The Grove’s own (and perhaps youngest) published author Emilia Ramos Sampler, 14, has released the second book in her fantasy trilogy, “The Shadow Heir.” Her new book, “Thieves of Time Forgotten,” continues the saga begun in her first work, published when she was 10. An award-winning author, Emilia won first-prize in the La Plume young writers’ contest. She also recently performed the lead role in the Area Stage production of “Anastasia.” Emilia will discuss her novels and life as a teen author at Books & Books, 265 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables. Sunday 3/16 at 11:00 a.m. Free.
The Kampong welcomes “Revenant Florida,” an exhibition of drawings by Christina Pettersson that explores the myth of Florida’s youth by presenting natural beauty in the context of dramatic events. Biscayne Bay sites find prominent display in the show which runs through June 7. The opening reception is open to the public at a modest fee. The Kampong, 4013 Douglas Road. Opening Saturday 3/15 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Information and tickets.
Coconut Grove continues its art vibe with the first Art Walk through downtown. Live music will accompany those that stroll among the 30-plus local artist displays. Much of the artwork will be for sale. Sunday 3/16 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Downtown Grove. Free. Make the most of a beautiful day by arriving on your bicycle and checking it in with the free bike valet courtesy of Bike Coconut Grove and the Business Improvement District (BID). You can find the bike valet at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church on McFarlane Road. Free.
Bike Walk Coral Gables returns with their annual Bike & BBQ. This long ride (11 miles) is rewarded with the BBQ picnic at the end in Matheson Hammock Park. As the Spotlight went to press, some advanced tickets remained. Sunday 3/16 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Detailed instructions, locations and requirements are found here. Modestly priced.
Alhambra Orchestra’s March concert presents works from around the world connected by folk and classical traditions. Coral Gables United Church of Christ, 3010 DeSoto Boulevard, Coral Gables. Sunday 3/16 at 7:30 p.m. Free.“Lady Miasma” – showcasing the young aspiring professional performers of Area Theater – continues its limited run. The production marries fairytale images with mature themes. Weekend performances from 3/15 to 4/6. Times vary. Area Stage’s Black Box Theatre inside The Shops at Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Drive, Suite 286. Metrorail to University Station. Tickets.
Save Me a (Bicycle) Seat
GableStage hosts the Miami premiere of “Summer, 1976,” a story of motherhood, ambition and independence contrasting the journeys of a strong-willed artist and a naïve young housewife. Pulitzer-winner David Auburn wrote the play that the New York Times called “sharply observant.” Although opening night is already sold out, tickets are available for performances from 3/29 through 4/20. GableStage, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables. Dates and times vary. Tickets.
The world’s fastest cats can’t outrun a changing habitat, but they’ll be the subject of a discussion by Dr. Laurie Marker of the Cheetah Conservation Fund. Saturday 3/22. 4:00-5:30 p.m. Advanced registration required for venue information.
Start gathering your obsolete electronics for the recycling event at Regatta Park. Saturday 3/29.
Choose from a wide variety of free trees or shrubs in Miami’s tree-loving Arbor Day celebrations run by the city’s building department. Details and pre-registration are found here for the various distribution dates on Saturdays in April. Pro-tip: Tell your neighbors. Coconut Grove’s singular atmosphere serves as the setting for the locally-produced feature film Ethan Bloom. Thirteen-year-old Ethan and his father navigate a complicated life after the death of Ethan’s mother. Herschel Faber produced and directed the film starring Joshua Malina. The world premiere is part of the Miami Film Festival and its first showing is Sunday 4/6 at 8:00 p.m. Olympia Theater, 174 East Flagler St., Miami. Advanced tickets.
