There's a Boobilicious Bake Sale for the Susan G. Komen breast cancer research and community programs this weekend. Stop by on Friday, July 1 from 5 to 7 pm for some home-baked goodies, hot dogs and pink lemonade.
Thanks to Heather, Alysia and Katherine there are brownies, boob-berry muffins, cupcakes, sugar cookies and much more.
It's at the corner of Kirk and Swanson. It's a great way to start the holiday weekend!
Blu Moon Studio of Art (3444 Main Highway, top floor) will be offering two workshops in July, along with the regular schedule of classes.
"Inner Journeys - Mandala Drawing Workshop," with local artist Sheri Friedman, will be held on Sunday, July 10 from 1 to 4 pm. The workshop fee is $50, and a 10% discount is being offered if you bring a friend, all materials are provided.
Please RSVP by Friday, July 8 to reserve a spot @ 305-794-0329, or blumoonsheri@gmail.com.Art Magnet School hopefuls, prepare yourself in a series of workshops specifically designed to get you ready for your studio auditions at D.A.S. H. , New World , etc. at the Portfolio Prep. Summer Workshop.
You will complete four portfolio ready pieces in this four week series ... get a head start now! All classes taught by Sheri Friedman.
Session one - Friday, July 8, 1-4 pm - Pastel Still Life
Session two - Friday, July 15, 1-4 pm - Charcoal Still Life
Session three- Friday , July 22, 1-4 pm - Sketchbook Intensive
Session four - Friday, July 29, 1-4 pm - Self Portrait in Ebony Pencil
Workshop fee is $250 for all four sessions, includes materials. Class size limited to 10 students. For information contact Sheri @ 305-794-0329, or blumoonsheri@gmail.com.
The Coconut Grove Rotary Club is having a fundraiser luncheon featuring UM Coach Al Golden.
Join the Rotarians for an up-close and personal discussion with one of the hottest up-and-coming coaches in the country on August 4, the day Freshmen report to ‘Cane Camp. Join alum, friends, neighbors and fellow ‘Cane fans for the unofficial start of Hurricane season with Coach Al Golden at the new Alumni Center. This is a rare opportunity to hear Coach Golden discusses his team, their upcoming season and his strategies about how his team will "…return to winning championships at the University of Miami.''
11:30 am: Networking & Cocktails
12:30 pm: Luncheon & Key Note Speaker
at Robert and Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center
6200 San Amaro Drive, Coral Gables.
$50.00 per person
Free parking
RSVP to rene@gapllaw.com by July 29, 2011.
Mail checks made payable to: Coconut Grove Rotary,
c/o Rene Garcia, García & Associates, 175 SW 7th Street, Suite 1714
Miami, Florida 33130. Questions? Call 305.860.1008
This is a pre-paid event. No tickets will be available at the door.
100% of proceeds will be donated in Coach Golden’s name to the Coconut Grove Rotary benefiting at-risk and underprivileged youth in Coconut Grove, Bolivia, Columbia and Guatemala.
The Ramblers Band will be performing in Peacock at 8 pm on the 4th of July. Also performing, staring at 5 pm are Pit Bull of Blues and Joel Zoss.
The Rambler's are one of the first popular Country Rock bluegrass bands in Miami and the Redland for years.
They are a true American band, perfect for July 4th. Arlene Morgan is the leader and vocalist/guitar along with her husband Roy "Chubby" Morgan playing his rip-roaring fiddle; along with Harold Spewick keyboards/vocals and Luc Williams guitar and vocals.
Ronnie Brooks, native Grovite, rounds out the group on drums. Ronnie is also known as leader of "Campo Deluxe," Coconut Grove's popular Jazz rock band.
The bands will play up to the fireworks, at 9:30 pm, when thousands will descend on Peacock Park to see a magnificent display over the bay. It's always a great event and a real Grove and American tradition.
Joel Zoss with Piano Bob also is playing on July 4th. The master songwriter' compositions have sold millions of copies, earning him two gold records. He provided recording artist Bonnie Raitt, with whom he has also performed, with two hits, “Too Long at the Fair” and “I Gave My Love a Candle,” and has also performed and recorded with James Taylor, David Bromberg, John Hartford, Paul Butterfield, David Sanborn, Vassar Clements, Lowell George, Little Feat, John Hall and Orleans, Taj Mahal, Norman Blake, Juan-Carlos Formell, Todd Rundgren, Kate Taylor, The Master Musicians of Jajouka, and Howling Wolf. Since 2007 Joel has appeared frequently with B.B. King in theaters across the country.
Josh "Pitbull of the Blues" Rowand, the lead guitarist of the eponymous band, also is performing, Josh has been playing since he was old enough to hold a guitar. At the age of 15 Josh placed third in the Guitar Center (Hallandale, Florida) Battle of the Blues Guitarists, beating out many older, established players. Josh is also an accomplished slide guitarist, harmonica player, singer and songwriter.
Leslie Ames at the Goldie store at 3092 Fuller Street is sending out designer call for all designers in the area who do apparel and accessories. If you're an independent designer this is for you. You're invited to present your line for consideration, if they like your clothing, jewelry or accessories, you're in! They will sell your items in the store!
Email Leslie at goldiestore@yahoo.com for more info.
There's never a dull moment. Ben Marcus here got locked in the Dolce Vita gelato store on Main Highway yesterday! I was walking by, on my way to pick up the green bike at Regions Bank, and Ben's grandmother came running up to me in a panic, Ben had gone into the store to use the bathroom and when he came out, he was locked in! The guy who runs the store went out for a minute and locked up without realizing anyone was in the store.
I told Ben, the bright side was that he was locked inside a gelato store and not in some place boring or without so many goodies to eat! Luckily the guy that runs the store came back within a few minutes and Ben was let out. His cousin Larry Wanovich took the photo above, that's Larry with the camera here. They were visiting from Coral Gables.
Picnic, Coconut Hunt, Food Trucks, Cirque du Grove,
Live music, Fireworks and so much more
Coconut Grove's 4th of July! 
Coconut Grove is the place to be every 4th of July, and this year is no exception. As usual, there will be a full day of celebration, starting at The Barnacle in the morning with an old-fashioned picnic and ending with a spectacular fireworks display at Peacock Park.
But two days before, on July 2 and 3, there will be the new tradition of buskers, fire and acrobats at Cirque du Grove! On Saturday, July 2, a Fire Dance on Virginia Street at Grand Avenue starts about 8:30 pm. Dancers will twirl fire batons, toss them into the air, manipulate spinners, hoops and other devices to create an amazing visual spectactular. It's all free! On Sunday, July 3, experience Cirque on the street -- acrobats, tumblers, jugglers, trapeze artists, wire walkers, mimes, clowns and all sorts of circus characters with the Rainbow Circus, take over the Grove. The shows run for 30 minutes at 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm with a finale at 3:45 pm. Between shows street performers, magicians and balloon artists will entertain the crowds.
July 4th starts at 11 am at The Barnacle (3485 Main Highway) for their old-fashioned type of day. Lawn games, board games and even kite flying are part of the fun. Live music from Joel Zoss will enhance the decked out in traditional red, white and blue bunting. Bring a picnic or treat yourself to hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie dogs and burgers, popcorn, soft drinks and ice cream available for purchase.
Admission to the park on the day of this event is $5; $3 for ages 6-12; children under 6 are free. The park opens at 9 am with activities from 11 am to 4 pm. Park closes at 5 pm. The Barnacle welcomes Blankets, lawn chairs and picnics, but alcohol and fireworks are not permitted.
From The Barnacle, head over to CocoWalk and Mayfair for two of the funnest activites to hit the Grove in recent years -- the Hot Dog Eating Contest and the Coconut Hunt! Join the hot dog contest in the center court at CocoWalk, which starts at 3 pm -- see how many you can eat -- winners win big prizes and and right after that is Coconut Grove's famous Coconut Hunt, at 4 pm, which starts in front of the Bookstore -- where you can join in the fun locating colorfully painted coconuts hidden all over the Grove -- win prizes like hotel stays and even a brand new bicycle -- just for finding coconuts!
And what could say 4th of July more than fireworks! Peacock Park is the location where thousands gather late in the day for the fireworks over the bay. The Boston Beer Company, Sam Adams, is once again the official beer for July 4th at Peacock Park and nothing goes better with beer than an assortment of some of Miami's top gourmet food trucks, including CheeseMe Mobile, Dim Ssam a gogo, Gastropod, Latin Burger and The Fish Box, plus Fireman Derek's World-Famous Pies and a Snow Caps stand. Soft Drinks, Cocktails and Zico Coconut Water will round out the menu.
There are live performances in the park, starting at 5 pm and leading up to the fireworks display at 9:30 pm. Free Entertainment includes performances by The Ramblers Band, Pit Bull of Blues and Joel Zoss. There will also be a Children's Fun Zone.
We received a response from a reader regarding the story on City workers parking without paying the meter:As an EMS worker for a municipality in South Florida which I admit used this tactic before, I can assure you that they are taking a risk when doing this. I have left my identification card and articles of uniforms like hats or jackets on my dashboard right in front of Laughing Loggerhead numerous times and have come to find out that its a 50/50 chance of getting a ticket or not.
For example I already know South Miami does not care who you work for and will give you a ticket no matter what. It comes down to timing! With all the budget cuts going around meter maids have cracked down on this because tickets issued directly affect job performance and job standing come time for salary cuts. And tickets issued also affects their operating budgets which they get paid from.This is one of those issues where its who you know in Miami. People in the public sector tend to watch after each other like family. And I view it as a courtesy done by individual meter maids at their own discretion not a rule.
It looked like a party at CocoWalk this morning, dozens of people were there to get free U2 concert tickets, being given out by Stub Hub, the ticket broker, and Souls4Souls, the charity that gives out shoes to the needy. The first 100 in line who donated shoes, got the tix. In the end about 120 groups or couples showed up, the ones that didn't get tickets got t-shirts.
Above, are the first five who were in line, they told me they started showing up at 4 am! From left are Elmer Garcia, Ricky Garcia, Ana Ramos, Daniel McVay and Alexander Medina.
Johnny Rockets, The Bookstore, Red Bull and Smoothie King took advantage of the marketing opportunity before them and handed out coupons and freebies, I told many in the group about our July 4th Coconut Hunt and Hot Dog Eating Contest, I figured this was the crowd who seemed up for these sort of contests and it was a great place to promote the events.
The line wrapped around CocoWalk from one end all the way around onto Virginia Street. It was a fun crowd consisting of all age groups. Looks like this is what gets people out to the Grove -- free concert tickets! It's something to think about for future promotions. Many said they were sticking around for lunch and many are hanging around the Grove for the rest of the day, so this was a win win for everyone.It seems that the tickets that StubHub was offering were tickets that people had returned, so the seats were spread out all over the stadium -- many were pretty good seats! The people who received the tickets won't find out where their seats are until they show up the day of the concert at "will call" and pick them up. But there were a lot of happy faces out there today.
Here's part of the Souls4Souls group, who were very nice and professional with everyone. One funny thing is that many of our "park people," you know, the guys who live in the park, came over to ask for shoes and t-shirts. I think they gave them t-shirts, but no shoes, but hey, it cuts out the middle man, they should have handed them some shoes, too!
Michelle Niemeyer, who is running for District 2 Commission Seat, is holding a fundraiser for Coconut Grove businesses at The Grove Spot (3324 Virginia Street), tonight, June 28 from 6 to 8 pm.
This fundraiser is for the people whose livelihood depends on the success of Coconut Grove businesses. Business owners, managers and all employees of Coconut Grove businesses are invited to attend.
Michelle is asking for your financial support to end the fiscal quarter with a strong statement that you stand behind her to be our next District 2 City Commissioner. Contributing to the campaign is the first step toward assuring your goals to improve the Grove are set in motion.
Stop by and tell Michelle your concerns, she is there to listen. And bring your checkbook!
Friendship Miami, part of a worldwide organization that provides services for children with special needs will begin it's third year at Chabad of South Dade. Their Sunday Circle is a volunteer-based, bi-monthly program which is run out of their new youth facility in Coconut Grove at 3291 Franklin Avenue.
“Parents can enjoy a two hour respite to shop, go out, or relax with the comfort of knowing their child is building lasting friendships and developing social and play skills in a safe, loving, and fun environment all for free,” says program director Chana’le Fellig.
Teen volunteers along with qualified professionals will spend time with the children enjoying art, music, story time and YogaMusic with Cynthia Zak Preuss. Parents are more than welcome to hang around and join in. YogaMusic is a bilingual program that combines the power of yoga with the beauty of music.Children of all needs benefit greatly doing creative movement while learning to breath properly and stretch their bodies. It helps develop motor skills, social interaction, body awareness, coordination and self-confidence.
“The boys had a great time! They were both immediately comfortable and didn't even notice me leaving! I could see they were both engaged. Everybody seems so friendly, nice and genuine in their aim to help and befriend our kids. As a single mom, it is a wonderful opportunity for me to take a little time for myself and for that I am appreciative too." said Caroline Hopton, a Friendship Miami parent.
The program is free, but advance reservations are requested. Visit www.FriendshipMiami.com to register. The program is under the direct auspices of Mrs. Joan Bornstein, PhD who was the director of Easter Seals for 40 years, run by Ms. Chana’le Fellig and Mrs. Chany Stolik. For more information call 305-445-5444 ext. 203.
Four sailing summer camp scholarships are being given by the Coconut Grove Sailing Club this summer. Each scholarship is worth $500.
The youth candidate must know how to swim. If interested please, call the club at 305-444-4571. They will send you an application.
Four summer camp sessions are left from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Dates are:
1: June 27-July8
2: July 11-July 22
3: July 25-August 5
4: August 8 – August 19
What's with the City of Miami workers who park at meters and don't pay?
On Friday, a couple of city cars, one an SUV, parked across from The Loggerhead (Flanagan's) and the city workers, a bunch of ladies, got out and went to lunch. Did the city also pay for their lunches? This happens on a daily basis.
So much for crooked severance payments, hiring freezes and shortfalls. If you or I were five mintues late getting back to the meter, we would have a big fat parking ticket, but not the city workers. -- sent in by Mrs. Kravitz
A Craft Beer Tasting at El Carajo will offer over 40 types of beers on Wednesday, June 29 from 7 to 9 pm.
Samples of the beer plus chef selected appetizers will be available for just $20 per person. And this is your chance to buy Dogfish Head's Bitches Brew will be for sale, it's a limited release.
Some of the beers at the tasting will be Ayinger Altbairisch Dunkek, Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Marzen Smoked, Liefman's Fruitesse Fruit Beer and Unibroue Maudite Strong Ale.El Carajo is at 2465 SW 17 Avenue inside the LA Food Store/BP Gas station, for info, please call 305-856-2424.
I like that this year's King Mango Strut will be on New Year's Eve day. The Strut is usually on the last Sunday of the year, but since the last Sunday this year is Christmas day, the Strut had to be moved.
So it's a Saturday now, not Sunday, but the last Saturday, December 31.
I like this because one of the best times I ever had at a Strut was the last time it fell on New Year's Eve. I am told that was back in 2005. Hard to believe so long ago, but it left such great memories.
Maybe the Strut should be New Year's Eve every year. After all, it spouted out because back in the early 1980s, the group was not permitted into the Orange Bowl Parade, which was every New Year's Eve.
I like New Year's Eve because there is always a cousin or two in town and I have a large family here in Miami and there's always something going on, and I guess the Strut earlier in the afternoon starts the build up to the big night. So I am going to savor this year's New Year's Eve version of the King Mango Strut. The BID (Business Improvement District) marketing committee agreed to the date and funding, they give the Strut organizers $15,000 in matching funds each year, the Stutters have to come up with another $15,000 and also whatever else they need to close the streets and put on the parade.
Everyone I know works out at the Shaq 24 Hour Fitness on Grand Avenue, so why not Gigi? I brought her over the other day and she signed up with Johnny Remlinger, Membership Manager. Johnny gave her a great deal and you can get one too by mentioning me or the Grapevine.
Call Johnny at 305-448-2416 or email club621@24hourfit.com.
The American Cancer Society is having a movie-themed fundraiser night at the Paragon Theaters at CocoWalk on Tuesday, June 28.
The $25 ticket will include a cocktail party with wine and appetizers as well as admission to Woody Allen’s new film “Midnight in Paris”. Proceeds benefit The American Cancer Society.
From 6 to 7:30 pm, the cocktail party will take place in the Backlot Wine Bar & Lounge and at 7:30, the movie starts.
Tickets can be purchased in Paragon’s lobby at guest services or through ACS by contacting Amy Hudwalker at hudwalker@gmail.com
StubHub, the worlds largest ticket marketplace, launched the "Take Off Your Boots" campaign to collect shoes for the charity, Soles4Soles and is giving away tickets to the U2 "360 Tour" to those who participate.
StubHub will bring "Take Off Your Boots" to CocoWalk on Tuesday, June 28, from noon to 4 pm. At least 100 pairs of tickets to Miami's June 29th U2 concert will be given away to those who show up and donate shoes. There is a limit of one pair of U2 tickets per person donating a pair of new or gently used shoes while supplies last.
Soles4Soles, a Nashville-based charity, collects shoes and distributes them to people in need. Since 2005, it has given more than 13 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes to people in over 125 countries.
A new meditation series is staring Monday, June 27, at the Dharma Yoga Studio (3170 Commodore Plaza).
"Intro to the Path to Enlightenment: Becoming a Spiritual Traveler," is a series being held Monday evenings from 7:45 to 9:15 pm through August 8. (No class will be held on July 4.)
The series will focus on meditations and methods to improve lives while benefiting others — which can transform lives into a journey of wisdom and purpose. Too often we get sucked into the drama of the moment — in these classes participants will gain a bigger perspective, freeing them to see their lives in a spiritual context.
Each class includes two or three guided meditations and teachings on the series subject. Each class is self-contained, and everyone is welcome.
The class is a branch of Drolma Kadampa Buddhist Center in Fort Lauderdale, which offers Buddhist meditation classes throughout Southeast Florida. There is a $11 fee per class. Email info@meditationinfortlauderdale.org, call 954-537-9191, or visit www.meditationinmiami.org for more information.
Last week, Peacock Garden Café owners Eduardo (Lalo) Durazo and Eduardo del Rivero received a proclamation honoring the restaurant’s contribution to the history of Coconut Grove.
“Lalo is a true Grovite and truly understands what it means to live and work in Coconut Grove,” said City of Miami Commissioner Marc Sarnoff to a gathering of friends and city officials.
Guided by esteemed South Florida historian Arva Moore Parks, Peacock Garden Café was designed to capture the essence of Coconut Grove. Located on the previous site of Union Congregational Church and decorated with early photos and historical documents, the restaurant is a tribute to the personalities and history of the beloved neighborhood. I hear they have a third kind of sangria now, sweeter than the other two. It's a perfect place to enjoy the garden and sip sangria.
Pictured above from left, City of Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado, City of Miami Commissioner Marc Sarnoff, Eduardo (Lalo) Durazo, Arva Moore Parks, Eduardo del Rivero.
Enjoy Rose Max's beautiful voice along with the acoustic guitar of Ramatis, the perfect mix of Brazilian soul at tonight's Friday Night Wine Tasting at the Sonesta.
Bossa Nova your way through the wines of summer. This weeks's theme is wines from France, Italy, New Zealand, Chile, California and Australia. The perfect selecions for warm summer days and nights. Pair them with summer meals like BBQ's. Wine educator Barry Alberts is your host.
Wines from Torresella Winery, Cadet Winery and Hobb Knob Winery are part of the mix paired with fruit and cheese.
It's all poolside, cost is $15, reservations are not needed. The wine tasting and performance are from 7 to 9:30 pm.
The Sonesta is at 2889 McFarlane Road. For info: 305-447-8256.
As the sun set last night, hundreds of people showed up at the Miami Science Museum parking lot for a food truck round up. Florida Heart Research Institute was the beneficiary, as part of the profits went to the charity. The event was part of the museum’s monthly Young Patrons Happy Hour and the museum took part by selling beer and liquor to raise funds, as the trucks do not sell alcoholic beverages.
What was amazing is that by the time the sun was totally set, so many people had shown up at what is usually an empty parking lot, to mix, mingle, eat, drink and hang out among the 20 trucks. If this was in the central business district, they may have strolled around, bar hopped, gallery hopped and shopped.
I had been at a food truck earlier in the day at the Mayfair for lunch, and was astonished to see so many of the same people at the museum for dinner. The same people! They sheepishly laughed and told me they were fans and they followed the trucks all over the place, you know, just blow in their ear.
I ran into one friend who was using a cane, because she recently had foot surgery, she and her friends (one using an oxygen tank), actually came out just to grab dinner and go home, she told me as well as others, that they normally would have just eaten dinner at home on a Thursday night, but they came out especially for the food trucks.
Many had wondered why it was in an empty parking lot in the middle of nowhere and not where it would be more suitable in the center of town. But the museum was smart enough to capitalize and sign up new members while they had so many visitors to their grounds and they made a killing on liquor sales, as well.
A handful of the food trucks will be at Coconut Grove's 4th of July celebration this year in Peacock Park, this was the Chamber's idea, since none of the Grove restaurants cared to set up booths in the park, which is totally understandable. The restaurants in the Grove are packed on 4th of July, they don't need to be selling food in the park. And the great part is that the Chamber will now capitalize on the fact and sell lots of Sam Adams beer to the food truck groupies who will show up.
And trust me, there will be plenty of people here on 4th of July because of the food trucks. The trucks have their following and their fans will show up in Peacock Park for the trucks, they will stick around and drink, and shop and enjoy the Grove. They may enjoy it so much that many of these young urban professionals, who we have not seen around here for quite awhile, may come back the weekend after that and the weekend after that.
Many of the new visitors who come to the Grove because of the food trucks, may actually become fans of the Grove thanks to the food trucks. This is the residual effect of the trucks. And while everyone is so concerned about what the restaurants think of the trucks, how about the merchants who sit there twiddling their thumbs daily? Does anyone ask what they think? Right now the Grove restaurants are not bringing enough business to the rest of the Grove. Maybe the trucks will. They in fact, probably will. Let's start doing what's right for everyone.
The city of North Miami is thinking about taxing the trucks or charging some sort of fee. Maybe that is the answer. But this is something that is here to stay. I saw so many Grovites last night, as well as so many people from outside the area, who were like kids in a candy store. They were giddy. While so many people in the Grove want to keep the trucks out, the joke is on them, because the locals are leaving the Grove to follow the trucks and so are many potential Grove visitors. So while the Grove sat empty last night, it was a totally hip, hopping scene at the Miami Science Museum just up the road which went well into the night with laughter and happy people -- young, urban happy people, with plenty of money to spend.
Burn Notice is back with a new season as of last night on the USA cable network, and along with that is a new interactive graphic novel app that bridges the story lines from last season to this season. The app is here, it's called A New Day, and will be available soon.
The app includes exclusive videos, chats with fans and character photos and profiles and more.
And according to Fox Studios, which produces the show, the lease at the Coconut Grove Expo Center will be renewed in September, allowing the top rated tv show to continue filming in Coconut Grove and at the Expo Center.
$2 million per episode is spent in South Florida. The City Commission will most likely discuss the lease at the July 14 Commission meeting, so far, so good, it is expected to go smoothly. $20,000-per-month is paid in rent for the Expo Center studios. The money goes into a fund for the Coconut Grove waterfront masterplan. The Expo Center will eventually become a park when Burn Notices leaves, which hopefully will be many years from now.
Zen Village (3570 Main Highway) is holding a Buddha Birthday Celebration on Saturday, June 25. It's an inauguration ceremony for the first stupa in South Florida, too.
Events begin at 5 pm with a film screening of the new documentary, "Serotonin Rising." The film examines the mental, physical, chemical and physical effects of compassion and service.
An Asian vegetarian buffet will be served after that and entertainment from traditional Chinese musicians is part of the program.
The rhythm of drums will lead the inauguration ceremony of the stupa. The events will include a thousand-candle prayer and personal dedications. Then the director of the center, Master Tsai, will give a message of the philosophy behind giving and community wellness, and the goals of Zen Village. The evening will conclude with a raffle of three valuable items including spiritual art.
There will then be a pledge of contributions, and a closing performance by Sony’s Colombian pop stars “Las Marti.”
Coconut Grove Dog Rescue is having a rooftop pool party at the Mayfair Hotel (3000 Florida Avenue) called "Splash at the Mayfair."
On Saturday, June 25, from 1 to 11 pm, come out in support of the Grove's local dog rescue run by neighbors. Enjoy the sounds of Ren Albieri also known as "DirtyClean," and Darrel Robinson (DJ Foxx).
There will be free special cocktails for Ladiesladies from 4 to 6 pm. There is no cover charge and all donations go to the Dog Rescue. If you like, cabanas are available on the roof, beside the pool for $150 an valet parking is $7 with validation.
For more info, please contact Virginia Sancho at 786-514-9886 or the Coconut Grove Dog Rescue at 786-566-1303.
We asked the question one time, "Does the Grove need a makeover?" and apparently the BID thinks so and it's willing to help. The Coconut Grove BID (Business Improvement District) has established a new program to help Coconut Grove improve the façade of their business. Matching grant funds (up to a match of $3,500) will be available for business owners to fix up their façade.
It's a good opportunity to bring businesses into "code." For example, according to the BID, there are many businesses who have illegal shutters and other things on the outside of their businesses. These need to be taken care of before Code Enforcement gets into the picture. Also, so many businesses could use a paint job or new awnings? This program can pay half the cost. Let's hope these ugly storefronts on Main Highway, shown above, take advantage of the program.
Funds are limited and you'll have to attend one of the two program meetings. The first meeting takes place at the BID Office (Mayfair Center, 3390 Mary St.) on Friday, June 24, from 10:30 to 11:30 am. The second meeting is at the BID office on Friday, July 1 from 10:30 to 11:30 am.
Call the BID if you have questions at 305-461-5506, they have handed out brochures around town about the program, but if you need one, they have plenty more.
The new Florida Running Company is featured on Groupon. Buy a Groupon today for $25 and get $50 worth of merchandise! That's 50% off. All the top brand running shoes and accessories can be found at the Florida Running Company located at 3407 Main Highway. To purchase today's Groupon, please go here.
Back for a second year this 4th of July weekend is Cirque du Grove -- the fire dancers and acrobats will be performing free again in Center Grove. Funded by the BID, this is the largest busking event in Miami. Along with all of our usual Coconut Grove activities -- The Barnacle picnic, the hot dog eating contest the coconut hunt, the free shows in Peacock Park and of course the fireworks show over the bay, Cirque du Grove has become a Coconut Grove July 4th tradition. If you came out last year for the shows, you know how incredible the acts are.
On Saturday, July 2, Cirque du Grove presents a Fire Dance on Virginia Street at Grand Avenue. It starts 15 minutes after Sunset--- be there around 8:30 pm! About a dozen dancers will twirl fire batons, toss them into the air, manipulate spinners, hoops and other devices to create an amazing visual spectactular. It's all free!
On Sunday, July 3, experience Cirque on the street -- acrobats, tumblers, jugglers, trapeze artists, wire walkers, mimes, clowns and all sorts of circus characters with the Rainbow Circus, take over the Grove. The shows run for 30 minutes at 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm with a finale at 3:45 pm. Between shows street performers, magicians and balloon artists will entertain the crowds. Plus there’s free face painting for the kids from 1 to 4 pm.
We'll have the whole list of July 4th events next week. Start making plans for a full holiday weekend in Coconut Grove!
Photos by Ronald Jakubisin
The AlFest Bar Crawl is Saturday. The Mayfair Hotel and Spa is offering a Special Rate of $109 per night plus tax for Their Mayfair Suite. Upgraded Suites will be available for a Premium. Their current Best Available Rate for those dates is $176 which is almost 40% Off. The rate will be available from now until June 26, 2011.
The link to book this rate is here. If you prefer, you can also call them at 800-433-4555 and ask for the Alfest 2011 rate. You will need to provide the code ALF2011 to receive the Special Rate.
Also, Mayfair Hotel & Spa has special offers for the month of June also known as Romance Month. With so many weddings taking place throughout the summer, book your Heat Up the Night or Remember the Romance package soon and enjoy all Coconut Grove has to offer.
The Heat Up the Night includes: 4 Welcome Drinks ($40 Value); Japanese Soaking Tub set up ($30 Value); New Indulgence Passion Kit ($100 Value) - Specifically designed for the playful side of you and your partner, spark your passions with everything you¹ll need to create a sexy fun-filled escapade. Gifts include: Liquid Bliss Massage Oil, Liquid Ecstasy Lubricant, Ooh La La Feather Tickler, Wire Fire Personal Massager, Premium Mints, Art D¹Amour Chocolate Body Frosting, Naughty-and-Nice Passion Dice, Playful Wild Cards, Lacy Eye Mask, and The Guardians (4 Durex condoms); Valet Parking ($26 per day Value); Breakfast in Bed ($17.95 per person Value); and Late Check out 4 pm ($50 Value - Based upon availability).
There is also the Remember the Romance package, ask about that, too. And the Mayfair rooftop is a geat place to experience the 4th of July fireworks, ask them about that.
Rates are from $209; To book your reservation please call toll free: 1.800.433.4555 or Mayfair Hotel: 305.441.0000.
La Bottega (3540 Main Highway) is offering a Summer Wine Class Series starting tonight, June 22 at 7 pm.Explore the world of wines with wine educator, Henry Barrow (left). Featured tonight are the wines of South Africa.
Each event features different regions, wines and grapes, in a relaxed, informal setting where participants can taste, discuss and learn from Henry about the featured wines. One need not participate in all the classes, but can pick and choose among the topics offered.
Participants will each receive a booklet written by Henry. The two hour class includes wine, meats and cheeses, the cost is $30.00 per person.
For reservations: 305-444-3493.
As you may or may not know, The House of Frost cupcake place closed a few weeks ago. No word, just closed the doors. But now we have cupcakes in the Grove again.
Starting today, Red Kiwi, the yogurt shop at 3117 Commodore Plaza, is selling cupcakes!
Today, they will have vanilla, red velvet, key lime, guava and chocolate. New flavors will be constantly added. Let's support them! Let's keep the cupcakes in the Grove this time.
Red Kiwi is open Monday thru Thursday and Sunday from 11 am to 11 pm and Friday and Saturday. They may be reached at 305-446-2696.
Mayfair Hotel is “Pupperoni” for people and their dogs, benefiting Spay Neuter Miami Foundation. It's a new organization dedicated to the prevention of unwanted pets. Guests will enjoy an afternoon, Saturday, June 25, filled with wine, bubbly, beer, pizza and accessories for beings and dogs by Vonderbitch.
Spay Neuter Miami Foundation is the unprecedented initiative that comes in response to Miami-Dade’s unwanted pet population and over-crowded shelter. With nearly 36,000 intakes at Miami-Dade Animal Services last year, this newly registered 501c3 is dedicated to sterilization programs in Miami, and with your help, is taking action to secure donor-subsidized spay and neuter programs for local communities that need it most. Spay Neuter Miami is the only organization created to address the source of the problem and prevent unwanted animals from being born.
The party is from 1-3 pm, cost is $30 per person: Unlimited Wine, Beer, Bubbly, Snacks & Pizza (of course!)
***RSVP is essential. Kindly email: RSVP@ZM-PR.com before Thursday, the 23rd.
La Bottega's Rhythm & Wine series presents Flamenco in La Cava with Montserrat Franco on Friday, June 24. There are two shows, one at 7 pm and one at 9 pm.
Marco Linares will play guitar. Marco has been called one of the most renowned guitarist in Miami, he has played with Gloria Estefan and Ruben Blades. He is Producer and Engineer for Estefan's Crescent Moon Studios, and has worked with Shakira, Thalia, John Secada and Enrique Iglesias among others.
This show is a "not to miss" and will feature the music of the Gipsy Kings, Ojos de Brujo, Alabina, Ketama, Madredeus, La Nina Pastori, the poems of Garcia Lorca and Antonio Gala and original songs by Montserrat.
Aurora Magazine said this about Montserrat: “An amazing voice with all the ingredients that makes a singer with unlimited possibilities”
Seating is limited, please reserve early. The cost is $30 per person which includes a wine reception a half hour before each show. There is a wine list and bar service available during the performance. Please call 305-444-3496 to reserve.
A special Spanish dinner by Chef Carmen Trigueros will be served featuring Gazpacho Andaluz with Lobster Salad, Paella Valenciana prepared with "La Bomba" Rice and Saffron Foam Churros & Chocolate. This is $45.
La Bottega is at 3540 Main Highway.
Whenever I go to The Last Carrot, I am usually in and out, I get my lunch to go, but a couple of friends called the other day and asked me to meet them there, so I did. And we stayed. I had forgotten how old fashioned it is, it's like going back to the old days. When I was a kid, The Last Carrot was in the arcade, which was where the Sandbar and Le Bouchon are now. Now it is at 3133 Grand Avenue.
The staff is very friendly and they know everyone's favorites. From left are Ayisha, Erin Shadeda and Brandon.
The blender broke while we were there, so my friend Barbara Lange, who I went there to meet, actually ran home to get the blender from her house, so The Last Carrot did not go without. It was such a Grovey thing to do.
We ended up with a nice little group at our table after awhile, maybe seven or eight of us, here are a few -- one anonymous friend (reminds me of the Unknown Comic, you know that guy on The Gong Show who used to have a bag over his head), Santiago Villegas, AnnaMaria Windisch-Hunt and me. We had so many laughs, none of us wanted to leave. It was a nice way to spend the afternoon.
The Last Carrot has so many things -- juices, smoothies, lunch in a Pita, salads, etc. I like the tuna in a pita, shown here. And I like the orange dressing, which is the herbal, I believe, the green is the vinagrette dressing. Which do you prefer? Tell us at Facebook.
You can get more info at their website here: http://www.lastcarrot.com and you can actually order online for pickup.
It's been a slow process, but it looks like Mr. Moe's may get the legal deposition they are looking for.
On April 16, 2010, Mr. Moe's filed a lawsuit against the City of Miami in the circuit court in Miami-Dade County seeking to reverse District Commissioner Marc Sarnoff’s initiative of rolling back the operating hours from 5 am closing time to 3 am for all bars and restaurants in Coconut Grove, while leaving the rest of the City and District to have closing times of 5 am, 7 am and some even 24 hours. Many felt, and still feel that this has hurt Coconut Grove and business was lost village-wide because of this inability to compete with the rest of the City.
John El-Masry, owner of Mr. Moe's has always felt that this is a violation of the Constitution of the United States and The State of Florida Constitution. The case was moved to federal court, at the request of the City of Miami, which, if sustained, would have denied the Miami-Dade court the right to resolve this issue of local interest.
On December 16, 2010, the federal court denied this request and sent the case back to the county, which allowed Mr. Moe's to have the opportunity to sue for $10 million claiming that the Commissioner's initiative was illegal and caused major damages and lost revenues to Mr. Moe's.
Yesterday, June 20, 2011, the Dade County Circuit Court ordered Commissioner Sarnoff to sit for a deposition in this cause. Previously, Sarnoff had been subpoenaed by Mr. Moe’s to give deposition testimony in the lawsuit, but the City filed motions to block that deposition. After hearing the arguments of both the city attorney and a private attorney hired by Commissioner Sarnoff, the state court judge ordered that the deposition be taken.
Mr. Moe's now believes that, "Commissioner Sarnoff wants to avoid the five to six hour taped deposition that he will appeal the decision to the appellate court, attempting to further delay the inevitable deposition which will also force the September, 2011 trial date to be extended until after the November election."
Mr. Moe's remains the only business still open for business that was adversely affected by the time rollback, and the only restaurant in Coconut Grove affected by the rollback. There were five in operation at the time of the rollback.
The Grove Spot (3324 Virginia Street), is presenting Manolito the Gypsy for an evening of entertainment on Wednesday, June 22.
Back by popular demand, Manolito will be joined by vocalist Lito and fflamenco guitarist, Manolo, the pair are former members of The Gypsy Kings, who are known world-wide. This is their last US show for awhile before the leave for France.
Cost is $45 if you would like dinner and to enjoy the open bar (beer and wine) this is for seating in the main area in front of the stage. Space is limited for this. Show time is 7:00 pm.
You are welcome to walk in, and enjoy the concert for a cover charge of $10, which does not include dinner.
To RSVP, please email vip@grovespot.com.
At last week's Village Council meeting, the main subject was Halloween in Coconut Grove and how to rein it in. But to be honest, the police all present, felt that Halloween was not a problem or an issue. They felt that when people film things that happen and then broadcast them on YouTube, which was the case with a police altercation last year, that that makes a problem out of nothing.
Not that the police don't have issues with drunk people, but if people didn't broadcast it, then it would just be police business as usual and not an issue for the Grove.
The "disorganized chaos," as Village Council member Kate Callahan called it, really is a Halloween thing that happens all over. Not just in Coconut Grove. Containing it may be a problem.
The police feel that it does not get rowdy until late, the early evening hours are manageable. The Grove's midnight Police Lieutenant Jeff Locke said that there are 117 officers in Coconut Grove on Halloween night and if they could just move the crowds away from one area, which is in front of CocoWalk, it might work better.
John El Masry, owner of Mr. Moe's said that Halloween in Coconut Grove is "one of the last remaining events that keep the Grove in people's minds." It's true, it is a link to the past that should remain. Halloween is a very big night for businesses -- bars and restaurants, they make a lot of their yearly earnings on that night. Retail stores close up early and it is not an event for them.
Council Member David Collins said that if you go off to the back streets on Halloween night, like on Matilda, you'll see many underage drinkers showing up late in the night with "fists full of liquor." So this could be the main issue, and not the people who are served legally in the bars.
The police said that it is basically a safe event. Last year there were no businesses damaged and no one was hurt. Other than an altercation with a drunk person or two, it was not very eventful.
Olav Smit, from The Grove Spot, felt that since last year, Halloween was on Sunday, it was a big lead up all weekend to the main event. People drank Friday, Saturday and then went crazy on Sunday. This year, since Halloween is Monday, it may not be the case since people work on Monday and need to sober up for that.
In the end, a 12 member committee was formed of residents, business owners, village council members and police, to come up with some sort of calming solution for Halloween in Coconut Grove.
I can't think of a better location to have a classic car show than The Barnacle and that's where the main event for Cars & Cigars took place yesterday, it was Coconut Grove's special Father's Day event. The British Car Club of Miami came out to show off their babies, yet in the end, a classic All-American car won the grand prize. Go figure!
Cars were lined up inside and outside The Barnacle and up and down the streets of the village. Visitors could then vote on their favorite car and at the end of the day, the winner was announced.
Three cigar rollers were about the Grove doing their thing. If you shopped at any Grove store and brought a receipt to the cigar guys, you would ge a free cigar.
The winner of the people's choice award, the car with the most votes for being the favorite was Patrick Sessions' 1969 Mustang Mach 1. And the car was out on the street, so cars didn't need to be inside The Barnacle grounds to win. Above from left are Patrick, Cars & Cigars committee member, Steve Licata; BID director David Collins, and committee member and ranger at The Barnacle, Katrina Boler.
Here are Patrick and Lucy Cruz with the winning car. The car is for sale, in fact, so if anyone is interested, let us know and we'll put you in touch with Patrick.
Patrick won this glittery coconut along with 250 Grove Bucks. That will buy a lot of cigars, or food or drinks or anything in Coconut Grove. Each car entered was given Grove Bucks, too, to spend on lunch or whatever. 
The venue was perfect, the rain came right after the event, but all day it was sunny and bright. Hot dogs, hamburgers and refreshments were sold, or some people brought their own picnics as you can see below.
It was a great, relaxing way to spend Father's Day. You can see photos of all the cars that were present here and here.
There's a Boobilicious Bake Sale for the Susan G. Komen breast cancer research and community programs this weekend. Stop by on Friday, July 1 from 5 to 7 pm for some home-baked goodies, hot dogs and pink lemonade.
Blu Moon Studio of Art (3444 Main Highway, top floor) will be offering two workshops in July, along with the regular schedule of classes.
The Coconut Grove Rotary Club is having a fundraiser luncheon featuring UM Coach Al Golden.
I told Ben, the bright side was that he was locked inside a gelato store and not in some place boring or without so many goodies to eat! Luckily the guy that runs the store came back within a few minutes and Ben was let out. His cousin Larry Wanovich took the photo above, that's Larry with the camera here. They were visiting from Coral Gables.
July 4th starts at 11 am at The Barnacle (3485 Main Highway) for their old-fashioned type of day. Lawn games, board games and even kite flying are part of the fun. Live music from Joel Zoss will enhance the decked out in traditional red, white and blue bunting. Bring a picnic or treat yourself to hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie dogs and burgers, popcorn, soft drinks and ice cream available for purchase.
And what could say 4th of July more than fireworks! Peacock Park is the location where thousands gather late in the day for the fireworks over the bay. The Boston Beer Company, Sam Adams, is once again the official beer for July 4th at Peacock Park and nothing goes better with beer than an assortment of some of Miami's top gourmet food trucks, including CheeseMe Mobile, Dim Ssam a gogo, Gastropod, Latin Burger and The Fish Box, plus Fireman Derek's World-Famous Pies and a Snow Caps stand. Soft Drinks, Cocktails and Zico Coconut Water will round out the menu.
Michelle Niemeyer, who is running for District 2 Commission Seat, is holding a fundraiser for Coconut Grove businesses at The Grove Spot (3324 Virginia Street), tonight, June 28 from 6 to 8 pm.
I like that this year's King Mango Strut will be on New Year's Eve day. The Strut is usually on the last Sunday of the year, but since the last Sunday this year is Christmas day, the Strut had to be moved.
Enjoy Rose Max's beautiful voice along with the acoustic guitar of Ramatis, the perfect mix of Brazilian soul at tonight's Friday Night Wine Tasting at the Sonesta.
Burn Notice is back with a new season as of last night on the USA cable network, and along with that is a new interactive graphic novel app that bridges the story lines from last season to this season. The app is here, it's called A New Day, and will be available soon.
Zen Village (3570 Main Highway) is holding a Buddha Birthday Celebration on Saturday, June 25. It's an inauguration ceremony for the first stupa in South Florida, too.
La Bottega (3540 Main Highway) is offering a Summer Wine Class Series starting tonight, June 22 at 7 pm.Explore the world of wines with wine educator, Henry Barrow (left). Featured tonight are the wines of South Africa.
As you may or may not know, The House of Frost cupcake place closed a few weeks ago. No word, just closed the doors. But now we have cupcakes in the Grove again.
La Bottega's Rhythm & Wine series presents Flamenco in La Cava with Montserrat Franco on Friday, June 24. There are two shows, one at 7 pm and one at 9 pm.
The Grove Spot (3324 Virginia Street), is presenting Manolito the Gypsy for an evening of entertainment on Wednesday, June 22.