Does anybody else feel slighted?

And to prove once again, that Coconut Grove is the red headed stepchild of the City of Miami, the City has announced that on Wednesday, May 1, the city is launching the extension of the Biscayne-Brickell Trolley Route to Midtown and the Design District. On the same day, the Biscayne-Brickell route will be divided in to two separate routes. The free service will continue to run approximately every 15 minutes from 6:30 am to 11:00 pm, Monday through Saturday and 8:00 am to 8:00 am on Sundays. And to all you in Coconut Grove, waste gas, bike it, or take a cab.

The current Biscayne-Brickell route will be divided in to two routes to improve the service:
- This route will continue to go north from the Brickell Metrorail Station, along Biscayne Boulevard, and now to Midtown and the Design District.
- This route will continue to go south from Brickell Key to the Brickell Metrorail Station, terminating at Mercy Hospital, that is as far as it comes into Coconut Grove.

The two routes will overlap at various stops to allow for transfers. Some major destinations that will be served by the new routes are:

Design District 
Midtown 
Roberto Clemente Park
Margaret Pace Park
Adrienne Arsht Center
Bicentennial Park
American Airlines Arena
Freedom Tower
Bayside
Bayfront Park
Downtown area attractions
Knight Center
Miami Convention Center
Brickell Key
Mary Brickell Village
Financial District
Metrorail and Metromover Stations along the route
Alice Wainwright Park
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
Mercy Hospital and not the rest of Coconut Grove

Lots going on at Kennedy Park

Special report by by Carlos Iglesia

Many good things are happening right now at Kennedy Park.

They are finally removing the non-indigenous, invasive, detrimental plant and tree species and replacing them with indigenous ones. That includes the huge Australian Pines, the infamous Seaside Mahoes, Brazilian Pepper bushes, etc.

There was a comprehensive, official study done about that from accredited arborists a few years ago, which identified such detrimental plants and trees. 945 of them, if memory serves. 

They are also finally trimming the mangroves to open “windows” so we can see the water. Now, you can see the Bay a lot better at Kennedy Park. 

I wish they would do the same a Peacock Park, actually completely remove a few mangroves on the East side, where the boardwalk is, so people can see the Bay, as it was for decades before the 90’s. You could see the Bayside water all the way up from McFarlane Road. We know mangroves are beneficial, but even arborists agree that we are going overboard about that, as one recently told me. There are thousands of “sacred mangroves," as I call them, all over the five miles of blocked bayside water views that we have in Coconut Grove. Sadly, the only place you can see some water along those five miles is Seminole Boat Ramp, a few yards, if you’re walking, biking, or driving by the sidewalks or the road in South Bayshore Drive. Just imagine what better water views from the street would do for tourism and business in the Grove.

At Kennedy Park, they are also planning to open-up kayak launching points, close to Bayshore Drive, west side of the park, out of the “rivers” that come in from the bay through the mangroves.

They have already replanted already numerous grown, nice new trees, as they did on 27th Avenue recently.

According to the workers and the arborist, who I spoke with, they are also replacing torn, ugly grass with new, better quality grass patches.

International Jazz sensation to perform

For the first time ever performing at Miami’s New World Center, celebrated jazz artist and pianist Keiko Matsui (right) will join special guest Al Di Meola (left) on Friday, May 31, at 8 pm for a never before seen concert event featuring both artists as well as Keiko’s band.  Matsui is known around the world for her innovative contemporary jazz performances and Di Meola for blending world music and jazz; this performance will feature Keiko’s songs, including some from her new album, as well as Di Meola’s original work, of which several will be performed together.

 Their uniting for this unique performance is being hailed as one of the most widely anticipated events of the year set to take place in one of the most stunning music halls in the United States.

With over 1.2 million units sold in the U.S. alone and sold-out appearances at concert venues across the world, Matsui is one of the leading artists in the genre. Her elegant piano melodies and gentle jazz grooves have broad appeal and she continuously delights critics and fans alike.

 Al Di Meola is accepted as a bona fide guitar hero, perennial poll-winner and proclaimed virtuoso of the highest order.  For over 30 years, Di Meola has been recognized as a prolific composer and respected artist with over 20 recordings as a leader.  Albums such as “Friday Night in San Francisco” have earned him both artistic and commercial success with a solid fan base throughout the world.

The New World Center is home to the New World Symphony. In less than two decades, the New World Symphony has become a leading cultural institution in South Florida, generating audiences and critical acclaim around the world. New World Center is home to over 60 annual events and brings to Miami leading musicians from around the world.

 Tickets are available at the New World Center box office and on www.newworldcenter.com starting at $45 priced to $200, which includes a meet and greet with the artists.

The New World Center is at 500 17 St, Miami Beach.

Cinco de Mayo party on Brickell

There's a huge Cinco de Mayo party happening in the Brickell area on Sunday, May 5 put on by Brickell Fest Events.

Over 22,000 square feet of space at 1001 S. Miami Avenue, has been allotted for food, drinks and music sponsored by Dos Equis and Heineken. General admissions ticket holders receive a complimentary beer while VIP guests are gifted with a Brickell Fest mug, margarita or beer, sombrero, and access to the VIP tent and garden. Margaritas, Mexican-style bites, and mechanical-bull rides will also be available for purchase.

The event runs from noon to 11 pm Children 10 or younger attend for free. All ages are welcome until 6 pm and after that guests must be 21 or older.

With celebrations that have included St. Patrick's day and Octoberfest, Brickell Fest Events regularly transforms downtown event lots into an all-out party with a slate of memorable events to highlight revelry-worthy holidays. These bonanzas are characterized by first-class entertainment and food thanks to the organizers’ professional connections with local businesses, restaurants, and musicians.

Groupon has a special going on now. Get half off from now until the event.

Choose Between Two Options
$14 for one general admission (a $28 value)
$28 for one VIP admission (a $56 value)

A friend has left us

I had wondered where Siddha Vidya Prabhu (Sid) was on Saturday, during the Hare Krishna parade, he is always such a presence there. He is to the right in this photo. I found out that he passed on last month. He had medical problems including Parkinson's Disease.

I met Sid a few years ago, while I would see him many times during the week, he would go around with the Krishnas every Saturday night blessing people and businesses and that's when I got to know him. He knew me by name and he read the Grapevine, I always liked that he knew my name.

He would stop in AnnaMaria's gallery every week, we looked forward to that. It wasn't a Saturday night until Sid and his friends came around.

One time there was a fashion show at the gallery, there were literally hundreds of people there. It was ok, sort of solemn though, not sure why. All of a sudden Sid and his friends came in and the whole mood of the place turned around. The boring fashion show turned lively and everyone ended up with a smile on their face and that turned the whole mood around for the rest of the evening.

He always had a smile on his face he was a nice man; a real gentleman. He will be missed.

Coconut Grove cottages featured in new book

There's a great feature today in The Miami Herald about the Grove's Cottages.

Felice at the Bookstore has been telling me about author Beth Dunlop and photographer Claudia Uribe's book, "The Tropical Cottage: At Home in Coconut Grove," which features over 30 Grove cottages.

With all the over development, it's nice to see these quaint, beautiful restorations. They are owned by people you probably see daily around town.

Beth and Claudia will be at the Bookstore in the Grove (3390 Mary Street) on Friday, May 3 for a book signing and Q&A session and many of the locals who are featured in the book will be on hand, too.

Maybe you can also get signatures of the actual folks who are featured in the book! It reminds me of when Arva Moore Parks was presenting her new book on Coconut Grove and many of us featured in the book (see page 126) were signing autographs for each other, as if they were high school yearbooks.

Roger Magolan will be taking photos for his slide show, which is ongoing project at the bookstore. Have you seen it? It runs on the screen behind the cafe counter and it's photos of Grovites and events that have happened at the store. It also featured dogs, classic planes, books and other things.

For more info: 305-443-2855.

Miami Bike Polo today!

This is something cool, right on the heels of the Miami Critical Mass Orange Bike-in event is Miami Bike Polo. That is today, Sunday, April 28 at 1 pm at Jose Marti Park.

 This is the second year for Miami Bike Polo which takes place on the basketball courts under I-95 on SW 5th Street, between 3rd & 4th Ave.

Bring food to grill on the BBQ's in the park and bring your own drinks, and snacks if you want. Arrive early if you wish to learn, beginners and spectators are always welcomed.

Colorful Krishnas have annual parade through Grove

The Miami Ratha Yatra Parade marched through Coconut Grove Saturday afternoon, starting at the Hare Krishna temple at 3220 Virginia Street and ending at Peacock Park.

The large float winded its way through town and hundreds of people came out to cheer or even join in. They usually pick up people along the way who join the parade.

The yearly event is a fun thing, there's lots of color and lots of colorful people.

Saturday's event at the park had lots of music, food, fashion and more and Sunday, it's all repeated again, minus parade, at the Cultural Center at 3220 Virginia Street where there is live music, food, drama, books and more. It's a 12 hour event -- 9 am to 9 pm. Admission is free.

For more photos, please visit our Facebook page here.

Drumming and yelling in the park. Good times.

La Plume Young Writers Contest now open

The 2013 La Plume Young Writers Contest is now accepting applications.  It's the third year for the event here in Coconut Grove. The goal is to encourage appreciation of writing and reading.

La Plume offers students the opportunity to express themselves through a short story based on themes relevant to their grade level. A panel of professional journalists, actors, writers and educators evaluate all submissions. Massimo Tarridas, left, was a Grand Prize winner last year.

A 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winner for each level will be selected as well as a Grand Prize per level. Prizes will be awarded to all winners and the Grand Prizes will have their manuscript published. A celebration of all the young authors will include a book signing of the published manuscripts.

Cash prizes and numerous awards will be given to all winners, sponsored by The Bookstore in the Grove, MCA academy and other patrons.

Registration is now open until May 31, 2013. There is a $10 fee to enter. Students will have the summer to write their stories, which must be submitted by August 31, 2013. Awards are presented in November.

For more information visit www.laplumecontest.com or call: 305-442-2283.

It was a sea of orange at Miami Bike-in Fest

Orange was the fashion statement Friday night as Miami's Bike-in Festival meet up with the monthly Critical Mass bike ride. It was a celebration of the Dutch Queen's birthday, orange is the Dutch color.

Danny Lovett, of Revolution Bicycle Services in Coconut Grove, was among the crowd.

Omni Parkwest Redevelopment Association along with The Miami Bike Scene, and Grolsch Premium Lager put on the event which started at Government Center downtown Miami and ended with a big party at Grand Central Park. It was THE event of the year for the bike crowd, anyone who is anyone in Miami's bike scene was there.

Hundreds of t-shirts were given out.

Admission was free but all bar proceeds are going to Grand Central Park for improvements and maintenance to the facility. There was food, drinks, and music provided by DJ DZA for a special "Peachfuzz in the park."

Green Mobility Network provided a free bicycle valet and there were lots more bicycle-related vendors. As you can see, people dressed for the occasion.

 They really dressed!

Photos by Dave Weiss

Italian Vistas at Coral Gables Museum

The Amernet String Quartet and a string ensemble from Alhambra Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Donald Oglesby, will present Italian Vistas, an all-Italian program on Sunday, April 28, including works by Vivaldi, Mascagni, Corelli and Verdi, and featuring the Italian Serenade by Wolf.

Concert tickets include admission to the Coral Gables Museum exhibits, including the current exhibit, Italy in Motion. A cash bar will be available prior to the concert and during intermission. This lively program is a collaboration among the Museum; the Amernet String Quartet, FIU's popular quartet in residence; Dr. Donald Oglesby, internationally known baroque scholar and professor at UM; and Alhambra Orchestra, Miami's community orchestra.

Bring the family to enjoy this event, which starts at 4 pm. Tickets are $30; $20 for members; $10 for students with valid ID.

Coral Gables Museum | 285 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables | 305-603-8067

Miami chefs go head to head at Heart of a Chef

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden (11935 Old Cutler Rd.)  is the venue for this year's Heart of a Chef charity event this Sunday, April 28. Heart of a Chef, the "foodalicious family festival," is a fundraiser for the Florida Heart Research Institute.  The emphasis is on the prevention of childhood obesity along with educating people of all ages to live a heart healthy lifestyle.

The family-friendly event includes food, wine samples, and a cooking demonstration by Ellen Kanner, vegan chef and author of "Feeding the Hungry Ghost: Life, Faith, and What to Eat for Dinner." There will be lots of food vendors on site including EVOS, Frozen Guru, SunMoon Kitchen, Raw One Food, Veggie Xpress, W Organics, and so many more.

Executive Chef Aaron Brooks of Edge Steak & Bar at the Four Seasons Miami (above left), takes on Executive Chef Todd Erickson of Haven (right) in cook off where each chef will compete to make the best heart-healthy meal. It's a bit like Iron Chef in that they won't know the mystery ingredient until the contest starts.

Tickets for Heart of a Chef cost $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Each paid adult ticket includes admission for two children. To purchase tickets, please click here.
The event is from 3 to 7 pm. The chef cook-off starts about 5:30 pm.

Krishna parade and festival this weekend

It's that time of year again, the Hare Krishnas are holding the Festival of India this weekend.

The Miami Ratha Yatra Parade is Saturday at noon, the Krishnas will start at their temple at 3220 Virginia Street and come down Virginia Street to Grand Avenue, where they turn onto Grand then onto McFarlane Road and end up in Peacock Park.

This is a great event to watch or participate in.

On Sunday, the Krishnas have their festival at the Cultural Center on Virginia Street where there is live music, food, drama, books and more. Admission is free.

Their Facebook page is here.

French tourists burglarized at Grove Wendy's

Sadly, a group of French tourists were burglarized at the Wendy's on US1. 

Eighteen teens and two adults parked their van at Wendy's and went inside to eat. That's when it happened. Money, passports, luggage, all was stolen.

If anyone knows anything, please call 305-471-TIPS.

You can't have anything nice; or have any fun

Interesting story in The New Times about the bar owners in Wynwood having problems with the cops. This sounds just like Coconut Grove a few years ago. In the Grove, the police and authorities were called on bar owners who did not toe the line, if they did or said anything that was not appreciated by the establishment, they were raided. If they talked about the 3 am/5 am issue, they were raided. If they looked at anyone crooked they were punished.

One thing that occurred often here was that police cars were sent out to sit in front of the offending establishments all night. They had their lights on and basically scared off business.

Today the Grove still suffers. 

There is also talk about the Wynwood Art Walk getting out of hand (read too successful).

According to the New Times story, bar owners in downtown, who have the police and Commissioner Sarnoff on their side, are going after competition in Wynwood.

Sarnoff in the middle of this? No! Can't be. And our buddy David Collins, former Grove BID Director is the BID Director now in Wynwood. Do they even have a BID in Wyndood? I hope this is not a repeat of what happened in the Grove. This is akin to the City of New York killing SoHo or Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The whole story is here.

Kids Fest at Actors' Playhouse

In celebration of its 25th Anniversary Season, Actors' Playhouse Musical Theatre for Young Audiences will showcase its first original production of Excellent Conquest at Kids Fest on Saturday, April 27 from noon to 5 pm.

Excellent Conquest is a rock musical adventure that follows a group of classmates on a modern day quest to find a positive way to leave their mark on the world. Children will also enjoy a series of activity stations, including Puppet Passion, Costume Creations, Graffiti Art Area, Instrument Petting Zoo, Video "Dress Up" Studio, and more.

Tickets are $15 for adults and children.

Actors' Playhouse | 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables | 305-444-9293

His grubby little hands all over the candy

So I'm in The Fresh Market yesterday afternoon and as I'm walking by the candy, I see this kid, maybe about 15 years old, sticking his hands in the candy jars to get candy. He wasn't trying samples as people do, every so carefully with their filthy fingers, no this guy was whole fisting gobs of candy from the bins and putting in bags to purchase.

He literally was sticking an open hand into the jars and grabbing what he could and taking it out and putting in bags. I said something to him about what a dirty thing he was doing. He said he didn't realize what he was doing. How stupid can you be?

He ended up in line in front of me with his mother, who looked to be a classy lady and he didn't say anything. As they walked out of the store to their car he never looked back and neither did she, so I am assuming he didn't say anything to her. I was ready for an argument right there at the check out because I thought they were going to confront me. But he was a big boy, a fat boy, in fact, with fat pudgy fingers all in the candy bins. He was partial to the red licorice and jelly beans the most, but he grabbed his fair share from half a dozen bins or so.

This is how plagues are spread, or at least a cold or flu and wouldn't you know it, that I just threw my onion out the night before! I had been sleeping with an onion next to my bed all winter into spring to avoid the flu. You can read why I did that here.

I had the onion there so long it was beginning to sprout. Really. 

Schedule of events for Shakespeare's birthday party

Shakespeare Miami and The Barnacle State Historic State Park are celebrating William Shakespeare's birthday on Saturday, April 27, rain or shine, from noon to 7:00 pm.

There will be activities all day from a Sonnet Walk to ongoing scenes from Shakespeare and poetry recitations. From 5 to 7 pm, there will be a full staged reading of Shakespeare's "The Tempest."

Admission is free (with park admission $2 for ages 6 and up. Kids free.)

Here is the schedule for Saturday's Shakespeare's Birthday Party at The Barnacle:

12:00 – 1:30 - Sonnet Walk

12:00 – 2:00 - Shakespeare PhotoBooth/ Dress up area

12:00 – 2:30 - Children’s Activities: Face Painting, Coloring, Story Time

12:00 – 3:00 - Ongoing: Scenes from Shakespeare and Poetry Recitations

12:30 – 1:30 - Stage Combat Demonstrations and Children’s Classes

1:00 – 2:00 - Rat Pucking & Jousting

12:00 – 2:30 - Fairy Garden – Visit the Fairies in their Garden 

2:00 – 2:30 - Costume Parade and Costume Contest 

2:30 – 3:00 - Tea with Mr. Shakespeare: Tea, Apple “Tea” and Birthday Cake

2:45 – 3:00 - Costume Contest Winners announced 

5:00 – 7:00 - Staged reading of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” 

Community members will participate in the National Poetry Month celebration by reading poems by or inspired by Shakespeare.

For more information, call the Barnacle State Historic Site at 305-442-6866 The park is located at 3485 Main Highway.

King Mango Cinco de Mayo Party

The Mangoheads are having a Cinco De Mayo party at Mr. Moe's (3131 Commodore Plaza), on Sunday, May 5 from 4 to 8 pm. Wear your sombrero and come out and enjoy live music by "School of Rock." There will be happy hour drink prices and door prizes.

King Mango Strut t-shirts and posters will be for sale.

The Great Gatsby rises again

This Friday, April 26, Fairchild Tropical Gardens will be the venue for the Roaring Gatsby Garden Party. With the new Leonardo DiCaprio The Great Gatsby movie opening next month, the timing is perfect to go back to the 1920s.

Fairchild Palms, the nonprofit young professionals group of Fairchild Gardens, is hosting the glitzy and glamorous event. Set amidst the Garden's lush backdrop, the evening will pay tribute to the razzle dazzle and old fashioned glamour of this era.

Enjoy great music by Rocky Sofi, savory hors d’oeuvres by GB Catering, decadent sweets and lavish cocktails presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka. The event is sponsored by Latin American Agribusiness Development Bank (LAAD). Attire is casual chic or 1920’s glamour.

Tickets are $65 if purchased online here or $85 at the door.

The event is from 7 to 11 pm. Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens is located at: 10901 Old Cutler Road, for more info: 305-667-1651.

Vacating the Glass House

The Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce is moving across the street and the NET office is moving to the former scuba shop location at 3310 A Mary Street.

Now what's next for the Glass House? Many would like to see an RFP go out fast so that the structure can become a restaurant, community center or something else.

MPA tracking license plates now?

So a few weeks ago, I went to a parking meter in the Grove and it would not take my money until I put my license plate number. So in the pouring rain I ran back to the car to read the plate, ran back to the meter and punched in the numbers.

This is something new the Miami Parking Authority (MPA) is doing. They request your plate number in order for you to pay for parking.

Many people don't like this, they feel it reeks of Big Brother. Even if you use the pay by phone feature, you're license is being used, so you are sort of being tracked.

Now this can be great for an alibi, but I've been hearing from people that they don't like it. I am not quite sure of the MPA's reasoning, but I see it as a selfish move, as people share the parking slips, you know, if there is time left, people hand the slip off to the next person. I have done this and I'm sure you have, too. I've shared my slip and I've received slips from people.

Now you cannot do it. Someone told me that they were going to punch a fake license number into the machine, fooling the machine, but if the plate number does not match the car, you'll be ticketed.

This is also killing a big business downtown for homeless people who I have seen collect the tickets that are not fully used and they sell them at a discount to people. So now their business is shot.

Just another day in Paradise.

We have a Chevaleresse in our midst!

The French Government bestowed upon longtime Coconut Grove resident Brigitte Kishlar, a Knighthood in the Order of Arts and Letters this past March. The award is given to individuals who have contributed significantly to the arts, literature or the advancement of those fields. Brigitte was presented the medal of Knighthood by her good friend and artist, Sam Choueka, at a party attended by her 93-year-old father and friends in Paris in March. That's Sam above with Brigitte. Members of the order include Leonardo DiCaprio, Rudolf Nureyev, George Balanchine, Philip Glass, George Clooney, Tim Burton, Ray Bradbury, Audrey Hepburn, Sean Connery, Bob Dylan, and T.S. Eliot. Chevaleresse is a female knight.

What's so great about this is that Brigitte is one of the most humble people you will ever meet. She's very soft spoken, a very hard worker and you can see her zooming up the street driving her golf cart almost daily!

Brigitte founded the Miami Conservatory of Music ten years ago, and the MCA academy in 2006 and has produced many musical and literary events including the Fete de la Musique in Coconut Grove, concerts with world-class musicians like Udi Bar David of the Philadelphia Orchestra and the La Plume Young Writers Contest.  The conservatory has also provided music scholarships for musically inclined children whose families have limited resources but wish to continue their training.

Brigitte comes from an artistic family, her uncle is the writer Henry Troyat elected member of the French Academy, her mother a noted concert pianist and her father created the first dance club and restaurant in St. Tropez in the 1950’s. She was named for Brigitte Bardot, who along with Charles Aznavour frequented the family’s home. 

 “I am truly honored to receive this award because it represents all the efforts and sacrifices of my parents, family, friends and my husband, James Kishlar, in supporting my musical dreams,” Kishlar said.  “The love of music and the arts gives us all a special sense of humanity and I am humbled by this honor.”

Miami Archdiocese is suing the City

Did you see this article in the Miami Herald about the Archdiocese of Miami claiming that Miami 21 is hurting development plans at the Mercy Hospital location?

Who put the church up to this the hospital who eventually may claim bankruptcy and sell off the land to developers?

Reminds me of those nuns a few years back who sweared that the monstrous Related Group project was what was best for the prime waterfront land.

How about the church deal with religion and leave the sleaze to the developers?

Vizcaya Moonlight Garden tours are back this week

Vizcaya is holding another one if it's popular Moonlight Garden Tours on Wednesday and Thursday, April 24 and 25. These are the last two Moonlight tours of 2013.

The gardens are spectacular transformed by the glow of a bright Miami moon. With live music in the Courtyard, the allure of Italian-inspired gardens and delicious temptations available for purchase in the Café & Shop, it's no wonder Moonlight Garden Tours are a visitor favorite.

Wednesday night features classical music with Ashley Liberty on violin and Daniel Strange on piano. Thursday features jazz with Jordan Christianson on piano and Matt Flynn on guitar.

Optional guided tours of the gardens begin at 6:30 pm and continue at intervals throughout the evening. 

Tickets $15; $10 for Members, Seniors and Students with ID; available onsite only from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. on the evening of the program. The tours are from 6:30  to 9:00 pm both days.

Not all areas of the gardens are wheelchair accessible and decorated rooms will not be open.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, a National Historic Landmark and European-inspired estate on Biscayne Bay, is located at 3251 South Miami Avenue. For more information, go to www.vizcaya.org or call 305-250-9133.

No drilling allowed at this Chamber Mixer

Interesting Chamber networker coming up this week.

This Wednesday's Coconut Grove Chamber of Commerce networker is at Sharp Dentistry! Yup. at the dentist's office!

Don't worry, no drills in site, only networking, mixing, mingling, open bar and hors d'oeuvres!

It's April 24, from 5:30 to 8 pm at the SBS Building, 2601 S. Bayshore Drive, suite 760.

This seems too cool to miss.

Admission is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. 

The doctor is in, if you feel like a complimentary consultation.

Please RSVP to GroveChamber@coconutgrove.com or 305-444-7270.

Peacock family marker being installed

A large marker will be installed at the Peacock family plot on Tuesday, April 23 at Miami City Cemetery.

One of the relatives, Suzanne Tripp, has purchased the marker for those family members who are there but not listed. The existing large, beautiful tombstone was dedicated about 100 years ago.

The Peacocks had the first Inn in Miami, actually Coconut Grove. Charles and Isabella had a big home and so many visitors wanted to stay with them that they added on to the house and made it an inn. Mrs. Peacock held picnics to raise money for a Sunday School.

The Peacock Inn was across the street for the Coconut Grove Woman's Club, which is still in its same location. The Inn was behind where the Glass House is today in Peacock Park.

One of  the club's committee members, Mona Ball's mother, was a companion to Mrs. Peacock before her marriage to Morgan Gilbert. Mona's mother knew Miami pioneer Julia Tuttle. too!

Come out and be a part of history. The ceremony is at 11 am. at the Miami City Cemetery (1800 NE 2nd Avenue).

Runners come out for "Compatriots 5K Run"

Local runners got together Saturday morning for the Compatriots run to raise money for the Boston tragedy.

Other groups around the country did the same thing, including NYC Social, DC Social, Jersey Club Sports, Stay & Play Sports & Social, Delaware Sports Leagues,SportsLink, Underdog Seattle & Atlanta Sports & Social Club.

The 5K run was held in honor of all those affected by the horrific tragedy at the Boston Marathon. The course started at Florida Running Company and made its way through the Grove, it included the running trails at Kennedy Park.  

Afterwards, everyone gathered at the Sandbar.

All of the proceeds were donated to the One Fund Boston.

Photos Courtsey of Kelly Samardak

PBS's "Check Please!" Tasting Tour coming to Grove

You've probably seen "Check Please!" the PBS restaurant tasting show, hosted by Executive Chef Michelle Bernstein. Well, they have a Tasting Tour and the next tour is Tuesday, May 14 right here in Coconut Grove.

Four Grove restaurants will be visited for the fourth edition of the tour. A private bus will take people to the Grove and around the Grove where you'll sample food and drinks.

Tickets are $125 per person. There are two tours, one at 5 pm and one at 5:30. The bus leaves Whole Foods in South Miami and brings people to the Grove, but I assume if you're in the Grove you can just meet up with the group here.

The featured restaurants are El Carajo International Tapas & Wine, Berries in the Grove, Le Bouchon du Grove, and Happy Wine the Grove, with a special appetizer by host Michelle Bernstein's Miami restaurant, Michy's.  In addition, Whole Foods will host the tour and will be providing desserts/coffee at the end of the evening.

To purchase tickets, please go here.

Living & Loving 2: A Continued Celebration of Life

The Hangar Gallery (2235 NW 2nd Ave, Wynwood) will host a follow up tribute to the 2010 " Living & Loving: Celebrating our Comfort" exhibition with "Living & Loving 2: A Continued Celebration of Life." The event is Friday, April 26 at 7 pm.

 The display of photographs are works created by Miami based photographer, Anthony Jordon Jr.

Anthony will feature various works representative of all cultures, lifestyles, and environments which make Miami the diverse city that it is. Benefiting AIDSWalk Miami with this show, the exhibition is an opportunity for the community to come together to support individuals infected or affected by HIV/AIDS not only around the globe, but specifically here in South Florida. .

 Anthony's works have earned him numerous recognitions He was also recently chosen as an Instagram Ambassador and to provide social media content for Scope Miami and the Heineken Mural Project, both during Art Basel 2012.

 A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the photos will be donated to Care Resources to fund their efforts in continuing their existing programs in support of HIV/AIDS outreach in South Florida. 

Additionally, The Hangar Gallery has also offered to donate 10% of any purchases made the evening of the exhibition.  Further works of Anthony's can be viewed at http://antjphotog.500px.com/

RSVP: antiphotog.eventbrite.com

New Executive Board at Village Council

The members of the Coconut Grove Village Council held a special election on April 18, 2013, at the Coconut Grove Sailing Club where a new executive board was selected.

This Board will be chaired by Jessica Lewis (left), Student Learning Community Coordinator at FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, who was involved in the creation of the Village Council's official Web site and chair of communications. 

Jessica has lived in Coconut Grove Since 2009, and has been an elected member of the council since October 2011.

Regularly scheduled elections will be held in November 2013, in which the Village Council will be electing new members as well as a new executive board.

The other members of the Board are:

·         Kate M. Callahan, Vice Chair

·         Michelle Barton King, Secretary

·         David Himmel, Treasurer

·         Patrick Sessions, Sergeant at Arms

Inaugural Get Crackin' Brunch at Joe's

Feeding South Florida, the largest food bank in the state, will host its inaugural “Get Crackin’” private brunch that's open to the public, Sunday, April 21.

The event will support the organization’s mission while honoring some of its most vehement supporters: honoree and local celebrity chef Allen Susser, Media Hero honoree The Miami Herald and El Nuevo Herald; and Corporate Citizenship honoree Southern Wine & Spirits.

Get Crackin” will kick off with a reception beginning at 11 am, followed by brunch from noon to 2 pm. Joe's famous main course selections, stone crab claws, salmon, steak and chicken, and Joe’s signature sides - coleslaw, spinach and hash browns - will be accompanied by Mimosas, Champagne, and red and white wines.

The event chair and Feeding South Florida Board chair is Diana Brooks. Event sponsorships range from $1,500 to $20,000, and individual tickets are $150. 


For info: 954-518-1843 (Lisa Stoch) / LStoch@FeedingSouthFlorida.org


 Joe's Stone Crab is located at 11 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach.

Gift of Life Gala at Vizcaya

Vizcaya's Gift of Life Gala is Saturday, April 20, from 6 pm to midnight.

The fundraiser is hosted by Holistic Counseling Services, Inc. Special guests are Vivica Fox, George Hamilton, Marvin Jones, Alana Stewart, Richie Supra and Cory Hardrict. The second annual gala event promises to be an exciting night of sumptuous dining by some of the best chefs in South Florida, entertainment and a silent and live auction with novel items such as guitars signed by Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen and tickets to the 2013 American Music Awards, Emmys, Kentucky Derby, LA Film Festival and much, much more.

Tickets range from $150 to $1200 to help support people who suffer from addiction and alcoholism. Ticket info here: http://www.HCSCGala.com.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens are located at 3251 S. Miami Avenue.

Party for the Planet at Zoo Miami

Party for the Planet is Zoo Miami's Earth Day celebration, happening this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, April 20 and 21 from 11 am to 4 pm both days.

The Tropical Flowering Tree Society will be hosting its annual plant show and sale. There will also be fun “green” activities and entertainment for the entire family as well as animal enrichment with recycled items and/or natural materials like newspapers, cardboard tubes, bamboo, old tires, fire hoses, and more.   

During Party for the Planet, guests can come in free of charge if they turn in a cellphone as part of our ECO-CELL phone recycling program. Not only will each person donating a cellphone enter the zoo for free on these two days, but they will also help save gorillas! Cell phones include coltan, a mineral extracted in the deep forests of Congo in central Africa, home to the world's endangered lowland gorillas. Fueled by the worldwide cell phone boom, Congo's out-of-control coltan mining business has in recent years led to a dramatic reduction of animal habitat and the rampant slaughter of great apes for the illegal bush-meat trade. By turning in your cell phone, we can hopefully reduce the need for additional coltan … and help protect the gorillas.

Zoo Miami is located at 1 Zoo Boulevard (12400 SW 152 Street).

Food and Garden Festival to be held this weekend

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is holding it's annual Food & Garden Festival this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, April 20 and 21, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

The 34th Annual Spring Plant Sale will celebrate Spring. Sample delicious seasonal foods, learn how to care for and maintain your edible gardens and take home healthy plants for your own garden. Shop for locally grown fruits, veggies, herbs, honey and jams at the Farmers Market on the Garden House Lawn. Sample tropical fruits at the Fairchild Farm Fruit Market and check out the Edible Garden area for plants like the native Everglades tomato that can grow year-round in South Florida.

Stop by the Spring Beer Tasting Garden to try unique flavors like guava brown ale and pear cider.Starting at 11:00 am, Magners and Brown Distributing Company will be bringing Magners Original Cider, Magners Pear Cider, Woodchuck Amber Cider, Woodchuck Spring Cider, Blue Point Summer Ale, Blue Point Toasted Lager, Nectar Ale Hemp Ale, Nectar Ale Red Nectar, Nectar Ale Nectar IPA, Palm and Steenbrugge Tripel. The Miami Brewing Company will be bringing their Caramel and Coconut Blonde Ale Big Rod and Guava and Chocolate Brown Ale Gator Tail. Gold Coast Beverage and Whole Foods Market will be bringing brews from Abita Brewing Company, Brooklyn Brewery, Crispin, Strongbow and more.

Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors, $12 for children 6-17 and free to children 5 and under and Fairchild members. 

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road, for info: 305-667-1651.

Guitar Foundation presents Marcin Dylla

The Florida Guitar Foundation will be presenting Marcin Dylla tonight, Friday, April 19 at the St. Augustine Catholic Church (1400 Miller Road).

Many critics, connoisseurs and music lovers certify that Marcin Dylla is among the world's elite of classical guitar players. He has earned this position, among others, to unparalleled number of awards including 19 first prizes from 1996-2007 at the most prestigious international music competitions around the world.

Marcin has been hailed by Washington Post as “among the most gifted guitarists on the planet.” Marcin was born in Chorzow in 1976 and received his first guitar lessons at the Ruda Slaska Music Conservatory in his native Poland. From 1995 to 2000 he studied at the Music Academy of Katowice with Adi Wanda Palacz and later completed his studies with Oscar Ghiglia, Sonja Prunnbauer and Carlo Marchione at the Music Academies of Basel (Switzerland), Freiburg (Germany) and Maastricht (The Netherlands), respectively. He is currently a Professor at the Music Academy in Kraków and Katowice. 

Showtime is 8:30 pm. This is the final concert of the Florida Guitar Foundation's season.

Tickets start at $15 for students and are $30 for general admission; their are VIP tickets available, too. All info here: www.floridaguitarfoundation.org/concerts

Joel and Victoria Osteen visit Coconut Grove

Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado and City Commissioners was joined by City of Doral Mayor Luigi Boria in presenting keys to both cities to Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen at Coconut Grove's Shake-A-Leg, today. The Osteens are in Miami for America’s Night of Hope event on Saturday, April 20, at Marlins Stadium. Above, Harry Horgan, of Shake-A-Lake, introduces the Osteens.

“Victoria and I love the people of Miami and we are happy to be back” said Pastor Joel Osteen. “We are especially honored to receive the key to the City of Miami from Mayor Regalado and the City of Doral from Mayor Boria.”   

Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen’s appeal is universal and allows them to crossover to audiences that are diverse racially, politically and socioeconomically, attracting millions to the Night of Hope events since 2004. During the two days prior to “Americans Night of Hope” event, Generation Hope Project  will bring together young adults who are passionate about making a positive impact.  Generation Hope Project seeks to change the circumstances of despair and disappointment through acts of kindness and compassion.

“The City of Miami is very grateful to Victoria and Joel Osteen for Generation Project Hope and the help they are providing to our community” stated Mayor Regalado.

Joel Osteen, with Grove artist Rafael Gutierrez. 



Photos by Rafael Gutierrez 

Compatriots' Day 5K; In solidarity with Boston

Coconut Grove is joining a national Compatriots running day on Saturday, April 20, to raise money for the Boston tragedy.

From the group putting it on: "Miami understand the pain a community endures after a natural disaster. With such a running community in Miami, Play Hard Play Social is teaming up with NYC Social, DC Social, Jersey Club Sports, Stay & Play Sports & Social, Delaware Sports Leagues,SportsLink, Underdog Seattle & Atlanta Sports & Social Club to host the "Compatriots' Day 5K" this Saturday, April 20th. We will be running in honor of all those affected by the horrific tragedy at the Boston Marathon. Let's run for all those who couldn't finish the race and help those who need help staying positive.  Let's show everyone that we all care!  This could have affected so many people that you know."  

Where: 
Meet at the Florida Running Company (3407 Main Highway) for check in at 9:45 am. They will be mapping a course for us through the Grove that includes the running trails at Kennedy Park.  

When: Saturday April 20th 
Wave 1: 10:30 am 
Wave 2: 12:00 pm (if needed)
*Please arrive 15 minutes prior to run

Cost is $30 per runner. You can sign up here.

Post run gathering: 
Sandbar & Grill starting at 12:00 pm
All race entries receive a wrist band for 1/2 off all drinks (excluding bottles). Not a runner and want to support the cause, you can buy a wristband at Sandbar after the run for $15.  

All of the proceeds will be donated to the One Fund Boston: http://onefundboston.org/

A whole lot of cuttin' going on!

The Detlev Salon + Spa is holding the "Aveda Earth Month Cut-a-thon," on Sunday, April 21 from noon to 6 pm.

The "cutting marathon" offers special Cut-a-thon prices which include Haircuts for $20; Blow Dry for $10; Hair Conditioning for $15; Chair Massage for $1.00 per minute and Waxing for $10! All proceeds benefit the Everglades Foundation. Stop by and experience the new Aveda Lifestyle Salon from Detlev. Call 305-448-5750 to book appointments now. Space is limited.

Detlev Salon + Spa (formerly "The Grove Salon") is located at 3065 Fuller Street. RSVP at facebook.com/TheGroveSalon.

4th Annual Brew at the Zoo back for another round

Brew at the Zoo is back for it's 4th year. The Beer Fest is May 4 from 7 to 11 pm, where else? at the zoo!

Over 100 local and international craft beers will be available along with live national acts and lots of food and of course the animals.
The New Times, who sponsors the event is happy to bring Naughty by Nature to perform their hits like O.P.P. and Hip Hop Horray. Miami's own Luke Cambell (I voted for him for Mayor) will also be live on stage.

General Admission Tickets:
Unlimited local and international beer sampling from 100-plus vendors, national and live music performances, and special offers from local merchants.
 $35 prepaid online through May 4, 2013, at 2 pm. 
 $45 at the door 

VIP Tickets:
The VIP pass includes designated tented VIP area, unlimited beer and spirit samples, catered food, and early entry to sample beer from 6pm-7pm without the hassle of any lines. Space is VERY LIMITED.
 $75 prepaid online through May 4, 2013, at 2 pm. 
 $85 at the door

This is a 21-and-up event. Rain or shine. To purchase tickets, click here.

Present your Brew at the Zoo ticket and get into Zoo Miami FREE May 5-15, 2013, or get 50% off admission to Zoo Miami through September 30, 2013. You also have the option of redeeming your tickets for up to a $30 credit on the Annual Pass through the end of September. None of these offers is valid with other discounts or coupons.

Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152nd Street.

Try Enriquetas for lunch or dinner

If you're in the Wynwood area for Gallery Walk or whatever, check out Enriquetas Cuban restaurant at 186 NE 29 Street. They have all the usual Cuban fare -- sandwiches, all sorts of platters, delicious shakes and more.

Breakfast and lunch are only served, so get there before the Gallery Walk. They are known for their steak sandwiches and Bistec A Caballo -- steak, hame, eggs and French fries or salad, only $8.75. 

It's a nondescript place, sort of looks like a shack but you can't miss all the Mercedes, BMW's and Ferraris in the parking lot or parked on the street.

Enriquetas has specials Monday through Friday like steak, Vaca Frita, Arroz Con Pollo, etc. starting at $8.75.

Their hours: Monday through Friday, 6:30 am to 4:00 pm; Saturday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm. Phone: 305-573-4681. There was a small fire there recently, but all is well now.

Chicken soup.