Thousands of Local Boy Scouts are mounting a massive Food Drive beginning this Saturday, March 13th (and concluding next Saturday, March 20th), in one of the largest food collection campaigns ever mounted by troops in the Puget Sound area.

The campaign, called “SCOUTING FOR FOOD,” kicks off this Saturday when Scouts canvas neighborhoods with door-hangers listing the most-needed food items for local food banks.

The Scouts will return next Saturday (March 20th) to pick up donations and deliver them to local food banks.

Record numbers of people are visiting local food banks in the wake of news that Washington state’s unemployment rate rose to 9.3 percent in January. 373,000 children living in Washington state households struggle to put food on the table, according to Children’s Alliance and USDA reports.  To meet the increased food shortage locally, the Chief Seattle Council is teaming up with the Pacific Harbors Council of Boy Scouts of America making this the largest food collection campaign ever done by them. The two councils represent up to nearly 46,000 Scouting youth participation.

“In these tough economic times the SCOUTING FOR FOOD drive is more important than ever,” says Pat Craven, Boy Scout Spokesman. “Coordinating the two councils for our 2010 Centennial effort means we can help more people.” Craven added, “This drive will allow our Scouts to put into action the Scout Oath by ‘Helping Other People at All Times’.”

“Many families have depleted their resources and find themselves in need for the first time in their lives and our stock is dangerously low,” says Teresa Andrade, Center Manager at Kirkland/Northshore Hopelink. “The SCOUTING FOR FOOD drive by the Boy Scouts makes a huge difference to the people who depend on our help, especially when programs serving Washington’s children have received harsh cuts in state and local funding.”

And speaking of local food banks and fundraisers, don’t forget that there are two major fundraiser events for the Highline Area Food Bank this weekend:

1. Friday night, March 12th, 6pm+: Cove to Clover Pub Crawl starts at Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub.
2. Sunday, March 14th, 1pm: Cove to Clover 5k race begins at the Normandy Park Community Center.

On Thursday (Feb. 25), former South Seattle Community College teacher and King County webmaster Sabra Schneider threw her hat into the 2010 election ring, announcing that she’ll be seeking the 34th District House Seat (Pos. #2) being vacated by current Rep. Sharon Nelson.

So far, Schneider will be facing Geoffrey “Mac” McElroy, owner of the Triangle Pub in White Center. The filing deadline is June 11th, and the primary is Aug. 17th.

Schneider has most recently worked as Webmaster for kingcounty.gov, and according to an interview with The Seattle P-I, where she was named “Geek of the Week“:

…my job involves everything to do with the front end. I write, design, edit, lightly code, manage projects, give advice (sometimes good) and coordinate social media. It’s a surprisingly awesome job, bringing government information to citizens using technology. I’ve always been passionate about intersection of public work and technology and feel lucky to work in a place that encourages innovation.

I also teach communications at South Seattle Community College and have been faculty there for more than 10 years.

Here’s Schneider’s press release in all its glory:

SABRA SCHNEIDER TO SEEK 34th DISTRICT HOUSE SEAT

Today, former South Seattle Community College teacher Sabra Schneider announced her intention to seek the 34th District House Seat being vacated by current Representative Sharon Nelson. Schneider, a resident of Arbor Heights in West Seattle, currently manages online communications for King County.

“Now more than ever, we need legislators who will make education and family wage jobs a priority in Olympia” said Sabra, 36. “My background in government communications coupled with a decade of teaching the work force of the future makes me uniquely qualified to take on the challenges facing citizens across the 34th District and across our state.”

Sabra Schneider has been a leader in King County’s efforts to increase efficiency and transparency through the innovative use of technology and community partnerships. Sabra has been instrumental in emergency communications, working closely with other local governments to ensure citizens have the most up-to-date information, during the most critical times. A strong proponent of transparency and accountability in government, Sabra is currently helping to organize the Open Government Northwest conference at the end of March.

Prior to serving in King County government, Sabra worked for 10 years as a teacher at South Seattle Community College (SSCC) in West Seattle where she developed a two year degree program in computing technologies. The program has helped graduates go on to family-wage jobs in technology careers. While at SSCC, Sabra also worked with the Seattle Jobs Initiative to build and deliver a fast-track technology program for low-income job seekers.

As a 15-year union member, fighting on behalf of working class families in the 34th District will be a top priority for Sabra in the legislature. Sabra helped bargain the current contract enjoyed by members of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 17. While working at South Seattle Community College, Sabra was a member of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 1789.

New B-Town Blog Advertiser The Senior Housing Assistance Group (SHAG) is pleased to announce the completion and upcoming Grand Opening of Arrowhead Gardens, its newest and most impressive affordable senior living community, a one-of-a-kind senior living campus consisting of a Village Center community building and three residential apartment buildings designed specifically for seniors, all of which are now open and available for immediate occupancy

Arrowhead Gardens (phone #: 1-888-472-5155) will be hosting its official Grand Opening event over the upcoming weekend of Saturday, February 27th and Sunday, February 28th. The general public is invited, especially prospective senior residents and their families, with tours, prizes, food, refreshments and live music. Prospective senior residents and their families can tour the community during the Grand Opening event weekend, or at anytime by appointment. A $99 Move-In Special will be offered to any eligible applicant who leases an apartment home over the Grand Opening event weekend. Visit Arrowhead Gardens today, where the lifestyle is rich and the rents are affordable. And don’t miss the Grand Opening event! See what all the fuss is about.

Located in the Highland Park neighborhood of West Seattle at 9200 2nd Ave SW, Arrowhead Gardens is the latest of 28 affordable senior living communities operated by SHAG, the largest senior housing provider in the Puget Sound region. Arrowhead Gardens contains an aggregate of 449 dwelling units in three unique and architecturally distinctive residential apartment buildings situated on a lushly landscaped four acre campus and configured in a village-like setting around the Village Center community building which contains leasing and management offices and many of the community’s special amenities and facilities.

For over twenty years, SHAG has been the leader in providing affordable independent living opportunities to seniors in the Puget Sound region. As a non-profit operator, SHAG is able to offer quality housing to seniors at affordable rents that are typically as much as 15% to 30% below comparable market rents. With no entrance fees, buy-in fees, service charges, move-in fees, exorbitant security deposits or other mandatory charges at move-in, and with most utilities included in the monthly rent, SHAG’s affordable senior living communities are even more attractive to seniors with moderate incomes in today’s stagnant economy. Senior citizens with fixed incomes in particular have felt the financial pinch with declines in their home values, retirement savings and stock portfolios, amid the rising costs of living. SHAG is part of the solution.

Arrowhead Gardens provides affordable independent living opportunities designed specifically for active seniors with moderate incomes. Certain age and income restrictions apply. Eligible individuals must be at least 61 years of age or at least 55 years of age and disabled. Maximum incomes for eligible individuals and households are approximately $35,000 per year for singles and $40,000 per year for couples. Rents start as low as $680 per month. Most utilities are included. Small pets are welcome.

All of the buildings at Arrowhead Gardens are access-controlled for security, elevator-serviced for convenience and fully sprinklered, with audio and visual fire alarms and smoke detectors, for fire safety. Secure underground parking is also available. Sunrooms and outdoor roof decks on the top floor of each residential apartment building provide stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, Mt. Rainier, and the Seattle cityscape. Each residential apartment building has a fully furnished main entry lobby with a fireplace. Trash chutes, common laundry rooms and resident lounges are provided on most residential floors.

View one of the model apartment homes or take a tour of any of the large selection of one- and two-bedroom rental apartment homes at Arrowhead Gardens, which are designed with seniors in mind and equipped with full bathrooms, full kitchens with full-sized appliances including dishwashers. Choose from among five attractive color décor packages. Apartment homes equipped with washer/dryer hookups are available. A selection of fully handicap-accessible apartments is also available. In addition to apartments with traditional bathrooms that have shower/tub surrounds, a selection of apartments are available with bathrooms that have roll-in showers or showers with transfer seats. Most ground floor apartments have outdoor patios and a number of upper floor apartments have outdoor balconies, decks or terraces.

In addition to the affordable rents are the beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards, soothing water features and a wealth of other amazing amenities and facilities that have most new and prospective residents excited. Each residential building has a gated and beautifully landscaped semi-private outdoor garden and courtyard. Some pea-patch planter boxes are available for resident use and community gardening. The village campus includes several delightful and soothing water features, such as re-circulating fountains and rain gardens that make use of ambient water, channeling rain water through downspouts into garden troughs and streams. The sights and sounds of flowing water help make Arrowhead Gardens a pleasant and relaxing place for seniors.

Take a tour of the Village Center and see what all the fuss is about. The amenities include:

• A Great-Room with vaulted ceiling
• A fireplace and first-class décor and furnishings, with comfortable color-coordinated furniture, tasteful art work, and soft background music.
• A Computer Lab with a network of computers providing residents free internet access, including several touch-screen computers and wireless internet access.
• Media Room for a home theater experience with a large screen HDTV, a Blue-Ray DVD player, surround sound audio, and plush theater seating.
• Craft Room for water colors, origami, card making, knitting, crochet, or contribute to a community jigsaw puzzle.
• Community Room / Lounge with kitchen facilities and banquet tables and chairs for large or small gatherings or celebrations, formal catered events or informal potluck dinners.
• Fitness Center with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, including treadmills, elliptical machines, strength training equipment, and recumbent and upright exercise bikes, and with flat screen LCD TVs with built-in DVD players to watch the news or other programming while going through a workout or playing their favorite workout routine DVDs.
• Spacious outdoor decks and terraces surround the Village Center, along with outdoor patio furniture, umbrellas to ward off bright sun or rain, and a gas barbeque grill for impromptu cook-outs

Arrowhead Gardens is located immediately adjacent to a King County Metro transit center, conveniently located near freeway access, and also features a dedicated transit van for local transportation. Arrowhead Gardens is an affordable senior living community like no other, offering a rich lifestyle and affordable rents in a beautifully landscaped and environmentally-friendly garden setting.

[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!]

Boy Scout Troop #375 will be holding their annual Fish Dinner on Friday Feb. 19th, from 5pm – 7pm at St Francis of Assisi in Burien.

The troop will be barbecuing Sockeye Salmon and serving fresh Dutch Oven desserts – all for just $10!

Here are the details:

WHAT: Boy Scout Troop #375’s annual Fish Dinner

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 19th from 5pm – 7pm

WHERE: St. Francis of Assisi Hall, located at 15226 21st Avenue SW in Burien.

COST: Just $10!

INFO: For more information, contact kgd2418@yahoo.com, or visit the Troop’s website here.

Troop #375 serves boys in areas including Des Moines, Normandy Park, Burien, White Center and West Seattle. For more information, check out their website here.

BTB Advertiser West Seattle Montessori School and Academy will be presenting the play “Mulan” this Thursday, Feb. 4th, and Friday, Feb. 5th at West Seattle High School, at 7pm both nights.

Starring in the play will be the schools’ lower and upper elementary students.

Directing is WSM’s faculty member Mary Springer, local founder and artistic director of Twelfth Night Productions.

The tale of Mulan contains universal themes – that often the individual must sacrifice for the greater good, and that the path of personal discovery lies in that sacrifice.

Tickets are $7 in advance and $10 at the door.

Since 1985, West Seattle Montessori School has been an integral part of the West Seattle Community. Offering preschool through 8th grade education, WSMS prides itself on fostering independence and intellectual curiosity, stimulating personal growth, and encouraging innovation and a love of learning.

The school and academy are now enrolling for the 2010 – 2011 academic school year.

For more information, please contact the main office at (206) 935-0427, or visit their website here: www.WestSeattleMontessori.com.

Play location:

West Seattle High School
California Avenue SW and SW Stevens Street, in West Seattle

Ticket information: www.westseattlemontessori.com/updates/mulan

[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!]

BTB Advertiser Ventana Construction is holding another free event: “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop” on Thursday, Feb. 11th at 6pm.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Ventana Construction’s “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop”

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 11th beginning at 6pm

WHERE: Ventana Construction offices, located at 5458 California Ave SW, in West Seattle (98136).

INFO: Ventana says:

“If you are a homeowner considering remodeling your home or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process.

Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful.

This 1 ½ hour workshop is open to the public and seating is limited.

Call 206-932-3009 to reserve your space.”

For more info, visit Ventana Construction’s website here, or call 206-932-3009.

[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!]

The Rotary Club of Burien/White Center is pleased to announce that this year’s major fundraiser will be a “Rockin Valentine’s Dinner and Dance” on Saturday, Feb. 13th at South Seattle Community College.

“Our community has not had a Valentines event in some time,” said Rotary Club spokesperson Tami Greene. “And our Rotary Club thought it would be a nice change of pace. So if you are looking for a new and fun way to celebrate this Valentine’s Day, please attend our dinner, dance, and auction. This event is not just for couples, single people will have just as much fun!”

The major Sponsors are Cox Financial and New Frontier Marketing.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Burien/White Center Rotary’s Rockin Valentine’s Dinner and Dance

WHERE: South Seattle Community College

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 13th from 6pm – 11:30pm

INFO: This event will feature:

• Fundraising
• Live Auction
• Raffle Prizes
• Music by Uncle Ernie, playing great Rock n’ Roll music (great dancing and listening music)
• Corsages, boutonnieres, and chocolates will be available for sale.

TICKETS: $75 per person, available from any member of the Rotary Club of Burien White Center Club or online at Brown Paper Tickets here.

Local band Uncle Ernie are well known to the Highline and surrounding area and include Highline High School’s class of ‘78, Tim Clark and newly elected Des Moines Councilmember, Matt Pina, Mt. Rainier class of ‘78.

Other participating sponsors to date include:

• Tami Greene with Sound Mortgage
• Burien Toyota
• Burien Chevrolet
• Cox Financial
• New Frontier Marketing
• Bonney Watson
• Collins Chiropractic
• Mick Kelly’s
• The B-Town Blog

The club is still seeking Live Auction items and Raffle Prizes, so if you wish to donate a live auction or raffle prize (it’s a great way to market!), contact Bob Wray at 253-670-0466 or via email at bob@newfrontiermarketing.com, or download a PDF of the Sponsorship Package here.

Here’s more info:

The B-Town Blog proudly welcomes back Advertiser Ventana Construction, who wants you to know that with this being a New Year, they’ve got a New Look and Better Pricing.

They’re also holding a special free event: “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop” on Thursday, Jan 14th at 6pm.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Ventana Construction’s “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop”

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 14th beginning at 6pm

WHERE: Ventana Construction offices, located at 5458 California Ave SW, in West Seattle (98136).

INFO: Ventana says:

“If you are a homeowner considering remodeling your home or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process.

Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful.

This 1 ½ hour workshop is open to the public and seating is limited.

Call 206-932-3009 to reserve your space.”

For more info, visit Ventana Construction’s website here, or call 206-932-3009.

Here’s what they have to say about their new pricing:

New Year, New Look, Better Pricing!

You may have been thinking for a while about remodeling your home—kitchen, bath, new windows or siding, maybe even an addition or dormer. It turns out that 2010 is a great time to do those projects and more.  With lower prices from subcontractors and many material suppliers motivated to provide better pricing, it’s possible to complete high-quality projects with a trusted company like Ventana Construction for less than was possible in the last five years.

Adding to the cost savings, some building materials, like select windows, doors, insulation, and heating equipment, are eligible for a limited-time Federal Tax Credit, up to $1500. The materials have to be installed in 2010 to be eligible.   There’s an even greater credit available for renewable energy products like solar.

Ventana Construction is an award-winning, full-service custom home and remodeling contractor.  We are a family-owned business specializing in whole-house remodels and additions, with a focus on seamlessly blending the new areas with the existing home.  We also do total facelifts on kitchens, baths and basements and build spectacular outdoor gathering places.

We are members of the Better Business Bureau, the Master Builder’s Association, the National Association of Home Builders and the Built Green program.  We are donors to local non-profits and schools, and especially to Westside Baby, which provides essentials to local children in need.

Ventana Construction also offers a monthly workshop in our West Seattle office about the remodeling process.  The Building a Better Home Workshop is held in conjunction with Goforth-Gill Architects and covers a broad range of information for those considering a project for their home.  Our next workshop is January 14 at 6pm—please call to reserve your space.

To help ring in the New Year, Ventana Construction is offering a limited-time 25% discount off our regular markup on projects signed before March 31, 2010.   That discount amounts to thousands of dollars on an average-size project and is an offer not likely to be repeated.

Follow the B-Town Blog link to find us, or call 206-932-3009 to talk with us about what you have in mind for your home in the New Year.

[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!]

Monday afternoon (Jan. 4th), the King County Council appointed former Seattle City Council President Jan Drago to fill the District 8 seat, taking over from when Dow Constantine became Executive.

Drago won by a unanimous vote after Rep. Joe McDermott’s election stalemated in a 4-4 tie and Councilman Larry Phillips suggested a vote for her.

There were four finalists for the position: McDermott; state Rep. Zack Hudgins, D-Tukwila; Drago; and Rep. Sharon Nelson, D-Maury Island.

Drago, who failed to make the general election for Seattle Mayor, claims that she will not run for re-election in November 2010.

At one time, four of the 11 original candidates for this vacancy were from the Burien area (Dr. Arun Jhaveri, Lucy Krakowiak; Kathleen Quong-Vermeire, and Shawn McEvoy), as well as two members of the original selection committee (Joan McGilton and Doug Osterman), but in the end none of our peeps got very far.

According to Drago’s Seattle City Council website bio:

Jan Drago has been a member of the Seattle City Council since January 1994, following her election in November 1993.

Prior to her election, she had been a small business owner (Haagen Dazs Ice Cream Shoppes franchise owner, (1980-1991) and a school teacher (1973-1978).

She is a graduate of Douglass College, Rutgers University (B.A., Psychology).

She and her husband Noel are the parents of four sons and two grandsons.

Here’s the council’s official press release:

The Metropolitan King County Council today gave its unanimous approval to the appointment of former Seattle City Council President Jan Drago to fill the vacancy created in County Council District 8 when Dow Constantine was sworn in as County Executive.

“I am honored to be selected to serve the people of District 8,” said Drago shortly after her swearing-in by Superior Court Presiding Judge Bruce Hilyer. “I look forward to working with the Council and the communities and neighborhoods that make up the district on the challenges that we face this year.”

Drago will act as a caretaker in District 8, serving until the certification of the Nov 2010 general election when the new Councilmember for the district will be sworn in.

“Jan Drago is an experienced public official and policy-maker, and I look forward to working with her,” said Council Chair Bob Ferguson.

“Jan will make a wonderful addition to the King County Council,” said council Vice Chair Jane Hague. “She knows the issues facing District 8 and will hit the ground running to serve her constituents well.”

“Jan Drago has a distinguished career serving our community, having been elected to serve Seattle residents four times,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “I am confident she will represent the citizens of District 8 well until they have the chance to elect their permanent representative this fall.”

“The residents of King County will benefit from Jan’s experience, especially when it comes to addressing the 2010 budget,” said Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.

Drago served on the Seattle City Council from 1994 through 2009, having served as Council President for four years and as Chair of the Council’s Budget Committee from 1999-2003. Drago, a graduate of Rutgers University, was a small business owner and school teacher prior to joining the Seattle City Council.

“I was looking for an independent minded person who could work with all of my colleagues,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn. “With Jan Drago we get that and a wealth of local government experience as well. I’m pleased to welcome her and look forward to working with her between now and November.”

“Jan Drago is an experienced local leader and I look forward to welcoming her as a colleague on the King County Council,” said Councilmember Julia Patterson.

“I look forward to working with Jan Drago on the many complex issues facing King County, “ said Councilmember Larry Gossett. “I am sure that Jan will serve her constituents well over the next 11 months.”

“All the candidates we considered were very qualified,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “We are fortunate to have such talented, informed leaders to choose from. After working with Councilmember Drago at the City of Seattle, I am confident that she can hit the ground running and offer her considerable government and business experience to the County. We appreciate her budget expertise and familiarity with the issues facing King County.”

Drago was selected out of the 11 applicants who applied to replace Constantine. All of the applicants were interviewed by a 12-member advisory committee of community leaders and elected officials who live or work in Council District 8. The advisory committee sent the Council Drago as well as the names of three other candidates:

· Rep. Zack Hudgins—State Representative from the 11th District
· Sen. Joe McDermott—State Senator from the 34th District
· Rep. Sharon Nelson—State Representative from the 34th District

The committee stressed Drago’s proven ability in budget, transportation and labor matters, her strong regional relationships and the potential to strengthen partnerships with the city of Seattle because of her time on the city Council.

UPDATE 5:45pm 1/4/10: Late this afternoon, Councilmember Larry Phillips released this statement, chock full of political irony:

“I made it clear on December 14th with my vote for Senator Joe McDermott that I strongly support him as the best representative to fill the District 8 vacancy. He has an impressive show of support from the people of District 8, has demonstrated leadership as a state senator tackling many of the most pressing issues for our community, and is a historic choice as the first openly gay person to serve of the County Council. I hope to have the opportunity to serve alongside Senator McDermott this fall.

“The council deliberated for many hours over Senator McDermott’s appointment, but—despite having my vote and the vote of three of my colleagues—Senator McDermott was unable to garner the five votes on the Council needed to secure the appointment. Councilmember Jan Drago, who along with Senator McDermott was endorsed by a group of District 8 citizens who vetted the potential candidates, was supported by four other Councilmembers on December 14th while I remained loyal in my support of Senator McDermott.

“The Council has remained at an impasse for the three weeks that followed, with no end in sight. The bottom line is that four votes plus four votes equals zero representation for District 8, and that is unacceptable. It’s is time to end the impasse and end the disenfranchisement of District 8 citizens. They deserve representation as the Council begins taking up business in 2010.

“Councilmember Drago has been elected by the citizens of this community four times, has strong Democratic credentials, and is willing to represent District 8 as a caretaker until the November election. So although Senator McDermott remains my first choice to represent District 8, today I joined my colleagues in supporting Jan Drago for the District 8 appointment.”

by Mark Neuman

All of us at The B-Town and White Center Blogs would like to offer a huge Turkey Day “thank you” to everyone who donated this past weekend at our 2nd Annual Turkey ‘N’ Diapers Drive at Albertsons in White Center.

Over $800 in donations was collected!

The food items will be distributed to those in need by the White Center Food Bank.

Baby related items will go to WestSide Baby, located in White Center.

Team leader Bart Bryan, who often hosts “Whaddaya Think?” on our six neighborhood blogs said “It was very, very cold weatherwise, but the hearts of our neighbors were warm.”

Example: two men, both fighting cancer, arrived three hours apart and, not knowing each other, donated food. Each did so with giving smiles.

One of the most touching moments of the day was when an elderly man donated all he could – 24 cents.

A Sarah Palin look-alike stopped by and contributed food.

A casino dealer set his 52 cards down and gave away a box of 168 diapers.

A grandmother waved and left a grocery bag of pasta and sauce.

A man named “Joe,” who did not want his picture taken, gave four bags of Top Ramen for “starving college students.”

Darla Green, from Skin Perfect Aesthetics in Burien, was the first donor of the day, bringing in a paper bag full of canned goods.

Mike, from an up and coming spot in White Center called Proletariat Pizza, donated three pizzas for the volunteers.

We’d also like to give a big shout out to the good folks at the White Center Albertsons!

Thanks, everyone!

WestSide Baby is 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.

In any given month the White Center Food Bank serves over 1,500 families.

Here’s 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

Here’s a Photo Slideshow shot by Mark Neuman and Scott Schaefer of the day:

Click to View Our Photo Slideshow

BTB Advertiser Ventana Construction is holding a special free event: “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop” on Thursday, Dec. 3rd at 6pm.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Ventana Construction’s “Building a Better Home: Remodeling and Custom Home Workshop”

WHEN: Thursday, Dec. 3rd beginning at 6 pm

WHERE: Ventana Construction offices, located at 5458 California Ave SW, in West Seattle (98136).

INFO: Ventana says:

“If you are a homeowner considering remodeling your home or building a new custom home, this workshop is an invaluable first step in the process.

Learn from experienced professionals about how to get started, what to expect, and the steps you can take to make your project successful.

This 1 ½ hour workshop is open to the public and seating is limited.

Call 206-932-3009 to reserve your space.”

For more info, visit Ventana Construction’s website here, or call 206-932-3009.

[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!]

Burien Mayor Joan McGilton, and Normandy Park Councilmember Doug Osterman were named Monday (Nov. 16th) to a 12-person panel that will recommend candidates to be considered for Dow Constantine’s seat that he’ll vacate when he takes over as King County Executive.

Constantine’s new gig starts next week, and it’s expected that the replacement will be chosen by the Council on Dec. 14th.

“The Council is acting quickly to ensure representation for the nearly 200,000 residents of District 8,” said Council Vice Chair Bob Ferguson, prime sponsor of the ordinance. “Timely appointment will also allow the new councilmember to transition into the position, hire staff and hit the ground running in the new year.”

The motion adopted today names a 12-member advisory committee of community leaders and elected officials who live or work in Council District 8, and who represent the geographic, economic, and ethnic diversity of the district.

Under the legislation, applicants for the impending Council vacancy must submit application materials to the Clerk of the Council by 4:00 p.m., November 23, including a resume, a brief written explanation of how they meet the criteria for appointment, and a statement of whether they intend to run for election as the Councilmember for District 8 in November 2010.

The advisory committee will meet no later than December 3 to interview qualified applicants and recommend three to six candidates for consideration by the County Council. The committee’s recommendations will include at least one candidate who intends to run for election as Councilmember in 2010, and one who does not.

The King County Council has final authority for making the appointment, and under the legislation will take action by December 14. The appointee would serve in office until certification of the next general election in November 2010.

“I am pleased with the composition of the advisory board,” said Councilmember Larry Gossett. “I am confident they will forward the County Council a qualified pool of applicants for the next representative of District 8.”

Along with Mayor McGilton and Councilmember Osterman, others named to the advisory committee include:

• Co-Chair Anne Levinson, co-owner of the Seattle Storm, former Seattle Municipal Court Judge, former chair of the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission
• Co-Chair Mark Okazaki, Executive Director of Neighborhood House, a human service agency with facilities in High Point and Greenbridge
• Aileen Balahadia, Executive Director of the White Center Community Development Association
• Steve Daschle, Executive Director of Southwest Youth and Family Services (and brother of former Sen. Tom Daschle)
• Tom Dean, Executive Director of the Vashon/Maury Island Land Trust
• David Johnson, CEO of NAVOS, a mental health care facility that provides housing
• Patti Mullen, West Seattle business owner
• Behnaz Nelson, co-chair of the King County Coalition of Unions
• Kathy Nyland, chair of the Georgetown Merchants Association and chair of the City Neighborhood Association
• Chris Porter, business owner and a nurse practitioner who is active on park and recreation issues

“I have a lot of confidence in this stellar group of citizens, led by co-chairs Anne Levinson and Mark Okazaki who have made so many outstanding contributions to our community,” said Councilmember Larry Phillips. “They will no doubt conduct a careful vetting process and offer thoughtful recommendations about the next representative for Council District 8.”

“I support the appointment process and its expedited timeline,” said Councilmember Julia Patterson. “The longer we wait to appoint a replacement, the longer the nearly 200,000 residents in District 8 are without a representative and advocate on the King County Council.”

Under the legislation the advisory committee would use the following criteria to evaluate candidates, including:

• Knowledge of the functions of King County government
• Knowledge of the issues and challenges facing King County government
• Knowledge of the issues affecting the constituents of Council District 8
• A demonstrated ability to develop a responsible budget
• A demonstrated ability to respond to public concerns
• Demonstrated leadership skills

The process is similar to that adopted earlier this year to fill vacancies in the offices of County Executive and County Assessor. Previously, the political party of the Council member vacating the office would submit nominees for an appointed successor, but voters last year amended the King County Charter to make most countywide offices non-partisan, including Council district seats.

Council District 8 encompasses Burien, Normandy Park, West Seattle, North Highline, Vashon/Maury Islands, SoDo, the International District/Chinatown, Pioneer Square, East Beacon Hill, and portions of the cities of SeaTac and Tukwila.

And yes, YOU too can apply to this position if you qualify – application materials can be sent by mail or electronically.

The mailing address is:

Clerk of the Council
516 Third Avenue, Room W-1039
Seattle, WA, 98104

E-mail applications can be sent to the Clerk at anne.noris@kingcounty.gov. Her phone number is 206-296-0364.

Goodspaceguy, are you reading this?

Courtesy B-Town Blog Contributor Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company) comes what may be the “season finale” handy-dandy interactive map of area garage, yard and estate sales, covering the region from Des Moines up through West Seattle, from Friday Sept. 25h through Sunday, Sept. 27th.

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Area Sales (9/25-27) in a larger map

Courtesy B-Town Blog Contributor Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company) comes this weekend’s handy-dandy interactive map of area garage and yard sales, covering the region from Des Moines to West Seattle, from Friday Sept. 18th through Sunday, Sept. 20th.

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Area Sales (9/18-20) in a larger map

Courtesy B-Town Blog Contributor Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company) comes this weekend’s handy-dandy interactive map of area garage and yard sales, from Des Moines to West Seattle, from Friday Sept. 11th through Sunday, Sept. 13th.

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Area Sales (9/11 – 13) in a larger map

B-Town Blog Advertiser West Seattle Montessori & West Seattle Academy has successfully completed its major remodel and has opened its doors for classes this week.

And now it’s time to celebrate!

All readers are invited to attend their Grand Opening Open House this Saturday, Sept. 12th, from 5:30pm – 7:30 pm.

“We are thrilled with our new location, and want to invite anyone in the community to attend this event and check out our fabulous new school,” says the school’s Tara Requa.

And, says Tara, “there will be hot dogs and cake for all!”

WHAT: West Seattle Montessori & West Seattle Academy Grand Opening Open House

WHEN: Saturday, Sept. 12th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm

WHERE: West Seattle Montessori & West Seattle Academy, located at 11215 15th Ave SW Seattle, WA 98146

CONTACT: Website is here: www.westseattlemontessori.com; Phone: 206-935-0427

The B-Town Blog welcomes Fetch Pet Care, our newest advertiser, owned by Deva and Hunter Samuels.

Fetch Pet Care offers in-home care for dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, rodents and even fish.

Fetch Pet Care is a locally owned and operated franchise, so they are able to call on their parent company if they need any support with making sure your pets’ needs are met.

Deva has taken a nine-month Veterinary Assistant course offered by Pima Medical Institute in Renton and received her diploma so she is well qualified to care for all types of animals.

Deva offers a free in-home consultation to make sure you and your pets’ needs are a perfect match for her services.

She specializes in taking group excursions (four animals or less at a time) to off-leash dog parks, including Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island, for robust canine swimming parties.

Deva can also take care of the special needs of animals, including medical injections and special diets.

When not working, Deva volunteers her time for Bulls Eye Dog Rescue, a group that pulls dogs from local shelters and fosters them, providing medical care and placing them in loving homes.

Fetch Pet Care is located right on the West Seattle/White Center border, so its location is perfect if you work downtown and need a great place to keep your pet happy and secure while you are at work

Contact Deva for more information:

Fetch Pet Care
9425 12th Avenue SW
Seattle, WA 98106

Phone: 206-965-9851

Website: http://fetchpetcare.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Seattle-WA/Fetch-Pet-Care-of-West-Seattle/60648432694

Email: westseattle@fetchpetcare.com

[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story and Ad like this for your Business on a popular, fast-growing website seen by 31,000+ interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

The B-Town Blog extends a welcoming hand to its latest Advertiser – Ventana Construction, LLC!

Ventana Construction is a full-service custom home and remodeling contractor based nearby in West Seattle. It’s a family-owned business with a full staff of skilled craftsmen. They specialize in whole-house remodels and additions, with a focus on seamlessly blending the new areas with the existing home. Ventana also does total face-lifts on kitchens, baths and basements, as well as build spectacular outdoor gathering places.

EXPERIENCE
With more than 25 years experience in remodeling and custom home building, Ventana Construction welcomes all kinds of projects. They’ve worked on every kind of home in the region — ‘50s ramblers, ‘40s Tudors, ‘20s Craftsman, ‘60s subdivisions and their own office, built just after the turn of the last century. They’ve done steep slopes and narrow lots, pin piles and lakefront. Ventana understands the materials, the millwork, the function and how to make it all come together.

As a Built Green member of the Master Builders Association, Ventana’s staff is very familiar with green building techniques and materials. They have the knowledge to suggest what makes sense and what may be a needless expenditure. They effectively and proactively work to keep your project in line with your budget.

CREATIVITY & COLLABORATION
Ventana Construction works closely with its clients and architects to build functional spaces with inspired design and stellar finishes. They gather your project team for weekly meetings to go over finish materials, answer questions and look ahead to future decisions.

Creative solutions and use of materials make their projects stand out, from custom-built Craftsman-style railings to modern steel and green materials, Ventana creates seamless transitions from existing to new spaces.

ACCOUNTABILITY
The two most frequently asked questions during a project? “How much”? and “How long?” Ventana Construction provides answers with frequent schedule updates and a weekly report detailing progress and costs by line item.

Clients log in directly from their website to see all of this information. Ventana hosts all project documents, progress photos, master schedules, and post material ordering deadlines online. This allows clients, architects and subcontractors to have a central source of information for project management. Clients can continue to use this login after project completion, sharing photos, looking up paint colors and requesting warranty work. Ventana is one of a select few contractors in the region utilizing this superior project management system.

COMMUNICATION
Ventana Construction provides an exceptional level of communication to its clients. They know their clients have busy lives, so they communicate primarily by e-mail, which allows them to be responsive without being intrusive.

Ventana makes the best possible use of available technology, issuing their site supervisors laptops and digital cameras. The architect needs to send a detail of where the soffit meets the edge of the roof? No problem—Ventana’s supervisors will be able to see it and build from it in just minutes.

Ventana Construction provides complimentary initial consultation and estimates, and also offer fee-based pre-construction budgeting services. Contact Ventana via their website or office—they look forward to hearing what you have in mind!

Ventana Construction
5458 California Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98136
206-932-3009
Email: office@ventanabuilds.com
Website: www.ventanabuilds.com

[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story and Ad like this for your Business on a popular, fast-growing website seen by 31,000+ interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Courtesy B-Town Blog Contributor Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company) comes this weekend’s handy-dandy interactive map of area garage and yard sales, from Des Moines to West Seattle, from Friday Sept. 4th through Sunday, Sept. 6th (since Monday is a holiday some may be going on then as well).

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Area Sales (9/4-6) in a larger map

The B-Town Blog welcomes Super Deli Mart, our newest Advertiser!

New owner Min Chung has been in the grocery business since he was young and has vast experience having managed his first store when he was only 17 years old.

Super Deli Mart’s grand reopening was this past Labor Day weekend and it was a big success. He made and sold a lot of Hoagies!

Min welcomes you to Super Deli Mart.

“What makes these Hoagies so good?” we asked.

“It’s the mamu.”

“Mamu?”

Min said “it’s the secret sauce used on the original Hoagy’s Corner sandwiches and we still use the same secret ingredients and we make it fresh daily.”

These sandwiches include:

• The Cheesy British
• The Canadian
• The German
• The French
• The American
• The Italian
• And many others

Min’s Super Deli Mart is unique because they not only have those wonderful Hoagies, but they are now offering full and half size kegs to go with stock on hand and a menu of all kegs offered in the Seattle area!

If you pre-order a week in advance your keg will be waiting for you at a perfectly-chilled 36 degrees.

They also offer a selection of wines at great prices. Buy four bottles, get an additional 10% off and you can mix and match!

Min enjoys a good cigar on occasion so he offers a great selection of premium hard rolled cigars at great prices.

Min grew up in Burien. He grew up eating these Hoagies. He and his father would stop at the store on their way to Vashon Island to fish and fuel up on Hoagies purchased at the same store that he now owns, 22-years later. His lifelong dream is realized!!

Min would like to thank all the folks who stopped by this Labor Day Weekend making his grand re-opening a rousing success. And a special thanks to those who came all the way from Burien to stop in and say Hi.

Super Deli Mart:

9051 35th SW
Seattle, WA 98126
Phone: 206-937-1442
“Call to pre-order!”

[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story and Ad like this for your Business on a popular, fast-growing website seen by 31,000+ interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

Courtesy B-Town Blog Contributor Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company) comes this weekend’s handy-dandy interactive map of area garage and yard sales, from Des Moines to West Seattle, from Friday Aug. 28th through Sunday, Aug. 30th.

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Area Sales (8/28-30) in a larger map

Courtesy B-Town Blog Reader Duane Hobbs (of Andrews/Hobbs Design Company, 206-248-8410) comes this weekend’s interactive map of area garage and yard sales, as culled from Craigslist and other online listings.

To utilize the map, simply click on any of the yellow push-pin styled icons, and a listing of that specific sale will pop up (HINT: if you feel like you’re “stuck” on one listing, just click on another icon):

View Burien Area Sales (8/22-23) in a larger map

(EDITOR’S NOTE: B-Town Blog Editor Scott Schaefer, and Mark Neuman, Reporter, first met Bill Hoffman back at James Madison Junior High School in West Seattle, when Richard Nixon was president and Jim McDermott was a freshman in the Washington State House of Representatives.)

We took some time recently to sit with our “old” buddy, Bill Hoffman.

Bill’s raising a family in West Seattle, where he grew up, returning from California where he delved into filmmaking.

And now he’s going to see if he can make lawmaking his next vocation.

“I am running to unseat Jim McDermott,” Bill told the B-Town Blog at the Burien Farmer’s Market, referring to the 7th District congressman who was first elected to the position in 1988.

Bill is getting a head start, in a way (the general election is not for another sixteen months), and he’s quite serious. He’s hired a political veteran, Bob Stout, who is a professional fundraiser, having worked on Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign and also a successful Congressional race in Idaho.

Bill, who has already met with Washington State Democratic Party officials, has indicated he’s willing and able to supply some of his own money to fund his campaign.

“All the research we’ve done so far tells us that a lot of McDermott’s support is not support for him,” Bill said. “He has  a core group of 15% to 20% who simply like Jim. The rest vote liberal.

“Our strategy is to make it through the August 2010 primary and take McDermott on head-to-head in the general election.

“In a place where a Democrat gets 75% to 80% of the vote, he should be running against another Democrat.”

We asked Bill: It’s January, 2011. You’ve won the election. You’re sworn in. You’ve moved in to your new Washington, D.C., office. Excluding finding out where the cafeteria is, what are you going to focus on first?

“Health care and global warming,” he said without delay.

“(The) current (environmental) legislation in front of Congress is not enough. We need to change the way we do things. We need to change the cars that we drive. We need to change the fuel that we use.

“It will be one of my absolute primary goals to do everything I can to help the country move in that direction.

“I have a strong interest in science. The (earth’s) poles are warming faster than the equator is, consequently the total amount of wind around the world has dropped ten percent in the past decades. So wind turbines are losing their ability to produce maximum power.

“Let’s create tax incentives for living near where you work.”

We also asked Bill: Who is more liberal, Bill Hoffman or Jim McDermott?

“I think in the classic definition, I am. I think (using) the definition conservatives use today, McDermott is.

“I do believe in big projects to a point. I think we have to use some fiscal responsibility.”

Bill was at one time the youngest licensed real estate agent in the state of Washington. He earned a BA in Sociology specializing in social psychology at the University of Washington.

He moved to Los Angeles where he attended USC, earning a Masters of Professional Writing degree in screenwriting.

He went on to write, produce and direct a few feature-length motion pictures, in addition to his employment in IT support and graphic design.

While living in Los Angeles Bill was elected to the South Robertson Neighborhood Council.

Unrelated to that responsibility, Bill’s next door neighbor down there for a while was Dallas Taylor, best known as the drummer on Crosby, Stills and Nash’s debut album, Crosby, Stills & Nash and their follow-up with Neil Young, Déjà Vu.

“Let’s just say that living next door to Dallas was interesting. Also, sometimes I’d see Lou Ferrigno (The Incredible Hulk) jogging past my house.”

Bill and his wife, Elena, moved back to West Seattle about six years ago.

They have two kids, Naum and Sirma, both of whom attend Schmitz Park Elementary in West Seattle.

“Schmitz Park is an outstanding school,” Bill said.

Bill will soon be serving as vice-president of the school’s PTA.

Elena is not only very skilled with software (she is an analyst for PACCAR), she’s also quite a proficient writer of Haiku, the classic five-seven-five form of Japanese poetry.

Going to introduce any Haiku into the campaign? we asked Bill.

“Not a bad idea.
I’ll have to give it some thought.
I’ll get back to you,”

Bill said, unwittingly delivering Haiku in thoughtful response.

Upon further reflection perhaps his next Haiku will read:

Twenty years of Jim
Enough already says Bill
Now is time for change

To contact Bill Hoffman, here you go:

Hoffman for Congress
PO Box 99458
Seattle, WA  98139-0458

Email: bill.hoffman@hoffmanforcongress.org

Website: www.hoffmanforcongress.org

by Diana Arney

If only all interviews could be like the one we just had with Trudy, the owner of Envy on Alki skin boutique on Alki Beach! Envy on Alki is The B-Town Blog’s latest Advertiser, and like we do with all new advertisers, we write a “Blogvertorial” feature story on them.

In order for that to happen, we must first interview the owner, Trudy Muller.

I showed up at Envy on Alki, prepared with my mini-recorder, and a list of questions. The boutique is the cutest thing you’ve ever seen; located on Alki Beach, mere feet from the boardwalk and sand. Envy on Alki’s décor is all black and white, and as Trudy says, “black and white because the color lies in our personalities and with the people that walk through the door.” There are adorable table and chairs in the lobby, decorative mirrors with Envy etched on them, wonderful natural light flowing in with just the right amount of privacy for your spa experience.

As I sat down, Trudy asked if I would like a complimentary mini-facial while I interviewed her. Are you kidding me?! What a treat! However, I discovered that conducting an interview while receiving a highly relaxing facial proved more difficult than I anticipated.

Trudy explained each step in the facial process. From the pre-cleansers, to the exfoliation, to the High Frequency (HF) wand and the toner, Trudy takes pride in educating her clients on what each product does and the benefit from it. The HF wand sounds intimidating, but it’s not at all. The most intimidating thing she did was get the big lighted mirror and look at my pores up close and personal!

Trudy uses two product lines: Dermalogica (www.dermalogica.com) and Vera Botania, and explained the natural ingredients they use as well as the fact that Vera Botania is completely organic. All I really noticed was that they smelled amazing and I thoroughly enjoyed identifying the various scents of each lotion.

Trudy has a special interest in helping teenagers with their skin and has been heavily involved with a teen line of skin care products and regiments specially created for their often problematic skin. Trudy remembers how difficult that time of your life can be, and having skin problems only made it worse. Now, Trudy has a teenage daughter of her own and emphasizes with her the importance a good skin-care routine.

Trudy enjoys hosting bride parties, where the bride-to-be and her select friends show up for a day of pampering…Facials and mimosas for everyone! (over 21 of course!) Envy on Alki does accept walk-ins but appointments are always preferred. Her normal hours are from 10-4, but will be extending her hours during the summer months.

You know, it’s a real good thing I brought my mini-recorder for my mini-facial, because NOTHING got written down during the 30 minutes that Trudy worked me over. In fact, there are moments of complete silence during this time…I might have even drifted off; it’s hard to tell. I do know that my face feels wonderful; incredibly smooth and soft and I left there feeling like a million bucks! Please do yourself a favor and make an appointment with Trudy at Envy on Alki the next time you need some “Me-time.”

Envy on Alki specializes in:

• Waxing
• Express Micro-zone Treatments
• Facial Peels and Exfoliation
• Lash Perming
• Facials
• Back and Body Treatments
• Brow and Lash Tinting
• Hand Treatments

For a full list of Envy on Alki’s services and pricing, visit their website: www.envyonalki.com.

View Larger Map

[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story like this for your Business, along with an Ad on every page seen by over 15,000 interested Local Readers per month? Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

The 17th annual Letter Carriers’ National Food Drive will be this Saturday, May 9th, and residents are asked to leave non-perishable food donations at their mailboxes.

Food donations stay local, with approximately 20,000 to 30,000 pounds going to the Highline Area Food Bank from Burien and over 13,000 pounds to the White Center Food Bank from the White Center/West Seattle area.

According to the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), this is the nation’s largest one-day effort to stamp out hunger.

The postal union is seeking to exceed last year’s record 73.1 million pounds of food delivered to community food banks and pantries, and this is an easy way for people to donate.

NALC President William H. Young said the food donations from postal customers will help millions of American families caught in the downward economic spiral that has caused high unemployment and tightened credit. The drive is especially important for children who, during the summer months, see most school lunch programs suspended.

“This is a difficult time for many families. It is critical that the food banks and pantries across the nation have sufficient supplies to provide nutritious meals for the growing number of people needing assistance,” Young said. “Letter carriers take pride in delivering the generous donations of their postal customers to those in need in their community.”

Donations will be collected along postal routes in over 10,000 cities and towns in all 50 states and U.S. jurisdictions. Citizens should leave non-perishable food donations – such as canned meat and fish, soup, cereals, pasta and rice – in a bag near their mailbox on Saturday before their letter carrier arrives. Glass containers and expired items should be avoided. (In Chicago and New York City, residents should take their donation to their local post office or make an online donation.)

Over 120 million postcards, sponsored by the Campbell Soup Company and the U.S. Postal Service’s Priority Mail, have been mailed to postal customers to remind them of the drive. Other national supporters are Valpak, United Way of America, the AFL-CIO and the Feeding America food bank network, formerly known as America’s Second Harvest.

Thursday afternoon (4/30) on Burien’s Three Tree Point beach saw some unusual animals at low tide – PONIES!

From left, Army Olsen, Brie Hobbs and Gigi Sferra feed local grasses to one of three ponies that were offering rides to winners of a prize from Hamlin-Robinson School’s annual auction. According to the kids, the ponies ate “just about anything, including seaweed!”

The lucky auction winners got to ride around the beach just after low tide and enjoy a picnic for about three or so hours.

Lisa Sferra (pictured below, giving her Shetland Pony Cheerio a kiss) who works in White Center, donated the rides for the school’s fundraiser. Hamlin-Robinson is located near Boulevard Park at 10211 12th Ave South.

Lisa wants BTB Readers to know that if they’re interested, they can get Pony Rides for their kids for just $40 per child (pony kisses cost extra).

She can be reached at lsferra@hotmail.com.

The B-Town Blog is proud to welcome as our latest Advertiser the wonderful people of the West Seattle Montessori School.

It’s a great school.

And they’re having a Rummage Sale this Saturday, May 2nd.

Go!

It’ll be this Saturday from 9am to 3pm at the American Legion Hall, which is located at 3618 SW Alaska Street in West Seattle (map below).

Booth space is available for a small fee. Call the school for more information at 206-935-0427.

Also, the West Seattle Montessori School will soon be moving to their new location in White Center.

They are now enrolling for the 2009 – 2010 academic school year.

“Choosing a school where children flourish according to their needs and abilities is more critical today than ever,” said the school’s Angela Sears. “West Seattle Montessori School is pleased to offer individualized teaching from experienced professionals, and would be delighted to assist you throughout your child’s academic journey.”

West Seattle Montessori School
4536 38th Avenue SW, West Seattle
phone 206-935-0427
www.westseattlemontessori.com

View Larger Map

A very colorful B-Town Blog welcome goes out to our latest Advertiser: The Digiguy and CPI!

The Digiguy and CPI have been in the digital design and custom embroidery business in their home for the past 17 years. It is owned and manned by Chuck Northcutt Sr. and his son Chuck Northcutt Jr. They specialize in embroidered apparel, Silk-screening, Direct to Garment Printing, pins, patches, lanyards and more.

When BTB travelled to their North Highline Headquarters, we were told to look for the house with the big antennas. Seems that Chuck Sr. is a longtime HAM radio operator. It was his wife Donna that got them into the business when they both retired 17 years ago. Donna bought a small embroidery machine and started making shirts for their HAM radio friends with their ‘handles’ on them. This grew quite quickly into what you see in their former lower-level family room.

They’ve got four Amaya digital embroidery machines as well as a Happy Multi Head and several Melco Single Heads which allows them to take small and large projects.

The Digiguy and CPI tell BTB that sometimes the rather large house is stacked to the rafters with boxes for one single client.

“Customer Service and Quality Control are our number one priorities,” explains Chuck Jr.  Therefore pick up and delivery is no problem, even if they have to rent a moving truck!

Chuck Sr. proudly tells BTB that Chuck Jr. is the “best digitizer in the country.” As a matter of fact, Chuck Jr. travels the country teaching the fine art of digitizing. Jr.’s an award winning digitizer who will be featured in an upcoming issue of Stitches Magazine.

And for t-shirts they’ve got an amazing Amaya Melco Jet that allows direct garment imprints in a matter of seconds from your artwork or picture to the t-shirt. They’ve got customers that come by for a new fresh shirt to wear every week. It can print millions of colors as opposed to screen printing, which takes time to print only six colors.

“The great thing about the Melco Jet is that it’s portable,” explains Jr. Last year they took it down to the Des Moines Classic Car and Wooden Boat Show. They took pictures of entrants as they drove into he Marina and had custom t-shirts waiting for them after the show. If any of our readers are interested in such a perk for your shows or events, click here.

The Digiguy and CPI interests in shows at the Marina could be because the Northcutts have their completely restored 1969 36′ Columbia Sail Boat that’s moored at the Marina and completely outfitted for their impending father-son sailing voyage to Hawaii.

If your school church or other not-for profit needs products for a fundraiser, contact The Digiguy and CPI who will create, produce and deliver products to sell at your event.

Both Northcutts left the corporate world 17 years ago to grow The Digiguy and CPI into a full-blown family business and haven’t looked back. Chuck Sr. claims to have the best commute in the world, as the business is operated in the basement of his home. Chuck Jr. and his family live right next door, so he believes he’s got the second best commute at least in North Highline, where their business is located.

If you or your business recognize the importance of corporate branding for you employees or team, give the Chucks a call at 206-243-7070 to get started. BTB did!

As the “official clothier to The B-Town Blog,” Chuck Sr. and Jr. are busy working on our new summerwear that will be premiered (weather permitting) at the Burien Farmers Market on Thursday, May 7th on 10th Ave SW in Olde Burien. Stop by our booth and check out our new shirts – we’ll be wearing them with pride and you’ll see why!

And what’s next for the Northcutts? For sure, at some point 50-year old Chuck Jr. would “someday like to swim with the Huma fish while living on a beach in Hawaii.” Both Chucks are qualified scuba divers, so this seems like a possibility.

Hmmmmm.

For more information, click on their Ad on the Right Sidebar, go to their website or call them at 206-243-7070.

[Would you like to have a "Blogvertorial" story like this for your Business, along with an Ad on every page seen by over 15,000 Local Readers per month?  Email us for more info, or check out our Advertise page!]

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

To most people, today is “just” another April’s Fool’s Day, so beware the pranks o’April.

But to this fool, April 1st also stands for one other thing that means a lot to me:

IT’S J.P. PATCHES BIRTHDAY!

For you non-Northwest natives, J.P. (“Julius Pierpont”) Patches is a well-known local TV clown who spent many years on KIRO-TV in the 60s and 70s entertaining thousands of us Seattle kids (here’s a link to his website for the unenlightened: www.jppatches.com).

To me, J.P. Patches is the #2 comedic influence in my life. #1 is my Dad, who was the funniest man I ever met. Of course it helped that he was my Dad, that it was impossible for me not to meet him, and well, he was around me more than any other man, but I think you get the point – Dad was funniest, J.P. was #2.

As a young child growing up in West Seattle, I’d watch J.P. on TV in the morning before school during breakfast, then again in the afternoon. He did the show live every day, twice a day for 10-15 years, along with his sidekick “girlfriend” Gertrude (aka Bob Newman), Tikey Turkey, the ’second meanest man in the world” Boris S. Wort (Newman again), Ggoorrsstt the Friendly Frpl, and a myriad of other characters, most, if not all, played by Newman.

Recently, J.P. and Gertrude were honored with a comical statue in Fremont (aka “the old Burien”), along with the infamous “ICU2TV Set” which sadly, remains the only bad taste in my love of this clown. (LINK: http://jppatches.com/page41.htm)

You see, during each episode, J.P. would “look” through the TV set (actually a cardboard frame) and speak to all his Patches Pal kid viewers who were having birthdays that day, and, by name, send them a personal wish along with a message like “Look in the dryer Scotty for a special surprise.”

Much to my dismay (Mom please note: I know you never meant to hurt my feelings, and I’m sure it was a hassle to to call it in, BUT…), good ol’ J.P. never noticed me on my birthday.

Not once.

(insert charmingly boyish sniffling sounds here)

I remember, on the one day per year where it was “my day” I’d sit in front of the TV, my eye glued to my hero, and await for him to “tune in” the ICU2TV Set.

“Oh boy,” I’d think, “I wonder where Mom hid the gift for me – the dryer? Under the stairs by the empty coke bottles? Or maybe in the hamper?”

Then J.P. would speak. And I would wait.

“Happy birthday to Danny, go look in the shower. And Sally, be sure to look under your bed. And Betty, look in the hamper…and…that’s it for today’s Patches Pals celebrating birthdays! We’ll be back with some cartoons right after this…”

If I was a modern child with a cell phone back then I think my Twiter message would like something like this:

“OMFG JP dint say my NM! WTF???”

Unfortunately, cell phones hadn’t been invented yet so all I could do was stifle my tears while eating my Froot Loops™.

I am lucky though. I’ve met J.P. Patches three times, the first being around 1968 or so at our neighborhood grocery store (did you know that at one time practically every neighborhood in the area had its own small grocery store? I know, hard to believe…). I believe this store was called Zorich’s, and it was located on Charleston Street near 49th SW in West Seattle.

It was a BIG deal to wait in line to see this man. And I did for what seemed like hours but was probably only 20 minutes (like very boy in line, I’m sure I had to pee). Of course I didn’t mention to my Dad anything about not being mentioned on the ICU2TV set as I was “cool” with it (not really – I just wanted to not look lie a crybaby; plus remember – I had to pee!).

Finally, my turn came and J.P. asked my name.

“Scott,” I muttered.

“Scott? Well I just happen to have a button here with your name on it!”

At that moment he handed me a big red and white button with my name on it. Literally. I still have it somewhere, stored away in one of those boxes you put your valuable childhood memories in, which end up getting buried by other boxes with your own children’s childhood memories from not that long ago.

The second time I met J.P. was in 1994 when I returned from a six-year stint in LA where I wrote and directed on a few network comedy shows. This meeting took place on the closing night of Murray’s Doghouse, a longtime greasy spoon restaurant that had become a Seattle institution. This was such a big event that KCTS was broadcasting live, directly from the dive. My ex-”Almost Live!” buddy Pat Cashman hosted, along with Nancy Guppy and probably John Keister, and of course with those other Seattle institutions, J.P. and Gertrude. This was during my first week back from Hollywood, and it made for a wonderful return to my hometown. I ended up sitting at the bar with them, just us talking, and I confessed right then and there:

“You two were probably the reason I got into doing comedy TV,” I said, raising a pint of what was probably a Hefeweizen.

We joked around a bit more, sharing behind-the-scenes TV production stories, and I think they liked hearing that.

The next time I saw J.P. was when the Seafair Pirates were landing at Alki. I was there with my 4-year old son, and I introduced him to J.P. He only recognized him as “that clown guy on your shirt” (I have a J.P. t-shirt, get your own here) and I’m not sure his meeting him had as much impact as it did me.

J.P. is now over 80 years old, and last I heard he’s battling a form of blood cancer called acute myeloma.

I sincerely hope he’s well on this day, his true birthday, and I will peer through my own imaginary ICU2TV to acknowledge J.P., raise a toast to all the joy and laughter he not only brought into my life, but inspired me to try to do the same (although nowhere even close…).

So…Happy Birthday J.P. Patches…and thanks!

Here’s a clip from his show that really demonstrates his comedic style:

One more thing – yesterday I updated my Facebook status as “Excied that tomorrow is…you guessed it…J.P. Patches Birthday!” and here are some humorous comments from some “friends,” including Highline Historical Society Director Cyndi Upthegrove and my little sisters’ comment on her not knowing who J.P. was:

The B-Town Blog gives a big green “Thumbs Up” to Clean Air Lawn Care, our latest Advertiser!

Do you know that 5-10% of the Nation’s Air pollution is attributed to small engines like the ones used in gas powered lawn care equipment – mowers, blowers, edgers and trimmers?

Or that gas lawn mowers consume some 580 million gallons of gasoline annually of which 25-35% escapes unburned – that’s on top of the 17 million gallons that are spilled annually by people filling up gas mowers?

Clean Air Lawn Care of West Seattle is “Changing the Way America Mows the Lawn” by using only battery and electric operated equipment powered by renewable energy sources. The solar panels on their trucks are used to harvest the solar energy and recharge their equipment throughout the day.

Adam Werner, Owner of Clean Air Lawn Care, has been a Seattle resident since 1995 and a West Seattle resident in the Riverview Neighborhood since 2004.  He has been involved with his Riverview Neighborhood group to help save the Sound Ways property from private development.  He is also a member of the Highland Park Improvement Committee and a new member of Sustainable West Seattle.

In 2008, Clean Air Lawn Care was able to reduce air pollutants by 2289 pounds or the equivalent of 70,158 vehicle miles driven.  According to the EPA, in 1 hour, 1 gas mower:

1. Pollutes the same as 40 late model cars.
2. Emits the amount of hydrocarbons as a SUV driven 23,600 miles.
3. Contributes 93 times more smog-forming emissions than 2006 cars.

Another huge advantage of the electric equipment is the lack of noise – it’s 50-70% quieter than traditional lawn equipment.  So not only do you not have to smell the gas burning, you don’t have to hear it either.  This is great for working from home, napping children, and not disturbing your neighbors on a nice sunny afternoon.

Adam says that their equipment is so quiet, “We’ve had several customers tell them that they did not even know we were at their house!”

Adam and his crew are knowledgeable, professional and courteous.  They provide all of Burien, White Center, Des Moines (and beyond) spring and fall clean ups, mowing, blowing, edging, trimming, weeding, mulching, hedge trimming (up to 7 ft) and other hourly work as required.

Outside of the electricity generated by the solar panels, Clean Air participates in the Seattle Green Up program and all additional electricity used is purchased from a renewable energy broker. The windpower they purchase is used to power the lawn equipment and offices, qualifying the entire organization as carbon neutral.

Be sure to stop Adam, Josh, or Chelsea when you see them in your neighborhood to get a look at the truck with the solar panels (see photo above).  Josh would love to talk you about his passion for photography – his work can be seen at www.joshuakenneymiller.com/Abstract.html.

Chelsea would be more than happy to show you some of the jewelry she makes or even teach your kids to play the piano. Check out her work at www.seatemple.etsy.com.

Help your neighborhood become clean and quieter and help Clean Air Lawn Care “Change the Way America Mows the Lawn” – please click on their Ad, check out their website, or contact Adam directly at 206-941-4180!

by Mark Neuman

Metropolitan King County Council member Dow Constantine has made it official.

“I’m running for King County Executive,” he said Monday (Feb. 16th) in an interview with The B-Town Blog.

“It’s a real big step, and I’m hitting the ground running.”

Dow has been on the Council since 2002. Just five weeks ago, he was unanimously elected by his colleagues as Council Chair.

Assuming current Executive Ron Sims’ nomination to serve in the Obama administration is confirmed by the US Senate, the council will select a replacement “quickly, soon after a vacancy in the office becomes official,” Dow said.

“The Senate vote is not expected to occur before the first week of March,” Dow said.

Dow favors selecting an interim executive “without political ambitions, but who has demonstrated managerial, budgetary and political skill.”

“We will strive to make the selection process open and transparent,” he said.

No matter who is selected to replace Sims on an interim basis, “the most important issue ahead of us on the council is the passage this fall of the toughest budget ever,” Dow said. “All of us on the council are keenly aware of the impact the current economic realities will no doubt have on the next budget.”

Dow, who in the State House and Senate represented Burien and surrounding areas before joining the council, is proud of Burien’s recent growth and development.

“It is a joy to watch Burien grow as a city,” Dow said. “I am proud to have included a provision for funding the Burien Transit Center on the recent Sound Transit ballot measure,” which passed last fall.

The Burien “Town Center and Transit Center are great models for other cities in the region to follow,” he said. “White Center and Burien are positioned as priorities for future light rail expansion.”

Dow promises more time for an in-depth interview with The B-Town Blog as the campaign progresses.

The only other announced candidate in the race for Executive is fellow Council member Larry Phillips.

For more information, here’s Dow’s campaign website: www.dowconstantine.org.

You can also view his video announcement on YouTube here.

According to The Seattle P-I, King County Councilmember Dow Constantine will announce Monday that he is running for the King County Executive position being vacated by Ron Sims, who has been nominated for a post in President Obama’s new administration.

Constantine, who has served as a councilman since 2002, joins fellow Councilman Larry Phillips as the only candidates who have formally declared their intentions to seek King County’s top job.

He currently represents District 8, which includes Burien White Center, West Seattle and Vashon Island.

Read the full story here.

This spring, West Seattle Montessori School will be moving into the White Center neighborhood (at 11216 16th Ave SW), so they’re holding a special Open House in West Seattle tonight (Thursday, Feb. 5th) from 6-8pm, and they’re inviting all interested parents, families, children etc. to come by and check out their school:

WHAT: West Seattle Montessori School Open House: “Come learn about our NEW building and location! Now Enrolling for the 2009-10 school year.”

WHEN: Tonight! Thursday, Feb. 5th, 6pm-8pm

WHERE: At the current West Seattle Montessori School location, which is at 4536 38th Ave SW in West Seattle (map below); Phone: 206.935.0427

INFO: From their website:

With over 15,000 square feet of remodeled space, West Seattle Montessori School will open its new doors this spring. With the King County Library as a next-door neighbor, an indoor greenhouse, photography dark room, 1,000 square foot corridor, and impressive large layout, WSMS is sure to be embraced.

Choosing a school where children flourish according to their needs and abilities is more critical today than ever. West Seattle Montessori School is pleased to offer individualized teaching from experienced professionals, and would be delighted to assist you throughout your child’s academic journey.

Since 1985, West Seattle Montessori School has been an integral part of the West Seattle Community. Offering preschool through 8th grade education, WSMS prides itself on fostering independence and intellectual curiosity, stimulating personal growth, and encouraging innovation and a love of learning.

As part of our close-knit WSMS community, we focus on the development of the whole child, not only providing personalized attention and student centered lessons, but also creating a rich and broad variety of experiences beyond our walls through art classes, stage performances,engaging field trips, and activities throughout Seattle’s eclectic neighborhoods. It is our goal to instill within our students a clear set of values, including respect for each individual and her or his own unique talents and contributions.

We are now enrolling for the 2009 – 2010 academic school year!

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by Gina Bourdage

BTB Advertiser Bistro Baffi gives Burien a refreshing twist on the expected Italian fare.

From the moment you enter the Bistro you feel like family. Fresh, not over seasoned flavors resonate though each dish. The originality and robust selections on the menu make an evening in the little corner Seahurst hideaway enchanting. I don’t know if it was the fireplace, the colorful artwork or the impressive wall of wine but the romantic atmosphere of Bistro Baffi cannot be denied despite its tucked-away location.

Former owners of The Beach House Italian Café on Alki, Michael Vujovich (chef) and his wife Dinka have brought Burien an inspiring variation to the expected Italian cuisine. Shopping daily for the freshest ingredients at Pike Place Market is how Michael determines what he will create for the daily specials. Offering flavors of his home in Montenegro, there are options for even the most discerning palate at very reasonable prices. He even makes it a point to visit each and every table to make sure you are enjoying your meal. You won’t be able to mistake Michael due to his signature handlebar or “baffi” moustache and charismatic personality.

I had the pleasure of experiencing the daily special of pork with grilled peppers and a creamy Gorgonzola which could have been easily overpowered by the strong flavors of the aged cheese, but was seasoned to perfection. I started off the meal with the signature stuffed mushroom caps with more than your traditional basics inside. They were accompanied by the famous spicy pink sauce which I expected a heavy bite from the description but was pleasantly surprised to find the spice was only a gentle kiss in the delicious blend. The freshness of each dish truly showed through by not being over spiced allowing the integrity of each ingredient shine. I wrapped up the meal with a tiramisu and an entertaining shot of flaming Sambuca. I have had my share of tiramisu in the past but Bistro Baffi has found a way to balance the sweet and savory for a wonderful end to the evening.

To find food this fresh and genuine you would expect to pay quite a bit more than the prices you will find on the menu.

I learned also that this February 14th, Valentines Day, Bistro Baffi is taking reservations for a romantic six-course dinner with a variety of options for the main course. Mentioning you heard about this event, which has limited space, on The B-Town Blog will allow you to receive $20 off for each person along with discounts on wines from around the world. Call (206) 244-0737 to book your special Valentine’s Day Dinner package before Feb. 10th (the secret password is “Scontare“)!

Insiders tip; ask for the daily specials on any visit. These items will not only be some of the freshest and most seasonal ideas straight from the creative chef, but something you may not be able to get on a daily basis.

I had driven by Bistro Baffi a number of times always telling myself, I have to check that place out some time, I can genuinely say I am glad I did. This place is a must visit for a night of exceptional flavors made by a family that takes pride in and loves to share with their guests cuisine of the home in Montenegro.

Bistro Baffi is located at 15217 21st Ave SW in Burien, across from the Seahurst Post Office and St. Francis of Assisi:

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[EDITOR'S NOTE: Gina Bourdage is The B-Town Blog's Directory Editor. She will be conducting additional restaurant reviews, so if you'd like yours reviewed, please email her.]

Tuesday, Feb. 3rd is Election Day, so if you haven’t done so already, dig out your ballot thingy, fill in your one vote and drop it in the mail today.

As a reminder, you’re voting on one item in this “Special Election” – Director of Elections – and your choices are:

• Irons, David
• Huff, Sherril
• Kempf, Julie
• Anderson, Bill
• Clifford, Christopher
• Roach, Pam

You can also drop your ballot thingy off at the nearest 24-hour drop box, located in West Seattle:

• Delridge Neighborhood Service Center, located at 5405 Delridge Way SW (map below)

Also, a new feature offered by King County Elections is a “ballot tracker” – to track the progress of your already-mailed ballot, click here, fill out your name and birthdate to see where your ballot is (bad news: it doesn’t tell you that you left it on the dresser at home).

For more information, go to the King County Elections website here.

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The 34th District Democrats, who represent Burien, White Center, West Seattle, Vashon and Maury Islands, appear to have entered the 21st century, releasing weekly videos and podcasts every Monday.

You can view/listen to them on Sen. Joe McDermott’s website here, or listen to their most recent podcast below, with topics ranging from the WASL to replacing the viaduct and more:

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Here are two videos we found on their YouTube Channel:

According to Robert’s Rules of Order, “parliamentary procedure” is based on the consideration of the rights:

• of the majority
• of the minority (especially a large minority greater than one-third)
• of individual members
• of absentee members
• of all of these groups taken together

“The application of parliamentary law is the best method yet devised to enable assemblies of any size, with due regard for every member’s opinion, to arrive at the general will on the maximum number of questions of varying complexity in a minimum amount of time and under all kinds of internal climate ranging from total harmony to hardened or impassioned division of opinion.”

With that in mind, here’s a great way for you to learn more about Parliamentary Law – a free workshop being conducted on Saturday, Jan. 24th, from 10:30am-Noon at the Southwest Branch Library:

WHAT: A Free Public Workshop Presented By POINT OF ORDER PARLIAMENTARY LAW UNIT; The Secretary and Treasurer: Minding Your Minutes, Money, and More. Facilitated by: Robert Dolan, PRP (Robert is Treasurer for the National Association of Parliamentarians and has served the Washington State Association of Parliamentarians as Treasurer, President and Parliamentarian).

WHEN: Saturday, January 24, 2009, 10:30 A.M. – Noon

WHERE: Southwest Branch Library, located at 9010 35th Ave SW, Seattle (see map below)

INFO: http://ptoforder.googlepages.com/thesecretaryandtreasurer

Everyone is Welcome!

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West Seattle’s Lafayette Elementary School, where the BTB’s own Mark Neuman attended school, recently held a very successful food drive for the White Center Food Bank (which serves parts of Burien) with over 2,100 items donated last week.

Here’s more from their press release:

The Lafayette Elementary student council had a new idea this year while planning their annual food drive for the White Center Food Bank. They held a competition to see which class could collect the most items and kept track of the donations by teacher on a bulletin board in the front lobby. The donations quickly filled the collection barrel and started to fill the school’s front lobby.

All of the classes participated, but two classes led the competition: Ms. Rollin’s class collected the most items (251) and Mr. Beal’s class (203) came in second place.

Over 2,100 items total were collected school-wide.

Last week, the White Center Food Bank team had to make two van trips to transport all of the collected food down to their facility in White Center.

Lafayette’s student council sponsors two community service projects a year–one in winter and one in spring. James Morrison, Macy Crooks and Shelby Walker (in the photo) were the student council officers in charge of promoting the drive, keeping track of how many items were brought in, and updating a bulletin board daily to monitor our success. A huge thank you to these student leaders, Mimi Armistead (staff lead for Lafayette’s student council) and to all the generous Lafayette families who donated food.

Since this effort was so successful, Lafayette is going to continue collecting food for the White Center Food Bank (with a goal of a barrel a month) for the rest of the school year.

Lafayette Elementary is a Seattle Public School located at 2645 California Ave. SW. in West Seattle. For more information about Lafayette or their ongoing partnership with the White Center Food Bank, please contact Virginia Turner at 206-252-9500. For more information about White Center Food Bank, check out their web site at: www.whitecenterfoodbank.org; you can also donate directly online here.

Way to go kids!