Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• South Florida contractor accused of taking $35K, never doing work

• Upcoming Bad Bunny concert

• A deep-dive into the life of George E. Merrick

• And more….

Quote of the Week

"You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don't try."

— Beverly Sills

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!

What is the name of the Miami festival that celebrates Caribbean culture, featuring music, dance, food, and a colorful parade?

A) Calle Ocho Festival

B) Miami Broward Carnival

C) Ultra Music Festival

D) Overtown Music & Arts Festival

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The district renowned for its historic architecture and annual preservation event is B) MiMo Biscayne Boulevard Historic District.

News

💼 Business

A Florida attorney, his wife and $107,000 that an auditor says was ‘misappropriated’. (Link)

New fraud or extortion could send a Florida mover to jail after order by Miami judge. (Link)

Miami has one of the least affordable housing markets in US, report says. Here’s why. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Feedback, updates on six players in UM’s 2025 recruiting class. All are four-star prospects. (Link)

Sam Bennett provides spark as Panthers beat Bruins in Game 4, go up 3-1 in series. (Link)

Amid loud atmosphere — and thrown water bottles — Panthers’ Montour remains calm presence. (Link)

🏦 Finance

South Florida contractor accused of taking $35K, never doing work. (Link)

Cannes kicks off with Greta Gerwig's jury and a Palme d'Or for Meryl Streep. (Link)

Primaries in Maryland and West Virginia will shape the battle this fall for a Senate majority. (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

⚾ Milwaukee Brewers at Miami Marlins
loanDepot park, Miami, FL
From May 20th to May 22nd | (More info)

⚾ Texas Rangers at Miami Marlins
loanDepot park, Miami, FL
From May 31st to June 2nd | (More info)

⚾ Tampa Bay Rays at Miami Marlins
loanDepot park, Miami, FL
Tuesday, June 4th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Rick Ross
E11EVEN Miami, Miami, FL, US
Saturday, May 25th | (More info)

🎤 Bad Bunny
Kaseya Center, Miami, FL, US
Sunday, May 26th | (More info)

🎧 Iron Lyon
E11EVEN Miami, Miami, FL, US
Wednesday, May 22nd | (More info)

Family

👟 SNEAKER SWAP (MIA - MAY 26)
711 Northwest 72nd Avenue, Miami
Sunday, May 26th | (More info)

🎨 IKEA Miami Kids Club: Red, White and Glue (A kid's take-home craft event)
1801 Northwest 117th Avenue, Miami
Friday, May 24th | (More info)

🎵 Miami Spring Recital - Barrett School of Music
600 Southwest 22nd Avenue, Miami
Friday, May 24th | (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 with a blend of ancient and futuristic architecture” 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

Freedom Flights (1965-1973) - Brought over 300,000 Cubans to Miami.

The Freedom Flights, spanning from 1965 to 1973, represent a pivotal chapter in both Cuban and American histories, particularly impacting the city of Miami. This airlift operation became the largest refugee resettlement program in U.S. history, bringing over 300,000 Cubans to Miami. Initiated as a response to the increasing political repression and economic hardship in post-revolutionary Cuba, the Freedom Flights offered a glimmer of hope to those seeking escape from Fidel Castro's regime. Twice daily flights from Varadero Beach to Miami served as a lifeline for thousands of Cuban families, facilitating a mass migration that would deeply influence Miami's demographic, cultural, and political landscape.

The influx of Cubans through the Freedom Flights further solidified Miami's role as a center for Cuban expatriate life and reshaped the city in profound ways. These new arrivals brought with them a rich cultural heritage and a strong will to succeed, contributing significantly to the city's economic dynamism and cultural vibrancy. Neighborhoods like Little Havana flourished, turning into bustling hubs of Cuban culture, commerce, and community activism. The impact of the Freedom Flights extended beyond mere numbers; it was evident in the transformation of Miami's social fabric, as Cuban Americans became integral to the city's identity, influencing its politics, cuisine, music, and social norms.

The legacy of the Freedom Flights continues to resonate in Miami today, embodying a story of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of freedom. This period fostered a unique bond between the city and Cuba, making Miami not only a refuge for those fleeing oppression but also a beacon of cultural preservation and political activism. The Cuban community's influence on Miami's development is a testament to the enduring power of immigration to reshape societies, enrich cultures, and inspire future generations. Through the Freedom Flights, Miami emerged as a symbol of opportunity and a crossroads of the Americas, forever linked to the complex tapestry of Cuban history and the broader narrative of the American immigrant experience.

Famous People From Miami

George E. Merrick (1886–1942):

Born in 1886 in Pennsylvania, George E. Merrick moved with his family to South Florida at a young age. Growing up on a citrus grove that his family owned near Miami, Merrick was deeply influenced by the lush landscapes and potential for development in the region. His education, though formal schooling was intermittent, was enriched by his experiences on the grove and his self-taught knowledge of agriculture and real estate.

Vision for Coral Gables (1907-1921):

After his father's death, Merrick took over the family's agricultural operations and began to envision a greater future for the area. Drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean Revival architecture he admired, Merrick planned to transform his family's land into a carefully designed community that balanced aesthetic beauty with functional living spaces.

Founding of Coral Gables (1921-1925):

In 1921, Merrick officially founded Coral Gables, one of the first planned communities in the United States. His detailed plans included residential areas, commercial districts, and public spaces, all adhering to a unified architectural style. Merrick's commitment to this vision attracted investors and residents alike, leading to rapid development.

Architectural and Urban Planning Innovations (1925-1930):

Merrick's work in Coral Gables introduced innovative urban planning concepts, such as zoning laws and city planning principles, to the Miami area. He was instrumental in the development of the University of Miami, securing land and funds for its establishment and ensuring that the university's architecture harmonized with the rest of Coral Gables.

The Boom and Bust of the Florida Land Market (1930-1935):

The late 1920s saw the Florida land boom reach its peak, with Merrick at the forefront of development. However, the Great Depression and the 1926 Miami hurricane severely impacted Merrick's financial empire, leading to the loss of most of his fortune and control over Coral Gables development.

Later Years and Efforts (1935-1942):

Despite his financial losses, Merrick remained dedicated to public service and the community. He continued to contribute to the development of South Florida through various roles, including serving on the Dade County Planning Board, where he advocated for zoning and planning standards that would influence the region's growth for decades.

Connection to Miami (Throughout Life):

While Merrick's impact was most visible in Coral Gables, his influence extended throughout the Miami area. His vision for urban planning, commitment to architectural beauty, and development initiatives helped shape the broader landscape of Miami, promoting growth and setting standards for future developments.

Legacy and Death (1942):

George E. Merrick passed away in 1942, but his legacy in Coral Gables and the greater Miami area endures. His vision for a planned community that combines beauty, functionality, and community spirit remains a benchmark for urban development. Coral Gables stands as a testament to Merrick's dreams and his lasting impact on South Florida's architectural and urban planning landscape.

Key Achievements:

• Founded Coral Gables, implementing pioneering urban planning and zoning laws.

  Influenced the architectural style of South Florida, promoting Mediterranean Revival architecture.

• Played a key role in the establishment of the University of Miami, contributing to its development and ensuring its integration into the Coral Gables community.

• Advocated for planning and zoning standards in Dade County, affecting the broader development of the Miami area.

George E. Merrick's contributions to Coral Gables and the Miami area were transformative, leaving an indelible mark on the region's development, architecture, and urban planning. His vision for a meticulously planned community that harmonized with its natural surroundings and architectural style set a new standard for city development. Merrick's legacy continues to influence Miami's growth and remains a symbol of innovation and dedication to community values.

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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