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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More info on the Exchange Club from their website:

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

We 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.

The Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence is hosting their annual Oktoberfest Dinner, Dance and Auction on October 2nd. Here are all the details:

Join the fun on Saturday October 2 from 6:00 to 11:00 PM, at the Normandy Park Cove, for an authentic Bavarian festival. The Highline Schools Foundation for Excellence (HSFFE) is once again hosting an Oktoberfest Dinner, Dance and Auction to raise funds for the Arts and Middle & High School Athletics. HSFFE is partnering with the community to support the Brat Trot a family fun run and other fall celebrations around the Highline communities.

Traditionally, Oktoberfest marks the end of the harvest and is the preparation for winter. It was believed that a festival at this time would provide an ideal “relief valve.” The Foundation’s event is designed to be this “relief valve” and to build awareness about the work of the organization.

This year the Oktoberfest chairs are Chuck and Lisa Tuman and they have planned a wild event! Elliott Bay Brewery will again supply the beer, Dan “the Sausage man” House (Tin Room) the brats and Fernwood at the Park the ever popular hot potato salad (among other goodies). They are also bringing back Foremost DJ to rock the night away with tunes from every era, including the Chicken Dance! HSFFE is excited to have Mike Bishoff (Brat Trot and Cove-2-Clover race director) as our Emcee and Chuck Tuman as the Auctioneer for the 2010 Oktoberfest. They hope to fill the Cove with 300 community members and educators – so sign up early. One more note. . . Chuck and Lisa are working hard to bring back that 6’3” Austrian Yodeler with the initials MH!

This event is sure to be a festive and fun evening designed to bring community members together in support of our schools. HSFFE believes that strong schools build strong communities and a robust economy. The tickets for this over 21 event are $40 in advance or $45 at the door. You can purchase tickets at the Foundation website www.highlineschoolsfoundation.org or by calling 206.248.5196. Come early for happy hour from 6:00 to 7:00 they have discounts on beer and wine!

HSFFE was founded in 2001 with a mission of “providing Community Resources to help the Highline Public School Succeed.” HSFFE is the only 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting all 17,400 students in all 35 of the Highline Public Schools. The Foundation serves as a single point of contact for members of the community, local and national business, service organizations and other foundations to connect their philanthropic efforts with a single school or the entire district.

Highline Public School District is one of the most diverse in the state of Washington with over 60% of the students on the free or reduced lunch program and over 65% students of color. HSFFE works to foster an environment that helps all students reach their highest potential. The HSFFE Board President, Maya Mendoza-Exstrom stated, “We want all students have opportunities participate in activities and to have an enriched classroom experience.” To this end, HSFFE raises funds to support: classroom grants that enhance the educational experience; provide scholarships to needy students for summer arts academies and summer science camps; support middle and high school sports activities; a discretionary fund for homeless students (to keep them in school); an annual prom dress give away for approximately 100 economically disadvantaged high school students; and scholarships to graduating seniors going to universities, community and technical schools.

For more information about the Highline Schools Foundation or to volunteer contact Holly Moore at 206.248.5196 or holly@highlineschoolsfoundation.org

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:

The “Pink Party for the Cure” is a fundraiser benefiting the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure, and will be held this Sunday, Aug. 8th from 3pm – 8pm at Des Moines’ All-Star Sports Bar.

There will be a bike run starting at Sound Harley in Marysville, leaving at 2pm and ending at the All-Star, along with numerous other fun events, all aimed at helping cure breast cancer.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Pink Party for the Cure 2010 Fundraiser.

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 8th from 3pm – 8pm.

WHERE: All-Star Sports Bar, located at 22303 Marine View Drive South; (206) 212-6740.

INFO: In addition to the motorcycle run, the event will include:

• There will be a “Breast in Show” contest, entry is $20, open to all bikes.
• Hot dogs will be served by the Dog House.
• Pool and dart tournaments!
• The signature “Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Drinking for the Cure Martini!”
• Raffles for lots of great prizes and a 50/50 Cash raffle!
• Lots of fun – Come one, come all!!!

HOSTED BY: Pink Pedi Cures – Stacey Rivera, Lisa Reamy Malpass, Christa McCutchen, and by Justin Edwards and the crew at the All-Star Sports Bar.

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 brand new “Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival” is coming to Des Moines Beach Park on Saturday, Sept. 25th, and the Des Moines Rotary Club is putting a call out for Sponsors.

This Rotary Club fundraiser event will benefit a new program called “Music4Youth,” aimed at helping local youth gain musical knowledge.

There are four main sponsorship levels:

$5,000: Symphony (“Your sponsorship will allow us to purchase 4 – trombones, 4 – clarinets, 4 – violins and 4 – trumpets”); sponsorship benefits include:

• Prominently listed with name and logo on all rack cards and posters
• Name and logo prominently featured in all paid advertisements
• Company name mentioned in all event correspondence
• Company logo on informational event banners
• Premier banner privileges at event
• Twenty admissions to the festival
• Access to VIP tent

$1,000: Orchestra (“Your sponsorship will allow us to purchase 2 – flutes, 1 – drum and 1 – violin”); sponsorship benefits include:

• Listed on all rack cards and posters
• Name listed in all paid advertising
• Company name mentioned in all event correspondence
• Banner privileges at event
• Ten admissions to the festival
• Access to VIP tent

$500 Band (“Your sponsorship will allow us to purchase 1- drum and 1- trumpet”); sponsorship benefits include:

• Listed on all rack cards and posters
• Name listed in selected paid advertising
• Banner privileges at event
• Six admissions to the festival

$250 Instrument (“Your sponsorship will allow us to purchase 1 – violin”); sponsorship benefits include:

• Listed on Club/Event website
• Banner privileges at event
• Two admissions to the festival

The Rotary Club of Des Moines will donate 100% of the net proceeds from the Festival, and its other fundraisers, back into the community. Club member contributions, volunteer and financial, cover all of the club’s administration expenses.

To become a sponsor, food or beer vendor, click here (PDF file) for necessary documents, or simply call one of the following Rotarians:

• Ric Jacobson: (206) 824-9462
• Dan Johnson: (206) 878-1380
• Lisa Meinecke: (206) 870-8555

The Exchange Club of Highline recently held a toilet paper drive for area food banks, and they received more than 1,600 rolls of toilet paper, as well as over $300 in cash and checks that they used to purchase another 600 rolls. All donations went to area food banks, including White Center, Highline and Des Moines.

Here’s an email from Exchange Club member Sherrill Miller:

Scott,

I wanted to thank you for giving our toilet paper drive space in your blogs. The drive was very successful! We got more than 1600 rolls of toilet paper, and more than $300 in cash and checks were donated for the Club to purchase another 600 rolls.

The White Center, Highline and Des Moines Food Banks will benefit from our community’s generosity.

Thanks again for your support!

Sherrill Miller
The Exchange Club of Highline

If you’d still like to make a donation, you can mail a check and the Exchange Club will buy toilet paper for the food bank. Checks can be made out to “The Exchange Club of Highline” and mailed to:

Exchange Club of Highline
P O Box 66532
Burien WAÂ 98166

Last weekend, dozens of dedicated volunteers showed up at Burien’s Highline Memorial Stadium to participate in the American Cancer Society’s annual Highline Relay for Life, a two-day event aimed at raising money to fight cancer.

Cancer survivors, family members, concerned residents, sponsors and more showed up on a sunny Saturday, with many camping out and spending the night with various events and entertainment to keep them busy.

According to the ACS website:

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. At Relay, teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

Relay began in 1985 when Dr. Gordy Klatt, a colorectal surgeon in Tacoma, Washington, ran and walked around a track for 24 hours to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Relay has grown from a single man’s passion to fight cancer into the world’s largest movement to end the disease. Each year, more than 3.5 million people in 5,000 communities in the United States, along with additional communities in 19 other countries, gather to take part in this global phenomenon and raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer. Thanks to Relay participants, we are creating a world with more birthdays a world where cancer can’t claim another year of anyone’s life.

The top five fundraising teams included:

1. Cousins for a Cure
   ($6,320.00)
2. SEATTLE’S FINEST
   ($5,664.25)
3. Burien Good2Great
   ($3,814.00)
4. Freddy Fighters
   ($3,730.50)
5. Sea Hawkers South
   ($3,634.50)

The B-Town Blog was proud to be a sponsor, and Photographers Scott Schaefer and Michael Brunk showed up at different times to capture the following two slideshows:

Click to Play Scott Schaefer’s Slideshow

Click to Play Michael Brunk’s Slideshow

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.

Today (Saturday June 5), Cub Scout Pack 955 is holding a car wash and yard sale from 9am – 2pm at the Grace Lutheran Church in Des Moines (22975 24th Ave S).

This is located on the Kent-Des Moines Road just west of Pac Highway.

Stop by if you are in the area and get your car washed or buy some stuff and help these kids!

The 8th Annual Des Moines Legacy Foundation Sports Night Auction on May 15th raised over $20,000 for local youth recreation, making this year’s the most successful one to date.

Guests generously purchased items ranging from Jake Locker signed memorabilia to a week in Cabo in a log cabin full of people who enjoyed a hearty plate of BBQ, casino games highlighted by the Wheel of Fortune, and great silent & live auction items.

Next year’s event will be held on May 14th, and tickets go on sale Feb. 1st, 2011, so mark your calendars!

Organizers of the event have this to say:

Special thank you’s are in order for auction donors who gave generously to the event.  Kudos also go to The Ram Restaurant & Brewery, Corky Cellars and Famous Dave’s BBQ for their contributions to the evening.

Thanks to auctioneer Larry Snyder and celebrity emcee Bruce King.

A very big ‘Rec n Rah’ recognition goes to the individual volunteers for their efforts planning, setting up, and work throughout the event and clean-up.

Finally, the event was coordinated with a collaboration of these local organizations:  Des Moines Legacy Foundation, Des Moines Parks Recreation & Senior Services volunteers, The Rotary Club of Des Moines, and The Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Parks District.  Their collective effort will help hundreds of children play in Des Moines.

Next spring, this popular event is scheduled for May 14th in 2011.  Tickets go on sale February 1, 2011.  Seating is limited to the first 170 guests.  Mark your calendar now to give kids a chance by attending the Des Moines Sports Night Auction.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you,
Todd and Lane McKittrick
Founders

Here are details on the event:

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

WHEN: Sunday, June 6, 2010:

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

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

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

Finish Line Activities:

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

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

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

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

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

Race Day Details:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you,
Todd and Lane McKittrick
Founders

Here are details on the event:

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

WHEN: Sunday, June 6, 2010:

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

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

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

Finish Line Activities:

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

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

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

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

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

Race Day Details:

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

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

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

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

Des Moines 8th annual Sports Night is coming Saturday, May 15th, from 6pm – 11pm at the Des Moines Field House, with casino games, auctions, prizes, a buffet and beer and wine.

Legendary KOMO Sports Director Bruce King will emcee, and auctioneer Larry Snyder Jr. will keep you as entertained as a 9th inning, bases loaded full count with Griffey at bat!

All proceeds will benefit youth scholarships in the Greater Des Moines Community, and is sponsored by the Des Moines Legacy Foundation, Rotary Club of Des Moines, Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Parks District and Des Moines Parks, Recreation and Senior Services.

Tickets are available at the Field House, located at 1000 South 220th Street, or via phone at 206-870-6527.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Des Moines 8th annual Sports Night

WHEN: Saturday, May 15th from 6pm – 11pm

WHERE: Des Moines Field House, located at 1000 South 220th Street

COST: $50 per person / $375 per table. Tickets are available at the Field House, located at 1000 South 220th Street, or via phone at 206-870-6527.

INFO: From an email:

Join Des Moines Legacy Foundation, Rotary Club of Des Moines, Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Parks District and Des Moines Parks, Recreation and Senior Services as they volunteer a night for kids and community at the 8th annual Des Moines Legacy Foundation Sports Night Auction, benefiting the Youth Scholarship fund for Des Moines youth recreation opportunities.

Purchase your tickets today to join emcee Bruce King and community volunteers for Casino games of chance, a fully catered barbecue meal and beer provided by the Ram Restaurant and Brewery, and auction – all to give kids a chance to play.

Our 2010 Live and Silent Auction items will feature unique items to bid on, including one-of-a-kind University of Washington football mementos; a Marcus Trufant autographed football and the legendary wheelbarrow full of assorted beers.

Join us on May 15th for a night of fun and chance – and give kids a chance!

For more information:  206-870-6527

SPONSORS: There are several ways to show your support:

• Sports Night Sponsor – Give a gift of money
• Donate Auction Items (Goods or Services) – Both Live and Silent auction valued at $50. Or more
• Donate a Raffle or Door Prize – Valued at $25. Or less

Any level of support is greatly appreciated!

More info at their Facebook page, or here.

Here’s the poster:

by Ralph Nichols

While a cargo container ship steams south from Seattle to Valpariso, Chile – carrying donated winter clothing for victims of February’s 8.8 magnitude earthquake – Patricio Mendoza is organizing one more fundraiser to benefit them.

Dance for Chile (Ven a Bailar por Chile) will be held this Thursday, April 22, at the Havana Sodo Salsa Club, 2942 1st Ave., Seattle, from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. There will be a $10 cover charge, with all money from the cover going to Chile relief.

Then Mendoza, the owner of EC Computer, located at 22311 Marine View Dr. in Des Moines, will fly to Chile on April 29 – his airfare donated by Public Access Channel 77 – to meet the shipment when it arrives at Valpariso.

Once there, he will buy kerosene heaters and deliver them along with the clothing, packed in 150 large boxes, to Talcahuano, a port city farther south in the “Zero Zone” where the greatest earthquake damage was done.

The container and its shipping cost were donated by Seattle-based Westward Seafoods.

Mendoza hopes local fundraising efforts – including Thursday’s dance – will bring in enough to pay for a total of 100 heaters, which cost $92 each plus tax. The dual-purpose heaters can also be used for cooking.

With monetary donations already received, he has bought 45 heaters – and paid for another 15 himself. Mendoza said he believes his personal contribution is “giving back to God.”

The heaters, which “will help them through the winter so it will not be so bad,” are being purchased in Chile to eliminate shipping costs. “We do need more financial help,” he added. “Everything, even five dollars or ten dollars, helps.”

Mendoza expressed his thanks “so much for the support this town has given to Chile. We know it’s not enough. There is so much to do. But it’s something that will make a difference.”

Except for the Waterland and B-Town Blogs, his fundraising efforts have been promoted largely word-of-mouth, with support from Latino radio stations AM 1540 and AM 1210.

After he arrives in Chile, Mendoza will get to talk with his father Humbetor for the first time since the earthquake.

Mendoza is the only individual or organization in this area to have permission from the Chilean consulate in San Francisco to ask for money and donations for earthquake relief.

The Highline Medical Center Foundation will be hosting its second annual “Hats On for Highline” fundraiser at Emerald Downs in Auburn beginning at 11:30am on Saturday, May 1st.

This Derby Day fundraiser will include horseracing and simulcast of the Kentucky Derby from the VIP trackside tent, including a buffet, auction, the requisite hat contest along with raffle prizes.

“A great day to spend with friends and something I wouldn’t miss,” said Carrie Rasmussen, who attended the event last year. “It’s a perfect Trifecta – hats, horses and fun!”

Here are the details:

WHAT: Highline Medical Center Foundation’s “Hats On For Highline” Derby Day Fundraiser.

WHEN: Saturday, May 1st from 11:30am on.

WHERE: Emerald Downs in Auburn

TICKETS: Tickets are $50 per person and advanced reservations are required. Reservation deadline is April 23rd so don’t wait! For more information and tickets, contact the Foundation at 206-901-8500 or visit www.highlinemedicalcenter.org/support-highline.

INFO: Proceeds support the Highline Medical Center’s Cancer Center and other patient care programs.

Highline Medical Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization that raises money for patient care services, the latest medical equipment, community outreach and staff continuing education at Highline Medical Center. Funds raised benefit programs, patients and services throughout South King County.

For more information, check out their website here.

The final numbers for the 2010 Poverty Bay Wine Festival (held March 6-7 at the Landmark Event Center) were released recently by the Des Moines Rotary Club, and here they are:

• ATTENDEES: Over 1,500
• FUNDS RAISED: More than $40,000
  

“I am happy to report that it was the best festival yet,” said Sponsor Chair Wayne Corey. “The results revealed that for the first time, this year’s attendees came from a broader range in the Puget Sound area, coming from 73 different zip codes. Nearly two thirds of those responding to our survey were ‘first timers.’ We attribute the large turnout this year to our new marketing focus, using more digital media (including The Waterland Blog) as a way of reaching out to a larger geographic area. This is year was also the largest collection of Washington State wineries displaying there wares. Some of the ‘first timers’ where among the top sellers.”

Here is the link to a video Wayne produced: http://publicsafe.org/povertybaywinefestival2010.html.

And here are some pics shot by Photographer Michael Brunk at the opening night gala:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

The Des Moines Auxiliary of Seattle Children’s Hospital will be holding its annual fashion show and luncheon on Thursday, April 15th at 11:30am at the Des Moines United Methodist Church, 22225 9th Ave South.

This year’s theme is “Tropical Paradise,” and will include a fashion show presented by Rottles of Auburn, with a lunch catered by Tuscany at Des Moines Creek.

Tickets can be purchased for a $20 donation, and the deadline for reserving tickets is Thursday, April 8th.

Here are the details:

WHAT: Des Moines Auxiliary of Seattle Children’s Hospital “Tropical Paradise” Fashion Show and Luncheon.

WHEN: Thursday, April 15th at 11:30am.

WHERE: Des Moines United Methodist Church, 22225 9th Ave South.

INFO: From an email:

The Des Moines Auxiliary of Seattle Children’s Hospital presents its annual fashion show and Luncheon “Tropical Paradise” on April 15th, 2010 at 11:30 am.

This event will be held at the Des Moines United Methodist Church, 22225 9th Ave S, Des Moines, WA.

The fashion show will be presented by Rottles of Auburn and the lunch will be catered by Tuscany at Des Moines Creek.

The tickets are a donation of $20 each and the deadline for reserving tickets is April 8th.

There will also be a raffle.

The proceeds of the event will go towards the Hospital Research Foundation of Seattle Children’s Hospital.

To order tickets and/or get more information please  call 206-824-4726 or 206-878-2040.

From the hospital’s website:

The Des Moines Auxiliary was founded in 1928.

We support uncompensated care so no child will go without medical care.

Our fundraising events include an October Fall Luncheon, November Holiday Bazaar, Spring Fashion Show, raffles, and arts and craft sales throughout the year.

by Ralph Nichols

Patricio Mendoza is making a last-minute push for public donations to fill a 40-foot container with clothing and bedding for victims of last month’s 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile.

Donations of clothing, bedding or cash can be made at Mendoza’s business, EC Computer, located at 22311 Marine View Dr. in Des Moines.

With the deadline for making donations for the earthquake relief effort fast approaching – the cut-off date is this Friday, April 2 – Mendoza said the container is 25 feet full.

“We still need 15 feet of clothes,” he added. “I hope that this week, Holy Week, with Good Friday as the final day for donations, people will find this an appropriate time to give to Chilean earthquake victims in need.

“We’re collecting clothes here. Please, just bring them on in.”

Needed are winter clothes for men, women, boys, girls, and infants and toddlers that are in “good condition.” But “no shoes, and underclothes have to be new only.”

Cash donations will be spent in Chile to buy roofing materials and nets for commercial fishermen.

The container, which is located in north Seattle, has been donated by Seattle-based Westward Seafoods. On Saturday, Mendoza and others will box the donated clothing and put it back in the container, which will ship on Monday.

A 20-day voyage will deliver it to Talcahuano, a port city in the “’Zero Zone’ where the biggest damage was done,” he said.

When the container arrives in Chile, Mendoza will be there to receive it, thanks to a donation from Public Access Channel 77 for his airfare.

While there, he will get to see his father Humbetor and talk to him for the first time since the earthquake. “Other family members have seen him and he’s fine,” Mendoza said. “But his phone doesn’t work and I still haven’t talked to him.”

Mendoza noted that he is the only individual or organization in this area “to have permission from the Chilean consulate in San Francisco to ask for money and donations” for earthquake relief.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

• Local Businessman Has Family Ties To Chilean Earthquake Disaster

The Clarion Hotel in SeaTac will be holding a special St. Patrick’s Day Spaghetti Feed & Auction fundraiser for the Des Moines Area Food Bank next Wednesday, March 17th from 5pm – 8pm at their location at 3000 South 176th Street in SeaTac.

Cost is $10 in advance for adults ($13 at door); Students & Seniors $7; or $25 for a Family Pack.

All proceeds go to the Des Moines Area Food Bank, so come on down, have some good spaghetti and help your hungry neighbors.

Here are the details:

WHAT: St. Patrick’s Day Spaghetti Feed and Auction fundraiser for the Des Moines Area Food Bank.

WHEN: Wednesday, March 17th, 5:00PM-8:00PM.

WHERE: Clarion Hotel, located at 3000 S. 176th St. in SeaTac.

COST: Adults $10 in advance, $13 at door; Students & Seniors $7; Family pack $25.

INFO: Proceeds go to the Des Moines Area Food Bank.

RSVP: Please call 206-676-3742 to RSVP, or click here for more information.