Sonoma Business Network

Contra Costa County Climate Leaders – a Network assisting Contra Costa County and 19 Cities to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

KC SEO 2 — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 09:14:00 +0000

Planning for our Future

The Contra Costa County Climate Leaders (4CL) Program is a network assisting the Contra Costa county and its 19 cities to inform, support and encourage the measurement and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Through education and sharing of best practices we will ensure sustainable, healthy and livable cities.

The 4CL network uses a three pronged multi-media approach that provides encouraging reminders and easy access to the tools necessary to ensure the county’s decision makers are well informed, educated and receive copies of best practices.

We provide city leaders with a monthly newsletter, quarterly workshops, and a website portal for sharing activities. This multi-media approach will ensure that best practices are at the forefront of day-to-day discussion–and that they are shared, supported, and implemented into policies that reduce Greenhouse gas emissions in Contra Costa County.

Who We Are

The mission of the Contra Costa County Climate Leaders Program (4CL) is to help cities take action and reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions in Contra Costa County (CCC). To facilitate regional action, we monitor activities, provide free resources and tools and a multimedia communications strategy that ensures best practices are shared and implemented. Joined by elected officials, paid staff, volunteer advocates and grassroots organizations, we are ALL climate leaders in CCC.

Contra Costa County Cities are working together to address the issues associated with global climate change and 4CL is working to help track and share local government successes. Our summary matrix provides a great snapshot of individual progress, and each city page contains a summary of that city’s local policies and actions towards a more sustainable community.

Local Governments are taking the lead to address key policies issues to create sustainable communities and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. To facilitate, track and measure regional action, 4CL provides cities with fact sheets on important key issues. Included in these fact sheets are the Who, What, Where and How, with direct links to other city policies to help facilitate the sharing of best practices. We also provide a discussion forum and encourage you to comment and share additional links and resources!

4CL ISSUES

Implement a Precautionary Principle

The Precautionary Principle is a framework for decision-making that anticipates how actions will affect the environment and health of future generations. When it is apparent that an activity is a potential threat to the environment or human health, full scientific certainty is not necessary to initiate precautionary action. Precautionary decision making is based on thorough examination of alternatives, transparency, community participation, and prevention of harm. It is not a ban on products or practices.

Where there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, lack of full scientific certainty shall not be used as a reason for postponing cost-effective measures to prevent environmental degradation.

A Precautionary Principle is necessary to reduce continued harm from the effects of careless human activity before effect before the results are irreversible. Some frequently asked questions put together by the Science and Environmental Health Network describes several points as to why

Environmental Policies don’t always sufficiently prevent human and environmental harm. The study “Late Lessons from Early Warnings: The Precautionary Principle 1896-2000″ describes one-hundred-year history of policies repeatedly failing to protect human health and the environment.

Protecting Creeks in Contra Costa County

Each year, cities have the choice between using gallons of pesticides or using environmentally friendly methods of weed and pest control. They can enforce more stringent policies regarding new developments to decrease impermeable surface areas and prevent increased flooding and erosion. Cities have the choice to prevent chemical runoff and pollution in our creeks by a number of ways.

Creeks are an essential ecosystem, especially in the Contra Costa County where our creeks drain to reservoirs and the San Francisco Bay and Delta but many factors affect the decision to protect creeks:

· High property values – creeks are an ideal habitat for many aquatic plants and animals and provide us with a beautiful landscape.

· Creeks are areas of blooming biodiversity and, when properly maintained, serve as a passageway for fish populations to reproduce and feed.

· Water conservation-after creeks are restored, native plants would use half the amount of water that invasive species do.

· A city- run creek restoration committee can provide adequate representation of these vital waterways when new developments or legislature is being considered.

· Green approaches to weed and pest abatement, such as bait and trap methods and aphid use, can often be cost effective in the long run.

· Keeping pesticides away from schools, parks, and workers in charge of their application has many health benefits.

Implementing a Plastic Bag Ban Ordinance

“Paper or Plastic?” How about neither? Consider banning the hard-to-recycle plastic bags within your city. Many cities are considering or have already implemented such ordinances. Businesses are also taking the lead to offer alternatives for purchase. Yet, plastic bags are still being used in abundance. These bags eventually end up in the landfill or polluting our local environment. By creating a plastic bag ban in your city, you can create real change and help the efforts of your local businesses.

Has your city considered a Plastic Bag Ban Ordinance? There are many good reasons to do so:

Plastic bags are designed for one use. Less than 5% of plastic bags are recycled and the process is not cost effective

The solution is quick and easy. Bring your own bag! Many people are already bringing their own bags to stores; many stores are already offering monetary incentives. Encourage the sustainable actions that are already happening in your city by making it a city policy!

More cities are looking into creating ordinances.

Chicken Ordinance

A Chicken Ordinance dictates what your city will allow in regards to egg laying hens as pets. Many residents currently house chickens in their backyard. And many others are thinking about it. Unfortunately, this practice isn’t always legal. It is important to update out of date city ordinances.

Some cities have out of date ordinances that prevent chickens in residential areas, considering them the same as “Farm Animals”, rather than domestic pets. This means that fresh eggs are only allowed in a home that is zoned for horses or ranch animals such as cows. There are Several BENEFITS to having a handful of domestic pet chickens…while still maintaining a strict no rooster policy.

• Organic. Have control over the quality of your own eggs.

• Ensure proper care and diet to limit steroids and chemicals that affect your own health.

• Reduce harmful greenhouse gases, chemicals, and pesticides that result from factory farming.

• Prevent groundwater degradation from the large scale chicken production.

• Use waste products as very high quality fertilizer for personal gardens.

• Pest control by eating aphids and slugs reducing needs for pesticides in your own yard.

• Contribute to the local eating movement

• Contribute to the animal’s rights movement.

Environmental Purchasing Policy (EPP)

An Environmental Purchasing Policy (EPP) is designed to promote the purchase and use of recycled or environmentally preferable products for your city and to encourage partnerships with others who follow the same methods. “Environmentally preferable products” are items that are made in a more sustainable manner and respect human health. EPPs focus on the entire lifespan of a product from materials acquisition, to production and packaging, to disposal. By reducing the impact of an item at any stage, these policies can help save your city money too!

There are several BENEFITS to your city when implementing EPPs:

• Save money through lower upfront costs, lower maintenance costs, reduced replacement costs, and decreased disposal or cleanup costs.

• Decrease the negative health impacts in your community.

• Generate less waste material by reviewing how supplies, materials and equipment are manufactured, purchased, packaged, delivered, used, and disposed. Reduce your landfill contribution.

• Conserve resources through your support of recycled materials.

• Encourage other vendors, contractors, businesses and those that you work with to market and use recycled/recyclable materials as well.

• Serve as an example for other communities to follow- be recognized for your environmentally friendly practices!

For more information about CCC Climate Leaders visit http://www.cccclimateleaders.org

Country Homes Campers Your Camper Van Connection

KC SEO 2 — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:26:00 +0000

We’re your camper van experts with over 30 years of experience.

We offer great deals on selected camper accessories.

Our bestseller: ShadyBoy Camper Awnings – inexpensive, practical, durable awnings!

Replacement Parts

For your convenience, we also carry

• Pop Top Replacement Bearings

• Pop Top Replacement Canvas

• Freeway Flier Automatic Transmission

Buy Vehicles

Camper Vehicles for Sale!

We feature quality Volkswagen, Ford and other models.

Our specialty: Vehicles converted to a fully self-contained Camper.

Minivan Conversions Info

Campers – we market them, repair them, and consult customers.

Our associates (like Personalized Vans and Trucks) customize them.

Together we equip your camper vehicle with the best:

· ergonomic engineering

· craftsmanship

· pleasing aesthetics

Company Info

Country Homes Campers campers were custom built until 1997. Country Homes Campers no longer builds campers.

We now maintain our website for informational purposes, to sell accessories and parts, and to assist old customers with finding parts and helping them to sell or buy their campers.

Camper Van Conversions

So you’re interested in a minivan conversion?

Let us help you!

First some handy tips:

1. Old vans are often NOT worth converting due to costs involved .

2. A NEW conversion from a dealer usually costs over $10,000

3. Often BUYING A USED VAN with a conversion is your best choice.

Conversion costs are independent of vehicles age.

4. We are your only source for our classic camper designs (a Canadian company offers a different type of conversion).

5. Look at our classic camper designs first!

Next, we recommend that you select from these conversion options:

Option A:

Basic Pop-top installation

Option B:

Interior Conversion with Standard options:

• Cabinet – Curtains – Screens

• Porta- Potty

• Carpet for center of Van

• Dual Battery charging system

• Sink

• 8 gal water tank

• 110V outlet

• Table – Drawer – Closet

• Fire extinguisher

• Propane and CO detector

• Rear Light

Optional Equipment:

• Built-in stove (3 gal tank)

• Awning

• Sunroof

• Luggage rack

• Swivel Seat

At Country Homes, we make your camping trips a pleasurable experience. Because we are camping enthusiasts!

SERVICES

Buy Vehicles

We feature quality Volkswagen, Ford and other models.

Our specialty: Vehicles converted to a fully self-contained Camper.

Sell Vehicles

Sell your Preowned Vehicle

We will advertise it for you!

Our loyal customers and visitors are always looking for deals on preowned vehicles!

Advertising package includes:

1. Targeted marketing to our preferred client base (thousands of potential customers)

2. Complete full page listing on our site until vehicle is sold (example)

Visit http://countryhomescampers.com/ to see our camper information and accessories.

Email us or leave short message on our voice mail (509) 472-8666 and we’ll get back to you soon.

Beth Galleto Marketing Communications, Copywriting and Editing for small businesses.

KC SEO 2 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:57:00 +0000

Serving businesses and individuals in Marin County, or anyone within the reach of email.

Communicate what your business can do for your clients
Look sharp
Speak to your clients with flair and accuracy
Are prepared quickly and efficiently
Are reasonably priced.

That's why you should hire Beth Galleto, an award-winning writer and editor, to produce your

Business or organizational newsletters
Brochures
Press releases
Flyers
Website updates
Email blasts and electronic newsletters

Beth Talks about herself:

During nearly ten years as communications manager for the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, I was responsible for printed materials including the chamber newspaper, annual action plan, press releases, brochures, flyers, and community reference materials. While I was communications manager the San Rafael Chamber won ten awards from the Western Association of Chamber Executives — a regional association of Chambers of Commerce from seven western states — for its communications materials. I also wrote and designed email blasts sent to chamber members and managed the day to day updating of the chamber website.

I formed Beth Galleto Marketing Communications in 2006 to do the same kind of quality work for my clients that I did for the Chamber of Commerce.

My past experience also includes nearly ten years as a reporter and editor for the Marin Scope Community Newspapers. I am an excellent writer with an understanding of journalistic style and ethics. Proper usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation are essential to me. I automatically proofread menus, newspapers, letters — any printed materials I see. I particularly enjoy the challenge of designing flyers and brochures so that the copy and design work together to achieve their purpose, and I love working on websites.

Visit http://galletomedia.com to see samples of work. For inquiry call (415) 464 9718

Theatre Flamenco, San Francisco

KC SEO 2 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:41:00 +0000

HISTORY

THEATRE FLAMENCO of San Francisco is the second oldest dance company in the Bay Area (after the SF Ballet).

Founded in 1966 by Adela Clara, Theatre Flamenco was conceived during a flowering of cultural pride in the 60’s that led to the revival of Latino arts; the Company’s purpose was to fill what was then a dearth of Spanish dances in the Bay Area.

Theatre Flamenco was the first American dance company to stage full productions of Spanish dance in the U.S., and is one of the oldest dance companies in California. Every year since its inception Theatre Flamenco has presented a home season of performances in San Francisco.

Over the years, Theatre Flamenco has served as a beacon of cultural pride, a reservoir for the diverse traditions of Spanish culture, and a vital source for artistic collaboration. The Company is dedicated to the research, presentation and education of a full range of Spanish dance including classical, neo-classical, regional, folk and escuela bolera.

In 2008, Theatre Flamenco’s long-time artistic director, Miguel Santos was recognized for his substantial contributions to the Bay Area and to the art of flamenco by the Isadora Duncan Dance Award (IZZIE) whereupon he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award, an award for re-staging MISA FLAMENCO and a Lifetime Achievement Award from World Arts West Ethnic Dace Festival. Mr. Santos continues to work with Theatre Flamenco as a Board Member.

Artistic director Carola Zertuche’s vision for Theatre Flamenco is that of a highly professional company that, in addition to the annual home season, has an annual touring schedule and presents a quarterly community outreach series. Renee Renouf observed in Ballet.co.uk (November 2008): “This is my first Theatre Flamenco season seen since Carola Zertuche assumed artistic direction; the ensemble has shifted from essentially a community-oriented emphasis to one leaning heavily on professional aspirations, limited to five dancers, and doing well by the change…If the changes progress in this spirit, the Bay Area might add a highly polished flamenco ensemble as well as Theatre Flamenco’s longevity to its roster of dance jewels.”

In 2009, Theatre Flamenco’s Juan Siddi and Carola Zertuche have the honor of being nominated for the Isadora Duncan Dance Award (IZZIE’s) Outstanding Achievement in Ensemble Performance for ENCUENTRO Theatre Flamenco 2009 San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival weekend 1. The IZZIE award celebrates the richness, diversity, and excellence of the Bay Area dance the video above with Carola Zertuche & Juan Siddi. This dance was a 2009 Nominee for Most Memorable Dance from the Isadora Duncan Dance Committee.

Carola Zertuche - Artistic Director

Carola Zertuche entered her dance career in Mexico City’s Tablao Meson de Triana. Her studies have led her to such renowned teachers as Manolo Vargas; Ciro; Belen Maya; Andrés Marin; Israel Galván; and Jota Master, Pedro Azorín. She has been featured as a soloist in Pilar Rioja’s company “Reflejo Español” and danced with the Maria Elena Anaya Company under the artistic direction of Manolo Vargas. In addition, she has performed with many different companies such as “Los Tarantos “, La Tania’s Teatro Flamenco and Maria Benitez’ Company. Her dance has been showcased in such festivals as the Ethnic Dance Festival in San Francisco; the Santa Barbara Flamenco Festival and the Monterrey Mexico Flamenco Festival. The year 2002 found Carola touring Mexico and the U.S. with the “Sentido Flamenco” Show starring Alegría Suarez, Cano, Mercedes Amaya and Santiago Aguilar; in the same year Carola was nominated for the Isadora Duncan Award in the soloist category. In 2003 she toured with the Maria Benitez Company and presented her first full show of flamenco “El Color del Flamenco”.

Most recently, 2005 witnessed her presentation of “Verde” with the participation of Pastora Galván and Jose Anillo. In October 2005 She danced as a guest Artist with Domingo Ortega Flamenco Company in Los Angeles and Andres Marin Company in the First Flamenco Festival in San Francisco. And in 2007 Carola she become Artistic director of Theatre Flamenco of San Francisco. In 2007and 2008 she was awarded Best Flamenco Classic in San Francisco Magazine and Best flamenco show in SF Weekley. In Spring 2008, she toured the Middle East with the Juan Siddi Flamenco Theater Company and Performed at the Summer Season in Santa Fe.

Miguel Santos - Company Manager

Miguel Santos has been with Theatre Flamenco since its inception, serving as principal dancer, choreographer, and since 1987, artistic director. He began his studies in classical ballet with Carmelita Maracci. His Spanish dance training began in Los Angeles in 1954, and soon thereafter he traveled to Spain where he studied with all the major flamenco teachers. Mr. Santos has performed with Teatro la Zarzuela of Madrid and both José Greco’s and Lola Montes’ companies.

While Mr. Santos was performing with the José Greco company, he appeared in the film Around the World in 80 Days. He has performed in La Traviata for the San Francisco Opera and for the Seattle Opera with Beverly Sills.

Mr. Santos continues to refine his flamenco skills by taking master classes with José Galván, La Quica, Javier La Torre, El Guito, Merche Esmeralda, and José Antonio. A three-time NEA Choreography Fellowship recipient, Mr. Santos’ major works include Misa Flamenco, Concerto No. 2, and Regionalismos, among many others. Mr. Santos has served as a panelist for the California Arts Council. Miguel Santos was also recognized for his substantial contributions to the Bay Area and to the art of flamenco by the Isadora Duncan Dance Award (IZZIE) and was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival for 2008. He currently teaches flamenco at the San Francisco Dance Center and is artist-in-residence at Fair Oaks Elementary School in Redwood City, California.

45 Years of Flamenco

In November 2012 Theatre Flamenco celebrated four decades of artistic evolution and perseverance with the world premiere performance event “45 Años de Arte Flamenco” (45 Years of Flamenco), a tribute performance that reflects Theatre Flamenco’s creative progression and the evolutionary art of flamenco dance. The transition in styles – whether it is music, dance, costume and instruments – represent the growth and maturity of the society that connects with this art.

Carola Zertuche, Theatre Flamenco’s Artistic Director, confronts the traditional anniversary retrospective from a wide angle. “45 Años de Arte Flamenco” (45 Years of Flamenco) is rooted in the soul of flamenco with an eye on the past, present and most importantly, future. Rather than present highlights from the company’s extensive repertoire, Zertuche featured her world premiere productions, and pay tribute to the traditional dance performance of the founders through a series of original works inspired by Theatre Flamenco’s legacy.

Four dancers – Carola Zertuche (Artistic Director), Manuel Gutierrez, Juan Siddi, and Cristina Hall- joined by five musicians and two singers in a remarkable event that looks back at the roots of flamenco to the modern style we enjoy today. Gypsy singers José Cortes and Kina Mendez was accompanied by percussionist Sudhi Rajagopal, pianist Alex Conde; violinist Treggar Otton; cellist Jesse Wolff.

To get updates of Theare Flamenco schedules of show visit http://www.theatreflamenco.org or call 415-826-2477

Community Theatre for performances and events at Russian River Hall located in Monte Rio, Sonoma County

KC SEO 2 — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 02:21:00 +0000

The Russian River Hall (formerly Pegasus Hall) is located conveniently at 20347 Highway 116 in Monte Rio in the Russian River area.

Russian River Hall is a centre for the performing arts in the heart of the Russian River Resort Region.

We offer this wonderful space to artists of all disciplines. This 1930’s Historic Building boasts a stage, modular tiered theatre seating, full range theatrical lighting system, full sound system, intercom, 3 dressing rooms, Kitchen and Green Room, Concessions, and ample parking. We are wheelchair accessible. Seating capacity ranges from 68 to 110.

EVENTS

Music Concerts

Music of all varieties can be performed in The HALL.

The sound acoustics enhance classical symphonic and instrumental music without need for amplification.

Jazz music, as well as Country and Western music, will also be heard with clarity.

Likewise, operatic and voice performances of all styles will sound clear with all the dynamics in place.

Dance Contest

The thrust stage is set for intimate, yet thrilling dance concerts. Flamenco, Modern Dance, Ballet, Jazz, and any dance event can take place within view of the audience.

A Spinet Piano is also available for your accompaniment or to play with the proper rhythm of your dance.

The modular tiered theatre seats can be set in any part of The HALL to accommodate Proscenium dance performance or Arena seating for a more open type of performance.

Likewise, the lighting system is designed to light any subject from almost any angle or location within The HALL. Use your imagination as you plan your next Dance Concert, or consult our resident Lighting Designer for the most effective way to light your dancers.

Art Exhibitions

The HALL can be set for any Exhibition, be it Painting, Sculpture, or any Commercial Display that requires a large space and Focused Lighting and Music on a Public Announcement System.

Let us know how you want to display your products and we can re-configure the space for your needs.

Private Parties

Planning a Wedding in June or any month of the year? Our indoor space is ideal for Nuptials or any other kind of Private Party all year round.

Birthdays, Anniversaries, Bar Mitzvas, Lectures: ALL can be accommodated in The HALL.

The kitchen is equipped with a cook stove, refrigerator, and microwave. You bring your own dishes, service, flat ware, and cook ware. You can have your event catered and served, while you entertain your guests on the stage, hold a dance celebration, or give a speech in honor of the guests.

Classes

If you have a class you want to teach: Voice, Dance, Yoga, Tai Chi, Music, or any other subject, Call now to reserve The HALL: 707-849-4873

About Russian River Hall

It is our mission and intent to:

make available a fully equipped theatre space for the community at large to use for a wide variety of performances and events.
assure a comfortable and safe place for the arts.
provide a building staff to support tenants in acheiving their goal.

Live Stage

The HALL is equipped to support live performances of every type.

We encourage theatre companies who produce their own stage plays to rent The HALL and use it for their production and performance times.

Individuals who need a stage to exercise their talents can use The HALL for their one man/woman shows. This include stand-up comedians, open mike talents, poetry readings, story tellers, and troubadours.

Our management staff will manage the House and Concessions at no extra cost.

Our expert light/sound staff will train your light/sound operators on our own equipment (see Classes) or operate the lights and sound for your productions at a nominal fee (see Rates).

Visit http://www.russianriverhall.com/ to check for upcoming events. For inquiries and reservation please call (707) 849-4873.

Custom Van and Truck Conversions by Gary Miller and Personalized Vans & Trucks. Shop located in San Jose, California

KC SEO 2 — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 04:48:00 +0000

We only do conversions – so think Personalized when you think custom vans and trucks.

Owner Gary Miller is known with his satisfied customers for his trademark personalized service.

Maybe you would like some custom van upholstery? How about some running boards for your sprinter van? Or any other type of custom van interiors? Think of us when you think of custom van and truck conversions.

We only use the best accessories for our custom work.
We are a proud dealer for Flexsteel and LLEBROC van seats and other vehicle seating as well as Fiberine fiberglass tops.

Our fully-equipped custom van shop is centrally located near the International Airport in San Jose, CA. The shop is at the intersection of Highways 101 (Bay shore Freeway) and 880 (Nimitz freeway).

About Personalized Vans & Trucks

You say pleasure is your business?
How about a camping van with TV and VCR, sofa bed, A/C D/C refrigeration, dual battery system, a sunroof and few extra windows to enjoy the view?

A windsurfing van with raised fiberglass top may be more to your liking.
With a sleeping area… and your surfboard, of course!

A full line of accessories is available.

We custom build door panels, headliners and walls, and install carpet kits and running boards.

How about comfortable, easy-to-sit-in seats for your vehicle? We use Flexsteel pick-up, RV and van seats in our customization.
And we can’t forget the alarm to protect your gear or the stereo to keep you company, now, can we?

We also build and customize the not-so- out-of-the-ordinary trucks and vans. Also among our specialty:
Utility vans built for commercial work, loaded with metal shelving with partitions separating driver and passenger from the cargo area,
Sub flooring, rubber mats, and ladder racks to
Contractor’s trucks with storage boxes, metal racks and bed liners.

The Shop

Our Capabilities

With twenty-five years’ experience in building and personalizing vans and trucks, we have the capability to build everything!
From a mobile office, to a totally self- supporting dog grooming van complete with bathing facilities, to catering vans and much much more.

Services

Camper Vans
Custom Vans
Dog Transport and Grooming Vehicles
Kite boarding Vehicles
Mobile Service and Mobile Shop Trucks
Office Vehicles
Sport Vehicles
Sprinter Vans
Surfing Vehicles

We custom build vans and trucks
1. Sprinter Vans
2. Office Vehicles
3. Mobile Service and Mobile Shop Trucks
4. Surfing Vans
5. Camper Vans
6. Sport Vehicles
7. Custom Vans
8. Dog Transport and Grooming Vehicles
9. You name it!

Accessories
Our Full Line of Accessories
TV
VCR
stereo
sofa bed
A/C D/C refrigeration
dual battery system
a sunroof
extra windows
bathing facilities
raised fiberglass top
sleeping area
alarm system
metal shelving
sub flooring
rubber mats
ladder racks
storage boxes
metal racks
bed liners
door panels
headliners and walls
carpet kits
running boards
comfortable Flexsteel seats
driver and cargo area partition

To know more about the services offered by Personalized Vans & Trucks please visit http://www.personalizedvans.com/ or call 408-436 8244 .

Professional Electrical Services for Residence and Commercial- AMPLEX Electrical and Solar serves Bay Area

KC SEO 2 — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:23:00 +0000

Amplex Electrical, Inc. has provided Bay Area residential and commercial customers with professional electrical services since 1989. With more than 20 years of industry experience, we offer solutions for any project, from residential homes to large commercial buildings and multi-story dwellings. We know what it takes to complete your project on time and on budget.

Over the past 20 years, we’ve customized our services to include:

• New construction, residential and commercial

• Extensions & remodels

• Fire alarm life safety systems

• Voice and data installation and terminations

• Close circuit television and intrusion systems

• Design-build services

• Access control and intercom systems

• Building management systems

• Electrical service upgrades of all sizes

• Building power analysis

• Emergency back-up power generators systems

• Solar photovoltaic systems (residential and commercial)

• Single- to three-phase power converters

AMPLEX SERVICES

SOLAR SERVICES

Amplex Electrical, Inc. can help you harness the sun’s unlimited power to supply energy to your home or business. Solar photovoltaic systems efficiently produce electricity, and can reduce or eliminate your electric bill, saving you thousands of dollars.

Trust Amplex with your next electrical or solar project. You’ll benefit from our decades of experience and cost-effective approach.

A solar PV system is a great investment, it:

• Increases property value by thousands of dollars

• Earns up to 15% return on your investment

• Harnesses the sun’s power 365 days per year

• Qualifies you for local, state, and federal rebates (where available)

• Substantially reduces your carbon footprint

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Amplex Electrical, Inc. has provided Bay Area residential and commercial customers with electrical services since 1989. Our recent addition of a solar photovoltaic division provides our customers with additional eco-friendly services.

Amplex Electrical, Inc. provides homeowners with the following residential services:

• New and remodel homes

• Electrical main service upgrades

• Hot tubs and pools

• Outdoor landscape lighting

• Grounding and surge protection

• Arc fault and GFI protection

• Home safety inspections

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detector upgrades

• Nob and tube wiring-repair and replacement

• Home power analysis

• Timers, dimmer switches, occupancy sensors and other energy saving devices

COMMERCIAL SERVICES

Amplex Electrical, Inc. provides a variety of electrical services specifically tailored to the commercial industry, including:

• Office dwellings/work stations

• Retail Spaces (restaurants, showrooms, hair salons, coffee shops, among others)

• New electrical three-phase services

• Back-up, three-phase emergency generators

• Single- to three-phase converters (rotary and static)

• Three-phase power analysis

SPECIALIZED SERVICES

At Amplex Electrical, Inc., we pride ourselves on offering all of the expert services a residential or commercial structure would demand. In doing so, we’ve positioned ourselves to be the electrical company that fits all of your project needs.

Fire Alarm Design & Installation – Amplex Electrical, Inc. expertly designs and installs conventional, addressable, and voice evacuation fire alarm systems for commercial projects of all sizes. Through close collaboration with elevator and mechanical contractors, we insure a seamless interface from design through final inspection. We use the following high-quality products: Silent Knight Addressable Control Panels,Silent Knight Modules and Devices, System Sensor Notification Devices, andEdwards Signaling Magnetic Hold Openers.

Voice & Data Systems – When it comes to the voice and data requirements for your new or remodel office project, let your IT person and Amplex Electrical, Inc. work together to simplify the process and reduce sub-contracts.

We install Cat-5 or Cat-6 wiring from the telecom room to the office work stations. At each work station, we install modular wall outlets to accommodate your needs, and then test and label. In the telecom room, we install wire management systems, racks, and patch panels. We punch down all Cat-5 and Cat-6 wires, in either A or B configurations, to accommodate your IT installer.

Amplex also installs telephone and DSL lines and terminate adjacent to patch panels. We take care of your power needs within the telecom room and even size and install your UPS systems. We plan ahead and accommodate your air conditioning needs to insure a stable, safe temperature within the telecom room for your valuable equipment.

We use the following high-quality products: Leviton electric and electronic products, including wall plates and housing network solutions.

Intercoms, Access Control and Close Circuit TV – Trust Amplex Electrical, Inc. to coordinate your intercom, access control, and close circuit TV applications. No project is too big or too small – from single family residences to large buildings with multiple elevators – we can control access to several entrances and floors using state-of-the-art elevator control.

Using proximity cards or fobs with computer-based software, combined with close circuit TV systems offer you limitless possibilities to easily monitor all entrances and unsecured areas. Leave your worries behind with a 24-hour security system.

We use the following high-quality products: DoorKing Access Control Solutions, Sony Broadcast & Production Cameras, ASSA ABLOY Door Opening Solutions, and HID Secure Identity Solutions.

Intercoms, Access Control and Close Circuit TV – TrustAmplex Electrical, Inc. to coordinate your intercom, access control, and close circuit TV applications. No project is too big or too small – from single family residences to large buildings with multiple elevators – we can control access to several entrances and floors using state-of-the-art elevator control.

We use the following high-quality products: DoorKing Access Control Solutions, Sony Broadcast & Production Cameras, ASSA ABLOY Door Opening Solutions, and HID Secure Identity Solutions.

ABOUT US

Amplex Electrical, Inc. has been providing Bay Area customers with electrical contracting services since 1989. Over the years, Amplexhas expanded its services from focusing primarily on new construction and remodel projects to include fire alarm life safety systems, voice and data, CCTV, access control, and intercoms. Most recently, Amplex added a solar photovoltaic division.

Over the past 20 years we have provided our clients’ money-saving design-built services in every aspect of the building industry. Those areas include: power distribution, emergency generation, and fire alarm life safety systems. When you work with Amplex the cost effectively design-build process saves you money and time. Our design-build services set us apart from the rest of the industry.

Our new solar division provides the same quality of service and workmanship and that important personal touch that we have provided for more than 20 years. That’s service you won’t get from the larger national solar companies.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide you with the best possible service, complete each project with pride and leave customers knowing they made the right decision in Amplex Electrical, Inc.

Founder

Patrick Whooley is the founder and president of Amplex Electrical, Inc. Patrick has spent more than 30 years in the electrical business and has run his own company for more than twenty of those years.

A native of Ireland, Patrick received his initial training there. He has also worked in England, Australia and New Zealand. A veteran in all aspects of the industry, Patrick attributes his success to his customer relationships and his steadfast attitude that the quality of the job should never be compromised. He often recites that if the customer isn’t 100% happy, neither is he.

Certifications

We only believe in professional, high-quality service. And we can back up that statement with facts. Amplex Electrical, Inc. is:

Registered California Contractor: C10 866386 Contractor Number

Fully Bonded: SC6079111

Fully Insured: General Liability & Workers Compensation

An Eaton Certified Contractor

Eaton is a nation-wide network of highly qualified certified electricians, incorporating cutting edge tools and technologies with advanced ideals to make your home as safe and functional as possible.

A Certified Solar Installer through Unitech College and the Boots on the Roof program.

A certified Better Business Bureau company with an A+ rating.

For more information about Amplex Electrical & Solar services visit http://www.amplexelectrical.com. Call (415) 892-6501 for free estimate.

Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy for professional adults, educators, medical professionals by Achievement Solutions Hypnotherapy

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Do you have bad habits that leave you feeling trapped?

Do you want to be a non smoker?

Do you feel stressed to the max?

Do you want to gain more confidence?

Hypnotherapy can help if you have answered “yes” to any of these questions. As an extremely effective solution for numerous issues, Hypnotherapy is proved to be a useful tool to stop smoking, achieve your ideal weight, or overcoming phobias, addictions, low self-esteem, insomnia and many other problems. Imagine the sense of pride and satisfaction you would feel as you accomplish your goals and feel in control of your own destiny!

About

Achievement Solutions Hypnotherapy has one mission: to partner with you in order to provide you with self-empowerment tools to help you achieve your goals and have more control over your physical, emotional and spirtual health. As a result YOU help create lasting positive change so you can have the life you dream of.

Dori Strait, Ed.S., School Psychologist, Certified Hypnotherapist, is highly trained in psychology, counseling, and hypnotherapy. She brings more than 13 years of successful experience as a school psychologist in public school systems in Georgia and Tennessee, where she has helped numerous parents, educators and children overcome obstacles to success. She will work with you to help you achieve your dreams to stop smoking, achieve your ideal weight, increase self-confidence, eliminate phobias and unnecessary fears, and change bad habits. Ms. Strait stands behind her work and in her ability to empower people to change their lives for the better. She is certified hypnotherapist who is credentialed by the National Guild of Hypnotists.

Quit Smoking

Sound Familiar?

I can quit any time, but I don’t want to.

I know I should quit smoking, but I enjoy it

My friends all smoke; it’s unfair that I have to quit

It’s my right to smoke.

If I quit smoking, I know I’ll gain weight.

I want to quit, but don’t have the will power.

Have you said any of these things? How often have you tried to quit smoking? Are you frustrated because you cannot stop the cravings and become a nonsmoker? Smoking is one of the toughest addictions to overcome, as tobacco is one of the most addictive substances known to man. The American Council on Science and Health reports that smoking has become the leader in preventable deaths in the United States.

Hypnosis is an effective, safe way to stop smoking. Hypnosis works through suggestion to your subconscious mind, where habits, both good and bad are housed. Through hypnosis the desire to smoke is replaced by healthy alternative behaviors.

Weight Loss

DIETS DON’T WORK

Tired of dieting? We all know that diets don’t work long term. At Achievement Solutions Hypnotherapy, we begin by changing your behavior

The second step is to resolve and reprogram the underlying causes of current eating habits and then reinforce and add new empowering thoughts and behaviors to permanently change the way you eat. Using hypnotherapy we remove the emotional reasons for eating and reinforce new behaviors.

Weight loss sessions are customized to the individual. The diet plan we provide is not just another diet. It is a way to permanently change your habitual ways of interacting with food.

Phobias

DO YOU FEAR SNAKES, SPIDERS, HEIGHTS, OPEN SPACES?

Phobias are very common. One in nine persons have some type of phobia—more than eleven percent of the population. One in twenty has panic attacks at some time in their life, often triggered by a phobia. There is little that conventional medical science can to for phobias, other than prescribing medication.

Hypnosis can in many cases alleviate or eliminate the phobia. I have known clients who have had a fear of flying. In the past they have either avoided flying or gone through agony and a great deal of mental pain when they boarded an aircraft to go on vacation. A number of these persons spent their vacation time in fear of the return trip.

Hypnosis can reverse the fear that caused the phobia through regression therapy to the original event. We use desensitization techniques to dissociate clients from the original trauma.

OTHER PROGRAMS

Addiction :

Millions of people turn to addictions for temporary relief. Are you one? An addiction is a behavior that you consistently give in to, which can bring you more problems than benefits. What is important to understand about addiction is that it is an attempt to fill some sort of emotional need, to fill a void in your life.

Some of the most common addictions today include gambling, exercise, work, extreme sports, computer gaming, and shopping. Although most of these are natural and can be a normal part of your daily life, in excess they can cause you real problems.

To permanently treat addictions, it is very important to first understand the nature of the emotional void you are trying to fill through your addiction. It must be explore and understood, so you can comprehend the root of your addiction. Through hypnotherapy you can establish a firm foundation where recovery begins.

Pain

Do you want to control the pain instead of the pain controlling you?

Hypnosis is extremely effective in alleviating pain and has proven to be possibly the best method for managing acute and chronic pain, without the use of drugs. For example, studies have shown hypnosis to be effective for the relief of pain in pre and post-surgical operations, dental procedures, and in childbirth.

With hypnosis we can communicate with the brain to change the message loops by communicating messages of healing to replace old pain signals.

Proof Hypnosis Affects the Brain

According to Science Daily (April, 2005), brain imaging studies allow a greater understanding of what is happening in the brain when one experiences hypnosis. Sebastian Schulz-Stubner, M.D., author of the study, reported, “…it helps to dispel prejudice about hypnosis as a technique to manage pain because we can show an objective, measurable change in brain activity linked to a reduced perception of pain.” For more information, go to healthcare.com or sciencedaily.com, release date: April 8, 2005.

Stress

FEELING OVERWHELMED?

Are you stressed or anxious most of the time? If you are, this is an unhealthy state which could lead to many other problems and challenges. When you experience excessive anxiety and stress, your health, stamina, and ability to sleep could all be affected. It may feel as if you are just barely getting by in life.

Stress also affects your ability to concentrate and to focus. In relationships, too much stress can negatively affect your personal relationships and your level of joy. You may have read that scientific research has confirmed the crucial role stress plays in contributing to such disorders as hypertension, stroke, heart attack, ulcers, pain, and cancer, to name a few.

To learn more about hypnotherapy visit, http://www.ashypnotherapy.com/ or speak directly to Dori (404) 421-9809.

Retail Real Estate Consultant, Expansion Planning, Medical Retail Planning – Jeff Green Partners

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Jeff Green Partners is a leading consultant in Retail Real Estate Feasibility, Retail Expansion Planning, Medical Retail Planning, Location Analysis and Commercial Land Use.

We provide market analysis and strategic planning and consulting services including:

● Shopping Center Feasibility

● Distressed Center Repositioning

● Retail Real Estate Planning and Investing

● Retail Market Research and Strategies

● Retail Expansion Planning

● Retail Strategies for Municipalities

● Medical Retail Planning

● Location Analysis

● Commercial Land Use

● Urban Redevelopment

● Retail Master Plans

A LEADER IN RETAIL REAL ESTATE FEASIBILITY

Jeff Green Partners was founded in May of 2004 in response to a growing demand for a new level of expert consulting services in the retail real estate marketplace. Led by President and CEO Jeff Green, Jeff Green Partners provides a full spectrum of analytical and interpretive services for property owners and developers.

Beyond feasibility studies and demographic profiles, the firm provides the kind of in-depth full spectrum analysis that generates critical context, penetrating insight and valuable strategic direction to many of the country’s leading retailers, commercial and retail real estate developers, and health care facilities. From project-specific guidance to long-term national expansion strategies, a wide range of national and regional retailers, property owners/managers/developers and medical practitioners look to Jeff Green Partners for the firm’s expertise and unparalleled knowledge of key retail markets nationwide to find out what is happening, what is going to happen, and how it will impact their businesses.

To succeed in today’s changing market, developers, retailers and medical practitioners all require more than just a consultant; they need a fresh perspective. They need a professional partner with the experience to make sound judgments, the vision to understand the broader perspective, and the keen insights needed to help them navigate the evolving complexities of a rapidly changing industry. For Jeff Green Partners, serving clients means providing them with the tools they need to achieve success in today’s competitive environment. By providing in-depth analyses and comprehensive strategic support, Jeff Green Partners offers the vision; insight and adaptive innovations that helps them accomplish this goal.

A RANGE OF SERVICES

Jeff Green Partners provides comprehensive market analysis and strategic planning services, tailored to the specific needs of our clients.

Where appropriate, we emphasize close coordination and continuity with existing market research. We also have assisted many companies in establishing or expanding their research departments.

Our Services Include, But Are Not Limited To:

Shopping Center Research
Location Analysis
Consumer Profiling
Tenant Mix Evaluation
Distressed Center Repositioning and Redevelopment
Assessing Center Viability Long-Term
Marketing
Expansion (or Contraction) Opportunities.

Retail Expansion Planning

Site Feasibility Studies
Customer Profiling
Definition and Analysis of Trade Area
Target Customer Profiling (Demographic and Psychographic)
Competitive Review
Determination of Expenditure Potential
Sales Forecasting
Cannibalization (Sister Store Impact) Analysis
Prioritization of Expansion Opportunities
Overall Strategies for New Market Entry or Existing Market Expansion
New Store Format Development
Image Analysis

• Urban Redevelopment

Location Analysis
Retail Master Plans for Downtowns
Highest and Best Use Analysis
Supportable Space Analysis
Retail Void Analysis
Tenant Mix Recommendations
Adaptive Reuse
Mixed Use Developments

• Retail Real Estate Planning and Investing

Underwriting Retail and Real Estate Credits for Acquisitions Financing in the Public and Private Market
Investment Strategies
Asset and Securities Underwriting
Liquidation of Assets
Valuations
Repositioning Retailers’ and Developers’ assets

• Litigation Support

Market Analysis
Market Research
Retail Store Leasing
Retail Marketing

• Medical Retail Planning

Site Feasibility Studies
Definition and Analysis of Trade Area
Target Customer/Patient Profiling (Demographic and Psychographic)
Competitive Review
Sales Forecasting
Image Analysis
Overall Strategies for New Market Entry or Existing Market Expansion

• Hotel Feasibility

Competitive Analysis
Supportable Format
Size and Amenity Recommendations
Revenue Projections

• Office Space Research

Analysis of Existing Market
Existing and Historical Absorption
Supportable Space Recommendations
Analysis of Target Tenants
Revenue Projections

• Single and Multi-Family Residential Feasibility

Assessment of Existing Housing Stock
Measurement of Supply and Turnover
Analysis of Historical Absorption
Analysis of the Demand for New Housing
Supportable Residential Type (single-family, condominiums and/or apartments)
Forecast Sales and Recommend Price Range, Amenities, etc.
Project Absorption

• Training and Technical Support

Jeff Green Bio

Jeff Green is the owner and proprietor of Jeff Green Partners. Jeff has extensive consulting experience on a wide range of research projects ranging from feasibility studies for development projects across the US and internationally to sales projections for specific retailers. Mr. Green is a frequent speaker at national and international conferences sponsored by industry organizations such as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), the Food Marketing Institute and Urban Land Institute (ULI).

Mr. Green was President of Market Insite Group which specialized in developing web based tools to assist retailers and property owners in site and tenant selection. In addition, Mr. Green headed the professional services division for Market Insite Group providing feasibility studies for property owners and national expansion plans and sales forecasts for a wide range of national and regional retailers.

Mr. Green was also President and Owner of The Green Group which merged with Market Insite Group in 2001. The Green Group had a 35 year history of providing consulting services to retail, restaurant and entertainment tenants.

Mr. Green is a graduate of Michigan State University and is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers, the Food Marketing Institute, American Marketing Association, ULI, International Downtown Association and the Value Retail Association.

For more information visit http://www.jeffgreenpartners.com/ or call 602.795.8351 for appointment.

English Country Pine & Design provides custom kitchen cabinets, tables & chairs, Traditional & Country Design Furniture, Remodeling and Woodworking in Marin County.

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English Country Design was established in 1986 by John Varney, an English Craftsman and Designer with patience and an eye for detail.

In the well-equipped workshop everything from a coffee table to a large kitchen job flows with ease and confidence. A separate building for finishing offers a dust free environment for a variety of eco-friendly finishes.

The showroom is a perfect designing space loaded with samples of wood, hardware, moulding, colors, etc. and lots of pictures to aid in the designing process.

In the showroom you can also purchase:

• Fiddles furniture wax

• Rocky Mountain Hardware

• Sun Mountain Doors

• Michigan Maple Butcher Block tops

• Spekva Scandinavian countertops

• Raymond Enkeboll carvings

• Shaw farm house sinks

• Rohl taps and faucets

Wood Choices

Pine, cherry, oak, maple, alder, teak, mahogany... Don’t be overwhelmed. As you see what you don’t care for, it becomes clearer what you do like. You seek can advise on the pros and cons of different wood species and show you an array of color samples. The showroom is a wonderful and vital aid in assisting with the design process and our multitude of samples are available to be taken home so you can be sure of your selection.

Designing

Designing is John’s strong point. With over 25 years of experience, a trained eye, and a good ear, John first listens to your needs then puts pen to paper and starts to sketch for you. Combining this art with examples in the showroom and a myriad of wonderful photographs your idea becomes a reality. John has lectured for the A.S.I.D. on furniture design addressing how to incorporate modern technologies into a traditional design. He’s also a problem solver for those awkward spaces and can always find the perfect balance between function and aesthetic.

Reclaimed Lumber

Typically, reclaimed timber is obtained from the roof joist or flooring of old buildings which are scheduled to be torn down. Although reclaimed timber is usually more expensive than new wood, its rich character and proven quality make it an attractive choice for the discerning furniture buyer.

By the time it reaches your home, reclaimed timber will have endured decades, if not centuries, of seasoning. Its low moisture content and tight grain make reclaimed timber much more resistant to cupping, cracking, curling, splitting, or twisting than new wood.

Reclaimed timber is available in a wide variety of colors and grain patterns. Every piece is unique in its character, often bearing subtle signs of previous use, and can add instant atmosphere to any room in your home or office. At English Country Design, you can personally select the degree of distressing to best suit your taste.

Lastly, by choosing to have your furniture built with reclaimed timber, you will contribute to saving our old growth forests.

Pine Furniture

Antique pine furniture, as we know it today started in popularity in the late 1960's. Young homemakers not wanting the mass produced melamine cheap furniture turned to the auction rooms and secondhand furniture stores for the old pine furniture that had survived from the previous century. Often covered in many coats of paint, a chest of drawers was a bargain at $10.

First they would strip their newly acquired antique down to bare wood, then polish with Briwax, an inexpensive wax polish with a light brown color and this was the birth of STRIPPED PINE FURNITURE, later to be labeled country pine furniture. The antique trade at the time disowned it, considering it junk furniture and not a fine hardwood antique.

Little did they know because over the following 30 years it grew in popularity and prices rose dramatically and a new cottage industry was born. That $10 chest of drawers would sell for $500 in the 90's.

In England a dresser (or hutch as it's called in America) will differ in style depending on the region of its construction, and named after that region i.e. Cornish dresser, Irish dresser, Welsh dresser, Lincolnshire dresser, Scottish dresser.

Differences may at first appear subtle but once one knows what to look for it becomes obvious, much like seeing a Mercedes, BMW, or Jaguar without the emblem, one would still be able to identify it.

Throughout Britain people were stripping their interior room doors and adding a wax finish as most houses have interior wood work of pine. Still to this day watch and English movie and note the pine doors and pine kitchen furniture.

Visit http://www.englishcountrypine.com/ to see our sample designs. Hours is by appointment only please call first (415) 382 1952 to book for appointment.