Publisher’s View

In 2018, 5.34 million existing homes and 667,000 newly constructed homes were sold in the U.S. There are currently about two million active real estate licensees and 86,004 real estate brokerage firms operating in the country. In this issue of Strictly Business we look at some of the North Country’s real estate firms as well read more

In this issue of Strictly Business we take a look at companies in the service sector of the North Country’s economy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics service has been the country’s main source of employment and output during the past decade. Our cover article features Taylor Rental, which started as an equipment rental read more

It’s finally summer — my favorite time of year. The lake temperature is rising and the level is dropping. It’s time to get outside and immerse yourself in all the North Country has to offer. In this issue of Strictly Business we feature some of the places and the people who provide family fun and read more

To prepare for this issue of Strictly Business which focuses on area restaurants I did a little research. Here is some of what I found. The first documented restaurant in the world opened in Paris in 1765. It served one dish: sheep’s feet in white sauce. (Be still my heart!) The Union Oyster House in read more

Nearly 30 years ago, when Mary and I had just launched Strictly Business, a friend asked me how we were going to sustain a monthly business magazine. His comment was, “This is a small area. How are you going to come up with interesting articles each month?” Good question! Our plan was to frame each read more

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