by Dave Markwell

This week my eleven year old son, Aden, and I embark on our annual boy’s road trip around the Northwest. This event is not to be confused with “boy’s weekend”. Certainly, there will be much beer consumed, but most of it will be “root”. For the past several years, my son and I have taken a summer road trip exploring the little nooks and crannies around the area. We have both been introduced to some new places and some new faces. Our trip was originally designed by me as an effort to spend a little time with my son doing something we both enjoy. These occasions seem increasingly rare around home as the distractions of life and other unnamed members of the family demand other things from us. Traveling with just the two of us eliminates a lot of debates about how and what we should be doing. We can just “do”, as guys will.

Being on the road is unlike other traveling. It allows for a slower pace and some genuinely peaceful enjoyment of the scenery. The inherent stress-factor of other forms of travel is not there. No airports or customs or even traffic, if we plan it right…and we do! We drive the back roads and sleepy hamlets littering the wonderful three states in the great Northwest corner. We do it with the windows down and shirts off, eating chips and drinking soda. We are unwashed, decadent hobos and enjoy it all.

I have been a road-tripper since way back. I have seen most of the continent through windshields. I’ve met countless fascinating people in my travels; People one does not meet at Senor Frogs in Cancun. People that have changed the way I think and the way I am. These adventures have shaped me in ways that are difficult to explain or quantify. Little ideas or insights here and there flow freely on a road trip. My mind and spirit are alive and the soil is fertile for my best thoughts. Unburdened by other obligations, road trips allow for true free-thinking. These thoughts are the cornerstones of any good ideas I have ever had. They are my most important thoughts. Having the opportunity to explore the dusty two-laners of my soul with my son riding shotgun is priceless and it is wonderful to know that years from now we will share these as some of the best moments of our lives. We share an armrest as our lives unfold through the bug splattered windshield. We live it together. I recognize this as precious. That’s why I started it. My son does not. He recognizes this as fun. One day he will understand and be grateful. This was not and is not my goal, but I will be happy when the light bulb clicks on and he understands how significant our fleeting time was.

So as I load the rig and stock the cooler, I look forward the adventure and the freedom that awaits us. We will stop and swim when we get hot. We will eat when we are hungry. We will see sights previously unseen. And we will talk. We will talk about important things. We will share pieces of ourselves. We will get to know each other better. We will be what a dad and son should be, but often aren’t. We will be pals with a flexible plan and the authority to change it whenever we want. We will be the co-owners of an experience that counts and I cannot think of a better way to spend a week of my life.

[EDITOR'S NOTE:"Feel Good Friday" is a regular column written by Des Moines resident Dave Markwell, who extols to all neighbors: "Enjoy where we live. Put your feet on the pavement and truly feel how great it is to live here!" Also, you can "friend" Dave on Facebook here.]

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!]

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.

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!]

Photos by Michael Brunk

Artist Chandelle Anderson returned to Des Moines recently for photographs with her now completed mural, “Celebrating Life in Des Moines.” The 12×37 foot mural now graces the wall of the QFC complex along SW 219th Street between Marine View Drive and 7th Ave S.

Chandelle had this to say about her public art piece:

As requested in the call to artists for this project, my inspiration for the mural design centered around the idea of “Honoring Aging.” With that in mind, my intention was to capture the vitality of the elderly in the community, through a variety of roles– as educators, role models, caretakers and artists. And to incorporate their wisdom and life experience with children’s curiosity.

After spending some time in Des Moines and researching the history of the community, I chose music as the central theme. This is relevant to the local summer concert series, and also to the story of the Draper Orphanage and traveling band that was located at the Des Moines beach park in the early 1900s. Reading and beach activities were also chosen for their relevance to the region and their universal nature.

Thank you Des Moines, for inviting me into your community and giving me the opportunity to celebrate life a bit with you all. I hope this mural brings joy to your city for years to come.

“Celebrating Life in Des Moines” is scheduled to be dedicated on September 25 at 10AM as part of the kick-off of the first annual Poverty Bay Art Festival.

The inaugural art festival currently has around 24 artists signed up and 19 participating businesses.

Cora Morrison assures us that it’s not too late for artists and businesses to sign up if they’re interested in participating. Contact Cora at desmoinesflorist@gmail.com or Vickie Bergquist at vickie@vickieinsurance.com for more information.

Walking maps with the locations of all of the art exhibitions will be available two weeks prior to the event and we’ll be sure to let you know as soon as they are out.

Note: You can click the images in this article to view larger versions

We finally finished processing all the photos from last Saturday’s Brent Rice Memorial Swim (see our previous coverage here), and, as promised, here’s a link to them on our sister site The B-Town Blog’s Flickr page, where you can browse, view and even download high-res pics for FREE:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/b-townblog/sets/72157624770868318/

Now if you’ve never used Flickr before, it’s pretty easy – click on the link above and you’ll go the the photo set page.

Once there, you’ll see a bunch of images – 885 of ‘em to be exact, but who’s counting?

Here’s what to do to get a FREE high-res image, courtesy The Waterland Blog:

• Click on the “main” image, of Justin at the Pt. Robinson lighthouse (you can click on any image actually…).
• You can move through the slideshow by using your > key, or by clicking the “Next” or “Previous” buttons at the top.
• Go through the pics until you see one you want to download.
• Click on that pic. The slideshow should stop.
• Now, in the upper right corner you’ll see “View All Sizes” – click on that.
• Then click on “Original Size,” and right-click on Download the Original size and “Save As” the pic to your computer.
• The “original size” image is large enough that it can be printed, emailed, etc.

DISCLAIMER: Hopefully we took a pic of you and posted it. If not, we apologize – it’s quite a challenge to photograph so many people at one event.

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.”

The Rotary Club of Des Moines wants to remind our Readers that you can save $5 per ticket for the Poverty Bay Blues and Brews Festival (coming up Saturday, Sept. 25th from Noon – 7pm) if you order online now.

Here’s more info from the Rotary website:

100% of the net proceeds will support Rotary’s “Music4Life” program, aimed at expanding music to youth in our local schools.

Enjoy  a day filled with local blues from Dudley Taft, Becki Sue and her Big Rockin’ Daddies, the Cold Shot Band, the Stacy Jones Band and Rod Cook together with a variety of fine brews from 10-15 local breweries.

To complement your blues and brews, we will be barbecuing Bratwurst and B&E Market’s famous Tri Tip for your dining enjoyment.

The Festival will be located on the shores of Puget Sound at the Des Moines Beach Park. This is an outdoor event and will be held rain or shine, you must be 21 or older to attend and no pets will be allowed inside the event.

There will be plenty of free parking in the Des Moines Marina.

While you are in town, you might want to visit the Des Moines Farmer’s Market and enjoy the Poverty Bay Arts Festival.

Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 at the gate.

Here’s the musical lineup:

• 12:00 -- 12:45 PM - Cold Shot Band
• 1:15 -- 2:15 PM -- Stacy Jones Band
• 2:45 -- 3:30 PM -- Rod Cook
• 4:00 -- 5:00 PM -- Becki Sue and her Big Rockin’ Daddies
• 5:30 -- 7:00 PM -- Dudley Taft

Music4Life is a program to benefit elementary (fourth and fifth grade students) in Highline Public Schools.  The program is a collaboration between Highline Public Schools, the Rotary Club of Des Moines and many individuals and businesses, partnering to expand music education for all children in the Highline School District.

Music means different things to different people.  To children, learning to play a musical instrument is a meaningful activity -- it’s fun and it builds relationships that can last a life time.  To youth, music opens up the world -- its history and its many cultures -- and provides opportunities for teamwork and meaningful forms of self-expression.  Educators know that music benefits students academically, especially in mathematics, science, history and world languages.  Our community understands that music education helps a person lead a richer, fuller, more meaningful life -- and an arts-rich community is a more desirable place to live.

Music4Life is intended to give every student in the Highline Public Schools access to instruments in good working conditions so they can participate in instrumental and vocal music programs.  Initially, Music4Life will acquire 500 musical instruments and supplies to ensure that 50 percent of Highline Public Schools 4th and 5th grade students can participate in instrumental music.  In the years to come, Music4Life may expand to include a broader range of ages and grade levels, as well as additional music education programs.

To purchase tickets, save a few bucks and learn more, click here.

Tickets can also be purchased at CorkyCellars99 Bottles (206) 824-9462, (253) 838-2558 or Des Moines Drug (206) 878-2345, and through Rotary Club of Des Moines.

To whet your musical whistle, here’s a video of the Stacy Jones Band doing “Angel from Montgomery”:

by Dave Markwell

In the past few months, several of my buddies have become Dads. They have either joined or re-upped their memberships into the brotherhood of fathers. Though, I have, in each case, been very happy for their inclusion into this non-exclusive club, I have also been very happy that it was them and not ME!! Babies are hard work with little return. They are cute and smell pretty good, except when they don’t and it is neat to see them make their little progressions into actual human beings. But, they are also very inconvenient. They operate on THEIR time, not ours. When they are hungry or tired or bothered by some other unknown problem, we must jump. We jump to stop that sound. That shrill, spine piercing sound that they emit. If this sound could be bottled and marketed it would be a “million dollar idea”. It would make even the laziest man quite productive. Efforts to stop this sound are delivered with an urgency and efficiency rarely seen or affected by regular folks. This sound, either the prevention of or elimination of is a true motivator. We will stop whatever we are doing and ACT!! Few things on this earth can inspire motion like this sound. Just the thought of it makes me want to stop it NOW and I can’t even hear it!!

However, as our babies grow, new issues arise. The mouth that delivers “the sound” begins to learn words. These words grow into complaints, demands and whiny pleas for unnecessary and impossible desires. There is probably no sanctuary for a Dad to hide from his children’s voices, except perhaps the grave. I say “perhaps”, because I am not sure that my kids’ persistent questioning and “suggestions” on how best to do things won’t follow me there, too. I am anticipating an eternity spent hearing my son’s “recommendations” and very helpful insights into what I am doing wrong. I signed up for it and I will accept it as gracefully as I can, which is sometimes pretty ungraceful and it is only by the slimmest of margins that my school-age kids avoid “shaken-baby” syndrome.

As a Dad, I struggle to maintain even the illusion of a low form of intelligence. My kids often think I am an idiot. Sometimes I am, sometimes not. They don’t know the difference and this creates awkward moments. When I try to explain, as a dutiful Dad, the pitfalls of a plan they have devised which I can tell will result in breakage of either bones or something I own, they look at me with concern and pity. They don’t understand that I tried that plan and broke something. I have a perspective that they do not and though I have never been a quick study, some things make an impression that even a moron can’t ignore. But, we all have to learn in our own way. I have never listened to anyone else in my life and suffered the consequences. My wife and mom will happily verify this. It seems that the fruits don’t fall far from the tree. So, I do what I can do and sleep well after the emergency room visit.

I have, in speaking to my prospective “Dad” buddies, described my kids as the best pains in the butt I will ever have. Parenthood is always frustrating and painful. It is also, always, great. Caring for something more than ourselves, is liberating in ways unknown to non-parents. We will move burning buildings and the earth itself to protect our kids. We will compromise things previously thought uncompromisable and sacrifice the most sacred of our parts of our souls to make our kids happy or at least good people. This is not easy, but it is worth it. The results being the subtle, yet rare, looks of reverence and awe; the understanding that Dad does know something and is more. These are not our goals, merely byproducts of our very aware efforts that what we do as parents matters. It is a challenge to consistently maintain good parenting, but we do the best we can, because it is right and important and maybe… just maybe… it will STOP THAT FRIGGIN’ SOUND!!!

Welcome or welcome back to the club!! Buzz, SnolohaRod, NeighborNick and DTKII!!

[EDITOR'S NOTE:"Feel Good Friday" is a regular column written by Des Moines resident Dave Markwell, who extols to all neighbors: "Enjoy where we live. Put your feet on the pavement and truly feel how great it is to live here!" Also, you can "friend" Dave on Facebook here.]

On Tuesday (Aug. 24th), we received the following email from Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson regarding “Leonard,” the blue/grey short-haired cat we posted an adoption notice for on Aug. 19th:

Hi Scott -

Thanks so much again for your help, we have adopted Leonard out to his new “forever” home and all is well!

We SO appreciate the support you give our new animal control adoption program 

Jan~

PREVIOUSLY:

Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson wants our Readers to know that they’ve got another pet up for adoption, this time a blue/grey short-haired cat named “Leonard,” who was found as a stray and never claimed.

As some of you may recall, the last pet we posted info on was adopted fairly quickly, so if you’d like “Leonard” to be part of your family, you’d better act quickly!

Here’s Jan’s note:

“Leonard” needs a new family!

He is a young, very friendly, blue/grey short hair Kitty who was found as a stray and never claimed.

He is neutered, vet-checked, vaccinated, litterbox trained, and will be micro-chipped, so is ready to find his new “forever family” immediately!

Please contact me right away to meet this sweet kitty – Thanks!

To apply, contact Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson at (206) 870-6549 or via email: JMagnuson@desmoineswa.gov

Des Moines Police Department
www.desmoineswa.gov
21900-11 Av S, Des Moines, WA 98198
Desk: 206-870-6549
Main: 206-878-3301

Here are some pics of the sleek-lookin’ kitty – check out those bedroom eyes in the first shot:

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.

It almost sounds like a “Saturday Night Live” sketch – cast the legendary, self-aware King of kitschy over-acting William Shatner as Host. Add as Guests convicted child rapist Mary Kay Letourneau and her one-time victim-turned-husband Vili Fualaau, who both live in Des Moines.

Stir.

Oh, and be sure to hit the Record button, ‘cuz this could be interesting, to say the least.

The result? An interview on a new show on the Biography channel called “Aftermath” that borders on surrealism.

To wit – at one point, Letourneau reveals to Shatner that she had no idea that having a “relationship” with an underage boy was illegal, let alone a felony.

There’s another priceless (ok, it’s kinda gross) moment where Letourneau talks about their “first kiss” (at the time she was in her 30s, and he was what? A 12-year old 6th grader?): – listen to her soundbites here:

Letourneau did her time of course, spending seven years in prison for child rape. She and Fualaau married in 2005, and they currently live in Des Moines with their two children.

Oh, and they can sometimes be seen hanging out at the All Star Sports Bar, where Vili often guests as a DJ.

Here’s the episode in its entirety (don’t say we didn’t warn you…):

Des Moines Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson reports some good news – due to the posting we did on Aug. 13th (read it here) showcasing “Oscar Meyer,” the black and tan male Dachshund put up for adoption, a new home has been found for him!

Apparently a Reader contacted Jan after seeing our post, and now “Oscar” has a new home.

Here’s Jan’s note:

Hey Scott -

Thank You so much for helping with finding Oscar his new home!

They are thrilled with him!

You guys are great, Thank You so much!

Jan~

And here’s a pic of the happy new family:

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!]

On Saturday morning (Aug. 14), 41 brave swimmers donned wetsuits and bathing caps, then slowly waded out into the chilly Puget Sound from Des Moines Beach Park, where they then swam 2.3 miles to Point Robinson on Maury Island for the annual Brent Rice Memorial Swim of the Sound fundraiser.

According to Del Rivero, the water temperature was 52.6 degrees, the first swimmer made it across in one hour, and the slowest took two hours and fifteen minutes. Five swimmers were pulled out due to rough water conditions, the first time ever in the four-year history of the event.

The swim was started in 2006 by 17-year old Justin Moser, who wanted to honor his friend and mentor Brent Rice, who passed away just over five years ago in a car accident. Brent Rice, a local swimmer, once did the swim himself as a personal challenge from one of his brothers. He was an All-American at Mt. Rainier High School and Whitworth College in Spokane.

The funds raised by this year’s sponsors, fees and donations will go towards the Brent Rice Memorial Scholarship Fund which will help low-income families afford swim lessons. The funds will also help promote water safety to children, teens and adults in the Puget Sound area.

Today’s swim was run by volunteers, lifeguards, the Des Moines Fire Department, South King Fire and Rescue, Burien Fire Department, Brown’s Point Rescue and the US Coast Guard.

It’s quite a spectacle to watch these swimmers as they slowly wade out into the cold waters from Des Moines, then suddenly appear to grow in height as they reach a sand bar about 200 feet offshore. Once immersed up to their necks, arms start flapping, water splashing and they’re off.

Here’s our first set of photos of the event; we’ll post more over the next few days, along with times and total funds raised, so be sure to check back soon. Also, if you swam in the event and want to see if we took a photo of you, check back in 2-3 days for a link to a Flickr page with pics you can download for free.

Photos of the event start, shot by Scott Schaefer:

Event swim and finish, shot by Gene Achziger:

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.

Des Moines Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson wants our Readers to know that they have a black and tan male Dachshund, about a year old, up for adoption.

Here’s Jan’s description of the pup:

“Oscar Mayer” was found as a stray in Des Moines and never claimed.

He is a black and tan male smooth-coated Dachshund, about a year of age.

He is just precious!

He is healthy but a bit thin, so we are giving him lots to eat! He is very calm and sweet, and seems to get along with everyone!

He is being vaccinated, neutered and micro-chipped today, so will be available for adoption right away; the adoption fee is $75, which just covers the veterinary fees.

I would appreciate any help you can give us to find him his new “forever” home that he deserves; he is a special little guy who would make someone the perfect companion!

Here’s his pic:

To adopt this dog, please contact Jan at the Des Moines Police Department (located at 21900-11 Ave South) at 206-870-6549, or via email at JMagnuson@desmoineswa.gov.

by Dave Markwell

Well, it’s family reunionish time. This weekend I have some cousins coming to town from California that I haven’t seen in a while and we are collecting some of the various local relatives that I also haven’t seen in a while. It seems like distance is not the only barrier preventing us coming together more often. I suppose LIFE is the most significant obstacle. We have different lives and stuff happening that gets in the way. Nonetheless, I am looking forward to seeing everyone.

Throughout the weekend, we will tell stories and though, we all shared our history growing up, we all have different versions, seen from different perspectives. This creates interesting conversations. Stories of my life that begin with, “Remember that time Ty kicked Corky’s ass…” are never my favorites as, I’m “Corky”. My first thought is always, “Which one?” I was beaten pretty consistently by my older cousin. We fought regularly. By fighting, I mean, he would provoke me into an opportunity for him to pummel me. I would usually swing first and he would swing last, usually as I was running as fast as I could which, as it turned out, was never quite fast enough. We both incurred our Grandma’s wrath when she had to break us up. The smacks those thin, bony hands delivered to us still resonate today. I will, very reluctantly, smile at these old tales, but there is little reluctance in Ty’s smile. We shared an experience, but experienced it differently. This is true for most of our stories.

I reserve my greatest laughs for stories of THEIR jack-ass moves. There are PLENTY of those. From hypothermia to bike wrecks to tree-tipping to more of Grandma’s slaps, my cousins have provided lots of stories. I will enjoy reliving them and sharing the knowing smiles of “grown-ups” who KNOW how it was. Cousins enjoy a unique relationship. Being outside of the immediate family, but still close enough to know what goes on in it provides insights into “how it really was.” This creates a bond that is unmatchable. We know when each other’s parents were horrible and their best. We know the flaws, struggles and fears. We can truly empathize and sympathize. We lived it, too. We were THERE. We shared holidays and spankings. We shared tears of joy and tears of pain; all the beauty and ugly of our lives. Our lives are intertwined like grapevines. Their memories are mine. We will now share survivor’s tales and it will be great and important. Knowing that other people understand and love regardless is pretty wonderful.

So, this weekend we will tell the stories of our lives and when the humiliating tale regarding some unintentional nudity comes up, I will laugh, whether it was my nudity or not. My cousins are not unlike my old friends in that they tend to remember and seem to very much enjoy reliving the events that I try to forget. From buck teeth to the various red-faced and sometimes red-butted shenanigans I found myself in as a kid, they seem to remember it all…unfortunately for me…but, also for them. I remember things, too. Oh, yes, I remember, alright. The old noodle has been dusted off and long dormant stories of their boners will be hauled out of the basement. I remember lots.

[EDITOR'S NOTE:"Feel Good Friday" is a regular column written by Des Moines resident Dave Markwell, who extols to all neighbors: "Enjoy where we live. Put your feet on the pavement and truly feel how great it is to live here!" Also, you can "friend" Dave on Facebook here.]

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!]

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:

Happy Thursday Loyal Blog Readers! The best thing about Thursdays, besides All You Can Eat Fish and Chips at Archery, is our August Car Show Event! Every Thursday of this month we have designated front row parking for you and your classic car or motorcycle! Come show us your ride and receive drink specials! We plan on having some great cars tonight, come see if yours is better!

Since we talked last, I have added a couple new items to our menu. We switched up our Clams and Mussels dish to Clams ONLY and it comes with a Smoked Tomato Butter with white wine and ginger. We also added a Grilled Chicken Penne Pasta with Pesto Cream sauce. It is selling like hot cakes! It started off as a dish I made for our after work staff meal and turned into a sensation! And if you’re one of our bar customers, don’t worry, we haven’t left you out. Introducing Cheese Fries!! Inspired by my brother “because he doesn’t eat “Normal” food,” our cheese fries come with Apple Bacon and White Cheddar Cheese. Come down and have some fries and watch some Pre-Season Football tonight!!!

Always,
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!]

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

• Saturday/Sunday – City of Tukwila Community Garage Sale is Aug 14-15
• Saturday – 5th Annual Trash To Treasure Parking Lot Sale Is Saturday, Aug. 14th
• Saturday – Health & Fitness Day at Des Moines Waterfront Farmers Market
• Saturday – Brent Rice Memorial Swim Is Aug. 14th; Here’s How You Can Join In/Help
• Sunday – FREE Ice Cream With Ciscoe Morris At Highline/SeaTac Gardens Aug. 15th
• Sunday – Experience Live Mexican Dance At El Tianguis Latino Market
• Sunday – Free Music at Marvista Park Featuring The Starlings

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