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Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming El Alfa concert

• A new AI Children's Book Maker

• Breakthrough AI Chrome Extension helping businesses

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

• And more….

Quote of the Week

"The best revenge is massive success."

— Frank Sinatra

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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!

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..

New

💼 Business

With this new AI Children's Book Maker, you can instantly generate children's books about ANYHING you choose, and illustrate them with beautiful pictures and charming characters in minutes. (Link)

This breakthrough AI-Powered Chrome Extension helps businesses explode their reach on social media and generate more business online. (Link)

SEC charges Boca Raton advisory, owner with fraud. (Link)

Furniture store franchisee files for bankruptcy. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Tata Martino bids farewell to Inter Miami, Javier Mascherano expected to be next coach. (Link)

No. 25 Illinois determined to make strides vs. UMES. (Link)

🏦 Finance

A Miami health company is in bankruptcy and plans to sell. (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

🏀 NBA Cup: Toronto Raptors at Miami Heat
Kaseya Center, Miami
Friday, Nov. 29th | (More info)

🏈 Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Florida International Panthers Football
Pitbull Stadium, Miami
Saturday, Nov. 30th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 El Alfa
Kaseya Center, Miami
Wednesday, Nov. 27th | (More info)

🎧 Bradeazy
E11EVEN Miami, Miami
Thursday, Nov. 28th | (More info)

Family

🎤 2-Hour Team Building Karaoke Party on South Beach
1560 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
Tuesday, Nov. 26th | (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): Developer of Coral Gables, greatly influenced the architectural style and urban planning of Miami.

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

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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