Content Marketing
In today's world, traditional marketing has lost its foot hold. Customers resist advertisements and resent sales attempts, but they are happy to share content and start a conversation with business. Therefore, it is crucial business adapt to providing useful and valuable content in order to communicate with customers and clients. My job is to help facilitate that.
As a creative and non-fiction writer, I have written a blogs and articles on the process of writing, but I also have experience in Content Marketing. I have produced content for the webpages and blogs of various business. When writing articles and blogs I utilize SEO and LSI techniques to help generate traffic and choose my topics with the reader in mind. This customer-centric approach ensures prospective customers see content as valuable and insightful rather than an attempt at advertising to them directly.
You can view one of my guest blog on "Drawing out the Muse" here: http://jmichaelgorday.com/?p=114
As a creative and non-fiction writer, I have written a blogs and articles on the process of writing, but I also have experience in Content Marketing. I have produced content for the webpages and blogs of various business. When writing articles and blogs I utilize SEO and LSI techniques to help generate traffic and choose my topics with the reader in mind. This customer-centric approach ensures prospective customers see content as valuable and insightful rather than an attempt at advertising to them directly.
You can view one of my guest blog on "Drawing out the Muse" here: http://jmichaelgorday.com/?p=114
Product Related Content
I have written a series of articles on glasses to help promote products for Finest Glasses. Below is a sample followed by links to related articles. These were designed to be informative and engaging while including product references whenever possible in order to get readers shopping. I chose the products and included links to those referenced. While I also have experience in document design and html, I was not involved in hot-linking or article layout and image placement for these articles.
Lighten Up with Rimless Glasses
Rimmed lenses are the default when it comes to glasses. They offer the most stability and a very classical and distinctive look, but the look can be too distinct for some.
Style and Impact
The weight of the frames makes full-rimmed glasses more noticeable to the wearer, and the harsh line they draw around your eyes draws attention. One European study showed glasses not only became a part of your face but actually influenced the impression you make on others.
The study found people perceive someone wearing glasses as being more successful, intelligent, and trustworthy. On the other hand, those without glasses are seen as more attractive and likable. Rimless glasses provided a more well-rounded effect. They still drew attention to the eyes and gave impressions of trustworthiness, intelligence, and success without sacrificing attractiveness or as much likability over all.
Free from Frames
Rimless glasses use more durable materials, such as polycarbonate or trivex, so that the arms can be drilled directly into the lens.
There are two designs for rimless glasses. Three piece glasses, like the Vista First LT638-1, have their lenses mounted to a bridge and the arms. These make the glasses very light weight and give them a minimalist style. Rimways, or cortlands, have an arch which connects the bridge to the temples and supports the lenses.
While rimless glasses are light weight and less noticeable, they require more care. Screws often come out and exposed lenses are more likely to break.
Semi-rimless glasses offer a compromise; these do not require drilling into the lenses, because are held in place by a filament which resembles a fishing line. A frame fits around the top of the lenses and connects to the arms. The frames mimic the effect of your eyebrows to help them fade into the background. The partial frame can leave a bolder impact, such as the Vista First 1053, or appear practically invisible, such as the Poesia 6646.
Leaving a Mark
Ultimately, the more noticeable the frames, the more distinct the impression they leave. If you prefer light-weight and low impact, rimless or semi-rimless glasses are worth the extra cost and care.
Additional articles can be found at the following links:
Cut Through Glare with Polarized Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-polarized-lenses-i-6e2f8a4c173542f6803171e0551f8369.html
Rimless vs. Rimmed Glasses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-rimless-vs-rim-eyeglasses-i-a0e33b1c7889406d9975a947aee76696.html
Not Transitions; Photochromic Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-what-is-photochromic-lens-i-18f1e90d6c044b60a25a48bff56d0feb.html
Multi-focal Options: Bifocal or Progressive Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-multi-focal-options-bifocal-or-progressive-lenses-i-5b104060371a4bcab5e1f304a38e1ba5.html
Lighten Up with Rimless Glasses
Rimmed lenses are the default when it comes to glasses. They offer the most stability and a very classical and distinctive look, but the look can be too distinct for some.
Style and Impact
The weight of the frames makes full-rimmed glasses more noticeable to the wearer, and the harsh line they draw around your eyes draws attention. One European study showed glasses not only became a part of your face but actually influenced the impression you make on others.
The study found people perceive someone wearing glasses as being more successful, intelligent, and trustworthy. On the other hand, those without glasses are seen as more attractive and likable. Rimless glasses provided a more well-rounded effect. They still drew attention to the eyes and gave impressions of trustworthiness, intelligence, and success without sacrificing attractiveness or as much likability over all.
Free from Frames
Rimless glasses use more durable materials, such as polycarbonate or trivex, so that the arms can be drilled directly into the lens.
There are two designs for rimless glasses. Three piece glasses, like the Vista First LT638-1, have their lenses mounted to a bridge and the arms. These make the glasses very light weight and give them a minimalist style. Rimways, or cortlands, have an arch which connects the bridge to the temples and supports the lenses.
While rimless glasses are light weight and less noticeable, they require more care. Screws often come out and exposed lenses are more likely to break.
Semi-rimless glasses offer a compromise; these do not require drilling into the lenses, because are held in place by a filament which resembles a fishing line. A frame fits around the top of the lenses and connects to the arms. The frames mimic the effect of your eyebrows to help them fade into the background. The partial frame can leave a bolder impact, such as the Vista First 1053, or appear practically invisible, such as the Poesia 6646.
Leaving a Mark
Ultimately, the more noticeable the frames, the more distinct the impression they leave. If you prefer light-weight and low impact, rimless or semi-rimless glasses are worth the extra cost and care.
Additional articles can be found at the following links:
Cut Through Glare with Polarized Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-polarized-lenses-i-6e2f8a4c173542f6803171e0551f8369.html
Rimless vs. Rimmed Glasses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-rimless-vs-rim-eyeglasses-i-a0e33b1c7889406d9975a947aee76696.html
Not Transitions; Photochromic Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-what-is-photochromic-lens-i-18f1e90d6c044b60a25a48bff56d0feb.html
Multi-focal Options: Bifocal or Progressive Lenses: http://www.finestglasses.com/blog/view-multi-focal-options-bifocal-or-progressive-lenses-i-5b104060371a4bcab5e1f304a38e1ba5.html
Business Related Blogs and Content
While all product related blogs are aimed directly at encouraging a sale, some blogs require a slightly broader scope. Here are a few examples of blogs and other content I have written which either showcased a business's skills or discussed topics related to their products and services in order to build demand and interest in their company.
First, an excerpt. Please note that some content has been removed from this example as it is only meant as an excerpt and not a full piece.
"Colored Lacquer Use at Rahn's Furniture Refinishing
Refinishing can restore the original beauty of antique and damaged furniture, but they also take it one step further to protect furniture from future wear. A protective coat of colored lacquer ensures your wood furniture will remain beautiful for years after refinishing. A properly applied coat of lacquer will help furniture resist dirt as well as damage. Lacquer can be extremely tricky though; the process requires the experienced hands of a serious craftsmen, like the specialists at Rahn's Furniture Refinishing.
What Are Colored Lacquers?
Lacquer is a clear or colored wood coating which acts as a strong adhesive as well as a protective coating. Fast drying and wear resistant, lacquer provides a durable coating that protects wood from weather and dirt. Areas sealed with lacquer can be made indestructible, and the glossy coat resists dirt, making wood easier to clean.
[some content removed]
A Long Standing Tradition
Lacquer can be synthetically made now, but it originally came from the sap of certain Chinese and Japanese trees. It has been used for more than 10,000 years to reinforce tools and for a variety of other items throughout their history. For instance, Buddhists used lacquer for statues, and artists used it when creating paintings and prints alike. It was also used on bento (food storage) boxes and other household items. Remarkably, the attractive sheen can remain for thousands of years, with very little change, especially if the pieces are shielded from ultraviolet light.
Colored lacquer was created by adding pigments to clear lacquer, and Japan used it as early as the Jōmon Period (before 300 BC). Some of the first colors used were red and vermilion – which produced a semi-translucent brownish color when refined. Over the years, different pigments have been used for lacquers, such as mercuric sulfide and ferric oxide, to achieve new colors that more closely mimic a variety of woods. Today we use it primarily to finish furniture and give it an attractive luster.
Rahn's Colored Lacquers
Rahn's restoration specialists have a designated spray area for applying lacquer away from other pieces. We use high quality, perfectly matched thinners and finishing products, and we find ways to minimize our environmental impact whenever possible. We have access to a variety of lacquers, including a whole host of colors, to suit the vision of our customers.
[some content removed]
Quality and Care
Rahn's has more than 35 years of experience working with a wide array of furniture. From bed frames to tables and couches or chairs, we have restored and refinished it all. Rahn's craftsmen specialize in repairing damage done by fire, water, and other accidents. We also restore antiques and repair damaged or worn furniture.
Cleanliness is a top priority throughout the shop, and so is our environmental impact. At Rahn's, we are always looking for environmentally friendly alternatives, from the products we use to the techniques we employ in restoring and repairing furniture. We also utilize a large workshop with separate rooms and designated areas to keep messy jobs far away from final preparations.
Rahn's Furniture Restoration specialists pride ourselves on workmanship. We go above and beyond to ensure furniture is restored and repaired to its original state or better. Previous customers have complimented us on our beautiful craftsmanship and customers service – describing us as “always prompt” as well as “efficient and courteous” in every aspect of the job.
Choose Rahn’s for Superior Service, Every Time
Our customer service extends to delivery and storage options. Delivery to and from the shop is free and always conducted with the utmost care. We are also especially considerate of customers who have suffered fire and flood damage in their homes. Not only will Rahn's specialists restore damaged furniture, we will hold the finished pieces until your home is ready to receive them back again. We make your satisfaction and convenience a part of every job."
For additional examples, see the links below:
The Benefits of Outsourcing: http://vkaarya.com/2015/09/07/the-benefits-of-outsourcing/
(Additional Links Pending)
First, an excerpt. Please note that some content has been removed from this example as it is only meant as an excerpt and not a full piece.
"Colored Lacquer Use at Rahn's Furniture Refinishing
Refinishing can restore the original beauty of antique and damaged furniture, but they also take it one step further to protect furniture from future wear. A protective coat of colored lacquer ensures your wood furniture will remain beautiful for years after refinishing. A properly applied coat of lacquer will help furniture resist dirt as well as damage. Lacquer can be extremely tricky though; the process requires the experienced hands of a serious craftsmen, like the specialists at Rahn's Furniture Refinishing.
What Are Colored Lacquers?
Lacquer is a clear or colored wood coating which acts as a strong adhesive as well as a protective coating. Fast drying and wear resistant, lacquer provides a durable coating that protects wood from weather and dirt. Areas sealed with lacquer can be made indestructible, and the glossy coat resists dirt, making wood easier to clean.
[some content removed]
A Long Standing Tradition
Lacquer can be synthetically made now, but it originally came from the sap of certain Chinese and Japanese trees. It has been used for more than 10,000 years to reinforce tools and for a variety of other items throughout their history. For instance, Buddhists used lacquer for statues, and artists used it when creating paintings and prints alike. It was also used on bento (food storage) boxes and other household items. Remarkably, the attractive sheen can remain for thousands of years, with very little change, especially if the pieces are shielded from ultraviolet light.
Colored lacquer was created by adding pigments to clear lacquer, and Japan used it as early as the Jōmon Period (before 300 BC). Some of the first colors used were red and vermilion – which produced a semi-translucent brownish color when refined. Over the years, different pigments have been used for lacquers, such as mercuric sulfide and ferric oxide, to achieve new colors that more closely mimic a variety of woods. Today we use it primarily to finish furniture and give it an attractive luster.
Rahn's Colored Lacquers
Rahn's restoration specialists have a designated spray area for applying lacquer away from other pieces. We use high quality, perfectly matched thinners and finishing products, and we find ways to minimize our environmental impact whenever possible. We have access to a variety of lacquers, including a whole host of colors, to suit the vision of our customers.
[some content removed]
Quality and Care
Rahn's has more than 35 years of experience working with a wide array of furniture. From bed frames to tables and couches or chairs, we have restored and refinished it all. Rahn's craftsmen specialize in repairing damage done by fire, water, and other accidents. We also restore antiques and repair damaged or worn furniture.
Cleanliness is a top priority throughout the shop, and so is our environmental impact. At Rahn's, we are always looking for environmentally friendly alternatives, from the products we use to the techniques we employ in restoring and repairing furniture. We also utilize a large workshop with separate rooms and designated areas to keep messy jobs far away from final preparations.
Rahn's Furniture Restoration specialists pride ourselves on workmanship. We go above and beyond to ensure furniture is restored and repaired to its original state or better. Previous customers have complimented us on our beautiful craftsmanship and customers service – describing us as “always prompt” as well as “efficient and courteous” in every aspect of the job.
Choose Rahn’s for Superior Service, Every Time
Our customer service extends to delivery and storage options. Delivery to and from the shop is free and always conducted with the utmost care. We are also especially considerate of customers who have suffered fire and flood damage in their homes. Not only will Rahn's specialists restore damaged furniture, we will hold the finished pieces until your home is ready to receive them back again. We make your satisfaction and convenience a part of every job."
For additional examples, see the links below:
The Benefits of Outsourcing: http://vkaarya.com/2015/09/07/the-benefits-of-outsourcing/
(Additional Links Pending)
Terracotta Red - A Restaurant Review
My review of the restaurant Terracotta Red appears in North End Metro Magazine on page 72. Below is an excerpt from the piece:
"Driving through the heart of Everett on Hewitt Avenue, a flash of brilliant terracotta red may catch your eye. This is the signature color of Terracotta Red Thai Bistro and Lounge inviting you to find modern Pan Asian food that's worth pulling over for.
When the front door of this upscale bistro swings open Chef Jimmy Liang is putting on quiet the show. Flashes of flame are punctuated by the sizzle of fresh vegetables sauteed in signature sauce. Terracotta Red's theme is fresh. Hand-picked ingredients from local farmers and suppliers find their place in family-style dinners that feature a mix of crisp vegetables flavored with basil leaves and accompanied by hearts of baby bok choy and broccoli drunk in a house-made garlic wine sauce.
...
Drink your dessert with one of their specialty cocktails, such as the Chai Delight or Asian Pear Martini. Or be a purist and delve into the Chocolate Panna Cotta -- thick, rich chocolate garnished with fresh berries and a sprig of mint. Even the Deep Fried Ice Cream is somehow light-infused with marionberry and passion fruit.
Terracotta Red's quality of ingredients make it easy to just sit back and enjoy your meal, knowing you're treating your body as well as your taste buds."
The full article is available in the May 2014 edition of the magazine, and an electronic copy can be found at the following link:
http://issuu.com/klmedia/docs/1405_nem_digital_issue
"Driving through the heart of Everett on Hewitt Avenue, a flash of brilliant terracotta red may catch your eye. This is the signature color of Terracotta Red Thai Bistro and Lounge inviting you to find modern Pan Asian food that's worth pulling over for.
When the front door of this upscale bistro swings open Chef Jimmy Liang is putting on quiet the show. Flashes of flame are punctuated by the sizzle of fresh vegetables sauteed in signature sauce. Terracotta Red's theme is fresh. Hand-picked ingredients from local farmers and suppliers find their place in family-style dinners that feature a mix of crisp vegetables flavored with basil leaves and accompanied by hearts of baby bok choy and broccoli drunk in a house-made garlic wine sauce.
...
Drink your dessert with one of their specialty cocktails, such as the Chai Delight or Asian Pear Martini. Or be a purist and delve into the Chocolate Panna Cotta -- thick, rich chocolate garnished with fresh berries and a sprig of mint. Even the Deep Fried Ice Cream is somehow light-infused with marionberry and passion fruit.
Terracotta Red's quality of ingredients make it easy to just sit back and enjoy your meal, knowing you're treating your body as well as your taste buds."
The full article is available in the May 2014 edition of the magazine, and an electronic copy can be found at the following link:
http://issuu.com/klmedia/docs/1405_nem_digital_issue
South Juanita - A Neighborhood Profile
While working through a content site, I wrote a series of neighborhood profiles mostly featuring Seattle area neighborhoods. These were submitted for publication on Apartments.com as a part of their sites expansion into general information. One of my reviews was too long to be accepted at the final stage, and so I will share it here as an example.
Each article opened with an overview and was required to touch on history, cost of living, shopping, dinning, and transportation in and around the neighborhood. Each of these sections, in turn, was written to be a stand-alone blurb and comes complete with source citations and the occasional imbedded link (identified below the resource reverence here).
South Juanita
Overview:
South Juanita sits on top of Lake Washington, along downtown Kirkland's northern boarder. In the early days, this area was built up as a resort community, and it still feels like a vacation destination, with it's rich, beautiful appearance and the fact that it's almost entirely made up of parks and restaurants.
Sitting atop the many restaurants are multilevel apartments with views overlooking Lake Washington and price tags adjusted to suit their fine appearance, grand view and convenient locals. Spiraling out from the neighborhood's heart, a quiet stretch of trees, homes and apartments buffers the center from the surrounding cities. Only looking out across the lake on a clear day, do you realize how close this little escape sits to the bustle of Seattle.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/
Restaurants and Nightlife:
At the heart of South Juanita, residents gather day and night to savor everything from coffee to wine and ethnic cuisine in between. Juanita has something for every part of the day and every kind of taste.
Start the day off right with a Salted Maple Latte from Urban Coffee Lounge and come back for their live music and a glass of mulled wine to wrap it up. Their local ingredients extend from the bar to the pastry case, with a variety of organic breakfast or lunch items. They also offer locally baked pastries and gourmet truffles and sell organic loose leaf teas.
Fast food doesn't have to be greasy or unhealthy in Juanita. Stop by for the Mongolian Grill for lunch, where they lay out a buffet of fresh ingredients your choosing. If you're in the mood for fish, there's always Spud Fish and Chips, a local favorite. Or head over to aa Sushi, where a variety of fresh sushi dishes weave their way through the tables via conveyer belt. They also ofter a menu from which you can select soup, tea and full dishes or sushi's not already on parade for the choosing.
Dine indoors or out at [Royal India]. This chic Indian restaurant boasts a five star rating that's well deserved. Start the meal off with the Royal India or Vegetable Delight and don't forget to try their amazing spiced chai. What's dinner without a show though? Royal India sets the stage right on Friday nights with live music and periodic shows such as belly dancing.
Love curry but prefer pot stickers to pakoras? Noppakao Thai offers eight varieties of curry and other Thai favorites – like Phad Thai and the delicious Cat's Eye Rama Noodles that come topped with peanut sauce and laid over a bed of cooked spinach. You'll marvel at their rich décor and beautiful aqurium as you enjoy Thai spices and sip hot tea.
There's also the Mezcal Grill, a Mexican Restaurant with an excellent pollo en crema and featuring a Mexican Pizza that goes perfectly with one of their imported or domestic beers. They also offer a variety of mixed drinks (such as the classic mojito or tequla sunrise) and all the classic dishes from quesadillas to nachos.
Stay out late for drinks at the Juanita Pub or slip into the chic Brix Wine Cafe. The affectionately dubbed J-Pub puts the game on and offers a variety of games to keep you entertained as you drink the night away. While the service at this “bro bar” can be a bit shaky at times, many residents can't get enough of the upbeat, busy vibe that takes them back to their college days, not to mention the drink specials. If you prefer a classier experience, sample the extensive wine list of the [Brix Wine Cafe], offering everything from red and pinks to sparkling wines and cocktails. Their menu outlines the personality and flavor of each along with the year and location of origin.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/Dining.htm
Links:
http://royalindiacuisine.com/
http://www.brixwinecafe.com/
History:
Originally home to the Duwamish tribe who's village sat at the mouth of Juanita Creek, now part of Juanita Beach Park. Here they harvested wapatoes (a type of potato that grows in water). In the 1890s, long time resident of the area Martin W. Hubbard constructed a dock along the lake. From this small construction project, a village grew up along the shoreline and was named Hubbard in his honor. Various farms covered the landscape, but it wasn't until the 1920s that the area really began to see any action. Juanita Beach Resort and the construction of Lake Washington Boulevard brought businesses into the area. It wasn't until the 1960s that the city saw it's first suburban shopping center and bank, at which point homestead transformed into subdivisions and the sleepy farming village joined the city of Kirkland. To this day, South Juanita still resembles a a resort community.
Resource:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juanita,_Washington
Transportation:
While it may be a neighborhood set away from the bustle of city living, South Juanita remains conveniently close to major arteries and offers a number of ways to get around both the neighborhood and the greater Seattle area.
South Juanita sits just a little east of Interstate 405 and accesses downtown Kirkland or any of the cities north easily via the 405. During rush hour, however, it's best to avoid the 405 in favor of surface streets such as 100th Ave NE (running north-south) or NE 124th St. which runs east towards Totem Lake.
For drivers who don't mind a toll, taking Lake Washington Blvd or the 405 south, you can access downtown Seattle more directly from the 520, crossing over Lake Washington on its toll bridge. Alternatively, a quick trip up Juanita Dr. NE brings drivers to the 522, a major line between Bothell and Lake Forest Park that also accesses the Northgate area and feeds directly into Interstate 5, leading south into Seattle.
Cyclists will only find the occasional bike lane around the neighborhood, but they can find a number of dedicated bike lanes and bike friendly streets outside of South Juanita, including a path into downtown Kirkland and the road leading up to St. Edward Park.
While Juanita doesn't go out of its way to be bike friendly, it is most certainly pedestrian friendly. Wide sidewalks and plenty of cross walks make it easy to make your way into and around the neighborhood's heart. An expanse of cobble stone dotted with trees and featuring a large fountain give pedestrians plenty of space to meander or turn their kids loose without worrying about cars.
On the flip side, all these lovely spaces can make parking a bit of an issue. Cars often battle to find spaces in the middle of the action, but plenty of space can be found main street and at the park's ample lot. Since most of the restaurants are clustered together near Juanita Beach Park, it's not difficult to leave your car near the lake and enjoy the afternoon on foot.
Multiple metro and Soundtransit buses run between downtown Kirkland and north to the top of Lake Washington, passing through Juanita's main drag on their way. Fares average $2.50-3.00 per trip, but Metro buses offer 2 hour transfers that help cut costs on quick trips. Commuters in particular take advantage of this option, preferring to pay a few dollars in fare rather than on a gallon of gas, to say nothing of parking fees or the trouble of hunting down a spot to park at all.
There area a few cab companies on the eastside, servicing Kirkland and Juanita, but don't expect to hail one from a street corner. If you suspect you might need a cab, and don't have a smart phone, keep the number of a place with you. None of them are particularly well liked though, so unless you're out too late for buses or live well off their routes, you're probably better off with public transportation.
Resource:
http://metro.kingcounty.gov/
Cost:
The overall cost of living in the Kirkland area is 44.3 percent higher than the national average, but only 29.2 percent above Washington State's average. To put that into specifics, gas prices run about 1 percent above the national average in the Kirkland Area, but you can snag a $4.00 beer or $5.00 hamburger at the J-Pub. One bedroom apartments average around $995.00 per month, and the median rent overall comes in at about $1,196 – only slightly lower than Kirkland in general. Housing prices in general average $367,150. These prices reflect the high percentage of residents working in management and computer or business, sales and office occupations that bring home an averaged $91,962 a year per household.
Resource:
http://www.city-data.com/neighborhood/South-Juanita-Kirkland-WA.html
Shopping:
For all the beautiful new buildings and locally owned businesses, Juanita offers little shopping.
Yoga and message studios dot the area, but aside from a Michael's for crafting supplies and a Walgreen's drug store, perhaps the only non-food joint in South Juanita is Everyday Athlete – where runners can find just about anything they might need for any season. Besides clothing and shoes, Everyday Athlete offers a few sporty toys, like message sticks, foam rollers, GPS watches and heart rate monitors.
Residents can find a whole host of boutiques in downtown Kirkland from Asher Goods, for men's wear and accessories, to Serendipty with their new and consigned fashion for women. Both offer a variety of chic clothing options, but besides attire, Asher Goods features a variety of men's watches, backpacks, eye wear, hunting gear and more. Serendipty on the other hand leans towards less practical options, such as jewelry made from semiprecious stones and fashionable scarves and bags that tie outfits together.
Bargain hunters will love Eastside Community Aid, an all volunteer run, non-profit thrift store near where NE 124th St meets I-405. Here, shoppers can find deals on a wide selection of household items and office supplies, clothing and jewelry – knowing their money will be passed on to local causes.
A QFC on NE 124th St. or one up Juanita Dr. NE and a Safeway up 100th Ave NE (past North Juanita) provide the closest grocery shopping. Otherwise, residents of South Juanita drive into downtown Kirkland or frequent Totem Lake to find groceries and other household necessities.
The local Farmers Market provides the only place in South Junaita proper to buy produce. It sets up in Juanita Beach Park each May and runs every Friday until the end of September. Naturally there's plenty of local produce and fresh berries, but the market also attracts vendors selling everything from homemade bath soaps and jewelry to fresh popped kettle corn and pizza fired in a stone oven right there on site.
Parks:
There's plenty to see and do around South Juanita, with several nearby parks and yearly events.
Each summer, Kirkland puts on weekly concerts through the months of July and August. Children's concerts are held at Juanita Beach Park every Tuesday morning, and evening concerts take place in Marina Park on Thursdays.
Downtown Kirkland hosts a monthly Art Walk every second Friday that leads residents through galleries and businesses as they savor the art, music, wine and coffee of Kirkland.
Juanita Beach Park makes up a large part of South Juanita's center and provides beautiful views of Lake Washington, swimming and lots of room to stretch your legs. Being both kid and dog friendly, this park draws members of the whole community and provides a beautiful escape from daily life. Wandering along Juanita Creek, residents often spot Bald Eagles and other feathered neighbors perched in overhanging branches or making their way to the water's edge.
Along the boarder between Juanita and downtown Kirkland, sits Juanita Bay. A former golf course reborn as a wetland preserve, Juanita Bay lines the banks of Lake Washington and features board walks that guide visitors through a marshy, green paradise to meet the neighborhood's water loving bird population and taste a bit of lake living just beyond the city.
Just beyond Juanita's north eastern border sits [St. Edward State Park], one of the areas most popular places to spend a sunny weekend. Buying a Discover Pass would be well worth the annual $30 fee for this park alone, as it has so much to offer, but a $10 day pass is also available. Families and dog owners alike love the wide open spaces and large playground. The park also has many trails that meander through an unspoiled patch of forest until they come together at the shore of Lake Washington, revealing a small beach area with swimming and views of Seattle. A trip here has all charms of a day in the mountains but without the long drive. If you're hoping to hike or bike the trails without running into a crowd, steer clear of the weekends, but even at it's most crowded the trails of St. Edward are a great place to spend any afternoon.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/Calendar/Featured_Events.htm
Link:
http://www.parks.wa.gov/577/Saint-Edward
Each article opened with an overview and was required to touch on history, cost of living, shopping, dinning, and transportation in and around the neighborhood. Each of these sections, in turn, was written to be a stand-alone blurb and comes complete with source citations and the occasional imbedded link (identified below the resource reverence here).
South Juanita
Overview:
South Juanita sits on top of Lake Washington, along downtown Kirkland's northern boarder. In the early days, this area was built up as a resort community, and it still feels like a vacation destination, with it's rich, beautiful appearance and the fact that it's almost entirely made up of parks and restaurants.
Sitting atop the many restaurants are multilevel apartments with views overlooking Lake Washington and price tags adjusted to suit their fine appearance, grand view and convenient locals. Spiraling out from the neighborhood's heart, a quiet stretch of trees, homes and apartments buffers the center from the surrounding cities. Only looking out across the lake on a clear day, do you realize how close this little escape sits to the bustle of Seattle.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/
Restaurants and Nightlife:
At the heart of South Juanita, residents gather day and night to savor everything from coffee to wine and ethnic cuisine in between. Juanita has something for every part of the day and every kind of taste.
Start the day off right with a Salted Maple Latte from Urban Coffee Lounge and come back for their live music and a glass of mulled wine to wrap it up. Their local ingredients extend from the bar to the pastry case, with a variety of organic breakfast or lunch items. They also offer locally baked pastries and gourmet truffles and sell organic loose leaf teas.
Fast food doesn't have to be greasy or unhealthy in Juanita. Stop by for the Mongolian Grill for lunch, where they lay out a buffet of fresh ingredients your choosing. If you're in the mood for fish, there's always Spud Fish and Chips, a local favorite. Or head over to aa Sushi, where a variety of fresh sushi dishes weave their way through the tables via conveyer belt. They also ofter a menu from which you can select soup, tea and full dishes or sushi's not already on parade for the choosing.
Dine indoors or out at [Royal India]. This chic Indian restaurant boasts a five star rating that's well deserved. Start the meal off with the Royal India or Vegetable Delight and don't forget to try their amazing spiced chai. What's dinner without a show though? Royal India sets the stage right on Friday nights with live music and periodic shows such as belly dancing.
Love curry but prefer pot stickers to pakoras? Noppakao Thai offers eight varieties of curry and other Thai favorites – like Phad Thai and the delicious Cat's Eye Rama Noodles that come topped with peanut sauce and laid over a bed of cooked spinach. You'll marvel at their rich décor and beautiful aqurium as you enjoy Thai spices and sip hot tea.
There's also the Mezcal Grill, a Mexican Restaurant with an excellent pollo en crema and featuring a Mexican Pizza that goes perfectly with one of their imported or domestic beers. They also offer a variety of mixed drinks (such as the classic mojito or tequla sunrise) and all the classic dishes from quesadillas to nachos.
Stay out late for drinks at the Juanita Pub or slip into the chic Brix Wine Cafe. The affectionately dubbed J-Pub puts the game on and offers a variety of games to keep you entertained as you drink the night away. While the service at this “bro bar” can be a bit shaky at times, many residents can't get enough of the upbeat, busy vibe that takes them back to their college days, not to mention the drink specials. If you prefer a classier experience, sample the extensive wine list of the [Brix Wine Cafe], offering everything from red and pinks to sparkling wines and cocktails. Their menu outlines the personality and flavor of each along with the year and location of origin.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/Dining.htm
Links:
http://royalindiacuisine.com/
http://www.brixwinecafe.com/
History:
Originally home to the Duwamish tribe who's village sat at the mouth of Juanita Creek, now part of Juanita Beach Park. Here they harvested wapatoes (a type of potato that grows in water). In the 1890s, long time resident of the area Martin W. Hubbard constructed a dock along the lake. From this small construction project, a village grew up along the shoreline and was named Hubbard in his honor. Various farms covered the landscape, but it wasn't until the 1920s that the area really began to see any action. Juanita Beach Resort and the construction of Lake Washington Boulevard brought businesses into the area. It wasn't until the 1960s that the city saw it's first suburban shopping center and bank, at which point homestead transformed into subdivisions and the sleepy farming village joined the city of Kirkland. To this day, South Juanita still resembles a a resort community.
Resource:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juanita,_Washington
Transportation:
While it may be a neighborhood set away from the bustle of city living, South Juanita remains conveniently close to major arteries and offers a number of ways to get around both the neighborhood and the greater Seattle area.
South Juanita sits just a little east of Interstate 405 and accesses downtown Kirkland or any of the cities north easily via the 405. During rush hour, however, it's best to avoid the 405 in favor of surface streets such as 100th Ave NE (running north-south) or NE 124th St. which runs east towards Totem Lake.
For drivers who don't mind a toll, taking Lake Washington Blvd or the 405 south, you can access downtown Seattle more directly from the 520, crossing over Lake Washington on its toll bridge. Alternatively, a quick trip up Juanita Dr. NE brings drivers to the 522, a major line between Bothell and Lake Forest Park that also accesses the Northgate area and feeds directly into Interstate 5, leading south into Seattle.
Cyclists will only find the occasional bike lane around the neighborhood, but they can find a number of dedicated bike lanes and bike friendly streets outside of South Juanita, including a path into downtown Kirkland and the road leading up to St. Edward Park.
While Juanita doesn't go out of its way to be bike friendly, it is most certainly pedestrian friendly. Wide sidewalks and plenty of cross walks make it easy to make your way into and around the neighborhood's heart. An expanse of cobble stone dotted with trees and featuring a large fountain give pedestrians plenty of space to meander or turn their kids loose without worrying about cars.
On the flip side, all these lovely spaces can make parking a bit of an issue. Cars often battle to find spaces in the middle of the action, but plenty of space can be found main street and at the park's ample lot. Since most of the restaurants are clustered together near Juanita Beach Park, it's not difficult to leave your car near the lake and enjoy the afternoon on foot.
Multiple metro and Soundtransit buses run between downtown Kirkland and north to the top of Lake Washington, passing through Juanita's main drag on their way. Fares average $2.50-3.00 per trip, but Metro buses offer 2 hour transfers that help cut costs on quick trips. Commuters in particular take advantage of this option, preferring to pay a few dollars in fare rather than on a gallon of gas, to say nothing of parking fees or the trouble of hunting down a spot to park at all.
There area a few cab companies on the eastside, servicing Kirkland and Juanita, but don't expect to hail one from a street corner. If you suspect you might need a cab, and don't have a smart phone, keep the number of a place with you. None of them are particularly well liked though, so unless you're out too late for buses or live well off their routes, you're probably better off with public transportation.
Resource:
http://metro.kingcounty.gov/
Cost:
The overall cost of living in the Kirkland area is 44.3 percent higher than the national average, but only 29.2 percent above Washington State's average. To put that into specifics, gas prices run about 1 percent above the national average in the Kirkland Area, but you can snag a $4.00 beer or $5.00 hamburger at the J-Pub. One bedroom apartments average around $995.00 per month, and the median rent overall comes in at about $1,196 – only slightly lower than Kirkland in general. Housing prices in general average $367,150. These prices reflect the high percentage of residents working in management and computer or business, sales and office occupations that bring home an averaged $91,962 a year per household.
Resource:
http://www.city-data.com/neighborhood/South-Juanita-Kirkland-WA.html
Shopping:
For all the beautiful new buildings and locally owned businesses, Juanita offers little shopping.
Yoga and message studios dot the area, but aside from a Michael's for crafting supplies and a Walgreen's drug store, perhaps the only non-food joint in South Juanita is Everyday Athlete – where runners can find just about anything they might need for any season. Besides clothing and shoes, Everyday Athlete offers a few sporty toys, like message sticks, foam rollers, GPS watches and heart rate monitors.
Residents can find a whole host of boutiques in downtown Kirkland from Asher Goods, for men's wear and accessories, to Serendipty with their new and consigned fashion for women. Both offer a variety of chic clothing options, but besides attire, Asher Goods features a variety of men's watches, backpacks, eye wear, hunting gear and more. Serendipty on the other hand leans towards less practical options, such as jewelry made from semiprecious stones and fashionable scarves and bags that tie outfits together.
Bargain hunters will love Eastside Community Aid, an all volunteer run, non-profit thrift store near where NE 124th St meets I-405. Here, shoppers can find deals on a wide selection of household items and office supplies, clothing and jewelry – knowing their money will be passed on to local causes.
A QFC on NE 124th St. or one up Juanita Dr. NE and a Safeway up 100th Ave NE (past North Juanita) provide the closest grocery shopping. Otherwise, residents of South Juanita drive into downtown Kirkland or frequent Totem Lake to find groceries and other household necessities.
The local Farmers Market provides the only place in South Junaita proper to buy produce. It sets up in Juanita Beach Park each May and runs every Friday until the end of September. Naturally there's plenty of local produce and fresh berries, but the market also attracts vendors selling everything from homemade bath soaps and jewelry to fresh popped kettle corn and pizza fired in a stone oven right there on site.
Parks:
There's plenty to see and do around South Juanita, with several nearby parks and yearly events.
Each summer, Kirkland puts on weekly concerts through the months of July and August. Children's concerts are held at Juanita Beach Park every Tuesday morning, and evening concerts take place in Marina Park on Thursdays.
Downtown Kirkland hosts a monthly Art Walk every second Friday that leads residents through galleries and businesses as they savor the art, music, wine and coffee of Kirkland.
Juanita Beach Park makes up a large part of South Juanita's center and provides beautiful views of Lake Washington, swimming and lots of room to stretch your legs. Being both kid and dog friendly, this park draws members of the whole community and provides a beautiful escape from daily life. Wandering along Juanita Creek, residents often spot Bald Eagles and other feathered neighbors perched in overhanging branches or making their way to the water's edge.
Along the boarder between Juanita and downtown Kirkland, sits Juanita Bay. A former golf course reborn as a wetland preserve, Juanita Bay lines the banks of Lake Washington and features board walks that guide visitors through a marshy, green paradise to meet the neighborhood's water loving bird population and taste a bit of lake living just beyond the city.
Just beyond Juanita's north eastern border sits [St. Edward State Park], one of the areas most popular places to spend a sunny weekend. Buying a Discover Pass would be well worth the annual $30 fee for this park alone, as it has so much to offer, but a $10 day pass is also available. Families and dog owners alike love the wide open spaces and large playground. The park also has many trails that meander through an unspoiled patch of forest until they come together at the shore of Lake Washington, revealing a small beach area with swimming and views of Seattle. A trip here has all charms of a day in the mountains but without the long drive. If you're hoping to hike or bike the trails without running into a crowd, steer clear of the weekends, but even at it's most crowded the trails of St. Edward are a great place to spend any afternoon.
Resource:
http://www.explorekirkland.com/Calendar/Featured_Events.htm
Link:
http://www.parks.wa.gov/577/Saint-Edward
Darwin Themed Article for a News Letter
Please note that some formatting for this article could not be reproduced on this site and the accompanying image has not been included. Please also note that the "Interesting fact" section should appear as a side note when formatted.
The Origin of Species in Washington
“You don’t have to go to the Tropics to see evolution,” a biologist of the University of Wyoming, Craig Benkman, is quoted as saying in the National Wildlife article titled “Watching Evolution in Action,” written by David B. Williams. He was speaking of course of Charles Darwin’s inspiring trip to the Galápagos Islands. Like Darwin Benkman has studied birds and is mapping the splitting of one bird species into many.
In Benkman’s case, however, the bird is right here in the United States. Their territory ranges from as far north as Alaska down through the Rocky Mountains and to Nevada, seeking the Conifer seeds they live on. These seeds not only dictate their survival, but also the life style of the birds. Red crossbills, for the most part, live a nomadic life, always looking for food. This instability, in turn, keep the birds irregular in their breeding habits, fluctuating with the levels of available food.
While the American Ornithologists’ Union only acknowledges one species of red crossbill officially, biologists have begun to identify and categories up to nine separate species of crossbill. Each one of which has developed differing sizes in beak and body as well as varying songs and a tendency to avoid intermarrying, if you will, between the different types.
Benkman has spent the past decade studying those crossbills living in the South Hills of Idaho. The South Hills birds have developed distinctly differing features from those of other crossbills. The trees in their area give out a more steady supply of seeds each year and their territory is also devoid of red squirrel competitors, giving the birds a significantly more stable life style. They do not need to roam and can breed more steadily as a result. The shape of the cones from which they eat their seeds has also dictated the shape of their beaks, and it is this feature which prevents outsider crossbills from successfully settling down in the area or interbreeding with the South Hills birds, further separating and thus distinguishing the group.
The birds are an excellent example of not just one but two different elements of evolutionary biology: coevolution as well as speciation. They evolve in accordance with the trees that are their lively hood, and in doing so have begun to divide into separate species. Right in our own back yards we can observe the red crossbill in all its evolutionary glory.
Interesting fact: Red Crossbills are from the finch family and, as their name suggests, have a red-orange body and crossed beak, especially designed for eating the seeds of conifer trees. The traditional explanation for the birds’ appearance was that they had tried to remove the nails in Jesus’ hands while he hung on the cross. Their beaks were twisted in the attempt and their feather’s stained red by the blood of Christ.
Sources:
Williams, David B. “Watching Evolution in Action.” National Wildlife Feb./March 2k7: 21-22
“Field Guide to Birds of North America, Red Crossbill…” WhatBird; The Ultimate Bird Guide. 2k7. 27 Jan. 2k7 <http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/357/_/Red_Crossbill.aspx> National Geographic.