I haven't heard anything. But when the smoking ban got voted in that was the first thing on my mind - this will mean death to The Comet.

Here's a crazy idea, how about calling up the manager or owner of said establishment and asking for comment?

Do you expect them to come here and divulge?

You mean actually doing some reporting? That would be far too responsible and journalistically ethical...

I did call--and nothing's "official yet."

I heard the owner of Caffe Vita bought the Comet and it will stay open with some moderate changes. Seems like they're doing well enough without diversifying though.

Yes, they're selling as of next week.