Talking Business - The Hidden Gems of Cloquet

What does it mean to leave the corporate world behind and return home to build something meaningful? In this episode, we hear from Jesse Wark, the new owner of Stock Tire & Auto, and listen to the story behind his journey "From Suits to Boots and Back to His Roots." After leading major projects around the world, Jesse returned to Cloquet with a vision of preserving a trusted local legacy while bringing fresh energy, modern technology, and customer-focused service to the business. We discuss the history of Stock Tire & Auto, the renovations and improvements already underway, the importance of community connections, and what it takes to lead from the front lines. Whether you're a car enthusiast, a small business supporter, or simply love stories of people investing in their hometowns, this episode offers an inspiring look at entrepreneurship, leadership, and hometown pride.

Join us as we welcome Wood City Dental to Cloquet and meet Dr. Emily Conley, DDS, a local dentist dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care close to home. In this episode, Dr. Conley shares her journey to opening Wood City Dental, her commitment to patient education, and how advanced technology like same-day crowns is transforming the dental experience. Learn about the full range of services offered, from preventive and cosmetic dentistry to emergency care, and discover why creating a comfortable, welcoming environment is at the heart of everything they do. Whether you're looking for a new dental home or simply want to hear an inspiring local business story, this conversation will leave you smiling.

What makes a local auto parts store stand out in today’s fast-paced world? In this episode, we take a closer look at Auto Value Parts Stores and the Cloquet location that has built its reputation on speed, expertise, and customer service. Learn how this family-owned network has grown into a trusted resource for professional repair shops, businesses, farmers, contractors, and do-it-yourself vehicle owners across the region. From same-day parts delivery to knowledgeable staff who know their customers by name, discover why at Auto Value, service truly is the difference.

Discover the story behind Woods & Water Family Dental in Cloquet, Minnesota, where personalized care, advanced technology, and a community-first approach are redefining the dental experience. In this episode, we explore Dr. Wendy Peterson’s inspiring journey from dental hygienist to practice owner, her passion for helping patients build confidence through healthy smiles, and how Woods & Water Family Dental is providing tailored care for patients of all ages. Learn how compassion, innovation, and a commitment to community are making a lasting impact, one smile at a time.

What started as a small thrift store along Cloquet Avenue has grown into something much bigger than a place to shop. Today, Graceful Strides Thrift Store serves as a community resource, employment center, donation hub, and nonprofit organization dedicated to making a meaningful difference throughout the Cloquet area.

On December 1, 2025, Graceful Strides Thrift Store officially opened its expanded location at 1309 Avenue C in Cloquet, having outgrown its previous space. The new facility has allowed the organization to create dedicated areas for sorting, pricing, repairing, and displaying merchandise, making the shopping experience more organized and enjoyable for customers.

"We were excited about the opportunity this building provided," explained Store Manager Tina. "I saw the former storage bins that had been used by K-1 Sportswear and immediately knew they would be perfect for organizing and storing sale items."

The larger facility has also created opportunities for future growth. Plans are being explored to expand the Farm & Country Store concept and create a dedicated ReStore-style area featuring building materials, fixtures, and home improvement items.

Graceful Strides is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission extends far beyond selling donated goods. The organization provides meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities while offering affordable household goods, furniture, clothing, décor, and everyday essentials to families throughout the region.

Today, the organization employs approximately 20 staff members and serves a variety of populations, including low-income families, veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Every purchase made at Graceful Strides helps support the organization's broader mission. Excess proceeds are reinvested into programs and services that benefit target populations throughout Carlton County and the surrounding communities.

The store's motto, "Changing Lives One Stride at a Time," reflects its commitment to creating opportunities for independence, dignity, and community connection.

A Treasure Hunt for Every Shopper

One of the reasons shoppers continue to return is the ever-changing inventory. Because items are donated daily, customers never know what unique treasures they might discover.

Visitors can browse:

• Quality clothing for all ages
• Furniture and home décor
• Household goods and kitchenware
• Books, games, and toys
• Seasonal decorations
• Farm and country items
• Collectibles and unique finds
• Vintage treasures and one-of-a-kind pieces

For bargain hunters, DIY enthusiasts, and families looking to stretch their budgets, Graceful Strides offers a shopping experience that combines value with purpose.

Community Donations Make It Possible

The success of Graceful Strides depends heavily on the generosity of local residents and businesses. Community members can support the mission by donating gently used items directly at the Cloquet location or by arranging a pickup through the store.

Donations are accepted during designated drop-off times, and store staff are available to coordinate larger pickups when needed.

Looking ahead, the organization hopes to expand its reach even further by offering select merchandise through online sales, allowing shoppers from outside the region to support the mission while discovering unique finds.

Whether you're searching for affordable necessities, looking for a hidden treasure, or hoping to support a worthy cause, Graceful Strides Thrift Store offers something for everyone.

The next time you're in Cloquet, stop by and see how this local nonprofit is making a difference—one stride at a time.

1309 Avenue C
Cloquet, MN 55720

Phone: (218) 879-2501
Email: [email protected]

Website: gracefulstridesshop.com

Follow them on Facebook for new arrivals, special sales, donation information, and community updates.

Shop Local. Donate Local. Change Lives Local.

Graceful Strides Thrift Store

Sometimes life has a way of redirecting our path. For Dr. Jonathan Herbert, a personal football injury years ago became the catalyst for a career dedicated to helping others heal.

Today, that journey has brought him to Cloquet, where Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology is providing a unique approach to health and wellness—one focused on understanding how the body, brain, nutrition, and emotions all work together.

In 2011, Dr. Jonathan made the decision to return to Minnesota to be closer to family and opened Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology in Hermantown. Fourteen years later, balancing the demands of family life and career led him to make another move—this time closer to home.

In spring 2025, he relocated his clinic to Cloquet.

“The office location here in Cloquet is working really well for my team. While I lost some clients with the move, overall I’ve gained twice as many clients here,” shared Dr. Jonathan Herbert.

Originally from Ohio, Dr. Jonathan’s educational journey took him through Pennsylvania for college and Missouri for postgraduate studies. But it was a personal experience with sciatica following a football injury that introduced him to chiropractic care and ultimately shaped his professional direction.

That experience sparked an interest that evolved into advanced training and certifications in Applied Kinesiology and Internal Health. He also earned his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist designation through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and pursued studies in pediatric craniopathy to further support children and families.

Before opening his Minnesota practice, Dr. Jonathan worked in clinics in Missouri and California, expanding his experience and developing what would become his specialized niche.

What sets Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology apart is its whole-body approach.

Dr. Jonathan specializes in functional neurology, functional medicine, and applied kinesiology—looking beyond symptoms to understand how systems within the body interact.

“All parts of the body work together,” explained Dr. Jonathan. “I’m an open book. If a client doesn’t fit what I do, I refer them elsewhere for appropriate treatment.”

That collaborative mindset has helped him build strong relationships with chiropractors, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers throughout the region.

His work spans a wide range of conditions including concussion recovery, neurological challenges, chronic health concerns associated with Lyme disease, hormone-related frozen shoulders, children on the spectrum, and cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s.

“We have primitive reflexes. Our brains sometimes override those reflexes for multiple reasons and affect the cranial nerves,” he explained.

Appointments often involve evaluating more than physical symptoms. Dr. Jonathan assesses structural function, nutrition, neurological responses, and emotional influences to better understand what may be contributing to a patient’s challenges.

His commitment to learning also remains ongoing. Through advanced institutes, seminars, and continuing education, he stays current on emerging research and treatments related to brain health and nervous system function.

Because of the highly individualized nature of his work and specialized niche, Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology operates as a cash practice and does not accept insurance.

For those looking for a different path, more personalized attention, or answers beyond traditional approaches, Dr. Jonathan and his team are offering another option right here in Cloquet.

Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology, LLC
1111 Cloquet Avenue, Suite #7
Cloquet, MN 55720
Phone: (218) 499-8596
Email: [email protected]

Facebook: Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology Facebook Page

Website:
Northland Chiropractic & Kinesiology

Hidden Gems are all around us—stories built on passion, expertise, and people choosing to make a difference in our communities.

Inspired by his Finnish grandfather and a passion for traditional wellness, entrepreneur Troy Persaud founded Nordic Legend Products — a company dedicated to handcrafted saunas, premium sauna stoves, cedar hot and cold plunge tubs, and unique outdoor cedar pet shelters.

Recently, Troy expanded operations by purchasing and renovating a commercial building in Cloquet’s historic West End District, transforming the space into a working showroom and production facility where craftsmanship and heritage come together.

Walking through the facility, visitors are welcomed into a showroom featuring sauna stoves, cedar hot tubs, plunge tubs, and wellness accessories before stepping into the construction area where custom saunas are hand framed and built by skilled craftsmen. Every sauna reflects a commitment to quality, tradition, and the growing demand for wellness-focused living.

“As most Minnesotans understand, sauna culture is more than relaxation — it’s part of a lifestyle,” shared owner Troy Persaud. “I started this business to honor my Finnish heritage and traditions.”

Nordic Legend Products offers several sauna styles to fit a variety of properties and lifestyles, including:

• Alpine

• Timberline Traditional

• Hearthwood

• Barrel Saunas

• Fully Custom Sauna Designs

Customers can further personalize their sauna experience with porch upgrades, lighting packages, and a variety of finishing options.

To complete the experience, Nordic Legend carries an impressive lineup of premium sauna stoves, including:

• Heritage Nordic

• Kuuma

• HUUM

• IKI

Available stove options include:

• Electric sauna stoves

• Wood-fired boiler stoves

• Wood-fired stoves with inside or outside feed systems

Nordic Legend Products is also an authorized seller of HUUM stoves and HUUM sauna bundles.

The health benefits associated with sauna use and cedar hot and cold plunge therapy continue to gain popularity across the country. Many users report benefits such as:

• Stress relief

• Muscle recovery

• Improved cardiovascular health

• Immune system support

• Mental wellness and relaxation

For customers looking for flexibility, Nordic Legend offers multiple financing solutions including:

1. Half down with final payment upon completion

2. Monthly payment plans

3. Bank financing options for Minnesota residents

Saunas are delivered fully assembled for convenience and can be shipped throughout the United States, with custom shipping quotes available for locations beyond 250 miles.

In addition to saunas, Nordic Legend Products also manufactures the popular Perro Barrel — a handcrafted outdoor cedar pet shelter designed to protect dogs from wind, heat, rain, and cold weather. Each Perro Barrel is handmade to order and can be personalized at no additional cost.

Not quite ready to purchase? Nordic Legend even offers sauna rental options, giving customers the opportunity to experience the wellness benefits of sauna living for a weekend before making an investment.

Whether it’s honoring Finnish traditions, improving personal wellness, or creating a backyard retreat, Nordic Legend Products is helping customers across the country experience handcrafted quality built right here in Cloquet.

119 Avenue B
Cloquet, MN 55720
Phone: (218) 499-1000

Follow Nordic Legend Products online:

• Facebook

• Instagram

Nordic Legend Products – Bringing Finnish Tradition, Wellness, and Craftsmanship to Cloquet

Nordic Legend Products

Hidden Gem: Guaranteed Network Services (GNS)

Tucked into downtown Cloquet, Guaranteed Network Services (GNS) is quietly powering the technology behind businesses across North America. While headquartered in Lawrenceville, Georgia and established in 2011, GNS planted roots locally in 2024 at 1111 Cloquet Avenue, bringing world-class IT, telecommunications, and infrastructure expertise directly to the Northland. From voice and data systems to internet connectivity and network cabling, GNS delivers customized, end-to-end solutions designed around each client’s unique needs.

At the core of GNS is a refreshingly different approach: no cookie-cutter packages, no unnecessary upselling, just smart, strategic guidance. Their team works alongside businesses to design and implement efficient, cost-effective systems, offering services that include IT consulting, VoIP telephone systems, multi-carrier telecom partnerships, and full-scale network infrastructure. As an authorized partner with major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast, GNS ensures clients receive the best value and performance across providers.

“We’re not salespeople. We’re here to educate and empower,” shared Technology Consultant Wayne Buse. That philosophy even extends to offering free company audits to help businesses better understand their current systems and opportunities for improvement.

What makes GNS especially compelling is its local connection with global reach. The company serves clients in every U.S. state, across Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, yet remains deeply committed to the Cloquet community. President and CEO Todd Bailey, a member of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, has strong ties to the region, and GNS has already played a key role in major local projects, including the technology planning and installation for the expansion at Black Bear Casino Resort. For Network Technician Eli Wencl and the Cloquet-based team, responsiveness and relationships are everything. “When you call, you get a real person. When you email, we respond,” Wencl emphasized. Whether it’s upgrading a phone system or integrating network infrastructure into new construction plans, GNS is a trusted partner businesses can rely on.

Guaranteed Network Services, Inc.
1111 Cloquet Avenue, Suite 6
Cloquet, MN 55720
Phone: 218-609-3600
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.guaranteed.net

Hidden gem. Global reach. Local commitment.

🌱 Hidden Gem Feature: The Fruit Tree Guy – Let’s Grow Some Fruit!

Right here in the Northland, where many assume fruit trees struggle to survive, one local entrepreneur is changing the narrative—one root at a time.

Meet The Fruit Tree Guy, a passion-driven business launched by Cloquet’s own Mark Plemel. What started as frustration with failed big-box store tree purchases has grown into a niche, sustainability-focused venture bringing high-quality, climate-appropriate fruit trees to our region.

Mark specializes in bare root fruit trees—and if that’s new to you, you’re not alone. It’s a concept that’s quickly gaining traction for all the right reasons.

Unlike traditional potted trees, bare root trees:

• Develop stronger, healthier root systems

• Experience less transplant shock

• Are better suited for local soil conditions

• Grow faster and stronger

• Cost 30–50% less than comparable potted trees

Even better? They’re environmentally friendly. No plastic pots. No excess soil. No unnecessary waste. Just trees, roots, and a smarter way to grow.

“Why pay more for a plastic pot you don’t need only to get a tree with fewer roots?” Mark puts it simply—and it makes perfect sense.

Think fruit trees can’t thrive this far north? Think again.

The Fruit Tree Guy offers a wide variety of trees specifically selected for our climate, including:

• Apple & Crabapple

• Apricot

• Cherry

• Peach

• Pear

• Plum

• Nitrogen-fixing trees

These aren’t generic imports—they’re regionally appropriate varieties designed to succeed right here in Northern Minnesota.

Mark has made the process easy:

1. Order online

2. Pick up locally in Cloquet

3. Plant and grow

Pickup is offered through scheduled curbside dates in May, with flexible evening options as needed. And if you’re not sure what to choose? Mark offers custom recommendations and even a plant-it-for-you service.

By day, Mark is a mechanical engineer. But his real passion? Growing trees that produce fruit, support pollinators, and help restore a stronger, more sustainable local food system.

He’s also sharing his knowledge through:

• Classes at the Duluth Folk School

• Community Education programs

• Educational outreach to help others succeed

At home, he’s cultivating his own small orchard—living proof of what’s possible.

The Fruit Tree Guy isn’t just about selling trees—it’s about:

• Restoring local fruit-growing success

• Reducing environmental impact

• Empowering the community to grow their own food

It’s practical. It’s sustainable. And it’s exactly the kind of innovation that makes a true Hidden Gem.

The Fruit Tree Guy
📞 218-451-3222
📧 [email protected]
📍 Tree Pickup Warehouse: 701 Laurel Street, Cloquet, MN
🌐 fruittreeguy.com

📱 Facebook available for updates & ordering:

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579969224120

Let’s grow something meaningful—right here at home. 🌱🍎

🌳 A Better Way to Grow🍎 Not Just Apples…🌿 Simple, Smart, Local🌼 Rooted in Passion & Community🌎 Growing More Than Trees📍 Connect & Learn More

If you’re looking for a cozy place to gather, eat well, and enjoy a seriously good cup of coffee, Koinonia Coffeehouse is quickly becoming a must-visit destination in Cloquet’s West End Business District.

Located inside the historic Chief Theater at 103 Avenue C, Koinonia Coffeehouse blends vintage charm with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Owned by Angie and Chris Carey, the coffeehouse officially opened in October 2025 and operates in partnership with Kingdom Builders Ministries, the Cloquet-based Christian faith outreach organization that owns the building.

And if you’re wondering how to pronounce the name, you’re not alone. Say it out loud as “KOY-NOH-NEE-UHJ.” The word koinonia comes from Greek and means fellowship—a fitting name for a space designed to bring people together.

Koinonia Coffeehouse offers an impressive menu that goes far beyond your standard cup of coffee. Guests can enjoy all-day breakfast, homemade bakery items, a great lunch menu, and bagels and cream cheese shipped directly from Black Hills Bagels. The drink menu is expansive and creative, featuring Lotus Plant Power organic energy drinks, smoothies, frappes, specialty mocha drinks, a wide variety of coffee flavors, teas, and more.

Behind the scenes, a lot of passion and preparation went into perfecting the menu. Angie Carey describes herself as naturally inquisitive and stepped into the world of creative baking and cooking to build out Koinonia’s diverse food offerings. Beginning in the spring of 2025, Angie and Chris immersed themselves in coffee education, participating in test labs, hands-on training, and consulting with UP Coffee Roasters in Minneapolis before opening their doors.

Family is at the heart of Koinonia Coffeehouse. Angie and Chris are parents to ten children, and the Carey family works together as a team to support the business whenever possible. That sense of family carries into the space itself, creating an environment that feels authentic, grounded, and community-focused.

In addition to food and drinks, Koinonia Coffeehouse features a charming merchandise corner with clothing and gift items, making it a great stop for both everyday visits and unique finds.

Currently open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Koinonia Coffeehouse is a wonderful new addition to downtown Cloquet, one that pairs great taste with meaningful connection.

Whether you’re meeting a friend, grabbing breakfast, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a quality cup of coffee, Koinonia Coffeehouse is well worth the visit.

Koinonia Coffeehouse

103 Avenue C

Cloquet, MN 55720

📞 952-292-6312

📧 [email protected]

📘 Facebook: Koinonia Coffeehouse