Free film industry seminar at Museum of Science

The Entertainment Industry Incubator is holding A Conversation with Filmmaker Brian Hecker at the Miami Science Museum (3280 S. Miami Ave.) tomorrow, April 1.

Brian grew up in South Florida, the setting for his new film "Bart Got a Room," which opens April 3. The film stars William H. Macy, Jennifer Tilley and newcomer Steven Kaplan in an off-beat coming-of-age comedy shot entirely in Florida.

Brian received an MFA at the American Film Institute where he was awarded 'Director of the Year'. His short thesis film Family Attraction, starring Martin Sheen and the late Chris Penn, earned over a dozen national and international film festival awards. Paramount Pictures has recently hired Hecker and his writing partner to write a biopic for Leonardo Dicaprio about the 29-year-old rebel-genius Nolan Bushnell who, in 1972, created Pong and started Atari.

Brian Hecker has recently joined the Miami Filmmaker Project Advisory Board. The free seminar starts tomorrow at 6:30 pm. For info: info@eincubator.org.

Congratulations, Richard!

Congratulations go out to Richard Issa, who is now the Assistant to the BID Director (Dave Collins).

Richard comes from the Chamber of Commerce, where I am sure he will be sorely missed.

Acoustic performance at Berrie's in the Grove tonight

Three acoustic musicians will be performing at Berrie's in the Grove tonight, March 31: Bill Kunz, Eric Wagner and Zip Robertson. Plus they will have special guests.

Show time is 8 to 11 pm. Berrie's is at 2884 SW 27th Avenue.

They all came out to sing for a good cause

Last night Sandbar Sports Bar and Grill held a Karaoke night to raise money for Autism Speaks.

From left are Iliana Rivera, Lula Folgosa, Executive Director of Autism Speaks; Nora Morales, Jimmy Morales, and Dori Morales.

There was quite a crowd enjoying the good and bad singing all for a good cause.

Photo by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt for the Grapevine

Sekai Asian Bistro's open house is tonight

Atchana had over 600 people stop by last week for her thing.

Tonight is Sekai Asian Bistro's freebie night. Details here.

15th Annual Bali Ha'i charity event is this Sunday

The 15th annual Bali Ha'i is Sunday, April 5 at the Kampong. Anyone who has gone before, knows this is one of the parties of the year. The main features are the grounds and the view. It's a tropical oasis right on the bay. Green foliage mix with green/blue water. It's like being in another world -- like being in Bali Ha'i, in fact.

Wine and dine in this remarkable setting and enjoy the auction benefiting The Kampong and the American Institute of Wine and Food.

Azul at the Mandarin won People's Choice in 2007. Jake's Bar and Grill won People's Choice last year. Who will win this year?

25 restaurants will feature their best food. Tickets are $125 until the end of today and then they are $135. A VIP Preview Party, an hour before the event is $200 per person.

The main event is 5 to 8 pm, the Preview Party starts at 4 pm.

For info: 305-442-7169. You may purchase tickets on line here.

Photo courtesy Kampong website

Anything and Everything Blue art exhibit opening

The Windisch-Hunt Gallery (2911 Grand Avenue) is presenting an exhibition of "Anything and Everything Blue" a celebration of the color. It consists of ocean scenes, moody hues, and visions of life seen predominately in one color: Blue.

The call to artists went out and the response came in the form of beautiful works of oils, acrylics and mixed media. This is Ft. Lauderdale artist Danielle Perry bringing her entrees.

The opening reception for "Anything and Everything Blue" is Saturday, April 4, at 7 pm, as part of the First Saturday Grove Stroll. Also on exhibit will be 10 x 10 canvases for the beginning collector, prices reflect this.

Danielle and many of the other artists will be on hand to meet and greet.

Come out and sing Karaoke tonight for a cause

This just in: Adam Kuperstein from Channel 6 Sports will be hosting a Karaoke fundraiser at Sandbar Grill (3064 Grand Avenue) tonight from 6 to 9 pm.

Bernie from Karaoke Miami will set things up. Drinks are half price and so are tacos.

Pay to sing, pay to make someone else sing or pay to make someone stop singing (including yourself). All money raised goes to Autism Speaks.

Calamari Italian Seafood is planning to open next month

I met Salvatore Catania, one of the managers at the new Calamari Italian Seafood, today.

He tells me they are trying to open April 8, but knowing the way things work in the city with zoning and permits, I wish them the best on holding to that date.

They have a something special planned for the old Cefalo's Wine Cellar area, but he would not reveal that. He did reveal that their prices at the restaurant will be amazingly affordable, I'll share that when the menu is ready for public view.

Salvatore told me that the owner of Calamari owns many great restaurants including Villagio at The Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables and is also known for Mezzanotte.

My friend Riley Smith, with EWM realty, across the street, wandered over. We started telling Salvatore about the Grove and he was impressed with the Village and our small town feel and he liked that we have many special events.

The food at Calamari sounds delicious, despite the name, there is something for everyone. They are at 3540 Main Highway, the old Sammy C's location. If the rest of the staff is as friendly and inviting as Salvatore, I think they will have something special there.

Nice to see there was no vandalism, enjoy the art

When I first arrived at the bike rack ceremony last weekend, I got there early and I went right over to the bike rack. I saw this -- a can of spray paint right on top of Lebo's bike rack.

It thought it was a little test. I was told that Lebo's art is respected by taggers (graffiti artists) and they would never "tag" his art. Also, the bike rack has a coating, sort of like they have on the NY subway cars, that doesn't allow graffiti to adhere. So it would remain clean.

Then I realized the can said "gloss protection enamel." That was the protection they were using.

I was happy to see that no one tried to destroy or tag the art, but when I went back a short time later I noticed the paint can was gone. But at least the art wasn't marred. Probably one of the staff took the can away, but I found it funny to see the art was fine, and that only the can was gone which I thought was stolen, which it probably wasn't.

Anyway, many of you don't like the rack, but you have to admit, it's a nice piece of art.

Remove the traffic light; admit it wasn't right

Neighbors in the South Grove are still upset over the traffic light at Ingraham and Douglas. For all these many years there never was a need for the light, now the light is doing more harm than good.

Traffic is backed up at all hours, especially during rush hours, and the drivers are now taking short cuts through the neighborhoods.

I suspect some higher up who lives in that area had the light installed. That usually seems to be the case. Now that person and his neighbors have unwanted traffic caused by drivers taking short cuts through their streets to avoid the long waits at the light (I am told 45 minutes at times to get through the lights).

Someone needs to admit the mistake already and remove the light. Can't anyone ever say they were wrong rather than add to the problem by stubbornly insisting they were right.

You can't help those who don't want to be helped

After the Earth Hour fiasco and some of the comments left here (see stories below), I am thinking that maybe the Chamber and other groups are going too much overboard by trying to make events happen that maybe shouldn't since there is such apathy in the Village.

I go to most meetings in the village, to cover them for the Grapevine, and I see the same people over and over at every meeting. There are a handful who want to be involved and who feel the need to do good for everyone.

Perhaps some new blood should step in and if they don't then they can't complain that their businesses are not prospering, since they don't want to do anything to help it.

Many say they don't know about events, but I publish most events before, during and after. And I know you are reading this. Yes, you. :)

I hear the same old stories that people go to meetings and nothing gets done, but when you have the same handful of people doing things for the Village Council and the Chamber and the Bed Race and the Merchants and the BID and the PowWow, it really spreads them quite thin.

While they are all good intentioned and honestly want to get things done, they are only able to do so much. Aside from all these committees and groups, these people also work full time.

I found it so funny that one night Adam Weirich was sworn in as a Village Council member and the next morning at 9 am, I found him sitting next to me at the Bed Race meeting, and there were two other Village Council members at the Bed Race meeting. This explained it all to me at that very moment. A handful of people do all the work. The rest don't want to be bothered.

Try the new Coconut Grove Grapevine sandwich

I was walking to Focaccia for a sandwich and as I passed Johnny Rockets, I smelled bacon cooking. So I decided on a BLT, which I haven't had for years.

I walked into Focaccia and announced that I would like something with bacon, knowing that they don't have BLT's on the menu.

Monty Trainer and my friend Gigi were both there and ironically, they both have sandwiches named after them on the menu -- with bacon! So they each told me to order their respective sandwiches.

But both sandwiches had things I didn't want like provolone, ham, salami, etc. So I ordered a Monty's Icebox but I told them to hold everything except the bacon, lettuce and tomato and here you have it. The new Coconut Grove Grapevine sandwich (a BLT on a baguette).

They don't call it that, but I do. Let's see if it appears on the menu. It's my new favorite thing there.

Roberta Flack, Maxi Priest to hold Mother's Day Concert

There's a big concert coming to Peacock Park the Saturday before Mother's Day -- May 9.

Roberta Flack and Maxi Priest are performing. It's part of the Jazz on the Bay series.

There will be food, art and a fashion show. It starts at 4 pm and is totally free.

I know one year they were strict about people bringing outside food and drinks into the park, so that the vendors who are part of the event wouldn't be outsold. So keep that in mind if you plan on bringing coolers and such. Do bring blankets and low rise beach chairs.

NOTE: Roberta Flack is no longer in the concert, it is Jon Secada and Maxi Priest

For info: 305-642-1271.

Chamber President responds to Grove's Earth Hour

Village Council member and Chamber President, Liliana Dones sent this in.

If Earth Hour in the Grove was not as big as anticipated, it was not for lack of trying by the usual enthusiasts, who saw this not only as an organized effort to promote solidarity with all major cities throughout our planet to bring attention to the seriousness of global warming (particularly since in its continued course, it is the Grove, Miami, and all of Southern Florida that will go under long before Paris or Las Vegas and other participating cities).


Many of us saw an additional benefit in this event: a way to stimulate the economy for Grove restaurants and merchants, who beyond switching off the lights, could also promote and draw people to their own establishments. To that effort, the Grove Chamber participated in weeks of planning as part of Miami's Earth Hour Committee in order to make the Grove a prime destination for Earth Hour in Miami. Other areas included Key Biscayne, Downtown, Mary Brickell Village and the Design District.

We circulated many calls for participation, provided ideas and promoted this as a Grove event, not just for Chamber members. This was not just about turning out the lights, but about turning people on to the different establishments wishing to participate. We arranged for banners with fees waived by the BID and the City, production donated by Fast Signs Downtown, and art preparation by Creative Tools.

Through the infrastructure provided by the World Wildlife Fund's Miami Earth Hour Committee, the City of Miami, and the many individuals and organizations that donated their time and effort and expertise, the promotion of this event featured ads in magazines, including Miami Monthly.

It included calendars of events and promotion through eblasts by many organizations. It included countless postings in the Grapevine.

It included the Bike rack inauguration in the Grove which drew hundreds of cycling enthusiasts and supporters, that were encouraged to remain here for the evening's switch-off events.

It featured all manner of collateral materials, including posters, pins, and bus stop posters, and eflyers and e-banners. It included television coverage and pre-events.

The PR effort had worldwide reach - as witnessed by this entry forwarded from the World Wildlife Org. Earth hour blog: "I have been planning this with my sister for about a month now…. I have also been told that Coconut Grove, Florida is making an event out of this and is inviting everyone to join in this earthy celebration… so that should be a sight…" -- Paula Lopez

I was sick in bed, unable to be out and about in the Grove, last night, so had my own little candlelight event at home. The rest of the time I responded to emails, including several asking where in the Grove their party should head for dinner and Earth Hour. Greenstreets, Windisch-Hunt, The Bookstore. As I said, the usual enthusiasts.

The Grove businesses are luckier than most. Promotional opportunities and free, or next-to-nothing, marketing opportunities are there for the taking.

They have had the BIC, and now the BID. They have a NET office that facilitates police liaison and Merchant Association meetings. They have an Arts Festival that brings world wide recognition and thousands of people that spill over to benefit our commerce.

They have a Chamber of Commerce, with over half a century in existence, which promotes its member businesses for as little as 75 cents a day, through constant eblasts, promotional ideas, regular events, and signature events such as Taste of the Grove and July 4th in benefit of all Grove businesses.

They can run ads in the Grapevine, which is among the most read community blogs in the nation, for pennies a day, and can count on constant free inclusion in its write ups.

They have people like Sue McConnell shooting out emails promoting Code 33133 participants and all Grove events to her extensive email list.

Around the corner is another event that stands to benefit the merchants and restaurants of the Grove. It is the Pow Wow. Lots of planning involved by the GMCVB, the BID, the Chamber.

Lots of meetings and strategy in an effort to get 1500 tour and travel professionals to experience the Grove one evening during their major conference in Miami in Mid may.

The 4th of July is coming. It is a weekend. And just like last year, the Chamber will once again encourage all Grove businesses to come forward with specials and packages that promote the Grove as a whole to the locals, the near-locals and those looking for economical weekend or summer getaways. Cross-promos are encouraged.

At the end of the summer is the Bed Race on Labor Day, and the hope that we can put the summer to bed with a little prosperity for all.

Look at other successful businesses (you know the ones) and ask, "What would ______do?" Join the Chamber. Volunteer for Pow Wow. Advertise in the Grapevine. Participate in the BID's summer campaign opportunities, support fellow businesses (which incidentally, are more than just restaurants and retail stores, but many excellent service businesses).

Learn the power of cross promotion, joint promotions, and above all, joint effort.

"Wine is Fun" dinner features California cuisine

The next "Wine is Fun" wine and dinner is at the Ritz-Carlton's Biscaya Restaurant Thursday April 2.

The featured meal is: California Cuisine and the wine is Napa vs. Sonoma Wines.

Cost is $100 per person, plus tax & gratuity. Details on the wine and dinner series is here.

It's a shame that most could not make an effort

We received a letter last night from a reader, during Earth Hour. He was very disappointed in the lack of participation for Earth Hour. While many of you feel it is a wasted effort, it is still something that was planned and should have happened. You may not believe in Halloween or St. Patrick's Day either, but they happen anyway, so this is not about whether you think Earth Hour is stupid or not, this is about apathy in the Grove by local businesses.

Many did participate like Greenstreet and Havana Grove and the Bookstore and the Windisch-Hunt Gallery, they went out of their way to buy candles and bags to put them in and to present movies and have specials and more. Above is Alissia at the gallery, enjoying a work of art by Eric Speyer. People actually enjoyed the art by candlelight. They sought it out, knowing the gallery would do something special.

I know Liliana Dones and the Chamber worked tirelessly to get this to happen. Apparently most of the local businesses don't have much respect for the Chamber or Earth Hour. Here is the letter sent in last night:

I am sitting in the Grove for Earth Hour as I write this, and it is disheartening to see the lack of effort made by the local businesses and city. Cocowalk is bright as day, Johnny Rockets is neon city, the trees are sparkling along the streets (normally I love this by the way, just not at this moment!!).

The signs for Chili's, Starbucks, The Gap, etc. are all high voltage as usual. I know they can't go dark in general and of course the kitchens need to be functional on a Saturday night, but at least show some environmental effort by shutting off the signs for an hour and light a few candles inside.

Greenstreet as usual is one of the few making a decent showing. Hell, even the city's sign advertising the "switch off" is lit up! If the Vegas Strip, Eiffel Tower, Golden Gate Bridge, can go dark for one stinkin' hour, the Grove could have at least made an effort to make a small statement. Disappointing....


Here are some friends in the South Grove who got it. That's Francesca Terry at left with friends who met in a park, shaded the lamp post and enjoyed the stars.

Photos by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt

Earth Hour turned out to be a dud in the Grove

Last night it seemed that not many people took part in Earth Hour. While many did turn lights out and use candles and things like that, most of the Grove did not participate. At the last minute, the movie was pulled at the Arts and Minds Center because of conflicting plans and the movie at CocoWalk was also scrubbed. Only the Bookstore showed a movie -- Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth."

The Chamber gave out mini flashlights to businesses to have them hand out and they had stickers that said, "I'm not afraid of the dark." I think most were afraid of the dark, since they left the lights on and decided not to participate. Come back in a bit, I have a letter sent in from a reader who was totally disappointed in the Grove's efforts on Earth Hour.

Above are Aurielia Gheba and Sam Goodson at Greenstreet, who actually participated by going dark and having an acoustic band and even having Earth Hour specials. Martin and Rick in Earth Hour t-shirts, actually walked around the Grove, looking for participating locations.


The Janowiak family, from Chicago, enjoyed ice cream during Earth Hour.


Bernie Lageyre (standing) celebrated his 40th Birthday at Al Fresco Restaurant on Commodore Plaza.

Photos by AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt

It was a really nice, well attended party in the park

Yesterday was the unveiling of the brand new bike rack by artist Lebo, at Peacock Park. Like it?

Just kidding, that's just a bunch of bikes on the ground, which is confusing, since there was the new, beautiful bike rack not too far away, and the whole ceremony was about that.

This is David "Lebo" LeBatard (left) with Jim Frevola, a Magnificent Six team member. You can see his work of art below. At each end are brown metal racks that hold two bikes each, and possibly more.

The design was to also be a bench, but that was discarded, so hence the long cement shape.

There were also bicycle valets, which people enjoyed a lot -- leaving your bicycle with someone who actually watches it was a nice touch.

The bike rack installation ceremony turned into All Home Week. It was as if the whole Grove turned out for this. And it was a nice first class catered event. There was shrimp and chicken and conch fritters and wine, beer, soda, cakes, etc.


The weather was great and bicyclists, walkers and skaters all turned out.


So did many politicians. From left, next to the camera man is Dave Collins, head of the BID, then there is Collin Worth (drinking water) director of the Bicycle Action Committee; Village Council member and liaison for the project, Michelle Niemeyer in bright green pants, Commissioner Marc (crazy legs) Sarnoff, Commisioner Joe Sanchez and Mayor Manny Diaz. That is Carlos Iglesias, bicycling advocate and frequent commenter in the Grapevine, in the hat and checkered shirt.


The whole Magnificent Six Bicycle Action Committee was out and proud of the job they did. It was very well attended and lots of fun. I even got to ride Comm. Joe Sanchez's bike around the park.

The new Grove bike rack dedication is today

As this story is being posted, the actual bike rack ceremony is taking place in Peacock Park. I'll report back on that tomorrow.

Here you can see artist Lebo working on the cement block part of the rack last Thursday. The actual metal parts were added and the whole thing is usable today.

Many of you like to bitch and moan about the biking situation in the Grove and in all of Miami, for that matter. Yet all you do is bitch and moan. How about doing something? I don't see any of you at any Village Council meetings or BID meetings or merchant meetings talking about the subject. Or how about starting up your own meeting?

There is a committee for every little thing these days it seems. I don't see any biker's rights meetings or bike path meetings, etc. Why not start one? Maybe Danny at Revolution Bicycle Services (3444 Main Highway) will offer up his place for your inaugural meeting. How about doing something other than bitching?

Check out the waffles on Waffle Sunday!

Have you tried the waffles at the Bookstore?

Well, Sunday's are Waffle Sunday and you wouldn't think that a bookstore would have delicious waffles, but they do.

They are fluffy, hot and fresh -- made right before your eyes, as you see Veronica doing here.

They have all the topping -- syrup, butter, cinnamon, strawberries, whipped cream and you complete the freshly made waffle yourself, to your liking.

They even make the waffles to your liking -- they'll add chocolate chips if you like and other items! I had mine plain.

There are nice little round take out containers, so you can easily just take them to go. My friend Q and I got waffles last week and then went down to Havana Grove for bacon and we made our own little breakfast, adding coffee -- mine from the bookstore, her cortadito from Havana Grove.

See you at Waffle Sunday tomorrow! They are usually gone by 1 pm, so get there early.

Is the grocery store a tourist destination now?

I found this kind of odd: according to an employee of The Fresh Market, a number of tour buses stop at The Fresh Market on a daily basis to allow the tourists to exit and get something to eat and drink.


Why not drop them off on Commodore Plaza where the restaurants are?

Is The Fresh Market all the Grove has to offer tourists these days? Strange.

Speed Dating tonight at Eleven Leprechauns

Eleven Leprechauns (3120 Commodore Plaza) now offers Speed Dating on Saturday nights! From 6 to 8 pm, ladies, come out and meet your new man!

Get there early to sign up. For more info, please email marketing@11leprechanus.com

And Sundays, is open Mic Day. From noon to 10 pm. The mic is yours! Complimentary drinks and snacks for performers.

For more info, please call 786-200-4540 or email musicinmiami@gmail.com

Earth Hour will be celebrated for most of today

Tonight from 8:30 to 9:30 is Earth Hour. Here in the Grove, there are quite a few events.

Most places will shut the lights and things will be done by candle light -- dining, shopping, gallery hunting, etc.

Before that, from 4 to 6 pm, the new bike rack at Peacock Park will be dedicated.

The Museum of Science (3280 S. Miami Avenue) has a family day from 11 am to 3 pm with An array of environmentally-friendly activities, including: lectures on eco-friendly architecture and Florida’s wildlife, native tree informational activities and landscaping, human food chain game and energy conservation activities, what are solar cookers… and their use. Check Globe@Night in the Planetarium – a cool activity that will let you see the stars. Literally! Also, the Museum’s new exhibit, Megalodon: The Largest Shark That Ever Lived! is now open All activities are included with regular admission price.

Then for Earth Hour Greenstreet Café (3468 Main Highway) will be going candle light as they participate in Earth Hour. Acoustic music will be played and their drink menu will feature half price drinks. Check out the electric golf carts when there.

The Bookstore is offering 2-4-1 Wine specials.

Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth," will be showing at the Arts and Minds Center (3138 Commodore Plaza) as part of the Dinner and a Movie series at 8 pm.

CocoWalk is screening the new version of "The Day the Earth Stood Still" on an outdoor screen.There will be musicians strolling the streets and many stores and restaurants will feature specials.

Blast your ad like this one. Rates are here.

Weekly wine tasting visits France and Italy

Barry Alberts' weekly wine tasting at Angelo and Maxie's (3000 Florida Avenue) visits France and Italy this week. Enjoy flavors of the Old World accompanied by a complimentary arry of cheeses.

The tasting is tonight, March 27 from 7 to 9:30 pm.

Update on the BID

There was a BID meeting last week. Not much happened. A little arguing over money and events, but other than that the news is basically this:

The great news is that the final step happened on March 17, the Mayor signed the final papers making the BIC (Business Improvement Committee) a BID (Business Improvement District). I told Dave Collins, (Mr. BID) that every St. Patrick's Day now, he can drink a green beer to toast the BID anniversary.

A new Administrative Manager should be starting soon, that person will be second in charge in the daily workings of the office.

A part-time person will be hired to deal with "street scapes" -- flowers, light poles, banners, street decorations, etc.

You'll be seeing more police on the streets -- on the beat -- they will be wearing hats and name badges and have the Coconut Grove BID logo on the backs of their shirts. The logo was created by Turkel pro bono and will be revealed soon.

What's up with the harassment of Grove patrons?

I've been hearing about police brutality and bouncer issues late at night, tied in with the 3 am bar closings. Are we having problems again with this like we did in December?

The right hand never knows what the left hand is doing. One hand is trying to promote and get more people to the Grove, including young people. The other hand is killing this effort by being rude and hostile.

I have been contacted by attorneys who are planning on pressing charges against the city and Coconut Grove due to the nonsense. It seems to be total confusion at 3 am around here. I may need to get out there with a camera one one of these nights.

First it was harassment of establishments, now it is harassment of the customers.

One attorney told me he has a saying: "Come to Miami on vacation, leave on probation." Nice message for people to bring back home with them.

Lebo created a beautiful bike rack -- a real work of art

Yesterday afternoon, I walked over to Peacock Park with Dave Collins, where we checked out artist Lebo, painting the new bike rack that will be unveiled tomorrow during a ceremony (info here).

Also at the park were a film crew, who interviewed Dave about the project. Dave was in fact, very nice to mention the Coconut Grove Grapevine, on camera.

When we got to the park, my friend, Village Council member, Michelle Niemeyer, was there with Margie Carmenates, from the City's Leadership Team #6, in charge of the project. Michelle was very instrumental in getting the new installation, working along with Margie's team.

They all went out of their way to plan the correct position for the rack, keeping the skaters in mind, who use the skate park. They actually found out which routes they take on their bikes and they positioned the rack along the path and within eyesight of the skate park, so that the kids could always see their bikes as they used the park.

It's a beautiful piece of art. I was asked not to show it here, so as not to ruin the unveiling. But I think everyone will be pleased and this is just one of many bike racks to come. Dave Collins, the BID, the Village Council and many others are making it their business to show bike riders that they are welcome.

Many complain about lack of bike lanes and accessibility. But the projects have started with the bike racks. They won't stop now. They can't be stopped, they have been "let out of the bottle." I heard Dave say something like that on camera. I know he meant it. He was ebulent as he was talking to the camera. He is totally excited about the prospects to come. So am I.

Alhambra Orchestra presents competition winners

The winners of Alhambra Orchestra's 5th Annual Concert Competition for middle and high school students will be performing on Sunday, March 29 at Ransom Everglades (3575 Main Highway) at 2 pm.

First prize winner Gabrielle Chou, age 13, (shown here) will be performing Mendelssohn's Violen Concerto, her winning entry.

Marcel Angles, 18, a Gulliver Senior, a pianist was also a top winner and will be performing.

Admission is free but donations are accepted which support the orchestra. Free parking is available at the school. For info, please call 305-668-9260.

The AmJam is looking for performers

The first Thursday of every month (next one is April 2) is "AmJam" at A&M -- the Arts and Minds School (3138 Commodore Plaza). Everyone is welcome -- to perform or to just be part of the audience.

It's an open call for artists, musicians, singers, dancers, actors, stand-ups and visual artists. Shows are performed on the terrace -- 7:30 for students and 9:00 pm for professionals. Pizza and refreshments are provided by Al Fresco restaurant.

The musicians jam session started out as part of the educational program at Arts and Minds and quickly turned into a "happening" involving the multiple art forms.

The March AmJam began with Cystem 32 from A&M and then the Voice and Safiok Brains did a unique techno piece, before you knew it, so many acts ended up performing.

Juan Turros is the emcee. You can reach him at 786-357-7447 to get in on the next AmJam.

Call to artists -- bring your art to the gallery

There's an open call for artists this weekend. Bring your work to the Windisch-Hunt Gallery (2911 Grand Avenue) to enter it for sale.

The art should be on 10" x 10" canvas size only. The work should be unframed and have name, title, media and price attached. The canvases can be numbered 1, 2, 3, etc. instead of titled if you wish.

Entry fee is $10 per piece and the gallery will only accept 10% in commission. They request that all prices be set at $100 or less for quick sales.

Deadline is Saturday, March 28, 2009. The opening reception will be Saturday night, April 4.

The art will be accepted tomorrow, Friday, March 27, from 11 am to 6 pm and Saturday, March 28, from 11 am to 5 pm.

For larger pieces, there is an "Anything and Everything Blue." event, too. That's a bit more complicated. I just saw an artist bring in a couple of pieces for that. Any artists interested should email for info on that: fredhuntart@mac.com

Action Painting Workshop this Friday at Blu Moon

Sheri is having another Art Happy Hour at Blue Moon Studio, tomorrow, March 27.

It's an "Action Painting Workshop" this time with artist Rita Coll.

Be prepared to create a beautiful, expressive painting guided by Rita. No experience is required. Also, enjoy empanadas from Tango's Argentinean Café, hors d'oeuvres and liquid refreshment!

Last time Three Sheets to the Wind was playing and Rich, one of the band members, played on the roof!

Blu Moon is a great place to meet new friends, explore art and just have a good time. It's a homey feeling, you won't want to leave, once you have experienced it. I don't know how to explain it, but you will really enjoy it if you go.

Cost is $28.00 which includes the materials and instruction. The fun starts at 6 pm and should run until about 7:30 pm.

Blu Moon Studio is at the very top at 3444 Florentine Plaza -- way above Danny's bike shop, above The Knife restaurant. For info, please call 305-529-5006 or email: sheri@sheriaf.com

Tigertail traffic issues discussed

Village Council Member Gary Hecht brought up traffic issues on Tigertail at the last Village Council meeting.

Ransom Everglades' traffic was the major issue. Since they moved their entrance from Emathla Street to Tigertail, neighbors have freaked out at the sudden slow down of traffic movement at certain times.

Police Commander Martin spoke on the issue of speeders and people driving erratically, trying to get through the blocked traffic caused by Ransom. The police have been out monitoring traffic and giving tickets to those crazy drivers.

According to the school, the wait time is 15 minutes, so if you can avoid the area, do so when school lets out if it bugs you to wait the 15 minutes. Ransom has also staggered times for their after school activities, so that there is no traffic at all (the soccer team leaves one time, the band another time and so on).

Talk about art in public places . . .

A group from the Coconut Grove Sailing Club (CGSC) chartered a 53 foot sailboat and rounded Cape Horn, Chile, earlier this month.

Here is most of the crew with the CGSC burgee at a monument, near the Chilean Armada station, dedicated to the mariners lost sailing around Cape Horn. It depicts an albatross.

Back row: Susanne Walcutt, Phil Kellet, Dottie Rostorfer, Emmy Martinez and Ron Rostorfer
Front row: Cathy and Marc Buller.

Marc sent in the photo.

"The Cove" movie premier at City Hall next Tuesday

Commissioner Marc Sarnoff's office is presenting Film Night at City Hall on Tuesday, March 31. The 2009 Sundance Film Festival Award Winner "The Cove" is featured in this exclusive Miami premier.

The Cove tells the amazing true story of how an elite team of activists, filmmakers and freedivers embarked on a covert mission to penetrate a hidden cove in Japan, shining light on a dark and deadly secret. The mysteries they uncovered were only the tip of the iceberg.

Be one of the first to see it and meet the film's cast and crew for a Q&A session at this one time only event before the film's widespread release later this spring.Show time is 6:30 pm. Seating is limited. For more info email dkarsh@miamigov.com

Science Museum's Green Happy Hour

The Museum of Science (3280 S. Miami Ave.) is having it's professionals happy hour tomorrow, March 26 from 6 to 11 pm.

Tying in with this weekend's Earth Hour, they will be going green -- Enjoy a collection of recycled paper dresses by Heinrich Rasch-Suarez, which are on display. Fancy Me Yet will be performing live.

Admission is $15.00 with rsvp (305-646-4200) or $20.00 at the door.

Free New Moon Meditation session tomorrow

Come out for free New Moon Meditation tomorrow, March 26 at the Windisch-Hunt Gallery (2911 Grand Avenue).

It starts at 7 pm. Dissolve your stress!

Rockin' on the Green for Children's Bereavement Center

The Children's Bereavement Center (CBC) will honor the Dubow Family (Adrian, Ken, Rachel & Brian) at the 10th annual benefit, this Saturday March 28.

There are cocktails and a silent auction, Chef David Schwadron will be preparing dinner and the band Blackstar will be performing.

Bob Mayer, Pam Giganti and Ryan Phillips the morning team from NBC6 will emcee and joining them will be their former colleague Lonnie Quinn, now with CBS2 in New York.

CBC provides support groups for children after the death of a loved one. The event is 7pm at Ransom Everglades Upper School (3575 Main Highway) Tickets are $150 per person. To order tickets, please call Mindy at 305-668-4902.

Dogs will Rock the Runway Friday at Cabana One

Rock the Runway, the pet charity event is Friday, March 27 at Cabana One (on the rooftop of the Mayfair Hotel).

The new spring line, entitled Rescue Wear, will be modeled by rescued dogs from Paws 4 You Rescue, a non-profit, all volunteer animal rescue organization. The line is designed to help promote awareness for rescue groups as well as adoption and spay/neuter programs nationwide. TORU will donate 15 percent of the proceeds.

"My dog, Jack, is a rescue and so organizations such as Paws 4 You Rescue hold a very special place in our hearts,” said Vanessa Rossman, co-owner of TORU. “We are thrilled to give back to them through this line and are excited to debut it at the show at the stunning Cabana One.”

The runway show takes place from 7 to 9 pm. to 9:00 pm with the show beginning at 7:30 pm. There is live music by DJ Vic Mendez. Tickets are $25 and will be available for purchase at the door. Guests will each receive one complimentary beverage, light hors d'oeuvres and a raffle ticket.
Raffle prizes include a $100 gift certificate from Angelo & Maxie’s Steakhouse, a pet portrait session by Johnny Valdes of ArtWay 66, and a grooming gift certificate from The Dog From Ipanema. All proceeds from the Rescues Rock the Runway fashion show will benefit Paws 4 You Rescue.

“As a dog-friendly hotel, the Mayfair Hotel & Spa is 100 percent supportive of the efforts of TORU and Paws 4 You Rescue,” says Gillian Gordon, director of events for Cabana One.

“Their efforts will give us the means to continue rescuing dogs from euthanasia lists at Miami Dade Animal Services where hundreds of animals are left unclaimed everyday.” For more information on TORU visit www.torudog.com and for Cabana One visit www.mayfairhotelandspa.com. Additional information about Paws 4 You Rescue, including adoptable dogs, is available at www.paws4you.org.

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The Grove Book Club meets tonight

The Bookstore's Book Club continues tonight with a discussion of the book "Local Knowledge," by Lisa Gyllenhaal.

Enjoy coffee, pastries, a glass of wine and join the conversation. It all starts at 7 pm.

Plus, there is a special surprise appearance! The Bookstore in the Grove is at 3399 Virginia Street.

Why don't we just go and get them and bring them over?

The Grove is always trying to figure out how to get tourists from South Beach, Coral Gables, South Miami or downtown to come here. What about a shuttle. A free shuttle?

A trolley or one of the buses that looks like a trolley could literally drive around a few times a day and pick up and drop off people. Maybe even a double decker bus would be fun. I don't really care for these fake trolley looking buses you see in the photo here.

The bus could be a signature item of the Grove. People would know it is the Coconut Grove bus after awhile. But I suppose double decker buses are too expensive, especially if we want a flock of them out and about on the streets running simultaneously. But some sort of color or style or something could make it the "Grove Bus" or "Grove Trolley," a rolling utilitarian advertisement for Coconut Grove.

The bus could make stops, like a cable car would, and people could literally hop on, come to the Grove to shop or eat or wander around and then just catch the next trolley or bus back to wherever they started. It would run all day, into the night. It would be perfect for special events and even the monthly Art Stroll night.

I did mention the Coral Gables trolley in the past, which picks up people at the Metrorail station, but this would literally pick people up at set bus stops.

I have seen something similar in other cites for pub crawls and/or shopping trips. We already have the circulator, but that is for people who are actually here already. This new trolley system would literally go out and get the people and then bring them back to their hotels or home again.

Chamber's Green Luncheon is Friday

The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce is having The Green Luncheon on Friday, March 27 at the Sonesta Bayfront Hotel (2889 McFarlane Road).

It's part of their TGIF networking series.As you know the Grove is proud to have one of the few "green hotels" in the nation -- the Sontesta has that distinction. Find out how green can work for you at this luncheon.

Edith McClintock, executive director of Dream in Green Foundation; Robert Ruano, City of Miami Director of Sustainable Initiatives, Noel Gourmelen, PhD student at UM Rosenstiel School of Marine and Science, just back from a project in Antarctica and Frank Couzo, Sales and Marketing Director of the Sonesta all will be on hand.

Frank will be featuring the wines of Schnebley, a sustainable local winery.

The luncheon is from noon to 2 pm.

Cost for the event is $25.00 chamber members and $28.00 non-members. Please rsvp: 305-444-7270 or info@coconutgrove.com

Pouring our tax dollars into the pockets of the rich

So the Marlins stadium was approved last night. County Manager George Burgess and Marlins President David Samson looked like two little rats, rubbing their hands together, like you see in the cartoons. Sickening. You could just see them counting the money in their heads they both will probably make.

You would think they are getting millions themselves. Are they? They both mortgaged their childrens' and grandchildrens' futures. This is what greed looks like folks. Look at these pigs.

How County Mayor Carlos Alvarez (shown looking on in the background) ever got mixed up in this I don't know. I always thought he had brains, but I am stymied by his pro-stance on this issue.

Is Burgess on the Marlins' payroll? If not, why does he act like he is? I thought the County Manager should be protecting the public's money and interests, not pissing it all away. I bet he would be in favor of the AIG bonus plan, too.

The only County Commissioners who actually care about the voters are Carlos Gimenez, Sally Heyman, Katy Sorenson and Joe Martinez. Sorenson did an excellent job of explaining what a farce this truly is.

We can be proud of our own district commissioners Carlos Gimenez (County) and Marc

Sarnoff (City). They voted like mensches and of course Tomás Regalado, who is running for mayor, voted with his brains and with the majority of the public's wishes, too.

And this photo at right shows you why I am for Tomás Regalado for Mayor. [Photo removed at request of the Miami Herald -- it showed Joe Sanchez whispering into Mayor Manny Diaz's ear at the Commission meeting, all buddy buddy]>

And I'll never understand the "no bid" bit. Even here at our condo, they throw a fit if I don't get bids for a simple plumbing job.

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Mayoral candidate Tomás Regalado to speak to neighbors

City of Miami Commissioner Tomás Regalado will be addressing neighbors of the Coconut Grove Park Homeowners Association (CGPHA) on Wednesday, April 8, beginning at 7:00 pm at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club (2990 S. Bayshore Drive).

Commissioner Regalado is no stranger to issues affecting the Grove, including the promotion of “green” development and publicly opposing the opening of the Home Depot in the Grove, the Mercy condo project and the Grove Harbour Marina office building. He recently voted against using taxpayer's money to bail out of the Florida Marlins.

Everyone is welcome.

For more info, please email info@cgpha.org

New bike rack dedication Saturday at Peacock Park

Leadership Miami (Team 6), a program of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce along with the Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the unveiling of an artistic bike rack designed and painted by artist David "Lebo" LeBatard.

The one-of-a-kind bike rack is being dedicated on Saturday, March 28 at Peacock Park.

Festivities are at the Glass House from 4 to 6 pm. They include light refreshments and short speeches by special guests: Commissioner Marc Sarnoff; David Collins Grove BID Executive Director and Collin Worth, Bicycle Coordinator for the City's Bicycle Action Committee.

"Bike the Grove" is where fitness meets art, it is a project which ties in with Miami's Bicycle Action Plan, a green initiative seeking to encourage bicycling and bicycle issues.

April 26, the Grove's streets will be shut down for Coconut Grove Bike Day and two more special bike racks will be unveiled.

Also, there is a short Survey that FIU and the County are conducting related to bike use. If you would like to take the survey it is here.

Atchana's invites you to Happy Hour Grand Opening

Not to be outdone by Sekai, Atchana's East/West Kitchen in the Mutiny Hotel (2951 S. Bayshore Drive) is having a Happy Hour Grand Opening Party on Thursday, March 26.

Atchana is the owner of the Siam Lotus Room in South Miami. They have all of your Thai favorites.

On Thursday, come and enjoy complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres from 5 to 8 pm.

For info, please call 305-774-0404, or visit: www.atchanas.com.

They are also a generous member of Code 33. Seems like the whole Grove is part of Code 33 these days.

Grace Solares debates Comm. Marc Sarnoff

Local activist Grace Solares sent me a response to Comm. Marc Sarnoff's letter here regarding his vote on the Marlins Stadium.

And then there is a new response from Comm. Sarnoff here.

Sekai Asian Bistro invites you over for a free meal

Sekai Asian Bistro (3480 Main Highway, the old Senor Frog's location) is having a free dinner buffet next Tuesday March 31 to celebrate their opening.

They told me that they really wanted to be part of the Grove and they have gone out of their way to do that, this is the ultimate welcoming party for all Grove residents.

Their food is always fresh, they are a modern Asian bistro, drawing inspiration from Japan, China, Korea and Vietnam. They have a large selection of Pan-Asian food ranging from pad Thai noodles to kobe beef and sushi fresh from the sea.

The free buffet is from 6 to 8:30 pm, where you can sample their best. Specially priced cocktails and premium sake are available, too.

They accept Code 33 on food, so please keep that in mind for your return visit, when you actually have to pay the bill!

For info, please call: 305-448-0999.

Arts and Minds School being monitored aggressively

The following comes from Daniel A. Ricker's "Watchdog Report." I have Daniel's permission to reprint it word-for-word here:

The Arts and Minds Academy Charter School was in the school board’s audit committee spotlight this week and the founder and owner of the building housing the school was called out Tuesday at the meeting. Four restaurant/bars surround the school located on Commodore Plaza in Coconut Grove and when school ends in the afternoon. The kid’s mill around the streets running through passing traffic, yet there are no signs indicating it is a school zone. The school, created a few years ago has been expanding, adding students, but that rate of student growth has dropped to 351 students and the institution is trending toward having another deficit, like the previous year. Manny Alonso-Poch, the owner of the building housing the academy founded the school and runs a restaurant at night at the location as well.

Alonso-Poch was grilled by audit committee members about whether the school will close the year with a deficit and he said it would not. He told them he would cover any shortfalls when the budget year concludes June 30 and it would be a “gift.” However, since the school is a not-for-profit that could be a tax deduction for Alonso-Poch and since he is getting over $69,000 in rent a month covering the potential estimated $150,000 shortfall would be no problem. The public school district funds the school based on student count and the audit committee voted to increase the scrutiny on the school including district auditors “monitoring in a more aggressive capacity.”

Betty Amos, the chair of the audit committee asked Alonso-Poch if he would reduce the high rent he charges for the school but the owner disagreed saying he “did not agree the rent was too high.” Audit committee member Frederick “Buck” Thornburg, Esq., said after the school’s discussion there “is a lot of fairy dust running around here” in the room he thought and scrutiny of the school’s finances are now front and center of the nation’s fourth largest public schools district’s auditors. Readers should stay tuned to see how this all pans out in the future.

To get Daniel's weekly email, please contact: publisher@watchdogreport.net

FROM NOW ON. ALL COMMENTS MORE THAN ONE PARAGRAPH WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. NO ONE READS THEM WHEN THEY GO ON AND ON NON-STOP.

How to comment on the Grapevine

A few people have stopped me on the street and asked how they can leave comments without signing in. You don't have to sign in, that option it there for people with blogs who want their blog name to appear as a link.

To leave a comment you have that option or the name option or the anonymous option. Just choose one. We would prefer your real name, but even in the name option you can make up a name or phrase like many do.

But it is not necessary to sign in to make comments.

Restaurant Reality Check

Greenstreet Café

This week's check is on the famous Greenstreet Outdoor Lounge and Restaurant, right on the corner of Main Highway and Commodore Plaza.

They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and the main feature on their recently lowered wine and champagne prices.

They offer the Wine of the Week for just $15.00 a bottle, but even better is their Champagne. Where the bottles go for up to $300 on South Beach, the Dom Perignon and Moet & Chandon are only $175.00 for 750 ml bottles.

Greenstreet is open late and it's a perfect spot to people watch while you share a great bottle of Champagne of wine.

Pinot Grigio, Santa Margherita from Italy is just $38.00 per bottle, Pinot Grigio, Lagaria from Italy is only $24.00. The new menu reflects the drop in prices from the previous menu.

As for food, there is something for everyone. Above you'll see my recent lunch: the Tuna Salad Panini with a side of black beans and rice. It is $12.00. The black beans were extra.

Appetizers include:

Grape Leaves: $7.00 / Hummus: $7.00 / Jamaican Chicken Wings: $7.00 / Fried Calamari: $8.50

Soups:
$3.45 cup, $5.50 bowl

Salads:
Cesare: $10.00 / Greek Salad: $11.00 / Fig Salad: $12.00 / Salmon Salad: $15.00

Main menu:
Chicken Wrap: $12.00 / Smoked Turkey Panini: $12.00 / Fish Wrap: $14.00

Angel Hair Pommodoro pasta: $11.00 / Meat Lasagna: $12.00 / Pesto Ravioli: $14.00
Cheeseburger: $12.00 / Lamburger: $12.00 / Skirt Steak: $17.00

These are just a few things on the large menu. Breakfast are very large and delicious.

He dropped them like a hot potato

Remember this phony from last weekend? The wannabe Howard Stern?

Well 24 Hour Fitness gave him a full refund, according to the staff at the gym, so he is off the fat people discrimination thing now.

He got his, now the others who he was fighting for are on their own.

Dine among artistic tables; and take one home, too

If you stop by Anokha (3324 Virginia Street), you'll see something really nice -- artistic tables, created by Gifford Lane's own Jobie Steppe.

Jobie tried explaining the tables once, but I wasn't quite sure of the concept, but there they are, all along the plaza at Anokha.

There are small café-style tables and larger dining tables. All to be enjoyed while you dine and all for sale. The small tables start at $150.00 and they work their way up in price from that (the chairs are not for sale).

Gourmet chocolate added to the Bookstore café

I stopped in the Bookstore yesterday
and Felice was proud to show me their
new line of gourmet chocolates.

They have Dark Pecan Brag,
Peanut Butter Cups, Milk Almond
Brag and Peanut Culster Bars
along with their other goodies at
the café area.

Coconut Grove sunglasses are now available

The new Coconut Grove sunglasses have hit the streets. They are meant for tourists, but if you would like a pair, they are only $7.99 and currently they are at Paul's sunglasses kiosk at the Mayfair plaza and just a few doors down at the Windisch-Hunt Art Gallery (2911 Grand Avenue).

They come all black, or black frames with neon orange, neon pink or hot blue arms, where it says "Coconut Grove, FL" with a palm tree, on the left side.

If you would like to carry the sunglasses at your store or restaurant, please email me. They are a great impulse item for tourists.

Smile if you see the camera looking at you

You may have seen a bunch of photographers all over the Grove today. They are particpating in the Snap It In the Grove Contest. The subjects chosen to photograph are: Heritage, Unwind, Grove and Black & White.