Cita's is planning for a July opening

Cita's, the new Italian restaurant on Commodore Plaza is planning a July 22 opening.

Commodore Plaza should be called "Continental Plaza" because of the mix of restaurants that are now occupying that one block. You can travel the world by just walking from Grand Avenue to Main Highway and back again.

Fitness Fair today in the Grove

They were set up early for today's Fitness Fair at the Mayfair promenade. Here's Jose from the Academy of Martial Arts. I passed by on my way from the gym. You can also check out some of the farmer's market items while there.

Reggie, from Fitness Together was prepared to give work-out advice.

Here are Diane and Catherine from "Get Fit With Cat."

Patricia is from Mary Kay.

There is something for everyone. The Fitness Fair is on until 6 pm today -- it's shady in the promenade, so you can get out there and enjoy the day without burning up.

And on top of this, they keep raising postage

Harry Emilio Gottlieb made a visit to the post office recently and really took notice of the mess that it is. The Grove post office has to be the biggest eyesore in the Grove.

You see graffiti on the walls out front, it just stays there, they don't give a damn about cleaning it up. The old, rusty discolored mailboxes greet you, all bent and faded.

The parking lot looks like a condemned land fill. The fence is broken, the dirt has been there so long that weeds are sprouting all over.

You'll notice lots of liquor and beer bottles when you pass by. Apparently this is a little party spot after dark.

They killed all the big oaks to plant these straggly things which are a poor excuse for the ones they destroyed last year.

This is the lobby. You enter to see this crap.

The garbage overflows, there seems to be no pride there. The employees apparently just go through the motions. They may be very nice, I don't know because I don't use the post office in the Grove. I avoid it.

They took out the stamp machine and really expect people to wait hours in line to buy a book of stamps. I go to the Coral Gables branch. I can get parking there and it is a pleasure to visit.

Here in the Grove, the ceiling is caving in. I know for a fact from many employees that the ceiling leaks inside and there is asbestos in many areas, mostly in the area that used to be the movie theater. The part you actually stand in now to buy stamps.

I don't know why the federal government is allowed to do this. Grove officials should really step in and fine these nuts. Whomever is in charge here is a slob and should be ashamed of themselves.

Fitness Fair this Saturday

There's a Fitness Fair at Mayfair tomorrow. It's free to the public -- open from noon to 6 pm on the Promenade.

Come out for fitness demonstrations, meet with fitness trainers from Fitness Together and health and beauty consultants from The Center for Beautiful Skin. There will be massage therapists on hand and lots of books and nutrition info. There's even martial arts demonstrations, yoga and healthy food samples.

Birthday wishes

Happy birthday to Douglas Kirn (above) and daughter Jessica Kirn (below), residents of the Grove, who celebrated their birthdays at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club on May 28. Friends and family got together for a Scooby Doo get together.

Here is Pepita, their pet parrot, who goes everywhere with them.

Send us your events in the Grove. We would love to share them through the Grapevine.

Gas stations in the Grove

The BP gas station on Bird and 27th is always out of gas. Three times in two weeks I have tried to get gas and have ended up with none. Everyone is now going over to the Shell station on 27th and US1 and that place is packed. With the gas prices as high as they are these days, it's a shame that BP is losing out on the windfall.

Ironically, BP's prices were very much more higher than Shell's, so it's nice to see that Shell is not gouging and taking advantage of the situation.

Summer Workshop on Authentic Happiness

For those who seek the secrets of living a meaningful life, fleeting moments of pleasure are not enough. Enroll in this six-Tuesday evening workshop, starting Tuesday June 3 at the Arts and Minds Center (3138 Commodore Plaza), to discover the keys to happiness that lie deep within the heart. Each class will explore ways to enhance the heart-soul connection and will open pathways to living one's full potential.

The Virtue-Happiness Connection: Living from the Heart

Starting Tuesday June 3 from 7-9 pm. (if vacation plans interfere with one evening the material can be made up).

* Our multidimensional nature
* The heart/mind conflict
* An urgent call for self-love
* Authentic happiness and a purposeful life
* Emotions as Soul Expression: A theory of excess and lack
* The Language of Resonance
* Virtues: Common definitions and essential natures
* Practices that take us to virtue: the interface of soul and personality
* Dwelling within the realm of virtue
* Passion, will, and the creative life

For further information please email: lindasueedge@yahoo.com

Open U is a part of The International Institute for Human Understanding: www.iihi.org

FedEx/Kinko's is now open for business

Here are Madelyn, Mo and Maria at the new FedEx/Kinko's on Grand Avenue. They opened this week. Stop by and check them out.

I am addicted to the chocolate croissants

Just when I am trying to give up coffee, another incredible place opens in the Grove. If you haven't been to Le P'tit Paris at 3105 Commodore Plaza (at Main Highway), get out there.

Here are Vincent, Regis and Kenia, who really are very welcoming.

Laura is writing down their daily specials. It's a great place to just hang out at a table and visit with friends.

There are so many delicious desserts to choose from (that's Kania again in the center of some of them). Vincent's coffee is to die for. I think I found a new hang out spot.

Party like it's 1899

The Barnacle's popular Old Time Dance is Saturday, May 31 from 6:30 to 10 pm.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes and come learn to dance the traditional American way: Contras, Squares, Circles, and Waltzes. Instruction is included so beginners are welcome.

Please park on the street or in one of the parking lots around town, then stroll down the lane into the park for an evening of Old Time fun and the tunes of a live Blue Grass band, Mudhole Control and a live dance caller on hand calling the steps.

Gate opens at 6 p.m. Picnics welcome. The cost for the evening is $8 per person; children under 10 are free. For additional information contact 305-442-6866 or visit www.FloridaStateParks.org/TheBarnacle .

The Barnacle is at 3485 Main Highway.

Young Professionals Mixer tomorrow night

The next young professionals mixer at the Museum of Science (3280 S. Miami Ave.) is tomorrow, May 29 from 6 to 10 pm.

Presale tickets are $10 for members, $15.00 for the general public and at the door: $15.00 for members and $20.00 for the general public. This includes an open bar and light dinner. The "Spam Allstars" will be performing.

For more info: www.myspace.com/atmiasci and for info and tickets: 305-646-4209.

I've been thrown out of better places

There are some nasty folks at the John Frieda Mobile Salon charity thing for the Woman's Club. I was chased out after taking this photo of Johnny and Maritza.

I wanted to get their phone number and see how people could set up appointments for the rest of the day, but the rude management there would have none of it. Apparently they want model releases signed to take pictures in there. They are not models. They are hair stylists visiting the Grove for a charity event.

All the Grove residents getting their hair cut were up for my Grapevine pictures. The management was not amused.

Lowe's and Home Depot fight very similar

There was an interesting article in yesterday's Herald about a lawsuit planned against Lowe's to stop them from building outside the Urban Development Boundary -- there were a lot of comparisons to the Home Depot fight here in the Grove.

Our own Sue McConnell and Harry Emilio Gottlieb were quoted in the article.

Thanks to the fight by Sue and many others, the Home Depot in the Grove fits in well. It isn't the mega-structure that was planned and now Milam's will be expanding next door into the Walgreen's space when Walgreen's moves.

Walgreen's has broken ground on US1 and Bird Avenue, they prefer a free-standing store, which is great for Milam's. We may finally have a decent size supermarket in the Grove after so many years.

The displaced artist

Popular artist Jeffrey Passage will be at the Windisch-Hunt Gallery now that Café Tu Tu Tango closed. Jeffrey was displaced after Hurricane Katrina, so he came to the Grove to live and now he is displaced from Tu Tu Tango. But luckily he has a new home at Windisch-Hunt. You can see him working inside or on the sidewalk outside the gallery.

One last tango

Cafe Tu Tu Tango is history this week.

These photos in the slide show were taken over the past few years by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt.

Where is the Center of Town?

Many people have a problem with me mentioning The Bookstore all the time and calling it the "center of town." Not sure why.

And why are people comparing it to Books and Books? I don't consider it a literary giant, I consider it the neighborhood bookstore.

I call The Bookstore the "Center of town" NOT the "Center of the Universe" simply because it tends to be a meeting place for many people. And every time I am there, there are many people that I know. I am not saying it is the greatest business in the world or has the best coffee or books or whatever. I simply call it the center of town because it seems to be.

When I walk in, I literally see so many people I know, friends, people from the Village Council or BIC or other merchants from the Grove. It just tends to draw everyone. And they aren't always looking for books, they are hanging out and being neighborly. Although I guess Felice and Sandy would love for everyone to buy books, too -- and coffee and pastries.

Where do you consider the center of town? I don't mean logistically on a map, I mean, where do you tend to hang out, meet people, take visitors BEFORE you go off to shop or eat or whatever. Like if you and I were going to meet for the first time and we didn't have any specific plans of where to eat or drink, etc, I would say, "Meet me in front of The Bookstore."

Where would you prefer to meet and greet before we were off to do something else? Qdboa? Cefalo's? Monty's? Maybe the new Kinko's? The Bookstore just seems to make sense.The walking club meets in front of the Guess store, right across the street from The Bookstore. "Guess" that works for them. Pun intended.

What Coconut Grove could be

I've been on a fact finding mission on Florida's west coast. Actually I've been visiting friends for the Memorial Day weekend, but I've seen some nice things that would be perfect for the Grove. I don't like to usually post things that are not Grove-related, but I have been seeing so many things here that would be great for the Grove.

First off, in Venice, the Venice Little Theatre is what the Coconut Grove Playhouse could be. Last night it was standing room only for two events going on at the same time. They had a Neil Simon play in one area of the theater and in another area, there was a limited revival of the "Rocky Horror Picture Show," which has been sold out for the whole run.

Many of you will remember that Rocky Horror was a staple in the Grove for years, at a movie theatre on Grand and McDonald, which is now taken over by the post office.

There is no reason why something like this cannot be done at the Playhouse -- Rocky Horror once in awhile, revival movies once in awhile, plays and other live performances once in awhile -- things that would keep the Playhouse open for most of the year.

Now Sweetbay. How do I describe Sweetbay. Sweetbay is a cross between Publix, Whole Foods and Trader Joes. It would be a perfect fit for Coconut Grove, the prices are great, there is plenty of natural organic food and it's a clean state-of-the art supermarket.

Sarasota is an art-lover's paradise. From one end to the other there is art. There are galleries, there are artist neighborhoods, there are museums and there is art on the streets. Up and down US41, along the water and the marina, you'll see large, incredible sculptures.

There is even talk in the Grove now about lowering the lights on the light poles for better lighting. In Venice, they have double lights on the poles. One is way up at the top and lights the street, the other is lower on the other side of the pole and lights the sidewalk. I don't have a photo of them though.

Also, there has been talk about artists painting bus benches in the Grove, to add a little color and life. They do that here, too. It really does look good. This one above is painted like a piano. And you'll notice the large yellow piece of art behind it.

The folks in this part of the state enjoy keeping their history and art and they combine them into one beautiful lifestyle. They don't knock down the old to build new, they incorporate the old into their city and revere it.

Maybe the Village Council, BIC and others should take a fact finding tour to Venice, Sarasota, Siesta Key and other places on the west coast and see what the Grove could be. Take me with you please, I'll be your guide.

Busy weekend night

Cabs, rickshaws, we have 'em all in the Grove. Perfect for a romantic weekend night.

I'm lovin' it

I am addicted to McDonald's coffee and their new chicken sandwiches. And I can get them both ways -- hot coffee or iced coffee or a breakfast chicken biscuit or a lunch chicken sandwich. I didn't drink coffee for such a long time, but now if I am not at Focaccia, I am at McDonald's.

And I'll find myself just pulling in any time of the day to just get coffee. I like the iced coffee just black, without cream or sugar and they still don't get that, so I have to repeat it over and over, "Plain, nothing in it, no sugar, no cream." They look at me like I have three heads, but it is so fresh, crisp and clear that you don't need to add anything.

OK, enough of the McDonald's commercial. Apparently not everyone feels the same because I saw this thrown away chicken sandwich in Coral Gables the other day. Right there on the sidewalk. It actually looks like a fish, but I think it is the McDonald's chicken sandwich.

Big splash in the Grove -- up, up on the roof

Today was a hot, hot day -- a perfect day for a pool and right on schedule, the Mayfair Hotel pool arrived.
Virginia Street was a spectacle as huge trucks arrived and reinforced themselves for the actual pool lift to the roof.

The town came out today, to experience a really unique thing.

Finally, after all these years, the Mayfair Hotel has a pool. On the roof!

It reminds me of that "Sex and the City" episode where they are up on the hotel roof enjoying the exclusive environment. I can't wait to get up there and check the pool and the views when the whole installation is complete.

The skilled workers did an incredible job. Now the final installation takes place atop the hotel, out of site.

Next, the designers move in and turn the concrete shell into a paradise.

Photos by Harry Emilio Gottlieb

It was a successful opening night

I sent Sylvia out last night to get some photos of George's in the Grove (3145 Commodore Plaza). They had a huge crowd for opening night. Sylvia told me she enjoyed the food and wine. I think she had too much wine, because aside from these two photos, the rest came out too dark to use.

You can see George Farge in the center of both photos, making the rounds. That's Lee Marks standing in the photo below listening to George's words of wisdom. He really does know how to run a restaurant and throw a party, which actually are one in the same when it comes to George.

Patiently waiting

This PYT waits at Starbucks. In July, Starbucks will be moving across the street to CocoWalk. They will be featuring a wall of art, created by local artists.

Chamber cocktail party on Tuesday

The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commmerce is having their post-election, pre-installation networking cocktail party at Al Fresco Restaurant (3138 Commodore Plaza) on Tuesday, May 27, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm.

Join the new board members on the terrace for a complimentary cocktail & hors d'oeuvres,
additional drinks at Happy Hour prices. Plus there are raffle prizes.

$5 Chamber Members $10 Non-Members
R.s.v.p. 305-444-7270 or info@coconutgrove.com

George's in the Grove opens today at 6:00

George's in the Grove is opening at 6 pm sharp tonight. They have all their licenses and are prepared to serve you. I caught some of the crew setting up the sidewalk. These elegant white sofas will be outside, along with the typical café tables.

Is the poster too funky for the area?

A reader sent this photo in. The poster is in the window of Funky Urban Klothes at 2996 McFarlane Road. She wonders if it is too racy to be next to a church and school (St. Stephen's). And their initials seem to be "F.U." I am more concerned with their spelling. Klothes?

To see it larger, please click on the image.

TreeWatch Committee receives award

The Cocoanut Grove Village Council's TreeWatch Committee has been selected to be the recipient of the Trees Florida Awards Program Outstanding Tree Advocacy Group Award for 2008.

TreeWatch, a committee of the Village Council, acts as a liaison with the City of Miami’s Code Enforcement and Public Works departments, serving as the Grove’s clearinghouse for reporting incidents of illegal tree removal, expediting and following up on incidents that may have otherwise gone unreported, and ensuring that citations and mitigation occur. TreeWatch files appeals to save trees, especially those in the public right of way, which have been issued permits by the City for removal at the request of an individual or developer, and which are healthy and pose no hazard.

TreeWatch was founded in November of 2005 by a group of Grove quality of life activists, including Bob Ferreira, former Village Councilman, and Liliana Dones and Marc Sarnoff, then the head of the One Grove Alliance. Sarnoff and Dones were named Co-chairs, and the TreeWatch was then folded into a Committee of the Village Council.

When Marc Sarnoff was elected as City Commissioner, Liliana Dones, who also serves as Village Councilwoman, and on the City of Miami's Green Commission, remained as chair of TreeWatch. The TreeWatch core group includes Santiago Villegas, Jim McMaster, who is president of another fine tree advocacy organization, Treeman Trust, certified arborists Pierre Sands and Bob Brennan, but essentially, every tree-caring resident of Coconut Grove (and some even outside of the Grove), is an official member of TreeWatch, each applying what they do best to the end of saving the trees which are a hallmark of the community.

The Outstanding Tree Advocacy Group Award is presented in recognition of an organization stimulating landscape beautification, tree planting, maintenance, preservation and/ or public educational programs within their community.

For more information on Trees Florida, visit www.treesflorida.com. For more information on TreeWatch, and the Coconut Grove Village Council, visit www.coconutgrovevillagecouncil.com .

Free haircuts for charity

John Frieda Mobile Salon is coming to the Woman's Club of Coconut Grove Tuesday and Wednesday, May 27 & 28 from 10 am to 6 pm, to give free haircuts by celebrity stylists. This is a fund raiser for the Woman's Club renovations. Tell your friends and make an appointment by going to www.johnfrieda.com/salontour .

This will take place on the grounds of the Woman's Club (2985 S. Bayshore Drive).

George's in the Grove is opening this week

I caught my neighbor George Farge checking out his new place at 3145 Commodore Plaza. They plan to open tomorrow, May 22.

Mangoheads are very proud today

Mimi Davila won the Silver Knight Award for drama last night. She was one of 15 winners selected from 1,100 nominees. She joins past winners like Amazon.com founder and CEO, Jeff Bezos.

If you were hiding under a mango tree this past year, Mimi is half of the Chongalicious Girls who were the King Mango Strut's 2007 Grand Marshals. That's her above, at right, with Laura Di Lorenzo.

Mimi said that the King Mango Strut was mentioned during the ceremony. And they didn't hold it against her!

This sounds like a great excuse for Mangoheads to PARTY!

For the Herald story and a photo of Mimi getting her award,
please go here.

Photo by Harry Emilio Gottlieb

Celebrating birthdays

AnnaMaria and I both have birthdays this week, one day apart in fact, so we decided to have a little birthday breakfast this morning to celebrate.

Art loving crooks

This bronze, "Leslie," named after the model was stolen from in front of a house on Calusa. It's quite heavy and not that easy to move around.

The necklace below is one of two made by Uta, a local artist. One was stolen from the glass case at the Heart of the Grove gallery. It has jade and turquoise suspended from stones. Uta takes quite awhile to create the necklace as she searches for these natural beach stones and then graduates them like a strand of pearls.

Both of these are unique and if anyone has a clue of where they are, it would be very helpful if you contacted us here via email. Police reports have already been filed, and there are suspects in both cases.

Author Nancy Schleifer to sign her new book

Nancy Schleifer will be signing her new book "A Warrant for Mrs. Lincoln" tomorrow night at The Bookstore (3399 Virginia Street at 7:30 pm.

Come out and meet Nancy, have some coffee and pastries and enjoy a cozy Wednesday night in the Grove.

Flowers

I wrote about the flower shop on Commodore Plaza, but there is another great flower shop on the other end of town -- The Blond Tulip (3390 Mary Street #139), owned by Pearl. It's at the back, near Cielo on the Florida Avenue side. You'll notice it as you get toward the back of Mayfair because it looks like a big green jungle right outside their door -- lots of areca palms and plants will greet you.

You can reach Pearl at 305-444-9899 and her website is here: http://www.theblondetulip.com/

Rainy Monday in Coconut Grove

A wedding party in the rain.

A cozy lunch at Focaccia.

Claudia giving Carlos Falconi a massage before hair cut and Jacki is doing highlights for Sandra Hoyos at Aruj Salon and Spa.

Photos by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt

Grove Chamber announces 2008-2010 board

The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce held their Annual Board of Directors Election on Friday May 16, 2008. The Monthly Chamber Luncheon was held at Pisco Seafood Bar and Grille where much of the voting went on.

New members were elected to the board, joining the current members.

Executive Board
(Returning Officers to Executive Committee)
President -Liliana Dones, Creative Tools Inc.
Vice President - Gary Ciuca, Wachovia Securities
Treasurer - Anthony Noboa, Coconut Grove Bank
Secretary - Carol Romine Hawks, Resident
At Large - Monty Trainer, Coconut Grove Arts Festival

Recently Elected or Reelected
2008-2010 Term Board of Directors
Mark Alvarez - Grand Bay Hotel
Felice Dubin - The Bookstore in the Grove
Mia Stierheim - Stierheim & Wesson/CocoWalk
Mary McDonald - MACCI Designs
Ed Prelaz - CBRE- The Shoppes of Mayfair
Guillermo “Willy” Vega - Oppenheimer and Co. Inc.

2007-2009 Term Board of Directors
Returning for 2nd Year of 2 Year Term
Manuel Alonso-Poch - Arts & Minds Center
George Cozonis - Sonesta Hotel and Suites
Pat Dahne - Pat Dahne Realty Group
Doreen LoCicero - Resident
Sue McConnell - Resident
Michelle Niemeyer - Attorney
Carol Romine Hawks - Resident

For membership or general information, please contact Richard Issa, Administrative Officer, at info@coconutgrove.com or 305-444-7270.

More on CocoWalk

Some people are upset that I changed my stance on CocoWalk, but I did it honestly for two reasons.

First because the person who soured me on CocoWalk actually threw a fit and tantrum right in front of Mia, me and a few others in CocoWalk management -- right on cue. I could not have planned it better myself. Mia stood there shocked, she actually saw what their problem is. It is THAT person who has no business dealing with the public.

I won't go into details, but those of you attacking me need to see all sides of the story. I have kept some of it private to protect the person in question. But as soon as Mia saw the problem, she saw my side and I then saw her side. A third person was the cause of many problems. Again, I have email proof of this from many people who were emailed rude, nasty comments by this person, as he/she tried to "defend" CocoWalk.

Secondly, Lucky Strike Lanes really did make me see differently. I know it is an upscale alley and I know it is not Bird Bowl, but I think that Lucky Strike is a perfect fit for the Grove. My fear was that they were getting rid of "user friendly" places and gearing more toward turning the Grove into Bal Harbour and Merrick Park.

After all, we do have a commissioner who wants to turn the Grove elitist, many people want to get rid of the late night bars and clubs (I don't) and I honestly feared that they got to CocoWalk's owners and management and I feared that little by little that the Grove would turn into something it's not -- an elitist place only for the chosen few.

The wine spa coming and Tu Tu Tango leaving, started this erroneous thought in my head. Also daily emails from concerned citizens didn't help with the confusion. Many people were concerned.

I know Lucky Strike isn't cheap, but it is a night out. It may not be a place for 16 year olds to go on a date, but I don't see how a grown man and woman or group of friends can't afford to bowl a few games, have a few drinks and enjoy an afternoon or night doing something different. It won't break the bank. It would literally be cheaper than a tank of gas these days.

I have blogged every event at CocoWalk for the past three years from Santa's arrival to profiles on individual stores to the recent Art Strolls and Fashion Show. So for someone to say I turned 180 degrees makes no sense. I was concerned about the direction the place was going to be taking in the future. I didn't hate CocoWalk or anyone associated with CocoWalk.

As for the "white trash" comment -- I was trying to be funny. It didn't work. I apologize for that.

Healthy Farmer's Market every Saturday

The Mayfair Farmer's Market is still happening every Saturday at the arcade walk-thru area at Mayfair. Along with the fresh fruits and vegetables for sale is this great healthy, hot veggie food, served in pitas. They also have green tea. And below you'll see you can even get a massage or have a little yoga class on the spot.

David or David?

Please click on the image for larger version.

Big fish

My neighbor Chris has been busy. Last week he caught this 25 pound Grouper, some Tuna and five Sailfish (which he released). All, right in Grove waters.

Going back to their roots

The Coconut Grove Flower Shop has moved from 3112 Commodore Plaza (above) across the street to 3137 Commodore Plaza (below). The cool thing is that the new location is really their old location. They opened there in the 1940's! Talk about going back to your roots -- roots, flower shop, get it?

Apparently they are going to be knocking down the 3112 Commodore Plaza site to build a four story building, I think something like this below, because it's the same owner.

My next door neighbor Constance Steen owned the flower shop for many years before the current owners.

Deblois performs at Barnacle Under Moonlight

Deblois will be performing at this month's Barnacle Under Moonlight Concert on Tuesday, May 20. It's a concert full of “smart lyrics and great hooks, with undercurrents of Jazz, Blues, and surf culture” from 7-9 p.m. at The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway. Gates open at 6 pm, rain or shine.

Deblois, a Miami native, has toured extensively throughout the United States and Central America. Her unique blend of styles incorporates “acoustic roots music and soulful original tunes with an eye for the universal and great melodies to sing along to.” In addition to performing world tunes that she has infused with her own flavor, she will also be performing original songs from her CDs “Leviathan” and her latest, “Velveteen.”

Admission: $7.00 for adults and kids age 10 and over;
$3.00 for children ages 6-9; children under 6 are free.

They are being robbed blind

Note to Bath & Body Works -- you are being robbed blind.

A family in a green car comes in, doesn't pay and exits with bags full of merchandise.

Can it be an inside job? How can they just walk in, help themselves to large shopping bags, fill them up and exit.

One of the the security guards for Mayfair has the license number and info on this family (I have the picture of their car and license plate), you may want to wake up and nip this in the bud before the store goes broke.

What's in CocoWalk's future?

When I met with Mia, we really didn't talk much about Tu Tu Tango, that's already beating a dead horse, they are leaving and there is no turning back.

I know the owner was recently in a bad divorce and maybe he just wants to close up and move on. Tu Tu Tango tells me one thing, Mia tells me another -- just the usual landlord-tenant dispute. Maybe it's just time for them to go. I do know now that CocoWalk was working with Tu Tu Tango. They offered them a month-to-month lease so that they could figure out what they wanted to do, they gave them repair money to fix the floor and ceiling, they did work with them and did not want them to leave.

I don't know if anything new is going in there yet. It's not easy to rent space these days in malls or apartment buildings and that one particular location does need a lot of work.

As you have probably heard, Muvico Theaters is opening their first megaplex theater in the county at CocoWalk, so that should bring in some new people who hopefully stick around and visit before or after the movie.

What you may not have known is that Lucky Strike, the bowling alley/lounge is going in right next door! So that really is a coup for CocoWalk! To me, that is the direction that CocoWalk should be
going in. Fun for all -- more South Beach, less Bal Harbour.

The new theater is going to have VIP areas with reclining plush seats with a full service bar and restaurant. There will be a child care area, valet parking (hopefully in the garage and not on the streets) and reserved seating.

If you look up at the theater now, to the left will be a restaurant/eating area, the movie theater will be in the center and Lucky Strike will be to the right. I'm truly looking forward to this. They will do this in phases, so as not to be too disruptive, but the AMC theater will probably be out of commission for some time.

It will be awhile though before the new theater and bowling alley open. Their planned opening is not until October 2009. Ouch.

Best buds

So I met with Mia Stierheim, retail specialist at CocoWalk, and we really hit it off. We had a great time going around the Grove.

We walked around and talked and really enjoyed the afternoon. We both learned that there are two sides to every story. She knows where I was coming from (I kept being fed different information from her own organization -- that's where the confusion started).

I told her that I really do like CocoWalk, and I am just blogging the sentiments of many people who email me or speak to me directly. But I am always promoting their events. CocoWalk's photo is the image printed on the front of the Grapevine's business cards.

There are lots of cool plans for CocoWalk, I'll talk about them soon. I think it is going to turn around for the better. Mia actually asked me my opinion on certain things and was honestly concerned about what people think and she wanted to know what direction CocoWalk should go. This was really nice to see.

Mia was born at Mercy Hospital -- she is a true Grove native and she does care about the Grove and its residents and visitors. I really was getting the other impression. I was wrong.

She did say that Emile Mourad, owner of Full Bodied Wine and Spa, now under construction at CocoWalk, feels bad about his comments (imported drunken crowd) and wished to apologize. She says that when they first opened his storefront to show him the space, there was a squatter living there. He had his own little bathroom area and food area and sleeping area. Of course, they had to send him away, but that's what Emile had to deal with and in spite of it, he signed a lease, so maybe he's not such a bad guy after all.

The wine and spa combination is some sort of new thing out of California. I am not familiar with it.

So I'm glad Mia and I had the chance to meet and talk. We plan on doing lunch soon. We'll take you along -- through the blog, of course.

Welcome to the hood!

Sophia and Madelyn, FedEx/Kinko's new manager, and Yasnai were making the rounds in the Grove today introducing themselves and promoting Kinko's. They will have six rental computers and of course wi-fi. The Grove's FedEx/Kinko's is opening May 27 at 2982 Grand Avenue, between Qdoba and 24 Hour Fitness.

Something good at CocoWalk

Congrats to Mari-Nalli at CocoWalk for winning "Best Quesadilla" in this year's New Times Best of 2008 poll.

Two other Grove places made the list:

Best Place to Mountain Bike - Grove Skate Park

Best French Restaurant - Le Bouchon du Grove

Best Blog went to Eye On Miami. Well deserved.

Renaissance on Commodore Plaza?

While I feel The Bookstore is the center of town, I see a shift back to Commodore Plaza as the center of activity. With new restaurants opening on Commodore Plaza and the uniqueness of businesses, I see more people gravitating there.

Greenstreet is crowded any time of day and night. Mr. Moe's always has a crowd and Christabelle's Quarter has its following. Somoto and Al Fresco are popular and Cita's and George's in the Grove are both opening this month, more and more people are going to Commodore Plaza to eat and shop.

I'm not sure, but I think Commodore Plaza has more restaurants than any area of the Grove now and they are all local restaurants -- not chains.

All the businesses on Commodore Plaza are unique, in fact. There are art galleries, a flower shop, jewelry stores, ice cream shops and many one-of-a-kind stores and shops, even the second hand store (This 'n That) fits right into the funky mix. The tree canopy and brick-lined streets, valet parking on weekends and quaintness are bringing people back.

The plantings from last summer are adding a lot of greenery to the area, too. The only two problems are the old empty Firkin and Friar place, which needs to be rented out and the post office at the end of the street, which needs a lot of attention.

Real fine art in our midst

Would you like the opportunity to meet someone who shared studio space with Picasso in Paris in 1951? If so, watch the Windisch-Hunt Fine art Gallery this fall.

Maximiliano Gonzales de Olazabal, shown here with AnnaMaria, also painted with Wilfredo Lamb. They did one joint painting which will be on exhibition but not for sale.

AnnaMaria is looking to honor working artists who have become National Treasures in their own right. This is a designation given to artists in Japan who have given their best and continue to create in their field of endeavor.

CocoWalk is not bohemian enough for Grove

I don't think CocoWalk fits into the Grove anymore. Has it ever? Management doesn't understand that they are not the Bal Harbour Shops or Merrick Park.

The owners of CocoWalk are from New Orleans, I believe, but CocoWalk isn't even bohemian enough for New Orleans.

It's a shame that we can't have the likes of Monty Trainer to run CocoWalk or AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt or Felice Dubin, or Liliana Dones -- you know -- GROVE PEOPLE.

Why is it ok for a new tenant to call the customers of another tenant an "imported drunken crowd?" Is this the new sort of business CocoWalk is trying to draw -- elitist snobs? To many people Tu Tu Tango IS CocoWalk and when it is gone, CocoWalk will be just another mall. There is nothing at CocoWalk that says Coconut Grove anymore. There's nothing unique. Is there? It's just a bunch of chain stores. You could be in Anytown, USA.

People come to Coconut Grove because it is different. They aren't coming here for The Cheesecake Factory, The Gap or Starbucks. While there is room for all of these great businesses, let's not discard the businesses that make the Grove special. I would rather see an "imported drunken crowd" than "imported elitist snobs" any day of the week.

Bring some local businesses to CocoWalk and Mayfair. Give them a break on the rents so they have a fighting chance.

Chamber luncheon is this Friday at Pisco's

Pisco's Seafood Bar and Grill (3310B Mary Street) is turning out to be a favorite place for the Grove Chamber of Commerce. The next luncheon is this Friday, May 16 at noon, with a short networker at 11:30 am.

It's the Annual Election Luncheon, so there should be quite a crowd. Members will be voting for the 2008-2009 Board of Directors. If you can't make it, voting will take place before and after in the Grove Chamber office (2820 McFarlane Road).

$25 members/$35 non-members. Please RSVP by calling 305-444-7270 or emailing: info@coconutgrove.com

Heard around town . . .

What local Grove restaurant owner eats frequently (almost daily) at another restaurant in the Grove and then tries copying the recipes for his/her own restaurant?

Is this acceptable? Should he/she be told to stop it? Should he/she be banned from eating at the other restaurant?

Grove's Sailing Club's summer camp filling up

The Coconut Grove Sailing Club's summer youth sailing program for members and non-members is gearing up and will start next month. Camp begins at 9 am each day and ends at 4 pm.

Sessions are as follows:
Session 1 - June 9 thru June 20
Session 2 - June 23 thru July 3
Session 3 - July 7 thru July 18
Session 4 - July 21 thru Aug. 1
Session 5 - Aug. 4 thru Aug. 15

For registration, pricing and all the info you'll need, please go here. Or call here: (305) 444-4571 ext. 11 for the Sailing Director.

Busy agenda for next Village Council meeting

The Village Council meets tomorrow, May 15 from 7 to 9 pm at City Hall (3500 Pan American Drive).

On the agenda:

1) Jim McMaster of the Tree Man Trust will provide info about the Adopt-A-Tree program.
2) Fred Bredemeyer of the Miami Parking Authority will inform the Council about the Post Office parking lot mess.
3) Melodie Mitchell will give a presentation regarding the Goombay Festival which is June 7 this year.
4) Priscilla Morales of Miami-Dade County will provide info about the status of the Commodore Bike Trail.
5) Commander Jorge Martin from the Police Dept. and Robert Lupo of Grove Crime Watch will provide an update regarding crime in the Grove and what is being done to address the problem.
6) There will be a funding request for the Fourth of July Celebration.
7) Discussion of changes in the subcommittee structure that were discussed at the Council's May 1st workshop.

If you cannot attend, the proceedings will be televised on Channel 77 and on streaming video at: http://videos.miamigov.com/

There's always something to complain about

I can't believe that some people are complaining about the art galleries taking up empty storefronts in the Grove. Are empty storefronts better? Do you like the cardboard covered windows instead? Even the art covering the windows of the old Borders location is a hell of a lot better than empty windows.

Most of us like the art, if you don't, how about you get off your ass, contact the store owners and make some arrangements to find them renters? You'll get a commission, the store owner will have a renter and the artists will be thrown out onto the streets. Then you'll be happy.

I happen to think this is one of the nicer things that these landlords do. It sort of negates their overpriced rents when they do find renters.

St. Hugh's new Concert Series

St. Hugh Catholic Church (3460 Royal Road) is presenting a new concert series.

The first concert is this Friday, May 16 at 8 pm -- "An Evening of Piano and Voice Virtuosity." Included: Rachmaninoff Musical Moments op. 16, Liszt Spanish Rhapsody, music from Bellini's "La Sonnambula" and "Ride on, King Jesus." Performing will be Maria Aleida Rodriguez, soprano and the Coconut Grove Concert Chorus. Roberto Berrocal is the music director.

Admission is free, but a donation is requested. The money raised will benefit The Grove Outreach, which is a place where the church purchases and distributes food to the poor every Sunday. More info on the Outreach program here: www.st-hugh.org/church and for more info on the concert series and to be come a benefactor, please call 786-768-0640.

Icees, they're not just for children anymore

A friend told me that in the past she and friends used to put Tequila in AC's Icee's -- the lemon ones. They would drink a little off the top and then put the Tequila in. She made a point of saying they didn't drink in the park, they would take the Icee to go.

I told you all we had to do was will it

Related/Mercy project to be scrapped? Herald Story here.

From the Herald story: "One particular finding by the judges -- that the rezoning sought by Related was so out of character with the neighborhood that it amounted to ''spot zoning'' -- that is perhaps most damaging to the project's chances."

Above graphic by Harry Emilio Gottlieb

Out with the old, in with the jerks

This is a letter to the Editor at the Herald from Emile Mourad, owner of Full Bodied Wine and Spa at CocoWalk. He calls Café Tu Tu Tango's patrons an "imported drunken crowd." He says CocoWalk wants to keep its unique character, I don't know of any other business in CocoWalk with more of a unique character than Tu Tu Tango. It's like another world when you enter. You actually "leave the Grove" once you enter Tu Tu Tango.

Here is the letter:

As a new tenant at CocoWalk, I would like to reply to the article titled ''Adios Tu Tu''. The article seems to portray the new owners of CocoWalk as the greedy bad guy who is unsympathetic to the history of the Grove and simply wants to get rid of nonpaying tenants. This is not the case. Credit should be given to the new owners for what they are doing and giving to the Grove. Their idea is to build on the local, historic and individual flair of CocoWalk. The idea is to create a destination for all that builds on rather than depletes CocoWalk of its unique character; one that caters first to its local community and can still support homegrown success stories as well as the big chains.

The article misses the fact that although Tu Tu Tango may have been one of the original tenants, it became part of the movement that to some extent caused the downfall of CocoWalk. In recent history, CocoWalk lacked businesses that provided goods and services to a broad base. Instead, Tu Tu Tango and other past tenants catered to an imported drunken crowd. An important change has taken place in the passing of the 3 a.m. law. This law developed because of support for changes by local community leaders who hold the same vision of what CocoWalk should be.

Further support of this vision is needed to successfully revive the beautiful heritage at CocoWalk. I am proud to be a part of the rejuvenated CocoWalk and proud to be a part of Coconut Grove.

Emile Mourad
president, Full Bodied Wine and Spa

It must be a guy thing

Guys all lined up at The Bookstore (above) on an early weekend morning, reading the paper. That's Ciro with baby Brody in foreground. Below is a group at Starbucks across the street.

Top photo by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt, bottom photo by Tom Falco

Meetings this week

Tuesday, May 13 - 6:30 pm - Waterfront Advisory Board, City Hall Televised Ch 77 - or stream at http://videos.miamigov.com

Wednesday, May 14 - 7-9 pm - All Grove Crimewatch, St. Stephen's Church Great Room (2750 McFarlane Road), Come out and meet your neighbors, your police officers and your block captains. Representative from State Attorney's office present. Sign up to be a citizen on patrol. Parking validated.

Friday, May 16 - Coconut Grove Chamber luncheon - details to be announced. Info: 305-444-7270

Happy Mother's Day

Hot concert on a hot day

Seems like every time there is an event in the park, the whole town shows up. It was no different for yesterday's Jazz on the Bay.
There were lots of colorful umbrellas and I'm not sure if it was for shade or to shield from the few rain drops that fell down. Either way, they were useful. It was like 100 degrees out, the rain actually felt good and was a relief from the heat.

Lots of people ended up on the edge of the park because it turns out that food and drink was not permitted since they were selling it at the event. I had been told the food was permitted, but I guess only chairs and blankets were allowed.

Lots of vendors were selling water on McFarlane Road right from their cars, so it really didn't make sense that the concert goers couldn't bring the same things in since these "illegal vendors" were making money in spite of the "legal vendors" in the park.

Here's Taylor Dayne (left). She performed first. Her voice was just as great as it's ever been -- very powerful and she sang her familiar hits.

Here's some of the greasy food sold at the concert. If you brought healthy food in your own cooler, you were out of luck.
This young girl was checking out the concert from across the park as it was setting up.

"Marley and Me" wraps right here in the Grove

Not sure, but the Marley and Me wrap party is supposed to be at Nikki Coconut Grove tonight. It was planned for last night, but may be tonight instead.

After months of filming all over town, the Jennifer Aniston, Owen Wilson movie is finally done shooting and leaving town. Their final scene was filmed in front of Vizcaya yesterday, fitting that the last scene was filmed in the Grove since we were home base the whole time.

Jennifer's new boif, John Mayor should be at the rap party tonight with Jen and the whole crew. It may be quite a traffic jam with all the people from the Jazz on the Bay Festival right across the street coming and going and all the gawkers trying to see Jen and Owen and crew at the same time. The Grove will be hoppin' tonight.

New Grove billboard

Here's the new Grove billboard at US1 and 27 Ave. I gotta admit, that's truth in advertising. We do have some great restaurants here in the Grove. The one thing I think we need is a good Mexican place, but I think we have everything else covered to some degree.

Lou Gehrig's Disease Run/Walk held today

This morning was the 7th Annual Lou Gehrig's Disease 10K Run and 5K Run/Walk. It started and ended at City Hall in the Grove. Here are some of the volunteers.

Free concert today

Whether it's jazz or not, the "Jazz on the Bay" Concert is today at 3 pm. It's free and should be lots of fun in Peacock Park. Bring blankets, chairs and food and enjoy yourselves. I'll be there taking pictures, come back later tonight or tomorrow to look for yourself. You may be in one of the pictures!

Grove strollers

There's a lot of talk about the Art Stroll these days, but we noticed that there are lots of baby strollers on the streets of the Grove these days, too. Above is Anne Miller, with twins Sarah and Bridge and their little dog, Greta. Below are many more people enjoying the Grove with their baby strollers.

The twins had the coconuts because their neighbor was having his coconut trees trimmed, and the kids love the story "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom." It’s a popular children's story about the alphabet climbing up a coconut tree.

Has the Planning Department run amok?

This is a letter to The Miami Herald (not yet published):

It was not only because one of the City's planners' names is "Hal" that I was reminded of the movie Space Odyssey 2001 at last night's Commission Hearing. In discussing the 7-year amendments to the City's Comprehensive Plan, it became clear that the "machine" that is the Planning Department had finally transformed itself from serving the Commission into an independent actor, aggressively working to further its own interests.

Final documents were provided to Commissioners less than five minutes before the hearing. They were later told, as they considered a continuance, that if they did not approve the amendments that night they risked "being out of compliance." In direct competition with the amendments passed unanimously by the City’s own Planning Advisory Board, Planning proffered its own version.

An army of black-suited staff members "rebutted" public speakers’ testimony as it was delivered. The meeting was a chaotic mess. Truly, the Planning Department has run amok. It is time for the Commission and the City Manager to pull the plug, installing new leadership and putting staff in its correct place, carrying out the will of the Commission, not substituting its own.

-- Wendy Stephan, Miami

Grove Fitness Challenge comes to an end

For 12 weeks local participants worked extremely hard to improve their health and fitness in the Total Fitness Coconut Grove Fitness Challenge. All of the final evaluations are completed and judging is just about finished. There have been some amazing performances throughout the contest. Above is Sarah Jarvis, before and after.

Here is Roger Rodriguez

This is Brad Wohler. The grand prize winner will take home over $4,500 in cash and prizes. Judging is based on improvement in body composition, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and upper body strength.

Plugging us on tv

Wow. Sylvia is getting more famous by the day. She was just interviewed by one of the Spanish tv stations on Main Highway. I think it had something to do with Mother's Day, but I had her mention the Grapevine and I think she mentioned her cleaning service. So we both got a couple of free commercials out of it.

Here's another one: If you need a great cleaner (she likes to say "deep cleaner") who does windows and more, give Sylvia a call at 305-979-3060. I highly recommend her services.

Harp player joins Blue Man Grove tonight

Bill "Wailin Willy" Less is joining Blue Man Grove tonight at Pommes & Pané Café.

Bill has been playing harp and singing the blues in South Florida since 1980. He has performed on stages at numerous blues festivals and "A" clubs with local and national greats throughout his musical career. He has a clean rhythmic approach to harp and also knows when to add the right amount of hand percussion.

Come out tonight at 7:30 pm, there's never a cover charge.

For Blue Man Grove's live recordings, please visit: www.bluemangrove.com

Jazz in, on and around the bay

We're getting a lot of hits these days for people looking for Saturday's jazz concert. Only they are looking for "Jazz IN the Bay." I guess Jazz ON the Bay is just as silly, but with the English language ON the bay makes more sense than IN the bay. Go figure.

That ON the bay bothers me, too though. So I titled the blog headline "Jazz By the Bay." Either way, looks like it's going to be a large crowd if the amount of people searching for the event is any indication.

As you know, it's free this Saturday from 3 to 11 pm at Peacock Park.

Artist at work

AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt with Kevin Kirkwood, art and architecture student from UM, who spent the day creating a mixed media image right on the street outside the gallery. He started early and ended late.

The photo above was taken by Visual Journalism student Michelle Wallace whose project is to produce a multiple picture package for a final portfolio also at UM. She spent the day shooing photos of Kevin as passersby watched him work.

Kevin enjoyed the interaction with tourists and locals. Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones actually walked by, too. Everyone was so into Kevin's work that we missed the photo opportunity. When he passed by later on the other side of the street, Michelle got a photo, but it didn't come out well.

Melissa Mastroeini, student at New World School of the arts, felt comfortable enough to be part of the scene. She was a help to Kevin. She ran to get him supplies when needed and she helped AnnaMaria with the computer.

Michelle, Kevin and Melissa spent a long time in the Grove. They all kept an eye on the Gallery when AnnaMaria and I went for a walk around the village to take other pictures.

You can see the image taking shape above.

And after many hours of work, here is the finished product.

We are 3 today!

Happy Birthday
Coconut Grove Grapevine!

A Fairly Simple Affair

"Marjory's Circle", the new group formed to support the preservation and renovation of Marjory Stoneman Douglas's Coconut Grove home, is putting on its first event. They are sponsoring a "Tea for Marjory", a Mother's Day Tea honoring The Mother of the Everglades. May 14th marks the tenth anniversary of her passing.

The Tea will be on Mother's Day, May 11th, in Plymouth Church's Pilgrim House (3400 Devon Road), from 4 to 5:30 pm. Marjory's friends will tell stories and anecdotes.

This should be an easy and relaxing day. A few people will start setting up at 3 pm. Some others could just bring tea, crumpets and the like. Others can help serve and clean up.

Between 60 and 80 guests are expected. Let them know if you would like to be on the serving end of this fairly simple affair. Please call Glenn or Francesca for details: 305-448-3775.

Tu Tu Tango is the center of attention

Tisha Lewis from Channel 6 was interviewing people at Tu Tu Tango tonight. Guess it will be on the news later.

No sign of Richie or Potsie though

The Crepe place on Main Highway is now a Cuban fast food place named Fonzie's. Yum. We needed something like that around here.

Eat, drink and be merry

We caught lots of happy restaurant visitors around the Grove last weekend. Above, it seems that Greenstreet is for lovers.

Dana, Jen and Christen, UM students at Café Tu Tu Tango. Jen is having her graduation party there next week.

Happy diners at Le Bouchon du Grove.

The Vizcainos from Miami Springs at Mr. Moe's.

The Cabanas family at Cefalo's.

Photos by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt

A couple of motorbike accidents

Here are Freddy and Tina at the Last Carrot on Grand Avenue. Last week Tina rode by herself into Big Cypress and a deer crossed her path causing her to take a nasty spill on her motorbike.

She was fortunate, unlike Judy Orr our long time Grove librarian who was struck on her motorbike, in town, around the same time, by someone without a license or insurance.

Judy has undergone several surgeries The doctors are happy to report that there have been no infections which was their primary concern. She has been transferred to Jackson Rehabilitation Center at 1161 NW 12th Ave, room 215.

Jazz By the Bay at Peacock Park

Please click on the image for a larger version.

Getting all the facts

The Herald was at Tu Tu Tango today with camera, interviewing people.

Love when our posts give them leads on stories. Look for their report this week.

Results of Grove Slam

Once again, the Grove Slam set the standard for what fishing tournaments should be about. 181 teams and over 1000 anglers competed in the 7th annual event. And the stakes this year were high with over $45,000 in cash prizes.

This event’s popularity has grown immensely and now reaches outside of South Florida, even outside the state.

The Grove Slam takes place right on the water at Monty’s in the Grove.

Teams trickled into the Monty’s marina all day. Some teams made their way back early opting for the dock party over fishing. Others held out to the very last minute to make sure they used every possible moment to fish. As the teams weighed their catch, it was evident that the fishing was a bit slower than expected. All but for one team. The crew on “Fish Up!” had a banner day and broke the current Grove Slam record by .3 pounds.

Their total of 121.95 pounds with five fish is an impressive 24.4-pound average and good for $20,000. Quite an accomplishment especially since they did not have the big fish of the tournament. That honor goes to “Back for More” and their 48-pounder which was good for $5,000. “Fishin’ Magician” won $10,000 for their 2nd place dolphin because they were entered into a value-added category.

The top 5 teams were rounded out with “What” in second place followed by “Peacekeeper” in third. “T-Ser” finished 4th with “Dusky 33" in fifth place.

Photos and report taken from Grand Slam forums

Exclusive wine tasting for charity

The Fresh Market (2640 South Bayshore Drive) is hosting a Fine Wine Tasting Gala on Wednesday, May 21 to benefit Kristi House from 7 to 9 pm.

Tickets are $25.00

Along with the wine will be prime rib, shrimp cocktail, special cheeses and other special items. This is an exclusive event and tickets are limted. To reserve now, please call 305-547-6802 or email bfernandez@kristihouse.org.

Lots of people enjoyed the outdoor fashion show

"On the Catwalk" was a hit on Saturday night. People really enjoyed the outdoor fashion show. It started at 7 pm and then flowed into the afterparty. Let's hope they do it again soon. It's a great way to showcase local clothing and fashion businesses.

Photos by Sylvia Rodriguez

Something special is going on at Focaccia

My buds at Focaccia Rustica (3411 Grand Avenue) are introducing their new dinner menu tomorrow, May 7. They will be offering a 15% discount on the evening's featured meals (not including wines). To top it off though, they will be offering an $18.00 wine special on selected brands.

If you haven't been to Focaccia, you're in for a treat. You'll feel like you are in another country. The atmosphere and food are very special. I think I love their bread the best.

Entrees on May 7 include Lamb Chops marinated with fresh herbs and Chicken Marsala. On Thursday, May 8, they will feature Churrasco with caramelized shallots and home fried potatoes and pumpkin ravioli.

Friday, May 9 is Provencale Filet of Salmon served with kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, home fried potatoes, finished with lemon and lime sauce; also Chicken Tarragon and Penne Marinara -- with sauteed fresh cherry tomatoes, crushed garlic and basil finished with the homemade marinara.

And finally Saturday, May 10 -- New York Strip (a 16 oz. grilled steak with green peppercorn sauce); Seafood Linguine with a light basil cream wine sauce and Crispy Duck Confit (duck leg with orange sauce).

For more info: 305-476-8222.

Dead as a doornail for Cinco de Mayo

Not much going on for Cinco De Mayo. The Grove is a sleepy little village tonight. A few people were out at Fat Tuesday.

A couple of cops on bikes seems to be the only action on the streets.

What's the scaffolding on Virgina Street for?

No, Mayfair isn't being painted and The Bookstore is not getting new signage. The reason the scaffolding is along the wall on Virginia Street is because the Mayfair Hotel is getting a brand new pool for the roof!

That's right, they are replacing a small jazuzzi with a large size swimming pool. The street is closed today and maybe for the rest of the week. There are cranes out there today. The whole pool will be lifted to the roof in one piece.

Movie on Commodore Plaza

Looks like they are filming a movie on Commodore Plaza today. The movie equipment was all set up in front of Anokha.

How not to be a landlord

Café Tu Tu Tango's problem is mainly a landlord who keeps raising the rent. They would rather see an empty storefront than work with a tenant who has been there faithfully for 19 years. The owner of CocoWalk is fairly new. They don't seem to care about the mall, the tenants or the residents or visitors of the Grove. Raising the rents every chance they get is really stupid. Especially the way the economy is these days.

They don't get the fact that Tu Tu Tango brings business to CocoWalk. Regulars come in, they eat, drink, buy art and wander the mall and Grove spending money. I was told that Tu Tu Tango was losing $330,000 per month, but I think that figure must be $33,000 per month. Between the cost of running the place (the electricity, staff, food, supplies, etc.), the rent keeps going up and up to ridiculous levels.

A few other high profile clubs may not be there much longer either. Rising rents is the reason along with structural problems that are ignored. Did they try to repair anything after Hurricane Wilma?

Can Fat Tuesday be next? What about the other clubs or restaurants? I'm disgusted over this.

To voice your opinion, you can reach the manager of CocoWalk here: rtorres@cocowalk.net or 305-444-0777 ext. 12.

Quirky Sunday -- lots going on

"Sundays in the Grove" had a lot going on. The weather was perfect and from Commodore Plaza to Mary Street, people were out enjoying themsemselves -- eating, drinking, shopping and just hanging out.

That's Daniela Viotti, a living statue.
She was part of the entertainment, of course.

Grovites Ymi and Doug with Pepita out for a stroll.

Dr. Tony Weaver biked in from Miami Beach to enjoy the day of music.

It was a great day to enjoy food and drink at your
favorite restaurant or watering hole.

Island music was heard throughout the streets.

Artist, Katey Penner.

Observations from the community

Some observations after the events this weekend and after speaking to many Grovites:

1) All art galleries should participate in the Art Stroll. All should be open for business on the night of the stroll and some should not be doing their own thing the night before, which only hurts the whole event.

2) The Cat Walk fashion show should have been on another night -- not the same night as the Art Stroll -- this only ate into business for the Art Stroll and both CocoWalk events competed with each other.

3) Tu Tu Tango is loved by everyone and CocoWalk should fix the structural problems, lower the rent and do whatever is in their power to keep the restaurant from closing. Now is the time. CocoWalk's general manager may be reached at: rtorres@cocowalk.net or 305-444-0777 ext. 12.

4) Sundays in the Grove should be every Sunday. Every Sunday should have bands, art and entertainment for Grove residents and visitors. It should be a lively atmosphere and welcoming all of the time, not just the first Sunday of every month. Yesterday had so much going on and so many people out enjoying it all. It should be a constant thing each weekend.

Annoying Grove characters

Here is the 88 cents guy. As people walk by, he asks them for 88 cents for the bus. When he's not around, a well dressed woman walks up and down the street and she asks for cab fare. The bus is beneath her apparently.

"Sundays in the Grove" starts today

Today is the inaugural "Sundays in the Grove." The weather is perfect for it, too. Sundays in the Grove is the first Sunday of each month.

CocoWalk and the Streets of Mayfair will be offering live music from 11 am to 2 pm, and there will be arts and crafts on display and lots of things to do. The music will range from jazz, blues and acoustic -- a nice thing to accompany your brunch or lunch at your favorite Grove restaurant. Visit Café Tu Tu Tango -- they need you; share an appetizer, have a drink, buy some art, just stop by and support them if you can.

Next Saturday, May 10, in Peacock Park is Jazz By the Bay. Performers include Johnny Gill, Taylor Dayne, The Manhattans and more. Admission is free. We'll publish a poster of the event later this week.

It was a night of friends at the Art Stroll

Diana, Vilma, Robert, Barry and Rosemarie, friends from Kendall, enjoying a night of art.

Don and Gerda from Holland visit with water color artist Terry Mulrooney at Grove House Artists.

AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt, Debbie Starbuck, Charles Corda, Theresa Calluori, Ben Eglin and Giovanna Todaro at the Windisch-Hunt Gallery.

How many does it take to hang up a sign?

Louis DeBorello got this great picture of me on the ladder putting up AnnaMaria's new sign at the Windish-Hunt Gallery, just in time for tonight's Art Stroll.

That's AnnaMaria helping at left, with Michael and Jacob Gardner (Jacob is holding the ladder, you can't see him) and artist, Theresa Calluori, to the right.

Notice my halo, I'm not such a bad guy after all.

Here's Lillia Garcia of the Coconut Grove Art Festival Gallery, also getting ready for tonight's popular First Saturday Art Stroll.

Tu Tu Tango to close in three weeks

Café Tu Tu Tango's early morning light does beautiful things. Enjoy it while you can folks, word has it that after 19 years, Tu Tu Tango is closing. I have heard various rumors like the noise is too much and they lost their lease, but the truth seems to be two things: lack of business and even more than that, structural problems.

I had mentioned this awhile back, that there were structural problems on the upper floors at CocoWalk. I was told a lot of the damage was the result of Hurricane Wilma.

Let's hope something can be done. Perhaps if we actually show up and patronize the place it would encourage the owner into keeping it going, but maybe in another Grove location.

Below are bartenders Shaneka Murray and Judy Channing.

And then there is lovely Violetta, the Flamenco Dancer.

And when the Brazilian dancers come out, watch out!

It gets tu tu wild at Tu Tu Tango.

New gift shop opens at Windisch-Hunt Gallery

New at the Windisch-Hunt Fine Arts Gallery -- the gift shop. A fine collection of one-of-a-kind exclusive gifts perfect for weddings, Mother's Day, Father's day and birthdays.

And tonight, stop in during the Art Stroll and for one hour from 7 to 8 pm, enjoy a 10% discount on everything, except greeting cards.

Also, this will be the last weekend to experience the fantastic sculpture collection of Freda Tschumy.

The gallery has been a hot spot for art lovers. If you have not been by, stop in and check out the fine art by superior artists. The painting below is "Port of Call" by Fred Hunt, it's a large impressive piece at the back of the gallery. I admire it every time I'm there.

Meet the author, get an autograph

Please click on the image for a larger version

Special Art Stroll Discount at Focaccia Rustica

I stopped in for coffee and a sandwich this morning at Focaccia Rustica (3111 Grand Avenue).

Dominique and Daniel (D&D) told me that they will be giving a 10% discount tomorrow night, for those who attend the Art Stroll (you will obviously have to mention that you attended the Art Stroll or bring a card from one of the galleries). This discount will be on food only and does not include beer and wine.

Brenda's Pre-Mother's Day Sale

Join the Fun at Brenda's Boutique's
Pre-Mother's Day Sale!

Saturday, May 3rd from 2-10 pm
& Sunday May 4th from 12-8 pm

Join Brenda for Coffee & Doughnuts in the Early Afternoon
and Lemonade, Wine and Cookies in the Afternoon & Evening

There will be 20% OFF STOREWIDE
It's the perfect time to shop for all the
Moms on your list as Mother's Day
is right around the corner on May 11th.

As always, Brenda will make gift giving the easiest ever,
by offering great suggestions and free gift wrapping.

Please stop by and enjoy the fun even if you don't need
a Mother's Day Gift. Just Come by, Say HELLO,
Browse and/or Shop.

You can Sneak Preview Tonight from 5-9 pm

Brenda's Boutique is at 3092 Fuller Street
Info: 305-443-4662 or http://www.brendasboutique.org/

Busy CocoWalk weekend

The First Saturday's Art Stroll is back again this weekend from 7 to 11 pm. It's a great way to experience the art galleries in and around CocoWalk and Mayfair.

Along with that, this Saturday is "On the Catwalk at CocoWalk". The Charity event for Kristi House. More info is here.

Starting this Sunday is a new event: "Sundays in the Grove," which will now piggy back with the First Saturdays Art Stroll. Sundays in the Grove will run through the rest of the year -- even in the summer months. CocoWalk and the Streets of Mayfair will be offering live music from 11 am to 2 pm, there will be arts and crafts on display and lots of family fun. The music will range from jazz, blues and acoustic -- a nice thing to accompany your brunch or lunch at your favorite Grove restaurant.

The Grove is turning into quite the weekend hangout. It's getting better every weekend.

Free corkage at Grove restaurants?

A reader writes:

"How would you feel about free corkage at Grove restaurants? In Chicago (where I grew up) free corkage is the norm. That is, you bring a bottle of wine and you can drink it without paying the restaurant $20 or $30 just to open it. Personally, I would eat out far more often if I knew I could take my favorite bottle with me. I find the markup of bottles in restaurants to be ridiculous. I see no reason to pay $40+ per bottle, plus service, when some of my favorite wines are priced in the $10-$20 range. I see this as a win-win for restaurants. A free corkage policy will draw more of the local population in while still preserving the revenue stream from tourists."

-- Michele, a Grapevine reader

Here's the guy who actually fixes the computers

People have been asking about the computer repair shop at The Bookstore. This is Bryan, he is there to help Monday thru Friday from 7:30 to 9:30 am. He's on a Mac here, but he also works on PCs.

So if you do have a computer problem, bring it in to Bryan. He'll have most jobs done in one day.

Dining Out for Life

Today, if you eat at Qdoba Mexican Grill in the Grove, actually, any Qdoba, they will donate part of the money to Care Resources, South Florida's oldest and largest HIV/AIDS organization. It's part of the South Florida Dining Out for Life promotion going on in Dade and Broward.

May other restaurants are participating, but Qdoba is the only Grove restaurant.