Democratic debate days. The Democratic candidates for governor (Just FYI they are: Andrew Gillum, Gwen Graham, Chris King and Philip Levine) had their third debate and while their backgrounds are a bit different, they mostly agree on things like opposition to private prisons, criticism of the federal response to Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria, and a desire to break up the Republican foothold in Tallahassee. Ultimately, the event was more discussion than debate, but election day is still far away and we’re sure the gloves will come off soon. (Miami Herald)
Looking to make a mark. Saima Farooqui is hoping to make history by becoming the first Muslim to serve in the state legislature. She’s campaigning for a state house seat in District 96, a mostly Democratic stretch of Broward County that includes Parkland– home of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High. It will be uphill battle for the political newcomer, though. She’s competing against a Democratic incumbent who’s raised about $27,000 compared to Saima’s $1,583 in campaign donations. (Miami Herald)
Same bookstore, new building. If you’ve followed the saga of the Bookstore in the Grove you might be wondering what exactly happened and if the store was able to survive its ownership changes. Well, good news! The store has opened in a new space that’s about a six-minute walk away from the old location. The new owners said they wanted a new space that was more accessible to Grove locals and visiting book lovers alike. (Miami.com)
Thai food after dark. Speaking of an ongoing saga, chef Phuket “Cake” Thongsodchaveondee has had an eventful few years in Miami. The Cake Thai location in Wynwood closed last year and his restaurant Gaijin Izakaya shut down earlier this year. But now, Cake is partnering with B Bistro + Bakery to take over the bakery’s space to offer dinner and late night Thai food. The concept is set to start June 29 so get your appetites ready. (Miami New Times)
More rough industry news. The Miami nightlife and hospitality industry is still reeling from the death of popular bartender John Lermayer and now sadly, there’s more bad news. Cook Andrew Alessi, was found dead in his Miami Beach apartment Monday night. He worked at 27 Restaurant and Bar, the restaurant attached to the Broken Shaker, and police are unsure of what led to the 30-year-old’s death. (Miami New Times)
When keeping it đź’ŻÂ goes wrong. In an effort to keep up the appearance of solving “100 percent” of burglaries in the small village of Biscayne Park, the former police chief and two cops tried to frame a teenager for committing four burglaries. And they would’ve gotten away with it too if not for…well, federal prosecutors. The chief and the cops were charged this week with violating the 16-year-old’s civil rights. The police wrote made-up stories on police reports and arrested the teenager without a lawful reason. No bueno. (Miami Herald)
