Left is University Ace Hardware's Carolyn Fichtner, owner, with Shalisa Grantham, administrative assistant, at the Museum Homecoming Tailgate. University Ace supported our grand prize giveaway.
BUSINESS PARTNERS In this issue of JULE we spoke with one of our new business partners: David Fichtner of University Ace Hardware. Through their annual contributions, business partners make it possible in part for JCSM to continue our educational programming and exhibitions. These businesses also enjoy a wide array of program benefits, including prominent recognition of support in our lobby area, acknowledgement in our magazines, invitations to member receptions, JCSM mailings, memberships, discounted JCSM facility rental, and more. This year our Business Partners Appreciation Reception will occur March 10, 2016. Please contact Cindy Cox at 334.844.3005 or cindycox@auburn.edu for more information about becoming a business partner.
MEET ONE OF OUR NEWEST JCSM BUSINESS PARTNERS: DAVID FICHTNER, UNIVERSITY ACE HARDWARE
JULE: How long has University Ace been open and what brought your business to the Auburn area? David Fichtner: University Ace Hardware opened February 2013. Our family returned to Auburn in 2009. Carolyn and I had gone to school at Auburn in the early ’80s. After finishing up some other business obligations, we were looking to start a business that could become an integral part of the Auburn/Opelika community. We selected to open an Ace Hardware store because we believe strongly in the commitment to world-class service and products. JULE: What kind of products do you sell? DF: We are a full-service hardware store providing all of the items someone would need to maintain their home or business. We have plumbing, electrical, tools, hardware, cleaning supplies, automotive, paint, and lawn and garden. We also sell other specialty items like outdoor power equipment from Husqvarna and BadBoy mowers, Yeti coolers, birding supplies, lawn furniture, and more. People are usually amazed at the number of items we can fit in a relatively small space. JULE: How do you use an appreciation for the arts in your daily business life? DF: In the retail business the presentation of our products is something of an art.
How you display something has an effect on how people view that product. We also like to sell products from local artists that specialize in metal work, painting, or garden art. JULE: What types of art experiences do you typically enjoy at a museum? DF: I really enjoy all types and forms of art, but paintings and sculptures are generally my favorite. Being completely lacking in artistic ability myself, I am amazed at the skill, vision, and patience it takes to produce a work of art. JULE: Why did you become a business partner? At JCSM, we believe that Art Changes Lives. How has art changed your life?
Shalisa Grantham, University Ace Hardware administrative assistant, with Ina Fichtner, David and Carolyn's daughter. CINDY COX Membership Officer cindycox@auburn.edu 334.844.3005
DF: The primary reason we became a business partner with JCSM is that we believe it is a vital part of the community. We love Auburn and we think a thriving, active art community is vital for Auburn and JCSM is the foundation of the art community. JULE: Why should other businesses become involved as a business partner with JCSM? DF: It’s really very simple—if you love Auburn then you should become a business partner with JCSM.
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