It’s spring and this is the time of year when thoughts turn to building, remodeling and new
home buying, and to celebrate that each year Strictly Business dedicates its April issue to all
things construction-related. Here is this month’s lineup.
Our cover feature is the feel-good story about the redevelopment of the Old Stone Barracks on the
former Plattsburgh Air Force Base. For decades the building stood empty, slowly deteriorating.
While there were a number of efforts to revive it, nothing happened until Plattsburgh native Mary
Theresa Pearl and partner Terry Schmaltz stepped forward. Much of the work has been completed
on this building treasure and what is left to do will be finished soon. And then, stand back and
watch the people of the North Country flock to see this magnificent rebirth.
The Luck family is an institution in the North Country, leaders in the building trades for more
than 70 years. Think of a major project in the area over the past decade or two and the Lucks have
probably been involved. In the past year alone they have completed road and bridge projects along with the apartment complex on Ampersand Drive, rebuilt the SUNY Plattsburgh Hawkins Hall pond and are just now completing the Nova Bus customer inspection center.
Jeff Chauvin of Curtis Lumber is well versed in new building products and in this issue of SB he shares his knowledge with ideas
that will allow both the homeowner and commercial builder to be more environmentally sensitive.
If you’ve ever thought about converting to solar energy Curt Snyder is someone who can tell you what you need to know. He’s lived with solar power since he was a child and has made it his life’s work.
Schluter Systems continues to grow and to employ new technology to assure its operation is both efficient and green. Geothermal systems are just one way the company is supporting its phenomenal growth – from 13,000 square feet in 1989 to 360,000 today.
CV-TEC’s many training programs have earned it a strong reputation. In this issue you will read about its clean energy program and learn about the house students have built employing the latest techniques. That’s hands-on education!!
In part 2 of their article Bob Christopherson and Jim Coffey take you deeper into their discussion of New York State’s overdependence on property taxes. Attorney Jackie Kelleher shares her legal expertise on paid family leave and the coming increase in New York State’s minimum wage.
What is a Chamber of Commerce? Garry Douglas explains.
And then there’s our Insight feature with my hero, Dr. Joel Wolkowicz. In 2015 when I had a serious health problem it was Joel who diagnosed it correctly and quickly make arrangements for the treatment I needed. I will be forever grateful for his care and concern. There is no one better.
As I read the articles for each issue of Strictly Business I never fail to be impressed with the positive, can-do attitude of North Country business people. Whether it’s Mary Theresa Pearl and Terry Schmaltz taking on the daunting task of rescuing the Old Stone Barracks or the Lucks juggling multiple projects and coming in on time and on budget, things are happening in our region.
And that’s good for business.