Category: Coral Gables

Intro to Adobe Photoshop Lightroom With Seth Resnick 4/27/14

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Intro to Adobe Photoshop Lightroom With Seth Resnick
Sunday, 04/27/2014 – 09:30 am – 05:00 pm
Leica_Store_Logo_WhiteLeica Store Miami
372 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Take your post-processing skills to the next level with this one-day, comprehensive Adobe Lightroom workshop. Adobe Lightroom expert Seth Resnick of D-65 will help you to harness the power of this program and incorporate it into your own photography. We’ll work mainly in the Library and Develop modules and concentrate on setting up your external drives, importing files into Lightroom, organizing files, key-wording, metadata presets, synchronization and working on sample files in the develop module.

LTNN Workshop Supercharge Your Social Media and E-mail Marketing 4/16/14

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LTNN Workshop: “Supercharge Your Social Media and E-mail Marketing”
ltnnWednesday, April 16, 2014, 8:30AM – 11:30AM
Newman Alumni Center, University of Miami
6200 San Amaro Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Register Online

The Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network Workshop Series

The Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network – LTNN is co-hosted by the University of Miami School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Development, and Catalyst Miami. We are honored to continue offering an incredible series of workshops throughout the Spring 2014 semester. With a focus on strengthening bonds and leadership, attendees will learn ways on how to build a high impact nonprofit.

4/16 Featured Speaker: Alex de Carvalho – Constant Contact’s Educational Marketing Expert and Regional Director for South Florida

Most nonprofits already see the value in connecting with their current and potential customers via social media and email. But the challenge is figuring out what you actually need to do in order to drive real results for your organization. This seminar covers the best practices and winning strategies for driving repeat actions and finding and keeping subscribers, increasing engagement and deliverability rates, writing good subject lines and content, getting readers to take action, and becoming a trusted source. You will learn how to stay top of mind to make it easy for your readers to share your message and act on your initiatives, and for you to measure results.

Limited scholarships available. Please contact Kristine Singer at KristineS@CatalystMiami.org or 305-576-5001 Ext. 112 for more information.

South Florida Palm Society Show & Sale 5/3/14 – 5/4/14

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South Florida Palm Society Show & Sale
Sunday, 05/03/2014 – 05/04/2014 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under.

The South Florida Palm Society will hold its annual spring show & sale featuring the world’s largest sale of rare and exotic palms. Each visitor can take home a free palm seedling while quantities last. Vendors and members will be available for advice and to answer any questions on the proper methods for growing a variety of palms. While there, stroll through the 83 acres of Fairchild and enjoy the world-class collection of palms and cycads.

The public is also invited to attend South Florida Palm Society general meetings held at Fairchild at 7:00 p.m. on the first Monday of every even-numbered month. The next meeting is June 2.

FIU College of Architecture And The Arts Cocktail Reception Fundraiser 4/29/14

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FIU College of Architecture And The Arts Cocktail Reception Fundraiser
Tuesday, 04/29/2014 – 06:30 pm – 09:00 pm
Untitled-1Sushi Samba
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Join us at Sushi Samba Coral Gables for Florida International University’s School of Architecture And The Arts fundraising receptionThere will be complimentary drinks, appetizers, and everyone who donates will be entered in our raffle to win great prizes, so be sure to stop byThe cocktail reception will benefit the FIU School of Architecture And The Art’s architecture programs, student scholarships and department programs. RSVP to Ashley Garcia at asnigarc@fiu.edu or 305.348.4971.

Big Band Concert at Fairchild 4/19/14

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Big Band Concert at Fairchild
Saturday, 04/19/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $12 – $45

Delight in a big band style outdoor concert featuring the Frost School of Music Concert Jazz Band, singer and actress Rebecca Renee Olstead, and singer James Tormé. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $45 for non-members, $35 for members, $20 for students with ID, and $12 for children 17 and under. Lawn seats are included in price of admission.

The University of Miami is home to the Frost School of Music Concert Jazz Band, an award-winning jazz ensemble that has been performing for more than 30 years. The band is directed by John Daversa and plays a mix of classic and contemporary jazz pieces.

Rebecca Renee Olstead is best known for her roles on the TV programs “Still Standing” and “Secret Life of the American Teenager.” Since her debut album was released in 2004, she has performed live on shows like “Oprah,” “The Today Show,” and “The Late Show with David Letterman.”

James Tormé is a jazz vocalist and son of 3-time Grammy Award winning jazz singer Mel Tormé. His debut album was released in 2011. He has performed at numerous venues worldwide and was a recipient of the Chuck Niles Jazz Music Award.

World Famous “Old Spice Guy Visits Miami to Teach Young Guys How to Scent Responsibly 4/15/14

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World Famous “Old Spice Guy Visits Miami to Teach Young Guys How to Scent Responsibly
Tuesday, 04/15/2014 – 01:30 pm – 03:30 pm
old-spice-man-isaiah-mustafa_510University of Miami
1300 Memorial Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Isaiah Mustafa, “The Old Spice Guy”, and Old Spice are going on the road across the U.S. on a “Smellcome to Manhood” tour to further Old Spice’s “scent responsibly” mission, which aims to end the overspraying epidemic once and for all.

Overspraying continues to be a major issue in the U.S. According to a recent national Old Spice survey, 90 percent of students (male and female) have been bothered by too much body spray at school. Even more revealing – 68 percent of young guys say they were not properly taught how to use body spray.

At 1:30 p.m., Old Spice will host a pop-up pep rally at the University of Miami with a live performance by the Sunsations, UM’s resident dance team, product giveaways and selfie photo opps with Mustafa.

A former wide receiver for the NFL, Mustafa gained sudden and substantial fame as the result of his Old Spice viral/TV campaigns, which garnered hundreds of millions of online hits and transformed Mustafa into a widespread sensation that culminated in an Emmy win for “Best TV Commercial.” In January 2014, Mustafa made his triumphant return as “The Old Spice Guy” for a series of digital “Internet-ventions”, designed to end the most embarrassing male mistakes.

Sushi & Sake 101 4/29/14

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Sushi & Sake 101
Tuesday, 04/29/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
SushiSAMBA Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 85

The class consists of a two-part educational experience. The sake portion is led by SUSHISAMBA’s sake sommelier and includes five flights with an introduction to the history of sake, its common myths, pairing tips and more. From aromatic to aged to sparkling, guests will be exposed to a diverse range of sake from new prefectures every month – be it “sweet and spicy” or “rich and round with a sweet caramel finish.” Participants will not leave hungry and should bring their appetites! Throughout the class, they will enjoy a selection of SUSHISAMBA’s signature dishes, a variety of sushi rolls, edamame, tempura and sashimi.

In the second part of the class, participants will gain insider sushi-making tips from SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables’ Executive Sushi Chef Yasuo Tujimori, including an introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selection and preparation of raw fish. But that’s not all – the class will conclude with all participants creating, and enjoying, sushi rolls of their choice! The students will leave the class with an informative take-away booklet designed to help apply their knowledge at home.

Spring Garden Festival at Fairchild 4/12/14 – 4/13/14

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Spring Garden Festival at Fairchild
Saturday, 04/12/2014 – 04/13/2014 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $0-25

Join in celebrating spring with local foods and the gardens they grow in. Browse vegetables, herbs, and handmade products from local vendors, take a stroll through the Edible Garden, sample flavors at the Spring Beer Garden, sit in on lectures about butterflies, and take home some of the thousands of plants on sale from Fairchild’s nursery and local plant vendors. And, since butterflies are important pollinators, expect many cooking demos featuring honey.

Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, $12 for children 6-17, and free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under.

VeritageMiami 4/9/14-4/12/14

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VeritageMiami
Wednesday, April 9, with a Craft Beer Tasting at Wynwood Walls
Thursday, April 10, Fine Wine Tasting at the Village of Merrick Park
Friday, April 11, Interactive Dinner at the InterContinental Miami
Saturday, April 12, Auction & Wine Dinner on the diamond at Marlins Park
www.veritagemiami.com

veritagemiamiVeritageMiami brings together more than 4,000 wine and food lovers for four days of culinary indulgence. Since its inception, VeritageMiami has raised more than $12 million for the community. All proceeds support United Way of Miami Dade’s work in education, financial stability and health.

VeritageMiami is proud to announce its presenting sponsor City National Bank and that five of Miami’s most talented chefs will headline its signature Interactive Dinner on April 11, at the InterContinental Miami. Considered one of the year’s most unique culinary experiences, guests will team up and cook a five-course meal under the tutelage of the distinguished chefs, recently deemed Miami’s culinary “New Guard” by INDULGE Magazine: Alberto Cabrera of Bread + Butter, Todd Erickson of HaVen South Beach, José Mendín of The Pubbelly Restaurant Group, Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House and César Zapata of The Federal Food, Drink & Provisions. The chefs will bring their unique flavors and backgrounds as they guide guests in preparing the different courses, with Johnson & Wales culinary students serving as sous chefs and sommeliers. All proceeds benefit United Way of Miami-Dade.

“City National Bank is committed to giving back to the communities we serve, and United Way – because of its sustainable impact in the areas of education, healthy and financial stability – is the centerpiece of our efforts,” City National Bank President and CEO Jorge Gonzalez said. “As a community bank it is also great to support a festival that celebrates South Florida’s burgeoning food scene and these talented young chefs who have been hailed as the city’s new culinary guard.”

Alberto Cabrera is the executive chef of Bread + Butter in Coral Gables, where the Miami native embraces his Cuban-American roots – taking traditional dishes and revamping them by adding a modern spin, such as his Chicharron De Puerco with a truffle-black bean puree. Cabrera learned the art of cooking as he moved up the ranks at notable kitchens including Robbin Haas’ Chispa and the Miami extension of Madrid’s La Broche. At Bread + Butter, Cabrera infuses the carefree charm of Cuba’s mambo era with the modish slant of the modern American gastropub.
Todd Erickson is the executive chef of HaVen South Beach on Lincoln Road, a futuristic electric lounge offering innovative cocktails and some of the most refined food in the city. At HaVen, Erickson takes local, organic ingredients and transforms them into a variety of global small plates from crudos to duck sliders. Erickson got his culinary start at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and from there went on to open a catering company and three four-star restaurants in Dallas, Texas. After having such a successful start with HaVen, Erickson and the Haven Hospitality Group opened Huahua’s Taqueria just down the street. Erickson has also announced HaVen will be expanding this spring to include a full dinner menu.

José Mendín is the director of culinary operations for The Pubbelly Restaurant Group, the team who many Miami foodies credit for the local chef movement. Mendín, a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, worked for many well-known restaurants including Nobu and Sushi Samba, before opening Pubbelly Gastropub in Miami Beach with his Pubbelly Group partners Andreas Schreiner and Sergio Navarro. Since then, the Pubbelly Group has experienced incredible success and has expanded to include four more restaurants – PB Steak, Pubbelly Sushi, Barceloneta and the newest, L’Echon Brasserie. In 2012 and again this year, Mendín was distinguished as a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef South, and most recently won Miami Cochon 555, a regional all-out pork cooking frenzy, and will compete in the Grand Cochon competition this summer.

Giorgio Rapicavoli is the executive chef of Eating House, the innovative pop-up restaurant turned Coral Gables mainstay. Rapicavoli burst onto the Miami food scene when he became the first Miami chef to win Food Network’s “Chopped” television competition. After winning the competition and $10,000 prize, Rapicavoli and business partner Alex Cassanova opened the Eating House pop-up. The venture was so successful that Eating House eventually opened as a full-time establishment at its original location in Coral Gables. In 2013, Rapicavoli was distinguished as a James Beard Award Rising Star chef semifinalist. Rapicavoli is also nominated for Culinary Innovator in this year’s ZESTtm Awards at Johnson & Wales University.

César Zapata is known as the “Stove Master and Pig Whisperer” of The Federal Food, Drink & Provisions. Before opening The Federal, Zapata changed the way South Floridians thought about food by opening Miami’s first pop-up restaurant, Phuc Yea!, in 2011. After its widespread success, Zapata and his business partner/wife Aniece Meinhold opened The Federal on Biscayne Boulevard. Since opening, The Federal has received praise from major publications such as Food & Wine Magazine and USA Today. As their next venture, Zapata and Meinhold are in the process of relaunching “Phuc Yea!” in a permanent location.

As of March 4, VeritageMiami sponsors include: Presenting sponsor City National Bank at the Gran Cru level; American Airlines and Marlins Park at the Vintner level; Bacardi USA, Bank of America, Carnival Foundation, Celebrity Cruises, Global Resources Registry, Greenberg Traurig and Village of Merrick Park at the Cellar Master level; BB&T, CBIZ, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Johnson & Wales University, Ryder System and World of Wine Guide at the Cooper level; Baptist Health South Florida, Cisco Systems, Deloitte Services, Ernst & Young, The Fairholme Foundation, Image Photo Services, Insight Direct USA, InterContinental Miami, LNR Property, Nestle Waters North America, Noven Pharmaceuticals, Northern Trust Corporation, World Fuel Services and Wynwood Walls at the Sommelier level. Media sponsors include: The Miami Herald – el Nuevo Herald, Indulge Magazine, WTVJ NBC 6, Wine Spectator, WLRN and Gables Magazine & CoralGablesRestaurants.com.

Photographs of Stolen Rum Gave Away 50 Sofas in Coral Gables at Murray Park on 3/26/14

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Stolen Rum gave away 50 Sofas in Coral Gables at Murray Park on Wednesday, March 26, 2014. Stolen gave away 150 sofas across 3 countries, no strings attached.

“ Jamie Duff, Stolen founder, went to Otago University in Dunedin, NZ. While studying, having a good sofa was always of paramount importance to a good, homely flat; whether it was entertaining a party, having a ‘friend’ to stay the night, a lazy afternoon sharing a quiet drink with friends, watching sports – or, in those days, perhaps actually loading up your sofa and taking it to a sports game for viewing comfort. With these fond memories in mind, he decided Stolen would give back starting with the Stolen sofas giveaway making this year the year of spreading the love and keeping the memory alive across 3 countries: Sydney in Australia, Dunedin in New Zealand and Miami in the US.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Official video from Stolen Rum

Author reading and signing of The Big Truck That Went By How the World Came to Save Haiti and Left Behind a Disaster 4/2/14

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Author reading and signing of The Big Truck That Went By How the World Came to Save Haiti and Left Behind a Disaster
Wednesday, 04/02/2014 – 08:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Big-Truck-cover-photo-hi-resBooks & Books
265 Aragon Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link
Cost: Free

On Wednesday, April 2, author Jonathan M. Katz will be in Miami to launch the new paperback edition of ‘The Big Truck That Went By: How the World Came to Save Haiti and Left Behind a Disaster’ with a reading at Books & Books in Coral Gables.

Published to glowing reviews and winner of multiple awards, ‘The Big Truck That Went By’ is a crucial, timely look at a signal failure of international aid. Katz was the only full-time American news correspondent in Haiti on January 12, 2010, when the deadliest earthquake in the history of the Western Hemisphere struck the island nation. More than half of American adults gave money for Haiti, part of a global response totaling $16.3 billion in pledges. But four years later the effort has foundered. Its most important promises-to rebuild safer cities, alleviate severe poverty, and strengthen Haiti to face future disasters-remain unfulfilled. How did so much generosity amount to so little? What went wrong? In what a Miami Herald Op-Ed called “the most important written work to emerge from the rubble,” Katz follows the money to uncover startling truths about how good intentions go wrong, and what can be done to make aid “smarter.” Reporting alongside Bill Clinton, Wyclef Jean, Sean Penn, and Haiti’s leaders and people, ‘The Big Truck That Went By’ is a complex, darkly funny, and unexpected portrait of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

Wed. April 2 at 8 p.m.
Books & Books
265 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables FL, 33134
Free to the public
Signing to follow

Giralda Under the Stars 4/4/14

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Giralda Under the Stars
Friday, 04/04/2014 – 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
IMG_0243Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Whether it’s a craving for ceviche, an appetite for Mexican or even Vietnamese, Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars. Restaurant Row will be closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

Red Carpet HazMat Release Party 4/1/14

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Red Carpet “HazMat” Release Party
Tuesday, 04/01/2014 – 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
HMTarpon Bend Coral Gables
65 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Soiree to Celebrate Local Award-Winning Film’s Release and International Success

“HazMat”, the Miami-made film that garnered international notoriety in the film festival circuit, celebrates its official release, Tuesday, April 1 from 8 pm – 10 pm at Tarpon Bend Coral Gables, located at 65 Miracle Mile. Winner of “Best Horror Film” at the Berlin Independent Film Festival and Massachusetts Independent Film Festival, “HazMat”, is now available to the public, and its team is ready to indulge in a few libations and delve into a Q & A with horror fans and local film supporters.

April Fool’s Day seems befitting to fête “HazMat”, whose plot revolves around a practical joke gone terribly wrong. For the special event, Tarpon Bend will offer two-for-one-drinks and have their full menu available for those wishing a nosh. “This is a great opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate a film that has represented Miami around the globe. As a filmmaker, one of my main goals has been to exemplify the diversity that this town has shown me”, says writer, producer and director, Lou Simon of White Lotus Productions. The lovely mix of local actors has recently amassed national recognition with lead actors, Norbert Velez and Aniela McGuiness, receiving “Best Actor” and “Best Actress” nominations at Chicago’s Indie Horror Film Festival.

Deemed a “triple threat”, Ms. Simon will also formally announce casting choices for her next feature film, “Agoraphobia”, a supernatural/psychological thriller that will have audiences at the edge of their seat. The Cuban-American filmmaker scouted several locations for “Agoraphobia”, including L.A. and Key West, but ultimately selected the Magic City once again. Currently in pre-production, the film is slated to begin shooting in Miami, June 2014.

“HazMat” is now available for digital download or rent on: Xfinity Comcast, scroll to “HORROR” and select “HazMat SD”; iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/movie/hazmat/id813357180;

Vudu: http://www.vudu.com/movies/#!content/508275/Hazmat;

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/movies/details/HazMat?id=ohC02m8wGn8

Tarpon Bend Coral Gables is located at 65 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, 33134;

Telephone: (305) 444-3210; www.tarponbend.com

###

Cancer Support Community Greater Miami 2014 Heart & Star Award Dinner 4/3/14

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Cancer Support Community Greater Miami 2014 Heart & Star Award Dinner
April 3, 2014, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Coral Gables Country Club
997 North Greenway Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Website

Contact: For sponsorship and ticket information contact: Danielle Spiegelman – CSCGM, Executive Director at 305-668-5900, Danielle@CancerSupportCommunityMiami.org
Cost: Table Sponsorship information available upon request.

Cancer Support Community Greater Miami will host the 2014 Heart & Star Award Dinner at the Coral Gables Country Club. Arthur H. Hertz and Candy & Rodger Popkin will be honored at this prestigious signature event. Hertz will be receiving the Champion of the Community Spirit Award for his outstanding philanthropic and community leadership; The Popkins, the Champions of the Human Spirit Award as a cancer survivor and caregiver. Mistress of Ceremonies will once again be Emmy Award-winning CBS4 Anchor, Cynthia Demos. Over 400 business and philanthropic leaders from the Greater Miami area will be in attendance for the event. Committee leadership for this fundraising event to date is comprised of the following; Carmen & John Arasi, Chanin & Adam Carlin, Maria Padron, Carmen Perez, Aida & Joseph Roisman, Lourdes Rosales, Debra Schottenstein, Edie Spiegel, Carole Wright and Joyce & Humberto Vega.

Sushi and Sake 101 3/25/14, 4/29/14, 5/27/14, 6/24/14

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Sushi and Sake 101
Sunday, 03/25/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
DSC_1398Sushi Samba
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85.00

SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables is welcoming spring with the launch of SUSHI & SAKE 101. The two-hour interactive class introduces guests to the history and traditions of sake, the art of sushi making and offers an in-depth instruction about these two worldly traditions from resident experts.

The class consists of a two-part educational experience. The sake portion is led by SUSHISAMBA’s sake sommelier and includes five flights with an introduction to the history of sake, its common myths, pairing tips and more. In the second part of the class, participants will gain insider sushi-making tips from SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables’ Executive Sushi Chef Yasuo Tujimori, including an introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selection and preparation of raw fish.

Runway to Success 3/30/14

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Runway to Success
Sunday, 03/30/2014 – 09:30 am – 12:00 pm
Runway-to-SuccessUniversity of Miami School of Business
5250 University Drive,
Miami, Florida 33146
Eventbrite Link
Cost: $10 advance – $15 Door

The culminating event in the 2014 LEAP Femmepreneur Success Series where we will be awarding the 2014 LEAP Femmepreneur of the Year Award!
Meet Miami’s finest fashion entrepreneurs, boutique owners, and leaders in “looking’ good!”
Continental breakfast provided.

The 2014 LEAP Femmepreneur Success Series is a fun and engaging event series designed to uplift and inspire women to achieve the next level of personal and professional success. Each event includes a panel discussion featuring accomplished female entrepreneurs from the local community. Every exciting program focuses on a specific industry. Attendees will walk away with valuable insight, motivation, and most of all an expanded network of women who have developed successful businesses and brands of their own.
Panelists include:
Annie Vazquez, The Fashion Poet
Sonia Jacobson, Dress for Success – Miami
Kelly Saks, Kelly’s Kloset
Vanessa Sauma, OHM Boutique
Tatiana Torres, Furor Moda
Kim Rodriguez, KR personal style/Personal Stylist

Stolen Rum gives away 50 Sofas in South Miami 3/26/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
Stolen Rum gives away 50 Sofas in Coral Gables
DIGITAL_stolen-sofaWednesday 3/26/2014 from 2PM- 5PM
Murray Park
5800 Southwest 66th Street
South Miami, FL 33143
RSVP on Facebook

Stolen is giving away 150 sofas across 3 countries, no strings attached.

Jamie Duff, Stolen founder, went to Otago University in Dunedin, NZ. While studying, having a good sofa was always of paramount importance to a good, homely flat; whether it was entertaining a party, having a ‘friend’ to stay the night, a lazy afternoon sharing a quiet drink with friends, watching sports – or, in those days, perhaps actually loading up your sofa and taking it to a sports game for viewing comfort. With these fond memories in mind, he decided Stolen would give back starting with the Stolen sofas giveaway making this year the year of spreading the love and keeping the memory alive across 3 countries: Sydney in Australia, Dunedin in New Zealand and Miami in the US.

Details: If you can take it, it’s yours! Stolen will drop off 501375755_10151920537249583_943557685_n sofas on a first come, first serve pick up. Stolen does not deliver.

In Attendance: 50 sofas, yours for the stealing

The Biltmore Hotel Kids Spring Break Cooking Camp 3/25/14

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The Biltmore Hotel Kids Spring Break Cooking Camp
Tuesday, 03/25/2014 – 03/27/2014 09:30 am – 01:30 pm
The Biltmore Culinary Academy
1200 Anastasia Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $95 for one day, $165 for two days, $250 for three days

The Biltmore Hotel will offer a tasty diversion for children enjoying spring break in Coral Gables with the debut of its Kids Spring Break Cooking Camp. Ages 9 and up are invited to visit the renowned Biltmore Culinary Academy for a memorable hands-on experience.

Chef Jeannette Ozga, the Biltmore Culinary Academy’s seasoned instructor, has cooked up three unique menus for campers to create. Each menu includes an entrée, side dishes and dessert that are sure to delight ambitious young chefs with palates beyond PB&J sandwiches.

On March 25, campers will revel in the aroma of fresh tomato sauce, as they craft an Italian feast from scratch. A fusion of Asian flavors will tantalize taste buds during the camp on March 26, and campers will explore a variety of fun foods on March 27, including Rice Krispies-encrusted chicken tenders, potato pancakes, beef empanadas and ambrosia.

Each camper will receive an apron and recipes to take home. In addition to refining their palates, campers will gain confidence in their culinary skills, learn important lessons about kitchen safety, and perhaps develop a passion for washing dishes—something moms everywhere can appreciate.

The camp runs March 25-27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., allowing parents to carve out some grown-up time for themselves. Campers may participate in one day of the camp for $95, two days for $165 or all three days for $250.

Parents may call 305-913-3131 to register, and learn more at www.biltmorehotel.com/bca. Registration closes March 21 and each day is limited to 10 junior chefs.

Sushi & Sake 101 3/25/14

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Sushi & Sake 101
Tuesday, 03/25/2014 – 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
SushiSAMBA Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $85

SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables rings in the spring with an old favorite at its new location. The executive culinary team is taking on Sushi & Sake 101 by offering the opportunity to learn how to choose sushi-grade fish, which tools are needed for the process, and tips and techniques from the pros. Sushi & Sake 101 pupils will also learn about types of sake, its history, and methods of production alongside tastings of five flights of sake. Featuring the only outdoor bar and robata grill in the Gables, this monthly curriculum accents SUSHISAMBA’s raw bar concept in a uniquely educational and social setting.

The class will include:

• A sake history, tasting and pairing from South Florida’s most expansive sake menu, hand selected by the in-house sake master
• An introduction to the history and traditions of sushi, followed by a demonstration on the selecting and cutting of raw fish
• Instruction and creation of a sushi roll of choice, with the added bonus of eating the masterpiece paired with the perfect sake

Gallery Opening at Leica Store Miami 3/28/14

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Gallery Opening at Leica Store Miami
Friday, 03/28/2014 – 03/28/2014 07:00 pm – 09:30 pm
Leica Store Miami
372 Miracle Mile
,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Join us for a gallery opening with legendary photographer Mary Ellen Mark. Her exhibition, “Leica, My First Camera,” includes images that span her iconic career and include her provocative street photography as well as her celebrity portraiture.

National Water Dance 4/12/14

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National Water Dance
National Water Dance 2014174016Saturday, April 12, 4pm
Deering Estate at Cutler
16701 SW 72 Avenue
nationalwaterdance.org

30 States Dance Across America for Water on April 12, 4pm

Coming together on Saturday, April 12 at 4pmEST are 1500 dancers from across the country to perform a site-specific dance at a river, a bay, a lake, the ocean, or any water site nearby. From the University of Alaska to Miami Dade College, from the Dance Engagement Company in California to Bates College in Maine, students from colleges and universities, private dance schools, high schools and elementary schools, and dance companies will unite to celebrate Water.

“My desire in creating National Water Dance was to inspire young artists to go beyond the studio and the stage with their art; to connect with the environment and realize the power of art to bring awareness to environmental issues, particularly water,” said National Water Dance founder and artistic director Dale Andree. “Through the internet National Water Dance has become the community of artists/activists that I hoped it would.”

Founded by artistic director Dale Andree and produced by Daniel Lewis, National Water Dance has been created to bring attention to the power and fragility of the nation’s waterways. Bringing dancers and musicians together from across the country and using dance as a form of social activism is, according to Ms Andree, “a force that can create social change.”

The Miami performance of National Water Dance will feature 80 dancers and 50 singers at the Deering Estate at Cutler, as part of their Festival of the Arts, at 4pm on Saturday, April 12. The artists will perform to an original score performed by its composers Miami musicians Vicki Richards and Jeff Deen. Admission from 3:30pm on is FREE. Participating schools include New World School of the Arts, South Miami Community Middle School, Arthur and Polly Mays Conservatory of the Arts, RR Moton Elementary School and Miami Dade College/Kendall Campus under the direction of Michelle Grant-Murray, assistant director of the Miami-Dade portion of National Water Dance.

“It will be so exciting to see dancers from across the nation, talking about our environment and turning those ideas into a symphony of movement across the country,” said Daniel Lewis, founding Dean of Dance of New World School of the Arts.

The entire local and national event will be live streamed.

Additional Florida Events of National Water Dance:
* Composition Concert by Dr. Susan Epstein Garcia
April 8, Colony Theatre, Lincoln Road on Miami Beach
7:30pm, Free & Open to the Community
Featuring student composers from the New World School of the Arts performing new music in a program called New World: An Evening of Contemporary Original Compositions.
Information: 305 237 7855

* Free Showerheads provided by Earth Ethics Institute of Miami Dade College to anyone who brings in an old showerhead to the April 8th concert or the Main Event on April 12. The new showerheads are provided by Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department, and is part of their indoor water conservation campaign. Earthethicsinstitute.org

*Arts for Learning has worked with over 600 students from across the county in dance, music and visual art, culminating in performances to take place simultaneously at Shenandoah Park, Flamingo Park, Centro Mater East, Silver Bluff Elementary, The Barnyard and North Beach Elementary.

National Water Dance Partners Include:

  • Arts for Learning, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing teaching an learning through the arts and community cultural resources. A4L connects the arts to other subjects to support academic achievement and child development.

  • Earth Ethics Institute at Miami Dade College provides resources, workshops, and programs for the Miami Dade College community that encourage the integration of the knowledge, values and skills needed for a sustainable way of life into all practices and disciplines.

  • The Deering Estate at Cutler, a Miami-Dade County Park, is located at 16701 SW 72 Avenue in Miami.   This 444-acre natural and archeological preserve and historic site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a center for education, culture and recreation.  Visit www.deeringestate.org.

  • The Deering Estate Festival of the Arts, supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, runs from April 11-13, 2014, celebrating the literary, visual and performing arts and artists of South Florida. Schedule includes The Lost Girls Playwrights reading, a Piano Master Class with Dr. Jose Lopez, the opening of the In Deep exhibit, the Poetry at the Fire Circle, the ‘Spark of Genius’ concert with Charles Castleman, among others events.

Participating Institutions in the National Water Dance (as of February 2014)
Alaska University of Alaska; Arkansas Henderson State College, Hendrix College; California Loyola Marymount University, Dance Engagements, Crenshaw Yoga and, Dance, Blackbird Dance Company, Karmagraphy, University of San Francisco, Beatriz Eugenaia 3-19 Dance Art Connecticut Wesleyan University Florida NOVA Southeaster University, University of Florida College of Central Florida, Northwest Florida State College, Florida Gulf Coast University, Midway Elementary School, New World School of the Arts, Miami Dade College/Kendall Campus/Jubilation Dance Ensemble, Broward College, Palm Beach Atlantic University, Earth Ethics Institute at Miami Dade College, University of Tampa, Pensacola State College, South Miami Middle Community School, Karen Peterson and Dancers, Arthur and Polly Mays 6-12 Conservatory of the Arts, Florida Atlantic University, RR Moton Elementary, Florida State University Georgia University of Georgia Indiana Indiana University Bloomington Iowa Luther College Louisiana University of Louisiana at Monroe, Southeastern Louisiana University Dance Performance Project Maine Bates College Maryland Towson University Massachusetts, The Yard, Hampshire College Peanut Butter and Jelly Dance Company Mississippi University of Mississippi University of Southern Mississippi, Belhaven University Missouri Webster University Nebraska The Moving Company, University of Nebraska University of Nebraska/Lincoln New Jersey Georgian Court University New York Briarcliff High School, University of Rochester, NDEO Brockport Student Chapter Horace Mann School North Carolina The Dancer’s Extension, Bradley Middle School Ohio Kent State University, Antioch College, Ohio Wesleyan University, Denison University Oklahoma University of Central Oklahoma Oregon Southern Oregon University Pennsylvania DeSales University, Temple University, Muhlenberg College Slippery Rock University, Mercyhurst University Rhode Island JMW High School of the Performing and Visual Arts South Carolina Lander University, M.V. Riley Elementary School, Lady’s Island Middle School, Beaufort High School Tennessee Sewanee: The University of the South, Chattanooga Dance Projects, Chattanooga Ballet, Cleveland City Ballet, Mawre & Company Performance Troupe, Mary Holliday Dance Ensemble Virginia The Governors School for the Arts Washington Cornish College of the Arts Wisconsin University of Wisconsin, Madison Kennedy Elementary School Dance Education Center Stevens Pt., Moving from Within Wyoming University of Wyoming

Photos-Ikura Sushi Lounge Introduces New Menu during Giralda Under the Stars by Mr Q 305.

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It was another magnificent evening in Coral Gables during Giralda Under the Stars, that is the seasonal/monthly event put together by Downtown Coral Gables.

Ikura Sushi Lounge debuted new menu items which ranged from crunchy Giralda Rolls to a deliciously baked Tom-Atu Heat.

Here are the images:

MrQ305 on Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Join Local Author and Child Sex Abuse Survivor Julie Marie Mansfield For Her Catalyst Series and Book signing of Maybe God Was Busy at Books and Books 03/05/14

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Join Local Author and Child Sex Abuse Survivor Julie Marie Mansfield For Her Catalyst Series and Book signing of “Maybe God Was Busy” at Books and Books
Wednesday, 03/05/2014 – 06:30 pm – 08:00 pm
Books-and-BooksBooks and Books
265 Aragon Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Author and advocate in the war against childhood sex abuse (CSA), Julie Marie Mansfield will be conducting her Catalyst Series/Book signing of her debut book ‘Maybe God Was Busy,’ 6:30pm, Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at Books and Books (265 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables, FL 33134.) Mansfield’s goal is to raise awareness and create a platform to foster dialogue and healing for those affected by CSA. According to Crimes Against Children Research Center 1 in 5 girls and 1 in 20 boys is a victim of child sexual abuse. As alarming as these numbers are, they could be drastically higher as it is widely accepted that only one out of every 10 cases of CSA is reported. Jamaican-born Mansfield is committed to sharing her story, especially as the nation gets ready to commemorate National Sexual Abuse Awareness Month (April), and is hoping that in telling her story others will be encouraged to tell their own. She also hopes that people will see the face and human side of the ravages of CSA as oppose to just the statistics that are given when one speaks about CSA.

Event Details

WHO: Author and Child Sexual Abuse Survivor Julie Marie Mansfield
WHAT: Catalyst Series on Child Sex Abuse/Healing and Book signing for ‘Maybe God Was Busy’

WHEN: Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at 6:30pm
WHERE: Books and Books located at 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134

Mansfield is available for interviews and appearances. For booking presentations, media appearances, interviews, speaking engagements and/or book signings please contact Lorraine Rentz at (954) 764-5038.

###

For more information about Julie Marie Mansfield please visit www.givemedignity.org

Ikura Sushi Lounge – A Diamond in the Raw

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Ikura Sushi is Well Worth the Trip

Courtesy of Ikura Sushi

We discovered Ikura Sushi Lounge while perusing through the restaurants listed on Local Dines, a fabulous website that offers discounted gift certificates for some really good spots. It was a veritable joy to dine there. The restaurant feels like a modern, cozy yet upscale-ish living room. The ever-so-talented chef is in the back corner for all to admire, working up his unique and creative slants on sushi. Three out of the four dishes we had were worth ordering again and two of them were marvelous.

Kanikama Crunch @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Kanikama Crunch was legitimately incredible. It was comprised of a specialty house crab salad, Tobiko and Crunchy Flakes. The mix of the soft and crunchy consistencies dripping with sweet, yet spicy combo was superb. It is one of their best dishes and a must order.

Urmaki Mango @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Urmaki Mango Roll drew our attention because we freaking adore mango and the Shedonist’s Dominican nature implores her to order any sushi that comes with cilantro. This unique roll contained: Salmon, Ikura Shrimp, Avocado, Cilantro, Tobiko Mix, Glazed Mangos and Aji Amrillo Sauce. The roll was tasty, unique and the glazed mango was a beautiful touch.

Honey Moon @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Honey Moon Roll was really the only dish we did not love. It had Ikura Shrimp, Kani-kamaboko, Avocado, Cream Cheese, Shaved Roasted Coconut, Almonds, Walnut Dust, Scallions, Sonali Suce and Hachimitsu. The coconut, almond and walnut dust ingredients enticed us and it was good, but it did not blow our palates out of the water.

Tom-Atu Heat @ Ikura Sushi Lounge

The Tom-Atu Heat Roll was by far our favorite of the night. It was literally mouth-watering. This sublime roll is baked and contains Ikura Shrimp, Cream Cheese, Walnuts Dust, Eel Sauce and is topped with the amazing Kanikama Crunch appetizer. It is a triumphant roll that we will definitely drive down to Coral Gables to sample again.

The sushi is scrumptious, bountiful (read: large ass pieces) and there is an abundance of them on the plate. The place is small, but the waiter was always attentive as well as gracious. The prices are reasonable too, with most specialty rolls in the $15 range. It was a sheer delight Ikura and we shall be back again.

What’s Your Skintelligence? 3/1/14-3/31/14

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What’s Your Skintelligence?
Saturday, 03/01/2014 – 03/31/2014 12:00 am – 12:00 am
GBS-Logo1GBS the Beauty Store
All GBS locations (Coral Gables, Pinecrest, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton East/West),
Miami, Florida 33138
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Spring is the time to revamp tired beauty routines and restore fresh glowing skin by smoothing, purifying, brightening and firming with the top skincare brands and cult favorite products at GBS The Beauty Store.

During the month of March, GBS The Beauty Store is celebrating its annual Skincare Month and treating the fabulous faces of South Florida to a series of beauty and skin events and special offers to get your skin to total pore-fection. Solve your head-to-toe, skincare problems with expert consultations and interactive product demos by leading skincare companies including Cane + Austin, Goldfaden MD, Bliss, Peter Thomas Roth, Dermalogica, Murad, Nuxe, First Aid Beauty, StriVectin, and many more.

GBS’ trained experts can help solve your skincare concerns and customize a regimen based on your individual needs and lifestyle. Whether you want to amp up your anti-aging, dump your dark circles, combat acne-prone skin, or brighten up a dull complexion, GBS will give you the skintelligence you need to achieve beautiful, radiant skin.

To help jumpstart new skincare regimens and ensure skin stays radiant all year long, shoppers can take advantage of 20% off participating skincare brands and enjoy complimentary gifts with purchase, deluxe samples and more.

Visit GBSbeauty.com for the March calendar of in-store events and beauty workshops. Follow @GBSbeauty for tips and giveaways all month.

18th Annual Strike Against Child Abuse Bowling Tournament 6/7/14

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18th Annual Strike Against Child Abuse Bowling Tournament
Saturday, 06/07/2014 – 12:30 pm – 03:30 pm
Family-Resource-Center-Bowlathon-6200Bird Bowl
9275 SW 40th Street,
Miami, Florida 33165
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $400

This awesome bowling event brings together friends, family and colleagues for a little friendly competition on the lanes. All ages and skill levels welcome. Each lane is $400 and includes three games of bowling, shoe rental and lunch for four people. Proceeds benefit Family Resource Center of South Florida, a charity that cares for local kids who have suffered child abuse and neglect. Top three highest scoring bowling teams go home with trophies, but everyone is sure to have a great time. Plus over 100 chances to win cool prizes at the silent auction and raffle!

Whiskey Wednesday 3/5/14

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Whiskey Wednesday
Wednesday, 03/05/2014 – 09:00 pm – 02:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black2The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

We like to keep things simple. Whiskey Wednesday – it’s just what it sounds like. Take 50% off any whiskey, scotch, or bourbon Wednesday nights from 9pm-2am. It’s just our little way of helping you get through your hump day. 21+, no cover!

Ladies Night Happy Hour 3/7/14

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Ladies Night Happy Hour
Friday, 03/07/2014 – 05:30 pm – 07:30 pm
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black4The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Fridays at The Bar belong to the ladies! Ladies, you’re drinking free well cocktails and yuengling from 5:30-7:30pm, plus discounted beer and pitchers for all! You’ve survived the work week. It’s time to unwind. 21+, no cover!

Super-size It Thursday 3/6/14

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“Super-size It” Thursday
Thursday, 03/06/2014 – 10:00 pm – 01:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black3The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Thursday nights are technically almost the weekend, right? Swing by The Bar from 10pm-1am and we’ll upgrade your cocktail to a pint glass with no extra charge. The weekend’s almost here. Super-size it. 21+, no cover!

Big Read Keynote with Journalist Suketo Mehta on Maximum Cities: Bombay/New York 4/9/14

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Big Read Keynote with Journalist Suketo Mehta on Maximum Cities: Bombay/New York

suketumehta1Wednesday, 04/09/2014, 08:00 pm-10:00 pm
Books & Books
265 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage

Suketu Mehta is the New York-based author of Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found, winner of the Kiriyama Prize and the Hutch Crossword Award, and finalist for the 2005 Pulitzer Prize, the Lettre Ulysses Prize, the BBC4 Samuel Johnson Prize, and the Guardian First Book Award. Mehta’s work has been published in The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, National Geographic, Granta, Harper’s Magazine, Time, and Newsweek, and has been featured on NPR’s “Fresh Air” and “All Things Considered.”

The Greening Of The Gables 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival 3/8/14

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The Greening Of The Gables 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Scottish Festival 02 Mar 2013 699 marching band, wide shotSaturday, March 8, high noon till 6 p.m.
Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park
2800 Ponce de Leon Boulevard
Coral Gables, FL
just five blocks south of Miracle Mile. 
free and open to all

The South Florida Irish Community invites everyone to join a traditional Celtic celebration. Entertainment will be provided by Avalon featuring the popular Irish singer and harpist, Tricianne Garrihy; The Paddy Kelleghan Band; Dan Fitzgerald with his Ballads and Blarney accompanied by Peter Fuchs; The Cool Old Dudes and by the St. Andrew Pipe and Drum Band. In addition, Irish dancers from the Breffni Academy of Dance led by Michael O’Hara will provide plenty of fancy stepping and gravity-defying leaps. Lovely participants of The Miss Colleen Pageant will be showcased on stage.
 
Holding to the belief that “Everyone is a little bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day,” The St. Patrick’s Day Committee has combined family-oriented entertainment and a variety of palate-pleasing delectables such as traditional corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, authentic Irish Coffee, Irish soda bread, and whiskey cake as well as a wide array of spirits and other beverages including Irish whisky and Irish stout. The festival will also include many children’s activities, including a giant slide, the very popular rock-climbing wall and a merry-go-round. A wide variety of Irish crafts will be available for sale by high quality vendors.
 
This is the 14th year the Festival has been held in Coral Gables at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park. The site of the Festival is named for former Coral Gables Mayor, the late Fred B. Hartnett, a long-time member of The Emerald Society.
 
For thirty-five years, the St. Patrick’s Day Committee has organized a St. Patrick’s Day Parade or Festival. The event is produced by the St. Patrick’s Day Committee, Inc. with the support of the Coral Gables Cultural Affairs Council, and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners.

Caption for Attached Photograph: Dancers from the Breffni Academy of Dance

Azul Merrick Park Hosts Kalla Flower’s First Pop-Up Store 3/14/14

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Azul Merrick Park Hosts Kalla Flower’s First Pop-Up Store
March 14, 2014 from 5pm to 9pm
AZUL Merrick Park
360 San Lorenzo Avenue, Suite 2222
Coral Gables, FL 33134
(Located on the second level between Nordstrom and Banana Republic)
RSVP: Azul@therivieraagency.com

Azul Merrick Park is hosting an exclusive cocktail party and shopping event featuring Kalla Flower’s premier pop-up shop with 10 percent of the evening’s proceeds benefitting the Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay and Culter Bay chapter of Relay for Life.

Kalla, a one-of-a-kind luxury curated bouquet service, available exclusively in South Florida, is set to launch March 1. This innovative online boutique is revolutionizing the flower industry with a customized experience, bringing hand-crafted bold blooms to your door in a stylish case and captivating box with white glove service.

“The floral industry has become saturated with generic arrangements and an assembly line approach—particularly when it comes to online and mass market retailers,” says Kalla’s lead floral designer Addie Flynn. “We wanted to bring a hand-crafted, personal connection back to flower delivery—while at the same time offering products that are incredibly unique and modern.”

In addition to being amongst the first to partake in Kalla’s signature experience, guests will enjoy bites by SAWA Restaurant and Lounge, sips by Hill Family Estate Wines and sweet treats by Christopher Elbow Chocolates. Each visitor will also have the chance to enter a raffle to win exciting prizes from local retailers.

City Theatre presents City Reads for CityWrights at Books & Books in Coral Gables 3/10/14

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City Theatre presents City Reads for CityWrights at Books & Books in Coral Gables
Monday, 03/10/2014 – 07:30 pm –
1926806_672604539469724_1252384967_nBooks & Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

City Reads for CityWrights are fun and informal evenings of new play readings, presented by City Theatre and its acting company, that give audiences a first-hand role in the process that scripts go from page to stage. Audiences serve as critic and supporter, or even as an actor, while having a peek at what makes City Theatre a center for fresh, new works.

These evenings are an entertaining way for audiences to help City Theatre find great plays among the hundreds of submissions that the company receives for its annual Summer Shorts Festival. Summer Shorts is America’s Short Play Festival that will take place from June 12 – July 6, 2014 at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, with an incredible line-up of scripts penned by the country’s best writers including City Theatre National Short Play Competition winners.

For more information on City Theatre or the Summer Shorts Festival, contact City Theatre at (305) 755-9401 or visit www.citytheatre.com.

The Summer Shorts Festival is made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Major and Board of County Commissioners, with support of the City of Coral Gables, and by the following sponsors: Books & Books, Carnival Foundation, Wille Family Foundation, EPIC Hotel, Sabadell United Bank, WLRN, Aventura Limousine, Citizens Interested in Arts and the Dramatists Guild Fund.

St. Patrick’s Day Festival 3/18/14

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St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Saturday, 03/08/2014 – 12:00 pm – 06:00 pm
Scottish-Festival-02-Mar-2013-699-marching-band-wide-shotFred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park
2800 Ponce de Leon Blvd.,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

The South Florida Irish Community invites everyone to join a traditional Celtic celebration at the 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival from high noon till 6 p.m., Saturday, March 8. The festival will be held at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables (2800 Ponce de Leon Boulevard) just five blocks south of Miracle Mile.

Entertainment will be provided by Avalon featuring the popular Irish singer and harpist, Tricianne Garrihy; The Paddy Kelleghan Band; Dan Fitzgerald with his Ballads and Blarney accompanied by Peter Fuchs; The Cool Old Dudes and by the St. Andrew Pipe and Drum Band. In addition, Irish dancers from the Breffni Academy of Dance led by Michael O’Hara will provide plenty of fancy stepping and gravity-defying leaps. Lovely participants of The Miss Colleen Pageant will be showcased on stage.

Holding to the belief that “Everyone is a little bit Irish on St. Patrick’s Day,” The St. Patrick’s Day Committee has combined family-oriented entertainment and a variety of palate-pleasing delectables such as traditional corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, authentic Irish Coffee, Irish soda bread, and whiskey cake as well as a wide array of spirits and other beverages including Irish whisky and Irish stout. The festival will also include many children’s activities, including a giant slide, the very popular rock-climbing wall and a merry-go-round. A wide variety of Irish crafts will be available for sale by high quality vendors.

This is the 14th year the Festival has been held in Coral Gables at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park. The site of the Festival is named for former Coral Gables Mayor, the late Fred B. Hartnett, a long-time member of The Emerald Society.

For thirty-five years, the St. Patrick’s Day Committee has organized a St. Patrick’s Day Parade or Festival. The event is produced by the St. Patrick’s Day Committee, Inc. with the support of the Coral Gables Cultural Affairs Council, and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners.

As always, admission to the Festival is free and open to all. For more information, call 305-949-8400 or e-mail stpatrickssf@g.mail.com.

Race Cultural Program: For People Who Live in Bodies of every color 3/1/14

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Race Cultural Program: For People Who Live in Bodies (of every color…)
Saturday, 03/01/2014 – 10:30 am –
Patricia & Phillip Frost Museum of Science
3280 South Miami Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33129
Webpage Link
Cost: Free with paid museum admission

If you’ve ever felt judged or made snap judgments based on appearance, if your children or students ever tease or are teased, if you judge your own appearance harshly, come discover an engaging way to transform your views of yourself and everyone else. Presented by Anya Cordell, recipient of The Spirit of Anne Frank Award, author of Race: An Open & Shut Case, that flips preconceptions about “race” and “appearance-ism”, upside-down!

10:30am–Family friendly (Ages 6+), and educators (2 hours)

2:00pm–Preteen to adult (2 hours)

Actors Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the smash-hit Broadway musical sensation Spamalot 3/5/14-3/30/14

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Actors Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the smash-hit Broadway musical sensation Spamalot
Wednesday, 03/05/2014 – 03/30/2014 08:00 pm –
Spamalot.1.webActors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre
280 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $15-$55

Monty Python’s Spamalot, the 2005 Tony Award-winner for Best Musical, returns to spread laughter and cheer throughout the Kingdom of South Florida for a limited engagement. Lovingly “ripped off” from the internationally famous comedy team’s most popular motion picture, “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” it turns the legendary tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table on its head with a chorus line of dancing divas, knights in tights, flatulent Frenchman and killer rabbits. It won three 2005 Tony Awards including Best Musical and Best Director (Mike Nichols), as well as the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards for Best Musical. The original cast recording of Monty Python’s Spamalot won the 2006 Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album.

Directed by the award-winning David Arisco, Monty Python’s Spamalot features a book by Eric Idle, with music and lyrics by the Grammy Award-winning team of Eric Idle and John Du Prez.

“The most amazing aspect of SPAMALOT is that it works for both Monty Python fans AND musical theatre fans,” said Director David Arisco. “This is a huge Broadway musical with multiple large-scale and outrageously funny numbers, and it’s a perfect homage to Monty Python’s unique brand of humor.”

Leading the quest is King Arthur (Gary Marachek) with his trusty servant Patsy (Paul Louis). Playing his gallant knights – and a broad assortment of other characters – are Jim Ballard as Sir Lancelot the Homicidally Brave, Gabriel Zenone as Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-as-Sir-Lancelot, Shane Tanner as Sir Galahad, the Dashingly Handsome, Wayne LeGette as Sir Bedevere, the Strangely Flatulent, and Lindsey Forgey as The Lady of the Lake, a tour-de-force role for any comedic actress. University of Miami alumnus Jose Luaces plays multiple roles including Prince Herbert, Historian, Not Dead Fred, a French Guard and a Minstrel.

The creative team features Musical Director David Nagy, Choreographer Ron Hutchins, set design adapted from an original scene design by Jim Hunter (www.jimhunterdesigns.com), costumes provided by Costume World Theatrical (www.costumeworld.com) and adapted for this production by Ellis Tillman, Sound Designer Sean Lawson and Lighting Designer Luke Klingberg.

Preview performances of Monty Python’s SPAMALOT will be held Wednesday and Thursday, March 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. The show will open on Friday, March 7 at 8 p.m. and play through March 30, 2014. Evening performances will be held Wednesday through Saturday at 8 p.m., with afternoon matinees on Sunday at 3 p.m. A special weekday matinee is scheduled on Wednesday, March 12 at 2 p.m.

Preview night tickets on the first Wednesday and Thursday are $42. Tickets for weeknights and matinees are $47, and on Friday and Saturday evenings $55. The theatre offers a 10 percent senior discount rate the day of performance and $15 student rush tickets 15 minutes prior to curtain with identification. Discounts are based on availability and exclude Saturday and Sunday.

Group discounted rates are offered for 15 or more through our group sales department. Single tickets may be purchased through the box office at 305-444-9293 or online at www.actorsplayhouse.org.

Giralda Under The Stars 3/7/14

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Giralda Under The Stars
Friday, 03/07/2014 – 04/04/2014 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
IMG_0243Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link
Cost: Free

Whether it’s a craving for ceviche, an appetite for Mexican or even Vietnamese, Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars. Restaurant Row will be closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

Romeo & Juliet: Eternal Love 5/9/14

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Romeo & Juliet: Eternal Love
Friday, 05/09/2014 – 05/11/2014 08:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Jose_Cover_500x500_DieBankUnited Center
1245 Dauer Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33316
Webpage Link
Cost: Begins at $40

From the classic balcony scene to the raucous swordfights and the heart wrenching final deaths of world’s most well-known star crossed lovers, Shakespeare’s popular tale of Romeo & Juliet is coming to South Florida in a way audiences have never seen before.
In its U.S. debut, Spectacular Stage presents ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE, a one-of-a-kind production combining live actors, extraordinary holographic technology and striking special effects – bringing a true Miami flair to Shakespeare’s timeless tale.
Re-discover the classic love story of Romeo and Juliet, told for the first time with the most modern and innovative multimedia special effects, May 15 (8 PM); 16 (8 PM) and 17 (2 PM and 8 PM), 2014 at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami. Tickets for the Spectacular Stage production of ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE are officially on-sale, prices: $40, $60, $80, $110.

Making a Timeless Classic a Modern Legend
Production company Spectacular Stage specializes in the art of applying modern technology to classic works of theatrical art to bring new life to these timeless tales. It is their intricate technology, under the guidance of Visual Producer Lucia Mastromarino, that allows Spectacular Stage’s creative composers Giuseppe and Riccardo Raffa to bring Shakespeare’s most popular play to life, blurring the line of virtual and reality in the ultimate story of passion, love, lust, politics, rivalries and revenge. In addition to mesmerizing audiences with technology never before seen in the U.S., The Spectacular Stage intends to also incorporate contemporary society context – creating a deeper connection between the characters and theatre goers.

A meticulous virtual reconstruction of Renaissance Verona, Italy, envelopes the audience into a fully immersive theatrical experience. In a sense, Spectacular Stage has created a living movie, combining real life actors and high-tech projected holograms, cinematic quality settings and an exceptional musical score.
Experience Eternal Love

ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE kicks-off its first North American tour in Miami with both English and Spanish performances. The Spectacular Stage production will then go onto Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Toronto and Montreal.
Single tickets are available by visiting www.spectacularstage.com and http://www.bankunitedcenter.com/eventpage.php?id=157#1 or calling 305-284-8686.

The Center for Literature and Theatre presents Finish Your Novel- the TV way! with Anjanette Delgado 3/1/14

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The Center for Literature and Theatre presents Finish Your Novel- the TV way! with Anjanette Delgado
Saturday, 03/01/2014 – 04/05/2014 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
logo2Books and Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 125

Using techniques of television series head writers or show runners who must create entire worlds from top to bottom under strict ($$$) deadline pressure, this course will teach you how to organize it all, how to know what to keep and what to toss, and how to keep your inspiration level high throughout the long-form story process.

The Center for Literature and Theatre at MDC presents The Poets’ Place with Adrian Castro 4/5/14

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The Center for Literature and Theatre @MDC presents The Poets’ Place with Adrian Castro
Saturday, 04/05/2014 – 04/26/2014 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
logo3Books and Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 100

In this workshop, we will examine poems both from workshop participants and other poets that exemplify the use of place. We will also ask where is that place? Where is that physical place, that geographical place, and also where is that mental place? Is that place real, nostalgic, dreamt, etc.? Participants will bring to the workshop poems with these themes. Feedback will be given based on the Liz Lerhman method, which focuses feedback beginning from the artist place of inspiration and creative space, then from the reader’s/listener’s perspective—i.e. what the reader thought, felt, assimilated while reading the poem. Lastly, poets will be encouraged to appropriately render their poems out aloud—from their voice, their perspective, their place.

Casting Calls for Romeo & Juliet: Eternal Love 3/1/14

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Casting Calls for Romeo & Juliet: Eternal Love
Saturday, 03/01/2014 – 10:00 am –
Romeo-and-Juliet-Eternal-LoveBankUnited Center
1245 Dauer Dr,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free.

CASTING CALLS ADVISORY
ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE
Saturday, March 1, 2014 – Begins 10 a.m.
University of Miami, BankUnited Center – Fieldhouse

Online application form: http://spectacularstage.com/index.php/audition

The classic tale of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is transformed to an awe-inspiring modern production in Spectacular Stage’s ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE. Seeking unique, local talent to audition.

With the use of impressive holographic technology, like never seen before in the United States, this contemporary presentation will wow audiences when it debuts for the first time stateside in Miami from May 15 – 17, 2014 at the BankUnited Center at the University of Miami.

Who We Need:

ROMEO & JULIET: ETERNAL LOVE is looking for both English and Spanish-speaking singers with a classical or pop background, superior acting skills and stage presence as well as the ability to read basic sheet music. Anyone can audition for a role!

Each audition candidate will be required to perform two songs of their choice and will be provided a pianist to accompany them. Any background music needed by the performer will be brought on a CD.

Each person auditioning will be judged on their vocal and musical abilities, acting skills as well as their ability to drive to rehearsals and prepare with the cast as needed.

When to Audition:

Auditions will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2014 at the University of Miami, BankUnited Center. Fieldhouse, 1245 Dauer Dr. Coral Gables, FL, 33416.

Auditions begin at 10 am and will last throughout the day. Space is limited, so sign up NOW to receive your audition number. This will determine your audition time and place in line.
Be sure to fill out the application attached before auditioning – no walk-ups will be considered.

Available Roles:

ROMEO: Montague’s son, age 18-30. Tenor. Great stage presence. Inclination for acting and performing, and with outstanding singing skills.

JULIET: Capulet’s daughter, age 18-30. Soprano. Great stage presence. Inclination for acting and performing, and with outstanding singing skills.

MERCUTIO: Romeo’s friend, age 18-30. Tenor with vibrant vocal skills. Inclination for acting and good gesturing.

TYBALT: Juliet’s cousin, age 18-35. Baritone.

JULIET’S NURSE: age 30-50. Mezzo-soprano

FRIAR LAURENCE: high priest of a church in Verona, age 25-35. Baritone.

LADY CAPULET: Juliet’s mother, age 25-35. Mezzo-soprano.

CAPULET: Juliet’s father, age 40-50. Bass.

UNCLE CAPULET: Capulet’s brother, age 40-50. Bass.

All performers will also be considered for the secondary roles of Benvolio, Gregory, Sampson, Abram, Balthasar and Peter.

International Orchid Festival 3/7/14 – 3/9/14

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International Orchid Festival
Friday-Sunday, 03/07/2014 – 03/09/2014 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17

Enjoy the Garden surrounded by orchids at the International Orchid Festival, where 10,000 plants will be on sale from international vendors. There will be gardening workshops, orchid-themed walking tours, an Orchid Tea Room, and a beautiful juried show presented by the American Orchid Society and Orchid Society of Coral Gables.

Walk through the Wings of the Tropics butterfly conservatory, Tropical Fruit Pavilion, and Rainforest to see different varieties of orchids, including the fragrant cattleya, and the environments they grow in. Interactive gardening workshops and walking tours will show guests the best way to care for orchids of all kinds.

Young Talent Big Dreams Auditions 2/16/14

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Sunday, 02/16/2014, 02:00 pm – 06:00 pm
Actor’s Playhouse at Miracle Theatre
YTBD1280 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Free

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, together with presenting sponsor, The Children’s Trust, announce the fourth annual launch of Young Talent Big Dreams, the most widespread local youth talent contest in Miami-Dade. Kids between the ages of 8-17 will compete for prizes ranging from performing arts scholarships to cash awards and performance opportunities, to tickets to local attractions and theatres. The countywide competition begins on Feb. 15th, with preliminary auditions that will take place through April 6th at four local theatres, and concludes with the semifinals on April 26th and 27th and finals on May 3rd. The competition will feature a total of six individual categories including; pop/rock/rap vocals, musical theatre/jazz standards/classical vocals, dance, musical instrument, original spoken word and original vocal and/or instrumental composition, and group categories of six or less members including; dance, musical instrumental and rock/pop/jazz bands with vocals. Participation is free of charge and limited to residents of Miami-Dade County.

Party with the Irish 3/16/14

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Party with the Irish
Sunday, 03/16/2014 – 03/17/2014 10:00 am – 02:00 pm
JohnMartin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
253 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables, FL 33134,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: free

The original St. Patrick’s Celebration at JohnMartin’s is back again for its’ 23rd year. Attendees can visit the completely authentic Irish restaurant covered with festive decorations all weekend long. Visitors can enjoy a taste of Ireland on Sunday and Monday including an Irish-inspired brunch. On St. Patrick’s Eve the Miracle Mile gem will host a special Open Mic. Contest for any and all songwriters over the age of 21. The most original Irish song will win $250.00 cash. On Monday anyone can be Irish and cheers all day while listening to a bagpiper, live bands and a DJ to close the party down.

Young Talent Big Dreams Auditions 2/15/14

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Young Talent Big Dreams Auditions
Saturday, 02/15/2014 – 01:00 pm – 07:00 pm
Actor’s Playhouse at Miracle Theatre
280 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, together with presenting sponsor, The Children’s Trust, announce the fourth annual launch of Young Talent Big Dreams, the most widespread local youth talent contest in Miami-Dade. Kids between the ages of 8-17 will compete for prizes ranging from performing arts scholarships to cash awards and performance opportunities, to tickets to local attractions and theatres. The countywide competition begins on Feb. 15th, with preliminary auditions that will take place through April 6th at four local theatres, and concludes with the semifinals on April 26th and 27th and finals on May 3rd. The competition will feature a total of six individual categories including; pop/rock/rap vocals, musical theatre/jazz standards/classical vocals, dance, musical instrument, original spoken word and original vocal and/or instrumental composition, and group categories of six or less members including; dance, musical instrumental and rock/pop/jazz bands with vocals. Participation is free of charge and limited to residents of Miami-Dade County.

Poetry Buffet presenting Diego Quiros 2/10/14

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Poetry Buffet presenting Diego Quiros
Monday, February 10, 2014, 7-9 pm
CrepeMaker Café
76 Miracle Mile
Coral Gables
Please RSVP at dclocicero@gmail.com and include your phone number. If you RSVP, but cannot attend, please let us know. If you have any questions or suggestions, contact Cara at readpoemswithme@gmail.com.

“You need not be a poet to attend, just a writing enthusiast!”

Join us in celebration of a New Year at The Poetry Buffet, as we present poet, artist, and photographer Diego Quiros. Diego was born in Havana, spent his early childhood in Spain and traveled to the United States to the United States by himself at age 10. As a teenager he was drawn to photography. His interest in chemistry, optics and electronics led him to study physics and math, which eventually led to an Engineering degree. His photographs have been featured in the Miami New Times, Google Earth, Yahoo Weather, and most recently, on a six-page interview with South Florida Opulence Magazine. He has taken part on solo and collaborative installations in Miami, Chicago and New York. Diego is also an accomplished writer, he published a collection of poems under the title “Alchetry” in 2009. The book had a run of 500 copies, which were mostly sold at local bookstores and online. He has also read his poetry on public radio, the New World Symphony, and at various local venues.

Admission to The Poetry Buffet includes a complimentary glass of wine and fixed price menu with a choice of:

Small Entree & Dessert Crepe Combos still only $12.99/pp with a small drink.
or
Regular-size Entree & Dessert Crepes $15.99/pp, with a large fountain drink or coffee/tea and chips.

The MCGS presents world renowned classical guitar duo The Assad Brothers in Concert 2/23/14

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The MCGS presents world renowned classical guitar duo The Assad Brothers in Concert
Sunday, 02/23/2014 – 05:00 pm –
MCGS_Assad_Concert_PosterCoral Gables Congregational Church
3010 De Soto Boulevard,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $35

The Miami Classical Guitar Society is very proud to present our 26th Season International Masters Duo Series, featuring the most iconic guitar duo in the world, Brazilian brothers Sérgio and Odair Assad.

Brazilian-born brothers Sérgio and Odair Assad have set the benchmark for all other guitarists in innovation, ingenuity and expression. The Grammy-winning duo are renowned for their seamless collaboration and impeccable guitar technique, performing Baroque, classical and Romantic masterworks, as well as original pieces. Their exceptional artistry and uncanny ensemble playing come from both a family rich in Brazilian musical tradition and from studies with the best guitarists in South America.

The Assad Brothers have played a major role in creating new music for two guitars, and their virtuosity has inspired a wide range of composers to write for them including Astor Piazzolla, Terry Riley, Radamés Gnattali, Marlos Nobre, Nikita Koshkin, Roland Dyens, Jorge Morel, Edino Krieger and Francisco Mignone. They have worked extensively with such renowned artists as Yo-Yo Ma, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Egberto Gismonti, Fernando Suarez Paz, the inimitable Paquito D’Rivera. Their international career began with a major prize at the 1979 Young Artists Competition in Bratislava.

The Assad’s repertoire includes original music composed by Sérgio Assad and his re-workings of folk and jazz music as well as Latin music of almost every style. Their standard classical repertoire includes transcriptions of the great Baroque keyboard literature of Bach, Rameau and Scarlatti and adaptations of works by such diverse figures as Gershwin, Ginastera and Debussy. The Assads are also recognized as prolific recording artists, primarily for the Nonesuch and GHA labels.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see the finest guitar duo in the world, Assad Brothers, in Concert!

“The best two-guitar team in existence, maybe even in history…” – The Washington Post

CONCERT DATE:
Sunday, February 23, 2014 at 5:00 PM

CONCERT LOCATION:
Coral Gables Congregational Church
3010 De Soto Boulevard; Coral Gables, FL 33134

TICKETS: $35 General Admission at the door. No Reservations needed.
Purchase tickets online, www.miamiguitar.org

Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Univision’s Chef Maggie Jimenez 2/15/14

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Winn-Dixie Mini Calle Ocho Event Featuring Univision’s Chef Maggie Jimenez
Saturday, 02/15/2014 – 12:00 pm – 02:00 pm
Chef-Maggie-Jimenez1Winn-Dixie Store # 251
3275 S.W. 22nd St.,
Miami, Florida 33145
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Winn-Dixie invites South Florida shoppers to join us for an afternoon of family, food and fun to kick-off this year’s Calle Ocho festival with mini celebrations throughout February at select Miami stores. As part of the celebrations, shoppers will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by Univision’s Celebrity Chef Maggie Jiménez. Known for her simple and delicious recipes that make it so easy to learn, Jiménez will prepare easy Kraft Food recipes such as Mesquite Chicken Breasts with Lime-Avocado Salsa, JELL-O Fruit and Cookie Dream and Tanguila Sunrise.

In addition to the cooking demonstrations, event attendees will also enjoy a variety of food sampling stations, Coca-Cola sampling, giveaways and more.

Free Salsa Concert at Tropical Park Valentine’s Day 2/14/14

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Free Salsa Concert at Tropical Park, Valentine’s Day
Friday, 02/14/2014 – 02/14/2014 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
ANDY-HARLOW-photoTropical Park
7900 SW 40 Street,
Miami, Florida 33155
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Dust off your dancing shoes as salsa music legend Andy Harlow brings along the “Charanga Time Band” for his return concert visit to Tropical Park on Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14, 2014. The concert starts at 8:00 p.m. and admission and parking are free. The event is part of the 2013-2014 Noches Tropicales free concert series presented by Miami-Dade County Parks and sponsored by Target. For more information on Noches Tropicales/Tropical Nights concerts, call Vivian Greer Digon at 305-271-0812 or visit Miami-Dade County Parks on the web at www.miamidade.gov/parks. To stay up to date on all future events, like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/miamidadeparks; and follow us on Twitter @miamidadeparks. You can also see past events on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/miamidadeparks.

Cycle for Curvival 2/1/14

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Cycle for Curvival
Saturday, 02/01/2014 – 02/01/2014 07:00 am – 12:00 pm
logos_text_NODASHEquinox
Equinox Fitness,
Coral Gables, Florida Miami
Webpage Link
Cost:

Fight cancer this February and March by riding at Cycle for Survival, the fun and high-energy indoor team cycling event, which is part of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Every dollar raised goes to much-needed clinical trials and research studies for rare cancers, including pancreatic, brain, ovarian and thyroid cancers, all pediatric cancers, and many more.

Donations are allocated at Memorial Sloan Kettering within six months of the events to develop better treatment options for cancer patients worldwide. Together with the event’s founding partner, Equinox, more than $34 million has been raised since 2007.

Teams across the country register to ride for a four-hour shift—with four to eight riders per bike—and multiple bikes, if needed. The event, led by outstanding Equinox instructors, also features complimentary yoga classes, massages and children’s activities.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering—the nation’s preeminent center for cancer research and treatment—targets more than 400 different subtypes of the disease, and makes breakthroughs that benefit patients globally.

Join the Battle. It’s time. Be part of this growing movement. Visit www.cycleforsurvival.org to register your team or make a donation.

Alvaro Pierri presented by the Florida Guitar Foundation 2/21/14

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Alvaro Pierri presented by the Florida Guitar Foundation
Friday, 02/21/2014 – 08:00 pm –
Pierri-PosterClarke Recital Hall, University of Miami
5501 San Amaro Dr,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: $15-$30

The Florida Guitar Foundation is proud to present Alvaro Pierri, a classical guitar legend, in concert on Friday February 21 at 8:00 pm at Clarke Recital Hall, University of Miami. This must-attend event, will be the Florida Guitar Foundation’s third performance for the 2013-2014 season.

Alvaro Pierri is internationally acclaimed as a leading personality in the world of the guitar. Press reviews around the world praise “his breathtaking phrasing“… “his masterly thought-out interpretations“…and “the unmatched musical colour spectrum that he creates on the guitar“.

He was born in Montevideo in Uruguay, in a family of musicians. From the age of 11 he was already receiving awards and first prizes in international guitar competitions. He studied among others with his aunt Olga Pierri, the composer Guido Santorsola and Abel Carlevaro.

Since his brilliant concert debut in New York and his debut in Germany with the string soloists of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Alvaro Pierri is a regular guest at major concert halls and radio and television stations in Europe, North and South America and Asia. Contemporary composers such as Leo Brouwer, Guido Santorsola, Francis Schwartz, Jacques Hétu, Abel Carlevaro, Carlo Domeniconi, Dusan Bogdanovic have written major works for Alvaro Pierri. He shared the stage with artists like Astor Piazzolla, Frank Peter Zimmermann, Terry Riley, Leo Brouwer, Charles Dutoit, etc.
Several of his CDs have been honored with prices like the coveted Canadian FELIX award for the best classical CD of the year. Recently Pioneer Classics Japan brought out a DVD featuring Spanish and South American guitar music, and Deutsche Grammophon re-published a DVD, Alvaro Pierri performing in duo with Astor Piazzolla.
Alvaro Pierri is also a worldwide acclaimed teacher. He was professor at the University of Santa Maria in Brazil and later at McGill University and the UQAM (Academy of Music) in Montreal, Canada. In 2002 he was appointed professor at the famous Academy of Music in Vienna (today University of Music and Performing Arts). He gives master classes at major music festivals such as the New York Manhattan Masters, GFA Guitar Foundation of America, at the Mozarteum Summer Academy in Salzburg, Vienna Masterclasses, Villa Musica, and in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, Brazil, etc.

In recognition of his outstanding artistic talent and carreer and his permanent enriching contribution to the culture, 2008 Alvaro Pierri was appointed as honorary citizen of his hometown Montevideo.

The Florida Guitar Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the awareness, education, promotion and appreciation of the classical guitar, an instrument of unsurpassed beauty and versatility. The Foundation sponsors public performances by world-renowned artists and aficionados, and strives to create and support a guitar community open to teachers, students, performers, and the listening public.

Third Annual Gables Heart Crawl 2/8/14

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Third Annual Gables Heart Crawl
Saturday, 02/08/2014 – 03:00 pm –
EViteFinalDigitalTarpon Bend
65 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $25 in advance or $30 at the door

What color will you wear this year?
Green = Single and ready to mingle
Yellow = It’s complicated
Red = Taken ♥

The Young Associates of the Coral Gables Museum invite you to our Third Annual Gables Heart Crawl on February 8th, 2014 at 3pm!

The crawl will start at Tarpon Bend and move on to Miller’s Ale House, Fritz & Franz, John Martin’s, and The Bar.

Enjoy complimentary drinks with admission and special discounts along the way.

Get in the Valentine’s Day spirit by showing off your status color.

Tickets are $25 in advance for $30 at the door. The first 100 people to use discount code “heartbreaker” get $2.50 off online registration.

Sign up today:
http://bit.ly/1jEaZKM

“Like” us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/YoungAssociatesOfTheCoralGablesMuseum

Build Champions for Your Cause Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network 2/19/14

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Build Champions for Your Cause Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network
Wednesday, February 19, 2014, 8:30AM – 11:30AM
Newman Alumni Center, University of Miami
6200 San Amaro Drive
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Registration fee: $25.00 per workshop *includes a continental breakfast*
Register Online

“Build Champions for Your Cause” is the second event in our 2014 Spring Networked Nonprofit Workshop Series and will take place on Wednesday 2/19/14. Learn how to tell your story through effective PR and creative marketing.

Featured Speaker: Bruce Turkel – Turkel Brands

This year’s workshops follow the themes from the groundbreaking book “Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High-Impact Nonprofits.”

We have a limited number of scholarships available for individuals and organizations with smaller budgets. Please contact Kristine Singer at KristineS@CatalystMiami.org or 305-576-5001 Ext. 12 for more information.

Gala In The Garden Fundraiser Celebrates 75 Years Of Fairchild 2/1/14

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Gala In The Garden Fundraiser Celebrates 75 Years Of Fairchild
Saturday, February 1, 2014 at 6:30 p.m.
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road
Coral Gables, FL 33156
Individual tickets start at $600, and tables for ten can be reserved for $6,000. To purchase tickets, please contact Susannah Shubin at sshubin@fairchildgarden.org or call 305-667-1651, ext. 3375.

An enchanting evening awaits guests of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s annual Gala in the Garden fundraiser. This year’s black-tie event is co-chaired by Swanee DiMare and Frances Sevilla-Sacasa and honors Fairchild’s 75th anniversary of opening to the public. Enjoy a cocktail reception, bid on luxury items at the Silent Auction, dine on an exquisite feast by Le Basque Catering, and dance by the moonlight surrounded by the lakeside marquee’s breathtaking décor.

With all proceeds supporting programs in conservation science, education and horticulture, the fundraiser will keep Fairchild moving forward while staying true to the original vision of the founders – to provide a beautiful tropical garden for all to enjoy.

Its Time to Cruise 2/8/14

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Its Time to Cruise
Saturday, 02/08/2014 – 11:00 am – 05:00 pm
maredolce1-343La Palma Ristorante & Bar
116 Alahambra Circle,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Come and Enjoy the Latest Resort Collections & Beauty Tips of 2014
Hosted by Model & Television Personality Licela Navarro
Featuring Pop-Up Boutiques from 11am to 5 pm
Special Gourmet Lunch Menu
Fashion Show Sponsored by Beauty Touches Productions with Title Holders from
Miss Florida & Miss Florida Teen USA
MAKEOVER TIPS, GIVEAWAYS & MORE!

Photographs of ARTcycle Exhibition Bikes Become Art Exhibit Opening at Coral Gables Museum on 1/23/14

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ARTcycle Exhibition Bikes Become Art Exhibit Opening and Artist Reception at Coral Gables Museum on Thursday, January 23, 2014.

“ARTcycle merges the Miami art scene with the Miami bike movement with an exhibition of bicycle-related artwork and sculptures made with bikes. This innovative exhibit furthers ARTcycle’s mission to raise awareness, respect and tolerance for cyclists, promote cycling and reduce the number of bike-related accidents in our city.”

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Furla Relaunches Coral Gables Store Fashion 1/30/14

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Furla Relaunches Coral Gables Store
Thursday, 01/30/2014 – 01/30/2014 06:00 pm – 08:30 pm
Furla Boutique
342 San Lorenzo Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

We are pleased to invite you to celebrate the unveiling of Furla’s new store concept. Shop the Spring Summer 2014 Collection and receive an exclusive gift with purchase.

Music by DJ Michelle Pooch

Please RSVP to 305.443.4945 or CoralGables@furlausa.com

Miami Classical Guitar Society presents Russian virtuoso Rovshan Mamedkuliev 2/1/14

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Miami Classical Guitar Society presents Russian virtuoso Rovshan Mamedkuliev
Saturday, 02/01/2014 – 08:00 pm –
26-Season_ROVSHAN_Concert_BannerSt. Bede Episcopal Chapel, University of Miami
1150 Stanford Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: $25

The Miami Classical Guitar Society proudly presents the third concert of its 2013-2014 Season, featuring young Russian virtuoso Rovshan Mamedkuliev, First Prize Winner of the 2012 Guitar Foundation of America International Competition!

Born in 1986 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Rovshan graduated from the prestigious Nizhny Novgorod Conservatoire where he studied with nationally renowned guitarist Aleksey Petropavlovsky, and in 2006 received a special grant from Russian President Vladimir Putin for high achievements in the arts. Since then, Rovshan has performed in major cities in France, Russia, Germany, Spain and the United States, where he performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City in 2012. He has been a laureate of over 23 competitions, including first prizes in the 41st International Guitar Competition “Francisco Tárrega” (Spain), the 10th International Guitar Competition “Hommage à Leo Brouwer” (France), and the 1st International Guitar Competition “Heitor Villa-Lobos” (Spain). He is now touring over 50 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico as part of his GFA competition prize, and just recorded a new CD with the Naxos label.

The Coral Gables Art Cinema’s 3rd Annual Fundraiser A Night at Our Cabaret 2/1/14

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The Coral Gables Art Cinema’s 3rd Annual Fundraiser A Night at Our Cabaret
1138Saturday, February 1, starting at 7:00 pm
The Westin Colonnade Coral Gables
180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Tickets are $250 per person and are available for purchase at gablescinema.com or by calling (786) 472-2249

The Coral Gables Art Cinema’s third annual fundraiser, A Night at Our Cabaret, takes place on Saturday, February 1, 2014, starting at 7:00 pm, at The Westin Colonnade on Aragon Avenue, one block east of the theater. Hosted by CBS4 anchor Eliott Rodriguez, A Night at Our Cabaret will feature delicious food, an open bar courtesy of Bacardi, music, performances, a silent auction, and other surprises. The goal of the evening is to raise funds so that this non-profit organization can continue to operate as the leading first-run art cinema and film arts center in South Florida. Steven Krams will also be recognized for his years of leadership as Founder and President of the Coral Gables Art Cinema.

The Coral Gables Art Cinema exhibits independent, international, and classic films, offering first-run, seven-day-a-week showcase presentations in both 35mm and true industry-standard theater quality digital projection. Cinema programs also include special events for families and children, film festivals and educational activities. It is located at 260 Aragon Avenue, across the street from Books & Books and the Coral Gables Museum, which is at 285 Aragon Avenue.

“We are so proud of the continued success of the Gables Cinema,” said Director Robert Rosenberg. “Our Cabaret fundraiser will help us to continue to grow and deepen our programs, with key community support.” A Night at Our Cabaret is expected to attract over 200 attendees who will come together in support of the film programming and educational activities of the Gables Cinema.

“A Night at Our Cabaret will be our biggest, most glamorous and fun annual fundraiser ever,” said Board Member and Event Chair of the Coral Gables Art Cinema Maritza Jacobson. “It’s an homage to both the film world and the arts community of South Florida.” Tickets for the event are $250 per person and are available for purchase at www.gablescinema.com or by calling (786) 472-2249.

Supporters for the evening include Bacardi, Continental Film & Digital Labs, FOX International Channels/Nat Geo Mundo, HBO Latin America, and Magna-Tech Electronic Co., Inc.

Funding for the Coral Gables Art Cinema comes in part from the City of Coral Gables; the Coral Gables Community Foundation; the Knight Foundation; Steven Krams and Midge Blumberg-Krams; Bacardi; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the many businesses, individual donors and members who contribute to the Cinema’s work.

ARTcycle Exhibition Bikes Become Art at Coral Gables Museum Exhibit Opening and Artist Reception 1/23/14

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ARTcycle Exhibition Bikes Become Art Exhibit Opening and Artist Reception
artcycle-evite_2Thursday Jan. 23rd, 2014
6:00 – Museum Members & Ford VIP Preview
7:00 – General Public
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134

On View: January 23- February 22, 2014
ARTcycle merges the Miami art scene with the Miami bike movement with an exhibition of bicycle-related artwork and sculptures made with bikes. This innovative exhibit furthers ARTcycle’s mission to raise awareness, respect and tolerance for cyclists, promote cycling and reduce the number of bike-related accidents in our city.

Bike Planning Presentation by David Henderson
Wednesday Jan. 29th, 2014, 7pm
Do you hate Miami traffic? Do you wish Miami-Dade County was doing more to promote biking and walking? They are! David Henderson is paving the way! Free with Museum admission.

Gallery Night Live!
Friday, Feb. 7th, 2014, 6-9pm
Free admission to temporary exhibits ARTcycle and Urbanism: Perceived and Interpreted, as well as live music on the Plaza and a cash bar!

Family Day
Saturday, Feb. 8th, 2pm-4pm
Families will learn about bike safety and digital animation with special guests from ARTcycle,
FarmToonz & Andy Toonz Studios and Erika Boom, author of her book “Oliver and his BOOM Bike,” and enjoy a 3pm concert by Coral Gables Music Club Scholarship Students. Free admission.

Bike Tour – Literally!
Sunday, Feb. 16th, 11am
Join ARTcycle and Books & Books owner and Coral Gables legend Mitchell Kaplan on this tour of literature in the Gables. $10; $5 for Museum members and children under 12. Space is limited. Please RSVP to 305.603.8067.

Curators’ Tour
Sunday, Feb. 23rd, 1pm
Don’t miss this chance to view the exhibit through the eyes of its curators Giselle Delgado and TachiLlamas. Free with Museum admission.

Miami Classical Guitar Society presents Thierry Begin-Lamontagne in Concert 1/18/14

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Miami Classical Guitar Society presents Thierry Begin-Lamontagne in Concert
Saturday, 01/18/2014 – 08:00 pm –
26-Season_Thierry-Concert_Banner2St. Bede Episcopal Chapel, University of Miami
1150 Stanford Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: $25

The Miami Classical Guitar Society proudly presents the second concert of its 2013-2014 Season, featuring Canadian virtuoso THIERRY BEGIN-LAMONTAGNE: First Prize Winner of the 2012 “Ciudad de Coria” International Competition; as well as Winner of José Tomás in Petrer, Spain; Montreal Grand Prix, Canada; Robert Vidal Competition, France, among others. He is recognized as one of the most talented young artists of his generation, known for the deepness of his interpretations.

To purchase tickets or for more info, please visit http://www.miamiguitar.org

Annual Thelma Gibson Awards & Installation Luncheon 1/23/14

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Annual Thelma Gibson Awards & Installation Luncheon
Thursday, 01/23/2014 – 11:30 am – 01:30 pm
Join-Jane-Pauley-Patricia-Ireland-for-lunchThe Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
RSVP Link
Cost: Members: $75 WCC Friends: $85

Please save the date for the 2014 Thelma Gibson Awards of Excellence and Installation Luncheon as we proudly announce the winners who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women in our community, and inaugurate our new President, Naomi M. Berry and the 2014 Board of Directors.

In honor of the WCC’s 30th anniversary year, we will feature two renowned women of prestige, Patricia Ireland and keynote speaker Jane Pauley, as we reflect on the achievements of women in business over the past 30 years and look forward to the advancements that the next generation will bring.

Les Dames D’escoffier Miami present the Fifth Annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale 1/25/14

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Les Dames D’escoffier Miami present the Fifth Annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale
image001Saturday, January 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Galleria of the Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Ave
Coral Gables, FL 33134

free and open to the public
www.lesdamesmiami.org

Les Dames D’Escoffier Miami (LDEM) will present their annual Giant Gourmet Garage Sale.  LDEM is  a non-profit organization comprised of female culinary, wine, hospitality and farming professionals dedicated to funding scholarships for young South Florida women, supporting regional agriculture and funding organic school vegetable gardens, nutrition and cooking educational programs for area youth and South Florida’s farm labor force
 
The Giant Gourmet Garage Sale, presented and staffed  by LDEM members,  is a wonderful place to stock up on all things culinary –  flatware, cookbooks, Tupperware, art, linens, napkins, pots & pans, candles, ceramics, bakeware, stemware, small appliances and much more.   Additionally, the Dames Marketplace will feature locally grown fruit and vegetables, potted herbs, vegetable starts, prepared foods and baked goods – all homemade and homegrown by the Chapter’s talented chef, caterer and farmer members.
 
Proceeds from sales will help underwrite Les Dames projects.

Miami New Times Artopia 2014 2/27/14

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Miami New Times Artopia 2014
artopia2014Thursday, February 27, 2014, 6pm – 10pm
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL
Buy Tickets Online

Miami New Times proudly presents our 6th Annual Artopia event on Thursday, February 27, 2014 from 6pm-10pm. Join us as we celebrate Miami’s best artists, musicians, fashion designers, culinary masters and performers. Guests will enjoy complimentary food, wine, cocktail and beer sampling. Entertainment includes musical performances, fashion shows, live performance art and works from local artists. ARTOPIA 2014 will also feature the finalists of the New Times’ Mastermind awards with the winners being announced at the event.

Photos of Talavera by Mr Q 305

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If you are looking for real authentic Mexican food made from the freshest ingredients then Talavera Cocina Mexicana is the place for you.
Located in the corner of Ponce de Leon Blvd. and Giralda Avenue, a visit to Talavera will take you on a culinary trip of the best that Aztec cuisine has to offer. As soon as you are in the proximity of the restaurant the distinctive and unique sound of Mariachis will get you in just the right mood; add to that one of their signature Margaritas and you’ll be on your way to taste bud heaven, all the while singing along: Allá en el Rancho Grande!
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit Talavera during Giralda Under The Stars, the event produced by the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables and sponsored by Zacapa Rum. Giralda Under The Stars takes place on the first Friday of every month from November to April, all the restaurants on Giralda Avenue bring their tables outside for a true and unique alfresco dining experience.
If you haven’t been to Talavera, put it in your “must do” list. It is true Mexican cuisine at its best!
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City Theatre presents City Reads for CityWrights at Books & Books in Coral Gables 1/22/14

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City Theatre presents City Reads for CityWrights at Books & Books in Coral Gables
Wednesday, 01/22/2014 – 05:30 pm – 08:00 pm
IRENEBooks & Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

City Reads for CityWrights are fun and informal evenings of new play readings, presented by City Theatre and its acting company, that give audiences a first-hand role in the process that scripts go from page to stage. Audiences serve as critic and supporter, or even as an actor, while having a peek at what makes City Theatre a center for fresh, new works.

These evenings are an entertaining way for audiences to help City Theatre find great plays among the hundreds of submissions that the company receives for its annual Summer Shorts Festival. Summer Shorts is America’s Short Play Festival that will take place from June 12 – July 6, 2014 at The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, with an incredible line-up of scripts penned by the country’s best writers including City Theatre National Short Play Competition winners.

Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild 1/12/14

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Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild
Sunday, 01/12/2014 – 03:00 pm –
Afternoon-Tea-GuestFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $27 for members, $37 for non-members, $17 for children 12 and under

Create a special memory at Mommy and Me Tea at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, held on the veranda and in the ballroom of the Visitor Center overlooking the tropical garden. Sweet and savory snacks will be served on fine china with an assortment of tea. Live music by local guitarist Rob Friedman will create an ambiance of relaxation. Please RSVP with Marnie Valent at (305)-663-8059.

Fine Wines Upscale Ale 1/11/14

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Fine Wines Upscale Ale
Saturday, 01/11/2014 – 07:30 pm – 11:30 pm
FWUA_logoFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $85

Celebrate a New Year, new beginnings and all the excitement we can muster with the Fairchild Palms for our exclusive signature event, “Fine Wines | Upscale Ales”.

Included will be an unforgettable evening of wine and craft ale tasting, dinner with dessert, rocking out with our DJ and sax/violin/bongo combo with silent auction and special night access to the Garden with the Palms!

• Sample a vast collection of fine wines from over 10 countries
• Experience craft ales and beers from all around the world
• Gastronomia by local chefs
• Mix and mingle in the garden to live DJ and instrumental performances
• Silent auction prizes from top restaurants, hotels, resorts and more

See you there and let’s toast to a great 2014!

———————————————-
The Fairchild Palms is the young professionals’ group affiliated with Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. All proceeds benefit the Fairchild Challenge environmental outreach program distributed to schools nationwide.

Cernuda Arte Opening Reception, Mendive & Three Centuries of Afro Cuban Artists 1/3/14

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Cernuda Arte Opening Reception, Mendive & Three Centuries of Afro Cuban Artists
Opening Reception First Friday – Gallery Night
January 3, 2014, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Manuel MendiveCernuda Arte
3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables, FL 33134
Phone: 305-461-1050 Fax: 305-461-1063
www.cernudaarte.com

Please join us for this unique exhibition of artworks by renowned contemporary master, Manuel Mendive, accompanied by a historic and panoramic view of works by sixteen Afro Cuban artists from the 1800’s to the present.

Including outstanding examples by artists such as: Vicente Escobar, María Ariza, Emilio Rivero Merlín, Ramón Loy, Alberto Peña, Wifredo Lam, Teodoro Ramos Blanco, Roberto Diago, Guido Llinás, Uver Solís, Agustín Cárdenas, Enrique Gay García, Angel Acosta León, Nicolás Guillén Landrián, Tomás Esson, and Juan Roberto Diago.

Image: Manuel Mendive, Bodies in Movement, 1989, oil on canvas, 30 x 40 1/4 inches
Provenance: Private Collection, Italy.
Exhibited in Manuel Mendive in Padua, Colors 90, Department of Culture + Cultural Heritage, Padua, Italy, 1990, and is illustrated in the exhibition catalog, page 57, with texts by Pierre Restany and Giorgio Segato.

Concurrently on the second floor, a new group show of Cuban and Latin American artists.

Alma de Tango’s Big Year-End Milonga 12/30/13

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Alma de Tango’s Big Year-End Milonga
Monday, December 30, 2013, 8:00pm-1:00am
milongaThe Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Avenue
Coral Gables
Miami, Florida 33134
Facebook
Schedule :
Advanced Group Class 8:00p – 9:00p
Beginners Group Class 9:00p – 10:00p
Year-End Milonga 10:00p – 1:00a
Cost : $20.00 Includes both Classes & Milonga, Cash Bar.

We are closing the year and saying goodbye to 2013 with a bang! That’s right! It’s our pre NYE Year-End Milonga, and we are wrapping it up with style. Get into the spirit and come dressed in your most festive cocktail dresses and dashing suits. For it is going to be a fun packed night. Festivities will be held in the Biltmore’s Danielson Gallery. Highlights for the night include; festive decor, extra door prizes, party favors, cake, champaign and much much more! It is going to be a great big party! We can’t wait!

You can learn the tango with IDO World Tango Champion, Monica Llobet. Her weekly Tuesday night group classes are designed for all levels. From beginning basic steps and technique, to advance musicality and philosophy. As the evening continues; dance the night away with our DJ’s signature selection ranging from classic music by top Tango orchestras to Nuevo Tango by innovative new groups. Continuing with the theme of the night, the hotel will have a special selection of Argentine wines and champaign.

16th Annual Coral Gables Blues Fest 1/16/14-1/26/14

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16th Annual Coral Gables Blues Fest
bluesfestJanuary 16-26, 2014
Fritz & Franz Bierhaus
60 Merrick Way
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Bierhaus.cc (305)774-1883

Free Admission
VIP Ticket Pachages Available (Includes $30 food & beverage tickets, one giant Bierhaus Mug and one BluesFest T-Shirt. Save $15!)
Rain or Shine
Handicap Accessible

The best of local, regional & touring blues!

Master(s) of Ceremonies
Stan Street, Clarksdale Mississippi
Mindi Lang, Magic 102.7
Frank Consola, WDNA 88.9

Thursday, January 16, 2014
Jeff Prine Group featuring Rita Wilburn & Juanita Dixon – 6-8:30pm
Big City Band – 9:00-11pm

Friday, January 17, 2014
Mr. “O” and The Soul Edition Band – 5-6:30pm
Jr. Drinkwater & the Westside Blues Band – 7-8:30pm
Soulfonic – 9-11:00pm

Saturday, January 18, 2014
Lowdown 13 – 12:30pm – 2:30pm
Sheba the Mississippi Queen & The Soul Kings – 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Jumpstreet 88s feat. Piano Bob & Stan Street – 5:00 – 6:30pm
David Shelley & Bluestone – 7:00 – 8:30pm
Biscuit Miller & The Mix – 9:00pm – 11:00pm

Sunday, January 19, 2014
Funky Blu Roots – 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues – 3-6pm
Joel Da Silva & Midnight Howl – 6:30-8pm

Monday, January 20, 2014
Lynne Noble & Rob Friedman Band – 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Tuesday, January 21, 2014
The Allnighters – 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Transition Blues Band – 7:00pm – 11:00pm

Thursday, January 23, 2014
Jonny Ciao’s Blues Cusine – 5:30pm – 7:00pm
18 Wheelers – 7:30pm – 11:00pm

Friday, January 24, 2014
Deck 52 – 6-8pm
IKO IKO – 8:30-10:30am

Saturday, January 25, 2014
Eric Austin Blues Band – 1:00pm – 4:30pm
Wade Baker Group – 5:00pm – 6:30pm
Joey Gilmore Blues Band – 7:00pm – 8.30pm
Little Mike & The Tornadoes – 9:00pm – 11:00pm

Sunday, January 26, 2014
Liz Sharp Blues Band – 1-3pm
Bobby Nathan Blues Band – 3:30pm – 5:30pm
Sean Chambers – 6-8pm

Info provided courtesy of Jazz & Blues Florida

Giralda Under The Stars 1/3/14

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Giralda Under The Stars
Friday, 01/03/2014 – 07:00 pm – 12:00 am
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile
Downtown Coral Gables & Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables FL, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

On Friday, January 3rd, Downtown Coral Gables’ Restaurant Row (located on the 100 block of Giralda Ave between Ponce de Leon Blvd and Galiano Street) will be bustling with al fresco dining and live entertainment from 7pm to midnight as part of Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum.

International Chocolate Festival at Fairchild 1/24/14 – 1/26/14

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International Chocolate Festival at Fairchild
Sunday, 01/24/2014 – 01/26/2014 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17.

The most delectable event of the year is back! Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s three-day 8th Annual International Chocolate Festival is on Friday, January 24 – Sunday, January 26 from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and celebrates the history and taste of the beloved cacao plant. Enjoy an assortment of chocolate treats from international vendors, cooking demos by prominent chefs, lectures from chocolatiers and restaurateurs, learning opportunities for kids, and much more.

Dog Day at Fairchild 1/5/14

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Dog Day at Fairchild
Sunday, 01/05/2014 – 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, $12 for children 6-17, and free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under

Throughout 2014, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden will open its gates on select days to our special four-legged friends as part of Dog Days. Visitors can bring their dogs and explore Fairchild’s 83 acres of wide, open spaces. Discover the Garden on foot or by tram with hourly tram tours, relax to the sounds of the waterfalls in the Rainforest, walk beside the swaying palm trees, grab lunch at the Glasshouse Café, and spend a peaceful Sunday among nature with your dog.

Second Annual Garden Music Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden 1/6/14-1/19/14

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soulofmiamifeatured
Second Annual Garden Music Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
P1030762 P1030765 P1030781 P1030790 P1030821 P1030846 P1030847 P1030849 P1030854 P1030867 P1030907 P1030911Monday, Jan. 6 – Sunday, Jan. 19, 2014
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road
Coral Gables, 33156
Tickets Available Online
Entry to the concerts is included with regular garden admission.
Premium Seating/Tables: $15/Fairchild members; $20/General Public
Tent Seating: $5/Fairchild members; $ 10/General Public
Lawn Seating: Free/Fairchild members; $5/General Public
Subscriptions: $35 Tent Seating
Music Up Close- Children ’S Concert: Free/Fairchild members;
Fairchild Admission/General Public
www.GardenMusicFestival.com
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Schedule:
Thursday, Jan. 9, 7pm: Opening Night Concert
Saturday, Jan. 11, 7pm: Stories Told Through Music
Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7pm: The Edge: Music That Pushed the Boundaries of its Time
Friday, Jan. 17, 7pm: Broadway in the Garden (A Benefit Concert for GardenMusic)
Saturday, Jan. 18, 10:30am: Music Up Close: A Children’s Concert
Sunday, Jan. 19, 7pm: A Jazzy Night

Set amongst the natural beauty of Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, the chamber music ensemble Sixth Floor Trio takes up residence from January 6 – 19, 2014 for the second GardenMusic Festival with a full slate of diverse programs, designed and created to explode the boundaries between time and musical styles.

The Sixth Floor Trio – Teddy Abrams, Harrison Hollingsworth, and Johnny Teyssier – and the 2014 GardenMusic guest artists will perform boundary-blasting programs that range from j azz and classical to traditional folk, Broadway and Latin j azz. Four evening performances, each creatively programmed around a unique theme, complemented by an evening of Broadway and a Children’s concert, will round out this year ’s Festival.

“Our aim is to pair one of Miami’s most beautiful settings with world-class music- making, bringing together tremendously talented and engaging musicians from around the world in a schedule of programs that cross the spectrum of time and musical styles,” said Teddy Abrams of the Sixth Floor Trio. The GardenMusic Festival is a winner of a 2012 Knight Arts Challenge award from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

SCHEDULE

* Thursday, Jan. 9, 7pm Opening Night Concert As an introduction to the Sixth Floor Trio and the 2014 GardenMusic artists, this program will traverse the musical landscape with a wide range of music, from a world premiere and original compositions to traditional folk music and classical favorites like Schubert ’s Death and the Maiden and Brahms’ Piano Quartet No. 1.

* Saturday, Jan. 11, 7pm Stories Told Through Music This program will demonstrate music’s relationship with storytelling in two parts: first, the music of Schubert, Stravinsky, Strauss, and John Adams present different styles of musical narrative. Second, a set of Bluegrass and folk music led by renowned fiddler Jeremy Kittel will be a beautifully-curated j ourney of virtuosity and artistry.

* Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7pm: The Edge: Music That Pushed the Boundaries of its Time Many of the great classical works now considered standards caused riots and scandals in their time; this concert will present brilliant music that inspired audiences to listen in new ways. From ancient African drumming to the cutting-edge works of Bach & Beethoven, the program will also feature a collaboration with the Miami Beach-raised award winning visual artist Michele Oka-Doner and a world premiere by GardenMusic resident composer Sebastian Chang.

* Saturday, Jan. 18, 10:30am Music Up Close: A Children’s Concert An intimate, fun-filled hour of musical education, engagement and enjoyment for children of all ages! This presentation is free for Fairchild members and is included with regular garden admission for non-members.

* Friday, Jan. 17, 7pm Broadway in the Garden with Broadway star Morgan James Broadway star and singer Morgan James (Motown the Musical, Godspe ll) transports you through New York’s great musical eras with her extraordinary vocal prowess – merging soul, jazz, R&B, and Broadway tunes in a fresh and exciting way. Ms. James joins the GardenMusic resident musicians for this special benefit concert in the Glasshouse Café. Tickets are $150.

* Sunday, Jan. 19, 7pm A Jazzy Night This program celebrates the intersection of the worlds of Jazz and Classical music. Bartók and Ravel are paired with Jazz standards, contemporary Jazz, and Latin Jazz for a high-energy and inspiring concert that demonstrates the full creative power of the 2014 GardenMusic artists.

Pre-Concert Conversation with Artists Audience members can enj oy the performances either in the Concert Tent or on the lawn, and are invited before the 7pm performances to pre-concert programs at 6pm.

In addition to the main performances in the Concert Tent, GardenMusic will fill the Fairchild garden space with music-making throughout the festival. Visitors to Fairchild in January will experience short concerts throughout each day of GardenMusic, Random Acts of Culture, open rehearsals, and daily educational activities with the GardenMusic artists for every student that visits the Garden.

GardenMusic was created in 2012 by Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s Board of Trustees Vice President Jennifer Buttrick to bring music to the Garden for the community to enjoy amongst the backdrop of Fairchild on a Florida winter ’s night. The inaugural event brimmed over with all types of musical celebrations. Four full concerts in addition to many short-form concerts and open rehearsals were performed, along with children’s concert with a unique instrument petting zoo. Two original works commissioned specifically for the festival debuted. Actors from the City Theatre and choreographers from Miami Contemporary Dance Company joined the musicians for a staged production of Stravinsky ’s “Soldier ’s Tale.” University of Miami music students were treated to a master class, and a surprise concert by the Sixth Floor Trio as part of Random Acts of Culture for a party in Matheson Hammock Park rounded out the program.

Miami Marine Stadium 50th Anniversay Clambake in the Museum Plaza 12/22/13

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Marine Stadium 50th Anniversay Clambake in the Museum Plaza
MMS 50th BirthdaySunday, 12/22/2013, 6:30 PM
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
There are a limited number of tickets available and must be purchased in advance.

This December, the Miami Marine Stadium turns 50! To celebrate, Friends of Miami Marine Stadium will host a screening of the Elvis Presley film “Clambake”–scenes of which were shot at the Marine Stadium in 1967. The evening will include a “Latin clambake” featuring paella, a cash bar, and a comfy seat to watch the film. The event will be held outdoors in the patio (indoors if necessary) at the Coral Gables Museum currently featuring the exhibit “Concrete Paradise: Miami Marine Stadium.” Our Miami spin on the New England tradition includes the movie, a plate of delicious paella and cash bar drinks for only $5!

The film, which tells the story of an heir to an oil fortune (Elvis Presley) who trades places with a water ski instructor at a Florida Hotel, features Elvis in his youth as a budding heartthrob and submerses him in the 1960’s surfside antics of the South Florida lifestyle. Those attending the screening will see the vintage hydroplane boat racing shot on sight at the Marine Stadium!

Built in 1963 for boat racing, the Marine Stadium had a tremendous opening night which featured the Tommy Bartlett Water show, a 17 piece jazz orchestra, a 40 person choir singing selections from the opera Die Fledermaus, and fireworks. The Stadium hosted boat races, Easter Sunrise Services, spectacles of all kinds, and performers including Jimmy Buffett, Ray Charles, and The Who during its years of operation from 1963 to 1992. The Stadium was shuttered in 1992 after Hurricane Andrew. But, in 2008, a new non-profit group–Friends of Miami Marine Stadium–was formed to develop a plan to restore and operate the Marine Stadium. In July of 2013, the City of Miami approved the site plan as proposed by Friends of Miami Marine Stadium and fundraising has commenced.

The Clambake evening is sponsored by the Miami Parrot Heat Club. The Parrot Head Club is comprised of devout fans of Jimmy Buffett, perhaps the most beloved of all Marine Stadium performers. “There has not been a single event that has united fans of Jimmy Buffett more than that August, 1985 Live By The Bay Concert at the Marine Stadium”, said Brenda Braley, President of the Miami Parrot Head Club. “The people who were there still talk about it 28 years later while the rest of us dream that it will happen again.”

To support the renovation of the Miami Marine Stadium click below to donate to the National Trust for Historic Preservation fund.
Click Here To Donate

Rina Yoga Super Yogis Schoolhouse Winter Yoga Camp 12/23/13

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Rina Yoga “Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse Winter Yoga Camp”
Monday, 12/23/2013 – 01:00 pm – 04:30 pm
Rina Yoga
1250 Coral Way,
Miami, Florida 33145
Webpage Link
Cost: $45 per child, $35 for siblings

In light of the holidays we are offering a very special 1 day Super Yogis’ Yoga Winter Camp! Make plans now for 12/23, finish up shopping, gift wrapping or spoil yourself with a massage. Don’t worry about the kiddos, we will be having our own holiday fun with yoga, music, storytelling & art. Best for kids ages 6-11.

Improv Comedy Sunday Night Service 12/22/13

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Improv Comedy Sunday Night Service
Sunday, 12/22/2013 – 07:00 pm – 10:00 pm
SNSJust The Funny Theater
3119 Coral Way,
3119 Coral Way, Florida Coral Gables
Webpage Link
Cost: $20/$15 Presale

Vice City Improv will be embracing the holidays with some very special out-of-town guests, including; star of GLEE, Blake Jenner, Improv Olympic Comedy Guru, Jeff Quintana and locally renowned stand-up, Mike Mercadal.

We are excited to jump start 2014 early with our Sunday Night Service (a la Whose Line Is It Anyway and Saturday Night Live mixed with Wildin’ Out) featuring our most hilarious performers and your audience suggestions.

Join us for an intimate performance that will be “Sinfully Entertaining.” Get your tickets today at www.vicecityimprov.com, only 100 seats available.

Photos of Giralda Under The Stars by Mr Q 305

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Giralda Under the Stars presented by Zacapa Rum brings dining, music and art outside to the street at over a dozen restaurants and bars. The event takes place on Giralda Avenue’s Restaurant Row (between Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Galiano Street), bringing culinary excellence and popular libations outdoors, under the stars.  Restaurant Row is closed to vehicular traffic so that Giralda Under the Stars’ participating restaurants and bars may fill the street with tables and chairs as well as live music and entertainment from 7pm to midnight on the first Fridays of the month from November 2013 to April 2014.

The featured restaurants on this shoot were: Talavera Cocina Mexicana, Spritz, Divino Ceviche and Spizzigo.

Zacapa Rum was serving the award-winning blend of their ultra-premium rums.

“This event allows Restaurant Row to shine, coming together to offer a wide array of food from all over the world with choices to satisfy any and all palates and budgets,” said Mari Gallet, Executive Director of the Business Improvement District of Coral Gables, which produces the event.

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Voices of Angels Miami Children’s Chorus In Concert 12/15/13

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Voices of Angels Miami Children’s Chorus In Concert
Sunday, December 15, 2013 – 4:00 p.m. 
miamichildrenschorus12-04-13First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables
536 Coral Way
Coral Gables, FL 33134
www.miamichildrenschorus.org

Admission:  $20 Adults, $5 Students and Seniors (In Advance) – $25 Adults, $10 Students and Seniors (At the Door)

MCC shares the magic of the holidays in Voices of Angels. The concert will feature all three ensembles of the Miami Children’s Chorus performing holiday favorites and multi-cultural choral pieces representative of many holiday traditions. Voices of Angels beautifully captures the spirit of the holidays, which shines most powerfully when a chorus sings as one! Come and be thrilled by the 150+ voices of the MCC.

The Miami Children’s Chorus is supported in part by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the City of Coral Gables.

63rd Annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art 1/18/13-1/19/13

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63rd Annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art
beauxartsfestivalJanuary 18-19, 2014, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Grounds of the Lowe Art Museum,
1301 Stanford Drive
University of Miami Campus
Admission and Parking: Free
www.BeauxArtsMiami.org

The 63rd annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art presented by City National Bank will bring more than 230 fine art juried exhibitors to the grounds of the Lowe Art Museum on the University of Miami campus on January 18 and 19, 2014.

Widely recognized as one of the region’s most popular outdoor art exhibitions and a South Florida tradition, the festival attracts thousands of visitors annually and offers works in 10 mediums for a variety of budgets.

Admission and parking are free. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Lowe Art Museum, which will be open to the public all weekend.

The festival will feature live music in the Main-stage tent, children’s entertainment – including free art activities for children ages 4-12  in the “Miami Children’s Hospital Art Park” – and a variety of dining options, making this event ideal not just for art enthusiasts but for families as well.

In addition to artists selected by a panel of jurors, visitors will enjoy the popular “Student Artist Showcase,” featuring 150 pieces from Miami-Dade middle and high school students, on display inside the Lowe Art Museum throughout the weekend. A celebration honoring the students’ art will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2014, at the Lowe. Sponsors of the Student Artist Showcase include Crispin, Porter + Bogusky, Neiman Marcus and Joanna’s Marketplace.

The festival reaches beyond artists and visitors on the festival weekend. Funds raised from the festival help underwrite “Hands On!” – Beaux Arts’ signature program for children from underserved schools. ”Hands On!” introduces these Miami-Dade students to the world of art and museums via field trips to the museum. Additional funds raised are used for Lowe Art Museum exhibitions, improvements and acquisitions.

The festival was originally called the “Clothesline Sale,” as Beaux Arts volunteers used clotheslines to display the works of local artists in front of the Lowe. Over 60 years later, the all volunteer-run, annual festival has evolved and is considered one of the top outdoor fine art shows in the country.

Sponsors for the 2014 Beaux Arts Festival of Art include Presenting Sponsor City National Bank; Featured Sponsors Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables and Cutler Bay, and Miami Children’s Hospital; and Friend of Festival Sponsors AON, Crispin Porter + Boguksy, Miami Dade County, and the University of Miami.

For more sponsorship and general information, visit www.BeauxArtsMiami.org, and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BeauxArtsFestival. Images are available upon request.

Founded in 1952, Beaux Arts is a 100% volunteer organization made up of 100 women and over 300 associates, who fund art enrichment, appreciation and financial assistance to the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. Through major fundraising initiatives such as the annual Beaux Arts Ball and Beaux Arts Festival of Art on the University of Miami Campus, the organization is the largest group financial donor to the museum. Beaux Arts recently won the “White Award,” with which the group was recognized as the University of Miami’s most effective donor and surpassing the $5 million mark of funds contributed to the Lowe Museum. To date, Beaux Arts has hosted over 25,000 children at the Beaux Arts Art Camp and hosted over 5,000 students from Miami-Dade schools for our art appreciation outreach program, “Hands On!”. For more information, visit www.BeauxArtsMiami.org

Polish Up Your Crystal Ball: A 2014 Economic Outlook 12/18/13

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Polish Up Your Crystal Ball: A 2014 Economic Outlook
Wednesday, 12/18/2013 – 08:00 am –
1594Coral Gables Art Cinema
260 Aragon Avenue ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 Chamber Members & $35 Non-Members

The Small Business Committee of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce presents IMPACT: A Seminar Series for Small Business.

Featured Speaker:
Dr. Tony Villamil
CEO, The Washington Economics Group
Chief Economist, Mercantil Commercebank
Dean, School of Business, St. Thomas University.

Followed by a conversation with Jody Johnson, Owner of Action COACH

Wednesday, December 18, 2013
8:00 AM – Registration & light breakfast
8:30 AM – Program

Sponsored by: Mercantil Commercebank

For more information, contact the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce at 305-446-1657 or visit www.coralgableschamber.org

Art Bodega Magazine Launch Party 12/3/13

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Art Bodega Magazine Launch Party
Tuesday, artbodegaDecember 3, 2013, 7:00pm
The Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Avenue
Coral Gables, FL
RSVP to artbodegaevents@hotmail.com

Miami Fall/Winter Art Bodega Magazine Launch, with special guests Gene Prescott of the The Biltmore Hotel, Natalia Valera of the Miami cover, and Dr. Ramrin Kassir of the New York cover. Come celebrate the arts in a unique way with the New York and Miami Launch issue of the Fall/Winter Art Bodega Magazine. Join the glitterati and celebrities at The Granada room at The Biltmore Hotel for the unveiling of the cover of artist Natalia Valera and New York renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Ramtin Kassir. Art Bodega Magazine is a high end print publication in New York, Palm Beach and Miami dedicated to the affluent community with a Latino flair. Our event is dedicated to the arts, fashion, beauty and business community that loves new ideas. Expect great food, cocktails, and much more at the exclusive Biltmore Hotel. Art Bodega Magazine is a bi-lingual and bi-monthly publication for the high-end Latin consumer that combines editorial content, celebrity news, as well as a guide to the latest hotspots and fashion trends.

Venus Orbit 2nd Launch at Fine Line 12/2/13

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Venus Orbit 2nd Launch
venusorbitMonday, December 2, 2013, 10AM-6PM
Fine Line
4217 Ponce de Leon Blvd
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Register Online

Open House Offering a Brilliant Constellation of Holiday Gifts and Style
Hors d’oeuvres and Beverages
15% discount on all sales the day of event!

Plus, all guests who become a Venus Orbit Star or above, the day of the event, will receive a $500 gift card to use at Fine Line.

Corporate Sponsor: Paula and Bob Brockway, Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables | Mercedes-Benz of Cutler Bay

Honorary Chair: Swanee DiMare

Easter Seals of South Florida Festival of Chefs 2013

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 25th Annual festival of Chefs

When an event combines tasty cuisine and a cause we believe in, we will definitely be there with forks in hand. Easter Seals of South Florida, is a wonderful organization that “provides exceptional services to ensure that all children and adults with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.” They help kids with disabilities learn how to take care of themselves and secure jobs.

Easter Seals threw its 25th edition of Festival of the Chefs to help raise money and awareness for its Easter Seals South Florida’s Culinary Arts High School, a vocational training program for students ages 16 through 22 with autism and other disabilities. The grand event took place in Coral Gables and was tremendously fun. Celebrity chef Ingrid Hoffman hosted and some of the best restaurants and dessert shops from Miami served up their culinary treats. We will highlight our favorites below:

Chef Kareem Anguin of Oceanaire Seafood Room had the best dish of the night with his Smoked Scallops and BBQ Short Ribs. The scallops were cooked to perfection, thick cut and juicy enough that a bib should ALMOST have been required. The short ribs were perfectly balanced with sweetness and a slight kick. Bravo, Chef Kareem!

Chef Luis Lopez of City Hall Restaurant was our next favorite dish with his big supremely flavorful BBQ Brisket Sliders. The brisket was sweet, drenched in sauce and the bun perfectly complimented this delightful sandwich.

 

Ched Norman Van Aken of Tuyo Restaurant served up a savory dish of alliteration with his Brazilian Creamy Cracked Conch Chowder with saffron, coconut, orange and star anise. We really enjoyed this rich and creamy take on chowder.

Chef Jorge Montes of Roho Kitchen had a solid Short Rib Empanada with Truffled Aioli. This delicious baked concoction was quite a treat.

 

 

We had stuffed our faces soooooo much that we did not believe we had room for dessert… that is until we went upstairs and the mere whiff of the intoxicating dessert scents wafting through the air reset our appetites so we could squeeze some tasty sugar into our already bloated bellies.

Our two favorites were:

The Donut Divas enchanted us with deep fried red velvet oreos. We were stuffed to the freaking gills, but still managed to down three plates of this debaucherous confection.

 

The Nothing Bundt Cakes table was out of control with about 10 different versions of its decadent cakes that had the soft crisp texture of real cake but when one bites into the piece it is ridiculously juicy, wet and flavorful. Truly magnificent cakes!

 

The event was a smash with gallons of wine and champagne flowing, a silent auction with great prizes and good, down to earth and astute people that were a pleasure to meet and converse with. We can not wait until the 26th edition.

 

 

 

Scrumptious Burgerliscious Returns for a Third Bite

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Very few events induce as much anticipated excitement as a nectarous burger orgy feast… well maybe a real orgy. We are still salivating as we type this review of Burgerliscious 3 (literally took a break to eat a burger while writing this). This bodacious burger bonanza returned on November 7th for the third straight year at Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park in Coral Gables. Guests were privy to devour appetizing burgers from over 20 participating Coral Gables restaurants and vote for their favorite.

The general admission ticket was $60, which got you 6 sliders and 2 Sam Adams beers or for $125 you could go VIP that got you unlimited everything, plus access to the VIP Jack Daniels bar and Seasons 52‘s deliriously divine dessert station. In addition to the literally tons of meat on hand, there were also handful of other highlights. The always Spasty (spicy and tasty) Pika Sauce was there sharing its tantalizing spread. The incredible Roc Kat Ice Cream was slinging caramel ice cream with Sam Adams Cherry Wheat beer soaked cherries.

We sincerely had some of the best cafecito of our lives when we discovered Gulejo, this socially conscious company sources its beans from Nicaragua and created a cold brew was so smooth and gratifying. One of our favorite 80’s cover bands Mad World Orchestra played great tunes while we stuffed our faces like gordisimos having our last Death Row meal.

Swine Southern Table and Bar won the People’s choice award with their deviantly succulent  brisket, short rib and pork shoulder patty with bacon schmear and smoked then grilled pork belly bacon.

Shake Shack‘s burger won the Judge’s award with its signature 100% all-natural Angus beef (hormones and antibiotics free) proprietary blend. Personally, we think the Shack makes a mediocre burger (patty) with a great potato bun. We were perplexed that it, once again, took home the crown.  Some Shake Shake fans claim they put crack in their burgers and were the best.

We will highlight our actual faves in no particular order:

Sushi Maki really went off the farm and served an inspiring & mouthwatering Kobe Beef patty with a juicy thick toothsome scallop on top, coupled with kimchee, spicy mayo and a toasted Hawaiian sweet bun that was, in a word, HEAVENLY and our personal fave.

Tarpon Bend had the most creative dish with its Farmhouse patty consisting of pork, cow, chicken and turkey topped with bacon, a fired egg and a Sam Adams derived spicy mayo. This burger should have won the “Most Animals Massacred to Feed Us” award.

Books & Books brought us an early Greek inspired Thanksgiving treat with an awesome turkey burger topped with pico de gallo, lemon dill feta and parmesan tzatiki sauce in a pita. This burger was so yummy we would agree to re-read the first excruciating 100 pages of 50 Shades of Grey again if it came with this dish.

Christy’s kept it simple and superb with its supremely juicy meat, delicious bun, caramelized onions, addictive bacon and a blue cheese topping that sets the world right again.

Burger festivals are some of the best events this world has to offer. We really do not appreciate having to wait a whole year for another stab. So event producers, please get your shit together and, like the amazeballs beer festivals we love, have one at least every six months. We promise people will show up twice a year to embrace burger gluttony.

 

Village of Merrick Park 11th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 11/14/13

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Village of Merrick Park 11th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, 11/14/2013 – 11/14/2013 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
Tree2Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Uniting Miami’s local community to kick off the holiday season, Village of Merrick Park
hosted its annual tree lighting ceremony. In its 11th year, the majestic 50-foot tree
decorated with over 50,000 LED lights is the undeniable symbol of the holidays in Miami.
Thousands of locals gathered together for a night full of live entertainment including a visit
from Santa Claus and special performances by the Coral Gables High School Choir.

Families also enjoyed cookie decorating, with Pottery Barn Kids and holiday ornament
decorating with Gymboree Play & Learn. Guests were encouraged to bring an unwrapped
toy to the event for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation gift drive.

Second Annual Shop-O-Holly Brunch Series 11/16/13

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Second Annual Shop-O-Holly Brunch Series
Saturday, 11/16/2013 – 11/15/2013 11:30 am – 02:30 pm
IMG_2167Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost:

Flowing into the weekend with Miami’s marquee community philanthropists and influencers,Village of Merrick Park hosted its Second Annual Shop-o-holly Brunch series, hosted with two iconic, local non-profit organizations – this year, Fairchild Tropical Botanic
Garden and United Way Women’s Leaders.

The brunches featured traditional brunch favorites by Sawa, C’est Bon and A Joy Wallace
Catering accompanied by Zonin Prosecco and Zonin Rose courtesy of Zonin Prosecco and Miami Cocktail Co.’s Sweet Tea and Piña Coladas followed by shopping!

Select retailers including: Michael Kors, Emilio Robba, Azzurro Boutique, Carlo Pazolini,
Adolfo Dominguez, Rugs by Zhaleh, Gymboree Play & Music, Luggage & More, Silvia
Tcherassi, Athleta, Caché, Agent Provocateur and J. Crew offered donations to the charities, gift with purchase or discounts exclusively to brunch patrons for that weekend only.

Typhoon Haiyan Relief Day at Sushi Maki 11/24/13

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Typhoon Haiyan Relief Day at Sushi Maki
Sunday, 11/24/2013 – 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm
typhoonRelief_SocialMedia_FORPOSTING-1Sushi Maki
2334 Ponce de Leon Blvd,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Facebook Link
Cost: Free

Sushi Maki is teaming up with Samaritan’s Purse in the relief efforts for those affected by the typhoon. This Sunday, November 24th, 10% of ALL sales at ALL Sushi Maki locations will be donated to the families affected by the typhoon.

Miami Marine Stadium Celebrates 50th Birthday at Coral Gables Museum 12/22/13

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Miami Marine Stadium Celebrates 50th Birthday
December 22nd, 2013 at 6:30pm
MMS 50th Birthday v11 copyCoral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
Tickets must be purchased in advance for only $25.
Purchase Tickets Online

This December, the Miami Marine Stadium turns 50! To celebrate, Friends of Miami Marine Stadium will host a screening of the Elvis Presley film “Clambake”–scenes of which were shot at the Marine Stadium in 1967. The evening will include a “Latin clambake” featuring paella, a cash bar, and a comfy seat to watch the film. The event will be held outdoors in the patio (indoors if necessary) at the Coral Gables Museum currently featuring the exhibit “Concrete Paradise: Miami Marine Stadium.”

The film, which tells the story of an heir to an oil fortune (Elvis Presley) who trades places with a water ski instructor at a Florida Hotel, features Elvis in his youth as a budding heartthrob and submerses him in the 1960’s surfside antics of the South Florida lifestyle. Those attending the screening will see the vintage hydroplane boat racing shot on sight at the Marine Stadium!

Built in 1963 for boat racing, the Marine Stadium had a tremendous opening night which featured the Tommy Bartlett Water show, a 17 piece jazz orchestra, a 40 person choir singing selections from the opera Die Fledermaus, and fireworks. The Stadium hosted boat races, Easter Sunrise Services, spectacles of all kinds, and performers including Jimmy Buffett, Ray Charles, and The Who during its years of operation from 1963 to 1992. The Stadium was shuttered in 1992 after Hurricane Andrew. But, in 2008, a new non-profit group–Friends of Miami Marine Stadium–was formed to develop a plan to restore and operate the Marine Stadium. In July of 2013, the City of Miami approved the site plan as proposed by Friends of Miami Marine Stadium and fundraising has commenced.

The Clambake evening is sponsored by the Miami Parrot Heat Club. The Parrot Head Club is comprised of devout fans of Jimmy Buffett, perhaps the most beloved of all Marine Stadium performers. “There has not been a single event that has united fans of Jimmy Buffett more than that August, 1985 Live By The Bay Concert at the Marine Stadium”, said Brenda Braley, President of the Miami Parrot Head Club. “The people who were there still talk about it 28 years later while the rest of us dream that it will happen again.” There are a limited number of tickets available and they must be purchased in advance.

30% off everything at Monc Boutique for Additional Black Friday Sales 11/27/13, 11/29/13

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30% off everything at Monc Boutique for Additional Black Friday Sales
Wednesday, 11/27/2013 – 10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Low-ResMonc Boutique
7222 Red Rd,
Coral Gables, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Monc Boutique will offer 30% off everything in store as well as 50% off selected items on November 27th and Black Friday the 29th.

Marketing and Building Your Personal Brand with Rina Yoga 11/20/13

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Marketing and Building Your Personal Brand with Rina Yoga
Wednesday, 11/20/2013 – 09:30 am – 11:00 am
Rina Yoga in the Roads
1250 Coral Way ,
Miami, Florida 33145
Webpage Link
Cost: $40

Date: Wednesday, November 20th, 2013
Time: 9:30 am – 11:00 am
Cost: $20 Femfessional members $40 non-members
Place: Rina Yoga in The Roads
1250 Coral Way, Miami, Fl 33145

Join Rina Jakubowicz, founder of the Rina Yoga Studios for a personal branding class that will change your business. Learn the secrets behind building your personal brand. After the workshop, stay for a yoga class!

27th Annual Festival of the Trees 11/21/13

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27th Annual Festival of the Trees
Thursday, 11/21/2013 – 06:30 pm – 09:30 pm
SAVE-THE-DATE-Blue-EmailCoral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $70, group rates available upon request

FIU’s annual Festival of the Trees is a South Florida tradition. The event unites the region’s premier design professionals in this celebration of the holiday season’s shapes, colors, light and poetry. It showcases the unique creativity of the community by engaging local, nation and international designers in the design of holiday trees made from every imaginable material.
This year, the Festival focus is on supporting cultural diversity through design that represents the holiday spirit, and does not have to be a tree. Designers will be awarded in the following categories:
Most Elegant
Most Creative
Most Illuminating
Most Progressive
Peoples Choice (ballots by guests)
The trees are also auctioned at the event, and became holiday decoration by the winning bidders

Village of Merrick Park Ushers in the Holiday season with 11th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 11/14/13

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Village of Merrick Park Ushers in the Holiday season with 11th annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, 11/14/2013 – 11/14/2013 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
VOMP.Tree_.2012.2Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Uniting Miami’s local community to kick off the holiday season, Village of Merrick Park presents its annual tree lighting ceremony. Now in its 11th year, the majestic 50-foot tree decorated is the undeniable symbol of the holidays in Miami. Thousands of locals will gather for a night full of entertainment and activities for children and families including a visit from Santa Claus, special performances by the Coral Gables High School Choir and more. Select retailers will also provide shopping promotions during the event such as special discounts or a gift with purchase. Guests are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy to the event for the Toys for Tots gift drive.

Photographs from 25th Annual Festival of Chefs at Comber Hall on 11/6/13

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The 25th Annual Festival of Chefs to benefit to Easter Seals South Florida at Comber Hall on Wednesday, November 6, 2013. This event had a remarkable array of leading chefs including:

Host Chef Elgin Woodman of A Joy Wallace
Chef Alberto Cabrera of Bread + Butter
Chef Reuven Sugarman of Buns and Buns
Chef Luis Lopez of City Hall, The Restaurant
Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House
Chef Andre Bienvenu of Joe’s Stone Crab
Chef Patricio Sandoval of Mercadito Restaurant Miami
Chef Brian Molloy of Nikki Beach Miami Beach
Chef Assia Dahrouch of Lemoni Cafe
Chef Jorge Montes of Roho Kitchen
Chef Kareem Anguin of The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Chef Norman Van Aken of Tuyo Restaurant
Chef Ricardo Baquero and Culinary Arts High School students from Easter Seals South Florida.
Dessert & Coffee participants to date include: Donut Divas, I Sweets, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Illy Coffee and more.

“The mission of Easter Seals South Florida is to provide exceptional services to ensure that all children and adults with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.”

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Fall Orchid Festival at Fairchild Garden 11/15/13 – 11/17/13

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Fall Orchid Festival at Fairchild Garden
Friday, 11/15/2013 – 11/17/2013 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $0-25

Step into an orchid wonderland at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s first-ever Fall Orchid Festival from Friday, November 15 – Sunday, November 17 from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The Garden will be filled with numerous orchid vendors, workshops, food and live music. The centerpiece of the festival is the “Orchids of the World” juried show and exhibit presented by the American Orchid Society (AOS) and Orchid Society of Coral Gables that will fill Fairchild with breathtaking displays and arrangements.

Still unsure of what to give your friends and family this holiday season? Orchids make wonderful gifts and can brighten up any living or working space. Browse the vast selection of varieties sold by local and international vendors to find the perfect orchid for your loved ones.

Kenneth Cole Celebrates Book Launch at University of Miami 11/7/13

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Kenneth Cole Celebrates Book Launch at University of Miami
Thursday, 11/07/2013 – 11/07/2013 12:30 pm – 01:30 am
KennethCole_University_PA_EviteUniversity of Miami – Storer Auditorium
5250 University Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

On Thursday, November 7, 2013, Kenneth Cole will be stopping by Miami for a five-city book tour to support the launch of This is a Kenneth Cole Production, a coffee table book celebrating Kenneth Cole’s 30 year career in fashion and social engagement. The tour is comprised of a series of designer Q&A’s at the top Liberal Arts and Design colleges across the country, moderated by Levin, and live streamed on Google+ Hang Out. While in Miami he will be appearing at the University of Miami from 12:30 – 1:30 pm. During the appearance, the designer will meet and mingle with fans while signing copies of the book which will be sold at the University of Miami. 100% of Kenneth Cole’s profits from the book will be donated to amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research.

Fall 2013 Workshop 3: Create High Impact Funder-Nonprofit Partnerships 11/13/13

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Fall 2013 Workshop 3: Create High Impact Funder-Nonprofit Partnerships
Wednesday, 11/13/2013 – 08:30 am – 11:30 am
3rd-Fall-2013-WorkshopNewman Alumni Center, University of Miami
6200 San Amaro Drive ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $25.00

The Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network – LTNN is co-hosted by the University of Miami School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Development, and Catalyst Miami. We are once again honored to offer an incredible series of workshops throughout the Fall 2013 semester. With a focus on strengthening bonds and leadership, attendees will learn ways on how to build a high impact non-profit.

Wednesday, November 13, “Create High Impact Funder-Nonprofit Partnerships”
Featured Speaker:
Diana Aviv, President and CEO of Independent Sector, the foremost membership and advocacy organization for nonprofits and philanthropy

To officially register for this event, please visit our Eventbrite page, then pay for your ticket(s) at the door or by mailing a check. Please note we have a limited number of scholarships available for individuals and organizations with smaller budgets. Contact Kristine Singer at KristineS@catalystmiami.org for more information.

This initiative is made possible with support from: Turkel Brands, The Miami Foundation, Peacock Foundation, and the University of Miami Office of Civic & Community Engagement

Please see below for details on our other upcoming topics and speakers.

Wednesday, Dec. 11: “Share Leadership to Achieve Results”
Speakers: Isaac Prilleltensky, Dean and Professor for UM’s School of Education and Human Development; Ceasar McDowell, Professor of Civic and Community Engagement at MIT, Co-founder of MIT’s Co-Lab, and President of the Interaction Institute for Social Change

Get “Gleam-orous” With Melanie Mills at GBS, The Beauty Store 11/6/13

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Get “Gleam-orous” With Melanie Mills at GBS, The Beauty Store
Wednesday, 11/06/2013 – 11/06/2013 03:00 pm – 06:00 pm
GBS-The-Beauty-Store-LogoGBS, The Beauty Store
308 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Emmy Award-winning makeup artist Melanie Mills is one of Hollywood’s leading style-makers and beauty consultants, known for her glamorous flair, supreme talent and vivacious personality.

With more than fifteen years of experience, Melanie is a master of her craft, sculpting faces and bodies into true works of art as lead makeup artist for “Dancing With the Stars,” ABC’s hit show “The Taste” and Nickelodeon’s up and coming teen sitcom “Sam & Cat.” She has also appeared on “The Dr. Oz Show,” “Access Hollywood Live,” and the Hallmark Channel’s “Home and Family”.

The sought-after makeup artist to the stars, founder of the acclaimed Gleam beauty brand and author of the new book “Glitter and Glam” will be sharing her award-winning beauty tips at an exclusive two day event taking place at GBS Beauty Stores in Coral Gables and Pinecrest on November 6th and 7th. GBS is the only beauty specialty boutiques to carry the Gleam beauty line in South Florida.

Not only will Melanie be sharing her super secrets to keeping the star’s so “gleam-orous” through an interactive Q & A session, but she will be offering exclusive autograph copies of her new book and product demonstrations while guests enjoy light bites and refreshments.

Gleam Body Radiance is Hollywood’s sexy industry secret: the go-to professional face and body makeup that transforms skin into a perfect velvet canvas, hiding imperfections and improving overall skin texture. She invented Gleam out of necessity to even out blotchy spray tans and instantly bronze skin while deeply moisturizing and making skin glow for the cameras on ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” for more than five years. To compliment that perfect glow, Mills launched Gleam Lip Radiance glosses in seven couture shades which are also available at GBS The Beauty Store locations.

NLC Happy Hour and Q&A Session with Past Fellows at Books and Books 11/5/13

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NLC Happy Hour + Q&A Session with Past Fellows at Books & Books
Tuesday, November 5, 2013 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
11-5-Books and Books NLC EventBooks & Books Inc
265 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
RSVP Online

Join us tomorrow for our final recruitment information session before we select our 2014 class of NLC Fellows. Enjoy happy hour at Books & Books and participate in an interactive Q & A session with past Fellows to learn more about the Fellows experience and how to apply.

What is NLC all about? Why should I apply to be an NLC Fellow? How can I apply? What is the 5-month NLC Institute really like? Learn more about the New Leaders Council and get all of your burning questions answered at our final NLC infosession of 2013. We’ll have a panel of past NLC Fellows on hand to discuss why they applied, what their NLC Institute experience was like and how NLC has shaped their lives.

Apply or Nominate Someone to Become a 2014 NLC Fellow!

Now that you’ve had a chance to learn more about NLC, meet some of our NLC Fellows and learn about their work in the community, it’s time for you to take the next step. If you’re interested in applying to the 2014 NLC Institute starting in January, please begin your application or nominate an outstanding young leader. The deadline for applications to the 2014 NLC Institute is November 12th 2013.

The most romantic place to bike in South Florida

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Brian and Naomi at the Sea Ranch Center
A little romance at the Sea Ranch Shopping Strip in Sea Ranch Lakes along our bicycle adventure on A1A.

This past Sunday night, my fiancé, Naomi and I embarked on a 65 mile bicycle journey along A1A from Parkland to Coral Gables. The propose of the trip: to see if we could do it.

I will preface this by saying that I’ve made October my personal “No Car, No Facebook Month”, also to see if I could do it (more on this in a future post). Naomi was gracious enough to go along with my scheme to bike the entire east coast of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. We live in the middle of suburban Coral Gables, and regularly bicycle commute as far as Little Haiti, Wynwood, Downtown and Miami Beach, but by no means, had we been training for a long distance ride like this one.

Continue reading “The most romantic place to bike in South Florida” →

Burgerliscious Kick-Off Happy Hour 11/1/13

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Burgerliscious Kick-Off Happy Hour
Friday, 11/01/2013 – 04:00 pm –
eblastTarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill
65 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Join us for a Burgerliscious kick-off party at the best Happy Hour spot on Miracle Mile next Friday, November 1 beginning at 4 PM at Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill. Come unwind, immerse yourself in the atmosphere and take advantage of unbeatable #Burgerliscious! ticket promotions to experience the 3rd annual burger bonanza right here in the Gables on November 7!

We will be offering a special BOGO blitz – buy one 1 VIP at $125 and get one free OR buy 2 General Admission tix at $60 and get 1 free – then, enjoy a complimentary drink on US with purchase of ticket!

25th Annual Festival of Chefs 11/6/13

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25th Annual Festival of Chefs
Wednesday, 11/06/2013 – 06:30 pm –
easterComber Hall
1251 Palermo Avenue,
coral gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $100

25th ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF CHEFS TO BENEFIT EASTER SEALS

South Florida’s top chefs will serve their most scrumptious culinary creations and popular artists will unveil their latest masterpieces at the 25th Annual Festival of Chefs on Wednesday, November 6, at Comber Hall, 1251 Palermo Avenue, Coral Gables, FL. The event kicks off with a VIP Reception at 6:30 p.m. hosted by Celebrity Chef Ingrid Hoffmann, author and TV host of “Delicioso” (Univision) and “Simply Delicioso” (Cooking Channel). General Admission begins at 7:30 p.m.

Proceeds from the Festival of Chefs will benefit the Easter Seals South Florida’s Culinary Arts High School, a vocational training program for students ages 16 through 22 with autism and other disabilities.

Event Chef Chair John Richards of Miami Culinary Institute has enlisted a remarkable array of leading chefs to join him for this very special event, including:

Host Chef Elgin Woodman of A Joy Wallace
Chef Alberto Cabrera of Bread + Butter
Chef Reuven Sugarman of Buns and Buns
Chef Luis Lopez of City Hall, The Restaurant
Chef Giorgio Rapicavoli of Eating House
Chef Andre Bienvenu of Joe’s Stone Crab
Chef Patricio Sandoval of Mercadito Restaurant Miami
Chef Brian Molloy of Nikki Beach Miami Beach
Chef Assia Dahrouch of Lemoni Cafe
Chef Jorge Montes of Roho Kitchen
Chef Kareem Anguin of The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Chef Norman Van Aken of Tuyo Restaurant
Chef Ricardo Baquero and Culinary Arts High School students from Easter Seals South Florida.
Dessert & Coffee participants to date include: Donut Divas, I Sweets, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Illy Coffee and more.

Along with a stellar roster of chefs, famed artist MANO who has attracted many of South Florida’s most talented artists to join him as well. “People love the Festival of Chefs because they get to enjoy a variety of fine wines and dishes from Miami’s top restaurants,” said Event Chair Shelley Daniel Rutherford. “And at the same time, they have the satisfaction of knowing that they’re raising much needed funds to provide exceptional services so that all people with disabilities or special needs have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities.”

In addition to a fabulous multi-course feast, the Festival of Chefs will feature an extensive live and silent auction of original paintings, sculptures, multimedia artworks, fine wines, luxury vacations and upscale merchandise. Sponsors to date include: The Batchelor Foundation, Cisneros Fontanals Family, TATE Enterprises, Greenberg Traurig, Allen Morris Company, BB&T, Hutzler Foundation, Rossman, Baumberger, Reboso, Spier & Connolly, P.A., Carol Pawley, Eugenia McCrea, J. Larry Rutherford, John Sullivan, Patrick E. Sessions, Perry Ellis International, American Airlines and Peace Love World. Media sponsors include The Miami Herald/El Nuevo Herald, Indulge Magazine, Social Miami.com, Citrus Miami, Miami Food Lovers, rm2 Project, and as our public relations partner, CREATIVAS.

Tickets for the 25th Annual Festival of Chefs are $150 for VIP and $100 for General Admission. For reservations and more information, visit www.southflorida.easterseals.com, or call Nanette Molina at 305-777-6835.

Burgerliscious 11/7/13

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Burgerliscious
Thursday, 11/07/2013 – 06:00 pm – 10:00 pm
burgerFred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park
2810 Ponce de Leon Blvd.,
coral gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $60
General Admission is $60 and includes 6 “slider burgers” and two Samuel Adams beers.
VIP tickets are $125 and include unlimited “sliders”, unlimited Samuel Adams beers, early admission, VIP tent pass and commemorative swag.

Burgerliscious Returns To The Gables!

“Savor” the date for the third annual Burgerliscious festival! Bonafide burger aficionados will be able to sink their teeth into gourmet burgers dreamed up by more than twenty of Coral Gables’ premier restaurants. Our burger bonanza also kicks-off Miami Live Music Month (www.livemiamimusic.com), a premier program of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Entertainment will feature Mad World Orchestra and DJ Mayner.

The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, Samuel Adams, and the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) have partnered for a third year to present this mouth-watering burger event. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will also benefit the Coral Gables Community Foundation to help support small business programs.

“Burgerliscious was inspired by the very best in burgers and to remind everyone that food can be both flavorful and fun – as well as a reason to gather as a community,” said Mark A. Trowbridge, President and CEO of The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. “Our burger festival is designed to continue to position Coral Gables as a foodie mecca, no matter your style, budget or gastronomic cravings. It is about more than meat and cheese and bacon and toppings; it is about the culinary experience.”

“I’m thrilled to be a part of the 3rd annual Burgerliscious festival. We want to showcase the Gables very own premiere restaurants to the community. As this festival grows each year, this is one you don’t want to miss out on,” said Wayne Eldred, owner/operator of Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill.

Participating Coral Gables restaurants include (to date):
ï‚· Anacapri on Ponce
ï‚· The Bar
 The Café @ Coral Gables | Books & Books
 Christy’s Restaurant
ï‚· Cibo Wine Bar | Liberty Entertainment Group
ï‚· CRAVE Restaurant Coral Gables
ï‚· The Eating House
ï‚· Fritz & Franz Bierhaus
 John Martin’s Irish Pub & Restaurant
ï‚· La Santina Wine & Tapas
ï‚· Morton’s the Steakhouse
ï‚· Pincho Factory
 Prieto’s Restaurant | Regency Hotel Miami
ï‚· Rebel Without a Kitchen
ï‚· Roc Kat Ice Cream Co. LLC
ï‚· Seasons 52
ï‚· Shake Shack
 Shula’s 347 Grill
ï‚· Sushi Maki
ï‚· Swine Southern Table & Bar
ï‚· Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill
ï‚· The Westin Colonnade Coral Gables

Meat alternatives (veggie and fish options) will be available for those with restricted diets.

Burgerliscious is sponsored by Sam Adams, South Motors BMW, the City of Coral Gables, Brown-Forman Beverages, Jack Daniels, Credomatic Merchant Services, Logistical Outsourcing, Inc., Clear Channel, Miami’s Community Newspapers, VOSS Waters, IPFone, and The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce.

For updates and more information, please visit BURGERLISCIOUS on Facebook
(www.facebook.com/burgerliscious) or follow us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/Burgerliscious_).

About the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce represents more than 1,500 members and is the second largest business association in Miami-Dade County. Our mission is to foster and enhance the economic interests of the Coral Gables community, while advancing the quality of life of our members, partners, neighbors and visitors. For more information on our Chamber, please visit www.coralgableschamber.org or follow-us on Facebook at www.facebook/coralgableschamber.

73rd Annual Ramble Festival at Fairchild 11/8/13 – 11/10/13

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73rd Annual Ramble Festival at Fairchild
Friday, 11/08/2013 – 11/10/2013 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65+, $12 for children 6-17, and free for members and children 5 and under

Join in on a Fairchild and South Florida tradition at the three-day 73rd Annual Ramble Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. Every year since 1940, the Ramble Festival has brought the whole community together for a grand garden party featuring plant sales, antiques, jewelry, rare books, art, a tea service, and a farmers market. Stop by Design:Fairchild, the green design and furniture show displaying pieces made from reclaimed and recycled materials, and make sure to check out the wood turners, ceramic, jewelry, and embroidery guilds to see in person how their handcrafted items are made. Don’t miss the sounds of the 100-year-old Dutch Waterpoorter street organ – a true sight to behold – in the Bailey Palm Glade.

Cernuda Arte Closing Reception of Besmar The Endless Library La Biblioteca Infinita 11/1/13

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Cernuda Arte Closing Reception of Besmar The Endless Library La Biblioteca Infinita
SONY DSCFriday , November 1, 2013, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cernuda Arte
3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, FL 33134
www.cernudaarte.com

Last few days to see the outstanding one-person exhibition, Besmar: The Endless Library

Lauded for its virtuosity and detailed realistic narratives, Besmar’s show has been very successful and highly praised. If you haven’t seen it yet, join us at the gallery next Friday night and don’t miss it!

It will also be the last chance to view the concurrent showing by legendary Cuban master, Cundo Bermúdez: The Artist, The Friend

Image: Joel Besmar, The Edge of the Pocketknife, 2012, oil on canvas, 59 x 39 1/2 inches

Monday: You Call It 10/28/13

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Monday: You Call It
Monday, 10/28/2013 – 10:00 pm – 02:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black4The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Ah, Mondays. Back to the grind, back to the office, and back to your boss. But at The Bar on Monday nights, you call the shots. Buy a beer, cocktail or shot from 10pm-2am and receive a chip for your next drink on us! Chips are redeemable Monday nights from 11pm-3am. 21+, no cover!

“Ladies Night” Happy hour 11/1/13

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“Ladies Night” Happy hour
Friday, 11/01/2013 – 05:30 pm – 07:30 pm
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black5The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

Fridays at The Bar belong to the ladies! Ladies, you’re drinking free well cocktails and yuengling from 5:30-7:30pm, plus discounted draft beer, pitchers, & domestics for all! You’ve survived the work week. It’s time to unwind. 21+, no cover!

Fashion for Charity A Night in Havana Art and Fashion Exhibition Event 11/14/13

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Fashion for Charity A Night in Havana Art and Fashion Exhibition Event
Thursday, 11/14/2013 – 06:30 pm – 10:00 pm
FFC-A-Night-in-Havana-inviteCoral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Eventbrite Link
Cost: 50.00

“A Night In Havana” art and fashion exhibition event, hosted by Celebrity TV Host Mariana Rodriguez, will feature a unique collaboration between renowned artist Humberto Benitez and fashion powerhouse Ella Bella RoZio. Guests will be transported back in time to Cuba in the 1950s to experience the sounds, cocktails by DIAGEO, gourmet Cuban food and cigar rolling by Azucar Cuban Cuisine & Cigars, silent auction, dancing and entertainment.

The exhibition will consist of seven of Benitez’s most famous paintings including Liliam, Vestido Azul, Los Invitados, Romance in the Bar, Tu Canción and El Alcazar, who are known for its vibrant colors, movement and texture, paired with Ella Bella RoZio’s Couture collection of unique and umcomprable artistic designs. Their use of intricately tailored silks and imported embellishments, intertwine the story told between fashion and art. The highlight of the evening will be a special unveiling of the collaboration between both artists, in an exclusive painting of Benitez called “Hilda,” inspired and dedicated to Benitez’s beloved aunt in Havana, who was a couture seamstress. The special painting will be available to guests as a limited edition poster that will be sold during the exhibition event.

Eyes on the Cure 10/22/13

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Eyes on the Cure
Sunday, 10/22/2013 – 10/31/2013 09:00 am –
Beiner_Susan_G_Komen_Oct_15_2013Villages of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: 0

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Edward Beiner wanted to join the fight through EYES ON THE CURE. Edward Beiner Purveyor of Fine Eyewear has partnered Elizabeth Faraut, founder of La Loop, to create a one-o-a-kind necklace sold exclusively at Edward Beiner locations throughout South Florida during the month of October. Edward Beiner will be donating 10% of all of this necklaces’ sales to Susan G. Komens.

Yoga in the Gardens for Adults and Kids with Rina Yoga 10/27/13

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Yoga in the Gardens for Adults and Kids with Rina Yoga
Sunday, 10/27/2013 – 11:00 am – 02:00 pm
YogaFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Join Rina Yoga Teachers this Sunday at beautiful Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden and enjoy complementary Yoga classes fit for all levels that will strengthen and stretch the body and mind for overall wellbeing and relaxation under a nature’s own ambience.

And for our Super Yogis, we will have an amazing fun time exploring yoga poses, games, movement and communication techniques provided by Rina Yoga’s pioneering curriculum for children and teens, Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse.

Dancing With The Stars Fashion Show 10/30/13

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Dancing With The Stars Fashion Show
GFWC Coco Plum Woman’s Club Presents Dancing With The Stars Fashion Show
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Cocoplum Women’s Club
1375 Sunset Drive
Coral Gables, Fl 33143
Admission: $30.00 Dollars (NO Credit Cards)

Featuring Fashion Designs by Rosaura Sias-Pipenburg & Jewelry Designs by Maritza Guevara

Time : 11:00 Am Social Hour
12:00 Pm Lunch
1:00 Pm Fashion Show

Menu: Salad
Chicken, Mashed Potatoes and Asparagus
Dessert
Wine
Cash Bar
To Benefit : Safespace, a Domestic Violence Shelter
RSVP by Friday, October 25, 2013
pcrivas@aol.com

Free wine tasting event and author chat for The Exes in My iPod premiere 11/2/13

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Free wine tasting event and author chat for The Exes in My iPod premiere
Saturday, 11/02/2013 – 07:00 pm – 08:00 pm
dfw-lm-teimi-cover-mid1Books & Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33133
Eventbrite Link
Cost: Free

Start off your Saturday ladies’ night with a book chat and free wine tasting, featuring Lisa Mattson, a former Miami waitress turned California wine maven and author of The Exes in My iPod: A Playlist of the Men Who Rocked Me to Wine Country. This lively Q&A discussion between with the author and Miami author, poet and professor Jen Karetnick, dining critic for MIAMI magazine, includes a complimentary wine tasting flight that follows the progression of the book’s main character’s palate—from Riunite bubbly to Jordan Cabernet.

Monday: You Call It 10/21/13

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Monday: You Call It
Monday, 10/21/2013 – 10:00 pm – 02:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-blackThe Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

Ah, Mondays. Back to the grind, back to the office, and back to your boss. But at The Bar on Monday nights, you call the shots. Buy a beer, cocktail or shot from 10pm-2am and receive a chip for your next drink on us! Chips are redeemable Monday nights from 11pm-3am. 21+, no cover!

Karaoke Night 10/22/13

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Karaoke Night
Tuesday, 10/22/2013 – 10:00 pm – 02:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black1The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
mIAMI, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

Join us Tuesday nights for karaoke night with the lovely Jenn B! Enjoy $2.50 Miller High Lifes and $3 shots of Jagermeister, Cuervo Tradicional, & Kamikaze to help give you that liquid courage. Show us what you got on the mic and compete for free drinks! 21+, no cover!

Whiskey Wednesday 10/23/13

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Whiskey Wednesday
Wednesday, 10/23/2013 – 09:00 pm – 02:00 am
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black2The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: 0.00

We like to keep things simple. Whiskey Wednesday – it’s just what it sounds like. Take 50% off any whiskey, scotch, or bourbon Wednesday nights from 9pm-2am. It’s just our little way of helping you get through your hump day. 21+, no cover!

“Ladies Night” Happy hour 10/25/13

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“Ladies Night” Happy hour
Friday, 10/25/2013 – 05:30 pm – 07:30 pm
The_Bar-new-logo-on-black3The Bar Coral Gables
172 Giralda Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Fridays at The Bar belong to the ladies! Ladies, you’re drinking free well cocktails and yuengling from 5:30-7:30pm, plus discounted draft beer, pitchers, & domestics for all! You’ve survived the work week. It’s time to unwind. 21+, no cover!

Book Signing with Kenneth Treister and David Price 10/21/13

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Book Signing with Kenneth Treister and David Price
Monday, October 21, 6:30 P.M.
bokBooks & Books
265 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
305.442.4408

Bok Tower Gardens: America’s Taj Mahal is the first major illustrated book about Bok Tower Gardens, an architectural and landscape masterpiece in Central Florida’s rolling hills of citrus groves.

Read about this eminent work of America’s “golden age of architecture” and learn how publisher, philanthropist, and conservationist Edward W. Bok commissioned two esteemed designers, landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and architect Milton B. Medary, to create a sanctuary that would preserve the natural beauty of the region.

Kenneth Treister, FAIA is an architect and artist. He has written nine books, including Havana Forever. David Price, president of the Bok Tower Gardens Foundation, served as Director of Horticulture at Bok Tower Gardens for 20 years. Dan Forer is an acclaimed architectural photographer. Derek Bok is President Emeritus of Harvard University and grandson of the founder of Bok Tower Gardens. Bob Graham is a former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator.

Photographs from Miami Marine Stadium Concrete Paradise at Coral Gables Museum on10/17/13

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Miami Marine Stadium Concrete Paradise at Coral Gables Museum on Thursday, October 17, 2013.  What a wonderful exhibition and a great way to learn the history of the Miami Marine Stadium.  I really hope that they are able to raise the money to bring back the Miami Marine Stadium to its former glory and it was be so awesome to have a waterfront stadium for concerts and other activities.  This exhibition will run from October 17, 2013 – January 5, 2014.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

61st annual Beaux Arts Ball 11/9/13

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61st annual Beaux Arts Ball
November 9, 2013; 7 p.m.
Coral Gables Country Club
997 North Greenway Drive
Coral Gables, FL
Tickets: $250 per person; to reserve, email beauxartsinfo@beauxartsmiami.org

On November 9th, join Beaux Arts at the “Wig & Stache Bash” to celebrate Miami’s oldest costume ball and the organization’s ongoing support for the University of Miami’s Lowe Art Museum.

Evening events will include a large silent auction, featuring over 200 items valued at over $150,000, a sit-down dinner, dancing, a costume and skit competition, and an exciting raffle, in which the purchase of a raffle ticket will go toward sending an underprivileged student to Beaux Arts Art Camp.

61st Annual Beaux Arts Ball sponsors include Mercedes Benz of Coral Gables and Cutler Bay, Bermont Advisory Group of Raymond James, AON, Northern Trust, Lowell International Realty, The Haggard Law Firm, Hillary Littlejohn Scurtis Interior Design, TUUCI, Windhaven Insurance, and Nicole Wilson Lozano.

Funds raised at the event will be used for exhibitions, improvements and acquisitions to the Lowe’s permanent collection, as well as to finance the organization’s flagship program, Hands On!, which exposes underserved children from Miami-Dade to the visual arts.

Halloween Party at Coral Gables Woman’s Club benefiting May Van Sickle Children Dental Clinic 10/26/13

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soulofmiamifeatured
Halloween Party benefiting May Van Sickle Children Dental Clinic
halloweenSatuday, October 26, 8:00pm
Coral Gables Women’s Club
1001 E. Ponce de Leon Blvd
Coral Gables, FL
$10 Donation
For tickets, please contact Nathalia Bogani at nbogani@hotmail.com.

The event is only $10 per person to benefit the smiles of the less fortunate children through the May Van Sickle Children Dental Clinic which offers FREE dental care to school students K-12.

Friends and family are welcome. There will be Free Food, Music, 50/50 Raffle, Best Costume Prize. There will also be a Suggested Donation Cash Bar.

GBS, The Beauty Store Hosts Coral Gables Customer Appreciation Day 10/11/13

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GBS, The Beauty Store Hosts Coral Gables Customer Appreciation Day
Friday, 10/11/2013 – 09:00 am – 07:00 pm
GBS-LogoGBS, The Beauty Store Coral Gables
308 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free and Open to the Public

Fall is finally here and it’s time to revamp your beauty routine and update your look with the latest trends. No need to scrimp or sacrifice on the brands you love as GBS The Beauty Store in Coral Gables is offering 20 percent off on every product in the entire store during their annual Customer Appreciation Day on Friday, October 11th from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Beauty junkies can tune-up their tresses with complimentary deep conditioning caviar treatments by Alterna or revamp nails with the rich colors from OPI’s new San Francisco collection thanks to free polish changes.

In addition to major gifts with purchase¬ and all-day giveaways, shoppers will enjoy complimentary consultations and free samples from the most recognized and respected brands in the industry including:

• Makeup consultations featuring the brand new Rock Your Color collection by Butter London
• Complexion correction rejuvenating treatments by Peter Thomas Roth
• Mini makeovers by NYX
• Luxe hair treatments featuring MoroccanOil to repair and hydrate
• Bouncy blowouts by Solano
• Katie Holmes’ coveted hair secrets by Alterna plus hydrating caviar and smoothing
bamboo treatments
• High tech skin scans and mini treatments by Murad
• Davines for anti-aging and damage repair
• Men’s grooming and product tips by Jack Black
• DevaCurl for curly hair revival
• Hair and scalp consultations and haircare prescriptions by Rene Furterer
• Fall runway styling and haircare product showcase by Redken
• Scalp and hair examinations by Nioxin
• Mini hand massages by Kneipp

Guests will also receive complimentary gifts with purchase from a variety of top beauty brands such as a “Glowing Skin” gift bag valued at over $100 with the purchase of any Clarisonic device, a Millionails treatment with purchase of any two Essie polishes, and a thermal brush with the purchase of any T3 dryer or iron and many more.

The Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball Dazzles Miami

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Sexy & Scrumptious Dining in the Dark

The talented Chef Adrianne Calvo compiled quite a delectable feast for all the senses with her legendary Dining in the Dark at the Coral Gables Country Club this past September 20th 2013. She threw an Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball  to benefit the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event was adorned and saturated with magnificent ostentatiousness  and scrumptiousness.

Dining in the Dark consisted of a seven course meal where patrons consumed their meal blindfolded. Eating blind amplifies the experience because shutting off one sense accentuates the others and our brain does not prejudge the food based on what we see. Once the food is served, the first step is to touch the food. All dishes had very enticing and interesting textures. We were then instructed to smell the food, which at times was intoxicating in the best way. The mere whiff of the exquisite truffle oil induced a Niagara fall of saliva in our mouths. We have become quite addicted to truffles since this event. Finally, you may taste the food and be marveled by the complex flavors in your mouth. In between the courses, you delighted in sexy sounds like Enigma while enjoying the touch of your dining partner, and fully embarking on and appreciating the entire blind experience.

The event was unique, delightful and delectable. Her fried goat cheese and truffle oil ball were our amaurotic favorite. In addition, to the decadent dinner there was a whole slew of entertainment which included: contortionists, fire dancers, burlesque show (videos below),  live band, body painting, chandelier models, as well as sexy mermaids performing in the pool.

Videos:

IMG_4809

IMG_4813

IMG_4821

 

Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse Session 2 with Rina Jakubowicz & Friends 10/14/13

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Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse Session 2 with Rina Jakubowicz & Friends
Monday, 10/14/2013 – 11/08/2013 04:00 pm – 05:30 pm
266Rina Yoga In the Roads
1250 Coral Way,
Miami , Florida 33145
Webpage Link
Cost: $350 (8 classes each session) $250 (4 classes per session)

Date: October 14th – November 8th, 2013
Time: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Price: $350 (8 classes each session)
$250 (4 classes per session)
DISCOUNT: $100 off for anyone who LIKES our SYS
Facebook page (offer for the first 3 sessions)
5% off for more than one child.

Included: Super Yogis’ T-shirt and Patanjali Packet. Family

Location: Rina Yoga In the Roads, 1250 Coral Way
Miami, Fl. 33145

Introducing Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse, Rina Yoga’s pioneering curriculum for children and teens starting October 14th!

Monday and Wednesdays: Ages 5-8
Tuesdays and Thursdays: Ages 9-12
Tuesdays and Fridays: Teens

Super Yogis’ Schoolhouse Mission:
To help kids empower themselves by teaching them life skills like:
1. how to focus
2. healthy coping skills
3. how to communicate better
4. tangible yoga practices for daily life challenges
BUT ALL WITH A LOT OF LOVE and TONS OF FUN!

We’ll explore yoga poses, story-telling, art, games, music, theater, gardening, movement, communication techniques, embracing emotions, improve play time, nutrition… All learning is based on fun, feeling empowered and being uplifted!

Although children may be little in size, they are big at heart!

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY:

Email rina@rinayoga.com

http://www.rinayoga.com/programs/super-yogis-schoolhouse/

“French Weeks Miami”: Miami Consulate General of France award ceremony for Veterans receiving Legion of Honor Award 11/11/13

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“French Weeks Miami”: Miami Consulate General of France award ceremony for Veterans receiving Legion of Honor Award
Monday, 11/11/2013 – 10:00 am – 11:00 am
University of Miami
1306 Stanford Dr. (Topple Career Center) ,
Miami, Florida 33124
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

On Veterans Day, in partnership with the University of Miami, the Consul General of France, Mr. Philippe Létrilliart, will award the insignias of “Chevalier dans l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur” (“Knight in the National Order of the Legion of Honor”)to several U.S. veterans who fought alongside France during World War II.

Howl-O-Ween: Bring your dog to Fairchild 10/31/13

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Howl-O-Ween: Bring your dog to Fairchild
Thursday, 10/31/2013 – 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65+, and $12 for kids 6-17. Free for members and children 5 and under

Put your best paw forward and bring your dog to Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden Howl-O-Ween! Dress up your pup and enter the costume contest, get some trick-or-treats at vendor booths like Shake Shack, and stop by local animal organization tables for information and freebies. The day features tons of special activities for dogs and their owners as they parade through the Garden in their best Halloween costumes. This is one of the few times Fairchild opens its gates to our four-legged friends. What better way to spend Halloween than with man’s best friend?

Young Associates’ Third Annual Party on the Plaza Masquerade 11/1/13

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soulofmiamifeatured
Young Associates’ Third Annual Party on the Plaza Masquerade
Friday, 11/01/2013 – 11/01/2013 07:30 pm – 11:30 pm
3rd-Annual-PoP-InvitationCoral Gables Museum (Terrace)
285 Aragon Ave,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Buy Tickets Link
Cost: $40 in advance or $50 at the door

Unmask your charitable side this Halloween season at the Young Associates of Coral Gables Museum’s Third Annual Party on the Plaza Masquerade.

During this enchanting evening of masked revelry, exhibits from local artists Miguel Paredes and Alex Mijares will transform the terrace of the Coral Gables Museum into an outdoor gallery filled with music and mystery. Enjoy complimentary Bacardi cocktails, Hatuey premium beer and bites from local favorites such as Eating House, Swine, Morton’s Steakhouse and more while DJ Blaze Carreras hits the turntables for a truly unforgettable evening.

Don your most sultry disguise or be one of the first 300 guests to arrive and receive a complimentary masquerade mask upon arrival. Sweep your date to the dance floor or mix and mingle with beautiful strangers while a special dance performance by Stephanie Mas and rhythmic accompaniment from Carlos Saballos and Javier Rosales delight the senses.

The night will be full of surprises, so guests are encouraged to capture their memories in a themed, commemorative photo booth to make the magic last long after midnight. Tickets are $40 in advance or $50 at the door and all proceeds benefit the Coral Gables Museum.

This is the third year the Young Associates will host Party on the Plaza on behalf of the Coral Gables Museum. The event is expected to raise over $50,000, with more than 750 guests in attendance. Additional artwork from Ruben Millares, Kiki Valdes, Victor Alarcon, Gaudi Castro, Michael Halley, Cynthia Fleishmann and Natessa Amin throughout the Museum for the duration of the month.

“The Young Associates has become one of Coral Gables’ best organizations for young professionals to learn about art, network, and engage with the Miami community,” explains Cristina Mas, president and founder of the organization. “This year, Party on the Plaza will be even more exclusive and exciting than ever. What better way to end the Halloween season than a masquerade for a cause?”

Coral Gables Third Annual Burgerliscious Festival 11/7/13

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Third Annual Burgerliscious Festival
Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 6pm – 10pm
Fred B. Hartnett Ponce Circle Park
Coral Gables, FL 33134

General Admission: $60, includes 6 “slider burgers” and two Samuel Adams beers.
VIP tickets: $125, include unlimited “sliders”, two Samuel Adams beers, early VIP admission access and commemorative swag.
Tickets online

Bonafide burger aficionados will be able to sink their teeth into gourmet burgers dreamed up by more than twenty of Coral Gables’ premier restaurants. Our burger bonanza also kicks-off Miami Live Music Month (www.livemiamimusic.com), a premier program of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. Entertainment will feature Mad World Orchestra and DJ Mayner.

The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and Samuel Adams have partnered for a third year to present this mouth-watering burger event. A portion of the evening’s proceeds will also benefit the Coral Gables Community Foundation to help support small business programs.

“Burgerliscious was inspired by the very best in burgers and to remind everyone that food can be both flavorful and fun – as well as a reason to gather as a community,” said Mark A. Trowbridge, President and CEO of The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. “Our burger festival is designed to continue to position Coral Gables as a foodie mecca, no matter your style, budget or gastronomic cravings. It is about more than meat and cheese and bacon and toppings; it is about the culinary experience.”
“I’m thrilled to be a part of the 3rd annual Burgerliscious festival. We want to showcase the Gables very own premiere restaurants to the community. As this festival grows each year, this is one you don’t want to miss out on,” said Wayne Eldred, owner/operator of Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill.

Participating Coral Gables restaurants include (to date):
· The Bar
· The Café @ Coral Gables | Books & Books
· Christy’s Restaurant
· The Eating House
· Fritz & Franz Bierhaus
· La Santina Wine & Tapas
· Morton’s the Steakhouse
· Pincho Factory
· Prieto’s Restaurant – Regency Hotel Miami
· Roc Kat Ice Cream Co. LLC
· Seasons 52
· Shake Shack
· Shula’s 347 Grill
· Swine Southern Table & Bar
· Tarpon Bend Raw Bar & Grill
Meat alternatives (veggie and fish options) will be available for those with restricted diets.

BURGERLISCIOUS is sponsored by Sam Adams, South Motors BMW, the City of Coral Gables, Brown-Forman Beverages, Jack Daniels, Credomatic Merchant Services, Logistical Outsourcing, Inc. and The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce.

Miss Nelson is Missing 10/5/13-11/9/13

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Miss Nelson is Missing
Saturday, 10/05/2013 – 11/09/2013 02:00 pm – 03:30 pm
Miss-Nelson-webActors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre
280 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $21-23

Back by popular demand is this prior winner of Actors’ Playhouse National Children’s Theatre Festival with book, music and lyrics by Joan Cushing. Based on the popular children’s book by Harry Allard and James Marshall, the story follows Miss Nelson’s unruly class as they confront their worst nightmare, substitute teacher Viola Swamp! Join these rambunctious students as they discover some valuable lessons on their search for their favorite teacher Miss Nelson.

Adaptation, Music & Lyrics by Joan Cushing
Based on the Books by James Marshall & Harry Allard

Performance Schedule: Saturdays at 2 p.m.

“All Kids Included” Sensory-Friendly Saturday Performance on Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 11 a.m. Weekday 10 a.m. matinees available for field trips.

Ruthless! The Musical 10/9/13-11/3/13

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Ruthless! The Musical
Thursday, 10/09/2013 – 11/03/2013 08:00 pm –
ruthless-flyerActors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre
280 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $15-48

Ruthless! The Musical is a gem of a satirical comedy about the consuming drive for stardom. Suburban housewife Judy Denmark is dull as dull can be, but her daughter, Tina, is the greatest song-and-dance sensation to ever hit the third grade. She’s cute. She dances. She sings. And she would do anything to get the lead role in her school play…ANYTHING! Move over Honey Boo Boo, this outrageous and hysterically funny musical hit garnered rave reviews during its Off-Broadway run in the early 90s, and is ripe for a revival in today’s celebrity driven world.

Actors’ Playhouse’s production will feature pint-size powerhouse Julia Dale as Tina Denmark. National anthem singer Julia Dale has been a feature at Miami HEAT games since her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” garnered international media attention during the NBA Finals in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Julia has since been dubbed the team’s “Good Luck Charm” and is now excited to add professional actress to her credits as she makes her regional theatre debut in Ruthless! The Musical at the Miracle Theatre.

Book and lyrics by Joel Paley, music by Marvin Laird

Performance Schedule: Wednesday – Saturday at 8 p.m., and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Pure Barre Miami Celebrates One Year Anniversary 10/24/13

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Pure Barre Miami Celebrates One Year Anniversary
Thursday, October 24th, 2013, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Pure Barre Miami
205 Altara Ave.,
Coral Gables, FL 33146
purebarre.com

Toning and sculpting locals and celebrities alike, Pure Barre is the latest fitness trend to hit South Florida. Stars like Madonna, Zooey Deschanel and Natalie Portman (that Black Swan body didn’t materialize overnight) all sculpted their stunning dancer-esque physiques using the barre technique, which incorporates small isometric movements to effectively target problem areas women struggle with the most such as abs, hips, seat and arms while integrating stretching sessions to elongate muscles and prevent bulk.

Pure Barre Miami has already sculpted hundreds of bodies into pure perfection and now, in honor of its one-year anniversary “barre-ty”, they are inviting the community to join them for an evening of celebratory pampering featuring pop-up beauty “barres” by GBS Beauty Store, healthy bites and handcrafted cocktail shots by LIQS.

Pop-up pampering stations include complimentary mini-manicures at the Purely Polished Mani Barre featuring the hottest nail shades by Deborah Lipmann and Butter London, a Fall Lip Barre featuring Lipstick Queen and Sara Happ, and a Brighten Up Eye Barre with all the creams, concealers and powders the lid can hold.

Guests will also enjoy an exclusive pop-up shop by Athleta featuring the latest workout gear for the season and giveaways throughout the night. In addition, the first 100 guests will receive a GBS gift bag filled with must-have beauty essentials.

Founded by dancer, choreographer and fitness guru Carrie Rezabek Dorr in 2001, the Pure Barre workout has exploded in popularity. Since it began franchising in 2009, more than 100 Pure Barre studios have opened nationwide. Pure Barre Miami opened in 2012 at 205 Altara Avenue in Coral Gables. For more info, visit http://purebarre.com.

Copa Cultural 2.0: Cuiabá 10/9/13

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Copa Cultural 2.0: Cuiabá
Wednesday, 10/09/2013 – 06:30 pm – 08:30 am
CUIABA-foto-panoramicaBooks & Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

CUIABÁ, the capital of the State of Mato Grosso is situated in the geographic center of South America.
A former frontier boom town during the 18th. century gold rush, it is now again a lively place, one of Brazil’s fastest growing cities. Cuiabá is a good starting point for ecotourism excursions since it is located in the center of three spectacular biomas: the Pantanal, the Cerrado and the Amazon Forest. The Centro Cultural Brasil-USA da Florida invites you to discover and explore this 2014 FIFA World Cup Host City and its distinctive culture based on European and indigenous influences. Come and join us at Books & Books, on October 9, at 6:30 pm

ZZ Ward Concert at Neiman Marcus Coral Gables 9/26/13

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ZZ Ward Concert at Neiman Marcus Coral Gables
Wednesday, 09/25/2013 – 09/26/2013 06:30 pm – 10:00 pm
ZZ-Ward-Concert-E-ViteNeiman Marcus Coral Gables
390 San Lorenzo Avenue,
Miami, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: 0

Join us as Neiman Marcus kicks off The CUSP Event with an evening of fashion and music. As our VIP guest, check-in and claim your CUSP reservation at 6:30 p.m. on level two and enjoy beverages and bites before the concert in the Park, at Village of Merrick Park. Following the concert, you are invited back to the store for shopping, sips, and lights bites, plus the chance to meet ZZ Ward.

Country Western Party 9/26/13

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Country Western Party
110Thursday, September 26th
Fred Astaire Dance Studio
4008 Aurora Street
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Please RSVP!

As you plan your outfits, we would recommend that you wear your dance shoes.

However, if you plan on wearing boots please make sure there are no nails or pointy ends that would scratch or damage our beautiful dance floor.

Thank you for your cooperation, we look forward in seeing you there.

Edible Garden Festival at Fairchild 10/26/13 – 10/27/13

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Edible Garden Festival at Fairchild
Sunday, 10/26/2013 – 10/27/2013 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
SONY DSCFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65+, $12 for children 6-17, and free for members and children 5 and under

Fall has arrived, and with it comes the sight of bright orange pumpkins, the sound of crisp winds rustling the trees, and the smell of delicious autumn-inspired dishes. Experience the arrival of fall with bright orange pumpkins and delicious autumn treats at the Edible Garden Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. This year’s festival is part of South Florida’s first-ever Local Food Week put together by Earth Learning, a Miami-based organization that promotes sustainable living. Enter the Scarecrow Competition, adopt a pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch in time for Halloween, and sample delicious autumn brews at the Fall Beer Garden. This is a great time to learn how to start your own edible garden or spruce up the one you already have.

Bird Festival at Fairchild 10/12/13 – 10/13/13

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Bird Festival at Fairchild
Sunday, 10/12/2013 – 10/13/2013 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
Ibis-at-Fairchild-by-Gaby-OrihuelaFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link
Cost: $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65+, $12 for children 6-17, and free for members and children 5 and under

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the Tropical Audubon Society are pleased to announce the four-day Bird Festival held October 10 – 13, 2013. Two days of off-site birding tours on October 10 and 11 will take amateur and expert birders on engaging half-day or full-day walks through birding hot spots like Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and a hawk watch at Curry Hammock State Park. The fun continues at Fairchild on October 12 and 13 from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. with expert-led lectures on birding, talks from James A. Kushlan Keynote Speaker Ted Floyd, editor of the American Birding Association’s Birding magazine, music, food, and a performance by Miami City Ballet.

Team Trivia at Sushi Maki 9/19/13

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Team Trivia at Sushi Maki
Thursday, 09/19/2013 – 08:00 pm – 11:00 pm
SM-TriviaNightSushi Maki Coral Gables
2334 Ponce de Leon Blvd,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Facebook Link
Cost: FREE

Team Trivia returns triumphantly from Pao Town to it’s new home at Sushi Maki Coral Gables. Bring your useless knowledge and senseless wit and enjoy $10 beer buckets and happy hour pricing all night. See you there!

Fall 2013 Networked Nonprofit Workshop Series: “New Partners, New Markets” 9/25/13

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Fall 2013 Networked Nonprofit Workshop Series: “New Partners, New Markets”
Wednesday, 09/25/2013 – 08:30 am – 11:30 am
Fall-2013-First-WorkshopNewman Alumni Center at UM
6200 San Amaro Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Eventbrite Link
Cost: $25.00

The Leonard Turkel Nonprofit Network is co-hosted by the University of Miami School of Business Administration, School of Education and Human Development, and Catalyst Miami. We are once again honored to offer an incredible series of workshops throughout the Fall 2013 semester. With a focus on strengthening bonds and leadership, attendees will learn ways on how to build a high impact non-profit.

Wednesday, Sept. 25, “New Partners, New Markets” features guest speakers:
Carol Colleta – VP of Communities & National Initiatives, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Tatiana Hernandez – Arts Program Associate, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Chris Sopher – Journalism Program Associate, John S. and James L. Knight Foundation

To officially register for this event, please visit our Eventbrite page link. Tickets can be paid for at the door or by mailing a check. If you have any questions, contact Kristine Singer at kristines@catalystmiami.org or 305-576-5001 Ext. 12

This initiative is made possible with support from: Turkel Brands, Books & Books, The Miami Foundation, Peacock Foundation, and the University of Miami Office of Civic & Community Engagement

Chef Adrianne Calvo Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball Event 9/20/13

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Chef Adrianne Calvo Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball Event
darkdiningFriday, September 20, 2013
Coral Gables Country Club
990 Alhambra Circle
Coral Gables, Florida

Tickets and More Info.

Chef Adrianne Calvo, the innovating Miami, Florida-based culinary artist who has forged a formidable reputation in the area’s restaurant scene, is pleased to announce the very first Dark Dining event to take place outside of the charming confines of her eponymous and critically acclaimed eatery. The Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball, a formal gala event that will serve to contribute to one of the most established pediatric charitable causes in the country.

Long considered one of Miami-Dade County’s preeminent venues for social and charity events, the Coral Gables Country Club was selected as a location capable of offering the ideal combination of elegance and style in which to commemorate what promises to be a momentous evening. A portion of all proceeds from the proceedings will benefit Chef Adrianne’s Make It Count Foundation and St. Jude’s Children’s and Research Hospital.

The Dark Dining format, which entails that participants remain fully blindfolded in a particularly dimly lit setting to heighten their enjoyment of a multiple course meal, was initially established as a social trend in Europe. Beginning in September 2009, Chef Adrianne became the pioneer of the Dark Dining phenomenon in the South Florida culinary scene by hosting three like-themed events at her Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar that fall. Previously, Dark Dining events had been implemented in several major U.S. cities, but Miami had remained an untapped market. Always willing to embrace the new and unique in the culinary field, Chef Adrianne and her staff have progressively established the Dark Dining concept over the last 4 years as a required experience for food aficionados in South Florida.

“We’ve been extremely pleased with the ambiance and energy that each of our previous Dark Dining nights has infused into our restaurant,” commented Chef Adrianne. “When the opportunity was presented to leverage its increasing popularity to raise the profile of a cause as important as St. Jude’s, it became our mission to take this unique experience to the next level.”

Chef Adrianne has enjoyed a near-decade long relationship with Memphis, Tennessee-based St. Jude’s Children’s and Research Hospital, which serves as the leading private pediatric oncology research institute in the United States. Now in its 51st year of serving pediatric cancer patients and their families, St. Jude’s is staffed by a considerably distinguished and accomplished collection of doctors, nurses, researchers, and support personnel. For the past several years, Chef Adrianne and many of her staff have conducted annual week-long visits to St. Jude’s, during which they attempt to bring comfort and respite to the terminally ill children and their parents and caregivers.

The Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball will enhance the already vivid experience of a conventional Dark Dining event by incorporating live music, costume, and entertainment within a picturesque locale.

Fashionably Conscious Fashion Fundraising Sale 9/20/13-9/22/13

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Fashionably Conscious Fashion Fundraising Sale
Friday – Sunday, September 20-22
Friday, Sept. 20: VIP Cocktail Preview Sale 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Entry donation cost of $25.
Saturday, Sept. 21: All-day sale 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Entry donation cost of $10.
Sunday, Sept. 22: Fashionably Conscious Clearance Sale – Everything Must Go! Heavily discounted pricing on remaining items. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Entry donation cost of $5.
Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave., Suite 1520
Coral Gables. 
Garage parking is available at Village of Merrick Park.

Once again, the Village of Merrick Park is putting its fashion foot forward in the name of charity. The luxury retail and dining destination brings back the highly coveted Fashionably Conscious fundraising sale from Friday September 20 through Sunday September 22. 

The vintage designer sale event offers heavily reduced pricing on donated items from the most coveted closets of Miami’s respected philanthropists and community leaders. Some highlights of the collected inventory from the charity hosts include men’s Gucci and Ferragamo shoes, YSL and Diane von Furstenberg dresses, Miu Miu and Prada shoes and items from Chanel, Valentino, Phillip Lim, Chloé, Lanvin and more.  

The event kicks off Friday, September 20 with a VIP Cocktail Preview Sale Reception with catering provided by Le Basque for an entry donation of $25. The shopping continues on Saturday, September 21 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with an all-day sale featuring light bites courtesy of Jorge Mena and Mena Catering and bubbly from Vintage Liquors for an entry donation of $10. It concludes on Sunday, September 22 with the Fashionably Conscious Clearance Sale, where everything must go! There will be heavily discounted prices on remaining items from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with an entry donation of only $5. 

The weekend sale will return to the same retail space as last year, at suite 1520 on the ground floor of Village of Merrick Park, located next to Lacoste. KARLA Conceptual Event Experiences is designing the space for the sale with notably stylish concepts, while Garde Robe is providing hangers and racks. 
With a fundraising goal of more than $100,000, this year’s sale is set to be the most impressive yet. Already helping the organization climb to that goal, generous corporate sponsors of the sale include Village of Merrick Park, Florida Crystals, Garde Robe and Neat Method. Proceeds from the sale benefit Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard Community Center, providing free vital services to the children and families of the historic West Grove community. As the organization’s primary annual fundraiser, Fashionably Conscious offers essential unrestricted funds to enable the organization’s operations.

Miami Beauty Blogger Trend Show 9/20/13

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Miami Beauty Blogger Trend Show
Friday, 09/20/2013 – 09/20/2013 04:00 pm – 07:00 pm
Screenshot_2013-09-14-20-59-50-1Neiman Marcus Coral Gables
390 San Lorenzo Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost:

Join us in welcoming Miami’s top beauty bloggers in presenting Fall’s beauty trends. These beauty-darlings will be sharing their expertise as a model struts down the runway at 5pm. From music, drinks, light-bites, models and lots of hashtagging, this event will be sure to inspire you for the rest of the season.

Please call for reservatons 786.999.1000 ext. 1321

$6 Moshi Mojito Special 9/1/13

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$6 Moshi Mojito Special
Sunday, 09/01/2013 – 09/30/2013 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Mojito-SpecialRA Sushi – South Miami
5829 SW 73rd St,
Miami, Florida 33143
Webpage Link
Cost: free

Cocktail connoisseurs have another reason to love RA Sushi South Miami with the arrival its new beverage program, which includes $6 Moshi Mojito, available in traditional, mango or strawberry, throughout September in honor of Moshi Mojito Month.

The beverage menu has been fully upgraded for Fall and sees popular drinks like the Blushing Geisha, Dragon Bite and Emperor’s Margarita receiving star treatment with premium spirits and fresh fruit juice mixers. Despite the use of top-shelf ingredients, RA Sushi has maintained its original prices to offer guests a wide variety of signature cocktail choices for less than $10.

Examples include:
Blushing Geisha: Skyy Raspberry vodka, Chambord, cold lemonade, fresh lemon sour and a splash of soda
Dragon Bite: Bacardi Dragonberry, strawberry puree, fresh lemon juice, Japanese yuzu and a splash of soda
Emperor’s Margarita, RA Sushi’s premium margarita: Patrón Silver, Cointreau, fresh lime juice, Japanese yuzu and agave nectar.
Available in mango, cucumber or strawberry, as well as traditional

Prefer vino? Not a problem. Pairing perfectly with sushi and Japanese cuisine, RA’s new wine offerings include Saldo Zinfandel Blend, SA Prum Essence Riesling, Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc, Belle Glos “Meiomi” Pinot Noir, Spellbound Petite Sirah, Robert Mondavi Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, La Crema Chardonnay, and Stag’s Leap Karia Chardonnay.

RA Sushi has also extended its beverage menu to include a selection of craft beers to get guests ready for Game Day Sundays. Choose from seven new brews, including Florida’s own Inlet Brewing Monk in the Trunk, Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Cider, Bell’s Oberon, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, Lindemans Framboise, Magic Hat #9, and Unibroue La Fin Du Monde.

Dark Dining Miami 2013 9/20/13

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Dark Dining Miami 2013
Friday, 09/20/2013 – 07:00 pm –
Coral Gables Country Club
997 N Greenway Dr ,
Miami, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Dark Dining Eyes Wide Shut Masquerade Ball
Presented by Chef Adrianne Calvo.

On this one night event taking place September 20, 2013 at the Coral Gables Country Club, we welcome you to enter our tantalizing world of entertainment, where you will be taken back and surprised by the exotic, unique and out of this world performances. With live entertainers, dancers, specialty acts and many more surprises. Indulge in exquisite Chef Adrianne’s signature hors d’oeuvres and unlimited open bar. Come dance the night away for an unforgettable experience filled with sensual entertainment.

Idealist Grad Fair Free 10/15/13

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Idealist Grad Fair FREE
Tuesday, 10/15/2013 – 05:00 pm – 08:00 pm
logo_large_vertRGB_800pxWUniversity of Miami BankUnited Center
1245 Dauer Drive,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
RSVP Link
Cost: FREE

Idealist Grad Fair coming to Miami!

This fair is generously hosted by The University of Miami’s Master of Arts in International Administration Program.

The Idealist Grad Fair can help you make a difference in your career!

At the fair, you can meet representatives from 56 schools that offer degrees in social work, public health, public administration, international affairs, information science, and lots more.

This fair is free and open to anyone thinking about attending graduate school!

Sushisamba Owns the Hottest New Breakfast in Town

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When you hear the word SUSHISAMBA, you think of, well, sushi, and perhaps that happy little dance local Brazilian chicas do.  But you probably would never envision a savory morning omelette, or a bowl of granola mix with housemade yogurt. That is…until now. SUSHISAMBA has brought it home, and is now offering a variety of sweet and salty favorites for the morning hour. Their breakfast selection is so vast that you will find everything from fruit “batidas” to mouth-watering steak and eggs servings with delicious homemade breads and toasts.

During my visit, I indulged in a little tasting I simply like to call heaven.

The morning began with a sweet watermelon-papaya batida. What I love about these batidas is that you can make your own by choosing the type of water you wish to mix your fruit with, such as coconut or celery water, and adding an enhancer at the end, such as ginger! I enjoyed my watermelon-papaya invention and began the tasting journey to the most delicious breakfast in town. I started with their power breakfast which consists of egg whites, red quinoa hash, Japanese mushrooms and pulled turkey. I know you’re thinking it sounds delicious, and it really was. But don’t get hungry just yet. Immediately after, I was presented with a perfect-sized serving of Sushi Samba’s chorizo dumplings in grilled onions, with avocado and aromatic cilantro puree; another well thought-out combination. The cilantro puree provides a unique aftertaste that compliments the flavors of the grilled onions and avocado quite nicely. Right when I thought my heaven tasting was coming to an end, a surprising serving of chicha morada pancakes with torched bacon and canela butter landed almost in slow motion at my table. I couldn’t keep my eyes off of the colorful texture, and the way it looked so enticing.  I was surprised to see chicha morada pancakes on their menu, as chicha morada is a soft drink made of purple corn found in the Andes region of South America. An exotic and pleasant treat, I must say. The journey continued with a classic American breakfast: any style eggs, double-cut bacon, sausages, potato hash, seasonal fruit and toasts; all quite tasty. Moving along (nope, I’m still not finished with my heavenly breakfast), another one of my favorites was the sweet quinoa oatmeal…I won’t tell you about it, you just HAVE to try it. And, lastly, saving my personal best for last, their un-be-lievable Doce de Leite French Toasts served with seasonal fruits and sesame whipped cream. Now do you understand why I died and went to heaven? A new, unique, exemplary breakfast experience unbeknown to you, no more. You simply must try.

SUSHISAMBA is located at 180 Aragon Avenue in Coral Gables, and serves breakfast daily from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Brunch menu is under construction until further notice.

www.sushisamba.com

Blowout on Blowouts at GBS, The Beauty Store – Coral Gables 9/18/13

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Blowout on Blowouts at GBS, The Beauty Store – Coral Gables
Wednesday, 09/18/2013 – 09/21/2013 09:00 am – 07:00 am
GBS-The-Beauty-Store-LogoGBS, The Beauty Store
308 Miracle Mile,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $5.00

Five dollars doesn’t buy much these days, but during an exclusive four-day event at The Salon at GBS Coral Gables, five dollars will get you shiny, beautiful hair. Whether before an important meeting or a night on the town, from Wednesday, September 18 through Saturday, September 21, on-the-go glam girls can enjoy professional blowouts by expert stylist Cristina Coego-Ruiz for a flat rate of only $5 (value: $35+).

Catering to the women who want salon-perfect hair without the hassle of doing it themselves, Cristina’s sought-after blowouts create bouncy or sleek styles. With years of experience as an in-demand stylist among local celebrities and TV personalities, Cristina specializes in cut and color artistry, extensions, styling and blowouts, the DevaCurl system and keratin treatments.

Space is limited so call 305.443.6246 to schedule an appointment, stat.

Coral Gables Gallery Night 9/6/13

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Coral Gables Gallery Night
La_Rueda_en_Miami_op_800x542_op_694x471Friday, September 6th from 6:30-10:00pm
H Benitez Fine Art Gallery
305 Alcazar Avenue Suite #4
Coral Gables, Florida 33134

HBenitez Fine Art Gallery Invites you to:  A Coral Gables Gallery Night Event

This Friday, HBenitez  Fine Art Gallery will be presenting:

“La Rueda” In Limited Edition Reproduction.

“La Rueda” is originally Humberto Benitez’s representation of the Cuban salsa-styled dance. The piece captures the moments before the partners change and the dancers spin, and through that anticipation of change, gives an expansive impression, as if the dancers could do anything; even come off the canvas and pull an on looker into their celebration.
-Jason Benitez

Also on View: Holly A. Jones Art To Wear Collection

Originals, Reproductions and Gift Certificates are Available

A Book Presentation by Erik Camayd-Freixas, Ph.D 10/9/13

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A Book Presentation by Erik Camayd-Freixas, Ph.D
LACC-Book-Presentation-oct-9Wednesday, 10/09/2013, 08:00 pm
Books & Books
Venue Address
265 Aragon Ave.
Miami, Florida 33134

Providing an insider’s view of US immigration enforcement and detention , US Immigration Reform and Its Global Impact unravels the post 9/11 national security agenda that led to the devastating Postville Raid of 2008 and its global ramifications. Camayd-Freixas employs theories of human mobility in terms of migration spheres to convey practical and historical lessons, illuminating a much-needed road map for enlightened immigration reform.

ActionCOACH Miami Growth Advisors – Business Models 9/13/13

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ActionCOACH Miami Growth Advisors – Business Models
Friday, 09/13/2013 – 09/13/2013 08:00 am – 10:00 am
Wave-DownloadThe Biltmore Hotel
1200 Anastasia Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost:

Join us for this informative, interactive Q&A discussion, with a panel of local experts and learn how to get your small business ready for the multi-billion dollar game changer rolling into Miami.

The Panama Canal was opened in January of 1914. By December of 2010, the Panama Canal has had over 1,000,972 ship transits through it, delivering over 8,587,711,605 tons of goods worldwide.

Upon completion of the new third lock system, scheduled to be in operation by early 2015 much larger ships (12,600 TEU = 1,400 ft. length by 160 ft. width) will be able to pass through on their way to our PortMiami. These larger ships allow for the delivery of containers at greatly reduced rates due to the sheer scale of delivery capacity the new vessels have to divide the cost of transportation over.

4th Annual Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival 10/26/13-10/27/13

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4th Annual Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival
Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural FestivalSaturday, October 26, 2013 10:00am to 10:00pm
Sunday, October 27, 2013 10:00am to 10:00pm
Bilmore Way & LeJeune Road
City of Coral Gables, FL.

www.gableshispanicfestival.com

Visit our pavilions:
Health and Family Pavilion
Business and Financial Pavilion
Children’s Pavilion
Boutique Pavilion

"Apoyando la Cultura Hispana en el Sur de la Florida"©
                                                           Sauma the Artist

4th Annual Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival 10/26/13-10/27/13

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4th Annual Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural Festival
Coral Gables Hispanic Cultural FestivalSaturday, October 26, 2013 10:00am to 10:00pm
Sunday, October 27, 2013 10:00am to 10:00pm
Bilmore Way & LeJeune Road
City of Coral Gables, FL.

www.gableshispanicfestival.com

Visit our pavilions:
Health and Family Pavilion
Business and Financial Pavilion
Children’s Pavilion
Boutique Pavilion

"Apoyando la Cultura Hispana en el Sur de la Florida"©
                                                           Sauma the Artist

Cernuda Arte presents Cundo Bermúdez: The Artist, The Friend Opening Reception 9/6/13

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Cernuda Arte presents Cundo Bermúdez: The Artist, The Friend Opening Reception
cernudaFirst Friday September 6, 2013, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cernuda Arte
3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, FL 33134

View a compelling exhibition of nineteen artworks from the 1940s-1990s by the legendary Cuban modern master, Cundo Bermúdez.

“Of my work I would indeed say, that for me, color and form are most important. I am from the tropics. I enjoy vibrant paintings, colors that are bold and contrasting.”
Cundo Bermúdez

Accompanying this exhibition, a showcase of artworks by artists of Cundo’s generation: Carreño, Mariano, Portocarrero, Mijares, Diago, and others.

On The Second Floor: Contemporary Cuban Art

Image: Cundo Bermúdez, Portrait of Marta, 1947, oil on canvas, 24 x 18 inches

Lacoste Celebrates the Back-to-School Season w/ Education for the Everglades & A Live Baby Croc! 8/31/213

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Lacoste Celebrates the Back-to-School Season w/ Education for the Everglades & A Live Baby Croc!
Saturday, 08/31/2013 – 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm
Lacoste_Everglades_Evite1Lacoste Store
360 Avenue San Lorenzo ste 1515,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: FREE

Join Lacoste on Labor Day weekend to celebrate the Back-to-School season with Education for the Everglades
Explore the Everglades in-store with baby crocodile demonstrations from Native Village; 1PM to 3PM
Shop our Lacoste South Florida boutiques, while enjoying sweet treats and beverages from Vita Coco.
10% of the day’s sales will benefit wildlife preservation through Everglades Foundation.

Trivia Night 8/22/13

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Trivia Night
Thursday, 08/22/2013 – 08/22/2013 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Pao Town
2624 Ponce de Leon Blvd ,
2624 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Florida Coral Gables
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Test your wits and knowledge at Pao Town. Teams of 1-6 people welcome! Prizes 1st Place $25 Gift Card 2nd Place a Free Pitcher of Beer!

Trivia Night 8/29/13

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Trivia Night
Thursday, 08/29/2013 – 08/29/2013 08:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Pao Town
2624 Ponce de Leon Blvd,
2624 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

Test your wits and knowledge at Pao Town! 1st Prize is a $25 Gift Card 2nd Prize is a Free Pitcher of Beer.

See the Light Luncheon 11/14/13

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See the Light Luncheon
Thursday, 11/14/2013 – 11:30 am – 01:00 pm
Lighthouse-LogoRiviera Country Club
1155 Blue Rd.,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link
Cost: Complimentary

8th Annual See the Light Luncheon
Benefits Miami Lighthouse for the Blind
Thursday, November 14
Riviera Country Club
1155 Blue Rd.
Coral Gables, FL 33146
786-362-7515 (Cameron Sisser)

Miami Lighthouse will hold its 8th Annual See the Light Luncheon at Riviera Country Club on November 14th. At the 2012 See the Light Luncheon, the Miami Lighthouse for the Blind celebrated the completion of the Spencer Educational Empowerment Center Challenge which will allow for the construction of a new fourth floor to expand Braille and technology literacy, job readiness, and transition program for teenagers. Major contributors who were honored at the luncheon included Mary Spencer, Marta Weeks, Jan & Dan Lewis, Penny & Roe Stamps, Jacquelyn Hegamyer Hinckley and Katharine Hegamyer, and the esteemed Ruby Jubiliarians.

More than 200 of South Florida’s philanthropists and community leaders will attend this extraordinary luncheon, generously underwritten by Bessemer Trust and Shutts & Bowen, LLP. Guests will also enjoy wine provided by Rex Goliath a Constellation Brand and beautiful hand-made ceramic centerpieces created by Miami Lighthouse Blind and Visually Impaired adults in the Social Group Activities program. For more information please contact Cameron Sisser at 786-362-7515 or csisser@miamilighthouse.org.

Arabian NIghts at Merrick Park Night Before Thanksgiving Bash 11/27/13

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Arabian NIghts at Merrick Park Night Before Thanksgiving Bash
Wednesday, 11/27/2013 – 07:00 pm – 12:00 pm
PG-Kids-night-for-Their-WishSawa Restaurant and Lounge
Village of Merrick Park 360 San Lorenzo Avenue ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Facebook Link
Cost: no entry fee

This event at Sawa Restaurant and lounge will be filled with live entertainment, food, drinks and a silent auction. It’s the night before Thanksgiving and there is no entry fee. Fun night with great people!
The primary goal of this event is to raise funds for a holiday party PG Kids hosts at Miami Children’s Hospital for underprivileged children at the hospital.
Come have a drink and enjoy a beautiful night while at the same time supporting a great cause!

Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation presents 2nd Annual “Fashion Gives Back” 8/21/13

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Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation presents 2nd Annual “Fashion Gives Back”
Wednesday, 08/21/2013 – 09:00 pm – 12:00 am
970690_10201542808190378_1406444420_nNeiman Marcus, Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave, 4th Floor,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Facebook Link
Cost: $25 (Pre-Sale includes Auction Ticket!)
Get Your tickets now!
• Make a $25 donation and secure your ticket(s) Now.
Lock in your pre-sale ticket now to receive one (1) free Auction Ticket
(Value – $25).
• Purchase Auction Tickets.
($25 for 1 ticket or $100 for 5 tickets)
When purchasing tickets, Please Ensure That You Designate Your Donation:
1. One (1) Entry Ticket plus One (1) Auction ticket (SoM);
Or
2. Auction Tickets (SoM) (designate Number of Tickets).
Your donations are tax deductible, but more importantly, will positively impact the children and families we serve at Miami Children’s Hospital.
To purchase tickets call: (786) 624-2857

Farrell & Patel/MCYA 2nd Annual “Fashion Gives Back” Event is coming to Neiman Marcus in the Village of Merrick Park, Coral Gables.

Please join us next Wednesday, August 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. for a special evening honoring Miami Children’s Hospital and enjoy the Neiman Marcus Trend Event Fashion Show, and premium cocktails, and hors d’oeuvres.

Your suggested minimum donation of $25 will give you a chance to win from a selection of wonderful prizes, including sports memorabilia, vacations, gift certificates and more!

This Annual event is organized by the Miami Children’s Young Ambassadors as part of our fundraising efforts on behalf of Miami Children’s Hospital. Last year’s event raised over $30,000 and had over 150 young professionals in attendance. Social Miami, Selecta Magazine, among other social media outlets have covered the event.

Please visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/events/509053142510404 for more information! Event Hashtag: #MCHFashion

Note: The last date to donate items to the exciting Auction and Auction is Tuesday, August 20, 2013. Donated Items must have a minimum value of $100.
For an item donation form, or if you have any questions about this event, please contact:
Ricky Patel, Esquire at rpatel@floridaattorney.com; or
Alyse Cahill, Administrative Assistant
Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation
Email: acahill@mchf.org
Fax: (305) 666-3078.

Havana Night Under the Stars celebrate the birthday of Clara Serrano 8/15/13

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Havana Night Under the Stars celebrate the birthday of Clara Serrano
havananightsThursday, August 15, 7:00pm
La Palma
116 Alhambra Circle
Coral Gables, FL 33134

The celebration will take place at La Palma Ristorante during our monthly Havana Nights. Enjoy a Welcome Champagne Reception, try your luck at our casino tables by A Hot Party! -Casino Nights,Themed Events & Entertainment-, for the cigar aficionado, Tight Ashes, Inc. will be on hand with a display of their fine cigars, and Massages at Work, Inc. – MAWI will be providing complimentary massages. We’ll also have live entertainment andCarlos DjSonic will be mixing a little of this and a little of that!

Enjoy the special 3 course prix fixe menu created for this evening for or sip on our mojito special!

Free Tasting #2: Paleo Aleos 8/12/13

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Free Tasting #2: Paleo Aleos
paleoaleosMonday, August 12, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Titanic Restaurant and Brewery
5813 Ponce De Leon Blvd
Coral Gables, Florida 33146

Hipsters today are into all things Paleo. Paleo Diet. Paleo Workout. Paleo Yoga. Paleo Romance. And since our creative team here at Grovetoberfest HQ is quick to jump on all things hip, they came up with Paleo Aleos – our Pale Ale tasting. See the theory behind the whole Paleo craze is that we should do all things like cavemen… ah, sorry – cavepeople. We should eat, drink, exercise as if we had no grocery stores, no cars, no iPads. So what the hell? Let’s drink like cavepeople too. We realize that beer wasn’t invented until the maybe 7,000 years ago – way later than cavepeople, but we are not talking about drinking history, but drinking style. Follow us on this.

We should drink beer as if tomorrow we’re hunting a saber-toothed tiger and we might never come back. We should drink and enjoy our pale ales like there is no tomorrow. Dance like no one is watching. (last line inserted under protest) In essence, if we are going to eat and exercise like cavepeople, we should drink like cavepeople. So raise your stone cup and have another. Paleo Aleos – the way we should drink.

Whether you believe in the whole “evolution” theory or not, you are invited to our Free Tasting #2 at Titanic. It will take place Monday August 12 from 6pm – 8pm. Remember you need to RSVP on this event AND be one of the first 50 people to get to Titanic. We’ll be doing more swag give-aways and also giving away some G’fest tickets.

Wall Street Wednesday’s 8/14/13

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Wall Street Wednesday’s
Wednesday, 08/14/2013 – 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
wallstreetwednewfinalallSeasons 52
321 Miracle Mile ,
Miami, Florida 33134
Eventbrite Link
Cost: FREE

Wall Street Wednesday’s will Kick-Off this coming week at Seasons52 Coral Gables.

Come network with Miami’s only Business Station 880AM.

We’ll have a LIVE broadcast and your business could be interviewed ON-AIR!

Enjoy unlimited Flat-Breads from Miami’s best spot “Seasons52″

Mention 880theBiz and your first drink is on us!

Fashionably Conscious Collection Party hosted by Neiman Marcus and Village of Merrick Park 8/14/13

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Fashionably Conscious Collection Party hosted by Neiman Marcus and Village of Merrick Park
Wednesday, August 14, 2013, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Neiman Marcus at Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave.
Coral Gables, FL

Village of Merrick Park and Neiman Marcus Coral Gables are proud to host a Collection Party for Fashionably Conscious, Miami’s beloved fashion fundraiser, during Neiman Marcus’ highly anticipated semi-annual Trend Event. Hosts – Iva Kosovic, Ali Codina, Steven Rodriguez, Lourdes Jofré-collett, Liza Walton, Darlene Perez, Leila Samardzich Farah and Alex Cohen.

Each year leading up to the Fashionably Conscious fundraiser, a series of boutique “Collection Parties” occur throughout the mall at different merchant locations, where Miami’s most respected philanthropists, community leaders and fashion icons donate gently worn designer clothing and handbags, creating the inventory for the fundraising sale that occurs in September. Some of the hosts of this event, who will be cleaning out their closets to donate to Fashionably Conscious and make room to restock it with some new items from Neiman Marcus include Iva Kosovic, Ali Codina, Steven Rodriguez, Lourdes Jofré-collett, Liza Walton, Darlene Perez, Frances Sevilla-Sacasa, Leila Samardzich Farah and Alex Cohen.

The event will also serve as the semi-annual Neiman Marcus Trend Event, featuring a fashion showcase of the latest styles for fall 2013. Shoppers will enjoy bubbly and bites with music by DJ Mike Cruz. Those who donate to the fashionable cause and make a Neiman Marcus purchase that night will receive a shopping incentive.

The main Fashionably Conscious three-day sale event from September 20-22 will allow hundreds of shoppers to score timeless designer pieces and vintage finds at unbeatable prices. All proceeds will be donated to Coconut Grove Cares’ The Barnyard Community Center and offer essential unrestricted funds to support the summer camp and after-school programs, providing a safe haven for hundreds of children in the West Grove community.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Club Blue Young Professionals Networking 8/22/13

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s Club Blue Young Professionals Networking
Thursday, 08/22/2013 – 06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
Aug-22-club-blue-eventVivaldino Restaurant Coral Gables at Hotel St Michel
162 Alcazar Ave. ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: Club Blue members complimentary. Guests: $25 minimum donation

Club Blue Miami, Young Professionals for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade invites area young professionals to enjoy an evening of networking and cocktails at Vivaldino Restaurant Coral Gables at Hotel St. Michel.

Attendees will enjoy cocktails and appetizers sponsored by Vivaldino Restaurant Coral Gables, as well as a raffle featuring exclusive items. A speed networker will be held and participants are encouraged to bring business cards.

Event sponsors are Allstate Insurance Andres Guilarte and La Familia Creative Design & Development.

Club Blue Miami comprises energetic, young professionals ages 45 or younger who are, or are certain to become the community’s future leaders. It was established to provide a place where young professionals can connect to change lives. Members are individual contributors whom are committed to expanding Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s mission of building community awareness and establishing long-lasting ties with the community. For more information about Club Blue, visit www.clubbluemiami.org or email clubblue@bgcmia.org

Meet Bethenny Frankel 8/13/13

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Meet Bethenny Frankel
bethenyfrankelTuesday, August 13
Books & Books
265 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
$35 per person

Join Dress for Success Miami, Books & Books, Commonwealth Institute South Florida, Women’s Chamber of Commerce, Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce and Just Ask Boo for a morning of straight-up solutions from Bethenny Frankel.

Includes continental breakfast, moderated Q&A with Bethenny, and an autographed copy of her new book: Skinnygirl Solutions: Your Straight-Up Guide to Home, Health, Family, Career, Style and Sex

Registration and Breakfast: 8:15 a.m. (please arrive promptly.)
Moderated Q&A with Bethenny and Katie Kempner: 9-9:30 a.m.
Meet-and-greet: 9:30-10 a.m.
All books will be pre-signed and distributed at the event.

The mission of Dress for Success Miami is to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. Our programs transition women towards self-sufficiency by addressing their social and economic needs in relation to work, home and community. Each woman is a success story: she has gone from unemployment to economic independence. Since 1994 Dress for Success Miami has assisted over 30,000 re-entering the workforce.

Fall 2013 Creative Writing Courses – The Poets’ Place with Adrian Castro 9/21/13 – 10/12/13

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Fall 2013 Creative Writing Courses – The Poets’ Place with Adrian Castro
Saturday, 09/21/2013 – 10/12/2013 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
centerforliteratureandtheatre june2012Books & Books
265 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Webpage Link
Cost: $100

In this workshop, we will examine poems both from workshop participants and other poets that exemplify the use of place. We will also ask where is that place? Where is that physical place, that geographical place, and also where is that mental place? Is that place real, nostalgic, dreamt, etc.? Participants will bring to the workshop poems with these themes. Feedback will be given based on the Liz Lerhman method, which focuses feedback beginning from the artist place of inspiration and creative space, then from the reader’s/listener’s perspective—i.e. what the reader thought, felt, assimilated while reading the poem. Lastly, poets will be encouraged to appropriately render their poems out aloud—from their voice, their perspective, their place. Registration is now open. For more information, contact Nicole Swift at nswift@mdc.edu or 305-237-3528.

Community Meditation “Satsang” 7/23/13

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Community Meditation “Satsang”
Tuesday, 07/23/2013 – 07:45 pm – 08:30 pm
226Rina Yoga In the Roads
1250 Coral Way ,
Miami , Florida 33145
Webpage Link
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation,but anything is welcome.

Everyone is welcome to join us for donation-based Community Meditation. If you’ve never meditated before, you’re just getting started, or you have a personal routine, group meditation is wonderful way to grow your practice. We’ll introduce non-religious techniques that will help you discover a deeper sense of awareness and connectedness to yourself and others. If you need some assistance, a facilitator will provide you with the necessary information to help you start your path.

Legal Eagle Closing Competition 8/3/13

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Legal Eagle Closing Competition
Saturday, 08/03/2013 – 08:00 am – 04:00 pm
Slice-2University of Miami School of Law
1311 Miller Dr.,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
More Info Link
Cost:

The event is intended to provide critical financial support to LSGMI, which annually provides services benefitting more than 30,0000 vulnerable clients, including women, children, seniors, veterans returning from combat, domestic violence victims, people with disabilities, and individuals undergoing foreclosures or other loss of housing. The need for free legal services in our community has never been greater and continues to grow as the economic recovery stalls. The goal of the GenNext Initiative, a group of rising young professionals in our community, is to raise awareness about LSGMI’s mission and to provide support.

Hyundai Hope On Wheels 3rd Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K (MCH5K) Presented by Sabadell United Bank 9/21/13

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Hyundai Hope On Wheels 3rd Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K (MCH5K) Presented by Sabadell United Bank
MCH5KSaturday, September 21, 2013 at 7:30 a.m.
Coral Gables City Hall
405 Biltmore Way
Coral Gables, FL 33134
mch5k.com

Join Miami Children’s Hospital for our 5K run/walk for happier, healthier kids. Our largest annual community event, the Hyundai Hope On Wheels 3rd Annual Miami Children’s Hospital 5K (MCH5K) Presented by Sabadell United Bank is designed to increase awareness of our pediatric subspecialties and showcase our cutting-edge research, work, talent and the dedication of our physicians and staff. This family-friendly event features a Kids Fun Race, Kids Zone, Vendor Village and tech shirts and medals for 5K participants. Michael Baiamonte, Voice of the Miami Heat, NBA Champions, is scheduled to serve as Master of Ceremonies.

Showcase your business to thousands of participants as a sponsor or support world class-care at Miami Children’s Hospital by starting a fundraising team today. The MCH5K is open to runners and walkers of all levels. Individuals and teams are invited to participate and fundraise to support the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital. Prizes will be awarded to the top fundraising teams.

·         Walkers/Runners – $30
o    (Prices will go up September 15)
·         Student Walkers/Runners (ages 10-18) – $20
·         Kids Fun Run (ages 2-9) – $10
·         Virtual Participant – $30
·         Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available

The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine Author Event 7/19/13

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The Sizzling History of Miami Cuisine Author Event
Friday, 07/19/2013 – 08:00 pm –
9781609499013Books & Books – Coral Gables
265 Aragon Ave.,
Coral Gables, Florida 33183
Webpage Link
Cost: Free

The culinary history of Miami is a reflection of its culture–spicy, vibrant and diverse. And though delectable seafood has always been a staple in South Florida, influences from Latin and Caribbean nations brought zest to the city’s world-renowned cuisine. Even the orange, the state’s most popular fruit, migrated from another country. Join local food author Mandy Baca as she recounts the delicious history of Miami’s delicacies from the Tequesta Indians to the present-day local food revolution.

Cristiano Piquet, Merrick Park and Vogue Present Vogue Miami 7/17/13

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Cristiano Piquet, Merrick Park and Vogue Present Vogue Miami
invitationfinalWednesday, July 17, 7pm-9pm
Village of Merrick Park
358 San Lorenzo Ave
Coral Gables, FL

rsvp@zm-pr.com by July 15

Piquet Realty, Cristiano Piquet, Village of Merrick Park and Vogue Magazine with fashion director Giovanni Frasson invite you to celebrate Vogue Miami

Enjoy a champagne promenade and Brazilian preview to Miami Swim Week
Hosted by Carolina Melo at Tiffany & Co, Ricardo Dunin at 120% Lino, Juliana Savoia at Pili Carrera, Amelia Whitaker at Slivia Tcherassi, Cristiano Piquet at Rugs by Zhaleh

Grand Finale: Live fashion showcase on the 3rd floor featuring Brazilian deisngers of Miami Swim Week.
With appearances by Paula Hermanny of Vix, Benny Rosset of Cia Maritima, Paola Robba of Poko Pano, Sinesia Karol of Sinesia Karol

Museum Forum: Bay of Pigs Invasion 7/27/13

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Museum Forum: Bay of Pigs Invasion
Saturday, 07/27/2013 – 11:00 am –
Flag-and-Soldiers-copyCoral Gables Library
3443 Segovia Street,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link
Cost:

HistoryMiami in partnership with the Miami-Dade Public Library System present Museum Forum: Bay of Pigs Invasion. Hear witness accounts and take part in a fascinating discussion with experts from this historic event.

Panelists:

Humberto J. Cortina
President & Founder of HJC Consultants, former Florida State Representative and radio talk show host for WAQI Radio Mambi, Univision Radio. Cortina was born in Havana, Cuba, and fled to the U.S. in 1960. He is a veteran of the Bay of Pigs invasion.

Captain Amado Cantillo
President of the Cuban Pilots Association and active member of Brigade 2506, Capt. Cantillo was one of the first men to land on Giron Beach. He has conducted more than 30 clandestine missions to Cuba as part of the commando group, Brigade 2506.

Enrique Encinosa
Born in Havana, Cuba, Enrique Encinosa arrived in Miami as a Cuban refugee in 1961. He is an author, former journalist and on-air personality for 25 years with Univision Radio, the U.S. Information Agency and local radio stations in South Florida.

Bilingual (Eng/Spanish) program
Free to the public

The Museum Forum Series is presented with the support of Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, the Cultural Affairs Council, the Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners.

Coral Gables Gallery Night 7/5/13

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Coral Gables Gallery Night
LibertadFriday, July 5th from 6:30-10:00pm
H Benitez Fine Art Gallery
305 Alcazar Avenue Suite #4
Coral Gables, Florida 33134

HBenitez Fine Art Gallery Invites you to share: Dreams of Liberty
A Coral Gables Gallery Night Event

Artist Humberto Benitez will be presenting the "Havana en Bicicleta" series, in its entirety, in limited edition reproductions for purchase.

These works encompass the longing, the sadness, the pain and the joy that defined the plight of the Cuban exile, and never stray from representing the beauty of life even in the midst of strife.

Also on View: Holly A. Jones Art To Wear Collection

Originals, Reproductions and Gift Certificates are Available

Capture Coral Gables Photography Exhibit Opening Night 7/5/13

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soulofmiamifeatured

Capture Coral Gables Photography Exhibit Opening Night
photographyFriday, July 5 , 6-9pm
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134
RSVP on Facebook

Capture Coral Gables presents the City of Coral Gables through a photographic lens and showcases local talent. The exhibit is the result of a community-wide contest and will feature nearly 80 photographs that were selected by a professional jury from over 500 entries.

Featuring our very own Betty Alvarez!

Photographers include children, teens and adults, both amateur and professional. This year’s photography categories include Architecture, Events, Landscape/Nature, Faces of Coral Gables and a 2013 special category of Golf in the Gables.

Museum visitors may vote for their favorite photo within each photographic category. The public’s votes, combined with the jurors’ votes, will determine the 2013 prize winners. So come to the Museum to make your vote count!

The winner of the People’s Choice category and the Juror’s Best in Show 2013 will receive Leica cameras thanks to Leica Store Miami on Miracle Mile. Other exciting prizes will be awarded to all category winners courtesy of local businesses including Zen Spa at The Biltmore Hotel and Country Club, Talavera, Peacock Garden Café, Jaguar, Peterbrooke Chocolatier, Books and Books, Coral Gables Art Cinema, Boy Meets Girl, Venetian Pool and The City of Coral Gables Parks & Recreation Department.

Prize winners will be announced at the Awards Ceremony on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at 11am at the Coral Gables Museum.

A special thanks to our exhibit sponsors Leica Store Miami and Associated Photo & Imaging.

Mini Golf at the Coral Gables Museum Opening Night 7/5/13

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Mini Golf at the Coral Gables Museum Opening Night
Fmini-golfriday, July 5 , 6-9pm
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134

Don’t let your summer get stuck in the rough…
Come to the Coral Gables Museum and play on a one-of-a-kind mini-golf course designed and built by some of the leading architects, landscape architects, and contractors in the Miami area. For three glorious months in the Coral Gables Museum’s Fewell Gallery, challenge your friends and family to a round of mini-golf in air-conditioned comfort, packed with enough fun to make the Doral Blue Monster green with envy!  The course is designed for ages 4 and up. Just $3 per player!

Great for business or after work parties! Concession stand with a full bar available! Join us for a  round on the links. For additional information, please contact please contact Christine Rupp, Director of the Coral Gables Museum at 305-603-8067 or via e-mail, chris@coralgablesmuseum.org.

Cernuda Arte presents The Young and the Restless: Contemporary Art Reception 7/5/13

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Cernuda Arte presents The Young and the Restless: Contemporary Art Reception
SanchezFirst Friday – Gallery Night
July 5, 2013, 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cernuda Arte
3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, FL 33134
www.cernudaarte.com

The Young and the Restless: Contemporary Art
An exhibition featuring a riveting selection of works by artists such as, Bedia, Besmar, Humberto Castro, Demi, Juan Roberto Diago, Li Domínguez Fong, Giosvany Echevarría, Irina Elén, Fabelo, Florido, Flora Fong, Lilian García-Roig, Dayron González, Vicente Hernández, Larraz, Mendive, Clara Morera, Pedro Pablo Oliva, Gina Pellón, Arturo Rodríguez, Tomás Sánchez, César Santos, Sosabravo, and Ramón Vázquez.

Concurrently on the first floor, Wifredo Lam and The Cuban Avant-Garde: Fifty Years of Art highlighting artworks by, Wifredo Lam, Víctor Manuel, Abela, Carlos Enríquez, Amelia, Carreño, Portocarrero, Ponce, Escobedo, Cundo, Mariano, Luis Martínez Pedro, Gattorno, Arístides Fernández Vázquez, Arche, Ravenet, Diago, Milián, Felipe Orlando, and Mijares.

Image: Tomás Sánchez, Lake Shore, 1986,
acrylic on canvas, 31 1/2 x 77 inches
This painting is accompanied by a photo-certificate
of authenticity signed by the artist and dated January 11, 2004.

Photographs of Books and Books Neil Gaiman’s Book Signing at Temple Judea on 6/23/13

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Books and Books Neil Gaiman’s Book Signing  of The Ocean at the End of the Lane at Temple Judea on Sunday, June 23, 2013.  I have to say Neil Gaiman is one of my all time favorite authors, he is truly an amazing writer, story teller and wonderful person.  I recommend anything that he has written, a few of my favorites are:  Neverwhere, Good Omens, American Gods, Stardust, Anasi Boys, Sandman and Death.  One of You may have seen a couple of his books made into movies Stardust and Coraline.

{Please feel free to download and share.}

Yoga Class for Kids 6/27/13

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Yoga Class for Kids
Thursday, 06/27/2013, 04:15 pm – 05:00 pm
Rina Yoga
1250 Coral Way,
Miami, Florida 33145
Webpage Link

Rina Yoga has created a special class made just for kids! Help your kids empower themselves by learning life skills like: how to focus, healthy coping skills, how to communicate better, and tangible yoga practices for daily life challenges. They are guaranteed to have a fun time, make new friends, and do something different!

Each class is $10 per child.

For more information call Rina Yoga at (305) 856-9642

Gov. Scott Accepts UEL Award for “Unraveling Florida’s Environmental Regulations”

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image

Last night’s Orchids and Onions event, organized by the Urban Environment League (UEL) of Miami and hosted by the Coral Gables Museum, presented Orchids (those are the good awards) to Miami’s leading civic and environmental activists – people who have spent the better part of the last decade, or in the case of Sallye and Jim Jude, their entire lives, preserving Miami-Dade’s historic landscapes and landmarks alike. Some other deep-rooted members of the community received a less glamorous kind of recognition. Continue reading “Gov. Scott Accepts UEL Award for “Unraveling Florida’s Environmental Regulations”” →

International Mango Festival at Fairchild 7/14/13

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International Mango Festival at Fairchild
Sunday, 07/14/2013, 09:30 am – 04:30 pm
Mango-Display-in-Garden-HouseFairchild Tropical Botanic Garden
10901 Old Cutler Road,
Coral Gables, Florida 33156
Webpage Link

Did you know Mexico has both rainy and dry seasons that make for a great mango growing climate? Or that Mexico is the dominant supplier of mangos to the U.S. and a main supplier to markets worldwide? Come learn this and more at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s 21st Annual International Mango Festival on Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14 from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Enjoy two full days of fun, food and education in celebration of the juicy and delicious tropical fruit that makes for nutritious and refreshing summer dishes. Whether you’re participating in the world’s only mango auction, voting on your favorite variety at the Mango Tasting Room or sampling delicious mango dishes, there’s something for the whole family to do.

Admission is free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under, $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up and $12 for children 6-17. Eco discounts are available for anyone who walks, bikes or takes public transportation to the festival.

For more info, please call 305-667-1651.

Lanvin for Lancome Vogue Event at Macys Dadeland 6/12/13

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Lanvin for Lancome Vogue Event at Macys Dadeland
Saturday, 06/22/2013, 02:00 pm – 04:00 pm
VOGUE-eventMacy’s Dadeland Mall – Beauty Level
7303 SW 88th Street,
Miami, Florida 33156
Webpage Link

Vogue Magazine, Lancome and Miami blogger Erika Thomas will be hosting an afternoon of beauty as we celebrate the new Lancome collection by LANVIN creative director Alber Elbaz. Makeovers, fashion shows and more will take place. Call 305-662-3358 to make an appointment for a Lancome by LANVIN mini makeover.

Area Stage’s First Summer Production: Seussical the Musical 6/28/13

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Area Stage’s First Summer Production: Seussical the Musical
Friday, 06/28/2013, 07:00 pm – 09:00 pm
Logo-header-1Area Stage Theater
1560 S. Dixie Hwy ,
Coral Gables, Florida 33146
Webpage Link

Seussical: The Musical, based on the Dr. Seuss fantastic books, this Broadway Musical was nominated for one TONY and three Drama Desk awards. Written by Composer Stephen Flaherty and Lyricist Lynn Ahrens for our favorite Dr. Seuss Characters including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie, and a little boy with a big imagination—Jojo. The colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool, to the Circus McGirkus, to the invisible world of the Whos.
Performances: Friday, June 28 at 7:00 PM – Saturday, June 29 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Tickets: Adults – $25 & $20/ Students $15 & $10 (with student ID)
Reservations: 305-666-2078 or www.areastagecompany.com

Then Swings My Soul Community Arts Program 28th Summer Concert Series 6/13/13-8/22/13

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Then Swings My Soul Community Arts Program 28th Summer Concert Series
swingJune 13 through August 22, Thursdays at 8:00 p.m.
Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ
3010 De Soto Boulevard
Coral Gables, FL

Individual General Admission Tickets:  $30 ea. in advance, $35 ea. at the door (based on availability).  
Individual Patron Tickets:  $45 ea. in advance; $50 ea. at the door (based on availability).  (Individual Patron tickets include reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows and catered pre-concert receptions:  complimentary wine and beverage service with fine Coral Gables’ restaurant food stations.)  
Patron Series:  $240 (Save $ 30 and receive prime seating to all concerts!  Patron Series includes reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows, and catered pre-concert gatherings:  complimentary wine and beverage service with fine Coral Gables’ restaurant food stations.)  
Mini-Patron Series:  $170 (Save $ 10 and receive prime seating to four concerts!  Choose four concerts.  Mini-Patron Series includes opening night gala reception, reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows, and catered pre-concert gatherings:  complimentary wine and beverage service with fine Coral Gables’ restaurant food stations.)    
Order tickets: (305) 448-7421, ext. 153.  Order tickets Online.

Free and convenient parking is available. 
 
This summer, in a quiet Miami neighborhood and within the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ’s intimate, historic Spanish-revival style setting, concert goers will have the unique opportunity to be awed and entertained by the music industry’s most-talented and revered classical and jazz figures.  These artists will perform and delight audiences on the Community Arts Program (CAP) 2013 Summer Concert Series titled Then Swings My Soul!
 
The Community Arts Program (CAP) Summer Concert Series has entertained more than 62,000 people since it began in 1985.  The Series has grown into a valued tradition and, more recently, part of a Community Arts Program that also provides music education to children within its Conservatory for the Arts.  "The Community Arts Program (CAP) Summer Concert Series is a rare opportunity to hear world-renowned artists in the intimate and beautiful Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ," says Shelton G. Berg, University of Miami Dean of the Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music.  "The CAP Conservatory for the Arts provides high-quality music education to children, many of whom would otherwise be denied access to the wonder of music and the beauty of the artistic spirit."  
 
"We are very excited to again present a diverse and world-class line up of artists," says Mark Hart, Executive & Artistic Director of the Community Arts Program.  "It’s an honor to welcome concert goers from across the state and as far away as Europe, and rewarding to see the growth of our music education program for kids!  In all, we’ve come to provide exceptional cultural and educationally-enriching experiences for more than 3,000 children and adults each year!"
 
CAP 2013 Summer Concert Series Line Up
 
June 13 – Catherine Russell
Opening night of the 2013 Summer Concert Series brings a singing sensation born into musical royalty! Daughter of Louis Armstrong’s long-time musical director, Luis Russell, Grammy Award winner Catherine Russell has been making fans and friends since the 2006 release of her debut album, Cat.  Catherine’s latest release, Strictly Romancin’, was just awarded Prix du Jazz Vocal 2012 (Vocal Album of The Year) by the Jazz Academy in France.  With a Billie Holiday lyricism and Sarah Vaughan depth, Catherine Russell-with pianist Mark Shane, Matt Munisteri, guitar and Lee Hudson, bass-will bring concert goers to the edge of their seat on the way to their feet!  
 
June 27 – Orli Shaham, classical pianist
The Summer Concert Series is thrilled to present Orli Shaham, who touts an impressive international reputation as one of today’s most gifted pianists.  Recognized for her grace, subtlety and vitality, Ms. Shaham is a consummate musician also praised for many recording collaborations with her brother, violinist Gil Shaham. In a recital of Chopin, Brahms, and a unique presentation of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition, concert goers will experience Orli Shaham’s prodigious skills and interpretations admired by critics over four continents.  This concert will be an evening of purely delightful music making!  
 
July 11 – Pepe Romero, classical guitarist
Pepe Romero is a true living legend in the world of classical music, honored by kings, heads of state, and major institutions. The brother of two other musical phenoms-Celin and Angel Romero-Pepe touts his most important contribution as reaching the common individual, communicating the richness and beauty of the classical guitar to millions of people throughout the world.  In a unique and special evening, the 2013 Summer Concert Series is proud to present Pepe Romero. The audience will revel in a great ambassador of classical music and, correspondingly, of the classical guitar.
 
July 25 – Brubeck Brothers Quartet  
Chris and Dan Brubeck had the unique privilege of growing up listening to, studying with, and eventually playing alongside one of the great jazz legends of our time, their father, Dave Brubeck.  Add to this heritage the fact that the musical tastes of Chris and Dan were forged in the stylistically innovative 1960’s, and you have an exciting combination of musical elements to draw upon!  With Dan at the drums and Chris on electric bass and bass trombone, an exciting evening goes over the top with the addition of guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb.  This promises to be a dynamic and compelling 2013 Summer Concert Series event, with a loving tribute to Dave Brubeck!    
 
August 8 – Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra
Featuring some of the finest jazz veterans of the Woody Herman Orchestra, the Count Basie Orchestra, Maynard Ferguson’s Big Bop Nouveau, the Airmen of Note, and many others, the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra is dedicated to the advancement of big band jazz. Led by composer/arranger Alan Baylock, the band has a cohesive, distinctive sound that is both entertaining and inspiring, and has been lauded by fans and fellow musicians alike.  With explosive energy, ingenious re-harmonizations, imaginative melodies, tonal and rhythmic expressions and Alan’s arrangements, the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra express a great sense of joy and soulfulness.  In an incredible evening, the audience will swing to standards old and new! 
 
August 22 – John Pizzarelli
World-renowned jazz guitarist and singer, John Pizzarelli,closes the 2013 Summer Concert Series with flair!  Using performers like Nat "King" Cole, Frank Sinatra and Joao Gilberto and the songs of composers from Richard Rodgers, George Gershwin to James Taylor, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Lennon & McCartney as touchstones, John has established himself as one of the prime interpreters of the Great American Songbook and beyond, bringing to his work the cool jazz flavor of his brilliant guitar playing and singing.  Joined by his brother, bass player Martin Pizzarelli, this will be an evening that concert goers will not want to end!

Information courtesy Jazz Blues Florida

Getting To Know the Media Workshop 6/25/13

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Getting To Know the Media Workshop
Tuesday, June 25, 2013, 10 a.m. to Noon
Coral Gables Museum
285 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, FL
To reserve a seat call 305.326.1021 or visit www.ArtsBizMiami.org.

Obviously, "the media" isn’t the monolith it used to be. There are so many options now and so many different types of media in the ever-evolving marketing landscape.  Arts groups waste a lot of time, money, and trees on fruitless media outreach.  Join the Arts & Business Council of Miami for this program, which will give you the tools you need to develop a strategic media plan. The panel of media pros will provide you with tips on how to connect with them, get their attention and get covered! There will be lots of time for Q&A and discussion. Publicity is the oxygen of recognition.  How can your arts group increase your visibility?  This workshop will give you the tools to develop a targeted media plan.

Panel:
Facilitator: Suzette Espinosa, Adrienne Arsht Center  
Harvey Burstein, Miami ArtZine 
Jordan Levin, The Miami Herald 
Hirania Luzardo, Huffington Post and HuffPost 
Nelly Rubio, CBS4 
Anne Tschida, ArtBurst 
Alicia Zuckerman, WLRN Herald News

Scholarships are available for grant recipients of the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs: Developing Arts in Neighborhoods, Hannibal Cox, Jr., Cultural Advancement, Community Grants, Youth Arts Miami; Coral Gables Grant recipients; Members of GMFEA.

Free Play Reading of Evicted at GableStage 6/10/13

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Free Play Reading of Evicted at GableStage 
Monday, June 10th at 7:30pm
GableStage at the Biltmore
1200 Anastasia Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134

No Reserved Seats / No Admission Charge

A reading of Evicted A Modern Lear Tale by Richard Janaro directed by Margaret M. Ledford with Alex Alvarez, Ryan Didato, Lindsay Fogey, David Kwiat,  Deborah L. Sherman, and Christian Vandepas

Gabriel Plunkett and his wife Lorelei are living on the streets after he loses his lucrative job as CEO of an investment company. Dissatisfied clients have sued him for all his money, and his furniture has been repossessed. He is still arrogant, however (like Lear) until an encounter with other street people during a wind and rain storm causes him to discover the humanity buried deep inside him.

Valet parking is available.
Free parking is available in the Biltmore parking area west of the hotel.

Neil Gaiman Book Signing of The Ocean at the End of the Lane at Temple Judea 6/23/13

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Neil Gaiman Book Signing of The Ocean at the End of the Lane
neilgaimanbyKimberlyButlerJun 23 2013 2:00 pm
Temple Judea
5500 Granada Boulevard
Coral Gables, Florida
33134-5008
Purchase Now

Meet one of the world’s most beloved storytellers Neil Gaiman reading and signing The Ocean at the End of the Lane (William Morrow, $25.99)

Tickets and Signing Guidelines: Vouchers are required for this event and may be purchased at Books & Books in Coral Gables, Miami Beach or Bal Harbour Shops. Purchase a copy of The Ocean at the End of the Lane ($25.99 + tax) and you will receive one voucher. This voucher entitles you to receive (1) one copy of The Ocean at the End of the Lane and also serves as your entry for (1) person to Neil Gaiman’s talk and book signing at Temple Judea.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane will be published on June 18 and you may claim your copy of the book any time after publication at a Books & Books location, or at the event on June 23. Your voucher will be stamped to reflect whether or not you have claimed your book. You must show your voucher and attached receipt to claim entrance to the event, so please remember to bring it with you that day. Books & Books is NOT responsible for lost or stolen vouchers.

There will be a book signing to follow Neil’s talk and Q&A with the audience.

Read more instructions here.

Photographs from Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana Award Ceremony at Mia Cucina 5/15/2013

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Italian cuisine has always been an important tool for the promotion of Italy and has effectively promoted not only Italian products but also the Italian economy and culture the world over. Italian cuisine is appreciated by Americans and local restaurants serving it are often preferred destinations for a fine dining experience. Thus restaurants have a significant role to play in this promotional exercise and thus it is required that those serving authentic Italian cuisine are recognized.

It is with this purpose that Unioncamere and Assocamerestero in collaboration with Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi and with the support of Istituto Nazionale Ricerche turistiche – ISNART have constituted the certification “Ospitalità Italiana – Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo” – a seal of quality, to be conferred on Italian restaurants around the world.

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast (IACCSE) collaborated with the organizers in the selection of local restaurants in South Florida serving authentic Italian cuisine, for the certification and seeking participation of those eligible for the “Premio Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo”, Italian restaurants in the world award 2010, which is conferred on the best Italian restaurant annually.

The ceremony

Italy’s Ambassador to the U.S., H.E. Claudio Bisogniero, has chosen to attend the Marchio Ospitalita’ Italiana award ceremony on May 8th as his first meeting during his stay in Miami.

H.E. Bisogniero has in fact consigned the seals, together with Hon. Adolfo Barattolo, Consul General of Italy in Miami, to the eleven selected restaurants in Miami at the Mia Cucina Showroom in Coral Gables.

The evening has been a great success, the winners have received their awards along with six restaurants that have been confirmed for the second year in a row. Over 100 guests have attended the ceremony followed by a rich tasting of Italian food and beverages kindly offered by Cibo Wine Bar, deiFrescobaldi, La Suiza Bakery, Salumeria 104, TiramesU, Top Wines Import – La Cacciatora.

2012 – 2013 Winners:

  1. Bellini Italian Bistro
  2. Cibo Wine Bar
  3. deiFrescobaldi
  4. Escopazzo
  5. Il Bolognese
  6. La Locanda
  7. Locanda Sibilla
  8. Quattro – Gastronomia Italiana
  9. Salumeria 104
  10. Sardinia
  11. Sorrisi

 

FIU School of Architecture Networking Cocktail Reception 6/20/13

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FIU School of Architecture Networking Cocktail Reception
Thursday, 06/20/2013, 06:00 pm – 08:00 pm
Cocktail-ReceptionSiga La Vaca Restaurant
121 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables, FL 33134,
121 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables, FL 33134, Florida FL
Webpage Link

The FIU School of Architecture will be hosting an Argentinean Night Networking Cocktail Reception on Thursday, June 20th at Siga La Vaca Restaurant from 6 to 8 pm. We will be raffling off several amazing items, including a dinner for two at Siga La Vaca, three great gift baskets full of Argentinean products, and one round-trip ticket to Argentina. Stop by to meet new people, create business conducts, and win a prize!

Taste of the Gables 6/6/13

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tasteofthegablesTaste of the Gables
Thursday, June 6, 6:30pm until 8:30pm
The Westin Colonnade
180 Aragon Avenue
Coral Gables, Florida
Website

Buy Tickets Online

General Admission: $25 in advance / $35 the day of the event
VIP Admission: $50 in advance / $65 the day of the event.

The 6th annual Taste of the Gables is back to kick off Coral Gables Restaurant Week on Thursday, June 6th from 6:30-8:30pm at the Westin Colonnade, 180 Aragon Avenue! Taste samplings from 20 of your favorite Coral Gables Restaurant Week participants, vote for your “Best Taste of the Gables,” and try a cocktail or two! Presented by Barcardi USA Inc , there will be plenty of food and activites, so come with an empty stomach! Tickets are on sale now, so get yours before they sell out.

Miami’s Cutest Pet Contest 6/1/13

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Miami’s Cutest Pet Contest
Saturday, 06/01/2013, 10:00 am – 07:00 pm
Cutest-Pet-ContestFrames USA & Art Gallery
6822 sw 40th street,
Miami, Florida 00355
Webpage Link

Does your pet have what it takes to be Miami’s Cutest Pet? Then enter them into Frames USA Miami Cutest Pet contest!!! It’s free to enter and the rewards are GREAT!!!! Now through September 30, 2013!!! Enter now and get as many votes as you can to be the winner of… Miami’s Cutest Pet contest!!!!!

Cernuda Arte Presents Wifredo Lam and The Cuban Avant-Garde: Fifty Years of Art First Friday Gallery Night Reception 6/7/13

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Cernuda Arte Presents Wifredo Lam and The Cuban Avant-Garde: Fifty Years of Art Reception, First Friday – Gallery Night
105June 7, 2013 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cernuda Arte
3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, FL 33134
www.cernudaarte.com

Wifredo Lam and The Cuban Avant-Garde: Fifty Years of Art presents a revealing selection of over forty-five paintings, works on paper and sculptures by artists such as, Wifredo Lam, Víctor Manuel, Abela, Carlos Enríquez, Amelia, Carreño, Portocarrero, Ponce, Escobedo, Cundo, Mariano, Luis Martínez Pedro, Gattorno, Arístides Fernández Vázquez, Arche, Ravenet, Diago, Milián, Felipe Orlando, Mijares.

Concurrently on the second floor, The Young and the Restless: Contemporary Art featuring works by Bedia, Besmar, Humberto Castro, Demi, Juan Roberto Diago, Li Domínguez Fong, Giosvany Echevarría, Irina Elén, Fabelo, Florido, Flora Fong, Lilian García-Roig, Dayron González, Vicente Hernández, Larraz, Mendive, Clara Morera, Pedro Pablo Oliva, Gina Pellón, Arturo Rodríguez, Tomás Sánchez, César Santos, Sosabravo, and Ramón Vázquez.

Amelia Peláez, Interior with Columns, 1947,
oil on heavy paper laid down on canvas, 21 x 27 inches
Provenance:
Acquired directly from the artist.
Madame Odette Lavergne Collection, France.
This painting is illustrated in the Besch Commissaire-Priseur
Exhibition Catalogue of the Mme. Odette Lavergne Collection,
Cannes, France, November 1, 2009, page 51.

It’s So Miami Wedding Showcase 6/2/13

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It’s So Miami Wedding Showcase
Sunday, 06/02/2013, 12:00 pm – 04:00 pm
01129-PD-ISM-Wedding-Showcase-Evite2Westin Colonnade
118 Aragon Avenue,
Coral Gables, Florida 33134
More Info Link

Join us for the It’s So Miami Wedding Showcase and Miami Romance Month Kick-Off! The event will take place at the lovely Westin Colonnade (118 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables) on Sunday, June 2, 2013 from noon to 4 p.m. This exciting and fun-filled afternoon will include every bride and groom’s needs for a beautiful and unforgettable Miami wedding! Get ideas from top wedding and luxury event planners and designers, florists and caterers. Learn about beautiful Miami venues and unique entertainment ideas. Enjoy delicious sweet and savory samples as you watch fashion shows hosted by area bridal boutiques. Prizes will be awarded every 30 minutes including the grand prize of a 7-Day MSC Cruise!

Cost: $10 in advance. $20 at the door.

Visit www.miamiromancemonth.com or REGISTER HERE
(http://GMCVB.informz.net/GMCVB/event.asp?eid=4346)

Media interested in covering/attending this event, please contact:

RockOrange
Paulina Naranjo
paulina@rockorange.com
(305) 731-2012