Click to View Gina Bourdage’s Photo Slideshow

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

by Ralph Nichols

A few years ago, when I worked as a volunteer in the Emergency Department at Highline Medical Center, the waiting area usually was filled with patients and family members well into the evening.

Patients waited, as they still do, for their turn to be screened in a single triage room, then waited longer for a treatment room to become available. That’s not surprising since the crowded Highline Emergency Department, designed to handle 12,000 patients a year 50 years ago, now provides care for nearly 50,000 patients annually.

But all this will change soon. Construction of a new state-of-the-art Emergency Department that will triple the size of the current facility is nearing completion – on time and on budget. When its doors open to patients on April 13, waiting times for triage and treatment will decrease dramatically.

The new patient-friendly facility also will improve exponentially the convenience and efficiency of the working environment for physicians, nurses, radiology and lab technicians, and everyone else who contributes to the care of Highline’s emergency patients.

B-Town Blog photographer Michael Brunk and I joined a tour of the new Emergency Department on Jan. 19 – shortly after the end of major construction activity as the finishing process got underway. No equipment or furnishings had yet been installed.

Even at this incomplete stage, however, one thing was immediately apparent – the new Emergency Department is a magnificently awesome improvement over the current emergency facility.

Highline Medical Center CEO Mark Benedum described it well: “a facility that’s up to the care the staff’s been providing.”

Benedum said planning for the new Emergency Department began in 2005, with the start of construction on the $60 million project (which includes a new 31 bed Patient Care Unit) getting underway in 2008.

Highline Medical Center’s  service area extends from West Seattle to Federal Way and from Tukwila to Vashon Island, and most of its emergency patients come from this region – as well as persons driving along Interstate 5 and both passengers and employees at Sea-Tac International Airport.

Combine the size of this service area with its population growth in the last two decades and it’s easy to see why the aging emergency facility is overcrowded, noted Renée Klein, Executive Director of the Highline Medical Center Foundation.

The differences between the current facility and the new Emergency Department are strikingly apparent the moment one walks into its main entrance, which is on the west side of the medical center not far from the current emergency entrance.

The interior is bright and airy, with large windows that provide ample natural light, as well as spacious – 27,000 square feet compared with the current 9,000 square feet. In fact, the main nurses station area, well inside the Emergency Department, looks as if it could hold the entire existing facility.

Just beyond the reception desk are three private triage rooms, which will speed evaluation of patients, reducing their time in the general waiting area. Patients then will be taken to any of the 32 large, private treatment rooms, where admitting can be done at bedside.

Every room is universally equipped – “hardwired” – to handle any emergency. Two of the rooms are dedicated for pediatric care. The current facility has 19 beds, only eight of which are hardwired.

The ambulance entrance – with an ambulance bay that can accommodate about a dozen emergency vehicles including police cars – is on the north side of the Emergency Department. Two trauma bays for serious emergencies such as heart attacks are immediately inside. Each is designed to handle two patients if necessary.

Two diagnostic imaging rooms – one x-ray, the other CT, both dedicated for emergency patients – and a separate diagnostic imaging waiting room are located just beyond the triage rooms.

In addition, there are two seclusion rooms for psychiatric and other patients who require additional security, an isolation room for highly contagious patients, a decontamination room with an outside entrance for disasters and contact with hazardous materials, a separate area for first responders – emergency medical and law enforcement personnel – to write their reports, and a private family consultation room.

Designed byNAC Architecture, the Emergency Department was planned “from the physicians’ and nurses’ point of view” to provide “rapid treatment,” Klein said. The general contractor is GLY Construction .

One floor above the new Emergency Department is a 31-bed Patient Care Unit for medical and cancer patients. (Look for a report on this unit on the B-Town Blog soon.) Beneath it is a parking garage for those going to the Emergency Department.

The grand opening of the Emergency Department is set for April 9-10, and will include an open house for the public.

Klein noted that while most of the cost of the new facility was paid through bonds and capital reserves, only $5.4 million of a $10 million capital campaign has come in or been pledged. “I’m optimistic that the community will help us with that last amount,” she said.

Highline Medical Center receives no tax dollars for capital expenses and general operations, and relies largely on grants and pledges. If you would like to learn more about how to support Highline’s Campaign for a New ER, log on to www.LifeDependsOnIt.org or call the Foundation office at 206.901.8500.

Here’s Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow of the facility:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

King County Councilmember Julia Patterson donated a “retired” eight-passenger van to Sea Mar Community Health Centers Wednesday (Jan. 20th), in an effort to help South King County’s growing Latino community.

There are 50 non-profit, community Sea Mar locations in King County, with two in Burien, including a dental clinic at 18010 8th Avenue South and a medical clinic at 14434 Ambaum Blvd. SW. There are also two clinics in White Center, and recovery center in Des Moines.

Patterson was greeted by a crowd of grateful volunteers and staff who were eager to take a look inside the shiny, blue, van and welcome her to Sea Mar (see pic below).

“I am very touched by the work of Sea Mar Community Health Centers and their commitment to providing quality, comprehensive care to individuals and families across King County,” said Councilmember Patterson. “Their Des Moines location serves an incredibly diverse, low-income population, which will benefit greatly from having this new mode of transportation to and from much-needed medical and dental appointments.”

Sea Mar Community Health Centers was established in 1978 with a single medical clinic serving Seattle’s South Park neighborhood. Today, Sea Mar, a private, non-profit community health center, operates nearly 50 medical, dental and behavioral health clinics and centers in 10 western Washington counties.  Sea Mar is committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive health and human services to diverse communities, including low income, underserved and uninsured populations. Sea Mar specializes in services to Latinos and is an innovative leader in the delivery of bilingual and culturally appropriate healthcare and social services. For more information, visit Sea Mar’s website here.

”We are pleased that the County has selected our inpatient, long-term treatment program as a beneficiary of its van distribution program,” said Rogelio Riojas, Sea Mar’s Chief Executive Officer. “We intend to make the van available to any resident or person who comes to the treatment center for care and services. It will be a great resource for our program.”

Since 1995, the King County Council has donated vans to nonprofit groups to help meet the transportation needs of low-income, elderly, youth, or people with disabilities in King County. The vans are part of a fleet of county vehicles that have been ‘retired’ after accruing a certain number of miles. This is the eighth year that each member of the council has been able to donate vans.

The vans were donated through an annual application process.

For more information about applying for a van, contact Councilmember Patterson’s Office at (206) 296-1005.

Councilmember Julia Patterson (holding flowers) is joined by volunteers and staff at the Sea Mar Community Health Center after the delivery of a retired Metro Vanpool van to the agency Jan. 20.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The American Cancer Society (ACS) will be holding its kick-off for the 5th Annual Relay For Life celebration Wednesday, Jan. 13th, from 6:30pm – 8pm, at Somers Auditorium in Highline Medical Center.

Last year, The B-Town Blog was proud to be a sponsor, and this year will be no different, as several members of our staff have been personally touched by cancer, and we’re committed to doing whatever we can to help defeat it.

This year’s event will be held June 12th & 13th at Highline Stadium.

Relay For Life was founded 26 years ago by Tacoma physician Dr. Gordy Klatt, and 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.

Over the past four years, the Relay For Life of Highline has brought over 600 people together from the cities of Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park and SeaTac participating on 86 teams, and raising over $272,000 total for the fight against cancer.

The Kickoff Celebration 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, and coffee provided by Starbucks as they visit with volunteers, sharing stories of hope.

Relay For Life is a family-oriented event in which teams will walk or run in shifts around the track for 19 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 12th & 13th at Highline Stadium in Burien. For more information, please call Kelly Cochran at 206-674-4103, or visit www.relayforlife.org/highlinewa.

Here’s a slideshow by Photographer Michael Brunk of last summer’s event:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

Our friends at our latest Advertiser – Matt Griffin YMCA – are excited to announce that their upcoming Open House is coming this Saturday, Jan. 16th from 10am to 1pm, with lots of games, demos, tours and specials.

If you haven’t had a chance to see their brand new facility – this is your chance!

There will  be games, cooking and Zumba demonstrations, tours, and fun activities for the whole family.

Have you made a commitment to yourself to get in shape in the new year? Join Matt Griffin YMCA before January 31st and save up to $125 in join fees! There is no better time to start taking better care of yourself!

Here are the details:

WHAT: Matt Griffin YMCA Open House

WHEN: Saturday, January 16th from 10am – 1pm

WHERE: Matt Griffin YMCA, 3595 South 188th in SeaTac

INFO: Everyone is Welcome!

More info on the Matt Griffin YMCA is available at their website.

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

Here’s more info from our friends at HAC:

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

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

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

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

Dates:

• January 16 through March 27, 2010.

Trainers and Times:

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

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

Register at the front desk.

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If you haven’t yet been vaccinated against the H1N1 virus, you’ll have a chance to get one FREE this Thursday (Jan. 14th) between 1pm and 8pm at the Sea Mar Clinic in White Center.

Sea Mar is located at 9650 15th Ave. S.W. #100, and please note that shots will be given on a first come, first served basis. No reservations will be taken.

If you can’t make it Thursday, you can also get a free vaccination at the South Park Sea Mar Clinic on Tuesday, Jan. 12th from 1pm to 8pm. That clinic is located at 8720 14th Ave South.

For more information, visit: www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1. The Flu Hotline at 877-903-KING (5464) is staffed with operators to answer questions from King County residents about H1N1 influenza. The Flu Hotline is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with special 24-hour nurse line service extended over the weekend for people with flu seeking medical care advice. Recorded information is available 24 hours a day.

Here’s a press release from King County Public Health:

Over 600,000 people in King County have been vaccinated against the H1N1 influenza (“swine flu”), but many people in King County do not yet have immunity and remain at risk to a virus that continues to circulate in the community. With vaccine availability continuing to widen, now is a good time for anyone six months of age and older to take advantage of the vaccination opportunity.

H1N1 vaccine is available at many health care providers and local participating pharmacies. For people who can’t afford to pay, Public Health – Seattle & King County is announcing new community H1N1 vaccination clinics during January. More information is available at www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1.

“H1N1 influenza has caused severe illness particularly among children, as well as pregnant women and people with chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “We’re still seeing H1N1 influenza illness in our community, and we can prevent new waves of infection in coming months by vaccinating more people now. The current vaccine has been found to be very effective in protecting against the H1N1 virus.”

The overall death rate due to H1N1 has been lower than expected, but the death rate among children has been 5 to 10 times higher than seasonal influenza. For children under ten years old who have received one dose of vaccine, now is a good time to get a second dose of vaccine if 28 days or more have passed since the first dose.

As of this week, approximately 757,000 doses of H1N1 vaccine have been received in King County, and approximately 643,000 people have been vaccinated.

Public Health, Healthpoint and Sea Mar have vaccination clinics scheduled during the month of January for those who cannot afford to pay. Given the importance of continued influenza immunization, January 10-16, 2010 is National Influenza Vaccination Week.

New clinics and vaccine availability:

• Sea Mar – White Center (9650 15th Ave. S.W. #100) Thursday, January 14; 1 pm – 8 pm
• Sea Mar – South Park (8720 14th Ave S) Tuesday, January 12th ; 1 pm – 8 pm
• Renton Public Health Center (3001 NE 4th St) Saturdays, January 9, 16, 23, 30; 10 am – 4 pm; Wednesdays, January 13, 20 , 27; 4 pm – 8 pm
• North Public Health Center (10501 Meridian Ave N) Saturdays, January 9, 16, 23, 30; 10 am – 4 pm; Wednesdays, January 13, 20 , 27; 4 pm – 8 pm
• Columbia Public Health Center (4400 37th Ave S) Saturdays, January 9, 16, 23, 30; 10 am – 4 pm; Wednesdays, January 13, 20 , 27; 4 pm – 8 pm

On Thursday, Jan. 21st, several local restaurants will be hosting “Dine For Highline,” where a percentage of proceeds will be donated to Highline Medical Center’s “Campaign for a New ER.”

Originally built to serve 12,000 patients each year, Highline’s current ER now serves nearly 45,000, making it one of the busiest in the state; obviously, a new, state-of-the-art ER is required.

Here’s info from their press release:

Mark your calendar for January 21st!

On Thursday, January 21, several local restaurants are hosting Dine for Highline, whereby they will donate a percentage of their proceeds to the hospital’s Campaign for a New ER.

These generous businesses know that having a great community means having a great hospital, too, and that’s why they are supporting the campaign.

Now let’s show our support for them, while enjoying a fabulous meal!

Currently participating restaurants include:

• Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub
• Sal’s Deli
• 909 Coffee and Wine
• Mark Restaurant and Bar
• Yo’s Bistro
• Sidestreet Kitchen and Bar
• Angelo’s of Burien
• Australian Pie Co.
• Tin Room Bar
• La Costa Restaurant
• Archery Bistro
• Bison Creek Pizza (BTB Advertiser)
• Emerald City Smoothie
• Vino Bello Wine Bar

Here’s info on the campaign from Highline’s website:

A State-of-the-Art Facility
With support from the community, Highline Medical Center is building a 27,000 square feet, state-of-the-art ER housed in a new three-story building on its Main Campus. It will be equipped with the very latest advances in medical technology and staffed by an expert team of board-certified physicians. It is designed to make ER visits faster, to reduce stress and to enhance comfort for patients and their families at every stage of care:

• Three private triage rooms
• Bedside registration
• Sophisticated electronic patient tracking system
• Family consult room
• 32 private treatment rooms, with room for family members
• Dedicated decontamination room for disasters
• Diagnostic imaging within the ER
• Electronic medical records
• Separate family waiting area
• Private and confidential admitting areas
• Convenient free parking and easy drop-off

A Life Giving Opportunity: How You Can Help
Highline Medical Center Foundation has launched a $10 million community campaign to help fund construction of the new ER. Highline is not tax-supported. We are an independent, nonprofit organization created by the community and supported by the generosity of individuals like you. We need your help. Your gift is an investment in the future health and wellbeing of everyone in our community. It will assure that fast, convenient, state-of-the-art emergency care will be right here –– whenever life depends on it.

To support The Campaign for a New ER at Highline, be sure to “Dine For Highline” on Thursday, Jan. 21st, or click here or call (206) 901-8500.

Jeff Kearney, the well-known mentally-challenged man who was the victim of a hit-and-run on Nov. 17th in White Center (read our previous coverage here) has been moved to BTB Advertiser Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation.

Jeff was moved from Highline’s Specialty Campus in Tukwila to Burien Rehab just before Christmas.

Debra George says:

They are working on getting him walking and moving his right side better.

He is beginning to eat on his own some.

And Burien Rehab’s Nate Neff adds:

Jeff is here and we are happy to have him.

Jeff arrived just before Christmas on Dec. 23. and has adjusted to Burien Rehab and this new setting.

He is currently making gradual improvements and participates in physical and occupational therapy daily.

The therapy team is working on Jeff’s ability to stand as well as his hand eye coordination.

Jeff continues to progress and we enjoy having him here.

Here’s a pic of Jeff courtesy Burien Rehab – check out his groovy goatee!:

Far as we know, the hit-and-run driver is still at large, there is still a $1,000 reward, and the investigation is continuing.

The suspect vehicle had damage to the left front fender, and lost its driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror at the scene. It is probably maroon in color, a Chevrolet or GMC product, and is likely one of the following models:

• GM or Chevrolet full size pick-up: 1988-1989
• Blazer or Jimmy: 1992-1994
• Suburban: 1992-1999
• GMC Yukon: 1992-1999
• Chevrolet Tahoe: 1995-1999

If you recognize the suspect vehicle or have any leads, please call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 911.

And if you wish to visit Jeff or send him your wishes, feel free to contact Burien Nursing & Rehab at 206-242-3213 or email admissions@burienrehab.com.

B-Town Blog friend and Advertiser Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation is looking forward to another great new year.

“We are so grateful for the wonderful holiday cheer that so many groups brought through our front door in these recent days and weeks,” said Community Relations Director Nate Nef.

Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation is the premier skilled nursing facility in Burien. They provide compassionate and personal 24-hour skilled care and rehabilitation services in a comfortable and friendly environment.

“We held a Christmas tea for our residents and their families,” Nate said. “And The New City Dance Company, a ballet group, came by and performed little bits and pieces of ‘The Nutcracker.’ Our residents just loved it.”

A few days later the Burien Little Theater came through, performing a reading from “A Christmas Story.”

“Our residents and staff our very appreciative of the Christmas cheer that our Burien area neighbors were more than happy to offer,” Nate said.

“Several caroling groups, including one from nearby St. Bernadette Parish School, came in and sang for our patrons in the dining room,” he said. “Many community groups, including a Boy Scout troop, came in with gifts for our residents. All just to visit and spread good cheer.

“It has been a really, really good Holiday season. We think of it as A Little Miracle on 130th Street.”

Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation
1031 SW 130th Street, Burien WA 98146

Tel: 206-242-3213
Fax: 206-242-0528

Admissions, available 24/7:
Tel: 206-631-0222
Fax: 206-242-0233

Website:  www.burienrehab.com

Email: admissions@burienrehab.com

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We’d like to welcome back BTB Advertiser Reiki by Anita, and announce that she is holding a new class on Jan. 30th and 31st.

Here are the details:

WHAT: First Degree Reiki class with Anita Graham, Reiki Master and practitioner of 22 years

WHEN: January 30 & 31, 2010, 10 AM-5PM each day

WHERE: Located in Burien near Highline Medical Center’s Main Campus at the home of Anita Graham

COST: $150/$50 deposit holds your spot

Anita Graham

INFO:

Stress and that “burned out” feeling can lead to symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, headaches, colds and flu, obesity, ulcers and arthritis

Deep relaxation is the most consistent result of a Reiki treatment and including a regular practice of relaxation can be a great stress buster

You will learn self-treatment techniques in this 12-hour, weekend class

This class gives you the techniques to treat, family, friends and pets and for health professionals to enhance their practice

Nurse researchers measuring blood pressure, pulse and respiration rates before and after Reiki treatments showed changes “in the direction of increased relaxation.” (Alternative Therapies, March, 2003)

Anita Graham is approved by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork as a continuing education Approved Provider.

TESTIMONIALS:

As a scientist and engineer, I am naturally skeptical…I took Anita’s First Degree class and since then, I have experienced healing on many levels, as well as the joy that comes from helping others by sharing the gift of Reiki with them!-DJ

(Anita’s) course equipped me with the history, theory and knowledge of Reiki practice, as well as with hands on experience that put my newly acquired skills into practice and gave me confidence to offer Reiki to hospice patients…MM

The atmosphere of the class made it safe to learn and ask questions-RP

REGISTER: Call 206-242-2052, visit her website here, or email her: anita@reikibyanita.com

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

According to an independent USA Today review of inspection records (link to story here) of nearly 800 restaurants at 10 airports, 42% of 57 restaurants reviewed at Sea-Tac Airport had at least one “critical” violation.

A “critical” violation is one where food items, such as sandwiches, meats or salads, are stored at dangerously warm temperatures, increasing the risk of food-borne illnesses.

According to the report:

A USA TODAY review of inspection records for nearly 800 restaurants at 10 airports found items such as tuna salad and turkey sandwiches stored at dangerously warm temperatures, raw meat contaminating ready-to-eat foods, rat droppings and kitchens lacking soap for workers to wash hands.

Serious violations, which can increase the risk of illness, are common. On the most recent inspections available online, 42% of 57 restaurants reviewed at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport had at least one “critical” violation. So did 77% of 35 restaurants reviewed at Reagan National Airport.

Grab-and-go coolers often don’t keep sandwiches and salads cold enough to stop dangerous pathogens, reports show.

Our recommendation to avoid possible food sickness at airports? Buy only cooked items, never “grab & go” foods.

Rueben Varghese of the Arlington County, Va., health department, said airport restaurants are similar to others: “Most people dine out all the time and do very well.”

We put a call into the Port of Seattle for comment on this, and here’s a response from their Media Officer Perry Cooper:

The USA Today story left out some very important context. Not to mention, we disagree with the personal recommendation you note.

First off, Sea-Tac Airport and the Port of Seattle require vendors to go through rigorous inspections ABOVE AND BEYOND governmental standards and contractually have to meet additional food safety and facility maintenance inspections. These stiff requirements are not routine at other establishments and are an additional layer of quality assurance for the traveling public here at Sea-Tac. We believe these inspections make food even safer for the public.

Now for the missing context, which comes straight from King County Public Health. The violations noted in the story, and the link to the Public Health website, are in the normal range for all establishments in King County and around the country. The critical violations noted are the type that are rectified “before” an inspector leaves the premises. There are 29 different issues that can be the basis of red critical violations, and even the best establishments have these kinds of violations. These can include issues in the temperatures for keeping hot or cold food and hand-washing practices. Sea-Tac Airport is not out of the ordinary and falls within the trend of food establishments.

No Sea-Tac establishments have ever been closed for food safety or public health concerns.

In addition to Public Health inspections, Sea-Tac concessionaires are contractually required to have minimum quarterly inspections of all equipment to be properly maintained, i.e. fryer, exhaust fans, hot water heaters; inspections for grease accumulation, water leaks; and monthly pest control.

Sea-Tac Airport is confident in the food safety practices of our vendors and continue to monitor their procedures rigorously. Sea-Tac establishments have not received any ‘major’ violations and none have ever been closed in the memory of our staff.

Finally, I would also like to gently object to your opinion on “grab and go” items. If this is a personal preference, that’s up to each individual. However, within a story about food safety to try and link “grab and go” items as potentially unsafe, is a grand generalization and, frankly, not supported by fact. Personally, I eat “grab and go” items frequently for lunch at work, as do thousands of others who work here, and have never experienced anything beyond a satisfying meal. You are correct that if passengers should be wary to buy an item the requires cold and wait too long before eating it, but that’s a generalization for any food, anywhere.

Read the full USA Today story here.

PHOTO CREDIT:

Here’s the latest update on Jeff Kearney, the well-known mentally-challenged man who was the victim of a hit-and-run on Nov. 17th in White Center (read our previous coverage here).

According to Debra George, who visits him almost daily at Highline Medical Center’s Specialty Campus in Tukwila:

Jeff is starting to eat by mouth some, but is still very scattered memory wise – it seems to come and go.

He is not able to get up out of bed yet, but he is able to be in a wheelchair.

He had his trach out on Tuesday and he is talking pretty good. He is getting items in his head mixed up but he is saying some of his old lines, such as “whats your name?”

It seems as he tires he gets more confused on who people are and his short term memory is not so good – such as I come in and he says I know you, your Debra George and then a little later in the conversation he tells me to tell Debra hi for him.

Each day it seems to get better, we are hoping they will start to get him up and in physical therapy for his arms and legs next.

- Debra George
Discover Burien, Event Manager

Photo of Jeff Kearney recovering at Highline Medical Center's Specialty Campus by Debra George.

The hit-and-run driver is still at large, there is still a $1,000 reward, and the investigation is continuing. The suspect vehicle had damage to the left front fender, and lost its driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror at the scene. It is probably maroon in color, a Chevrolet or GMC product, and is likely one of the following models:

• GM or Chevrolet full size pick-up: 1988-1989
• Blazer or Jimmy: 1992-1994
• Suburban: 1992-1999
• GMC Yukon: 1992-1999
• Chevrolet Tahoe: 1995-1999

If you recognize the suspect vehicle or have any leads, please call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 911.

If you’d like to visit Jeff, he’s taking visitors now at his location at Highline Medical Center’s Specialty Campus, which is located at 12844 Military Rd South in Tukwila (phone: 206-244-0180). Jeff is in room #229.

King County Public Health on Wednesday (Dec. 9th) announced that starting this Saturday, Dec. 12th, the H1N1 influenza vaccine will be provided to everybody six months of age and older in King County, with the nearest available at SeaTac HealthPoint, which is located at 4040 South 188th Street.

However, depending on the demand, supplies may be limited for a time at some locations.

The county is taking this next step in widening H1N1 vaccine eligibility because many health care providers in King County are now reporting that they are able to meet the demand for their highest risk patients and vaccine supplies are increasing and expected to continue to rise steadily.

“We’re pleased that many of our highest risk residents have been vaccinated and that we have enough vaccine now to open eligibility to anyone who wants it,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Even though flu has peaked, at least temporarily, H1N1 illness continues in our community. Getting vaccinated is still a very good idea.”

As of Dec. 4, an estimated 380,000 people in King County who are at high-risk for complications have been vaccinated for H1N1 influenza, and an additional 58,000 doses of vaccine are on the ground or in the process of being shipped to vaccine providers in the county.

Vaccination continues to be particularly important for people at highest risk for H1N1, including pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, people between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old, people between 25 through 64 years of age with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems, and healthcare and emergency workers.

New clinics and vaccine availability 
H1N1 vaccine is available from local health care providers and pharmacies; see availability at pharmacies. 
Additionally, some health centers are offering free H1N1 vaccination to people who cannot afford to pay.

Clinics will be held from 9am – 3pm on:

• Saturday, Dec. 12th
• Wednesday, Dec. 16th
• Saturday, Dec. 19th

At these HealthPoint clinics:

• SeaTac HealthPoint: 4040 S. 188th Street, Suite 201;Phone: (206) 277-7200
• Kent HealthPoint: 403 E. Meeker
• Auburn HealthPoint: 126 Auburn Avenue, Suite 400
• Redmond HealthPoint: 16315 NE 87th Street, Suite B6

Public Health will also hold five free H1N1 clinics this Saturday and next Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. These same sites, except for Eastgate Public Health Center, will also have clinics on Wednesday, December 16 from noon to 7 p.m. at:

• Renton Public Health Center, 3001 NE 4th Street
• Federal Way Public Health Center, 33431 13th Place South
• Seattle: Columbia Public Health Center, 4400 37th Ave South
• Seattle: North Public Health Center, 10501 Meridian Ave North
• Bellevue: Eastgate Public Health Center, 14350 SE Eastgate Way

Vaccinations are first come, first served, and no reservations will be taken. If demand is high, people will be given a designated time later that day to return and receive their vaccination. Once supply is exhausted, people will be informed as soon as they arrive.

For more information on future clinics and other H1N1 updates, visit: www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1.

You can also call the Flu Hotline at 1-877-903-KING (5464), which is staffed with operators to answer questions about H1N1 influenza from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, with a special 24-hour nurse line service extended over the weekend for people with flu seeking medical care advice. Recorded information is available 24 hours a day.

by Chris Knight
Trainer, Highline Athletic Club

Have you wanted to lose weight, increase your energy levels and get in amazing shape before the holidays this year? If you’re like many people, this year has slipped away from you and here we are in the holiday season again. There is no reason to resign yourself to the idea that it is ever too late to lose the weight you want before the holiday parties.

Something you can do to kick start your progress today would be to keep a food journal. Keeping a food journal not only helps you consciously focus on what you are eating but it also helps you build a subconscious mindset to stay on track with your goals. You can either carry a notepad or email yourself so you can write it down in your journal later. There are also software programs that will help you track calories. Another simple thing you can do is make sure to stay hydrated by consuming 55% of your body weight in ounces of water. Even mild dehydration will slow down one’s metabolism as much as 3%.  For example: a 100 pounds person would consume 55 ounces per day (100 pounds multiplied by 0.55 = 55 ounces.)

If you would like additional tips and ideas I am here to help. If you have decided this is the year that you will improve the health of yourself and your family, I have a program that will get you to that goal. I am one of the elite trainers at the award winning, “BEST GYM by King 5’s Evening Magazine” Highline Athletic Club located at 125 South 156th in Burien. I have been servicing the members of HAC and the Burien community since 2001. I offer fully customized Meal Planning that is family-friendly and easy to use. I have delivered hundreds of meal plans to busy moms and professionals over the years. My plan is not a diet; it’s a dietary lifestyle change using foods that you and your family already eat.

HAC Trainer Chris Knight can get you in shape by the holidays.

You can look your best and feel terrific this holiday season. When you’re stuck in a rut and going at it alone, things seem so much more impossible. I can give anyone the ability to consistently lose 1-2 pounds every week. To give you an idea of how fast you will notice the results, imagine the size of a small grapefruit. Now, realize that a pound of body fat is approximately the volume of this same small grapefruit. It’s never too late, but the sooner you schedule an appointment the more you can lose before the holidays.

Get started before the New Year & start reaping the rewards.  A great food program paired with an effective exercise program will have you looking and feeling great in no time at all.  Stop by Highline Athletic Club to check out our great facility and full service offerings.

For more information about starting your personal food program contact me, Chris Knight at cell: (206) 551-4501 or Chris@HighlineAthleticClub.com.  I will be able to answer any of the questions you may have regarding this service.

SPECIAL OFFER: Mention The B-Town Blog and get ZERO ENROLLMENT FEES at Highline Athletic Club through December 30th (makes a GREAT GIFT)!

• Address: 125 South 156th Street, Burien, WA  98148
• Website: www.highlineathleticclub.com
• Phone: 206-246-9000

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

Here’s the latest update on Jeff Kearney, the well-known mentally-challenged man who was the victim of a hit-and-run on Nov. 17th in  White Center (read our previous coverage here).

According to Debra George, who visited him on Sunday, Dec. 6th:

Jeff is slowly making good progress. He is awake most of the time. He is been doing good at moving his legs and arms, taking commands. Yesterday I asked him to raise one finger, then two and so on – he did very well. I left him with the challenge last night to move his mouth – try and smile, and this morning I am happy to say he moved his mouth and smiled a bit, he even tried to mouth some words.

The doctors say that him might get his tracheotomy out this week and begin to work with a speech therapist. Next week he will be sent back to Harborview where they will look at his hips again – then back to Riverton Rehab. I am very hopeful that he might be home for Christmas.

At this time they have not found the individual that did this to him.

Thank you for all your prayers and concerns.

- Debra George
Discover Burien, Event Manager

The hit-and-run driver is still at large, and the investigation is still continuing. The suspect vehicle had damage to the left front fender, and lost its driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror at the scene. It is probably maroon in color, a Chevrolet or GMC product, and is likely one of the following models:

• GM or Chevrolet full size pick-up: 1988-1989
• Blazer or Jimmy: 1992-1994
• Suburban: 1992-1999
• GMC Yukon: 1992-1999
• Chevrolet Tahoe: 1995-1999

There is still a $1,000 reward, so if you recognize the suspect vehicle please call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 911.

If you’d like to visit Jeff, he’s taking visitors now at his new location at Highline Medical Center’s Specialty Campus, which is located at 12844 Military Rd South in Tukwila (phone: 206-244-0180). Jeff is in room #229.

Here’s the latest update on Jeff Kearney, the well-known mentally-challenged man who was the victim of a hit-and-run two weeks ago (original story here) in White Center.

According to Debra George, who brought him over a dozen gifts left by well-wishers for his 37th birthday last Saturday:

“He is breathing on his own, but still has pneumonia and is in ICU for that.

He opens his eyes more now and is tracking some, but does not take in any information. The nurses say that it could be years for him to recover and the extent of his recovery is still unknown.

The Nurses have given Jeff a very nice looking goatee shave.

Nothing yet as I know on the driver who did this to him.

Scott, a wonderful thing that happen last Wednesday when I was visiting Jeff – a box arrived from the Seattle Mariners, filled with all kinds of gift items and a signed card by no less than 25 Mariners employees – they all signed something personal as if they all knew him and were all rooting for him. This was not provoked by anyone I know of – just a wonderful thing they did!”

We checked in with Sgt. John Urquhart of the King County Sheriff’s Department, who says that the hit-and-run driver is still at large and the investigation is continuing. The suspect vehicle had damage to the left front fender, and lost its driver’s side exterior rear-view mirror at the scene. It is probably maroon in color, a Chevrolet or GMC product, and is likely one of the following models:

• GM or Chevrolet full size pick-up: 1988-1989
• Blazer or Jimmy: 1992-1994
• Suburban: 1992-1999
• GMC Yukon: 1992-1999
• Chevrolet Tahoe: 1995-1999

There is still a $1,000 reward, so if you recognize the suspect vehicle they are asked to call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 911.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• Update On Hit & Run Victim Jeff Kearney; His Birthday Is Saturday & Suspect Is Still At Large
• UPDATE: Police Need Help Finding Vehicle In Hit-And-Run Of Jeff Kearney

Just spoke with Debra George, who had a chance Tuesday to visit Jeff Kearney, the well-known, mentally-challenged man who was struck by a hit and run driver last Tuesday (Nov. 17th) in White Center.

“I feel very positive after seeing him,” Debra said late Tuesday morning. “I saw him move his shoulder and grimace in pain at one point, which is a great sign actually – it shows that he is responsive, which is a relief. And as I was leaving, I said out loud: ‘Okay Jeff, I’m going now, so you’d better give me a hug!’ and he actually moved his shoulders.”

Debra gave us more details on Jeff’s current condition:

• He’s still in Intensive Care at Harborview in serious condition.
• He’s been taken off the drug-induced coma but has not yet awakened.
• However, he has shown movement in both his arms and legs, which is a good sign.
• He’s currently on a respirator because he has contracted pneumonia since being admitted.
• He has fractures in his pelvis and hip, as well as severe injuries to his jaw, which may actually be broken.

As we reported last week, Kearney, 36, well-known in Burien as part of “Team Clean Sweep,” was crossing 16th Ave SW in the crosswalk at SW 106th in White Center on Tuesday, Nov. 17th around 5:20pm when a vehicle heading southbound on 16th struck him.

Jeff’s legal guardian, Mike Lindorff, apparently didn’t know about the accident until around 8:30pm that night, when he began to get worried that Jeff hadn’t yet returned home. Apparently Jeff was not wearing his usual ID dog tags when he was hit, so he was admitted to Harborview as an unidentified “John Doe” until Mike found out what happened.

Debra spoke to a nurse at Harborview, who told her it could “take a week” or so before Jeff wakes up on his own and gives them a chance to fully analyze his condition.

Jeff’s 37th birthday just happens to be this Saturday, Nov. 28th, and anyone who wishes to send gifts or cards should drop them off at The Mark Restaurant, located at 918 SW 152nd in Olde Burien before closing time Friday night (Nov. 27th); Debra George will then personally deliver them to Jeff.

According to Sgt. John Urquhart of the King County Sheriff’s Department,”we have not located the suspect vehicle or driver. We still want tips from the public.  The vehicle has damage that is specific and significant enough that someone should recognize it.”

Police are still looking for a maroon-colored Chevrolet or GMC SUV/truck that’s missing an exterior side rear-view mirror (and possibly has other front-end damage), and is likely one of the following models:

• GM or Chevrolet full size pick-up: 1988-1989
• Blazer or Jimmy: 1992-1994
• Suburban: 1992-1999
• GMC Yukon: 1992-1999
• Chevrolet Tahoe: 1995-1999

If anyone recognizes the suspect vehicle they are asked to call the King County Sheriff’s Office at (206) 296-3311 (24 hours) or 911.

We here at The B-Town Blog continue to send positive vibes and prayers to Jeff. We are all feeling more positive after speaking with Debra, and are currently visualizing a huge “Welcome Back” party to celebrate a healthy and full recovery for him soon, where we’ll all hug him and tell him how our spouses, children, mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers are doing.

BTB Advertiser Jim Coleman, DDS is holding their annual Stuffed Animal Drive for children who end up in the Highline Medical Center Emergency Rooms, and they’re looking for donations.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Jim Coleman, DDS annual Stuffed Animal Drive, to help calm children who end up in Highline Medical Center’s ERs.

WHEN: Now through Dec. 22nd.

WHERE: Donate stuffed animals at Jim Coleman’s offices, located at 1800 SW 152nd Street in Burien.

Jim Coleman, DDS

INFO: Here’s an email we received from Lynn Coleman:

As many of you know, our dental practice collects stuffed animals for the Highline Medical Center Emergency Rooms. These animals are given to children as they check into the ER and I have been assured by the nurses that they have a very calming effect on the kids.

We are again collecting animals and would really appreciate any contributions that you could make.

We will get them to the ER on the 22nd of December so if you want to drop them by our office before then, it will be great!

Let’s make those kids comfortable, loved and cared for in the best ER in the Seattle area!

Thanks,
Lynn Coleman

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/aidanmorgan/ / CC BY 2.0

BTB Advertiser Highline Athletic Club has been serving the community for 22 years and is proud to have recently received two awards – here’s their latest news:

Highline Athletic Club wins BEST GYM in the health and fitness category in King 5’s Evening Magazine Best of Western Washington contest. We are proud to have won this great award and appreciate the votes from our members, staff and local community. We will continue to strive to be the BEST and provide our members with excellent facility and service.

Highline Athletic Club also wins BEST WORKOUT VENUE from Highline Times readers.  Thank you to our community for voting for us.  We appreciate the recognition and support.

ZUMBA comes to HAC!!  What exactly is ZUMBA?
ZUMBA is known to burn 500 calories an hour with this hot new workout! Well, the word ZUMBA is a Colombian slang meaning to move fast and have fun.  Are you in already?  This cardio workout is famous for its Latin-inspired dance steps, Salsa, Merengue, Flamenco, and Samba.  Although ZUMBA’S success stems from its Latin roots, you may also hear a little country, funk and rock & roll.  A variety of world influences are used we well, including Indian harmonies, and African Reggae tone.  The music enjoyed in this dance-based class offers something for everyone.  The class will be offered at Highline Athletic Club Wednesdays 6:30 PM with Patricia Vessey instructing.  ZUMBA dances its way into HAC beginning Wednesday, December 2nd. For more information on ZUMBA visit www.zumba.com.

Special Enrollment Fee Discount!
Highline Athletic Club wants your help in donating food to the hungry for Northwest Harvest during the month of November.  All food non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at Highline Athletic Club by November 30th.  If you are a non-member and are interested in joining the club simply bring in a bag of food for Northwest Harvest and your donation is also worth $50 off the current enrollment special. Below are the November enrollment fee specials & also what the enrollment would be if you donate to Northwest Harvest.  Great way to not only help others, but also your own health.

This promotion and food drive will end on November 30th, 2009.

What types of food does Northwest Harvest need?
 Northwest Harvest can use any nonperishable food or monetary donations. If you prefer to donate food, select shelf-stable food with the lowest saturated fats and refined carbohydrates (sugar, white flour). NW Harvest buys white rice and beans in bulk, so we encourage you to donate other items. Here are some suggestions:

General food items:

• Oatmeal
• Whole grain pastas
• Brown rice
• Tomato products
• Canned vegetables
• Canned fruit, especially with low sugar (but not artificial sweeteners)
• Canned fish or meat
• Shelf-stable milk
• Beef stew
• Chili and similar meals with low sugar and saturated fats

Infant and baby foods:

• Baby formula
• Canned milk
• Infant cereal
• Jars of baby food
• Powdered or canned milk
• Baby diapers also accepted

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, event listing and/or Ad like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by nearly 40,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

King County Public Health announced Friday (Nov. 6th) that it is now offering a limited supply (15,000 for now) of H1N1 vaccines to qualified people at area pharmacies, including one in Burien and two in White Center.

To get vaccinated, you have to make an appointment by telephone, and meet the criteria listed below:

• Pregnant women
• People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age
• People between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old
• People between 25 through 64 years of age with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems
• Healthcare and emergency workers with direct patient contact

The only Burien pharmacy currently with the new batch is:

• Albertsons-Sav-On
  12725 First Ave. S.
  Burien, WA 98168
  (206) 439-7212

Here are two others in nearby White Center:

• Walgreens
  9456 16th Ave SW
  White Center, 98106
  (206) 767-2294
• Albertsons-Sav-On
  10616 16th Avenue S.W.
  White Center, 98146
  (206) 242-6310

Many of the 44 participating pharmacies are taking appointments by phone starting today (Fri. Nov. 6th); some will be holding walk-up clinics without appointment starting next week. The full list of participating pharmacies, including hours, types of vaccine available, vaccination age ranges and administrative fee, is posted at www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness/pandemicflu/swineflu/locations.aspx. This site will be updated Monday through Friday by noon; people should contact pharmacies directly for the most up-to-date information.

With limited national vaccine supplies, Public Health – Seattle & King County has had to delay its plan to make vaccine widely available through community venues. As more vaccine becomes available, there will be additional sites for getting vaccinated, including community clinics.

“Making vaccine available through pharmacies is an important next step in protecting our community, but supplies at both pharmacies and health care providers will continue to be limited for at least several weeks,” said Dr. David Fleming, Director and Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle & King County. “Eventually there will be enough vaccine for everyone who wants to get vaccinated, but we are still dealing with limited vaccine supplies.”

With the latest deliveries this week, King County has received approximately 142,000 doses of vaccine. A new allocation of approximately 71,000 doses is being ordered for delivery to the county. Most of the vaccine is being made available through health care providers.

The amount of H1N1 vaccine at pharmacies will be limited, with each pharmacy receiving a few hundred doses each. Vaccine will be re-supplied to pharmacies as more becomes available over the coming weeks, so people should regularly check Public Health’s website for updates.

Many pharmacies are unable to vaccinate babies and young children because their staff is not licensed and/or trained for these age groups. Residents trying to vaccinate children should check with pharmacies directly and with their health care providers since vaccine is continuing to arrive.

Pharmacies may charge a fee for administering the vaccine, typically between $12 and $22 (not to exceed $22). This fee is covered by most health insurance. People should bring their health insurance information to the pharmacy, and they may need to submit a receipt to their insurance company for reimbursement.

Visit the Public Health H1N1 influenza website at www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1 for updates on vaccine availability in the community or call the Flu Hotline at 1-877-903-KING (5464), which is staffed with operators from 9am to 5pm weekdays to answer questions from residents about H1N1 influenza. There is also a special 24-hour nurse line service extended over this weekend for people with flu seeking medical care advice. Recorded information will be available 24 hours a day.

View King County pharmacies with H1N1 vaccine in a larger map

At 2am this Sunday, Nov. 1st, bar owners and patrons throughout the area will rejoice as they’ll be the first to take advantage of the extra hour that’s given back by the ending of Daylight Savings Time, as all clocks are to be set back one hour at that time (which equals an extra hour of drinking as well as sleeping off the hangover the next morning).

This weekend is also an excellent time to replace your smoke detector batteries, as well as do something new that could save your life, or the life of a loved one – get “The Vial of L.I.F.E.” – here’s some info:

The Vial of L.I.F.E…

End of Daylight Savings Time-update your personal medical information for emergency first-responders.

When you’re changing your smoke detector batteries, take a few extra minutes that could save your life–or the life of a loved one.

WHO/WHAT: The Medic One Foundation provides a simple tool designed to help save lives in an emergency situation:

The Vial of L.I.F.E. (Lifesaving Information For Emergencies). First responders are trained to look for the containers in refrigerators upon arrival at a home.

The “Vial” of consists of a 5-inch “prescription” plastic vial containing medical forms with key information about an individual’s medical history. Over 30,000 have been distributed locally.

WHERE: New to the Vial of L.I.F.E program? To get started, pick up a new “Vial” at any Bartells for just $1 (with net proceeds benefiting the Medic One Foundation).

HOW: Update forms are available online at: www.mediconefoundation.org or www.bartelldrugs.com.

Complete the form with all current vital medical information; put the completed form (s) in the vial and place it on the top shelf inside the refrigerator door.

Follow directions for placement of refrigerator magnet and front door sticker.

King County’s Public Health Department announced Tuesday that, beginning this Wednesday (Oct. 21st), the H1N1 flu vaccine will be available for those without health insurance at four clinics, including the White Center Public Health Center, located at 10821 8th Ave. SW.

Clinics will be open from 8:30am to 5:30pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays, and 8:30am – 7:00pm on Thursdays.

All clinics are walk-up and appointments will not be needed or scheduled.

For more information, visit the Public Health H1N1 influenza website at www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1 for clinic directions.

Vaccinations at these clinics will continue over time, pending vaccine availability from the federal government.

According to a press release:

As private providers begin to receive H1N1 influenza vaccine for their patients at highest risk for complications, starting Wednesday, Oct. 21, Public Health – Seattle & King County is making vaccinations available for people without health insurance who are at increased risk because they have significant health problems.

Four Public Health vaccination clinics will be open to people up through 64 years of age who have significant health problems that put them at greater risk for serious complications for H1N1. Examples would include heart disease, lung disease, asthma, kidney disease, diabetes and HIV/AIDS.

Most children and pregnant women have public or private health care coverage, so it is anticipated that the clinics will primarily serve uninsured adults. People over age 65 are at relatively low risk for H1N1 influenza and so should not seek vaccination at this time.

For people who have health insurance, local health care providers are receiving initial, small shipments of vaccine for their existing patients who need protection most. Vaccine availability from health care providers is expected to improve gradually as additional supplies arrive in upcoming weeks.

Public Health clinic details

Four Public Health H1N1 vaccination clinics will be operated at the following locations:

• White Center Public Health Center (10821 8th Ave. S.W., Seattle)
• Alder Square Public Health Center (1404 Central Ave. S., Suites 101 & 112, Kent)
• North Public Health Center (10501 Meridian Ave. N., Seattle)
• Federal Way Public Health Center (33431 13th Place S., Federal Way)

All clinics will be open 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays and 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. All clinics are walk-up and appointments will not be needed or scheduled. Visit the Public Health H1N1 influenza website at www.kingcounty.gov/health/H1N1 for clinic directions.

Vaccinations at these clinics will continue over time, pending vaccine availability from the federal government.

Clinic locations may also expand with demand. As supply increases, more vaccine will be available in Public Health clinics and other community locations. The Public Health website will be updated regularly with information on vaccine availability.

Last Friday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced that vaccine production is proceeding slower than originally expected, which will result in smaller amounts of vaccine in ongoing deliveries over the next two months.

Call center activation

Beginning Wednesday morning, Oct. 21, the Flu Hotline at 877-903-KING (5464) will be staffed with operators to answer questions about H1N1 influenza and provide information about Public Health – Seattle & King County vaccine clinic locations for people without insurance and with significant health problems. Hours of operation with operators will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; recorded information will be available 24 hours a day.

It’s not quite as controversial as drive-thru “sexpresso” stands with bikin-clad baristas, but members of Group Health can now get flu shots in their vehicles as their Burien Medical Center is providing drive-thru flu shots!

The Burien Group Health Center is located at 140 SW 146th Street, just north of the Safeway shopping complex.

Please note that these shots are just for seasonal influenza, not H1N1. While the drive-thru clinic is meant for G.H. members, they will not turn residents away; however, there is a fee for non-members.

Here’s the schedule for the remaining drive-thru shots:

• Monday, Oct. 26
• Tuesday, Oct. 27
• Saturday, Nov. 7
• Wednesday, Nov. 11
• Saturday, Nov. 14

For more information, visit their website here, or call 206-901-2400.

The B-Town Blog welcomes back Advertiser Market Place Salon and Day Spa with this important community announcement:

To celebrate and acknowledge October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Market Place has teamed with Highline Medical Center to encourage women to get their mammograms. As part of their efforts, staff will be appearing at Highline Diagnostics at 160th to provide what they call “mini-spa events” for women getting their mammograms this month (look for them towards the end of the month). Patients will receive a hand or scalp massage and polish change.

They have also provided HMC with a “Queen for a Day Makeover” which includes a day of head to toe pampering as a raffle prize for Highline Diagnostics raffle. Imagine a cut and color, manicure and pedicure, a facial, a massage and a makeup application–all for you if you win the raffle. It’s a $275 value, and you’ll have a chance to win just by getting a mammogram at Highline Diagnostics at 160th.

In cooperation with Aveda, Market Place is selling limited edition Aveda Hand Relief Lotion. $4.00 from every sale will go directly to Breast Cancer Research. Just stop by the spa and look for the tubes with the pink ribbon to help this worthy cause.

They will also have daily in-spa specials throughout the month. Check out their sidewalk chalkboard for these specials.

And here’s something we don’t often think of, so the Market Place staff has thought of it for you:

“Did you know that 8 out of 10 women wear the incorrect size bra?”

In honor of Breast Cancer Awarenes Month they will be offering free bra fittings by Michelle on Saturday October 24 from 10am-1pm.” Michelle is a Certified Bra Fit Expert through Nordstom.

Market Place Salon is located at 15858 First Ave. South, next to Trader Joe’s in the Five Corners Shopping Plaza in Burien. You can call for an appointment for a bra makeover or beauty blast at 206-244-8886, or visit their website here.

Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story and Ad like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by over 35,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

It’s “Binational Health Week” and the Sea-Mar Community Health Center is holding a FREE Health Fair at the Burien Library Saturday, Oct. 10th from 11am to 4pm.

There will be clinical screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, weight, asthma, vision, HIV, dental and cholesterol, as well as a presentation by Mayor Joan McGilton, fire truck (and photo ops), kids activities, a raffle with prizes and much more…all FREE.

Here are the details:

We are happy to announce that B-Town Blog Advertiser Premier Chiropractic welcomes aboard Mitch Raich, D.C.

Dr. Raich is a hometown fellow, having grown up in Burien, attending Mt. Rainier High School.

He’s been a doctor of chiropractic for 15 years.

Here is a sampling of the different chiropractic services Premier offers in their Burien office:

• Chiropractic Care
• Corrective Exercises
• Lifestyle Advice
• Nutritional Counseling
• Spinal and Postural Screenings
• Custom Orthotics
• Massage Therapy

Burien native Mitch Raich has joined Premier Chiropractic.

Also on board for expert and experienced massage is Krysta Goold.

To schedule an appointment, here’s how to reach Krysta: 206.431.1111

Helping to run the ship is Troy Butler, the “right hand man” in the office.

Troy says:

“We accept various insurance plans. We happily handle auto injuries, on-the-job injuries, and sports injuries. They’re all covered at Premiere.

“Also, cash payment plans plus Gift Cards are available. Call anytime, walk-ins welcome.”

Premier Chiropractic
14245 Ambaum Blvd. SW Ste. F
Burien, WA 98166
Phone: 206.431.1111

Website: www.premierchiropractic.net

Email: PremierBurien@yahoo.com

Hours:

• Monday: 9am-1pm & 3pm-6:30pm
• Tuesday: 3pm-6:30pm
• Wednesday: 9am-1pm & 3pm-6:30pm
• Thursday: 9am-1pm & 3pm-6:30pm
• Friday: 9am-1pm
• Saturday by appointment

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Burien’s Highline Medical Center is aiming to provide 1,000 mammograms to women in our community during October, which is “Beast Cancer Awareness Month,” and is offering free “booby prizes” (NOTE: this is our nickname, not theirs) as incentive.

As part of their “October 1,000” campaign, the first 1,000 women who receive mammograms at Highline Diagnostics at SW 160th during October will receive an eco bag filled with items to pamper herself. In addition, 75 random bags will contain Dr. Oz’s book “YOU: Staying Young. The Owner’s Manual to Extending Your Warranty.”

They will also be treating mammogram patients to complimentary mini-spa and mini-massage sessions. As an extra incentive, every woman will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win fun prizes including spa packages, gym memberships, salon visits and personal training sessions.

HMC adds:

“We understand women are busy and want to make scheduling a mammogram appointment as easy and convenient as possible. To accommodate their busy schedule, we have extended our hours to include evenings until 7pm and Saturday until 4pm for the month of October and added an online appointment request to schedule a screening mammogram.

Please call Highline Diagnostics at 160th at (206) 248-8900, Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 6:00pm or log onto www.HighlineMedicalCenter.org to schedule your appointment.”

We’d like to welcome our latest advertiser, Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation, a 116-bed skilled nursing facility.

Located just a block east of Ambaum Blvd. SW on SW 130th Street, many area locals may remember them as Life Care Center of Burien.

Well, along with the new name comes new management (since May 2008).

Some Physical Plant Improvements include:

• New rehab gym with larger space on the second floor, which is located closer to patients
  

  Rich, Mary and Nate of Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation.

• Exterior painting
• New independent dining and family room
• More parking
• New carpet coming soon

Burien Nursing and Rehabilitation also announces an improved level of care:

• New Medical Directors – Dr. James Buttitta and Dr. Lubna Khan of Highline Internal Medicine joined the team this summer
• And introducing Dr. Steven Rudnick of Sound Inpatient Physicians

“We have a new name, but we’ve been a big part of Burien since the 1960’s,” said Nate Nef, Community Relations Director at Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation. “We have an active setting and we have happy and engaged patients and staff.

“We are proud of our expert therapy team that provides physical, occupational and speech therapy.”

Among the accommodations are a weekly beautician visit, support groups and religious programs.

Amenities include new high/low electric beds, three daily nutritious meals, and cable TV for each room. Two computers and Wi-Fi are also available.

Skilled Nursing Services include, among many offerings, enteral feeding programs, pain management and IV therapy.

Therapy services help people with many health issues including hip fractures, post-cardiac surgeries and strokes.

The Activities Room may be reserved in advance for special events such as birthdays and holidays, and children are encouraged to visit loved ones.

You’re even welcome to bring a patient’s family pet to the facility for a visit.

Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation is Medicare and Medicaid certified and accepts most insurance plans.

Take a virtual tour – go to www.BurienRehab.com.

Burien Nursing & Rehabilitation
“Providing Courteous 24 HR Skilled Nursing & Sophisticated Rehabilitative Services”
1031 SW 130th Street
Burien,WA 98146

Phone: 206-242-3213

24 Hour Admissions phone line is: 206-631-0222

Website: www.BurienRehab.com

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