Go for the Old

FRI 5/21
Grandpa might be pushing 80 but he can still kick butt on the tennis court. He is also quite the dancer, speed walker, and golf player. The feisty old codger hasn't lost his competitive spirit. Problem is that you have. Maybe he can find some able-bodied opponents who are closer to his age and more tolerant of his eccentricities at the Mayor's Health and Fitness Challenge Senior Olympics. Always thinking about those older constituents and the voting power they wield, Miami-Dade County Mayor Alex Penelas wants to keep the elders healthy and alert -- at least until after election day. From 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Goulds Gym (11350 SW 216th St.), senior citizens ages 60 and older are invited to participate in walk races, tai chi, golf, and more. Those who aren't so spry can take advantage of nutrition lectures and chair aerobics sessions. Board game challenges await fierce Trivial Pursuit, Sorry, and Monopoly players. Admission is free. Call 305-255-2399. -- By Nina Korman

Stars on Ice

SAT 5/22
Historically comets were known to be portents of doom, but for members of the Southern Cross Astronomical Society they're signals to head out to the Glades for an evening of stargazing fun. Tonight and next Saturday, the SCAS invites the public to join its weekly trek to the appropriately dark Bill Sadowski Park & Nature Center (17555 SW 79th Ave.) to gaze at Comet NEAT. While not the only comet currently traversing the sky, NEAT is the Northern Hemisphere's first significantly bright one in years. Still to fully enjoy the delicate structure of the shimmering ice ball, stargazers need relative darkness. Weather permitting, the SCAS will bring equipment for viewing planets and other heavenly treats. Binoculars, chairs, snacks, and bug spray are recommended but pets, alcohol, loud music, and especially lights should be left at home. Admission is free. Call 305-661-1375. -- By Margaret Griffis

Animals
Mayhem

SUN 5/23
Lions and tigers and bears are just part of what you'll see at MetroZoo this weekend. You'll also see human performers (and we're not talking about drama queen soccer moms) in Zootroupia, a cultural program that brings art to the animals and visitors. Today's program offers performances of Middle Eastern traditions as well as spontaneous scenes acted throughout the zoo that will keep observers wondering: Is the drama real? Zootroupia takes place throughout the day starting at noon at Miami's MetroZoo, 12400 SW 152nd St. Admission is $12 for adults; $7 for children. Call 305-251-0400. -- By Juan Carlos Rodriguez