Miami-Dade County approves renaming street to Donald J. Trump Avenue in Hialeah
Palm Avenue in Hialeah, Florida has been co-designated as President Donald J. Trump Avenue. The Miami-Dade County Commission approved the renaming resolution proposed by Commissioner Kevin Marino Cabrera. The resolution highlighted Trump’s accomplishments during his presidency, including the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. One commissioner, Marleine Bastien, voted against the renaming citing Trump’s derogatory comments about immigrants.
New Bar Replacing Broken Shaker as Miami Reef Art and Nightlife Thrive
A celebrity-backed, upscale dive bar from New York City opened its first Florida location at the former 27 Restaurant & Bar next to Broken Shaker in Miami Beach. Miami’s art scene is getting an underwater sculpture park called the ReefLine aimed at blending art with ocean conservation by building a new “hybrid reef” off the coast. Jamie Foxx, Victoria Kjaer, and Bam Adebayo were spotted at various events in Miami’s nightlife scene over the past week.
Miami Art Week 2024: Showcasing Local Talent and Tackling Controversies
Local artists to highlight during Miami Art Week 2024 are Antonia Wright, Ruben Millares, Jonlouis Gonzalez, Magnus Sodamin, Purvis Young, and Zoe Schweiger. Several events addressing controversial topics like book bans, sex, drugs, and abortion will take place. Art Basel Miami Beach, the main fair, features 286 galleries showcasing contemporary art.
Miami Hurricanes Suffer Upset Loss to Syracuse, Playoff Hopes Diminish
Miami Hurricanes lost to unranked Syracuse 42-38. Their chances of making College Football Playoffs are slim at 24%. The loss knocked them out of ACC championship game. Miami mascot Sebastian the Ibis asked a reporter for her phone number during the game, drawing criticism. Miami stands at 10-2 with an uncertain postseason future.
Cold Temperatures in Florida Cause Paralysis in Invasive Iguanas
Green iguanas are cold-blooded reptiles native to Central and South America. When temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit in Florida, they go into a cold-induced paralysis and fall out of trees, a phenomenon known as “cold-stunning.” Iguanas were introduced in Florida through the exotic pet trade and have become an invasive species with no natural predators. They can cause hazards by digging burrows, feasting on endangered species, and even delaying flights at airports. While some people view them as a delicacy, wildlife authorities recommend humanely euthanizing them on private property.
Historical Marker Commemorating Arthur McDuffie Incident Dislodged in Miami
The Arthur Lee McDuffie State Historical Marker was dislodged from its mounting post, likely due to a vehicle collision. This marker commemorated Arthur McDuffie, a Black man who died after being beaten by white police officers during a traffic stop in 1979, sparking riots in Miami. The incident and subsequent acquittal of the officers involved were significant events in Miami’s history. Efforts are underway to repair and reinstall the marker as soon as possible.
Japanese Rope Bondage Artists Perform in Miami
Hajime Kinoko and Marie Sauvage, renowned Shibari artists, will perform an immersive Japanese rope bondage show at the Ground on December 4. Their hour-long performance will involve creating a rope installation from scratch, followed by Kinoko tying up and suspending Sauvage from the structure for an hour. The event will also feature DJ sets by Lena Willikens and Johnny From Space. Shibari, also known as Kinbaku, involves intricate rope tying and symbolizes power dynamics and vulnerability between partners in a safe environment.
New Restaurant Openings and Closings in Miami, Including Motek’s Expansion
Miami saw 18 new restaurant openings and closings in November 2024. One notable opening was the reopening of the famous Mai-Kai Restaurant and Polynesian Show in Fort Lauderdale. Mediterranean restaurant Motek opened a new location in Miami Beach’s South of Fifth neighborhood. Located in the former Prime Fish space, the new Motek has indoor and outdoor seating for up to 150 guests. The restaurant serves popular dishes like shakshuka, chicken schnitzel, and the award-winning Arayes burger.
Avril Lavigne Extends Greatest Hits Tour with South Florida Stop in 2025
Avril Lavigne has announced an extension of her Greatest Hits Tour with 19 new dates in 2025. The tour will visit South Florida on June 21, 2025, at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood. Canadian pop-punk band Simple Plan will serve as the opening act. The Greatest Hits Tour kicked off earlier this year and has traveled across North America and Europe.
Colombian Reggaeton Stars Ryan Castro and Blessd Unite for Sold-Out Miami Concert
Ryan Castro and Blessd performed at Hard Rock Live on their co-headlining Ay Bendito Ghetto Tour. They sang hits and waved Colombian flags to celebrate their heritage. Anuel AA joined as a surprise guest, fueling rumors of feuds with Feid. Kris R also performed as an up-and-coming Colombian star. The duo showcased Colombian reggaeton by uniting their fanbases for a sold-out show.
Miami-Dade Defers Decision on Doral Incinerator Amid Opposition
Miami-Dade County’s plan to build a new trash incinerator in Doral has been delayed. The county commission voted to defer a decision on the incinerator until February. This came after Eric Trump, son of President-elect Donald Trump, objected to building it near the Trump National Doral golf resort. The county is now considering relying permanently on landfills instead of building a new incinerator. The mayor cited pressure from environmentalists as a reason to explore landfill options further.
Hialeah Fire Department Promotion Exam Retake Ordered Amid Cheating Allegations
A cheating scandal occurred involving a test for promotion to high ranks in the Hialeah Fire Department. A complaint alleged a candidate received unfair advantage during the oral exam. The personnel board unanimously decided that the top three candidates who passed must retake the oral portion in 2025. An investigation found evidence of potential cheating but no clear policy violation. The retake aims to resolve concerns over the exam’s alignment with study materials and fairness.
Airport Parking Options and Rates for Holiday Travel Season
Airport parking lots are expected to fill up during the busy holiday travel season. Miami International Airport offers a remote Economy Park and Ride lot with discounted rates and free shuttle service. Its main garages charge $25 per day maximum. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has three garages and an overflow lot, with parking fees ranging from $20 to $36 per day. Off-site parking options are available near both airports for those unable to find spots on-site.
‘Pain & Gain’ murderers undergo new sentencing trials
Noel Doorbal and Daniel Lugo were found guilty in 1995 of kidnapping, torturing, and murdering several people in a twisted scheme to extort money. They were initially sentenced to death in 1998, but are now undergoing new sentencing trials due to changes in Florida’s death penalty laws. Prosecutors presented grisly details of the defendants’ crimes, including dismembering bodies and dumping them in canals. The defense acknowledged guilt but sought leniency, citing the men’s good behavior in prison and difficult upbringings. Ultimately, separate juries will decide whether to reimpose the death sentences.
Miami woman overcomes homelessness; Pain & Gain murders resentencing trial begins
A Miami woman faced homelessness after being evicted from her apartment and struggled to find help. After months of hardship, she found support from a nonprofit organization and is now settled in transitional housing. In a separate case, nearly 30 years after the brutal 1995 murders that inspired the film “Pain & Gain,” two men involved are back in court for resentencing following their initial death sentences being overturned. The trial involves two separate juries and complex legal proceedings.
Florida attorneys disciplined for neglecting client matters after payment
Three attorneys from South Florida were disciplined for failing to do work after being paid by clients. Illeana Almeida from Fort Lauderdale was publicly reprimanded for neglecting cases and not communicating with clients after taking payments. Maria Delgadillo from Miami was suspended for 18 months for misrepresenting reasons for cancelling appointments, failing to comply with court orders, and neglecting client matters after being paid. Leroy Lee from Miami was suspended for 90 days for poor communication and not doing work after taking payment from a client.
Celebrity Chef Julian Medina Opens Mexican Seafood Restaurant Barra Vieja in Doral
Celebrity chef Julian Medina opened Barra Vieja, a Mexican seafood restaurant, in Downtown Doral. Medina is known for his Mexican restaurants in New York like Soledad and Toloache. The 4,942 square feet Barra Vieja has 160 seats and serves coastal Mexican dishes meant for sharing. Menu items include oysters, ceviche, tacos, seafood towers, and specialty cocktails.
Florida Woman Sentenced for $190M Investment Fraud Scheme
Johanna Garcia was sentenced to 20 years in prison for leading a $190 million Ponzi scheme. Garcia falsely promised investors 120% returns but used new investments to pay old investors. The scheme lasted from October 2020 to August 2021. Garcia stole millions for personal benefit while defrauding investors, including a non-profit CEO.
Two men fatally shot at Hollywood baby shower event
Two men killed at Hollywood baby shower event. Octavis Jackson, Taron Nicks identified as victims. Altercation led to quadruple shooting after event. Two remain hospitalized, investigation ongoing for suspects.
Florida Woman Sentenced to Life for Suffocating Boyfriend in Suitcase
Florida woman Sarah Boone was sentenced to life in prison for zipping her boyfriend Jorge Torres into a suitcase, causing his death by suffocation in 2020. Torres’ family members testified that his death has devastated them. Boone claimed she was a victim of domestic violence by Torres and acted in self-defense, but prosecutors said she terrorized Torres by keeping him in the suitcase despite his pleas for help. The judge imposed the life sentence after Boone rejected a plea deal for a 15-year sentence.
Hoax threat causes lockdown and police response at Hialeah High School
Hoax threat caused major disruption at Hialeah High School. Police received threat about bombs and armed person on campus. School went into lockdown with large police presence searching building. Students were terrified inside while anxious parents waited outside. Police chief said threats are serious crimes with real consequences, not harmless pranks.
18-Year-Old Aspiring Army Recruit Killed in Lauderhill Shooting, Suspect at Large
Jimar Murray, an 18-year-old from Lauderhill, was shot and killed in a parking lot. Police are searching for the suspect involved in the shooting that occurred before 3 a.m. on November 24th. Murray was set to enlist in the Army the day after the shooting. His family held a lantern release in his memory on Thursday.
Chaotic street takeover involving fireworks and reckless driving in Miami Gardens
Fireworks ignited during street takeover in Miami Gardens. Police responded to intersection with multiple vehicles blocking the road. Participants aggressively drove towards police car before fleeing. No injuries reported.
Man Shot Dead in Pompano Beach Neighborhood, Gunman at Large
A man named Roderick Henry was found shot to death in a Pompano Beach neighborhood late Sunday night. Investigators responded to the scene near the 300 block of Avondale Drive shortly before midnight. The shooter or shooters fled the scene after the incident. A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.