The cannons that fired on September 11, 1814 set off the Battle of Plattsburgh, the last fight of the War of 1812. Two Canadians go south of the border to make things right.

On a sunny autumn morning — September 11, 1814, to be exact — four heavily armed British ships accompanied by a dozen gunboats sailed into a bay on Lake Champlain in upper New York State. They immediately opened a murderous fire with long-range guns on an American fleet lined up in defence of the village of Plattsburgh. One of the British cannonballs arced over the bay and flew through the door of a brick house that happened to be the headquarters of American General Alexander Macomb. It remains, to this day, lodged in the wall of that house and deep in the historical memory of every proud Plattsburgher.

Read more at:  http://travelclub.canadiangeographic.ca/blogs/feature_articles/archive/2012/04/27/the-last-battle.aspx

            In the midst of an economic downturn, shoppers inevitably search for the best quality items at the lowest possible prices. As many typical retailers wilt under the pressure, consignment and resale establishments, America’s hidden gems, are growing in popularity. Whether people sell lightly used items outright to a resale shop, or split sale profits with a consigner, Americans are recycling — to the tune of 13 billion dollars of annual revenue for the resale industry. For consumers, the recycling process means preserving their wallets and bank accounts. Recently, my friend was saved from a frigid evening on Margaret Street by a pair of corduroys and a sweater, which he purchased from one of Plattsburgh’s consigners, DressCode, for less than 20 dollars. 

            With twenty dollars, shoppers at establishments like DressCode, Fashion Exchange, the Jungle, and Cache’ Elegant open themselves to myriad possibilities. Name-brand clothes, footwear, purses, home decorations, jewelry, accessories — these stores have something to offer all visitors, from the casual tourist to the avid gift-getter.

            Peg Tucker of Fashion Exchange points to her store’s luxurious yet affordable lineup, featuring popular labels for all ages: L.L. Bean, American Eagle, Chicos, Coldwater Creek — shoppers also won’t be surprised to find Canadian tags on her racks. She says that “the quality of the inventory has gone up,” especially of late. She’s become more and more selective, and her attention to detail distinguishes her stock; customers will leave with top-quality products in their bags.

            Speaking of distinguished, the charming, boutique-like aura of Cache’ Elegant sets it apart from typical shop stops. Owner Barbara Hugus emphasizes the “one of a kind” nature of her store. Shoppers are bound to find at least several items on her shelves unlike any they’ve seen before: creative and classic pieces that will add an artistic touch to a refurnished apartment, or a new home; simple and flashy jewelry. Also true of its apparel section, the shop features a balance of the old and the new. It’s an appealing balance for shoppers in all age groups.        

    Featuring a variety of brands, including Ann Taylor, L.L. Bean, and Patagonia, and an extensive collection of shoes, purses, and books, DressCode also attracts a wide range of shoppers.

            “There’s something for everybody,” says owner Julie Woodley. “They just need to explore.”

            With two levels and a shop for overflow, DressCode Basement, Julie’s establishment gives shoppers plenty to explore. On select days at DressCode Basement, customers can buy a garbage bag for ten dollars and fill it with anything, like an all-you-can-find clothing buffet.

            While benefits for consumers are obvious — they can spend the day store-hopping and still be able to pay for dinner — the value of selling items through these businesses is not to be missed. Because of the Basement, consigners at DressCode never have to see their clothes again, and they don’t need an appointment to drop off their items. Barbara offers Cache’ Elegant clothing consigners a 50/50 split of the profits. Fashion Exchange consigners have the opportunity to receive account credit for being regulars; they can earn money back just for recycling.

            Sellers and shoppers at these stores can also expect excellent customer service. Why? Peg, Barbara, and Julie are top-notch owners. They’re not working just to work; they run their shops because they love what they do.

            “I’ve always loved it,” Peg says. “It’s fun.” Proof of the value of her dedicated leadership: Fashion Exchange is celebrating its 20th anniversary this spring.

            Owner, cashier, spokesperson, helper — Barbara is Cache’ Elegant. She even supplies some of the stock herself, and offers customers the opportunity to shop after hours on an appointment basis.

            Julie characterizes staff at locally owned businesses as generally “friendlier,” providing customers a “personal” experience that they may not have at the big-name chains. She also points out that when people shop at small businesses, they connect with the city itself.

            “There’s so much to see, eat, and do downtown. Everyone mingles.”

            Peg adds similar sentiments, emphasizing the network that Plattsburgh’s businesses form with one another. Just by shopping at a few consignment stores, customers can learn about restaurants, other shops, and entertainment; they can feel the city tick.

            Barbara summarizes Plattsburgh’s hidden gems in a few words to North Country visitors: “They should check out the shopping possibilities in downtown Plattsburgh. It’s one of a kind.”

            So the next time you’re in the neighborhood, remember that downtown Plattsburgh is only a few minutes’ drive past Wal-Mart and the Champlain Centre. You’ll never know how far 20 dollars will take you until you explore.

            For more information about these and other resale/consignment shops in the Plattsburgh area, visit www.GoPlattsburgh.com/previouslyloved .

Read more at:

http://pressrepublican.com/0100_news/x333968167/Import-and-duty-exemption-increased-for-Canadians

To read more, go to:

http://pressrepublican.com/0113_business/x950977298/Manager-turned-owner-at-Yipes-Plattsburgh

To go to Yipes? Plattsburgh website, go to:

http://www.goplattsburgh.com/business/yipes-stripes-2/

The 2012 Winter ArtQuest series themed, “Hands-On History,” is dedicated to giving students the opportunity to learn about cultural and historical aspects of specific art objects and to create their own versions. Activities are age-specific and include jewelry-making, totem pole construction and the ancient Japanese art of origami, or paper folding, amongst others. Morning classes from 9am-12pm are available for kids ages 5 to 8, and sessions for older students ages 9 to 12 take place from 1-4pm.

This is my first experience with ArtQuest and I’m very excited about the sessions we’re able to offer this February,” says Jessica Mitchell-Briehl, Education Coordinator at the NCCCA Arts Center. “Our Artist Teachers are excited about the historical themes this Winter ArtQuest and are looking forward to working with students who are here during the vacation.”

NCCCA Executive Director, Janine Scherline states, “We’re lucky to live in a community where there are several options for families. We’re happy to give parents and students an artistic and educational alternative here at the Arts Center – both during the year and while school is in recess – and we hope parents will consider enrolling their kids during the upcoming winter break!”

ArtQuest is a special educational series that takes place at the Arts Center. It is designed to enhance arts education during periods when students are on vacation from school. ArtQuest programming takes place three times during the year, during the Winter and Spring Break and for a 6 week period during July and August. In the past, ArtQuest has received funding by the Clinton County Youth Bureau and a limited amount of scholarships may be available. Please call the Arts Center for more information.

Contact: Jessica Mitchell-Briehl, NCCCA Arts Center Education Coordinator, (518) 563-1604 or: education@plattsburgharts.org

Longtime Peru business changes hands

BRUCE ROWLAND Press-Republican

PERU — The orchard business isn’t much like the flower business. Nor is Peru, N.Y., much like New York City.

By Michael Shuman and Jeff Milchen, December 16, 2011

According to the National Retail Federation, Americans will spend an average of about $700 per person on holiday season shopping this year and, despite the hype surrounding Black Friday, the busiest shopping week immediately precedes Christmas. But rather than enduring long lines and sparse service at chain stores, we urge you take a different approach: seek out your local independent merchants and service providers, meet your neighbors and fully integrate your values in your purchasing decisions.

Read more: http://www.amiba.net/news/2011-media/buy-local-shuman-milchen#ixzz1hCin0kDs

Kids…don’t try this at home!

George experiments with the hay trolley!  …Country Dreams Farm