Holiday Gift Guide 2021

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY FREE EVENTS SCHEDULE + A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO:

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO ‘SHOP LOCAL’

BY MOLLY OVENDEN

Shopping locally has a profoundly positive impact on the local area. It is a literal investment into one’s own local community. According to a study done by Local First in Grand Rapids, Mich., in 2008, 68 cents from every dollar spent in a local small business goes back into the local community. This effect, the majority of local small business revenue being reinvested in local communities has noticeably continued into recent years.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

When American Express launched Small Business Saturday, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, to reinvigorate local small businesses suffering from the recession, the Greater Downtown Council (GDC) in Duluth came on board in year two of the November event.

Darlene Marshall, event coordinator emeritus with the Greater Downtown Council, worked with them from 2007 until her official retirement in January 2021. Marshall worked downtown with small businesses as a Neighborhood Champion in Duluth for Small Business Saturday. The Greater Downtown Council has

rallied local support and educated residents and consumers through roving reporter radio interviews and ads for the event. Local shop participants in Duluth have been thankful for the promotion and support. Whether a small Duluth business donates something to Bentleyville or sponsors a neighborhood little league team, “everybody is working toward a thriving community, a thriving neighborhood,” Marshall said.

Marshall worked downtown with small businesses as a Neighborhood Champion in Duluth for Small Business Saturday. The Greater Downtown Council has rallied local support and educated residents and consumers through roving reporter radio interviews and ads for the event. Local shop participants in Duluth have been thankful for the promotion and support. Whether a small Duluth business donates something to Bentleyville or sponsors a neighborhood little league team, “everybody is working toward a thriving community, a thriving neighborhood,” Marshall said.

Photo courtesy of Darlene Marshall Darlene Marshall, Greater Downtown Council’s event coordinator emeritus, has been around small businesses for many years. Her family’s small business and getting to know various Duluth small businesses has spurred her on to forever promoting shopping local and shopping small.

“Everybody is working toward a thriving community, a thriving neighborhood.”

- Darlene Marshall

SHOP LOCAL

From Page 2

Marshall worked downtown with small businesses as a Neighborhood Champion in Duluth for Small Business Saturday. The Greater Downtown Council has rallied local support and educated residents and consumers through roving reporter radio interviews and ads for the event. Local shop participants in Duluth have been thankful for the promotion and support.

Whether a small Duluth business donates something to Bentleyville or sponsors a neighborhood little league team, “everybody

is working toward a thriving community, a thriving neighborhood,”

Marshall said.

Small business owners live in the community their business impacts.

Marshall has seen this firsthand. Her husband’s family has owned a business in Duluth since 1938.

Experiencing small business life firsthand solidified her desire to be the GDC events coordinator.

“I know how important it is for people to keep walking through the front door,” Marshall said.

SHOPPING IN PERSON VERSUS ONLINE

While many local businesses have pivoted

and thrived in the online world during the pandemic, shopping online doesn’t have to be the only way.

Shopping in person, especially during the holiday season, can improve the consumer’s entire experience.

“You’re getting personalized service,” Marshall said. While in-person shopping can save on resources, energy, and time getting rid of packaging materials from online deliveries, that’s not the only benefit. If there are problems with the delivery, resolving issues is generally more efficient with a small business than a large, out-of-state establishment.

Shopping in person

also means you can see the available stock with your own eyes.

“You can touch it. You can feel it,” said Marshall, with hand sanitizer, of course.

Shopping in person at a local establishment means that you’re talking to your neighbor — you’re actually making eye contact. Your children are in the same class, you park next to each other at the football game, you pass each other on the way to work.

“You’re talking to a fellow community member,” Marshall said. That connection is special. Why shop local? Marshall said, “This is our home.”

Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

Photo courtesy of Molly Ovenden Banners like this one in Superior’s Cedar Barn encourage customers to invest in their community, to shop at local establishments, especially the Saturday after Thanksgiving for Small Business Saturday.

Cozy up FIND THAT PERFECT NOVEL !

BY MOLLY MILROY

With the winter solstice just around the corner, the days are shorter than ever and what better way to spend a cold, blustery afternoon than curled up with a good book. It’s the perfect holiday gift and the place to find it is at The Bookstore at Fitger’s.

“A book makes a great gift because you don’t have to worry about getting the size right, it’s easy to gift wrap, and it’s something that can be enjoyed again and again,” said Jennifer Jubenville, bookstore manager.

FICTION BY THE FIREPLACE

“The Lincoln Highway by Amor Tolles and Three Sisters by Edward Morris are really popular right now,” Jubenville said. Fiction lovers will also enjoy Catherine Ryan Howard, an Irish author who writes psychological thrillers including The Nothing Man and 56 Days.

“All of our booksellers love her,” Jubenville said. “She’s just starting to build a name for herself in the United States. We say we’re here biggest fans on this side of the ocean.”

REGIONAL AUTHORS

For regional fiction, Jubenville suggests authors William Kent Krueger, Linda LeGarde Grover, Brian Freeman, and J. Ryan Stradal’s book Kitchens of the Great Midwest

“It’s about a young woman who is learning who she is through cooking,” Jubenville said.

Popular regional nonfiction titles include Duluth: An Urban Biography, Fitger’s: The Brewery and Its People, Guide To The Superior Hiking Trail, and Will to Murder

“People want to learn the history of Duluth,” she explained. “People are really interested in the regional history and regional stories that the area has to tell.”

Photo by Molly Milroy

The feature table at The Bookstore at Fitger’s includes popular, trending books, such as “Three Sisters” by Edward Morris and more.

COZY UP: Page 6

COZY UP

From Page 4

HOLIDAY GIFTS

Unique holiday gift books include Nick Offerman’s Where the Deer and the Antelope Play

“I think that’s going to be a really popular gift this year,” Jubenville said.

Another great gift book that is getting a lot of attention is Subpar Parks: America’s Most Extraordinary National Parks and Their Least Impressed Visitors by graphic designer Amber Share.

“She discovered that all of the National Parks have one-star reviews and so she started illustrating them with the captions,” Jubenville said. “Isle Royale’s one star review reads, ‘no cell service and terrible Wi-Fi.’” This

beautifully designed book with Share’s graphics and hilarious reviews also includes detailed information on each National Park. “It’s been selling really well,” Jubenville said. “And I think it’s going to be the book [when you wonder] what do you get for the person who has everything.”

FUN GIFT OPTIONS

But what do you get for the person who doesn’t like to read? The bookstore offers a variety of other gifts including games and puzzles.

“Jigsaw puzzles are hot right now. I think a lot of people fell in love with jigsaw puzzles during the lockdown,” Jubenville explained. “There’s a lot of research about how it’s a

mindful activity.”

Another option is a Burn After Writing journal.

“You fill it out about yourself, but then the idea is after you get everything out, you throw it in the fire and it’s gone,” Jubenville said. “There are some really serious questions and a chance to get something down and then get rid of it. These have been really, really popular.”

If you’re still unsure, ask one of the staff booksellers. Each one has their own Top 10 list for the year, and they’ll be happy to suggest titles for you and your gift buying experience. They also offer gift wrapping for any item purchased in the store. With such a wide variety of authors, The Bookstore at Fitger’s has a title for everyone.

Molly Milroy is a Duluth freelance writer.

Photos by Molly Milroy

The popular Rebel Girls books are on a feature display at The Bookstore at Fitger’s. “A book makes a great gift because you don’t have to worry about getting the size right, it’s easy to gift wrap, and it’s something that can be enjoyed again and again,” said Jennifer Jubenville, manager at The Bookstore at Fitger’s.

HOLIDAY GIFTS AT HUCKLEBEARY

BY MOLLY MILROY

Looking for a unique holiday gift or a fun way to wrap presents this year? Be sure to stop by HuckleBeary located on Superior Street in downtown Duluth. This quaint and quirky gift store features something for everyone. From fun stocking stuffers to creative holiday gift bundles and cool gift wrap, you will be sure to find the perfect holiday gift.

HUCKLEBEARY: Page 8

OFFER AVAILABLEONLINEONLY.

Purchase$100ingiftcards,receiveonebonusvoucherforwaterparkwristbands. Purchasedgiftcardsarevalidforstaysstarting January3,2022anddonotexpire. Promotionalbonuswristbandvouchersarevalidforstays January 3-December 30,2022. Theexpirationdateonthewristbandbonusvoucherswillnotbe extendedandthevouchermustbeusedinitsentiretyduringthevisit. No refunds fortheunusedportionofthebonusvoucher

ORDERPROCESSING: Ordersareprocessedoff-siteandwillbemailed. Allow7-10daysforprocessing. Orderscannotbepickedupattheproperty.To guaranteedelivery by December 24, ordersmustbeplaced by December13. The EdgeisnotresponsibleforUSPSdelays.

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Photos courtesy of Emily Ekstrom HuckleBeary, located on Superior Street in downtown Duluth, offers plenty of unique choices for holiday shopping.

HUCKLEBEARY

From Page 7

STOCKING STUFFERS

Stocking stuffers are fun little treats, and you can show some creativity with these gift ideas.

“Our favorite stocking stuffer options are Mike & Jen’s single serving hot cocoa mix, chocolate filled candy canes, snowball surprise balls, grow a yeti, plus we have a great variety of vinyl stickers,” said Emily Ekstrom, owner of HuckleBeary.

Stop by to see the assortment of goods.

HOLIDAY TRENDS

Popular this holiday season is gift giving with a local vibe.

“We have a ton of local vendor items in store and locally madein-Minnesota goods that make great gifts,” Ekstrom said.

Other trends abound with oldschool sentiments.

“Themes you will see this holiday are more of a retro style holiday decor, glass blown

ornaments, and vintage style Santa mugs,” she said. “You will also see rainbow color assortment of items, like brush trees, decorative Santas in a variety of colors, not just your typical red and green.”

GIFT BUNDLES

HuckleBeary offers gift bundles, which is one package that contains a variety of gifts. The bundle may include a mug, journal, stickers, candle, and more.

“We will have a variety of holiday options coming soon,” Ekstrom said. “You can shop these ideas from our website under ‘gift bundles.’” Order online and have it shipped or pick it up directly at the store.

IT’S A WRAP

Ever heard of the saying, “It’s all about presentation”? That goes in terms of gift giving as well. HuckleBeary sells all your gift-wrapping supplies including roll wrap, gift bags, bows, and ribbon. For a fun and upbeat style, choose from a variety of

Santa- and reindeer-themed gift wrap.

Perhaps your gift-wrapping skills are not up to par. Don’t worry, HuckleBeary offers in-store custom gift wrapping and as an option when ordering online.

“We will hand write a personal message inside a card too,” Ekstrom said.

CONSUMABLES

Have a difficult person to shop for on your list? Ekstrom will help you find the perfect gift.

“We love to suggest a consumable,” she said. “Everyone loves a little something to eat or drink, or a candle to bring the cozy vibes from your home to theirs.”

HuckleBeary offers a wide variety of gifts including humorous cards, tea towels with fun quips, and delicious scented candles. Be sure to stop in, shop the local trends, and find that perfect and unique gift for the holidays!

Molly Milroy is a Duluth freelance writer.

Photos courtesy of Emily Ekstrom

Left: HuckleBeary features lots of products from local vendors, offering that Minnesota vibe. Right: Store front of HuckleBeary.

“We have a ton of local vendor items in store and locally made-in-Minnesota goods that make great gifts.”

- Emily Ekstrom

GIFTS TO EXCITE THE FAMILY ATHLETE Promote health!

can match the joy of finding the perfect gift for a loved one. Whether that loved one is a tiny tot who can’t wait to unwrap this year’s musthave toy or an adult hoping to find the latest gadget under the tree on Christmas morning, the thrill of giving a great gift is part of what makes the holiday season so enjoyable. Friends and family members may fall into certain categories, and that can make holiday shopping a little easier. For example, loved ones who can’t wait to sit down with a good book would no doubt appreciate a new e-reader or the latest bestseller. When it comes to gifting the family athlete, the following ideas can provide the inspiration shoppers need to put a smile on the face of fitness-minded friends and family members.

WEIGHTED VEST:

Weighted vests have gained popularity in recent years. Available from a variety of manufacturers and for

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2021

who want to burn more calories and build strength during their workouts. This can be an especially useful gift for endurance athletes who want their training sessions to mimic the challenges posed by nature or difficult competitive terrains.

NOISECANCELING HEADPHONES OR EARBUDS:

Many athletes relish their workouts not only as opportunities to zero in on their fitness goals, but also as chances to block out distractions and clear their heads for an hour or two each day. Noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds effectively block out external noises, allowing athletes to direct all of their focus on their workouts and training sessions.

ENERGY DRINKS:

Though it might not seem like the most exciting gift to unwrap on Christmas morning, energy drinks are

product that contains an optimal ratio of sucrose, glucose and electrolytes, helping athletes improve their endurance and power while reducing instances of cramping and fatigue. Energy drinks make for a perfect stocking stuffer.

HOME GYM EQUIPMENT:

Pandemic-related gym closures turned athletes into their own personal trainers, and some may not want to return to local fitness facilities even now that they’ve safely reopened. Home gym equipment can help athletes continue to build their own private home gyms, making items like kettle bells, dumbbells, weight benches, and resistance bands great items to put under the tree this holiday season.

It’s never been easier to shop for the family athlete during the holiday season. A heightened focus on fitness ensures there’s something for every type of athlete on your holiday shopping list.

Metro Creative Graphics

3:00

–

8:00 P.M. AMERICINN, SILVER BAY

Do your Christmas shopping locally and conveniently this year.

Local businesses will be setting up mini-stores at the AmericInn of Silver Bay. Come to one location and get all of your shopping done with a variety of businesses, crafters and artists. Rooms available for $50.00 plus tax for shoppers who want to spend the night.

PARTICIPATING VENDORS INCLUDE:

Crystal Alhbeck ���������������������Kitchenware, Towels, Busy Bags

Debbie Alhbeck ���������������������Jewelry, Paparazzi

Jessie Anderson ��������������������Creating My Journey, Custom Vinyl, etc�

Min Baker �������������������������������Baked goods- cookies, bars, cake, jams & jellies made with wild berries�

Jessica Burger ������������������������MARS CO� Cocoa infused food enhancers + goodies

Angela Bray ����������������������������Norwex Products

Penni Cuppy ���������������������������Body Butter, Lip Balm, Smelly Jelly, Candy Sleighs & Trains

Cheryl Farquharson�������������Originally designed Northshore Clothing

Audrey Ferris �������������������������Sewing items, mittens, artwork

Sheila Fetters�������������������������Wood signs, Glassware with Decals

Darcy Gaffke ��������������������������Scarfs, Decorative Baskets, Cedar Wood Products

Barbara Gatsby One of a kind girls outfits

Maria Gilbertson ������������������Suds N’ Wicks

Cindy Gustafson �������������������Tie One On - Aprons and Kitchen Sewing

Christy Harling ����������������������Hannah’s Handmade Creations, Bath & Body Products

Mary Haynes ��������������������������Knitted items, scarves, hats, mittens, etc

Sandra Johnston �������������������Handmade Christmas Crafts�

Laurie Kallinen ����������������������Calico

Trish Kasprzyk �����������������������Smug a Bowl/Koozies

Shelley Keech ������������������������Rodan & Fields Skin Care

Michelle Ketola ���������������������Childrens Books

Marita Klevgaard������������������Lazy One Pajamas

Sandy Knupp ��������������������������LED pictures, herbal neck wraps�

Diana Lax ��������������������������������Quilted Items, Hand Made Bags, 31 Bags

Jan Lillis �����������������������������������Suncatchers, Jewelry,Dog Collars, Horse Packs� Molly Lisor ������������������������������Perfectly Posh - Naturally Based

Tami Long �������������������������������Young Living Essential Oils, Plant Based Cleaning Products and Supplements

Donna McCurdy �������������������� Color Street Nails & Avon

Bev Mell �����������������������������������Mittens Out of Sweaters

Allison Pachard Knit Items - Hats, Scarves, Infinity Scarves and Handcrafted Polymer & Resin Jewelry

Crystal Peterson �������������������Woodcraft

Halie Robinson ����������������������Gelmoment

Gina Schluneger��������������������Misc Gifts - Candles, Jewelry Handmade Soap, Clothing�

Gloria Stern ���������������������������30-1 Gifts

Bruce Stipe �����������������������������Pottery

Cindy Stocks ���������������������������Knitted items (hats, socks, mittens)

Jackie Thomason ������������������ Paracord fairy stuff

Ted Wallace ����������������������������Daisey Daily Stiches - Kitchen Towels, Quilts, Tote Bags, Aprons, Pots & Bowl Holders

Ben & Tamber Weller ����������Rock Artwork, Agate Jewelry and Polished Agates

Cindy Zielieke ������������������������This N That

Door Prizes!

DUE TO THE TEMPORARY NATURE OF THE STORES, MANY BUSINESSES ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS. PLEASE PLAN AHEAD AND BRING CASH AND/OR CHECKS. THANK YOU. Questions, or if you would like to set up a store, call 226-4300.

UNIQUE GIFTS NEEDED? No problem

Between coordinating online store delivery times to negotiating returns of goods purchased online or traipsing around town for Auntie’s gift — she’s got everything already — or, what about your work colleague? Shopping at one of the Northland’s unique stores, you’re likely to find that one-of-a-kind gift, perfect for all the people on your shopping list. Here are some local specialty spots to inspire:

CEDAR BARN

1424 Tower Ave., Superior

In-person or online

“It’s an investment back to the community,” owner Rika Weiberg said, when we shop locally. Weiberg takes pride in offering a variety of unique Wisconsin and Minnesota made items, supporting hobbyists and local makers without their own shop fronts.

An array of Northland woods and Lake Superior themed decor, sauna supplies, European imports such as jewelry from Helsinki, Finland, and traditional Puukko knives made with elk antler handles. Many items in the shop are also both “edible and giftable,” Weiberg said.

Cedar Barn is proud of servicemen and women, featuring products that support U.S. Veterans.

INDIGENOUS FIRST ART & GIFT SHOP

202 W. 2nd Street, Duluth

Online or curbside

Featuring over 80 indigenous authors, artists, and agriculturists, “a lot of our items help beautify one’s home,” gift shop coordinator Jazmin Wong said.

From bags, coasters, cushions, and giclee prints to food boxes and gift boxes, with every gift purchased from this shop, “you’re supporting indigenous entrepreneurs,” Wong said.

Some of the indigenous farmers are women. The Indigenous Foods or Intertribal Food boxes feature a variety of items such as tea, cornmeal, wild rice, jam, maple sugar.

Cedar Barn owner Rika Weiberg poses with her store sign as she opens for the day, excited to help customers discover their perfect unique gifts.

Photo courtesy of Molly Ovenden

John Buskala welcomes shoppers to his Cloquet store; the building was built after the 1918 Fires.

BUSKALA JEWELRY AND GIFTS TOO

Owned by fourth generation John and JoAnne Buskala, this traditional jewelry store’s been around for over 100 years.

They have the “bread and butter things that say, ‘I love you,’” owner John Buskala said. “It’s a great place for last minute

They listen and help customers with personalized suggestions depending on taste of the person receiving the gift and unique

A goldsmith and diamond vetter, they even handle engraving

NAMASTÉ GIFTS AND HEALING

400 West Superior Street, Duluth

In-person, online, curbside

“It isn’t just a typical store,” Kathy Kubiski, owner and energy healer, said, “we’re a healing store.”

This family-owned business has knowledgeable staff, offering customers service in-store, or via a video call walk-through for a remote, yet personal experience.

“We have the largest supply of crystals in the Northland,” Kubiski said.

For eight years, this shop’s offered unique gifts, everexpanding their collection, featuring fun gifts from organic soy candles to statues, wall hangings to jewelry.

Molly Ovenden is a Duluth freelance writer.

This tourmilated quartz ring is an example of the myriad pieces of jewelry found at the Duluth Namaste shop.

Photo courtesy of Namaste Gifts & Healing

- Kathy Kubiski

Fourth-generation owner

Photo by Molly Ovenden

NOVEMBER 27 IS

NOVEMBER 27 is

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY FEEL GOOD - SHOP LOCAL - SHOP SMALL 2021 SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY EVENTS

Enjoy these free holiday themed open houses featuring demonstrations, discounts and give-aways.

www.downtownduluth.com

the difference of our unique approach and get a $100 gift card to any Duluth small business of your choice with your new patient exam! Book at www.drlarahill.com and use coupon code SMALLBIZ

a 3-month Adult membership for $150 and receive 2 free personal training sessions plus 2-7 day guest passes

off select Duluth Pack manufactured products; 25% off select Private Labeled apparel; $10 Pack cash for every $50 spent pre-tax

from England $20 off in stock or special order

Each Shop at Fitger’s will offer something special; Santa & his live reindeer will be at Fitger’s; the Reindeer in Fitger’s Courtyard, Santa on the 2nd floor in a winter wonderland decorated room.

Hucklebeary

Indigenous

Lake

Lester

Four-pound bags of Grandma’s frozen Chicken Wild Rice soup for only $14.99

It’s our Birthday! Come shop with us and we will have fun events and giveaways all day!

Gift with purchase; Design your own Snowman event; Design your own ornament; Live glass blowing demonstrations

off throughout the store; Chalk paint demos start on the hour(s); Free teddy bear for first 25 customers; Snacks & coffee available

Minnesota Surplus & Outfitters 218 W. Superior St. 10AM-5PM 10% off entire store

Namaste Gifts & Healing 400 W. Superior St. 9AM-5PM Drawings, Give Aways & Sales

Reimagined by T. Underwood 138 W. 1st St. 11AM-2PM / 3PM-6PM Christmas Decoupage and Tray workshops - $75

Security Jewelers 307 W. Superior St. ALL DAY Open House with Apple Cider, Hot Cocoa, and treats. In store promotions in the gift and jewelry departments along with special promotions on select watches.

Siiviis

Featuring work by regional artists; Artist special mini masterpiecs $99.00 normally $119.00

Join us at Deck the Depot where we’ll be making and capturing memories. Our festive Great Hall will be bustling with energy from music to treats to FREE family portraits from Nostalgic Earth Photography. Stop & experience the Depot in between supporting our region’s small businesses.

We will be offering a free wall calendar with every artwork purchase. Valentini’s