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 new process was developed and brought to market, how it is disrupting the traditional metal manufacturing supply chain and what all this means for the North Country economy.
No one wants to think about end of life and what that brings, but Hospice of the North Country offers guidance and sup- port for families before and after a loved one dies. Executive Director Natalie Whitehurst provides a detailed look at the professional and compassionate services available through her organization.
Plattsburgh has many restaurants but none offer the unique combination of food and culture you will find at the new Café Himalaya on Route 9 north of the city and its sister location on Margaret Street in downtown.
Flags are an important part of our culture but what about flagpoles? Danny Kaifetz took inspiration from the tragedy of 9-11 and developed a business producing flagpoles using a native Adirondack wood. He is selling and installing poles that can best be described as works of art.
The name Imerys may not be familiar to many in the area but its previous owner NYCO Minerals was well known for mining and manufacturing Wollastonite in the Willsboro area. A new owner and new equipment bode well for the future of this long term Essex county employer.
SB’s Insight interview this month is with Cristina Lussi, an amazing woman and a leader in the Lake Placid hospitality scene. Make sure to read her views on the complexities of family business.
Advice in this issue comes from Bonnie Black of BHSN with her suggestions about how to find calm and happiness at work.
Wrapping up our October issue is Garry Douglas with words of wisdom about the importance of supporting the Champlain Valley Educational Services (CVES) and CV-TEC capital project that will go to voters on December 11th. While they may not be as well known as the individual school districts in the area, CVES/CV-TEC offer programs and services that are invaluable to children and adults in Clinton and most of Essex County. Trained employees are critical to the economic success of the North Country and CVES/CV-TEC play a vital role in making sure the right skills are available for the companies that are here and those who will come in the future.
We salute our disruptor businesses. They are not following the herd but rather finding their own way.