Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of 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 Union Lofts. GCL Development Group, LLC. – Louise & Clyde Sherman are the local husband/ wife duo sharing similar characteristics to Chip and Joanna Gaines from HGTV.  They are an inspiration to our community and their investment in development and breathing new life into old historic properties. We want to be a part of helping revitalize this area.  Marriage and Business – We’re in this together.  -Louise The Union Lofts is a versatile space in downtown Cloquet, which used to be the Cloquet Labor Temple.  It has been renovated and modernized into offices and flex space on the first level and brand new modern studio and one-bedrooms coming soon for an industrial-driven executive lifestyle.

The Lounge

Comfortable setting that includes WIFI, refrigerator, Keurig, water dispenser, and modern furniture. It can be used for work meetings, showers, parties, pop-up boutiques, book clubs, or any special occasion—order in catering or bring in your own food.

Working remotely and need to assemble the work team? Maybe you want to have a special dinner, such as a girls night or fantasy football? This space has seating for ten and includes the use of a smart TV.

Calling all crafters, exercise groups, quilters, birthday parties, church groups, and sport's teams! Need to celebrate a special event, teach a class or Bible study or just need a place to spread out? This space can be configured in many ways: tables with chairs for 25, classroom setting, or wide open for exercise. Let us know at the time of booking, and we can accommodate your needs.

Working from home and need a quiet place to work or maybe to meet with a client to close the deal? Our office space is ready for you to just plug in and work. Included in our rental is WIFI desk, printer, and a monitor to plug your laptop into for dual screens.

This newly created place to come together is fantastic.  Stop in and see Louise and Clyde today. Then, take a tour and book your next event.

Union Lofts Phone# (218) 940-0578

1403Avenue C [email protected]

Cloquet MN 55720

Website: https://www.unionloftscloquet.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Union-Lofts-Cloquet-104935575221795

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 Animal Hospital. Cloquet Animal Hospital is your local comprehensive veterinary care facility just off Highway 33, right across from Pinehurst Park at 122 2nd Street.  Cloquet Animal Hospital has been serving Cloquet and surrounding communities for over 75 years. They specialize in small animals exclusively – dogs, cats, and pocket pets.  Dr. Jennifer Shepherd and her husband Paul purchased Cloquet Animal Hospital in March 2007. They have a complete in-house laboratory with results available within an hour, digital x-ray, digital dental x-rays, a surgical laser, therapeutic laser, and an ultrasound machine. Cloquet Animal Hospital also has excellent relationships with specialists from the Twin Cities who are often willing to see patients in Cloquet, so pets don't need to travel.

Cloquet Animal Hospital is very conscious of "White Coat Syndrome" and its effect on your pets. In 2016, they became a "Fear Free Certified" clinic. The entire staff was trained on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in our veterinary patients while at the clinic. You may see them employing some of these techniques by offering your pet treats, taking a slower approach with minimal handling, and even recommending medications to reduce anxiety for some patients. Being fear-free takes the pet out of petrified.  

 "We have a lifecycle connection with our pets and their families.  We see them for their first wellness visit all the way through the end-of-life visit. So it's not just about your pet. It's about the entire family." - Dr. Shepherd

Dr. Shepherd and Dr. Wickenheiser, along with veterinary technicians, believe quality care is paramount, and they constantly challenge themselves to offer the best in medical diagnosis and treatment. Their philosophy is to treat each patient as if they were their pets.  Their passion is to prevent suffering through education, preventative care, and evaluation of all options.  Services offered:   Spaying and Neutering, Parasite Prevention and Protection, Pre-Anesthetic Screening, Examinations, Dental Services, Microchipping, Vaccinations, Laser Surgery, Laser Therapy, Diagnostic Services, End of Life Care.  In addition to caring for your dogs and cats, they provide veterinary care for rabbits, reptiles, rodents, and ferrets.  

Pets are an important part of our family, and they have their own personality and unique health history.  Nothing compares to coming home to a wiggle butt or soft purrs. So give Dr. Shepherd and her team a call today.     

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 Premiere Theatres where every night's a movie night. Premiere Theatres, owned by Rick Stowell, opened in May of 1994 after the city had gone without a movie theatre for over twelve years. So Rick took the old grocery store owned by his father Gene, which had sat vacant since 1989, and turned it into a two-screen movie theatre.  

Demand was so great that he added two more screens in 1996.   In 2011, two more screens were added, bringing the total to six screens.  In addition, upgrades in seating we made changing out regular seating to the high back rocker style chairs.  By doing this, renovation and seating upgrades took the capacity from 1,000 seats to 820 seats.  Many people are asking, "what about recliners?" Adam, Rick's son and next-generation owner is headed to CinemaCon in Vegas this fall to check into the options.  

Also, in 2011, Premiere was the first theatre in Minnesota to go 100% digital. The way movies were delivered when they first opened by film stock on large reals and fed through a projector and spliced together to show the entire movie, approximately three reels has since changed to movies being delivered over digital satellite. 

Many people thought that streaming would be the end of the movie theaters.    During the pandemic, movies went to streaming, Hollywood did not get enough money from that format, piracy was an issue, and the quality suffered.  The film industry tried it, and it did not work.  People love their local theatre experience and could hardly wait to come back to see movies.  

Stop by Premiere Theatres and say hello to Rick, Adam, and manager Kerry. Then, get your tickets, popcorn, and candy, settle into the comfy seating and get ready to see some of the greatest blockbuster hits.

904 Hwy 33 South 

Cloquet MN 55720

(218) 879-7985

Often, eye and vision problems do not have obvious symptoms or signs but are easily diagnosed by a licensed optometrist.  At Vision Pro, they strive to meet all your eye and vision care needs.  Corrective lenses evaluations and prescription management is provided.  They also carry cosmetic lenses and prosthetic lenses.

Their staff of opticians are experts in their field and can help you find the perfect eyewear. In addition, they are known for their boutique shopping experience and selection of glasses from practical to stylish at affordable prices. They carry brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Ray-Ban, Prada, Oakley, Versace, Karen Kane, Haggar. They are one of the largest Oakley dealers in the Midwest. If you cannot find a frame you like, they can special order to meet your needs.

With the amount of time we all spend on the computer and digital devices, you may want to check out the blue light filter computer glasses they carry.  Vision Pro is also your local supplier of safety glasses and has safety contracts with some local companies.

Vision Pro accepts most vision plans and will work with your insurance program to maximize your current insurance program. In addition, they handle some insurances that many other vision places do not.

Vision Pro Optical won the 2020 Reader Award for both Best Optical and Best Service (Non Restaurant).

Check out this video to learn more about the process of making your glasses once you pick out your frames. The entire process is kept within Vision Pro.   This allows them to control the supply chain and get you your glasses sooner.

is 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 Up North Insurance as the next Hidden Gem of Cloquet. Up North Insurance is a locally owned independent insurance company owned by husband wife team Aaron and Holly Peterson located at 619 Sunnyside Drive.  Unlike a captive insurance company that only offers its own products, Up North Insurance is 100% independent.  Clients can expect excellent customer service, strong relationships, and competitive rates.

Their knowledge of the insurance industry, products, and different situations allows them to work with home, auto, and business owners all over Minnesota to help them find the right combination of tailored and personalized insurance coverage at a price that fits your needs.

With over 30 companies to work with, products offered:  auto, home, condo, renters, rental property, life, motorcycle, boat & jet ski, umbrella, business owners package, worker’s compensation, contractors insurance. Unfortunately, too many people have fallen victim to bad advice.

They reduce coverage to lower their premium cost.  You don’t need to reduce coverage to save money.  At Up North Insurance, Aaron, Holly, and Kaylynn will help you keep the coverage you need while keeping costs as low as possible. You Don’t Need To Reduce Coverage to Save Money.

619 Sunnyside Drive

Cloquet, MN 55720

(218) 879-4444

Email: [email protected]

Email:  https://www.upnorthins.com/

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

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 The Hidden Gem of County Seat Theater Company.  The Encore Performing Arts Center and Gallery has been the home of the County Seat Theater Company since 2008.  Located at 2035 Hwy 33 south (on the frontage road),  the theater seats 135 patrons on raised seating.  The Art Gallery located in the back of the theater is an excellent opportunity for local artists to display and sell their work. Each season is packed with plays and concerts.  The theater's mission is to provide an opportunity for all individuals of all ages to participate in all aspects of the performing arts, bring quality live theater to the community, and promote the performing arts.

The story of the "Little Theater That Grew," County Seat Theater

In  October 1987, a fledgling community theater was a Carlton High School Band Booster fundraiser. It was a unique idea, "Let's put on a play!" After six weeks of rehearsal for Neil Simon's, The Odd Couple, the parking lot was filled, the show opened, and the laughs came. The community and the organizers had a wonderful experience, and the band was closer to buying those new uniforms. "Let's do it again next year and the next!" After three years of being a school project, they decided to form a theater group with its own identity.

The County Seat Theater Company was born. They continued to perform, using the high school facility for 13 years. During those years, the season grew to include Children's Theater, holiday and summer shows, in addition to the established fall production.

As the productions continued to grow, it was time to get out of the school and find a place to call home.  They moved to a quaint little church in Atkinson Township. The first production in September 1999 was Steel Magnolias.  The audiences came, and came, and came to "hold over" performances.

In January 2008, County Seat Theater purchased the Kingdom Hall Building and began major renovations.  The location was perfect, the size was great, the condition was excellent. So much work! So much support! The birth of the Encore Performing Arts Center and Gallery, the home of the County Seat Theater Company was complete.

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson - Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC. and Holly Hansen - Community Development Directory for the City of Cloquet are talking about the Hidden Gem of Bergquist Imports.  Bergquist Imports, owned by Scott Camp and Ali Bilden-Camp, is located at 1412 Hwy 33 South.  The Bergquist Gift shop is your local "Place for Gifts."  They carry gifts from Scandinavia like clogs, jewelry, chocolates, jams, wild rice, Trolls, tiles, crystal, books, Swedish dishcloths, rugs, candles, and more.

Scott and Ali purchased the store from Barry and Vivian Bergquist in February of 2021, amid the pandemic.

Bergquist Imports has been a family-owned business since 1948.  It was started by Richard and Margaret Bergquist.  Before the sale, Barry and Vivian operated the business since 1980.

Bergquist Imports has been a family-owned business since 1948.  It was started by Richard and Margaret Bergquist.  Before the sale, Barry and Vivian operated the business since 1980.

In 1986 Bergquist imports acquired the Berggren Trayner Company, which produced dinnerware, tiles, mugs, plates, magnets, and custom design items.  This portion of the business was not included in the sale.

Currently, Scott and Ali are turning the inventory to bring in some new items.  This Fall, they will also start some small group arts and craft classes at the gift shop location.

In addition to the gift shop, 80% of their business is wholesale.  They sell to museums, gift shops, churches, associations, and anyone who wants to introduce their customers to a little bit of Sweden into their home, all around the United States.

Stop by and meet Scott and Ali and say hello. You can reach them at 218.879.1142.

Website  http://bergquistimports.com/ or www.bergquistgiftshop.com

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BergquistImports

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 at talking about the Hidden Gem of Cloquet J3 Insurance.  J3 Insurance is located at 900 Hwy 33 South is owned by Joe Beaupre, Jeff McCaffrey, and Jason McCaffrey, with locations in Brainerd Lakes, Duluth, and Cloquet.  Their "WE CARE" mission is, everything we do must be beneficial to our clients, our employees, and our insurance carriers. New location and a new name, same experience, and customer service.  You may remember Joe from his days at Woodland Insurance, where he spent 25 years of his career.  When Rick Ron retired, Joe wasn't ready to stop serving his customers in the area, so he decided to join Jason and Joe McCaffrey and formed the J3 Insurance Group. J3 Insurance has grown into a successful independent insurance agency by providing knowledgeable insurance advice with dependable service and consistently competitive premiums.

J3 Insurance has the experience to walk you through each stage of your life. For example, your home is a considerable investment.  Do you have the right coverage to help you protect it?  How about auto?  Auto coverage can vary.  Do you know what you are paying for, and do you have the right coverage?  Health insurance can be very complicated and expensive.  Do you know your options in this ever-changing market?  Life insurance is one of the most needed policies, yet so many people fail to purchase it.  Do you want to protect your assets?  Do you have enough money to cover lost income so your family can keep the same standard of living?

If you own a business, J3 understands what it takes to help you protect your business.  Do you need worker's compensation? Do you have cyber liability? Is your business bonded?  What are your bonding needs?  Do you have a business liability policy?  Have you protected your assets?

At J3, their ultimate goal is to create lasting relationships with each client.  Their team of nearly 20 employees is committed to providing clients with the best possible products at the best possible prices.

You can learn more at  www.j3insurance.com or https://www.facebook.com/j3ins

LOCATIONS:

Cloquet                                           Duluth                               Brainerd Lakes

900 Hwy 33 South                          325 S. Lake Avenue            23590 Smiley Road

Cloquet MN 55720                          Duluth MN 55802              Nisswa MN 56465

(218) 384 - 4236                (218) 728-3600                    (218) 961-2452

In this episode of Talking Business, Shelly Peterson- Founder and CEO of Promoting Me, LLC and Holly Hanses, Community Development Director for the City of Cloquet are sharing The Hidden Gem of Outdoor Advantage.  Outdoor Advantage, located at 1302 Hwy 33 South, is your "Larger Than We Look" sporting good store owned by Gene Fulton and managed by Jenny Jarvinen.  This local homegrown, mom-and-pop sporting goods store,  one of the very few left in the country.  The business started in 1995 in the Perkkio's carpet building, moved to its current location in 1998, and put on the addition in 1999.  Need gear for on the water?  Check out their great selection of rods, tackle and bait, along with life jackets and inflatables. Need your prop repaired?  Drop it off at the shop by Monday morning, and you will have your fixed prop by the following Monday.  How about hunting supplies?  They carry a wide selection of hunting apparel, ammunition, and shooting supplies; however, they are not a licensed firearm dealer.  Need clothing and footwear for every season and every reason?  They carry trusted brands such as Columbia, Carhartt, Smart Wool, Rocky, Frog Togs, Muck.  They even have baseball and hockey supplies and special order all the uniforms and gear your team needs.  Special order?  No problem.  For those hard-to-find items, they will do their best to order what you are looking for.  The inventory in the store changes daily. 

Outdoor Advantage sells fishing licenses and deer hunting licenses.  They are the largest license seller in all of Carlton County and half of St. Louis County.  

Please stop in and see Jenny and Gene and check out their current and ever-changing inventory.  You can learn more: 

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 showcasing the Hidden Gem of Cloquet, Reliable Insurance where "We're True To Our Name."

When you hear Reliable Insurance, you automatically think of Steve Micke and Val Wojtysiak, and their knowledge of the insurance industry and the investment they make in the community with both financial contributions and time commitments.  Steve was born and raised in Cloquet, graduated from Cloquet High School, and started his insurance career in 1979 at Nationwide Insurance Company after graduating from St. Johns University.

It didn't take long for Steve to come back to Cloquet when his dad called him and asked him if he wanted to be a part of the company in May 1981.  Val also started her insurance career in 1979 and joined Reliable in June of 1981, and the tradition continues with her sons, Kyle and Scott, being actively involved in the business.

Reliable was established in 1974 in Cloquet with the mission to adhere to the highest standards of integrity by always being ethical and fair with their customers.  That mission has carried on throughout the years and has grown to add offices in Superior and Hermantown.

Reliable is committed to helping its customers with the best insurance and financial products for each stage of their lives and business growth.  They offer home, life, auto, disability,  health, commercial insurance, financial planning, long term care, Medicare supplement as well as wealth management, estate planning, Medicare supplement, and annuities, from trusted companies like AAA, ASI, Nationwide, Auto-Owners, Integrity, MetLife, Progressive, The Hartford, Ram Mutual, Secura to name a few.

Both Steve and Val strive to have all employees involved in our community, not only because they love the area they live in, but this also helps them support the customers and communities who support them.  They are active in the local chambers of commerce, Rotary, Kiwanis, Associated Builders Association, AreaVibes, and Best Christmas Ever.

To learn more about the products they offer, connect with their well-trained, experienced professional staff who have a positive and helpful attitude to serve. You can connect by stopping by one of the office locations at :

Main Office

Phone (218) 879-4663

Toll-free (800) 625-4661

803 Carlton Avenue

Cloquet, MN 55720

Hermantown Office

Phone (218) 729-6791

5094 Miller Trunk Hwy, Ste 500

Hermantown, MN 55811

Superior, WI Office

Phone (715) 718-5900

610 Ogden Avenue

Superior, WI 54880

Website: https://reliablemn.com/

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