Residents and visitors will have the opportunity to meet David and Susan Chauncey, new owners of North Street Snowmobile, at their Grand Opening celebration that will be held Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, November 28, 29 and 30 during An Adirondack Christmas on Main Street.
The Chaunceys of Fairport, NY, who also own a home on Limekiln Lake, have a decades-long attraction to the area.
David’s love of the area began back in the early ‘70’s as a young summer visitor. But in the late ‘90’s, he and Susan started to frequent Inlet as snowmobilers.
“We really fell in love with being outdoors during the winter; we almost liked it more than in the summer in some aspects. They are two very different seasons, but both incredibly enjoyable,” David said.
Earlier this year, while discussing their longterm plans, the Chaunceys decided that when they got to that point in their careers they would like to retire to the Old Forge area.
As longtime satisfied customers of Mike Susko’s North Street Snowmobile Parts that was on the market, they eyed the business as a viable retirement option and ultimately purchased it in August.
“We knew it was a good business, and Mike had a great reputation. He and Carol (Mike’s wife) have helped us tremendously and still help us with advice and information,” he said.
Though Susan continues to work as an elementary school librarian in the Penfield School District, and David, an electrical engineer, operates a company that builds diagnostic equipment for heavy commercial vehicles, they are on-site at North Street Snowmobile every weekend.
They have hired a crew of eight employees—three who worked for Susko—who keep the operation running during the week.
David said the number one goal of any business he has owned is to provide a great customer experience.
In answer to that the shop will be open longer hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends.
That way, customers, whether they are having their sled serviced or purchasing clothing or parts, can get in and out as quickly as possible to do what they came here to do: enjoy the outdoors.
“The worst thing that can happen when you come up for a weekend or a week is to have your sled break down. You just want to go out and have fun, and then you’re stuck. We want to be able to take care of customers quickly to provide an overall enjoyable snowmobile experience,” said David.
The Chaunceys recognize the rising expenses related to the sport—particularly for families—and have stocked an expanded line of quality helmets, boots, bibs, pants, gloves and other clothing and products of varying price ranges that will suit every customer’s budget.
A Kids Korner has been added that includes a whole new toy section, and also new contemporary clothing lines featuring bright colors that will appeal to a wider range of customers, David said.
“We’re not only geared towards snowmobilers’ needs, but to the outdoor enthusiast in general. We also want to appeal to the consumer who wants to stop by for our retail lines, rather than parts or service.”
David and Susan’s adult daughter and son, though not actively working at the business, have provided valuable input during the planning process, according to David.
“They are both involved with snowmobiling and brought in their perspective. We’ve put up a new website and facebook page that we’re really excited about. And we’re trying to run a lot through social media…we currently have a big blitz going to like us on facebook,” he said.
Folks can stop by and meet the Chaunceys on Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Open House will feature special pricing on clothing and gear, raffles and giveaways.
North Street Snowmobile is located at 121 North Street.