http://www.pemconorthwest.com/ en-us Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:03:52 PST Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:03:52 PST S http://www.pemconorthwest.com/first-thursday-strolling-art/ Nothing gets those creative juices flowing like a little exercise and hundreds of free showings by renowned artists right here in the Seattle area. Yesterday, Peter and I were inspired to join fellow Art Gallery Crawlers for the First Thursday art walk in Seattle's historic Pioneer Square neighborhood. Powered up on cheese plates and hors d'oeuvres, we pounded the pavement exploring every booth and gallery this thirty-year fixture in Seattle's art community has to offer. We loved exploring the intimate workspaces of the 619 Yesler Art Building and hearing firsthand the inspirations and insights of the artists. Painting and sculpture weren't the only examples of stunning local talent on display. During our stroll we were treated to elegant tango demonstrations near Occidental Park and live performances at a former grunge hotspot, O.K. Hotel. Along the way we met Rachel, a Seattle Art Institute student and academic Art Gallery Crawler. "This is actually homework for me, but it's great getting to explore Seattle's rich art scene with my friends at the same time." We can see why they're so eager to come along, Rachel! Here are a few of our favorite shots from the art walk:     Nadira, Rachel and Danielle enjoy the evening of art Little Ian finds out art can be interactive! One of our favorite pieces of the night titled "Octofly" Painter/Sculpter Mark Berry from Ellensburg poses next to some of his work Art not your forte? Then be sure to check us out at the Sounders Community Shield match next Thursday at Qwest Field. See you there! ... Fri, 05 Mar 2010 12:34:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/magnuson-park-pba-road-trip/ Harness, ropes and carabiners? Check. Shoes, chalk bags and all things Gore-Tex? Check, check and check. Oh, and let's not forget that Nalgene-filled with water. With supplies like these, you know you're in for a uniquely Northwest adventure.On Tuesday Brad, Steven and I trekked out to Magnuson Park in Seattle to mingle with more of our NW neighbors. While there, we spotted several NW types, including: A Pair of Recumbent Bikers Off-Leash Dog LadiesAnd a very unique group of NW Male (and one Female!) Action FiguresAt the park's Mountaineers Climbing Wall we met John, Sako and Graham - three adventurous Seattleites with a love for climbing and all things outdoors.Sako, a recent graduate of UW and current nursing student, took a break from climbing to chat with us. "This is my first time here at the park, but it's a great place to train," she said.Graham was also enjoying his first visit to the park in preparation for his latest climbing adventure. "I usually climb in California at Yellowstone, but in a few weeks I'm heading north to climb in Alaska just south of Denali," he told us.We had a great time at Magnuson Park watching our NW Action Figure friends scale the wall, but for now we think we'll keep our feet on the ground! If you missed us on Tuesday, be sure to catch us tomorrow as we check out the First Thursday Art Walk in Pioneer Square. Take in the art, enjoy the downtown atmosphere and be sure to stop by and say hello. ... Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:03:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/fremont-sunday-market-best-things-1/ This weekend, Peter and I spent a sunny afternoon exploring the colorful and quirky Fremont Sunday Market.  The sun was shining and the air smelled like spring as we strolled through the vendor stalls and began our search for one of our favorite Northwest Profiles: The "Fremont `60s Holdout."  Since 1990, Fremont has been home to a weekly gathering of vendors and performers who come together in rain or shine to enjoy the neighborhood's culture and strong community spirit. Inspired by European street markets, there are upwards of 150 booths lining the busy Fremont street. The Market is open year-round, and I can't think of a better way to spend a beautiful Northwest afternoon than browsing the stalls, sampling the local food and keeping our eyes peeled for the plethora of Northwest Profiles in their natural habitat!  Here are a few of our favorite shots from the day: Welcome to the Market! The Fremont HyperMarket Scrabble Tile Pile Street musicians rock out in their "Too-Late-For-The-Grunge-Party" flannel shirtsWe even found enough clogs for every "P-Patch Person" in the Northwest! Peter, Steven and I will make our next appearance this Tuesday at Magnuson Park.  Rain or shine, we look forward to seeing you there.  As always, feel free to leave us a comment and let us know which Northwest event we should check out next. ... Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:43:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/green-lake-power-walkers-day/ Power-walking, skating, paddling, or pushing, we love the unique ways Seattleites cruise the 3.5 mile loop that circles Green Lake. This Wednesday Peter, Brad and I came up with a workout of our own – one that we hope made Green Lake a little bit greener. Brooms in hand, we set out on a curling-inspired stroll to remove stray gravel and debris from the paved walking path circling the picturesque lake. While we took turns sweeping away the crunchy hazards, we used the opportunity to gather more than 30 pounds of trash from the lakeside! Hopefully our handiwork prevented a few scraped knees and left the loop a little greener than we found it. Take a look at some of our odd finds of the day: Looks like someone's missing their other slipper!Hmmm - Wonder who lost a hubcap at Green Lake?Later in the day, Toby the German Shepherd stopped by to say hello and take a rest while on his daily walk around the lake. Luckily we had a few dog treats on hand for our new friend!We had a great time doing our part to spruce up the Green Lake path, and we can't wait to come back. Until then, join us as we check out the Freemont Sunday Market this weekend! ... Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:58:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/marymoor-off-leash-dog-park-2/ A warm day in February may be a Northwest rarity, but when the sun finally peeks out from the clouds, what better way to spend the afternoon than with a gaggle of your favorite canine playmates? On Thursday Brad, Steven and I took advantage of the sunny Seattle weather and headed out east to Marymoor Park in Redmond to mingle with NW Profile #23, the Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Lady.Armed with dog treats, water bottles and a sense of adventure, we set off to strike another notch into our NW Road Trip belts (or leash in this case) and to meet some of our furriest Northwest neighbors. From big to small, groomed to shaggy, we caught up with some great canine companions as they enjoyed a sunny romp in the park with their owners. Here are some of our favorite shots of the day:One of our favorite dogs of the day was Hokulani, whose name means "Shining Star" in Hawaiian. Hokulani and her owner, Tim, met in Hawaii 10 years ago when Tim had just started work as a teacher in a school for children with special needs. Hokulani was a rescue pup from the local shelter and Tim brought the dog with him to school everyday, where she would curl up with the students as they completed their reading lessons. According to Tim, "Hoku is the reason so many of those kids got better at reading. After a while it was like I wasn't even there. It was just them and Hoku."One look at Hokulani and it's easy to see how such an adorable pup could make such a positive impact:Tim and Hokulani enjoying the sun at Marymoor ParkIf you and your four-legged friend missed us at the park this time, don't worry. Just look for us on the next beautiful day in Marymoor - It'll be a barkin' good time! ... Mon, 22 Feb 2010 10:11:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/green-lake-valentines-day-dash/ Love 'em or leave 'em: that was the question at the 5th annual Valentine's Day Dash around Green Lake this weekend.  Peter, Steven and I arrived early Saturday morning to mingle with the hundreds of runners sporting everything from matching pink outfits to huge heart-shaped suits.  The idea behind the 5K race is to dress exactly like your Valentine's Day sweetheart, with prizes awarded for exceptional costumes.  Once the race begins, you have the choice to stay with your running partner or "leave 'em" behind.    We spent the morning surrounded by energetic runners and cute couples who stopped to get their picture snapped and share their Valentine's story.  Many of the runners seemed eager to set personal-best times, while the couples seemed to be more fixated on finishing the race hand-in-hand with each other.  Here are some of our favorite costumes of the day:While it wasn't quite the dog days of summer at Green Lake, we did meet some excited canines and their human companions.  Mo brought her pack of pooches, Walter, Shasta and Betty to join in on the fun.  They all raced across the finish line with impressive times, but more importantly, they finished in impressive fashion - The dogs donned matching pink bandanas in celebration of Valentine's Day.  Canine competitors Walter, Shasta and Betty show off their V-Day styleOur day wasn't truly complete until we spotted a pair of "Green Lake Power Walkers."  Admitting that they did indeed fit the bill, Ty and Britt proudly showed off their Northwest Profile T-shirts during the run.  Unfortunately, we noticed that Britt left Ty during the race as she cruised to the finish line in under 33 minutes.  Ty showed up about 10 minutes later, and they happily reunited.  Though they may have opted for the "leave 'em" route, Ty and Britt blissfully left Green Lake together to enjoy the rest of their Valentine's Day weekend.Northwest Profile #64 never looked so good!Though we've experienced our fair share of Northwest runs, this one was by far the sweetest. If you were at the race, drop us a note in the comments section and tell us about your favorite Valentine's Day Dash moment.  Until next time, be sure to stay on the lookout for Peter, Steven and me coming soon to a neighborhood near you! ... Mon, 15 Feb 2010 10:13:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/wally1-wi-fi-hotspot-putting/ Here in the Northwest, we like our minds clear even if the weather isn't. And what better way to lift the mental fog of the a.m. commute than with some early-morning coffee? This Tuesday we thought Metro-bound Eastsiders deserved a little caffeine buzz to get a jump start on the morning ride. Brad, Peter and I were at the South Bellevue Park and Ride from 7-9 a.m. with fresh coffee and the WALLY1 Wi-Fi Hotspot on hand. The drizzly morning weather was no match for our wireless high-pressure system as commuters checked online schedules and prepared for the day. Here are a few snapshots from the morning's coffee-filled commute:Didn't get your free cup of coffee? No worries - Just keep an eye out for us on your way to work or follow us on Twitter at @PEMCO_NW for updates on when we'll be stopping by a transit hub near you! ... Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:53:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/stinky-spoke-stinky-weather-poker/ Smiling, mud-speckled "NW Action Figures" were out in spades Saturday, pedaling their way through the Stinky Weather "Stinky Spoke" Poker Ride in Woodinville, WA. Peter and I were on the scene with the WALLY1 van and the NW Profiles Photo Program helping out with the fun, dealing cards and taking pictures of rosy-cheeked poker faces. The weather was uncooperatively pleasant for the third annual event, which is intentionally scheduled to land on the crummiest day of the year. Light rain and sun seemed to be all Mother Nature could muster up for the "stinky" weather ride, which leads bikers between checkpoints where they gather playing cards in hopes of having a good enough hand at the end to win a prize. Undeterred by the mild conditions, Shannon and Dave came out to ride, despite being one bike short. Fortunately, they won the auction to ride the popular "Stinky Pinky" beach cruiser. "We took turns. It was a lot of fun," Shannon said. Shannon shows off the "Stinky Pinky"We snagged a few of the riders to share their favorite parts of the 16-mile race:"Fishtailing in the serpentine muddy section."- Brian, Whidbey Island"Going up Torture Hill. I think they actually call it that."- Jeremy, Bothel"Spinning my tires in the mud trying to pull my son's trailer up the big hill. Didn't make it." - Brian, Renton"I fell over twice—once on a turn and once just grabbing my next card."- Rosie, Seattle Wayne from Redmond couldn't help but look his best for the muddy ride. We asked him if he'd be wearing his trophy splatters to work on Monday. "No, I don't think so!" he said. Wayne in his mud-splattered ensemble Brian and Jennifer brought their 21 month-old son, Connor, along for the ride:   So much for the view, eh Connor?Sue, Pam, Sherrie and Rhonda posed for a moment on the "Stinky Pinky" beach cruiser: Mike, an enthusiastic Stinky Spoke participant, managed to take a whirl on the bike he's owned since he was six years old!"Wheee!"The Stinky Spoke winning hand was a straight flush, but we're willing to bet everyone went home feeling like a winner. Until next time, drop us a note about your favorite Stinky Spoke moment, and be sure to keep an eye out for WALLY1 and the Fiercely Northwest Wi-Fi Hotspot in your neighborhood! ... Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:27:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/supercharged-seahawks-skyscraper-1/ Congratulations to our most recent winners of the Supercharged Seahawks Fan photo contest! In a first for this season's Supercharged Seahawks Fan photo contest, Tim L. and his high-flying crew towered over the competition with their daring pyramid of fandom. These acrobatic antics landed them the top spot in last week's contest receiving an unprecedented 217 votes. With a record 352 total votes and a neck-and-neck race throughout most of the competition, this showdown was the most supercharged yet! Thank you to our super-spirited finalists from last week and to those of you who commented and cast your vote!  ... Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:28:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/seahawks-vs-titans-signing-off/ The Seahawks season may not have gone according to plan, but we enjoyed our incredible year with the 12th Man!  As the season came to a close, Peter, Steven and I eagerly greeted Seattle's faithful for one last hurrah.  Our photo program proved once and for all that Seahawks fans are the NFL's finest.Game-day is always a special occasion at Qwest Field, but the Seahawks took it a step further on Sunday.  The team hosted its annual Fan Appreciation Day to finish the year on a high note.  Our PBA Team let the loyal fans know how much we appreciated their presence all season long, and everything came full circle when the first "Supercharged Seahawks" photo contest winner of the year paid us a final visit.  Mark, a season ticket holder for 15 years, has really earned his stripes.  He had one ultimate goal to cap off the 2009-2010 season – he vowed that he would make it onto Hawk Vision during Sunday's game!  We were confident that he would make that goal a reality, considering he was decked out in a green and blue dreaded cap and referee uniform emblazoned with "Official Seahawks Fan."  We have grown accustomed to mingling with "Supercharged Seahawks Fans" every Sunday, and we will certainly miss our experience as we head into the off-season.Here's what we'll miss the most:- The pre-game soundtrack of 'Hawk jams- Seahawks superhero costumes (including Hawk Daddy, Mr. Mohawk, Mama Blue, and Sea Rooster)- Children attending their first Seahawks game and getting a souvenir photo to prove it- Proving that, like all of us in the Northwest, Seahawks fans are proud to say "We're a little different!"Thank you to everyone who visited our booth throughout the season.  You made every Sunday special.  Until next time…Go Seahawks! ... Mon, 04 Jan 2010 10:36:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/call-supercharged-seahawks-votes/ Thanks to all for an overwhelming response to this week's Supercharged Seahawks Fan photo contest.   Voting will officially close on Thursday, December 31 at 10 a.m., so we encourage you to get your last minute votes in by then!   Stay tuned for this week's winner -- and thank you, again.  Your vote makes a difference for Children's Hospital.  ... Wed, 30 Dec 2009 18:09:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/supercharged-seahawks-fan-1/ This football season, the PEMCO Brand Ambassadors have been showing their Seahawks team spirit by hosting a pre-game photo program in Quest Field's Touchdown City. Fans entering the game are invited to get their photo snapped and have the option of entering our weekly contest to find the most Supercharged Seahawks Fan. We look forward to seeing you next week, but now it's time to vote! Cast your vote below for this week's craziest, most rabid Seahawks fan. This week's winner will have their photo displayed on Hawk Vision during the next home game on Jan. 3 against the Titans.  Tell us your pick by leaving a note in the comments section below with the photo number of your choice.  You can remain completely anonymous and it's for a good cause.  For every vote tallied, PEMCO will donate $1 to Seattle Children's Hospital.  With just one home game left in the regular season, we need your vote more than ever! So tell us, who's the most supercharged this week? Photo #1Photo #2Photo #3Photo #4Photo #5Thanks for voting.  Come see us Jan. 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at PEMCO's green WALLY van inside Qwest Field's Touchdown City.  And go Seahawks! Please note: Voting has now closed. ... Wed, 16 Dec 2009 07:49:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/night-giving-thanks-support/ Friends – It wouldn't have happened without you. It's with heartfelt thanks that we express our gratitude to the Northwest community who joined us Friday evening to honor the families of the fallen police officers of the Puget Sound region. Together, we raised more than $25,000 to donate to the benevolent funds established for the families of the Lakewood and Seattle officers. We were overwhelmed to see the community respond with such generosity and support, and we have you to thank for it. Over the past several weeks, we all saw our friends and neighbors come together and show support in countless ways. We thank those who were able to join us on Friday -- it was a memorable evening of celebration, fundraising, and making a difference. We also thank those who couldn't join us who contributed directly to the officers' established funds. Your thoughtful support truly means a lot.Thanks, once again, for joining us with your contributions, thoughts, participation, and support. It's what community is all about. Warm wishes,Rod BrooksVP & CMO of PEMCO InsuranceRod.Brooks@pemco.com@NW_Mktg_Guy ... Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:37:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/pemco-joins-blue-lights-campaign/ Hello friends,As part of last night's citywide "Blue Lights" campaign, PEMCO joined with Safeco Field, the Space Needle, Qwest Field, local businesses, community centers and homes around the region to display blue lights in honor of the four fallen Lakewood police officers. We would also like to remind you of our fundraising event this Friday to support the Lakewood Police Independent Guild Fund. PEMCO Insurance has pledged $12,500 in matching funds in support of the fallen officers' families, and the price of admission directly benefits the children of the fallen officers in a trust.We invite you to join us on Friday, Dec. 11 at The Canal in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood for this worthy cause. PEMCO will provide appetizers and soft drinks along with an assortment of fun, casino activities for guests to enjoy. Try your luck for a chance to win raffle tickets and special prizes.   Click on the links below for more information on growing our contribution: Purchase a ticket to A Night of Giving: Honoring the Families of Fallen OfficersDonate directly to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild fund. We thank you again for your support of this cause and we extend our condolences to those affected by this tragedy.Many thanks,Rod BrooksVP & CMO of PEMCO InsuranceRod.Brooks@pemco.com@NW_Mktg_Guy ... Wed, 09 Dec 2009 14:21:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/night-giving-honoring-families-fallen/ Dear Readers: We're deeply saddened by the recent and tragic loss of law enforcement officers in the Puget Sound region. As many of our Northwest neighbors have already demonstrated in countless ways, we want to help in whatever way we can.PEMCO Insurance has pledged $12,500 in matching funds in support of the fallen officers' families. Next week, on Friday, Dec. 11, we're inviting our friends, colleagues, neighbors, customers, and online followers to join us in showing support at a fundraising event held at The Canal in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood. As part of our commitment, PEMCO will match all ticket sale proceeds dollar for dollar. We'll also facilitate other opportunities to give to this worthy cause and will equally match additional donations made at the event. We invite you to join us in helping surpass our $12,500* matching commitment with your generous contributions. The price of admission directly benefits the children of the fallen officers in a trust, and provides an evening for us to come together as a community to honor and remember those who lost their lives. Appetizers and soft drinks will be provided, along with fun activities throughout the night to enjoy with our neighbors as our way of thanking you for joining our fundraiser.We know this is a busy time of year, and we announced the event on short notice. Still, we hope you can join us on Friday, Dec. 11. Click on one of the options below to choose how you can help grow our contribution: Purchase a ticket to A Night of Giving: Honoring the Families of Fallen OfficersPurchase a ticket to A Night of Giving: Honoring the Families of Fallen Officers and make a donation to the Lakewood Police Independent GuildDonate directly to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild fund. This is an overwhelmingly difficult time, and we appreciate your interest in this cause. Our heartfelt condolences go to the families and all those touched by this recent loss. Many thanks, Rod BrooksVP & CMO of PEMCO InsuranceRod.Brooks@pemco.com@NW_Mktg_Guy *Total PEMCO contribution is fixed at $12,500. ... Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:15:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/lynnwood-lights-bright-night-family/ Holiday revelers of all ages flocked to Lynnwood Tuesday night to enjoy the annual holiday "Lynnwood Lights" celebration filled with concerts, games and Christmas attractions at the Lynnwood Convention Center. From dangling mistletoe to festive carolers to delicious candy canes, Bradley and I enjoyed the sights and sounds of the season with WALLY1 and the PEMCO Prize Wheel.Hundreds of families lined up for photos with the North Pole's biggest celebrity couple, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, while helpful herds of reindeer and elf volunteers guided families between the numerous holiday activities and performances filling the Convention Center.  In case you missed it, we've compiled a list of our Top Five Most Entertaining Attractions at the Lynnwood Lights:1.Musical bell ringers from Meadowdale Middle School2. Traditional Korean Drumming and Dancing 3. Nintendo Wii Skiing 4. Community Transit's never-out-of-character Oxy Gene "Clean Air Defender"5. Lynnwood Community OrchestraWe even spotted a couple of Meadowdale High School elves treating passersby to a bit of caroling as they handed out programs outside the North Pole Room: Even the Lynnwood Police came out for the festivities! They were on hand with police vehicle tours and Christmas lights of a different sort: Magic was in the air with a special holiday performance by "Magic Rich": The Lynnwood Lights celebration may be over, but the holiday season is just getting started! Come join us this Sunday in Touchdown City as the Seattle Seahawks take on the San Francisco 49ers. We can't wait to see all our favorite "Supercharged Seahawks Fans" filled with holiday Seahawk spirit. One thing's for sure -- it won't be a silent night! ... Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:58:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/westlake-center-tree-lighting-winter/ The weather outside may have been frightful, but the atmosphere at Westlake Center was oh-so delightful this weekend. Peter, Steven and I made a visit to the bustling mall on Friday night to celebrate the start of the holiday season and we spent all day on Saturday greeting festive shoppers as they got a jump start on their holiday shopping. On Friday night, Westlake Center was bursting with holiday spirit as the tree lighting ceremony took center stage.  Hundreds of people showed up for the popular seasonal event that included a parade and Christmas carolers.  The festivities were capped off with a magnificent fireworks display in the chilly night sky. Early Saturday morning, we nestled the PEMCO WALLY1 van up close to the mall's south entrance and had a wonderful view of King 5 Wonderland featuring the popular Holiday Carousel, a small holiday-themed amusement park for children.  We were wowed by how many families came out to do some shopping while talking time to enjoy the spirited entertainment.  Jane and Marcus from Shoreline brought their two children, Evan and Amelia, to Wonderland, and they raved about Westlake Center's family atmosphere.  "We couldn't think of a better way to spend our Saturday.  We got our shopping done yesterday, so today the kids get their chance to play," Jane said. Here are a few of our favorite shots from the weekend:  The holiday spirit is in full swing now, and we couldn't be more excited to share the season with all of you!  We'll make our next appearance at the Seahawks vs. 49ers game on Sunday, Dec. 6 and we hope to see you there.  All we want for Christmas is another chance to hang out with the 12th Man -- Oh, and a Seahawks win would be nice, too! ... Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:08:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/spokane-jingle-bell-run-running/ 'Twas the Day of the Jingle Bell Run'Twas early in the morning, when all through Spokane,Not a creature was stirring, except the WALLY1 van.We were hoping to spot, in the chilly morning air,Jingle Bell runners, in costumes adorned with much care.The PBA team was bundled up toasty and warm,Hoping to spot NW Profiles (around here, they're the norm).With Steven in his gloves, and Brad in his hat,We prepared to meet the racers as they finished their last lap.When down in the park there arose such a clatter,We sprang from our booth to see what was the matter.Off to the start line we flew like a flash,With cameras in hand we were off with a dash.The sun was just breaking over frost-covered streets,As the pitter-patter grew louder of sneaker-clad feet.When, what to our wondering eyes should appear,But 1,000 runners, dressed in their most festive gear!Last weekend Brad, Steven and I trekked over a snow-covered Snoqualmie pass to Spokane for the ninth annual Jingle Bell Run. The run benefits the Arthritis Foundation, which is the leading health organization in the United States for arthritis. Roughly 46 million people in America live with this painful condition, and it's the hope that through charitable events such as this, the foundation can help those living with Arthritis lead healthy and full lives. The run encourages participants to kick-off the holiday season in style with a wide range of creative holiday costumes. We spotted Rudolph-red noses, Santa's elves, Christmas trees -- even a turkey baster in honor of Thanksgiving! These runners sure know how to bring the holiday spirit to Spokane. Check out some of the best costumes of the day:Mr. and Mrs. Claus gave the runners a surprise visit Frosty the Snowman knows how to stay warm in the cold weatherAn entire Thanksgiving feast completed the run, butterball and all!Even Santa's littlest helpers were ready to runIt was truly inspiring to see so many people brave the early morning cold for such a worthy cause, and we had a great time being a part of it. Be sure to catch us this coming Saturday, Nov. 28 for another memorable holiday tradition, the Westlake Center Tree Lighting! ... Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:56:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/goodwill-glitter-sale-kicking-off-1/ People always say that good things come to those who wait.  Well, that adage took on a whole new meaning this Saturday at the annual Goodwill Glitter Sale.  Anxious shoppers seeking stellar fashion finds camped out at the Dearborn Seattle Goodwill store as early as 4 a.m.!  Peter, Steven and I were on-hand with coffee and doughnuts to reward them for their dedication to shopping for a great cause.We could hardly believe our eyes when we first showed up.  Hundreds of Glitter Sale shoppers gladly braved the elements to get their hands on the finest in Northwest fashion.  The line extended all the way around the store with excited shoppers trying their best to stay warm.  At the very front of the line sat Natasha and Polina, a bundled-up mother-daughter duo from Redmond.  They've made the Glitter Sale an annual event to kick-off the holiday season in style.  Natasha boldly claimed that the weather would not prevent her from adding a little pizzazz to her wardrobe, and Polina agreed, saying, "I can't wait to get in there and find some vintage or designer clothes!"Those two weren't the only Glitter Sale veterans in attendance.  Courtney, a California native, has made the Glitter Sale a part of her holiday shopping for four years now.  She plans her trips to the Northwest to coincide with the Glitter Sale because there's no other event that combines shopping and giving in such a fun and stylish way.  Courtney was in search of some jewelry and accessories to complement the mink fur coat she found at last year's sale.Goodwill's early estimates suggest that this was the event's most successful year.  Because of the Northwest's love of fashion and support of the Glitter Sale, Goodwill has been able to offer job training programs to help low-income people become self-sufficient through job training and educational programs. This event proved to us that the Northwest certainly has a style of its own.  From the sequined dresses to the personalized leather jackets, we saw it all at the Goodwill Glitter Sale.  Take a look at some of the best finds of the day: Now Peter, Steven and I can't wait for next year!We are also looking forward to our next festive event, the Spokane Jingle Bell Run taking place this coming Saturday.  We can't wait to see all of the great "NW Male and Female Action Figures" on the run! ... Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:56:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/goodwill-glitter-sale-shopping-cause/ Are you a shopper with a fab sense of style?  Have you been drooling over that perfect outfit to spice up your holiday wardrobe?  Are you always on the prowl for the perfect deal?  Well, look no further, Seattle fashionistas!  The Seattle Goodwill presents its annual Glitter Sale this Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Dearborn Street Goodwill store where deal-seekers of every age can indulge in glitzy and glamorous Goodwill deals.  All things glittery and fabulous will be on sale, from lush evening gowns to designer shoes to vintage accessories.  Just one tip from the experts: get there early! Lines start to form around 7 a.m. as eager shoppers brave the cold November morning with lattes in hand, counting down the minutes until the sale officially begins. Rain or shine, we'll be there, armed with delicious snacks to keep shoppers going strong through the marathon of amazing deals. Look for us in the PEMCO WALLY1 van – or just follow the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and scrumptious doughnuts!What could be better than snagging gorgeous merchandise at the perfect price? Knowing that your purchases are supporting a great cause. 100 percent of the proceeds from the Glitter Sale go directly to Goodwill's job training and education programs.  These programs enable low income people to gain necessary job skills and provide them with a support system so they can become self-sufficient.  So, when you're trying on that dazzling gown this weekend, you're also impacting the lives of many of your Northwest friends and neighbors in the process.  Image via Intelz BalaMore information on the sale can be found here, along with a must-read list of insider tips for first-time shoppers. We look forward to seeing you Saturday, and we want to hear your Glitter Sale stories.  Stop by for a cup of coffee and we'll gladly snap your picture showing off your fabulous new find.  We're hoping to find the five best deals of the day, so if you think your shopping skills are superb, show us what you got!  See you this Saturday at around 7:30 a.m.?  It's a deal. ... Wed, 11 Nov 2009 12:06:00 PST http://www.pemconorthwest.com/seahawks-vs-lions-putting-charge/ After working seven Seahawks games, it's become increasingly apparent that the Hawks wouldn't be the team they are without their legions of dedicated fans. After all, we know how easy it is to be a sports fan in the good times, when your team is on top -- but it's in the hard times that fans show their true colors to rally around their team. This couldn't be truer than with Seahawks fans, who, despite their team's miscues, missteps and misfortunes this season, are not only still cheering for their team, but seem to be getting louder.  Last weekend Brad, Steven and I were blown away by all the Supercharged Seahawks fans we met as we snapped fan photos in Touchdown City before the Seahawks took on the Detroit Lions.Somewhere between the two-tone hair, body glitter and sea of blue jerseys it became clear that Hawk fans are as eager as ever to don their best rave green and blue Seahawk colors and cheer on their team. We caught up with one Supercharged Seahawks fan who, with the help of his wife, takes Hawk spirit to a new level. Meet Seattle's self-proclaimed "Hawk Daddy" and his pint-sized twin, "Mini Hawk.""We love coming to the games, there's nothing quite like it," said "Hawk Daddy.""Hawk Daddy" and his trusty sidekick "Mini Hawk" have been ticket holders for the past five seasons and have nine different matching game-day outfits. But if you're thinking of bringing your own "Mini Hawk" to the next game, you better get sewing -- everything "Mini Hawk" and "Hawk Daddy" wear is homemade. No doubt about it -- We think they're the best-dressed Seahawks fans around!  For more on "Hawk Daddy" you can visit his MySpace page at www.myspace.com/seattlehawkdaddy.Ready to see more "Supercharged Seahawks Fans"?  Be sure to visit www.werealotlikeyou.com to vote for the craziest, most rabid Hawks fan and to see this week's winner of the "Supercharged Seahawks Fan" photo contest.  Be sure to catch us next week at the Glitter Gala at Value Village and on Dec. 6 as the Seahawks take on division rivals the 49ers at Qwest Field. ... Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:04:00 PST