Continuing our lists from January and February, our March 2013 list will include 31 more reasons that I Love Kent. Follow the series on our iLoveKent.net Facebook page, where we post a new reason to love Kent daily. Please comment, add your own suggestions and tell us what you love about Kent!

 Mar. 1:  Kent People – People like Mike Hanis and Merle and Marti Reeder make Kent a fun, friendly place to live.

Mar. 2:  Farm animals – We have a lot of variety in Kent — llamas, alpacas, cows, chickens, goats and more.

Mar. 3:  Allegro Performing Arts Academy – This local dance academy has such a wide variety of dance classes available to people of all ages. I also love that Allegro is active in the community, coming up with events like Kent’s Got Talent.

Mar. 4:  Curran Law Firm – In addition to being a sponsor of iLoveKent.net, attorneys at the firm are very active in the community, including Greg Haffner who serves as the Kent Rotary president this year.

Mar. 5:  Jack Becvar, our city’s historian, is one of my favorite Kent residents. He has a wealth of historical information about Kent, and he and his wife Mary Lou truly love our city.

Mar. 6:  Mayor Suzette Cooke – Regardless of your politics, Mayor Cooke is an enthusiastic, friendly and approachable leader.

Mar. 7:  Annual “Fun for Funds” Dinner Auction – Each year the Children’s Therapy Center and its Dynamic Partners host their annual “Fun for Funds” dinner auction to raise money to help children with special needs and their families.

Mar. 8:  Seattle Thunderbirds – It is so much fun having a WHL hockey team right here in Kent. It is fun family entertainment and the hockey players are not only talented but friendly and humble. [See my story on the mentoring program at Neely O'Brien Elementary.]

Mar. 9:  Lazy Larry’s Ranch – Located on 132nd, I watch the cows daily from my office window. What a delight to see these huge creatures romping around the pasture!

Mar. 10:  Shindig Martini Bar - This classy bar in downtown Kent is a nice break from the usual sports bar. The martini selection is excellent, and happy hour makes these otherwise pricey drinks affordable.

Mar. 11:  Regional Justice Center – This full-service municipal building was beautifully designed, housing our local courts as well as services like CASA, marriage applications and more.

Mar. 12:  Wilson Playfields – Beautiful athletic complex on Kent’s East Hill, ideal for soccer and track events.

Mar. 13:  Lake Meridian – It may be small, but it is ours. With views of Mt. Rainier, this calm, quiet lake is a nice departure from the hustle & bustle of our busy lives.

Mar. 14:  Kent TV 21 – Want to know what’s going on in Kent? You can find it on Kent TV 21. The city’s own TV channel features programs regarding local events like the Kent International Festival as well as streaming Kent City Council meetings live.

Mar. 15:  Small Business Development Center at Green River College – For business owners on a budget, the SBDC is a useful resource for starting and growing a business in Kent.

Mar. 16:  McLendon Hardware – It may not be a big box store, but it has just about everything you could want. I love the garden section!

Mar. 17:  Kent Station Easter Egg Hunt – Easter Egg Hunts at Kent Station have become a new Kent tradition. Free family fun.

Mar. 18:  Soos Creek Trail – Located between Kent and Covington, Soos Creek Trail provides miles of paved trails for walking or running, and every once in awhile, you’ll see a horse on the path.

Mar. 19:  Children’s Bookshop – This downtown store is a good resource for teaching supplies as well as educational books, toys and games for kids.

Mar. 20:  Stefano Langone of American Idol fame is a graduate of Kentwood High School.

Mar. 21:  Kaibara Park, downtown Kent

Mar. 22:  Coldstone Creamery

Mar. 23:  Arbor 360 Skate Park

Mar. 24:  Petco is where Jelly Bean shops for her favorite food – Solid Gold Wee Bits and treats we don’t get at Mud Bay.

Mar. 25:  Fig & Feather – a fun home decor and gift store on W. Meeker St. in downtown Kent

Mar. 26:  Planned Parenthood – I’m glad we have affordable health care and family planning options close to home.

Mar. 27:  Spiro’s Greek Island on First Ave. South has great food in a fun atmosphere right in downtown Kent.

Mar. 28:  Historic homes on Scenic Hill keep a thread of Kent’s past running through the city.

Mar. 29:  Shari’s Pies. Do I really need to explain this one?

Mar. 30:  Sue Froyd, owner of AAA Pest Control and Maggie’s on Meeker, is a wonderful, generous woman.

Mar. 31:  Kent Covenant Church opens its doors regularly to community events.

KENT, Wash., Mar. 15, 2013–Yesterday I had the privilege of tagging along while 10 of the Seattle Thunderbirds mentored 10 fourth grade boys at Neely O’Brien Elementary School in Kent. Thursday’s mentoring session was the final in a six-month series of weekly meetings between the TBirds and “their boys.” While enjoying pizza and homemade treats, the TBirds reminisced about their activities including a visit to ShoWare, play board games and bonding with the students, and hosting two assemblies, one for fifth and sixth graders about about goal setting and a school-wide assembly on how to be a buddy, not a bully.

TBirds mentors this year were Connor Sanvido, Mitch Elliot, Connor Honey, Evan Wardley, Luke Lockhart, Justin Hickman, Seth Swenson, Roberts Lipsbergs, Alexander Delnov and Adam Kambeitz. Pictured at right:  C.J., Seth Swenson, Justin Hickman and Cody.

Principal Pat Regnart thanked the players for their participation in the mentoring program, offered through Communities in Schools Kent. CISK has other mentors at Neely O’Brien and other elementary schools throughout the Kent School District, but this program was a bit different because the mentors were young adults.

“It’s been a very special year, and we don’t take that for granted,” Regnart said. “Our whole school has been impacted.”

Though the school has 733 students, only 10 boys were given the opportunity to work one-on-one with the TBirds, to build relationships and talk about things like the importance of education and how being a member of a team is much like being a student.

Regnart particularly enjoyed the mentoring session when Mitch Elliot gave an impromptu piano recital. Elliot played Beethoven, a composer that had been discussed in the second grade classes. Following his performance, a student asked, “Don’t you fight in hockey?” Elliot explained that there is fighting in hockey but that it has to be done safely and responsibly. He also said that the fights stay on the ice, and he’d get kicked off the team if he fought outside the rink.

“The players connected in a lot of ways,” Regnart explained.

Jolene Wallace, a second grade teacher whose students were impacted by the mentoring program, wasn’t able to attend the mentoring celebration yesterday, but she sent a letter to be read by Neely O’Brien mentor program coordinator Chris Kunzelman in her absence.

“I can’t begin to describe the impact you’ve had on these boys, our students, staff and the community,” Wallace wrote. “As you move into your future whether in college or the NHL, please note that you made a difference in a public school in Kent, Washington.”

The players enjoyed the mentoring program as well. Seth Swenson of Colorado said he enjoyed being able to give back to the community. It was particularly nice for him because he lives out of state and doesn’t know a lot of people in Kent. Swenson mentored fourth grader C.J. who said he liked visiting the hockey rink the best.

Justin Hickman also enjoyed being a part of the program. Hickman, who previously attended Kent-Meridian High School, said he liked visiting other schools and to “hopefully make a difference. Hickman mentored fourth grader Cody; one of their favorite activities was playing Connect Four.

“I’m the Connect Four Master,” Hickman joked.

Dee Klem, the elementary mentor program coordinator for Communities in Schools Kent, helped connect the TBirds with Neely O’Brien. As a proponent of mentoring and a billet mom to Mitch Elliot, Klem was pleased at the enthusiasm of the players and the success of this year’s program. This is the third year for the program, but the first time so many players participated, Klem said.

Klem added, “I’m not sure they fully understand the impact they’ve had on the kids.”

For more information about the mentoring program, visit Communities in Schools Kent online. For more information about the Seattle Thunderbirds, visit the team website.

Pictured below:  Dee Klem and Luke Lockhart

And the list continues into February. Here are 28 more reasons to love Kent, Washington. I’ll post a week at a time. If you want to see each reason as it goes “live,” please like our Facebook page.

Feb. 1:   The Grape Adventure

Feb. 2:  Kent Bowl

Feb. 3:  Bath & Body Works at Kent Station

Feb. 4:  Yogurtland – Kent, celebrating National Frozen Yogurt Day with free FROYO & toppings

Feb. 5:  Hong Kong Market, 320 E. Meeker St., Kent for its fresh fish, produce and a wide variety of Asian cuisine

Feb. 6:  Band Box Salon & Nails, 13215 SE 240th St., Suite G, Kent, WA – hair, nails and a warm welcome

Feb. 7:  Conner Sanvido, Seattle Thunderbirds 

Feb. 8:  AMC Theatres at Kent Station

Feb. 9:  Bartell Drugs (on Kent-Kangley) for locally made chocolates and their Hallmark cards

Feb. 10:  The gazebo at Burlington Green Park (Railroad Ave. between Smith and Meeker)

Feb. 11:  QFC flowers – potted plants and fresh cut. QFC at 240th and 132nd in Kent.

Feb. 12:  See’s Candies at Kent Station

Feb. 13:  St. Anthony’s Chapel of Holy Spirit Parish

Feb. 14:  Valley View Christian Church signs

Feb. 15:  Cool Bird, the mascot for the Seattle Thunderbirds

Feb. 16:  Rosebed Park, downtown Kent

Feb. 17:  Tahoma National Cemetery

Feb. 18:  Olive Tree Restaurant

Feb. 19:  Taste of Europe

Feb. 20:  Soggy Doggy

Feb. 21:  Mama Stortini’s at Kent Station

Feb. 22:  You Me We

Feb. 23:  Pieces of History

Feb. 24:  Kent Train Depot

Feb. 25:  Duke’s Chowder House

Feb. 26:  Clark Lake Park

Feb. 27:  Fireplace at Kent Station

Feb. 28:  Riverbend Golf Course

Photo by Jeff Heiss

UPDATED Jan. 31, 2013:  As promised, I’m going to list 365 reasons I love Kent, Washington throughout the year, one reason for every day of the year. My reasons for loving Kent may be different than yours, but the ones on mu list represent people, places or things that I continue to make Kent, Washington my home. I’d love to hear your reasons! Add them in the comments below or visit our Facebook page.

January 2013

1.  Danny Mumaugh, goalie for the Seattle Thunderbirds  (why is Danny #1? because he’s #1)

2. Reds Wine Bar, celebrating its 2nd anniversary, this wine bar is located at the GRCC end of Kent Station

3.  Kent Station, an outdoor shopping center in downtown Kent with dozens of shopping, dining and entertainment options

4.  Sweet Themes Bakery, a fabulous new bakery in downtown Kent featuring custom cookies, pastries, cakes, soups, salads, sandwiches & more

5.  Kent’s Historic District, it’s a small but quaint part of Kent that reminds us of our city’s past

6.  Greater Kent Historical Museum, a fun blast from the past in the historic Bereiter house (855 E. Smith St.)

7.  Titusville Station, located at the corner of First and Gowe in downtown Kent

8.  ShoWare Center, 2-for-Tuesday

9.  Thrift and discount stores (Value Village, St. Vincent de Paul, St. James Thrift Store, etc.)

10.  Kelly Latte’s, 24220 132nd Ave. SE, Kent, mochas, lattes, smoothies and more

11.  Tyler Alos, retired from the Seattle Thunderbirds

12.  Mud Bay, 10457 Southeast 240th Street, Kent, Jelly Bean’s favorite spot for dog food, toys & supplies

13.  Maggie’s on Meeker, one of the best breakfast spots in Kent

14.  Kent Valley Ice Centre

15.  Green River Community College, quality education close to home

16.  Teddy Bear Toss, Seattle TBirds fan “toss” their teddy bears onto the ice to be given to children in crisis

17.  Nevermind Tavern, beer, wine & hot dogs in a friendly neighborhood bar

18.  Nature’s Market, grocery store featuring organic, gluten free & other specialty items

19.  Chad Gleason, commercial realtor and community volunteer

20.  KWHS Munch Madness, Kentwood High School collected 55,000+ pounds of food for the Kent & Maple Valley Food Banks

21.  ShoWalk, free indoor winter walking, Monday & Wednesday mornings

22.  Dilettante, 514 Ramsay Way, a cafe at Kent Station serving coffee, tea, mochas, lattes, chcolates, pastries and more

23.  Kent Library, 212 2nd Ave. N., a branch of the King County Library System right in downtown Kent

24.  Luke Lockhart, Seattle Thunderbirds

25.  Airways Beer & Bistro, 320 W. Harrison St., the name says it all – beer & bistro, cozy, friendly and delicious!

26.  Murals in downtown Kent

27.  Kent Food Bank, 515 W. Harrison St., Ste. 107, feeding individuals and families in and around Kent.

28.  Bella home & garden, 417 Ramsay Way, Kent Station, beautiful home & garden store, gorgeous floral arrangements, unique gifts & more.

29.  Blanc ‘n Schwartz Salon, 207 E. Meeker St., I just love Wade, Shelby and Nicolette. Fun environment, great service, love my “new” hair!

30.  The Yellow House

31.  Grocery Outlet, 23910 104th Ave. SE, locally owned, affordable grocery shopping.

We’d like to extend a special thank you to Jeff Heiss (Jeff Heiss Painting) for donating his time, talent and photography for this project.

In 2011 and 2012, Valley Medical Center provided 261 low-income, high risk women with mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies. Because of the October 2012 Pink-the-Rink fundraiser held by GLOW at a Seattle Thunderbirds game, an additional 55 women will receive evaluations this year for possible breast cancer. At the Pink-the-Rink event, more than, $15,000 was raised to help provide this care. Additional funding is provided through a grant from the Washington Breast and Cervical Health Program (WBCHP), funded by the CDC and the State of Washington.

In a press release dated, January 14, 2013, Sherry Kuzan, RN, The Breast Center at Valley Medical Center, said, “It’s our mission to provide care to any woman who comes through our doors. When you are a woman at high risk for cancer, and don’t have the means to get preventative medical attention, it’s very scary. Through grants from organizations like WBCHP and our own fundraising efforts, we are able to help many women in our community who would otherwise not be able to get care.”

For more information about The Breast Center at Valley Medical Center, visit Valley Medical Center online.

Contributed by Valley Medical Center

RENTON, WA (November 7, 2012)—High-risk women in need will receive mammograms thanks to a partnership between Valley Medical Center’s GLOW program and The Seattle Thunderbirds hockey team. Now in its second year, “Pink the Rink” raised more than $15,000 for Valley’s Breast Center to provide 100 life-saving mammograms and breast education for disadvantaged women.

Held at ShoWare Center in Kent, WA, the hockey ice was literally turned pink for this special event to draw awareness to breast cancer. A free, pre-game party on the plaza had attendees dancing to the retro tunes of “Mr. Pink,” children bounced and slid on assorted inflatables, and special vendor booths raised money for breast cancer research through sales of pink cowboy hats and other assorted items. Breast cancer survivors at the event were given free pink camouflage bandanas. During the exciting game between the Seattle Thunderbirds and Kamloops Blazers, T-birds members applied pink tape to their sticks, wore pink laces in their boots and sported pink ribbon decals on their helmets in support. The crowd watched a special GLOW Flash Mob strut their stuff at half time, led by 100.7 The Wolf’s DeAnna Lee, and three lucky spectators had the chance to win a pink-striped Mini Cooper through a hockey shoot out.

“One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Until that number is zero, we will continue the fight to eradicate this terrible disease,” says Sherry Kuzan, RN, Manager, The Breast Center at Valley Medical Center. “Mammograms are key to early detection, and for women who are high-risk it’s critical. The money raised at Pink the Rink will ensure that 100 women will not have to wonder and worry about their breast health. We can’t thank the community enough for coming out and showing their support.”

The event would not have been possible without the generous support from Seattle Thunderbirds, ShoWare Center, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, the event’s Pink Panther Partner, and Northwest Mini. 

For more information about The Breast Center at Valley Medical Center, or to schedule your mammogram visit valleymed.org/breastcenter.

KENT, Wash., Sept. 18, 2012 — With the energy and enthusiasm of a girl, 21-year-old skater Ashley Wagner graced the ice at ShoWare Center in Kent this morning. Despite the early hour, the fresh-faced, pony-tailed young woman gracefully greeted her guests with a beautiful smile and took to the ice when many of us had not even had our morning coffee.

Wagner was in town this morning to do media appearances to promote 2012 Skate America, an international skating event that kicks off the 13-event Grand Prix skating series in Kent next month. Wagner met with KING5 Reporter Christie Johnson, effortlessly displaying her skating prowess on the ice with spins and turns. Accompanying Wagner were Courtney Campbell, 14, from Cascade Valley Ice skate club and three members of the Seattle Thunderbirds, Mitch Elliott, Tyler Alos and Seth Swenson, who have their home opener against the Portland Winterhawks in Kent this Saturday at ShoWare. Following the appearance at ShoWare, Wagner was headed to Seattle to appear on New Day Northwest, KOMO TV, KOMO radio and WARM radio.

Born in Germany, Wagner is the daughter of a military family, moving around the United States as a child. She began skating in Alaska at the age of 5, practicing and training to become the skating champion she is today. With many “wins” under her tiny belt, Wagner has experienced defeat however. She explained to Johnson, “Success is a lot sweeter because you know what it’s like to fail.”

Ashley Wagner

Courtney Campbell, Christine Johnson, Mitchell Elliott, Tyler Alos, Seth Swenson and Ashley Wagner

Photos by Jeff Heiss

by Brooke Blozis

The Seattle Thunderbirds are back and ready for another hockey season! Before the 2012-2013 season, there will be a six game exhibition round, and the season is scheduled to begin afterward. The preseason exhibition begins on August 31, when the Thunderbirds play at the Everett Tournament. The official season’s schedule was released on Friday, June 27.

Here’s the preseason schedule:

Friday, August 31 vs. Portland, 3 p.m. at Everett Tournament
Sunday, September 2 vs. Spokane, 3 p.m. at Everett Tournament
Friday, September 7 @ Tri-City, 7 p.m. at Tri-City Tournament
Saturday, September 8 @ Portland, 3 p.m. at Tri-City Tournament
Friday, September 14 vs. Everett, 7:35 p.m. at ShoWare Center
Saturday, September 15 @ Everett, 7:05 p.m. at Comcast Arena

Press Release Contributed by Ian Henry of the Seattle Thunderbirds

T-BIRDS MOURN PASSING OF BRUCE MCDONALD

Bruce McDonald was part of radio broadcast team for last 14 years, organization for 30 years

Kent, June 6, 2012 – The Seattle Thunderbirds organization is in mourning with the passing of radio color commentator and play-by-play voice Bruce McDonald early Wednesday morning.

Bruce was diagnosed with leukemia in April. He had been courageously fighting cancer through several rounds of chemotherapy.

Bruce, born January 8, 1971, has been a member of the T-Birds family since he was 12-years-old. Even though he suffered from cerebral palsy, Bruce regularly attended Seattle Breakers games in a wheelchair with his mother Char. It was at one these games in 1983 that Bruce was called into the locker room by then Seattle Breakers head coach Marc Boileau. Boileau gave Bruce a clipboard and asked him to help the team track and keep statistics. He was a member of the team from that point forward.

Bruce joined play-by-play voice Chris Collins as part of the Thunderbirds radio broadcast team for the 1998-99 season. When Collins moved on two years later Bruce joined Joe Dominey in the broadcast booth. When Dominey moved on a year later Bruce joined Thom Beuning in the broadcast booth. Bruce and Thom have called the action on T-Birds broadcasts for the last 11 seasons.

Bruce is survived by his mother Char, sister Nolette Everett, half-brother Stevie McDonald, half-sister Stacy Talley and Grandmother Bertha.

Memorial services will be announced once they are finalized.

“This is a sad day for the Thunderbirds family and our fans. Bruce loved the T-Birds and his dedication to the team rubbed off on every person Bruce came in contact with. We will miss Bruce dearly and offer our sincerest condolences to his family.” – Russ Farwell, T-Birds President/General Manager.

 ”I only knew Bruce for 12 years, but his passing Wednesday has made this one of the most difficult days of my nearly 50 years of existence. Only the passing of my dad nearly three years ago could rival the sorrow I feel today knowing my good friend is gone. But I can’t feel sad and sorrowful for too long because Bruce would not accept that. If there is a book of adages out there, you will find Bruce’s picture on the page beside that old saying “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!”’ – Thom Beuning, Seattle Thunderbirds play-by-play voice. Read Thom’s In The Corners Blog Post on the passing of his friend.

“Bruce McDonald was a tremendous broadcaster and colleague but an even better person and friend. While the teams we represented were bitter rivals on the ice, none of that extended to the press box and I always looked forward to spending time with Bruce prior to the games talking about our teams, hockey and life in general. His dedication to the Seattle Thunderbirds and the WHL was undeniable and he was an inspiration and someone that always had a smile and positive outlook, regardless of the situation. It is going to be very strange to not see Bruce on my many visits to the ShoWare Center or when the ‘Birds visit Portland. I know that his spirit will live on and he will now be providing color commentary from on high moving forward. My condolences to all of Bruce’s family, Thom Beuning and the Seattle Thunderbird family for their loss.” – Andy Kemper, Portland Winterhawks Broadcast Team.

“Bruce was a ray and hope and a true shining light for me and all of us to keep positive and deal with whatever life hands our way. Trips to Kent will never be the same without Bruce. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go to Char and the entire Thunderbird family of staff and fans.” – Craig West, Tri-City Americans play-by-play voice.

“Bruce was always the epitome of dedication in our profession. Hardworking, kind, intelligent, and overcoming anything put in his path. A great broadcaster and colleague, I’m proud to have known him.” – Todd Vrooman, Portland Winterhawks Broadcast Communications Manager.

 ”I first met Bruce when calling my first T-Birds game in Seattle. I was immediately impressed. His physical limitations were never once considered and or complained about ever. My partner actually climbed and willed his way into press boxes and provided NHL level analysis on a regular basis. 14 seasons later I’m amazed at the work, effort and desire to be the best colour analyst in the WHL that Bruce put in. While his loss is devastating to me personally, his life example, loyalty and friendship will never be forgotten.” – Chris Collins, former play-by-play voice for the Seattle Thunderbirds.

“When I got the job with the Thunderbirds, I had no experience calling hockey. My early attempts were a struggle to say the least, but Bruce would constantly encourage me and emphasize the positives despite those early pitfalls. Every game was exciting to Bruce. Thunderbirds hockey was an event that he was thrilled to be part of. His mom Char was always there with him and she was absolutely devoted to her son. She raised a terrific one. If everyone would have the same positive attitude that Bruce did, the world would be a much better place. He was a terrific human being who cared about people, was very forgiving and saw the good in everyone. He made things around him better just by his presence. He is now getting his well deserved chance to play hockey in heaven.” – Joe Dominey, former play-by-play voice for the Seattle Thunderbirds.

Written memories and condolences from WHL teams, players, personnel and media can be sent to Ian Henry at ianh@seattlethunderbirds.com . They will be posted to this page as they are received.

Seattle Thunderbirds
Ian Henry, Director, Public & Media Relations
253-239-7825

Welcome the holiday season by participating in the inaugural Find It In Kent Holiday Scavenger Hunt. Sponsored by the Kent Downtown Partnership, this free, family-   friendly event encourages shoppers to come to downtown Kent to visit local businesses.

Shoppers will pick up a passport and map at participating locations, then go to each site to find a special holiday nutcracker. Upon locating the nutcracker, participants will receive a sticker to put on their passports. Everyone who completes and submits their entire passport by December 3 will be eligible for prizes including a suite at a Seattle Thunderbirds game, $200 2nd prize, $100 3rd prize and $50 for 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th prizes.

Find It In Kent Holiday Scavenger Hunt – Sponsored by Kent Downtown Partnership

Sat., Nov. 26 – Dec. 3, 2011

• Kick-off Celebration on Nov. 26, National Small Business Day
• Visit 20+ Kent businesses to find a special holiday nutcracker
• Get your passport stamped and submit completed passports for prizes!

Call Kent Downtown Partnership at 253-813-6976 or Dana Neuts of Virtually Yourz at 360-920-1737 for more information.

Sponsored by:

Duane Weber Insurance

Allegro Performing Arts Academy

Kent Reporter

Virtually Yourz

BDP Design

Minuteman Press of Kent

Pick up your Passport & Map at any of these participating businesses:

Maggie’s on Meeker
AAA Pest Control
Duane Weber Insurance
ShoWare Center
American Colleges of MMA
Doug Jones State Farm
Candy Bouquet
Seattle Thunderbirds
Tork Lift Central Hitch & Tow
Tork Lift Central RV
Two Men & A Truck
Central Ave. Mini Storage
Children’s Book Shop
Children’s Thrift Store
Christian Science Reading Room
Treasures
Kent Library  (passport drop off location)
Airways Brewing Co.
Allegro Performing Arts Academy
Valley Bank

Or download the Passport and Map here (two pages).

The Thunderbirds home opener is Saturday, September 24 against the Portland Winterhawks at 7:05 pm at ShoWare Center, 625 W. James St. in Kent. Single game tickets go on sale on Wednesday, August 24 at 10 am and can be purchased online at http://www.seattlethunderbirds.com/ and at the ShoWare Center box office.   Here is the list of the promotions and giveaways for the season.

2011-12 Promotions For the Thunderbird Games

September
Friday, September 24 vs. Portland, T-Birds Magnetic Schedule presented by Beacon Plumbing (all fans), Party on the Plaza

October
Saturday, October 8 vs. Victoria, Valley Medical Center GLOW Event Pink T-Birds Hats (first 3,000 fans)
Tuesday, October 18 vs. Brandon, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 1 (first 2,500 fans)
Sunday, October 23 vs. Everett, Kent Reporter Family Pack, BECU T-Birds Beanies (first 1,000 kids)

November
Tuesday, November 1 vs. Vancouver, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 2 (first 2,500 fans)
Friday, November 18 vs. Tri-City, Pub Night 1
Saturday, November 19 vs. Portland, State Farm T-Bird Fleece Headband (first 2,000 fans), Fred Meyer Turkey Shoot (post game)
Friday, November 25 vs. Prince George, XFINITY Marcel Noebels Bobblehead (first 2,500 fans)
Tuesday, November 29 vs. Swift Current, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 3 (first 2,500 fans)

December
Friday, December 2 vs. Tri-City, Hawaii Night Friday, December 9 vs. Prince George, Northwest Harvest Food Drive – Presented by Beacon Plumbing
Saturday, December 10 vs. Victoria, Boy Scout Night 1, Northwest Harvest Food Drive – Presented by Beacon Plumbing
Tuesday, December 13 vs. Vancouver, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 4 (first 2,500 fans)
Saturday, December 17 vs. Tri-City, T-Birds Calendar Night (first 3,000 fans), Fred Meyer Ham Shoot (post game)
Tuesday, December 27 vs. Everett, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 5 (first 2,500 fans)
Friday, December 30 vs. Moose Jaw, XFINITY Colin Jacobs Bobblehead (first 2,500 fans)

January
Saturday, January 7 vs. Spokane, BECU T-Birds Beanies (first 1,000 kids)
Friday, January 20 vs. Kamloops, Pub Night 2
Saturday, January 28 vs. Portland, Fred Meyer Teddy Bear Toss
Sunday, January 29 vs. Kelowna, Kent Reporter Family Pack, Beginner Fest
Tuesday, January 31 vs. Spokane, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 6 (first 2,500 fans)

February
Saturday, February 4 vs. Kamloops, Luke Lockhart Jersey T-Shirt (first 1,000 kids)
Saturday, February 11 vs. Portland, University of Phoenix T-Birds Bandanas (first 4,000 fans)
Tuesday, February 14 vs. Kelowna, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 7 (first 2,500 fans)
Friday, February 17 vs. Tri-City, Pub Night 3, Bang Banners (first 4,000 fans)
Sunday, February 19 vs. Spokane, Youth Group Night, Girl Scout Night, Kent Reporter Family Pack, Mascot Game
Saturday, February 25 vs. Everett, Hockey Challenge to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington & Alaska
Sunday, February 26 vs. Tri-City, Hockey Challenge to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington & Alaska, Boy Scout Night 2, Kent Reporter Family Pack

March
Saturday, March 10 vs. Portland, University of Phoenix T-Bird Thunderstix (first 5,000 fans)
Sunday, March 11 vs. Everett, Kent Reporter Family Pack
Tuesday, March 13 vs. Spokane, State Farm 2-for-Tuesday, State Farm Player Magnet 8 (first 2,500 fans)
Saturday, March 17 vs. Everett, Fan Appreciation, T-Birds Team Poster presented by Sterling Savings & XFINITY (first 5,000 fans)

There will be several special group nights, including Youth Group Night, two Boy Scout Nights, a Girl Scout Night, two Northwest Harvest Food Drive Nights presented by Beacon Plumbing, a Mascot Night and Fan Appreciation Night.  For more information, please contact the Thunderbirds office at 253-239-7825.

Contributed by Ian Henry of the Seattle Thunderbirds

HOCKEY CHALLENGE 2011 CELEBRITY ALL-STAR GAME PLAYERS ANNOUNCED

Michael Rosenbaum and Jason Thompson return, 7 T-Bird Alumni and 6 local celebrities to participate

Kent, February 10, 2011 – The Seattle Thunderbirds and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington & Alaska are pleased to announce the names of the celebrities taking part in the Hockey Challenge 2011 Celebrity All-Star Game on Saturday, February 26, at ShoWare Center in Kent.

The national and local celebrities scheduled to appear in the All-Star game include: Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville), Jason Thompson (General Hospital), Cameron Bancroft (24: Day 4, Hockeyville on CBC), Bill Wixey (KCPQ 13 news anchor), Aaron Levine (KCPQ 13 sports anchor), Ian Furness (KJR 950 AM Host), Brad Goode (KING 5 morning news anchor), Christie Johnson (KING 5 morning news reporter) and Steve The Producer (BJ Shea Experience on 99.9 FM KISW). The T-Birds and the Ronald McDonald House hope to announce more celebrity players in the coming weeks.

T-Bird alumni playing in the Celebrity All-Star game include Jamie Huscroft, Regan Mueller, Blake Knox, Lloyd Shaw, Corey Schwab, Brett Duncan and Ryan Gibbons.

A ticket to Hockey Challenge 2011 gives fans access to all Challenge events on each day of the Challenge. Events on Saturday, February 26, include the Celebrity Game and autograph session, all other Challenge games and the T-Birds game that night against the Portland Winterhawks. The Celebrity autograph session starts at 5 p.m. at ShoWare Center and will go until 5:30 p.m. The T-Birds encourage fans to line up early for the autograph session. The Celebrity Game is scheduled to start after the T-Birds game ends.

Hockey Challenge 2011 Schedule

Saturday, February 26

Game 1 – Windows vs. Exchange, 10:35 a.m.

Game 2 – MSFT vs. Concur Technologies, 12:15 p.m.

Game 3 – Interactive Entertainment Business vs. Microsoft Mystery Team, 1:55 p.m.

Game 4 – Windows Live vs. MS IT, 3:35 p.m.

Celebrity Autograph Session – 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on west concourse of ShoWare Center

Game 5 – Seattle Thunderbirds vs. Portland Winterhawks, 6:05 p.m.

Game 6 – Celebrity All-Star Game, immediately following T-Birds/Winterhawks game

Sunday, February 27

Game 1 – Courage Women vs. Heart Women, 9:35 a.m.

Game 2 – Microsoft Spartans vs. Tiny Zamboni Hockey Club, 11:15 a.m.

Game 3 – SQL Server vs. Windows Phone Services, 12:55 p.m.

Game 4 – Amazon.com vs. Shamrocks, 2:35 p.m.

Game 5 – Seattle Thunderbirds vs. Everett Silvertips, 5:05 p.m.

Game 6 – Top Fundraisers Game following T-Birds/Silvertips game

Hockey teams are formed by sponsors that raise money to play in the Challenge. All proceeds from the Challenge directly support operations of the Seattle Ronald McDonald House, which provides a “home-away-from-home” for children and their families during medical treatment, making each day a little easier. In fact, last year the Seattle Ronald McDonald House provided accommodations for approximately 700 families.

Over the past 12 years the Hockey Challenge has raised over $3.9 million for the Seattle Ronald McDonald House.

The T-Birds are expecting a large crowd for the game against the Winterhawks. To purchase single game tickets to this game fans should go to the ShoWare Center box office or go online to the T-Birds website.

T-Birds group tickets are currently also on sale. Group tickets can be purchased by calling the T-Birds office at 253-239-7825.

As always, ShoWare Center has lots of family-friendly entertainment coming Kent’s way. Here’s what’s on tap over the next few weeks:

Jan. 7, 7:35 pm
Seattle Thunderbirds Hockey
T-Birds vs. Kelowna

Jan. 17 & Jan. 28
High School Hoops Action
Jan. 17 – Comcast Showcase
Jan. 28 – Les Schwab Shootout

Jan. 22, 2011, 12:30 and 3:30 pm
Disney Live:  Mickey’s Magic Show

Feb. 10, 8:00 pm
Ladies Night Out, Vol. @ – Valentine’s Day Edition
Featuring Bell Biv DeVoe, Al B. Sure and SWV & Jon. B.

Feb. 17, 7:00 pm
Harlem Globetrotters 2011 World Tour
Celebrating 85 years of storied history

Feb. 24, 7:00 pm
Hillsong United – Aftermath Tour

For a complete schedule or to buy tickets to any event, visit ShoWare Center’s online box office.

Looking for affordable entertainment close to home? Check out ShoWare Center’s schedule for events, sports, concerts, and more!

July 23 – 25:  Elite Soccer Clinics

July 31:  Til Death Do Us Part, an Urban Theatre Play

August 5:  Backstreet Boys

August 7-8:  ShoWare Shootout 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

August 27:  Seattle Mist Home Opener

September 25:  Seattle Thunderbirds 2010-2011 season begins!

Tickets:  253-856-6999

Event Hotline:  253-856-6990

Office:  253-856-6777

In a press release dated February 12, 2010, the Seattle Thunderbirds announced Hockey Challenge 2010, a charity event that benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Western Washington and Alaska. The fundraiser is scheduled for Sat., February 27 at the ShoWare Center in Kent.

Sponsors form hockey teams to raise money to play in the Challenge. The proceeds from the Challenge go directly to support the operations of the Seattle Ronald McDonald House, a home-away-from home for seriously ill children and their families. In 2009, the Seattle Ronald McDonald House provided housing for more than 700 families.

This year’s schedule:

Game 1 – Windows Women vs. Exchange Women, 9:40 a.m.
Game 2 – Microsoft Spartans vs. Amazon.com, 11:35 a.m.
Game 3 – Entertainment & Devices vs. Microsoft Mystery Team, 1:30 p.m.
Game 4 – Windows Live vs. MS IT, 3:25 p.m.
Celebrity Autograph Session – 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on west concourse of ShoWare Center
Game 5 – Seattle Thunderbirds vs. Portland Winterhawks, 6:05 p.m.
Game 6 – Celebrity All-Star, immediately following T-Birds/Winterhawks game

Celebrities scheduled to appear include Michael Rosenbaum (Smallville), Jason Thompson (General Hospital), Cameron Bancroft (24: Day 4, Hockeyville on CBC), Brian Basset (cartoonist of Adam @ Home and Red and Rover), Kelly Tysland (formerly Kelly Stephens 2006 U.S. Women’s Olympic hockey bronze medalist), Bill Wixey (KCPQ news anchor), Paul Silvi (KING 5 sports anchor), Ian Furness (KJR 950 AM Host) and former T-Bird Ryan Gibbons. Celebrities will be on hand for an autograph session between 5 and 5:30 p.m.

In the last 11 years, the Hockey Challenge has raised over $3.5 million for the Seattle Ronald McDonald House.

For more information, visit the Seattle Thunderbirds online.

In a December 23 press release from the Seattle Thunderbirds, T-Birds fan learn that the their favorite WHL team will be televised four times on FSN Northwest. Air dates include:

2009-10 T-Birds on FSN Northwest Broadcast Schedule
Game 1 – Friday, January 8, 2010 – Everett @ Seattle, 9:30pm
Game 5 – Friday, January 29, 2010 – Seattle @ Spokane, 7:00pm
Game 6 – Friday, February 5, 2010 – Seattle @ Portland, 7:30pm
Game 9* – Friday, March 5, 2010 – Seattle @ Kelowna, 7:00pm

For more information about the Seattle T-Birds, including game times and tickets, visit their website.

Looking for a last-minute gift for the hockey lover in your life? Then you’ll want to buy a holiday package from the Seattle T-Birds.

For just $119, you’ll get

• 12 ticket vouchers good for home games between 12/27/09 – 3/14/10
• $20 gift certificate to the hockey store

Tickets are good for family zone seats. Save over $130 with this hockey package. Interested? Call Seattle TBirds at 253-239-7825.

Hockey Store Holiday Hours

Dec. 21-23:  10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Dec. 24:  10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Dec. 25:  Closed

If you haven’t been to ShoWare Center yet or to a Seattle Thunderbirds game, you are missing a world-class facility and a fun night out. If you have a group of 10 or more, you can get $6 off each ticket for the T-Birds home games on 12/27 and 12/30. Just call the box office at 253-239-7825 for more info.

T-BIRDS AND PARTNERS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR LAKEWOOD POLICE INDEPENDENT GUILD THROUGH ONLINE TICKETS SALES TO DECEMBER 11 GAME

Kent, December 3, 2009 - The Seattle Thunderbirds have partnered with the City of Kent, the Kent Police Department, ShoWare Center and radio stations Q-Country 102.9 FM (KNBQ) and Funky Monkey 104.9 FM (KFNK) to raise funds for the Lakewood Police Independent Guild.

The T-Birds will donate 100% of ticket revenue from online ticket sales between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, to the game against the Tri- City Americans on Friday, December 11, to the Guild.

“We are looking forward to supporting the Guild and encourage our fans to let family and friends know about this worthwhile fundraising event,” said T-Birds owner and general manager Russ Farwell. “We hope it is an overwhelming success and we sell out the ShoWare Center, raising as much money as possible for the family of these fallen heroes.”

“We could not undertake this fundraiser without the help of the City of Kent, the Kent Police Department, ShoWare Center and Q-Country and the Funky Monkey. We were all completely shocked by what happened in Lakewood and hope to help as best we can.”

Q-Country and Funky Monkey will be providing air time to run commercials promoting this fundraiser.

“Words cannot express our grief for the families and friends of the four fallen Lakewood Police Officers,” said Shellie Hart, Program Director for KNBQ and KFNK. “Hopefully our actions will as we reach out to our audiences for their thoughts, prayers and support.”

The T-Birds will have a very identifiable graphic at the top of their home page on Wednesday, December 9, that fans will be able to click on to purchase tickets to the game against the Americans.