High Point, NC - November 10, 2005 - Thanks to the continued support of High Point and surrounding communities as well as a growing online customer base, Simon Jewelers is happy to announce key developments in its ongoing commitment to providing unparalleled personal service and exceptional product selection. In addition to adding several new jewelry lines and buying resources, owner Gary Simon announces the addition of two new staff members.

Susan Clinard Pyle Susan Clinard will be taking on some of the store’s copywriting, advertising, and website /database functions. Susan brings fifteen years of communications, trade association and IT experience in the Washington, D.C. area, including coordination of early internet research and "information superhighway" developments for Ross Perot’s company, Perot Systems, during the company’s startup years. Susan is also a freelance writer, contributing to the Special Sections of the News & Record, High Point Enterprise, and several other publications.

Jesse Carkin Jesse Carkin, GJ (Graduate Jeweler) brings a new dimension to the store as assistant to Steve Bowman, the store’s onsite master jeweler. Previously with Lisa Kay & Co. (Durham) and Goldworks (Chapel Hill), Jesse majored in art at Ferrum College, and received jewelry manufacturing arts (JMA) training at the Gemological Institute of America’s campus in Carlsbad, California. "Jesse is a talented designer who rounds out our efforts to offer a complete suite of jewelry design and repair services,"said Bowman. Jesse is currently continuing his education with a GIA course on diamonds in his quest to become a Gemologist. On these latest developments, Gary Simon wishes to convey his thanks to the people of the High Point area for shopping locally, a practice he feels is necessary for a strong, thriving community. "Our online presence has developed our customer base into one that now extends well beyond the Triad," he said, adding, "We are proud to be in High Point and will continue to see that a portion of every sale goes back into our community."