I Love Kent, Washington!

Moving to www.ILoveKent.net

2009-04-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who is following my blog - I appreciate the traffic. I have moved this blog - and all of these posts - to my new site: www.ILoveKent.net. I will not be adding new updates here, so please subscribe to my blog feed at the new site...and if you are a fan of Kent, Washington, please send me your ideas for places to go, things to do, favorite restaurants, retailers, etc. I'd love your suggestions.

See you there!

Dana Neuts, www.ILoveKent.net

I Love Kent.net

2009-03-16T14:08:00.001-07:00

For those of you who follow or read my blog, I want to share some exciting news. I am moving the blog and all of its current content to this new site: ILoveKent.net. The new site is a Word Press blog, has an easy-to-remember URL and it will contain a business directory as well as news separated by category: Crime, Shopping, Dining, Entertainment, Education, Events, etc.

The site is under construction so it isn't "pretty yet," but I hope to have it done by the end of March. In the meantime, I'm open to your ideas and suggestions.

In addition, there are advertising opportunities for Kent-based businesses and organizations. If you are interested, please contact me via e-mail.

Thanks for your continued support!

Dana Neuts

15 "johns" arrested on Kent's West Hill 3/12

2009-03-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

Kent Police Chief Steve Strachan reports that 15 "johns" were arrested on Kent's West Hill on Thursday, March 12, 2009 in a prostitution sting operation. This was one in a series of arrests in connection with reducing crime and prostitution in that area of Kent. For more information, please contact the Kent Police Department at (253) 856-5200.

Coming soon: regular updates from the Kent Police and Fire Departments!

Mural Contest to Replace Graffiti at West Hill Skate Park

2009-03-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks again to Victoria Andrews with the City of Kent for this news:

The West Hill Skate Park turns 10 years old this year, and it’s time for a new look. Kent Parks, Recreation & Community Services is looking for talented Kent artists to design a mural that will be spray-painted on the skate bowls. Any Kent resident can submit a drawing and also apply to judge the entries. Drawings will be accepted until April 30.

The park, located on Reith Road and 42nd Avenue South, was built three years after the City’s first skate park, Kent Lions Skate Park on West Smith. According to Parks Director Jeff Watling, “The bowls are frequently tagged with graffiti, and users say that the all-over gray color makes it hard to estimate depth. We feel the solution to both problems is a colorful mural. We’re hoping the winner might also be an in-line skater and/or skateboarder, someone who already uses the park. But the judges will ultimately decide.”

The winning design will be announced on Friday, May 29, and the painting must be completed by June 30. Kent Police received a grant to provide the paint, and Parks staff can help the winning artist recruit volunteers to paint the mural in time for the park’s 10-year anniversary celebration. For an entry form, contact 253-856-5110, vandrews@ci.kent.wa.us or visit www.choosekent.com and click on the Community Calendar.

T-BIRDS 2009 Thunderbird Playoff Tickets GO on Sale Tomorrow, March 11

2009-03-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

From Ian Henry of the Seattle Thunderbirds

T-BIRDS 2009 PLAYOFF TICKETS GO ON SALE MARCH 11

Games 3 and 4 of first round series will be at ShoWare Center on March 24 and 25

Kent, March 10, 2009 - Tickets to the Seattle Thunderbirds first round playoff series of the 2009 WHL Playoffs will go on sale Wednesday, March 11, at 10 a.m.

The T-Birds will play Games 3 and 4 of their first round playoff series at ShoWare Center on Tuesday, March 24, and Wednesday, March 25, against an opponent to be determined. Game time is 7:05 p.m. for both games.

Playoff tickets will be available for purchase online at www.seattlethunderbirds.com or at the ShoWare Center box office. Playoff ticket prices for the first round are $18 and $24.

The T-Birds are currently in sixth place in the Western Conference playoff standings. They are one point behind the Kamloops Blazers for fifth place with one game in hand. The T-Birds are eight points ahead of the Everett Silvertips, who are in seventh place, and both teams have four games remaining.

While the T-Birds are looking to finish as high as fifth in the Western Conference, the Spokane Chiefs and Kelowna Rockets, possible first round opponents, are separated by one point in their battle for third place in the Western Conference standings.

The T-Birds first round opponent, and dates of Games 1 and 2 of the series, might not be determined until the final game of the regular season, on March 15 against the Silvertips.

All rounds of the 2009 WHL Playoffs are a best-of- seven format.

The T-Birds have four regular season games left, the next coming on Wednesday, March 11, when they face the Prince George Cougars at ShoWare Center at 7:05 p.m.

Seattle Thunderbirds
Ian Henry
Director, Public & Media Relations
email: ianh@seattlethunderbirds.com
phone: 253-239-7825

Seattle Times features Spiro's Greek Island

2009-03-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

I love Spiro's Greek Island, so I was excited when a friend passed on the link to this blurb in The Seattle Times. Read it here.

I agree with the writer: the atmosphere is ordinary, but the food is spectacular and surprisingly affordable. I've been there for both lunch and dinner and have always loved their food. In particular, I like their Greek salads, gyros, saganaki and, of course, the baklava. If you are looking for a change of pace or an affordable night out, try Spiro's on First Avenue South in downtown Kent.

Kent Service Club Community Pride Day March 21

2009-03-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Victoria Andrews with the City of Kent for this news:

Kent’s service clubs will celebrate Spring with the first annual Service Club Community Pride Day on Saturday, March 21, 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The graffiti paint-out event is being co-sponsored by Kent Police and Kent Parks, Recreation & Community Services. The goal is to eliminate graffiti, reduce vandalism and keep Kent clean, beautiful and safe for children, families, seniors and visitors.

Teams of four or five will be coming from local Kent Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions, Soroptomist, and Quota Clubs. Volunteers will meet at 8:00 a.m. at Town Square Plaza, located at Second Avenue and Harrison Street in downtown Kent. Refreshments will be provided by the 4th & Meeker Starbucks. After receiving instructions and supplies, the teams will fan out in their vehicles to assigned “hot spot” areas. At the end of the morning, the groups will return to Town Square Plaza for lunch, courtesy of Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Service club members and their families (including children 16 or older) are welcome to register as part of a team or as individuals. Please pre-register by March 13th. Teams will be finalized and assigned to their locations on the morning of the event. Supplies and paint are paid for by a graffiti abatement grant from the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC). To register for this event, visit www.kentgraffiti.com or contact 253-856-5851.

Lost Your Job? Get a free 2009 Franklin Planner March 14!

2009-03-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

Unemployed Can Receive a Boost from Franklin Covey Product Stores Nationwide

WHO: Individuals who recently lost their jobs are invited to visit a Franklin Covey Products store nationwide this coming Saturday to receive a free 2009 Franklin Planner.

WHAT: Franklin Covey Products is giving those who have recently lost their job a leg up during these recessionary times. Individuals recently unemployed can receive one 2009 Franklin Planner for free by providing the names of their last employer and the date they were laid off.

WHEN: Saturday, March 14, 2009 10:30 am - 9:00pm (In-store event only)

WHERE: Franklin Covey at SouthCenter Mall, 122 SouthCenter Mall, Tukwila, WA 98188,
206-431-0341

WHY: Getting organized for a job search can ultimately save much time and frustration. Having one place to track all information, contacts, appointments, job leads, and interview notes can make a job search less stressful and more productive. Planning and organization are an integral component of a job search. Franklin Covey products and tools can bring focus, direction, and a sense of purpose to an individual’s daily decisions and can help lesson the panic that surrounds a job loss.

Posted by Dana (Blozis) Neuts of Virtually Yourz for:

Franklin Covey Products
Anne Clark & Theresa Frasch | Southcenter Management Team
7028@franklincoveyproducts.com

Wine, Women, Wow: May 8 @ ShoWare Center

2009-03-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

The popular, local nonprofit event Wine, Women, Wow is returning for its fourth year - this year at the ShoWare Center on Friday, May 8, 2009. This year's event planners, Libby Seidel and Dena Whipple, are expanding on previous year's successes by expanding the event and hosting it in the city's newest venue. If you're a woman over 21 who likes wine and who wants to help raise money for a good cause, visit Wine, Women, Wow online today!

Timed for Mother's Day weekend, a ticket to WOW makes a great treat for your mom or someone else's. Call KDP at 23-813-6976 for more info.!

Synopsis: Mayor Cooke's State of the City Address

2009-03-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Hello, readers and I Love Kent followers. I attended Kent Mayor Suzette Cooke's "State of the City" address yesterday at the ShoWare Center. I did not attend as a reporter, but I can't help but take notes. For those of you who weren't able to attend or watch the online version, here is a brief synopsis of her presentation.

About the ShoWare Center

- Mayor's speech was the first major speaking event at the new ShoWare Center.
- ShoWare Center opened on January 2 with 10,000 in attendance. The Seattle Thunderbirds accommodated with a win!
- ShoWare Center is the FIRST green arena in the United States!
- It is anticipated that the ShoWare Center will bring in 400,000 people and $16 million in revenue to Kent each year.
- It is the city's most significant economic project since Kent Station.
- City has signed a five-year lease to use the Park and Ride on James Street for ShoWare Center parking.
- The building was completed in 17 months with more than 100 city staff involved in the project.
- It won't cost taxpayers any extra money to have the ShoWare Center in Kent.

Other City Topics
- City is reducing operating expenses, delaying hires and vehicle replacements and eliminating contracts to offset a drop in revenue.
- As of 12/31/08, city revenue dropped 14%.
- City workers who are unionized are working with the city to cut costs to avoid layoffs.
- 28 employees have not be replaced, so current city staff is trying to meet resident needs despite the manpower shortfall.
- "Our employees have been wonderful."
- Alaska Copper and Brass Company is moving to Kent, bringing at least 100 new jobs to the area.
- The city has $50 million in pending projects in the permitting process.
- Other developments: Hampton Inn is building a 100-room facility on 64th; a new office building and banquet hall is being built near Top Foods (at the site of the old skate center); and GRCC is expanding, creating space for 700 additional students to attend the two-year college.
- City needs to focus on bringing high quality downtown residents to the area to access our stores and businesses.
- City will encourage mixed use urban buildings.
- City is looking at changes in the permitting process to make it easier to do business in Kent.
- Neighborhood program has established 15 new neighborhood councils. The West Hill neighborhood council has reduced crime in its area by 40%!
- City wants to create more affordable entertainment including offering free outdoor movies at Town Plaza this summer.
- City of Kent sent more than 3,000 criminals to jail last year.
- More than 1,000 city staff and residents have been trained for emergency response.
- Kent was third last year (among cities its size) in participating in the National Night Out.
- New bus route to connect West Hill, The Lakes and other critical areas to each other.
- Panther Lake Annexation is still under consideration. It would add 23,000 more residents to Kent, but it would cost more to serve that area than the City would bring in additional revenue. City is working with King County Council to see how those residents can still be adequately served.
- The City is actively seeking a solution to the parking garage problem.
- New Kent School District superintendent is a big proponent of partnering, so the City is looking forward to working with him.

Lastly, the mayor wrapped up with this message:

"I absolultely love serving you because you show you love this community...it's because of you that I am your mayor..."

Mayor Cooke's State of the City Address Today

2009-03-04T07:54:00.000-08:00

Today is Mayor Suzette Cooke's annual "State of the City" address. The event will be held at the ShoWare Center, 625 W. James St., Kent from 11:30 am to 1 p.m. Tickets are $30 each. The event will also be streamed live online at www.choosekent.com.

The Mayor’s address will focus on the local economy, public safety and improving the quality of life for residents of Kent.

For more info., visit the City's website or contact the Kent Chamber of Commerce.

Kent Station Announces "Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars" through March

2009-03-03T15:35:00.000-08:00

March 3, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kent Station Kicks off its Annual March Dining Fundraiser: Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars

Kent, WA, March 3, 2009 – Kent Station announced this week that it is kicking off Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars, an annual fundraiser where Kent Station shoppers and visitors can win prizes while raising scholarship money for local high school graduates attending Green River Community College.

Throughout the month of March, Kent Station shoppers and visitors are encouraged to dine at all of Kent Station’s eateries and fill out an Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars postcard. For each completed postcard, Kent Station will donate $1 to the Kent Station–Green River Community College Scholarship fund. Participating diners are automatically eligible to win one of 12 prizes, including Kent Station gift cards from $25 to $500 and iPod nanos from The Mac Store. Individuals can enter up to 13 times, once for each Kent Station restaurant, café, or eatery they visit.

“Kent Station is proud to be an active participant in the Kent community,” Kent Station General Manager John Hinds said. “With the support of the community, we can give our local students the opportunity to continue their education.”

Now in its third year, the Kent Station–Green River Community College Scholarship fund is awarded to qualifying Kent area high school students based on financial need. The more postcards received, the greater the number of scholarships awarded, and the more chances Kent Station diners have to win. A complete list of rules is available online and at participating restaurants.

“We are pleased to partner with Kent Station to provide scholarships to Kent area graduates. Kent Station has been a major supporter in helping us work toward our goal of doubling our scholarship program by 2011,” said Josh Gerstman, Director of Development for the Green River Community College Foundation. “Of the 190 scholarships awarded through the Foundation, the Kent Station scholarship is the only one specifically focused on recent graduates of a Kent area High School.”

Since the Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars fundraiser began in 2007, Kent Station has awarded six scholarships totaling nearly $10,000. Samantha Phelps, a graduate of Kent Meridian High School, was one of three 2008 scholarship recipients. She is enrolled in GRCC’s general studies program.

“I am finally the first in my family to graduate high school, and I am not going to let anyone or anything stop me on my way to being the first in my family to graduate from college. Getting this scholarship means the world to me,” Phelps said.

For more information about Earning Dollars for Kent Scholars, visit www.KentStation.com or call the management office at 253-856-2301. Support our youth. Eat at Kent Station.

Kent Station is an urban village developed by Seattle-based Tarragon Development Company and is located on 18 acres in the heart of downtown Kent, Washington on Ramsay Way. The 470,000 sq. ft., mixed-use project features office, retail and entertainment including a 14-screen AMC Theaters Cineplex, a branch campus of Green River Community College and 13 restaurants, cafés and eateries.

Green River Community College is a two-year public college in Washington State that offers degrees and certificates in academic, professional and technical programs, as well as courses in continuing education and developmental education. With its primary campus in Auburn, GRCC also has campuses in Enumclaw and Kent. For a GRCC scholarship application, visit http://www.greenriver.edu/foundation_scholarships.

For more information, please contact:

Sommer Ueda
Kent Station
253-856-2301
sueda@kentstation.com

# # #

Love Bound

2009-03-01T15:48:00.000-08:00

My sweetheart of 5+ years Jim and I were married this Valentine's Day at our home in Kent. For anyone who knows us, we are a loving but practical, rather than romantic, couple. To marry us, we chose Cindi LaMar of Love Bound in Renton to perform the wedding ceremony. She put together a ceremony and vows that suited us. She was a joy to work with, and we'll remember the ceremony always. It was a beautiful day.

If you are looking for an officiate for your special day, I personally recommend Cindi LaMar.

Have you been to Kona Kai lately?

2009-03-01T15:19:00.000-08:00

Have you been to the Kona Kai Coffee Company in downtown Kent? More than just a coffee shop, this charming little coffee company offers a great menu in a tropical setting.

In addition, owner Michael has added a number of community events - wine tastings, jewelry parties, musical performances - and more to his offerings. Local jazz favorite Darren Motamedy is a frequent visitor to Kona Kai. In addition, Kona Kai will be adding dinner shows to the menu.

To learn more or try to their delicious coffees and teas, visit them at the corner of 4th and Gowe in downtown Kent or visit them online.

Mahalo!

Spring Into Art is planned for Friday, March 13

2009-02-11T03:50:00.000-08:00

The City of Kent, the Kent School District and the Kent Downtown Partnership are teaming up once again to bring the community Spring Into Art, a free, family-friendly, art-oriented day of fun in downtown Kent. Go an art walk, attend fitness workshops, discover your inner artist, candle making, bug-a-rama and more.

For a complete list of activities, locations and times, visit the event's website at SpringIntoArtKent.com.

Darren Motamedy: an amazing teacher

2009-02-08T11:23:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all of you who follow my blog. I apologize for not being more consistent lately, but with my wedding coming up on 2/14, I've had my hands full.

That doesn't mean that things in Kent haven't been hopping though! There is so much going on here. People are excited about the ShoWare Events Center, changes at Kent Station, the new Costco in nearby Covington and new shops going into downtown Kent.

I recently had the opportunity to interview Darren Motamedy, an award-winning jazz musician and band director for the Kent School Districts. He was not only talented, but he was also patient, kind, amusing and surprisingly humble. I can see why his students look up to him and how teaching them to play music is such a passion for him. Watch for my profile on him in an upcoming issue of Kent Magazine.

Spring Into Art - Downtown Kent

2009-01-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

This year's Spring Into Art event is scheduled for Friday, March 13 in downtown Kent. See the new Spring Into Art website for details!

Chair and Trellis

2009-01-05T21:38:00.000-08:00

If you like shopping local or finding a store that carries unique items, then you will love Chair & Trellis on West Smith Street in downtown Kent. This store has some of the most beautiful home furnishings and decor that I've ever seen. The owners and staff are friendly and helpful, and they have something to suit every taste and budget. Their website has a small sampling of their offerings, but you'll get a better feel for the store if you stop by. They are open 7 days a week. For more info., including specific hours, visit Chair & Trellis online.

Kent's ShoWare Center Opens Tomorrow!

2009-01-01T13:40:00.001-08:00

With much anticipation, Kent's new ShoWare Center on James Street opens Friday, January 2 with a Grand Opening Celebration from 4 to 9 p.m.

Starting the following day, Saturday, January 3, the Seattle Thunderbirds hockey team will make the ShoWare Center their new home.

For event dates, times and more, visit the ShoWare Center online.

Dining in downtown Kent, part 2

2008-12-30T06:15:00.000-08:00

The list of eateries in downtown Kent seems to get longer every time I visit. Here are some more popular restaurants and hot spots you might want to check out, so dine local.

Meeker St. Deli - American Deli
317 W. Meeker St., #D
253-520-2891

Mexico Lindo - Tasty Mexican cuisine
203 Fourth Ave. S.
253-854-5320

Pat's Bar & Grill - Restaurant and Sports Bar
114 Railroad Ave. N.
253-852-7287

Pho Thinh - Vietnamese food
320 E. Meeker St., Ste. #106
253-236-4631

Shindig - Restaurant and Martini Bar
222 First Ave. S.
253-520-4705

Spiro's Greek Island - Delicious Greek cuisine
215 First Ave. S.
253-854-1030

The Perk Up Place - Cafe, deli and catering
202 W. Gowe St., Ste. C
253-854-8868

Wild Wheat Bakery - Cafe, restaurant and bakery
202 First Ave. S.
253-856-8919

Dining in downtown Kent, part 1

2008-12-26T06:06:00.000-08:00

Downtown Kent is becoming a popular destination for dining out. Here are some of the area's favorite spots, some new and some old favorites.

Archia Thai Bistro - Thai food in an elegant atmosphere
214 E. Meeker St.
253-373-1868

Bev's Cucina - Homemade Italian cuisine
326 W. Meeker St.
253-854-1601

Bittersweet Restaurant - New American cuisine with homestyle favorites
211 First Avenue S.
253-854-0707

Gourmet Steve - Everything from comfort food to catering
216 E. Gowe
253-874-3663

Kona Kai Coffee Company - Tasty food and beverages in a tropical setting
124 Fourth Ave. S.
253-859-5662

Maggie's on Meeker - A favorite breakfast & lunch spot, complete with home cooking
307 W. Meeker St.
253-852-4116

New changes to Bittersweet

2008-12-23T06:00:00.000-08:00

If you haven't been to Bittersweet Restaurant in the last month and a half, consider planning a visit there soon. In addition to their updated lunch menu featuring new sandwiches and the chef's signature parsnip "fries," Bittersweet is now serving breakfast seven days a week, featuring homemade biscuits, hot cinnamon rolls and their signature baked egg dish.

As always, they feature customer favorites like the chicken enchilada, pasta of the day and their famous desserts...but there are some new treats on the menu so please check it out.

Breakfast:
Monday - Friday: 7:00 to 10:30 a.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 7:00 to 3 p.m.

Lunch:
Monday - Friday: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Kent - an unexpected winter wonderland

2008-12-22T19:49:00.000-08:00

Growing up in Indiana, I enjoyed the massive lake effect snow we got every winter. Our cities were well-equipped to tackle the snow and ice, so we didn't miss school very often...but there was always plenty of snow to play in. I remember snow tunnels, forts, sledding until my fingers were frozen, and snowball fights.

Fast forward to 2008 and I am in awe of the snow we've seen in Kent this year. I've lived in Washington for five and a half years and have never seen snow like this here. We have at least 10 inches at our house, not to mention thick layers of ice. Some roads are closed, others are impassable and the rest are just plain messy. So if you have to travel this week, please be careful. There is more snow and ice to come. Meanwhile, I'll enjoy watching it from my office window as I make the most of this weather-induced break.

Happy Holidays!

Dana, Virtually Yourz

Shop Kent this Christmas!

2008-12-17T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you still have last minute gifts to buy and want to avoid the mall, consider shopping in downtown Kent. Both Kent Station and Kent's historic district have some unique options. Here are a few of my favorites:

Earthworks Gem Design Studio: Steve St. Louis has some beautiful, unique pieces of jewelry that your sweetheart will love.

Heartbeat Yoga & Healing Arts: Consider a gift certificate to treat a loved one to a yoga or tai chi class or a massage treatment.

Balanced Athlete: This First Avenue shop has a great selection of running gear including exercise clothing, shoes and more. Owner Eric Sach can hook you up with something perfect for the athlete on your gift list.

Cypriana: This natural home store features wonderfully natural and organic products for home, bath and baby. In addition, owner Susan Thomas is an expert at designing custom slipcovers and embroidery for your home.

Lemon Drop Skin Care & Massage: Treat yourself or a friend to a delightful massage, facial, skin care treatment or waxing. The personal care boutique also has some great stocking stuffers including make-up bags, eye masks, make-up, brushes and more.

English Cottage Collection: This darling shop on W. Meeker St. has different items every time I stop in. Filled with home decor, baby and gift items, this store has something for everyone in every price range.

American Charm: American Charm, also on W. Meeker, has a wide variety of fun, trendy and eclectic gift items, including home decor, children's gifts, stuffed animals, purses, jewelry and more. You'll love this shop's American charm.

Children's Bookshop: I love this lively children's book store which is full of great books, learning tools, games, toys, teaching supplies and more. Find the ideal gift for the child or teacher in your life.

Renaissance Yarns: Now at Kent Station next to Dave's MiniHobby Shop, Renaissance Yarns has a beautiful selection of yarns, patterns, knitting tools and other gift items for the creative one on your list. Not sure what to buy? Ask Nancy or her helpful staff to make some suggestions.

Just the Thing: For the fashionista in your family, check out Just the Thing at Kent Station. This charming boutique specializes in custom jean fittings. Buy a gift certificate so your fashionable friend can pick out her favorite jeans.

Marie Haggin Accessories: Now next to Chico's at Kent Station, Marie Haggin Accessories has hundreds of gift ideas including unique purses, handmade jewelry, wedding crystal, fashion accessories and more. You'll never find the same thing twice.

Peridot Nail Salon: Tired from your holiday shopping? Stop by Peridot at Kent Station and enjoy a manicure or pedicure. Afterward, you'll feel refreshed and ready for your next holiday task.

Topaz: If you've got trendy, young shoppers to buy for, visit Topaz, next to Road Runner at Kent Station. This new fashion boutique has great, affordable pieces you won't find anywhere else in Kent.

Other possibilities for last minute gifts include: Bella home & garden, City Frame, Discovery Shop, Goju Karate & Pilates, Salon Avoni, Howell's Religious Books, Distinctive Images Barber Shop and Styling Salon, NW Electrology & Permanent Makeup, Nature's Vignettes and more. To learn more about these businesses, visit Kent Downtown Partnership or Kent Station online.

If you've worked up an appetite shopping, try one of downtown Kent's many restaurants for lunch, dinner, coffee or a cocktail:

Wild Wheat Bakery & Cafe, Kona Kai Coffee, Spiro's Greek Island Restaurant, Shindig Martini Bar, Bittersweet, Maggie's on Meeker, Vibe Bar and Grill, Bev's Cucina, Pat's Bar & Grill, Zephyr, Zao Noodle Bar, Johnny Rockets, Pizzeria Fondi, Duke's Chowder House, Chipotle Mexican Grill, The Ram, Dillettante Mocha and Espresso, Jamba Juice and more.

Happy Holidays,

Dana Blozis
Virtually Yourz

Thank You for Caring

2008-12-17T09:04:00.000-08:00

Last week I learned that the Kent Salvation Army would not receive its usual bounty of toys from the Salvation Army distribution center in Seattle for its holiday Toys 'n Joy program. Instead, it would have to rely on local donations. I put out a plea for help, and you responded generously. Some of you brought toys to me to drop off, some of you went directly to the Kent Salvation Army on South Central Avenue with your new toys, and I picked up a few from your offices and delivered them.

To all who gave, or hoped we'd find a solution, I thank you. Single handedly, one person would not have made a significant difference, but as a caring community, we were able to provide gifts for dozens of Kent children this Christmas. Thank you and Happy Holidays to you and your families! I'm proud to know you.

Dana