“Running Blind” is a fundraiser 5K Run and 1K Family Run/Walk for the Hear See Hope Foundation, and will be held on Sunday, June 6th starting at Noon at Archery Bistro at the Normandy Park Towne Center.

We’re proud to be sponsors of this event, as it is a benefit for the Hear See Hope Foundation, a non-profit that is fighting “Usher Syndrome,” which is the leading cause of deaf-blindness. This worthy cause is lead by Archery Bistro owner and local resident Todd McKittrick, who is father to two children who have this disease. Here’s some info from the foundation’s website:

The idea to start the Hear See Hope foundation started in August 2004 when our oldest son, Conner (then 5) was diagnosed with Usher syndrome Type 1. We immediately began doing research on Usher syndrome and all eye degenerative diseases. In this we found great hope that we could make a difference and that with funds there will be a cure for Usher syndrome in Conner’s lifetime. We discovered many very helpful and knowledgeable doctors and researchers that are doing all they can to find a cure for Usher syndrome.

With the birth of our youngest son Dalton in April of 2008, we have found a renewed sense of urgency to find a cure. Despite our best efforts to eliminate the chance of Usher syndrome in another child by undergoing Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), a process that was “guaranteed” to eliminate the chance of the Usher syndrome gene, Dalton was born with Usher syndrome. And so, we continue to work harder than ever to find a cure for Usher syndrome.

In late 2007, we were put in contact with another family in Boston who have a daughter named Bella (then 9) with Usher syndrome. We are collaborating with the Dunning family to fund much needed research. Mark Dunning, Bella’s father became a board member in 2008. We have our first Boston event scheduled in September 2008. Also, we are working with the researchers to create an Usher syndrome coalition and website.

We are always looking for other fundraising ideas and other corporate and individual partners to collaborate with to increase awareness of our cause. We need these partners help to fund a cure. If you have any ideas please contact us. There has been significant breakthroughs in retinal disease research in 2007and there is more hope than ever that a cure is in sight.

We are a 501(c)3 not for profit organization in search of funds to sustain the fight against Usher syndrome. Please help us make a difference by supporting us in our fundraising efforts for preventing, treating and curing Usher syndrome.

Thank you,
Todd and Lane McKittrick
Founders

Here are details on the event:

WHAT: Archery Bistro presents Running Blind 5K Run and 1K Family Run-Walk

WHEN: Sunday, June 6, 2010:

• 12:00 PM start time for 5K
• 12:50 PM start time for 1K family run-walk

WHERE: Race starts and ends at Archery Bistro in Normandy Park Towne Center (19803 1st Avenue So, Normandy Park, WA).

INFO: Benefiting the Hear See Hope Foundation fighting Usher syndrome. Usher syndrome is the leading cause of deaf-blindness.

Finish Line Activities:

• The Approximations Band, featuring King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg, will be playing at the finish line.
• Full Beer Garden
• Root Beer Garden
• Blind Hay Maze
• Face Painting for the Kids
• BBQ

REGISTRATION: Registration includes t-shirt, and can be completed online at www.hearseehope.com, in person at Archery Bistro (19803 1st Ave So • Normandy Park), by Fax: 206.299.9519 or even by mail – download the registration form here (PDF file):

Running Blind 5K Race
c/o Hear See Hope Foundation
17837 1st Ave So PMB 2
Normandy Park, WA 98148

Race Day: Walk up registrations will be accepted beginning at 10:00 on race day. T-shirts will be based upon availability.

Checks should be made out to “Hear See Hope.”

Race Day Details:

• 10:00: Registration/check in begins
• 11:50: Pre-race instructions
• 12:00: 5K race begins
• 12:50: 1K family run-walk begins
• 1:30: Awards ceremony

After race festivities will be held at Normandy Park Towne Center near the finish line.

VIDEO: Here’s a video with more info on this cause:

Help the cause out by downloading, printing and posting a poster here (PDF file).

“Running Blind” is a fundraiser 5K Run and 1K Family Run/Walk for the Hear See Hope Foundation, and will be held on Sunday, June 6th starting at Noon at Archery Bistro at the Normandy Park Towne Center.

We’re proud to be sponsors of this event, as it is a benefit for the Hear See Hope Foundation, a non-profit that is fighting “Usher Syndrome,” which is the leading cause of deaf-blindness.

This inaugural 5K Run is inspired by Archery Bistro owner Todd McKittrick and his wife Lane, who have four sons, two of whom were born deaf and as time goes on, they become blind because of Usher Syndrome. The McKittrick family has set up the Hear See Hope Foundation to create awareness and raise money for this syndrome.

For one mile of the run, starting at 12:50pm, participants will have the choice to be guided to walk or run blindfolded while wearing ear plugs, so they can feel what it would be like to be deaf and blind.

As part of the festivities, a BBQ and beer garden, as well as a root beer garden for kids, will be set up on the Normandy Park Towne Center property. A hay maze will be available with the option of being blindfolded with earplugs, again to see what it is like to experience Ushers Syndrome.

Providing entertainment for the day will be the band The Approximations. Starting at noon and playing throughout the day, they will be performing on the Archery Bistro Stage, weather permitting.

Cost to participate in the race is $35 for adults and $20 for youth under the age of 14, which includes a t-shirt. There is an early registration discount, through May 15th, for $30 for adults and $20 for youth.

$5 from each registration fee will be donated to your local school of choice. Walk registrations will be accepted beginning at 10:00 am on race day but t-shirts will be based on availability.

Here’s more info from the foundation’s website:

The idea to start the Hear See Hope foundation started in August 2004 when our oldest son, Conner (then 5) was diagnosed with Usher syndrome Type 1. We immediately began doing research on Usher syndrome and all eye degenerative diseases. In this we found great hope that we could make a difference and that with funds there will be a cure for Usher syndrome in Conner’s lifetime. We discovered many very helpful and knowledgeable doctors and researchers that are doing all they can to find a cure for Usher syndrome.

With the birth of our youngest son Dalton in April of 2008, we have found a renewed sense of urgency to find a cure. Despite our best efforts to eliminate the chance of Usher syndrome in another child by undergoing Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), a process that was “guaranteed” to eliminate the chance of the Usher syndrome gene, Dalton was born with Usher syndrome. And so, we continue to work harder than ever to find a cure for Usher syndrome.

In late 2007, we were put in contact with another family in Boston who have a daughter named Bella (then 9) with Usher syndrome. We are collaborating with the Dunning family to fund much needed research. Mark Dunning, Bella’s father became a board member in 2008. We have our first Boston event scheduled in September 2008. Also, we are working with the researchers to create an Usher syndrome coalition and website.

We are always looking for other fundraising ideas and other corporate and individual partners to collaborate with to increase awareness of our cause. We need these partners help to fund a cure. If you have any ideas please contact us. There has been significant breakthroughs in retinal disease research in 2007and there is more hope than ever that a cure is in sight.

We are a 501(c)3 not for profit organization in search of funds to sustain the fight against Usher syndrome. Please help us make a difference by supporting us in our fundraising efforts for preventing, treating and curing Usher syndrome.

Thank you,
Todd and Lane McKittrick
Founders

Here are details on the event:

WHAT: Archery Bistro presents Running Blind 5K Run and 1K Family Run-Walk

WHEN: Sunday, June 6, 2010:

• 12:00 PM start time for 5K
• 12:50 PM start time for 1K family run-walk

WHERE: Race starts and ends at Archery Bistro in Normandy Park Towne Center (19803 1st Avenue So, Normandy Park, WA).

INFO: Benefiting the Hear See Hope Foundation fighting Usher syndrome. Usher syndrome is the leading cause of deaf-blindness.

Finish Line Activities:

• The Approximations Band, featuring King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg, will be playing at the finish line.
• Full Beer Garden
• Root Beer Garden
• Blind Hay Maze
• Face Painting for the Kids
• BBQ

REGISTRATION: Registration includes t-shirt, and can be completed online at www.hearseehope.com, in person at Archery Bistro (19803 1st Ave So • Normandy Park), by Fax: 206.299.9519 or even by mail – download the registration form here (PDF file):

Running Blind 5K Race
c/o Hear See Hope Foundation
17837 1st Ave So PMB 2
Normandy Park, WA 98148

Race Day: Walk up registrations will be accepted beginning at 10:00 on race day. T-shirts will be based upon availability.

Checks should be made out to “Hear See Hope.”

Race Day Details:

• 10:00: Registration/check in begins
• 11:50: Pre-race instructions
• 12:00: 5K race begins
• 12:50: 1K family run-walk begins
• 1:30: Awards ceremony

After race festivities will be held at Normandy Park Towne Center near the finish line.

VIDEO: Here’s a video with more info on this cause:

Help the cause out by downloading, printing and posting a poster here (PDF file).

We just received word from Highline Public Schools that they are investigating allegations that Jayson Boehm, formerly employed as a substitute stadium manager, provided health care to student athletes without appropriate medical supervision, as well as possibly fondling some male athletes.

Upon learning of the allegations, the district fired Boehm and barred him from school property.

According to the district, the allegations against Boehm came to light through two sources:

1. A school nurse alerted her supervisor when she noticed that Boehm had written a medical excuse for a student.
2. At the same time, a King County Sheriff’s detective alerted the district of their investigation into allegations that Boehm inappropriately examined an athlete in a Police Athletic League boxing competition in White Center (note: according to The Seattle Weekly, four Seattle Seahawks attended this match). The athlete is an adult and not a student.

The district says that the King County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Health have been investigating Boehm’s conduct. The district is cooperating with these agencies and has launched its own investigation, taking the following actions:

• Identifying an outside investigator to continue the investigation.
• Contracted with WIAA to conduct a full audit of the management of high school and middle school athletic programs and pledged to fully comply with the recommendations of WIAA.
• Placed the district athletic director and a high school athletic director on administrative leave until the conclusion of the investigation.
• Informing parents of all students who received physicals from Boehm. Parents of students participating in spring sports were immediately informed by personal phone call.
• Arranged for all affected athletes to receive physicals from the Highline Youth Health Center at district expense.

“Student safety is our highest priority,” said Superintendent John Welch. “We are committed to making any changes necessary to ensure the protection and well-being of all students participating in our programs.”

As a substitute stadium manager, Boehm was to provide logistical support for activities at Highline’s Memorial Field in Burien. He had also been contracted to provide first aid at athletic events and to give first aid training to coaches and PE teachers, which he was qualified to do as a licensed Emergency Medical Technician.

Boehm had also served as a volunteer for Evergreen High School athletic teams in White Center.

The fifth annual Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market kicks off its 2010 season on Saturday, June 5th, and is ready to provide customers with the freshest produce and flowers and unique handcrafted items through October 30th.

Like last year, the market will run from 10am-2pm on Saturdays, with fun activities for the entire family, including opening day entertainment by the “Salt Water Saints.”

You can watch The Waterland Blog’s “Countdown Clock” to the right as the big day approaches, especially if you’re a behind-the-scenes worker who wants to see how (gulp) close it is to starting!

In addition to opening day ceremonies, the market this year will be honoring long time Kiwanis, Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market and Community Volunteer Vera Harper with a bench dedication in the flag plaza at South Marina Park, next to the market.  Vera will be missed by all who knew her.

According to the good folks who run the market:

Local farmer’s crops have been growing all spring and the first harvests are just around the corner. The market board of directors and staff has been busy over the winter.

We have obtained our own 501C4 federal charitable status and are partnering with many organizations including the City of Des Moines, Des Moines Rotary Club and Des Moines Legacy Foundation.

We wish thank our many sponsors including:

• Des Moines Mayor Pro-Tem Dave Kaplan
• Sunnie View Inc
• Brothers Carpet Cleaning & More
• Highline College Foundation
• Judson Park Retirement
• Print Place
• Snure Law Offices
• Vitality Chiropractic
• The Waterland Blog
• Auntie Irene’s
• Balloon Wizards/Babycakes NW
• Char Schulz, State Farm
• Des Moines Drug & Hallmark
• Down & Out Demolition
• Eagle Fitness
• Edward Jones, Mike Wilcox
• Marcus Whitman Presbyterian Church
• Russell & Associates
• Salon Michelle
• United Methodist Church,
• Precision Builders
• Zenith Holland
• Patrice Thorell

Our market would not be possible without their support, make sure to support them!

Many vendors are returning including:

• Polish food
• Thai food
• Honey
• Goat cheese
• Alvarez Organic
• Cha New Life Garden
• Collins Family Orchards
• Sidhu Berries

New vendors appearing throughout the season include:

• Eggs
• Cheese
• Pork
• Smoked salmon
• Ice cream
• Baked goods
• Unique crafts

Mark your calendars with these special market dates:

• June 5th-Opening Day
• July 24th-Local Business Showcase
• July 31st- Elder Care & Safety
• August 14th-Health & Fitness
• September 11th-Kids Day
• September 25th-Local Business Showcase
• October 30th-Chili Cook-Off

Entertainment for many of the market days will be:

• Salt Water Saints, 1st Saturday of the month, June-September
• Charlie Spring, 2nd Saturday of the month, June-October
• JD Hobson 3rd Saturday of the month, June-September

Be sure to look for The Waterland Blog’s booth at the market, because we’ll be “blogging live” most days – we look forward to seeing you there!

If yo’re interested in performing at the market or having a booth at the Local Business Showcase days, please email market@dmfm.org.

Highline Community College’s Marine Science and Technology (MaST) Center is getting ready to say goodbye to Georgette, a Giant Pacific Octopus that has been calling the center home since November, at a free ceremony during the MaST Center’s Water Weekends at 1pm Saturday, June 5.

The special “release” event is free and open to the public and features cake and refreshments (but happily, no edible octopus).

“To protect Georgette and the octopus population in the Puget Sound, we are releasing her back into her native habitat in time for her to adjust, grow and finish maturing,” said Kaddie Lawrence, director of the MaST Center. “We hope that she will remain in the local population near Redondo Beach for divers to see.”

The Giant Pacific Octopus is one of the 80 species of marine life that call the MaST Center’s nine observation tanks and two touch tanks home. Georgette is being released because the octopus has outgrown the center’s tanks and to minimize the MaST Center’s impact on the local marine life.

“Almost all of our animals at the MaST Center come from the wild and it is important to minimize our impact on the environment,” said Rus Higley, an instructor in Highline’s Life, Ocean and General Sciences department. “By allowing the octopus to be returned, we have only a minimal impact on the octopus population.”

The MaST Center is located at 28203 Redondo Beach Dr. S. in Des Moines. Parking is available on the street or in the municipal parking lot across from the MaST Center.

For more information, call (206) 878-3710, ext. 3135, e-mail mast@highline.edu or visit www.highline.edu/mast.

Here’s a pic of Georgette with a few of her MaST friends:

The Seattle Southside Visitor’s Center held its Grand Opening last Thursday, May 13th, at its new digs in SeaTac, and on hand for the ribbon cutting ceremony were dignitaries from Des Moines, Tukwila, SeaTac and Kent.

The event included a ribbon cutting by Program Director of Seattle Southside Visitor Services Katherine Kertzman as well as speeches by Mayor Bob Sheckler, SeaTac Mayor Terry Anderson, as well as other local public officials.

According to their website, the Seattle Southside Visitor’s Center:

We are the leading tourism and marketing organization in South King County. Seattle Southside Visitor Services (SSVS) –a program offered jointly by the Cities of Des Moines, Tukwila, SeaTac and Kent – is responsible for competitively marketing the area as an ideal travel destination for tourists who wish to explore Western Washington.

Scott Schaefer was also on hand, mostly to nosh on the free food and enter raffles (he didn’t win anything though…), as well as take the following photos:

For more information on the Seattle Southside Visitor’s center, click here.

As we first alerted our Readers April 7, Highline Public Schools participated in a district-wide food drive for the first time this year, bringing in 6,365 pounds of food and over $2,400 in cash, with all proceeds going to three area food banks: Des Moines, White Center, and Highline Food Banks.

“It’s a great start,” said White Center Food Bank’s Resource Coordinator Audrey Zemke. “Now that we have the basics in place, I’m excited to see what we can do next year!”

And, according to the Highline School District, they definitely will do it again next year.

Here is a breakdown of the results, by area:

The Des Moines Area Food Bank received a total of 1,384 pounds of food and $2,003.93.

• 1,384 pounds of food from Parkside Elementary.
• $1,805.00 from Des Moines Elementary’s penny drive
• $140.00 from ERAC

The Highline Area Food Bank received a total of 2,684 pounds of food and $365.00.

• 943 pounds of food from Gregory Heights Elementary
• 461 pounds of food from CHOICE
• 239 pounds of food from Highline High School
• 511 pounds of food and $160.00 from Transportation
• 530 pounds of food from Facilities
• $205.00 from ERAC

The White Center Food Bank received a total of 2,297 pounds of food and $39.00.

• 561 pounds of food from Cedarhurst Elementary
• 320 pounds of food from the Honor Society at Evergreen High School
• 1,237 pounds of food & $15.00 from Hazel Valley Elementary
• 100 pounds of food & $24.00 from ERAC
• 79 pounds of food from Shorewood Elementary

The Equity and Civil Rights division of the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is holding a series of community forums to gather input on HB3026, a new Washington state law that bans discrimination in public schools.

The first will be held on Tuesday, May 25, from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Mount Rainier High School in Des Moines.

All feedback is sought and those who have experienced or witnessed discrimination based on race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation including gender expression or identity, veteran or military status, or disability are especially encouraged to attend.

If you require interpretation or other accommodations to attend, please contact Bernadette Merikle, manager of community engagement for Highline Public Schools at meriklbl@hsd401.org or at 206.433.2331.

Parents and community members from throughout King County are encouraged to attend this forum.

The Des Moines Police Department is asking the public’s assistance with help in identifying two car prowl suspects.

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of April 26th in an apartment complex parking garage located in the 2400 block of S. Kent-Des Moines Rd.

The two suspects forced entry into two vehicles stealing various electronic components.

Suspect 1:

Suspect 2:

Suspect Vehicle: Dark colored Ford Crown Victoria (possibly mid to late nineties model)

Anyone with information regarding the identity of these subjects is asked to call Detective Paul Young at 206-878-3301.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: To see Photos from the 2009 50th Birthday/Waterland Parade, click here. To read our firsthand account and see photos of what it was like for us to be in the parade (then hang out with the Seafair Pirates, click here.]

by Pat Nardo

Somewhere there is someone that does not love a parade or flock to enjoy the magnificent array of people, floats and band music.

Well, thank goodness that person does not live in Des Moines!

As we are in the last lap of your parade preparations, there is an almost surprising number of applicants, thanks to our “Dear Leader” Anna Bjorneby and her Advisor Fran Woodard, we have now recruited an army of pleasure for an unforgettable 5oth anniversary parade.

The latest estimate from Anna is about 1,000 people will be in our parade and we are half way there already.

Now, we all know the difference between a cake and a parade, right? They do have in common a need for an array of necessary ingredients. So it is with our parade and just to begin with, there will be two antique autos, four marching bands, three commercial entries, two local businesses, five community groups, mostly non-profit, and more. Look for a yesteryear’s horse drawn wagon to appear from out of a page of history, along with a “spare.” From our latest information, there will be three or more floats along with a couple of new ones not seen before. Our friends from Highline Water District will play a part in your parade this year with a mascot who is a teacher of sorts. Getting away from the serious side, look for our favorites, the Seafair Clowns, Seafair Pirates, and of course, The Keystone Cops with their theme, “Cops are good guys too!”

The usual “deadline” for a parade application and acceptance is waived and you may still join us right up to the last day, so see if you can overwhelm us with your overpowering desire to be seen, heard and loved by Des Moines. It is also true that we could use a few more volunteers.

Small businesses in Des Moines are rarely able to supply any presence away from their business so a hearty welcome is earned by “The Waterland Blog”. “Best in Show Pet Salon”, and “Des Moines Dog House”. You can say “thank you” to these business people by spreading the word on www.waterlandblog.com, take Pierre or Fido to the Pet Salon, and then stop for a gourmet hot dog at the Dog House. Okay, you may share the dog with your dog! They have outside seating.

As we have all been told, “All good things must end”. Your parade is not an exception to this ancient advisory. Your parade, Des Moines, will have a spectacular ending!

Stay tuned. Oh, and while you are waiting, look up the word juggernaut.

Celebrate Independence Day this year at the Des Moines Marina with northwest rock legends Jr. Cadillac at “Fireworks Over Des Moines,” which begins at 7pm and runs until 10:30pm on Saturday, July 4th.

The family friendly celebration features a unique vantage point of several Puget Sound fireworks displays.

Entertainment begins at 7pm with a Pacific Island cultural dance performance, followed by the danceable rock mix of Jr. Cadillac from 8-10pm. A 20-minute fireworks display will light up the waterfront at approximately 10pm.

A $1 donation is suggested. Please contribute what you can to help us continue this community event.

To whet your musical appetite for Jr. Cadillac, here’s an MP3 of “Raised On Rock”:

See you at the waterfront this 4th of July!

View Larger Map

According to KING-TV, a scuba diver was killed in an accident at Redondo Beach Sunday afternoon (June 28th).

Des Moines police say that a Tukwila man, around 60-years old, was diving with a friend off shore in waters about 80 feet deep when he went into distress. His buddy was unable to bring him to the surface.

Another diver helped bring the man up and the two tried to revive him, but they were unsuccessful.

The diver’s identity has not yet been released.

EDITOR’S NOTE: To see photos from Des Moines’ 50th Birthday & Waterland Parade (on 7/18/09), click here. To read our firsthand account of being in the parade, then hanging out with the Seafair Pirates, click here.]

HELP WANTED: Pooper Scoopers.

Yes…Pooper Scoopers.

For the big July 18th Waterland 50th Birthday Parade.

This job doesn’t pay, but man, talk about a glamorous gig, huh?

Besides volunteers and more participants, BJ and Anna Bjorneby announced at this week’s parade meeting that someone has entered a horse and buggy into the parade and they need two volunteers to follow the horse, and well scoop the poop.

Interested parties should scoop up the phone and call Anna at 206-575-5568.

That being said, let it be known that your intrepid parade committee needs other volunteers for less messy jobs, like check-in, cars and signage, VIP reception and others.

Still thinking of entering, but haven’t gotten around to it? Well, you have a few more weeks, as the deadline for entry has been extended. Although the earlier you enter the better your placement, they’ll accept applications until a few days before the parade.

Call Anna or Fran Woodward at 253-303-1098 to volunteer or enter.

by Adam Hanes

“Why is there so much evil in the world?”

That was asked of me recently when I was told about Angelo Mendoza and I didn’t have an answer. So much of the news we receive is focused on affliction towards innocents and we should be in the know. However, the coverage on the people trying to make things right I find to be quite lacking.

In April of this year a neighbor woman found Angelo Mendoza, Jr. on the floor behind a chest of draws in his father’s apartment in Bakersfield, CA. The 4 year old was naked in a pool of blood, both eyes swollen shut. “My Daddy ate my eyes out!” the mutilated boy told police. Angelo Mendoza, Sr. was found by another neighbor, Ramon Rodriguez, and was later captured by police. The police report states that the wheelchair-bound father had appeared to be on PCP. Angelo, Sr. is charged with torture, aggravated mayhem, and cruelty to a child. Little Angelo’s injuries consists of the left eye and muscle missing, the right badly damaged and a profuse amount of bite marks on his face and hands. Doctors say Little Angelo’s left eye is ‘completely gone’ and his right eye may be damaged beyond repair as well rendering the boy permanently blind. Hope for brighter future is not exactly dim however. Angelo’s cries for help have been heard over a thousand miles away.

Bonnie Bingham of Kent told me about Angelo’s story. Instead of just crying after reading the tragic news and then going on with her day, the 29-year old mother of two contacted the Mendoza family and local news in Bakersfield searching for a way to help. Her tireless inquiring paid off when she found out that Angelo’s Uncle was in the process of starting a website for his nephew’s recovery. The website was created to raise funds. Bonnie took it upon herself to do more, and on July 18 she will be holding a car wash and bake sale to further help with donations. The event is taking place at Eastridge Baptist Church in Kent. Bonnie is looking for all sorts of volunteers for child care, bake goods (in advance), sell baked goods or wash cars. She also needs help with the design of a large poster to hang on the church to inform people what they are doing next month on the 18th.

All the information for this function and more links about Angelo please visit www.angelosrecovery.com. If you can help in anyway please look at the website and find something you can contribute.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Fundraiser Car Wash and Bake Sale for Angelo Mendoza

WHEN: Saturday July 18th, from 10am to 2pm

WHERE: Eastridge Baptist Church, located at 12520 SE 240th Street in Kent, WA. 98031 (see map below)

“If you cannot attend this event, feel free to contribute to this little boy’s recovery and restoration at this website. Sometimes we are limited to what we can do for others. We cannot show him a parent’s love or teach him to trust again. But we can help him in this way. Please help Baby Angel.”

NEWS LINKS:

• Examiner.com
• KERO-23.com

View Larger Map

The King County Sheriff’s Department is asking for the public’s help in finding a white, 1990s-model 4-door BMW 5 Series car (see included reference photos of a similar vehicle) driven by the suspects in a shooting that left an 18 year-old man dead on Wednesday night.

As we previously reported, the incident occurred about 11:30pm on Wednesday, June 24th. The victim was in the back seat of a car that was southbound on Military Road South. Four friends were with him in the car. A second vehicle began following the victim’s car but turned off at South 140th. As it did, several rounds were fired and the man was hit.

The men drove straight to Highline Medical Center in Burien, and the victim collapsed in the entrance to the Emergency Room. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

The dead man is believed to be from California and was in the area visiting relatives.

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

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

Today (Saturday June 27th) will be like a scene from the “Wizard of Oz” with a real 70-foot tall hot air balloon at Des Moines Beach Park courtesy RE/MAX (see Photographer Michael Brunk’s slideshow above), along with colorful, Emerald City-like goods and crafts from colorful vendors at the Farmers Market at the South Marina Park.

RE/MAX held a drawing, and 20 lucky people will get free tethered rides until Noon, but it’s worth a visit just to see a real working hot air balloon, as well as to see if an actual “wizard” tries to fly the thing back to his home.

The Des Moines Farmers Market will be open until 2pm today, so come on down to the South Marina Park and say hi to your Waterland Blog staff at our booth, located just south of the music stage. Oh, and bring plenty of cash as there’s lots of great fresh stuff to buy!

We’re proud here at the Waterland Blog to welcome aboard as our latest premiere Advertiser custom home remodelers Powell  Renovations!

Their friendly home office is located right here in the heart of Des Moines on Marine View Drive.

Started by their grandfather, Powell Renovations, a fourth generation family business, has been providing homes in our neighborhoods for 100 years. They began swinging hammers in 1909!

Led by brothers Todd and Brooks Powell, the whole team at Powell Renovations is very involved in their local community. For example, this spring they participated in the Master Builders Association Rampathon, a free service where access ramps are constructed by contractors for disabled people in the Puget Sound area.

The Powell family has built thousands of quality homes at affordable prices. They’re dedicated to working with the customer through the entire renovation process.

Their long history and dedication to quality have earned them their slogan: “Our Tradition of Excellence is evident in every detail.”

Todd and Brooks point out: “Starting with Powell Renovations early in the design process helps you save money. We can give direction on costs so you design upgrades to your home you can ultimately afford.”

Powell Renovations emphasizes the Built Green approach to building and renovating.

Here just a few of the Built Green features inside and around a Powell Home:

• They use non-toxic and low-toxic outdoor materials for landscaping, helping to build biodiversity and increase soil nutrient reserves without contaminating waterways
• They install thermostats with an On-Switch for the furnace fan to circulate air allowing warm air to circulate throughout the house without running the furnace
• They clean furnace and air ducts thoroughly before residents move in providing better air quality
• They verify seals at doors, windows, plumbing and electrical penetrations against moisture and air leaks

Click here to see just a small sample of the impressive accomplishments of Powell Renovations and the quality craftsmanship that goes into every Powell-built home.

Todd and Brooks Powell have recently written the hardback book: “Building a Quality Custom Home. What You Need to Know.” This is a terrific step-by-step guide to making the necessary informed decisions, whether renovating or building from the ground up.

To order a copy or discuss a renovation or new construction in your life, contact Powell Renovations here:

Phone:

• 206-824-8001

Fax:

• 206-824-9030

Email:

• brooks@powell-homes.com

Street Address:

22211 Marine View Drive South
Des Moines, WA 98198

Hours:

• Monday – Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm

Website:

• www.PowellRenovates.com

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

The City of Des Moines’ Senior Services is sponsoring a free shuttle service for seniors over 55 to the Farmers Market on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month between 9:30am and 2:30pm.

Residents must live in Des Moines or Normandy Park, and you must call (206) 878-1642 before 4pm on the Wednesday before to schedule a pick-up.

Donations are welcome, but not required.

We’d like to offer a “may the best person win” welcome to Ross Hunter, candidate for King County Executive, our latest Advertiser.

We recently met up with him at a local farmers market for a get-to-know-you chat.

“I’m an agent for change,” said Ross, who is in his fourth term in the Washington State House of Representatives, and worked at Microsoft for 17 years.

“I have the skills to make things happen.”

We asked Ross to talk about former Executive Ron Sims, namely the thing Sims did best while in office, and that which he did not do so well.

“You’d have to include the council in on my answer,” Ross responded. “They really work together. I’d say that they put us on the map environmentally in a positive way.

“But over the years the executive and council showed a lack of attention to financial reality.”

We asked what experience not commonly known about him would suggest he is ready to run the state’s largest county.

“Not many people know this, but I spend time now and again helping Habitat for Humanity,” he said, referring to the group that helps build houses for those who otherwise might not be able to afford one.

“I like to frame. If I can swing a big hammer, I’m happy.”

A hint of the style of a Hunter Administration?

“No,” Ross said with a laugh. “It’s just how I build homes for those who need them!”

Primary Election day is August 18th. The two candidates with the most votes advance to the General Election in November.

For more information on the Ross Hunter campaign go to: www.RossHunter.com.

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The acclaimed Wenatchee Youth Circus is coming to Des Moines the weekend of July 17th through 19th (Fri. – Sun.) and will be doing five performances on the front lawn of Des Moines Elementary School, located at 22001 9th Avenue South.

The circus, in its 57th year, is considered to be one of the four top non-professional troupes in the nation, and includes all regular circus acts with the exception of live animals.

It is comprised entirely of children ages 3 to 18, who have played to audiences throughout the US and Canada, averaging 12,000 miles per year.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Wenatchee Youth Circus – 5 performances, each at approximately 90 minutes

WHEN: Friday, July 17th through Sunday, July 19th

WHERE: Des Moines Elementary School’s front lawn, located at 22001 9th Ave South

COST: $5.00 for Children, $7.00 Adults and $20.00 for a family of five

TICKETS: Available at the Des Moines Field House, located at 1000 South 220th; phone: (206) 870-6527

[EDITOR'S NOTE: To see Photos from the 2009 50th Birthday/Waterland Parade, click here. To read our firsthand account and see photos of what it was like for us to be in the parade (then hang out with the Seafair Pirates, click here.]

by Pat Nardo

The best laid plans of mice and…Murphy’s Law.

Your parade, Des Moines, has progressed to a level of substance with a flow of applications, invitations and additional support and help from in and out of the community. No matter how well intentioned or how good the scheduling of events may be, things can and ultimately will go wrong. We are working to avoid “glitches” along the way and anticipate changes to content and timing for this enormous task.

We don’t have a movie-like ability to predict “coming attractions” but it would be nice to be able to share our excitement with our friends and spectators as to what to expect on July 18th. The 50th anniversary of the Des Moines Parade will have many elements. At the beginning and to open this event, we will have the Junior Parade, followed immediately by the now famous, Rainier High School Band. They have always been a treasured part of our parades back in Waterland days and this year will be no exception. Our parade directors, Anna and BJ Bjorneby, will follow behind The Rainier Band in a shiny white Mercedes and should draw a well-earned applause from those of you who know these valued members of our Des Moines. They have and continue to give both of their time and, yes, money to this event.

The Junior Parade element will be “on the march” at 5:30pm under the watchful eyes of Dave and Jeanie Markwell, who also have invested much of their time to cultivating these young community leaders to develop into the solid citizens that they will become. Our route begins at 227th and Marine View Drive and, as in the past, will end at 216th. You can expect to see our Mayor, Bob Sheckler, some council members and other honorees. Watch for the Seafair Pirates, a hydro escorted by Seafair Commodores along with the Seafair Clowns to lighten your spirits. Many of our VIPs will be appearing in vintage or classic cars and there will also be a few cars interspersed within the parade as well.

Early on in our parade, you will see the food bank volunteers and you are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item; little to ask for such a grand parade and worthy cause.

Alan Secord, in charge of the Seafair Marshals, will see to it that all runs smoothly from beginning to end and we thank him for his time and value his efforts as a selfless volunteer. This applies to all of our Seafair personnel, for whom we are profoundly grateful.

At this writing, it is planned to have our reviewing stand near the Bill’s Barber Shop and it will be decorated by the Emerald City Balloon Company. In addition, an archway of balloons is planned as an entry way for the parade participants. Much has been said about the parade here, its beginning and passage, but what about the ending?

Now I sit back and think…”If anything can go wrong?”

Not if we can help it!

Our neighbor to the north, Burien, is holding its annual Strawberry & Arts Festival this weekend (rain or shine), and it’s gonna be chock-full of live music, arts, dance, food vendors, kid’s activities, a skate competition and more, as well as over $2,100 worth of local prize giveaways (scroll down to see the latest list) at our sister site The B-Town Blog’s booth!

So come on down, visit our peeps near the Skate Park, fill out an entry form and enter to win one of 38 great local prizes from local Advertisers and various Burien businesses.

Here’s Saturday’s schedule:

SATURDAY, JUNE 20th:

MAIN STAGE:

10:00am – 10:30am: New City Dance Academy
11:00am – 11:30am: Youth Sounds NorthWest
11:45am – 12:30pm: Momentum Dance
12:30pm – 1:00pm: Burien’s own Block Party B-Boys
1:15pm – 2:30pm: Dyno Jamz
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Pearl Django
4:30pm – 6:00pm: The Tempos with Swing-Amajig and the Aviation HS Ballroom Dancers

GALLERY STAGE:

10:00am – 10:30am: Hi-Liners
11:00am – 11:45am: Abysinnian Dance
12:15pm – 1:00pm: Sohoyini
1:30pm – 2:30pm: Jump Ensemble
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Central Services presents The Board of Education
4:30pm – 6:00pm: The Jangles

FESTIVAL GROUNDS:

10:30am – 12:30pm: The Whisky Swillers
1:00pm – 2:30pm: Skate Competition
4:15pm – 5:15pm: Bubbleman (located at 4th &146th)

1PM: SKATE COMPETITION:

• Noon: Registration Starts
• 1:00pm: Competition starts
• $5 Registration Fee
• Register the day of the event at the skate competition tent.
• A registration form must be completed and signed by an adult prior to competing.

Four Age Divisions:

• 9 & Under
• 10 – 12 years
• 13 – 15 years
• 16 & older

RULES:

1. Riders WILL be disqualified for interupting another rider’s run.
2. Handle all property and equipment safely and properly.
3. No vulgar, offensive, or derogatory language.
4. Helmet required
5. Have FUN!

JUDGING:
The performance of the rider will be judged in the following three categories:

• Consistency
• Technicality
• Style

Each contestant will get two 1-minute runs. Contestants will be judged and scored on each run then totaled for a final score after both runs.

Music:
Live Performance by the Dyno Jamz during the Skate Competition. Check them out and listen to their music here!

Kids Activities:

• Make Superheroes Art Garb at the Art Garage: Hats, headbands, vest,capes, and more! Used recycled materials to make fun costumes to wear as you wander the fest, or to wear as you run in the 1K Fun Run on Sunday (run sign-up booth at the fest!)
• Create Chalk Art at the Burien Art Gallery!
• All Day: Bouncers

10:30am-3:00pm: Face Painting

3:00-4:00pm: Central Services presents The Board of Education on the Gallery Stage.

Here’s the latest, greatest, and most updatedest B-Town Blog Prize List:

BUSINESS		VALUE	PRIZE
Bistro Baffi		$25	Gift Certificate for Dinner
Poggi Bonsi		$25	Decorative Italian Plate
909 Coffee & Wine		$20	Gift Card
Moss Chiropractic		$185	Gift Certificate for Complete Chiropractic Exam & Adjustment
Moss Chiropractic		$23	Ice Pack
Highline Athletic Club		$234	One-Month Free Membership & Enrollment Fee
1-Stop Computer Repair		$50	One-Hour Computer Service
1-Stop Computer Repair		$50	One-Hour Computer Service
Herr Backyard Garden Center		$10	Gift Card
Burien Auto Repair		$89.95	Oil Change & Filter Service, Inspection, Car Wash & Mini Detail
Howard & Marge		$25	Gift Card
Advanced Massage		$65	One-Hour Massage
Mick Kelly’s Irish Pub		$25	Gift Card
Reiki by Anita		$85	Reiki Session
Mark Restaurant & Bar		$40	Gift Card
Vision Collision		$50	$50 off Interior Detail
Mark’s Expert Auto		$25	$25 off Coolant Flush
Digi Guys/CPI		$15	B-Town Blog T-Shirt
Digi Guys/CPI		$15	B-Town Blog T-Shirt
Digi Guys/CPI		$15	B-Town Blog T-Shirt
Digi Guys/CPI		$15	B-Town Blog T-Shirt
Digi Guys/CPI		$15	B-Town Blog T-Shirt
Philip Kelley Acupuncture		$90	Acupuncture Treatment
Shining Star Massage		$50	Foot Reflexology
Ace Hardware		$39.99	43-Piece Hanging Tool Kit
Park Place Bar & Grill		$50	Gift Certificate
Sal’s Deli		$10	Certificate for One Free Breakfast
Sal’s Deli		$10	Certificate for One Free Breakfast
Sal’s Deli		$10	Certificate for One Free Breakfast
Tin Room Bar		$25	Gift Certificate
Photography by Michael Brunk/NW Lens		$475	1-Hour Photo Shoot, Post Production, CD and 3-5 Minute Video Story
Market Place Salon		$175	Helix Cordless Flat Iron
Economy Wiring/YB Tubless		$30	$30 Credit Towards Electrical Call or Hot Tub Service
Elliott Bay Brewhouse & Pub		$40	Gift Card
Emerald City Smoothie		$90	Five Re-Usable Smoothie Mugs with Free Drink Coupons
Cheese FX Cheesecakes		$15-$18	6-inch Basic or Deluxe Cheesecake
Sidestreet Kitchen & Bar		$25	Gift Certificate
Wow Window Washing		$75	Gift Certificate for Window Cleaning

So…we’ll see you at our booth, which will be located near the Skate Park, this Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 10am to 5pm!

The Highline School District will be offering up free meals all summer long, including both breakfast and lunch at 13 different locations, most beginning on Monday, July 6th.

The district has been offering free summer meals for at least the last ten years, and the USDA-funded program has expanded significantly to include community sites as well as schools.

“Based on the estimation from our sites, we may serve up to 1,000 breakfasts and 2,000 lunches plus offer snacks to some sites,” said Brianna Smith, RD, Nutrition Services Manager.

Who is served by the Summer Food Service Program?

• All children 18 years and younger are eligible for the Summer Food Service Program. There is no registration or fee.
• All children are welcome to eat a meal at summer school sites, even if they are not enrolled in a summer program.
• The meal must be eaten at the site and be finished within 15 minutes of the final serving time.

Who pays for it?
The Summer Food Service Program is a federally funded child nutrition program that feeds children nutritious meals during the summertime when school is out and children don’t have access to school meals. It was created to ensure that children in low-income areas could continue to receive nutritious meals during long school vacations. Funding for the Summer Food Service Program is provided with federal dollars and is sufficient to meet expenses related to sponsorship of the program.

What is the purpose of the program?
Clearly, the nutritional needs of large numbers of children who depend on school meals during the school year are not being met in the summer. Good nutrition is essential for learning.

How are site locations determined?
Service sites for the Summer Food Service Program are determined based on:

1. Eligibility criteria.
2. Interest and need at the school building level.
3. Interest and need at community centers.

Here’s where and when the FREE Summer Meals will be available:

• Bow Lake School
  Breakfast: 7:30-8:45 Jul 6-Jul 24 M-F
  Lunch: 11:30-12:45
  18237 42nd Ave S SeaTac 98188
• Evergreen School
  Breakfast: 7:15-7:45 Jul 6-Jul 24 M-F
  Lunch: 10:45-11:15
  830 SW 116th Seattle 98146
• Gregory Heights School
  Breakfast: 7:30-8:45 Jul 6-Jul 24 M-F
  Lunch: 11:30-12:45
  16201 16th Ave SW Burien 98166
• King County Parks – White Center
  Lunch: 12:00-1:00 July 7-Aug 14 M-F
  Snack: 4:00-5:00
  1321 SW 102nd St Seattle 98146
• Midway Elementary School
  Breakfast: 7:30-8:45 Jul 6-Jul 24 M-F
  Lunch: 11:30-12:45
  22447 24th Ave S Des Moines 98198
• Mt. Rainier School
  Breakfast: 7:15-8:00 Jul 6-Aug 7 M-F
  Lunch: 11:00-12:00
  22450 19th Ave S Des Moines 98198
• Mt. View School
  Breakfast: 8:30-9:00 Jul 6-Jul 30 M-Th
  Lunch: 12:00-12:30
  10811 12th Ave SW Seattle 98146
• Schoenwald Park
  Breakfast: 8:30-9:30 Jul 6-Jul 15 M-F
  Lunch: 12:00-1:00
  16030 Sylvester Road Burien 98166
• Seahurst YMCA
  Breakfast: 7:30-8:30 Jul 6-Aug 14 Mon-Fri
  Lunch: 11:30-12:30
  14603 14th Ave SW Burien 98166
• Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission
  Lunch: 12:00-12:30 Jul 7-Aug 14 T-F
  Snack: 4:00-4:30
  15003 14th Ave SW Burien 98166
• Shannon South
  Lunch: 12:00-1:00 Jul 6-Aug 14 M-F
  Snack: 3:00-4:00
  3508 S 180th SeaTac 98188
• Southwest Boys and Girls Club
  Lunch: 12:00-12:30 Jul 6-Aug 14 M-F
  Snack: 3:30-4:00
  9800 8th Ave SW Seattle 98106
• White Center
  Breakfast: 8:15-9:00 Jul 6-Aug 7 M-F
  Lunch: 12:00-1:00
  10015 6th Ave SW Seattle 98146

• Food cannot be taken off the premises.
• The child does not need to be a Highline Public School student.
• There are no forms to fill out and no names are taken.
• Program is open to age 18 and under.

More information available at the Highline School District website.

Highline-area “Hams” will join with thousands of Amateur Radio operators who will be showing off their emergency capabilities over the weekend of June 27th and 28th.

Over the past year, the news has been full of reports of ham radio operators providing critical communications during unexpected emergencies in towns across America, including the California wildfires, winter storms, tornadoes and other events worldwide. During Hurricane Katrina, Amateur Radio – often called “Ham Radio” – was often the ONLY way people could communicate, and hundreds of volunteer “hams” traveled south to save lives and property.

When trouble is brewing, Amateur Radio’s people are often the first to provide rescuers with critical information and communications. On the weekend of June 27 – 28, the public will have a chance to meet and talk with the Highline area’s ham radio operators and see for themselves what the Amateur Radio Service is about. Showing the newest digital and satellite capabilities, voice communications and even historical Morse code, hams from across the USA will be holding public demonstrations of emergency communications abilities.

This annual event, called “Field Day” is the climax of the week long “Amateur Radio Week” sponsored by the ARRL, the national association for Amateur Radio. Using only emergency power supplies, ham operators will construct emergency stations in parks, shopping malls, schools and backyards around the country. Their slogan, “When All Else Fails, Ham Radio Works” is more than just words to the hams as they prove they can send messages in many forms without the use of phone systems, internet or any other infrastructure that can be compromised in a crisis. More than 30,000 amateur radio operators across the country participated in last year’s event.

“We hope that people will come and see for themselves, this is not your grandfather’s radio anymore,” said Allen Pitts, W1AGP, of the ARRL. “The communications that ham radio people can quickly create have saved many lives when other systems failed or were overloaded. And besides that – it’s fun!”

In the Highline area, the Highline Amateur Radio Club will be demonstrating Amateur Radio at Marvista Park, 4th Avenue SW and SW 200th Street in Normandy Park on June 27th and 28th. They invite the public to come and see ham radio’s capabilities and learn how to get their own FCC radio license before the next disaster strikes. The Highline area includes Burien, Des Moines, Normandy Park, SeaTac, and Tukwila as well as the North Highline unincorporated area.

There are over 650,000 Amateur Radio licensees in the US, and more than 2.5 million around the world. Through the ARRL’s Amateur Radio Emergency Services program, ham volunteers provide emergency communications for thousands of state and local emergency response agencies, all for free.

The public is most cordially invited to come, meet and talk with the hams. See what modern Amateur Radio can do. They can even help you get on the air!

To learn more about the Highline Amateur Radio Club, go to http://highlinearc.cfsites.org. To learn more about Amateur Radio, go to www.emergency-radio.org.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: To see Photos from the 2009 50th Birthday/Waterland Parade, click here. To read our firsthand account and see photos of what it was like for us to be in the parade (then hang out with the Seafair Pirates, click here.]

by Pat Nardo

With less than 30 days until our 50th Anniversary celebration and Grand Parade, volunteers are scurrying about, not unlike the “Three Blind Mice” trying to pull together all the loose ends that have a tendency to reveal themselves at the least opportune moment.

We are having our parade meetings every Wednesday evening at 6pm at the Bjorneby’s CARSTAR office on 220th and Pacific Highway. Applications are still being accepted although a good number of units for the parade have signed on. This is a Seafair Sanctioned event and the Seafair Commodores will play a large role in our success. Part of our excitement, hardly contained, is the honor of having the Seafair Pirates presenting their playful, threatening antics to an always pleased crowd. The booming cannon and swords slashing the air amid loud “har hars” always gets the kids in the crowd animated.

There will be three marching bands and a few floats, at least three children’s units will begin the march through town on Marine View Drive. Our budget, though small, we are able to come up with appropriate trophies, provided by our own EC Computer owner and Des Moines supporter, Patricio Mendoza. Engraving may cost us but that too is in negotiations. There will be badges for all who are working on the parade, including staff and honored guests. At Landmark on the Sound there is a reception planned with mostly “finger food” and from The Reuben New York Eatery a generous sampling of their famous, delicious brownies! Remember the slogan, “Betcha can’t eat just one”? Enough said!

Our friends at Butler’s Bar & Grill plan a beer garden and a “blues band” to be in the front of their business to invite spectators, residents, and anyone else to join the festivity provided after our parade. Mike Collello is hosting this part of our celebration. Our parade poster is being distributed all over town and the excitement is beginning to build up as we proceed with, what we hope, will be a very memorable event.

Applications are still accepting for participation in our parade, but time is limited now, so if you need assistance with this, you may call Anna Bjorneby at (206) 244-8080 or BJ Bjorneby at the same number. Remember, we are at the time when applications need to be in around July 1st, so don’t hesitate, vacillate or procrastinate. I am not sure what these words really mean but I found them in my thesaurus.

The Junior Parade will start at 5:30pm, and the Main parade at 6pm.

We are now at 30 days and counting for a magnificent parade so plan to be here as part of your “staycation”!