NEW BUSINESS

Elias Ace Hardware opened at 1719 N. Kingshighway in Cape Girardeau last week.

The newest Ace Hardware facility is owned by Fred and Tammy Elias.

The new business is open from a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

"We're more than a hardware store," said Fred Elias. "We have a variety of items a the new store." This includes health and beauty aids, plumbing and electrical supplies, lawn and garden equipment, along with tools, paint and cleaning supplies.

Elias has been in the retail business for more than 25 years. Also involved in the business is Frances Elias.

The Cape Girardeau store is the second Elias operation. Elias Family Center in Cairo, Ill., which opened in 1965, is also an Ace Hardware facility.

The Cape Girardeau store has about 11,000 square feet. A grand opening will be held Friday and Saturday.

Ace Hardware, founded 75 years ago, has more than 5,000 stores in 60 countries. A number of Ace Hardware facilities are located in the Southeast Missouri area Jackson, Chaffee, Poplar Bluff, Kennett and Piedmont.

Ron Hale Electric buys Thompson Construction

Ron Hale Electric has purchased E. R. Thompson Construction Co.

Hale founded Hale Electric in 1989, and has worked with Thompson Construction on a number of projects.

The construction company specializes in residential and commercial remodeling, expansions, restorations and small structures.

Thompson, who founded the construction company in 1975, opened a new restaurant Jimmy John's in Cape Girardeau recently. He will remain with the construction company for a year, as a consultant.

"We're a light construction company," said Hale. "We have a couple of carpenters and an electrician. Hale will continue to operate Hale Electric."