When Karen Gaudette saw the dispatch about Beard Papa's cream puffs at Safeco Field on Daily Candy this morning, she absolutely freaked. How do I know? I got my work-mate's memo at 6:35 a.m., complete with uppercase letters and exclamation points. Karen -- who couldn't believe I hadn't heard about these sweet treats -- patiently explained that Beard Papa's have been spreading around the U.S. almost as fast as Red Mango locations -- now selling frozen yogurt at Pacific Place, Alderwood Mall and U-Village. And she's obviously not the only one who thinks the puff daddy's goodies are worth e-mailing your friends about before you've even downed your first cup of coffee.

Qube closes shop today at Second and Stewart, unfortunately proving that a number multiplied by itself three times -- add lukewarm reviews and a downturn in the economy -- may add up to zero. This info just in, hot off the press-release:

"Owners Fu-Shen Chang and Kerry Huang are sad to announce the closure of Qube. The last day of operation is today, July 3, 2008. Qube opened in December of 2006. `We've really enjoyed the challenge of having our own restaurant and seeing the pleasure people have had from tasting the seasonal menus,' says Fu-Shen. Qube brought something new to Seattle, a sophisticated, urban look and feel with matching modern food. Guests loved the Qube Sets and innovative a la carte plates. Qube was also known for its cocktails using infused alcohol, herbs and fruit. With the economic downturn, people have reduced their fine dining budget and Qube has felt the impact."

Anybody want to buy a restaurant? Realtor Laura Miller (206-726-3451) is handling the sale, according to the release.

Ooooh-EEEEE-oooh. I just found this note in an email from a reader in Darrington, with a link to the photo that ran with my story yesterday about Captain Bay-Schmith's chicken. She wrote:

"I don't mean to alarm you, however, [in] the picture of you with your BBQ, there's a face in the smoke. . .very strange yet very clear .. let me know if you see it":

Saints be! I DO see it! My husband's convinced it's the late Captain Bay-Schmith keeping watch over "his" chicken, which would only make sense. What do you think? Look like anybody you know? Elvis, maybe?