. "Earlier this week, I left my 17 year old Kenmore canister vacuum cleaner with owner Larry at Mr. Vac & Sew, with slim hopes that it could be repaired. It has been going strong since Larry fixed it last in 2003, 12 years ago, but it was now held together by electrical and duct tapes, and I knew it was a long shot. Larry told me that it would cost way more to fix it than it was worth, and perhaps I should just let it go. I agreed. In addition, he said that the $29.99 diagnostic fee that I paid for my old vacuum would go towards the purchase of a new one bought from his store, which I thought was more than fair.\nLarry has a modest selection of vacuum cleaners in many makes and manufacturers and price ranges, and he was very helpful in pointing out pros and cons of various models. He was extremely busy at the time, and I was impressed that he could juggle trying to help me select a new cleaner, plus take care of walk-ins, and answer the constant phone calls, all without missing a beat or losing his cool. What impressed me was that he acknowledged every single person, explaining that would help them as soon as he could, making sure everyone felt like he was important to him.\nI finally selected a new Panasonic canister vacuum, ending up paying just slightly over what it would have cost to repair my ancient Kenmore, and now I have a brand new vacuum instead of a cobbled together antique. Not only that, but he actually called me this morning to make sure I was happy with my purchase. \nI have been going to Larry for my vacuum cleaner and sewing machine repairs for years, and I wouldn't go anywhere else. Despite the 25 mile drive one way, I know I will be getting honest, courteous, reliable, and fast service with a smile and a sense of humor. Larry's scope of knowledge and professionalism is a breath of fresh air in the era of big box stores with inadequately trained and ill-informed personnel. \nWhy did I buy from him instead of Amazon.com? Because he will beat any price, and I am supporting a local business. It's a win-win."^^ . "5"^^ . "2"^^ . . "0"^^ . "0"^^ . "2015-10-10T00:00:00"^^ . .