Great Gables Events – weekend of May 14

Greetings,

It’s nice to be back with you after a couple of weeks of high intensity concentration on a successful global project. Now, I’m back in the Gables, digging up cool stuff for me and my friends to do in our little burg.

We are once again the beneficiaries of an abundance of great cultural opportunities, as I am sure you’ll agree when perusing the following list of Great Gables Events.

Liberty Caffe Opens Saturday
Enjoy free gelato from 11am to 5pm Saturday, May 15 as we celebrate the long-awaited opening our our historic Country Club’s Liberty Caffe. Meet your neighbors for a bite and have a look at the new Italian theme venue at 997 North Greenway Drive. Be among the first to preview the Italian-inspired menu of Panini, oven baked pizza, pressed sandwiches and wraps, soups, salads, pastries and specialty coffees. Call 305-392-0819. http://www.libertycaffe.com

The Mainly Mozart Festival Returns
The Grand Ballroom of the Westin Colonnade Hotel will for the 17th year be the site of seven programs of wonderful and engaging chamber music, played on Sunday afternoons. This season offers two important local two debuts: Maestro James Judd’s Miami Music String Quartet opening the Festival, and soprano Esther Jane Hardenbergh on June 20. The Festival comprises seven Sunday concerts, all at 4:30pm, and a special free concert for children on Saturday, June 26, at 4pm. Included in the programs are grand works which are known and loved: compositions by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, Dvorak, and other composers. At the request of music lovers, there will be a voice component in the schedule. The Festival will open with a bang — James Judd’s Miami Music Project String Quartet — a fresh and exciting experience. Season tickets are $10, individual concerts are $20. For complete details call 305-444-4755. http://www.mainlymozart.com

Next Week: Cuba Libre Block Party
On Friday, May 21 at 4pm, The Globe will host its seventh annual CubaLibre BlockParty, a free, open-air concert and festival in the heart of downtown Coral Gables along the entire 300 block of Alhambra Circle. Celebrating Cuba’s first Independence Day of 1902, this year’s concert line-up will be headlined by Los 3 De La Habana. In addition to the free concert, The Globe’s CubaLibre BlockParty will also feature Bacardi bars serving traditional Cuban cocktails, hand-rolled Cuban cigars, delicious street food and many more surprises. As always, festival goers are encouraged to come decked-out in their best guayaberas and Cuban-chic attire to continue the block party’s golden age of Cuba theme. The Globe’s CubaLibre BlockParty is sponsored by American Airlines and once again will benefit Regis House. Call 305-444-3555. http://www.theglobecafe.com

Take The Plunge With Your Kids
Come join the Venetian Aquatic Club and learn to teach children and adults how to swim. They’re looking for volunteer swimming instructors for the summer and they will give you all the instruction you need. Take the Water Safety Instructor Aide Course, Tuesday through Friday, May 4-14 from 9 to 11am. When you commit to helping during one of the four 2-week sessions in June and July your children get to take 2 free lessons a day and enjoy free-swim time too. Get involved in your community and meet new friends by joining the Venetian Aquatic Club. Call Dallas at 305-445-2671 or email: bradbdallas@aol.com or visit http://www.VenetianAquaticClub.org

Panera Bread Opening On Miracle Mile
The very popular Panera Bread Company is opening a store on Miracle Mile in the near future. Stay tuned to this channel for updates. http://www.panerabread.com

Peterbrooke Chocolatier In Transition
Sharon Cahoon, owner of the popular Peterbrooke Chocolatier shop at 227 Aragon, has announce her retirement to concentrate on matters of great importance to her family. She’s looking for a new owner to take over the shop. If you’re interested in operating a business that sells love, friendship and fond memories, as well as great chocolate treats, contact Sharon at 305-446-3131.

Dinner And Dancing At La Palma
La Palma RIstorante at 116 Alhambra Circle is pleased to announce the addition of the Duet Matteo Picciuto and Ramon DeLegorbu, long time Coral Gables favorites, appearing Friday and Saturday evenings from 8pm until midnight. The only Dinner and Dancing venue in Coral Gables, La Palma is currently celebrating 16 years of fine cuisine and ambience. Call 305-445-8777. http://www.Lapalmaristorante.com

Bonbon Café And Patisserie Opens On The Mile
Visit Miracle Mile’s newest neighbor Bonbon Café And Patisserie at 70 Miracle Mile featuring unique tastes from Spain, Greece, Turkey, Italy and France at this great Mediterranean Café Bonbon Café And Patisserie. Call 305-448-0956.

Benihana’s Chef Special Filet for Two
Through May 31 at Benihana, 242 Miracle Mile, you and a loved one can enjoy Filet for Two served with Benihana onion soup, Benihana salad, shrimp appetizer, hibachi vegetables, homemade dipping sauces, steamed rice and hot Japanese green tea all for just $39. Call 305-567-2000. http://www.benihana.com

Bangkok Bangkok’s Lunch Special
Want a healthy lunch at low price? Stop by Bangkok Bangkok, 157 Giralda, Monday through Friday for fine, authentic Thai cuisine starting as low as $7.95. Call 305-444-2397.

Friday, May 14

Commercial Real Estate Outlook Luncheon
The Gables Chamber presents a panel discussion on commercial real estate starting at 11:30am at the Biltmore Hotel’s Country Club Ballroom. The cost is $55, or $45 for members. Call 305-446-1657. http://www.coralgableschamber.org

ARC Summer Spree Auction
Billed as the “The Hottest Travel and Leisure Auction in Town,” the Association for Retarded Citizens, South Florida (ARC South Florida) is ready for their 15th Annual Summer Spree Auction sponsored by American Airlines. The event features international hors d’oeuvres, wine, exciting raffle prizes, a thrilling live Auction featuring worldwide trips with Auctioneer Mr. Michael Guyer, and hundreds of silent auction items. Join the fun at 5:45pm at the newly renovated Marriott Miami Airport, 1201 NW Le Jeune Road. Tickets are $75 the night of the event but you can save $10 by pre-registering with the ARC South Florida’s office at 305-759-8500, x141. http://www.summerspreeauction.com

Jazz At The Biltmore Lounge
Enjoy classic jazz performances by the Popo Delgado duo, Mike Levine duo, Silvano Monasterios duo and the Gabriel Saenz duo each Friday evening at the Biltmore Lounge, 1200 Anastasia, with cocktail specials by 10 Cane Rum and Belvedere Vodka. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

JohnMartin’s New Friday Night Happy Hour
JohnMartin’s is the place to be with the launch of a new Friday Night Happy Hour, from 4 to 8pm that will calm the soul and feed the stomach. With a brand new state-of-the-art, just-installed draft beer system, JohnMartin’s will feature the coldest and best beers including Guinness, Stella, Harp, Blue Moon, Brooklyn Lager and Smithwicks at only $3.50 for a 20 oz pint. All Dewars, Bacardi, Smirnoff drinks and house wines are also $3.50 at Happy Hour. And for those that need a bite to eat, they are starting a carving station from 5pm where they will be serving roast beef sandwiches, complimentary with the purchase of a drink. Now that’s Irish Hospitality! Don’t forget, live bands start at 9:30pm, so come on down to JohnMartin’s at 253 Miracle Mile. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

Tropical Audubon: Last Art Walk Of The Season
The Tropical Audubon Society’s High Pines neighbor and TAS patron Tom Smith will be showing his photographic work in their historic Doc Thomas House at 5530 Sunset Drive from 6 to 9pm. You’ll be able to view Tom’s images in air-conditioned comfort while enjoying complimentary wine. A percentage of Tom’s sales will benefit TAS. Call 305-667-7337. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org

Seraphic Fire Presents Vespers Of 1610
In the time of Shakespeare’s The Tempest and Cervantes’s Don Quixote, Monteverdi elegantly and seamlessly combined the prevalent compositional styles of his day into one of the most intricate and beautiful tapestries of celestial sound. A collection of sacred pieces demonstrating Monteverdi’s mastery of composition and religion, the Vespers of 1610 has become the evolutionary link between the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Join Seraphic Fire as they celebrate the 400th anniversary of this joyous and majestic work starting at 7:30pm at the First United Methodist Church, 536 Coral Way. Tickets are $35. Ask about the special program offering free tickets for audience members below the age of 30. Call 888-544-FIRE. http://www.seraphicfire.org

Brad Meltzer – Heroes for My Son
Packaged in a charming gift format, Heroes for My Son (Harperstudio, $19.99) profiles 54 extraordinary men and women, some celebrated across the globe and some lesser-known, but each in their own right a role model for coming generations to learn from and admire. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Ajami At Cosford Cinema
A powerful crime drama set on the streets of Jaffa’s Ajami neighborhood — a melting pot of cultures and conflicting views among Jews, Muslims and Christians — and told through the eyes of a cross-section of the city’s inhabitants: a young Israeli fighting a criminal vendetta against his family, a Palestinian refugee working illegally to finance a life-saving surgery, a Jewish police detective obsessed with finding his missing brother, and an affluent Palestinian dreaming of a future with his Jewish girlfriend. As their stories intersect — and the film’s narrative shifts back and forth in time — we witness a dramatic collision of different worlds and the tragic consequences of enemies living as neighbors. The film begins at 9pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. $8, ($6 seniors) cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com

Saturday, May 15

Liberty Caffe Opens At Gables Country Club
Enjoy free gelato from 11am to 5pm as we celebrate the long-awaited opening our our historic Country Club’s Liberty Caffe. Meet your neighbors for a bite and have a look at the new Italian theme venue at 997 North Greenway Drive. Be among the first to preview the Italian-inspired menu of Panini, oven baked pizza, pressed sandwiches and wraps, soups, salads, pastries and specialty coffees. Call 305-392-0819. http://www.libertycaffe.com

Gables’ Museum Family Open House Weekend
The Coral Gables Museum invites families to attend the weekend-long Open House on Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 3pm. This free event, hosted at the new Museum facilities at 285 Aragon, will offer art activities, music, building tours and information on City Trekker Summer Camp. City Trekker Summer Camp will offer eight weeks of fun, educational activities for children ages 5-12. Campers will explore the City of Coral Gables though a variety of disciplines and take advantage of all the cultural destinations and activities that The City Beautiful has to offer. Special presentations, art activities and field trips will support weekly themes. The camp is one of few 9am to 5pm programs offered in the Coral Gables area with rates starting at $170 per week. Call 305-989-4209. http://www.CoralGablesMuseum.org

Kampong Classical Music Concerts for Children
The Kampong, the Miami location for the National Tropical Botanical Garden, will bring to a close its highly successful inaugural season of classical music concerts for children on the garden’s historic grounds with the final concert for the season at 1:30 pm featuring “Red Dogs and Pink Skies: A Musical Celebration of Paul Gaugin.” This magnificent, colorfully evocative musical homage to Paul Gaugin is perfectly suited for young audiences of all ages. Do not leave the older ones at home for this one. Proceeds from The Kampong Kids Music Series are used to support The Kampong living collections and educational programs. Call 305-442-7169. http://Kampongevents.ntbg.org

Jazz At The Biltmore Lounge
Enjoy classic jazz performances by the Popo Delgado duo, Mike Levine duo, Silvano Monasterios duo and the Gabriel Saenz duo each Saturday evening at the Biltmore Lounge, 1200 Anastasia, with cocktail specials by 10 Cane Rum and Belvedere Vodka. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

President’s Social Ball and Dinner
The Army-Navy Club of Coral Gables will hold it’s Annual President’s Ball at the Riviera Country Club in Coral Gables from 6:30 to 10:30pm. The evening begins with a social and networking cocktail hour, followed by military ceremonies, dinner and dancing. This is an opportunity for those who are serving or have served their country honorably to meet club members and learn more about the Club’s social calendar which includes three memorable military dinner and dance balls a year. Its’ an excellent opportunity to share military service memories and experiences, fellowship and networking. Attendance at the Ball is open to active duty, retired, reserve, maritime and public health service women and men and those former service personnel who served honorably. Cost of dinner covers the hors d’oeuvres, dinner, dance and champagne toast as well as valet parking. Riviera Country Club is located at 1155 Blue Road, Coral Gables, Florida Ed Mazzei, Army-Navy Club of Coral Gables. For additional information contact Captain E. J. Mazzei, USMC (Ret) at 305-446-5348. http://www.armynavyclubofcoralgables.com

Saturday Live Music At Angelique Euro Cafe
Join Angelique Euro Cafe at 117 Miracle Mile for an evening of fine wine, authentic European fare and an eclectic performance by award-winning guitarist Rodolfo Troncoso. This Chilean-born entertainer’s unique blend of classical and South American styles, along with his personal brand of Rumba Flamenca, will set the mood for an amazing evening of music you won’t soon forget. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com

Steven Raichlen: Planet Barbecue Block Party
The most ambitious book yet by America’s bestselling, award-winning grill expert whose Barbecue! Bible books have over 4 million copies in print. Setting out–again–on the barbecue trail four years ago, Steven Raichlen visited 53 countries — yes, 53 countries — and collected 275 of the tastiest, most tantalizing, easy-to-make, and guaranteed-to-wow recipes from every corner of the globe. Welcome to Planet Barbecue (Workman Publishing, $22.95), the book that will take America’s passionate, obsessive, smoke-crazed live-fire cooks to the next level. Planet Barbecue, with full-color photographs throughout, is an unprecedented marriage of food and culture. Here, for example, is how the world does pork: in the Puerto Rican countryside cooks make Lechon Asado — stud a pork shoulder with garlic and oregano, baste it with annatto oil, and spit-roast it. From the Rhine-Palatine region of Germany comes Spiessbraten, thick pork steaks seasoned with nutmeg and grilled over a low, smoky fire. From Seoul, South Korea, Sam Gyeop Sal — grilled sliced pork belly. From Montevideo, Uruguay, Bandiola — butterflied pork loin stuffed with ham, cheese, bacon, and peppers. From Cape Town, South Africa, Sosaties — pork kebabs with dried apricots and curry. And so it goes for beef, fish, vegetables, shellfish — says Steven, “Everything tastes better grilled.” Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Unreasonable Doubt At Mirale Theatre
A new play by South Florida playwright Michael McKeever, Unreasonable Doubt was a winning play of Actor’s Playhouse Pen to Stage Contest presented in a staged reading at the Miracle Theatre in June 2008. Unreasonable Doubt is full of insight and compassion, and a penetrating look at American justice and how it sometimes fails the society it’s meant to protect with revenge and redemption intersecting in this thought-provoking drama. Unable to touch the man who savagely raped and murdered his daughter, Ty Boswoth does the next best thing; he kidnaps the defense lawyer who put the killer back on the street. Unreasonable Doubt uses one family’s tragedy to explore the impact of a legal system grown ineffectual in our society, as a tiny cabin in the woods becomes a courtroom for the American justice system itself. Performances at Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, are Thursday through Saturday evenings, plus Sunday matinee through June 6. Call 305-444-9293. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

Raised In Captivity At New Theatre
New Theatre presents its final production of the 2009-2010 season: Raised in Captivity by Nicky Silver, running April 23 through May 16, 2010. This Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle nominated dark comedy starts with estranged twin siblings who are attending their mother’s funeral, after she was killed by her broken, flying shower head. Add in a husband, a ghost, a convicted murderer, a male escort and a therapist and what you get is a whacky, absurdist comedy about serious family values, relationships and self discovery. The play continues through May 16th with performances Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, plus a Sunday matinee. Call 305-443-5909. http://www.new-theatre.org

The Quarrel At GableStage
In their youth they were dearest of friends. Then they became bitterest of enemies. Now, they are Holocaust survivors who have lost everything. When they meet by chance years later, one has remained a deeply religious Jew, while the other has turned his back on God. They engage in a fierce battle of wits that tests their friendship, faith and tolerance. The Quarrel by David Brandes and Joseph Telushkin plays nightly on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at GableStage, 1200 Anastasia, plus a matinee performance on Sundays, through May 23. Call 305-445-1119. http://www.GableStage.org

Moonlight Concert With Joe Donato At The Kampong
What could be better that a moonlit evening in a rarified tropical setting highlighted by great jazz music? The Kampong, the Miami location for the National Tropical Botanical Garden, concludes its first successful season of Moonlight concerts next month with South Florida jazz legend Joe Donato. The last of four highly acclaimed concerts will start at 8pm and the music begins at 9pm. Joe Donato’s unique style and flair with the saxophone and multiple other instruments make him an immensely versatile performer who lights up the stage of any venue with the class and style reminiscent of Big Band days. His long career has taken him around the world on numerous tours and he is practically an institution on the South Florida musical scene. Everyone agrees that he is more than just a talented musician; he is what is referred to as a musician’s musician — widely respected and admired by his peers and generous in sharing the spotlight with his talented ensemble and special guests. Billing itself as Miami’s newest upscale venue for fine jazz and live music, The Kampong transforms itself into the tropical ultra-chic K Lounge for the evening. The recently added covered pavilion with stage, designed by noted Miami architect Max Strang, provides near-perfect acoustics and is the ideal small setting for the live-music aficionado. Proceeds from Moonlight Concerts At The Kampong are used to support The Kampong living collections and educational programs. Tickets are available by calling The Kampong at 305-442-7169 or online: http://kampongevents.ntbg.org

Lourdes at Cosford Cinema
Sylvie Testud, star of Lourdes, may be the greatest French actress of her generation. Like Isabelle Huppert, she effortlessly slips into whatever role she assumes. Unlike Catherine Deneuve, she does not dazzle us with glamorous perfection, but radiates a charisma that is born of flaws that are all too real. As Christine, she is a young woman confined to a wheelchair, visiting the city of Lourdes in hope of a miraculous recovery — along with thousands of others. She wakes up one morning seemingly cured by a miracle. The leader of the pilgrimage group, a handsome 40 year-old volunteer from the Order of Malta, begins to take an interest in her. She tries to hold on to this newfound chance for happiness while her cure provokes envy and admiration. Yet the movie’s real subject is not religious belief, but human frailty. Lourdes asks us to consider how we would live life severely disabled. And if the hoped-for miracle befell someone else? If romance and the chance for happiness fell from the sky? The film lets no one off the hook: not Christine, nor her fellow pilgrims, the religious order that runs the show, or the pretty nurses who fancy themselves angels of mercy. The film begins at 9:30pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. $8, ($6 seniors) cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com

Sunday, May 16

Brunch and Jazz At Angelique Euro Cafe
Stop by Angelique Euro Café at 117 Miracle Mile this Sunday for a decadent brunch from 10am to 4pm featuring live Brazilian jazz. A prix fixe menu includes authentic European-inspired dishes and your choice of select brunch beverages for just $24, as well as a la carte choices. Can’t make it on Sunday? A Spring Savings menu is now available Monday through Wednesday featuring lunch for two for $17 or dinner for two with a bottle of wine for just $49. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com

Chopin For All Series Of Free Concerts
Enjoy a free performance by Henry Kramer, finalist of the 2010 National Chopin Piano Competition at 3pm at Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive. The program features Beethoven “Tempest” Sonata and a selection of Chopin’s music. A recent prizewinner in the 8th National Chopin Competition, Henry has appeared with the Portland String Quartet, the Bangor Symphony Orchestra, and the University of Miami Frost School of Music Orchestra, as well as in recitals in Boston, Seattle, Spain, and Alberta, Canada. For more information, contact: Viga Gewert at: 305-868-0624. http://www.chopin.org

Donna Gephart: How to Survive Middle School
Eleven-year-old David Greenberg dreams of becoming a TV superstar like his idol, Jon Stewart. But in real life, David is just another kid terrified of starting his first year at Harman Middle School. With a wacky sense of humor and hilarious Top 6.5 Lists, David spends his free time making Talk Time videos, which he posts on YouTube. When David and his best friend have a fight, David is lucky enough to make a pretty cool new friend, Sophie-who just (gulp) happens to be a girl. Sophie thinks David’s videos are hilarious, and she starts sending out the links to everyone she knows. Sophie’s friends tell their friends, and before David knows it, thousands of people are viewing his videos — including some of the last people he would have expected. David may still feel like a real-life schmo, but is he ready to become an Internet superstar? (Delacorte Books for Young Readers, $15.99) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 3pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Let The Children Sing Concert
Experience the joy of singing with the Miami Children’s Chorus at First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables, 536 Coral Way at 4pm. The MCC has won acclaim from critics and earned national recognition as an exemplary children’s choir. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Call 305-662-7494. http://miamichildrenschorus.org

Summer Concert Series Pre-Season Event
You’re invited to attend the special Community Arts Program Pre-Season Fundraising Event at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts starting at 4pm. Call 305-448-7421 x120. Email: markh@communityartsprogram.org

Mainly Mozart: Miami Music Project Strings Quartet
Enjoy the opening performance of the Mainly Mozart Concert Series with the Miami Music Project Strings Quartet at the Grand Ballroom of the Colonnade Hotel, 180 Aragon, starting at 4:30pm. James Judd, musical director, presents Arriaga: String Quartet No. 1; Mozart: String Quartet, K. 589; Dvorak: American Quartet. Tickets are $100 for the season, $20 for individual performances. Call 305-444-4755. http://www.mainlymozart.com

Live Caribbean Music Poolside
Enjoy a live performance of Caribbean acoustic guitar and flamenco rhythms by Jacky & Strings at the Biltmore Hotel’s Cascade Poolside Bar and Restaurant each Sunday from 1 to 5pm. Enjoy half price cocktails by 10 Cane and Bacardi Superior Rum. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Denis Bedu: Inspired Journeys of Ghosts and Vagabonds
Nicolas Dubet is a naive simple man born and raised in peaceful Central France in a community gently recovering from World War II. After a very happy and innocent childhood, Nicolas becomes restless after the events of May nineteen sixty-eight that saw the death of his young love. He finds some solace in his journeys throughout Europe discovering new images that satisfy his thirst only momentarily. His naive visions take an even more rapid turn when he lives with an African tribe. There, he meets people of many definitions, from a strong, but peaceful young bushman full of surprising wisdom, to cruel mercenaries filled with regrets and violence, to gentle innocent pygmies who offer him nothing but tranquility after he barely escapes from an assassination rampage. Upon his return however, Nicolas never finds tranquility, as he slowly becomes the adult he had never really wished to be. He starts a second childhood in New England, discovering a new life and new doubts. Nicolas feverishly continues to Central America, the Caribbean Islands, China, and the Middle East. The strong invisible presence of his father, the ghostly touch of his father’s hands offer him support whenever he comes across difficult, even dangerous situations. Later, he has the opportunity to return home to hear his aging mother reveal an unsettling truth. Along his experiences, his relationships, and the conversations he enjoys with many people from other lands, Nicolas Dubet slowly becomes the intriguing mix of Camus’ The Stranger, Saint Exupery’s The Little Prince, with a touch of Forrest Gump. (Trafford Publishing, $27.95) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Fleming’s Hosts LLS White Party
Join your friends for a night of glitz, glamour and good works, as they transform Fleming’s (2525 Ponce) into a sophisticated “White Party” with a portion of the evening’s proceeds to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The event features a tasting menu served reception style, featuring selected white wines, cocktails by Grey Goose, White Flat Bread with Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese, Scallop Ceviche: citrus cured scallop with peppers, onions, cilantro, and avocado aioli, Ivory Tuna Sashimi with Tobiko and Ginger Cilantro Soy Halibut with Vidalia Sweet Onion Marmalade, Chicken Satay with White Deconstructed Thai Peanut Sauce, Seared Filet Mignon with Caper Creole Mustard, Grilled Lemon Gremolata and White Asparagus Spears, with White Chocolate Dream Cake with Cream Cheese Icing and Cheesecake with Chantilly Cream, plus Pearl Tiramisu. Advance ticket purchases only, please. Call Christina Ward, Private Dining Director, at 305-569-7995 or RSVP by email: coralgables@flemingssteakhouse.com

Bingo Night At The Woman’s Club
Enjoy a evening of good food, good friends and a lot of fun to benefit UNICEF at the Coral Gables Woman’s Club, 1001 East Ponce. Call 786-282-7886. http://www.coralgableswomansclub.org

Monday, May 17

Cardio Fit with Juan Hidalgo
Looking for the perfect combination of heart pumping cardio and intense strength training? Cardio Fit with Juan Hidalgo combines non-stop cardio and weights, designed for increased calorie burn and a total body workout from 8 to 9am at the BIltmore Hotel. Please call to pre-register for these classes the night before. Classes may be reserved 24 hours in advance. Promptness is extremely important due to setup instruction. Tardiness will result in a replacement from the waiting list. Call 305-913-3102. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Poetry Buffet At Crepemaker Cafe
Enjoy the last Round Robin Poetry Party of the season from 7 to 9pm at the Crepemaker Cafe, 76 Miracle Mile. As part of their anniversary celebration they are holding a book exchange. Please bring poetry books, poetry magazines or journals for a book exchange. Option 1: Fixed Price Menu includes choices of regular sized entree crepes and dessert crepes, chips, large refillable fountain drink or coffee for $16 per person plus tax and gratuity. Option 2: Small Combo Crepe Menu includes choices of small sized entree crepes and small dessert crepes with a small fountain drink for $13 per person plus tax and gratuity. Both options include complimentary wine. Call 305-807-3522. Email: dclocicero@gmail.com

Robert And Patricia Gussin: What’s Next For You?
What’s Next…For You? (Oceanview Publishing, &12) is the incredible story of Robert and Patricia Gussin, two “retirees” who watched with glee as long, successful careers in science and medicine gave way to writing, publishing, and winemaking. Much more than a memoir and anything but a how-to-start-a-business manual, What’s Next…For You? is a clear, easy-to-understand guide to reinventing yourself from real experts — two people who did it themselves and lived to tell the glorious tale. Through the engaging, first-person, he said/she said narrative, Robert and Patricia Gussin deliver an inspirational guide filled with advice on why it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, and why doing what you love (and loving what you do) is always within reach. A must-read tale of joyfully switching gears, changing careers, and overcoming “paralysis by analysis,” What’s Next…For You? takes the mystery out of that all-too-common question of how to get from where you are to where you want to be. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Tuesday, May 18

Celebrate International Museum Day
Since 1977 International Museum Day has been celebrated all over the world. And in South Florida during the month of May you can Join One, See Them All. During this month, membership at any participating museums will work as a free pass to any of the other museums. Whether you just joined or have been a member for years, it’s a great opportunity to museum hop and experience the Miami cultural scene.

Petanque Tournament At The Biltmore
The Biltmore hosts the only organized petanque tournament in Miami each Tuesday from 6 to 8pm where beginners and experts can play this fun and exciting game. Enjoy half price cocktails by Veuve Clicquot and Belvedere Vodka. Weekly drawing winner receives Sunday champagne brunch for two. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Les Standiford And Lynne Barrett: Delta Blues
Delta Blues (Tyrus Books, HC: $27.95; PB: $17.95) edited by Carolyn Haines, is where crime fiction intertwines with the soul of the blues. With stories centered around the legendary crossroads where bluesman Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul, these tales celebrate the rich Southern culture of the Delta. The Mississippi Delta is one of America’s most culturally rich and economically poor regions. Publisher Tyrus Books wanted to raise awareness of the intense need of books — and the written word in general — to enrich the lives of others. Through a partnership with Morgan Freeman’s Rock River Foundation, they are giving back $1 per sale of each book to increase literacy in the region. Morgan Freeman writes, “This collection of short fiction captures both the art of the tale and the power of the blues, and is a nod at the human condition that often inspires musicians to write and sing the blues.” Contributors include: Ace Atkins, James Lee Burke, Suzann Ellingsworth, Beth Ann Fennelly, Bill Fitzhugh, Tom Franklin, and John Grisham, among others. Tonight, Southern-based, blues loving contributors Lynne Barrett and Les Standiford will give a joint reading to celebrate this inspiring publication. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Wednesday, May 19

Daisy: Morning, Noon and Night
Enjoy empanadas filled with creamed corn, a crispy-edged, juicy skirt steak doused in tangy chimichurri, or the divine layers of moist angel food cake, strawberries, and whipped cream of the Strawberry Delicia, all of which Daisy Martinez brings to life in this vibrant collection of recipes. Growing up in her mother’s and grandmother’s kitchens, Daisy became an expert in traditional Latin-American cuisine. Here she “Daisifies” those classics and includes a hearty sampling of dishes from her travels across Spain, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Peru, and Argentina. To Daisy, food is about bringing family together, and so she peppers her collection with anecdotes and family vacation photos. Each recipe is as much about the memory the flavors recall as the love that goes into preparing the dish; for her, the succulent grilled meats of a parrillada bring back memories of a Christmas spent floating in a pool in Argentina, while the flaky, gooey vegetable potpie recalls an extravagant dinner party in the Dominican Republic. As a busy mother of four, Daisy lives the time crunch every day and has crafted her recipes to be quick, adaptable, and easy to understand. She deftly demystifies the ingredients of the Latin-American kitchen, explaining everything from the spectrum of color in plantains to the degrees of heat in chiles. With this range of mouthwatering recipes, you can plan your day with Daisy: rise and shine with the rich aromas of chile-spiked hot chocolate; power up with a midday empanada with your pick of five savory fillings; and start a tradition with a night of tantalizing tapas. Why eat dull when you can eat delicioso? (Atris, $30) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Thursday, May 20

Good Morning Coral Gables: Mario Cristobal
The Chamber of Commerce presents the monthly breakfast with guest speaker Mario Cristobal, head coach at FIU football starting at 7:30am at the Biltmore Hotel’s Country Club Ballroom. The program will “Celebrate Tomorrow’s Leaders Today” during their 4th Annual Rising Star Award Ceremony. The cost is $40 or $25 for chamber members. Call 305-446-1657. http://www.coralgableschamber.org

Mojito Madness Thursdays At Tarpon Bend
Stop into Tarpon Bend at 65 Miracle Mile Thursday for $3.50 Mojitos all day, including Watermelon, Blackberry, Grapefruit, Pineapple and Cantaloupe. The happy hour runs from 3 to 10pm with 2 for 1 drinks. Call 305-444-3210. http://www.tarponbend.com

Grand Opening: Gables’ Autism Development Center
Crystal Academy, a center specializing in developing the life skills of children with autism and related disabilities; from diagnosis up to seven years of age, announced today that it opened its doors in Coral Gables. The public is invited to the Grand Opening event from 5 to 8pm at 110 Phoenetia. Call 786-423-3735. http://www.thecrystalacademy.net

Kids: Dan Gutman, The Talent Show
Dan Gutman brings us another humerous and action-packed advenutre for the middle-grade set.(Simon & Schuster Children’s, $15.99) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 5pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Bossa Nova Lounge at Cascade
Enjoy the best of Brazilian jazz with a bossa nova performance by singer and guitarist Rose Max at the Biltmore’s Cascade poolside bar from 6 to 9pm with half price cocktails by Bacardi and Grey Goose. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Coral Gables Museum Hosts Building A Dream
The Coral Gables Museum invites the public to a very special book signing and unveiling at the Museum at 6pm. Student authors of Building a Dream, a beautiful book detailing the development and architectural heritage of the City of Coral Gables, will be on hand to sign books and discuss their contributions to the project. The students, who were participants in Shenandoah Middle Museum Magnet School Program, completed 15 hand-bound editions of the book last year. The book was so well-received that a group composed of The Villagers, Lynn Bauer, Claire-Frances Whitehurst and Robert Fewell decided to fund further production of the book. Building a Dream will be available for sale with proceeds to benefit children’s educational programs at the Museum. The book signing and sale will be the first public event to be held in the new Community Room at the Museum, 285 Aragon. Call 305-910-3996 or e-mail chris@coralgablesmuseum.org

Panel Discussion: CSI And Forensics
Local experts in Crime Scene Investigations discuss their work at History Miami (formerly Historical Museum Of South Florida), 101 West Flagler at 6:30pm. This event is free. http://www.historymiami.org

Live Jazz at Angelique Euro Café
Enjoy live jazz each Thursday starting at 6:30pm plus Angelique’s unique Bubbly Specials: $4 Cavas, $10 Champagne by the glass. Social Hour Specials from 4 to 8pm include $3 draft beer pints, $5 premium wines by the glass, $4 sinful Bloody Marys plus $6 selected bar snacks at Angelique Euro Cafe, 117 Miracle Mile.

Ballet and Modern Dance: What is the Difference?
Enjoy a lecture demonstration at the Coral Gables Public Library at 7:30pm presenting the difference between Modern Dance and Ballet. Call 305-858-7002. http://www.momentumdance.com

Dan Okrent: Last Call
Last Call (Scribner, $35) is a narrative history of Prohibition. It explains how Prohibition happened, what life under it was like, and what it did to the country. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Enjoy your quality time in Coral Gables and stay tuned to this channel for more Great Gables Events.

-Rob

Robert A. Burr, editor
Great Gables – a guide to the City Beautiful
Great Gables Events weekly email
reply to: Rob@GreatGables.com
web site: www.GreatGables/CoralGables/Events.html