New documentary about Vieques-St. Croix relations

The Museum of Vieques Historic Memory (MVHM), located at the Fort Count
Mirasol Museum on the island municipality, will present Friday, December 3
at 7PM, the new documentary, Sugar Pathways, by Viequense filmmaker, Johanna
Bermúdez Ruiz. The feature length piece describes the historic relations
between Vieques and the island of St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.
from Bob Rabin, Curator
jts

Get Vieques Gifts Online!

Whether you're looking for 2011 calendars, tee shirts, journals, or coffee mugs, these and more are available at www.LatiendaVieques.Com. Shop now. Get your Vieques gear to last the year!

Maybe A Bridge

Yes everyone.  There is a rumor afoot that the bridge on the middle road may be in the process of being repaired.  There is a bright shiny new truck driving around with the word "asphalt" on it, so the rumor might be true.  Once that is done, perhaps they could look at the shoulders of the road in La Huecca.  Just before Blanco's Colmado and the Inn on the Blue Horizon, the road shoulder drops off to China. That is hardly an exaggeration.  The rut is truly deep enough to swallow one of those four door jeep wranglers.  Go very slowly.

One of the oddities of island life here is the lack of thermometers.  Everywhere else in the world people want to know the temperature.  Not so here, apparently.  (If you don't believe me, try to find one)  I can only assume it is because the temperature is not really an issue.  It is always warm, usually sunny, so what difference does it make.  This time of year, it makes a difference.  For example, I did not know until yesterday that I took my last swim seven days ago.  The water must be only 80 degrees (I'm guessing here, of course).  If I had a thermometer I would have known it was my last swim until May and I might have stayed in longer.  In any case, the only people you will see in the water now are those who are visiting.  Those of us that live here have dug out the sweaters and the blankets for the cold winter nights.  (Not kidding!)

The Inn on the Blue Horizon is back in full swing.  They are open seven days and serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The cool thing about their breakfast is that they serve it until 1pm.  I cannot tell you how long many of us have said, "when you are on vacation, you sleep in and sometimes want breakfast later."  Keep it in mind when you sing too much karaoke at the Mar Azul.

Speaking of, the Mar Azul now has it's kitchen open.  They are serving just three items, burger sliders, a sort of cuban sandwich and a third one named after Kiwi Kim and of course I can't remember exactly what's in it.  The food is good and it arrives quickly.  Perfect bar food. 

There is a new health food store opening up across from El Sombrero Viejo in town.  The building used to be a school supply and baby clothing store.  They do not have a sign out yet with hours of operation.  Let you know when I find out.

The municipality is hosting a tree lighting ceremony in the plaza on Saturday.  The festivites begin around dusk (6:30) or so.  Watching the kids when the tree lights is really fun.  There are a couple of houses in Esperanza that have been dressed in all their Christmas finery.  It is worth the drive to see them.

Don't forget that sunsets are south side these days.  Bili, Bananas, Duffys, Lazy Jacks and Tradewinds are all good spots for this. 

JC

A Call for Meetings on Property Titles

The Municipality of Vieques, Puerto Rico, has called for two meetings
covering untitled properties in the Santa Maria and Bravos de Boston Sectors
of Vieques. The meetings are scheduled as follows:
Santa María - 1:00 pm on December 2, 2010
Bravos de Boston - 1:00 pm on December 3, 2010
Both meetings are to be held at the "Centro de Usos Múltiples" located next
to the Town Plaza, at the corner where the public events stage is located.
All property owners in these sectors are encouraged to attend.

It's going to be a great weekend at Coconuts!

We're cooking up some great treats for you!
Come enjoy...
Salad of Watermelon, Feta, Olives and Arugula
Agedashi Dofu... flash-fried Tofu in Dashi
Blackened Mahi "Taco" with Red Onion & Sweet Pepper Pique, Parcha Butter
Drizzle
Orange Rotisserie Duck, Mushroom Basmati. Mandarin Thai Basil Cranberries
"Scampi"-style Shrimp, Citrus Caper Garlic Butter, Crab Risotto
Swordfish Pichos, Salad of Cucumbers, Red Onions and Cannellini Beans
and ¡OH! so much more!
Saturday is PRIME RIB!
Monday is SABOR CRIOLLO!
Everyday is SUSHI PIZZA!
COCONUTS VIEQUES
OPEN for DINNER
Friday-Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays
RESERVATIONS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED
787.741.9325
Think: Sushi Pizza!
jts
http://www.enchanted-isle.com
Everything Vieques!

"¡Sabor Criollo!"

Monday is our favorite day of the week as we celebrate local flavors!

Come enjoy slow-roasted Pernil at it's very best!

Tostones de Pana, Crab Salmorejo y mucho mucho mas!

Chef Michael

COCONUTS 

OPEN for DINNER

Friday-Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays

787.741.9325

It's Turkey Day

As you all know, there are some things that we just do not have here on Vieques.  One of those things was a 12 pound turkey.  Over the years we have had to travel to the big island to find one.  Most family gatherings here run into the 20 and 30 person mark, so a 25 pound bird is needed.  And that is what you would find at the store.  There was never a small one, unless you got confused and bought a cornish game hen.  Guess what?  I found three, count 'em, three, turkeys in the 12-13 pound range at Morales.  Shocking!  Even more shocking was that I went to the big island, couldn't find a small bird, got nervous, so guess who has a 25 beast in her freezer?

El Quenepo opened for the season last night.  Can't wait to see what this year's menu has on it.  Pretty much every restaurant will be open on Thanksgiving.  Always a good idea to make a reservation. 

The Cash and Carry has just installed a huge refrigerated section.  They will have turkey, ham, sirloin, shrimp, etc. available starting Tuesday afternoon.  Baby said he has found a fabulous product line and is very excited to bring more into the store.  The Navy League is hosting a wine tasting on December 4, featuring wines from La Cava (the wine side of the Cash and Carry).  Tickets are $25 and proceeds benefit underprivileged children on the island.

All the Bio-Bay companies are up and running.  If you call Abe's Snorkeling for a trip, ask about the mud experience.  The diving/snorkeling/kayaking/jet skis/bicycle businesses are ready as well.  This weekend the water was more clear than a swimming pool.  You could see forever.

I took a ride out to Club Tumby on the west side near Green Beach.  I had not been there for quite some time.  The Medalla was cold, cold, cold.  They also make some to die for Cubano sandwiches.  To get there, you head past Mosquito Pier toward Green Beach.  Just as the road narrows, turn left toward Club Tumby.  There is a sign.  If you pass the water company building (AAA) on your right, you have just missed the turn.  This is a great spot, especially if you have been snorkeling at Green and need a cerveza.  They are open at night with great music.

Wishing you all a great Thanksgiving.

JC

Perfect

Well, things have returned to normal (relative term) around here.  The fall rains appear to have subsided and we are getting the perfect rain for five minutes in the middle of the night weather.  The late rains have made the island as green as I have ever seen it and most of us spend inordinate amounts of time chopping and slashing at that green.  In fact it was speculated that the lack of gasoline over the weekend was caused by people filling up their weed eaters at a faster than usual rate.  I know I did.

I had just a perfect evening out last week.  It started at the Cash and Carry Wine Cave with a bottle of La Capilla Zinfandel. It is an old vines wine and a bit pricey, but just wonderful.  As you know, when drinking wine it is important to follow the grape.  The next stop was the Crow's Nest where Kurt and Kelly have just opened Veritas. (they formerly operated the restaurant at BBH) Their wine list includes a Lodi Old Vines Zinfandel, which was yummy.  Dinner selections include things like Lobster Mac and Cheese, Cobb Salad, and  Certified Angus Beef.  The menu is extensive so there is something for everyone.  The portions are quite large so bring an appetite.

Taverna Joe will be opening on December 1.  We are all excited about having his pizza back, along with the Italian dinners.  Chris and Beth have reopened Buen Provecho.  They are on a full schedule of Tuesday thru Saturday, 10-5.  Bananas is closed this week for some cleaning and painting. Mikey stocked up on some more designer beers at Duffy's.  The new favorite is a nut brown ale.  Beer aficionados tell me it is wonderful.  (being a medalla girl, it tastes like a tree to me)

A small memorial service was held for Al at the Mar Azul last week.  A larger celebration of his life will be held on December 11, also at the Mar Azul.  The past and present bartenders will be available for story telling.  If you are on island at the time, do stop by.

In between fighting with the vegetation in my yard, I did manage to get to the beach.  I had not been to Secret Beach since it really was a secret.  The road used to be disguised as a goat path and most folks were unable to find it.  Well, there is now a big sign.  The beach is a quiet cove with some fabulous snorkeling at each end.  Be a smart traveler when going there and leave nothing in your car.  In fact, is it really a good idea to follow that practice no matter what beach you are at (or what island you are on).  I have countless stories of people who have lost passports, other ID and jewelry, etc.  It is an unfortunate fact of life that there are petty thieves out there.  Do what the locals do, bring a copy of your driver's license, one credit card (mastercard or visa are more widely accepted here) and a $20 bill. 

The Chili Cook Off to benefit the Humane Society was a huge success.  The shelter made over $2500 on the event.  Beverly from Orquideas (formerly Taverna To Go) took the top prize, Dan from the Mar Azul took second and the Peoples Choice went to the W.  The event was held at Cantina La Reina.  Many thanks to the people who attended, the staff at the Cantina and the Humane Society Board Members.  If you are visiting soon, flying American Airlines and home is Boston, there is a dog that needs a ride.  Contact the Humane Society at 787-741-0209 if you can help.

JC

Visit us at www.Enchanted-Isle.Com

Enough With The Rain Already

I am sure you have read about the dreaded drinking clouds we have here.  Those are the ones that keep you from going to the beach and also keep you in a bar.  It makes for a very short and fuzzy two days off.  As per usual, the days I work are perfectly sunny.

Sunset has moved to the south side. Bananas, Duffy's and Lazy Jack's are the places to be.  For a more grown up sunset spot, Tradewinds has seating in the bar overlooking the water.  Bili will be opening soon, just haven't been able to pin down an exact date.  Beverly, formerly of Taverna to Go, will be opening her new restaurant, Orquideas, next to Lazy Jack's in a couple of weeks. 

Cantina La Reina is reopening this week, along with the Crow's Nest.  The name of the restaurant there is Veritas.  Alex and Glenn of Aguacate Catering are offering Thanksgiving dinner at Villa Casa Cascadas.  Seating is limited, so reservations are a must.  There is a full page ad for this in Vieques Events.  Other Thanksgiving spots are Tradewinds (always great) and the Inn on the Blue Horizon ($29 pp).  Belly Buttons will be offering up their traditional value packed turkey dinner 5pm-8pm.  The Next Course will be open on Thanksgiving so give them a call.   (They are closing 11/30-12/9).  The W is creating a "turkey to go" dinner that will be feed 6-8 people.

Bob Kuhn's funeral was held last Friday.  There was a service in town, which was followed by a graveside ceremony with Marine Guards giving him a 21 gun salute send off.   A fitting tribute.  There is some more sad news from our island.  Al Gordon, former owner of Al's Mar Azul died suddenly last week.  At this time there is no information regarding a service.  You know Al would want you to lift a glass and do a shot of tequila. 

Gary, from Vieques Adventure Company, reports that he has been very busy with Bioluminescent Bay tours this fall.  He offers clear kayaks that allow you to see that which is beneath you.  This is undoubtedly an awesome experience.  Island Adventures is in full swing with their boat tours and they also offer a BYOB restaurant which stays open until the last tour has returned.  This is a great option for all Bio Bay-ers, as sometimes the later tours get back after other restaurants have closed.  Blue Caribe Kayaks and Fun Brothers, both located on the Malecon, have kayaks and snorkel gear for rent. 

Don't forget to stop by the Humane Society Chili Cook-Off, this Thursday at the Cantina La Reina. 3pm-6pm.

JC

A bit about real estate in Vieques

In Vieques, buying property can be precarious. I say that because many areas have untitled land. This means that ownership can be questionable in many cases. There are no warranty deeds, and no title insurance, because there is no title. It also means a mortgage is out of the question.

There are unscrupulous people out there who would sell you the Brooklyn Bridge. Many have bought the Brooklyn Bridge. There are also many cases where in large families signing off and family squabbles can create problems.

This is why we have real estate professionals. They are savvy and have an ear to the pulse of the island. They also work with attorneys who they know and trust to do the due diligence. They are the ones to go to for property, not some guy standing on the corner saying, “psst, Have I got a deal for you!”

Rainbow Realty is launching a new web site!!!! Dec 1st..... from www.enchanted-isle.com/rainbow to www.viequesrainbowrealty.com 

Vieques Fine Properties launched a new site not long ago at www.viequesfineproperties.com

The Bravos Boyz also launched themselves into the business not too long ago at www.bravosboyz.com

Julie Dechter’s available at www.viequesrealtyandrentals.com and

 Helen Davis’ www.islandrealestate.net is ready to show you properties all over Vieques.

See Ogla Silva or Barry at www.guayacanrealty.com for properties,

and Jane Sabin is available to work with you at www.enchanted-isle.com/connections

js

Grand Opening January 15, 2011

Announcing Gallery Galleon!
Formerly La Casa Vieja Gallery and the Galleon Bar, Route 201 La Hueca,
Vieques, PR, we have combined it's former lives to launch Gallery Galleon!
We are thrilled to represent Viequenese and International artists! Please
visit our new website for more information and look for our Grand Opening
January 15, 2011. http://gallerygalleon.com!
jts
http://www.enchanted-isle.com

Bob Kuhn

Bob Kuhn, owner of El Sombrero Viejo and island legend, passed away over the weekend after a long battle with cancer.  It is my understanding that his family was with him, along with a kitten from the Humane Society.  As gruff and grouchy as he could be, he was mush with a cat.

A retired Marine, Bob opened El Sombrero Viejo, where you can buy a medalla, a top shelf bottle of tequila, a great bottle of wine, or a microwave hot dog.  The bar is being run by his daughter and granddaughter. 

A few years back, there was a fire in the stock room.  Rather than ditch the beer, Bob announced a contest.  For a $10 entry fee, you had the privilege and  the requirement to drink one of every beer.  Once you completed that, you got a polyester T-shirt announcing that you were a drunk and a six pack of whatever beer you wished.  Now of course, you had to pay for every one of beers you drank during the contest.  Only Bob could get us all to drink nasty, nasty beer and have a grand time doing it.  He will be missed.

Tropical Storm Tomas is still out there to our south.  The projected path, as of this morning, has him turning north and east such that the western edge of the main island may see the outer bands of rain. Tomas did less here than anticipated, there was one pretty good squall that blew my deck chairs around and about a 15 minute deluge, but then it passed.  The small fisherman's pier in Esperanza has some damage to the decking from the waves.  The kids were out in full force surfing in front of the Malecon.

JC

Hurricane Tomas

Hurricane Tomas is tracking well to the south of us, over 200 miles, which is a good thing.  He has, however, kicked up some pretty strong surf and the National Weather Service has issued warnings for rip currents along the southern coastlines.  The fisherman all pulled their boats on Saturday, so you know that the weather service is on the money. Tomas also is bringing some pretty heavy intermittent showers.  The mosquito crop will be a dandy one in a day or two.

Late storms like Tomas always get people talking about past years.  Hurricane Lenny, in 1999, hit on November 17 and tracked west to east.  Lenny is the only storm to have done this in the 113 years that the National Weather Service has been tracking storms.  Lenny went all over.  He went west, then northwest, then southeast, then northeast and finally northwest. Lenny caused quite a bit of damage in both Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, as St. Croix took a direct hit.  South side of Vieques was not real pretty then.  Tomas is expected to turn to the northwest and run right over the Dominican Republic. This might bring some surf and rain to the west side of the main island.  Hopefully not.  It does go to show you how easy it is to become complaisant.  You get to November and think it's OK to eat the canned food in your hurricane locker, and use up the bottled water.  It is not.

The Crow's Nest restaurant will be opening on November 9.  The Humane Society Chili Cook Off is scheduled for the 11th at Cantina La Reina.  This is a good time for a good cause.  There are some fabulous chili chefs hiding around the island.  The Historical Society is getting closer to reopening.  The big hole in the yard where the sewer line was being replaced is filled in.  Last week, I mentioned the rescued osprey.  Unfortunately, he took a turn and died early in the week.

Mikey Duffy feels pretty confident that the Tin Box BBQ joint he his building will be opening on the 30th.  The second restaurant, Noche, will follow a few weeks later.  You won't recognize Clapper's House where the restaurants are located.  The area has been cleaned out and the land leveled some.  It looks great.  You still have to go the long way to get there from Esperanza.  The bridge is still out.  No word on why.  There is an up side to the road being closed for so long.  There are not many potholes.  When it does reopen, it will be a way to get to town without breaking a tie rod or balljoint.  Silver linings everyone.

More later.

JC