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 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.”

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:

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.

“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.

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.

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

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.

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!]

The B-Town Blog happily welcomes back one of our Advertisers: The Ming Wong Chinese Restaurant.

Located in a strip mall in Burien near the Dairy Queen off Ambaum Blvd., the Ming Wong Chinese Restaurant is lovingly run by husband and wife team Connie and Kwan Chan.

Connie was born in Canton, China, and moved to the Seattle area in 1995. After honing her culinary skills for 14 years at various restaurants in Seattle, she now brings her dining expertise to Burien.

Connie says “Nothing we serve has MSG anywhere in or on it. It’s good Chinese food at a very fair price!”

Also, Connie tells us if you purchase $25 or more you will receive four free Egg Rolls OR Connie’s fabulous Crab Cream Cheese Wontons (not valid with lunch special menu, individual combos or family dinners).

They also serve beer, wine and Sake.

The Ming Wong has ample room for banquets, large dinner parties, or special occasions.

Ask about their catering menu. They can put together something special that you can enjoy at your home or office.

Connie and Kwan say:

“Thank you, Burien, for seeing our Ad on The B-Town Blog and enjoying our place.

And keep coming on by!”

And one other element that sets Ming Wong apart is their ability to take orders online – give it a try here.

Location:

The Ming Wong Chinese Restaurant
14400 Ambaum Blvd. SW
Burien, Washington 99166

• Phone: 206-241-2679
• Fax: 206-241-4860

Order online here: www.mingwongrestaurant.com

Hours:

• Monday through Thursday: 11am to 9:30pm
• Friday and Saturday: 11am to 10pm
• Sunday: 12pm to 9:30pm

[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!]

In the continuing saga of STITA vs the Port of Seattle, on Monday (Feb. 22nd), the Washington state Court of Appeals ruled in favor of the cab company by granting a temporary injunction against the Port of Seattle’s planned contract with Yellow Cab/Puget Sound Dispatch.

This means the Port cannot sign the planned contract “until further order of the Court” (click here to download/read the order as a PDF file), which could happen in April.

STITA’s request to expedite the appeal was granted by Commissioner Mary Neel. The Commissioner’s order states that this case will be heard by a three-judge panel “toward the end of the April 2010 term,” meaning that this ongoing SeaTac soap opera is far from over.

Members of STITA, who filed the original lawsuit against the Port of Seattle on Jan. 29, were obviously pleased with the decision.

“We are thrilled that the court stopped the Port from proceeding with an illegal contract,” said Jesse Buttar, a STITA member and spokesperson. “We’ve only ever asked for a fair process and a legal contract and now we hope the Port has finally listened and will re-do its flawed bidding process.”

Here’s more info from STITA’s press release, issued late Monday afternoon:

STITA, a non-profit co-op with one of the greenest cab fleet in the country, was created in 1989 by the Port of Seattle to exclusively serve the airport and provide reliable service to airport users. Now, after an unfair proposal process, STITA and its approximately 450 members and drivers will essentially be put out of business. They have the airport contract through August 2010.

STITA’s lawsuit claims that the Port’s bidding process violated state law by requiring bidders to commit to pay an unfair concession fee of at least 10 percent of their airport-based revenues to the Port. This revenue system violates the Airports Act, which says airport concession fees must be based upon the actual cost of operations and be reasonable and uniform. Previously, the Port had charged a per-trip fee to taxis based on the airport’s actual cost of services provided to the cabbies.

Additionally, the lawsuit contends that the Port’s new concession fees violate the King County Code and takes away from the King County Council’s authority to set “just and reasonable” taxi meter rates.

Despite protests from STITA to the Port about these glaring problems with the process and the proposed contract, the Port has so far declined to re-do its flawed contract bid.

A second lawsuit against the Port and Yellow Cab by Farwest Taxi was filed on Feb. 12.

Read our previous coverage of this ongoing legal battle here.

Discover Burien’s Annual Silent Auction and the City of Burien Citizen Awards Recognition Dinner will be Friday, March 5th, from 6 to 10 pm at Karuna Yoga Studio in Olde Burien.

At this event, awards will be given out to the recipients of the city’s four awards for Outstanding Citizens and/or Businesspeople for 2009, which include (read our previous coverage here):

• John Nelson
• Luke Cruise
• Jean Spohn
• Jerry Robinson

And if you’re a local businessperson who’d like to donate an item to the auction, please click here for a Procurement Form (PDF file). This is Discover Burien’s big annual fundraiser event, and each item donated will be seen by a captive, interested, local and relevant audience (in other words, it’s a great way to market your stuff!). Contact Debra George if you have a donation: debrageorgemi@aol.com or via phone at (206) 941-7199.

Here are the event details:

WHAT: Discover Burien Annual Silent Auction and the City of Burien Citizen Awards Recognition Dinner

WHEN: Friday, March 5th from 6pm to 10pm

WHERE: Karuna Yoga Studio, located at 819 SW 152nd Street (at the corner of SW 152nd and Ambaum Blvd. in Olde Burien).

INFO: This will be a fun social event, with Dinner, Awards, Silent Auction and a No Host Bar. More information available at the Discover Burien website.

COST: Tickets are $25 each, or a Table with 8 tickets is $200.

Call (206) 433-2882 or e-mail debrageorgemi@aol.com or pick up tickets at the Discover Burien office or City Hall.

by Gina Bourdage

I can’t say I have ever been the biggest fan of Valentine ’s Day. The mere thought of cheesy stuffed animals, cheap chocolates or sleazy lingerie makes me gag. You might as well do nothing rather than a last-minute, no-thought, no-heart gift.

Being in a relationship, romantic or otherwise, means compromise and sacrifice not to mention hopefully showing all year round how much your significant other means to you, and not just on the day stores tell you to. This year try something different – put some serious thought into what you’re giving or doing. The best gift is one that really comes from the heart, and not just a box that is shaped like one.

I am gonna let you in on a little secret…women love to feel beautiful, but sometimes we don’t get enough time in our busy schedules to pamper ourselves. Here’s is a hint: make the appointment for a relaxing afternoon of some pampering for your lady. Don’t just buy the gift certificate if you can avoid it. Scheduling the appointment and doing all of the leg work will put her mind at ease and allow the relaxations she deserves. Locally we have some great options from massage therapists like B-Town Blog Advertiser Ceiba Acupuncture & Body Work in Des Moines. For an unforgettable relaxing facial we have Burien’s Skin Perfect, where she will get the ultimate in facial cleansing and rejuvenation not to mention beautiful make up as well. Here she, or he, can get the skin boutique experience from A-Z. They are offering a unique chocolate facial this season for a sweet twist on the traditional experience.

All of us like to go out to a fancy dinner now and then, but Burien has a lot of options that won’t break the bank. Sidestreet Kitchen & Bar offers a delicious variety of cuisine that is priced so that you can enjoy more than one course and still spring for the bottle of wine. BTB Advertiser Bistro Baffi offers an authentic Italian experience in a very romantic atmosphere. For you more casual diners you can check out Elliot Bay Brewery with a mostly organic, upscale pub menu or BTB Advertiser The Tin Room where the designer cocktails speak for themselves.

If you’re looking for that perfect gift she will never forget you will score major points going with something out of the “heart shaped box.” Women want to be able to talk about how amazingly thoughtful your gift was to all of her friends. This does not have to mean the biggest diamond you can find but I would caution against any gift that requires batteries or a power cord unless expressly requested or you might find yourself with some serious couch time.

Think about making a card, the less perfect the better. Try writing your own sayings inside that speaks to the uniqueness of your relationship. If you’re the poetically challenged you can go with a famous love quote on any number of quotation websites. If you are strapped for time after all of the other planning you’ve been doing you can find unique and thoughtful cards at The Card Bar in Olde Burien.

As for the actual gift itself, the more you plan, the more personal it is, the better. You are going to have to really think this one through on your own since no one knows the one you love more than you. Try reminding them of your favorite qualities in them, why you love them and special moments you’ve shared. A gift that creates a memory can never be exchanged.

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

According to Erin Williamson:

“Folks who show up will get a free slice of pie or cake, so even more reason to come!”

Here are the details:

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

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 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.

For More Information contact: burienarts.org

Poster Art by John Unbehend

BROUGHT TO YOU BY BURIEN ARTS & Burien Press

There’s a couple of things happening through February at BTB Advertiser Market Place Salon and Day Spa that our readers should know about.

The first is Hair Cuts that Love to Help Others:

The first 100 people to bring in a canned food for the Highline Area Food Bank will receive a haircut for $25 compliments of Market Place’s Stylist Helena.

All participants will be entered in a drawing to win a complimentary color or foil.

The second is a B-Town Blog Only In-Salon Special:

Mention The B-Town Blog when you book your appointment and you will receive 10% off an Express Manicure and Pedicure Combo (regular price $50) and $20 off a Spa Mani-Pedi combo (regular price $80).

Take advantage of all these offers, and give yourself a mini-beauty blast at Market Place, which is located near Trader Joes in Five Corners, at 15858 1st Ave. South.

Call 206-455-9524 to book your appointment, and be sure to mention The B-Town Blog to get the Mani-Pedi deal! More info online at their website here.

[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!]

In a fast-paced legal tennis match, after briefly having its restraining order denied, a State Court of Appeals Commissioner issued a stay late Monday in STITA Cab’s lawsuit against the Port of Seattle.

This means that, pending any other legal maneuvering, the Port will not be able to sign a contract with Yellow Cab.

Earlier Monday, King County Superior Court Judge Steven Gonzalez denied a restraining order filed by STITA to block the Port from signing the contract with Yellow Cab.

The contract for on-demand taxi service at Sea-Tac airport won’t be awarded until the court determines if the Port acted illegally. Judge Gonzalez heard STITA’s case Feb. 4th, and issued his decision Monday afternoon.

STITA vowed to continue fighting. They immediately took the case to the State Court of Appeals, which agreed to issue a stay – meaning the Port cannot sign with Yellow Cab until the legal issues are resolved.

The commissioner is expected to consider the merits of the case this week.

“We’re thrilled with this late-breaking win,” said Jesse Buttar, STITA cab owner. “We know we have a case. We just want a fair shot at the airport contract.”

On Jan. 29, STITA filed a complaint asking the court to halt the Port from signing a contract that violates state law. STITA seeks a fair and legal proposal process in which all bidders can compete on a level playing field.

In 1989, STITA – a non-profit co-op with the greenest cab fleet in the country – was created by the Port of Seattle to exclusively serve the airport and provide reliable service to airport users. Now, after an unfair proposal process, STITA and its approximately 450 members and drivers will essentially be put out of business.

In its lawsuit, STITA contends the Port’s bidding process violated the state Airports Act because the Port discontinued its prior practice of charging fees to taxicabs based on the airport’s actual cost of services provided to the cabbies. Instead, it required bidders to commit to pay an unfair concession fee of at least 10 percent of their airport-based revenues. This violates the Airports Act, which says airport concession fees must be based upon the Airport’s actual cost of operations and be reasonable and uniform.

STITA contends the Port’s bidding process caused a predatory bidding war among taxi companies which not only was illegal but will be financially devastating to the King County taxi industry.

STITA’s lawsuit also contends that the Port’s new concession fee violates the King County Code, which requires the King County Council to set the taxi meter rate at a level that is “just and reasonable.” The Port’s new concession fee cuts directly into the county’s taxi meter rate and prevents cab operators from receiving the gross receipts that they legally are entitled to receive.

Despite notice from STITA protesting these glaring problems with the process and proposed contract, the Port of Seattle declined to re-do its flawed proposal and said it would sign an agreement with Yellow Cab. STITA had no recourse but legal action.

PREVIOUSLY:

On Monday (Feb. 8th), King County Superior Court Judge Steven Gonzales put up the first roadblock in a lawsuit filed by longtime Sea-Tac Airport vendor STITA Cab by denying its attempts to stop the Port of Seattle from signing a contract with Yellow Cab.

The exclusive taxicab contract was held by STITA for 20 years in a no-bid deal. After a harsh rebuke from the State Auditor over its contracting processes, the Port of Seattle issued a “Request for Proposal,” or RFP, for the first time last fall.

Yellow Cab won the award with a bid of $18.3 million, which is $8 million greater than the bid STITA submitted. Yellow Cab was named a defendant in the lawsuit, along with the Port of Seattle and other taxi associations.

In issuing the ruling, Judge Gonzales noted that the RFP allowed for prospective bidders to file complaints, or injunctions, to any portion of the RFP document; Gonzales said, “The Plaintiff had the opportunity to file a complaint during the process, and they did not. They only complained when they did not win the bid.”

Yellow Cab will have to expand to meet its new agreement and may add up to 150 taxis, which could mean transferring over some STITA drivers, according to company representatives.

Without ruling on the lawsuit’s merits, Gonzalez said that STITA’s request for an injunction was damaged by the fact that it waited until after the bidding process to object. Had STITA won the contract, it’s “inconceivable” they would’ve sought an injunction, he said.

As we reported Feb. 1st:

In its lawsuit, STITA claimed that the Port’s bidding process violated the state Airports Act, because the Port discontinued its prior practice of charging fees to taxicabs based on the airport’s actual cost of services provided to the cabbies. Instead, it required bidders to commit to pay an unfair concession fee of at least 10 percent of their airport-based revenues. This violates the Airports Act, which says airport concession fees must be based upon the Airport’s actual cost of operations and be reasonable and uniform.

STITA contends the Port’s bidding process caused a “predatory bidding war among taxi companies which not only was illegal but will be financially devastating to the King County taxi industry.”

STITA has 216 cabs, 450 drivers, and claims to have brought in $10.58 million to the Port between 2004 and 2008.

Story by Rachel M. Lusby
Photos by Jim Branson

Longtime local business, Burien Books, is up for sale.

Burien Books was owned and operated by Virginia Pearce for 50 years. Pearce passed away recently at the age of 96 (read Jim Branson’s tribute to her here) and now the bookstore is being placed for sale by her nephew Joe Wisen.

“It’s a part of the estate,” Wisen said. “I cannot keep it running.” Wisen says he has other businesses of his own to run.

Burien Books is located at 643 SW 152nd St. and has been a staple in the community. One customer says she can find the books she needs for her book club, even when she cannot find them at bigger bookstore chains.

The last five or six years, Wisen says, Pearce was “getting tired.” He said she started to do things she enjoyed like working in her garden and bringing things into the store to decorate instead of dealing with the business aspect of things.

Marian Floyd has worked at Burien Books for 17 years and thinks the store may be the oldest one in the area to be owned by one person. “Even the feed store has changed owners,” she said.

Never having been modernized, the bookstore has used a wooden drawer that predates even the oldest of cash registers. It has sections for quarters, nickels, dimes and pennies and sections for paper money but no buttons.

Floyd said Virginia believed this had worked just fine for 50 years and there was no need for any “modern contraptions.” They do not even use a calculator. The store does take credit cards but uses a hand-operated card swiper with carbon paper.

Floyd says the bookstore has mostly repeat customers and a great reputation in the town.

“We brought our children here and now they’re bringing their children,” she said. “People don’t want to go to a bigger bookstore.”

Wisen says there have been some people to show interest in buying the store, but nobody who has been real enthusiastic. He has posted the sale on sites like craigslist.com, and has run ads in the Seattle Times and other local publications. He hopes the store will be sold and maintained.

“I would hope they would keep it open,” Wisen said. “It’s been there a long time.”

Wisen says the store has a large customer base but if it does not sell soon, he will have to close it down. “I think they [customers] will be disappointed.”

Floyd says there are many customers who come in “just to chat.”

“They like a place where they can come in and the employees know their names.”

If the store were to sell, Floyd strongly feels it would be updated.

“It will be modernized,” she said. “That is probably a good thing, actually.”

Floyd foresees there being computers involved and maybe some online sales and purchases from and by the store. She also hopes they would implement things such as “book readings, author signings, and childrens’ story times.”

If you’re interested in purchasing this page in Burien’s history, contact Joe Wisen at j.pacrim@yahoo.com or phone him at (206) 246-2725.

BTB Advertiser Ventana Construction is holding another free event: “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop” on Thursday, Feb. 11th at 6pm.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Ventana Construction’s “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop”

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 11th beginning at 6pm

WHERE: Ventana Construction offices, located at 5458 California Ave SW, in West Seattle (98136).

INFO: Ventana says:

“If you are a homeowner considering remodeling your home or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process.

Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful.

This 1 ½ hour workshop is open to the public and seating is limited.

Call 206-932-3009 to reserve your space.”

For more info, visit Ventana Construction’s website here, or call 206-932-3009.

[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!]

Members of the Seattle-Tacoma International Taxi Association (STITA) will rally against the Port of Seattle Monday, Feb. 1st beginning at Noon in downtown Seattle, in an effort to heighten awareness of the Port’s decision to change cab companies at Sea-Tac Airport after 20 years.

According to a press release:

STITA has no choice but to take its case to court to prevent the Port of Seattle from signing a contract with a competitor on Tuesday.

In December, the Port of Seattle Commission awarded a new five-year contract to Yellow Cab.

Now, more than 450 families face the loss of their businesses and livelihoods (while the contract is awarded to a big business monopoly, Yellow Cab).

STITA is a non-profit co-op of 216 cabs owned by 283 people. STITA was formed 20 years ago to solve a problem – the failure of for-profit taxi companies to provide safe, reliable taxi cab service at the airport.

Here’s info on the rally:

WHAT: Members of the Seattle-Tacoma International Taxi Association (STITA) will make an important announcement and take questions from reporters.

WHEN: Noon, Monday, Feb. 1st.

WHERE: South side of the King County Courthouse in downtown Seattle, 3rd and Jefferson St. (the corner of the park)

INFO: Attorney Michael Goldfarb will discuss the legal case against the Port, and cab drivers and their families will be available to discuss the devastating impact of the Port’s flawed decision.

From STITA’s website:

STITA was formed 20 years ago by the Port of Seattle primarily to service in-bound passengers to SeaTac and residents of King County. STITA prides itself on providing excellent service. We have nearly 200 taxis in our owner-operated fleet. At STITA, diversity is embraced and our cab drivers are very proud of the fact that they work for an organization whose owners represent a broad range of cultural backgrounds including: Indian, East African, Pakistani, Somali, Filipino, Ethiopian, Iranian, and Bangladeshi. Many may not know that STITA is a not-for-profit association comprised of over 145 minority-owned businesses, meaning that STITA is governed by a Board of Directors and does not have a single owner or leasing agent. Because our cabs are owner operated, STITA takes customer service very seriously.

At the Port of Seattle’s request, several years ago STITA stopped driving traditional gasoline powered vehicles and now has one of the most environmentally friendly taxi fleets in the world. We operate both hybrids (40 vehicles) and compressed natural gasoline taxis (120 vehicles). The use of CNG has resulted in a significant reduction of air pollutants.

Valentine’s Day is just about two weeks away, which means that now would probably be a good time to start shopping for something for your sweetie.

We here at The B-Town Blog strongly believe in shopping local, which is why we highly recommend that all our Readers buy their Valentine’s Day gifts from Burien-based Advertiser Dan the Sausageman.

I mean, what says “I Love You” better than a groovy gift box full of high quality meats, cheeses, chocolates and other goodies? And what better way to spend your money than by keeping it local?

Dan the Sausageman has been in business in Burien since 1988. Back then, Dan House (who also owns The Tin Room and the soon-to-be-opening Tin Theater) used to drive around selling sausages to car dealers and other businesses in the south end. Eventually he opened a tiny retail store in Seahurst, then moved into the classic old Hi-Line Tin Shop in Olde Burien where he still works every day.

And no, Danny hasn’t retired his retail sausage business – he’s just moved it in preparations for his new “Tin Theater” (which will be opening soon – stay tuned to the BTB for details) and is doing most work online now (check out his website here).

For Valentine’s Day, Dan the Sausageman is offering a great deal – purchase any gift box, and you’ll get both an extra 9oz Summer Sausage as well as a dozen chocolate kisses!

Gift Boxes are available at this web page, and here are three favorites:

“Dan’s Favorite“: Packed inside this hand made pine crate (15″ x 6.5″ x 4.5″) are all the things Dan loves and is a consistent top pick among our loyal customers. Contents: Summer Sausage (9oz), Sharp Cheese (4oz), Pepper Jelly (5oz), Smoked Salmon (3.25oz), Smoked Pate (3.25oz), Spiced Almonds (1.5oz), Sweet’N'Hot Mustard (2oz), Crackers (1oz), Chocolate Truffles (2pcs), Chocolate Covered Cherries, Blueberries, Cranberries and Apricots (4oz) – all for just $53.95! Click here to order.

“Retro Lunch Box“: If you took a lunch like this to work every day, you probably would WANT to go to work. Our nifty retro lunch pail is filled with all of the stuff that keeps our customers coming back for more. Contents: Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Hot Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Santa Barbara Garlic Stuffed Olives (2 oz.), Bandon Sharp Cheese (8 oz.), Seattle Chocolate Truffles (2.5 oz.), Gourmet Caramels with Almonds, Spiced Almonds (1.5 oz.), Venus Crackers (2 oz.), all for just $54.95! Click here to order.

“Perfect For The Palate“: No, we haven’t started selling paint like Martha Stewart. We do fancy the can though. Whether it is the office, home, or outdoors – all you have to do is spread this out and paint a smile on your face. Contents: Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Hot Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Santa Barbara Garlic Stuffed Olives (2 oz.), Bandon Sharp Cheese (8 oz.), Toffee Almond Cranberry Crunch (8 oz.), Eastshore Pretzels (4 oz.), Sweet ‘n’ Hot Mustard (2 oz.), Spiced Almonds (1.5 oz.), 1 Gallon Collector Paint Can. Just $47.95. Click here to order.

You can order these gift boxes online, as well as many others, safely and securely here (you can also order ala carte items too!).

Locked out? Lose your keys? Need to replace all of your locks? Don’t worry! There is a new locksmith in town: Seatown Locksmith in Burien, serving all of King County.

When Highline Lock and Key closed their doors last year, former employee Maurice Bressack said, “Burien still needs keys!” He put his plan into motion and opened Seatown Locksmith a few months ago bringing another former employee, Dee Stewart, with him. Maurice worked at Highline Lock and Key for eight years. Before that he worked with his uncle in his mobile locksmith company for six years.

Seatown Locksmith offers fast, friendly, professional service. They have low overhead and low prices, but they are very high in customer service. They will respond to you any time of the day or night with their 24 hour emergency service.

What is the most expensive key you own? If you own a car that was made after 1996 it is your transponder key. If you need a replacement transponder key check out Seatown Locksmith’s prices – they will be lower than your dealership.

Do you have commercial properties? Seatown Locksmith can handle your commercial accounts. They do master keying, rekeying, lock replacements and more. They even offer monthly invoicing.

Whatever you need – residential, automotive, commercial, emergency – Seatown Locksmith is here in Burien to serve you anywhere in King County. Stop by and say hello to the friendly people at Seatown Locksmith: Maurice, Dee and Shiloh.

Seatown Locksmith
135 SW 153rd Street
Burien, WA 98148

Phone: 206-420-3426

Website: www.seatownlocksmith.com

Friend ‘em on Facebook here.

[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!]

There are “New Lower Auto Rates” out there, and new B-Town Blog Advertiser Harbor Insurance Services will help you find them.

Harbor Insurance Services is located in the Seahurst neighborhood of Burien. Owners Julie and Tim Reagan started this agency over 30 years ago in their basement. Shortly after that they moved their office to Burien, and 13 years later to Seahurst. Their daughter Leah Caudle “officially” joined the family biz in 2001, but she’s actually been working with them since the 8th grade doing filing, answering phones and helping out in the office.

Tim, Julie and Leah pride themselves in their shared philosophy of selling insurance which is service, service……and finally, service. They add to the service aspect by being family friendly and accessible. Julie adds, “When you call Harbor Insurance you’ll always talk to an agent.”

In addition to auto and home, Harbor Insurance insures a variety of vehicles, or as Julie calls them, “the toys.” This includes boats, RV’s, motorcycles and motor homes. And because they’re INDEPENDENT insurance agents they can shop around for best prices to suit your needs. Among their portfolio of insurance companies are:

• Grange
• Progressive
• Foremost
• Hagerty

And about those lower rates, Tim? “We now have tiered rating systems so we can offer the most preferred rate to the most preferred driver while still getting good rates for those with less than perfect records.”

Unlike other “Ma and Pa” businesses in Burien, Julie and Tim are also “Nana and Papa” (to Leah’s boys, Atticus- 2 1/2 and Dominic- 6 months). Atticus has moved on to daycare, but Dominic is in residence every day, holding court in his well-toyed corner of the office. “Customers just love bringing their kids in here because of all the toys”, explained Leah. A lot of customers also stop by just to watch Leah’s little red-headed boys grow and change.

Harbor’s slogan is “Our Family Serving Your Family Since 1979.” “Nana and Papa” pride themselves in taking care of insurance needs for multiple generations of families. Original customers have referred Harbor Insurance to their kids, who have again referred them to their kids. And with Leah on-board, there’s another generation or two of families who will enjoy Harbor Insurance Services’ .….well, service!

If you want to shop around for lower rates on your insurance, contact Harbor Insurace:

• Send an email to reaganharbor@aol.com
• Call 206-241-8744
• Fax 206-246-0810
• Online at www.harborinsuranceservices.net
• The old-fashioned way: stop by and see them in person at 2104 SW 152nd (across from The Bean).

They’d love to meet you.

However you contact them, give Harbor Insurance Services a chance to show you how to lower your insurance rates on your auto, home and toys.

[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!]

The Soroptimist International of Seattle South Club will be having its February Business meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 3rd from Noon to 1pm at the Mark Restaurant, located at 918 SW 152nd St, in Olde Burien.

Soroptimist International is a volunteer organization of professional and business women who work to improve the lives of women and girls locally and throughout the world.

The cost of lunch is $13.50.

Please RSVP to Treasurer Diane Swierenga at (206) 313-7576 if you would like to attend, or would like more information.

According to their website:

Our club is active in helping local charities raise funds & awareness for women & girl issues, such as Hospitality House, Highline Hospital, Highline Community College Womens Program; and we also award annual scholarships to low income women to further their education.

Please visit our club Facebook page at “Soroptimist Int’l of Seattle South,” or our main organization website, www.soroptimist.org.

B-Town Blog Advertiser and local Hypno-Coach Patricia Eslava Vessey is inviting all smoking Readers who want to be a ‘quitter’ to check out her newest class offered at Burien Parks and Recreation beginning Monday evening, Feb. 1st.

Patricia has successfully helped many Burienites stop smoking, and continues her good work starting next Monday evening. If your new year’s resolution including kicking the habit, this class will launch you on your goal. Patricia’s goal for her participants is “the first day of class you’ll quit smoking for good.”

Description:

Discover how hypno-coaching can help you with your life’s goals. The focus of this class is to help you stop smoking. You can become the kind of person you’ve always wanted to be. Feeling powerless over your smoking habit? Tired of all the failed attempts at quitting? Ready to try something that really works? This class will help you change your attitude, beliefs and habits. Learn to reprogram that successful smoking habit to freedom as a non-smoker today! Using innovative and proven methods from hypnosis, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), life coaching and personal fitness training, you will discover that giving up your smoking can be far easier than you ever imagined.

SCHEDULE:

• Monday Feb. 1st 6:00PM – 8:00PM Classroom 3-Burien Community Center
• Monday Feb. 8th 6:00PM – 8:00PM Classroom 3-Burien Community Center

INSTRUCTOR:

Patricia Eslava Vessey is the founder of Integrity Coaching & Training Systems, a multifaceted company with expertise in coaching, training, leadership, Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) 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 certified international coach, Patricia inspires, motivates and supports people in transforming limiting beliefs and behaviors into heartfelt, meaningful and lasting changes.

Visit her website at: www.integritylifecoach.com

Call (206) 988-3700 to register today. Class starts Monday Feb. 1st! Dress comfortably and bring a mat.

[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!]

“Once you’re pre-approved (to buy a home) you’re armed and dangerous,” says Mark Denniston, Senior Loan Consultant at new B-Town Blog Advertiser Northwest Mortgage Alliance LLC. “Pre-approval is as easy as a phone call or email. I will let the buyer know in a very short time,” he added.

You can reach Mark at 206-932-1500, or email him at mdenniston@nwmortgagealliance.com.

Mark feels that there is no better time than now to buy a home.

“With interests rates as low as 5%, home prices at the bottom, and the government tax credit for first time and current homebuyers extended through April, there’s no better time than now to buy a home,” stated Mark.

The First Time Homebuyers credit is up to $8,000 and expires April 30, with closing by June 30. The Current Home Owners credit is up $6,500 with the same expiration and closing.

Northwest Mortgage Alliance (NWMA) has been a trusted leader in home loans in the Northwest since 1998. Mark has been a trusted loan officer with several companies throughout his nearly 40 year career in first the real estate business, and then the mortgage loan industry. Half of his career in mortgages have been spent right here in Burien.

As a mortgage loan consultant for so many years, Mark has learned that counciling prospective buyers on the ins and outs of home buying and ownership is the best way to earn trust and business. He has counseled thousands of buyers over his career. While BTB was interviewing Mark, he had a person call in that had used his services as a mortgage broker 10 years ago. She was downsizing, and called Mark before she even started house-hunting. His council was needed for this customer to start the process.

Knowledge, expertise and council is what Mark brings to customers who choose to finance their biggest purchase of their lives–their home–with Northwest Mortgage Alliance and Mark Denniston.

NWMA has nine offices throughout the Puget Sound, with one right here in Burien at 127 Southwest 156th Street, Suite 100.

So if you’re in the market for a home, be sure and give Mark a call at (206) 932-1500 for that pre-approval before you start looking at houses. He’ll get you pre-approved in minutes, and at no charge, so you can hit the streets, as Mark puts it “armed and dangerous.”

Visit their website here, or call Mark directly at (206) 932-1500.

[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!]

We’d like to shout out a big Bonjour/Bienvenuito/Hola and even a hearty “Xin Chào” to our latest Advertiser: LC Interpreters!

LC Interpreters offers professional language interpretation and translation services in Burien and the Greater Seattle Area.

How can LC Interpreters help you?

Let’s say you are a business person interviewing a prospective employee who may not yet be fluent in the English language. LC Interpreters will provide an interpreter for you to help complete the job interview.

You will know both parties are understanding each other clearly.

Over 150 languages are currently supported via telephone. LC Interpreters’ experienced interpreters and translators are certified and produce timely, accurate interpretations and translations at affordable rates.

LC Interpreters also provides expert document translation services in over 25 languages. Each translation is double-checked for quality and accuracy before it is delivered in electronic form to the client. Translations are also delivered as print materials, upon request.

Some of the many types of documents LC Interpreters translators cover are:

• Medical records and legal documents
• Employee handbooks
• Contracts, letters and marketing materials
• Academic transcripts and diplomas
• Wedding and other social announcements

LC Interpreters was founded by Perlita Matta in 2005.

“Our main focus is medical settings. Many of our services are covered by the state,” Perlita told us. “Medical providers can call us in for workers compensation claims and not have to pay anything out of pocket.

“Sometimes our work is done over the phone,” said Perlita. “But we mostly provide interpreting services onsite.”

LC Interpreters pricing is quite reasonable. They are more than happy to provide a quote in advance.

LC Interpreters is a Certified Washington Women’s Minority Owned Business and is a member of many professional groups including:

• ALC – Association of Language Companies
• Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• ATA – American Translators Association
• NOTIS – Northwest Translators & Interpreters Society
• OMWBE- Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises
• PWC – Professionals in Workers’ Compensation
• WITS – Washington State Court Interpreters and Translators Society

Setting up an appointment or requesting a quote is easy – just call 206-901-9834 or e-mail: service@lcinterpreters.com.

In most cases an appointment can be scheduled and completed with just 48 hours notice.

Or feel free to stop by their new offices – they are located just east of Ambaum, on SW 153rd Street:

LC Interpreters
641 SW 153rd Street
Burien, WA  98166

Phone: 206-901-9834

www.lcinterpreters.com

E-mail: service@lcinterpreters.com

[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!]

The B-Town Blog would like to welcome our newest Advertiser – the Law Offices of W. Tracy Codd!

He’s the new guy in our “Page Peel” Ad spot in the upper right corner.

Tracy’s a longtime Burien resident. He attended nursery school in Seahurst. He then attended local public schools, and is a 1979 grad of John F. Kennedy High School.  After that he had a gig as a college tennis player at the University of San Diego, but the gloom and doom of the Seattle area called him back to finish at the University of Washington. Then off to UPS Law School to get his law degree, then back to the University of Washington to get an MBA.

In 1987 he hung his law shingle in downtown Seattle to become a sports agent, specializing in representing baseball players. But Burien called him back. In the early 90s he started office sharing with his Father, Paul J. Codd. Paul J. Codd has been a Burien general practice lawyer for over 45 years. He’s also served as a municipal court judge for 30 years. His sister Julie Codd also shares office space.

“I’m lucky to see my family members every day. I’ve often benefited from my dad’s years of accumulated wisdom,” states Codd.

The substantial portion of Tracy’s practice involves Plaintiff’s Personal Injury cases and Criminal Defense. But instead of talking about the law, Codd chose to use his complementary BTB “Blogvetorial” to sing the praises of Burien, his family and running (but not necessarily in that order).

In Codd’s mind, “Burien is one of the best kept secrets, if not in all of the state of Washington, certainly King County. The quality of life, the water, access to the freeways and the firmly rooted community,” are at the top of his list. When it comes to community involvment issues, he commends two restaurant/bars and their owners on 152nd that have changed life for runners and residents alike in Burien.

As a lifelong athlete, Codd continues to run to keep fit. As a former Marathon Man and Iron Man, he has diverted his running to “cause related” races and shorter distances. He hopes to run into his 60’s or 70’s.

When Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub started the Cove to Clover race last March, it gave Codd and many others a chance to participate in cause related running while making over $10,000 for the Highline Area Food Bank. He hopes to talk to Mick about changing the course …..”the hill from hell, the snake hill’s gotta go. Mick is trying to kill us.”

He also appreciated the Tin Room’s Brat Trot. Perhaps that’s because if was on a flat course, it’s well organized and the inaugural race day weather was beautiful. Four hundred runners raised $25,000 for West Side Baby and Safe Children in South King County.

Codd wanted to use his complementary blogvetorial to give a Big Shout Out to Mick Purdy (Mick Kelly’s) and Dan House (Tin Room) for their civic service!

Codd and his family live in the Burien area.  His wife Michelle is part owner of Poggi Bonsi and board member of Discover Burien. They moved back to Burien shortly after they started a family. Daughters Sydney (17) and Caroline (16) are basketball players at Mt. Rainier High School, while son Stuart (14) is on the swim team. Son Paul (9) is carrying on the family sports tradition by playing soccer at St. Francis.

So there you have our profile of W. (William) Tracy Codd. Dad, Husband, avid runner, Burien-ite, Burien advocate and plaintiff’s lawyer in personal injury and criminal defense. We hope that you, our Readers, don’t need his services, but if life throws you a curve, be sure and give Tracy Codd a call.

You’ll find him at:

Address: 15401 1st Ave. South #A

Phone: 206-248-6152

Website: www.tracycodd.com

[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!]

Stress. We all deal with it. We seem to manufacture it at times. And we’d all be happy if it could magically just go away. Stress can also lead to other health problems.

Well, we’ve got a new advertiser and reflexology practitioner right here in the Highline area that specializes in stess reduction among other things.  That’s Lorri Angus, reflexologist extraordinaire and owner of Inner Balance Holistic.  I had the opportunity to receive one of her special reflexology sessions recently and it was wonderful.

I’ve had reflexology some years ago so I knew what to expect, but I wasn’t expecting the treatment I got from Lorri. She ‘warmed me up’ by working on my ears, which sent energy flowing throughout my body. Then the feet. Ahhh, it was magical. I knew enough about the reflexology session to know it’s not a simple foot rub or foot massage.I knew that she would be working to stimulate the reflex points and zones within my entire body. When Lorri was done, my longtime shoulder ache had disappeared. Also I was sneezing and coughing as those pesky little toxins were moving about my body.

Lorri tells us that although working on the feet, “reflexology works on the whole individual–physical, mental, emotional–balancing out the whole body and allowing it to heal.”

Lorri’s available for sessions in her Normandy Park studio afternoons and evenings by appointment.  You’ll find her at 19655 1st Ave. S. #209 (right above Companion Animal Medical), at 206-219-6411 or Lorri@innerbalanceholistic.com.

According to Lorri, Reflexology has been shown to be effective for:

• Back Pain
• Migraines
• Infertility
• Arthritis
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal imbalance
• Sports injuries
• Digestive disorders
• Stress related conditions

If your 2010 resolutions include feeling better naturally, you should give Lorri a call. She’d be glad to share the benefits of reflexology with you. Prices start as low as $35 ((1/2 hour session), and long-term packages are available.

According to www.innerbalanceholistic.com, here’s a brief overview of reflexology:

The art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China. It was introduced to the West as ‘zone therapy’ in 1913 by Dr. William Fitzgerald who noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas of the body within the same zone. In the 30’s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy which works on the feet to help to heal the whole person, not just the prevailing symptoms. It can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium, this gentle therapy helps the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

[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!]

BTB Advertiser Highline Athletic Club is now registering for the Biggest Loser contest! Start the new year off healthier and on your way to a new level of improved fitness.

Here’s more info from our friends at HAC:

Come join a team, and compete to lose the most weight in the next 10 weeks. Choose the time that works best for you with one of our three nationally certified trainers.

The cost is $400 for HAC members and $550 for non-members, payable at sign-up. The price covers the kickoff, final assessment and two 90-minute team training sessions per week. Sessions will include workouts and discussions on nutrition and exercise. Non-members will also have access to the club for workouts at anytime for the ten week contest.

Our kick-off is Saturday morning, January 16 at 10:00 a.m. Wear your workout clothes as we will take assessments and do some fitness testing to prepare for future workouts.

Numerous prizes include: 6 month membership, 3 month membership, massages, personal training sessions, and the list goes on!

Dates:

• January 16 through March 27, 2010.

Trainers and Times:

• Chris Knight, AFAA Certified Personal Trainer 6:00 am to 7:30 am Tuesday and Fridays
• Amy Rebmann, NSCA Certified Personal Trainer, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, M/W
• Jan Roegner, ACSM Certified Personal Trainer, 10:30 am to Noon, TTh

Read trainer bios on our Web site: www.highlineathleticclub.com

Register at the front desk.

[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!]

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, by taking a class with Advertiser Patricia Vessey of Hypno-Coaching, 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.

“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

WHAT: 6-Hour Weight Loss Course with Advertiser Patricia Vessey of Hypno-Coaching

COST: Only $79.00! This course will change your life!

WHEN: Wednesdays, January 13, 20 & 27th, from 6pm – 8pm

WHERE: Burien Community Center, located at 425 Southwest 144th Street

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

REGISTER: Call (206) 988-3700 to register NOW

Featured in the B-Town Blog!

“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, rather than anywhere else. As a result of this course, I found that I can do it!” G. Hedgpeth

Workshop feedback:

“This class focuses on life changes which is exactly what I need. Temp fixes are just that. I’m ready for the change & I think this is going to get me there.” RP

“Excellent presentation! I can’t wait to implement ideas.” H. Hopelink

“Good mix of discussion, visualization & homework.”

“I am choosing nutritious food more often.” DM

“Thank you. You are a great presenter!” LJR, CPA

“I want you to know how good this feels and how confident I am.” BR

INSTRUCTOR: Patricia Eslava Vessey is the founder of Integrity Coaching & Training Systems, a multifaceted company with expertise in coaching, training, leadership, Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) 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 certified international coach, Patricia inspires, motivates and supports people in transforming limiting beliefs and behaviors into heartfelt, meaningful and lasting changes.

Visit her at: www.integritylifecoach.com

[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!]

We stopped by the other day to say Hi to B-Town Blog friend and Advertiser Bison Creek Pizza & Pub. We enjoy the company of the proprietors, but honestly, we just can’t resist the food!

Bison Creek Pizza & Pub originated in West Seattle in 1975 and expanded to Burien in 1977. The West Seattle location is no longer in operation, but the Burien restaurant and pub continues to this day.

New owners Shauna and Ryan Rumel purchased Bison Creek Pizza on September 15, 2008, and have seen business increase due to their hard work even as the economy has seen a dramatic downturn.

Shauna met her husband Ryan at the Art Institute of Seattle where she studied video and film production and Ryan studied graphic design.

They started dating at school and they both graduated in 2001. Then Cupid shot his arrow and they were married in 2004.

Shauna was working in the financial field and Ryan worked in construction. When they both could see that the housing market was going to collapse, they decided to start their own business.

The couple often came to Bison Creek Pizza while they were dating and would drive up from Renton even after they were married because, as Shauna says, “It’s pizza that you crave!”

They noticed a listing for Bison Creek Pizza in 2008 and purchased it.

“It was meant to be,” they told us.

Shauna says “One of the things that sets us apart from other restaurants is that we offer wheat- and gluten-free pizzas, and even wheat- and gluten-free beer!”

“If you have allergies to wheat and gluten, just ask and we will make a special pizza just for you,” she says.

Between 11am and 2pm Monday through Friday, Bison Creek offers a wonderful all-you-can-eat buffet with a salad bar, soup and fantastic pizza!

In addition to pizza, the menu includes appetizers, calzones, a variety of salads, pasta dishes, hot sandwiches and a “Lil’ Bandits” Kids Menu.

Who the heck serves Root Beer Floats anymore? Well, Bison Creek does! Just ask.

On weekends Bison Creek Pizza offers live music featuring some of Seattle’s top bands.

Asked what advice Shauna and Ryan have for folks thinking of starting up their own business, they say “Have patience and go for it. We’re here and we’re happy!”

While eating or enjoying the atmosphere at Bison Creek, ask them about the 100-year old wooden back bar. It’s an 1890’s Brunswick model and was shipped in two pieces from the Bison Creek Dude Ranch in Montana to the Burien location in the early 1990’s.

Click on their ad on this page to read a fascinating history of the Bison Creek Pizza & Pub Burien location.

Better yet, stop by in person and try some of the best pizza you will ever have!

Bison Creek Pizza & Pub
630 SW 153rd Street
Burien, WA 98166

Phone 206-244-8825

Restaurant Hours:

• Monday – Friday 11am to 10pm
• Saturday 11am to 10pm
• Sunday 11am to 9pm

Website: www.BisonCreekPizza.com

[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!]

KING-TV is reporting Wednesday (Jan. 6th) that Washington State Office of Insurance Commissioner agents raided a Burien business called Premier Auto Glass and Auto Glass Experts investigating for evidence of fraud and theft.

The companies serve as mobile car windshield replacement firms, and they’re suspected of cheating insurance companies and customers by billing for more expensive original equipment manufactured (OEM) glass but using cheaper aftermarket glass. Insurance companies are typically billed for the more expensive OEM windshields.

Agents collected boxes of business records, files and computers from the business during the raid, and it will apparently take weeks to sift through everything.

According to our initial research, Premier Auto Glass and Auto Glass Experts offices are located at 14612 20th Ave SW in Burien.

Here’s KING’s video report (read the full story here):

On a lighter note, we encourage our friends at KING-TV (and their partner site NWCN.com) to consider buying a dictionary, installing spellcheck, and/or hiring someone who can actually spell – check out their misspelled headlines, which were online like this for over three hours (EDITOR’S NOTE: they fixed it shortly after we first posted this, but the URL to their story still has the error, as do our now-collectible screenshots below):