creating them , such as using the old-style agitators .
Speed Queen washers have a life expectancy of 25 years , Hamilton said .
She has also added other new items and brands to the store , such as carrying DeWalt tools , a new line of floor rugs , mattresses , furniture , recliners , and lighting , just to name a few .
She has push mowers already , and said she hopes to add riding mowers to the lineup soon .
She also still carries the daily essential appliances of life , such as washing machines , dryers , stoves , and refrigerators , as well as microwaves and other appliances .
Hamilton said that the transition to the new store name has gone smoothly , and her longtime customers are continuing to support her . She has also seen new faces in the past few weeks as well .
She said she likes to stay competitive with her pricing , comparing it to what the big box stores offer .
One of the things Hamilton said she prides herself on is her customers service . She bases is off what she wants to see when she goes into a store .
“ I like to go into a place and have someone acknowledge me , and then let me look around , but then if I need help , someone be there ,” she said .
It ’ s that personal touch that one finds with a locally owned business , she said , that makes it so important . So much so that she often promotes other local business owners too , many of whom she has built relationships with over the years .
“ If I can ’ t help someone , I ’ m more than happy to point them to another locally-owned business who can ,” she said .
The entrance of the Somerset Hometown Store , which is located in the former Sears Hometown Store .
Photo by Carla Slavey
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“ I ’ m thankful for Sears , because I built such a
customer base ...” - Jeanette Hamilton
June 2023 SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky • 19