RESOLUTION NO. 250082
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Sponsor: Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw
RESOLUTION - Celebrating Jan Fichman, CEO of 7th Heaven, for his over 50 years of extraordinary contributions to Kansas City’s music industry.
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WHEREAS, Jan Fichman is a lifelong resident of the Kansas City metro area, whose life and legacy are deeply rooted in the Troost Avenue corridor, from his birth at Menorah Hospital to his time working at his father’s used car lots at 56th, 71st, and 79th and Troost; and
WHEREAS, Jan Fichman’s entrepreneurial journey began after dropping out of UMKC and selling bootleg 8-track tapes at state fairs and inner-city locations, a hustle that eventually led to the founding of 7th Heaven in a converted gas station at 7653 Troost alongside his parents, Jack and Charlotte, creating a business that epitomized Kansas City’s diverse and creative spirit; and
WHEREAS, 7th Heaven, under Jan’s leadership, evolved from a small retail space of 750 square feet selling record albums, used jeans, incense, and other unique items to a four-level, 9,600-square-foot community hub that has sold more pre-recorded music than any other single location in the Midwest, while supporting local artists and fostering equity and inclusivity without the need for external mandates; and
WHEREAS, Jan Fichman’s dedication to the music industry and Kansas City’s cultural fabric has earned 7th Heaven recognition on both local and national stages, providing opportunities for Kansas City’s hip-hop artists to gain national distribution and serving as a launchpad for countless creative talents over the past 50 years; and
WHEREAS, Jan Fichman’s lifelong connection to Troost Avenue, from his upbringing and professional milestones to his eventual resting place at Rosehill Cemetery, reflects his unwavering commitment to the community and his significant role in shaping the social and cultural landscape of Kansas City; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby honor Jan Fichman, CEO of 7th Heaven, for his extraordinary contributions to Kansas City’s music industry, and his entrepreneurial spirit; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to Jan Fichman with the appreciation of the Mayor and Council for his enduring impact on our community, celebrating over 50 years of service and commitment to equity, inclusion, and the celebration of diversity.
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