The Best Miami News This Week (December 18th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events coming to Miami.

Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Miami International Airport expansion

  • Trivia for Miami residents

  • A deep dive into the life of Celia Cruz

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”

— Henry David Thoreau

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

Miami is known for a unique architectural style prevalent in one of its famous neighborhoods, characterized by pastel-colored buildings and neon signs. What is this style called?

A) Art Deco

B) Victorian

C) Bauhaus

D) Brutalism

News

💼 Business

Commercial Real Estate Developments: Miami saw significant developments in commercial real estate, with new building permits issued for projects like Cigars International store and lounge in The Strand at Town Center, and the rebuild of three units at Broadstone River House apartments​​.

Miami International Airport Expansion: A building permit is under review for Concourse B at Miami International Airport, a $300 million project that will add at least six new passenger gates, signifying a major expansion and upgrade for the airport​​.

🏒 Sports

University of Miami Athletics: The University of Miami's various athletic teams, including football and basketball, had eventful seasons with notable achievements and challenges.

Miami's Golf Tournaments: Miami hosted several prestigious golf tournaments, attracting top players from around the world and showcasing the city's golf courses.

Famous People In Miami History


Celia Cruz: 1925-2003

Early Life and Musical Foundations (1925-1950) 

Born on October 21, 1925, in Havana, Cuba, Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso, known as Celia Cruz, grew up in a musically rich environment. Her love for singing was evident from a young age, and she often sang at school and community events.

Rise to Fame in Cuba (1950-1960) 

Cruz's career began to take off when she joined the renowned Cuban orchestra La Sonora Matancera in 1950. Her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence quickly made her a popular figure in Cuba.

Relocation to Miami and International Success (1961-1980) 

Following the Cuban Revolution, Cruz left Cuba and eventually settled in Miami, where she became an icon among the Cuban exile community. In Miami, her career flourished. She collaborated with leading Latin musicians and expanded her audience globally.

The Queen of Salsa (1981-2003) 

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Cruz established herself as the "Queen of Salsa." Her vibrant performances and distinctive style endeared her to fans worldwide. She recorded numerous successful albums, earning several awards and honors.

Legacy and Influence (Post-2003) 

Celia Cruz passed away on July 16, 2003. She left behind a legacy as one of the most influential figures in Latin music. Her spirit and music continue to inspire artists and musicians globally.

Key Achievements of Celia Cruz:

  • Renowned as the "Queen of Salsa."

  • A pivotal figure in the popularization of salsa music.

  • Winner of multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards.

  • Recorded over 75 albums, with numerous hit songs.

  • Her music remains a symbol of Cuban culture and salsa music.

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-Matthew Larsen