The Highline Times | Recent Articles

SLIDESHOW: White Center Spring Clean event cleans, paints and revitalizes the community

patr — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:51:12 +0000

Update for May 19
From 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. on May 19 throngs of White Center citizens joined with politicians, law enforcement and the who's who of community involvement to revitalize the neighborhoods of North Highline as part of the 9th Annual White Center Spring Clean, put on by the White Center CDA (and several partners).

Red shirts proudly proclaiming "I love White Center" could be seen throughout North Highline, and the day culminated with good music, great dancing, food courtesy of Chemo's Mexican Restaurant, martial arts exhibitions and a visit from King County Sheriff Steve Strachan.

Volunteer Matthew Krull was typical of many volunteers. Age 13, he is on his way to his Eagle Scout badge with Troop 375 in Burien and was there to repaint many of the aging garbage can lids in White Center. "They are 600 pound concrete garbage cans that have been grafittied or broken and we are repainting them to match the White Center colors of blue, orange and gold."

Darlene Sellers a recreation coordinator with King County Parks was working at Steve Cox Memorial Park with the Evergreen Maintenance team on three projects raking the track with the White Center P.A.L. Boxing team working on that, and planting flowers at the two entrance signs and picking up litter.

Congressman Jim McDermott stopped by and told the crowd, "those of you who live in White Center live in one of the most amazing places in the State of Washington." The Congressman later went to a coffee meeting at Dubsea Coffee at Greenbridge

King County Councilmember Joe McDermott was there and in his T-Shirt ready to work. He praised the organizers and thanked the crowd. Alan Painter, representing Dow Constantine's King County Executive office also spoke briefly.

Xavier Lopez, a mural artist, was working a mural on 107th sw. on the south wall and has completed a design for a White Center Lions Club to be added soon to the wall next to Walt's Mufflers on 17th s.w. He and his father will work on that project.

King County Sheriff Steve Strachan spoke about the initial effectiveness of creating an alcohol impact area in White Center (several stores have volunteered to not sell malt liquor or fortified wine for off-premise use from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m.). He said the goal is to improve the business community by lowering public drunkenness.

"This is one of CDA's signature events and we couldn't do it without all our partners," White Center CDA director Sili Savusa said. "It's something the kids can really get into with their parents to not only support and clean White Center, but for people to meet each other and for real bonding to happen between families."

PLEASE CLICK THE IMAGE ABOVE FOR MANY MORE PHOTOS FROM THE DAY

Original post
The 9th Annual White Center Spring Clean – Saturday, May 19, 2012 is an opportunity for youth and elders, business owners and entrepreneurs, long-time residents and recent homeowners and everyone in between to improve White Center’s image by cleaning up the physical environment.

Spring Clean will start with registration which begins promptly at 8:30 AM at the CDA office – 1615 SW Cambridge St Seattle, WA 98106. Please come prepared with appropriate clothes and shoes for gardening, painting, litter cleanup, and more if you'd like to take part.

550 volunteers will receive a complimentary t-shirt, light breakfast, refreshments, and lunch.

At least 22 sites (and likely more) will see work done including:

Lakewood Park cleanup - 10th s.w. & 112th St. s.w.
White Center Food Bank - 8th Ave. s.w. and 99th St. s.w.
CDA Garden - s.w. Cambridge St. and Delridge Way
WC Heights Elementary - 7th Ave. s.w. and 102nd St. s.w.
Castle/Roxhill Park - 28th Ave. s.w. & Roxbury St. s.w.
Welcome to White Center sign - 10th Ave. s.w. and Roxbury St. s.w.
Garbage can repainting - White Center business district
Mural repainting - 107th St. s.w. & 16th Ave. s.w.
Clean up abandoned building - 9445 17th s.w.
Mt. View Elementary School - 12th Ave. s.w. and 107th s.w.
General trash pickup - White Center business district
Window washing - White Center business district
10 planter boxes - White Center business district
Wash abandoned building - 17th Ave. s.w. and 98th St. s.w.
Bernie and Son's painting - 16th Ave. s.w. and s.w. Cambridge St.
Unity Vilage s.w. 100th St. and 13th Ave. s.w.
Steve Cox Memorial Park - 14th Ave. s.w. and 102nd St. s.w.
Mt. View church cleanup - 12th Ave. s.w. & 108th St. s.w.

There will likely be changes to this list which will be finalized prior to being given to the volunteers.

Also during the event the White Center Wayfinding kiosk, designed and built by Matt Tilton will be installed at the corner of 98th s.w. and 16th s.w.

During registration the event will have guest speakers including: Congressman Jim McDermott, Manager of Unincorporated Community Service Area Alan Painter, King County Councilmember Joe McDermott, US Attorney Jenny A. Durkan and Executive Director of the White Center CDA Sili Savusa.

Lunch and entertainment will be provided at the Greenbridge Plaza - 9910 8th Ave SW, Seattle, WA – starting at 12:15 PM.

The White Center Community Development Association extends its thanks to sponsors:
King County Housing Authority, Boeing Employers Credit Union, McLendon’s Hardware, White Center Chamber of Commerce, Impact Capital, City of Seattle Office of Economic Development, Habitat for Humanity Seattle/South King County, Reed Paint, Sherwin-Williams, Samway Market, Lee’s Produce, Safeway, QFC, Saars Super Saver Foods, West Seattle Tool Library, El Dorado West, King County Parks and Recreation, Norwest Graphics, Chemo’s Mexican Restaurant and Seattle Public Utilities.

SLIDESHOW: Walk/Bike Burien Bike safari promotes safety and education

patr — Sat, 19 May 2012 14:17:03 +0000

WABI (Walk Bike Burien) held a bike safari May 18 to help promote walking and biking in Burien. Brooks Stanfield, event organizer, said the purpose was to show residents new and safe ways to see their community.

Leaving from Town Center the ride, covering about 3.5 miles, took riders west to Eagle Landing and Lake Burien then back to Town Center on relatively flat and safe residential streets.

SLIDESHOW: CLICK THE IMAGE ABOVE TO SEE MORE

WABI will do one or more of these rides every month, with the purpose of educating riders on bike safety and etiquette on the road. It will also show people how they can safely ride around the Burien area.

Renton resident Mike Steffen and his daughter Audry came to the ride to see if they wanted to move into the area. They enjoyed the “very family friendly environment in Burien."

Stanfield said the website www.wabiburien.org will have all of the upcoming events, including maps and routes through the rest of the year. The site will also have safety information such as choosing the right helmet, how much money you need to spend on a bike, are child bike seats safe? and how you can make them safe by choosing the correct kickstand for your bike.

“The purpose of this ride is to show how you can have a safe and enjoyable ride with the whole family."

WABI will also be involved in the upcoming Bike Joust event in August.

You can also find out more information about WABI Burien on Facebook.

Tukwila meeting set to discuss City Light power pole project

ericm — Fri, 18 May 2012 18:33:15 +0000

Press release:

Seattle City Light is letting its customers in the South Beacon Hill and Tukwila area know about a project beginning this summer.

Seattle City Light will start preliminary work on power lines just east of I-5 near exits 157 and 158.

The majority of the work will take place beginning in the spring of 2013, although there will be some work starting this year.

Areas affected include South Beacon Hill and part of Tukwila on both the east and west sides of I-5 near City Light’s Right-of-Way.

Specifically, the utility will begin work to replace the wooden “H-Frame” poles that carry transmission lines from the Creston-Nelson substation to the Duwamish substation. The poles are more than fifty years old.

The utility is taking the opportunity to increase power capacity and up-grade distribution lines to meet the increasing demand in the southern part of the utility’s service territory. The work is designed to increase reliability for customers and to meet anticipated economic development needs in this fast-developing area.

Open House & Briefing
Wednesday, May 23, 6 - 7:30 pm
Emerson Elementary School,
9709 60th Ave. S. Seattle WA, 98118

Thursday, May 24, 6 - 7:30 pm
Tukwila Community Center, Arts Room A
12424 42nd Ave. S. Tukwila, WA, 98168

Residents and businesses will have a chance to talk with the project manager about the potential impacts of the project, the work schedule, and to find out more about this project.

For more information, contact Mark VanOss: mark.vanoss@seattle.gov or (206) 684-3279.

SLIDESHOW: Dow Constantine's Filing Week Luncheon draws 700, including Hal Sparks

steves — Sat, 19 May 2012 01:40:27 +0000

SLIDESHOW: Click on photo for more

Nearly 700 filled the Convention Center ballroom Friday for King County Executive Dow Constantine's 3rd Annual Filing Week Luncheon. While he is in mid-term and doesn't file until 2013, he holds the event to "celebrate the Democratic election process" he said, & to promote candidates running this year.

Actor & musician Hal Sparks entertained with political commentary and biting humor, tagging Mitt Romney as a "mindless puppet" with a key lodged in his back. Sparks then pushed for marriage equality, and Referendum 74 expected to come, in Washington State.

Showing their support at the event were Representatives Dave Upthegrove and Joe Fitzgibbon, King County Council member Joe McDermott, Seattle City Council member Tom Rasmussen, King County Assessor Lloyd Hara, State Sen. Ed Murray, and Mimi and Bill Gates, Sr.

In his speech, Constantine quipped, "The GOP did a nationwide search for a compelling presidential standard bearer—and came up with… Mitt Romney.
Seeing as he’s been clinging to the roof rack of their station wagon since 2008, it probably wasn’t that hard to find him."

He added, "This past year we worked together to create the King County Aerospace Alliance and this region secured production of the next generation 737 MAX. We set a course for green jobs and clean energy. We started construction on the deep bore tunnel and the 520 bridge replacement and we are moving forward on bus rapid transit, and yes, new light rail (...) And, yes, for those of you who are into such things, we're working for the return of your Seattle SuperSonics.

"We need a governor and a legislature committed to working with us, committed to advancing our progressive values, committed to creating opportunity and prosperity, not just for the few, but for all the people of this region and the state," Constantine said. "We need a governor and a legislature committed to pushing forward our pro-transit, pro-choice, pro-equal rights, pro-green jobs, pro-big ideas for this region and state. That's why these races matter."

Said Sparks, in support of same-sex marriage, "You guys are about to vote on whether other people get to be themselves (...) That's both awesome and completely messed up (...) In our culture we think that fat is genetic but gay is a choice. I don't care what kind of shape you're in. You can go to the gym and become less fat. You cannot go to the gym and become less gay. In fact, the opposite seems to be true, anecdotally.

"It's not about him," Sparks said, speaking of Mitt Romney. "That's a distraction. He's the puppet show. What the right is coming for is your local officials (...) your school boards, your judges, your lieutenant governors, comptrollers and regulators."

He said that's why it is important to stay active locally and vote.

"That's what the mission of the Democratic Party, the progressives, is, for the next 30 years," he said.

"The trick will be paying more attention, not less," he said. "You've got two major organizations, one is Liberty University, one is the Mormon Church, who are seeding money in this country against marriage equality measures. They did it in California, and in every other state (...) I certainly hope (Referundum 74) allows full marriage rights to help LGBT couples."

Sparks plans to participate in "Stephanie Miller's Sexy Liberal Comedy Tour"
Sept. 29 at the Paramount Theatre. The tour sold out at the Moore Theatre last Oct. 1. Ticket sales from the tour go toward progressive political and local causes.

Transform Burien Outreach offers free food & clothes, needs pantry items

steves — Thu, 17 May 2012 21:30:36 +0000

Transform Burien is a cooperative group of nine churches located in the Burien/Highline area that offer free resources to those in need through their Outreach program. They are located in the "old" Burien Community Center, on 4th Ave. SW between SW 144th St. and SW 146th St., by the skateboard park.

Participating churches are the Burien Evangelical Church, Burien Free Methodist Church, Evergreen Church, Highline Christian Church, Hope Christian Community, John Knox Presbyterian Church, Taproot Church, Three Tree Community Church, and Westside Christian Fellowship.

Free hot meals are served every Wednesday, noon to 2:00 p.m., every Sunday, 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and new and used clothes, and food pantry items are also free, and available during this time. Their food pantry is sparse, and they urge the public for donations of non-perishable canned goods like soup and beans, and other staples like rice.

Mobile Medical Care

The South King County Mobile Medical Care for Homeless People serves Transform Burien the first and third Wednesdays each month, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Mobile Medical program provides basic medical care to homeless individuals and families living in south King County. A doctor or nurse provides exams and treatment. The program does not charge a fee and does not require insurance. The program can assist with finding shelter, substance abuse treatment, and other resources.

Volunteer Michelle Morrell was born and raised in Burien. She said she does most of the cooking.

"We all love our fellow people and we all love the Lord," she said. "We are all brothers and sisters and that's the heart that makes this place go. I spend at least three days a week here. We prepare on Fridays. On Sundays we feed about 200 people.

Pastor Jack Seeley serves the Burien Evangelical Church, adjacent to the Transform Burien facility.

"I spent 27 years administering inner city missions," he said. "I retired from what became CityTeam Ministries on Elliott Avenue and then took the church here."

He sees more children coming in for assistance.

"Families come in on Sunday and we see a lot of kids," he said. "A lot of kids are in school Wednesdays when we get more of our homeless (adult) crowd. I work at Highline High School as a volunteer football coach and at one time had six on our team couch-surfing, as it's called, staying with others because they had no where else to stay."

Boston-born James, 43, is homeless and lives in Burien, and said he sleeps behind the USA Mini Mart. He is a regular at Transform Burien for meals, and uses their food pantry and donated clothes. He attended Foster High School in Tukwila.

"I've lived in Burien a long time," he said. "I remember when Albertsons was a rock quarry. I sleep behind the USA gas station. Shelters, I've been there. Got crabs. No bugs for me. Don't want to go back. The kids love me here. They come by when they have problems at home, mostly parent problems. One kid told me his mom and dad said they were going to get divorce because of him being there.

James added, "I tell kids, Stay in school, even if you hate your teacher. Or get that GED.' My mom lives in Idaho. That's the only one I really talk to. My dad was abusive, and beat up on her."

Volunteer Pamela Molner

"Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and have a heart for people I've seen here," said volunteer and Burien resident, Pamela Molner. "All these people are precious but a few stay with you when you go home and your mind wanders and wonders, especially when it's cold and rainy."

She pointed out a homeless man eating lunch by himself who she believes needs urgent medical help.

"He won't listen to us," she said. "He's 'the captain of his own ship'. Yes, there are plenty of others here I can be concerned about, but I still try to get through to him. You can't toss someone aside and say, 'I'll get a new one because this one is broken.'"

SLIDESHOW: Young Native American dancers perform at Burien Nursing & Rehab

steves — Thu, 17 May 2012 18:01:47 +0000

SLIDESHOW: CLICK ON PHOTO FOR MORE

Residents of Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation were treated to traditional music and dance Wednesday by five students from Auburn's Chinook Elementary School. The nursing home planned activities for its residents May 13 to 19 for National Nursing Home Week® 2012, or NNHW.

According to the NNHW website, its theme this year is "Celebrating the Journey". And while Burien Nursing & Rehab residents seemed charmed by the young dancers, and offered applause after each song, the kids, too, celebrated their journey from Auburn as they moved in circles and leaped with a spring in their steps to the beat of a traditional drum.

Chinook School instructor, Robin Pratt, said her dance group meets every week and performs around the Seattle area. Some have been in the group five years. The dance group includes more students than the five appearing.

New BBQ Schacht in Sea Tac pulls pork, but pulls no punches

steves — Thu, 17 May 2012 19:27:14 +0000

Punning on his name, longtime barbecue pit master and caterer Mike Schacht just opened a place of his own, and calls it The BBQ Schacht, 19231 Des Moines Memorial Drive at South 192nd in Sea Tac. Schacht is assisted by friend and pit master colleague, Jimmy Carter. Customers have fun with his name, too.

Until now, Schacht, 46, took his barbecue business to you, for weddings, festivals, and privates parties. He will continue catering events on weekends, when his restaurant is closed. That is why the BBQ Schacht's hours are Mondays through Fridays, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

He opened April 12, and said that last Friday, May 11, he went through 30 racks of ribs.

"It was ridiculously busy," he said. "We had 50 customers here, many sitting out on the curb eating. Not everyone was from around here, either. Barbecue is a destination."

Schacht is a blues buff, and customers will hear blues and cajun music on the speakers including Robert Johnson and other old masters. He saw Chicago blues man Buddy Guy perform at his club Legends in the Windy City, and said he lucked out when he arrived to a standing room only concert.

"I was in Chicago for a Bears, Seahawks game and was wearing my Seahawks jersey," he recalled. "They saw I was from out of town and gave my friend and me front row seats. Richard Dent from the '85 Bears was sitting on the stage wearing his Super Bowl ring."

Schacht was born in Woodstock, Illinois, about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. Its historic opera house and quaint gazebo were made famous in the Bill Murray movie, "Groundhog Day".

"Cooking has always been a hobby," said Schacht. "Then I started messing around with recipes, going to different barbecue meccas, tasting the flavors. I said, 'Hey. I'm going to put together some of my own set of flavors.' I like a little bit of the Kansas City style, the (spiced) dry rub of Memphis, and all the guys from Texas have to have the brisket.

"The nice thing about being up here (in the Northwest) is that I can take a little bit of everybody and no one can get mad at me," he said, referring to regional biases.

Schacht's mother Karen helps him work the festivals on weekends with his temporary kitchen set-up. This weekend they are working a four-night blues fest at the Sunbanks Lake Resort at Grand Coulee. They are also scheduled to work the International Festival at Angle Lake Park June 23 and 24.

"She's a retired RN loves to sit out there and have a good time," he said of his mom. "When you're talking about rubbing, pulling, and smoking meat you can't help but have a good time. Keeps a smile on your face."

The BBQ Schacht
19231 Des Moines Memorial Drive
Seatac, WA 98148

11AM to 7PM
Monday - Friday

(206) 903-6453, or email mike@TheBbqSchacht.com for your special event.

SeaTac young lady competes for Miss Teen title

ericm — Thu, 17 May 2012 19:55:37 +0000

Press release:

Katherine Chounla of SeaTac was recently selected to participate in the 2012 Miss Teen Seattle pageant competition that will take place on Sunday, June 17.

Katherine, a Global Connection High student on the Tyee campus, learned of her acceptance into this year's competition when the pageant announced their selections following interviewing in the local Seattle area.

Katherine submitted an application and took part in an interview session that was conducted by this year's Seattle Pageant Coordinator.  

Katherine will be competing, for her share of thousands of dollars in prizes and specialty gifts that will be distributed to contestants. Katherine will be competing in the division, one of four divisions that will have young ladies ages of 7 and 19 competing in modeling routines, which include casual wear and formal wear.

Most important, Katherine will display her personality and interviewing skills while interviewing with this year's Seattle judging panel.

Personality is the number one aspect that each contestant is judged on during all phases of competition.   If Katherine were to win the title of Miss Teen Seattle, she would represent Seattle and the surrounding communities at the National Competition that will take place in Orlando, Florida.

Over $30,000.00 in prizes and awards will be presented at the National Competition while each winner enjoys this expense paid trip of five nights and six days in Orlando, Florida.

  Community businesses, organizations, and private individuals will assist Katherine in participating in this year's competition by becoming an official sponsor to her.

Through sponsorship, each contestant receives all the necessary training, rehearsals, and financial support which will allow Katherine to become a very confident and well-prepared contestant in this year's Seattle Pageant.

  Any business, organization, or private individual who may be interested in becoming a sponsor to Katherine may contact the Seattle pageant coordinator, at 1-800-279-0976.

Open house set May 23 for Des Moines Marina, Beach Park plans

ericm — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:58:25 +0000

The city of Des Moines is holding a community open house Wednesday, May 23, on the Des Moines Marina and Beach Park development plan.

The meeting will be held at the Des Moines Activity Center, 2045 S. 216th St. from 5-7 p.m.

The open house will include preliminary site development concepts for the marina floor.

Staffers are seeking comments on land use, development options and the economic health of the marina and Beach Park.

More information is available at www.desmoinesmarina.com or by contacting Harbormaster Joe Dusenbury at 206-870-5534 or jdusenbury@desmoineswa.gov.

SeaTac Municipal Court celebrates National Law Week in June

ericm — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:48:02 +0000

SeaTac’s Municipal Court is holding a series of public events June 4-8 to commemorate National Law Week.

“We are very excited to celebrate Law Week with the citizens of SeaTac,” Municipal Court Judge Elizabeth Cordi-Bejarano declared. “We have a number of community events and we are especially looking forward to working with the teachers and students at Tyee to increase awareness regarding constitutional rights, the services offered by the courts of our state, and career opportunities related to the legal profession.”

In 1958 President Dwight D. Eisenhower established the first Law Day. Congress, in 1961, issued a joint resolution designating May 1st as the official date for celebrating Law Day. While May 1st is the official date for Law Day, many organizations celebrate Law Day, Law Week, or even Law Month.

Here is SeaTac’s Law Week schedule of events:

 Monday June 4th
Mock Trials & DUI, Drug Recognition & K-9 Presentations 8:30 AM – 11:45 AM Students will be separated into 3 groups of 35 each. Groups A, B & C will rotate between sessions. Each session will be 1 hour in length with 5 minutes allowed for transition time between sessions.

Mock Trial – Courtroom
DUI & Drug Recognition – Courtroom/Chambers Lobby
K9 Presentation – Council Chambers

Tuesday June 5th
Mock Trials & DUI, Drug Recognition & K-9 Presentations 8:30 AM – 11:45
Students will be separated into 3 groups of 35 each. Groups A, B & C will rotate between sessions. Each session will be 1 hour in length with 5 minutes allowed for transition time between sessions.

Mock Trial – Courtroom
DUI & Drug Recognition – Courtroom/Chambers Lobby
K9Presentation – Council Chambers

Wednesday June 6th
Time TBD – Court Jeopardy Game Community Center
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM - Somali Community Event in Council Chambers

Thursday June 7th
9:00 – 11:30 Courtroom observation – Council Chambers
1:30 – 4:00 Courtroom observation – Council Chambers
Tentative - DUI Crash Car and DUI Educational Materials at City Hall

Friday June 8th
9:00 – 12:00 Me & My Government Class Mock Trial Courtroom
6:00 – 8:00 PM Community Presentation Council Chambers
· DUI Victim’s Panel
· MARR – Major Accident Response & Reconstruction

Highline Foundation and Car Pros Nissan partner to raise $50,000

ericm — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:52:20 +0000

Press release:

Highline Medical Center Foundation is proud to announce a partnership with Car Pros Burien Nissan. With every new car purchase made Memorial Day Weekend, Friday May 25 through Monday, May 28, Car Pros Burien Nissan will donate $200 to Highline Medical Center Foundation benefiting Highline Medical Center and the health of this community.

Individuals who mention Highline Medical Center will qualify for fleet pricing, which is not available to the general public. This pricing is generally thousands off the manufacturer’s suggested retail price depending on the vehicle. Fleet pricing will allow a stream-lined, reduced price, direct buying experience for those who are eligible and participate.

Highline Medical Center Foundation and Car Pros Nissan set a goal to reach $50,000 by August of 2012. Car Pros Nissan has a huge inventory of new, used and certified pre-owned vehicles to choose from.

If you would like to take advantage of this fund raising opportunity, please call Matt Summers, Fleet/Internal Manager for Car Pros Nissan – Reference #081910 – at (206) 245-1075 or email him at matts@carpros.com. Or if you would like to donate to Highline Medical Center Foundation, please log on to www.SupportHighline.org.

Burien youth recovery event set for May 24

ericm — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:55:38 +0000

B-Town’s Recovering Youth in Motion will hold its May Recovery Night on Thursday, May 24 at the Burien Library Multipurpose Room, 400 S.W. 152nd St., 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The event is for youth recovering from drug or alcohol addiction.

Activities include art contests, music, games, movies and prizes.

For more information contact 206-251-9171.

LETTER: Questions not properly answered at first annexation outreach meeting

cmenges — Wed, 16 May 2012 22:39:02 +0000

Burien held its first outreach meeting on annexation at Glen Acres on Monday, May 14. Strangely, it was not open to the public to attend.

City Council members were encouraged not to attend this event by Mr. Martin at the council meeting of May 7th so it was peculiar to see Jerry Robison as one of the main speakers at the event.

As Burien citizens have experienced for the last five years, the city staff, city manager and one council person gave elusive answers to questions--answers that made no sense, were not based on factual data and didn’t financially add up.

At one point, Mr. Martin said something to the effect that he couldn’t even begin to tell them all the benefits of annexation such as having a solid and progressive city willing to work on Glen Acres and a council who will listen to their concerns compared to King County.

However, Mr. Marin was unable to correctly or consistently answer questions on these issues that the Glen Acres audience raised:

1. Noise insulation from the airport noise generated by the Port-- Mr. Martin said it was too late to help Glen Acres. Burien could have helped push for a noise wall, more buy outs of residents on 12th or nighttime curfews but neglected to do so during the last FAR 150 process recently completed.
Mike did suggest talking to Rose Clark who he said has been doing a good job making sure the Port sticks to their designated corridors, which incidentally cross over Glen Acres.

2. Animal control-- Currently Area Y has King County Animal Control, which is far superior to CARES, Burien’s animal control.
However, Mr. Martin and Mr. Robison went on to claim that Burien’s model is the best. As usual, no comparative statistics, financial reports, spay/neuter programs or education programs could be shown for the Burien Mystery Animal Care Model known as CARES.

3. A business model for Area Y, specifically the Top Hat Area-- Once again, Mr. Martin side-stepped the question and went on to talk about how great NERA was going to be when the car dealerships moved there.
Burien does not have a business plan for Area Y, Area X or even the core city of Burien.
The Berk Draft Report was never and still is not a business plan. The money Burien has received from the state for NERA are for a storm-water system management and not to move the auto dealerships. The annexation of Area Y without a business plan for the area puts the city of Burien in violation of its own comprehensive plan.

4. Infrastructure repairs, specifically the roads in Area Y-- Mr. Martin went on to say the timing for annexation was now because of how bad the condition of the roads were in Area Y. However at the earlier Burien City Council meetings on annexation, Mr. Martin, Mr. Robison and Ms. Clark stated that the situation was not as bad up in Area Y as people were exaggerating it to be.
According to the Berk Draft Report, Burien could inherit a $91+ million dollars debt from the infrastructure problems in Area Y with no way to pay for the repair of these problems. The sales tax credits cannot be used to fund these repairs. So who is going to pay for these and where will the monies come from?

5.Police Services-- Supposedly Area X got 12 new police officers. However, the budget displays the city of Burien showed at the last budget presentation on the costs of annexing Area X do not match the cost of the 12 new police officers.
Someone’s math is definitely incorrect. And the cost of these police models does not add up for Area Y either. If it did, Burien would not have to be asking for an increase in utility taxes to add more new police. Mr. Martin managed to forget to include this tax increase number into his display when he talked about the new taxes that the residents of Area Y would be required to pay.

The fact that there is still no agreement between the fire stations to handle the mismanaged debt incurred by the North Highline Fire Station and the need for additional 911 services to service Area Y was not even mentioned by Mr. Martin or Mr. Robison. Someone will need to pay for these with increased taxes.
Burien is legally not supposed to be out promoting annexation to you at these outreach meetings. The city is supposed to only be providing you with the real facts.

I strongly encourage the citizens of Area Y to ask for real facts, figures and answers to questions. Don’t accept wishy–washy off topic answers from Burien and its city officials. You could end up with something much worse and much more costly than King County.

In fact, the handout at the meeting did admit the average homeowner will pay at least $180 more per year to be in Burien and the Berk Draft Report admitted that at the end of 11 years, Burien would be in serious financial problems if it annexed Area Y. That can only mean more taxes and/or less services for all of the area including Glen Acres.

Debi Wagner
Burien

B-17 "Aluminum Overcast" at Boeing Field May 24-27 for “Salute to Veterans” national tour

steves — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:45:37 +0000

The B-17 “Aluminum Overcast,” the Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EEA) restored B-17 bomber, arrives at Boeing Field by the Seattle Museum of Flight this Monday, May 21. Tours of the aircraft, and rides, are available May 24 to 27. The event is hosted by "The Cascade Warbirds ".

The Aluminum Overcast is on its year-long, “Salute to Veterans” national tour. The plane was built in 1945, but was delivered to the Army Air Corps too late to see active service in World War II. It was donated to the EAA Aviation Foundation in 1981 with the provision of the aircraft being maintained in airworthy condition. After being displayed at the EAA AirVenture Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin for a decade, the airplane made its national tour debut in the spring of 1994.

Known as “The Flying Fortress,” the B-17 bomber is considered one of the greatest military airplanes ever built and one of the best-known aircraft types of the World War II era.

For more information, including rates for flights and ground tours, visit www.b17.org or contact EAA’s B-17 Tour Office at 800-359-6217.

Cost of flight:

Current EAA Member $409
Non EAA Member $449

The above prices are for advance bookings only. Flights purchased on site are $435 for EAA members and $475 for Non-members.

Self guided ground tours daily from 2pm to 5pm. ($10 for adults, $20 per family) Active military and veterans admitted free.

UPDATE: EVENT CANCELLED- GreenStage Springtime for Shakespeare Fundraiser in Burien May 19

steves — Tue, 08 May 2012 16:02:35 +0000

May 15- Event cancelled according to Production Shop's Jeff Taylor.

-------------------------------------------------------------
GreenStage, Seattle’s longest running Shakespeare Company, presents "Springtime for Shakespeare Fundraiser" at The Production Shop, a 4,877 square foot, two-story warehouse, 14634 9th Avenue SW, Burien, May 19.

Doors open at 6pm • No host bar and appetizers

Dinner served at 7pm • Presentations conclude by 9:30pm

$60 to cover the cost of meal and wine.

From GreenStage's website:

GreenStage’s mission is to inspire our audiences to engage in live theatre as part of their recreation. We wish to instill and foster in our community an appreciation for live theater, with a strong belief that theater can be enjoyed in the same spirit as a picnic or a ballgame. We make high-quality theatrical productions of Shakespeare’s plays freely accessible to all residents and visitors to Seattle and King County.

Our productions are free, fun, and family oriented, focusing on the text and story of the play. The talent of our artists, the beauty of the natural park spaces, and the imagination and participation of our audiences creates inspiring productions that allow everyone involved to experience live theatre, and Shakespeare in particular, in new ways.

Shakespeare’s characters and words come to life in eye-opening ways when heard in these intimate, outdoor performances, and GreenStage’s patrons, fans, and participants, all join together to help keep theatre freely accessible to all.

Admission to our shows is always free, and when the hat is passed, we are grateful for the freely given and generous donations. Each summer our shows reach more than 11,000 people with the shared interest of seeing Shakespeare performed outdoors in a straightforward, uncluttered and FREE performance!

Soroptimist Intl. of Seattle South event at the Cove this Saturday, May 19

steves — Wed, 16 May 2012 03:08:39 +0000

Soroptimist International of Seattle South will hold its fundraiser Cards for a Cause on Saturday, May 19 from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Normandy Park Cove, 1500 SW Shorebrook Dr. Doors open 5:30 p.m.

Sports Roundup 5-14-12

cmenges — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:28:43 +0000

Sports Roundup

Friday, May 11
Fastpitch
Eatonville 14, Evergreen 0
Evergreen played in a Class 2A West Central District tournament game at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds and had its season end with a 14-0 loss to Eatonville Friday.
Track and field
Class 2A meet
Raheem Howard won on the boys side in the 2A action at Renton Stadium, taking the triple jump at a distance of 43 feet, 6 1/2 inches.
Class 1A meet
Orting hosted the Class 1A sub-district meet, where the Seattle Christian girls took fifth place as a team with 26 points and the boys took sixth place with 13. Doherty won the boys 110 hurdles in 17.74.
Boys soccer
Seattle Academy 2, SCS 1
Seattle Christian's season ended with Friday's loss to Seattle Academy at Sammamish High School.

Saturday, May 12
Boys soccer
Franklin Pierce 3, Tyee 2
A 2-0 Tyee lead slipped away in the closing minutes of Saturday's game and the action went to a shootout, with Franklin Pierce winning the barrage of penalty kicks, 5-3.
The defeat ended the Totems' stay in Class 2A postseason play.
Fife def. Foster
Foster's 2A postseason also ended with a loss on Saturday.
Baseball
North Kitsap 3, Foster 0
The Bulldogs' season ended with Saturday's West Central District loss to North Kitsap at Franklin Pierce High School.
Fastpitch
Kennedy-Highline
Kennedy Catholic advanced out of this past weekend's sub-district tournament into this coming weekend's West Central District tournament, but Highline did not.
The Lancers open the WCD Class 3A tournament with a 12 p.m. game against Capital on Friday at Sprinker Recreation Center in Spanaway. The winner of that game plays Camas at 4 p.m. Friday on the same field and the loser plays at 10 a.m. Saturday.
At stake are berths into the May 25-26 state tournament at Tacoma's South End Recreation Area.
Track and field
Class 3A meet

No Highline-area athletes took first place in the boys side from Friday's final day of action at Sumner's Sunset Chevrolet Stadium, but the girls side was well represented.
Michelle Stolz of Highline won the 100-meter hurdles in a time of 15.46 seconds and the 300 hurdles in 45.86. Teammate Whitney Diggs took the 200-meter run in 25.04 and won the 400 in a time of 57.09.
Kennedy's Danielle Carnahan won the pole vault at 10 feet, 0 inches and Brittany Bennett of the Lancers won the 800-meter run in 2:19.53. Highline won the 800-meter relay in 1:44.92.

Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market moving closer to the waterfront

cmenges — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:06:49 +0000

There seems no end to his promotional skills and dedicated passion into every local community project he’s a part of, including this city’s Waterfront Farmers Market. When local promoters need assistance to make a community project successful they often turn volunteer Wayne Corey.

As president of the farmers market, Corey has made huge improvements including the major one this year of moving the market from the south end of the marina the north end.

There will be dining tables for people to enjoy their newly purchased goodies and benches for view seating. For the first time, this market is truly at the waterfront with boating activities up close and personal.

So, get ready for local farm-fresh food, remarkable arts and crafts, lively music, rainbow color bunches of flowers and the new location next to the Harbormasters office, (the white buildings with pointed roofs.)

Grand opening for the market is Saturday, June 2nd, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Activities include a military color guard ceremony with the flag being unfurled from the South King Fire & Rescue ladder truck.

Also on display will be a 9-11 World Trade Center steel beam artifact to be installed around a monument at South King headquarters in Federal Way. It is in dedication to lost firefighters from that unforgettable day.

Market manager Rikki Marohl is the always friendly and smiling face that has been an indispensable asset to the market for several years.

“I enjoy every minute of being at this market,” she often says.

Other directors are Kim Richmond, vice president; Kim Trapp, secretary; Kathy Russell, treasurer and board members Char Schultz, Valria Lopez, Kris Van Gasken, Del Rivero and Catherine Barashkoff.

The truly talented well-known artist, Jenny Elliott, has created a new official market poster for 2012 that captures the north marina background and includes her fun drawings of actual people at the market. Jennie’s career was also as a gifted dancer in Broadway musicals. She’ll be at the market on opening day, so stop by and say “Hello.”

Carmen Scott, City Council member and liaison to the market is a working supporter who volunteers regularly.

“Carmen Scott is a great asset to the market and it’s future,” Corey said.

Carmen is also a skilled photographer and has created a treasury of Des Moines magnificent pictures that can open the times of yesterday for many tomorrows and future generations. Her talent and generous picture contributions to the Legacy Foundation and Des Moines Historical Society make it possible for today’s children to someday share pictures of “home” with their own children.

Carmen will be at a market booth with her picture note cards for sale and she donates profit to charitable organizations such as Des Moines Legacy Society. Stop by to say “Hello” to Carmen, as well as Wayne’s wife, charming Susan Corey, who assists Carmen and the market in many ways that add to it’s success.

Corey said a new addition is “Boardwalk Bistro.”

Opening day events also include Classic Cars. Radio Station WARM 106.9 will do a remote broadcast.

Also, please bring your old unused musical instruments to donate to Des Moines Rotary’s Music4Life Restoration Project that refurbishes them and gives to Highline schools for students who can’t afford instruments. Saturday Market participants also donate generously to nonprofit Des Moines Food Bank and partners with many outreach organizations to help them serve the needy.

Corey said, “We are really excited about the move to the north end of the Marina to grow, expand and provide more conveniences for shoppers.”

Manager Marohl said, “Along with your favorite foods, Auntie Irene’s serves ice cream and the market again features it’s own wines, including popular ‘Waterfront White.’”

So, don’t miss Opening Day festivities at Des Moines Waterfront Market –- and breathtaking fantastic view of God’s Earthly Creations – mountains, water and nice people!

For market information log onto www.DMFM.org and sign up for the weekly e-newsletter.

Today’s Thought: Silence is the only thing that cannot be misquoted.

Update: Five finalists named for Des Moines Police Chief

ericm — Thu, 10 May 2012 19:50:18 +0000

On Monday afternoon, May 14, the city of Des Moines named its five finalists for police chief.

They are George Delgado, Commander, Vancouver, WA;
Charlie Dennis, former Chief of Police, Page, AZ;
John Dyer, Commander, Oak Harbor, WA; Stephen MacKinnon, Chief of Police, Santa Paula, CA; and Christopher Shawkey, former Chief of Police, Costa Mesa, CA.

Here is our previous coverage:

The public is invited to meet the five finalists for the Des Moines Chief of Police at a reception hosted by the City on May 21st from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Des Moines Activity Center, 2045 South 216th Street.

The position has been vacant since the retirement of Chief Roger Baker in June 2010, with Commander John O’Leary serving as interim chief since then.

The public will be able to informally meet and interact with the candidates during the reception.

No formal presentations or question and answer process will be conducted; however, a short written biography for each will be available. Comment forms will be on hand for citizens to offer their impressions of each candidate.

For more information, please contact Sue Bowman in the Des Moines City Manager’s office at 206-870-6541. The candidates’ names will be released on Monday, May 14th.

Stay Safe Around the Water

ericm — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:30:57 +0000

Press release:

People enjoying the warm weather last weekend flocked to the water. The large number of people enjoying area lakes and rivers kept the Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit very busy.

The Marine Unit responded to incidents on Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish and the Green River. With more warm weather today and summer around the corner, the Sheriff would like to remind people of the importance of personal floatation devices – life jackets.

A properly fitted life jacket should be warn at all times when in and around our lakes and rivers. In many cases, life jackets save lives.

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case on the Green River this weekend where Drew Neilson was killed. Mr. Neilson was properly equipped and his tragic death occurred despite the fact that he was wearing a personal floatation device.

Flotation devices are like seatbelts. They often help you survive the unexpected, but unfortunately there are no guarantees.

King County Sheriff Steve Strachan says, “Make sure that you and your children are wearing life jackets while enjoying King County waters”.

Please enjoy responsible recreation on the water this summer. Stay sensible, safe and sober.

Smelly yak skulls top police blotter

cmenges — Mon, 14 May 2012 19:57:08 +0000

Dog sniffs out yak skulls at Sea-Tac Airport
A traveler was stopped at the Sea-Tac Airport by a dog that smelled something funny. Customs and Border Protection agriculture specialists contacted the man and he told them he had four yak skulls in his duffel bag. The traveler told the specialists he found two of the skulls while hiking in Tibet. He also bought two yak skulls at a village store to keep as souvenirs. Two of the skulls had dried flesh on them, which is what alerted a federal Beagle named Woody. An Agriculture program manager said the skulls were destroyed under high-pressure steam to prevent the introduction of animal diseases.

Kent man shot in torso in Tukwila
According to the Tukwila Police Department, on Friday, May 11, a 24 year-old Kent man was sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle in a parking lot when another vehicle occupied by four male adults and a female pulled up next to him. The victim had a previous argument with one of the men. One of the men shot the victim in the torso causing serious injury. After being shot, the victim stumbled into the Shell station at 14620 Tukwila International Boulevard. The employee called 911 for help. Police found the man still conscious and fire department aid & medics treated him for a single gunshot wound and transported him to Harborview Medical Center. Tukwila Police detectives are investigating.

Tukwila officer assaulted by car thief
A Tukwila police officer was assaulted while trying to subdue a 32-year-old man attempting to steal a car from a rental agency. An agency employee was trying to keep the man there until officers arrived. When they arrived the man resisted their efforts to take him into custody, according to Mike Murphy, a Tukwila police spokesman. The man, who appeared to be under the influence of narcotics, was taken to a hospital for treatment and observation. He was then booked into the King County Jail for investigation of attempted theft of a motor vehicle, assault on a police officer, assault and obstructing a police officer.

Car break-ins, vandalism, prowlers and thefts
14400 blk 8th Ave. S.W., 12200 blk Ambaum Blvd., 12800 blk Ambaum Blvd. S., 12600 blk Roseburg Ave. S., 600 blk S.W. 124th St., 2000 blk S. 117th St., 600 blk S.W. 156th St., 14400 blk 8th Ave. S.W., 12300 blk 28th Ave. S., 14000 blk 1st Ave. S., 2000 blk S.W. 172nd St., 2000 blk S.W. 149th St., 12200 blk 16th Ave. S., 13200 blk Ambaum Blvd. S., 2000 blk S. 118th St., 13000 blk 12th Ave. S.W., 15700 blk Ambaum Blvd. S., 12200 blk 23rd Ave. S., 100 blk S.W. 148th, 15200 blk 4th Ave. S., 1000 blk S.W. 152nd St.

Residential burglaries and break-ins
14000 blk 5th Ave. S., 800 blk S.W. 127th St., 12800 blk 12th Ave. S., 200 blk S.W. 119th St., 10100 blk 16th Ave. S., 13700 blk 8th Ave. S.W., 16800 blk 3rd Ave. S.W., 13700 blk 8th Ave. S.W.

Sports Roundup 5-14-12

cmenges — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:29:52 +0000

Sports Roundup

Friday, May 11
Fastpitch
Eatonville 14, Evergreen 0
Evergreen played in a Class 2A West Central District tournament game at the Kitsap County Fairgrounds and had its season end with a 14-0 loss to Eatonville Friday.
Track and field
Class 2A meet
Raheem Howard won on the boys side in the 2A action at Renton Stadium, taking the triple jump at a distance of 43 feet, 6 1/2 inches.
Class 1A meet
Orting hosted the Class 1A sub-district meet, where the Seattle Christian girls took fifth place as a team with 26 points and the boys took sixth place with 13. Doherty won the boys 110 hurdles in 17.74.
Boys soccer
Seattle Academy 2, SCS 1
Seattle Christian's season continues despite Friday's loss to Seattle Academy at Sammamish High School. The Warriors will host Manson for a 6 p.m. state opener at Starfire Stadium Tuesday, May 15.

Jerry's View: Forgive him—he’s a fishing nut

cmenges — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:10:46 +0000

A fishing nut since boyhood in Portland I lived a short hike from the Columbia Slough. I caught my first Chub there and came within a half inch of drowning when I slipped off a board in an old shack.

Luckily my brother Russ rescued me. I have gathered countless memories that I use to make my children wonder at my longevity and my penchant for making them laugh.

My adventures with rod and reel often included many fishing friends. One of those friends was a neighbor named Cliff, who lived across the street from me at McMicken Heights, east of the airport.

Cliff had an idea to try Lake Ki, in Arlington, as he had read about how great it was but I had a better idea. I had a friend who owned a cabin on Lake Cavanaugh, another hour north from Lake Ki. We could use his place anytime.

Opening day of low land lake fishing is always busy. We left Seattle about noon on Saturday. It took his pickup, his boat, his boy and my car to carry three boys. We figured to return home Sunday night with our limits!

It didn't start raining till we were halfway there. It didn't STOP raining after that. But, hey!, we had a cabin waiting for us. Who cares?

We found the place in spite of the gullywasher. We went down the mud path road. A humble, weathered cabin appeared to be growing out of the brush. We tumbled out of our cars and ran for the shelter. The key worked with some wiggling. A single light with a pull string dangled from the lone rafter.

Omigawd! The floor had half an inch of water.

With no squeegee or broom we did our best to rid the floor of water. After hauling in the fishing gear and the supplies, the kids tossed their sleeping bags on the semi-dry bunk boards.

Cliff was not too happy but managed to get a fire in the stove. We heated some pork and beans. I found a space with less water figuring I might have to sleep standing up.

Cliff, still grumbling, would have no part of it taking his bag out to his pickup bed and crawling into it. The rain stopped but he had no mattress; just rivet heads. I went out to check on him He was meaner than a junkyard dawg, shouting at me for my idea and moaning about rivet heads.

After a restless night we climbed out of our squishy bags, heated up some more pork and beans before heading out the door. A big surprise. The wind was howling near 50 mph when we got down to the dock.

Only a fool would take to the water now frothed with white caps. Of course only a fool would drive twice as far as needed to stay in a soggy cabin.

We managed to get two boats into the water staying close to shore. We could see the danger farther out on the lake. We motored gingerly, trolling some spoons. The wind won the battle that day as we got skunked in just over two hours. Lines got snagged or tangled and the boat bounced like a cartoon kangaroo.

The torture was too much. We pulled our boats in. One fishing party, venturing out too far, capsized and tragedy struck. We learned later they had lost a life.

We could hardly wait to leave the place. Since Lake Ki was right on our way home Cliff suggested we stop to check how folks did there. We barely entered the parking lot around 3:30 p.m. before we noticed a youngster hoisting a trophy-sized trout in his fist.

Cliff was steaming. Several anglers had their limits doing a lot of bank fishing from the porches of their freshly painted cabins.

Cliff forgave me years later for that disaster... I think. Maybe because I am a fishing NUT.

Prepare your pets now for warmer weather

ericm — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:34:20 +0000

Press release:

While sunshine and warmer weather are sure signs that summer is on the way, Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC) wants to remind pet owners to keep their furry friends safe this season.

Animals cannot sweat like humans, and they are vulnerable to overheating quickly, especially when the temperature rises above 70 degrees.

Be sure to provide plenty of fresh, cool water to your pets, and shade from the sun.

Though pets need exercise during warm weather, take extra care when exercising older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and dogs with thick coats, as they are especially vulnerable to overheating. On hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours.

Another danger is leaving pets in a vehicle. In sunny weather, the temperature inside a car can quickly rise to 120 degrees or more, even with windows left slightly open.

Animals left in a hot car, even for just a few minutes, can suffer from heat stroke, brain damage, or death. In addition, leaving a pet unattended in a hot car can be grounds for animal cruelty charges. In warm weather, leave your pets at home instead of taking them with you on errands.

If you see an animal in distress in an unattended vehicle, first try to contact authorities at the location you are visiting. They may be able to help locate the vehicle’s owner to unlock it quickly. If security guards or other authorities are unavailable, call 911 or 206-296-PETS (7387) immediately.

Your pet’s paws can be burned when walking on hot pavement, and the skin on a dog's nose can sunburn. Be sure your animals have access to shade and lots of fresh, cool water when playing outdoors.

Do not over-exert pets during the warmest hours of the day, and avoid long walks or extended exercise outdoors.

If your dog or cat becomes overheated, apply cool water or cool, moist towels to their head, neck, and chest. Then immediately take the animal to a veterinarian. For additional warm weather precautions, consult your pet's veterinarian.

This is also the time of year when lawn care and gardening heats up. Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them.

These chemicals can also cause irritation if they get in contact with paws or skin. If you suspect your pet has ingested or otherwise come into contact with lawn and garden chemicals, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Summer is also flea and tick season, so make sure you use a flea and tick treatment recommended by your veterinarian.

By taking these simple precautions, you and your pets will be able to enjoy the long summer days ahead, and keep yourselves healthy and safe.

Copper cable stolen from light-rail line

cmenges — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:01:34 +0000

Sound Transit police have reported that four miles of copper cable has been stolen from inside its elevated light rail guideway between the SeaTac City Center/Sea-Tac Airport and Rainier Beach stations.

Call 206-296-3311 if you have information on this crime.