Northwest Gold Coast

San Juan Island, Washington may just be one of the most popular whale watching destinations. Within close proximity to both Lopez and Orcas Island, these whale watching excursions draw people from all corners of the globe in hopes of seeing Orcas (aka Killer Whales) in action. Orcas live in pods of up to 50 whales, and though they are found in all the oceans of the world, these whales prefer cooler water temperatures, which is why the waters off the Northwest Coast provide one of the highest sighting percentages for whale watching tours.

Maya’s Westside Charters, based in scenic Snug Harbor, is one of San Juan Island Washington’s most popular whale sighting services. Captain Jim Maya, owner and founder, has been captivating tourists with his chartered tours since 1997 and has many previous years of guiding tours of the Orcas on the waters of San Juan before he began his company.

Maya’s whale excursions consist of a 3-hour tour, getting you as up-close and personal with the whales as possible. Picturesque sunset tours, photo expeditions and private tours are also available. Captain Jim Maya’s belief when venturing out to sea is that a smaller boat is better. Usually no more than 6 passengers are on a tour at one time, allowing better and more close up views of the whales.

As of the 2007 season, a 30 foot Glacier Bay catamaran, “The Peregrine” is what carries the Captain and its passengers at sea. This is an exceptionally quiet ride with outstanding visibility for all passengers, which makes for one ultimate whale sighting experience.

Throughout Jim’s tours, many other wildlife and sea mammals may be seen along the way. It’s not uncommon to spot harbor seals, sea lions and various birds of the wild. This is one trip for which you won’t want to leave your camera behind.

For more information on reservations and prices of these guided tours, please go to: www.mayaswhalewatch.biz

Tags: Northwest Wildlife, Outdoor Recreation, Services by Michelle Leonard
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Seattle Area dentist Norm Culver, DDS is training dentists in the lost art of equilibration. Faster and less expensive and less intrusive than braces, equilibration adjusts a patient’s bite in as little as one visit. In this procedure the dentist marks the teeth for areas that hit prematurely and then makes very small grinding adjustments to help the teeth match better.

In an era when people need more affordable solutions it may be surprising that more dentists don’t employ this procedure. The main reason for this is that dental schools stopped teaching the procedure years ago because the procedure was not a money maker for dental practices.

Dr. Culver believes it is now time to bring back this procedure. So he offers simple half day courses focused entirely on the topic of equilibration. Now dentists can learn how to make this process simple, practical, and profitable to their practice.

For more information, visit www.EquilibrationSeminars.com.

Tags: Classes & Training by Michelle Leonard
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During the summer months it is not unusual to discover that humans are not the only life forms inhabiting our homes. Common household pests in our region include ants, termites, mice, rats, spiders, fleas, bees, wasps, yellow jackets, household flies, earwigs, and centipedes. 

The number one nuisance pest in our region and in the United States is the ant. The carpenter ant damages wood structures by excavating tunnels and hollowing out spaces for nesting. 

Indoor pest invasions often begin outside, where pests such as ants, mice, and cockroaches are en route to find food, water, warmth from the cold, or a better environment. In many cases, ants make their nest outside the home and travel back and forth for food and water. Therefore controlling the outdoor environment is essential to preserving the interior environment. 

More than a simple nuisance, insects and rodents can create health hazards to you, your family, your pets and your home. Pests and vermin can carry disease and leave droppings that cause respiratory and asthma problems.

Taking on the task of ridding our homes of unwanted guests ourselves is not easy and often is ineffective. 

Chuck Sullivan Exterminators is a family-owned business that has been serving families and businesses in the Pacific Northwest for over 30 years. With 12 locations in Washington and Oregon and over 100 years combined expertise they are experts in ridding infestations that occur in our mild environment. They use Termidor and Phantom products because these are the fastest and most effective pest treatments and also are safe for family and pets. 

Whether you’re looking to call in professionals for an urgent pest problem or preventive maintenance, Chuck Sullivan Exterminators first come to your home and identify the specific pest or rodent issue along with the entrance and exit points of the pests. Then they define and implement the most effective treatments to eliminate the pests. Next they provide you with tips on how to prevent future infestation and they give you a one year service guarantee.

For more information on their services, visit their website at www.PestStop.com.

Tags: Services by Michelle Leonard
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Let’s face it… for most of us, the mere thought of having to move is a huge chore we’d rather not face. Having to move large, heavy or oversized objects such as pianos, wall art or antiques is an added dilemma that some face. Finding someone who will be careful and cautious with your valuables and furniture is essential.

One locally owned and family operated Seattle business has the expertise and care it takes to meet your moving and relocation needs. Cascade Moving and Storage, owned by Eric and Rebecca Stephens, has been assisting customers in the greater Seattle area for over 30 years. Their professional experienced moving crew arrives in company uniform and on-time. Because of their efficiency and friendly service over 85% of the company’s business has been by referral from extremely satisfied customers.

One customer writes, “John and Miguel were on time. John knew exactly what he was about and the two of them beat the estimated time by 25%. Both men were cordial and very polite. Both men deserve to be commended for their courtesy and efficiency.”

Another customer adds, “You were right! Cascade is a very good company we were impressed by your personal involvement prior to our move, you’re quick and positive response to our sudden need for a trip to Poulsbo, and your crew who were very careful of our furniture and goods. John, Ben, and Mitch were a great team!”

One of Cascade Moving and Storage highest priorities is to ensure that they provide customers with dependable service. The trucks are regularly maintained and kept clean in the interior and exterior.

Another priority is to meet the needs of special individuals – people with physical or health challenges who may need extra assistance in moving or downsizing to an assisted living home.

Cascade Moving and Storage also owns and operates storage facilities that are clean and well ventilated. The storage is a modern and military-approved facility that is temperature-controlled and equipped with security and fire alarm to ensure the safety of your belongings.

If you would like more information on this business and how they can assist you with your moving or storage needs, please call 206-729-6686, or visit their website at www.CascadeMovingandStorage.com to request your free in-home or on-site estimate.

Tags: Services by Michelle Leonard
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