Miami Newsletter (August 5th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

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Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Boca Raton firm raises $95 million to invest in commercial real estate.

  • Upcoming Miami Dolphins match

  • A deep-dive into the life of Gar Woods

  • And more….

Quote of the Week

“Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without.” 

–Confucius

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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 island is famous for its annual boat show and luxurious waterfront properties?

A) Fisher Island

B) Star Island

C) Virginia Key

D) Key Biscayne

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The Miami beach known for its historic wooden pier and ocean views is B) Sunny Isles Beach.

New

💼 Business

UF pauses plan for South Florida hospital. (Link)

830 Brickell adds Brazilian bank as latest tenant, report says. (Link)

🏒 Sports

ACC Preseason Player of Year Cam Ward leads five Hurricanes on preseason All-ACC team. (Link)

Powell embracing ‘mental battles’ with Ward at practice. And more Hurricanes practice notes. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Boca Raton firm raises $95 million to invest in commercial real estate. (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

🏈 Preseason: Atlanta Falcons at Miami Dolphins
Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
Friday, August 9, 2024 at 7:00 PM | (More info)

Cincinnati Reds at Miami Marlins
loanDepot park, Miami, FL
Monday, August 5 to Thursday, August 8, 2024 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Gucci Mane
LIV, Miami Beach
Friday, August 9, 2024 | (More info)

🎵 Loud Luxury
LIV, Miami Beach
Saturday, August 10, 2024 | (More info)

Family

🎟️ By Brothers Family Park Ticket
15515 Southwest 177th Avenue, Miami
Tuesday, August 6, 2024 | (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 “Miami where traditional and digital art forms merge in public spaces” 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

Metro-Dade Cultural Center Opens (1983) - Including the Miami Art Museum and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida.

The opening of the Metro-Dade Cultural Center in 1983 marked a significant milestone in Miami's cultural and artistic development, showcasing the city's commitment to fostering arts and heritage. Located in downtown Miami, the center was envisioned as a hub for cultural expression and education, bringing together the Miami Art Museum (now known as the Pérez Art Museum Miami) and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida (now known as HistoryMiami Museum) under one roof. This architectural and cultural landmark was designed to provide a space for the community to engage with art, history, and culture, reflecting Miami's diverse identity and rich heritage.

The Miami Art Museum quickly became a cornerstone of the city's art scene, offering an array of contemporary and modern art exhibitions that highlight both local and international artists. Its collections and programs have played a crucial role in making art accessible to a wider audience, fostering an appreciation for artistic expression and innovation. Similarly, the Historical Museum of Southern Florida has served as a custodian of Miami's history, providing insight into the region's past through its extensive collections, exhibitions, and educational programs. Together, these institutions have enriched Miami's cultural landscape, acting as gateways to exploring the artistic achievements and historical narratives that shape the community.

The establishment of the Metro-Dade Cultural Center has had a lasting impact on Miami, enhancing its reputation as a center for arts and culture. It has not only provided a venue for showcasing outstanding works of art and historical artifacts but also stimulated cultural dialogue and learning. Over the years, the center has hosted countless exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and community events, becoming a beloved gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The continued success and evolution of the center and its institutions underscore the vital role of culture in urban development and community cohesion, celebrating Miami's unique identity and promoting its growth as a vibrant, dynamic city.

Famous People From Miami

Gar Wood (1880–1971):

Gar Wood was born in 1880 in Mapleton, Iowa, and demonstrated an early interest in mechanics and engineering. His knack for innovation led to the development of several mechanical devices, including improvements to the hydraulic hoist, a crucial invention that significantly impacted the transportation and construction industries.

Introduction to Speedboats and Racing (1904-1915)

Wood's fascination with speed and mechanics soon led him to the world of speedboat racing. By the early 1900s, he had begun designing and racing his own boats, quickly gaining a reputation for his daring and skill on the water. His passion for speedboats would define much of his life's work and achievements.

Dominance in Speedboat Racing (1915-1925)

During this period, Gar Wood became a dominant figure in speedboat racing, winning numerous national and international races. His boats, known for their innovative design and unmatched speed, set multiple world records. Wood's victories in competitions such as the prestigious Harmsworth Trophy brought him international fame and solidified his status as a racing legend.

Contributions to Speedboat Design and Technology (1925-1935)

Beyond racing, Wood contributed significantly to the advancement of speedboat design and technology. He pioneered the use of aircraft engines in boats and developed hull designs that greatly improved speed and efficiency. His innovations not only changed the course of competitive racing but also influenced commercial and military maritime design.

Establishing Miami's Maritime Community (1935-1945)

Gar Wood's connection to Miami became pronounced as he made the city his winter home and a base for his racing and business activities. He played a key role in establishing Miami as a center for maritime innovation and speedboat racing, attracting enthusiasts and professionals from around the world to the growing maritime community.

The Gar Wood Speedboat Legacy (1945-1955)

Even after retiring from competitive racing, Wood continued to influence the world of speedboats through his company, Gar Wood Industries, which produced some of the era's most sought-after pleasure boats. His legacy was not only in the boats that bore his name but also in the lasting impact he had on the maritime industry.

Philanthropy and Community Engagement in Miami (1955-1965)

In his later years, Gar Wood became involved in philanthropic efforts and community engagement in Miami, supporting marine conservation initiatives and educational programs aimed at promoting maritime history and technology. His commitment to the community reflected his desire to give back to the city that had become an integral part of his life and legacy.

Legacy and Death (1965-1971)

Gar Wood passed away in 1971, leaving behind a legacy that spanned innovation, speedboat racing, and community philanthropy. His contributions to maritime technology, his thrilling victories on the water, and his philanthropic efforts in Miami made him a revered figure in both the maritime and broader communities.

Connection to Miami (Throughout His Life)

Gar Wood's connection to Miami was marked by his significant contributions to the city's maritime community, his philanthropic efforts, and his role in promoting Miami as a hub for maritime innovation and sport. His legacy in Miami is a testament to his passion for the water and his commitment to advancing maritime technology and community welfare.

Key Achievements:

  • Dominated the world of speedboat racing, setting numerous world records and winning multiple Harmsworth Trophies.

  • Innovated speedboat design and technology, significantly influencing the maritime industry.

  • Contributed to establishing Miami as a center for maritime innovation and community through his racing achievements, business ventures, and philanthropy.

Gar Wood was an inventor, speedboat racer, and a key figure in Miami's maritime community, whose contributions to speedboat technology and racing left an indelible mark on the sport and the maritime industry. His legacy in Miami is not only that of a champion racer but also of an innovator and community benefactor who helped to shape the city's maritime culture. Wood's life and work exemplify the spirit of innovation and the pursuit of excellence, making him a lasting figure in the history of maritime adventure and technology.

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

-Matthew Larsen

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