Saturday, May 31, 2008

Saturday, May 31

Breakfast And Brunch At Novecento
Enjoy the outdoor patio or have breakfast indoors at Novecento, 121 Alhambra from 8am to 11:30. Brunch is served until 4pm Saturday and Sunday, with an extensive kid's menu. Call 305-557-0900. http://www.novecento.com

Shakra Saturday Specials:
Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Hatha Yoga at all levels from 10 to 11:30am. Enjoy their Zen and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida Residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Hear the Two Saucy Chicks of Morning Radio
Listen to Join Us at the Table, where Nancy Ancrum and Robbie Bell educate and entertain listeners on the impact of culture on what we eat. Learn how ethnic, national, regional and personal traditions around the world influence our food. Robbie and Nancy conduct chatty, lively, informative interviews with chefs, caterers, market owners and food growers -- plus authors, culinary historians and TV's star chefs. The bottom line: Find out how to eat better, cook better, live better -- and have fun while you do it from 9 to 10am every Saturday on WMCU-1080 AM. http://www.joinusatthetable.com

Tech Dive Miami 2008 In Coral Gables
The Global Underwater Explorers, in association with our own Underwater Unlimited Dive Shop, 4633 South LeJeune Road and Atlantis Dive Center of Key Largo presents a two-day gathering of the world's most celebrated technical scuba diving experts, featuring lectures, demonstrations, happy hours and social events, plus an opportunity to go scuba diving with legends in the business. The silent auction benefits GUE's educational programs. The raffle features great prizes with winners every hour. Come to the dive shop Saturday for a day-long series of events, then go diving in Key Largo Sunday. The cost is $100 per day or $175 for both days. For more information, call 305-445-7837. http://www.underwaterunlimited.net

Kids: Marc Chagall's Paint At Miracle Theatre
This colorful musical adventure is about young Marc Chagall's passion and persistence to follow his dream to become an artist. In the play Marc wants to be a painter more than anything, yet his parents strongly forbid it because of his religious cultural heritage. Respectful of his parent's wishes, the musical relates how Marc strived to imagine a way to combine his love of art with the unique style of painting for which he is known worldwide today. The play begins at 2pm at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. The last performance is May 31. Call 305-444-9293 . http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

Reverend Donna Schaper: Grass Roots Gardening
In 2003, Minister Donna Schaper wrote an op-ed for The New York Times detailing her rejection from the Coral Gables Garden Club. It seems that the ladies of the club thought she'd bring inappropriate people into the club (meaning gays and blacks). In Grassroots Gardening: Rituals for Sustaining Activism (Avalon, $13.95), Minister Schaper argues that gardening is a way to sustain activism. It's a ritual for radicals -- urbans, nomads, and for anybody who is sufficiently angry. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Miami Freestyle Invasion At BankUnited Center
Freestyle music was first developed primarily in New York City and Miami in the mid-1980s. It eventually spread to many other cities with Hispanic populations. the concert at BankUnited Center starts at 6:30pm, featuring Nyasia, Nayobe, Fascination, David formerly of Nice & Wild, Giggles, Noel, Coro, Rockell, Shannon, Safire, Cynthia, Johnny O and Secret Society, with special guests NYC's Mickey Garcia, DJ Ciro Llerena, Power 96 FM's DJ Laz. Call 305-358-5885. http://ticketmaster.com

Putting On Summer Shorts
The 13th Annual Summer Shorts Festival, produced by City Theatre will feature three performance series: Signature Shorts, Shorts 4 Kids and Undershorts from May 31 to June 22 at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts. America's Short Play Festival has just gotten more festive than ever. The lauded annual event is now offering three distinct performance series under the Summer Shorts umbrella: Signature Shorts, the signature series of Programs A & B that put City Theatre's "shorts" on the map; Shorts 4 Kids, a fast and furiously fun festival of "short" plays designed expressly for families; and Undershorts, a late-night series of provocative, political and hilarious plays that are cutting edge and current. Call 305-365-5400. http://www.citytheatre.com

Saturday Evening Wine Tasting At Vinisimo
Join your friends at Vinisimo, 2960 Coral Way for their Saturday evening Wine Tasting events with live music. Sample fine wines and delicious tapas from 7 to 9pm. Although they sell wines from all the world, Vinisimo specializes in high quality wines from the World Famous Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Rias Baixas Regions of Spain. Call 305-648-2964. http://www.vinisimo.us

Kids: Mulan The Musical At The Youth Center
Miami Children's Theater Mainstage Production adapts Disney's Mulan for the stage and brings the performance to Coral Gables. Travel back to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China with this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney's Mulan. The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor. But it's not going to be easy. Fighting is for men... and she's a girl. Mulan the musical is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit. The score includes favorites like "Reflection," "Honor to Us All" and "I'll Make a Man Out of You" as well as new songs that will get your audience up on its feet. All performances start at 8pm at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater, 405 University Drive. Tickets cost $12 for general admission and $10 for children. Call 305-274-3595.

Angel Romero At Gusman Hall
Orchestra Miami, under the direction of Frost School of Music alumna Elaine Rinaldi, will present world renowned guitarist Angel Romero at 8pm at UM Gusman Hall. The concert will feature his North American premiere of David Chesky's Concerto for Guitar and Orchestra. Call 305-271-8449.

Tarpon Bend Features Live Music
Catch a groove and enjoy the Catch Of The Day as live music emanates from Tarpon Bend from 8 to midnight at 65 Miracle Mile. Call 305-444-3210. http://www.tarponbend.com

Saturday Special At The Bierhaus
Never a cover charge at the Bierhaus. The dinner special is fresh roasted pork loin with sauerkraut and red cabbage at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Live Music at JohnMartin's
Drop into your favorite Irish Pub to hear the best live music at JohnMartin's, 253 Miracle Mile every Saturday evening. Enjoy the Blacksmith, a refreshing combination of Smithwick's Ale and Guinness. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

Titanic Presents Live Music
Enjoy great live music and excellent pub food and drink at Titanic Brew Pub, 5813 Ponce. Call 305-667-ALES. http://www.TitanicBrewery.com

Live Rock & Roll At The Bar
Coral Gables' legacy pub presents live Rock & Roll each Saturday evening, with drink specials including 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Friday, May 30, 2008

Friday, May 30

South Florida Arts Beat On WLRN
Tune in at 1pm to WLRN 91.3 FM to hear Ed Bell's South Florida Arts Beat program to stay abreast of cultural events in our community. You can also listen live on the internet. http://www.wlrn.org



Shakra Friday Specials:
Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Basic Yoga at beginners level from 5:30 to 6:45pm. Enjoy their Zen and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida Residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com



Live Music At The Grape
Stop in to your favorite wine bar at the Village Of Merrick Park for a great assortment of wines by the glass or the bottle, plus great food and live music to round out the experience. Now, from 5 to 7pm Monday through Friday, enjoy 2 for 1 glasses of wines in the 1 to 6 category. Meet up with friends at The Grape for a great time every time. Visit their Wine Seller, where you can choose from over 140 different wines by the bottle, and take advantage of 3-SUM: Their 3 bottle case, where you can save 15-20%. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com



Friday Night Wine Tasting Series at Christabelle's Quarter
Meet up with friends for a special tasting event hosted by wine educator Barry Alberts at the La Boheme Patio located on the third floor of the gorgeous Christabelle's Quarter, 3157 Commodore Plaza from 7 to 9:30pm featuring international wine selections. The cost is $15 per person and there is no need to RSVP. Call 305-793-3120.



Live Music In The B&B Courtyard
Enjoy live music in the beautiful Mediterranean courtyard Friday night from 7 to 11pm at Books and Books, 265 Aragon. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com



Exploring The Mayan Calendar
Author Alba Vales, whose father was a famous archaeologist working in Yucatan, will take us into the concept and intricate workings of the Mayan calendar, which predicts the end of the world as we know it in a foreseeable future. Learn more about a people and their understanding of the world that places the Mayans as one of the great cultures. This is history, science, culture and philosophy in one package. This event takes place at the Arts and Minds Center, 3138 Commodore Plaza at 7:30pm.



Rock And Roll at JohnMartin's
Friday evening is Rock 'n' Roll night at JohnMartin's, with the best local bands. Meet up with friends, enjoy some good pub food and refreshments and dance to your favorite tunes all night at 253 Miracle Mile. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com



Happy Hour on the Bierhaus Plaza
It's Happy Hour on the Plaza at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus at 60 Merrick Way with two for one drinks from 5 to 7pm. Order the famous Bierhaus Burger, one of the best Burgers in Town, or Louisiana Fish fry with Harald's legendary potato salad or fries. Enjoy live entertainment outdoors from 6 to 10pm. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc



Moose: A Memoir of Fat Camp
While pregnant with twins, one sentence uttered by her doctor sent Stephanie Klein reeling: "You need to gain fifty pounds." Instantly, an adolescence filled with insecurity, awkwardness, disappointment, and embarrassment came flooding back. Though she was determined to gain the weight for the health of her babies, she could only express what deep fear this caused in her by telling her doctor simply, "I used to be fat." In Moose: A Memoir of Fat Camp (HarperCollins, $24.95) Klein's passion and wrenching honesty fill the pages with attitude and heart, when as a mother-to-be, she's forced to confront her adolescent struggles and angst, recounting an angry childhood with a weak mother, and how a summer at fat camp shaped more than just her body. It shaped her life. More than a story about weight loss, Moose reminds everyone what it was like to feel like an outsider, to desperately seek the right outfit, the right slang, the best comeback, or whatever that unattainable something is that would finally make you fit in. Calling upon her childhood diary entries to jog her memory, Klein opens up and shares her deepest thoughts and feelings from that turbulent, hopeful time, baring her soul and making her heartache palpable. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com



Titanic Presents Live Music
Enjoy great live music, good food and drinks, featuring well-brewed beer on tap at Titanic Restaurant and Bar, 5813 Ponce. The music stars at 10pm. Call 305-667-ALES. http://www.TitanicBrewery.com



Ladies' Night At The Bar
Coral Gables' legacy pub presents drink specials: ladies can drink well drinks and Yuengling on draft for free from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Enjoy the selection of 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Thursday, May 29

Modernizing Mexico's Democracy: What Needs To Be Done?
The University of Miami's Center For Hemispheric Policy presents a panel discussion featuring Diana Villiers Negroponte, Nonresident Senior Fellow, Foreign Policy, The Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C.; Pamela StarrAssociate Director, Latin America Initiative, University of Southern California, Los Angeles; and Jeffrey Weldon, Professor, Department of Political Science, Instituto Tecnologico Autonomo de Mexico (ITAM), Mexico, D.F. The event takes place at the Hyatt Regency Venetian Room, 50 Alhambra Plaza at 8am. Call Isabel Artime at 305-284-9918. http://www.miami.edu/chp

Food For Thought Book Club Luncheons
Hungry for a good book and a good meal? Take a literary lunch break during your workday with the Thursday Book Club Luncheons at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at noon. Your paid reservation ($50 all inclusive) gets you the paperback selection for the current week, along with a delicious three course meal created by renowned chef Bernie Matz, and a professional book club facilitator to guide the discussion in the secluded Antiquarian Room. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Miracle Mile Toastmasters Thursday Lunch
With a shared interest in public speaking, members of the Miracle Mile Toastmasters meet every Thursday at 12:15pm at JohnMartin's Irish Restaurant, 253 Miracle Mile. Enjoy the opportunity to network, gain confidence and become an effective public speaker. The cost of lunch is $19. Call 786-399-9609. http://miraclemile.freetoasthost.us

Shakra Thursday Specials
Are you stressed to the max and have little time? Try the Deep tissue Massage for 35 minutes for $75 that caters to your most affected areas (neck, shoulders, or back, etc.). Got more time? Shakra does all types of massages up to 4 hours for the Ultra Stressed People! Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Yoga for Lunch al all levels from 12:15 to 1pm, Body Sculpting at all levels from 5:15-6:15pm to tone and sculpt your body, for Pilates at all levels from 6:15-7:15pm to stretch and tone your lower back and abdominal area, and Capoeira (Afro Brazilian Martial Art) at all levels from 7:30 to 9pm. Enjoy their Zen and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Free Drinks At Uva Happy Hour
UVA Restaurant and Lounge at 2626 Ponce presents free well drinks and half price premium drinks from 5 to 7pm on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Call 305-476-8111.

Live Music At The Grape
Stop in to your favorite wine bar at the Village Of Merrick Park for a great assortment of wines by the glass or the bottle, plus great food and live music to round out the experience. Now, from 5 to 7pm Monday through Friday, enjoy 2 for 1 glasses of wines in the 1 to 6 category. Meet up with friends at The Grape for a great time every time. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com

Poppin' Tropical Nights Every Thursday Evening at Fairchild
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is transformed into an open air art gallery as the monumental pop art sculptures of Roy Lichtenstein grace the garden, illuminated in the garden setting. Experience these amazing works of art at night every Thursday night from 6 to 9pm at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Road. Call 305-667-1651. http://www.fairchildgarden.org

Austrian Wines And Asian Cuisine
Enjoy a special event featuring the World of Austrian Wines paired with the Asian cuisine of Yuga Restaurant, 357 Alcazar at 7pm sharp. The dinner features Stezer Gruner Veltliner 2006 with Lump Crab and Daikon Radish Cannelloni; Willi Brundlmayer Gruner Veltliner "Kamptaler Terrassen" 2006 with Creamy Mussel Soup with a touch of coconut milk and asian spices; Loimer Estate Riesling "Kamptal" 2006 with Braised Duck Wontons; Glatzer Zweigelt "Riedencuvee" 2006 with Green Curry Salmon; Glatzer Blaufrunkisch 2006 with Almond Panna Cotta. The cost is $65. Call 305-442-8600.

Marjetta Geerling: Fancy White Trash
Marjetta Geerling's debut novel, Fancy White Trash (Penguin, $16.99) is as lighthearted and irreverent as its title. "If only life were as easy as your sisters." Abby's heard that one before. And it's true -- Shelby and Kait aren't exactly prim and proper. Abby is determined not to follow in their footsteps, so she has created the One True Love Plan. The most important part of the plan is Rule #1: Find Someone New. This means finding a guy who hasn't already dated Shelby or Kait. But when Abby starts falling for the possible father of Kait's baby, she has to figure out if some rules are meant to be broken. An elementary school teacher at St. Patrick, Miami Beach, Marjetta is celebrating her book launch with some live music and a truly "white trash" reception. Come dressed in your tackiest and trashiest outfit befitting this event. They'll be giving an award for the favorite at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Poolside At The Biltmore Unplugged
The Biltmore Unplugged Thursday features light jazz performances by Raiko Torres and Son Tres at 7 and 8pm. In addition, guests will enjoy half off Don Julio Tequila cocktails. Cascade Poolside Bar & 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

Thursday Bierhaus 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

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 & 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.

Prioleau Alexander: You Want Fries With That?
The American Dream used to include a white picket fence, 2.2 kids, and a dog. In today's frantic world, it's... well, let's be honest, it's quite different. But what would happen if you did have the nerve to quit your white-collar job? Prioleau Alexander can tell you: He walked away from a lucrative career as an advertising executive, seeking a life like that dude on Kung Fu. Over the next year he worked minimum-wage jobs as a pizza deliveryman, ice cream scooper, construction worker, ER tech, fast food jockey, and even cowboy on a Montana dude ranch. In You Want Fries with That?: A White-Collar Burnout Experiences Life at Minimum Wage (Arcade, $24.95) Prioleau explores life at minimum wage and proves unequivocally that the grass is not always greener on the other side. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Comedy Night At JohnMartin's
Enjoy Laughs On The Mile at JohnMartin's (253 Miracle Mile), every Thursday starting at 9pm as local comedian Freddie Stebbins and friends host a night of fun and frivolity at JohnMartin's Irish Pub. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

DJ Boe Spins At The Bar
Coral Gables' legacy pub presents the music of DJ Boe each Thursday evening, with drink specials: It's Super Size It Night for an extra ounce of liquor for free. Enjoy the selection of 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food every Thursday at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Wednesday, May 28

Seniors: Dancercise Classes
Enjoy aerobic routine while combining dancing in the 60 minute Dancercise class each Wednesday morning at 10am in the Adult Activity Center located at University Baptist Church, 624 Anastasia Avenue. Instructed by senior volunteer Belkis Frangente, the class features stretching, light aerobics and easy to follow dancing movements with music from across the globe. Senior residents pay $4 per month and non-residents $5 per month. Call 305-460-5500.

Seniors: Let's Do Lunch
Join fellow seniors for an enjoyable afternoon with a delicious catered lunch on Wednesdays. Let's Do Lunch will be held at the Chapel at University Baptist Church, the home of the Adult Activity Center, 624 Anastasia Avenue. Menus are available by calling the Recreation Specialist for Senior Services Anastasia Smith. The fee for residents and non-residents is only $5 per meal. Please register for lunch every Monday or pay for the entire month by calling 305-460-5609.

Coral Gables Museum Preview Exhibit
Curated by historian Arva Moore Parks, the Coral Gables Museum Preview Exhibit showcases early Coral Gables, the Merrick Family and the incredible vision of Coral Gables founder and developer George Merrick, every Wednesday and Sunday from 1 to 4pm at Old Spanish Village, 2901 Ponce. Filled with never before seen early Gables photos and memorabilia, the exhibit provides a glimpse into what might be included in the future Coral Gables Museum. Call 305-910-3996,

Seniors: Social Hour Afternoon
Spend Wednesday afternoons at the Coral Gables Adult Activity Center for Social Hour. Meet at the Chapel of University Baptist Church, 624 Anastasia Avenue, from 1:30 to 2:30pm to catch up with your friends, play a few games or just relax.

Shakra Wednesday Specials
Unwind at the Westin Colonnade's lobby from 5 to 7pm with complimentary Chair Massages and Table Tai stretches at 180 Aragon. Visit Shakra's beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Yoga for Lunch at all levels from 12:15 to 1pm, for Pilates at all levels from 5:15 to 6:15pm to stretch and tone your lower back and abdominal area, Basic Yoga at beginners level from 6:15 to 7:30pm and Belly Dancing at beginners level from 7:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy their Zen and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Free Drinks At Uva Happy Hour
UVA Restaurant and Lounge at 2626 Ponce presents free well drinks and half price premium drinks from 5 to 7pm on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Call 305-476-8111.

Kids: Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts
The Pack 7 Cub Scouts meet every Wednesday at 7pm at the George Merrick scout house at 1107 South Greenway Drive. Boys of elementary school age are welcome. Also, the George Merrick Troop 7 Boy Scouts meet there at 7:30pm each Wednesday evening for boys ages 11 to 17. The troop now celebrates 86 years of community service. In addition, Girl Scouts of Troop 7 meet on Fridays. Call Robin at 305-443-7973. http://www.pack7.org or http://www.troop7.org

What's Hip Wednesday At The Biltmore
Don't miss What's Hip Wednesday, a weekly happy hour event at the BIltmore Lounge featuring half-price cocktails and complimentary hors d'oeuvres from 7 to 9pm, as well as entertainment and hip fashions from Neiman Marcus Coral Gables. The evening is hosted by "Trend Tracker" Tara Gilani. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Bring It On: Vegetarian Paella With Rudy Straker
You asked for it and now you are going to get Chef Rudy's vegetarian paella at a special cooking class at Fairchild Gardens, 10901 Old Cutler Road. You'll go through the steps of preparation and, while this vegetarian's dream paella is cooking, he will prepare two appetizers to sample along with homemade Sangria, from 6:30 to 9:30pm. The cost is $65 or $5 for Fairchild Members. Call 305-667-1651 x3392. http://www.fairchildgarden.org

Battle Of The Chefs
battle of the chefsDowntown Coral Gables launches its Battle of the Chefs 2008 Summer Series at La Cuisine Gourmet, 50 Aragon at 7pm. Battle of the Chefs features a culinary challenge between two high profile Gables' chefs on the last Wednesday of each of the following summer months: May 28, June 25, and July 30. The first Battle of the Chefs kicks off with a duel between Chef Willy Hernandez of Caramelo Restaurant and Chef Marc Vidal of Por Fin Restaurant and Lounge. Admission is complimentary; however, a donation of $15 is encouraged, benefiting The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis. The chefs are given a bag of mystery ingredients provided by The Fresh Market in Coconut Grove. Each team has 45 minutes to produce three dishes. The competition is judged on taste, originality, and presentation. A special thanks to event sponsors La Cuisine Gourmet, The Fresh Market, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly, Real Sangria, Cardenal Mendoza, Fiji Water, The Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis and the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. Call 305-442-9006. http://www.lacuisinegourmet.com

Wine Specials At The Grape
Stop in to your favorite wine bar at the Village Of Merrick Park for a great assortment of wines by the glass or the bottle, plus great food to round out the experience. It's only $15 for three preselected white or red wines. Meet up with friends at The Grape for a great time every time. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com

First Course Book Club
Enjoy a series of ready-made book club evenings at The Cafe at Books and Books each Wednesday evening featuring great literature, lively conversation, fine wine and tasty appetizers in one convenient package. Your $40 also includes the paperback selection for the weekly meeting and a professional book-club facilitator to guide the discussion at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Wednesday Special At The Bierhaus
Enjoy Harald's Crisp roasted Pork shanks with choice of two sides at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Listen to the sounds of local legend Piano Bob Wilder and his New Orleans style boogie. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Diana Abu-Jaber: Origin
Lena is a fingerprint expert at a crime lab in the small city of Syracuse, New York, where winters are cold and deep. Suddenly, a series of crib deaths -- indistinguishable from SIDS except for the fevered testimony of one distraught mother with connections in high places -- draws the attention of the police and the national media and raises the possibility of the inconceivable: could there be a serial infant murderer on the loose? Orphaned as a child, out of place as an adult, gifted with delicate and terrifying powers of intuition, Lena finds herself playing a critical role in the case. But then there is the mystery of her own childhood to solve... Could the improbable deaths of a half-dozen babies be somehow connected to her own improbable survival? The beauty and originality of Diana Abu-Jaber's writing are in Origin (Norton) accompanied by deft, page-turning narrative tension and atmosphere, tugging the reader to an unforgettable conclusion. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.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

Shot Night At The Bar
It's Shot Night every Wednesday at The Bar with $2 shots of Cuervo and Jager all night. Enjoy their selection of 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Tuesday, May 27

Kiwanis Club Weekly Luncheon
Meeting every Tuesday for lunch in Coral Gables since 1926, the Kiwanis Club is a group of civic minded business leaders and residents that give of their time and resources to programs that benefit children, as well as recognizing outstanding public safety professionals in our community. The group meets every Tuesday at noon. Lunch is $18. Visitors are welcome. Call 305-443-3136. http://www.kiwaniscoralgables.org

Business Referral Group Lunch
BRG meets every Tuesday from noon to 1:30pm at Anacapri Restaurant, 2530 Ponce to exchange referrals, references and business contacts. Contact Eli Ristine at 305-443-1364. http://www.businessreferralgroup.org.

Shakra Tuesday Specials
You can have the body of your dreams with Vacuumtherapy (Cellulite Elimination and firming and toning of flaccid and flabby skin). Schedule your complimentary 15 minute session to see how the machine works and feels, and to receive an analysis of your problem areas. Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Pilates at all levels from 5:30 to 6:30pm to stretch and tone your lower back and abdominal area, Vinyasa Yoga at beginners level from 6:30 to 7:45pm, and Capoeira (Afro Brazilian Martial Art) at all levels from 7:45 to 9:15pm. Enjoy their Zen-style and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Live Music At The Grape
Stop in to your favorite wine bar at the Village Of Merrick Park for a great assortment of wines by the glass or the bottle, plus great food and live music to round out the experience. Now, from 5 to 7pm Monday through Friday, enjoy 2 for 1 glasses of wines in the 1 to 6 category. Meet up with friends at The Grape for a great time every time. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com

Novecento Presents Wine Tuesdays
Every Tuesday at Novecento, 121 Alhambra Plaza, enjoy 50% off the entire wine list with dinner. Some allocated wines are excluded. Call 305-557-0900. http://www.novecento.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

Havana Nights At The Biltmore
Every Tuesday at the Biltmore's Hotel's poolside restaurant enjoy Havana Night from 6 to 10pm (no passport required) featuring half off all Johnnie Walker cocktails and specialty cigars. The Cascade Poolside Bar & 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

Finding It Again: The Truth About Love After 40
A journal about one man's trek to find love through a decade of dating, Finding It Again: The Truth about Love After 40 (February Press, $23) by Kenn Shapiro is divided into three sections: Initiation, Education, and Culmination. Shapiro discusses what he learned from each dating experience, and what to do or not to do again. Whether it was being set up on a blind date by a friend or internet dating, Shapiro's stories are real and can relate to the average dater. Readers will fall in love with Shapiro's stories and how he's learned to appreciate the simple things in life and learned to not give up on love. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Reggae Night Specials At The Bar
It's Reggae Music Night every Tuesday at The Bar. Enjoy their selection of 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Monday, May 26, 2008

Monday, May 26

Food And Wine On The Internet
Tune into WSFG online-radio from 11am to noon to hear special food and wine related guests as they join hosts Simone Diament and Carole Kotkin. http://southfloridagourmet.com/newsite/talkradio.html

Shakra Monday Specials
Shakra will come to your office or home to administer Chair Massages for a special rate of $70 (this special rate applies for locations within one mile from Shakra). Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Yoga for Lunch at all levels from 12:15 to 1pm, for Body Sculpting at all levels from 5:15 to 6:15pm to tone and stretch your body, Hatha Yoga at all levels from 6:15 to 7:30pm and for Belly Dancing at intermediate level from 7:30 to 8:30pm. Enjoy their Zen-style and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Free Family And Friends CPR Class
Family And Friends CPR teaches how to perform CPR in adults or children, and how to help an adult or child who is choking. It is designed for family members, friends and members of the general community who want to learn CPR but do not need a course completion card. The free course is taught at UM Wellness Center at 1pm. Call 305-284-5433.

Martini Monday At The Biltmore Bar
The weekly Martini Monday is an event dedicated to the most chic of cocktails for the choicest of singles at the Biltmore Bar featuring half price Belvedere Vodka, Ciroc Vodka, and Smirnoff Vodka. The hotel's resident expert mixologists have developed a menu of Martinis unlike any other at the Biltmore Bar, 1200 Anastasia, starting at 6pm every Monday. Call 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com

Via Quadronno Monday Cooking Class
Join your friends at Via Quadronno, 320 San Lorenzo Ave in the Village of Merrick Park each Monday for a fascinating cooking class and a blissful evening discovering great food and wine starting at 7pm. Chef Maurizio Florio will entertain and spoil your palate while presenting outstanding Italian dishes. Seating is limited so reserve early. RSVP to Francesco@viaquadronno.com or call 305-476-1160. http://www.viaquadronno.com

Spoken Word Open Mic Night At The Grape
Stop in to your favorite wine bar at the Village Of Merrick Park for a great assortment of wines by the glass or the bottle, plus great food. Each Monday night from 8pm to close, enjoy an evening of poetry, spoken word, or whatever is on your mind. Come ready to speak up. Meet up with friends at The Grape for a great time every time. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com

Fritz And Franz Monday Specials
The Fritz And Franz Bierhaus at 60 merrick Way will once again be open every Monday with a fresh oven roasted Chicken with mixed salad plate special for $14.95. Call 305-774-0883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Acoustic Music Showcase And Wheat Beer At JohnMartin's
John Brown hosts the weekly acoustic music showcase, and special $5 pricing on JohnMartin's Wheat Beer each Sunday evening at JohnMartin's Irish Pub, 253 Miracle Mile. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

Late Night Specials At The Bar
Enjoy 2 for 1 drink specials from 11pm to 1am. Enjoy their selection of 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com

Sunday, May 25, 2008

Sunday, May 25

Breakfast And Brunch At Novecento
Enjoy the outdoor patio or have breakfast indoors at Novecento, 121 Alhambra from 8am to 11:30. Brunch is served until 4pm Saturday and Sunday, with an extensive kid's menu. Call 305-557-0900. http://www.novecento.com



Sunday Brunch At The Grape
Enjoy a leisurely brunch at the Grape at the Village of Merrick Park from 11:30am to 3pm with complimentary tastes of rare wines from the four corners of the world. Call 305-444-WINE. http://www.yourgrape.com



Free Sunday Tours Of The Biltmore Hotel
The Biltmore Docents, members of Dade Heritage Trust, offer a free walking tour of the Historic Biltmore Hotel each Sunday at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30pm, starting in the upstairs lobby by the front desk. When available, they take you to the 13th floor where the murder took place that created the ghost of the Biltmore. These 55 minute tours are free. Call the hotel at 305-445-1926. http://www.biltmorehotel.com



Screening of Immortality: Horse & Carriage
Enjoy this free screening of Immortality: Horse & Carriage, a short film based on the book, In Search of the Miraculous by P.D. Ouspensky. See the movie at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com



Dr. Patrick Swift: One Mountain, Many Paths
Believing our likenesses vastly outnumber our differences, Dr. Patrick Swift compiled the spiritual companion One Mountain, Many Paths (Double Eagle Press, $16.95). Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com



Sunday Special At The Bierhaus
It's sports time in the Bierhaus and the dinner special is Jaegerschnitzel with Spaetzle at Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc



Up The Yangtze at Cosford Cinema
In China, it is simply known as "The River." But the Yangtze, and all of the life that surrounds it, is undergoing a truly astonishing transformation wrought by the largest hydroelectric project in history, the Three Gorges Dam. Canadian documentary filmmaker Yung Chang returns to the gorgeous, now-disappearing landscape of his grandfather's youth to trace the surreal life of a "farewell cruise" that traverses the gargantuan waterway. Singularly moving and cinematically breathtaking, Up The Yangtze gives a human dimension to the wrenching changes facing not only an increasingly globalized China, but the world at large. The film begins at 8pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. Cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.com.miami.edu/cosford



Karaoke Night At Titanic
Grab the microphone and sing your favorite songs Sunday evening at Karaoke Night at Titanic, hosted by Boogie Man George with the largest songbook in Miami. Karaoke starts at 9pm at Titanic Brew Pub, 5813 Ponce. Call 305-667-ALES. http://www.TitanicBrewery.com

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Saturday, May 24

Breakfast And Brunch At Novecento
Enjoy the outdoor patio or have breakfast indoors at Novecento, 121 Alhambra from 8am to 11:30. Brunch is served until 4pm Saturday and Sunday, with an extensive kid's menu. Call 305-557-0900. http://www.novecento.com

Hear the Two Saucy Chicks of Morning Radio
Listen to Join Us at the Table, where Nancy Ancrum and Robbie Bell educate and entertain listeners on the impact of culture on what we eat. Learn how ethnic, national, regional and personal traditions around the world influence our food. Robbie and Nancy conduct chatty, lively, informative interviews with chefs, caterers, market owners and food growers -- plus authors, culinary historians and TV's star chefs. The bottom line: Find out how to eat better, cook better, live better -- and have fun while you do it from 9 to 10am every Saturday on WMCU-1080 AM. http://www.joinusatthetable.com

Shakra Saturday Specials
Visit their beautiful and serene Yoga Studio for Hatha Yoga at all levels from 10 to 11:30am. Enjoy their Zen and fully equipped locker rooms as well as class props for free. The first class for new students (Florida residents) is always free at Shakra Relaxation Oasis, 271 Alhambra Circle. Call 305-774-1355. http://www.shakramiami.com

Kids: Marc Chagall's Paint At Miracle Theatre
This colorful musical adventure is about young Marc Chagall's passion and persistence to follow his dream to become an artist. In the play Marc wants to be a painter more than anything, yet his parents strongly forbid it because of his religious cultural heritage. Respectful of his parent's wishes, the musical relates how Marc strived to imagine a way to combine his love of art with the unique style of painting for which he is known worldwide today. The play begins at 2pm at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile. The last performance is May 31. Call 305-444-9293 . http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

UM Hurricanes Baseball Hosts North Carolina
Mark Light Stadium on the University campus is the site for a 1pm baseball game. Call 305-284-CANES for tickets.

Saturday Evening Wine Tasting At Vinisimo
Join your friends at Vinisimo, 2960 Coral Way for their Saturday evening Wine Tasting events with live music. Sample fine wines and delicious tapas from 7 to 9pm. Although they sell wines from all the world, Vinisimo specializes in high quality wines from the World Famous Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Rias Baixas Regions of Spain. Call 305-648-2964. http://www.vinisimo.us

Continental Shifts: The Art of Edoaurd Duval-Carrie
Edited by Edward J. Sullivan, Continental Shifts: The Art of Edouard Duval-Carrie (Haitian Cultural Alliance/Arte al Dia) features the magical realism captured in both painting and sculpture by Duval-Carrie, whose art exhibits a dynamic blend of Afro-Caribbean culture, fantasy, and spectacular ornamentation. "Edouard Duval-Carrie is one of Haiti's most distinguished modern artists," says Sullivan. "Completely trained in the classical manner in ateliers in Paris, Montreal, and the U.S., he departs from the visual traditions usually associated with the mid-20th century 'Haitian School' artists and updates them through a careful and deliberate manipulation, imbuing his images with the iconography of voodoo spirituality, Haitian politics, and the trauma of life as it is lived in a nation in flux." Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com

Last Call: The Accomplices At Gablestage
Longtime journalist (New York Times) and playwright Bernard Weinraub dramatizes how the American government, media, and even American Jewish officials, fearing a backlash of anti-Semitism at home, failed to act decisively enough to stop the World War II massacre of European Jews. The play beings at 8pm at GableStage, 2100 Anastasia, continuing through May 25. Call 305-446-1116. http://www.gablestage.org

Last Call: Thumbs At Miracle Theatre
Thumbs is a smart and satirical mystery comedy that follows two equally cunning women, from two very different walks of life, who use all of their wit and will to survive a cat-and-mouse game with a devious killer. Thumbs leads its characters through this dark comedy as they try to catch a serial killer known as Tom Thumb, named for the peculiar signature of dismembering digits. The play starts at 8pm at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, continuing through May 25. Call 305-444-9293. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org

Kids: Mulan The Musical At The Youth Center
Miami Children's Theater Mainstage Production adapts Disney's Mulan for the stage and brings the performance to Coral Gables. Travel back to the legendary, story-telling days of ancient China with this action-packed stage adaptation of Disney's Mulan. The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor. But it's not going to be easy. Fighting is for men... and she's a girl. Mulan the musical is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit. The score includes favorites like "Reflection," "Honor to Us All" and "I'll Make a Man Out of You" as well as new songs that will get your audience up on its feet. All performances start at 8pm at the Coral Gables War Memorial Youth Center Theater, 405 University Drive. Tickets cost $12 for general admission and $10 for children. Call 305-274-3595.

Holly At Cosford Cinema
Shot on location in Cambodia, including many scenes in actual brothels in the notorious red light district of Phnom Penh, Holly is a captivating, touching and emotional experience. Patrick (Ron Livingston), an American card shark and dealer of stolen artifacts, has been "comfortably numb" in Cambodia for years, when he encounters Holly (Thuy Nguyen), a 12-year-old Vietnamese girl, in the K11 red light village. The girl has been sold by her impoverished family and smuggled across the border to work as a prostitute. Holly's virginity makes her a lucrative prize, and when she is sold to a child trafficker, Patrick embarks on a frantic search through both the beautiful and sordid faces of the country, in an attempt to bring her to safety. The film begins at 8pm at Cosford Cinema on the second floor of the Memorial Classroom building on UM campus. Cash only. Call 305-284-4861. http://www.com.miami.edu/cosford

Tarpon Bend Features Live Music
Catch a groove and enjoy the Catch Of The Day as live music emanates from Tarpon Bend from 8 to midnight at 65 Miracle Mile. Call 305-444-3210. http://www.tarponbend.com

Saturday Special At The Bierhaus
Never a cover charge at the Bierhaus. The dinner special is fresh roasted pork loin with sauerkraut and red cabbage at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus, 60 Merrick Way. Call 305-774-1883. http://www.bierhaus.cc

Live Music at JohnMartin's
Drop into your favorite Irish Pub to hear the best live music at JohnMartin's, 253 Miracle Mile every Saturday evening. Enjoy the Blacksmith, a refreshing combination of Smithwick's Ale and Guinness. Call 305-445-3777. http://www.johnmartins.com

Titanic Presents Live Music
Enjoy great live music and excellent pub food and drink at Titanic Brew Pub, 5813 Ponce. Call 305-667-ALES. http://www.TitanicBrewery.com

Live Rock & Roll At The Bar
Coral Gables' legacy pub presents live Rock & Roll each Saturday evening, with drink specials including 48 bottled beers, 10 great brews on tap and the best comfort food at The Bar, 172 Giralda. Call 305-442-2730. http://www.gablesthebar.com