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Who's Who at Wooden Skate
Gary Durow: His name is synonymous with Wooden Skate. A native of Saginaw, Michigan, he earned his B.A. in Business (major in retailing) and a Master's in Education, both from Michigan State University. From 1968 to 1973 he worked in Michigan public schools, teaching wood shop, business and career guidance. Although his official work changed from teacher to retailer when he opened Wooden Skate, he has never stopped teaching. His retail approach still focuses on educating the consumer, and he has shared his knowledge of antiques, jewelry, and gems through various publications, adult education classes, speeches to community groups, and in-store seminars. He is also a radio personality, with over 20 years of experience on antiques and jewelry call-in programs. As an Alumnus of the Gemological Institute of America, and an experienced estate jeweler, his expertise is widely recognized by insurance companies, attorneys and the trust departments of major banks. In his evolution from antique dealer to President of a multi-faceted corporation, he has traveled to the gem and antique districts of six continents and over 30 countries. His business was automated at a time when less than 10% of jewelers had computers, and he has consistently been among the first jewelers in this area to use new technologies to better serve his customers. He is excited by the ability of the Internet to bring the world to his store and vice versa. Email Gary at myles9145@comcast.net, with questions for him. Mike -- Business Manager: Mike has 16 years of experience in the Jewelry Industry. He a vast Gemological knowledge and is always looking for ways to help make the store a better place. Mike is a Black Belt in Mixed Marital Arts. He enjoys running races, readimg books and spending time with his family. Email Mike at Woodenskate1259@yahoo.com, with questions for him. Tracie
-- Senior Jewelry Specialist: Tracie had been in the jewelry business
for 19 years with 15 years at Wooden Skate. As the most senior member
of our team, her background of GIA instruction is an asset as she
is our onsite jewelry appraiser and makes buys from the public.
Enjoying her three grandsons, reading and knitting keeps her busy when
she is not assisting customers with their jewelry needs and repairs.
Email Tracie at appraisals@woodenskate.com.
Paula --
Office Manager/Bookkeeper: With 28 years retail selling and buying
experience at Jacobson's Stores and on her 6th year with us, Paula
brings business professionalism to her positions. She will be
able to help you with jewelry appraisal appointments, connect you with
the correct staff member for your question or assist you with accouts
payable or accounts receivable matters. Email Paula at
admin@woodenskate.com. Kay--Sales
Associate: Kay is a wonderful Sales person. Kay is a Big MSU Fan and
she volunteers at Sparrow Hospital to help out those in need. If you
like a great smile and great service, Kay is the right woman.
Tom -- Goldsmith: Tom is one of the finest jewelry craftsmen in the country. He has over 35 years of experience, specializing in hard-to-do antique pieces and heirlooms in addition to superior workmanship on more contemporary settings. Tom handles both routine and specialized needs for jewelry maintenance, repair, remounts and design. He also hand-casts the Wooden Skate Classic Royalty -- a series of rare antique-style rings/settings available only from us.
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