Two new places opening tonight

Tonight, October 31, The Ivy (3159 Commodore Plaza, the former Christabelle's Quarter) will be open to the public for the first time for their Halloween party. The invitations all went out, first come, first served, so if you did not get in on it, you may not be able to attend, but who knows, maybe you can show up and enter to see their Halloween-themed party.

Another new place, that is finally opening, a week late, is Switch at the old Starbucks location at 3008 Grand Avenue (next to the Guess store, which actually is closing soon -- they come and they go).

Switch is having a great Halloween party for their opening night. There will be a costume contest with prizes. Ty-Ku Sake is the featured drink tonight, which will be featured in Sake Bombs, The Ring Saketini, Pineapple Saketini, It! and a Bloody Mary, Sake-style.

Don't be tardy for the Halloween party

There is a lot of anticipation and preparation for tonight's big Halloween night in Coconut Grove. The costume store on Grand Avenue had people arriving early to find that last minute costume.

Sandy (left) at The Bookstore, along with Felice, hosted the first Sergio's Book Club, for children. The kids all wore costumes and the discussion was on a spooky Halloween book. The next Sergio's Book Club will be November 21, and will be Thanksgiving themed.

The rest of the village is buzzing, too. At the Mayfair Promenade, the stage is going up for the Thriller Night party and lots of activity is over at the Miami Science Museum for the kids Creepy Crawl Halloween and tonight's haunted house.

Here is Sergio (center, with his Dad) at today's book club, along with his friends, who attended the event.


The port-o-potties arrived, the barracades are prepared, and the police towers are ready to rise above the crowds tonight.


Above, left, is the crew from Allure Salon (3405 Main Highway). They have their Halloween party tonight, starting at 9 pm at the Salon. Included is the celebration to lead up to their November 10 appearance on Tabatha's Salon Takeover, on Bravo. We'll remind you of that as the show date draws near. Allure may also have a viewing party that night.

And we can't forget the shoeless mascot at the Mayfair Antiques and Collectibles Market, who is all dressed up in the spirit of Halloween today. They are open until sunset, when the promenade is taken over by Thriller Night.

It was a fun Halloween-themed Art Happy Hour

Last night, the group at the Blu Moon Art studio, had a great Halloween Art Happy Hour. Sheri and Atena showed everyone how to make all sorts of wings: fairy wings, dragon wings, bat wings and angel wings for kids and adults.

Sheri (left) got all dressed up as some hot leathery ghoul and Atena (far right in pin) showed off her fairy wings. Art Happy Hour is the last Friday of each month, where arts and crafts are always mixed with drinks, food and friends.

Halloween in Coconut Grove; lots going on

There is a lot going on the Grove for Halloween.The streets will be filled with thousands of people, so put on your costume and hang out.

That's me, Victor Magluilo and AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt last year.

For all the organized Halloween events in Coconut Grove this year, there are the following:

The Bookstore (3399 Virginia Street) is having a Children's Book Club at 10 am. Kids should wear their costumes and come out to enjoy a book discussion on Spooky Stories.

CocoWalk has a lot going on in the day and at night. The Big Dog Adoption Day event is taking place during the day as well as lot of goodies and fun for the kiddies. And at night, CocoWalk will get wild with lots of tricks and treats. All the bars and restaurants are open and there will be a costume contest. I was asked to be one of the judges. So we'll be looking out for you.

The Ivy is having their Halloween party, which will be their first event. All tickets are gone by now, but stop by and see who is going and what they are wearing. Some of the best of the best costumes will be there. That's at the former Christabelle's Quarter location on Commodore Plaza.

The Creepy Crawl Halloween for kiddies is at the Museum of Science. Visit the haunted house while there, too. From 7-11 pm, visit The Theatre Institute of South Florida's Domain of Fears IV: Evil Magic, the Haunted House experience. Haunted House $10 admission per person with purchase of Creepy Crawl ticket. Domain of Fears can be experienced without attending the Creepy Crawl, admission $15.00 per person.

For adults, the Thriller Halloween Party is at Mayfair.

Allure Salon (3405 Main Highway) on Main Highway is having a Halloween party starting at 9:00 pm for their customers and friends. Stop by for a drink and some fun.

Dade Heritage Trust fundraiser at Crazy Pianos

Help support Dade Heritage Trust's work to restore Miami's historic places and celebrate Jimmy Buffett's endorsement of saving Miami Marine Stadium. The stadium recently was added to the endangered places for 2010 list by the World Monuments Fund. And earlier this year, it was added to the National Trust of Historic Preservation's list of most endangered historic sites in the country.

On Tuesday, November 10, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, "Preservation Today Magazine" is having a launch party at Crazy Pianos at CocoWalk. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres are included with the $25.00 donation.

Please RSVP to 305-358-9572.

Little ones are enjoying the Creepy Crawl

The Coconut Grove Creepy Crawl Halloween is off to a good start at the Museum of Science. The kiddies are filling the place fast. The advantage is that once you pay admission, you have free reign of the whole museum and the kids are really enjoying that aspect of touring the whole museum and interacting with hands-on displays.

Outside there are many blow-up bounce houses and lots of food vendors. Above left are Barbie and Marilyn at the Cold Stone Creamery booth. Valentina Crespo, with blue hair, is a digital pop-art designer, she has lots of cute kids apparel for sale. Colin is dressed as Charlie Brown today. He and Snoopy have been posing for cameras all day.


AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt and Heather Bettner are manning the pumpking painting room, where you may also color on coloring book sheets. Nico, Candice and Andreas stopped in to check out the pumpkins and fun that fills the museum.


The outside vendors include ice cream, snow cones, crepes, hot dogs and more. My favorite were the creepy cupcakes. Care for an eyeball cupcake? Only $1.00 from Elite Catering.


The pumpkin painting is fun, for only $5.00 you get a small pumpkin that you can paint and take home with you. The grandmothers are out today with their grandchildren, from left: Naomi Morales, Judy Wurst, Ashley Wagner, Betty Conkling, Alexis Alberts and Robert Burns.

The Creepy Crawl is open from noon to 11 pm today, October 30 and tomorrow, Halloween, day. It's at the Miami Science Museum (3280 S. Miami Avenue). Admission is $16 for adults, $12 for kids.

The Theatre Institute of South Florida's Domain of Fears IV: Evil Magic, a Haunted House experience is from 7 to 11 pm. The Haunted House is $10 per person with purchase of Creepy Crawl ticket. Domain of Fears can be experienced without attending the Creepy Crawl, for an admission of $15.00 per person.

To purchase tix, please go to: http://www.miamisci.org/ or call 305-646-4200 or just purchase them at the door.

Mangoheads are a parody of themselves

The Mangoheads met on Monday night in Coral Gables. A proposed rough draft of a proposed license agreement was made between Glenn Terry and the Strut corporation (Coconut Players, Inc.), allowing them to use the King Mango Strut name and logo for the next 33 years.

A resolution was made, which would allow the Strut to move if the City does not give them a permit this year, the resolution goes like this: "If Coconut Players, Inc. is unable to get the City of Miami's permission to put on a 2009 parade on the streets of Coconut Grove we will consider producing our parade at another site or in another city."

The Mangoheads agreed that if they do have a parade this year, "Balloon Boy" or something prominent in this year's news should be the grand marshall. Michael Jackson?

Someone volunteered their 7-year-old son as Balloon Boy, as long as he is is not forced to go aloft. They told him that popping out of a box repeatedly, would do.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, actually, at the BID Special Events and Marketing meeting yesterday, Antoinette Baldwin explained that there are two applications in for the same event, they are under the names King Mango Strut, Inc. (the original) and Coconut Players, Inc. (the new group). Glenn Terry is apparently director of both.

According to City laws, the preference for each event date goes to the event that has the status quo, in other words, the original event gets first dibs on the date in question. So the original King Mango Strut, Inc. has first rights to the last Sunday of the year, which is December 27.

As of now, the City refuses to make a decision on who gets the date and who gets the application approved, even though the law is clear. The city needs to secure the date and the BID will then give funding for the event. It's all up in the air right now.

It's a parody of itself. Is there a marching unit ready for this?

Celebrating Halloween early

The students from MCA Academy on Oak Ave. were out yesterday, celebrating Halloween early. We caught them crossing Grand Avenue all decked out in their Halloween finest.

Try the BBQ at The Fresh Market

If you haven't tried the barbecue at The Fresh Market (2640 S. Bayshore Drive), today and tomorrow are the days to stop by. From 11 to 2, Friday and Saturday, they were preparing their delicious burgers and rib eye steak sandwiches. Store manager Ovidio is right there preparing the lunch with his crew, so you know it's got to be good.

It's a real treat. I asked them to add hot dogs, and they said they just might. Hope they do. And ribs wouldn't hurt either. :)

Also, on Friday only, there is a wine tasting from 3 to 7 pm. In the spirit of Halloween, try wines called Dracula, Phantom, Vampire and Dead Man Ale. Mix and match and get 15% off 12 bottles or more.

Barnacle Under Moonlight Concert

Delicious fresh food at new Grove Green Market

The first Coconut Grove Green Market came to town yesterday and it looks like it's a hit. From 3 to 6 pm, the market offered fruits, vegetables, prepared foods, plants and other items. Above, Johanne and Frantz manned the Gerbaud Baker booth, which also sold pork and turkey dishes, which some of us took home for dinner.


There was an area to eat and enjoy the prepared food and drinks. Everything was reasonably priced and nice and fresh. My favorite were the heirloom tomatoes. They tasted so sweet and juicy. They were just that perfect.


The Green Market will be back every Wednesday, be sure to stop by next week if you missed it yesterday. They will have lots more organic produce as the South Florida growing season kicks in; that will be by the end of November and beginning of December.

Blu Moon offering art classes and workshops

Brian F. Call will be instructing two classes at the Blu Moon Studio (3444 Main Highway) of Art in November.

From November 3 through December 1, each Tuesday, learn the art of Stained Glass; the Lead Came technique. The five-week class is designed to teach the techniques of lead came including pattern preparation, safety, cutting the lead came and soldering it together. Class is from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Price is $150.00.

Introduction to Photography runs from November 5 through December 3. Each Thursday, learn camera basics, like F-stop, shutter speed and ISO as well as image histograms for digital cameras and how to read them. This class is from 7:30 to 9:30 pm. Price is $150.00

On Sunday November 8, there is a Mandala Workshop at Blu Moon from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Create a personal Mandala in colored pencil, no drawing experience needed. The image to the left is a Mandala. The cost is $35 and includes refreshments and all materials. Please RSVP to reserve a space. Workshop is limited to 15 participants.

Call Sheri Friedman at 305-529-5006 or email her at sheri@blumoonstudio.com for more info or to reserve or sign up for either, or both classes.

Roberto Carcasses at Abanico Theatre

Roberto Carcasses Unplugged will be at the Abanico Theatre (3138 Commodore Plaza) for one show only tomorrow night, October 30 at 9 pm.

Roberto is one of the "driving forces in a new style of music dominating the Havana music scene."

Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for students. For tickets, please call 786-523-3902 or you may purchase them at the box office.


Better known as Robertico Carcassés in artistic circles, he graduated specializing in percussion from the National School Of Arts in Havana in 1991. A year later he embarked on
numerous tours in Argentina, Germany, and Spain as a pianist in Santiago Feliú's band. In the '90s Carcassés and sax player Yosvany Terry led the Afro-Cuban jazz outfit Columna B in the U.S., and around the same time he gave a workshop at Stanford University.

Mack Cycle's needs to mind their own business

Mack Cycle in South Miami has sent out the following letter to their customers. Since when is Mack Cycle, a business in South Miami, choosing the laws for the Grove? If they cared about the Grove, they would have a store in the Grove.

And if they are dictating when bars can open and close are they going to go after Brickell and downtown clubs that are also in the City of Miami and open to 5 am and even 7 am? And what about South Beach and other areas? I am sure their customers are from those areas, as well.

We will soon have three bike shops in the Grove when the new one opens at McDonald and Grand (there is also Revolution on Main Highway and SoFlo Skate Shop that sells and works on bikes further up Grand). And in the works is a bike rental place. So we'll actually have four locations.

Why do we even need Mack Cycle and why are they even in our business? Does Mack Cycle think bicyclists are going to avoid the Grove because of bar closing times? I would think that their customers would resent their meddling and and bullying tactics. I think they do because quite a number of them actually sent me the email that went out, and these customers are quite upset.

And of course, the letter sent out is peppered with lies. Not all PTA's, churches and schools even know what the issue is about, so I doubt they have weighed in on the issue and as for MADD, if you ask anyone if they would like to have their children hit by drunk drivers, they of course are going to respond frantically. So throwing in the PTA, schools and MADD is just inciting the issue and using scare tactics, which is pathetic. If you word the question in the right way, anyone would be against anything.

Officer Guell and Chief Timoney have both been hit by cars in the Grove on their bikes during the day. Should we maybe stop serving alcohol altogether? Perhaps Mack Cycle is trying to get all the Grove's customers to go to South Miami and drink all night? Then they can all drive home drunk after spending all their money in South Miami, while the Grove dies out.

This is what Mack Cycle is sending to their customers, again do they realize all of Miami (except the Grove, actually has 5 am and 7 am and 24 hour bar closings already?):

"Did you know that there is a bill pending in the City of Miami to extend bar openings to 5 am? That means drunk drivers on the road while you are training! You can help prevent this from happening and make the roads safer for all of us and other early risers. Please join MADD by copying this email and sending to Commissioner Marc Sarnoff of City of Miami."

Here is the letter:

Dear Commissioner Marc Sarnoff,

"On behalf of the hundreds of cyclists who ride the streets of Coconut Grove, I am writing to express my great concern that the City of Miami is considering extending the sale of alcohol by bars and restaurants in Coconut Grove till 5 am. One of the main reasons so many cyclists ride through the Grove is, quite simply, we feel safe. Quite a number of us have had close calls with drivers in other parts of the City and are grateful that the roads are safer in Coconut Grove. We fear that will change if you allow drinking to continue till 5 am.

Anyone leaving the bars at this time will be on the road at the very same time many of us are beginning our rides. This is unacceptable to us and we respectfully request that you consider the safety of citizens when making this important decision. Miami was recently named one of the un-friendliest cycling cities in the nations.

We applaud you decision to adopt the Bicycle Action Plan in an effort to change that. Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and nearly every local church and school PTA are united with us in this effort to keep the Coconut Grove Bar closures at 3 am. The cycling community of South Florida is following this issue very closely and we sincerely appreciate your support and commitment to keeping our roads safe. Please support keeping the Coconut Grove Bar closure at 3 am.

Thank you for standing by your principles."

Haunted House in Coconut Grove

The Theatre Institute of South Florida's Domain of Fears IV: Evil Magic, a Haunted House experience from 7 to 11 pm on October 30 and 31 at the Museum of Science (3280 S. Miami Avenue).

The Haunted House is $10 per person with purchase of Creepy Crawl ticket. The Creepy Crawl is the kiddie Halloween event happening at the Science Museum. Domain of Fears can be experienced without attending the Creepy Crawl, for an admission of $15.00 per person.

For more information, please call: 305-646-4405.

Patrick Sessions holding meet and greet

Patrick Sessions, candidate for Village Council, is having a meet and greet at Calamari (3540 Main Highway), tomorrow, October 29, from 7 to 8:30 pm.

For more information please email patsessionsCGVC@aol.com

Beer Tasting at Barracuda Bar and Grill

Chris Montelius from the Freshbeer company has moved his beer tastings from Angelo and Maxie's to Barracuda Bar and Grill (3035 Fuller Street). Tomorrow, October 29, is the first tasting.

The cost is $20 per person, it starts at 7 pm. There will be over 40 beers to try and free chicken wings are included!

Just show up! No RSVP needed.

Will Paragon have the same draw as Muvico?

Is the new movie theater at CocoWalk going to be Muvico or Paragon?

According to an article in today's Herald, the three execs of Muvico, including chief exec and prez, Michael Whalen, are leaving Muvico and opening thier own premier movie theater chain, calling the new company, Paragon Entertainment.

The empty spaces at CocoWalk have been filling in lately, because Muvico has been drawing in restaurants and stores who want to be part of that experience. Will this continue now that it is Paragon?

Herald story here.

New Dinner Key Mooring facility is complete

The Dinner Key Municipal Mooring Facility will be having a grand opening ceremony on Monday, November 2 at 10:00 am. The new facility lies just offshore from the flagship facility, Dinner Key Marina, you may have seen lots of work being done at the Seminole Boat Ramp area for the past month or so.

According to the city: "As a part of the Biscayne Bay Aquatic preserve, the City pursued the opportunity to provide transient and liveaboard customers with access to a managed mooring field which protects seagrass beds and other aquatic vegetation. In addition, the City recently purchased a Pump out vessel which will aid the disposal of vessel waste and improve water quality."

Other vessels will also serve as customer shuttles to and from the mooring field from the Seminole Dinghy Dock. The design and construction cost of the project is $650,018. The funding sources came from the Homeland Defense Neighborhood Improvement Bond and FIND Waterways Assistance Program.

Upland amenities at the existing facility that are available to City residents and visiting boaters include a Harbormaster’s Office and Customer Lounge; restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities; dinghy dock with customer shuttle service; vehicle and bicycle parking; trash pickup and recycling.

Applications for moorings are taken on a first come, first served basis and can be completed online at www.miami-marinas.com or in person at Dinner Key Marina. Only seaworthy vessels with the proper title and registration will be accepted.

Hour of operation are: 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, and from 7:30 am through 8:00 pm, Friday through Sunday.

Help bail Mia Stierheim (and MDA) out!

Mia Stierheim is in jail! Help get her out! She and MDA
need your help. She is allowed one request for help,
so now is your time to help bail her out!
Your donation is key to her freedom.

Go here to do that!

Successful summit plans upcoming events

A summit was held last week. The Chamber, Merchants Group and BID all met to discuss upcoming Grove events.

Christmas was one of the main items on the agenda.

Something new: There will be a moving Coconut Grove Holiday Village, where local businesses can sponsor one of the houses. Think bed from the Bed Race, only it's a house or store, sort of Bahamian-style, on the base. We'll give more details when we have the plans and forms for you to download. There will be a specific way to build or have the houses built and there is an entry fee, etc. A big Christmas kick-off event is planned for Saturday, December 5 for the unveiling of the village, a Christmas tree, all the lights, etc.

Speaking of lights, the BID will be offering Christmas lights to businesses in the central business district, so that we can have a nice colorful lit up holiday season. A letter went out to all businesses and the Christmas committee will follow up with a walk-around next week to be sure everyone signs up and receives the lights.

Big Dog Adoption Day at CocoWalk

Paws 4 You Rescue is presenting Big Dog Adoption Day on Halloween, October 31 at CocoWalk.

Meet some cute adoptable dogs, there is a Halloween craft table for kids and a raffle with great prizes. You can even have a photo taken with your own pooch and enter him or her in the costume contest!

The fun is from 2 to 6 pm. Right at CocoWalks plaza. For more info: www.paws4you.org.

Ghoulish Art Happy Hour on Friday

Art Happy Hour at Blu Moon Studio is Friday, October 30 at 6 pm.

Wear your Halloween costume, bring the ghouls and get creative at Blu Moon as Atena shows you how to make fantastic fairy wings, dragon, bat or angel wings, wings for kids and adults.

This is a fun class where you get to bring your accessories to match your costume. Bring flowers, ribbons and fabrics to add the finishing touches to your wings.

Blu Moon Studio of Art, 3444 Main Hwy. Florentino Plaza Penthouse suite, above The Knife. For info: http://blumoonstudio.com or 305-529-5006

Refresh Miami meets tomorrow night

The Refresh Miami meetup is tomorrow, October 28 at the new location, the Mayfair Hotel ballroom (3000 Florida Avenue). On the agenda: HTML5 and CSS 3.

If you know what that means, or even if you don't, stop by, meet new people, learn something. It's free and enjoyable.

The meetup is from 7:30 to 9:30.

Brian Breslin and Alex De Carvalho should be commended for keeping Refresh Miami in Coconut Grove. They were both part of a tech story featured in yesterday's Herald.

Opening night reception for photography exhibit

The Coconut Grove Arts Festival Gallery (3390 Mary St. suite 128) is having their opening night reception on Thursday, October 29 from 6:30 to 9 pm. for the photography exibit: "From the Lens of Photographer H. Allen Benowitz."

Light refreshments will be served.

The exhibition will continue daily from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, through December 4, 2009.

For info: katrina@coconutgroveartsfest.com

My nice experience with the MPA

I had a very interesting and nice experience with the Miami Parking Authority (MPA) that I would like to share with you. I am always bitching about them, but this was nice.

Last week, I tried to put money in the meter in front of the post office. As usual, the meter did not work. I tried a credit card and a dollar bill and coins, but the meter said, "Out of Order." So I just left the car and ran to The Ivy, I was picking up a prize for Saturday's Casino night.

When I got back, about 20 minutes later, there was an $18.00 ticket on the windshield. I should have known better since I saw the meter girl down the block at Focaccia and knew she was working her way down. The guys at The Ivy are a hoot and once they engage you in conversation, you don't want to leave -- that dry British humor and all. Also, I ran into the new owners of Bombay Darbar, the new Indian place coming to Commodore Plaza, right next to The Ivy, so that held me up a bit, too with conversation. They are hoping for an opening date in a month or so.

Anyway, I grabbed the ticket, mumbled under my breath and drove away. As I turned the corner, there was the girl from the MPA writing tickets on McDonald Street, next to the post office. I pulled the car over and wanted to explain that they need to get the meter fixed because even though they want people to search around the village for meters that work, it is not going to happen, and people are sitting ducks.

She didn't even let me finish a sentence, she said, "Give me the ticket, I'll void it out." I told her that isn't what I was asking and that I would pay it. She insisted I give it to her and she said, to come with her to the meter, that it was working now. She told me to put a dollar in and pay for parking, it would show good faith and she would void the ticket.

She took my dollar bill and tried it. It did not work. We tried coins. It did not work. Finally, we put a credit card in, and it worked. I got the $1.00 worth of parking and she took that and the parking ticket and she said she would void out the $18.00 ticket. It was a pleasant surprise and not expected at all.

I have a new faith in the MPA. I was told that they are changing their ways.That little nice gesture got me on her side. She acted human, was polite, did the right thing and actually made a fan out of me. That's all I have ever asked for. Decency. We know we have to pay for parking, we just want to be treated with respect.

Of course the machine was doing the same thing the next day (see photo), but this time I moved the car to another spot.

Moonlight Jazz at the Kampong

The Kampong (4013 S. Douglas Road) is having a moonlight jazz concert on Saturday, November 7.

Enjoy the dazzling pairing of the voice of jazz angel and diva Carmen Bradford with the piano of jazz superstar, Shelly Berg.

A reception is at 6:30 pm and concert begins at 7:30 pm.

Prices are: Kampong Fellows - $150.00; Contributing Members - $165.00; General Public - $175.00.

Call (305) 442-7169 or email kampongevents@ntbg.org for more info.

Proceeds from this concert will be used to support The Kampong's living collections and education programs.

La Bottega now open for wine lovers

La Bottega Enoteca Sociale has opened at 3540 Main Highway. This completes the "charming culinary courtyard trilogy," which of course includes Calamari and the Taurus.

La Bottega is a unique Italian enoteca. An enoteca is a wine repository. This is the place to mix and mingle and sample a wide array of wines and culinary delights. They are open daily from
11 am to 11 pm.

A private wine club membership is available now. Please call 305-444-3493.

Pumpkin Contest to be held at Barracuda

I ran into the Barracuda Bar and Grill crew at the VOCG (Village of Center Grove) meeting the other night. Here are Brian, Evan, Matt and Lee. They signed up for Code 33 that night. Receive half price appetizers all day Wednesday with purchase of an entree.

They also told me about their Pumpkin Contest at Barracuda (3035 Fuller Street) on Friday, Oct 30 at 8:30 pm. Bring your pumpkin to the bar anytime that day for judging by the crowd at 830 pm. They are not carving them at the bar it's just for already carved pumpkins.

-It's free to enter
-Each person that enters gets one free domestic draft beer
-Bar tabs will be awarded for first, second, and third place

Also, at Barracuda, Ladies drink free on Tuesdays from 10 pm to 2 am and on Fridays from 6 to 8 pm. And it's Happy Hour every day until 8 pm.

Film night at City Hall

"The End of the Line -- Where have all the fish gone?" is being shown at City Hall (3500 Pan American Drive) on Thursday, October 29 at 6:30 pm. It's free and open to the public. Seating is limited.

This is the first major documentary that reveals the major impact that overfishing can have on all of our lives. Here's a clip: http://endoftheline.com/

There will also be a Q&A session with the film's director, Rupert Murray.

Stop in for Mad Men Monday happy hour

It's Mad Men Monday tonight at the Mayfair Hotel lobby bar from 5:30 to 7:30. Dick Whitman, Don Drapper? It's all good.

Specially priced 1960s cocktails are just $3.50. Also enjoy a great prix fixe dinner for $20.99.

1st Course
Choice of House Salad or Caesar Salad

2nd Course
Choice of Classic Burger Filet Mignon with Au Jus Grilled Salmon in Yellow Pepper Vinaigrette Herb Roasted Chicken

3rd Course
Choice of Caramel Cheesecake or Key Lime Pie

Lots of goodies coming to the Green Market

Picture this atrium area full of fruits, veggies and lots of food. It will be, come Wednesday. There's a new Green Market coming to the Grove. It will start off slow and build with time.

Starting Wednesday, October 28, from 3 to 6 pm, Claire and Pola, the two ladies from the Market Company, who have markets at Jackson Memorial Hospital and Lincoln Road and and many other places, will be filling in the space at the Mayfair Atrium (surrounding the bull) with lots of goodies.

Along with fresh fruits and veggies, there will be lots of prepared food including Colombian, Turkish/Mediterranean/Lebanese, Peruvian, Mexican and Cuban.

There will be plants and flowers and as time goes on, more items will be added. The market will be at the atrium each Wednesday to start and evolve from that.

Room for more at tonight's art class

Hans Feyerabend's popular painting classes for adults, has room for a couple more tonight at the Windisch-Hunt Gallery (2911 Grand Avenue). The Monday night classes run through November 16. The classes are from 6 to 9 pm and cost is $150.00.

Student art classes are Saturday mornings, details here. This is Issa, who is working towards getting her portfolio together to get into one of the fine art school in town, the teacher is Sherrie Rose.

For info on the classes, please email grovite1@mac.com.

Early voting starts tomorrow

Early voting for the November 3 elections starts tomorrow, October 26. The Grove location is City Hall (3500 Pan American Drive).

Hours are: Monday through Friday from 7 am to 7 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. The following Monday, November 2, there is no early voting and the next day, Tuesday, November 3 is election day and of course the polls will be open all day then if you did not early vote.

Local teen is co-editor of new magazine

Academy of Arts and Minds (A&M) 10th grader De’Andre Roesteven Holton (left), is a member of the editorial team for the new glossy magazine publication IE2 Inspire, Enrich & Empower.

The impressive first issue has a double page layout of 16 teens from the Overtown Youth Center and their mentoring team who created a wonderful and informative first issue. Check it out on ideas and places to do your required volunteer service.

There is an article on A&M student AJ Lopez, a rising star in the world of rock and song writing music.

Photo by Robin L. Sarantos

Pre-Holiday Fashion show back at CocoWalk

CocoWalk has announced the date of their much anticipated Pre-Holiday Fashion Show. The show will take place Thursday, November 19, at 7:30 pm in the Courtyard where a 30 foot Catwalk is being built for this premier event.

Enjoy the eclectic styles from retailers such as Azul Boutique, Palm Produce, White House / Black Market, GAP and many more. The show will run to the beats of DJ Bill James and feature specials, discounts and giveaways throughout CocoWalk.

The fashion shows are primarily a showcase for new styles as well as Holiday Gifting Ideas. The show leads up to “Light up the Grove”, Holiday Kick-off on Saturday December 5, 2009. The "Light up the Grove" event is a Grove-wide event, which may include snow and Santa -- details still in the works.

“Last year's event was a great venue to preview our holiday fashion trends,” sais Stephen Licata, owner of Palm Produce resort wear.

“We are extremely excited to promote our new Holiday Collection by Tanya Marie available exclusively at Azul Boutique," added Craig Leitman, owner of Azul Boutique

Tomás Regalado for Miami Mayor

It's time to choose a mayoral candidate. I had been putting this endorsement off for awhile, because I honestly like both mayor candidates, Tomás Regalado and Joe Sanchez. I know them both and they are both very good people. They are honest, caring and they truly want to help the City. They are in the race to do good things.

But when it all comes down to what I feel is best for the Grove (as well as the city), I have to choose Tomás Regalado. I truly like Joe Sanchez, I was just with him on Saturday night for the Chamber Casino night. He is a decent, honest guy and fun to be around. But I feel the city needs Regalado at this point in time. Regaldo has always been for the neighborhoods, before it was the thing to do.

One main reason I favor Regalado is that we need a breather. The city has moved too fast, we have overbuilt, paid out too much, screwed up our budget and just gone downhill because of the Manny Diaz regime. Regalado to me, is the anti-Manny Diaz. I know people say that Joe Sanchez means progress. But how about we catch our breath from all the progress that has put Miami in a deep hole from all these years of non-stop progress?

Regalado is said to be the "just say no," guy and he has been. But apparently, so am I, because throughout all these years, whenever Regalado made a decision on the City Commission, I agreed with him 100%. I like to think I am a positive person, and just because people say, "no," does not make them a negative person. I think it takes will to say "no," when everyone else is saying "yes."

Regalado voted "no" on things that were close to me -- the Home Depot issue, the 300 Bay Residences at Mercy Hospital, the Marlins stadium (and the over-budget-already Marlins parking garage).

Joe Sanchez is too much in the shadow of Mayor Manny Diaz right now. I feel he is too pro-development. I feel that Mayor Diaz ruined the city with his kowtowing to large developers who have no allegiance to Miami other than to rape it and make money and move on to other cities to do the same. Maybe Miami 21 will help, maybe not, but it's too late for the damage that has already been done.

Why do we need to try to be New York or Chicago? How about let us be satisfied as being Cambridge, Mass or Hartford, CT. Why do we need to be overbuilt and congested? Why do we need to support billionaire sports team owners and millionaire players? Why do we need to agree to allow big box stores in neighborhoods that are out of place for them? Regalado was against all of these issues.

Regarding the Home Depot -- Regalado was against that from day one. He used the messed up Home Depot store in his own district as an example of what we don't want in the Grove. And he could have easily said, "well, we have ours, you are stuck with yours," but he actually was against saddling us with the mess that is now in SW 8th Street.

Is this dwelling in the past? Maybe, but when I think of Regalado, that is what always comes to mind. Neighborhoods first. Everybody's neighborhood, not just his own.

Joe Sanchez always tells me that the new Marlins stadium brings jobs. But to whom? The workers from outside the City who are the bulk of the construction crews? And when the stadium opens, those who will benefit will be the same workers who will just move the jobs from Landshark Stadium down to Marlins Stadium. Same jobs, different location. No new jobs.

Again, the main reason I like Regalado is because he is the anti-Mayor Manny Diaz.

We recommend Tomás Regalado for Mayor of Miami. He stands on his own two feet and has always been a friend to Coconut Grove.

In the photo: Tomás Regalado, me and Jose Regalado.

Chamber's Casino night was a fun time

I won a lot of chips at Roulette at last night's Chamber Casino night, but then lost it all back at Blackjack. So many of the Grove was out for the charity event at the former Cielo's space at Mayfair, a Moroccan-themed night, catered by Hy Vong.

Above are Liliana Dones, Commissioner Joe Sanchez, Michael Borja and Michelle Niemeyer.


Among the crowd: Ed Prelaz of Mayfair, Cindy Bettner (who is holding the Thriller Night party at Mayfair on Halloween), Matt Higier from Barracuda and girlfriend Evan Northup.


Chamber president Tony Noboa (left) enjoyed himself along with his wife Lupe. Corrine and Tom Santoro also were among the crowd.


Tom Falco, Liliana Dones, H. Bredemeier and Manny Poch had a good time at the bar and gambling and mixing and mingling.


Heather Bettner sang a little as Niki Blacker played the piano. Hon, Ed and Ron enjoyed the fun, Ron won a prize at the end of the night in the raffle.


Erika King, John Reubens, Sylvia Quinn and Michelle Niemeyer kibitzed at the bar. John gave me some great tips at winning at the Roulette table and I won every single time that I played.


Willie Vega put on the whole casino and did an incredible job. Here is is with his wife, Lisette, and here he is with John Reubens serenading the crowd. Mary McDonald is shown here checking out the goodies in the silent auction. There were plenty of items to be had.


H. Bredemeier had a great time with friend Pam, he wasn't too thrilled with the vodka on hand, so he went to the liquor store across the plaza and got some Grey Goose. My favorite, too. And sisters Cindy and Heather Bettner, flank Craig from Azul clothing store.

The Silent Auction Committee headed by Sue McConnell worked tirelessly, they were Lisa Shallenberger, Naomi Evans and Sylvia Quinn did an excllent job of bringing in many great items, two tables were overflowing with the generous gifts given by the community.

Barnacle to hold Annual Firefly Party

The Barnacle Society is hosting its annual Firefly Party on Friday, November 6.

This year's event is a hoedown on the lawn of the Barnacle (3485 Main Highway), which includes a chuck wagon supper, music by The Ramblers and a there is also a line dance instructor.

Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for non-members, children are $5. You may purchase them by calling 305-442-6866. You may purchase them at "the door" for $35.00.

The party is from 7 to 10 pm.

A&M team races for the cure

The Academy of Arts and Mind's energetic physical education instructor Joselyn Rodriguez extends a thanks and congratulations to students Joselyn Rodriguez, Joseph Barrios, Marcos Marrero, Yesiah Poux, Ana Taboado and Wesiah Poux, who reached out and gave back to the community by participating in last weekend’s Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Walk.

Tonight is the Chamber's Casino Night

I popped by the Casino at Mayfair earlier today. The gaming tables are in (I sneaked a photo of the roulette wheel, as you can see), I saw the silent auction prizes lined up (there are many), the crew is preparing a Moroccan feast and the place is decked out to look like Morocco or dare I say, Casablanca?

With John and Niki at the piano live, I am sure we are going to here some famous movie tunes like "As Time Goes By."

The velvet ropes line the entrance and the anticipated cast of characters will start arriving at 7 pm. Tickets may be purchased at the door. It's a unique charity event for the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce.

According to their promo, it's "An evening of chance, mystery, music and festivities -- Step back to a time of elegance and romance."

It all takes place at the former Cielo nightclub location (3390 Mary Street). There's Vegas-style games, a silent auction, dinner and an open bar all night. The cost is $100 per person, which includes $25 in gaming chips the open bar and dinner.

Please feel free to just show up at the door. All are welcome.

It's all about the art

Tomorrow, October 25, is "International Artist Day." It is also Pablo Picasso's birthday, not coincidentally.

One suggestion is to celebrate, you should take an artist to lunch, another way is to buy some art from a local artist. Here in the Grove, you can do both.

On another note, AnnaMaria Windisch-Hun'ts blog One Ear Society has been dubbed "required reading" by New York Arts + Arts Fair International. Congrats AnnaMaria!

Street musicians add to the ambiance

From left: Will, Mauricio, Jorge and Dumil had a little impromptu jam session last weekend. Will was actually on his way to the gym but stopped to join in a for a bit, then he was off. The BID is funding more musicians, so you'll see them on the streets more often this holiday season, mostly on weekends.

Monty Trainer named chairman of NWSA

Monty Trainer has been named chairman of the New World School of the Arts for the 2010 year.

Monty is president of the Coconut Grove Art and Historical Association and presents the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival, which was recently named the top fine arts festival in the nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine.

He serves on the executive board of the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce and Miami-Dade County Cultural Affairs Council.

New World School of the Arts (NWSA) develops talented students in the areas of dance, music, theater and visual arts from the ninth grade in high school through a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor in Music college degree. NWSA was created by the Florida Legislature as a center of excellence in the performing and visual arts, is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College and the University of Florida.

For more information about New World School of the Arts, visit http://nwsa.mdc.edu , or contact the Music Hotline at 305-237-7855.

The Coconut Grove Art and Historical Association is a non-profit community organization under the direction of a board of directors and full-time staff. Proceeds from the annual event help to fund year-round arts programs. For more information on the Arts Festival, visit www.coconutgroveartsfestival.org.

Masquerade party benefitting Peacock Tour

The Mutiny Hotel is holding a fundraiser to support the adoption of one of the peacocks for this spring's Coconut Grove Peacock Tour. The YWCA of Greater Miami-Dade is the charity they are partnering with.

On Thursday, October 29, the Mutiny is holding the "Peacock Masquerade," which will feature a cocktail reception, art exhibit and masquerade from 6 to 9 pm.

Wear your best peacock plumage for the chance to win prizes. Atchana's East/West Kitchen will be catering the poolside event.

Entry fee is $20.00.

Neo-Pop Artist Ed King was chosen by the Mutiny to design their 6 foot peacock sculpture.

For reservations for the masquerade party, please call 305-441-2100, ext 2008.

To sponsor a peacock or to design one or just to get more info on the whole project, please contact Heather Bettner at 305-775-0113 or heather@princemediadevelopment.com.

Save money while Shopping for a Cause

The Junior League of Miami (JLM) is sponsoring the 2nd Annual Shopping Card for a Cause fundraiser where 100% of the proceeds will benefit the JLM, an organization of more than 1000 women dedicated to the empowerment of Miami's women, children and families.

Just in time for the holidays, savvy shoppers can purchase a $50 Shopping Card for a Cause in exchange for fabulous deals at 190 participating retailers from this Saturday, October 24 to November 8. Retailers in Coconut Grove include H&H Jewels, G by Guess, Bookstore in the Grove, Color Me Mine, Brenda’s Boutique, Angelo & Maxie’s Steakhouse, Coconut Grove Galleries and Interiors, Edward Beiner Purveyor of Fine Eyewear, Tula and Tupi Children’s Boutique, and many others.

“The retailers are offering impressive discounts to Shopping Card holders,” says Amber Seidle-Lazo, Co-Chair of the Shopping Card for a Cause fundraiser. “People can save money on all of their holiday presents, while helping to support the Junior League of Miami and its community projects.”

Additional participating retailers in the community include Saks Fifth Avenue – Bal Harbour, Tory Burch, J. Crew, Kate Spade, Cole Haan, Banana Republic, The Container Store, Back in Style and Garage Mama's Fitness.

For a full list of retailers or to purchase a Shopping Card for a Cause, go to www.jlmiami.org. Cards are on sale now and can also be purchased from JLM volunteers and participating stores.

It's party time at the new Circo Barcelona

The whole town came out last night it seems for the grand opening of the Grove's newest Tapas restaurant and bar Circo Barcelona, at CocoWalk.

Above are Naomi Evans, Daisy Lewis, Maria Korge and Mia Stierheim.


Shades of gray: Victor and Richard Issa flank Nelsy Rivas.


The girls from The Bookstore, Sandy Francis and Felice Dubin, popped across the street to greet their new neighbors. Stefano Salvatorre, owner of Circo Barcelona is all smiles with friend Leo Gavina.


Brij Misra, GM of Mayfair Hotel, also ran across the street to greet the new neighbors, with Monty Trainer and Mia Stierheim.