Bow to Miller's Academy, Our Reader's Choice Martial Arts Poll Winner

Forget the drum roll, we'd like to announce the winner of this week's Readers' Choice poll -- best place in Kirkland for kids to learn martial arts -- with a mighty Hi-yah!, Aiyah! or Eeee-yah!, the traditional battle cry.

We hereby bow to on Rose Hill, winner of our black belt by virtue of its score -- 60 out of 87 votes -- as well as two great reviews on its listing in our Kirkland Patch Places directory.

Here is what a couple of our voters said about Miller's, which teaches an early version of the legendary Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do style:

"Sibok Korbett Miller is great with the kids! He has a way of getting even the most shy child involved, fully participating and having fun. They not only get exercise, they learn self defense techniques as well as discipline and respect. It's a great program!"

--Cheryl Sanders

"This program has been the most impactful activity for both of my children. It is a fantastic way to learn leadership, empathy, self discipline, impulse control. The instructors make learning FUN!"

--Amy Maher

High praise indeed! So congratulations Miller's Academy, not only for winning our poll, but also for your contributions to our community and its children.

But we also must bow to our runner-up, , also on Rose Hill. The poll was a two-way race from the start, and we know from the results that Kirkland boasts at least two very well-regarded dojos -- or dojangs as the case may be.

Oom Yung Doe grabbed 24 votes, and a very positive review:

"I have trained there and I have taken my son there as well, and I am extremely pleased with the results. The instructors are compassionate and attentive, the lessons are challenging, and the training is beyond compare. I think the best part of the Oom Yung Doe line of schools is that they focus on real personal excellence with correct physical movement and they don't have kids flailing at each other in mock fights (although the self-defense taught there is practical and strong)."

--Justin Martin

Congratulations to both, Miller's and Oom Yung Doe!

And on with the fifth in our series of 12 Best of Kirkland polls: best burrito in town! And gosh, we have plenty to choose from, at restaurants such , , , , , , and others -- not to mention the .

We're expecting quite a competition with all the options, and a story announcing the new poll will post here at 5 a.m. on Monday. We've already begun compiling our list for the poll, but would gladly accept and appreciate suggestions and nominations. Please reply here with a comment, or email the editor, Greg.Johnston@Patch.com, or let us know on Facebook.

Thanks to all who have participated so far! As you know, Patch is not a one-way street. We expect and encourage everyone to comment, review and post announcements, as well as post events on our calendar.

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