
Thurston Talk focuses on South Sound people and businesses, and local writer Mary-Ellen Psaltis included me in her article promoting small area businesses. Read it all at Shop Local Thurston County Businesses For Kids’ Gifts This Holiday Season
I was thrilled to recognize several of the people and businesses included in this article. I’ve purchased several items from Captain Little to use as props and materials for my themed magic shows. Shipwreck Beads is an incredible place for crafty people. (I imagine business is going great for them, as people during the pandemic are doing more projects like this. They also have a huge online business, which is a plus.) Joy Ride Bicycles has super people and have helped me with parts, tune-ups, and bike purchases for over fifteen years.
Here’s a fun story: in 2000 Mary-Ellen’s son, Kosta, attended South Bay Elementary. She hired me to instruct a series of after-school enrichment magic workshops. Twelve years after that, our paths crossed again when Kosta and I both raced cyclocross (though in different categories – he’s way faster than me). Mary-Ellen’s husband, Greg, have frequently done yoga at the gym together. It’s wonderful being connected to people for over two decades like this!

If you are planning a pand-EPIC holiday party for your associates or friends and family, consider adding my socially-distanced, hand-washed, santa-tized Zoom Holiday Magic Show. Call me in Olympia toll-free (877) 412-5064 or send e-mail to jeff[at]amazementproductions.com for availability and prices.