Going on job interviews? Giving a business presentation? Leading a meeting? Need confidence? Toastmasters is the answer!

The ability to speak well is crucial to success, but have you ever evaluated your speaking skills? Many people, if they were to seek feedback, would learn that they talk too much, or perhaps too softly, that they fill their sentences with “ums” and “uhs,” or that they are hard to follow. You might say that it’s the message that matters; but if you can’t put your ideas across in a way that makes people want to listen, that promotion or that leadership position could be a long time coming.

Toastmasters offers a formal, self-paced program that will help you learn to speak better. The two keys to this are practice and feedback. Toastmasters clubs provide a friendly and supportive setting where you can practice your public speaking, and receive constructive feedback. Darlene Burrill says, “Toastmasters has given me the courage to speak in front of a group in spite of my speech impediment.”

To learn more about Toastmasters attend an Open House at Burien Breakfast Toastmasters, Thursday, September 9, 2010. Arrive at 6:45am to receive your guest packet and get your coffee or juice. There will be a light breakfast served at break time.

Burien Breakfast Toastmasters Open House
4 Lessons on Speaking from “The Karate Kid”
Highline Public Schools ERAC Building
15675 Ambaum Blvd SW, Burien
Across the street from Azteca, next to Hi-Line Lanes
7:00am – 8:15am
Arrive at 6:45am for Guest Packets, Coffee and Juice
For more info contact Theresa 206-588-5088 or burienbreakfast.com@gmail.com

There will be three parts to the meeting, the prepared speeches, the evaluations, and “Table Topics”. The prepared speeches are usually of five to seven minutes long. Each member is given in a manual that sets out ten speech projects. Each of these has a specific goal, such as speech structure, using gestures, pauses and vocal inflection. These will help you learn how to express your ideas clearly and with confidence. Bang Parkinson, the President of Burien Breakfast Toastmasters, says that using the speech projects helped her gain confidence and feel comfortable presenting at board meetings at work. “Even though I still have my Chinese accent, people understand me better. Giving speeches at Toastmasters helped me to articulate well and to speak slower, clearer and smoother.”

After each speech an evaluator, usually a Toastmaster more experienced than the speaker, provides feedback. This takes the form of an impromptu speech and the objective is to give suggestions on how to improve future speeches because feedback is essential to learning.

For many people the “Table Topics” part of a meeting is the most frightening, yet this is also of the greatest benefit for those wanting to improve how they speak at work. In Table Topics each person is called upon to speak impromptu on a subject. If you’ve never done it before, delivering an interesting and well-structured talk to a group of attentive listeners without any preparation can be extremely difficult. Yes, the first time is hard, but it gets easier with practice, and that’s precisely the point. As Jean Schmidt says, “I used to be legally blind. Science gave me back my eyesight. Toastmasters opened my eyes. Now they can’t keep my mouth shut!”

Attend a meeting and you’ll find Toastmasters are more than willing to share stories of how Table Topics practice helped them at work. From explaining a project to a group of unexpected visitors to persuading colleagues to consider a crazy idea, being able to express thoughts clearly is essential to being viewed as both confident and competent. Roger Wells will tell you how Table Topics saved his dad’s life when with no preparation he had to convince medical authorities to hospitalize his dad at once.

You can learn these skills and more in a supportive, self paced, fun atmosphere at Burien Breakfast Toastmasters. Join us at our Open House September 9, 2010 at 6:45am or at any of our regularly scheduled meetings.

Burien Breakfast Toastmasters
Highline Public Schools ERAC Building
15675 Ambaum Blvd. SW
Burien, WA 98166
2nd and 4th Thursday of every month
7:00am – 8:15am

We are proud to announce a new section and new advertiser: Freedom Systems is the new sponsor of the Waterland Blog Crime Page. This means that you can now access all crime news by clicking on “Crime” in the upper navigation menu section.

Freedom Systems does Residential and Commercial:

• Security
• Electrical
• Renewable Energy
• Audio / Video
• Automation

The owner, Jimmie Beem, started his career in the Security Industry when he was 19 years old managing two of the largest ADT dealers in the Northwest. In 2005, at the age of 22, Jimmie was presented with an opportunity to establish his very own ADT dealership.

Since then they’ve expanded their expertise into Video Surveillance, Access Control, Audio / Video and they have some of the best Commercial and Residential Electricians in the industry working for them.

Freedom Systems believes in providing their customers with the latest technology, competitive pricing and an outstanding level of customer service. They provide the freedom without the worries and care about your overall customer satisfaction.

To learn more visit their website at www.freedomsystemsinc.com or call (206) 274-9946.

Prior to the grand opening of the new Burien location at 626 SW 152nd Street, Grand Central Bakery pledged to contribute a portion of the opening day sales to two local organizations. Today they followed through by handing over checks for 100% of their first day sales.

The two groups receiving checks this morning (Aug 27) were the Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence and the Highline Area Food Bank. Thanks to sales that set a opening day record for Grand Central, each organization received a check for $2,350.

Mike Werle, Executive Director of the Highline Area Food Bank, acknowledged the donation saying, “We’re very fortunate to have a business come into our community and latch on to organizations like ours.”

Maya Mendoza-Exstrom, President of the Highline Schools Foundation Board of Trustees, agreed and welcomed Grand Central to the neighborhood saying, “While we appreciate all of our community support, for a new business to step up like this is unprecedented.”

Photos by Michael Brunk. Click to view larger versions.

WLB Advertiser Archery Bistro (located at the Normandy Park Towne Center), would like our Readers to know about their latest food specials and events.

Here’s a letter from Chef Brandon about this week’s offering:

Hello!!! Chef Brandon here! This will be my last blog of the summer. I can’t believe September is almost here! Fortunately, September means that football season has arrived! Archery Bistro is your pro and college football headquarters!

Come down and have a burger and a brew, and cheer on your favorite team(s) all season long!

As I said last week, people are already booking their holiday parties with us. I would recommend you giving me a call, or stopping by in person to ensure you can book the date that you want!

Until Next Time,
- Chef Brandon

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

WLB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a spectacular Sound view 2-bedroom condo just across the street from the water, next to Salty’s Restaurant in Redondo.

With a great covered patio/deck to enjoy, Redondo’s views and the beach, this unit offers a great, easy location, along with a club house big enough for wedding and family get-togethers.

Hardwood floors are only four years old, and there’s lots of storage and covered parking.

This unit is very clean and has fresh paint throughout.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, Aug. 29th, from 1pm – 4pm.

WHERE: 28120 S Redondo Beach Dr Unit 210, Des Moines, WA 98198

INFO:

• List Price: $249,900
• Listing #: 119453
• Beds: 2
• Baths: 1.00
• Year Built: 1962
• Approximate House SqFt: 815
• Home Owners Dues: $310

Appliances that Stay:

• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Range/Oven
• Refrigerator

Unit Features:

• Balcony/Deck/Patio
• Skylights
• Top Floor

Marketing Remarks:

VIEW, VIEW and beach life!!

Spectacular Sound view 2 bedroom condo with a great covered patio/deck to enjoy.

Redondo’s views and beach, just across the street from the sound and next to Salty’s Restaurant.

This unit offers a great, easy location, club house big enough for those wedding and family get-togethers.

Hardwood floors are only 4 years old, lots of storage and covered parking.

This unit is very clean and has fresh paint throughout.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

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

Looking for something to do this weekend? Here’s a round up of events happening around the area:

• Friday – Watch “Ratitouille” At Lake Burien Memorial School Park
• Saturday – Saturday Morning Jazz Set at Dubsea Coffee
• Saturday – Fantastic Fruits & Vegetables At This Week’s Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market!
• Sunday – Mark Your Calendar For This Sunday’s B-Patch Garden Day!
• Sunday – Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery Hosting Jazz Night On Sunday, August 29
• Sunday – El Tianguis Latino Market at Burien Town Square
• Sunday – Free Music at Marvista Park Featuring Blue Ringer

Know about an event we missed? Feel free to share the details in a comment!

We’ll see you down at the marina this Saturday for the Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market! There will be loads of fantastic fruits and vegetables available, so it’s a great time to think about freezing, canning and making jams and jellies!

The Rotary Club of Des Moines will be on hand selling tickets for the Poverty Bay Blues and Brews Fest coming up on September 25 in Beach Park. The festival will features live music, great food and of course plenty to sample from local breweries. Grab your tickets while you can!

This week’s live entertainment at the market is the Fabulous Po’ Boys.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More info on the Exchange Club from their website:

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

We welcome new advertiser Terry Thomas and Des Moines WA Web Design to the Waterland Blog. Terry’s just what every small business or organization in Des Moines and surrounding areas needs these days — he’s a web site designer.

“Compared to other marketing methods so much more information can be presented online that no business can afford to not have an Internet presence now. I’m surprised at how many Des Moines businesses still do not have even a basic website. I’d like to be the one to show them how to use the Internet to their advantage,” explained Terry

Terry didn’t just happen into this line of work. He began a web design and Internet marketing career in 1995 after a 22 year career in the U.S. Navy. He built response websites for major magazine publishers while employed at a Seattle marketing company. So he brings some big league experience at little league prices to local businesses and organizations. According to his website, here’s what Terry can do for your business:

• Website design for business, organizations and clubs.
• Complete website design and setup services from start to finish.
• Reasonable rates and timely delivery.
• Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
• Existing website redesigns (makeovers).
• Websites designed from your specifications or to mine.
• List management, maintenance, repair and reformatting services.
• Internet and PC tutoring.

Terry and his wife Dona and their family moved directly to Des Moines after retiring from the Navy. There was no question that they’d settle in Des Moines as Dona was raised here and now is a para-educator at Des Moines Elementary which she attended as a child. Terry told WLB that as a young woman she apparently didn’t have enough to do and received no less than three degrees from Highline College.

Their foster daughter Marissa attended Mount Rainier High School and Highline College. Son Jared attended Des Moines Elementary, Pacific Middle School, Mount Rainier High School and Highline College. He also spent a year at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

Terry can frequently seen around the Marina and park walking his Australian Shepherd, CeCe. He’s active in a Seattle based Flyball Club, the Jet City Jumpers.

“My goal is to be adopted by multiple local businesses as their go-to-guy for all things Internet. I enjoy getting to know people and learning about their lives and their business. It’s even more exciting when those business owners are your neighbors.” If you are interested in “adopting” Terry and Des Moines WA Web Designs, email him at terry@desmoineswawebdesign.com, visit his website or call him at 206-992-3018.

Advertiser Des Moines Dog House wants to know: How Do You Dress Your Dog? The Facebook Fan who gives the most mouth-watering answer — using Dog House condiments –wins!

What do you win? Your dog dressed the way you like it! Go to the Des Moines Dog House Fan Page on Facebook and share your answer. Post it on their wall, starting with the words “Dress My Dog:” All answers must be received by August 31, 2010. The winner will be announced Wednesday, September 1, 2010.

The Dog House is also announcing a change in their hours. They will be open Monday – Saturday from 11am to 7pm. Owner Tami LaFreniere says they’re planning to reserve Sundays for family and charitable events like the Poverty Bay Arts Festival in September. They will be doing Late Nights, where they serve Nathans 1/4 lb All Beef Hotdogs with cream cheese and grilled onions for $5, from 11pm to 2am, at least through the fall on Fridays and Saturdays.

Keep watching Facebook for surprise specials, contests, and updates. Give them a call at 206-824-1794, visit their website at www.thedesmoinesdoghouse.com or stop by at 22302 Marine View Drive in Des Moines.

WLB Advertiser Brown Bear Car Wash will be celebrating its 53rd anniversary by giving out FREE washes thus Thursday, Aug. 26th.

Hours for the special one-day offer are 8am – 8pm, and yes, the Des Moines location at 22706 Marine View Drive will be participating, as will others in Kent, Federal Way, Auburn, Renton and throughout Seattle.

Over the last four years, Brown Bear has washed 78,760 vehicles during its annual “free car wash day” to celebrate the company’s founding.

Several other area locations are also offering the free service, including:

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

Here are more details from a press release:

Brown Bear Car Wash celebrates 53rd anniversary with free car washes on Thursday, August 26

Over the last four years, the Seattle-based company has washed 78,760 cars during its annual “free car wash day”

SEATTLE—Brown Bear Car Wash will add sparkle to thousands of cars and trucks August 26 as the Seattle-based, family-owned company offers free washes to celebrate its 53rd anniversary. Hours for the special one-day offer are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Brown Bear will be giving away free “Bear Essential” car washes at all of their automated “tunnel wash” locations in the Puget Sound area. Over the last four years, Brown Bear has washed 78,760 vehicles during its annual “free car wash day” to celebrate the company’s founding.

“We’ve had an amazing response each year. It’s a fitting way to say ‘thank you’ to our customers who have supported us over the years.  And hopefully we’ve introduced new customers to the kind of service and value we deliver year around,” said Brown Bear founder and owner Vic Odermat.

He said the event also reinforces the esprit de corps within the company.

“We blend hard work, pride and a lot of fun into an event that benefits our customers and the environment,” said Odermat.

Odermat started Brown Bear in Seattle in 1957 with one location at 15th Ave West in Seattle.  Through its parent company, Car Wash Enterprises, Inc., Brown Bear owns and operates a total of 41 car wash facilities in Washington State as well as a network of gas stations and convenience stores.  It is one of the largest privately held car wash chains in the U.S. and is widely recognized within the car care industry as being a leader in the environmental movement.

For locations of Brown Bear’s automated “tunnel wash” locations in the Puget Sound area, please visit www.brownbear.com.

Jazz Night and Wine Tasting returns to the E.B. Foote Winery on Sunday, August 29.

Tickets are $10 each ($9 for Wine Club Members) in advance or $12 day of the event and include two hours of smooth jazz, a sample of four wines, and snacks. The doors to the winery will open at 5:30 pm and music will go from 6-8 pm.

Wayne Miller and Friends will relax you with smooth jazz music while you enjoy a sample of four wines. Wine will also be available by the glass for $5 cash, and you can purchase bottles to take home with you. This event is for adults only. Tickets are available by visiting or calling the winery, or on the website at www.ebfootewinery.com.

[Would you like to have a Blogvertorial story, Ad and/or Event Listing like this on a popular, fast-growing website seen by interested Local Readers every month? Email us for more info!]

by Ralph Nichols

An international spotlight will focus on Des Moines during the 1st World Emerging Industries Summit 2010 in China, which Mayor Bob Sheckler will attend Aug. 31-Sept. 3.

“I just got confirmation that I will be allowed, as requested, to make a speech on behalf of the city promoting local development,” Sheckler told The Waterland Blog in an Aug. 19 interview.

“This excites me and challenges me. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime, if ever. These are people who represent Fortune 500 companies,” Sheckler said.

“Des Moines, with a population of 30,000, has the opportunity to be promoted before all these international investors and developers in China.”

He added that “a lot of my ability to even go there is due to the city council’s support and help in paying for my trip.” The Des Moines Rotary Club also donated $500 to help with his airfare.

Referring to his successful China trip last November – which he paid for himself and which landed a multi-million-dollar hotel for Des Moines on Pacific Highway S. – Sheckler noted, “If it wasn’t for that trip I wouldn’t have been invited [to this summit].

“This trip is based on relationships I built with government officials and investors I made then. Otherwise this invitation wouldn’t have come my way.”

That invitation came from Wang Rulin, governor, Jilin Province of China, Dominique de Villepin, global chairman of the Asia-Pacific CEO Association Worldwide, and Zheng Xiongwei, global executive chairman of the association.

Sponsored by the Chinese government, the summit – “New Industrial Revolution & Green Economy” – will feature business talks on investment, cooperation and technology exchanges, and promotion of international economic cooperation in emerging industries.

International political leaders, ministers and elected representatives of federal, state, provincial and local governments, CEOs, representatives of industry and related international organizations, and top economists will attend.

“There won’t be a lot of time for one-on-one discussions, which makes my talk all the more significant,” Sheckler said.

Topping his list as he promotes the city will be the planned 89-acre Des Moines Creek Business Park just west of Pacific Highway north of S. 216th St. Des Moines will regulate land use planning and zoning since the business park is within its city limits.

The property is owned by the Port of Seattle, which supports Sheckler’s upcoming efforts in China to attract businesses to this planned development.

He will also highlight opportunities for commercial and residential development in the downtown Marina District, especially along Marine View Drive and 7th Ave. S.

“And there remain a lot of places for development along Pacific Highway in addition to the planned Waterview Crossing project and the 300-room hotel with a four- or five-star true Chinese restaurant.”

Sheckler recalled that the hotel originally was going to be built in Tacoma until he developed an international business relationship with its Chinese investor.

Earlier, he said the city’s efforts to attract international developers and investors have “to be a two-way street. We can’t just take and not give. They are looking for good opportunities for investments in Des Moines that will give them a good return for their dollar. Their interest is in profitable investments.

Chinese investors like the Des Moines area because they can’t get its views of Puget Sound anywhere else “without paying premium dollars for them,” Sheckler added. “And the marina is a huge attraction to them.”

It’s the Freshest and Tastiest (and Rockinest) thing to do on a Saturday – and this week, an all-female band called Sister Wives will rock the Des Moines Farmers Market, which runs from 10am -- 2pm at the South Marina Park.

Fresh This Week include a variety of apples, perfect for a summertime apple pie.

Or try new recipes like Norman potato salad with apples or thyme-roasted apples and onions.

And while you’re planning that apple pie, you can also enjoy the musical sounds of Sister Wives, who describe themselves as:

Ranging from soulful blues to fiery rock to all-out dance band, the Sister Wives defy the conventional norms typically set for all-women bands with the range and depth of their musical energy and virtuosity.

The Sister Wives display a multitude of musical attitudes in a style that is part Stevie Ray Vaughn, a little Sippie Wallace, and a little Allman Brothers.

Their live shows persuade even the most skeptical that “Girls Rock!”

Here’s video proof of how Sister Wives can get people dancin’:

Speaking of videos, here’s a time lapse one we shot at last Saturday’s market – see if you can spot yourself, or someone you know, or maybe a bank robber:

Oh, and be sure to drop by The Waterland Blog booth for a live demo on how we “blog.”

WLB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a totally-remodeled 4-bedroom, 2-bath home in McMicken Heights with views of Mt. Rainier and the Cascade Mountains.

This home features hardwood floors, six-panel doors, tile bathrooms, rounded corners, new furnace, windows and much more.

There’s a large family room off the living room that leads to huge covered deck overlooking a fenced back yard, along with raised gardens and breathtaking views!

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, Aug. 22nd, from Noon – 3pm.

WHERE: 4846 S 170th Street, SeaTac, WA 98188

INFO:

• List Price: $274,950
• Listing #: 107062
• Beds: 4
• Baths: 1.75
• Year Built: 1948
• 2-car Garage
• Approximate House SqFt: 1,840
• Lot Square Footage: 11,325

Interior Features:

• Ceiling Fan(s)
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw
• French Doors

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Deck
• Fenced-Partially
• High Speed Internet
• Outbuildings

Marketing Remarks:

Total remodel 3 years ago, 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with Mt Rainier, Valley and Cascade Mt views!

Home features hardwood floors, 6 panel doors, tile bathrooms, rounded corners, new furnace, windows, electric & plumbing.

Large family room off the living room leads to huge covered deck overlooking fenced back yard, raised gardens and breath taking views!

Deep 2 car garage with opener and shelves.

Lot of extra storage, private setting in back yard.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

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

On Wednesday night (Aug. 18th), Burien’s Tin Room hosted the opening party for sponsors of the 2010 “Brat Trot” 5K race, which will be on Sunday, Sept. 19th.

This year’s all-day event will benefit WestSide Baby and Safe Kids of South King County, as well as Multicare at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital and Health Center.

Last year’s race brought in nearly $25,000 for local charities, and this year’s will include even more activities, including a German Oompah Band, a “Seize the Sausage” race, beer garden, and a block party emceed by none other than Burien’s own inimitable “Yodeling Dominatrix” Manuela Horn.

The brainchild of Tin Room owner Danny House (aka “Dan the Sausageman“), the original race drew more than 700 people together for a day of fun and festivities, and most important, fundraising. Of course this year, Danny wants to do more.

Here’s how YOU can help:

• If you’re a local businessperson and you’d like to chip in to sponsor (we’re already one!), click here to download a PDF Sponsorship Packet.
• If you’re a Runner who’d like to register for the race, click here.
• If you’d like to serve as a Volunteer, click here to email Deb Will.
  

Here’s info on this year’s race from the website:

This year’s 5K race begins in Olde Burien on SW 152nd, widely circling Lake Burien before finishing to cheering crowds around the corner of 10th SW and back onto SW 152nd.

2010 brings the addition of a 1 mile+ “Seize the Sausage” race, perfect for kids and adults alike looking for a shorter venue. Runners can dash out, grab their Bratton and race back to the same finish line as those in the 5K.

5K Individual Race
This 5K course is generally flat with few even slight grades. Runners will be primarily on blacktop with a bit of gravel and grass. Race is clearly marked with live hand wavers to keep you on the course and trained flaggers and police officers at busy intersections. Runners can expect a nice run through neighborhoods with glimpses of beautiful Lake Burien and other parts of our charming city. Timing is chip-driven and provided by BuDu Racing.

The Burien Brat Trot starts and finishes nestled into one of greatest festivals of the fall — Octoberfest. Beginning at 10:30 am on September 19th the band strikes up and begins to play in Old Burien. All day event goers can enjoy brats, the beer garden, a german oompah band,water weenie races, booths and of course the Chicken Dance. Local restaurants and shops will be open for business with drink and event specials. Entertaining again this year is the Austrian Yodeler Manuela Horn.

In addition to marking your calendars for the race day, you might also want to pencil in Friday, Sept. 17th as well – that’s the night of the Brat Trot Pub Crawl, which, if it’s anything like last year’s, will be amazingly fun.

Just received word from the Des Moines Marina that IMCO General Construction, their paving subcontractor, will be prepping and placing asphalt in various locations in the vicinity of the Marina Office and dry shed buildings next Monday through Wednesday, Aug. 23-25.

Access to and use of the following locations will be prohibited all three days:

• West dry shed – all units
• East dry shed – all west facing and end units; east facing units and parking to the east of the shed will remain accessible
• Dry shed tenant launch
• Marina Office parking lot – No parking except for Load/Unload Only (15 minutes maximum) in the north side of the lot; limited angle parking for Guest Moorage and N-Dock tenants will be available along Dock Avenue just north of the Marina Office lot

According to the statement:

There will be a short period of time on Wednesday, Aug. 25, where vehicle traffic along Dock Avenue South between the CSR boatyard and the Marina Office will be detoured while asphalt is being placed.

Dock Avenue between the CSR boatyard and Marina Office will be closed to pedestrian traffic all day, Wednesday, August 25.

Dock Avenue will remain open to pedestrians/vehicles at all other times during this three-day period.

However, caution is urged due to increased construction-related traffic.

If you have any questions, please contact Doreen Torseth or the Marina Office at 206-824-5700.

This week, our decision to “take the pledge” to the TAO of Journalism came to fruition, and we’d like our Readers to know about it.

The “TAO of Journalism” is, quite simply, a “promise to your audience that you will be Transparent about who you are, Accountable for your mistakes, and Open to other points of view.”

Here’s how this concept originated:

At a Journalism That Matters conference in Washington, D.C., in 2008, John Hamer of the Washington News Council was thinking about how journalists demand that everyone they cover be transparent, accountable and open — but what about journalists themselves? Isn’t it a two-way street? He realized those three words spelled “TAO” and proposed a breakout session on the “TAO of Journalism.” About two dozen conference attendees showed up to discuss the idea and help refine it.

In 2009, at another Journalism That Matters gathering at the Poynter Institute in St. Petersburg, Florida, Hamer floated the idea again and convened another breakout session. Several attendees came and talked it over — including Tom Stites of The Banyan Project, who encouraged Hamer to pursue it.

At a third Journalism That Matters event at the University of Washington in Seattle in January 2010 (Editor’s Note: this is where we first met John and learned of this concept), the “TAO of Journalism” was informally launched. Several attendees took the “TAO pledge” and/or bought T-shirts displaying a TAO logo. Others signed up at a Society of Professional Journalists convention in Seattle in April 2010.

We now proudly publish the pledge we took for not only The Waterland Blog, but for our five sister sites as well:

Transparent
We will fully disclose who we are, our journalistic mission and our guiding principles. We will post information on our background and expertise, including education and experience. We will list advertisers, donors, grants, and any other payments that support our work. If affiliated with a political party or special-interest group, we will disclose that. If lobbying for any particular legislation or regulation, we will disclose that. If we are being paid to promote a product or cause, we will disclose that. If other factors could be seen as potential conflicts of interest, we will disclose them. (NOTE: The principle of transparency does not apply to confidential sources, who may still be protected.)

Accountable
If we get any facts wrong, we will admit that promptly and publicly. We will post/publish/print/podcast/broadcast a correction or at least a clarification. We will fully explain what happened to cause the error or mistake. We will do a follow-up story if that is appropriate, putting the original material in better context. We will apologize and promise to be more careful next time. We will show a little humility.

Open
If there are credible challenges to our point of view or simply differences of opinion, we will be open to contrary positions. We will give the other side(s) opportunity and space to express their views and engage in open public dialogue through comments or other means. If we are primarily engaged in opinion and commentary, rather than news reporting, we will make that clear – while inviting others to express their opinions through comment and feedback means.

We do not necessarily agree to abide by any particular code of journalism ethics or professional standards, although we may choose to do so. If we do, we will declare that publicly. If we don’t, we will declare that as well. We understand that this will not be enforced by any outside organized group. It will be overseen by everyone on the Internet who wants to see high standards of transparency, accountability and openness in journalism – through whatever media platform.

We understand that if someone using the “TAO Seal” starts violating its basic principles, they will be admonished, criticized, reprimanded and embarrassed in public through the awesome power of the Internet. Call it “crowdsourcing” ethics and accuracy. In summary, we believe that Transparency, Accountability and Openness are keys to our personal credibility and public trust.

So…what the heck does this mean to our Readers?

• It means that you can rest assured that if we have a bias or agenda, we’ll do our best to openly disclose it.
• If we make a mistake, we’ll do our best to correct it.
• And, as we’ve showed in the past by allowing anonymous Comments and Forum Postings, we’ll continue to allow contrary points of view, as long as they’re not libelous, or contain naughty words.

Welcome new Waterland Blog advertister Des Moines Dental Center. Doctor Steven M. Reeves has been in the community for over 15 years and in his present location above Marine View Espresso for the last 12.

Not only does Dr. Reeves treat children and adults for cleanings and routine care, but due to his passion for learning, he has expanded his treatments to include root canals, braces, laser gum therapy and other procedures. Along with his well trained staff, Des Moines Dental Center offers the highest quality dental care in a warm and caring environment.

Dr. Reeves says, “We always welcome new patients and offer prompt care for those with dental emergencies.”

Dr. Reeves also sponsors many teams and facilities in the area. Among them are the water fountain at the new baseball park, several kids’ basketball teams, and this fall he will be a sponsor at the Mt Rainier High School gymnasium.

This September 30th from 8-4, Des Moines Dental Center will be offering a FREE Oral Cancer Screening. A complete oral soft tissue exam will be performed as well as using the latest technology to look for abnormal changes. Also, an optional FREE Computer Smile Analysis is offered.

You’ll find Des Moines Dental Center at 21904 Marine View Drive S. You can contact them at 206-824-2804 or visit their website at www.desmoinesdentalcenter.com. If you are interested in orthodontic treatment you can find additional information at www.orthodonticcenterofdesmoines.com.

by Ralph Nichols

Other Highline-area cities – Burien, SeaTac and Tukwila – have economic development directors or managers. So do other neighboring cities including Federal Way and Kent.

But until now, Des Moines has gone without one – despite a sagging local economy and a need for the city to position itself to attract new retail and other businesses when recovery begins.

That changed when the Des Moines City Council, on a 4-2 vote, created the position of “temporary full-time economic development manager.”

City Manager Tony Piasecki advised the council that, if they approved the proposal, he would appoint Marion Yoshino as the city’s first economic development manager. Yoshina had worked as a volunteer in that capacity since early this year.

She will be paid $70,512 – at $40 an hour – through next April 30, the equivalent of an annual salary near the lower end of the range for similar positions in some other suburban cities in the Puget Sound area.

“Some businesses have survived the recession well,” Piasecki told council members. “They’re the ones we want to bring here. We need to have our act together … to welcome them to our city … to go out and find them.”

Since coming to the city as a volunteer, Yoshino “has shown a tremendous amount of growth,” he continued. “She relates well to those businesses we want to attract.”

Mayor Bob Sheckler and council members Matt Pina, Dan Sherman and Carmen Scott voted to create the position. After voicing concern about city priorities after sharp budget cuts were made in the 2010 budget, Mayor Pro-Tem Dave Kaplan and Councilwoman Melissa Musser voted no.

“I agree there’s a need, but reluctantly I can’t support it,” said Kaplan, noting that utility tax revenue has dropped for the first time this year.
He questioned the city’s ability to pay for the new position for a third of next year and, noting there are other areas in which the city could apply $70,000, said “I just can’t, in good conscience, commit additional resources.”

Musser called the position “a luxury I wish we could have. But it doesn’t feel right. I can’t put it up there on my list of priorities.”

Pina, also wrestling with committing the funds for a new position, observed “that what makes this different is that it can be a revenue-generating opportunity … if we lose momentum here, it will be pretty hard to get it back. It will cost us more in the long run not to do this than to do it.”

Although absent, at a previous meeting Thomasson had stated his opposition to the move, calling it the “camel’s nose under the tent” and urging that the funds – from business and occupancy (B&O) tax revenues that are higher than anticipated – be used to help rehire a police officer.

Sheckler said, however, that “neighboring cities are getting ahead of us … we’re giving them an advantage. When the recession ends, I want us to get off to a running start.”

Acknowledging the difficult decisions Kaplan and Musser had to make, he added that what they said about the economy and city priorities are “very important … things we should keep in mind, too.

WLB Advertiser Archery Bistro (located at the Normandy Park Towne Center), would like our Readers to know about their latest food specials and events.

Here’s a letter from Chef Brandon about this week’s offering:

What’s up B-Town Followers?! Chef Brandon here to remind you about your Hot Summer Nights promotion every Thursday night in August in our Archery Bistro parking lot! Swing by with your classic car or bike and receive food and drink specials ALL NIGHT long! Thursdays are also our All You Can Eat Fish and Chips night! Plan on coming down after work for a fun and entertaining evening!

Although it may seem far out, people are starting to book their holiday work or family parties now! Archery Bistro is a great place for you and yours to relax and enjoy some fantastic food, drinks, and service! Call now and reserve your party to make sure you get a prime date. If you have an extra large party Archery Bistro is available for a total buy out. I am also happy to custom design your party menu and can work with different size budgets. I promise all of us at Archery Bistro will do all we can so your guests have a lasting and memorable event!
On a final note, have you seen our fire pit? It’s one of a kind! It’s a great place for a late evening glass of wine or summer cocktail! That’s where I would be, if I wasn’t working!

Make it a great day!!
– Chef Brandon

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

Has Kim at Waterland Blog advertiser Kimberley’s Exquisite Jewelry in Des Moines recently gone bananas?

You tell us:

Kim has decided to give away .10 pt and under diamonds just for having your rings repaired now through Sept 15th.

“Many women with diamond rings that have many diamonds, are always seeming to miss a few small stones. By running this first-time ever promotion, I can not only help them fill in the blanks on their rings, but I can tighten the stones they do have, thus making their rings as good as new,” explained Kim.

Basically all Kimberley’s repair customers will be paying is the cost of labor.

You’ll find Kimberley’s Exquisite Jewelry at 22221 7th Ave  in Des Moines.

The store is open Tuesday-Friday from 10am to 6pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.

Get your rocks replaced at Kimberley’s, now through Sept 15th.

1. At 1pm, local fitness guru Shayla Lee (of www.grooveintofitness.com) will be doing a live Zumba demonstration, which means that yes, she’ll be dancing to lively, latin-based music, and most likely will break out in a sweat while smiling. In public. And you’re invited to either watch or join in for free – it’s a fun, great workout!

2. The Des Moines Rotary is seeking food donations for their Weekend Backpack Program, which provides backpacks full of food and snacks to needy local kids through the Des Moines Food Bank. Items needed include:

• Oatmeal
• Juice
• Mac & Cheese
• Fruit Snacks
• Nature Valley Crunch Granola Bars
• Quaker Oats Chewy Bars

According to Rotarian Wayne Corey, the need for these backpacks has tripled since the program started three years ago. Backpacks will be distributed through the food bank when school starts, but they need donations now. You can drop food off at the Market Info booth, and they’re accepting donations through the end of the market in late October.

Another reason of course is to drop by The Waterland Blog booth and say hi – we’ll be here until closing at 2pm.

WLB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is a newly-updated 5-bedroom home in the Gregory Heights neighborhood in Burien, located just a block away from the elementary school and a short walk to a community swimming pool.

This home boasts new features like: carpet, paint, vinyl, gas stove, refrigerator and microwave.

Enjoy entertaining in the living room with vaulted ceilings or a simple family dinner in the formal dining room.

With the family room upstairs and a large shop next to the garage you will have plenty of room for your RV and toys.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, Aug. 15th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 16037 15th Ave SW, Burien, WA 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $329,999
• Listing #: 115054
• Beds: 5
• Baths: 2.75
• Year Built: 1954
• Garage-Attached
• Approximate House SqFt: 2,137
• Lot Square Footage: 7,620

Interior Features:

• Dble Pane/Strm Windw
• Dining Room
• French Doors
• Security System
• Skylights
• Vaulted Ceilings
• Walk-in Closet

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Deck
• Fenced-Partially
• Gas Available
• Gated Entry
• High Speed Internet
• Patio
• RV Parking
• Shop

Marketing Remarks:

Welcome to Gregory Heights!

This newly updated 5-bedroom 2.75-bath home is a block away from the elementary school and a short walk to the community swimming pool.

This home boasts new features like: carpet, paint, vinyl, gas stove, refrigerator and microwave.

Enjoy entertaining in the living room with vaulted ceilings or a simple family dinner in the formal dining room.

With the family room upstairs and a large shop next to the garage you will have plenty of room for your RV and toys.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

Click here to view all of Prudential Northwest’s Open Houses.

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