Dec ’09
31
8:00 pm

The grand finale of 2009 as well as to the first decade of the 21st century is this Thursday night, Dec. 31st, and here’s just a taste of what’s going on in the general Burien area for New Year’s Eve 2010.

First off, keep in mind that law enforcement in King County will be out in full-force, conducting their “X-52″ DUI patrols around the area, so get a designated driver, walk, ride your bike or take a cab if you’re going out.

Secondly, we recommend calling your establishment of choice prior to just showing up, just to make sure that they’re open and that everything’s hunky dory.

And if we haven’t listed something else you know of, please email us so we can add it to our list!

BURIEN:

Bistro Baffi Italian Cuisine (BTB Advertiser), 15217 21st Ave SW Burien; (206) 244-0737
Six-course New Year’s Eve Dinner for $100 per person, with two seatings on Thursday, Dec. 3st: 5pm-7:30pm or 7:30pm-closing.

Collier’s/The House Restaurant (BTB Advertiser), 643 SW 152nd Street, Burien; (206) 420-3338
New Year’s Eve Dinner/Party; music begins at 9pm; serving 4-course Prix Fixe dinner until 9pm, then it’s time to bring in the NEW YEAR! During dinner they will host music by Jim Locklear, then at 9pm Jim will be joined by chef Will Collier and his former bandmate, Allan Tegelburg. House Specials on tapas and wine! “If you plan to join us for dinner, reservations are strongly recommended.”

Mick Kellys Irish Pub, 435 SW 152nd Street;
 (206) 246-2473
DJ Ken@ 10pm, champagne toast at midnight, No cover.

The Mark Restaurant, 918 SW 152nd Street, Olde Burien; (206) 241-6275
New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery Party – this event will be fun for everyone…for the shy or the outgoing. Join us as we navigate you through “Murder at the Four Deuces” with gangsters, hit men, politicians, entertainers, molls and many other interesting guests in attendance. THIS IS A TOTALY NEW MYSTERY FROM LAST YEARS. Price is $45 per person and includes Dinner, Toast at Midnight, Party Favors and of course…murder! You must register ahead of time and receive your character packet!

Elmer’s Pub, 15027 Ambaum Blvd SW Burien; (206) 439-1007
Live band Grey Sky Falling, champagne toast at midi and music until 1:30am.

The Tin Room, 923 SW 152nd Street
, Olde Burien; 
(206) 242-8040
No cover, Dinner Specials, Champagne toast at midnight.

Side Street Kitchen & Bar, 717 SW 148th St (206) 402-5428
No cover, will be open until at least midnight.

DES MOINES:

NEW – “SALTY PAGAN” BLUE MOON RITUAL TONIGHT!
Possibly the most interesting NYE festivity will be a “Blue Moon Ritual,” followed by New Year’s Eve Party from 7pm on at the Saltwater Unitarian-Universalist Church (25701 14th Place So., Des Moines); will include food, dancing and merriment. Participants are invited to bring “1. An idea of what you would like to be rid of and an idea of what goals you have for the coming year. 2. A white candle or a white flower or something silver. 3. CD (If you would like to hear your own music played), as well as potluck finger food (items such as sandwich, vegetable, cheese, fruit, or pickle trays, beverage or other snack item). Dress from casual to fancy and everything in between, and childcare is available for this event.

Butler Bar & Grill, 22341 Marine View Drive South
, Des Moines; (206) 429-3709
$5 cover, “Cory Wild’s Band” is playing starting around 9pm; Champange toast at midnight, $1 shots, door prizes, and a raffle for $250 Butler’s gift certificate.

Mandarin Kitchen, 22612 7th Avenue South
, Des Moines; 
(206) 878-8511
Karaoke, drink specials and great food.

Lighthouse Bar, 22239 Marine View Drive South
, Des Moines; (206) 824-4920
$10 prime rib $5 shots – Washington Apple’s Apples, Crown Royal, Jägermeister, Jose Cuervo tequila, Smirnoff vodka, Captain Morgan & $5 long island iced teas. 10pm on complimentary late night snacks, not to mention pool and comfy couches.

Burien Town Square is hopping as the Oktoberfest celebration takes place Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27. The weather is beautiful and there is lots of family fun to be had, including food, crafts, live music and carnival rides!

We’ve already sent our own Bart Bryan out to test the rides and we can report that they are indeed thrilling. Come on down and see for yourself! Be sure to stop by the B-Town Blog booth just across the street from the carnival ticket booth.

For more details and schedule information, be sure to see our previous coverage.

Sep ’09
24
5:30 pm

Highline Public Schools will be holding a special grand opening celebration for the recently-rebuilt Marvista Elementary School on Thursday, Sept. 24th, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

There will be a short program beginning at 5:45pm, with tours and dinner following; all are invited.

Marvista welcomed its 550 students to their new building on the first day of school on Wednesday, Sept. 9th. The main components of the building – classrooms, lunchroom, and common areas – were completed on time and on budget. Finishing touches, such as landscaping and playfields, will be completed in the next few weeks.

“Our students and staff are so excited about the new building,” said Principal Rebekah Kim. “It provides space for great learning opportunities and for our community to gather – with the school as the centerpiece.”

Marvista, located in Normandy Park, is the twelfth new school to be completed in Highline since 2004. The construction projects have been financed by bonds approved by voters in 2002 and 2006. Prior to 2002, no school construction bond had been approved since 1986. During that 16-year period, the district was unable to replace aging buildings.

“We had a long list of old and outdated schools that needed to be replaced,” said Superintendent John Welch. “We are grateful that the community saw that need and approved the funding to allow us to build schools that are safer and provide the current technology our students need to compete in today’s world.”

Marvista is located at 19800 Marine View Drive SW in Normandy Park.

by Scott Schaefer

Have you ever been in a parade? How about Burien’s Annual 4th of July Parade?

Well, we were lucky enough to be accepted (how that happened we still don’t know…), and we thought we’d share our first-hand, exclusive, eyewitness account, which was actually written during the parade as we were pulled on a flatbed trailer by BTB Advertiser Airport/Burien Towing.

Here it is, beginning with a first-hand point-of-view slideshow by yours truly:

Click to View Photo Slideshow

11:10am: Dropped the Blogmobile (our branded, racing green Mini Cooper) off at Airport/Burien Towing. Joe, our driver, let me drive the car up onto the flatbed trailer myself. It was cool because I wasn’t sure I had gotten the tires on the ramps correctly, but I just went for it ‘cuz Joe gave me the thumbs up.

2:20pm: Returned to Airport/Burien Towing to prepare the car for the parade. It was all ready for us on the flatbed truck, and Joe and his son even put our banners up. Joe’s son will be riding shotgun in the air-conditioned truck cab. We’re all now very jealous of them both as it’s very hot out.

2:30pm: Put table, chairs etc. on board our flatbed truck. It’s really hot, gotta be at least 85 degrees. Oh, and the flatbed truck is black metal. Eees already super sweaty niiiice.

2:45pm: By now, we’re all aboard and sitting at our card table or foldable lawn chairs. Laptops are fired up and hot, we’re all too hot already, and I can’t find an open wi-fi signal. So much for “blogging live” from the actual parade route.

3pm: The parade starts, but we don’t move. It feels like we’re trapped at a mini reviewing stand/oven as parade participants start streaming past us. Soon, we’re judging them all. Mayor Joan McGilton practices her wave to us. The gals from the Hi-Liners‘ “Thoroughly Modern Millie” do a cute dance routine right in front of us.

3:15pm: We’re finally drawn into the parade, behind an Asian Dragon Drum Corps and in front of the Burien Bearcats.

3:23pm: Seems like there are people watching this parade who actually know about us! Someone gave us a thumbs up. Others yell “way to go!” No booing. Yet.

3:28pm: I just noticed that the group in front of us is relentlessly banging their drums. Same beat. Over. And over. Again. Must be one heckuva dragon.

3:30pm: We turn the corner down SW 153rd Street after passing by BTB Advertiser Wag the Dog. Suddenly the crowds thin, then we realize that everyone’s probably watching from inside The Hobnobber.

3:34pm: We turn left on 2nd Ave SW. There’s a bump in the road. Then a slight hill. Everyone holds on a bit tighter now.

3:34pm: We finally enter some shade as we turn west on SW 152nd into the core of downtown Burien. unfortunately, we’ve all consumed whatever little water we brought with us.

3:38pm: A guy in the crowd shows off his brand new B-Town Blog t-shirt, which isn’t faded like ours. He turns down my offer to trade shirts.

3:43pm: As we enter Dealy Plaza, it’s a thrill to see the landmark Burien School Book Depository building. There’s some guy in a window on the 6th floor. I wave to him and—

3:49pm: The drum corps is now going totally nuts, banging everything really hard as if they’re doing their big finish. Our collective heads are starting to hurt.

4:05pm: We’ve passed by some of our wonderful Advertisers, including Wag the Dog, Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub (where I suddenly wish I was downing an ice cold pint) Moss Chiropractic (suddenly my neck hurts) the City of Burien, Burien Trophy and probably a few others that I’ve missed but will soon hear from…

4:06pm: An adult male with Boy Scouts Troop #377 waves to us. I then realize why I never joined the Boy Scouts. That uniform must be hot!

4:08pm: At the reviewing stand, we’re surprised at how small it is…just 3 people, and the Announcer’s announcement about us is totally drowned out by the incredibly loud drum and dragon corps in front of us.

4:09pm: We turn right on 8th Ave SW in front of the fire station where it appears the parade is ending. Wait, no it’s not, the drum crops is drumming again.

4:15pm: We’re back at Airport/Burien Towing, where we peel ourselves off our nearly-melted plastic chairs and come back to reality. The parade is over, and we all realize that our “float” kinda sucks. We vow to do something better next year.

Have any ideas for our “float” for the 2010 parade? Please Comment below…

Jul ’09
4
10:00 am

Our nearest neighbor to the south, the beautiful City of Normandy Park, has posted the following schedule for what’s going on there on the 4th of July – everything from a 2.8K Fun Run to a Children’s Parade to a Social at The Cove:

“Join your neighbors and friends at the Normandy Park 4th of July Social sponsored by the Normandy Park Community Club and the City of Normandy Park from 10am until 1pm. All Normandy Park residents are encouraged to join in the fun for these morning and early afternoon festivities:

10:25am: 2.8K Fun Run. It’s free, but pre-registration is highly suggested. The course is from Marvista Elementary to Marine View Drive & Shoremont. Runners be sure to arrive at the starting area before 10:10am as number pick up will close at that time. This year’s custom designed race t-shirt can be ordered in advance by all runners for pick it up at the finish line. Non-runners may purchase any left over shirts at the end of the race. They are only $15 each. Contact the Cove office to register 206-242-3778 or visit www.npcove.org

10:30am: Children’s Parade. Everyone is welcome to join in, either from the start (be at Marvista no later than 10:15!) or from anywhere along the parade route, which ends at the Cove Building. Classic cars, floats, wagons, bicycles, strollers, horses, marching bands – - all are encouraged to participate. Paint your face, decorate your bike, get out your flags; be festive or plain. Please, however, no campaigning or political signs. The Normandy Park Arts Commission will once again offer children prizes for the best decorated bicycles. Children who participate in the Parade are encouraged to decorate their bikes in the holiday spirit and enter the Bike Decorating Contest. Prizes will be awarded for the Best Patriotic decorations

11:15am: Social at the Cove. After the parade everyone is invited for free Ice Cream at the Cove. To satisfy your lunchtime hunger, hot dogs and beverages will be offered. Festivities include Classic Car Show and, Large Blow Up Toys and Temporary Tattoos for youngsters. All of this will be accompanied by Live Patriotic Music on the lawn.

Line the streets, enjoy the parade, and attend the Community Social at the Cove!

Road Closure Information:

  • Marine View Drive and Shorebrook Drive will be closed to motor vehicles during the festivites from approx. 9:30am-12:00pm. Please use caution and consider alternate routes.

If you’re considering other local fun on the 4th, here’s a link to the schedule for 3 Tree Point’s all-day block party.

After years of talk, arguments, proposals, planning, an unusual public-private partnership, along with some recent art installations and polishing, the brand spankin’ new Burien Town Square, King County Library and Transit Center will all celebrate their grand openings this Saturday, June 13th beginning at 10am.

Here’s the schedule as received from the B-Town cityfolk themselves:

  • 10am: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the new Library/City Hall building at 400 SW 152nd Street will feature Federal, State and Local Dignitaries:
    • Highline High School’s Pirate Marching Band, directed by Scott Babcock, will kick things off with celebratory music.
    • Welcome by Burien Mayor Joan McGilton, and Bill Ptacek, King County Library System (KCLS) Director
    • Remarks by Congressman Jim McDermott, 7th District
    • Remarks by Congressman Adam Smith, 9th District
    • Sheila Babb, Dep. State Dir.
    • U.S. Senator Patty Murray
    • Nate Caminos, King Co. Dir.
    • U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
    • State Rep. Dave Upthegrove, 33rd District
    • King County Council Chair Dow Constantine
    • Dan Rosenfeld, Urban Partners
    • Lucy Krakowiak, Burien City Council/KCLS Board
    • Judge Richard Eadie, KCLS Board of Trustees
    • Closing Remarks by Mayor McGilton
    • Outside Entertainment:
      • 11:15am-12:15pm: Mango Son: This seven-piece band cuts through the formalities to get you dancing while taking a fresh look at traditional Cuban son, Dominican merengue, cumbia and Venezuelan parranda.
      • 12:15pm-1:15pm: The Toy Boats: These musicians will roam around and perform short sets around the venue. Their set includes Hungarian and French folk songs and a few original compositions, played on toy piano, concertina, ukulele, toy banjo, toy glockenspiel and toy percussion instruments.
      • 1:15pm-2:00pm: Linda Severt: Perfect for a wide range of ages, this performer weaves circus stunts, music and puppets into hilarious, creative routines.
    • Entertainment Inside the Library:
      • 11:30am: Eric Ode: Eric Ode uses American Sign Language and other hand motions, body movement, finger-plays, children’s books, poems, puppets and props to teach, engage and entertain.
      • 2:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., Story Times: Please join us with your little ones for a 15-minute Story Time in the new Story Time room!
      • And for those who have been living in a cave, here are the features of the new Burien Town Square:

      • New joint three-story, 58,000 square foot, $18 million King County Library and City Hall building
      • A one-acre Town Square Park with grassy areas, crushed granite pathways, water features, and several pieces of artwork
      • New streets, crosswalks and stop lights (but, far as we can tell, no new red light cameras…yet)
      • Urban Partners’ condominium and retail building, which are BuiltGreen certified (free tours will be offered)
      • Metro’s new Burien Transit Center is nearby, located on SW 148th Street between 1st Avenue South and 4th Avenue SW.
    • This all came about through a partnership between the King County Library System and City of Burien. The new Burien Library occupies the lower two floors and the new city hall is located on the third floor. The $18 million library was funded as part of the $172 million library capital bond approved by voters in 2004 to finance major improvement projects at all KCLS libraries. The new library includes more books, music, movies, magazines, computers, space for children and teens, and community meeting space. On the top floor the City has its offices, work areas, conference rooms and a large public lobby. A large meeting room on the first floor will be used by both the library and the City for large meetings and will serve as the City Council Chambers.

      Metro’s $12.5 million Burien Transit Center opened May 30th, with service on 12 Metro and Sound Transit bus routes. All of the boarding areas are now located off-street, enhancing safety for both transit customers and motorists in downtown Burien. The Transit Center also has 340 park-and-ride spaces and 24/7 monitored security.

      Refreshments will be available, and the local business organization, Discover Burien, will be offering gift bags with coupon specials for event-goers who wish to enjoy an afternoon of dining and shopping at local Burien businesses.

      This could be the biggest day for Burien since a guy named Mike Kelly wandered over a hill in the 1870s and found a “sunny dale.”

by Ralph Nichols

Today we honor America’s war dead – brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country that we all might live free. We gratefully remember along with them those veterans who served with honor, returned home to live full lives, but now have passed on.

One who served with distinction then settled into civilian live, pursued a career with Boeing and raised a family, and later recalled his wartime experiences – and his courtship of Ethel, the English girl whom he would marry, in Pilot from the Prairie, was Burien’s and Des Moines’ Ed Allen (pictured above, at left with Writer Ralph Nichols).

Captain Edward Allen flew B-24s on bombing runs from bases in England to targets in Germany and Nazi-occupied Europe in late 1944 and early 1945. Ed died in December 2008 at the still-young age of 84.

I first met Ed in 2003 when he walked into the local weekly newspaper office, where I then worked as an editor, to promote his book. I saw him the final time at the Museum of Flight during Seafair weekend last summer when the Blue Angels were in town. He looked well and, still energetic, greeted me with a warm smile. As always, he enjoyed talking that afternoon about the days when, with so many others of the “greatest generation,” he defended our country and fought for the freedom of others.

A farm boy from Kansas who had dreamed of flying, Ed enlisted in the Army Air Corps after the United States entered World War II. As the pilot of a B-24 Liberator, he and his crew would fly – and return safely from – 30 combat missions over enemy territory, bombing factories, rail yards, oil refineries, bridges and coastal gun emplacements. The support for ground troops provided by the flight group he led earned praise from none less than Gen. George S. Patton Jr.

In a 2004 interview with me in the community weekly, Ed described flying a B-24 as “more or less like driving a farm truck.” He also recalled that the four-engine heavy bomber “could take quite a bit of punishment and still get back.” This confidence in the structural integrity of his plane and its powerful engines was significant.

“As soon as we got into enemy territory, it was not uncommon to see clouds of flak (exploding anti-aircraft shells). It was disconcerting to look ahead and see all these little puffs of flack, knowing that you had to fly through that.” Ed kept his flight group in tight formation on bombing runs, which helped keep them from being attacked by enemy fighters. “Most of the time,” he said, “they all came back.”

That summer, I had an opportunity to join Ed aboard a Collings Foundation B-24 from Tacoma Narrows Airport to Seattle’s Boeing Field. For me, it was the flight of a lifetime; for Ed, a sentimental journey. With misty eyes that betrayed bittersweet memories, he said back on the ground that except for the noise of the engines – and the absence of flak – the plane was exactly as he remembered it.

It was a privilege to share that flight with him – and my privilege and pleasure to know him. Ed Allen truly was an officer and a gentleman. R.I.P., captain, together with all your comrades in arms whose service, devotion and sacrifice for America we honor today.

The Three Tree Point 4th of July Fireworks Fund drive ends on Sunday, May 31st, and Chairwoman Julie Dow says that so far they’ve raised $9,400 of the $21,000 goal – less than half of what it’ll cost to put the show on.

So consider this post a push to make your donation now for Burien’s best barge-based, free fireworks show on a great beach – donate online now!

The $21,000 covers the cost of the barge, fuel, tug, insurance, permits, fireworks and professionals to run the show, police protection for the area (which is being increased this year) and dumpster rental.

That has been the goal the last two years as well.

Here’s a note from Julie:

Hi Scott, we’re at about $9,400 which includes pledges (checks not received), but we need to raise the remaining $11,600 by May 31st!

The support from “outlying” neighborhoods (Normandy Park, Arroyo, Seloa, Arbor Heights) has been outstanding, but oddly, Three Tree Point itself has been notably behind.

We have sought corporate sponsorship this year, and while we’ve had lots of interest, so far we’ve only signed up Key Bank, Windermere, Color Printing Systems and The B-Town Blog.

So if you’re interested in sponsoring the fireworks, or giving a donation, please click here – you can donate online or via snailmail. This is an amazing celebration of Americana in a great neighborhood!

May ’09
5

Tuesday, May 5th is Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican holiday that gives everyone an excuse to take a shot of tequila on a weekday.

Oh, and it’s also the celebration of the Mexican army’s defeat of French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. However, it is not Mexican Independence Day, nor is it a national holiday in Mexico, but rather a day that can be observed voluntarily.

And no, we’re not going to mention swine flu in this story just to increase our Google pagerank.

Oops…we just did. Dang.

Here’s what’s going on:

BURIEN:
Azteca: 153 SW 157th: Happy Hour All Day 32oz Beer Special

La Costa: 206 SW 152nd: BIG PARTY 9pm-2am Drink Specials & Jello Shots NO COVER

El Rinconsito: 15101 Ambaum Blvd SW: Taco Plate Special

Vino Bello: 636 SW 152nd: 2pm-9pm Beer & Sangria Specials

Tin Room: 923 SW 152nd St: All Mexican Menu & Drink Specials

Sunnydale Tavern: 14404 Des Moines Memorial Drive: Live Music, Beer & Tequila Specials. Jello Shots

Twiggs: 12803 Ambaum Blvd SW: $3 Corona’s

Breaktime Lounge: 635 SW 152nd: $1.00 Taco’s

Barrel Tavern: 11051 1st Ave South: Beer & Food Specials, Regular Jam session. No Cover

WHITE CENTER:
McMurphy’s: 11069 16th Ave SW: Karaoke & Drink Specials

Marv’s Broiler: 9808 16th Ave SW: Appetizer & Drink Specials

Triangle Pub: 9454 Delridge Way SW: Beer & Tequila Specials

Viva Mexico: 10601 16th Ave SW: Beer & Tequila & Appetizer Specials

Photo by ericagirlwonder

It’s one of the highlights of the Burien area on the 4th of July – the Three Tree Point Fireworks celebration, which is supported entirely by donations from residents in area communities, not just the citizens who live down there.

From personal experience, I can say that these fireworks celebrations are amazing all-day Americana affairs, starting with a community breakfast, a flag-raising ceremony, a children’s parade (with the incentive being a prize of a popsicle at the end) then an evening of outstanding, professional fireworks launched from a barge anchored right off the point.

It’s a crazy block party, with live music, beach parties, insanely huge bonfires and more, and the 10pm display can be seen for miles.

Neighbors have already set up a website for this year’s blast, and they’re seeking donations to help offset the $20k+ cost. For those who donate more than $150, you get invited to a fun neighborhood dinner party.

Here’s some info from the Three Tree Point Fireworks Fund website:

The Three Tree Point Fireworks celebration is supported entirely by donations from the communities of Three Tree Point, Seahurst, Normandy Park, Seola Beach, Arroyo Beach and Arbor Heights.

Our barge based, high-altitude fireworks show has gotten better every year thanks to countless people of have donated time and money.

In 2009, our goal is to keep the fireworks and community celebrations at the same great level that they have been at. This is the first year we are seeking corporate sponsors for our event.

We raise funds in May to ensure we have time to get all the permits, insurance and the best vendors.

Originally started by the Miller family as a gift to The Three Tree Point Community, the firewoks tradition was continued by neighbors when the Millers moved away.

In addition to the fireworks, the neighborhood traditions of pancake breakfast , kids games, flag raising with awards, bike parade and more have been ushering in summer at our great communitnity. What a great place to live!

Donate today on this site, or contact us!

For more information, e-mail us.

To donate online, click here.

If you prefer to snailmail your donation, make a check out to “3TPFF” and mail to:

3TPFF
c/o Murray and Julie Dow
9 Three Tree Point Lane
Burien WA, 98166

Apr ’09
8
12:00 pm

Wednesday, April 8th is Arbor Day, and the city of Burien’s Parks and Recreation Department will be celebrating it at Dottie Harper Park with a special tree planting in honor of the day and in memory of the late Dottie Harper, founding member of the Burien Arts Association and former Burien Deputy Mayor.

Erin Williamson, Executive Director of the Burien Arts Association will help install a glorious flowering kousa dog wood tree in the park to mark the occasion.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Burien’s Arbor Day celebration and commemoration of Dottie Harper

WHEN: Wednesday, April 8th at Noon

WHERE: Dottie Harper Park, upper east end near playground equipment; the park is located at SW 146th Street and 4th Avenue Southwest near the Burien library.

INFO: For more Information, call 206-988-3700

Dottie Harper passed away in February of this year, and here’s more info from the files of the Highline Historical Society:

Dottie Harper was Burien’s “Betsy Ross, chief promoter, publicity agent, school and civic planner and representative.”

She was a tireless community activist, member of the State Arts Commission, King County Arts Commission and Historic Preservation Board, co-chairman of the Seahurst Park Committee, chairman of the Burien Bi-centennial Committee, city of Burien Councilmember and Chairman of itsArts Committee.

All such activity was a voluntary, full-time pursuit.

Mar ’09
6
6:00 pm

The annual Discover Burien Dinner/Silent Auction and City of Burien Annual Awards Ceremony will be Friday, March 6th from 6pm-10pm at the Karuna Yoga Studio, located at 819 SW 152nd Street in Olde Burien.

This will also serve as the official 16th Birthday Party for the city, which promises to drive carefully if only “you’ll get me a British racing green Mini Cooper with an in-dash iPod and GPS, please Daddy please they’re so awesomely cool!”

As you may recall, last year’s 15th birthday bash involved a very unique “Birthday Bus” that was driven up with just a Learner’s Permit from Burning Man, so who knows what to expect for Burien’s Sweet 16 (although we have heard rumblings of a “special surprise” so read on…).

The city will be giving out its annual awards, which will honor:

  • Outstanding business leader
  • Environmental activist
  • Citizen community activist
  • Education activist

Here are the details:

WHAT: Annual Discover Burien Dinner & Silent Auction and City of Burien Awards Ceremony

WHEN: Friday, March 6th from 6pm-10pm

WHERE: Karuna Yoga Studio, located at 819 SW 152nd in Olde Burien (map below)

COST: $25 per person or a table of 8 for $200

INFO: We hear there will be a “special surprise” for attendees, and we know it’s going to be very cool and very Burienesque, so you don’t want to miss this night!

Patty Sader, Executive Director of Discover Burien, also tells us that they’re looking for Event Sponsors and Volunteers, so if you’re interested in helping out, please call her at (206) 433-2882.

They’re also looking for swag to insert into the 150 or so gift bags that will be given out, so if you’re a local business who wants to get some publicity, give Patty a call.


View Larger Map

Saturday afternoon saw chilly temps but warm hearts set aglow by numerous innovative and often fiery sculptures, art pieces and artists at the grand opening of Burien’s Interim Art Space (B/ IAS) at Burien Town Square. Slideshow photos by Maureen Hoffmann and Scott Schaefer.

The celebration consisted of numerous elements imported from The Burning Man Festival (with the major element of course being fire), local dignitaries, artists, DJs, dancers, residents, several local firefighters (on hand just in case) and, did we mention…fire?

Lots of fire.

The day was basically our own “Burien Man Festival,” with firewood-stoked intricately-carved cauldrons (used to keep attendees warm), a computer-controlled “Fire Pod” sculpture that shot fire out to techno music (with dramatic sudden bursts of propane-powered flame), numerous smaller pieces, and of course the centerpiece sculpture “The Passage,” whose co-creator, Dan Das Mann, was on hand.

The art will remain on the site until the end of the year, and you can bet that it will most certainly light up numerous times for upcoming celebrations. B/ IAS is located on SW 150th near 5th Ave SW, almost directly across the street from Staples.

UPDATE 1/25/09: Here are some more excellent photos of the event, taken by Maureen Hoffmann:

Fire drips from the hand of the “Mother” figure into the hand of the “Daughter” in “The Passage” sculpture.

Closeup detail shows lit kerosene drippinginto  the “Daughter’s” hand.

Even the dancers heated things up with fire.

Closeup detail of the intricately carved scenes and messages in a fire cauldron, which was stoked with wood.

We’ll be posting more video and photos soon, and if you have any pics you’d like to share, please email us or upload them to our Flickr Group.

More info, including how you can take part, available at the Burien Interim Art Space (B/ IAS) website.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

Here’s an exclusive time-lapse movie of “The Passage” being installed late Thursday afternoon, courtesy Burien Photog Francis Zera:

[flashvideo filename="http://b-townblog.com/wp-content/media/thepassagetimelapse.flv" /]

Time-lapse video courtesy of Francis Zera Photography / zeraphoto.com

Here’s a schedule of events for Saturday’s Grand Opening ceremonies, which start at 3pm:

3pm: Opening Ceremonies at Burien Town Square (BTB Advertiser) office, located at 455 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien (see map below for locations)

4pm: Drum band procession

 to the B/ IAS site

4:20pm – Block Party B-Boys hip hop dancers

4:40pm – Public ceremony – thanks & introductions

5:00pm – Lighting of the Passage

5:15pm – Spinergy fire performers

5:30pm – Ludington GT

6:30pm – DJ Randy Engstrom and Firepod

7:30pm – Abyssinian belly dancers

7:30pm – Firepod

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Jan ’09
21
7:00 pm

The official kickoff celebration for the American Cancer Society’s (ACS) “Relay For Life” of Highline is Wednesday, Jan. 21st, from 7pm-8:30pm at Somers Auditorium in Highline Medical Center, located at 16251 Sylvester Road SW (see map below).

The event will provide information about Relay For Life and how volunteers can get involved in the fight against cancer. Attendees will enjoy food from Sal’s Deli, music by Critical Mass, and coffee provided by Starbucks as they visit with volunteers, sharing stories of hope.

Founded 25 years ago by Tacoma physician Dr. Gordy Klatt, Relay For Life has grown to be the most recognized fundraising event for cancer nationwide, held in more than 5,000 communities and raising more than $3 billion toward cancer research, advocacy, education and patient services.

In 2008, the Relay For Life of Highline saw over 500 people from the cities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park and Seatac participating on 38 teams, and raising over $87,000.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event in which teams will walk or run in shifts around the track for 17 hours. Participants traditionally camp out on the field, and, when they are not taking their turn walking, enjoy a variety of entertainment activities.

The Relay For Life of Highline will be held on June 13 & 14th at Highline Stadium in Burien. For more information, please call Kelly Cochran at 206.6744103, or visit http://www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa.

The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy and service.


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[EDITOR'S NOTE: We are re-posting this column (originally run Nov. 2nd) in honor of the Dr. Martin Luther King, whose life and work we celebrate today:}

“When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, militarism and economic exploitation are incapable of being conquered.”

– Dr. Martin Luther King,
from a speech delivered in 1967

by Mark Neuman

Contemplating the Giant Triplets
I am embarrassed to admit that, at age nine, I knew more about Forrest Tucker and Larry Storch and a TV situation comedy called “F Troop” than I did about the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

I know this because I was watching a syndicated repeat of that silly show on the afternoon of April 4, 1968, when a news bulletin cut into regular programming to announce that Dr. King had been shot and killed earlier that day.

I did not know who he was.

I quickly got to know, in part, on the strength of my third and fourth grade teachers at Holy Rosary Elementary School in West Seattle, and then I never forgot.

Our recent handful of years
With an over half-trillion dollar burden set firmly on the backs of Americans not yet born, the powers-that-be recently bailed out the powerful who failed us.

And some number of millions of everyday Americans participated as well, in the pursuit of a piece of the glittering illusion: unbelievably rapidly appreciating equity.

Any number of common desk working brokers and agents just “did what the boss told us” to earn fast, fat commissions.

Regulators, overseers are somewhat difficult to blame. They, too, like the profits, were largely imaginary, nonexistent. Those who existed sat by, quite silent.

Today, a Senator from Illinois engenders, through no fault of his own, racist sentiments from various pockets all about our country.

And this is seven score and three years after the end of the Civil War.

And meanwhile another chunk of trillion has been thrown at a conflagration, a quagmire, in the Middle East that, inarguably, Dr. King would have opposed.

A great speech
And so I bring to you today words earnestly delivered by Dr. King, less than a year before he died. Officially it is titled: "Why I Am Opposed to the War in Vietnam."

It could quite well be subtitled: “The Giant Triplets Speech.”

It could also be called: “Please Don’t Make Our Country Look Like This in the First Decade of the 21st Century.”

If only all we Americans had recited or read, daily, his powerful words, spoken forty-one years ago:

“When machines and computers, profit motives and property rights are considered more important than people, the giant triplets of racism, militarism and economic exploitation are incapable of being conquered.”

In our modest blog offices it was suggested: Should we post and highlight this speech two days before Election Day?

We “Woodwarded and Bernsteined and Bradleed” this about. Would some be offended? Might some misunderstand?

Perhaps some will.

Some always do.

Any complaints? Send them to me.

Any credit or compliments? They go to Dr. King.

Here is a recording of, in my opinion, a stunning and timeless speech from the greatest and most courageous leader of my lifetime.

YouTube Preview Image

When you hear Dr. King’s words, spoken less than a year before he passed, does your heart beat fast?

I should expect and hope it would.

Perhaps your eyes water at certain points.

You’re in good company if they do, I assure.

Never heard this speech before? You are not to blame. We live in a “forget the past” society. Additionally, Dr. King’s other stunning and courageous works, including “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” happen to overshadow his own genius, literary and oratory greatness and prescience displayed at other times in his life.

Does the speech seem familiar? Please give it a listen again, in the relative stillness of this, the day most often set aside for meaningful thought, then send a note to that Social Studies teacher from grade six, your History professor from college, your Speech Coach and thank her or him for the initial introduction.

Send the links to your nephew in the Navy, your sisters from the old sorority, your Aunt in Auburn or Alabama, your boss in Bellevue, your kid in college.

Move it along the internet line to your favorite State Rep or least favorite Congressman, the most ethical attorney you know, or maybe even the least trustworthy scumbag Wall Street suit you are glad you never met, or, perhaps, are sorry you ever did.

Print out Dr. King’s words (we’ll get that link to you soon), fold it up and send them along with warmth in your Holiday greetings later this Autumn.

And so, on this Contemplative Sunday Holiday
No matter for whom you wish to loft into office with the fuel of your ballot this Tuesday, I am sure we can all agree, today, on this Contemplative Sunday, the following goal: Let us all, now and in these crucial near years, stare down those Giant and Ugly Triplets and knock them off their high perch for good.

Thanks.

–Mark Neuman
mark@b-townblog.com

Jan ’09
20
5:00 pm

BTB Advertiser The Mark Restaurant & Bar is hosting an Inaugural Party Tuesday, Jan. 20th, and here are the details:

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 20th, from 5pm to close

WHERE: The Mark Restaurant & Bar, located at 914 SW 152nd in Olde Burien (map below)

SPECIALS: Come in and say “Yes We Can!” and get 1/2 OFF on Bar Menu. They’ll also have specially Inaugural labeled bottles of wine and Champagne on hand.

Do you know of any other Burien-area inaugural parties? If so, please email us.

Also, here’s a list of parties in the area as listed on moveon.org.


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MySpace New Year Fireworks

Wishing everyone in the Burien area a very Happy New Year!

Please either email us your New Year’s pics or add ‘em to our Flickr Group so we can share them.

Dec ’08
31

Here’s a list of some New Year’s Eve parties and events going on in the greater Burien area Wednesday night (if you know of any other parties/events, please email us ASAP and we’ll add it!):

THE MARK RESTAURANT & BAR: 914 SW 152nd • (206) 241-MARK:

  • Interactive, 1920s-style Murder Mystery Party, $35
  • Call 241-MARK for Reservations
  • More details here

BISTRO BAFFI: 15217 21st Ave SW • (206) 244-0737:

  • Festive 6-course New Year’s Eve meal
  • Call 244-0737 ASAP for Reservations

MICK KELLY’S IRISH PUB: 435 SW 152nd Ave • (206) 246-2473:

  • DJ starts at 10pm
  • Midnight toast
  • The usual Irish accents & wacky fun

THE TIN ROOM BAR: 923 SW 152nd • (206) 242-8040:

  • No cover
  • “Mellow” celebration
  • Midnight toast
  • The usual great drinks
  • Excellent bartenders & servers

ELMER’S PUB: 15027 Ambaum Blvd SW • (206) 439-1007:

  • Live band “X35″ starts at 9pm+
  • Cover charge is $3 for singles or $5 for couples
  • Cost includes champagne & party favors at Midnight

BREAKTIME RESTAURANT & LOUNGE: 635 SW 152nd Street • (206) 243-6810:

  • Live music with Andy Burnett starts at 8pm
  • No cover charge
  • “Big party – the place will be packed so get here early!”

VINO BELLO: 636 SW 152nd Street • (206) 244-8466:

  • NO party, but Michelle says: “Swing into Vino Bello on Wednesday 12/31 for some New Years Eve drink specials or to pick up the perfect bottle of bubbly. We’re not partying until midnight but we’ll be open until the ball drops in New York!”

WIZARDS CASINO: 15739 Ambaum Blvd SW • (206) 444-6100:

  • Bar open
  • Party favors
  • Champagne toast
  • Drink specials
  • TVs on (to watch Dick Clark?)
  • Midnight countdown
  • Regular casino action

PARK PLACE GRILL: 17821 1st Ave South Normandy Park • (206) 988-1200‎:

  • Special menu dinner: $15.95
  • Light music from 6-9pm
  • 9pm Karaoke starts
  • Midnight toast
  • No cover charge

WAYNE’S WORLD: 1832 S 120th Street Boulevard Park • (206) 433-8658‎:

  • Band “Sister Ray” starts at 9pm
  • No cover
  • Drink specials
  • Midnight toast

MCMURPHY’S: 11069 16th Ave SW, White Center • (206) 431-1916‎:

  • Karaoke starts at 9pm
  • No cover charge
  • Drink specials
  • Jello shots
  • Free appetizers

BENZ RESTAURANT & SPORTS LOUNGE: 12004 14th Ave South • (206) 444-0720‎:

  • Party 8pm+
  • No cover
  • “Might have Karaoke” starting at 9pm
  • Midnight toast
  • Free appetizers

TRIANGLE TAVERN: 9454 Delridge Way SW, White Center • (206) 763-0714‎:

  • Potluck dinner around 6pm
  • Karaoke starts at 9pm
  • No cover

BREWSKY’S BAR & GRILL: 9635 16th Ave SW White Center • (206) 764-3946‎:

  • Live Band 9pm+
  • No cover
Jan ’09Jan
1923

Between Jan. 19th and 23rd, Highline Community College’s Martin Luther King Jr. Week will feature nationally known authors and scholars discussing a variety of topics, including diversity, politics, education, sports and the legacy of Dr. King.

“It is important for us to honor and celebrate the legacy of Dr. King and all those that were in the struggle so that it can remind us to continue the work for freedom and justice in our own historical moment,” said Natasha Burrowes, assistant director of Student Programs and Diversity.

Now in its 17th year, Martin Luther King Jr. Week is one of Highline’s biggest events. More than 600 people attended last year’s discussions and performances.

WHEN: Jan. 19-23, 2009, various times

WHERE: Highline Community College’s main campus, which is located midway between Seattle and Tacoma at South 240th Street and Pacific Highway South (Highway 99); address: 2400 S. 240th St., Des Moines, WA 98198 (map below).

COST: Free and open to the public

INFO: www.highline.edu/stuserv/programs/mlkweek.htm

PROGRAMS:

  • King as a Social Scientist: The Revolution of Values Towards Creative Maladjustment
    9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    Dr. Mark A. Bolden, who holds a doctorate from Howard University and is the president elect of the Washington, D.C., chapter of the Association of Black Psychologists, will discuss how students can find creative ways to do King’s work. Bolden is also founder and convener of the Fanon Project, a collective of scholars and activists who employ the work of Frantz Fanon toward decolonizing the mind of African people.
  • Living the Vision
    11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    Dr. Bolden hosts this interactive workshop that incorporates skill building exercises related to the interpersonal transgressions that we commit against one another with a re-commitment to treat individuals more humanely.
  • Creating a Vision of Equity and Opportunity in Education
    12:10 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, Building 7
    Dr. Debra Ren-Etta Sullivan, co-founder and first president of the Praxis Institute for Early Childhood Education, a college that provides education and professional development, discusses the importance of creating equity, sharing opportunity and taking responsibility for children’s education.
  • From Dr. King to President Obama: Racial Vision, Racial Blindness and Racial Politics in Obamerica
    10 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    Dr. Eduardo Bonilla-Silva, a professor of sociology at Duke University and author of “Racism without Racists: Color-Blind Racism and the Persistence of Racial Inequality in the United States,” discusses how systems of racism continue to exist and manifest in this historical moment.
  • Diversity at Highline: A Critical Analysis of Recruitment & Retention of Faculty and Staff of Color
    2-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    This program focuses on the importance of recruitment and retention of faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds at Highline. Campus leaders will discuss broader campus initiatives and the ways these actions impact increasing and retaining a multicultural staff and faculty.
  • Born Rich
    12:10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    Kevin Stanley, Highline Economics professor, discusses “Born Rich,” a 2003 documentary directed by Johnson & Johnson heir, Jamie Johnson, about growing up in one of the world’s richest families. The film will also be screened.
  • Elders Panel: Retrospection on Dr. King’s Vision
    11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, Building 7
    Local elders from Highline and the community who were, and remain to be, political activists and advocates for their communities will discuss being a part of the transformation of the 1960s.
  • 2020: New Visionaries Panel
    9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 22, Building 7
    Dr. King and the civil rights movement occurred in the 1960s. Who is leading the charge for truth and rights in our communities now? Come listen to current social justice activists and learn how you can get involved in making a difference now.
  • A People’s History of Sports in the United States
    9 and 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Building 7
    Dave Zirin, author of “What’s My Name, Fool? Sports and Resistance in the United States,” “Welcome to the Terrordome: The Pain, Politics, and Promise of Sports” and the online column edgeofsports.com, will discuss his latest book, “A People’s History of Sports in the United States: From Bull-Baiting to Barry Bonds … 250 Years of Politics, Protest, People, and Play.”
  • Rainbow of Desire
    Noon to 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, Highline Student Union (Building 8), Mt. Constance Room
    This interactive performance and community dialogue will be facilitated by Marc Weinblatt, founder and director of the Mandala Center. The “Rainbow of Desire” is part of a body of work known as “Theatre of the Oppressed,” a community-based education that uses theater as a tool for transformation and was created by Brazilian visionary Augusto Boal. It is used for social and political activism, conflict resolution, community building, therapy and government legislation.

Highline Community College was founded in 1961 as the first community college in King County. With approximately 10,000 students and 350,000 alumni, it is one of the state’s largest institutions of higher education. The college offers a wide range of academic transfer and professional-technical education programs, with day, evening, online and weekend classes.

With the most diverse population of any college in Washington state, Highline takes a multicultural approach to education for the success of all its students and the prosperity of its surrounding communities. Alumni include former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice, entrepreneur Junki Yoshida and Washington state’s poet laureate Sam Green.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: We're proud to say that we're alums of HCC, having attended as a Journalism Major in the late 70s/early 80s, where we served as both a Writer and Photographer on the Thunderword.

This is when we met TM Sell, now an accomplished Playwright as well as Professor of Journalism at Highline.]


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Dec ’08
11

One year ago today (Dec. 11, 2007 to be exact), on a dining room table in a modest home near Three Tree Point, your B-Town Blog came unto this planet, chock full of hopes and dreams of enlightening a community, and initially only as a part-time hobby.

On that first day, we posted these two stories, linked here for your flashbackian pleasure:

Then, after several weeks of reading our own crap, something happened.

People other than our family and friends started reading it (currently we have 10,000 unique readers per month and climbing!).

And emailing news, events, listings and more. And commenting on stories.

Then, a few months later, we re-designed the site, and something even more amazing happened.

A local business bought an Ad!

And now, we’re proud to say we’ve got 30 paid Advertisers (and growing – several more are in production), three dynamic sales reps (join the B-Town Blog-o-lution and buy an Ad from either Mark Neuman, Janet Grella or Bart Bryan) a 15-year old Intern named Josh Hart, and contributing Writers like Shawn Underwood, not to mention the dozens of great Photographers, Artists and other Contributors.

We’ve also strived to differentiate ourselves from other local blogs by actually helping our community by holding fundraisers. And we’re happy to report that in our first year, we’ve helped raise over $12,000 for various needy neighbors in the area, including:

  • The Buckley Family, who lost everything they owned in a fire on Feb. 28th (we helped publicize their plight and held an online fundraiser).
  • Victims of the fatal June 29th Tara Apartment arson fires (we arranged and co-sponsored a major auction fundraiser two weeks after the blaze that brought in over $10,000).
  • Both the Highline Area Food Bank and White Center Food Bank (we held a fundraising “Blog Party” in August at BTB Advertiser Elliott Bay Brewery where we raised enough food to feed two families for a month).
  • Both the White Center Food Bank and WestSide Baby (we held an in-person “Turkeys N’Diapers” fundraiser in November at the White Center Albertsons and raised nearly $1,200 in one day).

So, please help us celebrate our one-year anniversary by giving yourself a gift – because we couldn’t have done it without YOU!

Thanks, and we look forward to an even better second year!

Nov ’08
22
The original Tin Man, Ernie Eder (left) and modern-day Tin Man, Dan House hang out at The Tin Room.

Original Tin Man Ernie Eder (left) and modern-day Tin Man Dan House hang out at The Tin Room, formerly the Hi-Line Tin Shop at 923 SW 152nd in Olde Burien.

One of Burien’s hippest hangouts, The Tin Room Bar (BTB Advertiser), celebrates its 4th birthday this Saturday, Nov. 22!

Doors open at 11am and Danny and the gang will be bringing back their special Swanny Prawns, as well as giving away FREE key chains to the first 130 guests.

There will also be drink specials in a special Tin Room Mug featuring Ernie (the original “Tin Man” and former proprietor of the Hi-Line Tin Shop) and if you are lucky you may even see him when he makes his guest appearance.

There will be giveaways throughout the night, so be sure to show up early for a festive celebration.

Danny sends out this shout-out to all BTB Readers:

Thank you Burien for 4 great years!

The Tin Room Bar is located at 923 SW 152nd Street in Olde Burien:

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Nov ’08
1
10:00 am
Nov ’08
2
10:00 am

A special Dia de los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead” celebration will take place Saturday and Sunday Nov. 1st through 2nd from 10am to 6pm at the Burien Community Center, located at 425 SW 144th Street (map below).

This is a first-time collaboration between Burien Parks, the Highline Historical Society and Para los Ninos, and it should be a fun and interesting time for all, both living and dead.

Everyone is invited to help commemorate their deceased loved ones with “offrendas,” or offerings through alters that include fanciful foods, symbols, photos and even artifacts that honor that person’s life.

According to Mexican legend:

Many people believe that during the Day of the Dead, it is easier for the souls of the departed to visit the living.

People will go to cemeteries to communicate with the souls of the departed, and will build private altars, containing the favorite foods and beverages, and photos and memorabilia, of the departed.

The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments of the living directed to them.

Celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.

Here’s an interesting video that shows some of what this fascinating day is all about:

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Jul ’08
26
12:00 pm

B-Town’s own specialty wine bar (and BTB Advertiser) Vino Bello will be celebrating its second anniversary this Saturday, July 26th, starting at Noon and going until 8pm.

From their press release:

Join us in celebrating our 2 year anniversary this Saturday, July 26th. Winemakers Tim Sorenson of Fall Line Winery and Alex Manoni of Stomani Cellars will be sharing their new vintages with us.  Don’t miss the door prizes and specials!

  • Noon – 8pm: Wine Tasting
  • 4pm: Meet the Winemakers
  • 5pm: Live Music featuring JD Hobson
  • 5-7pm: Door Prizes

More info at the Vino Bello website.

Burien had an explosive 4th, that's for sure...

Highline Times Publisher Jerry Robinson, 88, enjoyed being crowned King of Three Tree Point.

Two neighbor kids kick off the Three Tree Point parade by carrying the BTB Banner.

Crowds jammed SW 171st Street on Three Tree Point.

Kids took donations for Burien Fire Victims at a flag-raising ceremony in Three Tree Point.

Kids are enticed to complete the children's parade by the reward of ice cold Otterpops that await them at the end.

One tradition at the Three Tree Point parade is the 'wacky guys on the garage who throw candy' to passersby. Here a lucky neighbor reaches out to catch some hard candy.

Discover Burien's Executive Director Patty Sader passes out candy at the start of the Burien parade.

Residents of El Dorado West Retirement Community walked through the entire parade!

Eric Dickman, VP of the Board of Trustees of the Burien Little Theatre, proves that he'll do just about anything to promote the theatre. Here he is at the parade promoting their upcoming 'Rocky Horror Show,' with Maggie Larrick, left.

Happy Independence Day from the B-Town Blog!

Here’s a scene from today’s festivities in B-Town, this one of two independent children celebrating the 4th by leading the kid’s parade at Three Tree Point with this lovely banner:

May ’08
31
9:00 am

The City of Burien and Volunteers for Outdoor Washington is having an “Earth Day In May” clean-up celebration at Seahurst Park this Saturday, May 31st, from 9am to 12:30pm:

Meet and sign-in will be at the Seahurst Park North Picnic Shelter.

All-ages are welcome and no tools are necessary, so bring the family and enjoy a day in the great outdoors while helping to preserve this wonderful local resource.

Don’t forget that after the clean-up is over, there will be a very cool Beach Naturalist Walk lead by Environmental Science Center Naturalists (and no, the term “naturalist” doesn’t mean they’ll be au naturel…), where you may see something like this:

Sign up at www.trailvolunteers.org or for more info call (206) 988-3700.

As if you haven’t seen it enough already, here’s a video (courtesy Burien Parks) of the infamous “Birthday Bus,” only this time moving (albeit slowly) and with actual people on top of it:

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Some new photos from Saturday’s big B-Town 15th B-Day Bash, courtesy Burien Parks:

Some of the many great photos of Saturday’s Burien 15th Birthday Bash Bus taken by Maureen Hoffmann:

B-Town B-Day Bus!

B-Town B-Day Bus!

B-Town B-Day Bus!

SOURCE:

Mar ’08
29
12:00 pm

Birthday Bus!Burien’s Big Birthday Bash will kick into high gear this Saturday, March 29th, starting at Noon and going until 4pm:

WHAT: Burien’s 15th Birthday Party!

WHEN: Saturday, March 29th from 12:00 noon – 4:00 pm

WHERE: Highline High School Cafeteria at 225 S. 152 Street

HIGHLIGHTS: FREE Commemorative Birthday T-Shirts to The First 100 Kids Who Arrive!

Music & Dance Performances:

  • Danza de los Viejitos—Festive Latino clog dancers adorned with masks and costumes
  • YouthSounds NW Choral
  • New City Dance Company
  • Hi Liners Youth Musical Theater
  • Mexican American Assn of Baile Folkorico

• Birthday Cake and Punch

• Participatory Art Creations

• Design your own party hats, crowns, vests, or capes

• Carnival Games & Kids’ Inflatables

• Excitement and fun for kids of all ages

• Community and Food Booths

MORE INFO: (206) 988-370 or here

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