Building Cleaning Services Completes Environmental Deep Cleaning for LA Record Company

LOS ANGELES, CA: Building Cleaning Services (BCS), (http://buildingcleaningservices.net/) a Los Angeles mold remediation and building cleaning company, has completed an environmental deep cleaning for a Los Angeles area record company.

This cleaning was a highly specialized type of cleaning, using no chemicals, and involving scaffolding to get to hard to reach areas of the company’s facility. Building Cleaning Services used special HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) vacuums and filters to clean the building. The HEPA acronym refers to a filter that is manufactured, tested, certified, and labeled in accordance with current HEPA filter standards.

Ms. Kathy Liverance, co-owner of BCS, stated: “Warehouses and offices with high ceilings and beams—hard to access areas—can accumulate dust, especially in Los Angeles or high traffic cities. The company was committed to ensuring that the health of their employees was protected and, secondly, it’s valuable equipment. We strongly believe that environmental deep cleaning, meaning not using chemicals and utilizing HEPA standards equipment, is the best way to ensure safeguards all round.”

Building Cleaning Services' reviews on Yelp can be seen at http://www.yelp.com/biz/building-cleaning-services-glendale

BCS provides environmental deep cleaning for companies, post construction cleaning, water damage handling, mold removal services, and commercial janitorial services for the Greater Los Angeles area, and other areas of Southern California. Established in 1997, they have over a decade of experience as a company with fast service, high professionalism and work ethic. BCS is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration and Environmental Testing & Technology. To learn more, visit http://www.BuildingCleaningServices.net, or call 818-953-7100 or e-mail bcs@buildingcleaningservices.net.

Los Angeles Mold Remediation Company Warns of Dangers of Mold in Commercial Buildings

Company Points to EPA Website Info on Mold in Schools and Commercial Buildings

LOS ANGELES, CA: Building Cleaning Services, (http://buildingcleaningservices.net/) a Los Angeles mold remediation and building cleaning company, is warning the public of the dangers of mold in commercial buildings, and that mold can be an unsuspected problem. The company points to the EPA website which discusses mold problems in schools and commercial buildings.

According to the EPA: “Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

“Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on.

“Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. Molds can produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.”

The full article from the EPA can be found here: http://www.epa.gov/mold/mold_remediation.html

Kathy Liverance, co-owner of BCS, stated “Commercial building owners, managers and custodians have to be aware that mold can exist in their buildings, and that it can cause potential health risks. If any signs of mold exist, they should get an inspection by a qualified mold inspector, and if it is found, removal should be done by an experienced mold removal company.”

Building Cleaning Services is committed to cleaning mold infestations so that the situation is completely handled. The health of the building’s occupants is their first concern. Their procedures for mold remediation are rigorously applied so they can perform a uniform service of addressing mold. The company has been working with Los Angeles mold infestation for over 10 years.

One of Building Cleaning Services clients stated: “Recently, after the last hard driving rain, I noticed a bit of staining on the drywall over my front door. I know from past experience that this is a big red flag, even though there was no musty odor. Staining means that moisture is in the wall. Mold grows in 24 hours. A representative was out the next day with a moisture meter. He did a thorough examination of the walls, he climbed out on a balcony to identify sources of possible water intrusion, and scheduled an intrusive (small opening of the walls in a few places to get a closer look) the same day.”

Building Cleaning Services' other reviews on Yelp can be seen at http://www.yelp.com/biz/building-cleaning-services-glendale

BCS provides water damage handling and mold removal services for the Greater Los Angeles area, and other areas of Southern California. Established in 1997, they have over a decade of experience as a company with fast service, high professionalism and work ethic. BCS is certified by the Institute of Inspection and Cleaning and Restoration and Environmental Testing & Technology. To learn more, visit http://www.BuildingCleaningServices.net, or call 818-953-7100 or e-mail bcs@buildingcleaningservices.net.

Developmental Editor Speaks to Authors on Pacing

Editor Susan Mary Malone Writes New Article for Fiction Writers

DALLAS, TX: Susan Mary Malone, (http://www.maloneeditorial.com/) developmental editor and award winning book author, has released a new article counseling authors on the proper balance between action and narrative. The article, titled “The Ebb and Flow of Stories,” examines the point in all aspects, from how an author creates each to its effect on the reader.

The full text of the article can be found on Ms. Malone’s blog: http://www.maloneeditorial.com/blog/ebb-and-flow-of-stories/

A portion of the article reads: “Readers say all the time, ‘I love X author because he writes page turners.’ And that indeed may be so. Or, ‘I love Literary because it gives me the chance to think.’ And that may indeed be so as well. But in each of those—if the author is proficient—readers love them because they’re a balance of ebb and flow. You have to have both.”

Ms. Malone wrote the article to bring attention to a part of the book writing process which is often encountered by writers writing a novel, but often misinterpreted. She stated: “Many authors starting out don’t have a feel for this yet. They run into a stretch of their novel and are left wondering ‘How do I really make this part action packed?’ or ‘How much is enough?’. These are good questions to ask, and by looking at them you can get an idea of how to go about it. But you may need a bit of guidance, and that’s one of the reasons I wrote the article.”

Susan Mary Malone has worked as a freelance editor since 1993, with a BS in Political Science and minors in English and Journalism. Her client list includes NY Times Bestsellers, Essence Bestsellers and books featured in Publishers Weekly. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction herself. She participates as a speaker in literary conferences such as the Harriett Austin Writer's Conference (at the University of Georgia), the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, the SouthWest Writer's Conference, the East Texas Writer’s Guild, the Lexicon Conference, and the upcoming NETWO Spring Writer’s Conference among others. Her full biography and featured list of published authors can be viewed at http://www.maloneeditorial.com

Lessons From The Traditional-Publishing Model—Timing

By Susan Mary Malone

Okay, so in the past, I’ve talked about focusing on the book, honing in on the genre, and now for the third thing to take from Traditional-publishing’s successes: Timing. Here I’m not talking about all the time involved waiting on agents’ and editors’ responses to submissions. Or the time waiting for feedback from a developmental editor and working on editing a novel. But rather, once you’ve signed that contract, the time lag that exists before the book comes out. Which can seem like an eternity.
Oh, how writers bemoan the idea of waiting 18 months before publication with a Traditional publisher. And often I hear from writers intending to self-publish for this very reason: “I want my book out now.” But any acquisition’s editor or agent can tell you that the time lag is actually vital.

So what happens between the signing of the contract until publication?
Plenty!

First off, an editor will position the book on the publishing house’s list. Seems straight forward enough. But a reason exists as to why something comes out at Christmas (late Fall list) vs. why another gets designated a beach read (late Spring list). Beach reads, for example, are lighter fare. In other words, you wouldn’t put out a book about depression or suicide in either of those seasons! Choose when your book comes out carefully.

Next, the lag gives editors time to get book-jacket blurbs for the back cover. And this can take a bit. But never underestimate the power of these. One huge way readers buy books is by word of mouth, and that includes blurbs by the rich and famous. Spend the time to round those up!

Covers are done differently with the Traditional houses than most Indie and self-published books. Usually the covers on the former are of higher quality than the latter, but they don’t have to be. Take the time to get a fabulous one, even if it costs you. What good is it to do things right and spend time or money on things like professional manuscript editing, and then turn people off with a low quality cover!

ARCs. These help tremendously in creating buzz for a book. Traditional houses get reviews in place from the major reviewers, and they almost all require ARCs (you pay for reviews once the book is already out but for “real” reviews, you need ARCs). Now, with the new Amazon policy of putting a book in the system up to three months before publication, anyone can take this time to get reviews in place. Do so!

Social Media. As we all know, this is king these days in promoting books. And it takes a good while to get up and going. Conventional wisdom from experts says a blog takes 6 months to a year to get noticed. You want the best promotion for your book possible. So get the website and blog going, your Twitter, FB, and LinkedIn up and healthy, long before the book comes out. Goodreads is a must, and Goodreads giveaways are quite effective. One before publication and one after. Of course a whole host of other such sites exist as well. Give yourself that time!

Promotional Materials. This also gives you time to put together your press kit, along with postcards, bookmarks, etc. Even in today’s “virtual” world, these still work wonders. Get these printed well in advance, and send them out!

Book Signings. Both brick-and-mortar stores and online book tours work great! They can also take a while to set up. Local bookstores are usually quite keen to set up signings, especially if you get some media out with it. And they are much more excited about an upcoming book, than one that’s been out six months. Work with them!

So even in today’s world of “instant” publishing, slow down here. Get your promotional ducks in line so you can launch your book in the most advantageous way possible. Because no matter which way you publish, your point is to be successful. Be that!

Susan Mary Malone (http://www.maloneeditorial.com), book editor, has gotten many authors published, edited books featured in Publishers Weekly & won numerous awards. See more writing tips at http://www.maloneeditorial.com/blog/editorial-tips/ & see her latest video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSM6ifeJxS4&index=4&list=UU7Q8OdBNjpnfvVCwVyymIjw

Tree Planting Tips

by Nancy Penrose

If you are planning on buying a tree or transplanting trees, here are a few tips about bare root, containerized and balled and burlapped trees.

Bare Root - A bare root tree is a tree that has been dug up and stored without any soil around the roots. After the tree has been pulled up from the ground, the soil is either shaken or washed from the roots. The roots are then packed in materials that retain moisture, such as moss, wood shavings or shredded paper.

You can find many different types of bare root trees for sale, including ornamental, fruit and shade trees. Most bare root trees are deciduous, which means they become dormant in the winter.

Bare root trees are usually less expensive than trees that have been stored in pots or wrapped in burlap. Because their roots have not been bound or confined, once they have been planted they quickly adjust to their new environment.

The best time to buy a bare root tree from big tree suppliers is during the late fall or early spring. When choosing a bare root tree for planting, look for healthy, flexible roots. Before planting the tree, re-hydrate it by soaking it in water.

Containerized – The majority of containerized trees have been grown in pots since they were very young. The tree’s soil is usually fertilized, which helps provide the nutrients it needs to remain healthy.

Most containerized trees can be planted at any time of the year. When shopping for a containerized tree, the tree’s health will be apparent. Because the tree has already adapted to a growing environment and is more established, transplant “shock” is less likely. You will also find many potted or container trees blooming or bearing fruit earlier.

Balled & Burlapped – A balled or burlapped tree has often been grown in a field. When these trees are dug out of the field, many of the roots are removed in order to keep the rootball as small and light as possible. The remaining roots are wrapped in burlap that is secured by twine.

B&B trees have usually been growing in the field for two or more years. They are typically dug up during the winter. Tree removal is done either by machine or hand. When purchasing a B&B tree, make sure the ball is large enough to support the tree. Big tree suppliers will usually base the size of the ball on the thickness of the tree’s trunk.

Planting a B&B tree will often require the knowledge and skills of a big tree specialist. To begin with, even small rootballs can be extremely heavy (some rootballs can weigh over 1000 lbs.!). They also need to be handled carefully to prevent root damage. Special tools and techniques are usually required to safely load, transport and plant a B&B tree.

An expert in big trees will also test the soil before your tree is purchased. Every tree needs specific soil conditions in order to grow well. Variables can include texture (the ratio of sand, silt and clay), structure (how soil particles bond) and compaction. If you are considering adding a tree to your landscape, consult an experienced tree specialist from a big tree nursery who can give you reliable advice on tree selection and planting. It’s the best way to avoid mistakes that can result in tree failure.

Nancy Penrose is owner of Big Trees Inc. (http://www.bigtreesupply.com) in Snohomish, WA, one of the largest Seattle tree nurseries (see inventory at http://bigtreesupply.com/sales-inventory/), specializing in tree transplanting. See our video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpactBDUPmQ

6 Ton Tree Transplanted on Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Grounds

Big Trees Inc Transports Large Tree from Oregon to Gates Foundation Estate in Seattle

SEATTLE, WA: Big Trees, Inc., (http://bigtreesupply.com/) a tree transplanting and tree nursery company in the Seattle area, recently undertook a large project of planting a 25 foot tall, 13,000 pound tree on the grounds of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in Seattle. The project received high marks from all the staff present for being well thought and streamlined in its execution.

The project involved unloading and placing the tree into its planting location from its shipping truck. This involved standing up and handling the tree with Big Trees’ special rigging techniques. A large 175 ton crane was present for the significant lift and placement operation. The planting area was quite a distance into a court yard from where any crane could be set up, making the need for the larger crane. A lot of care was put into the set up and safe processes needed for this kind of a reach with this large of a tree. Once the tree had reached its final location, and was spun and adjusted for planting height, the crane was disconnected and the onsite landscaping staff finished the rest of the planting details.

Nancy Penrose, owner of Big Trees Inc., stated: “It’s always difficult when you’re asked to receive a large tree from a source and you’re not sure how it was loaded or what to expect when it arrives. Our crew can adapt to most every circumstance, and they did so again today. The lift dynamics and rigging all went without a hitch, and the tree looked very happy in its new location. Our team received a couple of compliments on how smooth and easy they make their work appear. Here’s to hoping the tree brings all the peace and enjoyment it can to the space for many years to come!”

Nancy Penrose is the owner of Big Trees Inc. (http://www.bigtreesupply.com), located in Snohomish, WA, in the Seattle area. The company is one of the largest tree nurseries in the Seattle area with over 120,000 trees available in over 300 varieties. They not only can deliver young trees but also mature trees in a wide range of sizes. Some types of trees available include spring flowering, deciduous, evergreen, and privacy trees. The company also does tree transplanting, including with large trees. Their blog can be seen at http://www.bigtreesupply.com/blog/

Developmental Editor Looking for Next Big Authors in 2015

Developmental Editor Susan Mary Malone Seeks Out the Next Big Names of Literature

DALLAS, TX: Susan Mary Malone, (http://www.maloneeditorial.com/) developmental editor and award-winning book author, is looking for up and coming authors who are ready to publish in the new year. Ms. Malone has worked with dozens of authors to get their works published with traditional publication markets.

Susan Malone works with authors to get their manuscript ready to be published. As a developmental editor, she works with the author to not only edit the grammar and syntax of the manuscript, but also the plot, character development, and all other aspects which go into making the story itself. Having helped over 45 authors become published through traditional publishers so far, in 2015 she is looking for the next authors who will enter the literary publishing field. Ms. Malone welcomes manuscripts to be sent to her from new or experienced authors alike.

Ms. Malone stated: “I’m really looking forward to what 2015 will bring in terms of new up-and-coming writers and the works they will produce. Some things in this field change, as I have noted numerous times in my articles, but one thing that never will is the need for really well-written stories. Audiences are out there, eager to read well-crafted and imaginative stories. My goal is to help those authors with real talent to get their novels ready for publication, from beginning to end.”

Susan Mary Malone has worked as a freelance professionl editor since 1993, with a BS in Political Science and minors in English and Journalism. Her client list includes NY Times Bestsellers, Essence Bestsellers and books featured in Publishers Weekly. She is also an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction herself. She participates as a speaker in literary conferences such as the Harriett Austin Writer's Conference (at the University of Georgia), the Blue Ridge Writer's Conference, the SouthWest Writer's Conference, and the East Texas Writer’s Guild, among others. Her full biography and featured list of published authors can be viewed at http://www.maloneeditorial.com