On Saturday (Aug. 14) we reported about a severe boat fire off the Des Moines Marina that resulted not only in the arrest of the owner, but subsequently in an unclaimed, burned-out hull that ended up stranded, floating upside-down outside the marina breakwater, seemingly unwanted by everyone.

According to Wayne Corey, on Thursday, Aug. 26th, the story of the unwanted hull came to an end.

Here’s his story, followed by video he shot of the salvage crew in action removing it:

With the backdrop of marina construction, the Des Moines Boat Fire Saga has come to an end today (at least for the boat). The hull of the boat that caught on fire last week broke away again from its mooring on the jetty and drifted north of the marina on the outgoing tide. A unknown person found the hull and tied it up to a nearby buoy. The Department of Natural Resources incident salvage crew then towed the hull into the marina where it was taken out of the water by the boat lift at the marina repair yard.

One of the DNR crewmen told this reporter that the hull will be loaded onto a flat bed truck and hauled to their yard where any salvage will take place. If there is any salvage value, the monies will go back into the DNR salvage fund to offset future incidents. He stated that about the only thing that might be salvageable is the out-drive. This DNR crew travels the length of Puget Sound responding to in-water incidents hoping to clean up before too much damage is done to the environment.

Read our previous coverage and see extensive photos and videos of this incident here.

As many of our Readers may recall, last Saturday (Aug. 14) we reported on a severe boat fire off the Des Moines Marina that resulted not only in the arrest of the owner, but now an unclaimed, burned-out hull that is floating upside-down, outside the marina breakwater, seemingly unwanted by everyone.

According to an inside source, the boat fire began after the owner took it for a somewhat reckless “joy ride,” then left the key in the “on” position, with no blower running, which allowed fumes to build up. This apparently lead to an explosive fire, with the boat owner having to abandon ship.

As you can see from the photos below, the boat burned down to the waterline. The owner was arrested, then released.

Currently the boat is awaiting removal by the State Department of Ecology.

Photographer Michael Brunk got a boat ride out to the burned-out hull Saturday morning from Del Rivero to take the following pics:

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.

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.

UPDATE SUNDAY 8/15/10: We’ve added video of the fire -- see below.

Witness (and Photographer/Videographer) Wayne Corey says he heard that one person was on board a boat that caught fire Saturday afternoon off Des Moines. The survivor apparently was rescued, uninjured, after jumping into the water. According to Master Sgt. Bob Collins of the D.M.P.D., the rescued boater was arrested.

The boat burned down to the waterline, sending dramatic plumes of black smoke rising over the city.

It appears that the boat is a total loss.

According to witness Wayne Corey:

It looked like about a 24-foot fiberglass pleasure boat.

A South King Fire & Rescue fire boat responded as well as DMPD and a Medic One aid car.

The burning boat passed under the pier without any problems as the fire boat put out the flames.

The boat burned to the waterline and wound up against the rock jetty south of the pier.

Here’s video as shot by Wayne:

Here are photos sent to us by Wayne, in sequential order:

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:

This past July, kids ages 7-15 had the opportunity to spend most of a week polishing their baseball skills while enjoying their break from school. The opportunity came courtesy of the South Sound Diamond Skills Baseball Camp held at Mt. Rainier High School by the City of Des Moines Parks & Recreation.

Campers were broken into two groups, the Line Drive Division (ages 7-11) and the Big Fly Division (ages 12-15). Each group met separately and focused on age-appropriate skills.

The camp was headed up by director Nic Lind from Des Moines Parks & Recreation, an experienced coach and semi-pro baseball player. Additional staff included lead instructor Brandon Newell, Northwest Regional Scouting Supervisor for the Milwaukee Brewers, as well as Darren Rawie, Varsity Head Coach from Mt. Rainier High School and Hal DeBerry, Varsity Head Coach from Newport High.

The coaches were assisted by seven Mt. Rainier baseball players: Loren Gardner-Young, Gio Bonifacio, Taylor Goucher, Kevin Smith, Josh Potter, Jesus Esqueda, and Jeff Larabee.

This year’s baseball camp had 50 attendees split between the two age groups. Nic says he’d like to see that number double for next year.

At the end of their four days, campers put their skills to work in a baseball game and enjoyed prizes and give-aways courtesy of the Seattle Mariners. The coaching staff made the following award selections:

• Coaches Award – Dominic Terrana/Line Drive
• Gold Glove Award for Best Fielder – Sam Maitland/Big Fly, Nathan Vasquez/Line Drive
• Charlie Hustle Award for Work Ethic – Andy Beal/Line Drive, Emmitt Sevores/Line Drive
• MVP Mr. Big Fly – Brogan Meyers
• MVP Mr. Line Drive – Colin Meyers

Photographer Michael Brunk stopped by the camp during the last practice session of the Line Drive Division and put together the following slideshow.

Click to Play Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

Because of a local Eagle Scout’s idea, those enjoying boating at the Redondo and Des Moines marina will now be able to borrow life jackets for no charge.

The “Life Jacket Loaner Board” aims to save lives this summer and educate swimmers and boaters on the proper use of life jackets.

The idea for the loaner board belongs to Eagle Scout Evan Will from Troop #392 out of Normandy Park. Wanting to impact the community with something long standing and potentially lifesaving, Evan noticed how many people, mostly kids, were using the Redondo dock and swimming without a life jacket.

“The life jacket loaner board will be a success if it saves one life,” said Evan.

Under the mentorship of Des Moines Marina Manager Scott Willkins and South King Fire & Rescue Public Information Officer Kirsti Weaver, the loaner board was designed. The visual part of the board was created by sign maker Jason Carter and the Multi-Care Health System design team in Tacoma. The base and board were built by over 20 scouts and family members, who assembled, painted, carved, and drilled along with marking the jackets as loaners.

With the completion of the Marina construction project, a second board will be placed at the Des Moines Marina. The boards will be under the supervision of Troop #392, who will replace jackets should they go missing.

In the United States, approximately 85% of drownings involved victims who were not wearing life jackets at the time.

For more information on the life jacket loaner board or for information on using life jackets properly, please contact Safe Kids’ Coalition Coordinator Deb Will at 253-372-7729.

BTB 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! Thanks to all of you who came out last Sunday for our Waterbrook Wine Dinner! It was great! The winemaker was handing out prizes after testing the diners on their wine knowledge! Don’t forget, the Normandy Park Hoop Fest will be taking place in our parking lot here at Archery Bistro this Saturday! We will be offering various lunch items and ice cold beers!!! Come down and check it out! Starting in August (dates to be determined) we will be doing “Hot August Nights.” Our parking lot will be transformed into a classic car show, with music, food, and drinks! Stay tuned for more info. Geez there is a lot going on down here! Sundays we have been selling food at the Music In the Park concert series at Mar Vista Park. We will be there this weekend selling some of our signature items!! Bring cash!! We have many events lined up for the month of August so we won’t be doing an August wine dinner. However, we have an award winning winery, Dutch John’s from Wenatchee, slated for September. It is sure to be a delicious evening! Stay tuned for the menu! 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!]

The First Annual Normandy Park Hoop Fest, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, will be held on Saturday, July 31st at Normandy Park Towne Center.

The event is sponsored by the City of Normandy Park Police Department with generous support from Normandy Park Athletic, Desert Sun, Wayne’s Service Center, Archery Bistro (NPB Advertiser), QFC, Allied Waste and Puget Sound Energy.

The tournament will include up to 16 teams with trophies awarded to 1st and 2nd place teams.

In addition to locals slam dunking over each other, there will also be food and a beer garden.

Registration for Normandy Park Hoop Fest can be completed online at: www.normandyparkwa.gov. To download the registration form, click here (PDF file).

Normandy Park Hoop Fest will serve as the kick-off event for “National Night Out,” which is Tuesday, August 3rd.

For more information contact Mary at (206) 248-8256.

Here are the rules:

1. Each team must register at least three players on or before the date of the tournament. Maximum roster size is four players per team. No additions, deletions and/or changes may be made after a team’s first game has started.
2. Teams using players not officially registered or using falsified information on rosters will be automatically disqualified from the event. Team captains are responsible and will be held accountable for all information.
3. The format of the tournament will be determined once all teams have entered. The tournament director reserves the right to change the format based on external events (i.e., inclement weather).
4. The court monitor will be the official timekeeper/scorekeeper and will be responsible for mediating all disputes. He/she has the right to overturn a call on the court if there is a justified reason to do so. The court monitor’s interpretation of the rules is final. In the event the court monitor cannot solve a dispute, a coin flip will be made to determine the outcome of the dispute.
5. Physically or verbally threatening or abusing a court monitor is cause for immediate disqualification.
6. Players and/or teams may be removed from the game at the discretion of the court monitor for abusive behavior, flagrant fouls or rough play. Unruly fans may also be removed from the area.
7. Teams must be at their court at the scheduled time. A five?minute forfeit time will be strictly enforced.
8. Each team must start and finish the game with at least two players.
9. A coin flip at the start of the game will determine first possession.
10. Successful shots taken from inside the 3?point line will be worth 1 point, while baskets made from outside the line are worth 2 points. Both feet must be clearly behind the line (when the shot is attempted) for the shot to count as two points.
11. All games are played to 21 points (win by 1) or 20 minutes (running clock), whichever comes first. The tournament director reserves the right to change the number of points and/or time limit due to external events.
12. If the game is tied after the 20 minutes have elapsed, then the game will be completed with a sudden death playoff. A coin flip will determine possession.
13. Player substitutions will be permitted on any deadball situation.
14. The player who is fouled is responsible for calling the foul. The foul must be called immediately in a clear and loud manner and all action must stop. If the player is fouled while shooting and makes the basket, the basket counts (the foul is ignored) and the opposing team takes possession. Otherwise, the team that was fouled retains possession and the ball is checked in as usual.
15. If a defensive player calls a foul on himself, the offensive team may continue to play even if the defense stops. If the offensive team chooses to stop play when a defensive player calls a foul, then action stops and the ball is checked in as usual.
16. On the 6th team foul, the player fouled will be awarded the option of shooting a free throw or retaining the possession of the ball, checking it in as usual. If the player elects to shoot a free throw, all other players must stand at least three feet behind the shooter. Regardless if the free throw is made or not, the opposing team takes possession.
17. If the court monitor rules that a foul was flagrant or meant to cause harm, the player fouled will shoot one free throw and that team will keep possession of the ball. The player called with a flagrant foul will get one warning. Any further flagrant fouls will result in immediate ejection from the game.
18. Any player(s) involved in fighting or continued misconduct will be disqualified from the tournament and will not be allowed to participate in future tournaments.
19. An unwritten 30?second shot clock is in effect at all times and may be enforced by the court monitor at his/her discretion. Once the court monitor has announced that the shot clock is in effect, each team has 30 seconds to get a shot off. The shot must make contact with the rim of the basket for the shot clock to be restarted. A defensive foul also resets the shot clock.
20. There is an imaginary 3?second lane near/under the basket. There is no camping in this lane. “Camping” violations are at the discretion of the court monitor. The court monitor will give a warning. Subsequent infractions will result in loss of possession.
21. Jump balls always go to the defense. They do not go to the team that yells “first”.
22. If a ball goes out of bounds and players and the court monitor cannot decide who gets possession of the ball, then a coin flip will decide possession.
23. The top of the backboard is out of bounds. The sides and bottom of the backboard are in bounds.
24. Shots that hit nothing (i.e., airballs) which are rebounded by the shooter without anybody else touching the ball is considered traveling and results in a turnover.
25. Timeouts – one 30?second timeout per team per game is permitted.
26. The court monitor has the right to make a ruling on any issues that are not covered within these rules.

If you’re at the Des Moines Marina and see lots of boats sailing back and forth on Thursday evenings in July and August, know that it’s for a good cause!

The Three Tree Point Yacht Club, The Poverty Bay Power Squadron, and the Des Moines Marina are hosting the fifth annual Mid-Sound Summer Sailing Social to raise funds for Hospitality House and the Des Moines Food Bank.  These casual sailboat races start at 7:00 pm and are followed by food, beverages, prizes and fun after each race.  Any boat finishing by 8:30 will be eligible for prizes.

Each evening will have a different focus and theme.  For example, on July 29, the club will honor local police and fire departments by inviting the officers and firemen and their families to a fun evening of sailing. On August 5, the Poverty Bay Power Squadron members will join in the activities with their power boats.  Local dignitaries will be invited to participate on August 12, the final evening of sailing. 

The goal of the Three Tree Point Yacht Club is to promote affordable family boating for enjoyment, while increasing appreciation for the waters of Puget Sound and awareness of the need to care for those waters. 

For more information about the Mid-Sound Summer Social, please visit our website.

If you would like to make a donation to Hospitality House or the Des Moines Food Bank, both groups will have booths at the evening events and will gratefully accept those donations.

The Highline Blue Sox Colt Baseball team recently advanced to the West Zone Colt Baseball Tournament in California by winning all their games in the NW Regionals held in Kirkland recently. Their first game is scheduled for Saturday, July 31st, and they’re holding a car wash this Sunday, July 25th to raise funds for their trip.

They’re asking our Readers to come get their cars washed and “help a local team travel to California!”

Here are the details:

WHAT: Fundraiser Car Wash by the Highline Blue Sox Baseball Team

WHEN: This Sunday, July 25th, from 11am – 3pm

WHERE: Airport 76 Station, located at 46th Ave South and South 188th St.

INFO: From a flier:

Enjoy The Benefits of the Best Car Wash in The Area and Help a Local Team Travel to California!

Support the Highline Blue Sox Colt Baseball Team 2010 Northwest Regional Colt Baseball Champions

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Airport 76 Station – 46th Ave So and So 188th St.

11:00 am to 3:00 pm (Eco-friendly soap for the gentle care of your vehicle)

The Highline Blue Sox Colt Baseball team has earned the honor to compete in the West Zone Colt Baseball Tournament in Santa Clara, CA. by winning all of the games in the Northwest Regional tournament held in Kirkland recently. Their first game is scheduled for Saturday, July 31, 2010 at 5:00pm at Washington Park in Santa Clara, CA

Team members: Erik Anderson #10, Desmond Drew #8, Wyatt Dumar #32, Carlos Herrera #23, Kyle Howell #27 , Justin Lang #12, Andrew Lenaburg #21, Michael McLean #9, Miles McNair #0, Jake Morine #4, Jordan Morine #3, Luke Olson #13, Ryne Phelan #7 , and Danny Teja #5. Coaches: Darin Lang, Lupe Herrera and Reid McNair.

Come and meet the players.

Help give them a great send off!

The Waterland Blog is proud to announce that we’ve twisted the (non-golfing) arms of our friends at the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce, and if you mention The Waterland Blog, you can save $100 on the cost of a foursome at their upcoming Get-Away Golf Tournament on Thursday, July 29th.

This is the chamber’s annual big fundraiser, and will include networking, amazing food, great raffle prizes, excellent golfing (duh) and FREE BEER from Elliott Bay Brewhouse & Pub all day.

The dealio usually costs $600 for a foursome, but if you mention The Waterland Blog, they’ll knock $100 off, making the final price just $500 – that’s just $125 per golfer, a savings of nearly 17%. This is such a deal that you may want to just find three other strangers on the street to start your own foursome (actually, if you can’t come up with your own foursome, they’ll put you in one!).

And, according to the SWKCC folks, you don’t have to even be a golfer to have fun at this event – it’s a fundraiser after all, and all proceeds go right into the chamber’s coffers so they can continue to fund the good work they do for local businesses. Chamber membership is also not a requirement for participation.

The tournament will be on Thursday, July 29th at Rainier Golf & County Club, a private course located at 11133 Des Moines Memorial Drive South in Seattle, and here’s the schedule:

• 10:30 am: Your day begins with a hearty BBQ lunch on the veranda
• 12:00 pm: Shotgun start and scramble
• 4:30, 5:00 pm: After completing the 18-hole course, golfers and guests will convene in the club house for lavish hors d’oeuvres and a fabulous awards reception with exciting raffle prizes!

Other Items Worthy of Note:

• Did we mention ALL DAY FREE BEER from Elliott Bay Brewhouse & Pub!
  

  The tournament is Thursday, July 29th at Rainier Golf & County Club.

• Raffle Tickets: One for $5, three for $10, and ten for $20!
• Golfer Value Pack: Golfers can purchase a gift pack of a mulligan, putting green pass, raffle ticket and duck for only $15 (a $20 value)!
• Luxurious Raffle Prizes: Mariners tickets, wine, hotel and restaurant gift certificates, movie tickets, Flowers from Marine View Florist, Bloody Mary gift basket, Margarita gift basket, Autographed copy of Bill Gates Sr.’s new book, Gift Certificate from Eat Local and more!
• Duck Drive Contest (Sponsored by DAWN): Whack a rubber ducky as far as you can onto the green. The winning player whose ducky travels the farthest gets half the cash pot!
• Hole In One Contest (Sponsored by Interurban Chiropractic Center): Hit a hole in one and win $10,000! Athletic prowess can pay off!
• Putting Contest (Sponsored by Normandy Park Senior Living): Another chance to win half the cash pot!
• Golf Tournament 1st Place Prize: Each member of the foursome will receive a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant, a $50 gift certificate to the Rainier Golf & Country Club Pro Shop, and the perpetual trophy with your name on it and display rights until the 2011 Golf Tournament.
• Golf Tournament 2nd Place Prize: Each member of the foursome will receive a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.
• Longest Drive Prize: The player with the longest drive wins a driver!
• Closest to the Pin Prize: The player who hits closest to the pin wins a putter!

Committee Chair and Chamber Chair of the Board Carol Kolson of HomeStreet Bank said, “The Southwest King County Chamber Annual Get-Away Golf Tournament is by far one of the best tournaments in the area. It’s a unique opportunity to play at a private club and we are overwhelmed by the phenomenal response of new and returning sponsors.”

• Single golfer cost is $150 (includes BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize).
• Foursome cost is $600 $500 (includes BBQ lunch for four, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize).
• Corporate foursome cost is $660 (includes BBQ lunch for four, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize – plus recognition in publications and name in program).

Cost for a ticket to just the reception is $40 (that’s right – you can just go to the reception if you want).

In order to qualify for this special deal, you must call the Chamber office at (206) 575-1633 and mention The B-Town Blog. If no one is available, please leave a message and they will return your call and get you registered.

Since 1989, the mission of the Southwest King County Chamber has been to be a leader in the business communities it serves – Burien, SeaTac, Tukwila and Des Moines. The Chamber provides business advocacy, outreach and networking opportunities. It is a vital force in promoting local business success and acting as a liaison between the cities and business community.

This event is made possible through the generosity of the chamber’s major sponsors, including:

• Baker Commodities
• Highline Community College
• HomeStreet Bank

The fifth annual Brent Rice Memorial Swim of the Sound is set for 9am on Saturday, Aug. 14th, and organizers are currently seeking athletes, donors and sponsors.

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 four years ago in a car accident. Brent Rice once did the swim himself as a personal challenge from one of his brothers. Brent Rice was a local swimmer, where he competed at both the state and national level receiving All-American honors.

The swim is a 2.3 mile journey in 50-degree water, from the Des Moines Beach Park to Point Robinson on Maury Island. The first year eight made the journey, and last year they quadrupled the number of swimmers. This year organizers would like have as many as 100 adventurous athletes join in their quest to Swim the Sound. The swim will be run by volunteers, lifeguards, the Des Moines Fire Department and the US Coast Guard.

With 45 swimmers taking the plunge in 2009, last year they raised $4,000.00 for the Brent Rice Memorial Foundation. The foundation, created in 2006, helps provide swim lessons for low-income families who can’t afford them and aquatic safety education programs in the Puget Sound area. Last years’ funds will be awarded to Mt Rainier Pool, Kent Meridian Pool and Evergreen Pool for swim lessons and other aquatic programs later this year.

Swimmers who want to participate must be intermediate or advanced; although this is a fun event and for a great cause, the sound is very treacherous. Donors, sponsors, athletes and volunteers who are interested can get more information online at www.BRMSOS.com.

The date of the swim is Saturday August 14, 2010.

All donations can be sent to:

BRMSOS
2452 Alki Ave SW #301
Seattle, WA 98116

To register to participate as a swimmer, the cost is $60 – click here to register online.

Here are a couple of videos about previous swims:

The Annual Golf Classic, presented by McKay Wealth Management, benefiting the Highline Medical Center, is scheduled for Wednesday, July 28th at Washington National Golf Club, located at 14330 SE Husky Way in Auburn.

This annual fundraiser for has raised over $1 million dollars over 25 years for the Highline Medical Center Foundation, which uses the funds to meet the health-related needs of our community.

Once again this event will unite donors, staff and corporate sponsors of Highline Medical Center along with staff and community members for a day of great golf while supporting Highline in the process.

Registration for the event can be done online here (just select “Annual Golf Tournament” in the drop-down menu). The cost is $250 per golfer, which includes lunch and dinner.

The shotgun start for the scramble format tournament is 1 p.m., with registration beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Call Special Event Manager Jo Anne Hume at (206) 901-8501 for further information.

The City of Des Moines is starting a Youth Sailing Program that will offer sailing experiences to boys and girls ages 11 to 18, with the first session beginning Monday, Aug. 2nd.

The program will offer on-the-water sailing instruction in 14-foot sailboats and dockside learning activities. The sessions will be held at the Des Moines Marina and are designed for kids with little or no sailing experience.

The course will cover safety on the water, sailing basics, sailboat nomenclature, wind awareness, rigging, rules of the road, and boating etiquette. Instructors in power boats will accompany the students in the boats while they are on the water.

The fee for a one-week session is $130 and some scholarships are available. Registration forms are available at the City of Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 South 220th Street in Des Moines. The Phone number is 206-870-6527.

Students need sneakers, appropriate clothing and a Coast Guard approved life jacket, preferably the kayak type. Students will also be required to take a float test on the first day of class. The test will be conducted at Mount Rainier Pool.

Session dates are:

• Session 1: August 2 – 6 Start time 1:00 pm
• Session 2: August 9 – 13 Start time 1:00 pm
• Session 3: August 16 – 20 Start time 5:00 pm
• Session 4: August 23 – 27 Start Time 1:00 pm

To download registration documents, click here (Word .doc file), or call Des Moines Parks at (206) 870-6527.

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The South Highline National Little League AA Cubs won the championship recently at Olympic field versus the Cardinals, with a 12-11 nail-biter of a win.

According to Manager Del Rivero:

With the Cardinals ahead 10 – 7, the Cubs scored 5 runs to make it 12 – 10.

The Cardinals had last at bat, with the bases loaded a full count and the score 12 – 11.

One more pitch – a ball – would have walked a run in and tied the game; a hit and the Cardinals would have won.

Luck was on the Cubs’ side and Evan threw a strike to end the Game.

Our sponsor was Waynes Service Station.

Way to go Cubs!

Our players are 8, 9 and 10 years old.

• Manager – Del Rivero
• Coach – Pat Adams
• Coach – Kevin Ray Smith

Players:

• Andrew Dalton, age 8
• Jared Bame, age 8
• Nicholas Rhodes, age 8
• Andrew Rockey, age 9
• Vincent Orsillo, age 9
• Ethan Chabot, age 9
• Justice Rivero, age 9
• Payton Adams, age 9
• Dalton Chaney, age 10
• Evan Thomas, age 10
• Ryely Schade, age 10

Congrats to all the players for a season well played; here are some pics:

The Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce will be holding its 2010 Annual Get-Away Golf Tournament at Rainier Golf and Country Club on Thursday, July 29th.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Get-Away Golf Tournament.

WHEN: Thursday, July 29th:

• 10:30am: Lunch begins
• Noon: Shotgun start
• Awards reception follows

WHERE: Rainier Golf and Country Club, located at 11133 Des Moines Memorial Drive, near Boulevard Park.

COST:

• Single Golfer: $150 (includes BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf w/golf cart, reception and tee prize).
• Foursome: $600 (includes -for 4- BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf w/golf cart, reception and tee prize).
• Corporate Foursome: $660 (includes -for 4- BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf w/golf cart, reception and tee prize, PLUS recognition in publications and name in program).

REGISTER: Click here to download the Registration Form (PDF file).

Here’s more info from an email:

Join business leaders and other key members of the community for a fun-filled, sunshine-drenched day of golf! The day begins with a barbecue lunch on the veranda at 10:30 am and a shot gun start at noon. Complimentary beer provided by Elliott Bay Brewing Company. After completing the 18-hole course, golfers and guests will convene in the club house for a gourmet hors d’oeuvres spread fit for royalty and a fabulous awards reception with exciting raffle prizes.

Committee Chair and Chamber Chair of the Board Carol Kolson of HomeStreet Bank said, “The Southwest King County Chamber Annual Get-Away Golf Tournament is by far one of the best tournaments in the area. It’s a unique opportunity to play at a private club and we are overwhelmed by the phenomenal response of new and returning sponsors.”

The day will begin at 10:30 am on Thursday, July 29, 2010. Rainier Golf and Country Club is located at 11133 Des Moines Memorial Drive South in Seattle. Single golfer cost is $150 (includes BBQ lunch, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize), foursome cost is $600 (includes BBQ lunch for four, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize) and corporate foursome cost is $660 (includes BBQ lunch for four, 18 holes of golf with golf cart, reception and tee prize – plus recognition in publications and name in program). Cost for reception only is $40. Chamber membership is not a requirement for participation. This event is made possible through the generosity of our major sponsors, Baker Commodities, Highline Community College and HomeStreet Bank.

For further information, contact the Chamber at 206.575.1633 or www.swkcc.org.

This Saturday from 1 to 4 PM the Three Tree Point Yacht Club will be conducting a very special race in the waters just outside the Des Moines Marina.

Nine boats from the club will be participating, and as part of a fund-raiser held in March to benefit the Hospitality House, fifty-five seats were sold. Winners will sail on the boats as crew, ballast or passenger subject to their own choice and comfort level.

Hospitality House provides shelter, transitional housing and other programs for homeless women in South King County.

After the race, the captains of the Three Tree Point Yacht Club, Pinnacle Massage Therapy, Collins Chiropractic and friends of Hospitality House will provide dinner for all of the participants.

In Honor of Father’s Day, WLB Advertiser Highline Athletic Club (HAC) is offering a special – $25 Enrollment Through June 30th!

It’s the annual countdown to Father’s Day. Here’s a thought for a great gift for Dad from our friends and advertiser Highline Athletic Club.

HAC is offering ALL Waterland Blog Readers an opportunity to enroll for just $25 (regularly $140-$200) starting today and continuing through June 30th. Monthly fees will depend on your membership type.

Don’t have a Dad? Buy it for Mom, buy it for your wife, buy it for yourself. Take advantage of this very special offer, now through the end of June. Just mention that you “saw it on The Waterland Blog” to receive this special enrollment.

It’s never too late to get started – no matter what your age. Consider these facts when making a decision to get started in an exercise program:

• Studies have shown that men who start exercising in midlife live longer. Exercise recommendations from the government advise that everyone be active, from children and teenagers to adults and older adults – even people with disabilities and chronic conditions are encouraged to be active within their capabilities. In an ideal world, everyone would make exercise a lifelong habit, however some people have not yet caught on.
• A new Swedish study shows that it’s never too late to begin exercising. Although the benefits of an active life are greater if one starts earlier, science shows that starting late is much better than never.
• Men who exercised the most lived, on average, 2.5 years longer.
• Amongst previously sedentary men who began to exercise at 50, mortality rates were originally high, but after exercising for 10 years, their mortality rates dropped to nearly equal those of their more active peers.
• Muscular Strength Is Linked To Lower Mortality In Men -Building muscle is an important part of any exercise regimen. Muscle tissue has many vital functions, including basic movement and fine motor skills as well as the functioning of the cardiovascular and digestive systems.

With a membership to HAC you’ll be giving the gift of Health to your loved ones, whether it be your Dad, Mom, spouse, partner or your kids.

Think about it, then come in and mention the Father’s Day Offer that you “saw on The Waterland Blog” and take advantage of this incredible savings. You’ll find them in Burien at 125 South 156, or can call them at 206-246-9000.

HAC has been serving the community for over 22 years and is committed to assisting members in reaching their health and fitness goals, and was voted “BEST GYM” by King 5 Evening Magazines – Best of Contest! That’s for ALL of the Seattle area.

[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 Sunday (June 6), a woman who suffers from Usher syndrome came in third place in WLB Advertiser Archery Bistro’s 5K “Running Blind,” which raised money for the very same disease.

Amelia Westerfield finished the 5k with a time of 24:52, and her successful run was especially celebrated since she suffers from Usher syndrome, the leading cause of deaf-blindness. Amelia’s participation raised much-needed sponsorship money not only for the event but also for the upcoming 2nd Annual Usher syndrome family conference being held at Seattle Children’s Hospital on July 10th. The conference is being sponsored by Hear See Hope, Seattle Children’s Hospital and The Decibels Foundation. At the conference Amelia will be participating in a panel discussion and facilitating a breakout session on being a young adult with Ushers.

This was Archery Bistro’s first 5K Run, intended to benefit the Hear See Hope Foundation for Usher syndrome.

Race winners include the first place male finisher Tyler Freeberg with a time of 19:33. Second place male was Ben Christian with at time of 21:30 and third place was David Knox with a time of 21:49. The top female finishers were Cindy Sagmoen in first place with a time of 21:54 and Michelle Secrist in second place with a time of 23:35.

Rain didn’t hamper the turnout for the first-time event – over 225 people attended with 98 actually participating in the 5K run. Archery Bistro’s staff and customers came out to support the McKittrick family by volunteering and participating. Todd and Lane McKittrick, part owners of Archery Bistro have two sons, Conner and Dalton, who also suffer from Usher syndrome. The McKittick family founded the Hear See Hope Foundation in 2004 to fundraise and bring more awareness to Ushers.

“We truly appreciate the support of the community and our sponsors for making this run possible,” said Todd.

The fun-filled day wasn’t just for runners but for all who attended. A root beer garden was available for kids and a beer garden for adults. A maze was set up for children to maneuver through blindfolded and with ear plugs so they could experience what it would be like to have Usher syndrome. Archery Bistro Chef Brandon La Vielle skillfully worked the barbecue, flipping and serving burgers to hungry race participants and their families. The Burien/Normandy Park Fire Department offered fire hats and fire safety lessons to children.

“The community came out and supported us and we appreciate all the time and effort the volunteers and participants put into making this, our first run, such a great success,” added Todd.

One of the race highlights was the 1K “Blind” walk where over 40 participants wore blindfolds to experience walking blind. “You really had to rely on your partner for guidance,” said one participant. “It was a bit scary.”

For more information on the Hear See Hope Foundation, visit www.hearseehope.com.

Here are the top 15 finishers, grouped into male and female runners:

MEN:
1. Tyler Freeberg 19:33
2. Ben Christian 21:30
3. David Knox 21:49
4. John Nelson 22:23
5. Kris Sagmoen 22:47
6. Grant Meyer 22:59
7. Brett Wittner 23:29
8. Tim Daly 23:57
9. Bob Neff 24:14
10. Ray Krueger 24:18
11. Nicholas Young 24:19
12. Cole McKittrick 24:51
13. Kostia Birulin 24:52
14. Greg Nelson 25:39
15. William Codd 25:56

WOMEN:
1. Cindy Sagmoen 21:54
2. Michelle Secrist 23:35
3. Amelia Westerfield 24:52
4. Karen Love 25:27
5. Hillary Ritenburg 25:40
6. Sharon Daly 26:09
7. Taylor Stordahl 26:39
8. Josefin Kannin 27:42
9. Kaiti Freeberg 27:48
10. Jeannie Bodle 27:53
11. Robin Hoefer27:56
12. Tiffany Nessmer 28:46
13. Nancy Love 29:20
14. Christine Daly 29:20
15. Crysta Sugamura 29:45

Photos courtesy Dustin Keeth.

Here’s this week’s Des Moines Police Department’s Police Blotter, with local crime news fed to us directly from our good friends at the DMPD.

This week’s news include the arrest of a 56-year old Walgreens robber, photos of the Special Olympics torch being carried through Des Moines, and information on the city’s animal care and control.

DES MOINES POLICE BLOTTER NEWS (June 4, 2010)

Des Moines PD Arrests Walgreens Robber: On 06/02/10 at approximately 1815 hours a 56 year old man entered the Des Moines Walgreens and demanded prescription medications. The man displayed a handgun during the robbery. Responding Des Moines Officers found the suspect attempting to hide among several large trees west of the store. The weapon was determined to be a pellet gun with an orange tip that had been blackened. The suspect later admitted to detectives he was responsible for robbing the same Walgreen’s in April. The man shows a last known address out of Des Moines. He was booked into the King County Detention Center for Robbery 1 and investigators are forwarding filing documents to the King County Prosecutor’s Office for both robberies.

Special Olympics Torch Carried Through Des Moines: Members of the Des Moines Municipal Court and the Des Moines Police Department participated in this years “Special Olympics” torch run. The torch was delivered to Des Moines PD by members of the Port of Seattle Police Department. The torch was carried through the city along Pacific Highway South and handed off to members of the Kent Police Department. The run helps to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Washington.

Here are some photos of the event:

Look What’s New in Animal Care and Control for Des Moines Residents:
Beginning July 1st, the city of Des Moines will no longer be contracting with King County Animal Control for any animal sheltering.

Des Moines Police Department has its own Animal Control Officer and has for many years, so those services will remain the same- we will continue to provide service for vicious/dangerous dog problems, dog bite reports, animal cruelty investigations, dog and cat licensing, nuisance animal complaints, lost and found pet reports, enforcement of animal control laws, rescue of sick/injured domestic animals, animal care and control education, and referral to other animal service agencies.

Since the first part of 2010, the city of Des Moines has entered into contracts with local vendors, which include a boarding kennel and four veterinary hospitals, for animal care and shelter services; pets impounded from Des Moines are now being cared for at one of those vendors’ facilities instead of the King County Animal Control shelter.

What to do if you have lost a pet, found a pet, need to place your pet in a new home, or have an animal emergency:

Citizens who find a pet in the city limits of Des Moines should contact the Animal Control Division of the Police Department (206) 870-6549 or (206) 878-3301 regarding care and possible impoundment of the animal.

Citizens who have lost a pet should check all area shelters and police departments, as pets can roam and cross into other jurisdictions.

Citizens thinking of placing their own pet in a new home may call the Animal Control Officer for resources and assistance to help keep their pet; however, if there is no other option, they should contact area rescue groups, area shelters, and Petfinder.com for possible placement assistance.

And as always, if a public safety emergency is occurring such as an in-progress vicious dog attack , citizens should call 911.

Adoptions of friendly, healthy pets will also be offered on occasion through the Animal Control Division of the Police Department; thankfully most nice impounded pets are claimed by their owners, but on occasion there may be a pet available for adoption at one of the local vendors.  Des Moines pet adoptions will also be occasionally offered through area rescue groups, local media, Petsmart stores, and Petfinder.com.

For additional questions regarding the changes in animal sheltering, please contact Master Animal Control Officer Jan Magnuson at JMagnuson@desmoineswa.gov or (206) 870-6549.

Free skiing professional Arne Backstrom, 29, a Normandy Park native and frequent skier at Crystal Mountain, has apparently been killed after a big-mountain fall in Peru.

According to a report on www.freeskier.com, the accident occurred Thursday (June 3) on Pisco Mountain in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru, South America.

According to an email from his friend Josh Weiner, Arne grew up in Normandy Park, and attended Marvista Elementary and then Sylvester Middle School. He graduated from Highline High School in 1999 and then went on to attend Whitman College in Walla Walla.

Josh says that Arne also worked at the Normandy Park Swim Club in the summers was an outstanding athlete who swam for the same pool and at Highline.

He was also apparently an Eagle Scout with troop 392 at John Knox Presbyterian Church.

“Too much to mention at once, he was an amazing guy,” Josh added in an email.

Arne’s sister, Ingrid, is considered by many to be the world’s best women’s free skier. His brother, Ralph, is a professional snowboarder.

The following excerpts are from Arne Backstrom’s biography at www.patagonia.com:

During my earlier ski days, my family rolled up to the mountains in a rusty brown 1954 GMC bookmobile. It was a grotesque machine in both looks and mechanics, but every Friday night from December to April, that neurotic old vehicle delivered our family of five the 100 miles from Seattle to Crystal Mountain and provided lodging for the weekend. My sister and brother and I would sit at the table/bed in the back and Mom gripped the dash from the co-pilot position while Dad worked the shifter and struggled to manage 26,000 lbs of momentum with less than adequate brakes. It was an eyesore, scary to drive, cold, and smelled funny, but when it snowed two feet we laughed and said it was paradise. It wasn’t luxury living, but it brought the family together, and we skied hard. I probably wouldn’t have wished it back then, but those days seem to have set the tone for my life thus far, at least in spirit. I still do whatever it takes to ski as much as I can.

After some years of tearing around the mountain finding secret trails and powder stashes, I began racing at 11. It was the logical next step and provided speed and adrenaline and taught me to push the limits. I enjoyed the competition, and the discipline was good, but I was still out freeskiing as much as possible, and I poached the “snowboard park” on occasion, too. I ski raced through college, and then with some hard-earned summer cash, took off to Europe and succeeded in spending a serious amount of time on snow, racking up lots of vertical in big terrain. Since then, the thought of a “real” job has been less and less attractive, and when winter comes around I put everything else aside.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes video of Arne from a Warren Miller film:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-MWgnwxzpLc[/youtube]

Here’s one of Arne shot in Revelstoke in January:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC_8_Mxkyu4[/youtube]

Some links of interest:

• Interesting story on the Backstrom family here.
• Arne had a blog here.
• Arne’s Facebook page is here.
• Facebook tribute page is here.

Our condolences go out to Arne’s family and friends.

Des Moines Parks & Recreation is running a new baseball camp this summer called the South Sound Diamond Skills Camp, which is aimed at helping local ballplayers.

The lead instructor is a former UW Husky and current Northwest Regional Supervisor for the Milwaukee Brewers, Brandon Newell. Brandon is sought-after on the camp circuit, providing instruction from here to Calgary.

Darren Rawie, from Mt. Rainier High, will also be involved.

Here’s some text from the city’s website on the camp’s philosophy:

Professional level skill development at recreation prices is the goal at South Sound Diamond Skills Camp. Campers will be surrounded by enthusiastic coaches, passionate about teaching ballplayers skills and love for America’s Pastime. Camp is structured around individual skills improvement as well as game situations and contests like Camp Olympics. Our high energy coaching staff boasts two professional scouts, champion coaches and instructors that have mentored next level talent. But, above all, the staff is excited to bring their expertise to the South Sound to teach another generation about what makes baseball a lifelong love. Parents can expect their young ballplayers to learn how to perform skills and drills the right way with coaches that make baseball fun.

Pricing & Registration:

Days & Dates:

• Mon-Thurs, July 26-29, 2010

Times:

• 7-11U/9am-12pm
• 12-15U/1pm-4pm

Location:

• The Yard at Mt. Rainier High School, 22450 19th Ave S., Des Moines, WA 98198

Pricing:

• $150/Des Moines resident
• $170/Non resident

Group Rates:

• $20 off each registration with a group of 5 or more
• $40 off each registration with a group of 10 or more

Group rates are a great way to get first rate instruction for your team or league! See registration form for details.

Information:

• Registration Form
• Camp Flyer

For more information, check out www.desmoineswa.gov/diamondcamp.