Publisher’s View

The world has changed dramatically since the technology revolution arrived in the late 1970s. Today, it is difficult to imagine our lives without computers, smart phones, apps, online shopping, and many of the other conveniences made possible by the men and women working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations. While it is clear read more

Each issue of Strictly Business has a theme. Some of the themes repeat annually and some are one-time events. A decade ago health care was a topic for SB every two to three years. Now, because of innovations and rapid changes in the industry, we have added it to our list of annual topics. Here read more

Even after 28 Strictly Business Forums I have to confess I still look forward to the annual event. The energy in the room is always contagious and a commitment to making the North Country a good place to live and work can be found with every participant. During the Forum I move from table to read more

Check the internet for information about the longevity of small business start-ups and you will find an estimate that says approximately 50% will still be in operation in five years. While that is a daunting stat the desire to start your own business and be your own boss is still alive and well. In this read more

Our topic for this issue of Strictly Business, Paradigm Shifts, offers us an opportunity to present the stories of businesses and not-for-profits that have made major changes in their business models over time. Our cover feature, St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment & Recovery Centers based in Saranac Lake, brings you an eye-opening look at this amazing read more

In this issue of Strictly Business we look at the disruptors in our business community. What we were looking for when we went in search of “disruptors” were the businesses and individuals who are producing unique products or offering new or different services. Our cover article on Norsk Titanium tells the story of how its read more

An African proverb says, “It takes a village to raise a child.” In this issue of Strictly Business we introduce you to some of the organizations and people in our village who are working to raise and educate North Country children. CFES Brilliant Pathways, a non-profit created to level the educational playing field for children read more

North Country Chamber of Commerce president Garry Douglas is fond of saying, “Where things move is where prosperity occurs.” This Chamber mantra has proven to be true as the number of transportation affiliated companies in the area has seen amazing growth in the past 20 years. From a start with just two companies—Vapor Stone Rail read more

There is a silent epidemic of poverty and joblessness in our region. It lives behind closed doors, out of sight and out of mind for most of us. Despite the growth of job opportunities in our region, there is despair for many in the North Country. The opioid epidemic, alcoholism, drug abuse, mental health issues read more

In 2012 when we produced our first Strictly Business issue focusing on up and coming community leaders we were pleased at the enthusiastic feedback. The issue was so well received we decided to make it an annual topic. Each year we invite members of the business community to nominate young professionals who are making a read more