Stock up at Ramona's One-Stop Shop
By Tracy Rolling

Standing in front of the paint section, from left, are Axel Mikkelsen, Rigoberto Garcia and Lee Dickman. Photo by Tracy Rolling

Did you know there's a store in the heart of Ramona designed for do-it-yourselfers, carrying everything from paint and sundries, lawn and garden, electrical and plumbing, home goods, even cleaning and office supplies?

Where's the place to improve your space; it's Ace.

Ramona Ace Hardware store owner and President Lee Dickman says that it's his commitment to customer service coupled with the wide range of inventory at competitive prices that is filling his store with loyal patrons.

Dickman, a former corporate executive with Ace, reports a 14 percent sale increase since he purchased the business in March 2006. He attributes the growth to a remodeled store and to several new departments, such as office supplies and a lush outdoor nursery.

"Paint sales have gone through the roof," says Dickman, who attributes the paint popularity to the new top-quality line and to the computerized paint color-matching system.

The store offers specialty services such as key cutting, screen repairs and catalog orders of more than 65,000 items, plus free local delivery (some restrictions apply, see stores for details).

Dickman pledges to continue making store improvements and will double the size of the newly remodeled nursery by the end of next year.

With monthly "BEST BUYS," seasonal promotions and a first-rate return policy, you're sure to find that oddball item at this local store staffed with friendly, knowledgeable associates.

For patrons who wish to receive buyer benefits, there is a program called Ace Rewards Members. This is a point reward system that entitles members to 1,000 bonus points with their first purchase, 10 points for every $1 spent and a $5 gift card every 2,500 points earned. Members also receive special "members only" offers and advance notices on sales.

Dickman believes in giving back to the community and is an active member of Ramona Rotary, is a director for the Ramona Chamber of Commerce and for the Ramona Boys and Girls Club.

For store hours or more information, call 760-789-1440 or visit Ramona Ace Hardware at 642 and 652 Main St. You can also check out the Web site loaded with home improvement projects and handy tips at www.ramona acehardware.com.