President's Day weekend, Valentine's Day weekend, Art Festival weekend, Boat Show weekend, Chinese New Year weekend Great Gables Events – weekend of February 12 with Robert Burr

Greetings,

Wow. What a big weekend.

The Winter Olympics are getting underway. It’s President’s Day weekend, Valentine’s Day weekend, Art Festival weekend, Boat Show weekend, Chinese New Year weekend. Then, it’s carnival time in Rio de Janeiro and Trinidad and Mardi Gras begins in New Orleans. First, here’s a few Great Gables ideas for Valentine’s Day to get you started.

Fellas: if these sultry suggestions can’t help you seal the deal, hang up your spurs.

Ladies: copy and paste a few of these “hints” so the lesser half of the species can stumble upon some appropriately sensitive expressions of their appreciation.

A Peterbrooke Chocolate Valentine
Come to Peterbrooke Chocolatier at 227 Aragon through February 14th. The Chocolate Fountain will be flowing for your enjoyment while you shop for your Valentine gifts. Enjoy their complimentary wine and chocolate tasting. Call 305-446-3131. http://www.peterbrooke.com

Biltmore Romantic Getaways
Enjoy a romantic dinner at Palme d’Or or Fontana, indulge in couple’s spa treatments like the signature chardonnay couples massage with blissful chocolates. Relax in a luxury poolside cabana suite, commit your love to cooking lessons, get in the swing with couple’s golf clinic programs, or find your match at the Biltmore Bar. Embrace the special romantic getaway room prices and much more as the Biltmore Resort and Spa pulls out all the stops for lovers this weekend with a plethora of pleasurable possibilities. Can’t decide? Purchase a Biltmore Gift Card to make a lasting impression. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com/valentines/

Valentine’s Day Concert at Fairchild
If you and your sweetheart are searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day event on February 14, then you’ll find it at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden with a concert featuring John Secada playing jazz favorites that will set the mood on the most romantic night of the year. Bring a picnic basket (gourmet picnic baskets are available from Creative Tastes) and a blanket and let the dreamy music and the beauty of Fairchild make this Valentine’s Day a night to remember. Gates open at 5:30 and the concert begins at 7pm. Tickets are $75, or $65 for Fairchild members. VIP tickets are $175, which includes reserved seating, buffet dinner and wine. Contact Special Events Coordinator Jennifer Baldwin at 305-663-8058. http://www.fairchildgarden.org

Sweet Love At Cold Stone
Treat your honey to something sweet with Cold Stone Creamery’s limited edition Chocolate Dipped Strawberry ice cream flavor. Enjoy it in a cup with strawberries and chocolate shavings, in a heart-shaped red velvet cake topped with fudge ganache or as a rich chocolate cupcake topped with a strawberry. Cold Stone Creamery is at 261 Miracle Mile. Call 305-772-0735.

Love Is All You Need At Paper Emporium
Valentine’s Day is a great time to remind everyone in your life how loved they are. Stop by Paper Emporium at 231 Aragon for a some creative, affordable and crafty ideas on expressing your love, admiration and friendship. Call 305-445-7090.

Sparkling Love At Montica
Nothing says “I love you” quite like jewelry, except maybe chocolate. Receive a luscious gift box of fine Italian chocolate with any purchase from the hip and affordable Rebecca Jewelry line available at Monica Jewelry, 75 Miracle Mile. Call 305-446-2957.

Golden Roses At Jae’s Jewelers
In honor of Valentine’s Day, Jae’s Jewelers at 237 Miracle Mile is giving away a free 24kt rose with every Valentine’s Day purchase. Every 12″ rose is hand-selected for its shape and color. Then, the entire blossom is taken apart so that each petal can be lacquered and trimmed in 24-karat gold. Finally, the blossom is re-assembled with the result that each rose is a one-of-a-kind. There are many different colors available, including cream red, cream pink, yellow, purple, ivory and burgundy. Call 305-443-7724. http://www.jaesjewelers.com

Something For the Guys At Signori
Pick out a new outfit for that special night at Signori Men’s Clothing and enjoy 30 percent off any regular-priced merchandise and complimentary wine and expresso at Signori Men’s Clothing, 374 Miracle Mile. Call 305-461-4969.

Silk For Valentine’s At Bolado Clothiers
Bolado’s, 314 Miracle Mile, has the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for him: Valentine red pajamas made from pure silk. Also available, a matching silk robe and boxer shorts. Mention Great Gables and receive a free J. Bolado cologne with the purchase of a pajama or robe. Call 305-448-2507.

Le Provençal Special
Designed with romance in mind, French eatery Le Provencal at 266 Miracle Mile will have a special menu available from noon to 10pm on Valentine’s Day for $48 per person. Call 305-448-8984.

Valentino Affair At Da Vittorio
Da Vittorio is hosting an intimate, two-seating “Valentino Affair” with a four course prix-fixed menu including champagne for $48 per person at 270 Giralda. Call 305-445-8783.

Bubbly Evening At Spris
Spris’ special menu features a choice of salad, entrée of sea bass or lamb chops, choice of pasta and bottle of Prosecco for $60 per couple at 2305 Ponce. Call 305-444-3388.

Valentine’s At Morton’s
At Morton’s The Steakhouse, 2333 Ponce, enjoy choice of salad, two single cut filets with a signature potato and fresh vegetable to share and dessert of Morton’s legendary hot chocolate cake, key lime pie or crème brulee at $99.99 per couple. Steak enhancements and seafood can be substituted for an additional fee. Call 305-442-1662.

Sweetend Celebration At Angelique Euro Café
Angelique Euro Café, 117 Miracle Mile, is hosting a “Sweetend” celebration on February 12 and 13, with a three course menu plus champagne and wine course pairing for $65 per couple. Choose from exotic mushroom soup, baked oyster, hanger steak, maple leaf duck breast, chocolate gelato and more. Or enjoy a Valentine’s Day Jazz Brunch Celebration. The three course menu and Cava Codorniu Brut pairing includes char-grilled oysters, crab cake benedict, pan fried hazelnut crusted tilapia, a sweetheart waffle topped with Nutella, fresh strawberries and whipped cream and more for $35 per couple. Call 305-529-9922.

Fleming’s Valentine Card
Everyone expects a little extra something after a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day. Come to Fleming’s at 2525 Ponce for their special Valentine’s weekend sharing menu and you’ll receive a $25 card for a future rendezvous at Fleming’s. Call 305-569-7995. http://www.flemingssteakhouse.com

Get Your Sexy Back At Yard House
While 2010 is not a leap year, women can still take the lead by asking their significant other to join them Valentine’s Day weekend at Yard House, 320 San Lorenzo at the Village Of Merrick Park, a favorite dining destination for men, for a romantic meal of aphrodisiacs (marriage proposals optional). Complementing the menu is the restaurant’s vast selection of draft beer, signature martinis, impressive list of wine, Champagne and sparkling wine plus a tempting menu of spirits. Call 305-444-1004. http://www.yardhouse.com

Mariposa Restaurant at Neiman Marcus
Treat your Valentine to a luscious three-course dinner with an evening of romantic music featuring international recording artist and Grammy nominee Sylvia Bennett. Dine by candle light as you enjoy songs of love delivered by Bennett’s silken voice and smooth jazz sounds. Make your reservations for Thursday or Sunday (dinner reservations from 6:30 to 7:30, show at 9pm); Friday or Saturday (dinner reservations available from 7 to 8, show at 9:30pm). The cost is $55 per person, not including gratuity, for a three-course prix fixe dinner (appetizer, main course and dessert) and a splendid show. Mariposa is located on the third floor of Neiman Marcus at the Village Of Merrick Park, 390 San Lorenzo. Call 786-999-1018. http://www.neimanmarcus.com/restaurants/

Vino Libero At Pasha’s
Enjoy a free bottle of wine at Pasha’s, 130 Miracle Mile, on Valentine’s Day with a $30 order for parties of two or more. Call 305-764-3040.

Love In The Raw At Sushi Maki
Did you know that sushi can be an aphrodisiac? Sushi Maki’s Valentine’s weekend tasting menu serves up four courses of passion — inducing plates for $65 a couple at 2334 Ponce. Choose from sushi tacos, salt and pepper calamari and tiraditos as an appetizer, a choice of two rolls, including the crazy roll and Romeo and Juliet roll, chicken or cod entrée and bento dessert. Call 305-443-1884.

A Kiss Of Champagne
Enjoy your intimate dinner at Red Koi Thai And Sushi Lounge, 317 Miracle Mile, with a free complimentary Red Koi Kiss champagne cocktail. Call 305-446-2690.

Leafy Love On Saturday
Celebrate love a day early with Giardino Gourmet Salads’ Valentine Lunch Special on Saturday, February 13 from 11am to 6pm at 2346 Ponce. Receive a free appetizer of hummus and pita chips and a dessert to share with the purchase of two salads. Indulge in the “I Love You Berry Much” salad of the month made of romaine and baby leaf greens, strawberries, chocolate covered almonds, red onions, goat cheese and berry vinaigrette. Call 305-460-6010.

Love Nest At The Hyatt
At Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, 50 Alhambra Plaza, take advantage of the Amour Package and enjoy turndown and robe service, a bottle of wine and chocolate amenity in a luxury setting. Call 305-441-1234.

Rose Colored Love
See the world through rose-colored lenses with Italian Eyewear’s 50 percent Red Dot discount sale with 20 different modes of hand-made sunglasses to choose from at 204 Aragon Avenue. Call 305-591-0770.

The Art of Love
True love lasts forever, and so does fine artwork. Head over to the Americas Collection to get that special someone a limited edition graphic and receive 20 percent off custom framing at 214 Andalusia Avenue. Call 305-446-5578.

Partner’s Pedicures At Men-n-Cure
Do something really special with the partner in your life by sharing special time together with a Partners Pedicure at Men-n-Cure, 208 Andalusia. Get the royal pampered treatment while sipping on wine and relaxing. Schedule 24 hours in advance. Call 305-460-9993.

Friday, February 12

Miami International Boat Show
Visit the Miami Beach Convention Center this holiday weekend for the best boat show in the world, featuring yachts, powerboats, sailboats and every type of seagoing vessel. Begin the day at the convention center, then visit Sea Isle Marina, before heading over to Bayside Marina by way of Strictly Sail Miami’s free water taxi service to view some of the largest sailboats and catamarans in the world. A two-day pass is $30; a five-day pass is $75. http://www.miamiboatshow.com

Arts Beat Live Performance At WLRN
Jazz fans are gathering at WLRN, 172 NE 15th Street at noon for a delicious free lunch catered by Pollo Tropical, featuring a live performance by Mark Fernicola and the Last Flight Out Big Band. Singing with big bands since the age of 19, Mark Fernicola has done it all. Soon he met a mainstay of the South Florida Jazz scene, pianist Billy Marcus and started performing on the local club circuit. All the while, he’s been developing his Jazz chops and now fronts The Last Flight Out Big Band once a month for a unique club review at The Deauville Hotel on Miami Beach. He brings the days of the Rat Pack to our WLRN radio studios for a Valentine’s Day presentation. If you can’t be in the studio, tune in live at 1pm to hear the performance on WLRN radio, 91.3 FM.

Miami Ski Club Happy Hour
Meet up with some fun loving folks us for a free get-together at Morton’s The Steakhouse, 2333 Ponce from 6 to 8pm with the Miami Ski Club members. You do not need to ski to join this great club for social and ski events. Call 305-772-1500. http://www.miamiskiclub.com

Friday Night Wine Lounge At Whole Foods
Meet up at Whole Foods Market, 6701 Red Road in the outside patio from 6:30 to 8:30pm to unwind and get into the Valentines Day mood. The evening will be set by the relaxing atmosphere and sounds on the outside patio as some of their favorite wine vendors serve up samples of their best Valentines day wines. This event is free and all are welcome. Enjoy the musical sounds of Patrick Lopez throughout the evening. Call 305-421-9421. http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/coralgables/

John Dufresne: Is Life Like This?
“Writing a novel,” says John Dufresne, “is not as easy as you may have thought before you tried. But it’s also not as difficult as you imagined.” Dufresne’s smart, practical, hard-nosed guide, Is Life Like This? (Norton, $26.95) is for the person who has always wanted to write a novel but has been daunted by the sometimes chaotic, always challenging writing process. A patient teacher and experienced writer, Dufresne focuses his expertise and good humor on helping aspiring novelists take their first tentative steps. His six-month program variously calls attention to the key elements of good fiction writing and offers exercises that are designed to sharpen writers’ command of novel-length storytelling. After six months of guided writing, the users of this book will finish what might have once seemed impossible — a rich and compelling first draft of a novel. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

The Messenger At Cosford Cinema
In his most powerful performance to date, Ben Foster stars as Will Montgomery, a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant who has just returned home from a tour in Iraq and is assigned to the Army’s Casualty Notification service. Partnered with fellow officer Tony Stone (Woody Harrelson) to bear the bad news to the loved ones of fallen soldiers, Will faces the challenge of completing his mission while seeking to find comfort and healing back on the home front. When he finds himself drawn to Olivia (Samantha Morton), to whom he has just delivered the news of her husband’s death, Will’s emotional detachment begins to dissolve and the film reveals itself as a surprising, humorous, moving and very human portrait of grief, friendship and survival. Featuring tour-de-force performances from Foster, Harrelson and Morton, and a brilliant directorial debut by Oren Moverman, The Messenger brings us into the inner lives of these outwardly steely heroes to reveal their fragility with compassion and dignity. The film begins at 9:15pm 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, February 13

Gables’ Farmers’ Market
Come to City Hall from 8am to 1pm for delicious fresh fruits and vegetables at the Gables’ Farmers’ Market. The Gardening Workshop begins at 9am, then enjoy the 10am Cooking Demonstration at the Gables’ Farmers’ Market at City Hall. At 11am, the kids will enjoy special activities. Call 305-460-5311.

Bridge For Peace Walk-A-Thon
The Coral Gables Senior High School International Baccalaureate Program will host the second annual Bridge For Peace Walk-a-ton starting at 10am on the school’s athletic field, 450 Bird Road. Activities will include a teacher dunk tank, rock climbing wall, mechanical bull, plus music and food booths. Local sponsors include the Kiwanis Club of Coral Gables who will be donating and working the BBQ and area restaurants and businesses. The Coral Gables High School Cooking Class and other clubs will be involved as well. Contact Sylvie Cuesta, International Baccalaureate Coordinator at scuesta@dadeschools.net and Jessica Roman, IB Academy Teacher and International Baccalaureate Honor Society Sponsor at romanj@dadeschools.net

47th Annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival
The Coconut Grove Arts Festival presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida will showcase the works of 360 nationally recognized artists along the scenic streets of Coconut Grove this weekend. Artists from all over North America will display works in mixed media, painting, photography, digital art, printmaking and drawing, watercolor, claywork, glass, fiber, jewelry and metalwork, sculpture and wood. Complementing the visual arts on display is the popular Culinary Pavilion which invites world-renowned chefs to prepare their famous dishes and explain their specialties. Festival hours are 10am to 6pm daily. Admission is $10 per person, per day. Children 12 and under are free, and residents in the 33133 zip code can enjoy the Festival at a special reduced admission of $5. http://www.coconutgroveartsfest.com

Year Of The Tiger Cooking Class
Enjoy a perfect combination of socializing, entertaining and learning with Wok Star Eleanor Hoh for an unforgettable experience in a memorable setting at Arclinea, 3140 Ponce from noon to 3pm. Indulge with four dishes savored with Gancia Prosecco and Fiji Water door prizes, plus handouts with Asian markets and brands. Guests will get a chance to stir fry, two woks and stoves going. Book your class, buy a gift certificate and view the menu online. http://www.wokstar.us/Classes.html

Kids: Jack And The Beanstalk
Kicking off the New Year at Actors’ Playhouse Musical Theatre for Young Audiences is the Prince Street Player’s award winning version of the classic story Jack and the Beanstalk. Based on the fairy tale by Joseph Jacobs, this wacky adventure takes the climb with Jack as he goes up the magical beanstalk into the world of a Giant Inventor, a tap dancing Golden Goose, and a Golden Harp that can really “get down”! With book and lyrics by Jim Eiler, and music by Jim Eiler and Jeanne Bargy, this fanciful musical is full of surprises that are sure to entertain each Saturday afternoon at the Miracle Theatre. For show times and ticket availability, call 305-444-9293 x604. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

The Hour Of The Tiger At New Theatre
Now through Sunday, enjoy The Hour Of The Tiger by Sandra Riley at New Theatre, 4120 Laguna Street. An American woman immersed in Japan’s post Vietnam terrain is tangled between rescuing a geisha from her money hungry master and conquering her own fears. Performances are at 8pm Thursday through Saturday, plus Sundays at 1pm. Call 305-443-5909. http://www.new-theatre.org

After Dark Spa Celebration
Here’s something truly unique, fun and exciting — an after-dark spa party at the Biltmore Resort. Stroll throughout the evening and enjoy an array of relaxing mini spa treatments while sipping champagne and savoring hors d’oeuvres. Admission is $75 or $65 for Biltmore members. Space is limited. Call the spa at 305-913-3187. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Saturday Night Jazz At The Globe
The Longest Running Real Jazz Series In Coral Gables presents Lasim Richards and Jason Hainsworth, from 9pm to 1am at the Globe, 377 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-445-3555. http://www.theglobecafe.com

Where The Wild Things Are At Cosford Cinema
The film tells the story of Max, a rambunctious and sensitive boy who feels misunderstood at home and escapes to where the Wild Things are. Max lands on an island where he meets mysterious and strange creatures whose emotions are as wild and unpredictable as their actions. The Wild Things desperately long for a leader to guide them, just as Max longs for a kingdom to rule. When Max is crowned king, he promises to create a place where everyone will be happy. Max soon finds, though, that ruling his kingdom is not so easy and his relationships there prove to be more complicated than he originally thought. The film begins at 10pm 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, February 14
Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year

Ensemble Illuminations
Italian-born Alba Rosa Vietor was a world-class violinist and pianist who studied with the finest instructors. When her performance career ended, Vietor experimented with composing, producing music that reflected traditions from around the world. Twenty-five years after her death the first concert of the Alba Rosa Vietor Concert Series will feature select pieces of the artist’s chamber music works at University of Miami Clarke Recital Hall at 2pm. Admission is free. http://www.music.miami.edu

In The Shadow Of The Glen
The Emerald Society’s St. Patrick’s Day Committee’s Celtic Cultural Series presents a staged reading of J.M. Synge’s In the Shadow of the Glen at 4pm at JohnMartin’s Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile. A dead body, the deceased’s waspish widow, a traveling whisky-loving tramp and a would-be Irish callow gigolo induce the laughter and surprise of J.M. Synge’s one-act comedy. The play will be performed in costume and staged in the Upstairs Tipperary Room of John Martin’s Irish Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. All St. Patrick’s Day Committee’s Celtic Cultural events are free and open to all. There is plenty of free parking available in the City Garage behind the restaurant on Aragon Avenue. Call 305-273-0118. http://www.emeraldsocietysfl.com

Valentines with Vampires Ball
Vampire Valentine’s Day Bash: Celebrate the fourth book in her bestselling series, The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod — Eleventh Grade Burns (Dutton, $16.99) — when Heather Brewer visits us for a party even Vlad himself would enjoy. Forget the Junior Prom. For Vlad, we’ve got the anti-prom, a party dripping in sarcasm and blood red décor. It’s just the thing to help with another sucky year at high school for Vlad, as it looks like things have taken a more serious turn for the teenage vampire who is trying to keep his secret from the world. The stunning cliffhanger ending will leave readers begging for more. Don’t miss your chance to party with Heather Brewer for this Vampire Valentine’s Day Bash. Costumes encouraged. Dress up as a vampire to meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Valentine’s Day At Ortanique
Ortanique on the Mile is partnering with Peter Brooke Chocolates to embrace your Valentine’s Day. Each diner will take away a Chocolate Covered Strawberry to continue an evening of decadence. Remember the way to your lover’s heart begins with food deliciously prepared at Ortanique, 278 Miracle MIle. http://www.cindyhutsoncuisine.com

Moonlight And Music At Deering Estate
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Deering Estate, Biscayne Bay at SW 168th Street, with a romantic concert featuring award-winning singer, songwriter and pianist Johnny Rodgers and the Johnny Rodgers Band. Bring blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets (no coolers please) to enjoy the concert under the stars overlooking beautiful Biscayne Bay. Some refreshments will be available for purchase at the concert. The gates open at 6, and the concert begins at 7pm. Concert tickets are $20 for general admission. Call 305-235-1668 x233. http://www.deeringestate.org

Valentine’s Day Dinner At The Winery
Enjoy a romantic setting with delicious wine and sushi pairings at Schnebly Redland’s Winery, 30205 SW 217th Avenue from 6 to 10pm. Start with a sparkling wine welcome and toast before signature Sushi stations perfectly paired with Schnebly wines, finishing with Schnebly dessert wines paired with Akashi Dessert Rolls. The $75 all-inclusive cover charge includes a live performance by Fushu Diako Japanese fan dancers and Taiko drummers. Call 305-242-1224. http://schneblywinery.ning.com

Valentine’s Day At La Dorada
Fall in love with La Dorada’s delicate, delicious and exotic seafood, flown in fresh from the Mediterranean Sea at 177 Giralda. Enjoy Andalusian fried dishes, seafood in its shell, Royal Sea Bream, wild Striped Sea Bass and many more delicious plates. Guests can also enjoy an unbeatable selection of wines and traditional Spanish desserts along with live music as they dine. Call 305-446-2002. http://www.ladoradamiami.com

Valentine’s Day At Mamajuana
Try the three course meal for two with a choice of one bottle of red or white wine for $75 at Mamajuana Cafe, 225 Altara. Call 305-443-0505. http://www.mamajuana-cafe.com

Where The Wild Things Are At Cosford Cinema
The film tells the story of Max, a rambunctious and sensitive boy who feels misunderstood at home and escapes to where the Wild Things are. Max lands on an island where he meets mysterious and strange creatures whose emotions are as wild and unpredictable as their actions. The Wild Things desperately long for a leader to guide them, just as Max longs for a kingdom to rule. When Max is crowned king, he promises to create a place where everyone will be happy. Max soon finds, though, that ruling his kingdom is not so easy and his relationships there prove to be more complicated than he originally thought. 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. http://www.cosfordcinema.com

Monday, February 15

Kristin Harmel: After
Lacey’s world shatters when her dad is killed in a car accident. And secretly? She feels like it’s her fault. If she hadn’t taken her own sweet time getting ready that morning, perhaps it never would have happened. Her mom wouldn’t be a basket case. Her brother Logan wouldn’t drink. And her little brother would still have two parents. But life goes on even if you don’t want it to. And when Lacey gets the chance to make a difference in the lives of some people at school, she jumps at it. Making lemonade out of lemons is her specialty. Except she didn’t count on meeting a guy like Sam. Or that sometimes, Lemonade can be a pretty bitter drink to swallow. (Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers, $16.99) Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Steve Bourie: American Casino Guide
An American Casino Guide (Casino Vacations, $18.95) by Steve Bourie taps into the huge casino-goers market by providing the money-saving, detailed information that is sought by the seasoned casino veteran as well as the first-time visitor. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Tuesday, February 16
Fat Tuesday

Bierhaus Tuesday Lunch Specials
Enjoy the lunch special, featuring an appetizer, entree, and dessert for a flat price of $12.95, featuring grilled chicken breast with roasted potatoes and string beans with toasted almonds or stuffed cabbage with mashed potatoes at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Tarpon Bend Happy Hour
Meet up with friends at Tarpon Bend, 65 Miracle Mile from 3 to 9pm for happy hour specials along with the fresh catch of the day and an amazing array of seasonal raw bar items. Call 305-444-3210. http://www.tarponbend.com

Mardi Gras Party At CocoWalk
At CocoWalk in the Grove, 3015 Grand Avenue, join Fat Tuesday and the Florida Marlins for the best Mardi Gras party in South Florida featuring two DJs, drink specials, Marlin’s Mermaids, prize wheels and give-aways all night. http://www.cocowalk.net

Silver Night Special At Crepemaker
Seniors: enjoy a 10% discount for everyone 65 and older each Tuesday evening at Crepemaker, 76 Miracle Mile. Call 305-807-3522.

Petanque Tournament At The Biltmore
Enjoy a Petanque Tournament where beginners and experts can play this fun and exciting game every Tuesday from 6 to 8pm. It’s happy hour with half price specialty cocktails from Veuve Clicquot and Belvedere Vodka. Meet up with friends for an evening of lighthearted competition. The weekly winner receives Sunday Brunch for two. Overall monthly winner receives a two-night stay. The Cascade Poolside Bar and Grill is perched on the edge of the resort’s famous 700,000-gallon swimming pool; the continent’s largest resort pool. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Bierhaus Schnitzel Night
Schnitzel lovers unite on Tuesdays at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus for a special two for one deal on authentic chicken and pork Bavarian schnitzel with Harald’s legendary potato salad from 5 to 10pm. Harald also has beer specials before 7pm at 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Kit Hammond Stapley: It Could Be Verse
It Could Be Verse (iUniverse, $16.95) is a fun and simple book that really gets to the heart of the matter. The verses, quotes and insights within are from an eclectic and esteemed group, including Lord Byron, Andrew Carnegie, Charles Darwin, Emerson, JFK, Abraham Lincoln, Plato, Will Rogers and Dostoevsky, who serve to remind you that laughter is now, as it always has been, the very best medicine. Collected by Kit Hammond-Stapely, a Heal Your Life teacher (Louise Hay’s book, You Can Heal Your Life has sold over 30 million copies), and a Laughter Facilitator, in partnership with Rhonda Blunden, It Could Be Verse, provides readers with the ammunition to blast the destructive power of stress and the pressure of stressful situations right out of their lives. Kit, based in Thames Ditton, Surrey, England is a cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 1992. By 1997 it had become aggressive and she underwent a risky Stem Cell Transplant. At this point something happened that was, ultimately, to change the whole direction of her life. She learned that her Life Purpose was “to increase the sum total of Love and Laughter on the Planet”. Today, Kit lives cancer-free to teach and empower others to embark on their own healing journey. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Wednesday, February 17

Seniors: Let’s Do Lunch Each Wednesday
Join old friends and meet new ones during a pleasant, sociable lunch every Wednesday at 12 noon at the Adult Activity Center at 624 Anastasia Avenue for $6 per person. Call 305-460-5609.

What’s Hip Wednesday At The Biltmore
Atlantico Rum presents What’s Hip Wednesday at the Biltmore Bar from 5 to 9pm, featuring half price drinks, wines and champagne for $5 to $9, a cheap and chic bar menu, fresh live jazz, fashionable models from Neiman Marcus and a series of free raffles, hosted by Trend Tracker Tara Gilani. From 7 to 9pm, enjoy complimentary samples of Atlantico Rum. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Champagne Feuillatte And Torres Art Exhibit
Meet and greet San Francisco native artist Luis Enrique Torres while viewing a display of his artwork as you stroll and sip Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte to a musical variety mix by DJ Guillo Cartaya at the Biltmore Hotel’s Granada Ballroom starting at 7pm. The cost is $25, or complimentary for Cellar Club members. Call 305-913-3203. http://www.thecellarclub.com

Tribal Arts Society Lecture
Indigenous Writing in the Americas: Recording History, Rituals, Myths, and Maps will be presented by Arthur Dunkelman, Curator of the Jay I. Kislak Foundation at 7pm at Lowe Art Museum. http://www.miami.edu/lowe/

David R. Dow: The Autobiography of an Execution
As a lawyer, David R. Dow has represented over 100 death row cases. Many of his clients have died. Most were guilty. Some might have been innocent. The Autobiography of an Execution (Twelve, $24.99) is his deeply personal story about justice, the death penalty, and a lawyer’s life. It is a chronicle of a life lived at paradoxical extremes: Witnessing executions and then coming home to the loving embrace of his wife and young son, who inquire about his day. Waging moral battles on behalf of people who have committed abhorrent crimes. Fighting for life in America’s death penalty capital, within a criminal justice system full of indifferent and ineffectual judges. Racing against time on behalf of clients who have no more time. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Paula Varsavsky: No One Said a Word
Luz Goldman, the narrator of No One Said a Word (Ontario Review Press, $22.95), grows up in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the seventies when Argentina is ruled by a military dictatorship. But politics is only peripheral in Paula Varsavsky’s debut novel. Luz is more concerned with her emotional abandonment by her divorced parents, and the sudden, unexpected death of her father which leaves her deeply bereft. Precocious, alienated, self-absorbed, Luz and her teenage friends lead disaffected, self-indulgent lives, taking drugs and engaging in casual sex. By sixteen, Luz is pregnant. All this is told without sentimentality, in a stark, wryly humorous voice that hides the rage lurking beneath. A memorable coming-of-age novel, No One Said a Word is an important addition to contemporary Latin American women’s fiction. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Karaoke Night At JohnMartin’s
Enjoy Karaoke at JohnMartin’s (253 Miracle Mile), every Thursday evening starting at 9:30pm. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

Blues Jam At Titanic
Wednesday is Blues Jam night at Titanic, hosted by Chris Cosner and his band, starting at 9pm. Titanic Brew Pub is located at 5813 Ponce. Call 305-667-ALES. http://www.TitanicBrewery.com

Thursday, February 18

Chamber Breakfast
The Coral Gables Chamber’s monthly Good Morning Coral Gables breakfast at the Biltmore Hotel begins at 7:30am, with Brian Keeley, president and CEO of Baptist Health of South Florida. Call 305-446-1657. http://www.coralgableschamber.org

Bierhaus Thursday Lunch Specials
Enjoy the lunch special, featuring an appetizer, entree, and dessert for a flat price of $12.95, featuring grilled fish of the day in a savory lemon-wine sauce with roasted potatoes and glazed baby carrots or lightly breaded chicken breast with roasted potatoes and cucumber salad at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Thursday Great Gables Bites
Restaurants and bars in Downtown Coral Gables have declared Thursday as the evening to get special deals on bites and beverages at many of the finest venues in the community. Meet up with friends for a break — without breaking the bank — every Thursday. For example, at Tarpon Bend, you can get two drinks and an appetizer for less than $10. Pass the word along. Coral Gables is the place to be on Thursday evenings for great deals on great bites at great places.

Mojito Madness Thursdays At Tarpon Bend
Stop into Tarpon Bend at 65 Miracle Mile each Thursday from 3 to 9pm for great deals on mojitos and soft tacos. Enjoy fresh, made-to-order watermelon, blackberry, grapefruit, pineapple and cantaloupe mojitos for only $3.50, plus delicious soft tacos for $1 each. Call 305-444-3210. http://www.tarponbend.com

Biltmore Bossa Nova
Enjoy the best of live Bosso Nova with Brazilian Singer and Guitarist Mariana Martin, Rose Max, Ramatis and Claudio Spiewak at the Biltmore’s Cascade Bar by the pool fro 6 to 9pm. Sip half price cocktails from Belvedere Vodka and 10 Cane Rum. Cascade Poolside Bar and Grill is perched on the edge of the resort’s famous 700,000-gallon swimming pool — the continent’s largest resort pool. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Angelique’s Bubbly Thursdays with Live Music
Meet up at Angelique Euro Cafe, 117 Miracle Mile from 4 to 8pm each Thursday for $4 glasses of Codorníu Brut Cava and $10 glasses of Champagne Piper-Heidsieck with the purchase of bar snacks. Enjoy the live jazz starting at 6:30pm. Call 305-529-9922. http://www.angeliqueeurocafe.com

Thirsty Thursday Wine Tastings
Join your hosts, Lalo Durazo, owner of Jaguar, and wine educator Barry Alberts of Berries to Wine for a weekly sampling of fine wines and great food at Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar and Latam Grill, 3067 Grand Avenue from 7 to 9pm each Thursday. The cost is $15 per person for food and wine. RSVP is not required.

Thursday Bierhaus Dinner Specials
It’s home-made Goulash Night at the Bierhaus, with choice of two side dishes at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Wine And Chocolate Tasting At PeterBrooke
Our friends at Peterbrooke Chocolatier, 227 Aragon, invite you to stop in each Thursday and Friday evening for a free tasting of wine and a wide assortment of fine chocolates. Discover Coral Gables’s favorite little chocolate shop, located only steps away from Books And Books. Call 305-446-3131. http://www.peterbrooke.com

Lecture Series At The Kampong: David Jones
The mission of the Kampong is to enrich life through discovery, scientific research, conservation, and education by perpetuating the survival of plants, ecosystems, and cultural knowledge of tropical regions. Their esteemed lecture series continues with David Jones, curator of the garden’s living collections, starting with a reception at 6:30pm followed by the program at 7pm. The Kampong, at 4013 Douglas Road, was Dr. David Fairchild’s private residence, now operated under the auspices of the National Tropical Botanical Garden. Call 305-442-7169. http://ntbg.org/gardens/kampong.php

An Evening With Sandy Skoglund
Join friends for a lecture with artist Sandy Skoglund as Lowe Art Museum celebrates the installation of Breathing Glass at 7pm in the UM School of Business Storer Auditorium. A reception follows from 8 to 9pm in the art museum. RSVP to 305-284-5960 or email to: lowersvp@as.miami.edu

Actors’ Playhouse Presents Melt
Melt, a play by Michael McKeever that embodies South Florida’s diversity, which won the Carbonell Award for Best New Work, will be presented by the Leadership Miami Alumni Association of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce at the Miracle Theatre. The production focuses on three families: Cuban, African and Jewish who all live in South Florida and whose stories are intricately woven tapestries of history and hope. The Group will fundraise to donate 2000 tickets to the community so that various community and civic groups and high school students can see the play. Tickets range in price from $10 to $30. Call Cameron Sisser at 305-479-7338.

Miami Modern Metropolis
The two decades that followed World War II were a period of extraordinary growth in Miami. During that time architectural modernism provided a framework for the city’s new urban patterns, novel building types, evolving aesthetics, and emerging environmental consciousness. The city was a virtual laboratory of modern architecture, a semitropical hothouse where modernism was probed, challenged, adapted, and ultimately expanded. Miami Modern Metropolis (Balcony Press, $85) explores the distinctive and illuminating premises embodied in the city’s growth from 1945 to 1965. Covering a range of architectural topics including hotels, retail, aerospace, and residential, Miami Modern Metropolis is both a thoroughly researched and entertaining look at one of the country’s most distinctive urban confections. 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. Find more of Robert’s work here www.greatgables.com

-Rob