Experts are passionate about keeping their customers safely on the road with convenient, professional, and ethical automotive services. They know that we rely on our vehicles to help get us to and from where we need to be and that a well-maintained car makes everything easier while a car that’s breaking down can be a nightmare. “A reliable car isn’t just a convenience; it’s a lifeline, helping us stay independent and get things done,” Bill said. “That’s why it’s so important to find an honest, reliable, conveniently located, and reasonably priced auto mechanic. We are committed to living our core values, which are centered on excellence in customer service and caring for our employees and the community. In the last year, we added a sixth shop in Anacortes to the Gateway family to better serve Anacortes clients.”
Bill recommends choosing a repair shop that is easy to do business with, treats you well, and values your time. “Look for a repair shop that lets you book appointments online, offers fast, free estimates as well as services like a shuttle or valet to make things easier for you,” he said. As part of creating a smooth and cohesive customer experience 24/7, Gateway Automotive has enhanced online scheduling in the last year. Customers can click the link on the Gateway website or scan QR codes on their oil change sticker or any of the Gateway mailers to connect directly to the online appointment calendar. In addition, when folks visit the website or call the business after hours, an AI assistant will answer the call and
AN AUTO MECHANIC HOW TO CHOOSE
connect to the online scheduler so they can book an appropriate appointment right away.
When picking out an auto mechanic, it’s a good idea to check online reviews and ask friends or family for recommendations. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth can tell you a lot about a repair shop’s reputation and reliability.
Unexpected breakdowns can be difficult to fit into your budget. That’s why Gateway Automotive offers easy-to-use financing, including zero-interest options on approved credit.
A reliable warranty is very important to protect the investments you’ve made in your vehicle’s maintenance. Gateway Automotive provides an industry-leading three-year nationwide warranty on all repairs, including road-side
assistance and trip interruption coverage! If you’ve got a service invoice from Gateway within the last 365 days, you can get free help for a flat tire, dead battery, or even a tow.
Clear and honest communication is also very important. “A repair shop should always be honest about what repairs are needed and provide transparent pricing. Don’t agree to any work without detailed explanations and estimates up front. Any additional charges should be communicated and justified”, Bill explains. This year, Gateway Automotive is taking transparency to the next level, utilizing digital vehicle inspections with AI enhancement for better clarity on the pictures and video that allows you to see the exact condition of your engine before
making a decision about spending money on repairs or maintenance.
As Bill says, “Transparency is the new trust.”
You should also find a shop where the mechanics stay on top of their game with regular training and relevant certifications. “Our technicians attend advanced training several times a year and there is an ASE certified mechanic at each of our shops,” shared Bill.
Choosing a reliable auto mechanic is crucial for your car’s well-being. Customers depend on Gateway Automotive Experts for a variety of reasons, including their reliable service, solid three-year nationwide warranty, easy on-line scheduling, and flexible financing options. “With six convenient locations, we deliver friendly and reliable service, treating you with
respect and repairing your car quickly and accurately. Come find out why we have hundreds of 5-star reviews”, invites Bill. Their six repair shops are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Book an appointment online today!
Gateway Automotive Experts Mount Vernon, 360-424-3100 Oak Harbor, 360-679-0700
Sedro-Woolley, 360-855-1111
Anacortes Automotive Experts
Anacortes, 360-293-2450
Gateway Autohaus Burlington, 360-755-0541
Midway Automotive & Tire Oak Harbor, 360-679-2292 gatewayauto.net
Pacific Coast Auto Center:
Driven by Service and Community
Nestled in the heart of Burlington, Washington, Pacific Coast Auto Center stands as a beacon of trust, quality, and community commitment. Since its inception in 1997 by founder Mike Granberg, the dealership has prioritized building lasting relationships with customers and giving back to the Skagit County community.
A COMMITMENT TO EXCEPTIONAL
CUSTOMER SERVICE
At Pacific Coast Auto Center, customer satisfaction isn’t just a goal—it’s the foundation of their business. The dealership offers a diverse selection of pre-owned vehicles, including popular models from Ford, Chevrolet, Jeep, and Ram. Each vehicle undergoes a meticulous inspection to ensure reliability and performance, providing customers with peace of mind.
The dealership’s dedication to customer service is evident in its personalized approach. Sales professionals take the time to understand each customer’s needs, guiding them through the vehicle selection process without pressure.
One satisfied customer shared their experience, stating, “Buying a car can be such a stressful process, but the team at Pacific Coast Auto Center made this process so easy” .
Understanding that financing can be a hurdle for many, Pacific Coast Auto Center offers flexible financing options. Whether a customer has good credit, bad credit, or no credit, the finance team works diligently to find a plan that suits their needs, ensuring
AN AUTO CENTER HOW TO CHOOSE
that everyone has the opportunity to drive away in a quality vehicle.
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
Beyond selling cars, Pacific Coast Auto Center is deeply invested in the well-being of its community. The dealership actively participates in local events and supports various charitable initiatives throughout Skagit County. This commitment to community service is rooted in the belief that a successful business should contribute positively to its surroundings.
The dealership’s founder, Mike Granberg, envisioned a business that not only thrived but also uplifted the community. This vision is realized through the dealership’s
ongoing support of local organizations and events, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility.
CUSTOMER
TESTIMONIALS: A REFLECTION OF EXCELLENCE
The true measure of a business’s success lies in the satisfaction of its customers. Pacific Coast Auto Center’s customers consistently praise the dealership for its exceptional service and commitment to excellence. One customer remarked, “They stayed later to fit my schedule and gave me the best deal anyone has offered me as a first-time buyer!”
Another shared their experience, saying, “Came to pacific
coast auto center and had a great experience, Travis took very good care of us and was very transparent and thorough with all the information he gave us on the vehicle that we came to check out, ended up walking out with a great vehicle at a great deal. Couldn’t be happier !”
These testimonials reflect the dealership’s unwavering dedication to providing a seamless and positive car-buying experience.
A LEGACY OF INTEGRITY AND TRUST
Pacific Coast Auto Center’s reputation as Skagit County’s #1 independent auto dealership is a testament to its commitment to integrity and customer satisfaction. The dealership’s exclusive
3-month/3,000-mile Pacific Care
Warranty on most vehicles under 100,000 miles further underscores its dedication to customer peace of mind . In conclusion, Pacific Coast Auto Center is more than just a car dealership—it’s a trusted partner in the community, committed to providing exceptional service and giving back to the area it serves. Whether you’re in the market for a quality pre-owned vehicle or seeking a dealership that values integrity and community, Pacific Coast Auto Center stands ready to serve you.
Visit them today at 1953 Walton Dr, Burlington, WA 98233, and experience the difference for yourself.
HOW TO CHOOSE
John Piazza Jr. began his career in construction in 1989 with his father’s company, Piazza Construction, Inc. where he helped to build hundreds of homes, office buildings, a medical center, apartment buildings, retirement centers and a mini storage complex.
In 2001 he was named president, and ten years later he and his wife Kim opened their own company, John Piazza Jr Construction & Remodeling, Inc.
e Piazzas’ describe their company’s mission as maintaining the highest level of professionalism, integrity and honesty in their relationships with clients, subcontractors and suppliers, and to ensure its success by “providing the highest level of quality construction, attention to detail and service-minded attitudes at fair and competitive prices.”
e first piece of advice that the Piazzas’ give to anyone seeking the services of a residential builder or remodeler is to think in terms of not just a partnership, but of a long term relationship. “A new home or remodel project can take anywhere from eight months to a couple of years depending on the complexity of the house and property,” says John. “Finding and selecting a builder involves a level of comfort and trust, and as in any relationship, good communication is key.”
Not surprisingly, given the level of commitment inherent in the client/builder relationship, the Piazzas’ recommend patience in addition to good communication in achieving a successful outcome.
“Patience is the number one attribute. We’re building your dream, but that doesn’t happen in a strictly controlled environment, and things don’t always go according to plan,” says John. is has been especially true since the pandemic, which resulted in longer lead times for trades, materials, and appliances.
Another recommendation the Piazzas’ offer to prospective home builders is to be realistic, especially where their budget is concerned. While some customers engage a builder at the point in the construction process when they have a completed design, there can be a disconnect between design expectations and the cost of their fulfillment.
“We find that the most ideal stage for engagement with us as
builders is before a customer has committed to a particular home or remodel design,” says Piazza. “ e first thing we want to determine isn’t a customer’s wants so much as their needs. ere may be many ways that we can meet both, but you have to have a realistic budget. From there we can help select the designers and engineers who can work within those parameters.”
Helping clients work through budgeting issues requires another skill set that the Piazzas urge people to consider in choosing a builder: a willingness to educate customers as a part of the communication process.
ere are a number of critical points in any building and remodeling project, including permits, building codes, and evolving industry standards in techniques and materials — all of which have a bearing on project costs. “Educating our clients about codes and their impacts is an important part of how we communicate with them,” John says. In addition to the experience of its management team, another important consideration in choosing a builder is how extensively that experience permeates the overall organization. “We have more than
100 years of combined experience in many facets of the construction industry,” John says. “Our company operates with a family atmosphere, and many of our employees have been with us since day one. is now includes our son Jordan, who has worked for us since he was sixteen.
If you’re in the market for high quality lumber or other items for your next construction or home project, Sound Cedar Lumber is here for you. The business specializes in Western Red Cedar products, but their 8,000 sq ft showroom and 14,000 sq ft warehouse also house several other types of lumber, including Douglas fir, Japanese cedar, Alaskan yellow cedar, and pressure treated Hem-Fir, along with a variety of building materials for just about every project on your list. Owners, Robert and Kris Desmarais, pride themselves on providing great customer service and stocking a wide variety of quality lumber products and high-quality brands for their customer’s next project. “We know time is money, so we stay stocked with a huge inventory and have deliveries coming in multiple times a week to ensure our customers can get what they want when they need it,” Owner Robert explains.
Sound Cedar works with many suppliers to be able to offer customers products like pre-built cedar fence panels and split rail fencing, metal roofing and siding, and Allura fiber cement board siding. The business carries multiple top brands like Simpson StrongTie and CAMO Fasteners, Cutek and Proluxe Stains, Big Green Egg, Deckorators Composite Decking, and wood furniture from Mukilteo Cedar. “We offer both local and worldwide delivery at competitive prices and take pride in making sure our customers receive only the best,” says Robert.
When it comes to choosing a lumber company, Robert and Kris recommend keeping these four things in mind: locally owned, operates with integrity, provides great
A LUMBER COMPANY HOW TO CHOOSE
customer service, and stocks a wide range of quality products.
Robert suggests looking for a local business by checking local Chamber of Commerce directories rather than relying on a Google search. “When you make purchases from a locally owned business, you’re not helping a faceless corporation increase their profits. Instead, you’re supporting a local like yourself who is invested in the local economy and works to improve the overall well-being of your community,” shares Robert.
Sound Cedar Lumber is proud to wear the title of “locally owned” from the day they opened at their original Conway location in 1980, through the move to their current location on Cedardale Road in
the early 2000s and the purchase of the business in 2018 by Robert and his wife, Kris. As Robert says, being a part of this community is “everything! It’s my favorite part of being in business. I love being able to give back to the community that helps me.”
Kris and Robert also recommend looking for a business that behaves with integrity and provides exceptional customer service. “A good business should be investing their time into making you a happy customer rather than worrying about their bottom line. We’re not going to pressure a customer to purchase something from us they don’t need just to make a buck and we only recommend contractors and builders that we trust to pro-
vide a great customer experience and results,” Robert shares.
Purchasing quality products that are specifically designed for your project is important if you want your structure to last. Ask to see the products you’re interested in to make sure they are up to your standards “I’m not going to sell something that I wouldn’t use myself,” admits Robert. “We’re honest about the pros and cons of the materials we offer; we want customers’ projects to wind up with quality materials that will make their projects last.” Whether you’re installing a new fence built with a durable material like Western Red Cedar or rebuilding your deck using Deckorators composite decking, or some other project from your to-do list,
you’ll always get quality products from Sound Cedar.”
Robert welcomes the public to come by and chat with their team. “We offer a lot of products and materials, but if we can’t get something you need, we will recommend other businesses who may be able to help you complete your project,” he shares.
Sound Cedar Lumber
2600 Cedardale Rd., Mount Vernon 360-424-4548
soundcedar.com
Sound Cedar Lumber is open Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Founded in 2017, Western Bud is a licensed i502 cannabis retail chain with locations distinguished by their bright green facades in Bellingham, Burlington, and Anacortes. Its business model is predicated on a passion for promoting wellness and enhancing quality of life through the responsible use of cannabis.
“We recognized the potential benefits of cannabis for various health conditions and aimed to create a safe, welcoming space for individuals seeking alternative therapies,” says operations manager Aubree Twedt. “Since our inception, we have grown into a trusted resource in the community, offering a wide range of products tailored to meet diverse needs.”
In choosing a cannabis provider, Twedt points to a number of factors that include product quality, variety, staff expertise, customer reviews, and compliance with local regulations. Visiting multiple establishments can also help gauge the atmosphere and level of service offered to find the right shop. “We provide an extensive selection of products sourced from reputable suppliers, alongside knowledgeable staff who are always ready to offer personalized recommendations based on individual preferences and health considerations,” says Twedt.
Since its inception, Western Bud has recognized the potential benefits of cannabis for various health conditions and aimed to create a safe, welcoming space for individuals seeking alternative therapies, with a wide range of products tailored to meet diverse needs. Not surprisingly, the company views cus-
A CANNABIS PROVIDER HOW TO CHOOSE
tomer service as a top criteria for a consumer’s choice of cannabis retailers.
“We believe in fostering strong relationships based on trust, education, and support,” says Twedt. “Our management and staff offer decades of combined experience in customer service and industry knowledge, with the understanding that cannabis is an alternative medication for many patients. In
many of our staff come from medical cannabis backgrounds and use it themselves for their personal health benefits.”
Western Bud’s reputation as a go-to dispensary with a guest-first mindset has been recognized with a “Best of Skagit Valley” award for its Burlington shop, and its focus on tailoring its product offerings to its customers’ needs reflects another key consideration
in choosing a cannabis retailer. As Twedt observes, “Nothing makes us happier than helping a patient transition off a potentially harmful medication and improve their quality of life. We approach each customer with the same level of care and compassion, working as a dedicated team to provide the best possible experience. That collaborative, patient-focused approach is what sets our cannabis shop apart.”
Bud Cannabis Co. is open daily, including holidays, from 8am11:30pm, serving customers from its locations in Bellingham, Burlington, and Anacortes. More information about its locations and offerings, as well as the ability to schedule appointments with certified staff members, is avail able through the company’s website at www.westernbud.com.
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A COSMETIC DENTIST
Dr. Perry and his team
offer a personalized cosmetic dental experience
Unlike traditional dentistry, which focuses on oral hygiene and preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral disease, cosmetic dentistry primarily concentrates on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, gums, and smile. Cosmetic dentistry procedures not only enhance the appearance of a smile but can also boost self-confidence and improve overall oral health by addressing issues such as misaligned teeth,
including veneers, professional teeth whitening, dentures, dental implants, crowns, extractions, gum contouring, and metal-free fillings. They provide potential clients with before and after pictures from previous clients so they can see the quality of the work.
Dr. Blake Perry is a master of implant and cosmetic dentistry. But what truly sets his practice apart is his clinic’s devoted team and the genuine, deep relationships he fosters with his clients. In Dr. Perry’s own words, “I take the time to listen to our clients, to truly understand the issues they are facing, and to get to know them personally so I can create a treatment plan based on individual needs and goals. I recommend looking for a cos metic dentist who is an excellent communicator. If you’re having trouble communicating your
desires and goals for your smile, then look for a dentist who can understand you and truly listens to you.”
Our team works closely with each patient, always striving to provide exceptional and compassionate care”, said Perry. For those patients who experience dental anxiety, there are sedation options at Perry Family Dentistry, which can be hard to find outside of specialty clinics in Seattle.
Dr. Perry gives his patients exactly what they want by using
career may not be up to date on the latest dental information and technology,” Perry explained.
transformations can also be completed in one visit. Said Dr. Perry, “If you’re facing complicated dentistry, you will benefit from choosing a dentist who can do all the procedures you require in-house. Not only does this eliminate the need for multiple appointments at different offices, any questions about your treatment plan and aftercare will be handled by the same team.”
Perry Family Dentistry
2017 Continental Place Ste. 9, Mount Vernon
Dr. Perry recommends choosing a dentist who can do a mock up over your teeth, such as temporary veneers, to see if you like the way they look and feel. “In our ‘Smile Test Drive’, patients get to feel the color and shape of their new teeth. It allows them to get closer to where they want to go before taking the leap. Many of our customers find it helpful to take a test run of the potential changes they are looking to make before committing,” said Perry.
Perry also recommends looking for a cosmetic dentist who can do everything in house.
Perry Family Dentistry has an in-office dental lab, which is very unique for a dentist office. This is important because the staff can complete premium crowns in a single appointment so smile
PerryFamilyDentistry.com
Perry Family Dentistry is open to help customers with their cosmetic den tistry needs Mondays and Thursdays, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Things to Consider
7Choosing a financial institution is an important task, and while banks are a frequent choice, credit unions have gained popularity due to the personalized service, lower fees, and community focus they offer.
With so many financial institutions to choose from, understanding how to choose a credit union is increasingly relevant. Here are seven aspects to consider when choosing the right credit union for your financial needs.
LOCATION
While many banking needs can be met online, access to a nearby branch can provide convenience and offer personalized service. Since many credit unions are community-based, you are likely to find a credit union branch near you. When considering what to look for in a credit union, reflect on how often you might want to visit a branch, use a network ATM, or contact a staff member.
MEMBERSHIP
ELIGIBILITY
Unlike other financial institutions, credit unions operate as community cooperatives and foster a sense of belonging among members with common bonds or affiliations.
Credit unions are legally required to establish a “field of membership,” which defines the group of individuals they intend to serve. This field can be based on factors like residency, employment, or organizational affiliation. Understanding a credit union’s field of membership will help you identify if you qualify for their services.
OFFERED PRODUCTS & SERVICES
The range of products and services offered is essential when selecting the right credit union. From
A CREDIT UNION
basic checking and savings accounts to more complex financial products like loans, mortgages, credit cards, and investment opportunities, ensure the credit union you choose meets your banking wants and needs.
It’s also important to consider the online banking features a credit union offers. Popular online banking features include mobile check deposits, e-statement access, and transfers.
COMPARE FEES, ACCOUNT REQUIREMENTS, AND INTEREST RATES
Comparing fees, account requirements, and interest rates will guarantee you’re getting the best deal when considering how to choose a credit union. Thanks to their notfor-profit structure, credit unions are
often able to offer more favorable terms than banks, including lower loan interest rates, minimal fees, fewer account requirements, and competitive credit card rates.
For a deeper look, visit the rates and disclosure fees webpage of the credit unions you’re considering.
DIVIDENDS
Unlike banks, where profits benefit shareholders, credit unions return earnings to members in a variety of ways, including dividends. Researching the dividend rates offered by different credit unions can help you maximize your potential returns.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Unlike for-profit institutions, credit unions prioritize member needs over profits, cultivating a more personalized approach to customer service and building strong member
relationships. This personalized approach, often called the Credit Union Difference, sets credit unions apart and reinforces their commitment to serving members’ best interests while fostering trust and loyalty within the community.
It’s worth researching what level of customer service different credit unions offer by exploring their website, calling their customer service line, or visiting a branch.
SECURITY AND INSURANCE
Credit unions invest heavily in the security of their members’ funds as well as the protection of their personal information.
For peace of mind and financial protection, choose a credit union that’s insured by the National Credit Union Association (NCUA), covering
up to $250,000 in deposits per member.
Visiting the security pages of a credit union’s website can provide insight into their in-person and online banking security measures. WECU was recently named the healthiest credit union in Washington State. With over 85 years of experience, WECU’s commitment to safe and sound business practices defines our legacy. We invite you to learn more about WECU and our offerings at wecu.com. WECU
Date business opened: 1936
Phone: 360-676-1168
Website: wecu.com
Days and hours of operation: Visit wecu. com/locations for hours of each location
Owner(s): Member Owned Cooperative
A FAMILY DENTIST HOW TO CHOOSE
Perry Family Dentistry offers an all-inclusive dental experience with a wide range of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, extractions, and root canals to complete smile transformations with crowns, bridges, dental implants, and dentures. Dr. Perry and his team take pride in the comprehensive care they provide to their patients, diagnosing, treating, and preventing various dental conditions to maintain optimal oral health for the entire family.
There are several things that set Perry Family Dentistry apart from other dental practices, starting with their commitment to using the best of modern technology to provide a patient-focused, innovative, and efficient experience. They are the only office in Skagit County that offers sedation dentistry for
folks with dental anxiety and they have an in-house dental lab that allows them to complete premium crowns and smile restorations in just one visit.
A good family dentist develops long-term relationships with their patients and provides personalized care tailored to each individual’s oral health needs, preferences, and goals. They take the time to listen to their patients’ concerns and provide appropriate guidance and treatment options, always leaning toward a conservative approach. Dr. Perry prioritizes great communication with his clients. He said, “Look for a dentist who listens to you and actively responds to what you’re saying. Avoid dentists who respond back by brushing off what you want and telling you what they think is best. There is more flexibility than people may
realize in treatment. We have a really high level of trust and closeness with our patients because we listen to what they say and work with them to create a treatment plan that supports their needs and goals.”
When it comes to choosing a dentist, Dr. Perry recommends asking friends, family, and your contact circle for a referral. He continued, “Other good options include browsing providers on service sites like Angie’s list or asking for recommendations on a local Facebook community group. Once you have a shortlist, read through each provider’s Google reviews to learn about their customers’ experiences.”
Next, call or use online scheduling software to schedule an initial consultation with the dental office of your choice. The goal of the initial consultation is to find a dentist that you like
and get along with and who makes you feel heard and comfortable. “Depending on what a new client is looking for, we schedule a one-hour appointment for a specific problem or a two-hour appointment for a cleaning and comprehensive exam. This schedule allows time for people to talk about their specific needs and concerns without feeling rushed,” explained Dr. Perry.
In addition, Dr. Perry recommends looking for a dentist who tells you about their process and how they work. “A dentist has to find a balance between health recommendations and a person’s main concern. My style is to start off as a consultant, rather than a project manager. The client should remain the project manager of their own health but I am there to consult them about what
needs to be done first to protect their health,” said Dr. Perry. Dr. Perry stresses the importance of the two Cs in dental care – compassion and competence. “One doesn’t work without the other”, he said. “We know that visits to the dentist can be stressful. Our mission is to stay devoted to excellence in dentistry and to maintain patients’ trust through compassionate care.”
Perry Family Dentistry
2017 Continental Place Ste. 9, Mount Vernon 360-424-3133
PerryFamilyDentistry.com
Perry Family Dentistry is open to serve customers Mondays and Thursdays, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Families are at their most vulnerable after a loved one passes away, as they grapple not only with the emotional weight of loss but also with the practicalities and decisions surrounding burial and funeral services. In this delicate period, families often find themselves navigating several choices and responsibilities while trying to honor the memory and wishes of the deceased.
Owner Kirk Duffy and his team at Hawthorne Funeral Home are committed to providing compassionate care during this difficult time. Kirk explained, “Our most important service is assisting families through the toughest time in their lives. We also prioritize value by being on the more affordable side of full-service funeral homes, while still providing the most current livery and most modern facilities with amenities and licensed staff.”
Hawthorne Funeral Home and Memorial Park is Skagit County’s only combination funeral home, memorial park, reception facility, and on-site crematory. The funeral home serves all cemeteries statewide and even has a notary on staff to help people pre-arrange their funeral wishes. “We believe we offer a better experience than other funeral homes by housing all service options at one convenient location”, said Owner Kirk Duffy.
This year, Hawthorne Funeral Home is working on expanding its offerings to include new veteran niches in their veteran gardens. Each year, they host a Memorial Day ceremony and hot dog luncheon for the public, beginning at 11 a.m. The event features local singers, military honors, and a special address from the Marine
FUNERAL SERVICES HOW TO CHOOSE
Corps. “We care deeply about our community and veterans,” shared Kirk. “Memorial Day is a meaningful time for us to gather, remember those we’ve lost, and connect with our neighbors.”
Hawthorne Memorial Park was founded by a group of gentlemen from the Moose Club in 1937 who wanted a place for their members to be buried together. In 1958, Mae and Cecil Vanderpool purchased the cemetery. They added a business office and the first crematory in Skagit County. The cemetery was sold to a relative of Mae in 1983, Frank Kumzak. Frank built the funeral home in 1984. Richard Duffy worked for Frank before purchasing the business in 1990. In 2001, Kirk Duffy joined
the funeral home and purchased it from his father in 2009.
“When you are looking to choose a funeral home, we recommend exploring your local options by visiting each home and meeting their staff. Afterall, it’s the staff who will be helping you grieve your family members”, shared Kirk. “Don’t feel afraid or awkward walking into a funeral home to ask questions. Take a tour of the facilities and ask about their services. During this time, the funeral director will provide you with a General Price List (FTC Funeral Rule) so you can assess pricing. Here are some important questions you should ask any funeral home or cremation provider: Do they have their own crematory, do they use
a third party for removals, and do they have enough staff to respond with short notice? You should also ask if they offer a reception facility and whether they have a chapel or tribute center for services.”
Once you go through this vetting process, you should have a feeling of which funeral home is the best choice for your family”, Kirk said. “If you don’t feel comfortable, they are not the ones to help.”
“The residents of Skagit County are fortunate that all of the funeral homes in our county are owned by local families. There is no need to use an out of county facility - for price or service – because we have great options here already. What makes Hawthorne Funeral Home
different is that we offer all services on site. We also have the most parking of any funeral home in the county. We feel that with our pricing, the knowledge and experience of our staff, and the modern vehicles and facilities all at one location, there is no need to choose anyone else.”
Hawthorne Funeral Home and Memorial Park
1825 E College Way, Mount Vernon 360-424-1154
hawthornefh.com
Hawthorne Funeral Home’s regular office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but there is always a staff member available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
HOW TO CHOOSE
Muntil, of course, something happens that adversely affects it. The truth is that this comfort depends on complex systems of plumbing, electrical, and temperature control equipment that is managed through what is commonly known an HVAC system.
Few companies understand the importance of HVAC systems and how to create and maintain them they like Andgar Home Comfort, which has evolved over half a century from a Whatcom County HVAC contracting and sheet metal business founded by Andy Mellema and Gary VanLoo (whose abbreviated first names created And-Gar’s) into a brand identity that defines the company as a “comfort
in northwest Washington. Dale VanRooyen, Residential HVAC Manager at Andgar Home Comfort, nevertheless points out that there are fundamental differences in their offerings and capabilities, ranging from single owner/operators all the way up to larger companies with fleets of trucks and technicians.
VanRooyen also notes, ”It’s a good idea to consider whether companies you’re researching have the resources to meet your need for home comfort services in a reasonable time frame. See if they can responsively offer all of the heating, cooling, and plumbing essential services, along with providing estimates, installation, service, and
they’ve heard have quality service, good communication, and professional staff. “Homeowners should always consider their priorities in addressing their particular needs. While affordability is always a consideration, quality workmanship and customer service carry more weight than price alone. Reviews are another way to look at which companies have a reputation for providing quality work and a great customer experience.”
Another key consideration in hiring an HVAC or plumbing service professional is their level of technical proficiency. Andgar Home Comfort focuses heavily on training installers, technicians, and plumbers using
diagnostics. The company also makes sure that their technicians receive ongoing training throughout their careers, including NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research) continuing education curricula, as well as customer service and leadership training.
“Our technicians are among the most knowledgeable in our industry,” says VanRooyen. “It’s evident in our willingness and ability to communicate with customers and to answer their questions with honesty, technical proficiency, and professionalism.”
“We place a high value on customer education and collaboration,” VanRooyen adds. “Andgar Home
encourage regular maintenance on your home comfort systems to keep your energy usage and costs lower minimize repair costs. Much like a car will run at its best mechanical performance for far longer if regular maintenance is performed, so too will your heating, cooling, and plumbing equipment.”
Andgar Home Comfort’s office and dispatch services operate Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm. They also have a 24/7 on-call emergency service technician for unexpected evening and weekend issues. Daytime and evening/weekend calls can be made or texted to 360-366-9900. More information can also be found on their website: https://andgarhvac.com.
A MEDIA COMPANY HOW TO CHOOSE
Business owners understand the significance of effective marketing and advertising strategies in achieving their objectives. Whether it’s introducing a new product, attracting customers, or enhancing brand awareness, partnering with the right media company is essential. Here are some key considerations when selecting a media company for your marketing and advertising needs.
AUDIENCE
Begin by assessing whether the media company has the attention of the right audience. The best media companies have cultivated a loyal and engaged local audience
over many years. While audience size and demographics matter, the company’s reputation within your community is equally important.
A well-known media firm with deep roots in your area is more likely to help your business achieve lasting success.
DESIGN TALENT
Crafting effective campaigns requires time, resources, and design expertise. Therefore, a crucial factor in your decision should be the media company’s design capabilities. Look for a media company that boasts an in-house design department capable of creating custom campaigns tailored to your
Complete marketing
specifications.
An in-house agency provides access to creative talent without the added expense of hiring an external agency. Request examples of ads designed in-house by the media company to gauge their design quality and suitability for your marketing needs.
LOCAL FOCUS
While nationwide or global businesses may opt for large internet companies for their campaigns, the majority of businesses seek local customers. Hence, finding a media company renowned for producing engaging, locally-focused content is vital. Generic
content is easily overlooked, whereas high-quality local content generates interest and engagement among local readers.
Seek a company that excels in covering your local area, as local audiences are more likely to engage with content that directly relates to them. Additionally, a media company with local market expertise can provide valuable insights into the timing and planning of your advertising campaigns.
ALL MEDIA
Look for a media company that offers a wide range of media formats, not just one type. The best media companies provide
diverse options to connect with their audience through various channels, including digital ads, email marketing, social media, print advertising, streaming audio, direct mail, and more. Ensure that the company can assist you in targeting the right audience through multiple media formats, helping you deliver a compelling message to your local audience.
By selecting a media company that reaches an engaged local audience and collaborates with you to create attention-grabbing campaigns, you can establish a partnership that yields impressive results over time.
