| Mar |
| 20 |
| 8:00 pm |
“All Mixed Up,” a Cars Tribute Band, will be playing at BTB Advertiser Bison Creek Pizza & Pub this Saturday, March 20th, starting at 10pm.
They will play a variety of hits by The Cars, Tom Petty, The Cure and many other 80’s classics.
Here is a link to their Myspace page, which includes demo tracks:
Here are the show details:
- 21+ Only
- NO COVER!
- Call to reserve seats: 206.244.8825
Bison Creek Pizza & Pub
630 SW 153rd St.
Burien, WA 98166
206.244.8825
[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 50,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]
The Seattle Times is reporting that a couple from Normandy Park is suing Toyota in federal court, demanding that the company either take back the vehicle they just bought or reimburse them for its loss in value since the automaker’s sudden-acceleration troubles became news.
According to The Times:
The lawsuit alleges that the issues plaguing Toyota violate the state’s Consumer Protection Act and amount to a breach of contract. The lawsuit is a proposed class action and, if certified by a federal judge, could apply to other Toyota owners in Washington with similar issues.
Read the full story here.
| Mar |
| 18 |
| 7:00 pm |
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.
Here’s another great reason to attend the upcoming Poverty Bay Wine Festival this coming weekend – a parade of MINI Coopers will end up at the Landmark Event Center on Sunday, March 7th sometime shortly after Noon.
The parade will start at the south end of the Des Moines Marina, where MINIs will congregate at Anthony’s Home Port (421 S. 227th St.) at Noon, then motor on up to the Landmark Event Center and park in the front parking spaces (excluding handicapped, etc.).
As everyone knows, it’s always cool to see one unusual, groovy MINI Cooper. Now imagine 20 or more, all detailed, each unique in its own way, cruising in, parking and showing off.
If you’re a MINI Cooper enthusiast (Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer drives one), and you’re interested in being in this parade of fun and funky little MINIs, you should consider joining the Puget Sound MINI Motoring Club at their website here.
This will be the second specialty sports car event at the fest – as you may recall, the Tyee Triumph Car Club will be displaying their classic Triumph cars on Saturday, March 6th (read our coverage here).
To buy tickets for the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, click here, or visit CorkyCellars (206-824-9462), Des Moines Drug, and/or purchase directly from any Des Moines Rotary Club member. All proceeds go to the service projects of the Rotary Club of Des Moines.
For more information, including details on wineries, food vendors and entertainment at the fest, read our previous coverage here.
Welcome back BTB Advertiser Burien Honda, which is having a birthday party and inviting everyone to come on in to check out the special green tag savings hanging from the rear view mirrors of all their cars.
They’ve been around Burien for 47 years and counting. In 1963, owner Jack Enderson opened a Honda Cycle dealership on SW 153rd and First Ave South, where “Mr. Auto” used to be (now Horizon Pets). He eventually added Triumph, BSA and Harley bikes to his inventory. In 1972, they needed more room and moved to their current location at 15026 First Avenue South.
This original 1970 N600 Honda has just 628 miles on it; its MSRP new was just $1,995!
In addition to an international reputation for its high mileage, Honda is leading the automotive industry in the Green and Hybrid Movement in automotive efficiencies. “Green” cars include the FIT Hatchback, Civic Sedan and “Hybrids” include Civic, Insight and Accord. They also have all of Honda’s conventional models. On the horizon is the FCX Clarity – a hydrogen and electric car available right now in California – and the CRV Diesel SUV sold in Europe and Japan.
Right now you can enjoy great 47 Anniversary savings on all Honda’s in stock! So stop on by and start enjoying your new Honda today.
Here’s a flashback pic of Burien Honda, circa 1972 – they’ve come a long way!:
| Mar |
| 6 |
| 12:00 pm |
The Tyee Triumph Car Club will be displaying their classic Triumph cars at this year’s Poverty Bay Wine Festival on Saturday, March 6th.
“At last count it appears we will have 17 or 18 cars at the Landmark for display,” said club president John Gebert, who himself owns five Triumphs. “We plan to park them in the spaces at the front entrance of the building, leaving ample room for two lanes of traffic for the buses, handicapped, etc. Our plans are to have a club meeting 10am at my home in Des Moines, and then parade down Marine View to the Landmark Event Center so we can be ready for display by Noon.”
The LBC’s (aka Little British Cars) should stay in the parking lot until around 3pm.
Geber adds: “The majority of our members are buying tickets to participate in your Festival and looking forward to a great time. They are excited about the opportunity to display their cars as well as the drive to get there. Thanks for helping get the word out…the best way you could help us would be to provide a clear and sunny day…but, we’ll be there no matter!”
John tells us that the club currently has over 50 active members who all have at least one Triumph car in various states of repair and renovation.
“Of note, we pride ourselves on being a ‘driving’ club in which the majority of our cars are on the road and used regularly,” he said. “You won’t meet many members with ‘trailer queens’,” said John.
More info on the Tyee Triumph Club is available at their website.
To buy tickets for the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, click here, or visit CorkyCellars (206-824-9462), Des Moines Drug, and/or purchase directly from any Des Moines Rotary Club member. All proceeds go to the service projects of the Rotary Club of Des Moines.
(Photos courtesy the Tyee Triumph Club)
So you own a Toyota that you may have seen in the news lately…now what?
Don’t panic just yet – we spoke with the General Manager of BTB Advertiser Burien Toyota Scion, Pat Dillon, about what Toyota owners can look for and expect with issues surrounding the recent accelerator malfunctions.
We asked:
“What exactly should I look for if I have one of the models mentioned in the recall?”
Dillon said:
“The condition is rare, but can occur when the pedal mechanism becomes worn and, in certain conditions, the accelerator pedal may become harder to depress, slower to return or, in the worst case, stuck in a partially depressed position. Toyota is working quickly to prepare the correction remedy.”
“In the event that a driver experiences an accelerator pedal that sticks in a partial open throttle position or returns slowly to idle position, the vehicle can be controlled with firm and steady application of the brakes. The brakes should not be pumped repeatedly because it could deplete vacuum assist, requiring stronger brake pedal pressure. The vehicle should be driven to the nearest safe location, the engine shut off and a Toyota dealer contacted for assistance.” (we would like to note that this statement can also be found on Toyota’s Corporate Website).
Toyota initially only listed eight models with a potential connection to this issue and later expanded the list to include additional models with accelerators manufactured by the CTS Company which produces the part. The malfunction has caused one of the largest recalls in recent history, stirring concern and confusion among owners worldwide. There continues to be discussions around including the Prius models on the recall list as reports begin to roll in about similar issues and possibly a glitch in the cars’ software.
Models affected as of February 3rd, 2010 include:
- Avalon
- Camry
- Corolla
- Corporate
- Highlander
- Matrix
- RAV4
- Sequoia
- Toyota Tundra
“Our message to Toyota owners is this – if you experience any issues with your accelerator pedal, please contact your dealer without delay. If you are not experiencing any issues with your pedal, we are confident that your vehicle is safe to drive.” – Toyota Motor Sales USA, Inc.
“We encourage owners to make an appointment or contact us to address repair questions and concerns.” said Dillon.
Should you find your car needing service, you will not be without a vehicle at Burien Toyota Scion as we have a rental car service department that can assist in placing you in a temporary vehicle until yours is repaired.
Additional information and updates on the recall can be found here.
More info on Burien Toyota available here.
Burien Toyota Scion
15025 1st Avenue South
Burien, WA 98148
Service: 888-468-0481
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):
The B-Town Blog is pleased to welcome our newest Advertisers and the first for our all-new premiere “Page Peel” spot, which is located in the upper right hand corner and is sort of waving at you. Check it out, and while you’re at it, click through to the websites of our new friends Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet.
Remember, when buying a car…keep it local!
Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet have been family-owned and operated locally for over a quarter century. The Anderson family still takes a keen interest in the local community, actively participating in numerous charities and fundraisers. Our people really do make the difference locally; and you know that when you do business at these local dealerships, you’re not just a faceless number on the computer of some publicly-traded corporation in a faraway place.
The people and employees of Burien Toyota and Burien Chevrolet have a stake in what happens here locally and they go all-out every day to ensure that your sales and service experience is top-notch. Winner of the prestigious President’s Award, Burien Toyota takes customer satisfaction very seriously. If you’re ever unhappy with your visit, feel free to ask for a manager by name: Ted, Tony, John, Kevin or Sharon. They will go the extra step to service your needs.
The motto at Burien Chevrolet is “Nobody Makes It Easier!” As true today as it was a half century ago, when it was known as Glen Grant Chevrolet, this local dealership has been all about families taking care of families. To borrow a phrase, the experience you’ll have at Burien Chevrolet is one of “Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen.”
This is not just some cold, anonymous car dealership – this is a place where you’ll feel welcomed. It’s a place where you’ll get a deal that you’ll feel good about!
We sometimes need to be reminded, too, that when we do business locally, our tax dollars go to work right here in our own community. Auto dealerships comprise the largest contributors to the tax base of the City of Burien. And it’s good to know that such fine businesses are not far from where you are! And if life should take an unexpected turn and you find an accident or crash has dented your fine automobile, they’ve got you covered, with the largest Collision Center in the area (call Victor at 206-243-0700).
So for top-notch automobile sales, service, body shop, rental cars, fleet vehicles & medium-duty trucks, remember Burien Toyota & Burien Chevrolet.
Burien Toyota
15025 1st Avenue South
Burien, WA 98148
Sales: 888-436-1172
Service: 888-468-0481
Collision: 888-810-5057
Parts 888-814-3575
Burien Chevrolet
14400 1st Ave S
Seattle, WA 98168
Sales: 888.849.2946
Service: 888.843.4720
[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
After more than two months of anticipation, of driving past Burien Nissan at Five Corners and looking for new cars on display there once again, the news this week is disappointing.
Burien Nissan will not reopen after all – at least not anytime soon. The return of the auto dealership with a new owner – Car Pros – had been expected earlier to take place in mid-September.
“We were excited” about reopening Burien Nissan, Ken Phillips, president of Car Pros, told The B-Town Blog recently. “We had everything in line. Our financing package was all done. But the sellers couldn’t provide quick title to the property and we couldn’t close in time.”
He said the problem involved only closing the proposed sale and “had absolutely nothing to do with the national economy.
“If circumstances change, we would be available to relook at the whole process,” Phillips added. “We lived for 30 years in Normandy Park. All our friends are right there. That’s our home. We know a lot of people there.”
The previous dealership owner, Rainier Automotive Group, saw the entire inventory reclaimed by Nissan in a 24-hour period in March after losing its financing. The business closed its doors less than two months later, reportedly when new financing couldn’t be arranged.
Car Pros owns Kia and Suzuki dealerships in Tacoma and a Hyundai dealership in Seattle, and dealerships in Carson, Calif. Phillips said they had planned to sell Nissan models exclusively at Burien Nissan.
by Burien long has wanted an interchange connecting State Route 518 with Des Moines Memorial Drive to improve access to businesses that, city officials hope, will move into the Northeast Redevelopment Area (NERA).
Now an interchange from SR 509 to NERA, located under flight paths from Sea-Tac International Airport north to S. 138th St., is also under consideration.
Burien City Manager Mike Martin said recently that any interchange on SR 509 would provide access to the Northeast Redevelopment Area.
“No one has agreed to a 509 interchange,” Martin stressed. “This is just a concept. There are only draft plans (at the city) now.” And it’s not on any to-do list at the Washington State Department of Transportation or the Puget Sound Regional Council.
Both the Port of Seattle, which owns much of the property in the area, and the city anticipate business and commercial development here within a few years. Business parks, technology and light industry, and auto sales – perhaps an auto mall, to which dealers now on 1st Ave. S. would relocate, all could play a role in the economic development of the NERA.
“This property has been blighted by the second runway and now the third runway,” Martin said. “What we are doing (by planning for a new interchange) is trying to make NERA more accessible so we can put this property back into use.”
He added that the area “is large enough to accommodate small box stores and retailers of construction materials.” But the market will determine what kind of businesses locate here. In the meantime, “we need to prepare the area to be ready for certain types of activities.”
The cost of a new interchange, including planning, design and construction, has yet to be determined, Martin said. Most of the financing probably would come from federal and state funds.
So far, he’s talked with local state legislators, “who have received the idea very warmly.”
UPDATE 10/21/09: We have added one new business (Bratz, a German cafe) and one re-opening (Skippers) to this story, which we hope will continue to develop…
It may not be a boom. But even as the recession continues to buffet Highline communities, businesses are discovering – and returning to – Burien.
“We have a trickle of new businesses coming in here,” Burien Economic Development Manager Dick Loman told The B-Town Blog recently. “We’re gradually filling up our vacant (commercial) spaces, and it’s happening in the worst economic climate in decades.
“You’d think it would be very quiet, but it’s not,” he said. “It’s very amazing and we’re very fortunate to have this happening.”
NEW BUSINESSES:
- Grand Central Bakery, with popular stores in Pioneer Square and on Eastlake Avenue in Seattle, has announced plans to expand its business by moving into the vacant retail space at 626 SW 152nd St., next to Sylvan Learning Center.
Bratz, a German food store, should open on 6th SW before the end of November.
- And Redfish Grill, already doing a successful business in Tacoma, is going to open a second dining spot in the building recently occupied by The Keg on SW 148th St. at the entrance to the Safeway shopping center.
- Bratz, a German-style fast food cafe, has its signage in place in a spot on 6th SW, just across the street from Sal’s Deli. We spoke with co-owner Robert Lang, who says that the store should open in “two to four weeks” and foodwise to expect “German beer, the world’s best sausages, schnitzels, red cabbage, pretzels, potato salad and more.” Robert and his brother John are both from Germany, and they have one other location in Seattle’s U-District.
BUSINESS RE-OPENINGS:
- Remaining in Burien, after closing its doors when displaced by the third-runway flight path north of Sea-Tac International Airport, is Filiberto’s Cucina Italiana. This popular Italian restaurant, long a local favorite, is moving downtown and will reopen at 653 SW. 152nd St (next to Key Bank).
- Already back in business with new owners is Wizards Casino at 15739 Ambaum Blvd. SW, next to the Hi-Line Lanes bowling alley. The return of Wizards was especially good news for the city – it’s one of Burien’s 10 largest employers.
- Skipper’s Seafood & Chowder, located at the corner of Ambaum Blvd. and SW 148th, has also re-opened.
- In the meantime, Car Pros of Tacoma continues to indicate it will reopen Burien Nissan at Five Corners as soon as their business plan is finalized and approved.
Why this interest? “It starts with the availability of property … on a reasonable-cost basis,” according to Loman, together with marketing studies that indicate these businesses will do well.
Burien has “a reputation of being friendly and a cool place to be … these are destination-type businesses that draw from a much larger area than just Burien. It’s location, location, location.”
As these businesses locate or relocate in Burien, another is expressing interest in coming here – and being the anchor of the phase two development in Town Square.
The Galaxy Theatre in Gig Harbor.
- Loman identified the company that wants to develop a 10-screen cinema complex in Town Square as Galaxy Theaters, headquartered in Los Angeles.
- Galaxy Theatres runs 10 different “first-run” movie complexes in four states, including three in Washington – Monroe, Tacoma and Gig Harbor.
- Here’s a blurb from their website:
Galaxy Theatres, LLC is a fully integrated movie theatre company.
Privately owned, it is ranked by size in the top 10% of its industry, according to the National Theatre Association and currently has theatres in California, Nevada, Texas and Washington.
Formed in 1998, its focus is to develop and operate a portfolio of high impact, state-of-the-art movie entertainment theatres in selected markets of the western United States.
Galaxy Theatres’ award winning business philosophy of “More than just a Theatre” incorporates the best in movie entertainment with the Company’s philosophy of active community service.
“Being socially entrepreneurial builds strong bonds and goodwill in the communities we serve”, according to Frank Rimkus, the Company’s CEO.
- Representatives of both Galaxy and Urban Partners, the private developer of Town Square, will appear before the Burien City Council at the Nov. 2 meeting to discuss their proposal.
The return of Burien Nissan at 16042 First Avenue South, which closed for business in May, is anticipated in mid-September.
“We understand it’s going to be a Nissan agency, just like it was before,” Dick Loman, economic development manager for the City of Burien, said Wednesday (Sept. 2nd). “We don’t know when they will open, but anticipate it will be soon. We probably will know more by the end of the long weekend.”
Other sources indicated that the dealership will open its doors again in mid-month.
A job ad posted August 31 on Craigslist (see our previous breaking coverage here) solicited applications for all positions at Nissan dealerships “gearing up for mid-September opening.” The ad described the owner of these dealerships as “an award winning Puget Sound Automotive Dealer Group.” Applications could be emailed to Car Pros, and a job posting on the “CarProsJobs.com” website lists Burien as one of the locations hiring.
Car Pros owns Kia and Suzuki dealerships in Tacoma and a Hyundai dealership in Seattle, along with a dealership in Carson, CA. Bradley Wolf was listed in the ad as a Tacoma contact for Car Pros. Attempts by B-Town Blog to contact Wolf on Wednesday were not successful.
Weeds are growing like weeds at the empty Burien Nissan lot, which may be re-opening under new ownership soon.
Burien Nissan, which previously was owned by Rainier Automotive Group, lost its “flooring” (aka financing) and saw the entire inventory reclaimed by Nissan in a 24-hour period in March. The business closed its doors less than two months later, reportedly when new financing couldn’t be arranged.
Loman, however, said his office doesn’t know the “relationship between Car Pros and Nissan, if there is any.” But, he added, Burien Nissan seems to be preparing to interview and hire staff, and “that’s very good news for us, obviously.”
“It will be good to have another new car dealer in town selling automobiles. Not only will it create jobs that we lost (when Nissan closed in March) but sales tax income will be coming back to the city again. So we’re very pleased at what we hear.”
Loman noted the site – which had a $5 million remodel not long before the closure – is already set up for an automotive dealership, signage already is in place, and it’s unlikely that the dealership will need any new permits from the city.
- BREAKING: Might Burien Nissan Be Re-Opening Soon?
- BREAKING NEWS: Burien Nissan Is Now Officially Closed
- Burien Nissan Expecting New Financing In “A Few Weeks”
- UPDATE: More Information On Burien Nissan’s Inventory
- Burien Nissan Loses Entire Stock, Now An Empty Lot
We got an email tip from BTB Reader Jennifer about a Job Ad posted Monday (Aug. 31st) on Craigslist that implies that the closed/empty Burien Nissan may be re-opening in mid-September under new management from CarPros, which appears to own several dealerships in Tacoma, Seattle and Carson, CA.
Here’s the Ad:
Re-Opening Auburn & Burien Nissan (Auburn & Burien)
Date: 2009-08-31, 3:07PM PDT
Reply to: jobs@carpros.com
Automotive Parts or Service experience? Opportunity knocks!!!Nissan Dealerships are gearing up for mid September opening, we are seeking qualified applicants for all Dealership positions.Bring your Parts or Service experience and join an award winning Puget Sound Automotive Dealer Group.
We set the standard for professionally managed Parts & Service, our environment encourages personal and professional growth and includes rewarding pay plans with superior benefits.E mail jobs@carpros.com
Fax (563) 405-8144, experienced professionals feel free to direct dial Bradley Wolf @ (253) 222-4836Applicants must be 18 years of age, possess a valid drivers license and be drug free. Car Pros is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Burien Nissan (their former website is still down and no new one could be found), located in a shiny lot at 16042 First Ave South, closed for business in May under ownership of the Rainier Automotive Group, which lost “flooring” (aka financing) and had their entire inventory reclaimed by Nissan in a 24-hour period in March.
Since then, the lot has stood empty, like a recently-remodeled $5 million, modern ghost town car lot in Burien.
We’re investigating this developing story further, and will have more in-depth coverage soon, so be sure to check back often, or subscribe to our free RSS Feed or receive updates via email.
- BREAKING NEWS: Burien Nissan Is Now Officially Closed
- Burien Nissan Expecting New Financing In “A Few Weeks”
- UPDATE: More Information On Burien Nissan’s Inventory
- Burien Nissan Loses Entire Stock, Now An Empty Lot
| Sep ’09 |
| 6 |
| 11:00 am |
You’d better start massaging your Maserati now, because the 17th Annual Italian Concours d’ Elegance car & cycle show, featuring some amazing and exotic vehicles, is coming to the Des Moines Marina on Sunday, Sept. 6th from 11am to 4pm.
Here are the details:
WHAT: 17th Annual Italian Concours d’ Elegance car show
WHEN: Sunday, Sept. 6th from 11am – 4pm
WHERE: Des Moines Marina, located at 22307 Dock Ave, Des Moines – (206) 824-5700
INFO: This year the show will feature Competition Automobiles from manufacturers such as:
- Ferrari
- Maserati
- FIAT
- Alfa Romeo
- and others!
If you’d like to enter your sexy Italian sports car, download the entry application here (PDF), and return to:
Italian Concours d’ Elegance
PO Box 31288
Seattle, Wa. 98103
Or send via fax to 206.274.4672.
For more information, call 206.714.8620 or visit www.italianconcours.org.
Schedule of events:
- 8:00am – 10:00am: Registration and final vehicle preparation
- 11:00am: Show opens to the public
- Noon: Judges meeting followed by field judging
- Noon – 1:00pm: Operatic performance featuring Megan Chenovick
- 3:00pm: Final call for peoples choice voting
- 3:30pm – 4:00 pm: Raffle presentations
- 4:00pm: Awards presentation, drive by, closing ceremony
- 5:00pm: Close of show, exit gate opened
| Sep ’09 |
| 18 |
PARK(ing) Day 2009 is coming Friday, Sept. 18th, and people all across the world (and perhaps Burien?) will take to the streets to turn car spaces into people spaces, with a deadline for application of Thursday, Aug. 20th – so you’d better hurry the heck up!
The idea of the PARK(ing) Day is to “hire” a parking space, but then turn it into a mini Park rather than using it to park your car.
EDITOR’S NOTE: We know of a certain “Municipal Lot” that doesn’t seem to have many cars parked. Or you can always take over a spot on SW 152nd, First Ave South, Ambaum…you name it! Let’s see whatcha got Burien – be sure to email us if you’re going to do this so we can show up and take pics!
In 2008, citizens created this PARK(ing) Space in front of the Seattle Art Museum.
Putting together a parking space takes a little bit of planning, however it’s an easy and simple process and Feet First, Trust for Public Lands, and Seattle Parks Foundation will help you through it. The permit process has started but you can still get in thusly:
Email Elaine@feetfirst.info ASAP and remember, the deadline for application for a park on the street (filled out forms, plans and all) is Thursday, August 20th!
You can find lots more information and photos on http://my.parkingday.org. Here’s info from that website:
PARK(ing) Day is an open source invention, which means anyone can participate without official “permission,” as long as you observe the license (PDF).
That said, PARK(ing) Day has become a worldwide event, and this network allows participants, media and interested parties to connect and promote their PARK(ing) installations. We recommend that you “register” your PARK by:
- Creating a group for your city or particular PARK location, or joining one if it exists already.
- Adding your PARK to the 2009 Map. At least add your city, but we recommend adding the exact coordinates of your park once you’ve decided, since lots of people will taking PARK(ing) tours of their city on PARK(ing) Day.
- Inviting other people to your group, including local merchants and materials donors.
- Downloading the Media Kit (coming soon) and letting your local media know about your PARK. No need to contact Rebar – you’re the best spokesman for your big idea!
Here are some videos showing previous PARK(ing) Days to give you an idea of what this is all about:
Parking Day SE Seattle:
“Students from the New School perform at the ‘Distraction Preserve’ park on Rainier Avenue S. This park was organized by SEEDArts (www.seedseattle.org/seedarts/ ) with volunteers from the community!”
Parking Day San Francisco:
“The trailer for REBAR’s PARK(ing) Day 2006 – a worldwide reclamation of metered parking spaces as public parks! 47 PARKs in 13 cities.”
Parking Day NYC:
“Parking Day NYC 2007. Watch as over 30 parking spots all over NYC are liberated from the automobile and reclaimed as space for people.”
Saturday night (6/20) around 6:15pm, BTB Reader John Montoya reports that there was a rollover accident at the intersection of SW 128th & 4th Ave South between a silver Honda vehicle and a black SUV Tiberon.
Police and aid cars on the scene reported minor injuries.
The male driver of the SUV suffered two broken wrists related to air bag deployment. He was transported to Highline Hospital for treatment.
All passengers involved were wearing seatbelts.
This map highlights the Goat Hill neighborhood where residents are upset about speeding cars.
Burien city officials recently decided on a combination of solutions designed to alleviate safety concerns of local residents by mitigating speeding through the Goat Hill neighborhood over the ridge west of Ambaum Boulevard at SW 130th Street.
Goat Hill residents have complained for over a year about motorists speeding along the corridor that, heading west, follows SW 130th as it curves into 16th Avenue SW to SW 131st Street, then goes to Shorewood Drive where it continues in a northwesterly direction through the subdivision.
Repeated complaints and requests for action from the neighborhood led to a meeting about the speeding problem on May 25 between city staff, Burien police and community representatives. Following that discussion, City Manager Mike Martin invited Goat Hill residents to submit a list of their preferred solutions, and told them the city then would respond by selecting which of those suggestions it would adopt.
From the Goat Hill residents’ recommendations, the city has agreed to:
- Relocate speed limit signs to more visible locations, in particular the sign closest to Ambaum as motorists head west. But the city will not reduce the speed limit, as also requested, which will remain 25 mph throughout the neighborhood.
- Make SW 131st Street and Shorewood Drive a new three-way stop sign intersection that will include crosswalks.
- Install new warning signs that indicate the presence of bicycles, pedestrians and children. The city will provide standard signs available within King County. The “Driveways” warning sign near 14th Avenue SW will be replaced by one of these signs.
- Add striping that “narrows” the roadway through sharp corners that lead into Shorewood.
- Paint fake speed bumps at various locations on the corridor through the neighborhood, and remove rumble strips on SW 130th Street and 14th Avenue SW.
- Provide a radar speed trailer to the neighborhood once the improvements are made.
The city did not consider recommendations to reduce the speed limit to 15 mph, to install additional stop signs and temporary or permanent speed bumps, and to build a traffic roundabout in the arterial.
A traffic study conducted for the city last October found that the mean speed of vehicles at five of six check points along the Goat Hill/Shorewood Drive route was “less than 25 mph with the exception of location 2 (the curve where SW 131st turns into 16th Ave SW) where the mean speed is 26 mph in the northbound direction and 29 mph in the southbound direction….
“All of the locations are shown to have less than 15 percent of vehicles exceeding the speed limit with the exception of the southbound direction of location 2. At this location 35 percent of the vehicles are exceeding the speed limit by at least 5 mph. When considering the posted advisory speed of 20 mph at this location, 84 percent of the vehicles are exceeding the speed limit by at least 5 mph.”
The study concluded that “location 2 is the only location where speeding is of potential concern.” Collision data since 2000 revealed that only one accident had been reported on the roadways studied, which “does not indicate a significant safety problem exists.”
It concluded, “Speeding was only found to be an issue at one location along the corridor. Specifically, vehicles traveling in a southbound direction ten to travel faster most likely due to the combination of a downhill grade, a super elevated (slightly banked) curve, and lack of conflict points that make it comfortable for drivers to travel fast.” Basic speed mitigation measures were recommended.
Goat Hill residents, however, expressed concerns about the traffic study, including the location of speed sensors and the time it was conducted – in generally cool and/or wet weather conditions.
“Specific data points in the study show that speeding does occur and include a significant number of cars going between 30 and 35 mph and a group of speeders going between 36 and 40 mph,” they noted.
Following the May meeting, the neighborhood group thanked city staff and police for their interest and input, but added they “remain concerned that the city does not believe we have a speeding problem in our neighborhood in sharp contrast to what we observe every day, particularly during nicer weather.”
Also at the May meeting, Martin told the Goat Hill neighbors, “I respect the fact the neighborhood has an issue” and has continued to bring it to the city’s attention. Now, he said, “let us try … to get this done.”
Burien Police Sgt. Henry McLauchlan complimented the neighborhood group for their proactive approach – and for putting their money where their mouth is. “I have never been in a situation where a community group offered to spend its own money” to solve a local problem, he noted. “I applaud you.”
| Jul ’09 |
| 5 |
| 11:00 am |
Burien Chevrolet will be holding a special “All Chevy Cruise-In” on Sunday, July 5th from 11am to 4pm at their lot at 14400 First Ave South in Burien.
Here are the details:
WHAT: Burien Chevrolet “All Chevy Cruise-In”
WHEN: Sunday, July 5th from 11am to 4pm
WHERE: Burien Chevy’s lot at 14400 First Ave South in Burien
COST: FREE, with free food, giveaways, prizes and more.
INFO: This is also a fundraiser for the Des Moines Food Bank, so please bring food donations!
| Jun ’09 | Jun |
| 15 | 26 |
North-South thoroughfare Ambaum Blvd. SW will be closing at SW 120th Street beginning at 7am Monday, June 15th, through 5pm Friday, June 26th, as crews replace a drainage pipe underneath the road.
Motorists can detour via 12th Ave SW to SW 116th Street, then return back to Ambaum.
This is a joint project between the City of Burien and King County.
Burien will be one of ten areas in King County targeted by law enforcement for seatbelt violators starting Thursday night May 21st and continuing through June 7th.
The operation will be a cooperation between Burien Police and the Washington State Patrol, with assistance from the King County Traffic Safety Coalition.
According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, though the number of people killed at night is about the same as the number of people killed during the day, the death rate at night is four times higher because traffic volumes are much lower at night. Research shows that at least 80% of Washington traffic occurs during the day and between 12 and 20% of all vehicle travel takes place at night. The traffic death rate is a calculation of deaths per 100 million vehicle-miles traveled.
Research shows that over three-fourths of all traffic deaths involving drinking drivers occur at night. The drinking driver-involved death rate is about 13 times higher at night than during the day.
Drivers who are more likely to not wear seatbelts tend to be male, have less education, have prior traffic violations, and have no health insurance, according to a University of North Carolina study the commission cited.
The fine for a “Click-it or Ticket” violation is $124.
Here’s a video explaining this special patrol:
UPDATE 9/1/09: An email tip leads us to believe that Burien Nissan will be re-opening in mid-September – read the latest here.
Story by Janet Grella
Photos by Michael Brunk
UPDATE 8pm 5/12/09: According to the Puget Sound Business Journal, a company called MD Johnson is advising Burien Nissan’s owner, Rainier Automotive, on the sale of this as well as the Auburn Nissan dealership.
PREVIOUSLY: It’s official – Burien Nissan is now closed.
When we attempted to reach John Antonelli, Sales Manager, he actually hung up on us!
That’s right – rather than talk with us about what’s going on, he hung up the phone. The last time we spoke with Mr. Antonelli (March 30th), he claimed “It’s still business as usual. Should have some good news on financing in a few weeks…”
We then called the dealership’s number and received the following recorded message – listen closely as the woman’s voice cracks on the last sentence (“…and wish you all well.”):
[display_podcast]
“Thank you for calling Burien Nissan. At this time our dealership is closed. We have enjoyed being a part of your lives and a part of the Burien community. We appreciate your business over the years and wish you all well.”
According to manta.com, Burien Nissan employed 40 people and had estimated sales of $14.3 million in 2008.
Burien Nissan was part of the Rainier Automotive Group that included Auburn Nissan, along with Eastide Subaru and Eastside Hyandai, both in Kirkland.
At Auburn Nissan the phone rang so long it went to busy (they are closed for business also). At Eastside Subaru we were told that “parts and service are still open and we’re going through a change of ownership and should be open for sales in the next couple of weeks.”
At Eastside Hyandai we got only a voicemail box.
Here’s a photo slideshow of what Burien Nissan looks like now, shot Tuesday afternoon by Photographer Michael Brunk, who says that while he was there, a locksmith was changing the locks on the doors:
All the associated websites are still functioning, with no mention of any closings, as if it’s “business as usual,” when in reality, it’s not.
Previously, we broke the news that Burien Nissan lost its entire inventory when their “flooring” fell through and the financing company basically repossessed their entire car lot over a 24-hour period around March 13th.
No word yet on what will become of this business, nor of the large lot it sits on.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- Burien Nissan Expecting New Financing In “A Few Weeks”
- UPDATE: More Information On Burien Nissan’s Inventory
- Burien Nissan Loses Entire Stock, Now An Empty Lot
The B-Town Blog would like to welcome its latest Advertiser: Burien Auto Repair!
When I called Richard Doane, owner of Burien Auto Repair, to sell him an Ad on The B-Town Blog, he responded with “Who’s your mechanic?”
I was taken aback as I never considered myself as having my very own mechanic. Taking my dirty red Volkswagon Jetta in for an occassional oil change (always late) is the most I’ve ever thought of about car-stuff.
Well hey, I wanted to sell Burien Auto Repair an Ad, so I said “You are!”
As they say in the movies, “this looks like the start of a beautiful relationship.”
Turns out that Richard and his band of merry mechanics are ASE-Certified, an AAA-Approved Facility and have state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment in their shop. Plus they know their stuff! Besides Richard there’s Keith Titus, Service Advisor/Parts Guy and Nelson Luna, technician extradanoire and their local Spanish speaker (“Se habla Espanol”). He’s from El Salvador and now lives blocks from the shop. His young daughter helped translate their new website into Spanish.
While we talked, I had my oil changed and car washed. No car leaves their garage unwashed. I also found out that my Serpentine belt was cracked. Many of our readers probably know that this could have been real trouble down the road. Only my new full time mechanic could have told me that!
Richard states “it’s nice to be able to talk to the person who works on your car. In big shops you never talk to the mechanic. Here you do.”
When we caught up with Richard earlier this week he had his head stuck in another VW fitting a new coil into its engine. I’m sure that must be serious. 
Richard is Burien born and raised. A 1982 grad of Highline High School, who “left Burien long enough to come back” while he attended and graduated from San Diego State with a degree in Economics, he returned in 1988 because he decided he couldn’t wear a suit and tie to work, and turned his love of fixing cars into a business. Somewhere on the property he still has his 1964 Ford Falcon hat he drove to high school.
Burien Auto Repair is now in its’ 21st year. He recalled spending $168 on his first sign (still on the building) back in ‘88 and his mother being present when he repaired his first customer’s car – “a very bad bug for $400″ – and exclaiming “Oh Richard, you fixed your very first car!” Since that day he estimates they’ve washed (and fixed) between 800-1,200 cars a year. They’ve washed mine three times and he’s only been ‘my mechanic’ for three weeks!
Richard’s kids Erika, 15 and Braden, 17 attended St. Francis and now he’s very proud to say they attend Aviation High School. He still gives to St. Francis’ auction. Burien Auto Repair’s “Clean Car for a Year” sold twice this year and raised $4,000 for the school!
When this car guy is not fixing cars from 8:30-5:30 weekdays, he prefers to water ski in his off time. “I’ve become addicted to ‘3 Event Waterskiing – Slalom, Jump, and Trick.’ We practice all year round, even when it’s winter. We do most of our ‘tournament waterskiing’ on the handful of private lakes throughout the region,” explained Richard.
Richard Doane, a hometown boy, and the official mechanic of my family. Stop by and see him, and tell him BTB sent ya – here’s their contact info and hours:
Burien Auto Repair Complete Mechanical Service & Repair
617 SW 154th Street
Burien, WA 98166
TEL: (206) 242-9558
E-MAIL: richard@burienautorepair.com
WEBSITE: www.burienautorepair.com
HOURS:
- MONDAY – FRIDAY: 8:30 – 5:30
- SATURDAY: By appointment
As always with Burien Auto Repair: Your 100% Satisfaction is Guaranteed!
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[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story like this for your Business, along with an Ad on every page seen by over 15,000 Local Readers per month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]
The B-Town Blog would like to welcome its latest Advertiser: longtime area business Bjorneby’s CARSTAR Des Moines!
What a great pleasure it was to meet with Anna and Bj Bjorneby and their family recently. Anna won the door prize at our sister site The Waterland Blog’s first ever fundraiser for the Des Moines Food Bank on April 1st (no foolin’). The prize was a three-month Right Sidebar Ad right here on this website. Her husband Bj drew the lucky card. Hmmmm? With no questions asked, we dropped in to their Des Moines location to talk with them and meet the family and staff.
Anna and Bj Bjorneby.
Bjorneby’s Auto Rebuild began in May of 1964. Hard work led them to a bigger space after the first year! From 1973 to early 2003, they were at S. 188th Street. You can now find them located at 22001 Pacific Highway South in Des Moines, 206-824-1400.
On Feburary 1 of this year, Bjorneby’s family shop became part of the CARSTAR Quality Collision Service family.
“It made sense to do it” explained Bj.
Their son Bob has his own CARSTAR shop in Federal Way.
“An association with CARSTAR provides us with national opportunities in training and marketing.”
They are now Bjorneby’s CARSTAR Des Moines and are doing the same great work they have since 1964. Their reader board on Pac Highway read briefly after the name change:
“New name, same great people.”
As a matter of fact their reader board is famous nationwide for what they post on it. Got a birthday? Let them know. Special anniversary coming up? They’ll post it.
And what about handling the customers after their accidents? Bj’s slogan has been “Fix the customer first and then fix the cars.” CARSTAR’s slogan is “Relax, We’ll Take it From Here.”
Bj poses in a '57 Chevy Truck that he bought when he opened shop in 1964. It's been with him ever since.
These high school sweethearts were married in Bremerton in 1956. Bj and Anna have four children, 11 grandkids and 3 great grandchildren, with one on the way. They’ve lived and have been a part of the Des Moines community for 41 years. Anna was active in the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, in 1966 Bj travelled up north to the Burien Chamber. When it was merged into the Southwest King County Chamber, he moved over there and was president in 1999. He’s also been on the Highline Hospital Foundation for 13 years. Anna devoted much of her Chamber volunteer career to managing various aspects of the Waterland Festival, including three years of organizing Waterland Parades. Bj has been a Des Moines Rotarian for the past six years.
From the beginning Bjorneby’s has been a family affair. While Bj works on the cars, Anna manages the books and provides customer service. Daughter Patti started working at the shop in 1973 and is currently Vice President of the corporation and has run the shop for a number of years. Her mother calls her first-born “our multi-talented daughter”. Son Bob shares his time between the Des Moines shop and his Federal Way location. Son Norman is a technician and works in Bjorneby’s CARSTAR Des Moines.
What about the fourth of their kids? As a teenager their daughter Wendy (who was never interested in the shop) heard that her father had hired a cute new guy at the shop. According to her parents, she stopped by the shop the very next day to find Pat, who eventually became her husband. He and Wendy operate Murray’s Collision Center in Kent. They’ve been married over 25 years.
With the addition of Davin, their grand-son-in-law, the Bjorneby’s have 3 generations….no make that four generations working at the shop. Davin’s two year old daughter frequents the shop with her mom Theresa who helps Anna out with the books a few days a week.
Bj estimates that over his 55 years as a body man he has been responsible for repairing over 12,000 vehicles. At 74, Bj still loves working on cars. With his years of experience and a love of the trade, he is also the substitute technician in all departments.
Bjorneby's staff, (L to R): Edgar, Davin, Phong, Patti, Norman and Bob, are standing by to serve you.
With 10 employees the Bjorneby’s see their staff as multi-national. In addition to their family members, other technicians include Phong from Laos, Edgar from Guatemala and Romel from Iraq. They also have the shop mascot “Ollie”, Bj’s and Anna’s dog. He works there every day in customer service, meeting and greeting customers.
What’s next for Bjorneby’s CARSTAR? They will be one of 14 local CARSTARS participating in “Carstar Soaps it Up,” a nationwide event that will be held on Saturday, June 20th. $10 car wash tickets will be available soon. WLB was advised that CARSTAR hopes to break a Guinness Book of World Records as the largest carwash ever held in the US and Canada. Half of the proceeds will go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation and half to a local charity of Bj’s and Anna’s choice (stay tuned in to WLB/BTB for updates).
What’s next for the Bjorneby’s? After their stint as co-chairs of the Waterland Parade on July 18th is over, they hope to go “cruising” on their 46′ boat that is spending far too much time just docked at the Des Moines Marina.
Bjorneby’s CARSTAR is open Monday-Friday from 8am to 5:30pm. They are available through 1-800-CARSTAR 24/7. No matter when you need them, just call. There is a live operator to handle any situation. They take all insurance and provide 90 days same as cash financing through Carstar.
Services include this list that’s so long we had to use bullet points:
Meet Ollie, Bjorneby's Customer Relations Manager.
- Collision repair
- Full frame straightening
- Two and four-wheel alignments
- Brakes and CV joints
- Air conditioning/cooling system
- Fiberglass repairs
- Motor homes
- Unibody repairs
- Complete and custom painting
- Shocks/struts
- Fleet management
- Maintenance tune-ups
- Boats
- Trailers
Oh, and Bj actually does have a real first name. It’s Rob. But if you need to talk to him on the phone, ask for Bj!
Bjorneby’s CARSTAR Des Moines is located at (map below):
22001 Pacific Hwy South #101
Des Moines, WA 98198
(206) 244-8080
And their website is www.bjornebys.com.
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Photos and Story by Gina Bourdage
About 4:30pm Tuesday, a three vehicle injury accident occurred on the corner of Ambaum Boulevard and SW 130th Street blocking all through traffic.
Involved was a early 2000’s white pickup truck, a professional roofing truck (Diamond Roofing) and a newer black sedan.
Burien police were on the scene to detour traffic. The fire department was called in to clean up chemicals leaking from both the pickup and the professional roofing vehicle.
Police said they will investigate the cause of the collision and that one man (the driver of the white pickup) was taken to the hospital for injuries.
The cause appears to be high rate of speed and a illegal turn, however officials were not able to confirm.
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UPDATE 9/1/09: An email tip leads us to believe that Burien Nissan will be re-opening in mid-September – read the latest here.
As of Monday, March 30th, Burien Nissan’s lot remains empty of any new car inventory, and according to Sales Manager John Antonelli:
“It’s still business as usual. Should have some good news on financing in a few weeks…”
As we first reported March 13th, the longtime Burien auto dealer’s inventory was carted up around March 11th when several auto carrier trucks came in and hauled away around 100 new Nissan vehicles. Apparently their “flooring” (financing) fell through with the finance arm of Nissan.
This dealership, which recently underwent a $5 million remodeling, is owned by Rainier Automotive Group. Rainier also owns Auburn Nissan, which sits in a similar state. Their websites (Burien Nissan, Auburn Nissan) make no reference to any problems, but at this lot they laid off 30 employees and they still have no cars to sell.
However, if you’re a customer, you should know that Burien Nissan is still open for both Parts and Service Monday through Friday, from 7:30am to 6pm.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
- UPDATE: More Information On Burien Nissan’s Inventory
- Burien Nissan Loses Entire Stock, Now An Empty Lot
UPDATE 9/1/09: An email tip leads us to believe that Burien Nissan will be re-opening in mid-September – read the latest here.
As we first reported last Friday (March 13th), longtime auto dealer Burien Nissan had its entire lot of new cars (around 100) hauled away within the span of two days.
It may appear that the dealership has, or is, going out of business – but it’s not, according to Sales Manager John Antonelli:
“There are 1,900 Nissan Dealerships in the United States. 900 of them are in the same situation that Burien Nissan is in.
There are also around four other Nissan Dealerships in the State of Washington in the same situation.
Any Nissan Dealership that has a dual franchise like a Ford,Chevy,Dodge ect and that is Floored and collateralised with NMAC. NMAC will pull your flooring and make you find a New flooring bank for all of your New and Used Cars that are 2004 or newer without enough ample time to do so.
We are open for business as usual for Sales,Parts, and Service.
This could take days or even weeks to get a new flooring bank.
We would like to say thank you very much to our customers and the businesses in our surrounding area for all your support and phone calls.
This means alot to us that we have a great community that really cares about Burien Nissan and our employees.”
We will continue to follow this story as it develops, and will bring you more updates as they happen.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
UPDATE 9/1/09: An email tip leads us to believe that Burien Nissan will be re-opening in mid-September – read the latest here.
Story and Photos by Janet Grella
BREAKING NEWS: Burien Nissan, located at the Five Corners intersection of First Ave South and SW 160th, has lost its entire stock of cars and is now basically an empty lot.
Since Wednesday, numerous auto carrier trucks have been hauling vehicles away from the lot, with a total of 100 new cars removed, which we estimate to be between $2 and $3 million in inventory.
But, according to Sales Manager John Antonelli, “it’s business as usual – we’re still open for business in service, parts and sales. When we get our new financing we’ll re-open in a couple of weeks.”
The hauled-away Nissan cars are apparently being taken to a nearby port, and will be auctioned off in the near future.
Antonelli says that new inventory will likely return in a few weeks, and that Burien Nissan is in the middle of a “financial restructuring.”
Twenty-seven employees have been laid off, with just eight remaining on staff.
Burien auto dealers account for a significant portion of tax revenue for Burien, and Dick Loman, Economic Development Director for the city, said “This sorry economic downturn is just hurting everybody.”
Original owner’s son David Gjersee sits at his desk Friday in-between phone calls with potential buyers. Gjersee’s Father started Burien Datsun on this location in 1969, and he now serves as a Sales Professional. This business is one of the oldest Nissan dealerships in the US.
Gjersee also said it was “business as usual” even though he had no cars to sell.
This Reporter walked on to the empty lot late Friday morning and noticed that while there were no new Nissans on the lot, there were still a few cars present, which were most likely employee vehicles; however, the service department was busy.
As a longtime Burien resident, I found it shocking to see, especially after their $5 million remodel a year and a half ago.
This story is still developing, and we’ll post updates as we get them.
Here’s the world premiere of a Video Ad for BTB Advertiser Vision Collision, produced by BTB Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer:
Vision Collision is located at:
803 SW 154th Street (just west of Ambaum) in Burien
Phone 206-244-2758
[Are you a Business looking to make a major impact on the internet? Video is one of the most effective ways to market, and when you buy a 6-month Ad on The B-Town Blog, not only do you get a FREE video produced by a 3-time National Emmy Award winner, you also get our expert viral marketing push, which lands your video on YouTube and Facebook! For more information, email us, call (206) 248-2565 or check out our Advertise Page!]
| Mar ’09 |
| 1 |
The City of Burien is joining the ranks of municipalities everywhere – they’re installing “Red Light” cameras at three busy intersections along First Avenue South in an attempt to discourage red light running as well as possibly sweeten the city’s coffers.
The cameras will start clicking March 1st, and here’s how the system will work:
- Red light running vehicle trips the camera, which takes both a photo and video.
- After a 30-day warning period, the registered owner of a vehicle that runs a red light will receive a notice of infraction in the mail, which carries a $101 penalty.
- The cameras will be placed at intersections along 1st Avenue S with the greatest traffic flow.
- Photo enforcement warning signs, alerting drivers to the red light cameras, are being installed at the intersections.
Those intersections are:
- 1st Avenue South at SW 148th Street
- 1st Avenue South at SW 152nd Street
- 1st Avenue South at SW 160th Street
The cameras will operate 24 hours a day and capture still photos and video of every vehicle that runs a red light at the intersection. Photos are not taken until the law is broken, and the cameras only capture pictures of the rear of the offending vehicle and license plate.
Police officers review each photo to determine whether there was an infraction. If a violation occurs a notice of infraction will be sent to the vehicle’s owner. Recipients of a red light citation can view their violation video online at https://www.photonotice.com. The site requires the citation number, license plate number and the city code that is printed on the citation.
Our research indicates that this website (photonotice.com) is affiliated with a Phoenix, AZ traffic camera manufacturer called Redflex Traffic Systems. According to their 2008 Annual Report, the number of Redflex cameras operating within the US rose by 44% in 2008 from 877 to 1,267. Burien is one of ten Washington cities that has a contract with Redflex.
According to a City of Burien press release:
The primary goal of the traffic safety cameras is to reduce red light violations. The Photo Enforcement Program has been very successful in communities throughout Washington and the rest of the United States in changing the driving behavior of motorists. It has been shown that the cameras make drivers slow down and stop for red lights, preventing collisions. The cameras also contribute to the safety of pedestrians.
So consider yourself warned, B-Town Speed Racers!
Here are a few videos about red light cameras, including one on ways to possibly beat the cameras (we’re seriously considering selling the “red light camera beating” products in Burien):
by Josh Hart
Duane Quande, the owner of Burien City Garage, has been involved in collecting and fixing cars since he was seven or eight years old.
Back then it was just something people did.
Duane is also the proud owner of a ‘57 Chevy museum. His museum contains pretty much anything and everything to do with Chevys and Coca-Cola.
The museum is centered around Duane’s prized ‘57 Chevy, a car that is very special to him.
He had stripped down said Chevy back in 1989 (when gas was just 65 cents per gallon) and finished rebuilding it in June of last year – a total of 18 years of work. When he first got it, the car had a lot of rust and he and his buddies (Dennis Biggerly, John Zimmerman and Mike Mintern) decided to strip it down, take the body off the frame, and rebuild or repair all the parts.
This cost him a lot of money and time so he will most likely not try re-building another one (unless of course it belongs to a customer).
Duane’s other belongings in the museum include:
- Old Coca-Cola products
- Models of Chevys
- Old auto parts
- Old ads
- Old gas cans
Duane Quande is also a businessman.
In his younger days he went to junior college, and then technical college to become a mechanic (somehow, mechanics are now called “technicians”). After college he worked at a job for ten years before buying Burien City Garage from John Cabela Jr., whose dad, John Cabela, started the business in 1942.
Burien City Garage does general auto repair, which means they do everything on the car except body work.
Drop on by, check out Duane’s cool ‘57 Chevy, and tell him The B-Town Blog sent you.
[EDITOR'S NOTE: Josh Hart is the B-Town Blog's first Intern! He's also a 15-year old student at Highline's “Big Picture High School” in SeaTac.
You can read more of his writing here...]
As we ring out the old year and drive into the new, we welcome The B-Town Blog’s latest Advertiser: Burien Honda!
They’ve been around Burien for 45 years and counting. In 1963, owner Jack Enderson opened a Honda Cycle dealership on SW 153rd and First Ave South, where “Mr. Auto” used to be (now Horizon Pets). He eventually added Triumph, BSA and Harley bikes to his inventory. In 1972, they needed more room and moved to their current location at 15026 First Avenue South.
This original 1970 N600 Honda has just 628 miles on it; its MSRP new was just $1,995!
Burien Honda was the first Honda Dealership in the Northwest and the 22nd dealer in the country. General Manager Mark Minium is proud to show off their 1970 N600 Honda that has 628 actual miles on it. This particular model boasts the ‘complete package,’ which includes a radio and heater and cost $1,995; without the ‘package’ it cost $1,795.
Since this time, we’ve seen many changes in Honda Automobiles. In addition to an international reputation for its high mileage, Honda is leading the automotive industry in the Green and Hybrid Movement in automotive efficiencies. “Green” cars include the FIT Hatchback, Civic Sedan and “Hybrids” include Civic, Insight and Accord. They also have all of Honda’s conventional models. On the horizon is the FCX Clarity – a hydrogen and electric car available right now in California – and the CRV Diesel SUV sold in Europe and Japan.
Twelve years ago, Burien Honda opened a body shop, making it the only full service Honda dealer in the Greater Seattle area. They work on any make or model of cars and deal with most insurance companies on repairs. Plus you’ll get a loaner when they work on your vehicle. And one great thing to know is that you’ll get a complimentary hand car wash when you come in for anything in their shop, including an express oil change!
Burien Honda in 1972.
Burien Honda’s current building, which includes a Body Shop.
As with many of our Burien Car Dealers, GM Mark Minium has been involved in the development of our community from sitting on economic boards to the planning and development of the Town Square, to First Avenue renovation and supporting of the arts in Burien. He also was recruited to be an auctioneer at Mick Kelly’s many successful fundraisers (including the fundraiser we co-sponsored for the fire victims which raised over $10,500!).
What’s next for Burien Honda?
“We need a bigger footprint” says Mark – this means more space. And: “we have high hopes for Burien as Town Square evolves.”
Plus right now they’ve got the best selection and lowest interest rates in three years.
So, click on Burien Honda’s Ad in the right sidebar, check out their latest models and low rates, and tell ‘em the B-Town Blog sent you!
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“Venus de Burien” as photographed in January 2007 by Flickr Photog Crocidillicus.
Checking the roads and DOT webcams this morning shows that overall, most main Freeway roads are clear of snow and possibly passable – IF you have to get somewhere.
However, it looks like there’s plenty of black ice, so if you can, play it safe and stay home, make a snowman, and either email a photo to us or add it to our Flickr Group.
But, as usual, drive slowly, in low gears while on the slick stuff, and try to remember your Driver’s Ed lessons of how to steer into a slide when your car starts careening out of control.
Here are a few webcams worth checking out:
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We at the at the B-Town Blog offer a horn-honking and ding and dent-free welcome to our newest Advertiser: Vision Collision Auto Body Repair!
They are located at 803 SW 154th Street, just west of Ambaum and a little south of Olde Burien.
Vision Collision is quite a family-based business, from longtime Burien area stock, on land that goes way, way back in the area of auto body repair.
Husband and wife team Michael and Amy Driscoll, recently purchased the former BBC Dodge Body Shop. There has been an auto body repair shop on that space going back many decades.
Robert scrubs yet another Vision Collision dent-free gem.
Doug McLester, who for thirty years served as BBC Dodge Body Shop Manager before retiring this past summer, recently said:
“Amy entered into the auto body industry right after high school and is thrilled to be working in her hometown doing what she loves! Michael has always had a passion for cars and has been restoring them since the age of fourteen. I have complete confidence that Amy and Michael will provide the quality service you have come to expect over the years.”
“From door dings to collisions, we fix it all,” Michael and Amy point out. “We help reduce stress by assisting with insurance claims, too.”
“And we offer detailing,” Amy adds.
Amy and Michael were born and raised in Burien and attended Highline High School.
“My mom, Cathy Low, and her whole family grew up in Seahurst,” Amy informs us. Cathy helps out now and again at Vision Collision’s office when Amy needs to run the occasional errand.
“And my uncle is none other than Jim Hughes of Sal’s Deli, just off 152nd. I worked there for years,” Amy said.
Lucy is Vision Collision's official mascot.
Amy and Michael’s Border Collie, Lucy, can often be seen running around the office.
“Lucy loves to come to work.”
Lucy isn’t the only pet in Amy and Michael’s household. On their land southeast of Burien “we also have two horses, three goats, and a cat.”
So anyway, we at the Blog think you’ll enjoy yourself so much at Vision Collision that, even if your vehicle is already ding-free, you should just take a hammer to your hood and bang it up a bit so you’ll have an excuse to stop by (uh…just kidding on that part, but stop by anyway!).
But seriously, click on Vision Collision’s Ad in the right sidebar, check out their stuff, call or drop by and see what they can do to fix your dinged and dented vehicle up.
Vision Collision Auto Body Repair
“See? You’re dent free!”
Service shop:
803 SW 154th St
Burien, WA 98166
Phone: (206) 244-2758
www.visioncollision.net
Email: info@visioncollision.net
Mail:
Vision Collision
PO Box 66110
Burien, WA 98166
We’re happy to introduce onto our blog, like high octane injected into a finely tuned engine, our milestone 20th Advertiser: Mark’s Expert Auto Service!
It’s a family affair at Mark’s: Mark and Lisa Headley and son Nate. They know what they’re doing and are quite community involved.
Mark’s Expert Auto Service is located just around the corner from Olde Burien at 15418 Ambaum Blvd SW (see map below).
With 25 years of automotive work under his belt, Mark Headley has fully earned his slogan: “Experience. Not Experiments.”
Planning to drive to Grandma’s for Thanksgiving? Bring your vehicle in to Mark’s for an all-out winterization, or just a heater inspection and service.
Businesspeople and entrepreneurs: Mark’s happily handles fleet work. Call for details: 206-246-5232
Maybe there’s a shimmy or a “not-quite-right” sensation while coasting down the road. Could mean a wheel or two needs alignment.
Well, when we sent our B-Town Blog writer, Scoop, to write the story you are reading right now, he was stunned by the high-tech modernness of Mark’s new state-of-the-art Wheel Alignment laser equipment.
“Can I just call it ‘amazing futuristic Star Trek-like equipment for the benefit of all your customers, now and in the future?’” Scoop asked Mark Headley.
“That’d be just fine,” Mark replied, thus simplifying Scoop’s journalistic assignment.
When your tabs are about to expire, keep in mind that Mark’s is an Authorized Emission Repair Facility.
Mark Headley believes in Experience, not experiments.
The Headleys have worked for years with local schools in mentoring young people on their way to becoming fully-trained and ready technicians in their own right.
Foreign or domestic, repair or preventative maintenance, us B-Town Bloggers recommend Mark’s Expert Auto Service.
They’re just south of 152nd on the east side of Ambaum.
Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm.
Appointments welcomed.
Call 206-246-5232, or click on their Ad and check out their offerings – you’ll thank us later!
We’re looking forward to an exciting September here at the B-Town Blog, especially with our first-ever sponsored outdoor music stage coming up next Saturday, Sept. 6th from 6pm on in Olde Burien (details here).
We’re also excited to be welcoming two brand new Advertisers:
David and Fina Alefaio offer lunch specials at their Market & Deli, located at 13612 Ambaum Blvd. SW, as well as Luau-style catering.
Mark and Lisa Headley have recently remodeled their multi-service auto repair shop, and are beginning their fifth year as B-Town merchants. “Experience, not experiments” is their motto. In their spare time, the Headley family is very much involved in the local community. So come by and say hello – Mark’s Expert Auto Service is open from 7:30am to 5:30pm, Monday through Friday. They are located at 15418 Ambaum Blvd. SW.
| Jun ’08 |
| 28 |
| 4:00 pm |
If arts and music festivals aren’t your cup of strawberries, or you’re an autoholic (make that Audiholic) and you need to get your car fix, get your chassis over to the Annual Audi Expo.
This is the Northwest’s largest display of privately owned new and retro Audis, and it happens Saturday June 28th from 4pm to 10pm on SW 153rd in downtown Burien.
Two city blocks are closed to display stock and modified Audis from as far away as Alaska and California, plus many exciting product and service exhibitors, and, venue admission is FREE.
- ALL YOU CAN EAT for $12.50 courtesy of Bison Creek Pizza!
- FREE Giveaways and Great Door Prizes!
- “Best Of” Contest!
- High Visibility Reserved Parking for Privately Owned Audis For Sale!
- Music courtesy of the DADDY-O’S!
- Special Audi Expo Souvenirs to the First 200 Attendees!
If you are planning on bringing your Audi or registering, please RSVP here.
For full details and more info, go to http://www.audiexpo.com.
View Larger Map
Found a great collection of photos taken at Sunday’s Father’s Day Classic Car Show, including this doozy of a “car” (Is that a mini-tank? Converted VW Thing?):
Full photo set here (tip o’the BTB hat to efranzen).
| Jun ’08 |
| 15 |
| 10:00 am |
This Sunday is Father’s Day, and what better way to celebrate with by treating Dad to a Classic Car Show and Chili Cook-Off right here in Burien?
Now in its sixth year, this annual event features lean mean cruz’n machines and has become a perfect date with Dad, where you can flash back to the days of 39-cent gas and tail fins while bopping to the oldies and chowing down great chili and winning prizes.
Beautifully restored classic cars and their present-day cousins line Southwest 152nd Street in downtown Burien from 4th Ave SW to Ambaum Blvd.
Also on tap are:
- Brand new Chili Cook-Off Competition (Noon-4pm)
- Raffles and prizes
- Special contests for classic cars
- Tunes from the 50’s & 60’s (10am-3pm)
- Food from local Restaurants
- Shops with lots of food, drink and in-store specials
