Greetings,
I'm pleased to be back in the Gables after a short absence, just in time to bring you the latest updates on upcoming Great Gables Events. You're sure to find some wonderful opportunities here to plan for quality time with family and friends.
Rob
Goodbye Gables Home Page
We're sorry to see our friends at Gables Home Page close down their site and cease publication of their Gables Home Page newsletter, which we found to be informative and entertaining. We hope the Coral Gables Foundation can find a way to revive the effort which evolved over the past couple of years into a critical resource for Gables residents to stay abreast of local news and events.
Friday, May 17
Comparing Democratic and Elected-Authoritarian Regimes in Latin America
The University of Miami's Center For Hemispheric Policy presents Comparing Democratic and Elected-Authoritarian Regimes in Latin America. Topics include Implementation of Industrial Policy; Alleviation of Poverty and Inequality; Avoidance of the Middle-Income Trap; and Prospects for Political Sustainability. Panelists include Daniela Campello, Assistant Professor, Politics and International Affairs, Department of Politics, Princeton University, New Jersey; Claudio Loser President, Centennial Group Latin America, Washington, D.C.; Enrique Peruzzotti Resident Fellow, Center for Hemispheric Policy, University of Miami; Professor, Political Science, Universidad Torcuato Di Tella, Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Luis Rubio Chairman, Centro de Investigaciones para el Desarrollo (CIDAC), Mexico City, Mexico. The event takes place at 8am at the Hyatt Regency of Coral Gables Venetian Room, 50 Alhambra Plaza. Call Patricia Salinas at 305-284-3707. http://www.miami.edu/chp
Cuba Libre Party on Alhambra
The Globe will host their annual Cuba Libre street party east of LeJeune on the 300 block of Alhambra Circle, featuring free live music and festivities starting at 5pm Friday. Enjoy Chavis Regal cocktails, food vendors and hand-rolled cigars. Enter from Salzedo Avenue. Call 305-444-3555. http://theglobecafe.com
Clandestine Childhood at Gables Cinema
With limited screenings for one week only, the moving film Clandestine Childhood (Infancia Clandestina), Argentina's official submission for this year's Foreign Oscar, begins its Exclusive Miami Theatrical Premiere in 2K Digital Cinema Projection at the Gables Cinema. Director-writer Benjamín Ávila's semi-autobiographical cinematic memoir tells the story of twelve-year old Juan and his family under the former Argentine military dictatorship. Drawing the viewer into a world both personal and universal, intimate yet highly political, Clandestine Childhood is a remarkable first feature film that will stay with viewers long after the lights go up. It screens seven-days-a-week and is unrated but not suitable for young children due to adult themes. See the movie at 6:45pm Friday. Gables Art Cinema is located at 260 Aragon, directly across from Books & Books. Call 786-385-9689 or visit the web site for showtimes. http://www.gablescinema.org
Juice Box Clothing Boutique Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
A new children's clothing boutique is opening on Minorca, at the corner of LeJeune Road, just north of Alhambra Circle. Juice Box is children's Clothing and Accessories Boutique that carries Designer Contemporary Wear for Newborns, Toddlers, Kids and Tweens -- featuring many well known adult brands that have been scaled down to Kids sizes -- such brands are: Splendid, Ella Moss, J Brand, Joe's Jeans, Wildfox and many more. Our boutique strives on keeping up with the latest trends and styles that are seen in Women and Mens Fashion; whether its stripes, leopard print, or colored skinny jeans. Juice Box is hosting a private Grand Opening party for close friends and family at 7pm with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony to set off their official opening, featuring a Champagne toast to honor this special event at 390 Minorca. Call 786-518-3763. http://www.shopjuicebox.com
Jackson Galaxy: Cat Daddy
Cat behaviorist and star of Animal Planet's hit television show My Cat from Hell, Jackson Galaxy, a.k.a. "Cat Daddy," isn't what you might expect for a cat expert (as The New York Times noted, with his goatee and tattoos he "looks like a Hells Angel"). Yet Galaxy's ability to connect with even the most troubled felines -- not to mention the stressed-out humans living in their wake -- is awe-inspiring. In this book, Galaxy tells the poignant story of his thirteen-year relationship with a petite gray-and-white short-haired cat named Benny, and gives singular advice for living with, caring for, and loving the feline in your home. When Benny arrived in his life, Galaxy was a down-and-out rock musician with not too much more going on than a part-time job at an animal shelter and a drug problem. Benny's previous owner brought the cat to the shelter in a cardboard box to give him up. Benny had seen better days -- his pelvis had just been shattered by the wheels of a car -- and his owner insisted he'd been "unbondable" from day one. Nothing could have been further from the truth.An inspiring account of two broken beings who fixed each other, Cat Daddy (Tarcher, $24.95) is laced throughout with Galaxy's amazing "Cat Mojo" advice for understanding what cats need most from us humans in order to live happier, healthier lives. Meet the cat author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Saturday, May 18
First-Ever Butterfly Migration Parade at Fairchild
Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden loves butterflies, and they want the whole community to join us in celebrating our winged friends. On Saturday, May 18, Fairchild is hosting Miami’s first-ever Butterfly Migration Parade, a day full of butterfly-themed family fun. Participate in the whimsical parade down Old Cutler Road from 8:30 to 9:30am, then spend the day until 4:30 to join in fun activities like the butterfly costume contest, live music and butterfly viewings. Tasty treats are provided by the Glasshouse Café and food trucks. Make sure to visit the Wings of the Tropics exhibit to marvel at the thousands of vibrantly colored butterflies swooping overhead. Admission is free for parade participants, Fairchild members and children 5 and under, $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is located at 10901 Old Cutler Road. Call 305-667-1651. http://www.fairchildgarden.org
Mainly Mozart Festival: Delray String Quartet
The Delray String Quartet returns with an alluring combination of works. Mozart composed his quartet for his friend, publisher, and fellow composer Franz Anton Hoffmeister. Hear this work alongside Hoffmeister's own piece for viola d'amore. Witness violist Richard Fleischman tackle this 14-stringed beast! Tao Lin brings his brilliant abilities in Franck's darkly-hued and masterly quintet. The event takes place at the Coral Gables Museum, 85 Aragon at 3pm. Series tickets are $100; Single tickets are $20. Call 786-422-5221. http://www.mainlymozart.com
Jeff Klinkenberg: Alligators in B-Flat
Florida is a civilized place with eighteen million residents and all of the modern amenities one might expect: fine universities, art museums, world-class restaurants, and luxury accommodations. It is also home to panthers, bears, rattlesnakes, and alligators. In this collection of essays about Florida culture—the things that make Florida "Florida" -— Jeff Klinkenberg sets his sights on the contradictions that comprise the Sunshine State. In Alligators in B-Flat (University Press of Fl, $24.95), readers will join Klinkenberg as he roams through the twisted roots of past and present, describing a beautifully swampy place that is becoming increasingly endangered. The traditional ways of the scallop shuckers, moss weavers, and cane grinders in his stories are now threatened by corporate greed, environmental degradation, and mass construction. From fishing camps and country stores to museums and libraries, Klinkenberg is forever unearthing the magic that makes Florida a place worth celebrating. Join him in contemplating Florida, both old and new, a place that is as quirky and enigmatic as it is burgeoning. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Teens: Margaret Papillon -- The Legend of Quisqueya
Following a bet, four teenagers Ralph, Christine, Ruddy and Leïla decide to go on a quest to get to the summit of Mount Macaya at 7200 feet high. As they were on their way, an old mage quickly intervenes and explains to them that there are mysterious disappearances of all those who tried to climb to the top of that mountain. He also goes on to tell them of an ancient legend dating back five hundred years called "The Legend of Quisqueya" serving as warning to the people of the town. Nonetheless, our young and stubborn adventurers proceed to go on their journey head on. Then hours later, despite fatigue and cold air, they finally manage to reach the summit. But before they could even celebrate as they were about to spike down their victory flag, the ground suddenly opens up from underneath their feet! In screams of distress, they tumble down at great speeds to the center of the Earth where upon landing they surprisingly find themselves in a little corner of tropical paradise completely unknown and inhabited by native tribes. However, as all of this unfolds before them, will they be able to escape from the fate of the legend of Quisqueya? Will they be capable of freeing themselves from the Island beneath the sea? Find out what happens in The Legend of Quisqueya by Margaret Papillon. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 5pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wendy Williams: Ask Wendy
Over the radio and now on her popular TV talk show, Wendy Williams has always been approached for her blunt, in-your-face words of advice. On TV Wendy only has a few minutes to respond to each audience member, but in Ask Wendy she goes deeper, answering questions sourced from viewers across the country. Wendy reveals never-before shared intimate secrets about struggling with weight, navigating rough times in her marriage, and learning to accept herself. If you've dealt with it, Wendy has a solution for it. Filled with fun personality quizzes, Wendy's laugh-out-loud anecdotes, and tons of spot-on advice, Ask Wendy (William Morrow, $25.99) will help readers to end the drama in their lives. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 7pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
The Fox on the Fairway at Miracle Theatre
Filled with mistaken identities and over-the-top romances, the hilarious comedy The Fox on the Fairway -- a charming screwball adventure about love, life and man’s eternal love affair with golf -- plays at the Miracle Theatre through June 2. Author Ken Ludwig (Lend Me a Tenor, Moon Over Buffalo, Crazy For You) hits a hole-in-one with his tribute to the great English farces of the 1930s and 1940s. Two rival country clubs, Quail Valley and Crouching Squirrel, prepare for their annual grudge match. A massive private wager is made between the two CEOs just before the best player switches teams. The Miracle Theatre is located at 280 Miracle Mile. Showtimes are Wednesday through Saturday evenings at 8pm, plus Sunday at 2pm. Call 305-444-9293. http://www.actorsplayhouse.org
Road Through Heaven at New Theatre
This lyrical play by Ricky J. Martinez tells the story of a tension filled, sexually charged, lovers triangle as it unfolds on a forgotten Caribbean island. It's a heady, emotional and poetic ride, a rhapsodic look at unconditional love, the nature of self-development, and the willing of dreams into reality. New Theatre is located at The Roxy Performing Arts Center, 1645 SW 107th Avenue. Call 305 443-5909. http://www.new-theatre.org
Sunday, May 19
Museum: Ottorino Resphghi in Voice and Piano
Lissette Jimenez (mezzo-soprano) and Robert Chumbley (piano) perform this full concert of works by Ottorino Respighi, best known for his orchestral "Roman trilogy": Fountains of Rome, Pines of Rome and Roman Festivals, and Franz Liszt. This concert celebrates the Italian architecture exhibits on view curated by Carmen Guerrero, presented by University of Miami at Gables Museum at 2pm. The Coral Gables Museum is located at 285 Aragon. Call 305-603-8067. http://www.coralgablesmuseum.org
Chopin for All: Polish pianist Piotr Kosinski
The Chopin for All free Concert Series concludes in May, presenting outstanding young Polish pianist, Piotr Kosinski, the winner of the 2010 Paderewski Piano Competition. He will play music by Paderewski and Chopin at 3pm at Granada Presbyterian Church, 950 University Drive. The First Prize winner of the 2010 American Paderewski Piano Competition, 23-year old Polish pianist Piotr Kosinski, started his piano education at the age of seven at the Ignacy Paderewski Primary Music School in Cracow, where he studied piano with Jerzy Łukowicz, Krystyna Adamska and Małgorzata Czech. Since 2004 he has been studying with Professor Stefan Wojtas of the Academy of Music in Cracow, where he is now a full time student. Call 305-868-0624. http://www.chopin.org
Miami Children's Chorus: Let the Children Sing
This exciting program, filled with energy and joy, marks the completion of the Miami Children's Chorus 2012-2013 season, showcasing the diversity and artistic excellence of all three MCC ensembles performing multicultural works in English, Spanish, Shona, French, and Czech, with a cappella singing, and African percussion. The event takes place at 4pm at the First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables, 536 Coral Way. $20 Adults; $5 Students, Seniors and Children in advance. $25 Adults; $10 Students, Seniors and Children at the door. Call 305-662-7494. http://www.miamichildrenschorus.org/
Teens: Alex Flinn -- Towering
New York Times #1 bestselling author Alex Flinn re-imagined the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast in Beastly and gave a twist to the story of Sleeping Beauty in A Kiss in Time. Now with her gothic and darkly romantic young adult novel Towering (HarperTeen, $17.99), Alex Flinn retells the tale of Rapunzel. When Rachel was taken to live in a tower by a woman she calls Mama, she was excited. She felt like a princess in a castle. But many years later, Rachel knows her palace is really a prison, and begins to plan her escape. She is encouraged by the speed that her golden hair has been growing. It’s gotten long enough to reach the ground. And she’s begun dreaming of a green-eyed man. Could he be out there in the world? Is he coming to save her? Or will she find a way to save herself? Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 4pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Alhambra Orchestra Free Concert
The Alhambra Orchestra Presents "South Florida’s Got Talent" featuring the three amazing young winners of its annual concerto competition performing their selections with full orchestral accompaniment. They are 17-year-old pianist Joana Gonzalez of Southwest Ranches; pianist Matthew Reichenberger, a Coral Springs tenth-grader; and 12-year-old violinist Matthew Hakkarainen of West Palm Beach. Joana will perform a lively concerto by Khatchaturian, and Matthew Reichenberger has chosen a Chopin concerto. Matthew Hakkarainen has selected the lyrical Bruch violin concert. The program will also feature the Faust suite of Gounod, and a string interlude by Edward MacDowell. Bring the whole family to enjoy the talent and exuberance of our next generation of classical celebrities. Alhambra Orchestra is Miami’s community orchestra, now celebrating its 23rd season of making great music accessible to all. Steinway Piano Gallery has kindly donated the use of the piano for this event at 7pm at Ransom-Everglades Middle School, 2045 South Bayshore Drive. Free admission, free parking (donations requested). No reservations needed except that large groups should call in advance 305-668-9260. http://www.alhambramusic.org
Monday, May 20
Poetry Buffet Party at CrepeMaker Cafe
Meet featured poet Mia Leonin -- author of two books of poetry, Braid and Unraveling the Bed (Ahinga Press), and the memoir, Havana and Other Missing Fathers (University of Arizona Press) -- at 7pm at CrepeMaker Cafe, 76 Miracle Mile. The Poetry Buffet includes a complimentary glass of wine. Please send your reservations to Doreen LoCicero at dclocicero@gmail.com. Be sure to include your phone number and if you plan on bringing a guest or guests, please include their names. http://www.crepemaker.com/crepemaker-locations/miami-location/coral-gables/
Ruth Behar -- Traveling Heavy
Traveling Heavy (Duke Univ, $23.95) is a deeply moving, unconventional memoir by the master storyteller and cultural anthropologist Ruth Behar. Through evocative stories, she portrays her life as an immigrant child and later, as an adult woman who loves to travel but is terrified of boarding a plane. With an open heart, she writes about her Yiddish-Sephardic-Cuban-American family, as well as the strangers who show her kindness as she makes her way through the world. Compassionate, curious, and unafraid to reveal her failings, Behar embraces the unexpected insights and adventures of travel, whether those be learning that she longed to become a mother after being accused of giving the evil eye to a baby in rural Mexico, or going on a zany pilgrimage to the Behar World Summit in the Spanish town of Bejar. Behar calls herself an anthropologist who specializes in homesickness. Repeatedly returning to her homeland of Cuba, unwilling to utter her last goodbye, she is obsessed by the question of why we leave home to find home. For those of us who travel heavy with our own baggage, Behar is an indispensable guide, full of grace and hope, in the perpetual search for connection that defines our humanity. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Tuesday, May 21
Emma Brockes -- She Left Me the Gun
A chilling work of psychological suspense and forensic memoir, She Left Me the Gun (Penguin, $26.95) is a tale of true transformation: the story of a young woman who reinvented herself so completely that her previous life seemed simply to vanish, and of a daughter who transcends her mother's fears and reclaims an abandoned past. "One day I will tell you the story of my life," promises Emma Brockes's mother, "and you will be amazed." Brockes grew up hearing only pieces of her mother's past—stories of a rustic childhood in South Africa, glimpses of a bohemian youth in London -- and yet knew that crucial facts were still in the dark. A mystery to her friends and family, Paula was clearly a strong, self-invented woman; glamorous, no-nonsense, and frequently out of place in their quaint English village. Looking to unearth the truth after Paula's death, Brockes begins a dangerous journey into the land -- and the life -- her mother fled from years before. Brockes soon learns that Paula's father was a drunk megalomaniac who terrorized Paula and her seven half-siblings for years. After finally mustering the courage to take her father to court, Paula is horrified to see the malevolent man vindicated of all charges. As Brockes discovers, this crushing defeat left Paula with a choice: take her own life, or promise herself never to be intimidated or unhappy again. Ultimately she chooses life and happiness by booking one-way passage to London -- but not before shooting her father five times, and failing to kill him. Smuggling the fateful gun through English customs would be Paula's first triumph in her new life. A beguiling and unforgettable journey across generations and continents, She Left Me the Gun chronicles Brockes's efforts to walk the knife-edge between understanding her mother's unspeakable traumas and embracing the happiness she chose for her daughter. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Wednesday, May 22
Jason Wood -- From Fighting to Forgiving
On Tuesday February 3rd, 2004, two 14-year old boys entered a school bathroom in a South Miami Middle School. One of the boys, Richard coaxed the other, Jaime Gough into one of the bathroom stalls. Richard told Jaime that he had a surprise to show him. This is the story of what happened to Jaime Gough that fateful day. The secret Richard revealed to Jaime sent shock waves through the boy’s families and community as a whole. Four-time author Jason Wood takes you through the story behind the headlines and into the lives of Jaime’s parents. Travel back in time to the journey that brought the Goughs together. Delve into the heartache of losing a child and the power to overcome hate and actually forgive. From the chilling confession of the murderer to the Gough’s actual letters of forgiveness to their son’s killer, From Fighting to Forgiving takes you on an unexpected journey. Learn first hand how challenging it is to let go of hate and seek love after a tragedy. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 6:30pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
Thursday, May 23
Leila Cobo - Jenni Rivera
In Jenni Rivera: The Incredible Story of a Warrior Butterfly, Leila Cobo -- pianist, TV host, writer and Executive Director for Latino content and programming at Billboard -- brings us Jenni Rivera's intimate and moving biography, reflecting on the party girl, the elegant woman, the great diva, the friend, the mother, and the grandmother. Discover the humble beginnings of Jenni's life and career, as well as the emotional and sometimes turbulent moments that defined her persona and spirit. With Jenni's departure, we celebrate a shining legacy that will forever reverberate within every note of her voice. Meet the author at Books And Books, 265 Aragon at 8pm. Call 305-442-4408. http://www.booksandbooks.com
