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Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• The federal government has $4.3 million earned by Florida workers. Some might be yours.

• Upcoming Florida International Panthers Men's Basketball match

• A deep-dive into the life of James Deering

• And more….

Quote of the Week

“Believe you can, and you're halfway there.”

— Theodore Roosevelt

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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!

In Miami, which marina is known for hosting prestigious yachting events and offering high-end amenities to boat owners and visitors?

A) Dinner Key Marina

B) Miami Beach Marina

C) Crandon Marina

D) Coconut Grove Marina

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic coral rock structure known for its massive stone gate and mysterious legends is D) Coral Castle.

New

💼 Business

A $1.6M Miami Ponzi scheme paid for private school, tennis lessons, nails, feds say. (Link)

A Florida attorney who tampered with a corpse requested disbarment from a Texas prison. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Tua Tagovailoa hopes to continue his hot streak while Miami Dolphins play Green Bay Packers in the cold. (Link)

Panthers get 2nd win in last 8 games, roll past Maple Leafs 5-1. (Link)

🏦 Finance

The federal government has $4.3 million earned by Florida workers. Some might be yours. (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

🏀 Florida Atlantic Owls at Florida International Panthers Men's Basketball
Ocean Bank Convocation Center, Miami
Wednesday, Dec. 4th | (More info)

🏀 New College of Florida at Florida International Panthers Men's Basketball
Ocean Bank Convocation Center, Miami
Friday, Dec. 6th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 TV Girl and George Clanton
Zey Zey, Miami
Tuesday, Dec. 3rd | (More info)

🎵 WhoMadeWho, Black Coffee, and Carlita
Club Space, Miami
Wednesday, Dec. 4th | (More info)

Family

🌿 Shamanic Family Constellations with Eric Lopez at the FAENA
3201 Collins Avenue, 3rd Floor, Miami Beach
Tuesday, Dec. 3rd | (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 streets with interactive, responsive surfaces” 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

Cocaine Cowboys Era (1970s-1980s) - The drug trade dramatically impacts Miami.

The Cocaine Cowboys era, spanning the late 1970s to the 1980s, represents a tumultuous period in Miami's history, where the drug trade, particularly cocaine, had a dramatic and far-reaching impact on the city. This era was characterized by the rapid influx of cocaine from South America, facilitated by a network of smugglers and drug lords who turned Miami into the epicenter of the global cocaine trade. The immense profitability of the drug business attracted a wave of crime, violence, and lawlessness, as rival drug factions battled for control of the lucrative market. The city's streets became the backdrop for a series of high-profile shootouts, bombings, and murders, earning Miami a notorious reputation and casting a shadow over the city's vibrant culture and booming economy.

The economic impact of the cocaine trade was paradoxically both detrimental and beneficial. On one hand, the influx of drug money fueled a speculative real estate boom, with luxurious mansions, flashy cars, and extravagant lifestyles becoming symbols of the era's excess. On the other hand, the pervasive violence and crime associated with the drug trade tarnished Miami's image, deterred tourism, and posed significant challenges for local law enforcement and the community at large. The Cocaine Cowboys era exposed the vulnerabilities of Miami's economy, heavily reliant on tourism and foreign investment, to the destabilizing forces of international drug trafficking.

Despite the dark chapters of this era, it also marked a turning point for Miami, leading to significant efforts to combat drug trafficking and restore law and order. The city's response included heightened law enforcement measures, community engagement, and an emphasis on economic diversification. Over time, Miami emerged from the shadows of the Cocaine Cowboys era, transforming into a global city known for its cultural richness, economic resilience, and vibrant community life. The period serves as a stark reminder of the challenges Miami faced and overcame, highlighting the city's capacity for renewal and growth in the face of adversity.

Famous People From Miami

James Deering (1859–1925): Business magnate and owner of the Vizcaya Estate.

James Deering was born in 1859 into a wealthy family in Maine. From a young age, he was involved in the family business, Deering Harvester Company, which would later merge with McCormick Harvesting Machine Company to form the International Harvester Company. His early involvement in the family's agricultural machinery business laid the groundwork for his later success and innovations in the industry.

Rise to Success in International Harvester (1880-1900)

Deering played a pivotal role in the success of the International Harvester Company, contributing to its growth into one of the largest agricultural machinery manufacturers in the world. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the company's expansion, focusing on technological advancements and international markets.

Philanthropy and Art Collection (1900-1910)

With his wealth, Deering became a notable philanthropist and art collector. He traveled extensively in Europe, amassing a significant collection of European art and antiques. His philanthropic efforts and passion for art reflected his commitment to cultural enrichment and community support.

The Vision for Vizcaya (1910-1914)

Inspired by his travels and interest in European architecture, Deering envisioned creating a winter residence that would embody the aesthetic and cultural essence of a Mediterranean villa. This vision led to the creation of Vizcaya, an opulent estate in Miami, which would become one of his most enduring legacies.

Construction of Vizcaya Estate (1914-1922)

The construction of Vizcaya was a monumental project that spanned several years, involving hundreds of workers and craftsmen from Europe and the United States. Deering's attention to detail and desire for authenticity in the estate's design and gardens resulted in a masterpiece of architecture and landscape design, blending European influences with the subtropical context of South Florida.

Contribution to Miami's Cultural and Social Scene (1922-1925)

Upon its completion, Vizcaya became a centerpiece of Miami's cultural and social scene, hosting numerous events and gatherings that attracted artists, celebrities, and socialites of the era. Deering's estate played a crucial role in establishing Miami as a center for culture and leisure, enhancing its appeal to tourists and residents alike.

Environmental and Agricultural Interests in South Florida (Throughout Life)

Beyond Vizcaya, Deering was interested in South Florida's environmental conservation and agricultural potential. He invested in land and initiatives aimed at promoting agricultural development and environmental preservation, recognizing the region's unique ecosystem and the importance of sustainable practices.

Legacy and Preservation of Vizcaya (1925 and Beyond)

James Deering passed away in 1925, but his legacy lives on through the Vizcaya Estate, now a National Historic Landmark and museum open to the public. His vision for Vizcaya as a place of beauty and cultural significance has been preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate his contributions to architecture, art, and the Miami community.

Key Achievements:

• Played a key role in the growth and success of the International Harvester Company.

• Became a renowned philanthropist and art collector, contributing to cultural and community endeavors.

• Created Vizcaya, an architectural and botanical masterpiece, enhancing Miami's status as a cultural destination.

• Advocated for environmental conservation and agricultural development in South Florida.

James Deering's impact on Miami and beyond is marked by his visionary creation of the Vizcaya Estate, his contributions to the growth of the International Harvester Company, and his philanthropic and cultural endeavors. Vizcaya stands as a testament to Deering's passion for art, architecture, and the environment, embodying his legacy as a patron of culture and conservation. Through Vizcaya and his other contributions, Deering played an integral role in shaping the cultural landscape of Miami, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to enrich the community.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Yannick Lyons

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