Two businesses, two public servants honored by Potsdam Chamber
The Potsdam Chamber of Commerce honored two businesses and two public servants Thursday night during the organization’s annual dinner.Randy and Kim Sixberry, owners of Great Northern Printing, were presented the “Business of the Year” award in front of a packed house at Sergi’s Italian Restaurant Pizzeria & Banquet Hall.The “Commitment to the Community Award” was presented to Fred Hanss, long-time director of the planning and development office for the Village of Potsdam, and Potsdam Town Clerk Cindy Goliber.And the owners of St. Lawrence Nurseries were honored with the “Pride in Potsdam Community Award.”The Sixberrys, who were introduced by their daughter, Kelsey, have owned and operated Great Northern Printing since 1994.The award recognizes improvements they have made over the years to enhance the community, their innovative products such as the Twilight-inspired Eclipse shirts that went viral, donating to countless organizations and providing a welcoming environment that brings staff and community back to visit year after year.Mayor Alex Jacobs Wilke introduced Hanss, noting his role in helping the village receive the $10 million state Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant. He has also helped a number of small businesses get off the ground and guided several park and infrastructure improvement projects to completion over the years, she said.The chamber recognized him for his unwavering commitment, dedication, and exceptional contributions to improve the quality of life in Potsdam. Allysa Hardiman introduced Goliber, who has served as town clerk for 28 years. She was also recently named 2024 Town Clerk of the Year by the New York State Town Clerks Association.
As town clerk, she has become known for her warm approach and knowledge about resources available to town residents.
Hardiman noted Goliber went out of her way to help her shortly after her wedding when she discovered paperwork was out of order.
Rose Rivezzi of Big Spoon Kitchen introduced Hardiman and her husband, Connor, owners of St. Lawrence Nurseries. They bought the business in 2015 from Bill MacKentley and moved it three years ago to 6527 NYS Hwy. 56, across the street from Big Spoon.
The business specializes in hardy fruit trees.
The award was presented for their pride in their establishment as well as the community itself.
The Hardimans are champions of buying local and have held several events at the farm this year to bring the community together while showcasing local bands, businesses, yogis, and artisans.
The evening also included a slideshow featuring chamber highlights from the past year, and presentations by Derek Carter, co-owner of the Airport Diner, and Erica Kelsko, executive director of the St. Lawrence County Arts Council.