLC now operates The Haven locations.

The dedicated staff at the Cloquet office offer a structured day program from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and an evening virtual group from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. These programs are tailored to meet the individual needs of each participant, ensuring personalized care and support. The Minnesota offices work collaboratively to place individuals in need of therapy into appropriate groups, with a maximum of 16 individuals per staff member as regulated by the Department of Health.

The Haven is committed to addressing the growing chemical dependency problems associated with fentanyl, methamphetamines, opioids, and alcohol. The organization prides itself on not turning away clients. While some insurances cover therapy, others may require private payment. Crescendo Chemical Health accepts nearly all insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthPartners, Medical Assistance, Medicaid, Medica, UCare, United Healthcare, Preferred One, and Cigna. Clients are responsible for co-pays and any charges not covered by their insurance.

At The Haven, the mission is clear: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by chemical dependency, providing them with the support and tools necessary for a successful recovery.

1003 Cloquet Ave.

Suite 117

Cloquet, MN 55720Phone: 

(218) 879-5545

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://crescendoch.com/

Or contact the business office at 651-734-9633.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

Established in 1893 in Duluth, Fryberger Law Firm has built a rich legacy over more than a century. With a staff of 33 professionals, Fryberger operates offices in Duluth, Superior, Cloquet, and St. Paul, and their licensed attorneys serve clients across Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arizona, Michigan, and North Dakota. The firm’s expansive legal expertise encompasses Business and Corporate Law, Labor and Employment Law, Estates, Trusts, Probate & Succession Planning, Real Estate and Land Use, Lender Services and Banking, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, and Product Liability, Litigation, Arbitration, and Appeals, Economic Development, Public Finance, Cannabis Law, Environment and Energy, Family Law, Prenuptial Agreements, Divorce, Custody, Child Support and Spousal Maintenance, Government Relations and Legislation, Tribal Law, Nonprofit and Tax Exempt Entities, and Intellectual Property.

In 2020, Fryberger Law Firm expanded its footprint by acquiring Rudy Law Firm, a well-established firm in Cloquet. Founded in 1973 by Floyd Rudy, the firm has deep roots in the community. Floyd Rudy, initially a forester at the University Forestry Center in Cloquet in the early 1970s, specialized in labor relations and law. He was hired by Potlatch as independent counsel and eventually started his own firm in Cloquet’s West End, which later moved to Cloquet Avenue in 2000. The Rudy Law Firm was home to notable names, including Frank Yetka Senior, who famously sued the railroads for settlements after the Cloquet fires of 1918.

We recently had the pleasure of meeting with Dave Pritchett, an attorney in the Cloquet office, which now houses five lawyers and five support staff. The office has handled many significant cases over its history, including the Potlatch-Deltic merger, and is proud to be one of the largest law firms in Minnesota outside of the Twin Cities. Pritchett highlighted the synergy between the Cloquet and Fryberger offices, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic. Fryberger’s deep bench strength and cohesive teamwork enabled them to navigate the crisis successfully.

Pritchett also shared an interesting tidbit about the history of the scales often seen behind conference tables in attorneys’ offices. “Justice is blind, as represented by the scales, often accompanied by the blindfolded Lady Justice,” he explained.

Fryberger Law Firm’s commitment to providing specialized and comprehensive legal services remains unwavering. Whether you need assistance with business, family, personal, governmental, or other legal matters, Fryberger Law Firm is ready to help. Contact Fryberger today to experience their legacy of legal excellence and community commitment.

For more information, visit their website at https://www.fryberger.com

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

In the heart of the Cloquet Forestry Center, a unique culinary venture is bringing people together with exceptional food and a warm sense of community. Co-owners Paul Sapyta and Kevin Peterson have turned their passion for cooking into Room at the Table, a thriving catering and food truck business that embodies the spirit of inclusivity and local flavor.

A Dynamic Duo in the Kitchen

Paul Sapyta and Kevin Peterson, former brothers-in-law, share a deep-rooted love for cooking that has shaped their business. While Paul, a chef by trade, manages external catering events and the food truck operations, Kevin, who prefers the title of cook, oversees onsite catering full-time from the Cloquet Forestry Center’s commercial kitchen. Their collaboration is a testament to their enduring friendship and shared culinary vision.

From Humble Beginnings to a Flourishing Business

Paul Sapyta began Room at the Table in 2018, initially operating out of a church kitchen and the Cloquet VFW kitchen. Over the years, the business has evolved, adapting to the challenges and opportunities presented by the pandemic. What started as a small catering operation has grown into a popular food truck service, catering parties, weddings, and hosting jazz nights at Carlton’s Oldenburg House. Now, they have found a permanent home at the Cloquet Forestry Center.

Their journey took a significant turn in January 2020 when they met Jim Vnuk at the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College’s Food for Thought event. This connection allowed them to take over the clientele of Jim N' Jo's Katering, expanding their reach and solidifying their reputation in the community.

A Menu as Diverse as Their Clientele

Room at the Table stands out for its inclusive approach to food. While they don’t have a set menu, they are renowned for their meat dishes, bold vegetable offerings, and commitment to food inclusivity. Their catering services are tailored to meet various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and regular dietary options. As Paul Sapyta explains, "We found that we are really a boutique food catering option that is dietary worry-free and inclusive as our offerings serve all at the same time."

The name "Room at the Table" was inspired by Paul’s minister, who encouraged members to welcome everyone, especially those living on the margins. This philosophy is reflected in their business practices and the warm, inviting atmosphere they create for their clients.

Community Connections and Local Sourcing

Kevin Peterson emphasizes the importance of the Cloquet Forestry Center's meeting facility space and setting, which attracts a diverse range of clients, including students from the University of Minnesota, businesses, state agencies, and the Fond du Lac Band. Their commitment to local sourcing is evident in their partnerships with community-supported agriculture businesses like the Food Farm in Wrenshall and local suppliers like Upper Lakes Foods.

Word-of-Mouth Success

Despite their success, Paul and Kevin have chosen to keep their business manageable by relying on word-of-mouth referrals rather than a formal website. They do, however, maintain an active Facebook Page where they provide an overview of their offerings and keep clients updated on their latest events.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, graduation party, or corporate event, Room at the Table offers a unique catering experience that combines culinary excellence with a commitment to community and inclusivity. Don’t miss their food truck at regional events or consider them for your next special occasion.

For more information, check out their Facebook Page and discover why Room at the Table is a fan favorite. Serving Cloquet, Carlton, Moose Lake, and Superior.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

Located at 102 4th Street in Cloquet, Queen of Peace School has been a cornerstone of the community since 1912, offering education from Preschool through 8th grade. As Queen of Peace Church's highest priority, the school has seen remarkable growth under the leadership of Principal Melissa Marti. She took the helm in 2019 and continues a family legacy of dedication to the institution. Her former great-great uncle was a former head of the school.

Queen of Peace School's preschool program, distinguished with a four-star rating by Parent Aware, offers a mixed-age curriculum for children aged 3-5. From Kindergarten through 8th grade, each day begins with mass, grounding students in faith and focus. The school’s classical curriculum is unique, drawing on the seven liberal arts and a comprehensive 2,500-year span of history, fostering deep learning through grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Students are placed in math classes based on ability rather than grade level, thanks to adaptive teaching strategies tailored to individual needs.

Uniforms are a staple of school life, with special "out of uniform" days sprinkled throughout the year. The school boasts a variety of clubs, including archery, basketball, chess, music, electronics, improv, volleyball, yearbook, and math tutoring, all infused with Catholic virtues.

Queen of Peace School operates with a dedicated team they refer to as "teacher missionaries." Without public funding, the school relies on grants from the Catholic School’s Center of Excellence and community support. Principal Marti emphasizes the passion of the staff: “We want to hire those who inflame hearts and inspire minds for eternal purpose.” Many families reduce tuition costs through the Tuition & Community Service plan and Damian Bennett Scholarships, partnering closely with the parish.

Accredited by the Minnesota Nonpublic School Accrediting Association (MNSAA) every seven years, Queen of Peace School has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, especially post-COVID, as families seek alternative educational options.

Following the curriculum standards of the Diocese of Duluth, which exceed the State of Minnesota’s content standards in all core subjects, Queen of Peace School ensures a robust educational foundation. The Mater Dei Apostolate High School, a Catholic homeschool cooperative, also resides in the school’s basement, further extending the educational opportunities available.

For tours or admissions inquiries, please contact Queen of Peace School directly.

“Parents and teachers are partners in education. Teachers are the lifeblood of this school, but parents are the primary educators.” highlights Marti.

Following the curriculum standards of the Diocese of Duluth, which exceed the State of Minnesota’s content standards in all core subjects, Queen of Peace School ensures a robust educational foundation. The Mater Dei Apostolate High School, a Catholic homeschool cooperative, also resides in the school’s basement, further extending the educational opportunities available.

For tours or admissions inquiries, please contact Queen of Peace School directly.

Queen of Peace

Melissa Marti, Principal

102 4th Street

Cloquet MN 55720

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 Essentia Health - Cloquet, MN.

Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic is not just a place for quick check-ups; it is a full-fledged healthcare hub. The clinic provides primary care services, including family medicine, obstetrics, and pediatrics. These services ensure that from the youngest to the oldest, every member of the community receives the care they need. But the offerings don't stop at primary care.

The clinic is equipped with a state-of-the-art lab and imaging services, which include radiology. This means that patients can get essential diagnostic services without the need to travel long distances. Cardiology services are available five days a week, and for urgent health needs, the clinic offers urgent care services seven days a week. This level of accessibility and convenience is vital for a community like Cloquet, where residents value having quality healthcare options close to home.

While some specialty care services are referred to the larger Essentia Duluth, the Cloquet Clinic offers several specialty services right on site. These include cardiology, general surgery, gynecology, lab services, midwifery, imaging and radiology, obstetrics, and orthopedics sports medicine. The availability of these services locally means that patients can receive specialized care without the need for time-consuming travel, allowing them to stay close to their families and support networks.

Recently, we had the pleasure of meeting with Trina Lower, Operations Director of Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic, and Tony Matt, Media Relations Specialist for Essentia Health. They shared some insights into the clinic's role in the broader healthcare landscape of the region. The expansion into Cloquet is part of a vision to establish a strong presence of provider staff along the Interstate 35 corridor, covering areas such as Hinkley, Sandstone, Moose Lake, Cloquet, and Duluth.

The clinic now hosts roughly 30 staff members and serves about 100 people daily, including those who utilize telehealth and virtual care appointments.

One of the standout features of the Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic is its use of Essentia Health’s MyChart, powered by EPIC software. This system allows patients to access their medical records seamlessly from anywhere. Whether you need to check your lab results or communicate with your doctor, MyChart ensures that all your health information is at your fingertips, making managing your health more straightforward than ever.

Tony Matt, based out of the Duluth area, oversees a service area that includes 78 clinics and 15,000 employees.

The Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic is more than just a medical facility; it's a testament to the power of community-focused healthcare. With its comprehensive services, advanced technology, and dedicated staff, the clinic is well-positioned to continue serving the Cloquet area for years to come, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is always within reach.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic today and experience the difference that local, comprehensive healthcare can make in your life.

Essentia Health-Cloquet Clinic

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson -

Arrowhead Orthodontics is a cornerstone of orthodontic care in Northeastern Minnesota, with a strong presence across the region. Boasting three offices in Duluth and additional locations in Cloquet, Superior, Virginia, Hibbing, Two Harbors, and International Falls, the practice ensures comprehensive coverage and accessibility for its patients.

The dedicated team at Arrowhead Orthodontics comprises twelve staff members and five highly skilled orthodontists: Dr. Brian Landrigan DDS, MS; Dr. Kirstin Carlson DDS, MS; Dr. Luke Carlson DDS, MS; Dr. Melanie Bluth, DDS; and Dr. Brieanna Lise Newton DDS, MS. These professionals rotate between the regional offices to provide consistent and quality care, making orthodontic services readily available to the communities they serve. Their strategic locations are designed to be convenient, often situated near schools to save time for busy families.

Arrowhead Orthodontics caters to patients of all ages, from children and teens to adults, offering a range of services including Invisalign and various types of braces. They provide complimentary consultations and flexible financing plans to ensure that high-quality orthodontic care is accessible to everyone. The firm’s focus is on both function and aesthetics, aiming for outcomes that not only improve dental health but also boost confidence and overall well-being.

During a recent visit to the remodeled Cloquet office, which opened in September 2022 along South Hwy 33, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Luke Carlson and Marketing Director Amy Mondor. The office, buzzing with activity, was a testament to the passion and dedication of the team. Dr. Carlson emphasized the high level of care and collaborative approach that Arrowhead Orthodontics prides itself on. "Our team works together to develop creative solutions and ensure that our patients receive the best possible care," he shared. "We stay at the forefront of research and technology to continually enhance the patient experience."

Amy Mondor highlighted the firm’s inclusive approach, stating, "We are very proud to accept all types of insurance, whether private or state, and we also have a program with the Fond du Lac Band." She and Beth Oehlerking, a former dental hygienist transitioning into team coordination care, expressed their love for problem-solving and the artistry involved in orthodontics. They are dedicated to making people feel good and providing long-term benefits for dental health and social confidence.

Arrowhead Orthodontics advocates for early detection of orthodontic issues, recommending that children as young as 7-8 years old undergo initial examinations. No referrals are necessary, as they welcome self-referrals to start the journey towards a healthier bite and a brighter smile.

1214 South Highway 33

Cloquet, MN 55720

Phone: (218) 878-9846

Email: [email protected] 

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