Northwest Gold Coast

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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Most people probably don’t sharpen their household knives as often as they should.  In fact, most people have never truly worked with a sharp knife because sharpening a knife seems scary or like too much trouble. 

Did you know cutting with a dull knife is much more dangerous than using a sharp one?  Many injuries in the kitchen while preparing food are caused by using a dull knife.  This is because the excessive force needed to cut with a dull knife can cause the knife to slip and then cut the user. 

Those who spend a lot of time in the kitchen know that a sharp knife is a vital tool and a cook’s best friend.  Taking good care of knives and keeping them sharp is very important.

Now there is a new service that can help both the novice cook and the experienced chef.

Cutlery on Wheels is a new, mobile business started in the Greater Seattle Area in late 2009 by Bill Magee.  Bill brings years of experience in cutlery sales and service. His new business is the fulfillment of a 20 year old dream to have a fully equipped utility van offering mobile knife sharpening service and a knife and kitchenware showroom. 

Customers bring their knives and scissors on to the van for Bill to sharpen.  While they wait they can browse the knives and kitchen gadgets displayed on the shelves and walls of the van as Bill shares stories of knives and life experiences that educate and entertain his customers.

Bill loves meeting new people and welcomes all questions regarding knives and cutlery and how to care for them.  With over 20 years experience in this field, Bill is very knowledgable on the subject and his storytelling style is lighthearted and warm.

Cutlery on Wheels carries a variety of quality knives from manufacturers such as Forschner, E Dick, Lamson & Goodnow, Messermeister, Victorinox and more.  Quality products and oustanding service are unparalleled by Bill Magee’s business.

For more info on this business and to learn how you can schedule your service, go to http://www.cutleryonwheels.com.

Tags: Services, Shopping by Michelle Leonard
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You know it’s time to remake your company’s website when …

1. A first-time visitor says, “Ahh, I see your website is from the Early Web Period.”
2. Only your mother can find it.
3. A new customer comes to your store, sits down and cries, “It didn’t look like this on the web!”
4. Your staff informs you that the website just sold something you haven’t got.
5. Your web master has disappeared and no one else can figure out how to make anything work.
6. Your sales staff are ashamed to share the web address with anyone.
7. Customers complain they can’t find what you say is there.
8. Your logo and other design elements are new millennial and your website is past millennial.
9. Your web stats show that lots of people are finding the website, but no one’s buying.
10. A first-time visitor says, “Yuck.  I never go beyond those drum beat and swhirly dot pages!”

You know you don’t need a website makeover when …

Your business is working at capacity, income exceeds out go, your customers are happy and your staff have no complaints.

If you’re looking to update your website call us at 206.244.9092 or email info@4cesi.com.

Tags: Business Advice, Services by Elizabeth Paulsen
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Businesses that developed simple text-dense websites in the early years of the Internet (before 2001) benefited from a phenomenon known as “grandfathering”.  If these businesses listed their websites in the major search engines before the engines began charging for inclusion or pay per click, their sites stayed in the search engines for free because the search engines were each trying to compile the biggest, most relevant database.

If the businesses were in well-defined niches, the websites of these businesses had quite high rankings for several phrases related to their business and web-generated business was good!

Then by mid-1995 many businesses that had had natural search high rankings for several years saw their rankings drop significantly (from first page to 16th page or below).  This was because the algorithms (formulas) utilized by the search engines evolved continuously while the websites did not keep up with current international standards.

While each website varies, optimizing an older website to meet current international standards typically involves over a dozen discrete tasks.  There is no silver bullet, simply a list of tasks that take about three weeks to complete.  These tasks include:

1. conducting research to identify which phrases will get the most web traffic (highest count of searches to number of competing web pages),
2. scripting improved text for the search engines and human readers,
3. eliminating code that slows down search engine robots,
4. adding structural elements that help people and search engine robots get through the site more quickly, and
5. deleting any inappropriate strategies that may have been in place prior to optimization.

Businesses that have experienced dropped rankings currently represent about half the new clients for the search engine optimization services provided by Cascade e-Commerce Solutions, Inc. (CeSI).  CeSI calls this work “ranking remediation” because it involves working to remedy dropped rankings so that web-generated business levels are restored.

Restoring lost rankings takes less time than securing rankings for sites that are new or have never been well ranked.  Businesses that have lost ranking know the value of their search engine position in terms of sales and new customers and so are highly motivated to assist in the process.  Short turn around time and high client motivation make ranking remediation an especially fun effort for CeSI.

If your business’ website is in need of ranking remediation, please don’t hesitate to contact Cascade e-Commerce Solutions at 206-244-9092 or info@4cesi.com.

Tags: Business Advice, Services by Elizabeth Paulsen
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The resident and tourist population of  the Greater Seattle area includes a great mix of cultures and ethnic diversity and as such, the demand for interpreters and translaters is great.  Businesses that support the many language groups in the area gain and retain customers and clients that are out of reach of businesses that do not support these language groups.

LC Interpreters is a local company that helps businesses support many different language groups. This Burien based business specializes in providing professional, certified translates and interpreters in over 150 languages.  Founded in 2005 by Perlita Matta, this organization is a certified Washington Women’s Minority owned business.  Services available include document translation, on-site interpretation and telephone interpretation. 

Document Translation is provided in over 25 languages and each translation is double-checked for accuracy and quality before it is delivered in electronic form. Translations in print form are also available upon request.  This service is essential in meeting the needs of a client or patient for translation of medical records and legal documents.

On-site interpretation provides companies and businesses with the convenience of an experienced, certified interpreter who will come to your location to assist you in effectively communicating with your patient or client.  Interpretation on-site is available in 25 languages and more languages are being added each month. 

Telephone interpretation service is also available in the greater Seattle area in over 150 languages.  In as little as 60 seconds, you can be connected to a professional interpreter any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Using this service can be extremely helpful for corporate meetings, business training seminars, parent-teacher conferences or medical appointments.  Each interpreter is legally certified in their area of expertise and thoroughly tested to ensure skill and efficiency.

If you would like to know more about this business and how to contact them, please visit their website at http://www.lcinterpreters.com

Tags: Services by Michelle Leonard
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Most of us have a vehicle that we enjoy driving, especially when it’s newly washed.  While some of us are willing to spend the time and effort to keep our car clean and the finish in good condition through a careful hand wash and hand dry, most of us want an easier option.

Automatic drive-through car washes are an easy way to clean a vehicle without having to brave cold weather and cold water; plus they save time and hassle. However, if the drive through car wash uses brushes and rollers, the process can cause more damage than good because these washers rely on the beating action of the brushes to clean the car and this beating can actually damage the finish of the car.

The “touchless” car wash is a fast and easy way to clean your car without the risk of damaging the car’s finish.  Airport Touchless Car Wash in SeaTac, Washington, formerly known as Squeaky Clean Car Wash, uses fresh, softened high pressure hot water and the highest quality soaps and waxes to provide the cleanest wash, without physically touching the vehicle.

Airport Touchless Car Wash offers a variety of wash packages to its customers at an affordable price. The laser wash process is an easy, convenient and safe way to clean your vehicle. Plus the Touchless Laser Wash is more environmentally friendly because it uses less water and electricity than the brush and roller washes and the facility properly disposes its waste water.

Entering the LaserWash is easy, just drive up to the access station, choose your payment or enter your code, then choose your favorite wash package.  The average wash time can vary depending on the package you choose, but can typically run anywhere from 4-7 minutes.   Washing includes a high-pressure hot water wash with the finest soaps, giving your vehicle a pre-soak to help remove dirt, grime and road film.  A spot-free rinse ensures all product is gently washed away while you also have the option to add Rain-X, a clear coat protectant or color polish to keep your car’s exterior shiny and protected.  The drying process uses two high performance dryers to complete the procedure and remove any excess water left from the wash.  No towels are used to dry the car and this means no lint is left on your vehicle.

The facility also offers self-serve washes, vacuums and detail products for your car.

Airport Touchless Car Wash is family owned, and is open to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to serve you.

For more info, details on the wash packages and how to find us, please visit the website at http://www.airporttouchlesscarwash.com.

Tags: Services by Michelle Leonard
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Nicholas Nair joined Cascade e- Commerce Solutions (CeSI) as an Account Assistant in June of this year. He is currently a freshman at Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. Nicholas and his family reside in Tukwila, Washington. Nicholas’ interests include playing soccer, skateboarding, writing poetry and hiking.

In the spring of 2009 Nicholas was awarded the Act Six scholarship which will be paying for his tuition and also helped him get accepted into Northwest University earlier. The scholarship entails him to be actively involved in regular meetings with his fellow Act Six peers every Tuesday. He is one of ten students attending NU through the scholarship, they are required to become a cadre and work to together to create friendships and support systems throughout their college years and beyond.

For his work Nicholas writes blogs about college and all the things that come with this topic like, scholarships, mentorships, what to look for in a college etc. If would like to check out his work and others who have blogged:

http://www.studentassistanceplan.com/blog/

Tags: Services by admin
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So how does an off-airport parking lot go green?

SeaTacPark.com, located just south of Seattle Tacoma International Airport, has implemented four strategies to reduce air and water pollution, paper waste and energy consumption.

Water Filtration System
Ask SeaTacPark.com Manager, Dave Bass, and he’ll tell you, “To begin with, before parking a single car, it is necessary to install a system that will separate out contaminants such as (sediment and oil) from lot runoff before the water is released into the city’s storm water system.   The Vortechs Model 7000 Stormwater Treatment system installed at SeaTacPark is a high-performance system which uses a combination of swirl-concentrator and flow-control technologies to maximize treatment even during peak flows so that the quality of water released from the site will sustain the rich wildlife of the Puget Sound area.”

Natural Gas Shuttle Bus
Then the lot added a 2009 Champion 14 passenger Natural Gas (NGS) Shuttle Bus.   SeaTacPark.com’s shuttle was literally the first of the 2009 shuttles converted to use compressed natural gas in a BAF Technologies engine system.   In fact, SeaTacPark.com’s shuttle is featured on the cover picture of the manual that is issued to maintenance companies.

Electric Vehicle Outlets
Next the lot began to offer parking spaces with electrical outlets to accommodate electric vehicles.   SeaTacPark.com has 4 spaces which are available on a first come first served basis.     Electric vehicle drivers are encouraged to phone 206.824.2544 or email info@SeaTacPark.com the day that their parking episode is to begin to ask whether outlet spaces are available.

Paperless Reservations
The most recent step has been to offer the best rates without requiring hardcopy paper reservations.   SeaTacPark.com’s online reservation system recently has been updated so that it is clear that the parker need not print and bring in a hardcopy of the reservation form.   While those that prefer a hard copy may still print and bring it in, those that wish to reduce their ecological footprint, can simply tell the lot attendant at checkout the name under which the reservation was made.   The lot attendant will look up the name in the reservation system and offer the parker the best rate (daily, weekly or monthly) for the actual period parked.

Tags: Services, Travel by Elizabeth Paulsen
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Prior to starting Express Linen Service, owner, Theresa Phan, created beautiful and memorable wedding receptions through MIMI’s Bakery and Decoration.   Then, as MIMI’s grew from a service that supported only its immediate community to a service that expanded to supporting events in multiple states, Theresa became aware that her customers consistently needed elegant table cloths and chair covers.   So she developed her own proprietary patterns, secured yardage from the best mills in the country and founded Express Linen Service.

Today Tukwila-based Express Linen Service specializes in creating and renting elegant and affordable linen, napkin, table runner, table-overlay, and chair cover rentals for every type of occasion.   The items are manufactured using Express Linen Service’s proprietary patterns and are available in a wide variety of colors and fabrics.

In order to provide high quality at an affordable price, all linens are washed and pressed after each use in Express Linen Service’ own laundry.

Express Linen Service’ clients include retail clients, leading hotels, restaurants, country clubs, banquet facilities, and event planners.

Express Linen Service finds its success in its ability to listen to the needs of its customers and staff.   By listening, they are able to help create memorable, unique environments for each event.

A 20% discount is available to contracted vendors and retail clients are welcome.

The show room is located at 14603 35th Ave. S. Tukwila WA 98168.

To make a show room appointment or get more information, email Theresa Phan at info@expresslinenservice.com or phone 206-246-2292.

Tags: Services by Elizabeth Paulsen
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Dustin Keane joined Cascade e-Commerce Solutions Inc. (CeSI) as an intern on the 12th of May. He is currently a sophomore attending Highline Big Picture High School. Dustin and his family reside in SeaTac, Washington.

Dustin’s interests include learning how computers are used in business and learning how to code websites.

Highline Big Picture High School is located at the old Glacier site. At Highline Big Picture students attend school on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and go to internships on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To obtain an internship the student requests  informational interviews  with businesses in their areas of   interest.  Each interview lasts about 20-30 minutes. Then if the student likes   a business or business person, the student requests a job shadow. Next if the student is still interested in that business, the student requests an internship set-up meeting with the student’s advisor (teacher) and the business.   During that meeting the participants discuss whether the work at that business is relevant to the student’s interests and a good learning experience for the student.

Highline Big Picture students are not graded in a traditional way (i.e. A, A+, B, B- etc) instead, throughout the year, they present their work at 2-4 exhibitions. Each exhibition contains detailed documentation and proof of work performed, skills learned, and relationships developed.

If you are interested in learning more about Highline Big Picture High School, visit http://hsd401.org/ourschools/highschools/bigpicture/

Tags: Services by admin
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Organic Euro Spa, a luxury day spa located at 19655 1st Ave. S., Suite 201 in Normandy Park, Washington, specializes in facials, micro-dermabrasion, sugaring, eyelash perming and tinting, body treatments and massage.

The spa offers the following treatments:

• Eminence Facials – acne, anti-aging, rosacea treatment
• Micro-dermabrasion and chemical peels
• Body treatments – wraps, scrubs and cellulite treatments
• Hair removal – Facial and body waxing, sugaring
• Brazilian sugaring – women only
• Eyelash perming and tinting
• Massage – deep tissue, relaxation, Swedish, Shiatzu, lymphatic and foot

The skin care and beauty services are customized to each individual and address common skin problems such as rosacea, sun damage, acne and aging.  

Customized body treatments are also available to support weight loss and neck or back injury recovery.

In addition, clients benefit from advice regarding how to improve their personal health and beauty through nutrition, special techniques and optimum product application.

Staff are professionally trained, certified and enjoy creating an inviting, comfortable experience for clients.

Owner, Silvia Görög, uses and offers for sale organic products by the world-renown European skincare company Eminence. This skincare line is among the favorites of celebrities like Helen Hunt, Alicia Silverstone, Christina Aguilera, Regis Philbin, and many more.   These high-quality fruit, vegetable and herb-based products are free of parabens, mineral oil, petroleum and sodium laryl sulfate and they smell good enough to eat because they use natural aromatic ingredients such as rose hips, blueberries, lemons, naseberries, stonecrop (an Aloe like succulent) and hot paprika.

Facial clients enjoy classical music and  a view of Northwest evergreens as they relax in the treatment room.

For more information visit www.organiceurospa.com.

Tags: Services by Elizabeth Paulsen
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For over 50 years, B & E Meats has been bringing the freshest meats and seafood to the south Puget Sound area.   With locations in Burien and Des Moines, this family owned and operated business began in 1958 with two brothers, Bob and Earl Green.  

Early business wasn’t easy as there was plenty of competition with over 6 meat markets at the time  in the Burien area alone.   Their hard work and determination paid off  and their business quickly grew to open a second store.   After 40 years in the business, they retired, but the company is still family owned and run by Bob’s son and daughter in-law, Jeff and Trisha Green.     Business has continued to be sucessful and grow as loyal customers appreciate the warm and friendly staff and the highest quality meat  products available.

B & E Meats offers a wide range of wonderful and award winning meats, seafood, and jerkys.   Their ground beef comes from Eastern Oregon’s Painted Hills natural beef company where animals are fed only 100% vegetarian diet.   No added hormones or antibiotics are ever used.      B & E also offers many other  fresh products such as a variety of steaks, roasts, pork loin and rib.   Marinated, smoked meats, and poultry are also available as well as their award winning beef jerky.

A special service that makes B & E Meats stand out from other competitors is their custom processing service for game and seafood.   This allows individuals, such as hunters, to bring in their game to be cleaned and processed for them.   With that they offer grinding, cut and wrapping the meat as well as custom sausages and the option of fresh filleting seafood   and smoking salmon.  

For more information on B & E Meats products and services,   visit them at their Burien or Des Moines location, or online at www.bnemeats.com .

Tags: Services, Shopping by Michelle Leonard
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If you are looking for something to do in the greater Seattle Puget Sound region, Seattle Attractions has over 27 places to visit that tourists and locals can enjoy.

Seattle Attractions features year round activities  such as the 22,000 square foot Children’s Museum, Museum of Flight  (thier self-guided tour leads you to over 85 historic  air and space craft exhibits), the Experience Music Project, Washington State Ferries, Kenmore Air, Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art,  dining, sports attractions and more.  

You’ll also  find family-friendly outdoor activities  such as Woodland Park Zoo,  Tacoma’s Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, local tours & cruises of Seattle’s waterfront, North West Trek Wildlife Park that offers a tram tour in this beautiful 435 acre natural habitat.  

This city guide can help you plan your event and give you the needed information for each attraction.   It gives you incite on great deals, an events calendar, visitor information and  a Seattle’s Favorite Attractions Coupon Book that has special offers  for every attraction listed above and more!

To find out more about Seattle Attractions, call 1-877-885-9452, or go online and visit their website at www.seattleattractions.com

Tags: Around Seattle, Services, Travel by Michelle Leonard
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For the holidays, why not treat yourself, your friends and family to executive-class transportation at affordable prices?   Whether you are looking for shuttle transportation to/or from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, or searching for a town car service for  a wedding, vacation, convention or other  special event, Gogol Town Car Services offers comfortable, safe and cost-effective transport.  

As a  member of the Seattle Limousine and Town Car Association,   Gogol Towncar Services is ready to meet your transportation needs with a choice of Lincoln Town Cars; Escalades, Hummers  and Navigators ranging from regular to stretch; SUV’s and vans from mini vans to 14 passenger coaches.  All vehicles are available with such accomodations as WiFi, cell phone, newspaper and bottled water.  

Professional chauffeurs provide excellent service to wherever your desired location may be in the Greater Seattle Puget Sound Washington State Area.   Drivers are proficient in speaking English and also speak Spanish, French, Dutch, and Russian.  

Taking a cruise out of Seattle?   Gogol also  offers affordable cruise ship transfers from SeaTac airport and area hotels to Seattle’s port.   And, if you have extra time before boarding your ship, you may wish to take a tour of some of Seattle’s most famous sights!

Upon visiting the website, you will find fleet and rate information with prices based to/from SeaTac International Airport,  as well as  the ability to schedule reservations online.   You may contact Gogol Town Car Services at (206) 403-7681, or go online to www.gogollimo.com for more information.

Tags: Services, Travel by Michelle Leonard
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Last year I handmade all my Christmas presents. The presents were personal and unique but it ended up taking more time and expenses than I expected. With the economy the way it is today, we can all step back and look at how much money we have been spending at Christmas.

With that said, I have run across the perfect solution for saving time, energy and money as well as giving a meaningful gift.

Seattle Fast Fix Jewelry and Watch Repairs has been in the Westfield Southcenter mall since 1999. While they do routine jewelry inspection and cleaning, watch battery replacement and eyeglass hinge repair, they do more than just that. They also restore antique jewelry, restring pearl necklaces and engrave jewelry, watches and gift items.

Do you have jewelry that you no longer wear? Maybe a ring that needs a little spiffing up, a loose stone that needs mounting, a locket that has a broken chain or a watch from your grandfather that no longer is ticking? Rather than buying new jewelry as a Christmas present, why not make a piece of your own jewelry an heirloom and treasured gift for a loved one?

Seattle Fast Fix Jewelry and Watch Repairs takes rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, anklets, watches, tie pins, broaches, tiaras and more that you already have and makes the necessary repairs and/or restorations to make them new at affordable prices.

Engraving jewelry, watches or gift items can also make meaningful, less expensive Christmas presents. Seattle Fast Fix engraves metal and glass items. A personalized glass 1st Christmas ornament might be a perfect gift for a newly wed couple or parents of a new baby. A personalized Zippo lighter might be a great idea for a grandson. An engraved key ring might be perfect for that teenager who just got their driver’s license. Seattle Fast Fix also carries items ready to be engraved such as ID bracelets, medical alert jewelry, plaques, flasks and other gift items. And, they can even remove the engraving from a solid silver item and add a new message.

So while you are out-and-about this holiday season, stop by Fast Fix Jewelry (located near JCPenney’s just inside the Southcenter mall entrance between Racha Thai and BJ’s restaurants) and have your treasured items restored, repaired or engraved while you shop for other items.

To learn more, visit http://www.seattlefastfixjewelry.com.

Tags: Services, Shopping by Risa Miller
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Hammond Ashley Violins is all about bringing quality music tools to the string communities of Seattle, Washington and San Diego, Calfornia.

Founded in 1964 by Hammond Ashley, the business began on the second floor of Ashley’s woodworking shop just south of the Seattle-Tacoma airport. Ashley’s background in engineering, woodworking and music made the perfect foundation for lutherie work. (Read more about founder Hammond Ashley here.)

After Hammond Ashley died in 1993, his grandson, Paul Ashley, took on the business, which had grown significantly and taken up shop on Des Moines Memorial Drive. In 2006, the business again moved to a shop with more space in Issaquah, Washington.

In February 1999, “Hammond Ashley Bass Violins” went online under the domain www.bassviolins.com. Here, they had a large inventory price list of instruments and their accessories. Customers could order these products by emailing or faxing their desired products and phoning in their credit card information.

Currently, Hammond Ashley Violins has two shops, one in Issaquah, Washington and one in San Diego, California. Both shops have recently moved location and are continuing to grow in business. They can be found online at www.hammondashley.com where customers can easily complete the entire rental process online and simply pick up their rental instruments at their school or in-store. Customers are encouraged to come in-store for the purchase of instruments, bows and accessories where professional staff will help find the perfect instrument for each individual.

Hammond Ashley violins’ specialty is in sales and rentals of high quality stringed instruments. Both stores are lined with hand-picked instruments and bows from all around the world that customers can play and compare in a friendly and comfortable environment. Before deciding on the purchase or rental of any stringed instrument, customers are encouraged to take the instruments and/or bows home to play for their teacher’s input. The store also includes a workshop where stringed instruments are set up, adjusted and repaired before and after purchase. Instruments purchased elsewhere can also be brought to the workshop.

Passion for musicians is not limited to Hammond Ashley Violins’ walk-in customers. Their outreach extends to schools and the string community around them. Throughout the years, Hammond Ashley Violins has sponsored master classes, workshops, summer camps and festivals, concerts and contests. They have a school outreach program whose goal is to educate students and teachers on topics such as care and maintenance of string instruments and how to select an instrument or bow.

Hammond Ashley Violins offers reliable referrals for professional private string instructors for any skill level or age. In fact, most of the business to Hammond Ashley Violins comes from private string teachers and their students. This is because Hammond Ashley Violins

• sells only the best quality instruments, bows and their accessories,
• provides professional service,
• guarantees their work,
• provides personal assistance and help with difficult questions like “what do I look for when searching for a bow?” and
• provides a rental program that builds equity for future purchases.

Hammond Ashley Violins is a worry-free dream for any music teacher.

Tags: Services, Shopping by Risa Miller
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A growing number of parents want to home school. They worry about the environment and values that government schools offer. While the shear quantity of effort is daunting in the lower grades, by high school many parents wonder if they know enough to prepare their children for college. Homeschooling high school is a joy and a challenge!

Thinking about homeschooling high school can fill parents with anxiety! We wonder….

• Am I capable of teaching high school subjects?
• Can my child get into college if we homeschool high school?
• Will I ruin my child’s future?

The HomeScholar has good news! Homeschooling high school is the best life preparation you can give your children. They proclaim, “You are fully capable of providing that quality education. You lack for nothing – except tools and confidence. That is where I can help!”

Lee Binz is The HomeScholar. Her services include the resources and tools you need to succeed.

· She helps parents fearful of the transition to high school level instruction to relax and become confident.
· She coaches them on the college application process, offering proven strategies for success!
· She reassures parents wanting an independent opinion of their curriculum, and even her homework assignments. Thoughtful direction means less redundancy, more enjoyable and fruitful learning, and focusing on efficient and successful learning.
· Lee offers the kind of personal service that puts homeschool students at the ready for the college entrance procedures. Once she walked a parent through preparing a transcript, and the next day the paperwork was ready to go!
When you work with Lee, you will receive the personal care and expert advice that will help you overcome the many challenges of homeschooling high school. No matter what the issue, she comes alongside and guides you through the process and helps you think through the solutions.
So, become confident! Homeschooling high school is not only possible, but it is the best way to help your children succeed beyond your wildest imagination! Lee knows. She homeschooled her two boys for eight years, from elementary school through high school. Not only did her boys graduate from high school, but they both received four-year, full-tuition scholarships from their first choice university. Through this process, she learned the secrets on how to homeschool successfully through high school — secrets that I am very excited to share with you.

Everyone can benefit! The HomeScholar offers a free email newletter, the HomeScholar Record. It provides on-going training and advise. In addition, she offers a daily blog, that is like a “Dear Abby” column for high school homeschoolers. She also has links for even more in-depth research on relevant topics.
Lee wants to help, and provides free ten-minute consultations every Wednesday from 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. She welcomes calls at 1-888-LEE-2HELP. The HomeScholar also offers training DVDs for parents on general and specific homeschooling issues. Finally, she offers in depth telephone counseling, for those who need the personalized direction that her many years of practical experience can offer.

While the HomeScholar is all about education, sometimes the scariest part of the homeschooling challenge is just keep the paperwork straight. Lee will walk you through how to grade, to prepare transcripts, and how to make sure that colleges and universities correctly interpret your child’s accomplishments.

Finally, how about having the HomeScholar at your next co-op meeting. The wisdom she’s garnered can be efficiently, and effectively communicated to your homeschooling circle of friends, and at conventions, and even college fairs.

Where to start? Join Lee’s newsletter, and subscribe to her blog. Explore her website, also! None of these things will cost you a dime and you will receive great encouragement along the way. The HomeScholar loves helping homeschool families, and she would love to help you, too! Her job is to help EVERY family succeed in homeschooling their children through high school!

DO NOT BE AFRAID! You CAN do it, and the HomeScholar can help! Lee looks forward to sharing with you the homeschooling secrets that enabled her family to succeed in homeschooling beyond their wildest dreams!

For more Infomation: http://www.thehomescholar.com/index.php

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Simply Fit is an award-winning Seattle-area sport fitness and health club.

Many of us have joined a fitness center only to find we haven’t made time for working out. Often we have a hard time returning to the center after an uninspiring workout. We are intimidated by the large open spaces, and by the feeling of being on display.

Unlike many other fitness centers, Simply Fit is locally owned and operated by Benjamin and Stephanie Gordon.   Highly valued for their integrity and honesty in the fitness industry Ben and Stephanie focus on providing a comfortable private setting, making it easy for people to want to come back. Their studio feels like an $80,000 fitness facility in your own home. Why buy exercise machines that take up space, when you can join the fitness center that offers a home like setting with affordability? Members of Simply Fit Seattle Fitness Clubs enjoy flexible scheduling and easy access to space and equipment, a personal cardio room, and a free weight studio. Additionally, Simply Fit offers great personal training programs tailored to your fitness goals. Amazingly, Simply Fit’s uniquely personal and accommodating workout experience is offered at prices typical of the “fitness factories” that dot the county.

There are so many fitness centers, and most are generic. Large rooms with exercise machines, and dozens of people running or cycling away, trying very much to tune out the surrounding “factory” feel. Simply Fit is different, because it’s owner-operators are personally involved, and eminently prepared for this labor of love. Benjamin has over eight years experience as a personal trainer and specializes in post rehab therapy. He also holds a BS in Exercise Science and Bio-Mechanics. Certifications he has held in the past include ACE certified personal trainer (American Council on Exercise) and AFPA Post Rehabilitation Specialist (American Fitness Professionals & Associates). He also holds an MBA from Utah State University with an emphasis in Finance and Entrepreneurship.

It’s this training and experience that drives him to operate a center where people achieve their fitness goals. Whether you want to lose weight, gain strength, or simply get healthy, Simply Fit offers the support that can help you succeed!

For more info: http://www.isimplyfit.com/

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Jason Lollar

When seeking a handcrafted guitar or pickup, knowing the artisan behind the work is crucial. Jason Lollar graduated from Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery in Phoenix, Arizona in 1975, and has enjoyed life as a professional luthier, ever since. Besides designing and producing extraordinary archtop, solid-body electric and lap steel guitars, Jason is a noted authority on nearly everything related to electric pickups. He is the sole author of
Basic Pickup Winding and Complete Guide to Making Your Own Pickup Winder and contributed to Bart Hopkin’s Getting A Bigger Sound: Pickups and Microphones for Your Musical Instrument.

Professional musicians and instrument manufacturers look to Jason’s products to get superior sound. His client list, which includes many internationally known artists, is growing exponentially.

Lollar Guitar

Individual design, and a master craftsman’s passion and attention to detail, mark the tailored guitars produced by Lollar. Five styles await the discerning artist: Concert, Performer, Kona, Koa V and, of course, the Classic. Each of these is sure to please the serious musician. Quality and a uniquely uplifting excellence are hallmarks of all these finely detailed instruments.

Jason Lollar also produces amazing and highly sought after pickups, for electric, bass and steel guitars. With 36 different types of pickups, Lollar is sure to offer the exact sound to match the musician and his instrument. He not only knows design and production, Lollar has made understanding the issues, the history, the folk lore- ”the heart and soul” – of pickups his passion and profession.

As a special service, Jason offers pickup rewinding restoration for old, broken coils. True to his principals, he discourages tinkering with functioning units, calling such efforts “an exercise in futility.” Nevertheless, those wishing to bring dead coils back to life, will find a friend in Lollar.

Ultimately, folks who just like to strum on a guitar can find less expensive materials that are “good enough.” However, for the musician who knows that a guitar is more than a tool, and a pickup is more than an attachment, Jason Lollar’s boutique design and production offerings will surprise and delight!

www.lollarguitars.com

Tags: Services, Shopping by Oksu Ellis
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Choices provides an affordable, effective voluntary benefit program to help individuals, families, the self-employed, organizations and other groups nationwide. Save your money through health care savings cards, identity theft protection and drug prescription discount programs. Coverage includes pharmacy, dental, vision, 24-hour nurse line, alternative medicine, senior advocacy line, chiropractic, hearing, diabetic supplies, physical therapy, health clubs and mental health network. Other benefits such as physicians, hospitals, lab tests, emergency travel assistance, outpatient diagnostics, outpatient surgery and x-rays are available as well. Choices guarantees that customers will save more the annual cost of membership within a 12 month period by using their membership only four times. If not, the company will refund your entire fee! Get the protection you need at prices you can afford!

Do any of these statements describe your insurance situation? If so, then Alliance Health Card can help you get the health care you need at affordable prices through their discount network.

• I have a high deductible insurance policy.
• My policy doesn’t offer dental, vision or prescription coverage.
• I can’t afford the insurance I need.

Additionally, dental coverage saving is exceptional. Choices People’s Health Choice card entitles you to discounts up to 60% on all dental plan services with more than 58,000 dental providers.

Langdon Drugs LTD of Canada can help you save money on your prescription drugs. Canadian Discount Mail Order Rx Program will meet your needs. There are no additional membership cost or enrollment fees.

Choices helps small and large businesses and affinity groups offer affordable health care benefits and other voluntary benefit programs to employees or members, including 1099, part-time, seasonal and other non-benefit eligible employees. They help small business offer cheap health care rates to their employees.

Choices ID theft assistance program will provide the protection of the premier identity fraud recovery service for your child, self, family and business. The company offers worldwide benefit services engineered all of the services of the program by the bringing together three major operational partners (Trans Union, AffinityCare LLC, Worldwide Assistance) that monitor id theft and provide credit card fraud monitoring, reporting and recovery.

Through Health Matters International their clients can investigate “medical tourism” destinations other than US for medical treatment. Considering surgical procedures abroad one can expect to save anywhere from 50%-90% versus USA prices (depending on the procedure). This surgical escape works under a 4 C’s motto: Cost Savings, Credibility, Culture, Closeness. SurgicalEscape focus on providing a solution to the rising coasts of medical procedures, dental care and Invitro Fertilization.

Choices also provides services to help you  care for your pets’ well being. Providing pet medications and supplies from Langdon Drugs. FDA approved international sources mailed to your door at huge savings. Service available for humans too!

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Wiggins Custom Woodworks manufactures such high quality, handcrafted cabinetry that this Seattle-Tacoma based company received the prestigious 2008 Best of Tacoma Award in the household kitchen cabinets and equipment. Wiggins is one of the primary contractors for home remodels and, a choice subcontractor for new homes.

They specialize in custom-made mantels to compliment each unique living space, such as corner fireplace mantels with cabinets or with a TV built in. You can express your creativity through Wiggins’ experienced craftmanship. Wiggins Custom Woodworks is the place where you can find handmade custom cabinets, casework, mantels, counter tops, floors and more in kitchens, office, living rooms, and even bathrooms.

Finding a unique corner matching or custom building for an unusual fit, shapes and dimensions are company’s specialty. They design high quality woodwork for all living spaces, book shelves, storage and even to all wood furniture for your home. Wiggins custom woodworks can equip your house with craftsmen design and high quality furniture.

Professional consulting for your home is available by appointment. Let Wiggins help you to find professional craftsmanship and installation, unique custom design living spaces and dedicated customer service.

For more infomation, you can visit: http://www.wigginscustomwoodworks.com/

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First Aid and CPR Training

Northwest Emergency Training provides customized training in CPR and  First Aid classes in Seattle, Washington, and the surrounding area. Classes are available at convenient locations and can be scheduled at your choice of location for 10 or more participants.

The American Red Cross, National Safety Council, American Heart Association, and American Safety and Health Institute share the same standards for courses in first aid. All of their first aid courses meet these standards. Their Basic First Aid training courses also meet the requirements of Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 296-800-150.

Northwest Emergency Training offers several different course options in CPR in the Seattle area to meet the special needs of health care professionals, community members, employees, and families and friends.

Individuals can sign up for open classes, but businesses and organizations that would like to provide group training for 10 or more participants are encouraged to request a session at their location. For more information, you can email northwestnet@aol.com.

Northwest Emergency Training has been providing training in CPR and First Aid since 1999. Owner/Lead Instructor, David (Dave) Folsom, is a City of Seattle Fire Fighter with specialty training in Marine Fire Fighting and Confined Space Rescue. He is also a Washington State Certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT).

Dave’s certifications include American Heart Association BLS CPR, HCP CPR, Pediatric BLS CPR, and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED): American Health and Safety Institute First Aid and CPR.

A member of the United States Air Force Reserve, Dave is a dynamic trainer who helps individuals secure their CPR and First Aid certifications through classes that are hands-on and entertaining. For more information, go to www.northwestemergencytraining.com.

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Seattle Southside – The Pacific Northwest Starts Here!

Just 15 minutes south of downtown Seattle and a world away from downtown prices, Seattle Southside offers Seattle visitor information with something for everyone – a variety of affordable accommodations, more than 75 quality restaurants, over 5 million square feet of shopping and the world-renowned Museum of Flight.

Start your Pacific Northwest adventure here at www.seattlesouthside.com.

Tags: Around Seattle, Services, Travel by admin
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Providing Professional Residential and Commercial Real Estate Appraisals

Washington Valuation & Consulting Services provides  residential appraisals,  commercial real estate appraisals  and consulting services for property  owners, buyers and investors  in Washington State.

Operating primarily in King County, Snohomish and Pierce County, they also provide coverage throughout Western Washington. Their licensed and certified appraisers are experienced in appraising single family houses, multi-family dwellings, mobile homes, hotels, motels, restaurants, retail and office buildings, business parks, multi-use commercial properties, subdivisions and undeveloped land.

Washington Valuation & Consulting Services are knowledgeable about FHA appraisals and Fannie Mae guidelines for the purpose of securing real estate loans.   You may need an appraisal for any one of these purposes:

• Appraisals for new finance purchases
• Appraisals for refinances
• FHA Appraisals
• PMI Removal
• Insurance/Fire Purposes
• Litigation/Dissolution
• Estate/Trustee
• Foreclosure

With over ten years experience in the greater Puget Sound and Seattle area, you know that Washington Valuation & Consulting Services has the knowledge and expertise to determine the market value of your home or commercial property.

For more information about Washington Valuation & Consulting Services or to request an appraisal, go to www.appraisalswashington.com.

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Top 10 Reasons to Park with SeaTac Park:

1. Best SeaTac parking value of any of the SeaTac parking lots!
2. Park 25 paid days, get 5 days FREE with PremierParkClubâ„¢.
3. Open 24 hours a day/7 days a week/365 days a year and an easy online reservation option.
4. Within one mile of SeaTac airport and the closest off airport parking to Interstate-5 and quick access to downtown Seattle and Seattle airport parking.
5. Continuous shuttle service to/from Seattle Tacoma International Airport and parking.
6. We’re the only GPS equipped shuttle buses in SeaTac, guaranteeing prompt pick-up
7. State of the art security throughout our SeaTac Airport Parking lot.
8. Our courteous drivers and helpful staff provide convenient car side pickup, curbside drop off and luggage assistance.
9. Express checkout with all major credit cards.
10. Like a 4 star hotel, we pay attention to the details.

Click buggy for $10.95/day coupon special
Visit our website at http://www.seatacpark.com/
e-mail us at info@seatacpark.com

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Plants and flowers have the extraordinary ability to calm, cheer and welcome. A truly beautiful container starts with experience and knowledge, and finishes with the perfect arrangement of structure, movement and color.

Seasonal Color Pots chooses a blend of plants and flowers as well as artistically appropriate containers that reflect your taste and thrive in your location. Whether your container is an investment in your home or your office, having it designed by a professional ensures that the outcome will be nothing less than stunning.

You can see a wide variety of her work on her website and especially her Portfolio of beautiful pots and landscaping.

Toni Cross, owner of Seasonal Color Pots, is a longtime Washington resident. She understands and loves our unique climate and the challenges they bring to the design process. With her years of experience and extensive knowledge of what grows well in the Pacific Northwest, Toni uses interesting combinations of foliage plants, flowers and woody plants to create beautiful containers.

Seasonal Color Pots can be designed for inside the home or place of business as well as outside. If you don’t want to do the maintenance for your plants, The staff at Seasonal Color Pots can maintain your pots according to a schedule and budget that is defined before installation.

To learn more, go to their website at www.seasonalcolorpots.com/index.html or call them at 206-781-1060.

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Rodda and Sons Landscapes, Inc. is a second generation, family-owned, full service landscape design and build business serving the Seattle, King County area since 1937.
Located just south of Seattle in the SeaTac/Burien area, Rodda and Sons award winning firm specializes in the design and installation of residential and small commercial landscapes in Seattle, Bellevue, and south King County. Their foremen and design staff have a combined total of 130 years of landscape experience. Their designers enjoy working with customers to create retaining walls, outdoor living spaces, lawns and gardens that reflect clients lifestyles, from formal to informal and low maintenance to active gardening.

Rodda and Sons Landscapes was started in Burien, WA by Stewart Rodda in 1937. Barry Rodda, the current owner, and his brother, Foster, grew up working with their father in the family landscape business. When Stewart retired in 1973, they continued Rodda and Sons as a partnership. In 1976, Foster and his family moved to the Ocean Shores area and continue to landscape there, leaving Barry and his wife, Jan, to carry on the family business in Seattle and the surrounding communities of Burien, Tukwila, Des Moines, Bellevue, West Seattle, Federal Way, SeaTac and Kent.

For more information about Rodda and Sons Landscapes, Inc., go to their website at http://www.roddaandsons.com, or call them at (206) 242-6063.

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Buying or selling a home can be quite an emotional and difficult decision. When you buy a house you are buying into a lifestyle, a neighborhood, a place where friendships will grow, memories will be made and your family life will be played out. The skillful family of real estate agents at Nations Realty have the local knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your goal in buying or selling property. You can trust them to know the right questions to ask a seller when buying a home. At Nations Realty, they listen to what is important to you and direct their efforts to meeting each of your goals.

When selling your home, there are no guarantees that a buyer will simply walk through the front door. In many cases you may have to bring your home to the buyer. Effective marketing will help ensure that your property receives maximum exposure to attract a ready, willing and able buyer.

Buying your new home is a serious venture. It can be an absolute pleasure or a massive headache. Your house is not just your home, it is a serious investment in the dwelling, the area and your future.

Nations Realty, LLC, provides a personal touch to every transaction in which they are involved. Regardless of the amount of the transaction, they treat everyone with equally high esteem. Learn more about them from their website at http://www.nationsrealtyllc.com/ or call 253-945-0808.

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If you’re looking for expert Seattle Subaru repair, friendly personal service, and substantial savings compared to high dealership prices, then Smart Service is the place for you.

They feel that they are the most qualified independent Subaru specialist in the Northwest. They have 4 ASE Certified Master Technicians that combine for over 68 years of prior Subaru dealership experience and training. They also take pride in being the only AAA APPROVED Subaru Independent in the State of Washington.

>They specialize in Subaru vehicles because they really believe in the product. Together, staff and families own 16 Subaru’s including their owner, Mike Corbin’s, 1992 Legacy with over 338,000 miles on the odometer. Mike is pictured here with his “best friends”.

At Smart Service, they follow manufacturer recommendations for repairs and service and will make sure the job gets done right the first time. They have an honest, friendly approach, personal service, and 12 month-12,000 mile warranty on parts and labor.

Smart Service is not a big factory-owned enterprise. With their small size and friendly staff, you can to get to know the technician that actually worked on your car. This allows us to really meet your needs on an individual basis. They have found that this is a key ingredient in understanding exactly what each person’s individual priorities are for their car. To make things easier for you, you can make an appointment online.

Find out more about Smart Service by calling, stopping by or going to their website at http://www.smart-service.com/

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