The Observer Newspapers | Manager Hired at Bargain Loft

April 17, 2008

Manager Hired at Bargain Loft

By Leslie Perales

Observer Staff Writer

After a months-long search Herndon-Reston Friendly Instant Sympathetic Help has hired Chris Hartmus as manager for the Bargain Loft. Hartmus previously managed Inova Fairfax Hospital Auxiliary's Treasure Trove thrift store in McLean.

Hartmus is the first paid employee of Herndon-Reston FISH, but he said the job is not about the money. "I enjoy working with people and I really missed that," he said. "I enjoy the conversation, the sharing of stories, the passion of people and their collecting."

Hartmus retired from Inova in 2006 after more than 27 years with the company, but he said his love of collecting brought him out of retirement. His own collections include antique furniture, china, crystal and coins. "I've always collected all my life," he said.

Working at the Bargain Loft allows Hartmus to meet others who share in his passion and are looking for hidden treasures, he said. He has visited more than 200 thrift stores throughout the country in his travels, and he said he enjoys learning the history of the pieces people donate and being able to share that history with the buyer.

While at Inova, Hartmus also worked with volunteer services and served as the unit manager for the cardiac and transplant departments for the Inova Heart and Vascular Institute. As unit manager, he handled billing, reimbursement, supplies and equipment, he said.

Hartmus, who began at the Bargain Loft April 7, said he has been delighted with his position. "The people are wonderful, the volunteers are wonderful, the customers are great," he said. The board of directors has been especially supportive and so far it has been "awesome" working with them, he said.

Hartmus said that as store manager, he hopes to maintain the variety of products in the Bargain Loft's inventory and increase the amount of jewelry they offer. "We're not trying to make changes, but we're trying to stimulate more business," he said. "We're going to try to let the community be more aware of our location, what we're doing and what we support."

Part of that includes greater marketing campaigns, such as advertisements and mailers, he said. Hartmus said he also hopes to install signage near the road on Spring Street to call greater attention to the store and let people know where they are located.

Herndon-Reston FISH has provided family assistance to local residents since 1969. The organization raises funds through the Bargain Loft, which is located at 336 Victory Dr. in Herndon. The thrift store sells art, furniture, household goods and a variety of other items.

According to a press release, Herndon-Reston FISH has experienced a 52 percent increase in requests for assistance and the support Hartmus brings to help implement initiatives to increase revenue is needed. Hartmus said he is excited that he was selected to help boost sales at the store and bring in more donations and to make Herndon-Reston FISH more visible in the community.