Windy, Windy

Wow.  The north side winds are howling these days.  The wind is from the north east, so folks living in Bravos de Boston are saying they been hiding on the south west side of their houses.  The steady blow in excess of 15mph has moved entire patio sets across may terraces.  The upside of the wind of course, is that the days are really pleasant. 

Also, a bit of wind makes for a great day sailing.  You can contact Chris and Barbara on the south side with Marauder Sailing, or Captain Bill on the north side with his boat Willow.  Both offer great tours.  Bear in mind however, that some days it is just too windy.  Sailing charters should be a pleasant event with some fabulous snorkeling and some good eats thrown in.  It should not be a day where your fingernails are gripping the gunwales and every wave has the potential to unseat you.  Trust the captains to know when the wind and seas are right. 

We are in a bit of a dry spell.  Good for beach going, but bad for plants.  It is really important to make sure any barbeques are completely out before leaving the beach, and be sure to extinguish all smokes fully.  Our fire department is busy these days with brush fires, so try not to add to their burden.

Cafe Violeta recently opened offering breakfast fare Wednesday through Sunday.  The cafe was there several years ago, and then Coqui Fire moved in for a few years.  The hours are 8am to noon, so those of us that wish to sleep in can still find breakfast a little later in the day.  The fare runs from about $6 to about $15.  They have buttermilk pancakes!!!!

The Vieques Historical Society and Conservation Trust is hosting a house tour on Thursday, March 10, beginning at 9am.  The fee is $50 ($45 for members) and provides you with transportation to several outrageous homes and grounds.  Good cause and a fun morning. 

Dan and Doc at the Mar Azul have added Friday night jam sessions.  You bring your music and your instrument and play away.  A good time.  Cantina La Reina is open for happy hour every day (Tues to Sat), 4-7 with $3 margarita specials.  A great place to have those is on the roof deck around 5:30 or so when the sun starts to wane.  Or have them around the pool table on the second floor. 

The Vieques Humane Society has received a bequest that will allow them to do some badly needed upgrading to their kennel facilities and isolation areas.  It is a sad fact that we need more space to house the cats and dogs that are surrendered every day.  Help free up some of that space and spread the word around your city and town that there are many great animals available for adoption.  I can tell you that the Vieques sato is a smart, smart dog.  They learn exceedingly quickly to be housebroken and obedient.  It is almost as if they know they are getting a chance at a better life and don't want to blow it. 

More Later.

JC

It's a "Sabor Criollo" weekend!

CHEF OFFERINGS
in addition to our regular Dinner menu
Snapper Ceviche, Avocado Whipped Cream, Tostones de Pana $12
Roasted Pepper stuffed with Kalamata Tapenade Capellini, Hummus Vinaigrette
$10
"Fruit Salad" of Apples, Pomegranate and Clementines tossed with
Vieques-grown Arugula and Governor's Plum Vinaigrette, finished with Goat
Cheese $12
Baked Multigrain Flatbread with Grilled Onions, Roasted Peppers and
Mushrooms, Recao Chimichurri, Mozzarella & Parmesan $10
Ensalada de Pulpo, Octopus Salad, con Arepa $10
Dos Pastelillos de Tiburón, Two local-style Shark Turnovers $9
* * *
Slow-roasted Pernil, Guineos en Escabeche y Arroz con Gandules, Slow-roasted
Pork, Pickled Green Bananas, Rice and Pigeon Peas $16
Jamón Serrano wrapped Sea Scallops, local Gandule Pigeon Pea Risotto $26
Moroccan-seasoned Rotisserie Chicken, Bulgur Tabouli Salad $18
Puerto Rican Coffee-dusted boneless one-pound Angus Ribeye Encebollado,
Sauteed Marinated Mushrooms, Garlic Mashed Potato $30
Blackened Mahi "Taco", Red Onion & Sweet Pepper Pique, Parcha Butter
Drizzle, Congri Black Beans and Rice $24
Salmon Duet of Rare-seared North Atlantic and Scottish Smoked, Creamy Wilted
Cucumbers, Rösti Potato $24
¡y mucho mas!
* * *
COCONUTS 787.741.9325
OPEN for DINNER
Friday-Tuesday, 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Closed Wednesdays and Thursdays
RESERVATIONS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED
Think: Sushi Pizza!

"Vieques Vibrante!"

A dazzling exhibit of Ellie Harold's plein air and studio paintings
featuring beloved Isla Nena. Look for familiar scenes as well as
semi-abstracted landscapes.
Location: El Fuerte Conde de Mirasol
Event Dates: 3/12/2011 - 4/10/2011
Reception: 3/12/2011 . 7 - 9 p.m.
"The island works of talented landscape painter Ellie Harold . are some of
the most evocative of their kind on Vieques."
~John Marino, Frommer's: Puerto Rico (2010)

The Ferry is Back!

Well, according to one source, the Cayo Blanco, the large new passenger ferry was allowed to run at capacity.  Or at least it was not limited to 149 passengers.  I have not been able to confirm this, but since the person that told me was on the boat, I would hope they got it right.  This will make travel to the island much, much easier during these busy months.

And it is busy.  The Malecon was rocking all day and night over this weekend.  Duffy's Esperanza is hosting music of some sort on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.  Belly Buttons is continuing with rock and roll tacos on Thursdays.  Lazy Jack's has several special events like Tuesday night karaoke with Judy Dee and makes the large screen available for special sporting events.  Restaurant Bili is now open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a fusion style Puerto Rican menu. And the anchors at either end of the strip, El Quenepo to the east and Trade Winds to the west are both delicious.  And Duffy is still open at Chez Shack.  Monday's for Grill Night and Tuesday thru Saturday for finer dining. 

The Mar Azul is continuing the Saturday night karaoke tradition on the north side with Andrew at the helm.  Cantina La Reina is open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday thru Saturday with a special happy hour on the second floor every Friday, featuring $3 margaritas.  Coconuts, open Friday thru Tuesday offers incredible dinner specials in addition to the regular menu.  The restaurant at the Crow's Nest, Veritas, has proven to be a fabulous dinner choice.  The Next Course is also rocking the dining world with great food from around the world. 

Caribbean Walk gift shop is under new ownership.  Richard and David who hale from Key West, purchased the business and have begun to bring in more lines.  They have some great locally made items.  They will be happy to assist you with all kinds of purchases from jewelry to art.  They are open everyday except Sunday.  North side shopping is making a comeback.  Along with the Caribbean Walk, there are the following stores, Utes's Clothing, Pretty Woman, The Funky Beehive, Sol Creations, Carolyns, Tienda Washington, the Coqui Shop, Nu2U second hand store, Humane Society Garage Sale on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the shoe store whose name I can never remember. 

Last Monday's Vieques Baila raised a substantial sum for local charities.  Once again, our mayor, the Honorable Evelyn DeLerme led the procession. The Tepfer's were dancing the night away as they have for many years.   Dancers of all ages were on the floor and a great time was had by young and old alike.  It is pretty inspiring to see so many members of our community getting together for such a good cause.

This time of year is a difficult one for car rentals.  So, if you are planning a trip, it is a good idea to secure a car before making any non-refundable reservations.  If your stay is just for a few days, staying south side without a car is OK. There are beaches and restaurants and shops all withing walking distance.  There are publicos for a quick trip to the North side or to Red Beach.  If your stay is longer, then you will really want a car to explore all that the island has to offer. 

Last week, there was a large fire on the east section of the old bombing area.  Initial speculation was that the environmental companies had been responsible.  However, since the blaze was on a Saturday (they do not work weekends)  and beer cans were found at the origin sites, officials from Puerto Rico determined that it was in fact arson.  Different reports can be found on the web, so you can research yourself.

Finally, if you get a car, be sure to obey speed limits (35mph), seat belt law (wear them) and parking restrictions (never in a yellow or blue area and always with traffic unless it is a one way street with parking on the left) since the police are enforcing them.  When in doubt, look at those around you. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than an expensive ticket. 

More Soon.

JC

Ports Authority on WOSO

WOSO plans to have the head of Ports Authority of PR on the "Speak Out"
radio program this coming Wednesday.. February  23  ......  12 noon until 1
pm. 
The telephone number is  787-724 1030

More regarding the passenger ferries

Ayer la ATM comenzó operar sin restricciones con el numero de pasajeros después de completar entrenamiento de seguridad.

After two weeks of severe restrictions placed by the Coast Guard on its operations, the Autoridad de Transporte Maritima (ATM) finally has begun operating with new security procedures.  The ATM was operating in violation of new legislation passed in 2009 which required the training of its employees on passenger safety, such as how to instruct on the use the life preservers, how to handle a suspicious package left on the boat, etc.  

After failing a safety drill on February 2, the ATM was given a limit of 149 passengers per boat until it could meet the safety requirements.  The limit on passengers, which caused many problems of passengers without service, was lifted yesterday, Feb 18th.

Kathy Gannett

Light the Torch!

Saturday, Feb 19th in the Plaza at 8 PM.
Come and help light the torch to kickoff the Relay for Life 

(fundraiser for cancer services).  

See the flyer below.

Yahoo Travel ranks Vieques # 2

Issued : Wednesday, February 16, 2011 11:30 AM
Yahoo Travel ranks Vieques near the top
of any island-hopper’s bucket list
Get more info at in the News on www.enchanted-isle.com

What to do with your Valentine

Vieques and Valentine's Day.  Starting off with a little alliteration, the island and the holiday fit together really well.  There is a lot or a little to do, depending on your preference. 

A romantic beach day followed by a sumptuous dinner can be found.  Or, you can take a tour of our bioluminescent bay, which is by far one of the most brilliant ones in the world.  Or you can book a sail with our charter captains and watch the sun go down in the middle of the Caribbean.  Or, you can go dancing at the coliseum in Isabel Segunda at the Vieques Baila (I spelled it incorrectly last week).  Don't worry if you have forgotten the flowers, there are florists in both Isabel and Esperanza.

El Quenepo in Esperanza is usually closed on Mondays, but will be open tonight for Valentine's Day and closed on Tuesday.  The food is awesome. 

Today also marks the day that tickets to the famous Vieques Pops go on sale at the Vieques Historical Society and Conservation Trust.  The concert is being held on March 26 and 27 at the W.  The event is a fundraiser for the trust and is a great time.  Call the Trust at 787-741-8850 today as tickets sell out very quickly.

Tomorrow at 6pm, there is the gallery opening at Siddhia Hutchinson's, featuring works by local artists on the theme "natural beauty" of Vieques.  On Friday, the 18th, there is an opening reception at the Gallery Galleon featuring paintings by Rob Brooks, beginning at 5pm. 

There are a few ferry issues still out there. Last week there were several rumors running around as to why, so here is what I have been told.   Apparently, a surprise inspection by the coast guard indicated a lack of training with respect to the operations of the large passenger boat, Cayo Blanco.  Therefore, it is limited to 149 passengers.  The smaller vessel, the Atlantis, is running in conjunction with the Cayo Blanco, allowing for more passengers to be accommodated.  The Ports Authority is adhering to the residents first rule, and in fact, was refusing to sell tickets to non-residents for the 8pm boat on Saturday.  This usually happens until they figure out how many residents need to be transported and then they open the tickets up for everyone else.  The best plan is to get to the dock early.  Remember, however, this is Vieques, so the minute I post this blog, things will change.  By tomorrow, the ferries might just be running on time and to capacity. 

Tuesday night, Jimmy Cochran will be offering up a Coqui Fire revisited night at the Mar Azul.  He didn't tell me what time, but I would guess that getting there by happy hour would work out just fine. 

Last week, Mikey at Duffy's in Esperanza, had gotten his hands on some ghost peppers.    He whipped up some wing sauce and held a contest.  I don't know the name of the person that won, but I do know that he ate 14 wings before succumbing to the heat. 

Caribbean Walk, the gift store in Isabel Segunda, located next to Roy's, is under new management.  Stop in and see the new lines they are offering.  The Funky Beehive on the corner of the same street is open, offering a really eclectic mix of goods.  Think dinnerware and a dress in the same shop. 

JC

---

TV dinner still cooling?
Check out "Tonight's Picks" on Yahoo! TV.

Mark your calendars!

The VCHT is pleased to announce the Vieques Pops 2011.
Saturday and Sunday, March 26-27, 2011 at 6:30 pm.
Both evenings begin with pre-concert cocktails and hors d'oeuvres and a
champagne intermission.

Vieques Pops 2011 will feature the incomparable talent of Annette Bou and
Mireya Padin. They have assembled a distinguished group of musicians from
Puerto Rico, who will present an eclectic program of music that will
surprise and delight.

Seating is limited and sold out performances are anticipated.
Tickets go on sale on February 14, 2011 at 9am.
Members may purchase tickets in person at the VCHT or by phone at
787-741-8850.
Tickets are $125 each.
The Friends level tickets sell for $500.
Friends will receive preferred seating, attendance at the post-concert event
and their names will appear in the official program.

Monday night at Coconuts... the BEST in local flavors!

"¡Sabor Criollo!" at Coconuts!
In addition to our regular Dinner menu, Lunes, 14 de febrero 2011
Pastelillos de Picadillo, Bacalaítos con Ajili Mójili, Tostones de Pana,
Ensalada de Pulpo, Oysters Rockefeller, French-style Frog Legs, Bistro Salad
of Frisée, Slow-roasted Pernil, Guineos en Escabeche y Arroz con Gandules,
Black Angus Churrasco a la Parilla, Local-style Lobster-meat "Simmer" with
Linguine, Rotisserie-Roasted Half Chicken, Rare-seared Salmon Fillet,
"Chef-style" Fish & Chips.

Art Gallery DeDa

Opening reception is on Saturday, February 12  6pm-9pm

Gallery is located on the Main street in Isabel II

Laura Pettibone that has been showing since early 1970's.

Pettibone’s photographs have been exhibited in New York City, Los Angeles, Paris, Tokyo, Nantucket Island, and Vieques, PR.  They have been published and featured in various magazines including ZOOM, American Photographer, NYB (New York/Berlin) and London Magazine.

Aleksandar  Janjic

Galeria de arte DeDa

787.741.1297

Noche de Amor - 14 de Febrero / Evening of Love - Feb 14

Quinta Edición de Vieques Baila, noche de

baile, cena, risa y amor, a celebrarse en

el Coliseo en Isabel Segunda.

lunes, 14 de febrero de 2011,

comenzando a las 5pm.

Contactar a Vincent Tozzi para más información.

Este evento es gratis.

The 5th Vieques Baila, an evening of dance,

dining, laughter and love, will be held at

the Coliseo in Isabel Segunda.

Monday, February 14, 2011

beginning at 5 PM.

Contact Vincent Tozzi

for more information. 787.741.3459

This is a free event.

New Gallery Shows:

At Siddhia Hutchinson Gallery Vieques "WILD BY NATURE"
Opening Reception, February 15, 6-8PM
The best of new works inspired by the natural beauty of Vieques
Artists:
Birdie Britton, Siddhia Hutchinson, Barney Line, RA Moseley, Hattie Notman,
Jeanne Peech, Mary Stratford, Caleb Stone, Glen Wielgus
At Gallery Galleon
The opening of Contemporary Realist fine art oil painter, Rob Brooks: The
Vieques Portfolio. Friday, February 18th 5-7pm. The show runs through March
26th. Rob's abstract realism is not to be missed!
Rob Brooks will teach a free class to Vieques high school students Sunday
Feb. 20th at 10am, please email info@gallerygalleon.com for more info on the
class.
See previous recent postings for images from both shows
jts
Find out What's going on at
www.Enchanted-Isle.Com

El Quenepo Valentine's Day Update

El Quenepo will be open on Monday, February 14th from 5:30- 10:00 PM to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

We will be closed on Tuesday, February 15th.

We look forward to seeing you!

Kate, Scott and the El Quenepo Team

Beach Soccer

COSUAM (Corporación para la Sustentabilidad Ambiental) is organizing a beach
soccer tournament at Sun Bay Beach in Vieques from 7:00pm Mar 18 to 7pm Mar
20. Contact them through their facebook page @ http://tinyurl.com/47z7n58
jts
www.enchanted-isle.com

Some Valentine's Day Treats

February 14th is but days away and there are lots of choices for celebration. 

First, Vieques Bailer is hosting it's annual Valentine's Day Dance Contest at the Coliseum in town, across from Coconuts.  In the past, our mayor Evelyn DeLerme has opened the event.  It is our answer to "Dancing with the Stars".  Contestants of all ages compete, there is dancing for everyone and best of all, the proceeds go to benefit the children and animals of Vieques.  What better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than to dance and give to great causes.

The Inn on the Blue Horizon is offering special menus both Sunday and Monday for Valentine's Day.  The location is simply fantastic for a romantic dinner.  For the best in lobster dining, make reservations at Trade Winds.  Next Course and Coconuts are always good spots for special nights. The W also has romantic plans for that night, so check out their website.

If you decide to get married on Valentine's Day you can check out the new website for Weddings in Vieques.  Once you have decided to get married, you'll need a house, so look at Rainbow Realty's new site.  Both of these are accessible right from this website.  Once you buy your house, you need to decorate.  Laura Pettibone is having a gallery opening entitled 'Mindscapes' at deda on the main street, beginning the 12th.  Wednesday the 15th, the Siddhia Hutchinson Gallery is hosting a showing by our local artists inspired by the natural beauty of Vieques.  Both begin at 6pm.

Cantina La Reina is opening this week, under new management.  That would be me.  The menu will remain Mexican inspired, with good food at a good price.  Marge is heading up the kitchen so you can expect some exceptional chili and some off the wall specials.  We will open around noon, the second floor will open around 5 and we will close sometime during the night.  If I survive the first week, the blog will get written. 

Several people have had dinner at Chez Shack and have raved about the food.  The Duffy family certainly knows how to put out good food.  I am on my way now to confirm that Mikey has obtained some ghost peppers (you know those hot ones that are a trillion times hotter than habaneros) for some wing sauce for today's Superbowl festivities. 

A quick note on the ferry.  Something, I am not sure what exactly, has caused the Cayo Blanco to run with only about 140 passengers per trip.  The buzz at the dock was that the Coast Guard said the boat needed to have two captains on board.  So, lately both the Cayo Blanco and the Atlantis have been running when the passenger numbers warrant.  Also, the cargo boats are running seven days, so there is some more passenger room there, except on days when they are transporting hazardous materials.  There was also a newspaper article  indicating that once again, the cost for nonresidents to ride the boat will increase.  We have heard that before, many times.  It may be like the bridge on the middle road.  It will happen, but "hasta cuando" who knows. 

And finally, we all are thinking about all you folks in the upper forty eight.  Wear your woolies and book a ticket. 

JC