West end celebration 2023

The West End business district was transformed Saturday, with streets closed to traffic and people enjoying themselves. Both sides of Avenue C were lined with an eclectic mixture of artists, vendors, businesses and community organizations selling, providing information and engaging with the attendees.

The inflatable bounce house, slide and barrel train rides were a hit with the younger set. Musicians, including Cloquet native John Saaristo, performing as Yellow Cloud Rising, provided music during the event. Brian Lokken brought his anvil and forge and engaged participants of all ages to "heat, beat and repeat" as he taught them how to smith a utilitarian shepherd's hook. Kim Christine of Lacuna Massage offered chair and pet massages while 4-year-old Alex Spalding got his face painted then dove into the sports section of the paper.

Celebration organizers at the Pine Knot News invited participants to register to win one of several gift certificates to local businesses. And the winners are, drum roll, please ... Ken Peter, Kim Buskala and Jean Smallman.