More 'bad guys' stuff' goes up for auctionSorry that you missed the auctions of seized property from Denny Hecker and Tom Petters? Here's a chance to own property of another Twin Cities huckster, Trevor Cook, who was convicted last year of bilking investors in a $190 million fraud scheme. Luther Auctions is selling off some of Cook's belongings.
Many watches are among the seized property, including several Rolexes -- a Daytona Chronometer, a stainless and gold Submariner with black dial, a Milgauss and a Datejust with silver dial -- as well as models from Omega, Movado, Tag Heuer, Versace and Hugo Boss. Other items include a large bear rug, antique gumball machine, neon artworks, sports items, Bose speakers and a Sony stereo system.
How good will the deals be? Hecker's items went for more than expected. Cook, being less well-known, might bring in lesser amounts. For whatever reason, people still like to buy bad guys' stuff, owner Tracy Luther said.
The auction preview is from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday. The auction starts at 6 p.m. Monday. For an online preview, go to www.lutherauctions.com or visit the auction at 2556 E. 7th Av., North St. Paul, 651-770-6175.
Free housing fair Want to go to a home show without having to pay $10 for admission? Try the South Minneapolis Housing Fair. It's a much smaller show than the one at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Open to anyone, the fair offers an excellent mix of about 100 local experts and resources for home-improvement projects, financing, green building standards and energy conservation, most of whom provide service throughout the Twin Cities. Representatives from Halet Remodeling (Booth 207, 612-789-9141) offer thermal imaging and can help with ice dam questions and prevention. SP Custom Carpentry (Booth 821, 952-890-7141) can do repairs on rope and pulley windows ($75 per rope), as well as reconditioning of vintage windows ($500 per window). The fair is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at South High School (3131 19th Av. S., Mpls., www.housingfair.org).
Cosmetics freebies Neiman Marcus' beauty event (505 Nicollet Mall, Mpls., 612-339-2600) continues through March 6. Spend $100 on cosmetics or fragrances and get a free tote filled with sample goodies. Similar events include giveaways at the Elizabeth Arden counters in Herberger's going on now and starting March 1 at Estée Lauder counters in Macy's.
John Ewoldt • 612-673-7633 or jewoldt@startribune.com. If you spot a deal, share it at www.startribune.com/dealspotter.
