Timeless Appeal

Community Involvement Has Timeless Appeal 

by Sue Ready 

If life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

Cathy Malecha pictured with art work of Kathi Mann from Breezy Point. 

And indeed Pequot resident Cathy Malecha has this recipe down with her commitment to the community and her vision as a small business owner.

Malecha has lived in the Pequot community since 1978 when she and her husband Al purchased the Lake Region Grocery, a store that had been in existence since the 40's. It was located on what is now called Rasmussen Road next to Leslie's Boutique. Here they worked and raised their family with living quarters above the store in a large renovated space. When other competing stores established themselves in the area they made a decision to close in 1983. Her husband, Al, who had been disabled since age 35, lived almost 40 years in poor health. Together they raised 7 children and now have 14 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He passed away in 2012.

Over the years Malecha has given many countless hours to the community and its welfare. She has been involved in many civic projects, managed 4 other businesses, was president of the historical society, worked on steering committees to enhance the city, was mayor for 3 terms, and city council for 1. In addition Malecha was a Sibley Township Clerk and oversaw the renovation of Jack Pine Center.

When another business opportunity presented itself on the same grocery store property she and her husband once owned, Malecha turned her energies to start a new business. By combining her wealth of business experiences, knowledge of antiques, a sharp eye for emerging trends of repurposed and reimagined furniture, Timeless Appeal was established May 2018 as a consignment shop.

Open the door to artfully displayed work of locally made products, mostly from Central Minnesota, ranging from St. Cloud to Pine River. 

There is ample room to browse quality workmanship by artists ranging from paintings, sculptures, locally crafted furniture and décor, and many repurposed objects, both rustic and Victorian antiques. A central feature unique to the store is the authors' table displaying books by 4 local authors.

What a wonderful concept creating a store that provides a place where local artists and residents can display and sell their work.

Vendors trust Malecha to display their work in such a way as to attract visitors.

Malecha works on commission and is open 7 days a week. She has been in business 3 months and marketing her store has primarily been through Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/Timeless-Appeal-202548013695093/, word of mouth and references. Her family and friends have been supportive throughout the renovation process by adding their talents and ideas.

There is much to admire about Malecha. With her previous successful business experiences, a strong work ethic and commitment to the Pequot community, she has created a vision that has timeless appeal for all.

Endnote This article was written for the publication Great Northern News. After the article was written I found out Cathy decided to run for mayor again in Pequot Lakes, MN. We wish her well on the upcoming November election.