Greetings,
Are you prepared for a richly rewarding cultural calendar in the coming week? As we round the corner from Election Day to Veteran’s Day, we’ll remember to change the clocks back one hour as we embrace a bit of cooler weather. These days, we’re reminded why we live in the sub-tropics during the winter months.
Make plans now with family and friends to enjoy another First Friday Gallery Night, Art In The Park and Giralda Under The Stars with all the trimmings: fine art, music, fine food and drink, good company and the sublime ambience of our little town.
Eyes Wide Open at Gables Art Cinema
The exclusive South Florida First Run Theatrical Presentation of this powerful Israeli film will begin at the Gables Cinema at 260 Aragon on Friday, November 5th and will play a seven-days-a-week extended run through Sunday November 14. The acclaimed film is set in Jerusalem and tells a passionate story of forbidden love. It made its World Premiere at the Cannes Film Festival. See listings below for details. Call 786-385-9689. www.coralgablescinemateque.org
Coral Gables Country Club Now Open To The Public
The Liberty Group has announced the re-opening of the historic Coral Gables Country Club at 997 North Greenway Drive. The Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is scheduled for November 30th at 6pm. The facility is open to the public for lunch and dinner banquets from 50 to 400 persons. The Liberty Caffe is open for a morning coffee, a sandwich for lunch or a cool gelato on a warm afternoon from 8am until 8pm. The Coral Gables Athletic Club is also located at the facility. Call 305-392-0819. http://www.coralgablescountryclub.com
Pour Your Own Beer At JohnMartin’s
JohnMartin’s at 253 Miracle Mile has recently installed a Draft Master Table which allows customers to pour their own beer. From Irish company Ellickson International, The Draft Master is an all-in-one beer tapping system and circular table that allows customers to pour their own beer at their table whenever they choose. We’re not surprised to see JohnMartin’s at the forefront of this new “pour your own pint” trend, as this legacy pub has been a pioneering establishment in Coral Gables since 1989. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com
Get Ready For Seasons 52
Seasons 52, the popular fresh grill and wine bar, will debut its first Miami-Dade County location at 321 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables on November 15, 2010. Seasons 52 is known for its seasonally inspired menu that features the freshest ingredients in flavorful dishes that are thoughtfully prepared. The restaurant uses natural cooking techniques like wood-fire grilling, brick oven cooking and caramelizing vegetables to let the flavors shine through in its dishes. http://www.seasons52.com
Plan Ahead: Whisk Thanksgiving Menu
Let your friends at Whisk Gourmet do the heavy lifting for you this Thanksgiving with a spectacular home-made holiday meal created just for your family and guests. Get your order in early and relax as they prepare the gourmet ingredients to your specifications. Main courses include a vegetable, a starch, traditional cranberry sauce and sage gravy. Select an hors d’oeuvre, salad, soup, side and pie to accompany your main course. Choose Roasted Turkey Breast, Autumn Spiced Good Nature Pork Tenderloin, New Zealand Rack of Lamb, along with a full compliment of hors d’oeuvres, salads, soups, sides and of course, desserts. Orders must be placed by Thursday, November 18th. Availability is limited, payment is due in full to confirm the order. Call for details: 786-268-8350. http://www.whiskgourmet.com
The 2010-2011 Chopin for All Series Returns
Seven free Chopin concerts in Coral Gables have been generously underwritten by the Southern Wine and Spirits of America. The season opens Sunday, November 7 with concert celebrating the 150th anniversary of Ignacy Jan Paderewski, renowned Polish pianist and statesman. In December, Hubert Rutkowski will present Music of Poland and Cuba, to be followed in January by the Atma Trio performing Music of Chopin and Schubert. In February, Chopin and the Art of Romantic Song will feature pianist Magdalena Baczewska, mezzo-soprano Marta Wryk and violist Veronica Dicker. In March, the Young Pianists Concert will introduce young local piano students in an All-Chopin Program. In April, Marian Sobula will play music of Chopin and Liszt, and the series will conclude with the finalist of one of the upcoming international piano competitions.
Tropical Audubon Society Native Plant Sale
This weekend on Saturday and Sunday, the Tropical Audubon Society will host their annual native plant sale at The Doc Thomas House at 5530 Sunset Drive just east of Red Road. They have a great selection of South Florida plants with knowledgeable sales people to help you choose the best one for your yard. Come early for the best selection, stay late to enjoy the company. Call 305-667-7337. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org
Fall Back From Daylight Savings
Don’t forget to set the clocks back one hour at 2am Sunday morning, or before you go to bed Saturday evening, then enjoy that extra hour of sleep Sunday morning.
Be A Good Citizen — Get Engaged and Stay Informed
Coral Gables Watch: http://coralgableswatch.com
Gables Home Page: http://gableshomepage.com
Gables Gazette: http://www.cggazette.com
Gables PAC: http://www.coralgablescitizenspac.com
Friday, November 5
Limo To Lunch: A Driven To Dine Event
Enjoy a reception and St. John fashion presentation at Neiman Marcus at the Village Of Merrick Park before you depart by limo to a gourmet lunch hosted by one of South Florida’s top restaurants. Limo to Lunch, a Driven to Dine event, is a fun, unique and swanky affair. Each group of 10 will select a sealed envelope containing the name of one of several top restaurants and chefs in South Florida. After an amazing lunch, limos will return guests to Neiman Marcus where each participant will receive a gift bag. Cost: $1,500 for a limo of 10 people or $150 per person. Call Sallie Byrd at 305-674-3020 x5823.
Friday Night Happy Hour At JohnMartin’s
JohnMartin’s is the place to be with a great Friday Night Happy Hour from 4 to 8pm that will calm the soul and feed the stomach. Live bands start at 9:30pm, so make plans now to meet up with friends at JohnMartin’s at 253 Miracle Mile. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com
Roberto Coin Showcase At Jae’s Jewelers
Stop by Jae’s Jewelers at 237 Miracle Mile from 5 to 9pm and enjoy a showcase from Italian jewelry designer Roberto Coin. Enjoy complimentary wine, a raffle and more. Call 305-443-7724. http://www.jaesjewelers.com
Gallery Night
Join the fun every first Friday when Gables Gallery Night attracts collectors and young professionals to the art galleries, sidewalk tapas bars, fine restaurants and clubs in safe, comfortable downtown Coral Gables. Whisked between galleries aboard free air-conditioned minibus limousines or the city’s quaint trolleys, thousands of visitors join local residents at Greater Miami’s liveliest monthly event. Enjoy complementary refreshments, stroll through exhibitions of contemporary and modern Latin American, North American, and European art, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, works on paper and photography, along with art books, in a downtown area chock full of fascinating boutiques. Top off your evening in one of Coral Gables’ celebrated dining spots, all within easy walking distance. Participating galleries include: ArtSpace/Virginia Miller Galleries, Books & Books, Jorge Sori Fine Art, and The Americas Collection. Call 305-444-4493.
Art In The Park
Let’s gather at Ponce Circle Park, 2800 Ponce, starting at 7pm for Art In The Park sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana. Enjoy performances by the high energy dirty-blues band of Juke; followed by the Auctioneers, a 5-piece rock ‘n’ roll revival group from New York; then Thomas Wynn & The Believers in a brew of rock, country, gospel and Southern soul. Closing the show will be classic rock with King Bee. Enjoy Happy Hour specials all night long amid exhibits of paintings, crafts and jewelry. Admission is free for the whole family. Call 305-644-8888. http://www.artintheparkconcerts.com
Giralda Under The Stars
Nine restaurants along Restaurant Row — the 100 block of Giralda between Ponce and Galiano — are inviting you to dine under the stars as we close the street to vehicles and create a pedestrian wonderland of fine dining. It’s a street party, a culinary experience, a perfect setting for a romantic interlude or family occasion on First Friday Gallery Night. Choose from Bangkok Bangkok II, Castelluccio Ristorante, La Dorada, Las Vegas Restaurant, Miss Saigon Bistro, The Bar, Talavera, Spris Restaurant and Il Grissino. It all starts at 7pm. Call 305-569-0311.
Cuban Master, Gina Pellón At Cernuda Arte
Cernuda Arte is pleased and honored to announce the opening of Still Going Strong, a solo exhibition that brings together 50 recent works by renowned contemporary Cuban master, Gina Pellón. This new exhibition opens with a celebratory Reception from 7 to 10pm. The artist will be traveling from Paris to Miami to attend the evening premiere. This is a welcomed opportunity for visitors to view a great show and meet the artist. The event is free and open to the public. The exhibition will run through December 15, 2010. As an endeared, respected and applauded artist from the Cuban diaspora in the international milieu, Gina Pellón has enjoyed a successful career and many accolades. Dynamic and luminous, Gina Pellón’s work is based on bold colors, vigorous brushwork and gestural rhythm. A standout of this exhibition includes, Moonlight, an imposing large-format canvas. Call, 305-461-1050. http://www.cernudaarte.com
Humberto Castro’s Traces of Migrations
Virginia Miller’s ArtSpace Galleries is collaborating with Tesla, whose hot new electric roadster zooms 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, during Gables Gallery Night. Come take a test drive, enjoy some wine and see Humberto Castro’s “Traces of Migrations” exhibition from 7 to 10pm at 169 Madeira. His ten-foot tower of suitcases will bring back memories of your own travels and a contemplation of the stories that each of these cases holds. Call 305-444-4493. http://www.virginiamiller.com
Tomas Sanchez And Renato Meziat At Jorge Sori Fine Art
Recent works by the Latin American master Tomas Sanchez, and the top ranked realist artist, Renato Meziat wil on display at Jorge Sori Fine Art, 2970 Ponce at the circle park. The gallery will also present the breathtaking photography of Ines White. Her surreal images of light on water and reflections of city scenes, have made this artist’s unique take on reality a must-see. Call 305-567-3151. http://www.jorgesorifineart.com
Jazz At The Biltmore Lounge
Enjoy classic jazz performances 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
Seraphic Fire: His Eye Is On The Sparrow
Mark your calendars for opening of the second concert of acclaimed chorale group Seraphic Fire’s 9th season, and your last opportunity to catch a Seraphic Fire gospel program for several years. In what must be their most entertaining program this year, “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” mixes songs that have inspired the singers of Seraphic Fire. If you thought their music virtuosos would be most inspired by the likes of Mozart and Beethoven, think again. This concert features music that you are sure to recognize: gospel, bluegrass, pop, and even Broadway tunes. The concert takes place at the First United Methodist Church at 536 Coral Way at 7:30pm with free tickets to those under 30. Call 888-544-FIRE. http://www.seraphicfire.org
Eyes Wide Open Exclusive Run At Gables Art Cinema
The acclaimed Israeli film Eyes Wide Open makes its exclusive South Florida theatrical premiere at the new Cinema, 260 Aragon Avenue, across from Books & Books, playing for a full week. In the film, Aaron, a respectable butcher who lives in Jerusalem’s closed, ultra-orthodox Jewish community, is married to Rivka, and is a dedicated father of four children. Aaron is torn between the family and social obligations that bind him, and a forbidden love and passion that illuminates his life. Ezri is the wild card, the outsider, and yet he too is deeply rooted in a world which denies his existence. They eventually must face a storm of violence and condemnation that force them both to face difficult choices. The film, which made its World Premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, is a highly regarded feature film debut that also notably features Israeli music star and matinee idol Ran Danker as the young Ezri. Tickets $9 and under, available only at the box office, cash or credit card, for same-day screenings and advance sales. Call 786-385-9689 or visit http://www.gablescinema.com
Richard Hine: Russel Wiley is Out to Lunch
In Richard Hine’s Russell Wiley is Out To Lunch (Amazon Encore, $14.95), Russell Wiley is in deep trouble. A media executive for the failing Daily Business Chronicle, his career is teetering on the brink of collapse, and his sexless marriage is fast approaching its expiration date. Making matters worse are his scheming boss, a hot-shot new consultant determined to see Russell ousted, and the beguiling colleague whose mere presence has a disconcerting effect on Russell’s starved libido. Disaster seems imminent and that’s before he makes a careless mistake that could cost the paper millions. Russell realizes he must take drastic action if he is going to salvage his career, his love life, and what little remains of his self-respect. Sardonic, edgy, and true to life, this gripping novel offers an insider’s view into a newspaper’s inner sanctum and the people who oil the wheels of this increasingly outdated machine. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Moonlight And Music At The Deering Estate
Enjoy a romantic evening under the stars and musical performances by Nicole Henry and the Father of Scat Hop Jessie Jones Jr. at the Deering Estate’s Moonlight & Music Jazz Concert. Sophisticated, soulful and fun, Nicole Henry has been inspiring audiences with her beautiful, uplifting voice for years. She has toured thirteen countries and released three international Top 10-selling jazz CDs, including her latest The Very Thought of You. Gates open at 7, and the concert begins at 8pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children, ages 4 to 14. The Deering Estate at Cutler is located at 16701 S.W. 72nd Avenue. Purchase tickets online or by calling the ticket office at 305-235-1668 x233. http://www.deeringestate.com
Midnight Movie: Death Bell
The college entrance exam is just 200 days away, and as the top twenty students in school begin a cram course that will help them get prepared for the big test, an ominous development finds them fighting for their lives. In a school system where students are evaluated solely by their grades, the pressure to succeed is so great that mental breakdowns have become fairly common. All the studying has taken it’s toll on the weary students, and as they sit at their desks sleeping music drifts over the public address system. Suddenly, an image of top student Hye-yeong appears on the television screen. She’s trapped in a water tank, and will soon die if nothing is done. When a voice prompts the students to decide Hye-yeong’s fate, the race is on to save her life. But who is Hye-yeong’s abductor, and what do they have in store for the rest of the students? The film begins at midnight 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, November 6
Historic Preservation Home and Gift Trunk Show
The Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables (HPACG) is hosting a home and gift trunk show and sale featuring a variety of unique home accessories and gift items from 9am at 4pm at 2000 North Greenway Drive. The event is free and open to the public. The trunk show, staged in a newly constructed Mediterranean Revival mansion facing the Granada Golf Course, will feature more than 20 vendors — many new to this area. A food bar with snacks for sale will be open all day. Designer Bobby Berk will create a fully furnished living room within the show. This event is on the calendar of the American Institute of Architects Miami Chapter’s annual month-long series of activities, Celebrate Architecture + Design 2010. Proceeds will benefit the Historic Preservation Association of Coral Gables, a non-profit Florida corporation dedicated to the preservation, restoration and use of Coral Gables historic properties. For more information call Ann Goodman at 305-582-0505 or Alicia Kossick at 917-499-6310. http://www.historiccoralgables.org
Tropical Audubon Society Native Plant Sale
This weekend the Tropical Audubon Society will host their annual native plant sale at The Doc Thomas House at 5530 Sunset Dr. just east of Red Road. They have a great selection of South Florida plants with knowledgeable sales people to help you choose the best one for your yard. Come early for the best selection, stay late to enjoy the company. Call 305-667-7337. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org
Biltmore Culinary Academy: Signature Dishes Of The Palme d’Or
Join Chef Philippe for a Biltmore Culinary Academy class on Signature Dishes of the Palme d’Or from 11am to noon at the Biltmore Hotel. Call 305-913-3131 or email: CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
Back To The Future At Cosford Cinema
In this classic sci-fi adventure from director Robert Zemeckis, eccentric inventor Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) turns a DeLorean into a time machine that inadvertently sends his young friend, Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), 30 years into the past. While stuck in the 1950s, Marty disrupts his parents’ destiny and risks throwing the time-space continuum completely out of whack. The only way back to 1985 now is to get mom and dad to pucker up. All screenings of Back To The Future are free. The film begins at 2:30pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Ricky Martin At Books And Books
Grammy and multiple Latin Grammy Award-winning artist Ricky Martin has sold more than 60 million albums worldwide. He is the founder of the Ricky Martin Foundation, a non-profit organization that advocates for children around the world, and is the father to twin boys. In Me, Martin opens up for the first time about his early childhood, his experiences in the renowned boy band Menudo, the challenges of increased fame that came with the Livin’ La Vida Loca phenomenon, his continued growth as a musician, and his unique personal connection with millions of fans around the world. Martin also explores life-changing decisions like coming to terms with his sexuality, becoming a father, and devoting himself to helping children around the world. Meet Ricky Martin at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Jazz At The Biltmore Lounge
Enjoy classic jazz performances 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
Dining And Dancing With Century Club
Century Club of Coral Gables starts it’s new season of dining and dancing with cocktails at 7pm. The Cat’s Meow is the theme for this Black Tie affair, followed by dinner and dancing at the Marriott Coral Gables, 2051 S. LeJeune Road. For information on membership or guest reservations, contact Kim Wahlstrom at 305-447-8727 or e mail: Centurysocialclub@yahoo.com
A Behanding In Spokane At GableStage
Enjoy the Southeastern Premiere of A Behanding In Spokane by Martin McDonagh playing at GableStage through November 21. The title is just the starting point; take a man searching for his missing hand, two con artists out to make a few hundred bucks and an overly curious hotel clerk — the rest is up for grabs. This black comedy is by the author of two plays that won Best Play Carbonell Awards at GableStage: The Pillowman (2006) and The Lieutenant of Inishmore (2007). Call 305-445-1119. http://www.gablestage.org
Last Curtain: Color Of Desire At Miracle Theatre
Nilo Cruz, Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright for Anna in the Tropics, creates a world full of lyricism in The Color of Desire, a new play set in Havana, 1960. As the revolution heats up, a dashing American businessman hires a young Cuban actress for a role unlike any she has ever played: the woman he loved and lost. A vibrant exploration of the lost love affair between America and Cuba, The Color of Desire tells a story of intrigue, seduction and the pursuit of freedom with both great humor and profound emotional resonance. The play continues through November 7. Call 305-444-9293. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org
Sunday, November 7
Tropical Audubon Society Native Plant Sale
This weekend the Tropical Audubon Society will host their annual native plant sale at The Doc Thomas House at 5530 Sunset Drive just east of Red Road. They have a great selection of South Florida plants with knowledgeable sales people to help you choose the best one for your yard. Come early for the best selection, stay late to enjoy the company. Call 305-667-7337. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org
Live Caribbean Music Poolside
Enjoy a live performance of Caribbean acoustic guitar and flamenco rhythms 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
Chopin for All Free Concert Series: Andrew Tyson
Hailed by the Philadelphia Inquirer as a pianist “whose tone covered everything from sensitive to brawny,” Andrew Tyson is rapidly emerging as an exciting young musician of range and versatility. An experienced performer in both solo and chamber recitals, Mr. Tyson has appeared in concerts throughout the United States, in Puerto Rico, Mexico, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, Paris, Valencia and Berlin. The 23 year old pianist comes to the Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive at 3pm for a free concert featuring Paderewski: Minuet and Nocturne, Brahms: Seven Fantasies, and Chopin: Selection of Mazurkas and Sonata Number 3, Opus 58. Call 305-868-0624. http://www.chopin.org
Soledad O’Brien: The Next Big Story
From top CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien comes The Next Big Story (Celebra, $24.95) — a highly personal look at her biggest reporting moments from Hurricane Katrina, the tsunami in Southeast Asia, the devastating Haiti earthquake to the historic elections and high profile interviews with everyday Americans. Drawing on her own unique background and consciousness as well as her experiences as a journalist at the front lines of the most provocative issues in today’s society — and particularly from her work as host of the acclaimed series Black in America and Latino in America — O’Brien offers her candid, clear-eyed take on where we are as a country and where we’re going. What emerges is both an inspiring message of hope and a glimpse into the heart and soul of one of America’s most straight-talking reporters. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
The Breakfast Club At Cosford Cinema
In writer-director John Hughes’s seminal 1980s Brat Pack film, the athlete (Emilio Estevez), the brain (Anthony Michael Hall), the criminal (Judd Nelson), the princess (Molly Ringwald) and the basket case (Ally Sheedy) break through the social barriers of high school during Saturday detention. The disparate group clashes at first but begin to bond as they reveal their feelings and find a common enemy in their bully principal (Paul Gleason). The film begins at 6pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. This film is free. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Mitchell James Kaplan: By Fire, By Water
Within Mitchell James Kaplan’s By Fire, By Water (Other Press, $15.95) lies a subtle, insightful examination of the crisis of faith at the heart of the Spanish Inquisition. Luis de Santángel, chancellor to the court and longtime friend of the lusty King Ferdinand, has had enough of the Spanish Inquisition. But he is from a family of conversos, and his Jewish heritage makes him an easy target. As Santángel witnesses the horrific persecution of his loved ones, he begins slowly to reconnect with the Jewish faith his family left behind. Feeding his curiosity about his past is his growing love for Judith Migdal, a clever and beautiful Jewish woman navigating the mounting tensions in Granada. While he struggles to decide what his reputation is worth and what he can sacrifice, one man — Christopher Columbus — offers him a chance he thought he’d lost… the chance to hope for a better world. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Angelique Euro Café Presents Sunday Supper
Sundays are meant for relaxing and recharging thus Angelique Euro Café is inviting its patrons and their loved ones to allow Executive Chef LeRoy Bautista to handle dinner. Beginning today, Angelique will open for dinner on Sundays from 5 to 9pm and introduce a new family-style dining concept to their menu focusing on simple, seasonal and local flavors that are sure to leave its patrons more than satisfied. The new notion will allow guests to experience the essence of true European dining by sharing and conversing with their friends and family. Chef LeRoy’s Sunday Supper specials will vary each week, however, select signature entrees and neighborhood favorites from Angelique’s regular menu will also be available. Chef specialties include Osso Buco, cooked slowly with natural jus and creamy polenta and haricot verts, Maple Leaf Duck, pan roasted leg quarter with citrus glaze, smashed red potatoes and baby arugula, Paradilla Mixta, grilled lamb chops, skirt steak, pepino chorizo, Spanish sofrito sauce and Valencia rice, market fish of the day and more. Dishes come in several portion sizes depending on the size of the family. Angelique is located at 117 Miracle Mile. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com
Monday, November 8
Biltmore Culinary Academy: Signature Class on Thanksgiving Dinner
Join Chef Roly for a Biltmore Culinary Academy Signature Class on Thanksgiving Dinner from 11am to noon at the BIltmore Hotel. Call 305-913-3131 or email: CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
Ponce Business Lunch
The weekly meeting of the Ponce Business Association takes place on select Mondays at noon at JohnMartin’s restaurant at 253 Miracle Mile. The cost of lunch is $22 for guests and $20 for members. RSVP to poncebusiness@gmail.com
Happy Hour At The Cascade
Enjoy half price beer and cocktails at the Biltmore Pool bar from 5 to 8pm each Monday evening. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Joan Hansen: Bitter Tears
Bitter Tears (PublishAmericaInc., $24.95) by Joan Hansen is a novel about fatal obsession, greed and jealousy and what it can do to destroy a happy marriage and lead to far-reaching consequences. Meet Elizabeth Connors, striking model, and her handsome husband, prominent cardiologist, Dr. Thomas Brooks. HIs unbalanced daughter-in-law, Hillary’s poisonous fatal attraction for Tom evolves into a terrifying situation that nearly destroys the marriage and even places Elizabeth’s life in jeopardy. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Tuesday, November 9
Biltmore Culinary Academy: Signature Class on Thanksgiving Dinner
Join Chef Jeanette for a Biltmore Culinary Academy Signature Class on Thanksgiving Dinner conducted in Spanish from 11am to noon at the BIltmore Hotel. Call 305-913-3131 or email: CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
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
Diary of a Wimpy Kid 5: Release Party
Kids, it’s time to face The Ugly Truth: It’s time to party! Join us for a party of pure purple power to the people with Books & Books’ Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 5 Release Party at 6pm. There will be games and prizes and trivia for all you Wimpy Kid geniuses out there. You won’t want to be anywhere else for your first look at Wimpy Kid Book 5: Greg Heffley has always been in a hurry to grow up. But is getting older really all it’s cracked up to be? Greg suddenly finds himself dealing with the pressures of boy-girl parties, increased responsibilities, and even the awkward changes that come with getting older — all without his best friend, Rowley, at his side. Can Greg make it through on his own? Or will he have to face The Ugly Truth (Amulet, $13.95)?
SoBe Festival Cooking Class With Chef Howie Kleinburg
Whole Foods Market at 6701 Red Road welcomes Chef Howie Kleinburg of Bulldog BBQ, a presenting chef of the 2011 Food Network’s South Beach Wine and Food Festival at 7pm. Chef Howie will teach his tricks of the trade as he prepares dishes from his signature style. Class attendees will be given a chance to win one pair of tickets to the 2011 Food Networks South Beach Wine and Food Festival Grand Tasting Village. Space is limited, please pre-register at Customer Service. Call 305-421-9421. http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/coralgables/
Be My Love: The Mario Lanza Story
The students of UM’s Frost School of Music, together with Grammy Award-winning music producer Phil Ramone, have produced a new musical about the tragic life of operatic tenor Mario Lanza, presented as a “reading” in concert form with a live orchestra. The event begins at 8pm at Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, 1314 Miller Drive. Lanza is both compelling and fascinating, following the rising star as he succumbs to his own personal demons and compulsive personality. Tickets are $25 and $15. The VIP ticket is available for $50 that includes a reception. Call 305-284-8289.
Sam Roche: Plans of Chicago
This year Chicago celebrates the centennial of the publication of the visionary Plan of Chicago. Daniel Burnham and his coauthor, Edward Bennett, reimagined the American city as a vibrant, interconnected whole. Their Plan is responsible for much of Chicago’s public character, including its open lakefront and expansive park system. In Plans of Chicago (Architects Research Foundation, $49.50), Robert Samuel Roche and Aric Lasher use the 1909 Plan as a precedent for reconnecting Chicago’s center to outlying suburbs. And it includes 130 exquisite illustrations, including reproductions of Jules Guerin’s famous watercolors. Meet the authors at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wednesday, November 10
U.S. Elections: Reshaping Latin America Policy?
The University of Miami’s esteemed Center For Hemispheric Policy presents a panel discussion, U.S. Elections: Reshaping Latin America Policy? The event takes place at the Hyatt Regency Coral Gables Venetian Room, 50 Alhambra Plaza at 8am. The moderator will be Ray Ruga, Principal, CVOX Group, LLC, Coral Gables. Panelists include Federico Estévez, Professor, Department of Political Science, ITAM, México, D.F.; Karen Poniachik, Visiting Fellow, Center for Hemispheric Policy, University of Miami; Former Minister of Mining, Chile; Susan Kaufman Purcell, Director, Center for Hemispheric Policy, University of Miami; and Joseph Tulchin, Visiting Fellow, David Rockefeller Center for Latin American Studies, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Call Isabel Artime at 305-284-9918. http://www.miami.edu/chp
Open House at The Giving Tree
Celebrate the re-opening and 35th year in business of The Giving Tree at 248 Giralda from 5 to 8pm. Shop for holiday gifts from November 10 to 12 where proceeds will go to student scholarships from The Rotary Club of Coral Gables and the Women’s Club of Coral Gables’ Mae Van Sickle free Dental Clinic for needy children. Mayor Slesnick will be doing the ribbon cutting at 6 pm. Call 305-445-3967.
Pacific Northwest Wine Theme Dinner
The Biltmore Hotel’s Fontana Restaurant will host a unique Pacific Northwest Wine Theme Dinner at 7pm featuring a fine pairing of wines and courses for the occasion. Experience the delights of premium wines from Washington and Oregon, whose vineyards share the same latitude as the great French wine regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy, matched by dishes created for this occasion. The cost is $99, or $79 for Biltmore Members. Call 305-913-3203. http://www.thecellarclub.com
Brie Creations At Whole Foods Market
As we prepare for the Holiday season, join Monica at Whole Foods Market, 6701 Red Road at 7pm as she teaches yummy creations with brie cheese. Space is limited, please pre-register at Customer Service. Call 305-421-9421. http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/coralgables/
Scouting Night In Coral Gables
Boys and young men ages 6 to 17 are welcome to visit Coral Gables historic George Merrick Boy Scout House to experience their legacy scouting programs — now celebrating their 89th year in Coral Gables. Camping, canoeing, merit badges, rank advancements, cooking, outdoor skills, camaraderie, self reliance and patriotism are the cornerstones of this family-friendly program. Cub Scout (ages 6 to 10) meet at 7pm, Boy Scouts (11 to 17) meet at 7:30pm at 1107 South Greenway Drive every Wednesday. Call 305-443-7973 for more information. http://www.troop7.org or http://www.pack7.org
Jazz Night At The New
The New Theatre at 4120 Laguna presents Jazz At The New each Wednesday. The music starts at 7:30pm. Buy tickets online: http://www.new-theatre.org/SpecialEvents.php
Roseate Spoonbills in Florida Bay: A Pink Canary in a Coal Mine
Dr. Jerry Lorenz pulls together Audubon’s 80-year record on spoonbill nesting patterns with his personal experience in studying the fish on which spoonbills feed, thereby constructing a story of how the human population explosion in southern Florida has had a multilevel effect on spoonbills. Tropical Audubon Society meetings are open to the public and held at the Doc Thomas House at 5530 Sunset Drive, just east of Red Road. Parking is available behind the house, on 55 Ave. The doors open at 7 and the guest speaker begins at 7:30pm, Call 305-667-7337. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org
Tribal Arts: Japanese Woodblock Prints
The Tribal Arts Society presents a lecture by Joel Hollander, Ph.D., University of Miami on Japanese Woodblock Prints and Impressionism: Precursors to Modern Art at the Lowe Art Museum, 1301 Stanford Drive at 7:30pm. Call 305-284-3535. http://www.lowemuseum.org
Hitesh Mehta: Authentic Eco Lodges
Authentic Ecolodges (Collins Design, $50) is a stunning look at some of the most forward-thinking ecolodges in the world’s most exotic destinations. Featuring more than three hundred full-color photographs, detailed architectural sketches, and a rating system specially developed by ecolodge and ecotourism expert Hitesh Mehta, this book is the definitive word on what makes an ecolodge truly authentic. Hitesh Mehta is an architect, landscape architect, and sustainable tourism planner and the longest-serving board member of The International Ecotourism Society. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Thursday, November 11 Veterans’ Day
Biltmore Culinary Academy: Simply Mexican
Join Chef Lourdes for a Biltmore Culinary Academy class on Simply Mexican from 11am to noon at the BIltmore Hotel. Call 305-913-3131 or email: CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
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
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
SoBe Festival Cooking Class with Chef Michael Altman
Whole Foods Market at 6701 Red Road welcomes Chef Michael Altman of Smoke’t, a presenting chef of the 2011 Food Network’s South Beach Wine and Food Festival. Chef Michael will teach us his tricks of the trade as he prepares dishes from his signature style. Class attendees will be given a chance to win one pair of tickets to the 2011 Food Networks South Beach Wine and Food Festival Grand Tasting Village. Space is limited, please pre-register at Customer Service. Call 305-421-9421. http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/coralgables/
Bouillabaisse Night At Palme d’Or
Chef de Cuisine Philippe Ruiz adds his culinary touch to the classic Provençal Bouillabaisse each Thursday evening at the Biltmore Hotel’s famed Palme d’Or restaurant for $39 or $59 with wines. Call 305-913-3201. http://www.biltmorehotel.com/dining/palme.php
Annual Plato Reading Day At New Acropolis
Commemorate the UNESCO initiative of World Philosophy Day by attending the Annual Plato Reading Day At New Acropolis, 3837 SW 8th Street at 8:30pm for an evening to cherish the teachings of Plato. The concept of the Muses and the arts, platonic love and the immortality of the Soul are only a few of the ideas introduced by him. He also wrote one of the most important and influential philosophical treatises of all times: The Republic. There will be a raffle with prizes and other exciting surprises in this fun-filled philosophical evening. Participants will be presented with certificates of attendance. As stated by Ralph Waldo Emerson: “Out of Plato come all things that are still written and debated among men of thought.” Call 305-461-5758. http://www.newacropolismiami.org
Team Trivia At JohnMartin’s
Every Thursday evening starting at 8pm, play a great game of team trivia at JohnMartin’s, 253 Miracle Mile. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com
Enjoy your quality time in Coral Gables and stay tuned to this channel for more Great Gables Events.
-Rob