Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Investments in Miami's healthcare infrastructure

• The Miami International Boat Show

• A deep-dive into the life of Henry Flagler

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"He who knows others is wise; he who knows himself is enlightened."

– Lao Tzu

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 is known for its large Cuban-American population and vibrant culture?

A) Wynwood

B) Coconut Grove

C) Little Havana

D) South Beach

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: Miami's famous street known for its vibrant nightlife and Art Deco buildings is B) Ocean Drive.

News

💼 Business

Miami hosted the annual Coconut Grove Arts Festival, celebrating its 60th anniversary with over 280 artists showcasing their work. (link)

The Miami International Boat Show took place, drawing crowds with the latest in marine gear and luxury yachts across multiple venues. (link)

The Malibu Barbie Café in Wynwood offered a unique dining experience, blending 70s Malibu vibes with a pink-themed menu. (link)

Art Wynwood, a contemporary art fair, returned, featuring over 50 galleries and coinciding with the Miami International Boat Show. (link)

🏒 Sports

The Miami Heat faced a challenging week with losses and key player injuries, including guards Terry Rozier and Josh Richardson being sidelined. (link)

Tyler Herro of the Miami Heat has been performing at career-high levels but faces struggles in certain areas of his game. (link)

The Miami Heat prepared for a tough matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, highlighting the team's resilience despite being short-handed. (link)

Heat's Jaime Jaquez Jr. hinted at attempting a Vince Carter 360 windmill in the upcoming NBA Slam Dunk Contest, generating excitement among fans. (link)

🏦 Finance

In September 2023, the Miami-Miami Beach-Kendall division saw a job increase of 38,600. (link)

Jeff Bezos's $4B Amazon stock sale after relocating to Miami underscores the city's appeal to tech leaders. (link)

FCPT acquired a Baptist Medical Group primary care property for $9.7 million, highlighting investments in Miami's healthcare infrastructure. (link)

The economic calendar focuses on crucial financial indicators like GDP and inflation rates, vital for tracking market trends and economic health. (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

🏀 SMU Mustangs at Florida Atlantic Owls Basketball
FAU Arena, Boca Raton, FL
Thursday, Feb. 22nd | (More Info)

⚾ Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Florida International Panthers Baseball
FIU Baseball Stadium, Miami, FL
Friday, Feb. 23rd | (More Info)

⚾ LIU Sharks at Miami Hurricanes Baseball
Mark Light Baseball Stadium, Coral Gables, FL
Saturday, Feb. 24th | (More Info)

🏒 Washington Capitals at Florida Panthers
Amerant Bank Arena (Formerly FLA Live Arena), Sunrise, FL
Saturday, Feb. 24th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Sammy Hagar
Cruise Terminal A, Miami, FL
Thursday, Feb 22, 2024 | (More Info)

🎤 CeeLo Green Live
E11EVEN, Miami, FL
Sunday, Feb 24, 2024 | (More Info)

🎧 Sam Feldt
Strawberry Moon, Miami, FL
Sunday, Feb 24, 2024 | (More Info)

🎶 Jam Cruise
Port Miami, Miami
Sunday, Feb 25th | Multi-day event | (More Info)

Family

🚗 Monster Jam
loanDepot park, Miami, FL
Saturday, Feb. 24th | 7:00 PM(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 skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” 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

Spanish Exploration (1566)

In 1564, a significant chapter in the early history of European colonization in the Americas unfolded with the establishment of Fort Caroline by French Huguenot settlers. Led by René Goulaine de Laudonnière, the settlers sought religious freedom and new opportunities in the New World. They chose a strategic location near the present-day city of Jacksonville, along the banks of the River of May, known today as the St. Johns River. This settlement represented one of the first European attempts to establish a permanent presence in what is now the southeastern United States.

Fort Caroline was more than a military stronghold; it was a symbol of hope and ambition. The settlers aimed to create a thriving community, capitalizing on the fertile land and favorable climate. The fort was named in honor of King Charles IX of France (Carolus in Latin), reflecting the French crown's support for the endeavor. Despite the challenges of settlement, including supply shortages and conflicts with the native population, the French settlers at Fort Caroline laid the foundations for a new society.

However, the existence of Fort Caroline became a point of contention in the power struggle between European nations vying for control of the New World. The Spanish, viewing the French presence as a threat to their claims in the region, moved to eliminate the challenge. In 1565, in a dramatic and violent confrontation, Spanish forces under the command of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés captured Fort Caroline, marking an abrupt end to the French endeavor. Despite its short existence, Fort Caroline's legacy endured, symbolizing the complex and often turbulent history of European colonization in North America. The fort's establishment in 1564 remains a testament to the courage and ambition of the early settlers who ventured across the Atlantic in pursuit of freedom and new beginnings.

Famous People From Miami

Henry Flagler (1830–1913)

Early Life and Business Ventures (1830-1862)

Henry Flagler was born in 1830 in Hopewell, New York. Despite a modest upbringing, Flagler demonstrated a keen business sense from an early age. He ventured into various businesses, including grain and salt production, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and an eye for opportunity.

Partnership with John D. Rockefeller (1863-1882)

In the 1860s, Flagler's business acumen led him to partner with John D. Rockefeller. Together, they co-founded Standard Oil, a company that would become one of the largest and most influential corporations of its time. Flagler's contributions to the management and expansion of Standard Oil were pivotal in establishing his reputation as a business tycoon.

Entrance into the Railroad Industry (1883-1892)

After amassing a fortune in the oil industry, Flagler turned his attention to the burgeoning railroad industry. He saw the potential for growth in Florida and embarked on an ambitious project to develop the state's transportation infrastructure, eventually establishing the Florida East Coast Railway.

Extension of the Railway to Miami (1893-1896)

Flagler's vision for Florida extended beyond transportation. He recognized the state's potential as a tourist destination and agricultural hub. His decision to extend the Florida East Coast Railway to Miami in 1896 was transformative, opening up the region to development and investment.

Development of Miami and the Palm Beaches (1897-1902)

With the railway extension complete, Flagler invested in the development of Miami and the Palm Beaches. He built luxury hotels, resorts, and amenities, attracting tourists and settlers to the area. His investments were instrumental in establishing Miami and the Palm Beaches as premier destinations and key economic centers.

Philanthropy and Community Building (1903-1910)

Flagler's contributions to Florida extended beyond business development. He was a significant philanthropist, contributing to the establishment of hospitals, churches, and cultural institutions. His commitment to community building was evident in his efforts to improve the lives of Florida's residents.

Legacy in Florida and the Railroad Industry (1911-1913)

Flagler's impact on Florida's development was profound. His vision and investments helped shape the state's economy, infrastructure, and society. The Florida East Coast Railway remained a vital part of the state's transportation network, facilitating trade and mobility.

Final Years and Reflection on Achievements (1913)

In his final years, Flagler witnessed the fruits of his labor as Miami and other regions in Florida flourished. His reflections on his career underscored a legacy of bold vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and a lasting impact on the development of Florida.

Death and Enduring Influence (1913)

Henry Flagler passed away in 1913. His death marked the end of a life that had a transformative impact on Florida and the railroad industry. Flagler's vision and investments laid the foundation for the growth and prosperity of regions like Miami, securing his place in history as a pivotal figure in the development of the Sunshine State.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founder of Standard Oil, establishing a legacy in the oil industry.

• Developer of the Florida East Coast Railway, transforming Florida's transportation infrastructure.

• Key figure in the development of Miami and the Palm Beaches, shaping the regions' economies and communities.

• Philanthropist and community builder, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of Florida.

Henry Flagler's journey from a visionary entrepreneur to a pivotal figure in the development of Florida is a testament to his far-reaching impact on the state's economy, infrastructure, and society. As the force behind the Florida East Coast Railway and the development of regions like Miami and the Palm Beaches, Flagler's legacy endures as a symbol of innovation, growth, and the transformative power of visionary investment. His contributions continue to resonate, shaping the destiny of Florida and its communities.

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-Matthew Larsen

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