I placed a local business #3 on local map results. But can't seem to get it up above that. I have linked it to as many directories as possible. I made sure there is consistency within the address, phone number, tags, categories.

PLEASE any advice?

Your name, phone, address, website address, Targeted keywords, etc ad in you local Google Maps.

...and this has what to do with search engine optimization????

How about little more bump on your content to emphasize more the geographic location you are targeting.

Be happy with #3 and move on with your life. Stop checking rankings in a search that constantly fluctuate.

You must happy that your page is ranking. Are you pertaining in Google places?

Yes, I'm referring to Google Places.