|
|
|
|
|
|
View current & past issues of the Inquirer
QUICK LINKS
|
|
08/19/10 Mt. Vernon, NY Mt. Vernon's famous "Stove Lady" is a true pioneer The value of old, well made things, is making a comeback right here in Mount Vernon, thanks to the Stove Lady, who has made dramatic strides in a male dominated industry. In today's fast moving society, what's in and what's out changes constantly and the emphasis that once was on good service seems to be lost. Major appliances are not made with the solid, heavy duty steel, porcelain enamel, and shiny chrome like they use to be. Appliance companies seem to make their appliances to be discarded when they break down. Many older repair technicians have retired and the newer ones only know how to change parts. A movement towards recycling and going green has been brewing in recent years. Carlita Belgrove, President of Belgrove Appliance, Inc., "Home of the famous Stove Lady," saw a future in the past. After inheriting her father's appliance sales and service business more than ten years ago, she knew it had to be more interesting than just sales and repairs. A chance encounter with a Chambers antique stove enthusiast changed her life forever. She now runs the only known female owned and operated antique stove restoration business in the country that sells new appliances, restores antique gas stoves, and cleans and repairs vintage ranges right in your own home. These are not just any old stoves - these are the deluxe versions of high end ranges made in the 1940's, 50's, and 60's. She even added retro stove restoration to the mix by specializing in Crown stoves that went out of production in the late 1980's. Chambers, Roper, Caloric, and vintage Magic Chef are all out of production and have been for decades, however she makes them look like they just rolled out of the factory yesterday. Interior designers and homeowners have built entirely new kitchens around her restored ranges. Even though the process takes months, they are willing to wait. This endeavor is not for the faint of heart. These stoves cost a pretty penny to restore, but thousands of people think they are well worth it. The testimonials on her website prove why she gets much satisfaction from her work. Her new website, www.stovelady.com, has interesting videos, before and after photos, along with information about the process. Belgrove Appliance still sells and repairs new appliances, but Carlita gets satisfaction from the excitement her clients experience when their old stove looks new again. Her next goal is to be able to offer lower cost restorations, so more people can keep their old stoves. Many of her clients have passed these vintage ranges down from generation to generation. Who knew that stoves would one day be looked upon as sentimental items? Now, with her impeccable customer service and attention to detail, everything old is definitely new again. |
|
|
|
The Mount Vernon Inquirer.
Any copying, redistribution
or retransmission of any of the contents of this
service without the express written consent of The
Mt. Vernon Inquirer is
expressly prohibited. |
