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

Freedom Systems does Residential and Commercial:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We like to welcome our latest Advertiser, Whispering Brook Condominiums, to The B-Town Blog.

The new owners have lowered prices and they’re quite aggressive, with one-bedroom homes starting at just $94,950; here’s what they’d like us to share with our Readers:

Whispering Brook is located in a quiet wooded area at 23407 16th Avenue in Des Moines. It’s minutes to I-5, Pac Highway, and to the Des Moines Marina District which includes not only shopping and dining experiences but the only marina in South King County.

Whispering Brook is an apartment-to-condominium conversion in Des Moines that been around for a few years, but sales stalled with the recession. A new seller has taken over to finish sales.

The new seller has lowered prices and they are quite aggressive, with one-bedroom homes starting from $94,950, and two-bedroom homes from $119,950. They will have FHA approval in two weeks, which makes financing easy with down payments as low as 3.5%. Monthly payments on the one-bedroom homes are as low as $799/month.

The property has been completely renovated, and homes feature Pergo kitchen floors, stainless steel appliances, wood-burning fireplaces and private decks. The community backs to a treed area with a stream running through. There is a community clubhouse and swimming pool for entertaining.

Interior Features:

• Pergo flooring in kitchen
• LG combo unit (washer & dryer) in each home
• Side pieces with tile surround fireplaces
• Decks off each home or ground floor patios
• Brushed nickel bathroom accessories
• Wall to wall carpet in living room, bedroom(s) and hallways
• Ground floor patios have professionally landscaped garden area

Added Amenities:

Community backs up to a treed area with a small stream rushing through..
Clubhouse features an entertainment room, and large common room with kitchenette and big screen TV
Private swimming pool

Whether you’re looking for your first home, or downsizing, take a long serious look at living in Whispering Brook Condominiums in Des Moines. Sales specialist Sara Wright is available for showings Thursday-Mondays from 11-5pm. She can be reached at 206-870-3893 to set an appointment.

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We’d like to welcome our latest Advertiser to The Waterland Blog – DealPop – a new online and mobile social buying site from WhitePages that offers consumers up to 70 percent off the best places to eat, shop and have fun in greater Seattle area.

To learn more, as well as sign up, just click here.

Here’s what they’d like to share with our Readers:

WhitePages (www.whitepages.com), the largest and most trusted online directory, today announced it has entered the social buying category with the launch of DealPop (www.dealpop.com) in its hometown of Seattle. With the official launch, DealPop will leverage the more than 100 million local and business searches conducted monthly at WhitePages.com and 411.com to determine the most popular places to eat, shop, and have fun. This knowledge as well as picks by DealPop’s local insiders will allow the company to work with merchants to provide the most relevant deals for consumers at local favorites and hidden gems. DealPop is immediately available in Seattle and will launch with popular local favorites such as the Yellow Leaf Cupcake Company, the Alibi Room, Twist, Mad Pizza, and Unexpected Productions. DealPop will expand to major metropolitan areas in the coming months.

“With the emergence of social buying sites, I refuse to pay full-price when trying a new restaurant, bar or even a spa,” said Cindy Locke, a deal-seeking sales consultant who lives in Seattle, WA and subscribes to Groupon, LivingSocial and now DealPop. “I’m excited to use a service from such a trusted brand like WhitePages – one that truly knows the Seattle market and will provide the real inside scoop on new restaurants, stores, salons, and entertainment venues in my hometown.”

WhitePages, a top 50 online and mobile website where more than 20 million people per month visit for personal and business contact information, will offer deals of up to 70 percent off, with each deal available for purchase for a set number of hours. Seattleites can sign up for DealPop at www.dealpop.com and immediately start receiving a daily email with fantastic deals. DealPop customers will receive the following benefits:

• Discover cool things to do and hot places to go based on popular local business searches on WhitePages as well as picks by DealPop’s local insiders;
• The ability to share via Facebook, Twitter and email, turning the deal into a social activity that can be enjoyed with friends or family;
• The opportunity to receive DealPop points that can be applied to a future purchase by sharing a great deal with someone who then signs up and purchases that deal;
• Access to helpful customer service representatives to answer any questions about each daily deal;
• Unlike other daily deal sites, everyone gets the deal at DealPop because there isn’t a minimum number of people who need to purchase before the deal goes through;
• Email reminders before the expiration date of a voucher to encourage consumers to use their purchases

“DealPop is about discovery,” said Kevin Nakao, chief operating offer at WhitePages. “Not only will we find the neighborhood gems – the cozy little bistro in Ballard with great food, the hilarious comedy show that everyone is talking about, or a great spa to relax and rejuvenate at – but people will be able try these places without having to pay full price, a combination that consumers won’t want to pass up and share with their friends.”

About WhitePages
As the largest and most trusted online people and business directory, WhitePages offers a suite of free mobile and Internet services that makes it easy for people to find and immediately connect with anyone in the U.S. Only WhitePages offers one-click access to more than 200 million adults and powers more than 2 billion searches on over 1,500 partner sites including MSN, Ask.com, SuperPages.com and the United States Postal Service. For more information, please visit www.whitepages.com or check out the WhitePages blog at blog.whitepages.com.

Click on their Ad to learn more and sign up:

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We welcome our new advertiser Bodle Chiropractic with a very special offer to our readers. Just mention the Waterland Blog and receive $50 off any Chiropractic services that Dr. Michael Bodle offers.

Bodle’s primary purpose is to help patients reach their full potential of their health through chiropractic care. They accomplish this by working with the body and giving it what it needs. This is achieved by maximizing the function and mobility of the spine. Chiropractic adjustments, stretching and strengthening exercises, massage or decompression they help restore what trauma and time have taken from our spines.

Dr. Bodle explained that “Chiropractors treat the cause of symptoms, not just the symptoms themselves. The purpose of Chiropractic care is to restore proper mobility to the involved joints of the spine. Once proper function is restored, the irritation, swelling, and inflammation is reduced. This leads to better functioning nerves and nervous system. The healthier the nervous system, the healthier the person.”

A Des Moines native, Dr. Bodle is a Mt. Rainier graduate, as are both of his sons. After studying chiropractic for four years at Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, he started practice in 1986 in Auburn. In 1991 he opened his office at 22312 Marine View Drive in the Des Moines Marina District.

In celebrating 19 years in Des Moines, he has treated thousands of patients. Now he’s treating kids and grandkids of his original patients. Currently their youngest patient is several months old and their oldest is 98.

Dr. Bodle’s wife Jeannie joined him 11 years ago as Office Manager. Jeannie told us that “we love being here in Des Moines. And Dr. Bodle loves to take care of people, “Chiropractic is a profession where you really get to know the patients and their families.” Jeannie wants all of our readers to know that they take most insurance, including Medicare.

The Bodle’s have spent their lives in Des Moines supporting the schools and youth programs. Dr. Bodle has been a boys basketball coach since his oldest son started first grade.

To treat the whole person, Bodle Chiropractic has two massage therapists on staff. Gloria Bath, LMP and Mary Trout, LMP. As another Waterland Blog special, Gloria and Mary are offering massage for an introductory offer of $45 for new patients (regular price is $60). The offer is valid through August.

Bodle Chiropractic offers a variety of wellness practitioners in their office, as well as outside of their office, in the neighborhood..

• Gloria Bath, LMP, and
• Mary Trout LMP,both located in Bodle’s office.
• Foot Levelers – The custom-made orthotics, Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers®, provided structural support, yet allowed the foot to retain a full range of motion. Foot Levelers is now the leading provider of custom-made Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers and other healthcare products.
• Dr. Lynn Mikel – Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Lynn Mikel is dedicated to providing holistic care to her patients.
• Jim Scanlon, PT Marine View Physical Therapy Inc.

To learn more about these local wellness practitioners click here.

And for current patients, Dr. Bodle has a new patient referral program. When you refer a new patient, you will receive a complimentary massage.

To schedule an appointment call 206-824-8464. Mention the Waterland Blog to receive $50 credit on any of Dr. Bodle’s Chiropratic services. Start feeling better today!

New Advertiser Grace Lutheran Church would like our Readers to know about their Vacation Bible School coming up the week of July 19 – 23.

Here’s more info:

Get ready for a swashbuckling adventure!

Grace Lutheran Church is hosting the “High Seas Expedition” Vacation Bible School. This week-long summer program takes your child through five exciting days (9am – noon) of faith-filled rotations which include: live performances, singing, dancing, acting, crafting, and playing games. Children learn Bible stories and verses which support character growth.

Children will be organized into multi-aged (K-4th grade) crews of five. The crews will be guided from station to station by crew leaders. Activity stations are led by experienced adult station leaders. Over 200 kids had a fantastic experience with our Crocodile Dock program last year and we are sure your child will love High Seas Expedition for 2010!

Children who turned three before January 1, 2010 are welcomed to participate in Skipper’s Preschool Play Deck. This program runs at the same time as High Seas Expedition and focuses on the same topics.

To register, see information below or stop by during office hours (22975 24th Ave. S., Des Moines, WA 98198). Your suggested donation of $20 per child or $50 per family (three or more children) can be mailed with the registration form or brought on the first day of camp! This helps cover the cost of supplies.

For more information call Kathy Bekkerus at 206-878-2460 or email gracedcfm@comcast.net.

High Seas Expedition Vacation Bible School

Grace Lutheran Church
22975 24th Ave. S.
Des Moines, WA 98198
Camp Dates: July 19th-23rd

Days: Monday-Friday
Hours: 9AM -12 Noon
Cost: Suggested donation of $20/child or $50/family rate (includes supplies)

Payment for this camp is payable to GLC

To register and for more information please visit our website!

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:

Well, according to my calendar summer is here! Hopefully the sun will come out this Sunday, the 27th for our June wine dinner featuring Rodney Strong Vineyards from Sonoma, California!

With great anticipation I’ve worked hard on the menu, and even harder tasting the wines! If that is actually “working hard.” Since the dinner is the week before my FAVORITE holiday, Independence Day, our menu for the wine dinner will be a cool innovative take on classic backyard barbeque foods. We will have mini corndogs with homemade ketchup and mustard, mac ‘n cheese with a delicious chardonnay, grilled pork chop with corn salsa, and for dessert we will have an awesome strawberry “pie!” Check out our website for the complete menu. And if the menu isn’t enough to get you in the door, the price itself will! $60 the 5 course meal including wines! It’s our lowest priced wine dinner yet! Once again, you can’t get this kind of offer anywhere! We have a few spots left, so call Archery to make your reservations for a great night of food and wine!

I will be in Leavenworth this weekend at the “Great Leavenworth Wine and Food Festival” on Saturday drinking some of the region’s finest wines. I will also be doing a cooking demonstration on the main stage at 2pm. So if you can, make your way over the mountains and come say hi!

I hope you have had a great week so far and please think of Archery Bistro when making your dining choices. We look forward to seeing you soon!

- Chef Brandon

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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:

Only three more days until Father’s Day and if you don’t have dinner reservations, look no further. Archery Bistro is still accepting reservations so give us a call. We will be offering a three course menu for $19.99! The first course includes, Heirloom Green Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette, Vine Ripened Tomato Bisque, and a Prawn Cocktail with candied lemons. Entrees will feature our popular Prosciutto Wrapped Chicken Breast, Grill Alaskan King Salmon with Lime Leaf Rice, and Roasted Bell Pepper and Parmesan Ravioli with Lemon Alfredo Cream. Last but not least, dessert. We will have a Strawberry Rhubarb Tart and Chocolate Truffle Ganache Cake.

In addition to this menu, we will also feature a “Dad’s ONLY” menu! A selection of items that are a little more macho if you will. The first course features a Dungeness Crab Cake. The entrée is a Bacon Wrapped Filet with an Australian Rock Lobster Tail and for dessert, my version of the Banana Split! The banana split is special to me because my dad always said if I would hit a homerun in my baseball game, he would buy me a banana split. I NEVER hit a homerun, unless you count the defense making a fielding error or two! But my dad still bought me a banana split! He will be joining us for dinner this Sunday, and you should as well!

We still have spots available for our Wine Dinner on Sunday June 27th featuring Rodney Strong Wines. If you haven’t been to one of our Wine Dinners, now is the time. Since it will be the weekend before Independence Day, we will be showcasing a menu that is inspired by backyard barbeque foods. It is going to be a great time!

Hope to see you this Sunday!!

Chef Brandon

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WLB Advertiser Des Moines United Methodist Church is offering FREE employment workshops starting Monday, June 7th, from Noon – 1pm.

These workshops will be taught by College Career Development Teacher Cindy Akana.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Des Moines United Methodist Church Employmehnt Workshops

WHEN:  Mondays, starting June 7, Noon – 1pm.

WHERE: United Methodist Church, located at 22225 9th Ave S, Des Moines 98198; Phone: 206-878-8301

INFO: From an email:

To support and assist those looking for work or seeking more fulfilling employment.

Provide practical help in order to create great resumes and cover letters, improve interview skills and job searches, and identify fulfilling jobs and carrers.

Taught by College Career Development Teacher Cindy Akana.

More information available at www.DesMoinesUMC.org.

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A wonderful, unexpected event occurred this week when The Waterland Blog visited returning Advertiser, Judson Park Retirement Community in Des Moines. A young woman dropped by the marketing office to let them know just how happy and well cared-for her mother was now that she has moved into The Grove. She went on to explain that “mom’s not a number anymore, she’s a person again. It’s wonderful being here!”

And that, our dear readers, was a totally non-solicited statement on Judson Park’s newest addition in their continuum of health care. The Grove is an innovative new “neighborhood” dedicated to memory support care that opened at the Judson Park Campus on April 22 of this year.

Judson Park, a fully accredited continuing care retirement community, transformed existing assisted living residences into its new memory support neighborhood. The area also includes a dedicated dining room with kitchen and a living room, as well as a spa and specially designed sensory garden. The community was planned for 16 residents, and is currently full.

“We created a warm, secure, family-style environment,” said Linda Fergus, director of sales and marketing at Judson Park. “The design was purposeful, because residents want to be engaged and socialize in comfortable spaces that are reflective of their long-time homes. At the same time, we’ve added in aspects such as special dinnerware in contrasting colors, because research shows a contrast of food on the color of a plate stimulates your appetite, which often declines with dementia.”

“This tremendous neighborhood and its innovative approach to memory support is an extension of the comprehensive service we have been providing older adults for years,” said Russell Akiyama, Judson Park’s executive director. “We need to be able to provide dedicated and specialized resources for area families and older Judson Park residents who suffer from conditions such as Alzheimer’s. While the disease may impair their memory, it doesn’t have to keep them from living in a fulfilling and enriching setting that is also safe and caring.

“It’s the little things that make a big difference in quality care, especially for someone struggling with memory loss or dementia,” said Fergus. “One goal is for staff to know 100 things about every resident who is receiving memory support care. We want to know such things as their favorite color, where they grew up, their childhood dog’s name and their favorite song.”

The Grove’s director Sherlyn Bessette joined Judson Park Retirement Community in 1994. During her time with Judson Park she has held many positions including Director of Rehabilitation/Case Management, Director of Assisted Living and Wellness, and is currently the Director of Health Services.

The memory support program’s staff was carefully selected and possesses highly developed skills, special training and personal capabilities appropriate for individuals with dementia. They are able to foster one-on-one relationships and be uniquely qualified to be trusted caregivers, treating each resident with respect while providing stimulating companionship.

“The need for memory support neighborhoods like the one we are opening at Judson Park clearly exists in Seattle and Washington,” said Akiyama. “Providing the setting, services and support necessary to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is a daunting task for families. Our goal is to be able to provide quality care for their family member, or at least be a resource to share beneficial knowledge and techniques that address the individual’s well-being, not just the disease.”

For more information about Judson Park’s Memory Support Program, please call (206) 870-6635, visit the community at 23600 Marine View Drive South in Des Moines, or visit the web site at www.JudsonPark.com.

Judson Park in Des Moines, Washington, is managed by ABHOW, a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. ABHOW is a nonsectarian corporation, serving seniors through quality retirement housing since 1949.

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! What a great week so far!

We have been preparing and cooking some very special menu items here at Archery Bistro including Copper River Sockeye Salmon, and our newest addition to the menu, a 16 oz Certified Angus Beef Ribeye! It is accompanied by Yukon Gold Potatoes, Roasted Walla Walla Sweet Onions, Tempura Asparagus, and a Bleu Cheese Butter! You won’t be disappointed. Since we are talking about the menu, I just received an order of duck breasts that we will be showcasing tomorrow night for dinner. Also, our Lead Cook John and I came up with a Seared Scallop special last weekend that we sold out of so quickly, we decided to bring them back again this Saturday. So come on down for some very special and delicious items this weekend that aren’t usually on our menu.

Don’t forget about the “Running Blind” 5K Run hosted by Archery Bistro this Sunday (June 6) at the Normandy Park Town Center. The event is supporting the Hear See Hope Foundation benefiting Usher syndrome. Usher Syndrome is the leading cause of deaf-blindness. After the run there will be a live band, beer & root beer garden, and a BBQ with hot dogs and hamburgers!

Well, I’m off to the Burien Farmer’s Market to find some items for tonight’s special! Come see what it is!

Chef Brandon

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New Waterland Blog Advertiser The Des Moines Dog House is calling all artists to design the new Dog House T-Shirts!

Here’s some info they want us to pass along to our Readers:

Pick up an entry form between June 2 – 29, then submit your design to the Des Moines Dog House by June 29th. Voting and Dog Party will be from 6pm – 8pm on Wednesday, June 30th – bring your friends and family to vote for your design! If your design is selected it will be available for purchase on all Des Moines Dog House merchandise at their new online store, coming soon! You must be present to win.

Every Sunday this summer, starting June 6th, Kid’s Dogs will be $2. Take the kids down to the beach for a picnic!

New this Year at the Dog House is Late Night on the Deck on Friday and Saturday nights.From 11pm to 2am the Dog House serves Nathans 1/4 lb All Beef Hotdogs with cream cheese and grilled onions for $5. It’s perfect for a late night snack!

The Des Moines Dog House is located in the heart of downtown Des Moines. They specialize in gourmet sausages including the World Famous Nathans 1/4 lb All Beef Hotdogs. They have chicken and turkey sausages, pork and beef sausages, sides like chili, cole slaw and crinkle cut fries, and ice cold domestic and imported bottled beers. There is also a fantastic condiment bar with over 20 different items to dress your dog up with. Enjoy eating your cooked to order meal in a casual environment filled with fun hotdog memorabilia or dine on their outside deck.

You may not be able to tell by the weather, but you can tell by how light it stays at night. The Dog House is now operating under its Summer Hours:

• Mon – Fri 11am – 8pm
• Sat 11am – 7pm
• Sun 12pm – 5pm

The Des Moines Dog House is located at 22302 Marine View Drive.

The Des Moines Dog House is located in a distinctive building at 22302 Marine View Drive.

Give them a call at 206-824-1794 or visit their website at www.thedesmoinesdoghouse.com.

Become their fan on Facebook and be in the loop for Facebook Only Specials here.

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WLB Advertiser Highline Athletic Club wants our Readers to know that it’s holding its Spring Group X Launch this Saturday, April, 24th.

Group X is a great way to get in shape, and this introductory morning workout is free to both members and non-members.

Here’s their offer:

HAC’s Group X Launch is a fun morning of group classes where we introduce the newest music & choreography spring releases. This launch promises to provide a morning full of fun, supportive, non-stop challenges to help you renew or discover for the first time the benefits of group exercise. Join old friend and make new ones.

Some of HAC's Group X Trainers.

Members are welcome to bring guests for free and Non-members are welcome to attend this event for free also. Please come sample our classes and find out why Highline Athletic Club was voted “BEST GYM” in Evening Magazines Best of Western Washington Contest.

Come give us a try.

Here is the line up for launch day, Saturday, April 24th:

• 8:00-8:40am Group Ride
• 8:00-8:40am Group Kick
• 8:45-9:15am Centergy
• 9:25-10:10am Group Power

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The Waterland Blog would like to welcome its latest Advertiser: Drs. Ashley and Mark Rusnak of the Northwest Clinic of Chiropractic!

One thing our Readers should know is that the Drs. Rusnak are offering a “New Patient Special” coupon (see below) that gives a discounted Consultation, exam, and one set of x-rays for just $100.00 ($230-$350 value).

As we do with all our Advertisers, here’s what they’d like our Readers to know about their business:

Meet Doctors Rusnak

Dr. Ashley Rusnak was born in Moorhead, MN and has the same accent as the people in the movie Fargo. She became interested in chiropractic after being injured as a nursing aid and ended up with severe neck problems and carpal tunnel syndrome. After many sleepless and painful nights, she visited her local chiropractor. To her surprise, she received long term relief with chiropractic care. Following this experience she continued her undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota and graduated with honors with a degree in Human Biology.

Dr. Mark Rusnak is from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Yikes that’s even further north then Fargo eh? I bet you he plays hockey! He comes from a large family of many medical doctors and always knew he wanted to help people in a unique and effective way. He attended the University of Manitoba and graduated with honors with a degree in Microbiology.

Drs. Ashley and Mark Rusnak later met at Northwestern Health Sciences University in the chiropractic program. Although they didn’t start dating until half way through the program Dr. Mark jokes he had his eye on her from day one. After four years of intensive studies, both doctors graduated at the top of their class with magna cum laude honors.

Having spent enough time in the frigid Arctic air both doctors decided to finish there internships in San Diego, California. After graduating from chiropractic school they worked in separate clinics for almost two years. It wasn’t long and to their surprise, they missed having 4 seasons and even a little snow. They married in September 2006 and decided to relocate to the “Emerald City” to be closer to friends and family, for their love of the outdoors, and a better quality of life to raise their family. The small peaceful town of Normandy Park seemed like an excellent location to start their new clinic and the City of Des Moines soon became their home.

Drs. Mark and Ashley Rusnak

Drs. Rusnak know that the success of there practice ultimately depends on the success of the surrounding communities. They are very excited to see the new development taking place in Normandy Park and the new restaurants and businesses opening up in downtown Des Moines. Both doctors are active members of the community. Dr. Mark is a member of the Rotary Club of Des Moines and currently is the International Service chair. He also sits on the community service committee. Dr. Ashley is an instructor at Normandy Park Athletic, teaching both cycling (spin) and turbo kick classes. They are also members of the North Hill Community club and both have given lectures on health related topics at various places around the Seattle area.

Dr. Mark enjoys treating patients that have been involved in automobile accidents, work injuries, and sports related injuries. More info can be found on these injuries at: www.seattlecaraccidentrelief.com. Dr. Ashley has a special interest in helping people with Fibromyalgia, treating children and pregnant women, and providing nutritional counseling for different degenerative diseases (heart, arthritis, diabetes) and weight loss. More info can be found on fibromyalgia treatments at www.fibromyalgiaseattle.com.

Treatment programs integrate different adjustments for the back and extremities, muscle therapies, massage therapies, stretches, exercise rehab, hot and cold packs, and nutrition. For more extensive muscle work they offer one hour massages by their licensed massage therapist. More info on the whole clinic can be located at www.my2chiros.com.

The Northwest Clinic of Chiropractic, twice per year has Patient Appreciation Day. On this day patients of the clinic can come in for a complimentary treatment if they make a donation of either food or money to the Des Moines Food Bank. That same week friends and family members can be examined from head to toe if they make the same contribution to the food bank. It’s a fun event that involves food, music and door prizes, and best yet helps feed a bunch of families!

But the best reviews come from some of their patients:

Patient Review:

“I first came to Northwest Clinic with a problem of not being able to turn my neck without pain. I spend lots of time in front of the computer, and it has taken its toll. It took me about six months, but I got to where I could turn my neck without pain. I would not have gotten their without Dr. Rusnak’s treatment. Since then I have focused on getting stronger, and improving my range of motion. I also appreciate learning exercises and stretches that I can do to improve my fitness.”

Patient Review:

“I am 73 years old and I suffered from back pain for at least 3 years. The pain was bad enough that I couldn’t stand or walk very well and always needed something to hold on to. I had seen my medical doctor and received multiple shots every 3 or 4 weeks, but it didn’t seem to work. When I came to the Northwest Clinic of Chiropractic I felt I was treated very well. I definitely have noticed I have less pain and I also sleep much better at night now. Even though I had to drive pretty far, I made all my appointments because I was feeling better. If I was asked to recommend the doctors at this office I would say they are very good.”

Patient Review

“I came to Dr. Rusnak with back pain and hip pain. I also have MS (multiple sclerosis) and walk with a kind of uneven gait. I am so pleased with the pain relief and exercises. My hip no longer hurts and a bonus is I walk better!”

If you or your family would like to know more about the clinic, feel free to check out our websites listed above.

Or if you have questions regarding your own health and wonder if Drs. Rusnak can help, feel free to call their office and set up a free consultation:

Northwest Clinic of Chiropractic
Fibromyalgia Seattle
19655 1st Ave S. Suite 205
Normandy Park, WA 98148
206-429-2922
www.my2chiros.com

[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!]

We’d like to welcome our latest Advertiser to The Waterland Blog: Matt Griffin YMCA, which is inviting Kids and Families to participate in “YMCA Healthy Kids Day” this Saturday, April 17th.

This will be a free Health Fair, open to the public with games, activities and health resources, along with a live performance by local TV/dance stars Massive Monkees!

Here are the details:

WHAT: Matt Griffin YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day.

WHEN: Saturday, April 17th from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

WHERE: Matt Griffin YMCA, located at 3595 S. 188th St. in SeaTac, WA 98188

ACTIVITIES: Lots of fun, free activities, including:

• Massive Monkees from “America’s Best Dance Crew” TV Show
• Health Screenings
• Pacific Science Center
• Inflatable Obstacle Course
• Balloon Artist
• SeaTac Fire Truck
• Carnival Games
• Free Henna Tattoos

WHY: Healthy Kids Day is more important than ever this year. The amount of time American children and teens spend watching TV, playing video games and surfing the Internet has increased dramatically – to nearly eight hours a day. Experts say that school-age kids need at least one hour of physical activity every day to be healthy – an amount which nearly two-thirds of our nation’s youth are not getting.

INFO: Every spring, YMCAs around the country invite children and families to participate in Healthy Kids Day, a free event to promote health and wellness for kids and families. Come to the Matt Griffin YMCA this Saturday and participate in its first annual Healthy Kids Day event.

VIDEO: Wondering why some folks think the Massive Monkees are cool and possibly worth showing up to see? Check out this video:

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

[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!]

We’d like to welcome our latest Advertiser to The Waterland Blog: Des Moines United Methodist Church!

Des Moines United Methodist is adding a new, non-traditional service at 11:30am Sunday mornings. It’s called “pNEWma Worship” and it features a band, diverse musical styles, interactive events and contemplative rituals.

As we do with all new Advertisers, we provide a platform for them to tell our Readers about themselves:

Des Moines United Methodist Adds Non-Traditional Service

New service aims to reach those looking for a different worship experience

The Des Moines United Methodist Church has begun offering a new style of worship at 11:30 a.m. Sunday mornings.  The pNEWma Worship Service (pneuma is the Greek word for spirit) features a worship band, diverse musical styles, interactive events, and contemplative rituals. This new service provides an opportunity for people who want something different from a traditional approach to worship.

The goal is to welcome a broader range of community members into the church.

“Our church is very committed to reaching out and helping people find the peace, belonging, and empowerment that come with following Jesus Christ,” says Pastor Rev. Karla Fredericksen. “We are providing new and creative programs for young adults and families as well as strengthening our current programs for children, youth and adults.” A worship leader and family ministries coordinator, Cindy Akana, was recently hired to design the new service and develop programs to help meet the spiritual and social needs of young adults and young families.

“Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors” is the slogan of Des Moines United Methodist Church. “That means we are open to change and to serving the needs of our congregation as well as our community,” says Rev. Fredericksen. “This is an open, warm and loving faith community where all are welcome—and “all” means ALL!”

Community members are invited to try the new service.

Des Moines United Methodist continues to hold its traditional service featuring the chancel choir and pipe organ at 9:00 a.m.  In addition, a new “Opportunity Hour” at 10:15 a.m. has been added, providing creative, engaging social and faith-building classes for children, youth and adults.

The church’s Easter schedule for Sunday, April 4th will include:

• 7am: Worship in the Garden
• 9am: Traditional Worship
• 10:15am: Easter Egg Hunt & Brunch
• 11:30am: pNEWma Worship

For more information visit desmoinesumc.org.

[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!]

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is an awesome mid-century home on a corner lot in Burien’s Gregory Heights neighborhood.

This home has a newer roof with skylights that bathe the house with natural light. Other recently updated items include windows, furnace, hot water tank, appliances, flooring & French doors.

This home is absolutely move-in ready!

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, March 28th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 16405 13th Ave SW • Burien 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $374,000
• Listing#: 42177
• Beds: 2
• Baths: 1.75
• Year Built: 1952
• 2 Garage-Attached, Off-Street Parking
• Approximate House SqFt: 1,300
• Lot Square Footage: 9,792

Interior Features:

• Bath Off Master
• Ceiling Fan(s)
• Dining Room
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw
• French Doors
• Security System
• Skylights
• Vaulted Ceilings
• Walk-in Closet

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Deck
• Nat. Gas Available
• RV Parking
• Shop

Marketing Remarks:

Awesome mid-century home on corner lot in Gregory Heights.

Just minutes to schools, shopping, dining and freeway access.

Newer roof w/ skylights bathe the house w/ natural light.

Other recently updated items include windows, furnace, H20 tank, appliances, flooring & French doors – this home is absolutely move-in ready!

There’s also a great 2-car detached garage w/ shop in addition to the 2 parking pads.

Must see this home to appreciate it!

DIRECTIONS:

• From 1st Ave, head west on SW 160th St.
• Turn left on 13th Ave SW and proceed to SW 164th.
• House is on the corner.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

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

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

by Brenda Anders

Welcome to our latest Advertiser – Brown Bear Car Wash! Operating in Des Moines since 1981, Brown Bear Car Wash closed their doors this past June to undergo substantial renovations, and re-opened this past fall with an all new state-of-the-art car wash facility and beautiful artwork.

In addition to the environmentally-friendly renovated car wash facility, they have brought museum quality art to our city as well.  Crews installed a very large bronze grizzly bear sculpture on the corner a few weeks ago.  The sculpture is by Lorenzo Ghiglieri, whose work graces the walls of some very prestigious establishments including The Vatican in Rome, the White House and the Kremlin to name a few – and now we have a piece here in Des Moines!

“We really want the residents to feel like our business is an asset to the community”, commented Lance Odermat, Vice President and General Counsel for Car Wash Enterprises, Inc. which owns and operates Brown Bears Car Wash. “We commissioned it last summer.  We decided to place it in Des Moines for a few reasons.  First, we just completed a major remodel at the site and felt it would enhance the overall appearance of the site to have some artwork incorporated into the landscape.  Second, while we could have placed it at any of our sites, we felt that it lended itself well to the feel of the community down there. Des Moines strikes us as a community where the residents take great pride in the character and appearance of their properties. Being a small waterfront community, there is something very ‘Northwest’ about it.”

Brown Bear has been a family-owned business since 1957 with its first car wash in Ballard, which is still in operation today. They have 40 different car wash facilities throughout the area. They are continually remodeling and expanding.  Environmental responsibility is high on their priority list. Their facilities:

“Separate road pollutants including oils, heavy metals and antifreeze from the car wash wastewater we discharge. Once we’ve removed many of the toxic substances from the water we use wastewater is then released into the sewer treatment system, and not storm water systems, for further cleaning.”

Pollution Prevention Tip: Next time you pull in to a charity car wash, hand them $10 to support their cause and drive on down the street to a commercial car wash where waste water is prevented from entering the storm drains.

Let me be one to thank you Lance and all Brown Bear employees for the magnificent sculpture and state of the art car wash facility.  This property is a beautiful south gateway to downtown Des Moines.

Now, everyone get down there and wash your cars…the winter dirt look is not flattering to you or your car!  Support our local businesses.

[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!]

by Janet Grella

Last Spring, 371 American Eskimo dogs (“Eskies”) were rescued when agents from the local police and human society officials raided a local puppy mill in Kennewick, WA. Many of them were pregnant and all were living in unbelievable squalor in what the humane society called “the worst puppy mill raid – ever.”

That’s where our returning Advertiser, Companion Animal Medical Center in Normandy Park came to the rescue.

Over the ensuing months, Dr. Leslie Kasper and her clinic aids treated these abused adult dogs and hopeful puppies.

In her own words, Dr. Kasper told us:

Dr. Leslie Kasper with a rescued Eskie puppy.

“The American Eskimo Dog Assoc. of Washington’s president, rescue coordinator and Burien resident is Sherry Myers.

“She approached us as the new vet in town and asked if we would be interested in providing some care to these animals and prepare them for fostering and/or adoption.

“We of course said yes”.

Sherry received 37 dogs, 13 of which were puppies. Each dog received a full physical exam, fecal parasite exam, and full bloodworm, spay or neuter surgery, dental cleaning, vaccinations, de-worming, and any other medical conditions addressed.

“All of these dogs were quite scared as you could imagine; even putting a leash on them was traumatic in their eyes. But the more we handled them the more they started to calm down. Last week we had three more come in for more of the same, but these were all females who had recently weaned puppies.”

“All of the procedures have been greatly discounted and been covered by both the club’s rescue fund as well as donations from around the country.”

Sherry Myers told us “Dr. Kasper and her team provided the Eskies a great service. She is kind, compassionate and has a great bedside manner.”

As a dog-lover myself, I stopped by Companion Animal Medical frequently to check on the puppies. One day I was brought to tears, when I met an older dog that was named “Pirate” by Dr. Kasper and her staff. Over his internment in Kennewick he’d lost an eye. In my experience, animals called “Pirate” have a black spot over one eye; they haven’t had their eye gouged out. What should have been his beautiful white coat was yellowed due to what Dr. Kasper called “poor nutrition.”

We are proud to welcome Dr. Kasper and her staff back as an Advertiser. We marvel at her state of the art facility and her team, which allowed them to care for some many Eskies in a short time, and give them a new lease on life. Imagine what her kind and caring treatment can bring to your pet.

You can find Dr. Leslie Kasper and her team in her state of the art Normandy Park clinic at 19655 1st Ave South, 206-878-0405, or by clicking here.

Ms. Myers has updated the story of the Eskies for us: “Of the 37 Eskies, all have found ‘forever homes’ or in foster homes.”

If you’d like to learn more about Eskies, click here.

To find out more about the Kennewick Puppy Mill raid, click here.

Now’s a really good time to give Dr. Kasper and Companion Animal a try, they’ve got a March special of $75 off Pet Dental Cleaning, and a special through April of 50% off New Client First Exam.

[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!]

Waterland Blog Advertiser Zenith Holland Gardens will be holding its Spring Plant Sale this weekend, from March 19th through the 21st.

“It’s the best plant sale in the South end,” says Lyn Robinson of Zenith Holland, which is located just south of downtown Des Moines.

Get there early if you can. Four-inch Danova Primroses are free to customers while supplies last.

Featured this weekend will be Pansies, Hardy Perennials, and Ferns.

Look for Edible starts, Sedums and more.

“We have an incomparable selection of much sought-after Hostas and Peonies,” Lyn adds.

Zenith Holland Gardens is easy to find:

• Head south through downtown Des Moines on Marine View Drive.
• You’ll pass the Red Robin restaurant on your right. Stay in the right lane, curving gently up the hill, past the Taco Time on your left.
• About a quarter mile up you’ll see Zenith Holland’s entry point wooden sign on your left.

Along with the usual cash, Visa and Mastercard, Zenith Holland also takes personal checks.

Plant Sale Hours:

• Friday and Saturday 9am to 5pm
• Sunday 10am-5pm

Zenith Holland Gardens
23260 Marine View Drive South
Des Moines, WA 98198
Phone: 206-878-7002

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

WLB Advertiser State Farm Insurance’s Vickie Bergquist has offered up some safety tips for traveling with kids in your car – this is worth knowing:

Vehicle safety of our children is of the utmost importance. Below are some guidelines for keeping your young child safe in a vehicle.

Infants up to 20 lbs and at least one year of age: Use rear-facing car seat correctly in a back seat every time your baby rides in a car. Use the vehicle’s safety belt or latch system to lock the car seat into the car – never use both. Use your baby’s car seat rear-facing and reclined no more than 45 degrees. Read the car seat instructions. Keep your baby rear-facing until at least age 1 and 20 pounds.

Children 1-4 years and 20-40 pounds: Use forward-facing car seat correctly in a back seat every time your toddler rides in a car. A child is too big for the seat when the shoulders are above the top slots, the top of the earns are above the back of the seat or the weight limit is exceeded.

Children 40-100 pounds: Use a booster seat correctly in a back seat every time your child rides in a car. Older kids get weighed and measured less often than babies, so check your child’s growth a few times a year. Use a booster seat until your child weighs between 80-100 pounds, is about 4 ft 9 inches tall and can pass the Safety Belt Fit Test. A booster seat uses no harness. It uses the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belts only. Never place the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back.

Children under 13 years old must ride in the back seat – it’s the law.

[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!]

New Waterland Blog Advertiser GGC Embroidery–Grams Gift Closet–is on a mission; that is “to provide small businesses in the area the opportunity to brand and logo in the same manner as a mid to large size businesses at a lower cost,” so says owner/operator Jeananne Tescar-Burcham.

With this mission in mind, Jeananne created her small business from what was once a hobby. She specializes in personalized-custom embroidery and logo items for local sports teams, companies, families and individuals. Her closet of logo-wear includes sweatshirts, polar fleece, polos and hats.

When it came time to order some new shirts for The Waterland Blog staff to wear at the Poverty Bay Wine Festival, we asked our good friend Wayne Corey of the Des Moines Farmers Market “who does your branded clothing?” He strongly recommended GGC Embroidery for their service, quick turnaround and embroidery work..

Are we another satisfied customer of GGC? You betcha! Would we recommend their services for your small business? We sure would.

You can contact Jeananne at 206-931-1548 or click here for the website.

BTB Real Estate Sponsor Prudential Northwest’s featured Open House for this week is an “extremely clean 3 bedroom, 2 full (all new) bath rambler” located near the beach in Hurstwood and priced at $376,950.

This home features newly-refinished hardwoods, new tile in the kitchen and family room, new interior paint, and a 2-car garage with huge attic storage.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Open House will be this Sunday, March 7th, from 1pm to 4pm.

WHERE: 13843 17th Ave SW • Burien 98166

INFO:

• List Price: $376,950
• Listing#: 32089
• Beds: 3
• Baths: 2
• Fireplaces: 1
• Year Built: 1966
• 2 Garage-Attached
• Approximate House SqFt: 1,420
• Lot Square Footage: 16,000

Interior Features:

• Bath Off Master
• Dble Pane/Strm Windw

Site Features:

• Cable TV
• Fenced-Partially
• Patio

Marketing Remarks:

Extremely clean 3 bdrm, 2 full (all new) bath rambler.

Newly refinished hardwoods and new tile in kitchen and family rm.

New interior paint. 2 car gar. w/huge attic storage.

Sought after Hurstwood-near the beach.

Get in this one! Furniture negotiable if interested..

Directions:

• Ambaum Blvd. to SW 144th St.
• West to 13th SW.
• Right to stop sign.
• Turn Right then immediate left to 13843 17th SW.

Click here to see the full, detailed listing.

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