by Ralph Nichols

While standing in the check-out line at the Burien Walgreen’s Wednesday evening, I turned to glance at a display – but my attention was diverted to the man in U.S. Army fatigues behind me.

After quickly noting the Airborne and then the Ranger insignias on his chest, I asked the obvious question: “So you’re a Ranger?” “I used to be,” he answered modestly.

“You guys are absolutely amazing,” I said. “When I read stories about Rangers, I feel as if I’ve accomplished nothing since the third grade!” “Thank you,” he replied quietly.

“No, thank you;” to which he said, “It was an honor.”

This was no isolated incident. I am only one of millions of Americans who, when we’ve thanked the men and women of our armed forces, veterans of wars past and those currently serving, has heard them say something like “we were just doing our job.”

On a 2005 Alaska Airlines flight to Boise, 80 of the passengers were with the Idaho Army National Guard, returning home after serving a year with the 116th Combat Brigade in Iraq.

Like the Ranger I met this week, these men and women were amazing. They walked off the plane not with a swagger, but with quiet confidence – in themselves, in their band of brothers and sisters, in a job well done as they fought for us against terrorism – yet downplayed what they had done when thanked by the rest of us.

Former Georgia Sen. Zell Miller, a Democrat, observed a few years ago:

“It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us the freedom of the press. It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It is the soldier, not the agitator, who has given us the freedom to protest…. Our soldiers are liberators abroad and defenders of freedom at home.”

That’s why, today, November 11, we honor again our fighting men and women, those now or recently in uniform, and retired military veterans from World War II, from Korea and Vietnam and the Cold War, from smaller conflicts and the Gulf War.

They embody the spirit of President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address when he challenged the nation with these words: “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.”

All members of the modern Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard, who continue to answer this clarion call, volunteered to serve – a choice they made for America and for us. They truly are the salt of the earth in America.

And never forget the reality that, on the home front, their families really do serve too.

When you meet a veteran from any era or still on active duty, thank them for their service sacrifice – not just on Veterans Day but throughout the year.

According to its website, as part of the franchise renewal process, the City of Burien is interested in “hearing residents’ opinions about cable television and other services provided by Comcast” – do YOU have an opinion?

If so, click here to take the online survey, which allows you to ‘grade’ Comcast’s performance in a number of area, ranging from prices to customer service and much more.

We know most people don’t have an opinion either way about their TV/internet/phone providers, right?

Uh huh.

Amy and husband Michael have years of experience in the auto body repair business, and they are happy to help you out in speedy fashion whatever your needs.

“From door dings to collisions, we fix it all,” Michael and Amy point out. “We help reduce stress by assisting with insurance claims, too.”

“And we offer detailing,” Amy adds.

Amy and Michael were born and raised in Burien and attended Highline High School.

“My mom, Cathy Low, and her whole family grew up in Seahurst,” Amy informs us. Cathy helps out now and again at Vision Collision’s office when Amy needs to run the occasional errand.

“And my uncle is none other than Jim Hughes of Sal’s Deli, just off 152nd. I worked there for years,” Amy said.

Lucy is Vision Collision's official mascot.

Amy and Michael’s Border Collie, Lucy, can often be seen running around the office.

“Lucy loves to come to work.”

Lucy isn’t the only pet in Amy and Michael’s household. On their land southeast of Burien “we also have two horses, three goats, and a cat.”

So anyway, we at the Blog think you’ll enjoy yourself so much at Vision Collision that, even if your vehicle is already ding-free, you should just take a hammer to your hood and bang it up a bit so you’ll have an excuse to stop by (uh…just kidding on that part, but stop by anyway!).

But seriously, click on Vision Collision’s Ad in the right sidebar, check out their stuff, call or drop by and see what they can do to fix your dinged and dented vehicle up.

Here’s a video we produced for them when they first signed on with us:

Click here to view the embedded video.

They are conveniently located just west of Ambaum at 803 SW 154th:

Vision Collision
803 SW 154th Street (just west of Ambaum)
Burien WA 98166

HOURS: 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday

PHONE: 206-244-2758

EMAIL: info@visioncollision.net

WEB: http://visioncollision.net/

And remember their slogan: “See? You’re Dent Free!”

The Exchange Club of Highline is now selling the latest Entertainment Books for $25, which contain two-for-one and other coupons offering up to 50% off at local businesses, plus new bonus cards for up to $30 in extra savings.

Here’s what our friends at the club would like us to share:

In these tough economic times, the Entertainment Book can help buyers save on dining out, groceries, services, attractions, movies and more.

The Entertainment Book has hundreds of ways to enjoy life AND save some money doing it.

The Exchange Club of Highline uses their proceeds from the sale to help meet the needs in the Highline community such as helping local Food Banks, the Boys and Girls Club, and local schools, just to name a few.

Visit the Exchange Club of Highline website to see the entire list.

Entertainment Books can be purchases from these Exchange Club members’ businesses in Burien:

• Collins Chiropractic at 619 SW 152nd
• E. B. Foote Winery at 127-B SW 153rd
• Economy Wiring/YB Tubless at 633 SW 148th
• Interiors by Jayme at 633 SW 153rd
• Schafer & Husmoe at 15511 3rd Ave. SW
• Doug Moreland Attorney at 417 SW 152nd
• Edward Jones at 645 SW 153rd St

More info on the Exchange Club from their website:

Established in 1961, Exchange Club of Highline was formed with the goal of bringing business and community leaders together to support Youth, Americanism, Community Service, and the prevention of Child Abuse. By holding an annual fundraiser, the money generated is used to meet the ongoing needs of existing community organizations, and members volunteer their time to other community projects. As needs are brought to the club’s attention, members decide on the course of action allowing flexibility and responsiveness to the ever-changing needs of our Highline community.

BTB Welcomes BLB as New Advertiser – he’s a real Honey-Do!

That’s BLB Handyman Services, LLC.

And our Handyman of the hour is Louis Bull. Louis has been a Handyman for five years, but he’s been doing “Honey-Dos” for his wife all his adult life. He just loves being a Handyman.

Louis was a Systems Engineer and data base analyst for over 20 years.

“My therapy from that job was home repair, building stuff. I need tangible things to challenge me, not computers.”

Once the kids were off to college, he switched careers.

Whether you’re a man or woman, doesn’t the thought of having your own personal “Honey-Doer” on your household staff sound good?

Here’s some of the things you could count on Louis to do at your house:

• Yardwork
• Pressure Washing
• Light Construction
• Remodel/Bath or Kitchen
• Tile & Stone installation
• Painting
• Light Plumbing & Electrical (not licensed)
• Cabinetry
• Decks

As far as being a Handyman, Louis tells BTB “it’s nice to do something that you love. I’m very fortunate that my customers are very nice people.” Further, Louis said “I’ve got a passion for my work, and desire for my customers to be happy.”

Louis tells us that no job is too big or too small. And if he can’t do the work, he’ll refer someone who can!

If your own ‘Honey-Doer’ has not been tending to his list, give Louis a call at 206-683-2733, and he’ll get the job done.

[Would you like to have a “Blogvertorial” story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by over 51,000 interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

National Volunteer Week is coming next week, from April 18-24, and is intended to celebrate the “spirit of service to others” in communities across the nation, including right here in Burien.

This year’s theme of “Celebrating People in Action” certainly describes Burien’s numerous caring volunteers, including those at St. Vincent de Paul at St. Bernadette, as well as those at St. Francis of Assisi Parishes. According to Richard Bray, Director of Donor & Community Relations of St. Vincent de Paul, these two groups helped 5,970 mostly local area needy to prevent eviction, hunger, utility shut-off and more through home visits and other contacts in 2009.

We know there are other hard-working volunteers in the area, including at various religious and service organizations, food banks, clubs and others, and we tip our collective hats to all of you!

During tough economic times, we think it’s more important than ever for each of us to try and make a difference, so we encourage all our Readers to find some way to help someone next week, even if it’s just in a small way like the newly-popular “paying it forward” fad of buying the person’s drink behind you at the local coffeeshop.

Wondering how YOU can make a difference right here in Burien? Here are some ideas (if you have any others, please email us and we’ll add ‘em):

• Volunteer at a local food bank – click a link below for more info:
  • Highline Area Food Bank (Phone: 206-433-9900; Email: highlinefb@gmail.com)
  • White Center Food Bank (Phone: 206.762.2848 Email: wcfb@drizzle.com)
  • Des Moines Area Food Bank (Phone: 206-878-2660 E-mail: dmafb@bigplanet.com)
• Participate in Burien’s annual “Clean Sweep” on Saturday, April 24 (details here).
• Volunteer at Burien’s Hospitality House.
• Volunteer at the Ruth Dykeman Children’s Center, which says on its website: “All you have to do is contact us and we’ll help you find a project that suits your style and schedule. There are many volunteer opportunities either at the main campus on Lake Burien, at special events, or at various community-based sites such as after-school programs, or recreation and educational activities with youth groups. Some projects can even be done from your home or office.Email Rachelle Nesta or call (206) 242-1698 x 131 to talk about how you can help.”
• Join or Volunteer to help the Highline Historical Society (click here to email them directly), of which we’re proud to be members.
• Volunteer to help local non-profit Burien Little Theatre, which is all volunteer; according to Artistic Director Eric Dickman, “We ALWAYS need people to help build and paint sets, sell concessions and tickets, to help move the set in before the show and out after the show. BLT is in need of office staff, ushers, and people to pass out flyers at city events. BLT needs writers and publicity people, graphic artists and people to update the website and facebook page.  BLT needs a CPA and a book keeper, a lawyer with background in non-profits would be good too. There are a few openings on BLT’s Board of Trustees.  If a person has a skill undoubtedly BLT has a use for it. Anyone wishing to help BLT can reach us at volunteer@burienlittletheatre.org or info@burienlittletheatre.org; or call 206-242-5180 or by snail mail at P.O. Box 48121, Burien WA. 98148.
• Mentor a student at Des Moines’ Aviation High School (details here, or call Nancy Pappas at (206) 716-0006 ext. 1067).
• Volunteer at your church.
• Do at least one act of random kindness per day all week (we’ll leave that up to your imagination).
• Mow the lawn of an elderly neighbor.

To help inspire you, here’s a touching video tribute to the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, who helped pass the “Serve America Act” on April 21, 2009:

Click here to view the embedded video.

The City of Burien is looking for residents of both B-Town and the to-be-annexed North Highline area to serve on advisory boards, which is a great way to become more involved with the city and give something back to your community, like your precious, helpful advice.

There is no pay, other than helping your city out, applications are being accepted through Feb. 19th, and the boards in need are the Arts Commission, Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Board.

Here are the details:

Apply for Openings on City Advisory Boards

Serving on a City advisory board is a great way to become involved with your city and give something back to your community. Burien residents and residents of the North Highline Annexation Area, which will become part of the City on April 1, are encouraged to apply for current openings on the Arts Commission, Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation Board.

Application forms are available at Burien City Hall, 400 SW 152nd Street, Ste. 300, or on the City’s website at www.burienwa.gov/boards. Applications are being accepted through February 19, 2010.

For further information call Monica Lusk, city clerk, at 248-5517.

A memorial for Luke T. Gullberg, the 26-year old Des Moines man who was killed on Oregon’s Mount Hood last week, will be this Sunday, Dec. 20th from 3pm to 6pm at Pacific Middle School, located at 22705 24th Avenue South in Des Moines.

Luke died on Saturday, Dec. 12th while climbing Mt. Hood with Anthony Vietti and Katie Nolan, who are still missing. His body was found on a glacier at 9,000 feet by searchers. Reports are that Luke may have fallen and experienced some trauma, then crawled a couple hundred yards before dying of hypothermia.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Memorial for Luke T. Gullberg

WHEN: Sunday, Dec. 20th from 3-6pm

WHERE: Pacific Middle School, located at 22705 24th Avenue South in Des Moines.

INFO/RSVP: Here are some links to various pages created in Luke’s honor:

• Facebook tribute page
• Facebook page on the Mermorial here where you can RSVP and/or leave comments
• Tribute page from fellow climber Richard Lutz
  

And here’s a video of a press conference held at Mt. Hood about the incident:

Veteran’s Day is this coming Wednesday, Nov. 11th, and Brown Bear Car Wash will be honoring vets and current service military (as well as spouses) with free car washes all day.

The nearest location is the one in Des Moines, located at 22706 Marine View Drive; others are in Federal Way, Kent, Auburn and Renton (see list below).

As a way of saying “thanks” to our military, Brown Bear will be offering free “Bear Essential” car washes to all current or former members of the military, including spouses.

“Our organization is proud to honor veterans and service personnel,” said Brown Bear President and founder Vic Odermat, himself a Marine Corps veteran. “While the washes are free, we know that freedom is not. This is a way for us to show our support and gives us a unique opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to people who sacrifice so incredibly for our freedom.”

Odermat said the offer will operate on an honor system and no verification or documentation is required. Drivers should identify themselves as a current or former member of the military to the wash attendant.

Odermat started Brown Bear in Seattle in 1957 with one location. They now own and operates car washes throughout the Puget Sound area and Spokane.

Here’s a list of participating locations nearby:

• 22706 Marine View Dr., Des Moines
• 34017 Hoyt Rd. SW, Federal Way
• 814 Auburn Way S, Auburn
• 1202 W Meeker St., Kent
• 800 S Grady Way, Renton
• 621 Rainier Ave. S, Renton
• 77 Rainier Ave. S, Renton

Just received word from a Reader who sends us this info on a local “Day of Service” on Jan. 19th (MLK Day) starting at the ACORN Offices in Burien (and as we previously reported, broken into in October):

Join Washington ACORN On January 19 in making Martin Luther King Day a true day of service.

First, we will join other organizations in a march on the Washington State Capitol in Olympia to talk to our legislators and have our voices heard.

Then, President-Elect Barack Obama has asked us to make this special day a Day of Service. Washington ACORN members will leave Olympia and gather in Tacoma to deliver the message that there is help for people facing mortgage foreclosure.

Meet in our Burien office at 7:30 AM to travel together to Olympia.

Burien office located at 134 SW 153rd Street.

WHAT: MLK Day “Day of Service”

WHEN: Monday, January 19 7:30 AM

WHERE: Washington ACORN Office, located at 134 SW 153rd Street in Burien (see map below)

INFO: 206-723-5845

Here’s a video of the announcement of USAService.org featuring Colin Powell:

Click here to view the embedded video.