An enduring legacy
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Knowlton Bros. opened doors when Jefferson occupied White House
Papermaking has a long history in the north country. In fact it was on the back of the paper industry that the wilderness of Northern New York was developed.
The first paper mill in the north country was started in 1807 by General Walter Martin of Martinsburg, Lewis County. The machinery employed in the mill was powered by hand and the general was pleased if he made 10 pounds of paper per day. Jefferson County’s first mill was started by Gordon Caswell in Watertown quickly thereafter in 1808. It was called the Pioneer Mill.
Welcome to the new now in business
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Rhonda Abrams, a speaker and writer on small business issues, recently shared an article she wrote for USA Today in 1997. Now, 1997 doesn’t sound that long ago (to me, anyway). But when you consider the changes that the Internet has brought, not just to our personal lives but to our businesses as well, it’s staggering.
‘Bring your own device’ a new trend
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
You’ve made your list, have you checked it twice? What does it include that is shiny and nice? An iPad, Android smartphone or a tablet? If Santa leaves one under your tree, I bet you will BYOD.
Great Christmas gifts for grandma
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
As most have experienced, there are always those on your Christmas or holiday shopping list who are difficult to find the right gift for. Grandma Matteson is an example in our family. Grandma (my mother) lives with my wife, son and I in our home in Lorraine. Grandma is very picky about her clothes, doesn’t go away from our house very much and in our small home, there’s not much room for adding decorations or knick-knacks. The question comes every year, what special gift may one purchase for that special person?
For the holidays: A ‘Top 10′ to live by
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
As the holidays approach, are you asking yourself what that unique gift is that you can buy a family member or friend?
I discovered hidden treasures in small businesses in quaint towns have the niche of selling these trendy gifts. So as you shop this holiday season remember that small businesses are critical to the nation’s overall economy and you as a consumer can help both our economy and local small businesses.
Maximize year-end charitable giving
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Although north country residents generously support the work and mission of nonprofit organizations throughout the year, it is usually in December that many look to make year-end contributions. ‘Tis the season for appeals arriving in your mailbox. Americans are among the most giving on the planet, contributing more than $290 billion to charitable and philanthropic organizations last year.
Sieze the moment in development
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
When, in late 1983, discussions began in earnest about the expansion of Fort Drum to house the newly reconstituted 10th Mountain Division, the anticipation of a rebirth of economic activity was palpable. Many immediately grasped the incredible significance of what changes for the good this community was about to undergo. Looking back now over more than two decades, not only was that promise fulfilled but exceeded beyond our wildest expectations.
Staging a home for a good sale
January 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Each day, the Board of Realtors receives calls from its members and the public. A few weeks ago, Santa Clause called. Being a magical figure, he talks “house” and had been contacted by a local home that had some concerns. The house knows its owners are getting older, want to downsize, and want to get a good price. Santa told the house that he would contact me to write a column for potential sellers. I asked various real estate professionals for advice.
’Tis the season for tech gadget
December 30, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Sometimes techies can be the hardest people to buy for. Not only are they very particular about their gadgets but they do seem to already have the latest “thing”. This year you will find that technological gifts come in all shapes and sizes; here are a few great gift ideas to assist in your quest for the perfect “geek gift.”