It’s Photo Friday, so what better day to unveil pics from last Friday’s (March 12) Cove to Clover Pub Crawl?

The fun fundraiser evening brought in at least 430 participants, who paid $10 each to “crawl” amongst 13 Burien pubs (along with restaurants, a coffeeshop and food store), and get their “passports” stamped at least five times, all in the name of raising money for both the Highline Area Food Bank and Highline Schools Foundation.

According to Organizer John Nelson, over $4,300 dollars was raised in just this one night.

BTB Photographers Michael Brunk and Scott Schaefer were on the scene (purely in the name of Photojournalism of course…), and they shot a combined 179 photos.

As is always the case with photos shot by BTB Photographers, you are welcome to choose your favorites, download and print them for personal use at no charge – here’s a link to the entire set on Flickr.

Here’s our SoundSlideshow of the best shots (make sure your speakers are turned on), set to the 1940s public domain song “Hey Joe, Two Beers” by the Benny Bell & Agony Trio:

Click to Play Our SoundSlideshow

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a new, two-story Craftsman style home in Seahurst.

The main floor has an entry with open staircase, and there’s a large open gourmet kitchen with elegant cabinets, slab granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas cook top range, and a built-in microwave and oven.

The hardwood floors are made of Brazilian Cherry, the upper floor has four bedrooms, two full baths, and a large master suite with five-piece bath and walk-in closet.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, March 21st, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 14438 12 Ave SW • Burien 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $415,000
• Listing#: 28106636
• Beds: 2
• Baths: 2.5
• Fireplaces: 1
• Year Built: 2008
• 2 Garage-Attached, Off-Street Parking
• Approximate House SqFt: 2,420
• Lot Square Footage: 5,245

Interior Features:

• Bath Off Master
• Dining Room
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw
• Walk-in Closet

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Fenced-Partially
• Nat. Gas Available

Marketing Remarks:

Quality built new construction in Seahurst. Gorgeous Two-Story Craftsman style.

Main Flr. has entry with open staircase, living Rm., dining rm., large open gourmet kitchen w/elegant cabinets, slab granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, gas cook top range, built in microwave & oven, spacious family rm. w/gas fireplace off kitchen, gleaming Brazilian Cherry Hdwe. flrs., half bath, & utility rm.

Upper flr. has 4 bedrooms, two full bths., lg. master w/5 piece bath & walk-in closet.

DIRECTIONS:

• Take Ambaum to S.W 146th St.
• Go West on S.W. 146th for 1.5 blocks.
• Turn right into alley between 11th Ave. S.W. & 12th Ave. S.W.
• House is on the left side, middle of alley.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

“All Mixed Up,” a Cars Tribute Band, will be playing at BTB Advertiser Bison Creek Pizza & Pub this Saturday, March 20th, starting at 10pm.

They will play a variety of hits by The Cars, Tom Petty, The Cure and many other 80’s classics.

Here is a link to their Myspace page, which includes demo tracks:

www.allmixeduprocks.com.

Here are the show details:

• 21+ Only
• NO COVER!
• Call to reserve seats: 206.244.8825

Bison Creek Pizza & Pub
630 SW 153rd St.
Burien, WA 98166
206.244.8825

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Grand Central Bakery, a longtime bakery in Seattle and Portland, is building its newest location in downtown Burien, at 626 SW 152nd Street, in the building formerly occupied by Restaurante CentroAmericano.

Employees from the bakery were on hand at the finish line of last Sunday’s Cove to Clover 5k race, passing out Oatmeal Stout Cake and bread with jam. Rumor has it that some runners even ended up “hitting each other with baguettes.”

It’s nice to see an established bakery come to Burien, and on a personal note, we have many fond memories of eating at their original location in the Grand Central Building in Occidental Square in downtown Seattle.

Here’s a pic of their Burien space taken Tuesday (Mar. 16), currently under construction but moving towards a summer opening:

Here’s a blurb from their website:

COMING SUMMER 2010!

Freshly baked artisan breads, hand-made pastries and delicious sandwiches will soon be available in charming downtown Burien.

Soon we’ll pick up our hammers and get to work building a café that is as warm and inviting as the food we serve.

We can’t wait to meet you!

Here are some links:

• Grand Central Bakery website
• Facebook Page
• Twitter

The City of Burien recently mailed out a letter to approximately 1,250 business entities located or working in the North Highline annexation area, in an effort to provide the newly-annexed businesses with an overview of some of the opportunities available in Burien, such as the Taking Aim at Graffiti (TAG) program or the “pre-submittal meetings” offered by Community Development.

The letter also provided businesses with notice of some of their responsibilities, such as obtaining business licenses and updating their tax code on Department of Revenue forms.

Also, according to the city, as of April 1st, Comcast subscribers in the annexation area should be able to view Burien Channel 21 and Puget Sound Access on Channel 77 – and as we all know, nothing makes one feel more like part of a city than being able to watch live, exciting council meetings.

Here’s the text of the letter:

RE: City of Burien Annexation

Dear Business Owner,

I would like to welcome you to the City of Burien. As you probably know, on August 18, 2009, a majority of voting residents in the proposed annexation area, located in the southern portion of North Highline, chose to join the City of Burien. As a result, your business will officially be located in Burien as of April 1, 2010.

As a business new to Burien, your local opportunities and responsibilities will change on April 1. I encourage you to reach out and take advantage of some of our local resources. For example, Burien sponsors a Taking Aim at Graffiti (TAG) program, which provides graffiti removal to commercial properties – free of charge. Another City service you can take advantage of is the “pre-submittal meetings,” where you can meet with a City planner prior to expanding or moving your business. That way, you are aware of zoning & land use issues, parking, setbacks, signage and design criteria before you lease, buy or alter a new space.

There are also several local business organizations offering networking, collaboration and public input:

• Discover Burien: Steve Gilbert 620 SW 150th St. Burien, WA 98166 (206) 433-2882 www.discoverburien.com Promotional marketing. Meets 2nd Wednesday of each month at Burien City Hall 6:30 pm.
• Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce Nancy Hinthorne 14220 Interurban Ave. S. Tukwila, WA 98168 (206) 575-1333 www.swkcc.org Regional voice and business networking. Monthly meetings at various locations.
• Burien Business & Economic Development Partnership (BEDP) Dick Loman City of Burien Economic Development Manager (206) 248-5528 dickl@burienwa.gov Advisory Board to the Burien City Council. Meets 2nd Friday of each month at Burien City Hall 7:00 am.
• Small Business Development Center (SBDC): I especially want to call your attention to our Small Business Development Center at Highline Community College. Experienced business professionals are available by appointment to confidentially work with you on expansion, marketing, or financial needs you may have – also free of charge. You may contact Zev Siegl at (206) 878-3710, ext. 5151 or zsiegl@highline.edu.

Burien Business License
In addition to new opportunities, there are also new responsibilities. A Burien Business License is required to do business within our City limits. Business licenses are valid August 1 – July 31. For the remainder of this business license year, from April 1 through July 31, the license fees will be waived for newly annexed businesses. However, starting August 1, 2010, owners of annexed businesses will be expected to comply with the licensing requirements. For more information, please refer to the Burien Municipal Code Chapter 5.05, available on our website at www.codepublishing.com/wa/burien, or call (206) 988-3714.

Burien Business and Occupation (B&O) Tax
The City of Burien collects a .05% business and occupation tax on gross receipts earned within the City. For example, a business with $100,000 in gross receipts would pay $50 in Burien B&O taxes. However, there is a threshold, which means that businesses with annual gross receipts of less than $100,000 are not subject to the tax. The tax is remitted quarterly and forms will be mailed to you. For more information, please refer to the Burien Municipal Code Chapter 3.11 or call (206) 988-3714.

State and Local Sales and Use Tax
The amount of state and local sales and use taxes you will be collecting and remitting through the Department of Revenue will not change, but the local reporting code will change so that Burien receives its share of the taxes. For taxes collected on or after April 1, 2010, the local code is 1734, instead of 1700. For more information, please contact the Washington Department of Revenue at www.dor.wa.gov.

Our goal is to assist and welcome our new businesses and residents during this transition. For additional information on how the annexation will affect business owners and residents, please visit our annexation section on the Burien website, www.burienwa.gov/annexation, or call the Burien Annexation Information Line at (206) 436-5555. We look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,
Mike Martin
City Manager

Here’s the actual letter:

by Lori A. Alden
Prudential Northwest Realty

Opportunity is knocking for those considering home-ownership in Burien for the first time.

Historically low interest rates, lower home prices in most South King County neighborhoods and the first-time homebuyer tax credit – part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 – brought first-timers to the market in droves throughout the year.

In fact, these consumers represented about half of home sales logged during 2009, according to the National Association of REALTORS®, a significant increase from historic levels. And the favorable conditions that prompted many of these first-time buyers are likely to continue. President Obama in early November signed into law a five-month extension of the first-time homebuyer tax credit of up to $8,000, as well as a new tax credit of up to $6,500 for existing homeowners who want to purchase a home to be their primary residence (see your real estate professional and tax advisor for details). Both credits will be available through April 30, 2010 (NOW is the time to get your house on the market if you are looking to attract these consumers).

Today’s opportunities aside, here are eight time-honored reasons why those considering homeownership for the first time should make their move.

1. Pride of Ownership
Owning your own home adds to your own sense of self-esteem and personal pride. The satisfaction that comes from feeling connected to the land you occupy and the home in which you live is ages-old.

2. Security of Tenancy
With homeownership comes stability. When renting, you never know when you may have to move because of new ownership, rent increases or other changes. As a homeowner, you decide when and if you want to move.

3. Privacy
While there are usually some limits on the access landlords have to property, almost all landlords can access your property for necessary inspections and maintenance. For many renters, this lack of privacy is a significant discomfort. Homeowners on the other hand generally have much stronger property rights and experience an increase in perceived and actual privacy.

4. Decorating
Homeowners are free to decorate, remodel and accessorize a home any way they want. Not only do you have the right to make improvements, but the value of those improvements becomes yours as well. Having your living space and exteriors just the way you want them can significantly increase your satisfaction with your living environment.

5. Financial Predictability
When you buy a home with a fixed-rate mortgage, you have more predictability over future housing costs. Because your interest rate never changes, the amount of your payment never changes. Financial planning and credit are more easily managed with a fixed-rate mortgage compared to renting.

6. Building Equity
When you own your own home, you pay rent to yourself instead of a landlord. Most homeowners pay for their purchase by obtaining a mortgage. As you pay off that mortgage, your equity builds and you gain an increasingly larger share in a valuable asset. Over time, that asset can work for you in many ways, such as home equity lines of credit. And of course, a home is a wonderful asset to pass along in an estate.

7. Investment Appreciation
There are certainly no guarantees of property value appreciation. In the long-term, however, real estate valuations almost always increase. This means that when you decide to sell your home, its value may be significantly higher than when you purchased it. The difference in value is called appreciation. You can reinvest that appreciation in other real estate or you may wish to downsize and keep the value of that appreciation for retirement or other purposes.

8. Tax Benefits
In the United States, the cost of home mortgage interest and property taxes are usually tax-deductible. Depending on your circumstances, thousands of dollars in taxes can be saved each year. These tax savings are not limited to federal taxes either. Many states and localities either base their tax system on the federal system or offer similar incentives to homeownership. Some additional benefits are designed specifically for first-time homebuyers. (See your tax advisor for additional information.)

If you still have doubts, contact a real estate professional in your community. He or she can answer questions you may have about homeownership and explain the buying process to you.

Lori A. Alden can be reached at 206-244-6400, or via email at lorialden@PNWRealty.com.

Prudential Northwest Realty is an independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services, a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity. They’re also a proud sponsor of The B-Town Blog’s Real Estate section.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Burien Little Theatre’s current production, a 1950s musical comedy adaptation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will end its run this weekend. Shows are Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

So who cares? Why support the arts in Burien anyway? Isn’t just a way for a few people to feel good about themselves? Why help? Why now?

Well as it turns out, arts are good for business! Arts are good for Burien! Attached is a copy of an article in the most recent edition (March 2010) of The Business Report, a newspaper serving business interests in South King County.

The article, “Arts Represents a Boon to the Local Economy,” describes some of the economic benefits arts organizations provide to South King County. Three arts organizations mentioned by name in the article are the Federal Way Symphony, Burien Little Theatre and the Seattle Opera Scenic Studios. The latter is located in Renton.

As the article notes, a 2005 study by Americans for the Arts showed that nonprofit arts and culture organizations generate $166.2 billion in economic activity in a year. The ArtsFund 2003 King County Economic Impact Study reported that county-wide arts and culture were responsible for $208 million in sales, $113.4 million in labor income and $8 million in tax revenues.

As also noted in the attached article, not only does Burien Little Theatre buy locally whenever possible, 77.6 percent of BLT’s patrons go out and eat or drink before or after seeing one of Burien Little Theatre’s performances. It is about an even split between those that eat or drink before the show compared to those who eat and drink after the performance. This is business for local restaurants and bars that would not occur without the performances at Burien Little Theatre. Additionally, for many years Burien Little Theatre has partnered with the Mark Restaurant and Bar in Burien for a dinner and a show package, where patrons can combine both dinner and a performance for a reduced rate. This has been very successful.

Not mentioned in the article is Burien Little Theatre’s recently joining with the local child care service The Jungle Gym to provide child care during one of the evening performances during a run, so parents can enjoy a night out and have their children entertained, too. Once again arts helping local business, while also helping harried parents catch a little time for themselves.

Unlike sports patrons who go to a game and eat at the event, patrons at Burien Little Theatre eat at local restaurants before or after the performance. Additionally, on any given evening after a production anywhere from 10 to 40 cast members, friends and well wishers descend upon a local bar, often the Mark, to talk about the show and the next project they have going. Speaking from personal experience, money is spent, food is eaten and liquids consumed at these spontaneous arts-related events.

Not only do Burien Little Theatre’s patrons help the local economy by eating and drinking before and after the performances, Burien Little Theatre itself spends money in the local economy. Live theater takes many things: first of all theater takes a lot of space that Burien Little Theatre rents from the City and a local School District. Theatre also needs countless items to present a live production: from paint to props, from shoes to sandpaper, and everything in between. Theater must create an entire world to tell its story. To do that, Burien Little Theatre spends tens of thousands of dollars every season. Whenever possible Burien Little Theatre spends that money locally. Whether it is Ace Hardware, Fred Meyer, McLendon in White Center or Value Village and Salvation Army, Burien Little Theatre looks first to the local community to buy everything it needs to mount a production and run a nonprofit business.

Burien Little Theatre is suffering from loss of space in the near term and the long term. Approaching is the loss of the green house, which is the office and costume storage space Burien Little Theatre has rented from Burien Parks and Recreation for years. Burien Little Theatre is also facing a much bigger jump in its rent than just to cover inflation. In the long term there have been, and continues to be, discussions of Burien Little Theatre losing its performance space so the City of Burien can replace its new Community Center (the old library space) with another new Community Center located where Burien Little Theatre has performed for the last 30 years.

In a City like Burien, with strong leadership, the arts, including Burien Little Theatre, can flourish and help lead the way out of tough economic times for all of the people in Burien. The attached article and the studies mentioned within it answer the question, “Why help the arts?” The arts are a proven economic engine, one that is much needed right now.

So what can you do to help? First, go see a performance. Decide for yourself whether the local arts are worth supporting. Burien Little Theatre is not your parents’ community theatre. It is part of the suburban fringe movement, bringing to Burien bold, fun, high-quality productions of works you cannot get on a DVD or anywhere else. Check it out, enjoy yourself and support the arts at the same time.

Throughout time immemorial the arts have had patrons. Those patrons were in a financial position to help the arts thrive and grow in a way that was bigger than just ticket sales. To paraphrase William Shakespeare, “There are more things in the cost of production, Horatio, than are covered by your ticket price.”

If you are blessed enough to be in a financial position where you can give some support to the local arts community, please be generous. Help the local arts grow. Because, as the local arts community grows, the local economy will grow even in these tough economic times.

Eric Dickman, Artistic Director
Maggie Larrick, Managing Director
Burien Little Theatre

We’d like to welcome our latest Advertiser – Benson’s Best Bites, located at 17851 First Avenue South in Normandy Park.

Located in Manhattan Village, near the QFC, Benson’s Best Bites brings gems of the world’s cheese culture to the Normandy Park neighborhood—as well as some notable specialty groceries and bakery items.

Here’s what the Bensons have to say about their store:

The Benson family’s long-standing fascination with world foods combined with Ezra’s retail history (he managed the advertising and printing for Benson’s Fashions in Des Moines for 35 years) inspired them to open Best Bites in October 2008. The carefully selected stock reflects a good value for quality products. Not sure you’ll like a certain cheese? Sample it before you buy. Cheese and meat are cut-to-order. Thumann’s Brand Premium cold cut meats offer top quality at better than grocery store prices. Come in and taste the difference. While meats and cheeses are the center of the store, olives, chocolate, and an amazing selection of spices, rice, beans, and lentils are sold in bulk. Other items in the store will optimize their use. As your neighbors, we are excited to offer you great food choices and a fun, personal shopping experience: The extra-you-don’t-pay-extra-for.

If you delight in the Food Channel, you’ll be right at home in our store. We’re not a super market – although we are beside QFC; instead, Best Bites is a small, specialty store, similar to what you might find in Europe. It’s a friendly place to find fresh ideas and special ingredients for supper – or a party! Our cheese and salami platters make any event special. Best Bites also is happy to make sandwich, quiche, or dessert platters.

Best Bites’ Snack Bar is open from 10am to 6pm (10 am to 3:30 pm on Saturday; Closed on Sunday). We have limited in-store seating, but also offer take-out sandwiches and home made soup. The Snack Bar is not a café (no coffee) though we have a great assortment of sodas. Try the Dirty Jobs Sandwich with a cup of Ezra’s Roasted Potato Leek Soup. Top it off with a sticky bun or a scoop of Snoqualmie Raspberry Honey Gelatto in a waffle cone (made fresh at The Bites)!

Special events happen on Saturdays: pig roasts, garlic fries, crêpes, guest chocolatieres, Chicago Style Hot Dogs, raclette tastings, etc. For instance, from 11 to 3 this Saturday, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day early with a hearty plate of hot sliced Corned Beef, Steamed Red Potatoes, Cabbage, Carrots & Rye Bread, a scoop of Pistachio (or your favorite flavor) Ice Cream! Sign up for our email list to be notified of special events, food demonstrations, and new arrivals.

Baking and cake decorating enthusiasts will find Best Bites’ selection a valuable resource. We have a daughter who loves to bake and had to search the length of Seattle to find ingredients and gifts for her. Now, they are in our store! Best Bites carries an impressive array of ingredients and flavors that are usually only available to commercial bakers.

We offer food choices that can lift the level of cuisine at your own home without destroying your food budget. Guests will seek your recipes! We invite you to taste foods and discover what you like!”

Cheesiest Deli and Specialty Grocery in Normandy Park:

• Over 50 cheeses—from our own back yard to the corners of the world—including some cheeses that are organic and some that use vegetable rennet.
  Italian style salamis; East Coast Deli style cold cuts, and meats from local smokehouses.
• Cured olives from Europe, California, and South America.
• Fine bulk baking chocolate as well as gourmet chocolate bars.
• Cookies and crackers featuring some of Europe’s best!
• Quality oils, vinegars, and jams are flavorful buys. Taste the difference!
• Wonderful bulk selection of fresh spices & herbs—both basic and unusual—at tremendous savings over grocery store prices.
• Bulk section offers an amazing selection of exotic rices, beans, and lentils and pasta.
• An opportunity to discover “gourmet salts” from around the world.
• Ingredients and tools to delight candy making and baking enthusiasts!
• Frozen Raviolis, puff pastry sheets and pie & tart shells.
• Hardware to facilitate the use of foods sold!
• Snack Bar features Deli Sandwiches on artisan bread – Panini Toasted if you wish; hot dogs (Saturdays only), and cheese & cracker Party Platters for entertaining.
• New – Fresh Artisan Breads & Rolls from Columbia City Bakery and Zatz’s Better Bagels in West Seattle

Please welcome our latest Advertisers by showing your support and shopping there:

Bensons Best Bites
17851 First Avenue South
Normandy Park
(206) 243-2420
www.bestbites.biz

Hours:

• Monday to Friday 10 to 6:30 (snack bar closes at 6)
• Saturday 10 to 4 (snack bar closes at 3:30)
• Closed Sunday

Owners – Ezra & Loie Benson

Best Cheeses + Best Meats + Best Breads = Best Sandwiches @ Best Prices!

By the way – Ezra & Loie are better known for their unique honor-system, treasure-chest business, Boundary Pass Trader’s NW, which they have operated for 15 summers on Stuart Island, a remote island in the San Juan Islands.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Some updates on recent Burien business news:

We had a chance the other day – Opening Day, as a matter of fact – to visit new Burien neighbors Donatelli’s Market.

The Donatelli family has created Burien’s newest enterprise, where you’ll find a wide variety of terrific fresh fruits, vegetables and other food items.

They are located on the west side of Ambaum Boulevard SW at SW 135th Street, in the building formerly occupied by Ike’s Burgers & Teriyaki.

B-Town Blog staffer Mark Neuman was on his way to another event with camera in hand. By chance timing, Mark became Donatelli’s first customer ever, snaring two bananas plus two perfectly ripe avocados, leaving behind Donatelli Market’s “first dollar we ever earned” (see photo at right).

They’re open seven days a week from 10:30am to 7pm. Open hours will lengthen as summer approaches.

And soon, Donatelli’s will be offering catering … Italian style!

Don’t forget to check out the north side of the nicely renovated building – it’s drive-through Espresso starting at 6:30am every morning.

Also, we’ve seen evidence of construction work on the Red Fish Grill, to be located where the former Keg Restaurant was at 180 SW 148th, across from the Transit Center in the Safeway mall:

The Seattle Times is reporting that a couple from Normandy Park is suing Toyota in federal court, demanding that the company either take back the vehicle they just bought or reimburse them for its loss in value since the automaker’s sudden-acceleration troubles became news.

According to The Times:

The lawsuit alleges that the issues plaguing Toyota violate the state’s Consumer Protection Act and amount to a breach of contract. The lawsuit is a proposed class action and, if certified by a federal judge, could apply to other Toyota owners in Washington with similar issues.

Read the full story here.

A big B-Town welcome to the Discover Burien Association, new to our Advertising roster. They have stepped up to be the first-ever sponsor of our weather-widget. That’s the daily and updated weather for Burien you see in the right sidebar – next time you check out the weather, click through to check out Discover Burien’s new website.

Over the years our readers have all enjoyed the many events staged by Discover Burien, all designed to bring people to the city core. You may not be aware that Discover Burien is also a non-profit organization whose mission is to not only provide events, but also to promote and represent the concerns of businesses to the city and beyond.

When we sat down with Steve Gilbert, Executive Director of Discover Burien he chose not to talk about their new and highly interactive website. He didn’t talk about their hardworking steering committee members of 14 Burien business people. He didn’t address the current membership and how the new site links to all its member websites.

What he wanted to talk about was two things. First was “volunteer extraordinaire” Jane Matz:

“She’s a dynamo who loves giving back to the community.

Jane’s truly the nicest ‘people’ you’ll ever meet.”

Jane typically works at their Burien location at 620 SW 150th across from the main post office on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Steve is looking to build a team of 10-15 volunteers to work the back office and help facilitate the many business-oriented programs which include bi-monthly business forums and “after hours” networking get-togethers, which are the second thing that Steve wants our readers to know about. If you’re interested in volunteering, give Steve a call at 206-433-2882.

The business education programs are designed to provide timely information that local businesses can use to enhance their bottom line. Highline Community College’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) helped educate business owners on successfully navigating the challenges of seeking business financing. Their next program will take place the morning of Wednesday, April 28 at Prudential Northwest Realty Associates offices and feature The B-Town Blog’s own Scott Schaefer helping businesses thrive in an online world full of Facebookers and Twitterers. And all you have to do to attend is be a Discover Burien member.

And who doesn’t like a party? Every eight weeks or so, members of Discover Burien get together to network and share ideas in a casual setting complete with food and drink. The next “After Hours” will be on March 24th at Mark Restaurant and Bar in Olde Burien starting at 6pm. They plan a wine tasting event.

Steve looks at Burien as a “community that’s truly a community.” And he further believes that “there’s an energy and real momentum happening in the Burien business community.”  He finds that more sponsors are stepping up to market their businesses through event sponsorship.

He invites all non-members to consider joining Discover Burien, to take advantage of the many programs offered by this group. And with the new website, it’s easy. You can join online or contact Steve or Jane. (www.discoverburien.com/join/)

We welcome Discover Burien as our first ever weather sponsor.

But we assure you that Discover Burien is just bringing you the local weather, they can’t do anything about it.

Story and Photos by Michael Brunk

When most people think of Goodwill, the first thing that likely comes to mind is that it is a great place to donate clothing and other items that you no longer need.

Or perhaps that it is a wonderful store to find bargains on those same household goods.

Few probably realize that both of those things are just an outgrowth of Goodwill’s primary purpose – to provide employment training and basic education to people that otherwise might not have those opportunities.

To educate the community about these programs, the Burien Goodwill Job Training & Education Center located on 128th Street held an open house on Thursday, March 11. Approximately 30 people attended representing local government, community colleges, area businesses and social outreach organizations.

The evening’s program focused on meeting students and instructors from the Goodwill training program and learning more about their classes and facility. The keynote speaker for the night was Jesus Argueta, an adult student who has taken advantage of the free classes provided by the training center. Mr. Argueta spoke at length about the needs that Goodwill meets and the benefits of his education.

The Burien training center consists of a classroom used for teaching English for Speakers of other Languages (ESOL) and a computer lab that offers courses in basic computer operation and software such as Microsoft Word. The facility has been in operation for just over a year and is already at full capacity, with waiting lists for space in the classes offered.

The evening ended with a Q&A session that answered questions about opportunities for the community to get involved. Beyond donations of clothes and household goods and financial contributions, there is always a need for volunteers and Goodwill welcomes partnering opportunities with local businesses. For more information on how you can help, visit seattlegoodwill.org/getinvolved.

Here’s a Photo Slideshow of the event:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a Mid-Century Home with Puget Sound views from both floors in the Three Tree Point area above Maplewild.

Imagine a home where you can relax and enjoy the view from nearly every room in the house as well as the deck. The carport offers storage above and at the end; plus there is a basement shop.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, March 14th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 2923 SW 164th Place • Burien 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $499,000
• Listing#: 19432
• Beds: 3
• Baths: 1.75
• Fireplaces: 2
• Year Built: 1952
• 2 Carport-Attached
• Approximate House SqFt: 2,190
• Lot Square Footage: 14,625

Interior Features:

• Dining Room
• Security System

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Deck
• Fenced-Partially
• Shop

Marketing Remarks:

View, View, View!

Puget Sound with Ferry Crossing viewed from both floors of this Mid-centry home in the Three Tree Point area above Maplewild!

Imagine a home where you can relax and enjoy the view from nearly every room in the house as well as the deck!

Original owners built this house to take advantage of location & private seclusion.

The carport offers storage above & at the end, plus there is a basement shop.

Now is your opportunity to own this view & update the house to your liking!

DIRECTIONS:

• From Maplewild go east on 29th SW.
• At Y (164th Pl) go Right follow road up & to the left.
• Second house on left.
• To leave-back out of driveway & continue north to complete loop you started.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

The Burien Arts Association is hosting another “Sing & Sketch” tonight (Thursday, Mar. 11th) at BTB Advertiser Burien Press.

According to Erin Williamson:

“Relax at the Burien Press while enjoying a terrific cup of joe & delectable pastries, pies and sandwiches.“

Here are the details:

WHAT: “Sing & Sketch” music/art party.

WHEN: Thursday, Mar. 11th, from 6pm–8pm.

WHERE: Burien Press, located at 423 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien (across from the new City Hall/Library); phone: 206-453-5412.

COST: No cover, just bring your creativity or your interest in watching/listening.

INFO: From a poster:

Come enjoy a song and art circle!

For the Musicians: Share you latest songwriting creation or just play an old favorite while others join in.

For the Visual Artists: Enjoy the chance to do some figural drawing or painting while listening to live music.

For Everyone, art and music appreciators alike: Relax at the Burien Press while enjoying a terrific cup of joe & delectable pastries, pies and sandwiches.

Poster Art by John Unbehend

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BURIEN ARTS & Burien Press

For more Information contact: burienarts.org

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

BTB Advertiser Burien Toyota wants our Readers to know that they’re holding a “New Owner Clinic” on Thursday, March 18th beginning at 7pm at their location at 15025 1st Avenue South.

This event will also serve as a fundraiser for the Highline Area Food Bank, so if you can, you are invited to bring a non-perishable food donation (although this is not required).

There will also be some giveaways, including:

• Free oil change certificate just for attending
• Free car wash the night of the event
• Raffle drawing for prizes

Here are the details:

WHAT: “New Owner Clinic” at Burien Toyota

WHEN: Thursday, March 18th at 7pm

WHERE: Burien Toyota, located at 15025 First Ave South.

RSVP: Please RSVP to Sharon Daniels at 206.243.0700

INFO: More info available here; from a flier:

Toyota owners are welcome to share in the evening with Burien Toyota Seattle representatives & service advisers.

Product demonstartions, food & entertainment will make for a fun and informative evening.

BTB Advertiser Pro Se University wants our Readers to know that Seattle Family Law Attorney and CEO Marie White will be offering FREE 30-minute family law issue support appointments on Tuesday, March 23, 2010.

Sign up for a free 30-minute appointment now, but keep in mind that there is a limited number of these free appointments available, so you may want to act fast.

For more information, click here or call 1-877-776-7310.

Free drinks and light snacks will be available as well.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

by Gina Bourdage

Workers demonstrated in front of the Burien Fred Meyer on Wednesday (March 10) over what they consider an “unfair wage standard” being practiced by the grocery store.

While demonstrators were not interested in formal comment or going on record with The B-Town Blog, they provided us with an official flier outlining the reason for their demonstration which we have copied below:

“Shame On Fred Meyer” for discrimination of the American Way of Life

A rat is a contractor that does not pay all of its employees on all jobs the Area Standards Wages, including wither providing or making payments for family healthcare and pension benefits.

Shame On Fred Meyer for contributing to the erosion of Area Standards for Puget Sound and area carpenter craft workers.

The Pacific NW Regional Council of Carpenters has a labor dispute with Marquise Drywall which is a slated to perform work for BooCo Construction Company. Marquise Drywall does not meet area labor standards, including providing or fully paying for family health care and pension for all its carpenter craft employees on all of its projects.  BooCo Construction is the General Contractor for the Fred Meyer remodel project in Lynwood, Washington.

The Pacific NW Regional Council of Carpenters objects to substandard wage employers like Marquise Drywall working in the community. In our opinion the community ends up paying the tab for employee health care and low wages tend to lower general community standards, thereby encouraging crime and their social ills.

The Pacific NW Regional Council of Carpenters believes that Fred Meyer has an obligation to the community to see that area labor standards are met for construction work performed on their projects. They should not be allowed to insulate themselves behinds “independent” contractors.

We attempted to contact William Mercer, Project Manager for Fred Meyer/Kroger, but were unable to reach him for official comment. He was encouraged to leave comments on our blog for his side of the story.

This demonstration is being organized by the Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters and their Carpenters Union.

They do note that they are NOT urging any workers to refuse work or refuse to deliver goods.

by Ralph Nichols

Sixty-four hundred miles – the distance from Sea-Tac International Airport to Santiago, Chile – is a long way. It’s a lot farther still if you’re here and have immediate family members in earthquake-ravaged Chile.

Patricio Mendoza, the owner of EC Computers in downtown Des Moines, knows this all too well.

For almost 48 hours after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake rocked Chile on Feb. 27, Mendoza could only wonder how his son Victor, his father Humbetor, his sister Cecilia, and his niece Erika Cecilia (who lives in the Seattle area, and whose initials give the computer shop its name) had survived.

Communications with the outside world are difficult with widespread power outages and many of the country’s cell phone towers knocked down. Mendoza has since been told the tremor “was so big,” and “lasted so long and was so strong.”

Despite his anxiety, he hoped and prayed for the best – and waited for their calls.

Then late Sunday and again on Monday he finally heard from his niece and his sister. Both were well – and they had word that Victor, who lives near Viña del Mar, a seaside community of almost 300,000 where Mendoza is from, was OK too.

But there was nothing like hearing his son confirm this himself when, at last, Victor called him Tuesday evening.

These reports brought welcome news because “at first I thought the worst,” Mendoza said. “This was one of the biggest earthquakes we have ever had. The destruction is total. It’s all around.”

Mendoza is still waiting for word about his 80-year-old father Humbetor, who he assumes is OK but who lives where power remains out.

In an irony of timing, Mendoza returned only a month ago from a six-week trip to his home town, which is not far from Santiago, the nation’s capital, and an extended visit with his relatives who live in that region.

He also accompanied his niece there. Cecilia, 19, had “worked for the last year to pay for her dream trip to Chile,” he told the B-Town Blog this week.

“She was supposed to get back to the states on March 1. Her flight was scheduled for Feb. 28.” But with canceled flights and possible damage to airport runways, “she’s still stuck down there.” If everything goes all right, he said, she now should return on March 9.

Cecilia sounded much calmer than she did in her first call just a couple of days after the quake, which continues to be followed by strong aftershocks, he added.

Mendoza’s first reaction after hearing about the earthquake was, “I want to get a ticket and go there. The first thing I wanted to do is help my family. But the airlines have raised the ticket price four times or more for this tragedy.

“I still plan to go when the price goes back down. I can’t afford it now. I want to see how my father is doing and how my son is doing. I want to see my father personally because he’s 80 years old and alone. I know he will say he’s OK, but I still want to know.

“It’s pretty bad to be this far away and not be able to go down and help,” he said.

And after helping his family, Mendoza also wants to do what he can – including taking clothing and other necessities – to help others there who are trying to rebuild their lives and property.

“People are hungry, people are upset. I’ve been in strong earthquakes where aftershocks continue for days. You feel so little after that. You cannot sleep in the day. You cannot sleep at night. You have no peace. It takes weeks to recover.”

Mendoza said that although he’s not there now, “at least I can bring some of the resources they need to them” if he can find a way to get there.

“A lot of people from Des Moines have called or stopped by the shop, concerned about my niece and my family,” he continued. “I thank all of you for your moral support. It has really helped.”

The League of Women Voters of King County South will be hodling a public forum entitled “Clarifying Landlord/Tenant Issues” on Tuesday, March 16th beginning at 7pm at the Highline ERAC Center, located at 15697 Ambaum Blvd. SW.

This will be a great opportunity for those who have questions about landlords, tenants, property rights and more.

Here are the details:

WHAT: League of Women Voters “Clarifying Landlord/Tenant Issues” forum

WHEN: Tuesday, March 16th beginning at 7pm

WHERE: Highline ERAC, 15697 Ambaum Blvd SW,  Burien, WA (across from Azteca).

INFO: The forum will be preceded by a dessert social at 6:45 pm.

The panelists include a landlord specialist, tenant specialist, dispute resolution specialist and a lawyer dealing with these issues.

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is an “extremely clean 3 bedroom, 2 full (all new) bath rambler” located near the beach in Hurstwood and priced at $376,950.

This home features newly-refinished hardwoods, new tile in the kitchen and family room, new interior paint, and a 2-car garage with huge attic storage.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, March 7th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 13843 17th Ave SW • Burien 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $376,950
• Listing#: 32089
• Beds: 3
• Baths: 2
• Fireplaces: 1
• Year Built: 1966
• 2 Garage-Attached
• Approximate House SqFt: 1,420
• Lot Square Footage: 16,000

Interior Features:

• Bath Off Master
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Fenced-Partially
• Patio

Marketing Remarks:

Extremely clean 3 bdrm, 2 full (all new) bath rambler.

Newly refinished hardwoods and new tile in kitchen and family rm.

New interior paint. 2 car gar. w/huge attic storage.

Sought after Hurstwood-near the beach.

Get in this one! Furniture negotiable if interested..

Directions:

• Ambaum Blvd. to SW 144th St.
• West to 13th SW.
• Right to stop sign.
• Turn Right then immediate left to 13843 17th SW.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

Want to wow your friends this bikini season?

BTB Advertiser Highline Athletic Club has this suggestion:

On Wednesday, March 10th at 6pm and Saturday, March 13 at 10am, Highline Athletic Club will be having an Open house at our Pilates Studio. Stop by to meet Instructors Scott Miller and Melissa Rutherford.

You can watch an excellent demonstration of the different classes we offer and have a chance to ask questions. It would also be a great time to ask our demo participants (all who have taken for at least 2 1/2 years), how they like what Pilates is doing for them.  Our studio is almost 3 years old and we want to show it off.  You don’t have to be a club member to come to our open house, nor to take Pilates Classes at the HAC.

Here are some of the benefits of Pilates, which has earned a featured spot in the world of fitness due to it’s effectiveness and it’s many benefits including:

• A healthy, supple spine
• Kinder, gentler conditioning
• Better balance, more coordination
• Less pain and stiffness
• Faster return to pre-pregnancy figure
• Sports performance & other benefits

Melissa will be doing a Pilates mat demonstration and Scott will be doing a demo with different Pilates apparatus. Also starting on the 17th of March, Melissa will be starting a new beginning mat class that is awesome indeed. Some of our other offering are as follows:

Private Apparatus Session:
One on one session on a reformer and other apparatus (Gratz Equipment). Generally a couple of sessions should be completed before advancing to semi-private lessons. This allows you time to get accustomed to the equipment and to be able to navigate through the exercises. 55 minutes

Semi-Private Apparatus Session:
2 clients work together. To ensure the best workout, it is important that you work with someone as close to your level as possible. Mix and match semi private sessions with privates and a mat to obtain the most complete weekly workouts. 55 minutes

Group Pilates Studio Wall Unit Class (Very Popular):
This is a class for 3 to 5 clients on the Pilates Studio Wall Unit. These units are versatile and allow for focused work on all of the target core areas. Ideal for group instruction and priced “just right” These classes run once a week for 4 weeks starting at the beginning of each month. 55 minutes

Private Mat Session:
One-On-One instruction. Some client may want private instruction in mat before going into a group setting. The Private Mat allows for guided, individual attention that is sure to get you prepared for level one. Or if you’d just like to schedule a mat class for your convenience, this is for you. These sessions can be done in a private or semi private workout.

Group Pilates Mat Class:
Mat class is divided into the following 4 levels.
Do you want to look and feel your best? Try Pilates!

We are conveniently located at 125th St and 1st Ave. inside the Highline Athletic Club. Hope to see you then!

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

BTB Advertiser Elliott Bay Brewhouse and Pub will be celebrating its 3rd birthday this Saturday March 6th!

Live reggae from Dub Lounge International starts at 8pm.

Families are welcome and there’s No Cover!

Cheers to a great local establishment!

Elliott Bay Brewhouse and Pub is located at 255 SW 152nd in downtown Burien; phone: 206.246.4211. This family-friendly neighborhood pub offers a full pub menu, large party facilities, tournament-sized shuffleboard tables, along with party platters and beer to go.

More info on Elliott Bay Brewhouse & Pub is available at their website.

Here are a couple of videos of Dub Lounge International to whet your rastaman appetite:

On Thursday (Mar. 4), Highline Community College’s Center of Excellence for International Trade, Transportation and Logistics (ITTL) announced that it had received $250,000 to provide additional job training opportunities for positions in the international trade sector.

“As our economy continues to change and adjust so too must our workforce,” said U.S. Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA). “This funding will help do just that by training Washington state workers for a career in a growing sector of our local economy – international trade.”

The project — part of the final version of the 2010 Consolidated Appropriations Act signed by President Obama on Dec. 16, 2009 — will lead to a 20 percent increase in the number of trained ITTL workers in Washington state.

U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Smith secured funding for the project that will also improve the image of international trade throughout Washington state and create awareness of career and training opportunities that lead to family wage jobs.

“In these tough economic times, it is more important than ever to ensure that our workers have the skills they need to compete in the 21st century economy,” Murray said.

Positions in the ITTL sector include managers, logisticians, cargo and freight agents, shipping and receiving clerks, locomotive engineers, drivers and warehouse workers. Washington state will need nearly 77,000 new employees in ITTL by 2018, according to estimates based on data from the state’s Employment Security Department.

For more information about the Center of Excellence for International Trade, Transportation and Logistics, visit www.ittlwa.com.

Located in Des Moines, Highline Community College was founded in 1961 as the first community college in King County. With approximately 18,300 students and 350,000 alumni, it is one of the state’s largest institutions of higher education. The college offers a wide range of academic transfer and professional-technical education programs, with day, evening and weekend classes. Alumni include:

• Former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice
• Entrepreneur Junki Yoshida
• Washington state poet laureate Sam Green
• And yes, even BTB Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer

New B-Town Blog Advertiser GGC Embroidery–Grams Gift Closet–is on a mission; that is “to provide small businesses in the area the opportunity to brand and logo in the same manner as a mid to large size businesses at a lower cost,” so says owner/operator Jeananne Tescar-Burcham.

With this mission in mind, Jeananne created her small business from what was once a hobby. She specializes in personalized-custom embroidery and logo items for local sports teams, companies, families and individuals. Her closet of logo-wear includes sweatshirts, polar fleece, polos and hats.

Jeananne and her husband have had a 20+ year association with, and love for, the Highline Schools where they have worked and volunteered. It was during this time that Jeananne began her “hobby job” embroidering HHS warm ups.

“I saw how the coaches were paying exorbitant amounts for set ups, and small orders,” she said. This is why GGC is proud to offer a no set-up charge, no matter how small the order is. “We’ll do one-ups, there’s no minimums,” she added.

New guy on the team? Need a single item? Not to worry with GGC Embroidery, where Jeananne has set up a unique team and company store on her website for individual schools or businesses who want to order what they want when they want it.

And why would a woman with no grandchildren name a business “Grams”? After her own grandmother of course!

“My grandmother had a quote that inspired me after being laid off from Washington Mutual and making the decision to start the business in a less than friendly economy:

“You can accomplish anything you set your mind to.  It is like the light at the end of the tunnel; it is there.  You may have to kick a few rocks out of the way to find the light, but it is there.”

In her first full year in business Jeananne has “kicked a few rocks” but she is seeing a dramatic growth in her customer base with over 200 satisfied customers in the Burien and greater Seattle area; and an A- rating from the BBB.

When it came time to order some new shirts for our sister site The Waterland Blog, we asked our good friend Wayne Corey of the Des Moines Farmers Market “who does your branded clothing?”  He strongly recommended GGC Embroidery for their service, quick turnaround and embroidery work.

After several very prompt emails, and a visit to her sunny in-home studio in Burien, we quickly had a new “official clothier for our branded blog-wear.”  If the turnaround wasn’t just short of amazing, it’s the fact that we each select shirts to our liking (no two are alike), which means that she had to do a lot of “one-of-a-kinds”.

Are we another satisfied customer of GGC? You betcha! Would we recommend their services for your small business? We sure would.

You can contact Jeananne at 206-931-1548 or click here for the website.

What better way to prepare for the March 14th “Cove to Clover” 5k fundraiser run than by crawling in the fundraiser Pub Crawl on Friday, March 12th, where participants can feel good about going from pub to pub to help benefit the Highline Area Food Bank?

That’s right – there just isn’t a better way, so be sure to mark your calendars for 6pm+ Friday March 12th for what is sure to make a “great excuse for your poor upcoming performance on Snake Hill, with only one day to recover.”

For a $10 donation, you’ll get a commemorative keepsake bib qualifying you for “crawl” specials (our fave is the $1 bag of chips at the Hobnobber!), along with a passport and a map. Your goal will be to collect visitation stamps on your passport from at least five of the 13 official crawl stops (see the list below, which includes specials at each). Your stamped passport will serve as your entry to the door prize drawing @ 11 pm at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub.

And if this Pub Crawl is anything like the now-legendary Brat Trot one from last October, be prepared for one of the best nights in Burien you’ve ever had; just be sure to have a designated driver or a safe way to get home if you plan to imbibe.

Keep in mind also that you need not drink alcohol at every pub – you can just ask to get your passport stamped!

Here are the details:

WHAT: The 2010 Cove to Clover Pub Crawl fundraiser benefiting the Highline Area Food Bank.

WHEN: Friday, March 12th beginning at 6pm.

WHERE: Starts at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub at 6pm, with an 11pm return time for prize drawings.

COST: $10 donation gets you a commemorative, keepsake bib, which you’ll wear proudly as you “crawl” from pub to pub.

INFO: From the C2C website:

PLEASE DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE!! PRE-PLAN YOUR RIDE HOME OR HAVE A DESIGNATED DRIVER

Enjoy “crawl specials” offered at each official stop.

You can also expect special entertainment on the route.

Collect at least 5 official crawl stamps and you’ll qualify for the door prize drawing at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub @ 11pm. (must be present to win).

All proceeds will benefit the Highline Area Food Bank.

Best Leprechaun Contest: Gift certificates to Mick Kelly’s for 1st ($100), 2nd ($75) and 3rd ($50).

For you Normandy Parkers: Consider riding the free shuttle from Normandy Park’s Archery Bistro. Check in with them (website here) for the schedule and shuttle stops. While they are not an official crawl stop, we understand they will be offering a specials during and prior to the first run into Burien. You can park you car there and let them do the driving. You’ll also be able to purchase an official crawl number at Archery Bistro, in case you decide to make this your launching point.

Here are the 13 designated pub crawl stops – remember, you only have to get stamped at five of ‘em:

Specials:

• $3 Draft beer
• $4.50 House Wine
• Food Special

Specials:

• $2 PBR Tall Boys $2 Bacardi Silver Bottles
• $3 Giant Pizza by the Slice

Entertainment:

• Three Tree Point Blues Band 9P

Specials:

• Free Espresso Shot

Specials:

• Free Wine Taste
• Free Menu Taste

Specials:

• $3 House Beer
• $3 Apps off Happy Hour Menu

FILIBERTO’S

Specials:

• $2 Draft Beer
• 1/2 price Calamari and pizza

Entertainment:

• RLS Band

Specials:

• $2 Budweiser
• $1 Bag of Chips!

Specials:

• $5 House Margarita
• $5 Tacos (3 Beef or Chicken Tacos)

Entertainment:

• Live Mariachi Band at 6:30

Specials:

• $2 beer
• $4 sangiovese
• $1 Pizza slices

Specials:

• Sour Apple Jello Shots $2
• Irish Potato and Banger Stew $3

Entertainment:

• Cornerstone

Specials:

• $3 Alaskan Amber Pints

Specials:

• $2 Irish Nut Brown Ales
• Corned beef sliders

Specials:

• $6 Wine by the Glass

More info available at the Cove Clover Pub Crawl website.

And if you haven’t yet registered for the 5k run, click here.

by Lori A. Alden
Prudential Northwest Realty

Thinking about investing in Burien? Now is the Time!

Turn on any financial news program and at some point you’ll hear the experts extolling the virtues of diversification. Real estate, even through the market downturn, has long been considered a conservative, long-term strategy to growing wealth.

In fact, that very downturn has created a historic buying opportunity for potential homebuyers and investors alike. The combination of lower home prices across the Burien and Southwest King County areas and historically low mortgage rates, two essential factors that usually don’t trend in the same direction, have triggered a buyer’s market in many areas of the county. For real estate investors who want to rent their properties, this can make the difference in achieving positive cash flow sooner or right off the bat.

While some seasoned real estate investors make it look easy, to be successful, beginners should follow some basic principles.

Learn all you can. Before committing your cash, you should have a fundamental understanding of real estate. For example, be aware that, in general, investment properties are not liquid investments. Barring exceptional circumstances, real estate does not sell at a moment’s notice. It could take days or months to sell a property, depending on the strength of the market in a particular region.

Consider cash flow. You’ll need to have enough capital on hand to cover any short-term losses due to vacancies between tenants.

Start small. Look into buying a condominium, single-family home or a duplex. Leave large apartment buildings and commercial properties to the pros.
Inquire at the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce about companies relocating into or out of the area. Company movement is one indicator of demand for rental and/or office space.

Find a property that will be in demand. Look for a moderately priced home with three or four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a garage that sits on a quiet street.

Research the property. The most common way first-time investors lose is by failing to investigate a property thoroughly. Look beyond the front door. Investigate the reputation of the school district, the crime rate, and plans for expanding a nearby highway or developing vacant land. Ask a local Prudential Northwest real estate professional about the area, its history, and how fast (or slow) properties are moving.

Inspect the home you’re considering for signs of water damage, such as stains on the ceiling and crinkling or gathering wallpaper; open and close every door and window; and check all electrical sockets by plugging in an appliance. Get an independent home inspection, roof inspection and termite inspection. Unexpected repair costs can eat away your cash flow. Because even the best inspection can’t always predict problems, try to set aside some of the rental income for unexpected repairs.

Spend time driving the streets of the neighborhood noting the condition of other properties. Are lawns maintained? Are roofs in good shape? Are homes kept up?

Be ready to make fixes quickly and respond to the renter’s needs. If you’re not prepared to be a hands-on landlord, consider hiring a property management firm.

See your tax advisor for related planning and laws that can affect your investment decisions.

Remember, investing in a property is much different than living in one, and while emotion and attachment can be prime motivators when it comes to homes, it is return on investment that counts when investing in real estate.

Lori A. Alden can be reached at 206-244-6400, or via email at lorialden@PNWRealty.com.

Prudential Northwest Realty is an independently owned and operated member of The Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services, a Prudential company. Equal Housing Opportunity. They’re also a proud sponsor of The B-Town Blog’s Real Estate section.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

“Getting the pictures you meant to take” is the slogan for the latest advertiser to The B-Town Blog – The Photo Junkie Project. Self-proclaimed photo junkie and local mom, Heather Mathias, created The Photo Junkie Project, an online photo retouch service.

Heather is a photographic artist with over 10 years experience in graphic design, digital photo manipulation, and traditional photography, including photo exhibition and darkroom/photo lab work. Not only does Heather love pictures, she also loves to help people.

After becoming a mom, Heather thanked her lucky stars she knew Photoshop. She could turn that “perfect” picture into a “masterpiece” by eliminating the toy-ridden living room in the background. She could brighten up the “cutest picture ever”, that was unfortunately taken on the day the camera flash decided not to work. She could even be creative in the way she sent pictures to family. For example, one Christmas, everyone in Heather’s family received a refrigerator magnet depicting her one-year old as a DJ grooving on a toy music station.

Heather’s love of photography has allowed her to turn her archive of pictures into fun projects for family, friends…and herself. “It has become an obsession that only grandparents can truly appreciate,” jokes Heather. But in all seriousness, Heather feels her photo projects have been the best way, and the most fun way, to keep her family that lives in the Mid-West involved in her daughter’s life here in Burien.

Now Heather would like to help other people with their photo projects. Whatever the subject may be…family pictures, vacation shots, random snapshots of interesting and unique things, eBay/Craigslist items…and whatever the project may be, Heather would like to help you get the pictures you meant to take.

Heather’s online retouch service, The Photo Junkie Project, offers a range of services from simple touch-ups to complex manipulations. Pictures can be cropped, color corrected, and brightened or darkened. Items can even be added or subtracted from a picture; and entire photographs can be manipulated.

The Photo Junkie Project also offers a resize service, which can open the window to different ways of displaying your favorite pictures; for instance, in a locket, a wallet sleeve, or a circular photo frame – or transformed into a refrigerator magnet!

Prices are well below professional photo lab standards, which can be upwards of $75/hour; but the quality is not.

Heather is constantly developing ways to help other people with their photo projects. So if there is a service you are interested in, but you do not see it listed on the website, just email in a request. The Photo Junkie Project is here to help.

The Photo Junkie Project
www.photojunkieproject.com

Heather Mathias
heather@photojunkieproject.com
206.431.3001

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

BTB Advertiser Patricia Eslava Vessey wants to know:

Have you had it with diets that only work for a little while?

Have you tried everything and nothing seems to work?

Losing weight can be one of the most challenging experiences in your life…if you let it.

Now, not only will you remove the barriers that hold you back, you will also learn to reprogram your mind and create the success you have longed for.

Using innovative and proven methods from Hypnosis, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Life Coaching and Personal Fitness Training, you will discover that weight loss can be far easier than you ever imagined.

Wear comfortable clothing; bring a mat or blanket and pillow and pen and paper.

This course will change your life forever!

WHAT:  6 Hour Weight Loss Course

WHEN: Wednesdays: March 3, 10 & 17 from 6:00PM – 8:00PM

WHERE: Burien Parks & Recreation Center

COST: 
Only $79.00!

REGISTER: Call (206) 988-370
0 to register

Some testimonials:

“My life has completely changed for the better!”

“Since the very first hypnosis session, I have 
been making healthy food choices, exercising 3-5 times/week, drinking a minimum of 8 cups of 
water 1 day. All this with little effort on my part. I find myself wanting to live this new way!

“
Thank you so much! You have really changed my life!” C.Jackson

“I was really pleased with the results, especially the 1st 5 pound loss and the complete change in 
Sweet cravings.  It is working. I have found that even in 103 degree weather I wanted to be at 
class, ratherthan anywhere else.  As a result of this course, I found that I can do it! ” G. Hedgpeth

“Thanks Patricia, I appreciate the time with you as my coach for the past two months.  The area that I was able to move forward in, with your support, has been around my health and fitness.  I’ve lost 15 pounds so far, and my recovery from knee surgery is ahead of schedule.  You helped me stay focused, clarify my intentions, create accountability and stretch my view of the possibility. Thanks for all of this!” Bruce, Transportation Manager

INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Eslava Vessey is the founder of Integrity Coaching & Training Systems, a multifaceted company with expertise in coaching, training, leadership, Neuro-linguistic Programming and hypnotherapy. With over 30 years in social work, 29 years as a fitness trainer and over 6 years as a sought after speaker, trainer and International credentialed coach, Patricia helps you transform limiting beliefs and behaviors into the empowered and successful life you desire.

More info at www.integritylifecoach.com, or call (206) 459-2898.

King County’s Spring Household Hazardous Wastemobile Event is coming up from Friday, March 26th through Sunday, March 28th at the Des Moines Marina.

This is the perfect opportunity to get rid of all that hazardous waste you’ve got sitting around, like dead batteries, fluorescent bulbs, oil, gas and a myriad of other stuff that can ruin the environment.

Here are the details:

WHAT: King County’s Spring Household Hazardous Wastemobile Event

WHEN: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday March 26 – March 28

WHERE: Des Moines Marina, located at 22307 Dock Street in Des Moines.

What to bring:

• solvents
• batteries, (lead acid, button, rechargeable)
• oil based paint
• cleaners
• pesticides
• oil
• antifreeze
• gasoline
• mercury products
• fluorescent bulbs and tubes
• propane tanks

What NOT to bring;

• latex paint
• empty containers
• computers
• TVs
• alkaline batteries
• explosives
• asbestos
• appliances
• medicines
• solid waste
• tires, etc

The following restrictions apply at all the household hazardous Wastemobile collection events:

• gasoline – 30 gallon limit
• total waste – 50 gallons per customer per day
• container size – no larger than five gallons
• fluorescent tubes or bulbs (not accepted from businesses) – limit 10
• automotive batteries – limit 5

The Wastemobile is FREE of charge and is for King County Residents and small quantity generators only. To find out if you qualify as a King County small quantity generator, call the Business Waste Line at 206 263-8899.

Additional information can be found at www.lhwmp.org or contact the Household Hazards Line at 206 296-4692, toll free at 1 888 869-4233

On Monday (March 1st) we received an email from Janel Stoneback, announcing that her Emerald City Smoothie store located at the Normandy Park Towne Center had shut its doors.

This store, located at 19803 First Ave South, may have been affected by a number of elements, including recent ongoing construction on First Ave South, the economic recession, as well as a relatively troubled location where other businesses have also faltered.

According to the Normandy Park city newsletter, this ECS location opened in August of 2008.

Far as we know, Janel’s two other ECS locations – near the Burien Safeway and at Westfield Southcenter, are still open for business.

While we don’t have the exact details yet (we’re hoping to get more info from Janel soon, which we’ll publish as soon as we receive it), according to Janel’s Facebook Page:

To all my Excellent very supportive customers, friends and business associates, it is with great disappointment we have had to make a decision to close Normandy Park Emerald City Smoothie.

On Monday (Mar. 1st), Seattle Times columnist Jerry Large published a followup article that is basically a reaction to him being confronted by Burien Mayor Joan McGilton, Councilmember Kathy Keene and City Manager Mike Martin over Burien’s desire to annex the remaining portions of White Center.

The encounter came after Large published a column on Feb. 3rd extolling how White Center is “the right fit” for Seattle.

Councilmember Keene then sent us a copy of a letter she sent The Times, where she strongly refuted Large and claimed that Burien would be a better fit for White Center (read Keene’s letter here).

In Large’s latest column, he starts out by saying:

Burien is getting feisty.

The small city is not counting itself out as a home to the northern neighborhoods of North Highline.

So now, “feisty” Burien has struck back, and the columnist has printed our cityfolk’s claims, stating that “Burien knows what it wants” – read his full column here.

We wonder what will happen next in this political opinion-shaping chess match…stay tuned.

In the February 12 issue of the Highline Times, on the front page, was an article by Keith Daigle reporting that the Burien City Council unanimously approved the new zoning code which restricts adult entertainment to between Southwest 112th Street and Southwest 116th Street along either side of 16thAvenue Southwest. The zoning code will become effective April 1 when Burien annexes the southern portion of North Highline.

As a resident of the Shorewood community, I strongly object to having an “Adult Entertainment” zone bordering our Shorewood neighborhood, including two public schools (Cascade and Evergreen) and a private Montessori school, as well as the White Center King County Library. I have contacted Joan McGilton, mayor of Burien, for an explanation, but she did not seem to be clear on the designation and suggested I contact Mike Martin for clarification.

If the Highline Times story is accurate, then I want to know why this particular area was selected and why we need an Adult Entertainment zone in Burien in the first place. Is there any other area in Burien that is currently zoned Adult Entertainment? Does this mean that topless barista coffee stands and “deju vu nightclubs” will be allowed to operate in this two block area? I sincerely hope this is not the case and would appreciate clarification on this zoning change as soon as possible.

Sincerely,
Bonnie Moormeier

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Have something you'd like to say? Then email us your "Letter to the Editor" by clicking here. Be sure to include your real name and a way to contact you, and, pending our review, we'll most likely post it. Otherwise, feel free to leave a Comment below...]

[EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is an unpaid "Reader Review" of a local Burien restaurant. If you want to write one and have us consider it for publication, please email us.]

by Suzanne Greive

Germaine’s Country Kitchen is now serving dinner – let’s all help support a local family business located at 14901 Ambaum Blvd. SW, Burien, WA 98166.

Germaine’s is a favorite breakfast and lunch spot. They are expanding their hours to serve dinner. To me, they are the “Cheers” of breakfast, ” Where everybody knows your name”. I love supporting a local family business. Mom, Jacki in the kitchen, daughters Jennifer (1/2 owner) and Kaitlyn are serving.

Germaine’s Country Kitchen is dedicated to the memory of Grandmother Germaine Maribeau Bourton. Germaine came to America in 1919 to live on a farm in Eastern Washington.  At that time, all she could do in the kitchen was boil water. Soon, she was selling her egg salad sandwiches at the family barn dances, cooking for the local Catholic church, and planning and cooking dinner for the members of the American Legion. For years, Germiaine was well known to folks in the Waterville area for her wonderful apple pie, maple bars, chicken dinners, and the wine she made in her cellar. Germaine started the family tradition of gathering in the kitchen with good home cooking! Come share the warmth of family and the enjoyment of good food, bringing you the same warmth and comfort of Germaine’s original country kitchen.

Their nightly specials are:

• Monday – Traditional turkey dinner
• Tuesday – Mexican night
• Wednesday – Pasta night
• Thursday – Meatloaf
• Friday – Steamer Clams/ Steak

Jacki is especially proud of her steamer clams. She said she “loves being able to present such a dish to folks who may not be able to afford to go to somewhere like Anthony’s or Salty’s.”

Hope to see you there!

- local resident, Suzanne Greive

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a “beautifully restored 1.5 story home, with 3-bedrooms and 1.5-bath home right in the heart of Burien” priced at an affordable $269,999.

This home features an Island kitchen with newer appliances, laminate wood flooring and lots of cupboard space.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, Feb. 28th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 119 SW 130th Street • Burien 98146

INFO:

• List Price: $269,999
• Listing#: 27215
• Beds: 3
• Baths: 1.5
• Fireplaces: 1
• Year Built: 1961
• 1 Garage-Attached
• Approximate House SqFt: 2,060
• Lot Square Footage: 7,478

Interior Features:

• Dining Room
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw
• High Tech Cabling,
• Skylights

Site Features:

• Fenced-Fully
• Nat. Gas Available
• RV Parking

Marketing Remarks:

Beautifully restored 1.5 story home, in the heart of Burien.

This home features an Island kitchen with newer appliances, laminate wood flooring and lots of cupboard space.

The living room has large picture windows, wall to wall carpeting and a fireplace.

Newly painted exterior, the roof is only about 5 years old and newer vinyl windows and water heater.

Do not miss out on this turnkey home.

Directions:

• From 1st Avenue South turn West onto 130th
• Home is on the left.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

New B-Town Blog Advertiser The Senior Housing Assistance Group (SHAG) is pleased to announce the completion and upcoming Grand Opening of Arrowhead Gardens, its newest and most impressive affordable senior living community, a one-of-a-kind senior living campus consisting of a Village Center community building and three residential apartment buildings designed specifically for seniors, all of which are now open and available for immediate occupancy

Arrowhead Gardens (phone #: 1-888-472-5155) will be hosting its official Grand Opening event over the upcoming weekend of Saturday, February 27th and Sunday, February 28th. The general public is invited, especially prospective senior residents and their families, with tours, prizes, food, refreshments and live music. Prospective senior residents and their families can tour the community during the Grand Opening event weekend, or at anytime by appointment. A $99 Move-In Special will be offered to any eligible applicant who leases an apartment home over the Grand Opening event weekend. Visit Arrowhead Gardens today, where the lifestyle is rich and the rents are affordable. And don’t miss the Grand Opening event! See what all the fuss is about.

Located in the Highland Park neighborhood of West Seattle at 9200 2nd Ave SW, Arrowhead Gardens is the latest of 28 affordable senior living communities operated by SHAG, the largest senior housing provider in the Puget Sound region. Arrowhead Gardens contains an aggregate of 449 dwelling units in three unique and architecturally distinctive residential apartment buildings situated on a lushly landscaped four acre campus and configured in a village-like setting around the Village Center community building which contains leasing and management offices and many of the community’s special amenities and facilities.

For over twenty years, SHAG has been the leader in providing affordable independent living opportunities to seniors in the Puget Sound region. As a non-profit operator, SHAG is able to offer quality housing to seniors at affordable rents that are typically as much as 15% to 30% below comparable market rents. With no entrance fees, buy-in fees, service charges, move-in fees, exorbitant security deposits or other mandatory charges at move-in, and with most utilities included in the monthly rent, SHAG’s affordable senior living communities are even more attractive to seniors with moderate incomes in today’s stagnant economy. Senior citizens with fixed incomes in particular have felt the financial pinch with declines in their home values, retirement savings and stock portfolios, amid the rising costs of living. SHAG is part of the solution.

Arrowhead Gardens provides affordable independent living opportunities designed specifically for active seniors with moderate incomes. Certain age and income restrictions apply. Eligible individuals must be at least 61 years of age or at least 55 years of age and disabled. Maximum incomes for eligible individuals and households are approximately $35,000 per year for singles and $40,000 per year for couples. Rents start as low as $680 per month. Most utilities are included. Small pets are welcome.

All of the buildings at Arrowhead Gardens are access-controlled for security, elevator-serviced for convenience and fully sprinklered, with audio and visual fire alarms and smoke detectors, for fire safety. Secure underground parking is also available. Sunrooms and outdoor roof decks on the top floor of each residential apartment building provide stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, Mt. Rainier, and the Seattle cityscape. Each residential apartment building has a fully furnished main entry lobby with a fireplace. Trash chutes, common laundry rooms and resident lounges are provided on most residential floors.

View one of the model apartment homes or take a tour of any of the large selection of one- and two-bedroom rental apartment homes at Arrowhead Gardens, which are designed with seniors in mind and equipped with full bathrooms, full kitchens with full-sized appliances including dishwashers. Choose from among five attractive color décor packages. Apartment homes equipped with washer/dryer hookups are available. A selection of fully handicap-accessible apartments is also available. In addition to apartments with traditional bathrooms that have shower/tub surrounds, a selection of apartments are available with bathrooms that have roll-in showers or showers with transfer seats. Most ground floor apartments have outdoor patios and a number of upper floor apartments have outdoor balconies, decks or terraces.

In addition to the affordable rents are the beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards, soothing water features and a wealth of other amazing amenities and facilities that have most new and prospective residents excited. Each residential building has a gated and beautifully landscaped semi-private outdoor garden and courtyard. Some pea-patch planter boxes are available for resident use and community gardening. The village campus includes several delightful and soothing water features, such as re-circulating fountains and rain gardens that make use of ambient water, channeling rain water through downspouts into garden troughs and streams. The sights and sounds of flowing water help make Arrowhead Gardens a pleasant and relaxing place for seniors.

Take a tour of the Village Center and see what all the fuss is about. The amenities include:

• A Great-Room with vaulted ceiling
• A fireplace and first-class décor and furnishings, with comfortable color-coordinated furniture, tasteful art work, and soft background music.
• A Computer Lab with a network of computers providing residents free internet access, including several touch-screen computers and wireless internet access.
• Media Room for a home theater experience with a large screen HDTV, a Blue-Ray DVD player, surround sound audio, and plush theater seating.
• Craft Room for water colors, origami, card making, knitting, crochet, or contribute to a community jigsaw puzzle.
• Community Room / Lounge with kitchen facilities and banquet tables and chairs for large or small gatherings or celebrations, formal catered events or informal potluck dinners.
• Fitness Center with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, including treadmills, elliptical machines, strength training equipment, and recumbent and upright exercise bikes, and with flat screen LCD TVs with built-in DVD players to watch the news or other programming while going through a workout or playing their favorite workout routine DVDs.
• Spacious outdoor decks and terraces surround the Village Center, along with outdoor patio furniture, umbrellas to ward off bright sun or rain, and a gas barbeque grill for impromptu cook-outs

Arrowhead Gardens is located immediately adjacent to a King County Metro transit center, conveniently located near freeway access, and also features a dedicated transit van for local transportation. Arrowhead Gardens is an affordable senior living community like no other, offering a rich lifestyle and affordable rents in a beautifully landscaped and environmentally-friendly garden setting.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Burien Little Theatre has teamed up with local business The Jungle Gym to offer a “Kids Night Out” on Friday, March 5th so parents can easily attend a performance of “A Midsummer’s Night Dream.”

“Midsummer” is Arne Zaslove’s 1950s Rock ‘n’ Roll adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which continues at BLT through Sunday, March 21st (read our previous coverage here).

According to a press release:

Want a night at the theater and can’t find a babysitter? Problem solved! The Jungle Gym has teamed up with Burien Little Theatre to offer a “Kids Night Out” in conjunction with the theater’s performance of A Midsummer’s Night Dream on Friday, March 5.

On March 5 before the show drop the kids off for 3 hours of free play, games, snacks and a movie! The Jungle Gym is located at 191 S.W. 152nd Alley, Burien, WA 98166 and the cost is $25 per child from 7:45-11:00 p.m. This place is full of fun and exciting things for kids ages 3 and up to do, like the zip line, tumble track trampoline with pit, beams, bars and much more!  Reservations are required, and kids must be potty-trained to attend.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream is set in a gymnasium at Athens High School on graduation day 1957, and in a neighboring forest. A group of magical fairies intervene and meddle with the lives of two young couples for whom “the course of true love never did run smooth.” A live band and rockin’ tunes make this a treat for all ages!

Show dates & times:

• Feb. 26 at 8:00 p.m.   Friday
• Feb. 27 at 8:00 p.m.   Saturday
• Feb. 28 at 2:00 p.m.   Sunday Matinee
• March 5 at 8:00 p.m.   Friday
• March 6 at 8:00 p.m.   Saturday
• March 7 at 2:00 p.m.   Sunday Matinee
• March 12 at 8:00 p.m.   Friday
• March 13 at 8:00 p.m.   Saturday
• March 14 at 2:00 p.m.   Sunday Matinee
• March 19 at 8:00 p.m.   Friday
• March 20 at 8:00 p.m.   Saturday
• March 21 at 2:00 p.m.  Sunday Matinee

For $25 per child parents get a three-hour break so they can have a date night to see a great, funny play – to reserve a space at The Jungle Gym on the evening of March 5, call 206-248-3547.

For tickets to see A Midsummer Night’s Dream, go to wwww.burienlittletheatre.com or call (206) 242-5180.

Welcome back BTB Advertiser Burien Honda, which is having a birthday party and inviting everyone to come on in to check out the special green tag savings hanging from the rear view mirrors of all their cars.

They’ve been around Burien for 47 years and counting. In 1963, owner Jack Enderson opened a Honda Cycle dealership on SW 153rd and First Ave South, where “Mr. Auto” used to be (now Horizon Pets). He eventually added Triumph, BSA and Harley bikes to his inventory. In 1972, they needed more room and moved to their current location at 15026 First Avenue South.

This original 1970 N600 Honda has just 628 miles on it; its MSRP new was just $1,995!

In addition to an international reputation for its high mileage, Honda is leading the automotive industry in the Green and Hybrid Movement in automotive efficiencies. “Green” cars include the FIT Hatchback, Civic Sedan and “Hybrids” include Civic, Insight and Accord. They also have all of Honda’s conventional models. On the horizon is the FCX Clarity – a hydrogen and electric car available right now in California – and the CRV Diesel SUV sold in Europe and Japan.

Right now you can enjoy great 47 Anniversary savings on all Honda’s in stock! So stop on by and start enjoying your new Honda today.

Here’s a flashback pic of Burien Honda, circa 1972 – they’ve come a long way!:

Olde Burien merchant Zizia is hosting a PJ Salvage Trunk Show on Saturday March 6th from Noon – 5pm, themed as the ultimate “girl party,” with PJ Salvage Rep Missy G.

Visitors can order from the entire spring/summer collection of pajamas and beachwear, while sipping your favorite beverage and noshing on snacks.

Zizia is located at 827 SW 152nd in Olde Burien.

Here are the details:

WHAT: PJ Salvage Trunk Show

WHEN: Saturday, March 6th from Noon – 5pm.

WHERE: Zizia, located at 827 SW 152nd in Olde Burien; phone: (206) 242-2646.

INFO: From a press release:

The ultimate “girl party” is back!

Meet PJ Salvage rep Missy G and order from the entire spring/ summer collection of pajamas and beachwear, while sipping your favorite beverage and noshing on snacks.

In addition, we will be introducing affordable luxuries by New York jeweler Wendy Mink. Wendy pieces combine aspects of traditional Eastern world jewelry with classic European design.

A well know artist, Wendy’s work has been featured in Vogue, Elle, Marie Claire and Harpers Bazaar magazines.

Take a peak at www.wendyminkjewelry.com.

• Enter a drawing to win a free pair of pajamas
• 10% off all existing PJ Salvage in stock

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” Event Listing and/or Ad like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

BTB Advertiser E. B. Foote Winery will be holding a special “Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s Disease” event the weekend of March 18 – 21st.

Ten percent of all sales donated to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Rich Higginbotham, co-owner/winemaker who died of the disease in 2008 (read our coverage here).

Envelopes will also be available so visitors can make a donation directly to the Alzheimer’s Association.

To further honor Rich, his wife Sherrill Miller has made a special wine called “Remembrance” and she donates 50% of the purchase price to the Alzheimer’s Association for a particular research project being headed by Dr. Brian Kraemer. Remembrance is a 2007 vintage blend of 60% Cabernet, 30% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, with grapes from three different Columbia Valley vineyards, including Milbrandt, Graves and Arianses. When all of this wine is sold, more than $100,000 will be raised for research on Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and a new case of Alzheimer’s is diagnosed every 70 seconds. More than 5.3 million people have Alzheimer’s and that number continues to grow.

Step into Spring and Stamp Out Alzheimer’s Disease, featuring wine tasting of six current releases including Remembrance along with snacks, will be held on:

• Thursday, March 18: 5-8 p.m.
• Friday, March 19: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Saturday, March 20: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday, March 21: Noon – 6 p.m.

The event has a $5 tasting fee, which is applied toward a purchase of a bottle of wine. Sherrill reminds customers to dress warmly, as E.B. Foote is a working (and cool…literally) winery.

E.B. Foote Winery is located at 127-B SW 153rd St. in Burien, and is open for tasting Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Sherrill Miller at E.B. Foote Winery:

• Phone: 206-242-3852
• Email: winemaker@ebfootewinery.com
• Website: www.ebfootewinery.com