Trump Presidential Library Proposal Advances at Miami Dade College Site

Florida is moving forward with plans to establish the Donald J. Trump Presidential Library in Downtown Miami. Earlier today, Miami Dade College voted to transfer a 2.63-acre parking lot on its Wolfson Campus to the state, setting the stage for the Florida Cabinet to vote next week on dedicating the land for the library. The property, currently used as an employee parking lot, sits adjacent to the historic Freedom Tower and in the heart of Downtown Miami, making it a highly visible and symbolic location for what would be the first presidential library in Florida.

The proposal, championed by Governor Ron DeSantis, has gained momentum with strong support from state officials, including Florida Attorney General James “Jim” Uthmeier, who has already announced he will vote in favor. If approved, the library would become a landmark institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 45th and 47th President of the United States. State leaders argue that the site’s central location in Miami not only underscores Trump’s deep ties to Florida but also positions the project to attract significant tourism, research interest, and economic activity.

The location of the proposed Trump Presidential Library is particularly significant. Situated near the Freedom Tower, a National Historic Landmark often referred to as Miami’s “Ellis Island,” the site adds symbolic weight to the project. Supporters say it could bring prestige and international attention, boosting Miami as both a political and cultural hub. Critics, however, may raise concerns about traffic congestion, land use priorities, and whether the site might have been better used for educational or community purposes given Miami Dade College’s central role in the city.

The next major milestone will come when the Florida Cabinet, acting as the Board of Trustees of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund, votes on the matter. That decision, expected on September 30, 2025, will determine whether the land is formally dedicated for the Trump Presidential Library. Until then, Miami—and the nation—will be watching closely to see how the proposal unfolds.

Homestead Lands Miami FC’s $300M Stadium and Sports Performance Hub

Miami FC – LaBella

Miami FC is making a major move. The club announced that it will relocate from FIU’s Pitbull Stadium to a brand-new, purpose-built stadium in Homestead, as part of a massive mixed-use development known as the Sports Performance Hub (SPH). Here are all the facts, projections, and what this means for the club, Homestead, and the broader region.

Miami FC – LaBella

Key Facts: What Has Been Approved

• Development size & cost: The Sports Performance Hub is an ~$300 million project over 80 acres in Homestead.
  Stadium capacity: The stadium will seat 15,000 spectators.
• Other facilities included: Youth boarding school, training academy, public sports & recreation facilities, a sports-themed hotel, sports medicine center, and other sports courts.
• Lease approval: The City of Homestead approved an 80-year lease / ground lease to enable the project.

Who’s Behind It

• Miami FC’s co-owner Riccardo Silva is a SPH shareholder.
  A broader investor/developer group includes various former professional sports stars, including Argentinian legends, who are helping fund / support the development.

Miami FC – LaBella

Location & Context

• Where: Homestead, Florida — about 35 miles south of downtown Miami
• The site is part of Homestead Regional Park. The project has been sited within land owned by the city.

What’s New vs Earlier Proposals (and Some Discrepancies)

There are slightly different numbers floating from different reports:

• Some earlier reports talked about a 10,000-seat multipurpose stadium in a $275 million development.
• More recent announcements from Miami FC & SPH put the stadium closer to 15,000 seats as part of a ~$300 million project.

These differences partially reflect the project’s evolution—scope increasing, or design changes, or simply varying reporting. The most official and recent figure seems to be the 15,000-seat stadium in the 80-acre, ~$300 million Sports Performance Hub.

Economic & Community Impact

• The lease deal and project are projected to create thousands of construction jobs and hundreds of permanent roles.
• Homestead’s Mayor Steve Losner and the City Council emphasize that the project offers more than just stadium use: training, youth development, wellness, public recreation, hotel/tourism, and likely economic spillover in nearby businesses.
• Importantly, the deal is structured “at no cost to taxpayers” for many of the core facilities, according to Miami FC’s communications.

Timeline & What to Watch For

• Construction has been approved via the ground/lease agreement.
• Some reports suggest the SPH will open within 18 months.
• Renderings and design work (by LaBella Associates) are underway.

What It Means for Miami FC & Regional Soccer

• A dedicated, modern stadium of 15,000 capacity is a major upgrade for Miami FC, moving away from sharing or renting FIU’s Pitbull Stadium.
• Better facilities, academy, youth boarding school help the club build infrastructure for long-term talent development.
• For fans, this means closer, better experiences, new amenities, better access, likely more media visibility.
• For Homestead and South Miami-Dade, it means putting the area more clearly on the sports map, with more foot traffic, visitors, and associated economic development.

Marc Anthony’s Team Miami to Host Electrifying E1 World Championship in November

Mark your calendars: the E1 World Championship electric powerboat race is arriving in Miami on November 7-8. This will mark one of the most anticipated events of the year for fans of speed, sustainability, and celebrity-powered sport. Tickets go on sale September 24 at 12 PM. Team Miami, co-owned by Latin music star Marc Anthony, will be one of the competitors in this stunning new wave of water racing.

Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is the E1 Series?

• Full name: UIM E1 Series (or E1 World Championship). It’s an all-electric offshore powerboat racing series, using hydrofoil craft (“RaceBirds”) that lift off the water to reduce drag and boost efficiency.
• Founders: The idea came from Rodi Basso (former Formula One engineer) and Alejandro Agag (who also founded Formula E and Extreme E), in partnership with others.
• Goals: To blend cutting-edge marine tech, sustainability (zero emissions), gender balance (female & male pilots share driving duties) and high-profile locations.

The inaugural season was in 2024. Team Brady won the first UIM E1 World Championship.

Where Has E1 Raced — and Where It’s Going

E1 is global, with races staged in major waterfront cities (or ones willing to host). Some race locations past and future include:

These locations are chosen not just for spectacle, but also to showcase innovation in marine tech, environmental consciousness, and iconic waterfronts. The Miami race will be held on Virginia Key, next to the historic Miami Marine Stadium.

Celebrity and Star-Power: Who Owns E1 Teams?

One of E1’s key draws is its roster of celebrity owners and high-profile figures. Having famous names helps boost visibility, attract sponsors, media coverage, and also reflects the crossover between sport, entertainment, and sustainable tech. Here are some of the owners and teams:

Each team fields two pilots (one male, one female) per race, who share driving duties across sessions.

The Miami GP: What to Expect November 7-8

Some key details about the Miami stop:

• Dates: November 7 & 8
• Venue: Virginia Key
• Team Miami will compete (co-owned by Marc Anthony)
• The event is being put on in partnership between E1 and Marc Anthony’s company, Magnus

Additional fan-friendly features:

• General admission seating and VIP club around the stadium.
• Live music, food & drink stands, fan festival elements, panel discussions.
• Sustainability initiatives local to Miami are also in development.

Tickets: When, Where, and What to Know

• On-sale date: September 24 at 12 PM EST
• Where: Through official E1 ticketing partners — likely via E1’s website or Miami-specific pages. For example, the Miami GP has a waitlist page on FeverUp.
• Pricing expectations: According to Robert Jakobi (co-founder of Team Miami), tickets should be more affordable than a typical Formula 1 event.
• Ticket types: Expect general admission, VIP options, likely reserved seating near the water, plus extras like paddock or behind-the-scenes access. (Some of this will depend on what the organizers reveal nearer to the date.)

Why This Matters: Beyond the Racing

This event isn’t just about speed. It’s part of several larger trends:

1. Sustainability in Motorsport – E1 pushes electric power, cleaner tech, and reduced environmental impact. Clean energy on water is a newer frontier compared to cars.
2. Gender equality – Each team fields one female and one male pilot. That’s built into the structure.
3. Celebrity & global culture – Having big names gets people talking, makes for crossover appeal (music, entertainment, sports), helps spread awareness of new technologies.
4. City branding & tourism – Hosting the event gives Miami another high-profile international event, leveraging its coastline, climate, existing infrastructure, and appeal.

Quick FAQ

How to Get Ready

• Mark September 24 at 12 PM in your calendar so you can get tickets early. Popular events often sell out fast.
• Decide what type of experience you want: general admission or VIP. VIP may include better views, more amenities, possibly access to restricted areas.
• If traveling, plan logistics: where to stay, transport to Miami Marine Stadium (on Virginia Key), parking, etc.
• Follow Team Miami, E1’s official social channels, and FeverUp to get exact pricing, seating maps, and special offers.

Final Thoughts

The E1 World Championship in Miami is shaping up to be a spectacle: sleek electric boats, star power (Marc Anthony among team owners, plus international celebs across the field), environmental ambition, and entertainment. Whether you’re a motorsport fan, someone interested in sustainability, or just looking for something thrilling to do in Miami in November, this could be one of the must-attend events.

Best Restaurants in Brickell (2025 Edition)

Brickell has transformed into one of Miami’s top culinary destinations, with world-class dining that rivals any major city. From refined French cuisine to modern Japanese hand rolls and Miami-inspired comfort food, the neighborhood’s restaurant scene continues to thrive and diversify. And while technically its own island, Brickell Key is often considered part of the greater Brickell neighborhood—adding to the area’s appeal with some of Miami’s most exclusive dining. Below, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best restaurants in Brickell (2025 Edition) that capture the energy, flavor, and sophistication of this vibrant district.

La Petite Maison

A Brickell staple, La Petite Maison continues to impress with its refined take on Mediterranean cuisine rooted in the flavors of the French Riviera. Expect vibrant dishes like whole sea bream baked en papillote, burrata with tomatoes and basil, and their signature roasted baby chicken. The bright, chic setting paired with a lively atmosphere makes it perfect for both business dinners and celebrations.

Claudie

New to Brickell, Claudie has quickly become a hotspot for modern French dining with a Miami twist. The restaurant combines a sleek design aesthetic with elevated cuisine, offering indulgent dishes like foie gras torchon, lobster risotto, and a curated wine list that emphasizes French vintages. Claudie sets the tone for Brickell’s next chapter of fine dining.

Naoe

For an intimate and unforgettable omakase experience, Naoe on Brickell Key is in a class of its own. Helmed by Chef Kevin Cory, this highly praised restaurant offers a personalized tasting menu that changes daily, spotlighting the freshest seasonal ingredients flown in from Japan. With just a handful of seats, dining at Naoe feels exclusive and private—more culinary journey than simple meal. Each course is meticulously prepared, from sashimi to house-made miso soup, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience for serious sushi enthusiasts.

 Motek Brickell

Expanding from its Downtown Miami flagship, Motek Brickell has brought its award-winning Israeli-Mediterranean flavors to the neighborhood. Beloved for its crispy schnitzel, shakshuka, and hummus plates, Motek adds a fresh, approachable option to Brickell’s diverse dining scene. With a bright, casual atmosphere, it’s perfect for lunch or a relaxed evening out.

Omakai Hand Roll Bar

Sushi lovers flock to Omakai Hand Roll Bar, where the focus is on simplicity, quality, and speed. Hand rolls are served directly to the guest one at a time, ensuring each bite is fresh and crisp. The menu emphasizes traditional Japanese techniques with a modern, minimalistic setting that keeps the spotlight on the fish.

Kaori

Kaori blends Mediterranean and Asian influences in a modern, design-forward dining space. Its menu is perfect for adventurous diners—think wagyu gyoza, tuna tartare with yuzu kosho, and saffron-infused seafood paella. With its sultry interiors and crafted cocktails, Kaori has cemented itself as a date-night favorite in Brickell.

The River Oyster Bar

A longtime Miami institution, The River Oyster Bar has maintained its reputation as the go-to spot for fresh oysters and seafood. Now in its expanded Brickell location, the restaurant serves everything from Gulf oysters and stone crab claws to pan-roasted local fish. Its relaxed yet refined setting makes it an anchor in the community.

Mamo Miami

Straight from the French Riviera by way of New York, Mamo Miami has made a splash in Brickell with its Italian-Mediterranean cuisine. Signature dishes like truffle pizza, homemade pastas, and branzino carpaccio have quickly turned it into a must-visit. The combination of upscale comfort food and a stylish setting creates an irresistible dining experience.

Lafayette Miami

For a taste of Paris in Miami, Lafayette Miami delivers with classic French brasserie fare served in an elegant, romantic setting. From steak tartare and escargot to duck à l’orange, the restaurant celebrates timeless French cuisine. Pair that with an impressive wine program, and Lafayette adds an unmistakably European flair to Brickell’s dining roster.

Casa Tua Cucina

Located in Brickell City Centre, Casa Tua Cucina is part Italian marketplace, part fine-dining destination. Guests can choose from multiple food stations featuring handmade pasta, artisanal pizza, fresh seafood, and gourmet desserts. The space’s warm design and communal atmosphere reflect the Casa Tua brand’s signature style, making it an elevated but casual Brickell staple.

Final Thoughts

From Michelin-caliber experiences to casual yet sophisticated eateries, Brickell’s restaurant scene continues to evolve in 2025. Whether you’re craving Mediterranean flavors, hand-rolled sushi, or Miami-inspired comfort food, this neighborhood offers some of the best dining in the city.

Amancio Ortega Acquires Atlas Plaza in Miami Design District for Approximately $110 Million

Billionaire Amancio Ortega, founder of Inditex and owner of global fashion powerhouse Zara, has expanded his South Florida real estate portfolio with the purchase of Atlas Plaza in the Miami Design District. The transaction, valued at approximately $110 million, underscores Ortega’s continued commitment to high-profile investments through his family office, Pontegadea.

Atlas Plaza is a prime luxury retail complex located in the heart of the Design District, one of Miami’s most prestigious shopping and cultural destinations. The property is anchored by global brands such as Rolex, Longchamp, and Oliver Peoples, and also features the popular restaurant Michael’s Genuine, a long-time staple of the neighborhood. The retail center benefits from steady foot traffic and strong demand from both tourists and locals, making it a trophy asset within Miami’s growing luxury retail landscape.

The property includes multiple buildings along Northeast 39th and 40th Streets, combining historic architecture with modern retail design. Atlas Plaza was fully leased at the time of Ortega’s acquisition, ensuring strong income stability and immediate returns. The deal also marks a significant increase in valuation compared to its prior sale a decade ago, reflecting the surging demand for investment opportunities in Miami’s prime districts.

For Ortega, this acquisition aligns with a broader strategy of acquiring high-quality real estate in major global cities. Pontegadea’s portfolio already includes office towers, retail centers, and residential properties across North America and Europe, and the addition of Atlas Plaza further solidifies its presence in Miami. The purchase follows a string of recent acquisitions in South Florida, such as his purchase of the Sabadell Financial Center this past July,  reinforcing Ortega’s confidence in the region’s long-term growth.

The transaction highlights the Miami Design District’s position as one of the world’s premier luxury shopping destinations. Over the past decade, the neighborhood has transformed into a hub for high-end fashion, art galleries, and fine dining, attracting both international visitors and affluent residents. Ortega’s investment signals confidence in the continued strength of luxury retail and serves as a benchmark for future deals in the area.

With Atlas Plaza now under Pontegadea’s ownership, expectations are high for the property to remain a cornerstone of the Design District’s retail mix. The acquisition not only enhances Ortega’s global portfolio but also underscores Miami’s growing appeal as a magnet for international capital and luxury-driven real estate investment.

Sales Launch Announced for 72 Carlyle Miami Beach Residences

The long-anticipated 72 Carlyle Miami Beach Residences officially launched sales last night with a VIP broker event, marking the debut of one of Miami Beach’s most exciting new preconstruction projects. Developed by Lefferts with architecture and interior design by acclaimed Italian designer Piero Lissoni, the tower will rise 20 stories and feature 134 luxury residences and penthouses. Completion is currently estimated for Q4 2028.

Project Overview

72 Carlyle is set to become a new landmark in North Beach, soaring 250 feet above the shoreline and offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and nearby waterfront parks. With its modern architecture and sophisticated interior design, the development promises to bring the elegance of the Italian Riviera to Miami Beach.

Residences & Starting Prices

72 Carlyle Miami Beach will offer a collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, along with a limited Penthouse Collection. According to the newly released 72 Carlyle price list:

• One-bedroom residences start at $1,116,500
• Two-bedroom residences start at $1,630,225
• Three-bedroom residences start at $3,874,500

Each home is thoughtfully designed with expansive private terraces, floor-to-ceiling glass, Italian cabinetry, imported stone finishes, and Gaggenau appliances. Select residences include outdoor wet bars and wine storage, while the penthouses feature soaring ceiling heights and wraparound glass walls. See 72 Carlyle Miami Beach floor plans.

Amenities & Lifestyle

72 Carlyle will offer more than 45,000 square feet of curated amenities by Piero Lissoni, including a resort-style pool with cabanas, spa with treatment rooms, sauna, steam rooms, Technogym fitness studio, yoga and Pilates studios, wine cellar with chef’s kitchen, co-working lounge, music and library rooms, and a landscaped sky terrace with panoramic views of the ocean, Intracoastal, and Miami skyline.

Miami Beach Location

Located at 600 72nd Street in Miami Beach, 72 Carlyle sits just steps from the ocean and minutes from Surfside, Bal Harbour Shops, and the Faena District. Residents will enjoy both a serene coastal lifestyle and easy access to some of Miami’s premier dining, shopping, and cultural destinations.

With its prime location, elegant design, and full suite of luxury amenities, 72 Carlyle Miami Beach condos are expected to attract strong interest from both local and international buyers. Contact us today at [email protected] if you have an interest in reserving a unit.

MIAX Sapphire Launches in Miami, Cementing City’s Growing Role as Financial Powerhouse

Miami just scored a major win in its continued rise as a global financial hub. On September 16, 2025, Miami International Holdings (MIAX) officially opened MIAX Sapphire, a cutting-edge options trading floor located in the heart of Wynwood. The launch marks a significant milestone for both MIAX and the City of Miami, introducing a fully operational open-outcry trading floor—the first of its kind in Miami and only the second to open in the United States over the past five decades. This bold move positions Miami as a serious contender to legacy financial centers like New York and Chicago, signaling a new chapter in the city’s economic and real estate landscape.

Located on the ninth floor of the 545 Wyn building, MIAX Sapphire spans more than 38,000 square feet and features not just a bustling trading pit, but also modern office spaces, conference rooms, and even a dedicated Bloomberg Television broadcast studio. The trading floor was meticulously designed with optimal lighting, acoustics, and infrastructure to support the dynamic needs of market-makers and trading professionals. Already, firms like Citadel Securities, Susquehanna International Group, Jane Street, and others are actively quoting on-site, offering real-time liquidity in one of the most active asset classes in the world: U.S. equity options.

What makes MIAX Sapphire especially noteworthy is its ability to grant market participants access to 100% of the multi-listed options market. This further enhances Miami’s standing as a viable and attractive location for sophisticated financial activity. As Miami continues its transformation into “Wall Street South,” the presence of a physical trading floor adds an extra layer of institutional credibility to a city that has already attracted a flood of fintech startups, hedge funds, and venture capitalists in recent years.

The economic implications for Miami are significant. The establishment of a trading floor of this scale will generate high-paying jobs—not only for traders and market-makers but also for compliance officers, risk analysts, operations staff, and technical support teams. The ripple effect will benefit a wide array of adjacent industries, including law, accounting, cybersecurity, and commercial real estate. Additionally, Miami stands to gain from increased business travel and financial events, further bolstering the local hospitality, transportation, and service sectors.

From a real estate perspective, the impact of MIAX Sapphire’s launch could be profound. High-income professionals relocating or commuting to the city for trading-related roles will likely drive up demand for luxury housing in areas like Brickell, Coconut Grove, South of Fifth, and Surfside. Rental prices are expected to rise in tandem, particularly for high-end apartments and condos in nearby neighborhoods. Will MIAX Sapphire encourage traders and finance professionals from other cities to relocate to Miami? All signs point to yes. Miami’s tax-friendly environment—with no state income tax—is an undeniable draw for high earners accustomed to the burdens of places like New York and California. Add in year-round sunshine, a vibrant cultural scene, and rapidly improving infrastructure, and you have a formula that’s hard to beat. The presence of a physical trading floor also offers strategic advantages in latency-sensitive trades and face-to-face dealmaking, making Miami not just a lifestyle upgrade but a smart business decision.

MIAX Sapphire could very well mark the tipping point in Miami’s transformation from sun-drenched tourist destination to full-fledged financial powerhouse. In short, the opening of MIAX Sapphire isn’t just a financial milestone—it’s a major turning point for Miami’s economy, real estate market, and identity. As more trading desks, financial firms, and market professionals make their way south, Miami’s status as a global finance capital looks more certain than ever.

Jeremy Shockey’s Former South Beach Penthouse Listed “Raw” for $2.6M

A South Beach penthouse once owned by two-time Super Bowl champion Jeremy Shockey has just hit the market—but not in the way you might expect. Located at The Waverly at South Beach, Penthouse 01 is asking $2,599,000. What’s surprising is that the unit is being sold completely “raw”—stripped down to the studs, offering a blank canvas for a buyer with vision. While most penthouse listings in Miami Beach come move-in ready or with designer finishes, this one presents a rare opportunity to build out a fully customized residence from scratch. With sweeping 270-degree views spanning from South Pointe to North Miami Beach and 2,582 interior square feet, the potential is undeniable.

The penthouse includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two assigned garage parking spaces, and sits atop a full-service bayfront building offering amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis court, volleyball court, fitness center, business center, and more. At $1,007 per square foot, the price point seems fair for a top-floor unit in a waterfront building with unobstructed views—especially considering the current owner purchased the penthouse from Jeremy Shockey in 2018 for $2.4 million. The new listing price suggests that the seller will likely walk away with a loss, especially after accounting for demolition costs, taxes, and commissions—which is surprising given how much South Beach real estate skyrocketed between 2021 and 2023.

Jeremy Shockey, known for his standout NFL career as a tight end with the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints, won two Super Bowl championships and was selected to four Pro Bowls. During his time at the University of Miami, Shockey made headlines not only for his dominance on the field but also for his high-profile lifestyle. The fact that this penthouse is still making waves years after he sold it speaks volumes about his legacy.

For the right buyer—likely someone seeking to design a one-of-a-kind Miami Beach residence—the raw state of this penthouse is a major selling point, not a drawback. Whether it’s a Miami-based end user or an investor looking to create and flip a bespoke product, the listing is sure to attract attention—not just for its views and square footage, but for its connection to a Super Bowl champion and the rare opportunity it presents in today’s luxury market.

Blackstone Acquires EAST Miami Hotel at Brickell City Centre

Miami’s hospitality market scored another major deal today with news that Blackstone Real Estate has acquired the EAST Miami hotel from Trinity Investments and Certares Real Estate Management. The 352-key property, which includes 89 serviced apartments, is the flagship hotel at Brickell City Centre, the $1.1 billion mixed-use development that has helped transform the heart of Miami’s financial district. Since opening in 2016, EAST Miami has become known for its sleek guestrooms, residences, and its iconic rooftop bar, Sugar, a staple of the city’s nightlife scene.

Trinity and Certares purchased the property in 2021 from Swire Properties for approximately $174 million. Deed records reflected a base price of $120.3 million, with the higher figure likely including furniture and fixtures. Under their ownership, the joint venture implemented operational and management enhancements that significantly boosted the hotel’s financial performance. Within the first full year, net operating income jumped by more than 60 percent, showcasing the strength of Miami’s hospitality rebound and their ability to reposition high-quality lifestyle assets. The sale also represents the first fully realized asset by Trinity GP Fund I, L.P., marking an important milestone for the firm.

For Blackstone, the deal underscores its growing conviction in the Miami market. Scott Trebilco, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone Real Estate, highlighted the neighborhood’s transformation, driven by strong population and employment growth as well as booming leisure and entertainment demand. The acquisition aligns with Blackstone’s broader South Florida strategy, which includes ownership of the W Hotel Fort Lauderdale and a recent $300 million loan to support renovations at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne.

The acquisition of EAST Miami not only strengthens Blackstone’s foothold in the region but also reflects the rising prominence of Brickell as a global business and lifestyle hub. What was once a strictly financial district is now a dynamic neighborhood attracting international investors, luxury retailers, and world-class hospitality brands. By securing one of its crown-jewel hotels, Blackstone has placed a strong bet on the continued growth and appeal of Miami’s hospitality sector.