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In this tough economy, when it’s broke, don’t nix it — fix it. Here’s where By heidi kyser | Photograph Christopher smith
If there’s one thing the recession taught us, it’s the evils of unbridled consumerism. With their wallets on diets, people have rediscovered the virtue of taking care of their possessions — remember when your Jimmy Choos did only one tour of duty? — and with it, the value of the good ol’ repair shop. After polling friends, fans and those in the know, here’s our decidedly unscientific list of the best.
Chimneys Vegas Valley Air Duct Cleaning Build-up of residue in the flue above your fireplace can get so thick that flash fires start inside the chimney — bad news to anybody warming his toes at the hearth. For a flat fee of $150, the modern-day Berts at Vegas Valley Air Duct will de-creosote your smokestack, making your fireplace safer and more efficient. 4045 S. Buffalo Drive, 480-2820, www.vegasairduct.com/chimney
Clothes Linh’s Fashion Alterations Same-day service, $6 hems and business hours until 7 p.m. six days a week are great, but nothing in the threads trade tops the endorsement of brides and bridesmaids, who widely agree that Linh Luu, co-owner of Linh’s alterations, is the best in the business. And wedding dresses aren’t even the specialty of her three seamstresses; that would be jeans. 1310 E. Silverado Ranch Blvd., 888-5464, www.linhalterations.com
Computers Guru Crew Guru Crew touts itself as the computer repair outfit that understands your financial limitations. Opened in 2009, during a low point in the recession, the company promises on its website that its rates are always less than $99 and “cheaper than Geek Squad.” All the crew’s services, which include things like data backup, network troubleshooting and virus removal, are available through house calls, and a diagnostic check is free. 8690 S. Maryland Parkway #130, 714-0010, www.gurucrewlv.com
22 | Desert
Companion | FEBRUARY 2012
Hats
Your broken smartphone is more than an expensive electronic brick. Get it fixed.
D Bar J Hat Company Don’t let the cowgirl on the website fool you: D Bar J Hat Company is a full-service hatter, with pros who hand-make custom lids on machines dating back to the 19th century. In the 30 years it’s been in business here, D Bar J has worked with art associations and theater