A hometown newspaper with a local office, local owners & lots of local news

West End shop opens

A new vintage store, 'ant'cetera Art & More, will hold a grand opening at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 8 in the old Smokies building at 109 Avenue D in Cloquet's West End business district.

Proprietor Jean Farleigh said she was a "thrifter" before she even knew it was a term. "My whole life, I've been a saver, a scavenger, a treasure hunter," she said. "As I grew up, I would go to rummage and garage sales with my mom and neighbors. I was more excited to find bargains and unique pieces at these places than buying new in the stores."

After years of search and collecting, Farleigh is reselling her vintage finds, including repurposing and upcycling items that might be past their prime. She offers an eclectic mix of mostly used or new-to-you products, from dishes, to knick-knacks and room décor, purses and other accessories, pictures and more. Hours for the store are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays.

While you're in the West End, seekers of antiques and collectibles may also want to walk up the hill to Nantiques, in the former Masonic Temple at 402 Arch Street in Cloquet.