Greetings,
Get ready to kick off the official high season of cultural events in Coral Gables as we near our autumnal equinox. In theory, days and nights are of equal length at that juncture, while cultural organizations and venues kick into high gear with a panacean profusion of pleasant possibilities.
Sunday: Fall For The Arts Festival
This event on Sunday features the very best of Miami-Dade’s cultural and community service organizations celebrating the kick-off of the fine arts season with two performance stages, children’s activities, street food vendors, seminars on community-based topics, discounts and give-aways from more than 100 arts and community service organizations. More than 30 Arsht Center shows will go on sale. It all happens Sunday from noon to 6pm at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. http://www.arshtcenter.org/fall
Dinner In Paradise Series
I’m a big fan of the Redland Region, fresh organic produce and family farms. I support local chefs who use local ingredients. If you agree with me, check out the upcoming series of Dinners in Paradise, featuring an impressive list of great chefs and great dishes served in a natural setting at Paradise Organic Farms. Upon arrival, guests enjoy a welcome reception with delicious hors d’oeuvres, before heading off on a farm tour conducted by Gabriele Marewski that encompasses this beautiful five acre organic paradise and its fruit trees, edible flowers, mushrooms and fragrant herbs. As the sun sets on the evening, the magic truly gets underway. The list of great local chefs is impressive, including Philippe Ruiz of the Biltmore’s Palm d’Or. The monthly dinners begin December 12. RSVP now to get a guaranteed reservation. Call 305-248-4181 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-248-4181 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.paradisefarms.net
New Fall Menu At Angelique Begins
Chef LeRoy at Angelique’s Euro Cafe, 117 Miracle Mile, has been hard at work creating delectable menu items for his new fall menu set to debut this weekend. At lunch, you’ll find some fresh new salads and pasta dishes, as well as an expanded selection of Euro-inspired burgers with choices including chargrilled beef, lamb, portobello and chorizo. The Barcelona Burger with spice rub and grilled onion jam is now available at dinner. You’ll also be able to enjoy signature dishes like Moules Fromage Bleu and Lobster Ravioli and neighborhood favorites like Fish and Chips and Grilled Lamb Chops, along with new selections featuring grilled meat, fish and foul with your choice of sauce and two sides. They’re also making it easier to have a four-course prix fixe meal. On the weekends, brunch now features an expanded eggs section featuring French and Catalan Omelettes, homemade sweet favorites like Belgian Waffles, French Toast and limitless mimosas for just $14 with your meal. Lunch favorites like salads, panini and burgers will also be available, along with the De Todo Un Poco section where you can create your own unique sampling. Call 305-529-9922 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-529-9922 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com
Pie On The Porch At Merrick House
Slow Food Miami cordially invites you to the Heritage Garden Inauguration and Pie On The Porch at the historic Merrick House, 907 Coral Way at 1pm on Saturday, September 25th. The event features a local pie baking contest with celebrity judges Victoria Pesce Elliott, Glenn Terry, Janet Van Aken, Kristin Connor and Ariana Kumpkis. Your $5 minimum donation benefits the Heritage Garden. Enter the Pie Baking Contest at the Slow Food Miami web site. http://www.slowfoodmiami.com
Free Desert Day Wednesday
You’ve always heard there is no free lunch, but here comes free dessert day on Wednesday, September 15th. To celebrate the premier of Top Chef Just Desserts, make reservations with OpenTable to dine at one of more than 40 top Miami restaurants and get your free dessert. http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?m=17&ref=8596&pid=473
Writer’s Weekend At Books & Books
Aspiring writers are invited to a weekend of secrets, tricks, tips and resources with a series of workshops Saturday and Sunday at Books & Books, 265 Aragon. See listing below or visit the Books and Books web site for more information. http://www.booksandbooks.com
The Spice Deals Continue
Miami Spice 2010 offers a unique opportunity to discover very best of Miami cuisine for a great price through the end of September as Miami’s top restaurants offer three-course meals (Lunch $22, Dinner $35) featuring signature dishes created by world-renowned chefs. Many Gables restaurants are participating in Miami Spice, including Anacapri on Ponce, Caffe Abbracci, Charlotte Bistro, Graziano’s Restaurant, La Cofradia Restaurant, Morton’s, Coral Gables, Novecento, Coral Gables, Ortanique on the Mile, Por Fin Restaurant, Randazzo’s Little Italy, Red Koi Thai & Sushi Lounge and Ruth’s Chris Steak House. http://www.ilovemiamispice.com.
Fall Art Classes At Fairchild
Can you imagine a more beautiful setting for art classes than fairchild tropical garden? Fall classes are off to a great start at Fairchild. Beginner’s Flower Painting With Water-Mixable Oils begins September 20 with Maida Tap Jimenez. On September 22, enjoy A New Beginning In Watercolors: Only The Basics with David Maddern. For a complete list of offerings, see the Fairchild Garden web site or call Fairchild’s Education Department at 305-667-1651 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-667-1651 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, x3322. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Lowe Art Museum: The Jaguar’s Spots
This comprehensive exhibition of masterpieces from ancient Mexico through Panama that now reside in the permanent collection of the University of Miami’s Lowe Art Museum will be accompanied by a scholarly catalogue, lectures and educational programs for the public that highlight and explore the complex relationship between art and the natural world. This unique and stunning exhibit continues through October 31 at Lowe Art Museum, 1301 Stanford Drive. Call 305-284-335. http://www.Lowemuseum.Org
Flemings: 100 Wines To Taste
During the month of September, enjoy a tasting of 20 unique wines each Thursday evening for $25 as you discover the Fleming’s 100, an award-winning collection of 100 wines by the glass. The new list features superb values from Europe, South America and Australia, as well as notable up-and-coming boutique wines. Space is limited, so contact Fleming’s at 2525 Ponce now to reserve. Call 305-569-7995 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-569-7995 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com
Coral Gables Museum Ready To Host Events
The Coral Gables Museum at 285 Aragon Avenue has several lovely meeting rooms, public areas and exterior spaces available for rental at the present time. With its central business district location and convenient parking in the Museum Garage on Aragon, the Museum offers a premier and unique site for your business meeting, reception or holiday party. The Museum facility is perfect for small, intimate events and parties and receptions for up to 400 persons. For more information, or to schedule a tour of the Museum, please contact Christine Rupp, Director of Operations at 305-910-3996 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-910-3996 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or e-mail chris@coralgablesmuseum.org
Coral Gables Watch
Stephen McGaughey is an upstanding citizen of Coral Gables who hosts a great web site for those that want to stay abreast of issues of importance to residents in Coral Gables. On his Coral Gables Watch blog, Stephen writes eloquently and succinctly about the challenges we face as citizens of this great city. http://coralgableswatch.com
Friday, September 10
Biltmore Culinary Academy: 3-day Boot Camp – Fundamentals
Join Chef Lourdes Castro for a culinary academy three-day course on fundamentals Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 2pm at the Biltmore Hotel. For reservations call 305-913-3131 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-913-3131 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or email CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-3777 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.johnmartins.com
Fashion Night Out At VMP
Village of Merrick Park invites you to join in the celebration of its official Fashion’s Night Out event which will take place throughout the center as well as in individual participating retailers. Visit the Fashion’s Night Out Lounge featuring cool music, light bites provided by SAWA Restaurant and Lounge, informal modeling and a sneak peak of Fall 2010 trends, and lots more. Enjoy complimentary cocktails provided by Belvedere Vodka and Atlantico Rum and a Café Bustelo coffee station. You will be able to capture your Fashion’s Night Out experience by receiving a complimentary professional picture with any purchase of $25 or more from any of the more than 30 participating retailers, including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Diane von Furstenberg, Jimmy Choo and Etro, among others at VMP, 358 San Lorenzo Avenue. http://www.villageofmerrickpark.com
The Barnacle Under Moonlight
Valerie Wisecracker takes the stage for the Barnacle under Moonlight monthly concert series. Meet up with family and friends to enjoy the music from 7 to 9pm at The Barnacle Historic State Park, 3485 Main Highway. Call 305-442-6866 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-6866 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.thebarnacle.org
Brito’s Vision At Sunset Fine Art
Internationally acclaimed artist William Brito will be exhibiting his art at Sunset Fine Artist and Framing, 5864 Sunset Drive from 6 to 11pm. A percentage of sales will benefit South Miami Garden Club and The Audubon Society. Call 305-785-6344 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-785-6344 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or email: art4ubymike@gmail.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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Jeff Lindsay: Dexter Is Delicious
America’s most-read, most-watched, and most-beloved serial killer Dexter Morgan is back with Dexter is Delicious (Doubleday, $25.95). After selling more than one million copies and inspiring the wildly popular number one Showtime series and top-rated crime drama on pay-cable television, New York Times bestselling author Jeff Lindsay returns with his most hilarious, macabre, and purely entertaining novel yet. Dexter Morgan has always lived a happy homicidal life. He keeps his dark urges in check by adhering to one stead-fast rule. He only kills very bad people. But now Dexter is experiencing some major life changes and they’re mostly wrapped up in the eight-pound curiosity that is his newborn daughter. Family bliss is cut short, however, when Dexter is summoned to investigate the disappearance of a seventeen-year-old girl who has been running with a bizarre group of goths who fancy themselves to be vampires. As Dexter gets closer to the truth of what happened to the missing girl, he realizes they are not really vampires so much as cannibals. And, most disturbing, these people have decided they would really like to eat Dexter. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Winnebago Man at Cosford Cinema
Jack Rebney is the most famous man you’ve never heard of — an RV salesman whose hilarious, foul-mouthed outbursts circulated underground on VHS tapes in the 90s before turning into a full-blown Internet phenomenon in 2005. Today, the “Winnebago Man” has been seen by more than 20 million people worldwide, and is regarded as one of the first and funniest viral videos. Filmmaker Ben Steinbauer goes in search of Rebney — and finds him living alone on a mountain top, unaware of his fame. Winnebago Man is a laugh-out-loud look at viral culture and an unexpectedly poignant tale of one man’s response to unintended celebrity. 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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-284-4861 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Saturday, September 11
Michelle Richmond: Writer’s Workshop for UM
Join bestselling author Michelle Richmond for a workshop at Books & Books, 265 Aragon at 1pm in which she’ll share her secrets and tricks in crafting vital, mesmerizing flash fiction. With in-depth exploration of samples, writing exercises, and an open discussion not only of fundamentals of fiction but of the broader writing world. Free and open to the public, but space is limited, so please reserve early. RSVP to jalison@miami.edu
Steinway Seminar: To Rent Or Own
To Rent a Piano or to Own a Piano… That is the Question. Attend a free seminar to find out the answer. You’re invited to attend a free 45 minute seminar where experts will explain all of the important factors that go into making the best decision not only on the best piano for you, but on whether you’re better off purchasing or renting that piano. The free seminar will be held at Steinway Piano Gallery at 4104 Ponce at 2pm. RSVP to handra Marciano at 305-774-9878 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-774-9878 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.spgmiami.com
Miami Hurricanes At Ohio State
The number 12 ranked Miami Hurricanes Football team with be visiting Ohio State, now ranked number 2, with a kick-off at 3:30pm. Miami’s Jacory Harris challenges Ohio State’s Terrelle Pryor in a battle of the quarterbacks. http://www.hurricanesports.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 Saturday evening at the Biltmore Lounge, 1200 Anastasia, with cocktail specials by 10 Cane Rum and Belvedere Vodka. Call 305-445-1926 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Miami Guitar Trio Performs
The Miami Bach Society will present the Miami Guitar Trio for the first performance of its 2010-11 Concert Season. This newly-formed ensemble is comprised of three University of Miami graduates: Federico Bonacossa, Federico Musgrove, and Alan Nguyen. The program will feature music by Vivaldi and J.S. Bach’s complete three-part Sinfonias and the Brandenburg Concerto Number 2 at the Chapel of the Venerable Bede, 1150 Stanford Drive on the University of Miami Campus. Tickets for the performance are $30 general admission, $40 preferred admission. Bach Society members, pay $20. Students up to the age of 18 are admitted free of charge. College and graduate students pay $5. For tickets and information call 305-669-1376 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-669-1376 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.miamibachsociety.org
Last Curtain: 50 Words At Gablestage
GableStage at the Biltmore Presents the Southeastern Premiere of Fifty Words by Michael Weller with Erin Joy Schmidt and Gregg Weiner, directed by Joseph Adler. When their young son has his first sleepover, Adam and Jan are allowed the first night alone together in their Brooklyn brownstone in years. Will they renew a vital spark that’s been nearly smothered — or, will the night provide the moment when provisional civility explodes into fiery chaos? Enjoy an expansive look at modern marriage that is alternately funny and frightening at GableStage, through September 12. Call 305-446-1116 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-446-1116 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.GableStage.org
The Tempest At New Theatre
Perhaps the last play written by Shakespeare and considered one of his finest, The Tempest tells a story of magic and intrigue, romance, revenge, strife and resilience. Stranded on a deserted island with his daughter, usurped Duke Prospero is granted his chance at revenge. By invoking a storm, he shipwrecks the man who ruined him. Also among the passengers is the young man who awakens his daughter’s first stirrings of love. Performances Thursday through Saturdays at 8pm. Sunday at 1pm. All performances are $40. The Student Rush (under 25 with ID) ticket is $15 at the door based on availability. The 6 play Flexible Season Membership is $190. The play runs through September 19 at New Theatre, 4120 Laguna. Call 305-443-5909 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-443-5909 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.new-theatre.org
Life During Wartime at Cosford Cinema
Part sequel, part variation on his acclaimed and controversial Happiness, the newest film from celebrated director Todd Solondz (Welcome To The Dollhouse, Palindromes) assembles an amazing ensemble cast including Allison Janney, Shirley Henderson, Paul Reubens, Michael Kenneth Williams, Ally Sheedy, Charlotte Rampling, and Ciáran Hinds in an utterly hilarious exploration of the boundaries of forgiveness, family, and love. Ten years have passed since shocking revelations shattered the world of the Jordan family, and now sisters Joy, Trish, and Helen, each embroiled in their own unique dilemmas, struggle to find their place in an unpredictable and volatile world. The past now haunts their family both literally and otherwise, and jeopardizes the future. Alternately hilarious and tragic, outrageous and poignant, Life During Wartime is an audacious comedy with unexpected resonance. The film begins at 8pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. $8, ($6 seniors) cash only. Call 305-284-4861 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-284-4861 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.cosfordcinema.com
Sunday, September 12
Kids: Lane Smith: It’s a Book
It’s a Book. It’s a special book. It’s a special event. It’s a special book and a special event for the whole family. Meet Caldecott Honor winning author and illustrator Lane Smith for a special multimedia and interactive event for his amazing new book, It’s a Book (Roaring Brook, $12.99). It’s about a monkey, a mouse, a jackass, a book and our digital world. It’s thoughtful, poignant and funny, with a mischievous little wink in its tone. It’s a book for our ever-changing age. And it’s a book for all ages. Lane Smith is the author and illustrator of the bestselling John, Paul, George & Ben and Madam President. He has also collaborated with Jon Scieszka on The True Story of the Three Little Pigs, Math Curse, and The Stinky Cheese Man, for which he received a Caldecott Honor award. He has also illustrated books by Dr. Seuss, Jack Prelutsky, and Roald Dahl. And now there’s It’s a Book. Book-loving and/or tech savvy adults, buy this book for yourselves. Parents, buy this for your kids. Grandparents, buy it for your kids and your grandkids. Read it together; laugh together. Celebrate Grandparents’ Day with an event sure to entertain kids of all ages, even the kids who are old enough to collect Social Security. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 11am. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Kids: Barnacle, Books, Birds and Boats
The Barnacle is hosting its 4th annual Barnacle, Books, Birds & Boats from 11am to 3pm in celebration of International Literacy Day, National Library Card Sign Up Month, and Florida Adult and Family Literacy Month. Visit the park for a day filled with games, prizes and a ranger book reading. Coconut Grove’s librarian will be on site giving away prizes and issuing library cards. If you wish, you can pack a picnic, a good book and spend the day relaxing and reading in the shade one of the park’s many trees. During the weekend of September 10-12, Florida State Parks is waiving park entrance fees for visitors bringing a library card, a library book or who donate a new or gently-used book. If you don’t have a library card, stop by your local library on your way to the park. The Barnacle Historic State Park is located in downtown Coconut Grove, across the street from the Coconut Grove Playhouse. For additional information call 305-442-6866 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-6866 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.thebarnacle.org
Oneburger Is Now Open On Sundays
Got a craving for a Philly Cheeseburger, a Fancy Bacon Cheddar or the new Le Bron Burger? Onebuger, a unique and modern burger concept at 367 Alhambra Circle is sure to satisfy. Oneburger is now open every Sunday from noon to 8pm. Check it out. Call 305-529-5555 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-529-5555 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.oneburger.com
Fall For The Arts Festival
This event features the very best of Miami-Dade’s cultural and community service organizations celebrating the kick-off of the fine arts season with two performance stages, children’s activities, street food vendors, seminars on community-based topics, discounts and give-aways from 100 arts and community service organizations. More than 30 Arsht Center shows will go on sale. It all happens from noon to 6pm at the Arsht Center, 1300 Biscayne Blvd. http://www.arshtcenter.org/fall
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
DeBlois Milledge at Tropical Audubon Society
Bring the family for a wonderful musical event at the Tropical Audubon Society, 5530 Sunset Drive from 5:30 to 8pm as noted musical talent the The Deblois Milledge Band and Danny Campbell on drums to play at 6pm. Adult admission is $10 per person and kids enter for free. Since there will be limited parking on the ground please be prepared to park on the street or in a parking garage. Feel free to bring your own picnic, chairs, blankets, and picnic tables. There will be a donation bar, CDs and TAS memberships on sale. Help protect wildlife by keeping your cat indoors. Call 305-667-7337 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-667-7337 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.tropicalaudubon.org
Justin Kramon: Finny
Debut novelist Justin Kramon will conduct a workshop designed to provide resources for writers trying to publish their short stories, find an agent, or place a novel with a publisher. It took an embarrassing number of attempts to find the publisher for his novel, so he thought it might be helpful to other beginning writers to compile some of the resources he drew from to get Random House to take pity on him. While he was writing and selling his debut novel, Finny (Random House, $15), he often wished that all of this information were gathered in one place, so he’s structured this seminar in order to convey concrete and specific information, such as lists of agents and places to submit fiction, and will also share examples from his own successes and failures in publishing, such as the query letter he sent to his current agent. Please feel free to bring questions about the publishing process. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Monday, September 13
Ponce Lunch At Johnmartins
The ponce business association welcomes you to attend their monday lunch at JohnMartin’s (upstairs) at noon. The guest speaker will be Glenn Kephart, Director of Public Works for the City of Coral Gables since July. He has over 25 years of service in the public sector with 14 years in highway design, construction and traffic engineering for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Mr. Kephart also worked for the City of Tempe as their Transportation Director and Traffic Engineer and for the past nine years was the Tempe’s Public Works Manager. The cost of lunch is $22. RSVP to: rsvp@ponceassociation.org
Happy Hour At The Cascade
Enjoy half price beer and cocktail at the Biltmore Pool bar from 5 to 8pm each Monday evening. Call 305-445-1926 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Brian Lutz: Knoll
Brian Lutz is the author of Knoll (Rizzoli, $75.00) the first full monograph on the furniture of the Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen. The history of Knoll is the history of modern design. Founded in 1938 by Hans Knoll and joined by his wife, Florence Knoll, the company is credited for bringing European modern design to America, then nurturing the best homegrown talents at mid-century to build the most successful and prestigious high-end furniture company in the world. Comprehensive in narrative and scope, this monograph will be a classic in its own right with images and texts on furniture, furnishings, systems, graphics, and unique insight into the modern world that is Knoll. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Tuesday, September 14
Alzheimer’s Dementia: Can We Prevent It?
Dr. Robert Thomas, Coral Gables internal medicine physician, will speak about Alzheimer’s Dementia at the weekly meeting of the Business Referral Group (BRG) at noon at Anacapri on Ponce, 2530 Ponce. For reservations to regular meetings and membership information contact Jim Carter, mortgage banker of Element Funding at 305-525-6742 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-525-6742 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or Sara Granzotti of Juice Plus at 786-521-2800 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 786-521-2800 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.businessreferralgroup.org
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Steinway Reception for Miami Jazz Cooperative
Music lovers are invited to enjoy a special reception introducing the newly formed non-profit organization The Miami Jazz Cooperative at Steinway Piano Gallery, 4104 Ponce from 7 to 10pm, featuring outstanding Jazz and fine wine. Learn about plans for the Miami Jazz Cooperative to establish a dedicated Jazz facility in Miami for the mutual benefit of Jazz students, Jazz musicians and their audience. Please RSVP to: steinwayreception@miamijazz.org http://www.miamijazz.org
Lisa Unger: Fragile
Despite their mostly happy marriage, when their son Ricky’s girlfriend vanishes, Maggie and Jones find themselves at odds. Maggie is positive Ricky had nothing to do with Charlene’s disappearance, while Jones isn’t as sure. With Charlene gone, the memory of another young girl who went missing some twenty years ago is haunting the town. That story didn’t have a happy ending, and almost everyone has an unrevealed reason to keep the horror of it firmly in the past. As Jones and the police turn their focus on Ricky, Maggie must find out the truth about what happened all those years ago. In order to save her son and the young woman whose life hangs in the balance, she’ll test the bonds of her community — and find out just how fragile they can be. (Shaye Areheart Books, $24). Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wednesday, September 15
Free Desert Day: A Sweet Treat From OpenTable
You’ve always heard there is no free lunch, but today is free dessert day. To celebrate the premier of Top Chef Just Desserts, just make reservations with OpenTable to dine at one of more than 40 top Miami restaurants and get your free dessert. http://www.opentable.com/promo.aspx?m=17&ref=8596&pid=473
Biltmore Culinary Academy: Sushi And Ceviche
Join Chef Roly at the Biltmore Culinary Academy from 6:30 to 9:30pm for a Signature Class on Sushi and Ceviche. For reservations call 305-913-3131 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-913-3131 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or email: CulinaryAcademy@biltmorehotel.com
Robert Landori: Havana Harvest
Havana Harvest (Emerald Book Co., $15.95) follows the maneuvers of two adversarial intelligence services in their attempts to inflict maximum damage on each other as they move through a maze of high-tension suspense. In Cuba, General Patricio Casas must decide whether to support the revolution he has defended for so many years or do what is good for his people and challenge the selfish authoritarianism of the Castroite regime. Meanwhile, CIA operative Robert Lonsdale is tasked with determining why a captain in Fidel’s army who recently arrived in Miami with a suitcase full of money seeks U.S. protection from a Colombian drug cartel and the Cuban secret police. Lonsdale is quickly drawn into a maelstrom of intrigue and murder from which there seems to be no escape unless he can convince General Casas to help. Apparently double-crossed by his colleagues and a self-serving Agency director, Lonsdale struggles on alone in an attempt to outfox the shadowy tormentors who intend to silence him forever. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6:30pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wine Theme Dinner At Fontana
Taste the multifaceted variety of Iberian cuisine and discover delicious gems from Spain’s Ribera del Duero wines showcasing the exquisite flavor profiles of the Tempranillo grape at the Biltmore Hotel’s Fontana Restaurant at 7pm. The cost is $99 for the public, or $79 for Biltmore Members. Call 305-913-3203 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-913-3203 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.thecellarclub.com
Ashli White: Encountering Revolution
Encountering Revolution (John Hopkins University Press, $63.25) looks afresh at the profound impact of the Haitian Revolution on the early United States. Historian Ashli White examines the ways Americans — black and white, northern and southern, Federalist and Democratic Republican, pro- and antislavery — pondered the implications of the Haitian Revolution. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Thursday, September 16
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-444-3210 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. 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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-1926 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com
Survivors From An Ancient World: The Extraordinary Flora Of New Caledonia
Be there for the launch of The Kampong’s 2010-2011 Lecture Series when Dr. Chad Husby shares “Survivors from an ancient world: The extraordinary flora of New Caledonia.” The Kampong, 4013 S. Douglas Road, will open at 6:30pm with a reception, followed by the lecture at 7pm. Husby is a Botanist at the Montgomery Botanical Center, a research and conservation botanical garden in Miami. His interests focus on ancient plants, especially conifers, cycads and ferns. Husby visited New Caledonia in 2008 to explore the flora and present at a conference on the island’s medicinal, aromatic and ornamental plants. New Caledonia, an island in the South Pacific the size of New Jersey, is one of the greatest biodiversity hotspots on earth. Meet Dr. Husby at a pre-lecture reception at 6:30. Attendance is free to Kampong Fellows and Members and $10 for all others. Please call 305-442-7169 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-7169 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.ntbg.org/
Miami Spice Cooking Class
Join Chef David Sloane of Rosa Mexicano at Whole Foods Market, 6701 Red Road at 7pm as he whips up signature dishes that are featured on his Miami Spice menu. Discover the tropical fusion of ingredients that makes Miami dining so wonderfully out of the ordinary. To register for Chef David Sloane’s cooking class please call Customer Service at 305-421-9421 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-421-9421 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://wholefoodsmarket.com/storesbeta/coralgables/
Maine Lobster Paella At Por Fin
Thursday is Maine Lobster Paella Night at Por Fin, 2500 Ponce. Call 305-441-0107 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-441-0107 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.porfinrestaurant.com
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-913-3201 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.biltmorehotel.com/dining/palme.php
Susanna Daniel: Stiltsville
One sunny morning in 1969, near the end of her first trip to Miami, twenty-six-year-old Frances Ellerby finds herself in a place called Stiltsville, a community of houses built on pilings in the middle of Biscayne Bay. It’s the first time the Atlanta native has been out on the open water, and she’s captivated. On the dock of a stilt house, with the dazzling skyline in the distance and the unknowable ocean beneath her, she meets the house’s owner, Dennis DuVal — and a new future reveals itself. Turning away from her quiet, predictable life back home, Frances moves to Miami to be with Dennis. Over time, she earns the confidence of his wild-at-heart sister and wins the approval of his oldest friend. Frances and Dennis marry and have a child, but rather than growing complacent about their good fortune, they continue to face the challenges of intimacy and the complicated city they call home. Stiltsville is the family’s island oasis — until suddenly it’s gone, and Frances is forced to figure out how to make her family work on dry land. Against a backdrop of lush tropical beauty, Frances and Dennis struggle with the mutability of love and Florida’s weather, as well as temptation, chaos, and disappointment. But just when Frances thinks she’s reached some semblance of higher ground, she must confront an obstacle so great that even the lessons she’s learned about navigating the uncharted waters of family life can’t keep them afloat. With Stiltsville (Harper, $24.99), Susanna Daniel weaves the beauty, violence, and humanity of Miami’s coming-of-age with an enduring story of a marriage’s beginning, maturity, and heartbreaking demise. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-442-4408 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.booksandbooks.com
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 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 305-445-3777 end_of_the_skype_highlighting. http://www.johnmartins.com
Enjoy your quality time in Coral Gables and stay tuned to this channel for more Great Gables Events.
-Rob