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

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

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

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

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

by Ralph Nichols

Sixty-four hundred miles – the distance from Sea-Tac International Airport to Santiago, Chile – is a long way. It’s a lot farther still if you’re here and have immediate family members in earthquake-ravaged Chile.

Patricio Mendoza, the owner of EC Computers in downtown Des Moines, knows this all too well.

For almost 48 hours after an 8.8 magnitude earthquake rocked Chile on Feb. 27, Mendoza could only wonder how his son Victor, his father Humbetor, his sister Cecilia, and his niece Erika Cecilia (who lives in the Seattle area, and whose initials give the computer shop its name) had survived.

Communications with the outside world are difficult with widespread power outages and many of the country’s cell phone towers knocked down. Mendoza has since been told the tremor “was so big,” and “lasted so long and was so strong.”

Despite his anxiety, he hoped and prayed for the best – and waited for their calls.

Then late Sunday and again on Monday he finally heard from his niece and his sister. Both were well – and they had word that Victor, who lives near Viña del Mar, a seaside community of almost 300,000 where Mendoza is from, was OK too.

But there was nothing like hearing his son confirm this himself when, at last, Victor called him Tuesday evening.

These reports brought welcome news because “at first I thought the worst,” Mendoza said. “This was one of the biggest earthquakes we have ever had. The destruction is total. It’s all around.”

Mendoza is still waiting for word about his 80-year-old father Humbetor, who he assumes is OK but who lives where power remains out.

In an irony of timing, Mendoza returned only a month ago from a six-week trip to his home town, which is not far from Santiago, the nation’s capital, and an extended visit with his relatives who live in that region.

He also accompanied his niece there. Cecilia, 19, had “worked for the last year to pay for her dream trip to Chile,” he told the Waterland Blog this week.

“She was supposed to get back to the states on March 1. Her flight was scheduled for Feb. 28.” But with canceled flights and possible damage to airport runways, “she’s still stuck down there.” If everything goes all right, he said, she now should return on March 9.

Cecilia sounded much calmer than she did in her first call just a couple of days after the quake, which continues to be followed by strong aftershocks, he added.

Mendoza’s first reaction after hearing about the earthquake was, “I want to get a ticket and go there. The first thing I wanted to do is help my family. But the airlines have raised the ticket price four times or more for this tragedy.

“I still plan to go when the price goes back down. I can’t afford it now. I want to see how my father is doing and how my son is doing. I want to see my father personally because he’s 80 years old and alone. I know he will say he’s OK, but I still want to know.

“It’s pretty bad to be this far away and not be able to go down and help,” he said.

And after helping his family, Mendoza also wants to do what he can – including taking clothing and other necessities – to help others there who are trying to rebuild their lives and property.

“People are hungry, people are upset. I’ve been in strong earthquakes where aftershocks continue for days. You feel so little after that. You cannot sleep in the day. You cannot sleep at night. You have no peace. It takes weeks to recover.”

Mendoza said that although he’s not there now, “at least I can bring some of the resources they need to them” if he can find a way to get there.

“A lot of people from Des Moines have called or stopped by the shop, concerned about my niece and my family,” he continued. “I thank all of you for your moral support. It has really helped.”

We just got off the phone with All-Star Sports Bar Operations Manager Joe Potts, who announced that they held a “soft opening” on Wednesday night (Mar. 3), and are now officially “open for business.”

How does one successfully launch a “soft opening” you ask? Simple – turn on the “Open” sign. Maybe call or text some friends. And wait. Joe reports that they had a steady stream of 20-30 customers all day, topping out around 80 before they ran out of “training liquor.”

And all that was without any real publicity. A good sign for a new business in our opinion. And seeing how this is the second new restaurant to open in Des Moines, we say things are definitely starting to look up around here.

All-Star’s hours are 11am – 2am seven days a week, and despite not yet having a full menu, they’ll be serving pizzas this weekend.

The “soft opening” continues today, and the bar is definitely open, so this might be a good time to help “train” their staff by dropping in, bellying up and ordering something; just don’t forget to tip your local server.

Expect a big “grand opening” on Thursday, March 18th, when ESPN Radio announcers Brock and Salk will make an appearance for a March Madness basketball promotion. Be sure to check The Waterland Blog often, as we’ll be posting more news as we receive it.

Joe says they’ll start serving their full menu sometime towards the middle of next week – but here’s an exclusive sneak peek at it so you can start planning your order:

To download a PDF of All-Star’s menu, click here.

Story and Photos by Michael Brunk

As of Monday, March 1st, hungry folks in the city of Des Moines now have a new option to satisfy their culinary cravings. Barnacles Restaurant & Bar – located in the old Boston Pizza location at 22636 Marine View Drive South – is now officially open for business. I stopped by during the dinner rush on Monday to see for myself what this new business had to offer.

As you pull into the parking lot, it’s hard to miss the rather dramatic changes that have been made to the old building. The first thing that catches your eye is the new, covered, outdoor seating area. Still a little cold to be enjoyed just yet but bound to be a favorite spot as the weather warms up.

Stepping inside reveals the restaurant proper, completely remodeled from floor to ceiling. The interior is smaller than I expected. The Butlers have made good use of the space however, and very little is wasted. To your left as you enter is the bar with seating and to the right is the open dining room. For the evening crowd the lighting was subdued and intimate. I sat in the bar but I found the music just a bit on the loud side for my taste.

Almost immediately I bumped into Mayor Bob Sheckler and Carmen Scott and Dave Kaplan from the City Council. Nice to see local officials out supporting a new business. Dave raved about the fish and chips so I ordered a batch to try them for myself.

Given the fairly large opening night crowd, I imagined I’d be waiting a while before my dinner arrived but I was pleasantly surprised at the quick service. A very good sign! I’m no food reviewer but I’ve eaten fish and chips at restaurants from coast to coast. While I wouldn’t rate these as the best I’ve had it was certainly tasty and a great value at $10.

The fish and chips are just one item on the streamlined menu that Barnacles refers to as “American comfort food.” Some patrons might chafe at the lack of options but frankly, I think it’s a smart move for a new restaurant to focus on doing a few things really well. I’m definitely going to have to return sometime soon and give their cheeseburger a try.

Overall, a very positive first impression. Good food at a decent price, served fast and with a smile. It could prove to be a winning combination for this new Des Moines business.

Here are some photos from my evening at Barnacles:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

On Monday (March 1st) we received an email from Janel Stoneback, announcing that her Emerald City Smoothie store located at the Normandy Park Towne Center had shut its doors.

This store, located at 19803 First Ave South, may have been affected by a number of elements, including recent ongoing construction on First Ave South, the economic recession, as well as a relatively troubled location where other businesses have also faltered.

According to the Normandy Park city newsletter, this ECS location opened in August of 2008.

Far as we know, Janel’s other ECS location near the Burien Safeway, is still open and in business.

While we don’t have the exact details yet (we’re hoping to get more info from Janel soon, which we’ll publish as soon as we receive it), according to Janel’s Facebook Page:

To all my Excellent very supportive customers, friends and business associates, it is with great disappointment we have had to make a decision to close Normandy Park Emerald City Smoothie.

[EDITOR'S NOTE: We'd like to officially introduce a new regular column, "Feel Good Friday," written by Des Moines resident Dave Markwell, who extols to all neighbors: "Enjoy where we live. Put your feet on the pavement and truly feel how great it is to live here!"]

by Dave Markwell

The other night my six year-old daughter and I attended a concert at Highline Community College. My ten year-old son was performing with the Parkside Elementary orchestra as they opened for a Des Moines Arts Commission Music Series show. He plays viola.

I have come to understand that the learning curve for instrument mastery is decidedly not steep. The slight twitch my dog, Diego, is now afflicted with, no doubt the result of the unnatural sounds piercing my son’s bedroom door, will testify to this. While the process is slow and sometimes painful, there is progress and as the group came together and played their pieces, it was actual music and it was great. Their focused and serious faces read their music as they played powerful works. Occasionally, a shrill missed note would find its way to my spinal cord, followed by an eye-raising wince from the assailant, but overall they sounded pretty good and I was proud.

As proud as I was of my son, my daughter, on the other hand, on several occasions, narrowly avoided a very public strangulation.

“Just sit still, PLEASE!” I loud-whispered and repeated as a mantra throughout the concert.

Now, I had no allusions that bringing a six year-old to a classical music show would be entirely trouble-free, but as the bouncing, talking, swinging, fiddling, fidgeting and kicking ramped up, I was considering very bad things.

Fortunately, as it sometimes will, fate intervened.

As my son’s performance wrapped up, the headline group, The Sirens, came out and began to play. They are a trio who play piano, flute and oboe. I don’t ever recall hearing an oboe before, certainly not like this. This woman played notes that I did not know existed. They touched me and gratefully must have touched my daughter as well. For three wonderful minutes, she sat on my lap and we listened to a song that we could feel. There is an emotion in the oboe that surprised me. The music swept over us and it was beautiful. I looked around the room and saw my son sitting next to his buddy several rows away from us, because if there is anything uncooler for a fifth-grader than a classical music concert, it is sitting with your dad and little sister at a classical music concert. I understood and was not hurt, too much. I enjoyed the true magic of the moment and was genuinely moved.

This was until my daughter woke up with a simultaneous flailing back head-butt to my face and swinging heel crotch-kick. The wonderful moment was over in an instant. It was just too good to last. As a stifled a yelp, I collected our things and knew it was time to go.

“Go get your brother.” I said as I made my way to the door and stepped out into the cool Des Moines rain.

I tipped my head to the sky and smiled and knew that the brief, pure moment was worth all of the hassle, struggle and even the crotch kick. The beauty of a single moment is worth all of it, every time.

The brand spankin’ new restaurant Barnacles At Des Moines will be holding its grand opening on Monday, March 1st, from 4pm – Midnight.

As we reported back in October, Barnacles is located in the building formerly occupied by Boston Pizza, at 22636 Marine View Dr. South.

Owner Steve Butler told The Waterland Blog that they’ve gotten the ‘green light from the city of Des Moines’ and they are set to open at 4PM on Monday March 1.

Owner/Operation Manager Sandy Butler calls the menu “American comfort food.”  Here’s the menu that was finalized just this week:

(ALL PASTA AND SANDWICH ENTREES COME WITH SOUP, SALAD, OR FRIES)

PASTA ENTREE…9.95 SANDWICH ENTREE..9.95
Smoked Salmon Fettuccine… Reuben..Patty Melt
Chicken Linguine.. French Dip..Monte Crisco Cristo
Mushroom Beef Rosoto… Burger… Grilled Cheese
Calamari & Noodles… Cheese Burger.. Garden Burger
Spinach Mushroom Fettuccine

FISH AND CHIPS AND SALAD…9.95
COB SALAD AND SOUP…9.95

(All Specials Of the day come with Soup, Salad, or Fries )

SPECIALS OF THE DAY…14.99
Scallops, Potato and Veggie…Flank Steak, Potato and Veggie…
Salmon, Potato and Veggie

SIDES…4.95 DRINKS…1.95
Fries..Cheese Nachos..Lg Salad… Coke.. Sprite..Root Beer
Insalata Caprese..Lg Soup… Diet Coke…Hot Tea
Shrimp Cocktail… Sweet Tea…Milk…Coffee

DESSERTS…4.95
Hot Fudge Sundae
Carrot Cake
Cheese Cake W/Cherries

Sandy and Steve’s kids, Austin, Jake and Fawn have a lifelong love of the restaurant business. The boys started in the business at 16, and now are turning what they’ve learned into a family business.

“They’ve bussed, dishwasher, waited, bartended…. just everything in the business to get where they are now,” said Sandy.

Austin’s even gone to culinary school to hone his skills, along with mom Sandy. Both graduated from South Seattle’s Culinary School. Daughter Fawn is just finishing Culinary school at Puget Sound Skills Center.

Steve was the contractor on the job who totally gutted the former Boston Pizza, and replaced the tired exterior with updated, modern kitchen, tile floors, dark wood, and a beautiful hand hewn bar made from a tree. It even has the some knots in it.

Steve and Sandy also decided that Barnacles Restaurant and Bar needed some outdoor dining, so they built a very nice covered patio –complete with outdoor heaters. They plan on serving food and drinks there on Monday.

Barnacles will be open from 4-midnight 7 days a week. Kids are welcome until 9 pm and then they’ll have some fun for those over 21:

• Open Mic Mondays (not the first Monday)
• Trivia Tuesday
• Western Wednesday
• Ladies Night Thursday (with ½ price drinks for the ladies)
• Live Music Fridays
• DJ’s Saturdays

Next Friday’s (Mar. 5th) live music is Rock ‘n Roll by Ricardo Valenzuela (who returns Friday, Mar. 19th) and the following Friday (Mar. 12th) customers can enjoy keyboardist/singer Cameron Rafati.

“We’re thrilled that this up and comer is coming to our little restaurant,” Sandy told WLB.

Barnacles’ mission is, in part, “to provide each customer with the finest service, food and drink experience.”

They are located at 22636 Marine View Drive South.

No reservations are required, but just in case, the phone number is 206-878-5000, and here’s a link to their Facebook page:

We hope to be conducting a full review of Barnacles at Des Moines, so stay tuned.

As the owner of Shuttle Express, a provider of passenger service at Sea-Tac International Airport, I have been following the Port of Seattle’s recent decision to replace STITA (Sea-Tac International Taxi Association) with Yellow Cab. How could the Port make such a poor decision and why? Even though I compete with the taxis, I feel the need to speak up. When there is such an injustice to the traveling public, questions need to be asked.

Working at Sea-Tac for 35 years, I have firsthand knowledge of airport operations and STITA Taxi. Knowing STITA’s reputation, I thought they would surely be chosen for the new contract for the taxi concession. I was astonished to hear the Port’s decision. The structure of the RFP caused a bidding war, and the Port plans to award the contract to the highest bidder, Yellow Cab. How could they base their decision purely on money and not reputation and quality of service?

Shuttle Express and STITA operate within a few feet of each other so I know their operations and service level. STITA taxi owners maintain their vehicles and have invested in a green fleet, all while making a living wage. And, STITA provides good service, much better than any other taxi service in Seattle.

As a competitor, it would be to my advantage to say nothing and compete against a lesser provider. But I can’t watch this play out without saying something about the Port’s injustice to STITA, and more importantly to you, the traveling public. I have no issue with the Port opening the concession to competitive bid, but its selection based on who will pay the most money rather than service and safety is wrong.

Jim Sherrell is the Owner of Shuttle Express.

More money for the Port may sound good, but in reality the over-inflated fees that Yellow agreed to pay the Port are way off base. There is no way Yellow can use the minuscule taxi fees to fund reservations, dispatch, accounting, marketing, safe vehicles, insurance, advertising AND also pay the Port an exorbitant fee to use the taxi curb. What expenses will the Yellow taxi drivers have to cut to still be able to put bread on the table? Will you feel safe when you climb into that taxi knowing they cannot meet their financial obligations and still make a living?

So why would the Port prioritize getting more money above safety, service and other important factors? What seems obvious is the Port wants more money. Who is eventually going to pay the Port more money? Sure, first it will be the poor taxi drivers. Next, the taxi drivers will ask regulators to allow increased fees. In the end, YOU, the traveling public will be paying the difference with higher taxi fares.

Now ask yourself, is the Port operating in the interest of the traveling public, or is it merely trying to squeeze more money from taxi drivers and you, the passengers?

Will the publicly elected Port of Seattle Commissioners recognize this flawed RFP bid for what it is and correct this radical mistake? My experience during the last thirty-plus years tells me that when the Port Commissioners know the facts and hear from their voters, they will make the correct decision to award the RFP fairly, based on service and safety for the traveling public rather than strictly money from fees.

It’s up to you, the traveling public, to let the Commissioners know your feelings on the issue to have it corrected: www.portseattle.org.

- Jim Sherrell
Owner, Shuttle Express

(Jim Sherrell is the owner of Shuttle Express, serving the Seattle region since 1979)

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Have something you'd like to say? Then email us your "Letter to the Editor" by clicking here. Be sure to include your real name and a way to contact you, and, pending our review, we'll most likely post it. Otherwise, feel free to leave a Comment below...]

by Ralph Nichols

Des Moines Mayor Bob Sheckler recently presented to the City Council gifts that were given him during a trip to China late last fall.

But the mayor brought home a lot more than just gifts and a slide show of his travels in this ancient, now-booming country.

A multimillion-dollar development along Pacific Highway South backed by Chinese investors – agreed to during Sheckler’s highly productive trip – is now in the planning and permitting stage.

Ground breaking and the start of construction are expected to take place this summer if preliminary activity continues at its current pace.

The development, which will feature a hotel and restaurant and possibly retail space, will be located at the old state vehicle emissions testing site on the east side of Pac Highway not far north of Kent-Des Moines Road.

While in China, Sheckler also laid the foundation for an exchange program between Chinese community college students and students at Highline Community College.

And now there is the promise of even more. He reported at the Feb. 11 City Council meeting that representatives of business investors in China and Russia, with billions of dollars to invest, “are very interested in Des Moines.”

“The word’s out” about Des Moines – and the marina. “The word’s definitely out there,” Sheckler said. “They’re saying, ‘Where have you been?’ People are discovering that this (waterfront city) is a jewel. It’s very exciting.”

Sheckler began planning his China trip (Nov. 13-22) two years ago, not long after the prospect of developing a sister-city relationship with Changle, a coastal city in the Suzhou province of South China, was first discussed.

After corresponding with Changle Mayor Lin Wengang, Lin invited Sheckler to meet with him there. Sheckler was accompanied by Des Moines investor Matt Chan, who plans to build the Watercrossing development on the southeast side of the Pac Highway-South 216th St. intersection.

“I was there to visit him” and discuss a sister-city relationship, Sheckler noted. But he also went to China with plans to pursue an exchange-student arrangement and “to develop interest in investment in Des Moines.”

Even before he was “warmly received” by Lin and Deputy Mayor Lin Jian Xiu – to whom he presented gifts paid for by himself, as well as accepted their gifts – Sheckler had met with Zedong Ye, a property developer, and Mr. Zhang, an industrialist. Both had visited Des Moines and Tacoma last summer and liked the Waterland city.

Ye and Zhang had been told in advance that Sheckler and the Des Moines City Council are “very progressive in economic development” and wanted to meet with him.

In their culture, the initial meeting often determines whether a deal will be agreed to, and their cordial relationship at this dinner resulted in a green light for the Des Moines project. An advance team already in Des Moines was told to begin the pre-application process with the city, and the hotel project has been moving forward since then.

“I went over there to meet the mayor of Changle and to meet with others to get development going.” Mission accomplished.

Establishing a sister city relationship, according to custom, will take time, but the process has now begun. Discussions are in progress for an exchange student program in Des Moines. And ground breaking for the hotel is just a few months away.

That’s a pretty big long-term payoff for the city – which paid none of Sheckler’s expenses. He covered his round trip to Beijing and his hosts covered some of his expenses in China.

“But the key thing is the city didn’t have to pay for it. What I did on my own time and my own dime is my own business,” Shecker said, recalling that “certain naysayers” in the community criticized the cash-strapped city during the budget-setting process last fall for allegedly paying for his China trip.

He added, “The fact is, the city is the beneficiary, but the trip didn’t cost them a penny.”

[EDITOR'S NOTE: The following article was written by Des Moines resident Dave Markwell, who says "Days like this exist everyday in our great little Waterland town. Enjoy where we live. Put your feet on the pavement and truly feel how great it is to live here!"]

Story by Dave Markwell
Photos by Michael Brunk

The day belongs to the dogs. They claimed it early and aren’t letting go. The tic-tac reveille call of toenails on hardwood signal that their day has begun and kills any hope I have of finding my way back into that great dream I was having.

I get up.

This morning I succumb to my better nature and let the dogs out. Some mornings I don’t. I can fake sleep with the best of them and when the dogs come calling I have achieved some truly masterful performances. The problem I have in my house is that my wife is an equally accomplished sleep-feigner. This morning she breathes deeply and slowly and moves her eyeballs slightly inside their lids as if in R.E.M. I am unconvinced, but get up anyway. As I glance back at her from the door, I catch the bare hint of a smile and know I have been duped.

She wins this battle.

In the kitchen, I stand in my underwear and put coffee in the machine as Diego, our lab/dachshund mix dances around gleeful in his success at my awakening. He knows he’s going for a walk. The lab/dachshund mix is something I have considered and have no good answers to except that some serious motivation or lack thereof must have been present for such an act to occur. I walk back into the bedroom to get dressed and make a little too much noise opening drawers, ensuring that my wife is definitely not asleep.

I saddle up Diego with his leash and try to control his enthusiasm as he jumps and bucks and twirls like a bronc in his enthusiasm. We head out the door. My town is asleep. Marine View Drive is empty and shops are closed. One restaurant is open, Jacks. Every town has its Jacks. It is where the old-timers gather to discuss important things, like fishing and more fishing. As Diego and I walk by, one smell hits me hard, bacon. Bacon is one item that can inspire me to dance like Diego getting ready for his walk. This morning the sweet, smoky goodness drifts in the air like God’s own aftershave. “I WILL be having bacon today.” I think to myself and repeat as a mantra for several blocks.

As I stroll through the marina, I greet my buddy Jimmy, a Marina worker, as he begins his workday. I look at the boats and fantasize about warm summer days sitting in guest moorage drinking a beer after cleaning my imaginary twenty-five pounder. This fantasy carries me around Anthony’s and by South Marina Park, where I begin a new daydream. This dark, chilly winter morning, I desperately long for a quiet summer Saturday morning browsing through the Farmer’s Market with my family before getting some morning ice cream at Auntie Irene’s.

As reality sets back in, I see a light on. It is coming from my local attorney friend, Brian’s, office. It appears that he has either been disrupted this morning as well or is behind on some work, or possibly getting ahead on some work, a foreign concept to me. I wave to him, but get no response. He looks pretty intense and engaged in his project. Sensing an opportunity, I walk through the planter bed and bang on his window. I have never actually witnessed an electrocution. But Brian’s reaction is what I imagine one looks like. His head jerks up, eyes wide, his hands instinctively grip the arms of his chair and he shakes violently for a couple of the longest and best seconds of my year. I wave, as does Brian, him only using one finger. Diego and I carry on, the day having improved dramatically.

A couple of blocks from home, square in the center of town, right in front of the barbershop, Diego’s back starts to arch and I get nervous as I know what’s coming. I look desperately around for a patch of grass for him to make his deposit. Seeing none, I just let him go. Sometimes I can drag him to a better spot than the middle of the sidewalk, but this morning we are in no man’s land. He hunkers down and lays a prodigious trophy. I say trophy because if it were a fish it would be hanging on the wall in the den of some great man’s home. Diego is not a small dog, but this seems a bit out of proportion to me. Sometimes I hate my dog.

My own enjoyment of the morning after the Brian episode somewhat diminished after Diego’s episode, I make a beeline for home. As I walk up the driveway, I sense that perhaps karma has smiled on me. Nearing the front door, I try to control my excitement so as to not be disappointed. Alas, as I enter my home, my dream has come true and as I walk to the kitchen my wife stands at the stove cooking bacon. I feel blessed and have forgiven any previous resentment and look forward again to the remarkable potential of the day.

[Do you have an opinion about life in Des Moines? Would you mind sharing it with our nearly 7,000 per month Unique Readers? You can either send it as a Letter to the Editor or a Guest Column – email us here, and thanks for Reading!]

by Ralph Nichols

If you live in Des Moines or a neighboring community, and if you love a parade, then you can look forward with eager anticipation to the “biggest and best parade ever” in this Waterland city.

Next year.

There will be no Waterland Grand Parade in Des Moines in 2010, City Councilwoman Carmen Scott informed her fellow council members at their Feb. 11 meeting.

Scott said while members of the ad-hoc Waterland Parade Committee were encouraged by the Waterland Blog’s online poll, in which 76 percent of those responding said “yes” or “maybe” to continuing the parade, they also agreed that “this year is not the year.”

The committee “discussed the practicalities of whether a parade could or should happen this summer,” she said. Factors influencing their decision not to proceed with a 2010 parade included “the city’s financial condition” and scheduled construction projects around town.

They decided instead to stage a parade that will be “better than ever” in 2011, she added.

Mayor Bob Sheckler concurred. “I pressed hard for a parade this year, but Carmen is right. This is not the best year. It’s probably wise not to do it this year. So we’ll spend a year and a half planning a parade for next year, not this year.”

A grand parade was a major attraction of the annual Waterland Festival in Des Moines, but the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, which produced this event, disbanded in the wake of the 2004 festival.

After a four-year absence, the Waterland Parade, again preceded by a children’s parade, returned last July as part of the festivities celebrating Des Moines’ 50th anniversary as a city.

Last fall, Sheckler said there would be a parade again this year, but left a final decision to the parade committee.

With the City Council making sharp cuts in Des Moines’ operating budget for a second consecutive year, “we are hard pressed for funds,” Scott noted.

Although City Manager Tony Piasecki told committee members there are ways a parade could be put on without costing the city additional money, Scott said the reality of budget cutbacks has left no staff members the time flexibility to handle the additional work that would be involved.

So over the next year, planning for the 2011 Waterland Parade will include looking for private money to sponsor it, she continued.

And planning will also involve businesses along the Marine View Drive parade route so they can attract more customers that day, rather than losing business to events at other locations.

The construction projects that also make a parade impractical this year – upgrades to several streets used for the parade and staging, and the ongoing Marina renovation – “are building for the future,” Scott told The Waterland Blog.

“It’s going to sparkle when we have the parade next year. The city is doing it right.”

(Parade Photos courtesy Carmen Scott)

Story & Photos by Janet Grella
(with help from Megan Shephard)

Last Wednesday morning (Feb. 3rd) around 4am, a Des Moines Police Officer was on routine patrol downtown.

As he passed WLB Advertiser Kimberley’s Exquisite Jewelry, alarm bells went off, and he spotted a masked man running from the doorway to a car parked nearby.

The officer slammed on his brakes and set off in pursuit of the suspect, who had thrown a bag into the vehicle.

According to Sgt. Bob Collins, Public Information Officer for the Des Moines Police Department, the chase led the pair over a fence and down a hill toward the marina. When the officer yelled, “Stop and drop, or I’ll shoot,” the suspect—armed with a crowbar–continued running, yelling, “Go ahead!”

Wielding his taser, the officer was happy to oblige.

The impact brought the man to the ground, where he was handcuffed.

The suspect, a 40-year-old Seattle man with a history of burglary convictions, had to be treated for injuries but was ultimately booked into the Regional Justice Center in Kent for investigation of 1st degree robbery and 2nd degree assault (for threatening the officer with the crowbar).

Though he didn’t have any property on his person, officers did find a large garbage can with the jewelery in the trunk of his car when a search warrant was executed on Thursday, Feb 4th.

The last thing you want to hear when you pick up the phone at 4:11am is “you’ve been robbed.”

That’s exactly what Kim Beasley’s husband Bill heard when he answered the phone call from the alarm company that morning. Within five minutes Kim (owner of WLB Advertiser Kimberley’s Esquisite Jewelery on 7th in Des Moines) and Bill were on the scene and amazingly enough, the suspect had already been apprehended.

Kim called The Waterland Blog to report this incident because she wanted to publicly commend the Des Moines police on their quick and thorough actions.

“Bless their hearts, they were paying attention. Our police did a marvelous job,” said Kim. She added that “the officer did everything he could to apprehend” (the suspect).

In the 10 years since opening, Kimberley’s has experienced only one other attempt to burgle the store. Kim credits this to the police telling her to keep the lights on and the blinds up so when they cruise by they can see if anyone’s inside.

And there could be a happy ending. The police feel that they recovered all the stolen jewelry. But until Kim completes a full inventory of the items returned by the police, the ones found in the parking lot, and the entire store she won’t know for sure.

At the time WLB posted this story, Kim estimated the value of the stolen items at nearly $65,000.

She also has major damages to her cases and door.

In the meantime, Kim invites all our readers and her customers “to come and buy what’s left in the store.”

Now’s the time of year that we all think about improving our health in one way or another. Our new Advertiser, Ascension Wellness Center & Healing Day Spa and its owners Sonia and Jason Morton told The Waterland Blog that their health spa is “the perfect way to start the new year, with a new you.”

He and Ascension’s practitioner/owners offer a full menu of alternative health care.

“We’ve got massage, acupuncture, hypnotherapy, meditation, skin care, and Aqua Detox”, explained Jason.

Aqua What? Turns out this is just about the best thing since sliced bread in the alternative health field. I had a treatment last month, and all I can say is: “Prepare to be blown away! Prepare to be be shocked and amazed!”

Aqua Detox is a revolutionary way to detoxify, re-balance and re-energize your body. One of the few Aqua Detox foot spas in Southwest King County is available in Des Moines at Ascension Wellness.

Turns out that Jason discovered this amazing machine in search for relief from the side affects from his cancer drug and steroid treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Like most of us in chronic pain, he’d tried many treatments before Aqua Detox. He found these treatments so powerful and helpful, that he bought the machine and started using it on his own patients at Ascension Wellness.

He tells Waterland Blog that “I’ve seen it help people with Diabetic Neuropathy (no feeling in feet) get feeling. Detoxifying also helps boost the immune system. It’s a great idea for post surgery recovery by removing anesthetics from the system. I’ve even got a few female patients who’s thinning hair is regrowing.

Research has shown the the benefits of receiving treatment have had increased:

• Vitality
  

  Ascension Wellness Center & Healing Day Spa owners Sonia and Jason Morton

• Circulation
• Energy Levels
• Organ Energy
• Sense of Well Being
• Nutrient Absorption

My detoxification was amazing. In 40 minutes the water went from clear to GUNK. Like the worst Gunk ever! It was painless. Unless you count seeing what comes out of your body through your 4000 pores in your feet, painful! And the foot rub at the end was incredible. From their website:

Aqua Detox works with a few different principles. The first is that of fluid exchange. Example.. My wife has a nose ring. When it got infected she was told to soak her nose in Warm (body temp) Sea Salt water. After a few minutes your cells recognize the salt water as part of you and starts pushing toxins out and absorbing in the cleaning salt water. This is a therapy that people have used for years………The water in the footbath (or bath) becomes an extension of the water in the body, from which it is separated by nothing more substantial than a thin membrane – the skin.

The second process is that of Electro Ionization. Everything in the world is either positively or negatively charged. After soaking your feet for a minute or two (to open the pores) we turn on the machine which places 2 amps of electricity into the array (the array is the white piece in the middle of the footbath). Every other minute the array switches from positive to negative placing the ions where the body can take advantage it. This stimulates the body to discharge toxins. (Many of the Detox machines don’t have this feature).

Following a treatment, the body will continue to detoxify for up to 72 hours. (I was still tingling a day after my treatment). To maximize your detoxification experience, Jason recommends a total of 3 treatments over the course of 9 days, or a treatment every 3 days, then a Maintenance program. First treatment is $50 and following treatments $45.

Jason and his wife Sonia started Ascension Wellness a few years back. She’s a massage therapist, and is quite well known in the Des Moines area for her healing touch. They added Aqua Detox three years ago. Jason is the ‘detox man’, teaches meditation and is a hypnotherapist. They call their practice a “Healing Day Spa.”  As opposed to Day Spas that treat the outside of the body, thier’s treats the inside. Other wellness practitioners housed here include massage therapists, a real Chinese acupuncturist and an Esthetician. Their services are $70 per session.

Turns out Jason’s a Des Moines native, a former Soap Opera actor, a football player and a well-traveled Professional Paint Ball Player. With a lifelong interest in meditation, Jason started learning meditation techniques at Des Moines’ Dolphin Book Shop back in the 1980’s.

Jason wants to remind our readers that in 2010, they should think about “giving an experience, a healthy experience,” for those gift giving occasions. Ascension Wellness has gift certificates available online to print or to email and at the Spa.

You can find Jason and the staff of Ascension Wellness at 805 South 219th Street in Des Moines, online at http://www.ascendwell.com/ or via phone at 878-WELL (9355).

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

Valentine’s Day is just about two weeks away, which means that now would probably be a good time to start shopping for something for your sweetie.

We here at The B-Town Blog strongly believe in shopping local, which is why we highly recommend that all our Readers buy their Valentine’s Day gifts from WLB Advertiser Dan the Sausageman.

I mean, what says “I Love You” better than a groovy gift box full of high quality meats, cheeses, chocolates and other goodies? And what better way to spend your money than by keeping it local?

Dan the Sausageman has been in business in the area since 1988. Back then, Dan “The Sausageman” House (who also owns The Tin Room and the soon-to-be-opening Tin Theater) used to drive around selling sausages to car dealers and other businesses in the south end. Eventually he opened a tiny retail store in Seahurst, then took over the classic Hi-Line Tin Shop building in Olde Burien where he still works every day.

And no, Danny hasn’t retired his retail sausage business – he’s just moved it in preparations for his new “Tin Theater” (which will be opening soon – stay tuned to the WLB for details) and is doing most work online now (check out his website here).

For Valentine’s Day, Dan the Sausageman is offering a great deal – purchase any gift box, and you’ll get both an extra 9oz Summer Sausage as well as a dozen chocolate kisses!

Gift Boxes are available at this web page, and here are three favorites:

“Dan’s Favorite“: Packed inside this hand made pine crate (15″ x 6.5″ x 4.5″) are all the things Dan loves and is a consistent top pick among our loyal customers. Contents: Summer Sausage (9oz), Sharp Cheese (4oz), Pepper Jelly (5oz), Smoked Salmon (3.25oz), Smoked Pate (3.25oz), Spiced Almonds (1.5oz), Sweet’N'Hot Mustard (2oz), Crackers (1oz), Chocolate Truffles (2pcs), Chocolate Covered Cherries, Blueberries, Cranberries and Apricots (4oz) – all for just $53.95! Click here to order.

“Retro Lunch Box“: If you took a lunch like this to work every day, you probably would WANT to go to work. Our nifty retro lunch pail is filled with all of the stuff that keeps our customers coming back for more. Contents: Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Hot Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Santa Barbara Garlic Stuffed Olives (2 oz.), Bandon Sharp Cheese (8 oz.), Seattle Chocolate Truffles (2.5 oz.), Gourmet Caramels with Almonds, Spiced Almonds (1.5 oz.), Venus Crackers (2 oz.), all for just $54.95! Click here to order.

“Perfect For The Palate“: No, we haven’t started selling paint like Martha Stewart. We do fancy the can though. Whether it is the office, home, or outdoors – all you have to do is spread this out and paint a smile on your face. Contents: Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Hot Summer Sausage (9 oz.), Santa Barbara Garlic Stuffed Olives (2 oz.), Bandon Sharp Cheese (8 oz.), Toffee Almond Cranberry Crunch (8 oz.), Eastshore Pretzels (4 oz.), Sweet ‘n’ Hot Mustard (2 oz.), Spiced Almonds (1.5 oz.), 1 Gallon Collector Paint Can. Just $47.95. Click here to order.

You can order these gift boxes online, as well as many others, safely and securely here (you can also order ala carte items too!).

Highline Community College’s StartZone is offering free tax preparation workshops and filing assistance to self-employed individuals in King County with total household income of less than $50,000.

Workshops being Feb. 10th, and eligible individuals will receive assistance from a trained and professionally supervised volunteer who will help complete and file 1040, Schedule C, applications for the Making Work Pay and Earned Income tax credits, and other forms.

For more information about eligibility requirements, individuals are encouraged to attend a tax preparation workshop. Workshops will be offered:

• Wednesday, Feb. 10th: 6-9pm
  
• Wednesday, March 10th: 6-9pm
  
• Saturday, March 13th: 9:30am – 12:30pm
• Saturday, March 27th: 9:30am – 12:30pm

To register, call (206) 878-3710, ext. 3388, or e-mail startzone@highline.edu.

StartZone’s Business Tax Center is funded by the CFED in partnership with the United Way of King County.

StartZone is a program that helps women, people of color, immigrants and persons with a disability start or grow small businesses in Southwest King County. For information, visit http://startzone.highline.edu.

Highline Community College was founded in 1961 as the first community college in King County. With approximately 18,300 students and 350,000 alumni, it is one of the state’s largest institutions of higher education. The college offers a wide range of academic transfer and professional-technical education programs, with day, evening and weekend classes. Alumni include former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice, entrepreneur Junki Yoshida, Washington state poet laureate Sam Green and WLB Publisher/Editor Scott Schaefer.

Locked out? Lose your keys? Need to replace all of your locks? Don’t worry! There is a new locksmith in town: Seatown Locksmith, located just down the road in Burien, and serving all of King County.

When Highline Lock and Key closed their doors last year, former employee Maurice Bressack said, “There’s still a need for keys!” He put his plan into motion and opened Seatown Locksmith a few months ago, bringing another former employee, Dee Stewart, with him. Maurice worked at Highline Lock and Key for eight years. Before that he worked with his uncle in his mobile locksmith company for six years.

Seatown Locksmith offers fast, friendly, professional service. They have low overhead and low prices, but they are very high in customer service. They will respond to you any time of the day or night with their 24 hour emergency service.

What is the most expensive key you own? If you own a car that was made after 1996 it is your transponder key. If you need a replacement transponder key check out Seatown Locksmith’s prices – they will be lower than your dealership.

Do you have commercial properties? Seatown Locksmith can handle your commercial accounts. They do master keying, rekeying, lock replacements and more. They even offer monthly invoicing.

Whatever you need – residential, automotive, commercial, emergency – Seatown Locksmith is here in Burien to serve you anywhere in King County. Stop by and say hello to the friendly people at Seatown Locksmith: Maurice, Dee and Shiloh.

Seatown Locksmith
135 SW 153rd Street
Burien, WA 98148

Phone: 206-420-3426

Website: www.seatownlocksmith.com

Friend ‘em on Facebook here.

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The Waterland Blog stopped by All-Star Sports bar last Friday for an update on their countdown to opening. Operations Manager Joe Potts told us they’re “still targeting the Winter Olympics for the grand opening, but it may not be for the opening ceremonies.”

The dark hardwood floors have been laid. The walls are painted a dark blue and deep red. The tables, chairs and barstools have arrived and are stacked all over the place. This week the large screen TV’s will arrive and will be installed.

“Once the bar is finished, we can move the furniture around and take delivery of the pool tables and golf games,” Potts said.

And for those readers asking about employment know that the first team of 14 employees have been hired. Potts is still accepting applications for future employment – you can email your resume to potts2000@hotmail.com or call him at 206-212-6740.

BTB Advertiser E.B. Foote Winery wants all our loving Readers to know about their upcoming “Red Wine and Chocolate” event, which begins Thursday, Feb. 4th.

Nothing says looooove much better than red wine and chocolates, doncha think?

Here are the tasty details:

WHAT: “Red Wine and Chocolate” at E. B. Foote Winery

WHEN: Dates and times are:

• Thursday, Feb. 4, 5 pm – 8 pm
• Friday, Feb. 5, 11 am – 8 pm
• Saturday, Feb. 6, 11 am – 6 pm
• Sunday, Feb. 7, Noon – 6 pm
• Sunday, Feb. 14, Valentine’s Day, Noon – 6 pm

WHERE: E.B. Foote Winery, located at 127 SW 153rd St. lower level in Burien; (206) 242-3852; www.ebfootewinery.com

COST: $10 tasting fee, applied toward bottle purchase (No tasting fee for Wine Club members)

INFO: “Enjoy dozens of chocolates along with our current and newly released red wines. We will be sampling red wines including the new releases. No reservations needed! Get a friend or two and drop in during these hours.”

Scheduled for release:

• 2006 Merlot
• 2007 Northwest Duet
• 2006 Perfect à Trois

More information available at E.B. Foote’s website here.

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

Stress. We all deal with it. We seem to manufacture it at times. And we’d all be happy if it could magically just go away. Stress can also lead to other health problems.

Well, we’ve got a new advertiser and reflexology practitioner right here in the Highline area that specializes in stess reduction among other things. That’s Lorri Angus, reflexologist extraordinaire and owner of Inner Balance Holistic. I had the opportunity to receive one of her special reflexology sessions recently and it was wonderful.

I’ve had reflexology some years ago so I knew what to expect, but I wasn’t expecting the treatment I got from Lorri. She ‘warmed me up’ by working on my ears, which sent energy flowing throughout my body. Then the feet. Ahhh, it was magical. I knew enough about the reflexology session to know it’s not a simple foot rub or foot massage.I knew that she would be working to stimulate the reflex points and zones within my entire body. When Lorri was done, my longtime shoulder ache had disappeared. Also I was sneezing and coughing as those pesky little toxins were moving about my body.

Lorri tells us that although working on the feet, “reflexology works on the whole individual–physical, mental, emotional–balancing out the whole body and allowing it to heal.”

Lorri’s available for sessions in her Normandy Park studio afternoons and evenings by appointment. You’ll find her at 19655 1st Ave. S. #209 (right above Companion Animal Medical), at 206-219-6411 or Lorri@innerbalanceholistic.com.

According to Lorri, Reflexology has been shown to be effective for:

• Back Pain
• Migraines
• Infertility
• Arthritis
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal imbalance
• Sports injuries
• Digestive disorders
• Stress related conditions

If your 2010 resolutions include feeling better naturally, you should give Lorri a call. She’d be glad to share the benefits of reflexology with you. Prices start as low as $35 ((1/2 hour session), and long-term packages are available.

According to www.innerbalanceholistic.com, here’s a brief overview of reflexology:

The art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China. It was introduced to the West as ‘zone therapy’ in 1913 by Dr. William Fitzgerald who noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas of the body within the same zone. In the 30’s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy which works on the feet to help to heal the whole person, not just the prevailing symptoms. It can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium, this gentle therapy helps the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

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by Kelly Johnson

There is no question Seattle is an amazing city for food, drink and great places to go out, get out, hang out and hang loose. But here’s the drawback:

What happens if you don’t live in the city?

Fortunately, Dan Thiessan of Bellevue’s 08 Seafood Grill and Twisted Cork Wine bar was wondering much the same thing, so he brought a bit of neighborhood warmth, uptown style and devotion to dining out fundamentals — such as making people happy — to those of us here in the south end.

I had the privilege of spending last Thursday night at Archery Bistro (formerly Cafe Mia). I didn’t know what to expect really. “Ooh. Ahh. A new place in Normandy Park,” I thought. I am now amending my original thought by adding a few more “h’s” after that initial ooh and ahh.

I don’t care if you’re a smalltown to downtown meat & potatoes lover, a seafood fan only interested in the market list or the “go out of your way to try the one thing you haven’t seen on a menu elsewhere” type. The diverse but unpretentious menu here gives a nod to them all. While Archery doesn’t skimp when it comes to a solid array of beer, traditional as well as upscale soft drinks and liquor, it is the wine that will win you over. There’s a wine list designed to pair well with whatever might be on your plate. But if you don’t know what to choose, that’s not a problem. Feel free to leave the Sommelier lingo at the door if it’s not your mother tongue. Dan and his staff have you covered there. Just tell them what you like. The wine list is extensive yet unintimidating with price point being under twelve dollars by the glass and bottles in the $24 to $50 range.

The kitchen shared generously with us that night. High points go to the “crab no cake” crab cakes with the ribbon-thin drizzle of apple aioli giving the sweet densely packed meat perfect tang. This isn’t the Panko proffered version you might be used to. It’s just densely-packed loveliness encased in a golden brown sear from the pan. Oh and for those of you who don’t like greenery, you’re missing a bet if you don’t eat the Fuji apple and watercress slaw that comes with it. This is one time no one is going to have to make you eat your vegetables.

The Cowboy Beef Tenderloin — emphasis on the word tender — had a dry rub that could very well make our counterparts south of the Mason-Dixon Line want to sit up and take note! The tenderloin was carefully prepared, juicy and darkly flavorful. The coffee ground rub put a confident spin on what is sure to be a crowd favorite.

My guest and I also got to try the artfully brined cedar-planked Salmon that flaked perfectly, along with the Apple wood Smoked Pork with the Mushroom Forest Hash (the Pork Chops and applesauce Bobby Brady would only hope to try) and a Squash Soup whose flavor embodies winter time cozy and a texture that could only be described as velveteen.

If you can pull yourself away from focusing on your meal, you’ll note the tribute the décor pays to Glen St. Charles of Northwest Archery fame. Warmly hued wood, subtle touches from the St. Charles’ museum and a beautifully executed wine rack display instantly lend itself the overall dining experience.

The restaurant hasn’t even been open a month, but I noticed staff and patrons are already exchanging first names in greeting, good byes and all that’s in between. Keep an eye out for this place. The commitment to community, its customers and high quality cuisine is quite a gift to us here in the south end this holiday season.

See what happens when you make it onto Santa’s “nice” list?

Here’s a Photo Slideshow of the Archery Bistro by Michael Brunk:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Photo Slideshow

Archery Bistro is located in the Normandy Park Town Centre at 19803 1st Ave. South, Suite 104 in Normandy Park.

Their hours are:

• Lunch: Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Dinner: Nightly, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
• Happy Hour: Daily, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.; 9 p.m. – Close
• Bar: Daily, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Their phone number is 206.429.3145.

As we’re previously reported, Des Moines’ “The Reuben” New York Eatery & Espresso shop finally closed last week after many last-ditch efforts by owners Mike and Debbie Rovech to stay afloat.

Obviously they couldn’t make it, due to the recession, a lack of traffic and customer loyalty.

On Sunday (Dec. 20th), the following Craigslist Ad was posted, ironically stating that the cafe has “great morning traffic flow in a loyal community“:

That’s right – for under $10K you too could try to sell consumables to a “great morning traffic flow” in a “loyal community.”

It’s a tough time for just about every business, but we hope that this location finds a new owner who might have better luck.

We’re wondering if there’s anyone out there brave enough to try…any takers? If so, here’s the email address to reply to:

sale-m7vzy-1518520877@craigslist.org

by Brenda Anders
Photos by Michael Brunk

Did you know that you could finish up that holiday shopping list and not even leave the city limits of Des Moines?

Sure, anyone can get a gift card from the kiosk at the grocery store but that is sort of cheating and not very adventurous!  If you are going the gift card route, why not venture into town and pick up a gift certificate to one of our many local businesses who would love to have your business.  You can get your favorite local nail/hair salon gift certificates or choose from our many delicious local restaurants that aren’t represented at that kiosk.

You could take the easy way out or you could put some thought into it and get creative.  Yes I am saying it: “Creative shopping in Des Moines.” Can’t be done you say?  Oh you are so wrong!  Not only can you finish your gift shopping on about a dollar of gas, but you can avoid crowded malls, meet your local businesses owners and help to stimulate our own city’s economy.

Here are a few of my ideas.

• Des Moines Cinema gift certificates are great for kids of all ages.



• How about a bottle of wine or nifty accoutrement from CorkyCellars for the host of that party you are attending or your favorite wine connoisseur? (Wow, I had to break out the dictionary for that last sentence.)

• Don’t forget to stop next door and pick up a bouquet of flowers at Marine View Florist

to bring as well.

• This is of course after you have dropped of that great Santa picture to be framed at Village Frame.
• Which brings me to a delicious idea, a gift certificate from B&E Meats…nothing says happy holidays like Tri-Tip!
• Jewelry can be found at Kimberly’s on 7th Ave.  I can personally guarantee that you can’t go wrong with diamonds!  Not entirely sure?  They have gift cards.
• Ready to get healthy? Got you covered with gift certificates from Ascension Wellness & Health Spa.
• Brown Bear Car Wash “paw packs” make awesome stocking stuffers.
• Tired of being the computer geek, I mean technician, for your family and friends?  Try EC Computers by Balloon Wizards/Cupcakes NorthWest.  They have geeks on staff!  Right here in your back yard!
• Pets?  Easy!  Soggy Doggy, Paw Spa, and Best in Show all have special treats for our friend’s furry family members.
• Furney’s Nursery may not be on your radar but they have gift cards and your favorite gardener would love to have one!
• Birthdays or bridal/baby showers close to Christmas?  Keeping up with the Griswold’s in your holiday decorating and party ideas?  I have the answer: Balloon Wizards/BabyCakes NorthWest which is just down from the Des Moines Cinema and next to the new All Star Sports Bar (not open yet, sorry).
• Not a lot of cash?  Annie’s Attic, also on 7th, is the place for your small children needs and Budget Boutique, by the Dog House, for mom or grandma.
• Dushan’s, in the same complex as Salon Michelle and Jack’s Diner, is a great place for clothing.
• Best place for collectibles, unique gift ideas and special cards is of course Des Moines Drug and Hallmark.

If none of this tickles your fancy you can always head up to Bartell’s, Walgreens or Ace Hardware.  All are packed with great gift ideas for not a lot of money.  All of your gift wrapping needs and stocking stuffers are there for you!  Don’t forget to pick up the bottle of aspirin for the day after.

Here is the bottom line: our local businesses, many who support our local events, charities, school PTAs and sports teams, need our help.  We must do what we can.  We all talk about having a stronger downtown business core but we forget that we have to drop a few dollars downtown to help make it happen.

At the very least remember to shop and eat right here in Des Moines and a portion of the sales tax stays here which ultimately benefits you!

Story by Janet Grella
Photos by Michael Brunk

We’ve all watched the China Seas Restaurant morph into the All Star Sports Bar, but the big question on the minds of Des Moines residents and sports fans throughout the area is:

“When is All Star going to open?”

According to operations manager Joe Potts: “I usually tell people 30 days from the day someone asks me (that question).”

Would that put the opening date as January 17th then?

Not exactly.

Joe hopes that their opening will be no later than the Vancouver Winter Olympics. That would be February 12, 2010. They hope to be open before that, but in the past they had hoped to be open for football season, then the Superbowl, but the Olympics is a safe bet.

Potts also adds “Powell Brothers (A Waterland Blog Advertiser) and Todd Powell have been great to work with. The city has been great to work with. But in my experience I have learned that ‘remodeling’ a house is sometimes more challenging than building a house.”

Transforming the old China Seas from the ‘blight on the corner’ to All Star started when owner Jim Fullerton, general manager Justin Edwards and Potts met with Dr. Scott Andrews regarding his vision and mission for the rebuilding of Des Moines. They found they were all on the same page, and promptly signed a lease on the property. It is All Star’s mission to be a “Pillar in the community of Des Moines and display a sense of community through deeds and sponsorships,” according to Joe.

Long time friends Fullerton, Potts and Edwards all live in Des Moines. Edwards is a Des Moines native, and attended Pacific Middle School and is a Mt. Rainier grad. A few years back, they would convene at China Seas to enjoy indoor sports (pool and ping pong) as well as televised sports. They agreed one day they would own a sports bar. That day draws near.

“We plan to use the newest of high tech gaming entertainment, plus some old stand-bys” said Edwards, including:

• 20 Large Screen TVs
• Two Golden Tee Golf Games
• Darts
• Two Pool Tables (Spring tournament session starts in February)
• High tech Juke Box which will take both debit and credit cards
• Entertainment on weekends: DJ Friday and Live Bands on Saturday
• Fireball
  
• Real Time Fantasy Stats for the Fantasy players
• Ping Pong table from the old China Seas (the only fixture they saved)
• Free WiFi

Edwards also tells WLB that “we’ll do for individual-sized gourmet pizza what the Dog House has done for hot dogs.” Other food will include sandwiches, salad and appetizers. They’ll be open for lunch and dinner and events like the Olympics, March Madness, and if we’re lucky the Superbowl!

Know your All Stars: Of the three main guys we learned that Fullerton is a computer programmer and will keep his day job. Potts has had a career in Food and Beverage Services on the corporate side with Holland America and Edwards has spent 12 years as a bartender where he’s developed some pretty incredible drinks that he’ll be sharing with All Star bartenders.

All Star plans to be open from 11 am-2 am everyday, including holidays. There will be ‘no cover-no time.’ They plan to stay a step ahead of other sports bars by offering service, atmosphere and hospitality.

Keep up with All Star’s countdown to opening with The Waterland Blog – in the coming weeks we’ll be sharing their specialized drink menu and food menu – and finally will announce the much awaited opening.

Sadly, Des Moines’ “The Reuben” sandwich and espresso cafe has finally closed, despite many last-ditch attempts to recover by owner Mike and Debbie Rovech.

Photographer Michael Brunk stopped by Wednesday (Dec. 16th) to show his respects, and he also took these photos:

Click to View Michael Brunk’s Slideshow

Read our previous coverage of The Reuben here.