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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. Diane Durow: When it started up in 1973, Wooden Skate was categorized by the IRS as a "sole proprietor," but it was more a duet than a solo. With the family business literally in her own backyard, Diane contributed much to the store's early operations. Even while raising a family, she continued to lend her talents to the growing diversity of the business. Today her creative gifts are still making a difference in the areas of marketing and displays. 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. E-mail Tom! Pat -- Manager of Business Operations. One of our newest members of the team, Pat is experienced in human resources, accounting, facilities, marketing, training and just about everything else except actually buying and selling merchandise! Pat is always available if you need assistance. E-Mail Pat! Mike -- Sales Manager: Mike has over 10 years of experience under his belt. His specialties are insurance replacements, special order searches, facilitating office sales and staff supervision. He'll help you in any way he can. E-Mail Mike! Tracie -- Senior Jewelry Specialist: Tracie had been stringing our pearls for many years before joining us at the store full time in 1994. As the most senior member of our team, she is not only a specialist in appraising jewelry and buying from the public but she's an excellent Jewelry Specialist also. E-Mail Tracie! Jayson -- Antiques/Computer Specialist--Jayson is the one to speak with if you need antiques and collectible information. He comes to us with a strong computer background and has been vital to our e-commerce sales. E-Mail Jayson! Kelvin and Angie --Jewelry Sales Staff--Both are gemologically trained, salt of the earth and eager to prove to you our slogan, "It's a great day at Wooden Skate." E-Mail Kelvin and Angie! Paula -- Office Manager/Bookkeeper: If you phone us, chances are Paula will be the first voice you hear. She's very thorough and excellent in her ability to get you to the right staff member who will help you with your needs. E-Mail Paula!
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