I’ve said it before and I’ll reiterate it now — I’m not a fan of bikini-barista espresso stands.

So, as you’d correctly guess, I was pleased with Kenmore’s Best Friend coffee stand’s recent “cover up,” banning bikinis, and in one alleged case — part of a bikini — on its baristas. The owner made the right move in implementing a “family friendly” policy and apologizing to city officials for the recent turn of events.

While owners wanting baristas to sport bikinis in the coffee stand is their right, I feel it’s a cheap way to sell coffee and attract attention. We certainly don’t want to be covering these types of stories, but it’s news and it’s our job.

I like a latte just as much as the next person, but I’ll take mine with a smile and some occasional banter with the server, that’s all.

Bothell work continues

Is it just me, or has the massive pile of dirt covered with the white tarp grown over the last few months on the grass field on State Route 527 between Northeast 183rd and 185th streets? According to the city, the dirt is from the State Route 522 Wayne Curve work and will be used on the downtown Crossroads Project, west of Main Street and near the Park at Bothell Landing.

It’s a lot of dirt — and a lot of work to be done. Along with the road expansion and new park slated near Pop Keeney Stadium and the refining of Blyth Park — and, of course, the McMenamins hotel and brewpub — downtown Bothell and its surroundings should be the talk of the Northshore and beyond for a long time to come.