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## Reinventing Retail, One Coffee at a Time: Meet Henry Ostaszewski of Blue 42 Market
As Henry Ostaszewski, Blue 42 Market’s owner, navigates through his younger employees’ pop culture gap, he relates a classic sitcom to his business vision – that of the 1980s show ‘Cheers.’ He aspires for his establishment in Dahlonega to stage the same essence – where customers are friends, not just transactions.
His vision comes to life when customers turn into frequent shop visitors. Within minutes, the staff knows their names and their drink of choice.
Ostaszewski sets out to imprint his legacy in the form of this business, aiming to provide a wholesome, communal experience, extend beyond being just an average joe coffee shop. Blue 42 doubles as a bakery and a local market, with Ostaszewski describing himself as a “baker with magic” and equating this facet to a Willy Wonka-esque specialty. That magic trickles down to the CBD-based products offered in the apothecary section of the store.
The Healing Magic of CBD
Ostaszewski, a licensed Georgia hemp farmer, is a firm believer in the healing capabilities of hemp. His journey in the industry began amidst the grueling sports field when he was a defensive tackle at Florida State University and later in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Many of his teammates suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain degenerative condition linked to repeated head traumas. Witnessing CBD’s positive effects on such athletic injuries, Ostaszewski, along with his brother, established a partnership with Boulder Hemp in Colorado in 2017.
The positive feedback from their customers proves to be promising, as users reported better sleep and reduced anxiety.
An Era of Controversy and Progress
Initially, Blue 42 faced several controversies since its opening in November. Ostaszewski’s introduction of hemp in a small mountain community like Dahlonega sparked apprehension among locals, leading to multiple urban discussions. Hemp, although affiliated with marijuana, varies in properties. It is grown under stringent regulations and penalized if handled without a license.
Ostaszewski sees a potential growth opportunity in Georgia’s hemp industry, although frustrated with the slow legislative process. “Why aren’t we growing our hemp seed here in Georgia?”, he questions, expressing the possibility of a hemp-based economy transition.
From Locals, By Locals
The principle of ‘locals supporting locals’ is reflected in the store’s inventory. Blue 42 collaborates with local and regional businesses – Mountain Fresh Creamery in Clermont for dairy products, Allison’s Honey from White County, Jittery Joe’s in Athens for coffee beans, and Clayton’s Wander North Georgia for merchandise.
The market’s architectural details, such as marble from Tate, Georgia and solid walnut counters made by local craftsmen, add to its delightful, welcoming atmosphere.
Jesse Turk, a local and regular, enthusiastically shares, “They have a wonderful atmosphere that makes you want to slow down and stay a while. You immediately start feeling like family after the first visit.”
Ostaszewski measures his success by his excitement and eagerness to start another day at Blue 42. He reciprocates the same charm to his customers by personally greeting and warmly welcoming them, living up to his aim of making Blue 42 the Cheers of Dahlonega.
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