Langevins: Lifetime residents, volunteers in Clifton-Fine region

Adirondack Almanack contributor, Susan Sweeney Smith, who has written stories about Cranberry Lake, has shared a series of profiles highlighting Cranberry Lake/Clifton Fine-area community leaders who dedicate much of their time and energy to volunteer work. Please enjoy a profile on Lisa and Rod Langevin, retired owners of Langevin Auto and Hair Repair, below.

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

Lisa: I grew up here and loved it here and have been here all my life.

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

Did you think you’d end up staying here?

Lisa: Yes. Just had to figure out how.

Rod: Now, yes. I left for a while.

What were your first jobs here?

Lisa: I have had three hair salons here. My first was in my home on Lawrence Road in Oswegatchie. When I got a divorce, I moved to a salon with Sandy Besaw on Scotts Point Road in Star Lake. This helped me advance my education — before I did not do color. If I’m not comfortable doing something, I don’t do it. Sandy was awesome at color and she taught me how to be a great colorist and also how to do razor cuts [something I did not learn in school]. I have often wondered how I ran a business without doing color — fortunately for me I had loyal customers that would come for cuts and perms. My third and final salon was on Main Street in Star Lake — Lisa’s Hair Repair. I miss my customers but I do not miss working. I am really enjoying life now after years of working 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 moved back, I started my own business — Langevin’s Auto Repair.

What led you to start your own business?

Lisa: When I graduated from Clifton-Fine Central School there were not any salons here. When I started I bought used equipment by taking out a loan that my dad co-signed. It was exciting and scary to have a loan!

Rod: When I started, it was the best opportunity to make it. I left for awhile and wanted to come back — so running my own business was the best option.

What have been your biggest challenges being in business?

Lisa: Keeping up with the state requirements — most people don’t realize how much you have to do to stay in business.

Rod: Keeping up with the changes in the auto industry.

What have been your biggest challenges in creating a good life in such a small town?

Lisa: The only challenge really is that when living in a small town, when you do something wrong everyone knows. I’ve learned that if they are talking about you, don’t let it bother you. It is just part of life in a small town.

Rod: Starting a business and keeping it going – especially in the early years. 

Volunteer roles and why you picked them?

Lisa: I volunteer at the American Legion. I believe we need to take care of our veterans. I am currently president of the auxiliary in Star Lake and 2nd vice president for our county auxiliary.

I also volunteer for the Red Cross blood drives. I have been involved with both the Fire Department Auxiliary and the Hospital Auxiliary.

I volunteer for all kinds of community things when asked and when I have time. 

I love to stay busy – keeps me young.

Rod: I am the American Legion bar steward. A lot of other things too over the years, including the fire department.

Who inspires you here?

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

Rod: I have always looked up to my uncle, Frank Langevin. He ran a successful business. Great all-around person. If I needed advice, he was the one I called.

What are the best memories you have of the Clifton-Fine region?

Lisa: I have a lot of great and fun memories. Hard to pick just one — from snowmobiling to four wheeling to boating to hiking to hanging out with friends. If I had to pick just one memory it would be when I got elected as Prom Queen at our American Legion Christmas Ball. That was a huge surprise and honor.

Rod: It’s not one thing. I like how close everyone is and how helpful your neighbors are if you need anything.

What do you hope for the future here?

Lisa: It’s pretty simple. For people to take pride in our region. Clean up your property and don’t litter.

Rod: Small business is our future. We have to draw business here and support them. To keep the community alive, that’s the key.