Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Reggae Fest

• Upcoming Miami Marlins home games

• A deep-dive into the life of Jackie Gleason

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"For there is nothing either good or bad, thinking makes it so."

- William Shakespeare

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!

Which Miami neighborhood, known for its affluent residential areas and historic landmarks, is also home to the University of Miami?

A) Coral Gables

B) Little Havana

C) Brickell

D) Wynwood

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Miami attraction known for its wildlife conservation efforts, educational programs, and interactive experiences with marine animals is B) Miami Seaquarium.

News

💼 Business

Canada Jetlines Announces New Route from Toronto to Miami. (link)

Miami developer advancing 600-unit residential project in Upper Marlboro. (link)

Miami saw a 6-cent jump at the pump over last week. Palm Beach County continues to be the most expensive in South Florida. And North Florida has the cheapest gas. (link)

🏒 Sports

Danielle Collins refuses to reconsider retirement despite biggest win of career. (link)

Former teammates mourn death of former Dolphins cornerback Vontae Davis. (link)

Daniel Bækkegård Supports the PTO Amidst Challenging Season Opener in Miami. (link)

Jannik Sinner dominates Grigor Dimitrov to claim first Miami Open title. (link)

🏦 Finance

You need to make 6-figures to live comfortably in Miami, study says. (link)

Related Group and GTIS Partners have secured a $328 million construction loan to finance the development of Baccarat Residences Miami, an ultra-luxury condominium tower located at the gateway of Brickell Avenue. (link)

Foundation led by Miami tech founder to fund college scholarships. (link)

Turnberry has obtained a $172 million construction loan for ONE Park Tower, a 292-unit luxury condominium project currently underway in North Miami. Berkadia secured the financing from Bank OZK. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Miami Hurricanes Baseball vs. Florida Atlantic Owls Baseball
Mark Light Field Miami, FL
Tuesday April 09 | 6:00 PM | (more info)

🏀 Miami Heat vs. Dallas Mavericks
Kaseya Center Miami, FL
Wednesday April 10 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

⚾ Miami Marlins vs. Atlanta Braves
LoanDepot Park Miami, FL
Friday April 12 | 7:10 PM | (more info)

⚾ Miami Marlins vs. Atlanta Braves
LoanDepot Park Miami, FL
Saturday April 13 | 4:10 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 The Celebration Tour
Kaseya Center Miami, FL
Tuesday April 09 | 8:30 PM | (more info)

🎵 Reggae Fest
The Oasis-Wynwood Miami, FL
Saturday April 13 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

🎧 LIV Presents: ARTBAT
LIV Miami
Saturday April 13 - Sun, April 14 |11:00 PM-5:00 AM | (more info)

Family

🔧 Miami Maker Faire 2024
Watsco Center at the University of Miami Coral Gables
Saturday April 13 | 10:00 AM | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Spaceport integrated into Miami's central hub” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Miami Historical Events

Miami Becomes a Haven for Retirees (Early 20th century)

In the early 20th century, Miami emerged as a haven for retirees, drawn by its warm climate, picturesque beaches, and burgeoning amenities. This period marked a significant transformation in the city's demographic and economic landscape, as retirees from colder northern states began to see Miami not just as a vacation spot but as an ideal place to spend their post-working years. The allure of year-round sunshine, combined with the promise of a leisurely lifestyle by the sea, proved irresistible to many. This influx of retirees contributed to a steady growth in population and spurred the development of residential areas, health care facilities, and recreational spaces designed to cater to their needs.

The city's evolution into a retiree paradise was further facilitated by advances in transportation and infrastructure, including the expansion of the railroad and the advent of affordable automobile travel. These developments made Miami more accessible than ever, encouraging a steady stream of new residents. The real estate industry quickly capitalized on this trend, with developers building a range of housing options from luxurious waterfront properties to more modest, community-focused developments. Alongside, amenities such as golf courses, parks, and social clubs proliferated, enhancing Miami's appeal as a vibrant and engaging community for retirees.

Miami's transformation into a haven for retirees in the early 20th century had lasting impacts on its cultural and economic fabric. It helped diversify the city's population and contributed to its reputation as a multicultural and multigenerational metropolis. This demographic shift also prompted investments in sectors like healthcare, retail, and services, further stimulating Miami's economy and shaping its development. The legacy of this era is still evident today, with the city continuing to be a popular destination for retirees, offering a mix of relaxation, recreation, and community life unique to the Miami experience.

Famous People From Miami

Jackie Gleason (1916–1987)

The Formative Years (1916-1935)

Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1916, Jackie Gleason's early life was marked by hardship and the loss of his father at a young age. Despite these challenges, he developed a passion for the stage, honing his skills as a comedian and actor in vaudeville and nightclubs. This period laid the groundwork for his future success, showcasing his innate talent for comedy and entertainment.

Breakthrough in Show Business (1935-1949)

Gleason's career began to take off in the late 1930s and 1940s, with roles in films and Broadway shows. His comedic timing, physical comedy, and charismatic presence quickly made him a rising star in the entertainment world. This era culminated in his first major television role, which set the stage for his future as a television icon.

The Honeymooners and Rise to Fame (1950-1955)

Gleason's most famous role came with "The Honeymooners," a television sitcom where he played Ralph Kramden, a blustering but lovable bus driver in New York City. The show's success cemented his status as a leading figure in American comedy, beloved by audiences for his humor and warmth.

The Jackie Gleason Show Moves to Miami Beach (1964-1970)

In a bold move, Gleason transferred "The Jackie Gleason Show" from New York to Miami Beach in 1964, significantly impacting the local entertainment industry. The show's relocation brought Hollywood glamour to Miami Beach, transforming the city into a must-visit destination for celebrities and fans alike and boosting the local economy.

Influence on Miami's Entertainment Scene (1970-1987)

Gleason's decision to move his show to Miami Beach had a lasting impact on the city's entertainment landscape. He became a beloved figure in Miami, often participating in local events and contributing to the city's cultural life. His presence in Miami Beach helped solidify its reputation as a center for entertainment and nightlife.

Final Years and Legacy (1987)

Jackie Gleason passed away in 1987, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's greatest comedians and entertainers. His work on "The Honeymooners" and "The Jackie Gleason Show" remains iconic, continuing to entertain new generations of fans. His impact on Miami Beach's entertainment industry and cultural identity is still felt today.

Key Achievements:

• Rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most beloved comedians and actors in America.

• Starred in "The Honeymooners," creating one of the most iconic characters in television history.

• Moved "The Jackie Gleason Show" to Miami Beach, significantly influencing the city's entertainment industry and cultural landscape.

• Left a lasting legacy in both the entertainment industry and the city of Miami Beach, remembered for his contributions to comedy, television, and local culture.

Jackie Gleason's journey from a struggling actor to a television icon is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and impact on American culture. By bringing "The Jackie Gleason Show" to Miami Beach, he not only transformed the city's entertainment scene but also left an indelible mark on its cultural identity. Gleason's legacy as a pioneer in television comedy and a key figure in Miami Beach's rise as an entertainment hotspot endures, highlighting his significant contributions to both the entertainment industry and the communities he touched.

Connect With Me

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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