The Puget Sound Blood Center is holding another blood drive, this coming Monday, Feb. 8th from 1pm to 7pm at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church’s Fellowship Hall, located at 19030 8th Ave South in SeaTac.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Puget Sound Blood Center blood drive

WHEN: Monday, February 8, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm (lunch break from 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm)

WHERE: Prince of Peace Fellowship Hall – 19030 8th Ave. South in SeaTac.

INFO: From a press release:

To meet the healthcare needs of our region, the Blood Center depends on your lifesaving contributions, by donating blood.

Your support allows us to provide a stable, adequate blood supply to all those who rely on it and, in giving back to the community, you play an essential role in saving thousands of lives every year.

You can invite a friend or a family member to donate blood with you.

Please Donate Blood at the Prince Of Peace Lutheran church blood drive on Monday, Feb. 8th at 19030 8th Ave. S.

For information please contact Courtney & Nancy Steinke at (206) 878-4219 or by email: truoc1011@yahoo.com.

For questions about donor eligibility, please contact the Clinical Program at 1-800-366-2831 Ext 2543 or email: clinicalprogram@psbc.org.

To read a firsthand account of what it’s like for someone deathly afraid of needles to rise above give blood, read Gina Bourdage’s report here.

January is “National Blood Donor Month,” and the city of Burien is holding a blood drive from 10am to 3pm Monday, Jan. 25th at City Hall, and they’re inviting all humans who have blood to donate.

With the recent bad news in Haiti and continued distress within our own community, giving blood is a great way to show that you care, because every time you donate, you’re not only helping your neighbors, you’re saving lives.

Plus, after you donate, sometimes you get a free cookie and orange juice.

Here are the details:

WHAT: City of Burien Blood Drive

WHEN: Monday, January 25th from 10am to 3pm (with a lunch break from Noon-1pm)

WHERE: Burien City Hall Multipurpose Room, 1st Floor

INFO: From a press release:

“Every day, we are grateful for the commitment of generous donors like you who give blood regularly to maintain a stable community blood supply.

And there is no better time to express our appreciation for your life-saving efforts than during National Blood Donor Month.

Every time you give blood, you’re not only helping local patients, you’re saving lives.

This month, we say thanks for continuing to support the cause, and ask those who have not previously donated, to start a new habit in 2010: giving the Gift of Life by becoming a blood donor.”

To reserve a time to donate blood, please contact Kathy Wetherbee at 206-439-3158 or by email kathyw@burienwa.gov.

The B-Town Blog, along with our sister site The White Center Blog, look forward to seeing as many of our Readers and Neighbors as possible this coming Saturday, Nov. 14th, at the White Center Albertsons for a special Thanksgiving-related food drive: our 2nd Annual Turkeys N’ Diapers Fundraiser!

It’ll run from 10am to 4pm, and all donations will go to the White Center Food Bank (food) and WestSide Baby (diapers & baby stuff).

Albertsons is located at 16th Avenue SW and SW 106th Street in White Center.

We’ll be collecting turkeys and diapers (yes, that’s correct: turkeys and diapers!).

Important note about the diapers – says Nancy Woodland, Executive Director of WestSide Baby:

“We only need diapers in large sizes, Size 5 or 6 or Pull-ups in size 4T. Thanks!”

Stuffing and canned vegetables and other Thanksgiving-related food items would be greatly appreciated.

Donations in the form of cash and checks (made out to “White Center Food Bank”) will also be gratefully accepted.

The crew will be lead again this year by the blog’s own Bart Bryan, host of the recurring interview segments “Whaddaya Think?”

“We raised over $1,100 last year. Let’s double that this year!” said Bart. “Folks around here can really use the help!”

The  White Center Food Bank will make available the food, as they do year-round, to nearby families in need.

The Food Bank works hand-in-hand with WestSide Baby, a nonprofit organization that collects previously-owned items for children and babies and distributes them free of charge to South King County families in need.

In 2008 WestSide Baby served more than 12,000 children.

“See you all Saturday at the White Center Albertsons!” says Bart.

Here’s year-round contact information:

White Center Food Bank
10829 8th Ave SW
Seattle WA  98146
www.whitecenterfoodbank.org
Phone: 206-762-2848

And:

WestSide Baby
10032 15th Ave SW
Seattle, WA  98146
(206) 767-1662
www.westsidebaby.org

Click image (or here) to download a printable PDF poster (feel free to print & post!)

The Three Tree Point 4th of July Fireworks Fund drive has a current balance of $17,100 (with a target of $21,000), so we’re tossing out one last pitch to ask for contributions from our BTB Readers.

So if you haven’t already, please make your donation now for Burien’s best barge-based, free fireworks show on a great beach – donate online now! You can donate any amount between $25 and $500, so please lend a hand.

The $21,000 budget 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.

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!

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

by Janet Grella

To Celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th, local resident Maureen Hoffmann organized a “clothing swap” party at her Burien home, where numerous area women donated unused clothing.

Burien city councilmember Sally Nelson and BTB Sales Diva Janet Grella were among the 14 women who swapped clothes, shoes and accessories. The left over clothes were delivered to two local charities over the past two days – Hospitality House and Community Clothing Closet.

On Monday, clothes were delivered to Hospitality House Executive Director Natalie Reber and case worker Judy Allman. Natalie asked that if BTB readers want to donate clothes or personal items to its residents to call first (206-242-1860) or donate to the Community Clothing Closet.

The shelter is housed at the Lake Burien Presbyterian Church, located at 15003 14th Ave SW.

Since opening its doors in October 2000, Hospitality House has been assisted by more than 500 individual volunteers who have received orientation in the causes of homelessness and how to relate to women who would be housed in the shelter. In the past 8 years over 500 single homeless women have been helped. Typically at the end of the program, about 80% move into permanent housing.

In 2008, the House provided 2,710 bed nights for 84 homeless women of South King County. They also revamped their strategic goals and named Natalie Executive Director. Natalie has had extensive experience working with non-profit and political organizations and is deeply committed to social justice.

Maureen took a carload of clothes to the Community Clothing Closet, located at Hope Christian Fellowship  on Sunday March 22nd. On Sundays, anyone can walk in, get a meal and gather clothes that they need, for free. The Community Clothing Closet is a church-based outreach program that helps needy Burien-area individuals and families.

They are currently seeking volunteers to help – if you live in the Burien or surrounding communities and have a desire to serve the needy.give ‘em a hand!

More info at: www.hope-christian.net.

The Community Clothing Closet is located at 623 SW 143rd Street in Burien. If you care to donate gently used items drop them by Sundays between 3 and 5pm.

“What a great way of having a party,” Maureen told us, “enjoying laughter, conversation and a bite to eat…getting some “new” clothes and shoes…and providing a lot of very nice clothes to other women! We had four hanging racks of clothes, shelves and piles of folded items, shoes hither and yon and an accessories corner. Everyone seemed to go home with a few new treasures.”

800 people raised over $10K for the Highline Food Bank at last Friday's "Empty Bowls" fundraiser, held at the Moshier Arts Center.

Gina Kallman, Cultural Arts Supervisor for Burien Parks emailed us this great news – last Friday’s “Empty Bowls” fundraiser for the Highline Area Food Bank brought in 800 diners and raised $10,613!

Here’s some snippets from her email:

In four short years we have created an amazing community event that this year brought in 800 people and raised $10,613.00 for the Highline Food Bank!!

A big thank you to:

• Debra George and the Mark Restaurant who did an amazing job procuring all the food and paper products and baked 1,200 cookies!
• Moshier potters who made over 1,200 bowls
• Puget Sound Skills Center students for baking 1,200 yummy rolls and soup too
• Burien’s generous businesses for donating 75 gallons of great soup
• Moshier studio artists for moving their spaces to give us space for the event
• Burien Little Theatre for the decorations
• Discover Burien for printing the posters
• Jini O’ Flynn for her lovely harp music
• And last, but definitely not least, all of you, our wonderful volunteers, who cleaned, served, greeted, organized, photographed, heated, took money, washed bowls, and more to make the event run so smoothly!

And if you didn’t see it already, here’s a video we put together with some highlights from Friday’s lunch crowd:

The Burien/White Center Rotary Club will host their 2nd Annual Casino Night & Auction at the Brockey Center at South Seattle Community College (map below) on Saturday, February 7th at 4:30pm.

Tickets are $65 per person or $600 for a table of 10.

This event is the organization’s primary fundraiser for the year and helps them support several local nonprofit organizations such as:

• Highline Area Food Bank
  
• White Center Food Bank
• Westside Baby
• The Hi-Liners
• Miss Burien Pageant
• Highline Hospital Foundation
• YMCA
• New Futures
• Many others

To donate an auction item or to purchase a ticket please call Rick Jump at 206.351.6739.

To be included in the catalog items must be received by January 29th.

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Highline Community College’s Student Nursing Club is sponsoring a blood drive on Tuesday, Jan. 20th to help with the recent blood supply shortage.

The blood supply dropped dramatically as a result of snowy weather in December and donors are needed, according to the Puget Sound Blood Center (PSBC).

The blood drive is open to everyone – community members and Highline faculty, staff and students.

Those interested in donating blood can schedule an appointment through the PSBC’s Website, www.psbc.org, or walk in without an appointment during the blood drive’s hours.

WHAT: Highline College Nursing Club’s Blood drive

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; closed for lunch from 11-11:45 a.m.

WHERE: Highline Community College’s main campus, Building 2; Highline’s main campus 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 (see map below).

WEBSITE: http://flightline.highline.edu/nursing/

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BTB Advertiser El Dorado West Retirement Community tells us they’re working to help the White Center Food Bank this month by placing a “Giving Tree” in their front lobby.

Everyone is invited to pick a card from the tree and purchase a gift or give cash donations for that person, then bring the gift back to be placed underneath it.

El Dorado is also partnering with the Evergreen High School Football Team’s “Wolverines” to be Santa’s Helpers.

The “Giving Tree” will be in the front lobby of El Dorado West through December 31st, so everyone has plenty of time to participate. You can stop by El Dorado during business hours – they’re located at 1010 SW 134th Street, at the corner of Amnbaum and SW 134th in Burien (map below).

“The Wolverines” will be delivering the gifts to the Senior Patrons of the WCFB on January 8th.

In March of ‘08 the WCFB implemented a “Seniors Only Day” for those over 60. Senior clients can receive food that helps them meet their unique dietary needs and builds in special social time.

Every month residents of El Dorado West volunteer during this time by serving coffee in what they call “Seniors Helping Seniors.”

And remember, food banks are really feeling the pinch of the recession, so any donation you can make is most appreciated, especially by your hungry neighbors.

Here’s how to reach both of our local food banks:

• White Center Food Bank
  10829 8th Ave SW
  Seattle WA 98146
  (206) 762-2848
  Donate directly online here
• Highline Area Food Bank
  18300 4th Ave S
  Burien, WA 98148
  Phone: (206) 433-9900

by Cynthia Reid

So Fall Out Boy’s not just a bunch of pretty faces?

With all the recording and touring this band’s been doing lately, and with Pete Wentz and his lovely bride Ashlee Simpson just having their baby, it’s hard to believe these guys have time to do anything extra.  But they made time for a Seattle-based charity that we’ve covered before called For the Children of the World.

Fall Out Boy was kind enough to autograph two guitars that will be auctioned off to help the children of Chernobyl.

The first of the signed guitars is on eBay right now, just in time for Christmas:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300279803901&_trksid=p3907.m32&_trkparms=tab%3DSelling

NOTE: Bid now, bid often, as this auction ends Tuesday, Dec. 16th at 5pm!

Patrick Stump, Pete Wentz, Joe Trohman and Andy Hurley were all backstage at the Paramount last Thursday to sign the guitars and went on to perform at KISS-FM’s Jingle Bell Bash.  What a concert and what a great group of guys!!

Many other celebrities have helped out For the Children of the World in the past, including:

• My Chemical Romance
• The Shins
• Billy Talent
• Devo (yes, Devo!!)

For the Children of the World is a non-profit organization whose mission is to offer care, compassion and hope to children and families who have been affected by the radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl Nuclear accident.  For the past 13 years, they have accomplished this by hosting children from the country of Belarus.

Over 85 children come to the Seattle area each summer (including several Burien-area homes) for 6 weeks for a health respite. Doctors have found that a six week stay in a clean environment with good nutrition can completely recover the children’s immune system.

For more information, or to learn how you can help, please visit For the Children of the World’s website.

If you’re not familiar with Fall Out Boy, here’s a music video for their hit “Dance Dance”:

Cynthia Reid is an owner/agent at John L. Scott Westwood, who previously wrote these two stories about For the Children of the World for the B-Town Blog:

• “For the Children of the World” Hosts Are Fighting Mad!
• Chernobyl Children Find Safe Haven In B-Town

Story & Photos by Janet Grella

On Wednesday Dec. 10th, I left the BTB offices on 10th SW to visit the Digital Print Center at Bartell Drugs in their new location in Burien. I had already been schooled on how to make my own custom-made Christmas cards by a very knowledgeable associate the day before.

I was delighted to find the Salvation Army and KOMO 1000 News collecting new toys outside of the Burien Bartells location:

After designing our Christmas card, I conducted an interview with Bartell’s Ad and Marketing Manager Jennifer Kupka and Major Kathy Sargent of the Salvation Army.  I learned that this is the sixth year that Bartell Drugs has teamed with a number of media outlets and the ‘Army’ to collect Toys for the Giving Tree.

How exciting it was to have KOMO 1000 News’ tent outside of Burien’s very own Bartells, mostly because it was the only Baretells location selected for the massive toy drive by KOMO and the Salvation Army.  All 50+ Bartell locations are collecting toys, however.

In an all-day event in front of Bartells, by 4:30pm, three large barrels had been collected, and the fourth was filled to capacity.  Plus there were cash donations in the familiar red bucket. Also collecting toys and cash were KOMO’s Morning News Anchor Bill Yeend and Account Executive Barbara Ross.

According to www.bartellsdrugs.com, the Salvation Army Toy ‘N’ Joy Giving Tree takes place from Nov. 20th to Dec. 17th, where Bartell Drugs has teamed up with the Salvation Army to collect new, unwrapped toys for needy children from age 0-17.  The collected toys, according to Major Kathy Sargent of the Salvation Army, will be distributed in the Salvation Army’s “toy warehouse,” held at Qwest Exhibition Center on December 18 from 9AM to 6PM.  Parents/guardians of children who have signed up will be able to go shopping to select gifts for their children.

Bartells wants to thank all of their customers for helping put smiles on over 3,000 children’s faces at Christmas time.

by Janet Grella

Burien/Normandy Park Fire Department’s Lt. Inspector John Zilke is at it again!

As in years past, John is coordinating the very large and important Christmas Outreach Program in the Burien and White Center areas. Our very own Burien Fire Department (King County Fire District 2, Burien & Normandy Park) has been helping needy families during the holidays for over 20 years.

This translates to thousands of families enjoying a happy holiday because of Burien’s generosity.

This year, with the help of the White Center DSHS, 73 local needy families have been identified to be recipients of Burien’s largess.  Thirteen local businesses have volunteered to be drop-off locations and are accepting NEW toys, canned food, gift cards and cash.  Thanks to both our local Fred Meyer and your cash donations, each family will also receive a turkey dinner.

All donations must be made by the morning of December 22. Upon final collection, John and our firefighters match the gifts with the families’ needs at Sunnydale School, where they will be loaded up and delivered by Santa Claus and others on December 23.

To help out our fire department, eleven departments within Highline Medical Center have each adopted one family. Sylvester Middle School students and teachers will be conducting in-school food drives as part of this community effort.

John knows that this is a particularly tough year to ask for donations, but adds. “Your donations bring light to the holidays for a needy family.”

Following are the local businesses where you can donate to the Christmas Outreach Program:

• Albertson’s—15340 1st Ave S. & 12725 1st Ave S.
• Boulevard Park Place Seniors Community—2805 S. 125th
• Burien Fire Department—15100 8th Ave. SW & 135 S. Normandy Rd.
• Burien Chevrolet—1440 1st Ave S.
• Burien Toyota—15025 1st Ave S. & 139 SW 150th St.
• Collins Chiropractic—619 SW 152nd
• Curves—17824 1st Ave S.
• Dooley’s General Store—625 SW 152nd
• Frenzi—218 SW 153rd
• North Highline Fire Department—1243 SW 112th & 1606 S. 128th
• Highline Medical Center—16252 Sylvester Rd SW
• Highline Medical Center—Riverton Campus 12844 Military Rd. S, & 23030 Military Rd
• North Highline Fire Department—1243 SW 112th & 1606 S. 128th
• Red Apple Market—96th & Des Moines Memorial Dr.
• YB Tubless/Economy Wiring—633 SW 148th

The Seafair Pirates not only have the ability to scare the livin’ bejesus out of any B-Towner, they also have the ability to help needy families, especially during this time of year.

That’s why they’ve brought in their Holiday Treasure Chests to the following two Olde Burien businesses, where they’ll be on display and awaiting donations until Wednesday, Dec. 24th:

• Dan the Sausageman’s shop, located at 923 SW 152nd Street
• Goodie Gumdrops Toy Shop, located at 816 SW 152nd Street

Generous B-Towners can donate:

• Non-perishable food items (cans, boxes, etc.)
• Toys

Text from the Seafair Pirate’s P-Arrrrgh:

While we’re a notoriously scurvy bunch, we Pirates have big hearts and simply can’t stand the thought that there will be children that wake up Christmas morning with nothing to open. With that in mind, in 1996, we began the Holiday Treasure Chest program.

We discovered that far too many families were going without a Christmas because they were unable to find assistance. The Seafair Pirates heard the need, and met the challenge to help these deserving folks. That is how our program was born.

Since the creation of our program, with the help of local businesses and “Pirate Santa’s” throughout the community, we have served thousands of individual families; have provided countless tons of food and goods to local service providing charities and distributed tens of thousands of new gifts to children throughout the Puget Sound region.

We distribute throughout the Puget Sound area. We are constantly on the lookout for donated warehouse space as the holidays approach. As soon as we have established a “home base”, we begin filling it with our collections from the community and the purchases that we make. We create two areas within the warehouse. One holds the “treasures” where our clients can come and choose gift s for their children and the other holds our foodstuffs.

The families will receive enough food for the holidays and countless days after the holidays have passed. With greater resources and more diligence, we know that we could have served an even greater number of deserving families. For this reason, we have begun our eff orts even earlier this year. We began organizing immediately following the Torchlight Parade and are currently accepting donations as well as taking names of individuals interested in volunteering. In order to make this program a success we spend countless hours acquiring the necessary goods and funds. It doesn’t end there however. If at all possible, we spend individual time speaking with each family and ascertain their needs. If we find that there is a special request, we will network within the community to fulfill it if at all possible.

We need to give credit where credit is due, and thank you for the role you play in making our program possible. We would not be able to continue our work without your kindness and generosity. You are truly a tribute to compassion and we value each and every one of you.

Daisy Girl Scouts Troop #41074 will be collecting coats at Burien’s Winterfest on Saturday, Dec. 6th, on the corner of SW 152nd & 9th Ave SW in Olde Burien (see map below) between 10am – 5pm.

All donated coats will go to Hope Christian Fellowship’s “Commuity Closet,” so be sure to check your own closets, find an old unused coat and bring it along with your kids/wallets/purses when you come to Winterfest to shop, do hay rides and see Santa.

More info available here.

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Just a reminder to everyone that tomorrow (Saturday, Nov. 22nd) is our first-ever “Turkeys N’ Diapers” holiday fundraiser for both the White Center Food Bank and WestSide Baby!

It will take place from 11am to 4pm at the White Center Albertsons, which is located at 10616 16th Avenue SW in White Center (map below).

We’ll be accepting food donations, diapers and baby items, etc. as well as cash and check donations to benefit hungry and needy Burien and White Center families who are served by the White Center Food Bank and WestSide Baby.

These are wonderful non-profit groups that help people, year round, who could really use a hand.

We are kindly asking for the following donations, which can be purchased at Albertsons (or elsewhere) and left with our crew outside the front door:

• Turkeys and Hams (or Tofurkey, etc.)
• Chicken or Turkey Broth
• Gravy Mixes
• Stuffing Mixes
• Fruit Cocktail
• Whole Olives
• Jello or Pudding Mixes
• Canned Pumpkin
• Canned Cranberry Sauce
• Condensed or Evaporated Milk
• Canned vegetables
• Canned yams or sweet potatoes
• $5 or $10 gift certificates to Albertsons
• …and Diapers and other baby items (formula, baby wipes, etc.), of course!

Cash and check donations are also welcome.

See you there!

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Just over two years ago, a torrential storm hit, causing the Cowlitz River near Mt. Rainier to overflow and sweep Highline High ‘05 graduate Andy MacDonald away to a tragic death at age 19.

Andy was hunting elk with his family, and the truck he was in fell into the raging river after the bank gave way underneath it.

He was a popular high-school athlete with a great sense of humor, as well as an aspiring firefighter and a friend with “the best hug in the world.” He played soccer, wrestled, was president of his junior class as well as homecoming king. He was known at Highline as a kid who was kind to all, friends said.

His family established a scholarship fund for Occupational Skill Center’s Firefighting program in Andy’s name, and they’re holding a special soccer match between Andy’s ‘pink shirt boys’ rec team and alumni of Highline’s girls’ soccer team on Saturday Nov. 29th at Highline’s Memorial Field, from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

Admission is by donation, and all proceeds will go to Andy’s scholarship fund.

So come down to Memorial Field and join Andy’s friends in this high-energy tribute to his memory.

For more information on Andy MacDonald, here’s a link to a Facebook tribute page, chock full of great photos that will soon make those who didn’t know him feel like they actually did.

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The staffers from both the White Center and B-Town Blogs look forward to seeing as many of our readers and neighbors as possible on Saturday, Nov. 22nd at the White Center Albertsons for a special Thanksgiving-related fundraising drive.

It’ll run from 11am to 4pm.

Albertson’s is located at 16th Avenue SW and SW 106th Street, White Center.

We’ll be collecting turkeys and diapers (yes, that’s correct: turkeys and diapers!)

And stuffing and canned vegetables and other Thanksgiving-related food items.

And baby blankets and strollers and high chairs.

The folks at the White Center Food Bank will make available the food (as they do year round) to nearby families in need.

The Food Bank works hand-in-hand with WestSide Baby, a nonprofit organization that collects previously owned items for children and babies and distributes them free of charge to South King County families in need.

In 2007 WestSide Baby served more than 7,000 children.

As always, at any time, here’s how to contact the Food Bank:

White Center Food Bank
10829 8th Ave SW
Seattle WA 98146
www.whitecenterfoodbank.org
Phone: 206-762-2848

You can also donate online directly here.

WestSide Baby:

WestSide Baby
10032 15th Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98146
(206) 767-1662
www.westsidebaby.org

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The folks at the new Normandy Park Towne Center tell us that their Grand Opening will be Saturday and Sunday Dec. 13th and 14th, with a Winterfest theme.

Here’s their press release:

Normandy Park Towne Center is proud to announce the Grand Opening of their new building, built by local developer McKittrick Real Estate Group.  Housing tenants such as nutritious (& yet still tasty) vendor Emerald City Smoothie, old favorite hamburger-maker Herfy’s, and Café Mia, a lovely Italian themed restaurant with its own pizza oven, bakery, wine & coffee bar; this addition to the Normandy Park neighborhood promises to be well received.  In addition, NPTC houses the offices of McKittrick Real Estate Group, as well as the local non-profit, the Hear See Hope Foundation.

To introduce the new tenants to the community, Normandy Park Towne Center is hosting a community-wide Winterfest on December 13th & 14th from 10am to 3pm. Be sure to mark your calendars as you will not want to miss out on this festive holiday event that includes a little something for everyone:

• Baked goods offered by Café Mia
• Specially priced Smoothies from Emerald City Smoothie
• Local entertainment from The Hi-Liners, Momentum Music & Dance Academy, TeenSounds, YouthSounds, & KidSounds Northwest Choirs
• Special visits from Rudolf, Frosty and their friends
• Story time and sing-a-long with Mrs. Claus
• Professional holiday photos taken with our Special Guest, Santa Claus!

Yes, Santa Claus truly is coming to “Towne” to partner with the Hear See Hope Foundation to raise awareness about Usher syndrome. Created in 2004 to as a response to the diagnosis of their eldest son Conner, Todd & Lane McKittrick created Hear See Hope as a means to raise funds to support research looking to find a cure.  Four years later, their fourth son, Dalton, was born with Usher as well. Usher syndrome is the leading cause of deaf-blindness in the world. Those with Usher syndrome are born profoundly deaf, and lose their vision by their teenage years. To date, Hear See Hope has raised approximately $850,000, and will not stop until a cure is found.

NPTC is continuing to look for local entertainment that would make the event even better. If you have an idea, let us know by emailing us at info@mckittrickre.com. We will contact you once your information is received. No matter what, plan on joining in on the fun at Normandy Park Towne Center!

Located in-between the City of Des Moines and the City of Burien, Normandy Park Towne Center can be found at 19803 1st Ave South in Normandy Park.

Directions and more information on the development can be found at www.normandyparktc.com.

See you “around Towne”!

Here’s an informational video about the Hear See Hope Foundation:

The seventh annual “Stomp Out Homelessness” Street Walk is this Saturday, Oct. 4th, starting at 9:30am at the corner of SW 152nd and 6th Ave SW (see map below).

The cost is $20 to participate, the walk goes for two miles, and leashed dogs are welcome (no word yet on whether your canine companion can pull you along, but don’t forget a leash!).

And yes, there will be prizes for raising the most money with sponsorships!

All proceeds benefit Hospitality House Women’s Shelter, which is located at 15003 14th Ave SW in Burien.

So get your good foot up there, bring your four-legged best friend, and walk for some good!

For sponsorship forms or more information, call 206-243-9975.

View Larger Map

Beaucoup kudos to one and all in B-Town (and beyond) who turned out, donated, bought, ate, drank and had fun at last night’s Fire Victims Fundraiser at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub – you raised over $10,500!

Some of last night’s highlights:

• 14 fire victims were there, and got their entire night’s food and drink comped courtesy Mick Kelly’s. All were very emotional about the outpouring from their generous neighbors; some spoke, some cried, and at times there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. We spoke with many of them (see below for details) and it’s clear that they’re still dealing with pain and trauma. It’s tough to not be affected when talking with people who either lost family members, friends or everything they owned and not get angry at a system that doesn’t support them. Where is the counseling? Where are the Therapists? These folks are hurting, and will be for a long time.
• Mick Kelly’s co-owners Mick Purdy and Adrian Kelly’s generous donation of one of their beloved soccer balls autographed by soccer superstar Pele sold for $825. The boys were so overwhelmed that they donated their second (and final, thus very precious) Pele ball which went for another $825 (for a total of $1,650).
• “This is my home forever,” said survivor John Miklosh, referring to the outpouring of support from the people of Burien and its firefighters. He had just bought an “I Love Burien” t-shirt the day before the fire at the Burien Strawberry Festival.
• 29-year old Moriah Marlin, originally from Philadelphia, will always love Burien. “I never, and I mean NEVER, get two days in a row off.” By utter coincidence, Moriah’s employers happened to give her June 28th and 29th off. She and her family spent the weekend visiting friends. “We returned home Sunday morning to nothing.” Moriah’s speech was the emotional highlight of the night, as it was told through tears of both the pain of loss and and the joy of receiving true B-Town generosity.
• According to one of the victims present, a man down the street shouted “You can all burn in hell!” to a resident of the Tara Apartments a few days before the fire. Police detained and released the man, who some said was in his mid-40s. Either this is a case of weird serendipity, or the dude knew something…
• Lindy Kunimoto usually blocked his bedroom door before going to bed. As the flames spread, people outside could see Lindy’s fingers on the window sill of his bedroom. People implored him to jump, a leap that would not have amounted to more than a six-foot fall to the ground below. Lindy (and it is not clear why) stayed put. The ceiling above him collapsed. Lindy Kunimoto was 49.
• Thanks to everyone who helped out on this, especially Patty Sader and Debra George of Discover Burien (along with their entire team, who did most of the real work) – it was truly a team effort and it was obvious from the selflessness that everyone had one goal in mind: to help the fire victims!

UPDATE 7/17 10am: Last night’s Fire Victims Fundraiser brought in approximately $10,500!

Way to go B-Town!

Some of last night’s highlights:

• Mick Kelly’s co-owners Mick Purdy and Adrian Kelly’s generous donation of one of their beloved soccer balls autographed by soccer superstar Pele sold for $825. The boys were so overwhelmed that they donated their second (and final, thus very precious) Pele ball which went for another $825 (for a total of $1,650).
• Several victims of the fire were present, and all were very emotional about the outpouring from their generous neighbors; some spoke, some cried, and at times there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
• “This is my home forever,” said survivor John Miklosh, referring to the outpouring of support from the people of Burien and its firefighters. He had just bought an “I Love Burien” t-shirt the day before the fire at the Burien Strawberry Festival.
• 29-year old Moriah Marlin, originally from Philadelphia, will always love Burien. “I never, and I mean NEVER, get two days in a row off.” By utter coincidence, Moriah’s employers happened to give her June 28th and 29th off. She and her family spent the weekend visiting friends. “We returned home Sunday morning to nothing.” Moriah’s speech was the emotional highlight of the night, as it was told through tears of both the pain of loss and and the joy of receiving true B-Town generosity.
• According to one of the victims present, a man down the street shouted “You can all burn in hell!” to a resident of the Tara Apartments a few days before the fire. Police detained and released the man, who some said was in his mid-40s. Either this is a case of weird serendipity, or the dude knew something…
• Lindy Kunimoto usually blocked his bedroom door before going to bed. As the flames spread, people outside could see Lindy’s fingers on the window sill of his bedroom. People implored him to jump, a leap that would not have amounted to more than a six-foot fall to the ground below. Lindy (and it is not clear why) stayed put. The ceiling above him collapsed. Lindy Kunimoto was 49.
• Thanks to everyone who helped out on this – it was truly a team effort and it was obvious from the selflessness that everyone had one goal in mind: to help the fire victims!

Some photos from tonight’s amazing event (move your mouse over photos to see info):

==============
UPDATE 7:30pm: BTB Writer Mark Neuman has been visiting with several folks here tonight, and he’s met several fire survivors who are present. He files this report:

David Baggott, a fire survivor who lived at the Tara Apartments with his wife, Mom, Dad and their dog Missy, had a roommate named Lindy Kunimoto, 49, who he knew for 10 years. The reason David woke up the night of the fire is because Missy was barking; he could tell something was wrong. He reports that flames were so intense that he had to shut the door and retreat back into the apartment. He then knocked on Lindy’s door, but there was no answer and he couldn’t open it. David realized then that they had to get out, so he got his family out through a sliding glass door safely. As they were leaving, their ceiling crashed into the living room and bedrooms. Lindy never got out and one was of three fatalities.

Joel Handran, a fire victim, said “I feel traumatized…the whole experience is bending my brain, and I can’t thank everybody enough…” Pam Ward, his fiance’ was with him that night and both are here tonight; they have a 7-month old baby boy who survived. They were alerted to the fire because neighbors banged on their window. Joel highly recommends practicing fire escapes with your family: “Absolutely have a fire drill at home, no question about it – know how you’re going to get out no matter what…”

The Daddy-O’s are playing, more than 125 people are still eating, drinking and laughing with their mouths full here at the Burien Fire Fundraiser at Mick Kelly’s;  the Silent Auction closes at 8pm and the Live Auction starts very soon.

In the Silent Auction right now, Body Matters’ One-Hour Massage worth $60 bucks currently has a high bid of $30. The Mark Restaurant’s $50 gift certificate is currently bidding at $30. A silent bidder, who strangely spoke up with the aroma of an imported beer on her breath, revealed that she has bid just $15 on a Trader Joe’s pasta and olive oil gift basket valued at $36.

So come on down – not only is this for a great cause, but there are bargains to be had as well!

As we noted earlier, there are several fire victims here tonight, along with at least 10 members of the Burien/Normandy Park Fire Dept (including some who fought the fire).

We spoke with special guests John Miklosh and his fiance’ Sharon Howell, two fire survivors here who lived in the Jenny Marie apartments. Around 12:31am on the night of the fire, John was on his deck smoking a cig, and he heard a man yell what he thought was “fight fight fight!” but was in actuality “fire fire fire!” He then noticed a parked van ablaze near the building and quickly got out in time.

John and Sharon used to give popsicles to a cute, chubby little neighbor boy Edgar, the 8-year old who tragically died in the fire. “He was so cute,” Sharon said of Edgar, as her eyes swelled up.

John then said “I cannot tell you how much I love the people of Burien, because they’ve done so much for us…” before starting to tear up.

Luckily they have found a new apartment, and despite the fire they saved their cat Coco.

Patty Sader, Executive Director of Discover Burien, is here working hard despite a sore throat and flu, and is “overwhelmed and amazed at the generosity of the people of Burien who made this all possible. Because you just don’t put together an auction of this size in two weeks.”

Some really cool last-minute auction items have arrived, and include:

• A gorgeous, framed autographed photo of Mariner legend Edgar Martinez in action
• A collectible mini football helmet autographed by Pro Bowl cornerback Marcus Trufant
• A $1 million dollar proof “bill” that is made of .999 pure silver and is layered in 24 carot pure gold and is a 1/4 pound troy
• Two framed, autographed photo portraits of Mariner All-Star Ichiro:

Elinor, a server here at Mick Kelly’s, says tonight’s special is Grilled Salmon with a Mango Salsa and Rice, or Garlic Mashed Potatoes; comes with Asparagus, or by golly, you can chow down on Beef Stroganoff.

Several survivors of the fire have arrived, and the Burien Fire Dept. has just parked their ladder truck out front:

We’ll be doing updates live all night, but if you’re reading this now and thinking of coming, we recommend you get here soon, as the Silent Auction runs from 6-8pm,  the Live Auction begins at 7:30pm and The Daddios are about to start.

More to come soon…

(click on graphic to download PDF Poster suitable for printing/posting)

Don’t forget – tonight (Wed. July 16th) is the Burien Fire Victims Fundraiser Auction at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub, located at 435 SW 152nd Avenue in downtown Burien (phone: 206.246.2473).

What to expect:

• 6pm: Doors open
• 6pm: Silent auction starts
• 6pm: Live music from The Daddios starts
• 7:30pm: Live auction starts, hosted by Mark Minium of Burien Honda
  
• 8pm: 50/50 Raffle ends

Other things to know:

• All proceeds, including the entire day’s profits from Mick Kelly’s, will go directly into the Fire Fund set up at Sterling Savings Bank
• $10 suggested donation at the Door (goes directly into the Fire Fund)
• Silent Auction items will be in the back (look for signs)
• We’re hoping to have some very special guests there
• The B-Town Blog will be “blogging live” from Mick Kelly’s
• There will be a 50/50 raffle: $1 buck per ticket, with the winner getting 50% of the winnings and the other 50% going directly into the Fire Victims Fund

Some of the items up for Auction include:

• Soccer Ball autographed by international soccer superstar Pele
• 3-day Schwietzer Ski Condo Vacation
• 2 Domestic Airline Tickets courtesy Alaska Airlines ($700+ value)
• Gourmet Cooking Class
• $750 value Teeth Whitening courtesy Jim Coleman, DDS
• $300 Great Wolf Lodge package
• 3-month Ad on the B-Town Blog ($450 value)
• Birthday Party Package at the cool new Full Tilt Ice Cream
• Much more (just show up and you’ll see)!

So, email this page to your friends, call the press/media, spread the word, because tonight is the night where the entire area opens its hearts and wallets, and shows just how generous and caring we all are as neighbors!
Map:

View Larger Map

Don’t forget folks – tomorrow night (starting at 6pm) is the Fire Victims Fundraiser Auction at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub, so please make sure your calendars are marked and your wallet is ready to open!

(click on graphic to download PDF Poster suitable for printing/posting)

The generosity of the businesses and people in the Burien area is coming out and shining like the bright sun on a summer’s day, and here’s proof – an exclusive peek at the items up for bid at Wednesday’s Fire Victim Fundraiser Auction at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub:

• Soccer ball autographed by international superstar athlete Pele!
• 3-day Schweitzer Ski Condo courtesy Julie Burr
• 2 tickets from Alaska Airlines
• 2 gift baskets courtesy Port of Seattle employees
• 4 Mariner Tickets, mugs, Bobblehead piggy banks and canvas bag courtesy Key Bank
• Jewelry by Kathy Keene
• $540 gift certificate from Sylvan Learning
• Wine Tasting for 4 from Vino Bello
• 4 Cheesesteaks from Hey Paison
• Tickets for Burien Little Theatre
  
• 60 minute massage from Highline Therapy
• Baked Goods
• Yard Work
• Flower Arrangements by Colleen Monette
• Hi Liner tickets
• Birthday Party Package
• Trader Joe’s Gift Basket
• Handyman Service
• 1 Sonicare toothbrush 

Some items will be in the Silent Auction, which starts at 6pm, and others in the Live Auction, which will begin at 7:30pm. There will most certainly be many more items up for bid, but this is a good taste of what to expect, so get your wallets ready…

All proceeds from the event, as well as the entire day’s profits from Mick Kelly’s, will be donated directly into a special Fire Victims Fund set up at Sterling Savings Bank.

Stay tuned to the B-Town Blog for exclusive updates on what we hope will be a huge fundraiser for the victims of the fatal June 29th arson apartment fire.

If you have something really cool or valuable that you’d like to donate, please call Patty Sader of Discover Burien ASAP at (206) 433-2882.

If you’d like to help out by printing one of the Posters, please download the high-res PDF here (15MB) and print/distribute/post to your heart’s content.

In the meantime, here are specifics on how you can help four of the 15 affected families. All items can be dropped off at the Burien branch of Sterling Savings Bank (located at 224 SW 152nd Street) for distribution to the family; if you’d like more info, call Lynda Isernio at (206) 243-6869

1. Cisneros-Velazquez Family
   Burned out of their apartment—Lost their beloved son, Edgar and Grandfather

Needs:

• Mom: Martha
  Shirts or tops: Size Medium
  Pants: Medium
  Shoes: Size 6

• Dad: Jaime
  Shirts: Medium
  Pants: 34 waist
  Shoes: Size 9

• Adilene: Age 20
  Shirts: Medium
  Pants: Large

• Adriana: Age 13
  Shirts: X-small
  Pants: Small

• Uriel: Age 15
  Shirts and tops: XXL
  Pants: XXL (youth)

• Also needed:
  • Household necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

2. Baker/Ward/Handran Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

Needs:

• Mom: Pam Ward
  Tops: 1X or 2X
  Pants: XL or 18/20
  Shoes: size 10

• Dad: Joey Handran
  Tops size L or XL
  Pants: L or 34×32 or 36×32
  Shoes 10 – 10 1/2

• Austin Baker: Age 12:
  Tops and bottoms size XL (wants shorts)
  Shoes: 12 _ – 13 men

• Dylan Baker: Age 14
  Tops size XL
  Pants: 36×32 or 38×32
  Shoes: 12 _ -13 men

• Brandon Handran: 9 months
  9-12 month size clothes
  Shoes: 4 (infant)

• Also needed:
  • Household Necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

3. Pascual-Flores Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

• Mom: Maria
  Shirts or tops: size Medium
  Pants: size 9-11

• Dad: Raul
  Shirts or tops: size Medium
  Pants: 38×32
  Shoes: 8 Mens

• Juan Carlos: Age 9
  Shoes: size 9 youth
  Pants: size 9-10
  Shirts and tops size 10

• Jessica: Age 5
  Shoes: size 12
  Shirts and tops: size 7-8
  Pants: size 8

• Jose: 10 months old
  Shirts: size 16 months
  Pants: size 16 months
  Shoes: size 4 infants

• Also needed:
  • Household Necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

4. Rose Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

Needs:

• Mom: Shanell Rose
  Tops: size M
  Pants: size 8 women

• Dad:
  Tops: XX or XXX

• Aaron: 12 years old
  Shirts: Medium
  Pants 29/30
  Socks

• Andrew: 14 years old
  Shirts: Large
  Pants 34/32
  Socks

• Also needed:
  • Household necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

We here at the B-Town Blog highly recommend that people consider donating either cash or Gift Cards, as a) you don’t know who else may have bought the same specific item(s) and b) what if the recipient doesn’t like those yellow/orange polka-dotted socks you bought? With a Gift Card, the recipient gets to choose what they want, and we believe this empowerment is also an excellent form of therapy.

Donations are also being accepted at 156 SW 152nd Street; the space currently shows “Christian Supply” as the tenant, but they vacated the space a few months ago and the landlord has generously donated the space to use for six weeks:

View Larger Map

From Gregory Heights Second Grade Teacher Nancy Sparks comes some specific information on four of the families who were victims of last weekend’s tragic apartment fire.

As we mentioned previously, the Red Cross shelter at Lake Burien Presbyterian Church has closed. Families’ motel vouchers expire tomorrow morning. Affordable housing and cash donations are needed most of all, according to Ms. Sparks:

“When I spoke with the Rose and Baker/Ward/Handran families, they need immediate affordable housing. In 3 days they will be totally homeless.  The Pascual-Flores family is staying in a relative’s garage for the time being until they can afford housing.  The Cisneros family is staying with relatives for now.”

Here are specifics on how you can help four of the 15 affected families. All items can be dropped off at the Burien branch of Sterling Savings Bank (located at 224 SW 152nd Street) for distribution to the family; if you’d like more info, call Lynda Isernio at (206) 243-6869

1. Cisneros-Velazquez Family
   Burned out of their apartment—Lost their beloved son, Edgar and Grandfather

Needs:

• Mom: Martha
  Shirts or tops: Size Medium
  Pants:  Medium
  Shoes:  Size 6

• Dad:  Jaime
  Shirts:  Medium
  Pants:  34 waist
  Shoes:  Size 9

• Adilene:  Age 20
  Shirts:  Medium
  Pants:  Large

• Adriana:  Age 13
  Shirts:  X-small
  Pants:  Small

• Uriel:  Age 15
  Shirts and tops:  XXL
  Pants:  XXL (youth)

• Also needed:
  • Household necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

2. Baker/Ward/Handran Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

Needs:

• Mom: Pam Ward
  Tops: 1X or 2X
  Pants:  XL or 18/20
  Shoes:  size 10

• Dad:  Joey Handran
  Tops size L or XL
  Pants:  L or 34×32 or 36×32
  Shoes 10 – 10 1/2

• Austin Baker: Age 12:
  Tops and bottoms size XL  (wants shorts)
  Shoes:  12 _ – 13 men

• Dylan Baker:  Age 14
  Tops size XL
  Pants:  36×32 or 38×32
  Shoes: 12 _ -13 men

• Brandon Handran:  9 months
  9-12 month size clothes
  Shoes: 4 (infant)

• Also needed:
  • Household Necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

3. Pascual-Flores Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

• Mom: Maria
  Shirts or tops:  size Medium
  Pants:  size 9-11

• Dad:  Raul
  Shirts or tops:  size Medium
  Pants:  38×32
  Shoes:  8 Mens

• Juan Carlos:  Age 9
  Shoes:  size 9 youth
  Pants:  size 9-10
  Shirts and tops size 10

• Jessica:  Age 5
  Shoes:  size 12
  Shirts and tops:  size 7-8
  Pants:  size 8

• Jose:  10 months old
  Shirts:  size 16 months
  Pants:  size 16 months
  Shoes:  size 4 infants

• Also needed:
  • Household Necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

4. Rose Family
Burned out of their apartment—Lost everything

Needs:

• Mom: Shanell Rose
  Tops:  size M
  Pants:  size 8 women

• Dad:
  Tops: XX or XXX

• Aaron:  12 years old
  Shirts:  Medium
  Pants 29/30
  Socks

• Andrew:  14 years old
  Shirts:  Large
  Pants 34/32
  Socks

• Also needed:
  • Household necessities
  • Fred Meyer Gift Cards
  • Restaurant Gift Cards
  • Target Gift Cards
  • Food Store Gift Cards

All donated items can be dropped at Sterling Savings Bank, located at 224 SW 152nd Street; 206-243-6869 (contact Lynda).

UPDATE: Previously we were told that, as of July 10th, donations could be taken to Sunnydale School, but we just received word that that is no longer the case – starting tomorrow (Tues. July 8th) at 11am, the new drop-off location will be at 156 SW 152nd Street; the space currently shows “Christian Supply” as the tenant, but they vacated the space a few months ago and the landlord has generously donated the space to use for six weeks:

View Larger Map

Jared Butcher, organizer of Sunday’s fire victim fundraiser at Bison Creek Pizza, just reported this great news to us:

Bison Creek Fundraiser was a success!

We raised roughly $5,000, loaded 7 pickup trucks and two paramedic vehicles.

Lt. Will and his crew at Fire District #2 were a great help with accepting donations – I could not have done it without them.

KIRO, KOMO, KING and Q13 broadcast info, interviews and live clips of the event, which was a big help in bringing people out to the fundraiser.

Thank you Burien for all your support – you deserve a pat on the back!

The next fundraisers are:

• Monday, July 14th, July 14, 2008, from Noon to Midnight, Hillcrest Family Bowling Center in Renton will be holding a major fundraiser, with 100% of all proceeds from all-day bowling and shoe rental going to an already established fund to support these four families.
  • “I witnessed the fire that night, and it was something that I hope I never see again,” says Jerry Clausen, Hillcrest’s owner.  “I was surrounded by despair and desperation, and there was nothing I could do to help.”  Well, that was the night of the fire, but after Clausen and his wife JoAnne found out that the young child that perished in the fire and members of at least 3 displaced families were classmates of their 7 and 12 year old sons. “ I had no choice, this is about family, and taking care of one another, there just isn’t enough of that in this world today,” explained Clausen. “ We have the ability to do it, and others don’t, it’s just that simple.”
  • There will be four collection barrels at the center to collect clothing or other needed items for the 4 families.
  • There will be live music from 6pm on featuring a live band, and a featuring a jam with some of Seattle’s more popular musicians.
  • There will be an opportunity for private donations as well.
  • If Hillcrest gets enough cool stuff donated, they will auction off articles throughout the night.
• Wednesday July 16th, from 6pm on, at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub located at 435 SW 152nd Street – a special Silent and Live Auction fundraiser for the families with live music and much more. If you have items to donate to either auction – contact Patty Sader at Discover Burien 206-433-2882.

The emergency shelter at Lake Burien Presbyterian Church (run by the Red Cross) for last weekend’s apartment fire victims closed last night, leaving dozens of people now fending for themselves, including finding shelter.

Most residents received 3-day motel vouchers, which unfortunately run out this coming Tuesday, July 8th.

This morning, the B-Town Blog received this email call for help from Pam Ward, who, along with many others, is still in need:

My family was one of the families affected by the fire.

We lived in the Tara Apts which were completely destroyed.

I have 3 children ages 14, 12, and 6 months.

We are in need of an affordable apartment.

I recently lost my job and my fiance is currently unemployed,  but we are receiving public assistance until I can find employment.

Any leads for housing would be most appreciated as we have no where to go when our 3 day motel voucher runs out on Tues a.m.

I can be reached @ (206) 444-9038.

Thank you in advance for any tips and/or leads this site or our neighbors can provide.

Bless you,
Pam, Joel, Dylan, Austin & baby Brandon

Here’s a recap of how (and what/where) you can help:

HOUSING:

• If you are a landlord, or know of a place that can house some of the displaced families, please email us ASAP – we’ll pass your info along to the folks in need ASAP.

FUNDRAISERS:

• Today (Sunday, July 6th) from 5pm-9pm there’s an all-ages fundraiser at Bison Creek Pizza located at 630 SW 153rd Street (206-244-8825): Sickamore, Jonn Rockwell, Skwish & the Mighty Return of Horsehedd will be playing at an outdoor bash; small household items, clothing and cash donations will be collected at this event.
• Monday, July 14th, July 14, 2008, from Noon to Midnight, Hillcrest Family Bowling Center in Renton will be holding a major fundraiser, with 100% of all proceeds from all-day bowling and shoe rental going to an already established fund to support these four families.
  • “I witnessed the fire that night, and it was something that I hope I never see again,” says Jerry Clausen, Hillcrest’s owner.  “I was surrounded by despair and desperation, and there was nothing I could do to help.”  Well, that was the night of the fire, but after Clausen and his wife JoAnne found out that the young child that perished in the fire and members of at least 3 displaced families were classmates of their 7 and 12 year old sons. “ I had no choice, this is about family, and taking care of one another, there just isn’t enough of that in this world today,” explained Clausen. “ We have the ability to do it, and others don’t, it’s just that simple.”
  • There will be four collection barrels at the center to collect clothing or other needed items for the 4 families.
  • There will be live music from 6pm on featuring a live band, and a featuring a jam with some of Seattle’s more popular musicians.
  • There will be an opportunity for private donations as well.
  • If Hillcrest gets enough cool stuff donated, they will auction off articles throughout the night.
• Wednesday July 16th, from 6pm on, at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub located at 435 SW 152nd Street – a special Silent and Live Auction fundraiser for the families with live music and much more. If you have items to donate to either auction – contact Patty Sader at Discover Burien 206-433-2882.

CASH DONATIONS:

• You can make cash donations at any Sterling Savings Bank branch by specifying the “Burien Fire Fund.” NOTE: If you want to donate to a specific family, be sure to let the teller know the name of the family. Sterling Savings is located at 224 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien; phone is (206) 243-6869 (contact: Lynda).
• We’ve also heard that Washington Mutual is accepting cash donations for specific families. More details to come as we learn them, but we’re sure that if you drop into any branch, the kind folks at WaMu will have answers.
• You can also donate to the Seattle Red Cross’ “Burien Apartment Fire Fund.” Make sure “Burien Apartment Fire Fund” is selected in the pull-down menu when you donate.

CLOTHING & SMALL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:

You can drop off any clothing or small household items at the following (we suggest calling first):

• Collins Chiropractic at 619 SW 152nd Street; 206-242-0998, contact: Lindsay
• Sterling Savings Bank at 224 SW 152nd Street; 206-243-6869, contact Lynda

LARGER ITEMS:

• As of Thursday, July 10th, larger furniture items can be dropped off at Sunnydale School in Burien, located at 15631 Des Moines Memorial Drive. If you have a larger item, please call either Erin or Lindsay at Collins Chiropractic (206-242-0998), or Lynda at Sterling Savings (206-243-6869) to make arrangements for pick up of the item(s) if the person has no way to deliver the item to Sunnydale.

More info to come as we receive it of course…

Quick update on progress of the new B-Good In B-Town movement for this holiday weekend: 

FUNDRAISERS:

• This Sunday, July 6th, from 5pm-9pm at Bison Creek Pizza located at 630 SW 153rd Street (206-244-8825): Sickamore, Jonn Rockwell, Skwish & the Mighty Return of Horsehedd will be playing at an outdoor all-ages bash; small household items, clothing and cash donations will be collected at this event.
• Wednesday July 16th, from 6pm on, at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub located at 435 SW 152nd Street – a special Silent and Live Auction fundraiser for the families with live music and much more. If you have items to donate to either auction – contact Patty Sader at Discover Burien 206-433-2882.

CASH DONATIONS:

• You can make cash donations at any Sterling Savings Bank branch by specifying the “Burien Fire Fund.” NOTE: If you want to donate to a specific family, be sure to let the teller know the name of the family. Sterling Savings is located at 224 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien; phone is (206) 243-6869 (contact: Lynda).
• We’ve also heard that Washington Mutual is accepting cash donations for specific families. More details to come as we learn them, but we’re sure that if you drop into any branch, the kind folks at WaMu will have answers.
• You can also donate to the Seattle Red Cross’ “Burien Apartment Fire Fund.” Make sure “Burien Apartment Fire Fund” is selected in the pull-down menu when you donate.

CLOTHING & SMALL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:

You can drop off any clothing or small household items at the following (we suggest calling first):

• Collins Chiropractic at 619 SW 152nd Street; 206-242-0998, contact: Lindsay
• Sterling Savings Bank at 224 SW 152nd Street; 206-243-6869, contact Lynda

LARGER ITEMS:

• As of Thursday, July 10th, larger furniture items can be dropped off at Sunnydale School in Burien, located at 15631 Des Moines Memorial Drive. If you have a larger item, please call either Erin or Lindsay at Collins Chiropractic (206-242-0998), or Lynda at Sterling Savings (206-243-6869) to make arrangements for pick up of the item(s) if the person has no way to deliver the item to Sunnydale.

We here at the B-Town Blog want to send some serious shout-outs to all those who have stepped up and helped so far.

We also encourage everyone reading this, be they local business owners or regular citizens in Burien or Bellingham, to find a way to help out, so please email us if you have any offerings or services you’d like to donate, either immediately or for the upcoming July 16th Auction Fundraiser at Mick Kelly’s.

In other words, let’s B-Good In B-Town!

More info as it comes in…so stay tuned.

The wagons are circled, and what we’re christening as the B-Good In B-Town movement has begun, with several new fundraisers schedule and folks accepting donations to help the victims of last weekend’s tragic, fatal fire.Here’s how you can help right now:

• CASH DONATIONS:
  • You can now make a cash donation at any Sterling Savings Bank branch by specifying the “Burien Fire Fund.” NOTE: If you want to donate to a specific family, be sure to let the teller know the name of the family. Sterling Savings is located at 224 SW 152nd Street in downtown Burien; phone is (206) 243-6869 (Lynda).
  • You can also donate to the Seattle Red Cross’ “Burien Apartment Fire Fund.” Make sure “Burien Apartment Fire Fund” is selected in the pull-down menu when you donate.
• CLOTHING & SMALL HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:
  • Collins Chiropractic at 619 SW 152nd Street;  206-242-0998, contact: Lindsay
  • Sterling Savings Bank at 224 SW 152nd Street; 206-243-6869, contact Lynda
• LARGER ITEMS:
  • As of Thursday, July 10th, larger furniture items can be dropped off at Sunnydale School in Burien, located at 15631 Des Moines Memorial Drive. If you have a larger item, please call either Erin or Lindsay at Collins Chiropractic (206-242-0998), or Lynda at Sterling Savings (206-243-6869) to make arrangements for pick up of the item(s) if the person has no way to deliver the item to Sunnydale.
• FUNDRAISERS:
  • This coming Sunday July 6th, from 5pm-9pm at Bison Creek Pizza located at 630 SW 153rd Street (206-244-8825) – Sickamore, Jonn Rockwell, Skwish & the Mighty Return of Horsehedd will be playing at an outdoor all-ages bash; small household items, clothing and cash donations will be collected at this event.
  • Wednesday July 16th, from 6pm on, at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub located at 435 SW 152nd Street – a special Silent and Live Auction fundraiser for the families with live music and much more.  If you have items to donate to either auction – contact Patty Sader at Discover Burien 206-433-2882.

Every 4th of July, it seems that everyone and their little brother-in-law treks on down Maplewild Ave SW to the cozy little ‘hood of Three Tree Point.

And every 4th, the neighbors of said ‘hood pitch in to fund a spectacular high-altitude fireworks show (these are major, professionally-launched fireworks folks, launched from a barge anchored off the point starting ’round 10pm), visible from all around Puget Sound. The roads get clogged, parking spots are rare, and it’s like one huge rockin’ block party.

In the past, only the neighbors in the area have been able to donate to the Fireworks Fund, but B-Town Blog is here to change that.

Here’s what your generous donation will help provide:

• An outstanding, breath-taking display put on by the pros at Western Fireworks
• Tug, barge and fuel fees
• Insurance and permits
• Police support
• Dumpster rental for July 5th cleanup

The usual cost for all these things has gone up since last year to a projected goal of $21,000, which is why this here B-Town Blog is kindly asking for everyone in the general area who enjoys this show to please donate something to the Fireworks Fund.

And this year, you can even donate online by credit card right here!

Just click on a dollar amount (ranging from $25 to $500), then enter your vitals via a secure website and voila – you won’t feel guilty anymore about “stealing” a great local entertainment tradition!

Please note that if you donate $150 or more, you’ll get an invitation to a special dinner party on Saturday June 28th. These parties are wonderful, with catered food, open bar, live music and great neighbors.

If you’d rather donate by check, send whatever you can afford to:

Three Tree Point Fireworks Fund (or “3TPFF”)
c/o Clark & Liz Mounsey
3721 SW 171st Street
Burien, WA 98166

Now…don’t you feel better by giving something?

Have fun, and as always, stay safe and sane.

Quick update on the Buckley Family, who lost everything they own in a fire when their house burned down exactly one month ago (March 4th), directly from Hal Buckley:

We are doing OK, all things considered. 

The community and my coworkers have been very generous, we have most of the items that we need when we get our own place. 

That is our biggest need right now, a three bedroom place for no more than $700/month.

We haven’t had much luck finding a place to live in Burien that we can afford. 

There are not many vacancies now because people usually wait until the weather is better before moving. 

So…does anyone out there have a rental house for around $700/month? Or know of anyone?

Please email us and we’ll connect you with this needy family!

Don’t forget, you can still donate directly to the Buckley Family Fire Fund set up at Sterling Savings Bank:

We just got the PayPal “Donate” button up online, ready for all those generous B-Towners to help out the Buckley Family, who were burned out of their home last Tuesday.

Simply click the “Donate” button below and you’ll be re-directed to PayPal, where you can donate as much as you want.

All donations go directly into The Buckley Family Fire Recovery Fund, set up by the fine folks at Burien’s Sterling Savings Bank: