By David Damiani
Saturday night downtown in Plattsburgh. Club Five1Eight is considered one of the biggest clubs
in upstate New York. “It’s always a good time” Yeabsira Ayele (customer) But the real question
is,who is the person behind Club Five1Eight. His name is Devin Hilts, a long time plattsburgh
native who had a passion for the entertainment business.
introduced into the nightlife scenery. Hilts said throughout his 13 years in the business he has
held every position.” “I think I’ve done everything in the business from being a
bartender,barback.bouncer,assistant manager, general manager, and owner.” Which all has
definitely prepared him to be the owner for Club Five1Eight. The transition from Off The
Hookah which was the club in business prior to Five1Eight happened recently.
him a job in Florida as a general manager for one of the Off the Hookahs franchises down in
Florida. Devin accepting and filing his leave notice at the Plattsburgh franchise got offered a new
opportunity from the franchise a few weeks later and offered to sell the business to Hilts, after a
few days of contemplating he took the opportunity and became the owner. One of the main
reasons for moving forward with the acquisition deal was that he believed Plattsburgh was a
good place. “I’ve always liked Plattsburgh, I’ve always got along with everyone here It’s not a
big town but it's a good town ; not a lot of violence and not a lot of problems.” A part of the
acquisition deal for the club, Hilts had to change the name. “ We definitely took a while,
probably had a hundred names written, I carried a patent paper with me all the time.” Hilts came
up with the name from reminiscing over one of his buddies worked for popular nightclub e1ven
in Miami, and immediately took inspiration off that.
inside the club preparing for the weekend. Hilts comes in around 10 am and handles all
operations from making sure the bar is fully stocked to venue being able to operate for the
weekend. “On average I spend about 60 hours, a lot of late nights and early mornings. I’m lucky
even if I get more than 3 hours of sleep.” Running club Five1Eight for the most part has become
his life. “Don’t get me wrong, its alot of work but I do enjoy it.”When asked if he had any
hobbies apart from running the club, Hilts said the little time that he has off, he does enjoy
golfing,fishing and hiking.
been fine, a lot of customers.” Hilts had measure that part of his success in Plattsburgh is because
of his friendly staff & customer service. “Trust, respect your customers, make sure all the ladies
are comfortable, don’t pick on people said Chris Neil bartender at Club Five1Eight.
as a high priority alongside as creating a friendly and fun atmosphere. When asked about Hilts
Bushey replies saying“ Boss is pretty nice, pretty reasonable guy.”
focus of being a live venue for live music bands, djs and artists. The new live 800 maximum
occupancy club is set to open Fall 16. Hilts mentioned“Instead of leaving Plattsburgh to go
elsewhere for entertainment, why not keep it in Plattsburgh.”. With no thought of leaving
Plattsburgh, Hilts ends of saying. “ Were happy with Plattsburgh, hopefully they're happy with
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Tough talks, solid results
By Kristin Suarez
PLATTSBURGH— The front page of the October 23 issue of SUNY
Plattsburgh's student-run newspaper, Cardinal Points, printed an image that many found
racially offensive. The illustration depicted a cartoon character of a black man, wearing a
graduation cap and gown, walking through a decrepit neighborhood. This sparked
conversation around campus, and created a wave of consciousness.
During the day’s that followed John Ettling’s press release addressed the Cardinal
Points controversy.
“SUNY Plattsburgh is committed to recruiting a diverse mix of students who can
benefit from a meaningful and wide educational experience for all students. Among our
strategic goals is promoting a campus that increases global experiences and multicultural
opportunities,” the press release read.
On Thursday, 5 SUNY Plattsburgh students hopped into a red van that headed on
an 8 hour journey to Baltimore, where they would attend the 107th Annual Eastern
Communication Association Convention (ECA). Dr., J.W Wiley, Chief Diversity Officer,
and Dr., Kirstin Isgro, Communication Studies Faculty of SUNY Plattsburgh, escorted
students to the conference.
“This was a great opportunity for a select few students to discuss really difficult
but important topics on our college campuses,” Dr. Isgro said.
After SUNY Plattsburgh submitted, “Let Us Get Uncomfortable”: A 21st Century
Case Study of Racial Politics and Dialogue on a College Campus, they were selected to
speak on a panel at the conference.
“At our panel we discussed social media, freedom of expression,
interpersonal/intercultural communication and microaggressions. In 75 minutes we
addressed a wide range of topics, and the students did a great job giving differing
perspectives on a difficult campus incident,” Isgro said.
The panel consisted of 5 SUNY Plattsburgh perspectives. Officer and student from
AKEBA, Shanae’ Spruill, part of the Black Student Union discussed her role in
promoting black heritage and cultural awareness on campus. President of Public
Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Flora Veitch, discussed crisis
communication this event created from a PR lens. Journalism student, Adam St. Pierre,
contemplated the role of student-run media pertaining to social justice, coverage of
protests and discussions following the controversy. Dr. Isgro explored how we learn to
co-create meaningful communication in moments of difference on an interpersonal level.
Lastly, Dr. Wiley discussed institutional conversations that were generated with the intent
to further create a diversified academic environment.
“Each of us brought a unique perspective to the panel. I spoke mainly from the
journalist student perspective. I talked about the role of journalism in creating dialogue
about social issues and also discussed the content of the Cardinal Points article apart from
the offensive illustration,” Pierre said.
During the ECA convention, students attended multiple sessions presented by
scholars, teachers, and students regarding innovative, and controversial topics in the
communications field.
“The 4-day conference consisted of academics from all over the eastern part of the
U.S, along with an undergraduate conference and a graduate conference. Our case study
actually got bumped up from the undergraduate to the graduate conference because they
felt the it was so timely and important to highlight, which was exciting for us,” Veitch
This case study came about to show how individuals, groups and institutions that by
moving towards meaningful dialogue about race and diversity can result in personal and
institutional change. The panel focuses on embracing uncomfortable conversations by
having public discussion about important social issues to further social justice, and by
sharing different perspectives in efforts to embrace diversity.
“I really enjoyed the conference. There were many other panels going on, but I'm bias
so I liked ours the best. I realized that a lot of schools have a racism problem, and we're
all working hard to fix it,” Spruill said.
U.S. colleges and universities have had a recent of rise in racially charged incidents.
One of the more vocal events was The University of Missouri, whose president and
chancellor resigned after student protested against racism on campus. Along with other
publicized events of racism, and protests at Yale, Ithaca College and Brown University.
There has been a movement among campuses for change, and justice.
“Issues of diversity and authentic deliberative dialogue are important for all of us,
but as communication scholars and students, we have a specific contribution we can
make to these conversations,” Isgro said.
PLATTSBURGH— The front page of the October 23 issue of SUNY
Plattsburgh's student-run newspaper, Cardinal Points, printed an image that many found
racially offensive. The illustration depicted a cartoon character of a black man, wearing a
graduation cap and gown, walking through a decrepit neighborhood. This sparked
conversation around campus, and created a wave of consciousness.
During the day’s that followed John Ettling’s press release addressed the Cardinal
Points controversy.
“SUNY Plattsburgh is committed to recruiting a diverse mix of students who can
benefit from a meaningful and wide educational experience for all students. Among our
strategic goals is promoting a campus that increases global experiences and multicultural
opportunities,” the press release read.
On Thursday, 5 SUNY Plattsburgh students hopped into a red van that headed on
an 8 hour journey to Baltimore, where they would attend the 107th Annual Eastern
Communication Association Convention (ECA). Dr., J.W Wiley, Chief Diversity Officer,
and Dr., Kirstin Isgro, Communication Studies Faculty of SUNY Plattsburgh, escorted
students to the conference.
“This was a great opportunity for a select few students to discuss really difficult
but important topics on our college campuses,” Dr. Isgro said.
After SUNY Plattsburgh submitted, “Let Us Get Uncomfortable”: A 21st Century
Case Study of Racial Politics and Dialogue on a College Campus, they were selected to
speak on a panel at the conference.
“At our panel we discussed social media, freedom of expression,
interpersonal/intercultural communication and microaggressions. In 75 minutes we
addressed a wide range of topics, and the students did a great job giving differing
perspectives on a difficult campus incident,” Isgro said.
The panel consisted of 5 SUNY Plattsburgh perspectives. Officer and student from
AKEBA, Shanae’ Spruill, part of the Black Student Union discussed her role in
promoting black heritage and cultural awareness on campus. President of Public
Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Flora Veitch, discussed crisis
communication this event created from a PR lens. Journalism student, Adam St. Pierre,
contemplated the role of student-run media pertaining to social justice, coverage of
protests and discussions following the controversy. Dr. Isgro explored how we learn to
co-create meaningful communication in moments of difference on an interpersonal level.
Lastly, Dr. Wiley discussed institutional conversations that were generated with the intent
to further create a diversified academic environment.
“Each of us brought a unique perspective to the panel. I spoke mainly from the
journalist student perspective. I talked about the role of journalism in creating dialogue
about social issues and also discussed the content of the Cardinal Points article apart from
the offensive illustration,” Pierre said.
During the ECA convention, students attended multiple sessions presented by
scholars, teachers, and students regarding innovative, and controversial topics in the
communications field.
“The 4-day conference consisted of academics from all over the eastern part of the
U.S, along with an undergraduate conference and a graduate conference. Our case study
actually got bumped up from the undergraduate to the graduate conference because they
felt the it was so timely and important to highlight, which was exciting for us,” Veitch
This case study came about to show how individuals, groups and institutions that by
moving towards meaningful dialogue about race and diversity can result in personal and
institutional change. The panel focuses on embracing uncomfortable conversations by
having public discussion about important social issues to further social justice, and by
sharing different perspectives in efforts to embrace diversity.
“I really enjoyed the conference. There were many other panels going on, but I'm bias
so I liked ours the best. I realized that a lot of schools have a racism problem, and we're
all working hard to fix it,” Spruill said.
U.S. colleges and universities have had a recent of rise in racially charged incidents.
One of the more vocal events was The University of Missouri, whose president and
chancellor resigned after student protested against racism on campus. Along with other
publicized events of racism, and protests at Yale, Ithaca College and Brown University.
There has been a movement among campuses for change, and justice.
“Issues of diversity and authentic deliberative dialogue are important for all of us,
but as communication scholars and students, we have a specific contribution we can
make to these conversations,” Isgro said.
A ferry important company
It’s an important year for the Lake Champlain Transportation Company, bringing about
not one, but two anniversaries. The first of these is the 190th anniversary of the incorporation of
the company itself. As with any company that boasts such longevity, however, the company has
undergone multiple evolutions and changed hands many times over the years, and this year also
marks the 40th anniversary of the year the Pecor family gained ownership of the company. This
change in ownership immediately preceded the expansion of the Grand Isle crossing into its
current year-round service, according to Lake Champlain Transportation Company Operations
Manager Heather Stewart.
To some, the availability of this crossing is an integral part of travel that has seemingly
always been available for the community’s use.
“I’m not even a part of the Plattsburgh community anymore,” said former SUNY
Plattsburgh student and Poughkeepsie resident Chris Delano, “but I still come to Plattsburgh and
Burlington to hit concerts and see my old friends. The ferry’s always a part of the trip, and I
think it’s overlooked because a lot of people are so used to it, but it’s important and I don’t think
the area would be the same without it.”
Connecticut transplant Tiffany Rose agreed, explaining that the ferry trip offers a quirky
break on her trips to Burlington.
“Plattsburgh is in a pretty good spot with Montreal to the north and Burlington across the
lake, and Burlington already has a pretty unique atmosphere as it is,” Rose said. “The ferry ride
is something I had never experienced before I came here and it changes every time I go. It’s so
much better than your typical drive.”
But while the crossing serves its purpose as a link between communities, there is a long
history behind the company’s development that brought the Grand Isle to where it is today.
Stewart said Ray Pecor Jr. bought the company in 1976 not simply out of a desire for
profit or expansion, but out of need for a more convenient method of travel. Around the time
when Pecor purchased the company, he owned a mobile home company on both sides of Lake
Champlain, Stewart said. There were ferries operating at the time, but it was only seasonally, and
Stewart explained that Pecor dieliked driving around the whole lake during winter when there
could be a more convenient solution.
“Then the ferry company came for sale, and he said ‘I’m gonna try and buy it.’ So he
scrapped every little dime he had together and bought the company,” Stewart said.
The transition to year-round service came quite quickly after Pecor purchased the
company, and so it has remained ever since. The other crossings operated by the company
continue to remain seasonal due to their lesser usage, but Heather says the tourist season in the
summer brings plenty of people to the other ferries.
The leap from seasonal to year-round service was but one of the many changes the
company has undergone since the Pecors purchased the company, a statement that can be backed
up firsthand by Dan Landry, a veteran captain who is currently in his 41st year of employment
with the Lake Champlain Transportation Company.
Landry cited many reasons for the successful growth of the company, which, he said, has
increased significantly since he first began his stint with them in 1975. Chief among these
reasons is that the company was simply able to adjust to increased demand, which comes from
an array of travelers including commuters, tourists, medical-related travel between Plattsburgh
and Burlington, and commercial travel. A huge part of their 24/7 traffic is comprised of tractor
trailers, Landry said.
This presence of tractor trailers also prompted another type of evolution for the company
that both Stewart and Pecor mentioned: the development of boats over time to adapt to the needs
of the community. While the company has many older boats in operation at other crossings,
would need to evolve, too, to better fit an important group of stakeholders in the service. Boats
also needed redesigning to help combat the harsh weather conditions that the area frequently
experiences.
By Sean Messier
Another reason for the company’s growth, Landry said, is simple reliability.
“On any given day we might be running a few minutes late, but generally speaking we’re
a 24/7 company,” Landry said. “We’re here 365 days a year. Not much shuts us down.”
That said, the Grand Isle Crossing has had issues from time to time causing its closing.
Most of these tend to be weather-related, with ice and dangerous winds being the most common
problems. Landry recalled some less typical speed bumps in the crossing’s operation, too, such
as a fish hatchery fire that took place in the 80s that required a clearance of a mile and a half
radius in the event that the propane tanks at the hatchery exploded. This caused a three-day
shutdown for the crossing, but otherwise, Landry said, very little has come in the way of the
ferries’ daily operations over the years.
And for the time being, neither Landry nor Stewart expect a decrease in growth or
activity from the company thanks to the constant stream of traffic that now makes the Lake
Champlain Transportation Company’s Grand Isle crossing a part of its commute.
“It was really pivotal to the company that Ray took the lead to go year-round,” Stewart
said. “Year after year it just gets better and better.”
not one, but two anniversaries. The first of these is the 190th anniversary of the incorporation of
the company itself. As with any company that boasts such longevity, however, the company has
undergone multiple evolutions and changed hands many times over the years, and this year also
marks the 40th anniversary of the year the Pecor family gained ownership of the company. This
change in ownership immediately preceded the expansion of the Grand Isle crossing into its
current year-round service, according to Lake Champlain Transportation Company Operations
Manager Heather Stewart.
To some, the availability of this crossing is an integral part of travel that has seemingly
always been available for the community’s use.
“I’m not even a part of the Plattsburgh community anymore,” said former SUNY
Plattsburgh student and Poughkeepsie resident Chris Delano, “but I still come to Plattsburgh and
Burlington to hit concerts and see my old friends. The ferry’s always a part of the trip, and I
think it’s overlooked because a lot of people are so used to it, but it’s important and I don’t think
the area would be the same without it.”
Connecticut transplant Tiffany Rose agreed, explaining that the ferry trip offers a quirky
break on her trips to Burlington.
“Plattsburgh is in a pretty good spot with Montreal to the north and Burlington across the
lake, and Burlington already has a pretty unique atmosphere as it is,” Rose said. “The ferry ride
is something I had never experienced before I came here and it changes every time I go. It’s so
much better than your typical drive.”
But while the crossing serves its purpose as a link between communities, there is a long
history behind the company’s development that brought the Grand Isle to where it is today.
Stewart said Ray Pecor Jr. bought the company in 1976 not simply out of a desire for
profit or expansion, but out of need for a more convenient method of travel. Around the time
when Pecor purchased the company, he owned a mobile home company on both sides of Lake
Champlain, Stewart said. There were ferries operating at the time, but it was only seasonally, and
Stewart explained that Pecor dieliked driving around the whole lake during winter when there
could be a more convenient solution.
“Then the ferry company came for sale, and he said ‘I’m gonna try and buy it.’ So he
scrapped every little dime he had together and bought the company,” Stewart said.
The transition to year-round service came quite quickly after Pecor purchased the
company, and so it has remained ever since. The other crossings operated by the company
continue to remain seasonal due to their lesser usage, but Heather says the tourist season in the
summer brings plenty of people to the other ferries.
The leap from seasonal to year-round service was but one of the many changes the
company has undergone since the Pecors purchased the company, a statement that can be backed
up firsthand by Dan Landry, a veteran captain who is currently in his 41st year of employment
with the Lake Champlain Transportation Company.
Landry cited many reasons for the successful growth of the company, which, he said, has
increased significantly since he first began his stint with them in 1975. Chief among these
reasons is that the company was simply able to adjust to increased demand, which comes from
an array of travelers including commuters, tourists, medical-related travel between Plattsburgh
and Burlington, and commercial travel. A huge part of their 24/7 traffic is comprised of tractor
trailers, Landry said.
This presence of tractor trailers also prompted another type of evolution for the company
that both Stewart and Pecor mentioned: the development of boats over time to adapt to the needs
of the community. While the company has many older boats in operation at other crossings,
would need to evolve, too, to better fit an important group of stakeholders in the service. Boats
also needed redesigning to help combat the harsh weather conditions that the area frequently
experiences.
By Sean Messier
Another reason for the company’s growth, Landry said, is simple reliability.
“On any given day we might be running a few minutes late, but generally speaking we’re
a 24/7 company,” Landry said. “We’re here 365 days a year. Not much shuts us down.”
That said, the Grand Isle Crossing has had issues from time to time causing its closing.
Most of these tend to be weather-related, with ice and dangerous winds being the most common
problems. Landry recalled some less typical speed bumps in the crossing’s operation, too, such
as a fish hatchery fire that took place in the 80s that required a clearance of a mile and a half
radius in the event that the propane tanks at the hatchery exploded. This caused a three-day
shutdown for the crossing, but otherwise, Landry said, very little has come in the way of the
ferries’ daily operations over the years.
And for the time being, neither Landry nor Stewart expect a decrease in growth or
activity from the company thanks to the constant stream of traffic that now makes the Lake
Champlain Transportation Company’s Grand Isle crossing a part of its commute.
“It was really pivotal to the company that Ray took the lead to go year-round,” Stewart
said. “Year after year it just gets better and better.”
Not your typical daycare
By Jasely Molina
A resourceful daycare provider found that it was essential to teach toddlers the
fundamentals, etiquette and confidence needed in order for them to thrive in Pre-K and
Kindergarten. After working as a warranty administrator, she felt that it was time to change up
her career path, become her own boss and be a nurturing mentor for children.
Plattsburgh Daycare Provider Courtney Claffey opened her home-based daycare business
in 2 Onondaga Lane two years ago. She has found the homonymous business to be a success.
Claffey had previous experience as a beach bus monitor. Her job consisted of ensuring that the
children were all safely transported to and from their homes. Her mother was a daycare provider
in the military. Claffey also took care of her brother and cousins. These experiences, as well
being a mother of a five-year-old boy, made Claffey feel comfortable about starting this
business.
Claffey started her business by taking CPR classes at the Joint Council for Economic
Opportunity of of Clinton and Franklin Counties, Incorporated (JCEO). Claffey started posting
fliers in local banks and convenience stores. Within two weeks, Claffey had her first student.
Claffey believes that what makes her business distinctive from other daycares are the flexible
hours. Claffey takes care of seven full time students. The ages range from four months to four-
years-old. Her first student is dropped off at 6:35 a.m. on the weekdays. At 9 a.m. Claffey waits
for the buses to arrive and drop off the rest of the students. Breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m. After
that, Claffey lets the children play for a bit. “I usually give them Play-Doh to play with. They
love Play-Doh. If it’s a good day outside, I would take them out for about an hour and then it’s
lunch time,” Claffey said. After lunch, the children have “rest time.” Claffey said that she does
not call it “nap time” because the children do not have to fall asleep. The children just have to
quietly sit on the mats and watch a movie. In the meantime, Claffey cleans up the leftovers from
lunch and sets up for the next activity. Around 2 p.m. the children are given a snack and help
Claffey with picking up the toys. At 3 p.m. the first set of parents come into pick up their
children. The last student is picked up at 5:30 p.m.
Claffey’s daycare is inside her home. When you first walk in, there are cubbies set in the
far left side of the room. The children usually place their mats there. The living room has two
small tables with three to four chairs for the children to sit on. Each chair has a different color.
There is a huge rug with books and baby toys around for the newborns. Stacked on the kitchen
tables are a series of baby bottles, coloring books and a box filled with markers . The kitchen and
living room are divided by a baby-proof gate. Claffey also has a green bin that she uses to hold
all of the children’s toys. After they are done playing, the children have to return the toys to that
specific bin.
“She has a really good handle with the kids. She has five three-year-olds. I praise her for
being able to maintain composure. That says a lot about her character,” says Becky Barnes.
Barnes leaves her two daughters, three-year-old Zoey and seven-month-old Mia, in the care of
Courtney Claffey while she goes off to work. Initially, Barnes had her daughters enrolled in
another daycare; however, when the daycare closed down, she searched for daycare providers
online and found Claffey. Barnes went through the interview process and found that Claffey was
the right choice for her children. To Barnes, what makes Claffey’s daycare stand out from other
daycares is that Claffey’s daycare “is structured more like a classroom setting.” Barnes said that
Claffey is focused on making this daycare an educational environment while some of the other
daycares “were just a free for all.” Barnes feels that what makes this daycare special is how
Courtney Claffey thinks. Barnes considers Claffey to be on the same level as her with parenting
and felt comfortable with allowing Claffey to take care of her children. “I’ve noticed that my
daughter is a lot further with her [alphabet] and recognizing letters. She knew them before but
she recognizing them more. She can also count a little higher,” Barnes said.
In order to maintain the business, Claffey has to follow specific rules. Christina Danussi
is a daycare director at JCEO. Her job is to help individuals become registered daycare
providers. Claffey has been registered as a daycare provider since October 4, 2014. According to
Danussi, every person that is interested in becoming a daycare provider must take 30 hours of
training each year. This includes CPR training. Danussi also helps the providers with filling out
their application packet. After that, providers like Claffey, receive a 35 page plan on what they
have to do. The provider is given $400 a week in order to have essentials such as fire alarms and
fire extinguishers to ensure the safety of the child. Every house is inspected. The houses are
inspected inadvertently. “Claffey’s daycare is wonderful, inviting and educational for children!”
Danussi said.
For the daycare to run smoothly, Claffey has to comply with a set meal plan for the
children and specific hygiene and safety requirements. Jennifer Cross is a home inspector for the
54 daycares in Plattsburgh. Cross said that Claffey and other providers are given a booklet. This
booklet has a series of recipes that Claffey has to follow. “For breakfast, the children are usually
given something with grain, milk and cheese in it. We provide healthy alternatives for them to
follow. It’s okay sometimes for the children to be fed chicken nuggets and fries, but we try to
push the providers to keep healthy components,” Cross said. In order for Claffey to keep her
clean record during inspections, she has to make sure that her fridge is set a specific temperature,
there are safety locks everywhere, the house is clean, there are no bug risks and that there is no
garbage lingering around.
Courtney Claffey believes that what makes her business successful is preparation and
pride. Her flexible hours also play a role in her success. She said that there are many parents that
work overtime or have early shifts and need someone to take care of their child. Her curriculum
consists of activities that will benefit the children when they go off to elementary school such as
“circle time.” In circle time, the children gather together on their mats and read books together.
To keep the children engaged, Claffey would ask them questions about the book and have them
point out certain images. She has also taught her students how to be prepared in case of
emergencies. “I had one kid that used to cry whenever he heard the fire alarm go off, now when
he hears it, he comes over to me and knows exactly what to do,” Claffey said. During circle time,
Claffey also teaches her students about keeping their hands to themselves. She typically waits for
the children to settle in before she says “criss-cross applesauce, spoons in the bowls.” This
ensures that the students are not touching each other or getting distracted. Her CPR training has
helped her with our of her students. During a birthday celebration, one of the boys was choking
on his pizza. Claffey was able to perform the Heimlich maneuver on the boy and stop him from
choking on his food. She felt that that was one of the more rewarding moments in her career
because she knew exactly what to do at the moment.
Courtney Claffey hopes to see her students grow and be able to become independent as
they develop. One of her students was kicked out a daycare for his behavior; however, Claffey
said that she never gave up on the student and that some of his actions have stopped. Claffey felt
that she was up for the challenge and refused to quit on the child. She feels accomplished when
she sees her students learning some new each day and coming back with a new ability. “I’m
proud of this business. I had been ready for this. I was working towards it. I was proud that I
could quit my job and just do this. I’m more successful now.”
A resourceful daycare provider found that it was essential to teach toddlers the
fundamentals, etiquette and confidence needed in order for them to thrive in Pre-K and
Kindergarten. After working as a warranty administrator, she felt that it was time to change up
her career path, become her own boss and be a nurturing mentor for children.
Plattsburgh Daycare Provider Courtney Claffey opened her home-based daycare business
in 2 Onondaga Lane two years ago. She has found the homonymous business to be a success.
Claffey had previous experience as a beach bus monitor. Her job consisted of ensuring that the
children were all safely transported to and from their homes. Her mother was a daycare provider
in the military. Claffey also took care of her brother and cousins. These experiences, as well
being a mother of a five-year-old boy, made Claffey feel comfortable about starting this
business.
Claffey started her business by taking CPR classes at the Joint Council for Economic
Opportunity of of Clinton and Franklin Counties, Incorporated (JCEO). Claffey started posting
fliers in local banks and convenience stores. Within two weeks, Claffey had her first student.
Claffey believes that what makes her business distinctive from other daycares are the flexible
hours. Claffey takes care of seven full time students. The ages range from four months to four-
years-old. Her first student is dropped off at 6:35 a.m. on the weekdays. At 9 a.m. Claffey waits
for the buses to arrive and drop off the rest of the students. Breakfast is served at 9:30 a.m. After
that, Claffey lets the children play for a bit. “I usually give them Play-Doh to play with. They
love Play-Doh. If it’s a good day outside, I would take them out for about an hour and then it’s
lunch time,” Claffey said. After lunch, the children have “rest time.” Claffey said that she does
not call it “nap time” because the children do not have to fall asleep. The children just have to
quietly sit on the mats and watch a movie. In the meantime, Claffey cleans up the leftovers from
lunch and sets up for the next activity. Around 2 p.m. the children are given a snack and help
Claffey with picking up the toys. At 3 p.m. the first set of parents come into pick up their
children. The last student is picked up at 5:30 p.m.
Claffey’s daycare is inside her home. When you first walk in, there are cubbies set in the
far left side of the room. The children usually place their mats there. The living room has two
small tables with three to four chairs for the children to sit on. Each chair has a different color.
There is a huge rug with books and baby toys around for the newborns. Stacked on the kitchen
tables are a series of baby bottles, coloring books and a box filled with markers . The kitchen and
living room are divided by a baby-proof gate. Claffey also has a green bin that she uses to hold
all of the children’s toys. After they are done playing, the children have to return the toys to that
specific bin.
“She has a really good handle with the kids. She has five three-year-olds. I praise her for
being able to maintain composure. That says a lot about her character,” says Becky Barnes.
Barnes leaves her two daughters, three-year-old Zoey and seven-month-old Mia, in the care of
Courtney Claffey while she goes off to work. Initially, Barnes had her daughters enrolled in
another daycare; however, when the daycare closed down, she searched for daycare providers
online and found Claffey. Barnes went through the interview process and found that Claffey was
the right choice for her children. To Barnes, what makes Claffey’s daycare stand out from other
daycares is that Claffey’s daycare “is structured more like a classroom setting.” Barnes said that
Claffey is focused on making this daycare an educational environment while some of the other
daycares “were just a free for all.” Barnes feels that what makes this daycare special is how
Courtney Claffey thinks. Barnes considers Claffey to be on the same level as her with parenting
and felt comfortable with allowing Claffey to take care of her children. “I’ve noticed that my
daughter is a lot further with her [alphabet] and recognizing letters. She knew them before but
she recognizing them more. She can also count a little higher,” Barnes said.
In order to maintain the business, Claffey has to follow specific rules. Christina Danussi
is a daycare director at JCEO. Her job is to help individuals become registered daycare
providers. Claffey has been registered as a daycare provider since October 4, 2014. According to
Danussi, every person that is interested in becoming a daycare provider must take 30 hours of
training each year. This includes CPR training. Danussi also helps the providers with filling out
their application packet. After that, providers like Claffey, receive a 35 page plan on what they
have to do. The provider is given $400 a week in order to have essentials such as fire alarms and
fire extinguishers to ensure the safety of the child. Every house is inspected. The houses are
inspected inadvertently. “Claffey’s daycare is wonderful, inviting and educational for children!”
Danussi said.
For the daycare to run smoothly, Claffey has to comply with a set meal plan for the
children and specific hygiene and safety requirements. Jennifer Cross is a home inspector for the
54 daycares in Plattsburgh. Cross said that Claffey and other providers are given a booklet. This
booklet has a series of recipes that Claffey has to follow. “For breakfast, the children are usually
given something with grain, milk and cheese in it. We provide healthy alternatives for them to
follow. It’s okay sometimes for the children to be fed chicken nuggets and fries, but we try to
push the providers to keep healthy components,” Cross said. In order for Claffey to keep her
clean record during inspections, she has to make sure that her fridge is set a specific temperature,
there are safety locks everywhere, the house is clean, there are no bug risks and that there is no
garbage lingering around.
Courtney Claffey believes that what makes her business successful is preparation and
pride. Her flexible hours also play a role in her success. She said that there are many parents that
work overtime or have early shifts and need someone to take care of their child. Her curriculum
consists of activities that will benefit the children when they go off to elementary school such as
“circle time.” In circle time, the children gather together on their mats and read books together.
To keep the children engaged, Claffey would ask them questions about the book and have them
point out certain images. She has also taught her students how to be prepared in case of
emergencies. “I had one kid that used to cry whenever he heard the fire alarm go off, now when
he hears it, he comes over to me and knows exactly what to do,” Claffey said. During circle time,
Claffey also teaches her students about keeping their hands to themselves. She typically waits for
the children to settle in before she says “criss-cross applesauce, spoons in the bowls.” This
ensures that the students are not touching each other or getting distracted. Her CPR training has
helped her with our of her students. During a birthday celebration, one of the boys was choking
on his pizza. Claffey was able to perform the Heimlich maneuver on the boy and stop him from
choking on his food. She felt that that was one of the more rewarding moments in her career
because she knew exactly what to do at the moment.
Courtney Claffey hopes to see her students grow and be able to become independent as
they develop. One of her students was kicked out a daycare for his behavior; however, Claffey
said that she never gave up on the student and that some of his actions have stopped. Claffey felt
that she was up for the challenge and refused to quit on the child. She feels accomplished when
she sees her students learning some new each day and coming back with a new ability. “I’m
proud of this business. I had been ready for this. I was working towards it. I was proud that I
could quit my job and just do this. I’m more successful now.”
Strand Theatre puts on a memorable show
By Yesenia Reynoso
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – Thunderous vocals and delicate melodies fill the Strand Center
Gallery in downtown Plattsburgh. The crowd listens intently and though many come from
different walks of life, for 45 minutes everyone shares a common thread: music.
The Brown Bag Sessions are a series of new-time concerts made possible by a
collaboration between Karen Becker and the Strand Center Gallery.
Becker who is the chair for the music
department at SUNY Plattsburgh, came up with the
idea after donating her piano to the Strand, and they
expressed interest in having someone play during
their art openings. Becker made a deal and agreed to
find a pianist for the Strand in exchange for a venue
to host what would become the Brown Bag Sessions.
“It just seemed to be kind of fortuitous. They are getting something they need, which is
music during their art openings, and we get a free, high visibility venue for our kids to perform
in,” Becker said.
This exchange of resources has been particularly beneficial for Ayrice Wilson and Daniel
De Cranie-Pierre, both who performed at the Strand on March 25, 2016.
“The creation of the Brown Bag sessions has given students more opportunities to
perform,” Wilson, who is a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh, said. “It gives us the opportunity to
show the community members a new side of college students.”
Daniel De Cranie-Pierre holds note “There’s two sides to every coin,” Cranie-
Pierre, who is also a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh said. “Community members often think that the
college students are just loud and rowdy, but because of these concerts, we can shed a different
light. We can show them what we’re actually here in Plattsburgh to do.”
The lack of event interaction between community members and college students has been
an ongoing issue for the past several years.
“There aren’t many events happening that both college students and regular community
members both attend,” community member Casey Koziatek said.
“People think that there aren’t any similarities between college students and everyone
else in the town, maybe because of age or culture, but it’s important that we foster a relationship
with each other, because we all live in the same place,” Koziatek said.
The Strand Center Gallery served as a “melting pot” as a mix of college students and
community memebers watched and listened as both Wilson and Cranie-Pierre performed songs
in Italian, German, and French.
At the end of the show both Wilson and Cranie-Pierre received a thunderous applause,
with some members giving a stand ovation.
“It was our first one, and for a first event I think it went pretty well. We needed to pull out
more tables and chairs, so I’ll take it,” Becker said.
“We’re hoping to have these four times in the school year; in October, November and then
again in March and April,” Becker said.
For SUNY Plattsburgh’s music department and for community businesses such as the
Strand, music seems to be the way to unite the two sides of Plattsburgh.
“Music is the universal language that everyone understands,” Becker said. “We need to
publicize the event, and get the word out.”
“Interactions between community members and SUNY Plattsburgh students needs to
happen more,” Wilson said. “There is no way we can be an island within ourselves. We can learn
from each other.”
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – Thunderous vocals and delicate melodies fill the Strand Center
Gallery in downtown Plattsburgh. The crowd listens intently and though many come from
different walks of life, for 45 minutes everyone shares a common thread: music.
The Brown Bag Sessions are a series of new-time concerts made possible by a
collaboration between Karen Becker and the Strand Center Gallery.
Becker who is the chair for the music
department at SUNY Plattsburgh, came up with the
idea after donating her piano to the Strand, and they
expressed interest in having someone play during
their art openings. Becker made a deal and agreed to
find a pianist for the Strand in exchange for a venue
to host what would become the Brown Bag Sessions.
“It just seemed to be kind of fortuitous. They are getting something they need, which is
music during their art openings, and we get a free, high visibility venue for our kids to perform
in,” Becker said.
This exchange of resources has been particularly beneficial for Ayrice Wilson and Daniel
De Cranie-Pierre, both who performed at the Strand on March 25, 2016.
“The creation of the Brown Bag sessions has given students more opportunities to
perform,” Wilson, who is a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh, said. “It gives us the opportunity to
show the community members a new side of college students.”
Daniel De Cranie-Pierre holds note “There’s two sides to every coin,” Cranie-
Pierre, who is also a senior at SUNY Plattsburgh said. “Community members often think that the
college students are just loud and rowdy, but because of these concerts, we can shed a different
light. We can show them what we’re actually here in Plattsburgh to do.”
The lack of event interaction between community members and college students has been
an ongoing issue for the past several years.
“There aren’t many events happening that both college students and regular community
members both attend,” community member Casey Koziatek said.
“People think that there aren’t any similarities between college students and everyone
else in the town, maybe because of age or culture, but it’s important that we foster a relationship
with each other, because we all live in the same place,” Koziatek said.
The Strand Center Gallery served as a “melting pot” as a mix of college students and
community memebers watched and listened as both Wilson and Cranie-Pierre performed songs
in Italian, German, and French.
At the end of the show both Wilson and Cranie-Pierre received a thunderous applause,
with some members giving a stand ovation.
“It was our first one, and for a first event I think it went pretty well. We needed to pull out
more tables and chairs, so I’ll take it,” Becker said.
“We’re hoping to have these four times in the school year; in October, November and then
again in March and April,” Becker said.
For SUNY Plattsburgh’s music department and for community businesses such as the
Strand, music seems to be the way to unite the two sides of Plattsburgh.
“Music is the universal language that everyone understands,” Becker said. “We need to
publicize the event, and get the word out.”
“Interactions between community members and SUNY Plattsburgh students needs to
happen more,” Wilson said. “There is no way we can be an island within ourselves. We can learn
from each other.”
Angelica Sanchez does it all
By Emily Gregoire
“I started singing when I was 3 years old, it’s not like a memory I remember;
it’s on a home video I watch. I know I was too young to even know what was going on,”
said Plattsburgh High School senior Angelica Sanchez.
Sanchez gets her vocal skills from her mother’s side of the family. She
recalls a time when she was so young, yet so amazed just by watching her cousins sing.
Her mother, Nancy McDonald put her in vocal lessons right away.
“She has a presence”, McDonald said.
When Sanchez was younger, McDonald was a member of the Plattsburgh
State Gospel Choir. Sanchez has always been a part of a very musical family. Each
holiday season is filled with singing and putting on shows.
“What I used to do with Angelica, when she was little, we would put on little
Broadway shows with those pretty, feathered boas and sing,” McDonald said.
Sanchez starred in her first play in 5th grade, she was living in Queens, NY at
the time. Sanchez would audition for her school’s rendition of Grease and would later be
granted the lead role of Sandy.
When Sanchez moved up to middle school, she became involved in talent
shows. In 8th grade she was preparing for a monologue which required her to really get
into character.
Sanchez noted by that time her father had already been diagnosed with cancer
and ironically the monologue was about a young women losing her father and displaying
her emotions.
“And then in 9th grade, that’s when drama club gets serious,” said Sanchez.
She started out with a small part, she practiced and grew. Sanchez came back
each year more and more prepared.
In her junior year of high school, Sanchez played the character of Marty in
another Grease rendition.
For Sanchez’s senior year, she starred in Anything Goes. She says it was one
of her downfalls in her drama club history. Sanchez had fallen ill with strep throat.
“It was one of the most fun shows I’ve ever done,” Sanchez said despite being
ill and worrying about whether or not she could perform.
Sanchez’s mother is not only her biggest fan, McDonald is also her biggest
advantage.
McDonald continues to pass her musical knowledge down to Sanchez. When
Sanchez was younger, it wasn’t always that simple.
Sanchez remembers coming home from vocal practice in the past and telling
McDonald that she was working on things that McDonald had already noted.
“There are many layers to Angelica,” said McDonald.
McDonald says that Sanchez is sensitive, fun-loving, musical, and very
artistic.
Sanchez’s younger sister, Ava even gets in on the act. When the two sing
together Ana is seen as the equalizer and balances Sanchez in just the right way.
“We did a version of the Cups song from Pitch Perfect,” Ava Sanchez said.
Sanchez is multifaceted not only because of her interest, but her personality
“The one thing I really love, is that she is so comical,” McDonald said.
McDonald envisions a bright future for Sanchez; whether that means,
moving to the city to peruse her singing aspirations, taking a shot at professional acting,
or attending school to learn about the fashion industry.
“I think she’d be great on SNL,” McDonald said.
“I started singing when I was 3 years old, it’s not like a memory I remember;
it’s on a home video I watch. I know I was too young to even know what was going on,”
said Plattsburgh High School senior Angelica Sanchez.
Sanchez gets her vocal skills from her mother’s side of the family. She
recalls a time when she was so young, yet so amazed just by watching her cousins sing.
Her mother, Nancy McDonald put her in vocal lessons right away.
“She has a presence”, McDonald said.
When Sanchez was younger, McDonald was a member of the Plattsburgh
State Gospel Choir. Sanchez has always been a part of a very musical family. Each
holiday season is filled with singing and putting on shows.
“What I used to do with Angelica, when she was little, we would put on little
Broadway shows with those pretty, feathered boas and sing,” McDonald said.
Sanchez starred in her first play in 5th grade, she was living in Queens, NY at
the time. Sanchez would audition for her school’s rendition of Grease and would later be
granted the lead role of Sandy.
When Sanchez moved up to middle school, she became involved in talent
shows. In 8th grade she was preparing for a monologue which required her to really get
into character.
Sanchez noted by that time her father had already been diagnosed with cancer
and ironically the monologue was about a young women losing her father and displaying
her emotions.
“And then in 9th grade, that’s when drama club gets serious,” said Sanchez.
She started out with a small part, she practiced and grew. Sanchez came back
each year more and more prepared.
In her junior year of high school, Sanchez played the character of Marty in
another Grease rendition.
For Sanchez’s senior year, she starred in Anything Goes. She says it was one
of her downfalls in her drama club history. Sanchez had fallen ill with strep throat.
“It was one of the most fun shows I’ve ever done,” Sanchez said despite being
ill and worrying about whether or not she could perform.
Sanchez’s mother is not only her biggest fan, McDonald is also her biggest
advantage.
McDonald continues to pass her musical knowledge down to Sanchez. When
Sanchez was younger, it wasn’t always that simple.
Sanchez remembers coming home from vocal practice in the past and telling
McDonald that she was working on things that McDonald had already noted.
“There are many layers to Angelica,” said McDonald.
McDonald says that Sanchez is sensitive, fun-loving, musical, and very
artistic.
Sanchez’s younger sister, Ava even gets in on the act. When the two sing
together Ana is seen as the equalizer and balances Sanchez in just the right way.
“We did a version of the Cups song from Pitch Perfect,” Ava Sanchez said.
Sanchez is multifaceted not only because of her interest, but her personality
“The one thing I really love, is that she is so comical,” McDonald said.
McDonald envisions a bright future for Sanchez; whether that means,
moving to the city to peruse her singing aspirations, taking a shot at professional acting,
or attending school to learn about the fashion industry.
“I think she’d be great on SNL,” McDonald said.
Joli Nails gives increased treatment
By Winta Mebrahti
At JoLi Nails & Spa, a woman standing at the cash register placed her credit card, with her well-
manicured hand, on the palms of the woman with equally well-manicured hands. As she pays for
the services she received at the salon, the conversation that ensues is nothing like the idle chit chat
between client and the worker. It's different. The salon client described her stressful life and
expected advice from the cashier. She got it — that's part of the experience at this salon.
“Sometimes I feel like a little bit of a therapist,” co-owner Van (Joey) Tran said.
JoLi Nails & Spa has been open for a year and one month now. The name comes from a
combining the first two letters of Tran's name with the first two letters of his fiancee and co-owner
of the salon Lin Phan. Although the name suggests that the couple offers spa treatments, they don't.
The name was chosen for a smoother expansion in the future. Tran said they hope to offer massages
and facials to make the salon a one-stop shop. He explained that adding the “spa” to the name later
would mean they would have to re-register with Plattsburgh City and then the state, making the
expansion a longer process.
Though they don't offer those treatments yet and there are older establishments uptown,
Phan and Tran have been able to maintain a client base. Part of what makes their business stand out
is the couples interactions with clients, Tran said. When clients sit down on the elevated chairs to
get their pedicures or manicures, they feel comfortable enough to open up themselves, Phan added.
“If they're willing to do it (talk) I'll listen,” she said and explained that she wants to build
relationships with her clients and listening is key.
But advice isn't something they volunteer, and the couple doesn't ask clients to spill their
beans. Clients usually ask for the owners opinions, and just like a conversation with a friend, the
clients ask if one of the duo has experienced anything similar to what they are going through.
However, that doesn't meant they gossip.
“One thing you have to know how to do is let it go in one way and out the other,” Phan said
gesturing to her ears.
It's something Phan and Tran learned from their years of experience in the nail salon
industry. Phan started doing nails at a shop next to her high school when she was a senior. At that
time it was a way to get quick money, but she ended up staying because she enjoyed it.
“I always liked doing my nail,” Phan said. “I've always done those types of things since I
was a little girl.”
Phan worked at nail salons on and off while she tried to complete her college education, but
decided to do it full time when college didn't pan out for her. She moved to Plattsburgh in 2005 with
her mother so her mother could work at Phan's aunt's nail salon — her parents later started their
own nail salon uptown where Phan worked.
Tran got his start at a family business. Although it wasn't something he thought he would
consider, he said the Asian culture is one where children grow up to help their parents with their
businesses. Too many employees meant less money for the family, which is why daughters and sons
end up helping their parents, Tran said.
Tran fell for the business because he liked the interactions with people from different walks
of life. And those interactions paid off. Clients from where he used to work followed him. Two of
those clients are Laura Griffin and Pamela Pelkey who travel from Malone every three weeks to get
their nails done.
“We have a lot of fun when we're here,” Griffin said. “They make it a homey experience.
They're welcoming.”
Pelkey interjected and explained that they accommodate their young children, who
sometimes get massages while their mothers are getting their nails done. Another factor to their
loyalty to Phan and Tran is that they receive exactly what they want.
“I like how creative he is with his nail polish colors,” Pelkey said. “There's a blue color that
I particularly enjoy that he created.”
Tran said he creates the colors for the clients by mixing different nail polishes because
Winta Matteous-Mebrahti
Business Profile
sometimes clients want a specific nail polish color that aren't available.
Given their willingness to accommodate all their clients, it's easy to believe that JoLi Nails
& Spa has multiple nail technicians. It don't. Phan said they've had a hard time finding someone
who does nails the way their clients are accustomed to. And though business has been good, it's
been tough for the engaged couple who are planing for their summer wedding in Pennsylvania this
year. Simple things like re-stocking their shop is hard because they have to drive down to New York
City to get the items, Tran said.
However, their busy schedule doesn’t affect their clients. If they don't feel like they can give
their clients their all, they usually refer them to the nail salon uptown owned by Phan's parents.
They always return the favor. Phan explained that they don't compete with businesses uptown
because they all have loyal clients. Tran said that he would rather send them to a different nail salon
they know the clients might like than squeeze them in to make more money. It affects the quality of
their work. And that goes against their policy — the clients comes first.
“Before you leave if you're not happy you have to let me know,” Phan said. “I don't want
you to leave the shop not happy. I want you to leave happy.”
At JoLi Nails & Spa, a woman standing at the cash register placed her credit card, with her well-
manicured hand, on the palms of the woman with equally well-manicured hands. As she pays for
the services she received at the salon, the conversation that ensues is nothing like the idle chit chat
between client and the worker. It's different. The salon client described her stressful life and
expected advice from the cashier. She got it — that's part of the experience at this salon.
“Sometimes I feel like a little bit of a therapist,” co-owner Van (Joey) Tran said.
JoLi Nails & Spa has been open for a year and one month now. The name comes from a
combining the first two letters of Tran's name with the first two letters of his fiancee and co-owner
of the salon Lin Phan. Although the name suggests that the couple offers spa treatments, they don't.
The name was chosen for a smoother expansion in the future. Tran said they hope to offer massages
and facials to make the salon a one-stop shop. He explained that adding the “spa” to the name later
would mean they would have to re-register with Plattsburgh City and then the state, making the
expansion a longer process.
Though they don't offer those treatments yet and there are older establishments uptown,
Phan and Tran have been able to maintain a client base. Part of what makes their business stand out
is the couples interactions with clients, Tran said. When clients sit down on the elevated chairs to
get their pedicures or manicures, they feel comfortable enough to open up themselves, Phan added.
“If they're willing to do it (talk) I'll listen,” she said and explained that she wants to build
relationships with her clients and listening is key.
But advice isn't something they volunteer, and the couple doesn't ask clients to spill their
beans. Clients usually ask for the owners opinions, and just like a conversation with a friend, the
clients ask if one of the duo has experienced anything similar to what they are going through.
However, that doesn't meant they gossip.
“One thing you have to know how to do is let it go in one way and out the other,” Phan said
gesturing to her ears.
It's something Phan and Tran learned from their years of experience in the nail salon
industry. Phan started doing nails at a shop next to her high school when she was a senior. At that
time it was a way to get quick money, but she ended up staying because she enjoyed it.
“I always liked doing my nail,” Phan said. “I've always done those types of things since I
was a little girl.”
Phan worked at nail salons on and off while she tried to complete her college education, but
decided to do it full time when college didn't pan out for her. She moved to Plattsburgh in 2005 with
her mother so her mother could work at Phan's aunt's nail salon — her parents later started their
own nail salon uptown where Phan worked.
Tran got his start at a family business. Although it wasn't something he thought he would
consider, he said the Asian culture is one where children grow up to help their parents with their
businesses. Too many employees meant less money for the family, which is why daughters and sons
end up helping their parents, Tran said.
Tran fell for the business because he liked the interactions with people from different walks
of life. And those interactions paid off. Clients from where he used to work followed him. Two of
those clients are Laura Griffin and Pamela Pelkey who travel from Malone every three weeks to get
their nails done.
“We have a lot of fun when we're here,” Griffin said. “They make it a homey experience.
They're welcoming.”
Pelkey interjected and explained that they accommodate their young children, who
sometimes get massages while their mothers are getting their nails done. Another factor to their
loyalty to Phan and Tran is that they receive exactly what they want.
“I like how creative he is with his nail polish colors,” Pelkey said. “There's a blue color that
I particularly enjoy that he created.”
Tran said he creates the colors for the clients by mixing different nail polishes because
Winta Matteous-Mebrahti
Business Profile
sometimes clients want a specific nail polish color that aren't available.
Given their willingness to accommodate all their clients, it's easy to believe that JoLi Nails
& Spa has multiple nail technicians. It don't. Phan said they've had a hard time finding someone
who does nails the way their clients are accustomed to. And though business has been good, it's
been tough for the engaged couple who are planing for their summer wedding in Pennsylvania this
year. Simple things like re-stocking their shop is hard because they have to drive down to New York
City to get the items, Tran said.
However, their busy schedule doesn’t affect their clients. If they don't feel like they can give
their clients their all, they usually refer them to the nail salon uptown owned by Phan's parents.
They always return the favor. Phan explained that they don't compete with businesses uptown
because they all have loyal clients. Tran said that he would rather send them to a different nail salon
they know the clients might like than squeeze them in to make more money. It affects the quality of
their work. And that goes against their policy — the clients comes first.
“Before you leave if you're not happy you have to let me know,” Phan said. “I don't want
you to leave the shop not happy. I want you to leave happy.”
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