Just about at the end of my rope

I don't know why everyone seems to think I am their new chew toy. Tonight I let a group of folks I know from Burien in near last call to have a celebratory drink,, a group of folks that booked an event tomorrow that coul.d mean $$$ at the bar, at a time when we really need it, and the bartender is all pissed and huffy at me because I did. IN MY DEFENSE:
1- I am thinking a group of folks who are responsible for giving us a major coup, business wise, want to have a drink, who am I to say no?
2-A group of folks that may give us one of the biggest Tuesdays in a long time, just tell them no?
3-I don't know why I feel I need to explain myself. Read the LLC Agreement. Cloud and Rob owners.Maybe I should have given the Bartender a heads up that the group was coming in, but they just turned the corner of the street an literally surprised me. This is the second time I have been made to really feel like shit, and I am getting really tired of it.
4- I am an owner. I don't feel the need to explain myself everytime I turn around. I will always vote for business. for that I don't need a defense. Fuck you if you disagree.
It makes me laugh after something like this happens though. Nobody complains about getting tipped. Nobody complains about making money. The consensus is they may have to stay a half hour longer, and that just fucks their shit up.
I don't see these same people complain, when I have to make rent or pay bills, or LCB (Liquor Control Board) fines assessed because of their dumb actions, or trying to make the payroll so everybody gets paid. I don't see any of these fools at 7:30 in the morning when I am sweeping, mopping, or trying to fix leaks and shit. They are so overworked? not one of my employees works more than 30 hours a week. I don't remember a 30 hour week. But I am just being rude and disrespectful. Well I say fuck you and the horse you rode in on.
I don't like to rant, but jesus H. Christ people, I am tired, over worked and stressed beyond belief. There is a thing as you want respect, you effen EARN it. and maybe give some back once in awhile.

Check in

Well time to check in again. I think this post I will tell you about the folks who work at The Cantina.

BOH (Back of House)

Devin, Kitchen Lead- quiet likeable guy. Makes no waves. Creates no problems. Loves the Mariners, Seahawks and Sounders. Pretty much Chaos free. And a most excellent cook in the kitchen

Maat- Maat is my Rock. He is a budding musician, and a great cook. And he is the kinda guy you want to work for you. Very reliable, very attentive.

Tyler- Likable young guy. Can be chaotic at times. But over all a good kid. His mouth and/or attitude can get him in trouble. (Reminds me of me)

FOH (Front of House)

Nell bell- The Grand Dame of the Cantina- Experienced Bartender. And a good friend.

Austin- Little tiny gay dude that looks like he is 12. But he is a very capable bartender. And also a good friend.

Mandolin- Very quiet country guy. Big Johnny Cash/Elvis fan. Fun to talk to because we have so much in common.

Jake (Bar Manager) Jake is very quiet and soft spoken. Harder to get close to than the others, but then I think that is a self-protective thing with him.The man knows how to mix a mean drink.

Dulci- Our Saturday bartender- Very personable, a definite customer favorite.

Jessie - Our Sunday bartender. Very knowledgeable and professional. Always has good hints from her years of ex[erience, and happy to share.

Rob- Fill in Bartender- My favorite of all. Of course it is me!

There you have the staff of the Black Zia Cantina, the group of cool folks that keep the cantina running like a top!

A New Day

Things are looking up for "papi" (a nickname from one of my bartenders, Austin, whom I love to pieces). I spent the, will go o close of the bar, with Jake, the manager, and can actually say I think I can do this! While he was counting out his till, I spent the time going over the food shopping and liquor shopping lists. The one thing I am truly good at is shopping.... anyhow, I figured the liquor out myself, Devin, our head cook, made out the food shopping list for me. Anyway, I know what I need, and tomorrow morning go and get the items needed at the "Cash and Carry", and get those things off my list! That and I had a really good time with Jake bullshitting about the bar business, restaurants and other non-related stuff. I actually for a second felt happy and secure with myself, something I haven't felt in a long time. that and I got a text from mone of the bartenders, Nell, my goddess in blue jeans,saying how much she appreciated me and our "dysfunctional family" and everything I am doing running the bar... small potatoes maybe, but hearing it from a seasoned veteran like Nell means so much! Anyway I feel the best I have felt for the last couple of months so for that I am grateful!

Mental Fitness

ne thing I am slowly learning is no one cares how I am feeling. Not the employees certainly not my customers, and pretty much everyone else. Oh they say things like "Oh you need to get your rest" or "remember to take care of yourself". But mostly it is indifference to me and anything I really need. All I know is I have to take care of myself because no one really cares. I have my two dogs and they love me. And for now that is enough. If I have a really bad day, some of my so called friends like to see how far they can push me until I break, then get all defensive on me when it happens. That is total bull shit. Recently I made decisions in business, like cancelling our weekend brunch, because, A- it doesn't generate enough income to override labor costs, and B.- I don't need the stress. And that  is all good and fine until one of my employees, decides... No more Eggs Benny? That's right mother fucker. My mental health is more important than if you get your favorite egg dish on Saturday or Sunday. Sorry if that seems selfish or I am ranting, but fuck it. I need to take care of me right now.

So this guy walks into a bar....

Well let me update you on what's new in Rob's World. Here I was, 50 something, happy, retired and so what do I do? I buy half a bar in Burien. The Black Zia Cantina is a "New Mexican" cuisine restaurant and bar.
WHAT IS IT LIKE OWNING A BAR, ROB?
Nothing like it I have ever known. I am now responsible for other people's livelihoods. And that means I get to be Daddy, Mommy, Aunt, Uncle and Boss. And so much other legal responsibilities. But hopefully, I am ready for it. And after dealing with employees, customers, fellow business owners, I must apologize to my Junior High school Vice Principle. (That is what I equate this to). I now know what the hell we put you through. I am so sorry, Mr Lopresti!
But  seriously, it is a lot of work. I have gone from 8 hours a week as a retired craft artisan to a bar owner/manager/bartender 50+ hours a week. And that doesn't include being a dishwasher, somewhat cook, delivery person et. al.
SO YOU CHANGING IT INTO A GAY BAR, ROB?
No. This would be cool. But I like to think of Black Zia as an Everybody Body. We have a sign in the window the states "If you are Racist, Sexist, Homophobic or an A**hole, don't come in. And I am good with that... since taking over, We have put on Drag Shows, hosted a Gay Pride After Party (Burien had it's first Gay Pride celebration! I will post more about that later!) and done a few things that put the bar out of the norm. Something Black Zia has always been known for, as well as being the center for Punk, Hard Rock and metal music in the city. That and our famous Summer-Ween and Halloween Parties! (Everybody likes to get dressed up!)
So now Rob's World is pretty much about the struggles and Victories of owning a little bar in Burien, my fair city!

4 Things to Make Summer Walks with your Dog Cool and Easy

I have a lot of friends who are getting new puppies and adopting dogs... They ask me Rob, what do we need to walk the dog... While not being a dog whisperer or anything, I give them the following advice:

1. A good leash- While I appreciate Dollar Tree for inexpensive items for the dogs, Their leashes are at best temporary as well as their collars. I personally use a Fozzy Dog leash, as it is sturdy and has a convenient pouch built in to carry poop bags, treats. There are other brands out there just as good, FozzyDog is my preference. And the have a great double leash That allows two dogs to walk comfortably, as well as mini leashes for the little guys. A bit expensive, but well worth it as it  seems to last forever. But look for a leash that is sturdy, has good snaps and not too long, so you can control your dog- 48" seems to be about the right length. And please stay away from thoseretractable leashes, especially if your dog is apt to bolt suddenly.

2- A good Collar or Harness- This does not need to be expensive. Just look for collars that , if they are adorned, like with jewels or studs, don't have protrusions on the inside of the collar, (it can rub and irritate the pooch) I usually buy mine at the Burien Farmers Market, there is a lady that sells collars there. But most pet stores should have them in stock, and should be able to help you with sizing.

3. Stainless steel water bottle Face it. not every destination is going to have water for your pooch. I find that having a Stainless Steel water bottle is a good answer. There are a lot of plastic water bottles for dogs, and I like a lot of them, but find the leak or get destroyed.

4. Collapsible Dog Bowl- A great thing to put your water for Fido in! Cheap, easy to fit into a pant pocket or on a leash sometimes I take two- one for water, one for food

My Movie!!!

I made a little movie for the BURIEN UFO FESTIVAL/BURIEN FILM FESTIVAL, so now I can say I have something in common with George Clooney (My film did win shit either, George). So, without further ado, May I present: "X-FILE: PLAN K9 FROM OUTERSPACE"

I must mention this film couldn't be done without my "bitch"/assistant director, Kellie Bassen, nor my editor who performed magic working with very raw materiel, Matt Wendland. Also I must mention my love of the movies of Ed Woods, whom without his inspiration Plan K9 would be but a passing thought!

TOP 10 REASONS TO SCOOP THE POOP!

Romeo's Birthday

Romeo, my older pup turned 11 today. I threw him a birthday party at the local dog park, the BuTCh,, I think he and his pup friends had a great time playing doggy games and eatin pupcakes, which are what I call the meat cakes in cupcake form.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROMEO!

Turkey, Chicken and Beef Pupcakes

Doggy Meat Cake

Romeo's Birthday is coming up on Thursday and he will be 11. So I am going to throw him a party at the BuTCh dog park!I needed a cake recipe for it so I adapted my puppy meat loaf recipe:

Doggy Meat Cake
1 lb, ground beef Or Chicken or Lamb (depending on your dog's dietary needs)
1 cup of cooked brown rice
1 cup of finely diced carrots or  mixed peas and carrots (frozen is just fine)
2 eggs

Mix all together and mold into a shape or use a baking pan*, bake at 350 for 45 minutes, remove from oven, let cool

Frost with Mashed potatoes!

*I used a cupcake pan, make sure you spray pan with cooking spray (PAM) Then put the cup cake in the papers when they were cool and frosted!

Modern Victory Garden Challenge, Month 1

The first month of the Modern Victory Garden Challenge saw not a whole lot going on... Blame the wet weather, or just plain laziness, but still got some things done:

1- Grow your own- Planted some beet seeds, chard seeds, kale seeds, radish seeds and pea seeds. Started some tomatoes and fennel. Radishes are sprouting. Started some lentil sprouts. Started some Cauliflower and Thinking about corn...

2-Repair your own –Repaired a broken shovel handle
3- Learn something NEW! Nothing…Yet
4-Eat It! Nothing to harvest yet. Did make a cola pot roast and bagged up the leftovers to use for sandwiches, ate it for about a week! 
5- PRESERVE IT! – Nothing to preserve yet

THE MODERN VICTORY GARDEN CHALLENGE

What??? I thought I was through with these things. I mean over the years I have taken prt in buy nothing new challenges, freezing my ass off challenges, saving my urine challenges, etc.- Most of these put on by the Crunchy Chicken. But I was perusing my blog the other day and grew reminiscent (and add the fact I am retired now and need a project) for the Independence Day Challenge, put on by Sharon Astyk. It was such a great tool to use to learn more about self sufficiency, and preparing one's self to become more independent. The trouble is it seems to have vanished over the years, so I thought "Rob we need to bring this back". So here it is, The Modern Victory Garden Challenge!

 THE MODERN VICTORY  GARDEN CHALLENGE:

 

1- Grow your own- means grow your own food be it from a huge multi-acre farm/garden, or a backyard garden or even a few pots. Maybe just some sprouts grown indoors. Just grow something!

2-Repair your own - from a brken shovel handle to rebuilding a tractor, repair it yourself and share

3- Learn something NEW! learning a new technique or something to help your garden grow. Could include but not limited to learning seed starting, recipe to cook something or new way to preserve food

4-Eat It! Share how you eat your homegrown food!

5- PRESERVE IT! Share how you are preserving your home grown food. Could include home cannin freezing or dehydrating

There you have it. Sounds pretty easy? I will post monthly and hope you all will join in!

Rob's Independence Day Posts from the past!

Burien Toyota-Burien Chevrolet off leash Dog Park

A video of our "almost completed" dog park in Burien, WA

Posted by Rob Johnson on Saturday, January 2, 2016

Memory Monday from April 2014... Ginger Raspberry cookies

Easiest. Dessert. Cookie. Ever.
Amaze your family and friends with your Culinary talents.

I discovered this at Trader Joe's, with the Demo-Diva's. So easy to make

1 container of Ginger Snaps
1 pint of fresh raspberries
1 container of Creme Fraiche

lay out some ginger snaps. Top with 1 teaspoon of Creme Fraiche. Top with a raspberry.
So Simple! So delicious.

Loving my CSA

I am loving my CSA. Every other week I get a box filled with fruit in season from Collin's Family Farm in Wenatchee. The fruit quality is A-1, as you can see I start eating it right away. Nothing better than a fresh ripe plum or peach. So tasty and so juicy..and so much better  than those hard golf balls they try to pass off as fruit at Safeway (and other stores). Tdis is my first year in a CSA and most definitely won't be my last!

Beneful Dream Dog Park- Burien Washington

Watch for Buddy- He has a starring role!

So what's happening with the Dog Park?

Photo: B-Town Blog

New news... The Burien off-leash dog park recently became the receiver of some great monetary gifts... First up was Burien Toyota/Burien Chevrolet who ponied up $10,000 , than Purina Beneful dog food surprised us with $20,000. You may remember, Kellie Bassen, head of the B-Town Dog Owners Group, was a finalist in the 2013 Beneful Dream Dog Park contest, and Beneful did not forget the video that Kellie sent in and they wanted to help. Next up, we need to have the council "speed up" the process so ground can be broken, new fences put up. The B-Town DOG group is planning on going to the city council, meeting July 20th at 7PM to ask this. Hopefully if you are local or in Seattle you can come and Join us. More on Beneful and Burien Toyota/Chevrolet's amazing gifts HERE

The Video:

Frozen Pea Salad

Easiest salad to put together ever! I use Ranch dressing to kick it up a notch. Great with or without bacon!

FROZEN PEA SALAD
2 c. frozen peas (uncooked)
1/2 c. green onions chopped
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
Bacon bits or crisp bacon broken into pieces if desired
1/2 c. ranch dressing or mayonnaise

Mix together with salad dressing or mayonnaise. Garnish with a rosemary sprig if desired. Serve

Rustic Willow's DIY Concrete Planter

I get some of the craziest things posted on my Facebook timeline by friends who know me well. This is a DIY Concrete Planter, and will probably be my next project! Very cool, and sounds easy but messy (right up my alley).Just an old towel soaked in concrete! The instructions can be found at Rustic Willow.

Senior Discounts

My Cousin Margo posted this list of places that offer discounts for Seniors:
RESTAURANTS:
Applebee's: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
Arby's: 10% off ( 55 +)
Ben & Jerry's: 10% off (60+)
Bennigan's: discount varies by location (60+)
Bob's Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
Burger King: 10% off (60+)
Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee ( 55+)
Chili's: 10% off ( 55+)
CiCi's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Denny's: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members ( 55 +)
Dunkin' Donuts: 10% off or free coffee ( 55+)
Einstein's Bagels: 10% off baker's dozen of bagels (60+)
Fuddrucker's: 10% off any senior platter ( 55+)
Gatti's Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
Hardee's: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
IHOP: 10% off ( 55+)
Jack in the Box: up to 20% off ( 55+)
KFC: free small drink with any meal ( 55+)
Krispy Kreme: 10% off ( 50+)
Long John Silver's: various discounts at locations ( 55+)
McDonald's: discounts on coffee everyday ( 55+)
Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
Shoney's: 10% off
Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
Steak 'n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday ( 50+)
Subway: 10% off (60+)
Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)
Taco Bell : 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
TCBY: 10% off ( 55+)
Tea Room Cafe: 10% off ( 50+)
Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
Wendy's: 10% off ( 55 +)
Whataburger: 10% off (62+)
White Castle: 10% off (62+) This is for me ... if I ever see one again.
RETAIL & APPAREL :
Banana Republic: 30% off ( 50 +)
Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month ( 50 +)
Belk's: 15% off first Tuesday of every month ( 55 +)
Big Lots: 30% off
Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days ( 55 +)
C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (50+)
Clarks : 10% off (62+)
Dress Barn: 20% off ( 55+)
Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kmart: 40% off (Wednesdays only) ( 50+)
Kohl's: 15% off (60+)Modell's Sporting Goods: 30% off
Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday ( 55+)
The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off ( 55+)
Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month ( 55 +)
GROCERY :
Albertson's: 10% off first Wednesday of each month ( 55 +)
American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday ( 50 +)
Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
Food Lion: 60% off every Monday (60+)
Fry's Supermarket: free Fry's VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday ( 55 +)
Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday ( 50 +)
Publix: 15% off every Wednesday ( 55 +)
Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
Uncle Guiseppe's Marketplace: 15% off (62+)
TRAVEL :
Airlines:
Alaska Airlines: 50% off (65+)
American Airlines: various discounts for 50% off non-peak periods (Tuesdays - Thursdays) (62+)and up (call before booking for discount)
Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations
Southwest Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Rail:
Amtrak: 15% off (62+)
Bus:
Greyhound: 15% off (62+)
Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50+
Car Rental:
Alamo Car Rental: up to 25% off for AARP members
Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members
Budget Rental Cars: 40% off; up to 50% off for AARP members ( 50+)
Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off ( 50+) Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members Hertz: up to 25% off for AARP members
National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
Overnight Accommodations:
Holiday Inn: 20-40% off depending on location (62+)
Best Western: 40% off (55+)
Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Waldorf Astoria - NYC $5,000 off nightly rate for Presidential Suite (55 +)
Clarion Motels: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Econo Lodge: 40% off (60+)
Hampton Inns & Suites: 40% off when booked 72 hours in advance
Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)
Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler's Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
Marriott Hotels: 25% off (62+)
Motel 6: Stay Free Sunday nights (60+)
Myrtle Beach Resort: 30% off ( 55 +)
Quality Inn: 40%-50% off (60+)
Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Sleep Inn: 40% off (60+)
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT ;:
AMC Theaters: up to 30% off ( 55 +)
Bally Total Fitness: $100 off memberships (62+)
Busch Gardens Tampa, FL: $13 off one-day tickets ( 50 +)
Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
Massage Envy - NYC 20% off all "Happy Endings" (62 +)
U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)
Regal Cinemas: 50% off Ripley's Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket ( 55 +)
SeaWorld, Orlando , FL : $3 off one-day tickets ( 50 +)
CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS :
AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $19.99/month (65+)
Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service ( 50 +)
Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+).
MISCELLANEOUS:
Great Clips: $8 off hair cuts (60+)
Supercuts: $8 off haircuts (60+)

NOW, go out there and claim your discounts - - and remember -- YOU must ASK for discount ---- no ask, no discount.