The Grass is Greener at 516 S. Illinois Ave.

Although it hasn't been sold yet, the vacant lot is green with grass -- if not with cash. No offers have been made on the property according to Carbondale's business development manager, but eventually the city could advertise for proposals, similar to what was done for property in the TIF District (link).

Meanwhile, up the street at Main and Illinois Ave. about one year after it opened, "McCleland's Bistro" has served its last pate. According to Henry Jin, the building's owner, the owner of McCleland's grew tired of the demands of running a full-time restaurant, but Henry is confident that the space will be rented again right away, since it was left in excellent conditions. Best wishes to Anita Pate, whose appetizers are equalled only by those of Andrea Barclay, from plate to this blog's palate.