Adirondack Almanack author Susan Sweeney Smith has stories about Cranberry Lake has published a series of profiles featuring community leaders from the Cranberry Lake/Clifton Fine area who devote much of their time and energy to volunteerism. Please enjoy a profile on Lisa and Rod Langevinretired owner of Langevin Auto and Hair Repair, below.

What brought you to Star Lake, and when and why?

Lisa: I grew up here, loved it here and have lived here my whole life.

Rod: I was born and raised here. I moved away but came back because I love it.

Did you think you would end up staying here?

Lisa: Yes. I just had to figure out how.

Rod: Well, I’ll be away for a while.

What were your first jobs here?

Lisa: I have had three hair salons here. My first was in my house on Lawrence Road in Oswegatchie. After my divorce, I moved to a salon with Sandy Besaw on Scotts Point Road in Star Lake. This helped me further my education – I hadn’t colored hair before this. If I don’t feel comfortable doing it, I don’t do it. Sandy was great at coloring and she taught me how to be a good colorist and how to cut with a razor (something I didn’t learn in school). I often wondered how I managed to run a business without coloring – luckily I had loyal customers who came for haircuts and perms. My third and final salon was on Main Street in Star Lake – Lisa’s Hair Repair. I miss my customers, but I don’t miss the work. I really enjoy life now, after years of long hours and six-day weeks.

Rod: I worked construction at the Newton Falls paper mill. Then I did body work on cars. When I came back, I started my own business – Langevin’s Auto Repair.

What motivated you to start your own business?

Lisa: When I graduated from Clifton-Fine Central School, there were no hair salons here. In the beginning, I bought used equipment by taking out a loan that my father co-signed. It was exciting and scary at the same time to have a loan!

Rod: When I started, it was the best chance to make it. I had been away for a while and wanted to come back – so running my own business was the best option.

What have been your biggest challenges in business?

Lisa: Meet government requirements – most people don’t realize how much they have to do to stay in business.

Rod: Keeping up with changes in the automotive industry.

What were the biggest challenges for you in creating a good life in such a small town?

Lisa: The only challenge is that in a small town, everyone knows when you do something wrong. I’ve learned that you can’t be bothered if people talk about you. It’s just part of living in a small town.

Rod: Starting and running a business – especially in the early years.

Volunteer roles and why you chose them?

Lisa: I volunteer with the American Legion. I believe we need to take care of our veterans. I am currently the President of the Star Lake Auxiliary and 2nd Vice President of our County Auxiliary.

I also volunteer for the Red Cross blood drives. I have worked for both the fire department and the hospital aid organization.

When asked and when I have time, I volunteer for all kinds of things in the community.

I like to stay busy – it keeps me young.

Rod: I’m the bartender for the American Legion. And over the years I’ve done a lot of other things, including being a firefighter.

Who inspires you here?

Lisa: There are too many to choose from! I can honestly say that Susan Smith inspires me. She does a lot for our community. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to do this interview, but when she wants something, she is persistent. She is also great at getting grants and helping people get what they need. I’m glad to call her my friend.

Rod: I always admired my uncle Frank Langevin. He ran a successful business. He was a great person. Whenever I needed advice, he was the one I called.

What are your fondest memories of the Clifton-Fine region?

Lisa: I have many great and funny memories. It’s hard to choose just one — from snowmobiling to ATVing to boating to hiking and hanging out with friends. If I had to pick just one memory, it would be when I was voted Prom Queen at our American Legion Christmas Ball. That was a huge surprise and honor.

Rod: It’s not just one thing. I like how close everyone is to each other and how helpful the neighbors are when you need something.

What are your hopes for the future here?

Lisa: It’s very simple. So that people are proud of our region. Clean up your property and don’t throw away any rubbish.

Rod: Small businesses are our future. We need to bring businesses here and support them. Keeping the community alive is key.