This Week in Miami (January 1st)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events coming to Miami.

Welcome to The Miami Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • New restaurant openings in Miami

  • Miami Dolphins game recap

  • A deep dive into the life of Etta James

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.”

— Marcus Aurelius

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!

Miami is close to a vast national park known for its unique ecosystem, including mangroves and marshes. What is the name of this national park?

A) Yosemite National Park

B) Yellowstone National Park

C) Everglades National Park

D) Great Smoky Mountains National Park

News

💼 Business

Restaurant Openings and Closings: Miami's culinary scene saw several openings in December, including Casa Vigil and Casa Ya'ax, and the closing of local favorites like Drunken Dragon and Ocean One Bar & Grille. The city's dining landscape continues to evolve with a mix of new concepts and closures​​.

Miami Beach Mansion Sale: Paul Bensabat, CEO of Best of France and Saveur Food, sold his Miami Beach mansion for $17 million. This transaction is a notable event in Miami's luxury real estate market​​.

🏒 Sports

The Miami Dolphins faced a tough game against the Baltimore Ravens, ending in a loss with key performances from players like Lamar Jackson and Tua Tagovailoa. The game included several key plays and high scoring from both teams​​.

Miami Heat's Season Highlights: The Miami Heat had notable performances throughout their season, with key games that defined their year in the NBA.

Famous People In Miami History


Etta James: 1938-2012

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1938-1954) 

Etta James, born on January 25, 1938, in Los Angeles, California, moved to Miami during her career. She began singing in a church choir and as a teenager, she formed a vocal group, attracting the attention of bandleader Johnny Otis.

Rise to Fame (1955-1969) 

James's career took off in the late 1950s with hits like "The Wallflower." Her powerful voice and emotive singing style soon made her a prominent figure in R&B and soul music.

Success and Struggles (1970-1988) 

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, James battled personal and professional challenges but continued to produce music that resonated with audiences, including her famous rendition of "At Last."

Later Career and Legacy (1989-2012) 

In her later years, James received numerous accolades and continued to perform. She passed away on January 20, 2012. Her influence on R&B and soul music remains profound, and she is remembered as one of the greatest singers of her generation.

Key Achievements of Etta James:

  • Iconic R&B and soul singer with a career spanning five decades.

  • Known for her powerful voice and hits like "At Last."

  • Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Influenced a wide range of artists across genres.

  • Her music remains a staple in American soul and blues.

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-Matthew Larsen