Check out Shindig on First Avenue South!

Yesterday a friend and I met at Shindig in downtown Kent for drinks. I had heard about the new martini bar from several friends and was anxious to check it out. Nestled in the middle of First Avenue South, Shindig is a simply-decorated, chic little neighborhood martini bar. The view of the charming neighborhood struck me as did the contrast between the all black interior and the sunlight streaming in from the wall of windows that creates the bar's storefront. The owner, Dave, was a charming Al Pacino-like man - but better looking - who clearly loves his bar and is proud of his specialty drinks. Making a friendly host, Dave seemed to know everyone who walked in. I sampled the Pink Lemon Drop which was deliciously different and a tad sweet - just the way I like them! We also ordered an antipasto plate from the tapas menu. It was more than enough for two and was quite tasty! The place could use some artwork and perhaps a woman's touch in the restroom - but I hope Shindig is here to stay. It adds a touch of class for those of us who are tired of the usual sports bars and neighborhood pubs. It was a welcome change of pace!

A Zoo on East Hill?

OK, I'll admit it. That was just a clever title to get you to read this posting, but if you're here, I succeeded. Allow me to explain the new "zoo" in Kent.

I live on the East Hill and our back yard is lined with trees and shrubs with a green belt on the other side. As a result, we have seen all sorts of suburban wild life including a handful of neighborhood cats. Here's the thing. They tend to congregate in my yard because (a) it isn't fenced in and (b) I feed one of the stray cats - the only one I know NOT to have a home. I feed him every morning and whenever he stops by during the day. I occasionally give him treats or a bowl of milk. He's so skinny; I couldn't forgive myself if he starved to death because I didn't do something about it.

The problem is that every other animal in the neighborhood seems attracted to the cat food too...other cats, squirrels, Stellar Jays, slugs and the other night a possum came up on the deck four times for a little bite of Friskies! At first I thought it was a huge rat - something I've never seen live - thank goodness - except for in a zoo exhibit or science class. When I saw how big the animal was though, I realized it was a possum...and not a cute one either!

My family used to tease me because of the cats that would visit. They affectionately (I think) called me the cat lady. After the possum though, I've been promoted to the position of head zoo keeper. I wonder what animals will be next - maybe I should start bringing in that food dish at night so I don't have to find out!

Car Prowls on the Rise in Kent

I received this note from KDP today. It's important news - and good advice - so I thought I'd share it:

The Kent Police Department has had an increase in case reports for car prowls. Please read this information carefully and take the following steps TODAY to avoid being the victim of these crimes.

A few SIMPLE steps can prevent your car from being a target for a car prowler or thief. A car prowl is when someone breaks into a car to commit a crime. Typically, car prowlers break into a car because they see something that may be of value. That includes shopping bags, backpacks, change, anything that is visible to a passerby as they look into your car.

Follow these steps every time you park your car and decrease the likelihood of being a victim!

• Keep personal and valuable belongings out of sight. Do not invite a break-in by leaving valuables such as cameras, CDs, IPODs, money, computers, stereos, bags, packages or shopping bags (including re-usable bags) in plain sight. Take them with you out of your car or discreetly lock them in your trunk if you cannot remove them when you park. DO THIS EVERY TIME YOU PARK!
• Keep all doors locked and windows up at all times when you park. A lock is only effective if you use it!
• Secure your vehicle in your garage or park in a well-lit and highly visible area. Criminals look for cars that are isolated and parked in dark areas.
• Use your alarm system at all times.
• If you have a GPS system, remove it when you park your car. And, remove the GPS holder as well. Criminals know that a GPS holder means there is probably a GPS somewhere in the car! Out of sight, out of mind!
• If you see a person looking into cars and appears suspicious, call 9-1-1.

After you do all of these steps and you are still concerned about auto theft, consider using a steering wheel locking device, also knows as The Club. The Kent Police Employees Benevolent Association (KPEBA) sells the Club at an extremely discounted rate: $15 for a car version and $20 for a truck version. This is over half of the cost you'll see them for in stores. All proceeds benefit Kent youth too!

The Kent Police Department is here to work with you to prevent crime. Please take these steps today. Share them with your family and friends. Post them in your work place. These simple steps, done every time you park, will significantly reduce the likelihood that the criminal will target your car.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your Kent Police Department at this email or by calling 253-856-5851.

Mamma Mia at Kent Station AMC Theatres

A friend and I took our three teen daughters to see Mamma Mia at Kent Station's AMC Theatres last Friday. It wasn't a movie I would ordinarily have picked out to see, but my friend really wanted to see it so we agreed. After I watched the trailer online, I was excited. Granted the movie's plot is a bit contrived, but the overall experience was fantastic. I can't remember when I've had more fun at a movie. Who knew that Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan could sing?!! Hint - if you haven't seen the movie yet, Meryl has a great voice and Pierce, well, at least he looks good! Anyway, this is a "must see" chick flick. Grab your girlfriends and head to Kent Station before this movie is gone for the summer. Mamma Mia will make you laugh, cry and sing. It's a movie you'll never forget!

Cypriana - The Natural Home Store

First Avenue South is about to get a new tenant - Cypriana, a natural home store featuring organic bedding and home bath items, custom made home decor (slipcovers, duvets, etc.), baby items and more. I just met Susan Thomas, the owner, yesterday and she is very excited about her new shop. She said there is such a need for one location where people can buy organic products, and she promises her store will feature mostly organic items! Cypriana is tentatively planned to open the week of September 9th, and Susan plans to participate in the First Avenue Block Party on Friday, September 12th. More details coming soon!

The Alki Bakery - Kent, WA

I've heard of The Alki Bakery in Seattle, but have never been to one. Today I was surprised when a friend of mine took me to their Kent location - who knew?!! Located off 68th on 72nd Avenue South in Centerpoint Corporate Park, the cafe had the most wonderful selections. Similar to the more widely-recognized Panera, you have a wide range of selections of soups, sandwiches and salads, along with delicious-looking desserts and fresh fruit. You wait in line, place your order and they bring it to your table. My friend had the Mahi-Mahi Fish Tacos and I had the Italian Grinder. I can't speak for her meal - though she seemed to enjoy it - but my sandwich was delicious. Served on a soft French roll, the sandwich was full of fresh salami, cheese, peppers, dressing and more. It was tasty, fresh and very affordable! Guests can get their meals to go, eat in the cafe itself or take their meal alfresco. Two meals plus fountain drinks = $20. Thanks to Carol for treating me - I thoroughly enjoyed it!

I love Cookie Lee Jewelry!

A few years ago I had never heard of Cookie Lee jewelry. Maybe they didn't sell it in Indiana, but I've met several sales reps since moving to Kent. Everyone does something a little bit different, but my favorite Cookie Lee rep is Dena Brandt of Kent. She has a low pressure way about her, and she has a great collection of items to try on. She's even let me take a few items on a test run. In fact, for a PSA we filmed for Northwest Afternoon on KOMO4-TV for Wine, Women, Wow, Dena let us all wear some of her latest jewelry.

Dena is always decked out in her newest pieces, and usually has a catalog or display purse with her, so you'll know her when you see her! If you need something sparkly to set off your newest outfit or a gift for that hard-to-buy-for someone, give Dena a call. She loves to talk Cookie Lee!

Story Ideas Wanted - South King County

Do you know of a neat business or an interesting person in Kent, Renton or the greater South King County area? If so, I'd like to hear more about it. I am currently writing for several South Sound publications, and am always looking for unique ideas to pitch to my editors. Story suggestions might include:

- A new or unusual business
- An interesting person who makes a significant contribution to his or her community
- A local person, artist or craftsman with a unique talent, hobby or vocation
- An award-winning teacher, school or program
- Someone who has overcome challenges who serves as an inspiration to others

Send your story ideas to dana@virtuallyyourz.com or post them as comments here. I'd love to hear them!

Bella home & garden

One of my favorite downtown shops is Bella home & garden. Owned by Marci Wainhouse, this flower shop now has two locations: one on First Avenue South and the other at Kent Station. Marci has a fantastic eye for design, and she puts together the most beautiful floral arrangements I've ever seen. She also has a unique selection of indoor and outdoor plants. Her shops also feature fun home decor items and accessories like wine glasses, serving dishes, pasta, dips, soaps, lotions and more. It's a great place to pick up a gift for the friend who has everything or to buy something fun for yourself. I love visiting Bella - every time I go I discover something new!

Bittersweet on First Avenue South

After a two-year absence, I visited the Bittersweet restaurant on First Avenue South yesterday with a friend. Now owned by Sue Froyd, also the owner of Maggie's on Meeker, the restaurant was much the same as I remembered. The menu features fresh salads, sandwiches and homemade desserts...pretty standard fare, but the food was delicious and the service was good. I ordered the spinach salad which was outstanding. Just the right size and the light creamy pepper dressing was wonderful! A nice lunch at an affordable price. The only disappointment was that the menu featured a wine list, but the restaurant does not have a beer and wine license any more.