1. In 1825, the Tallahassee Gazette reported that the first meeting of the legislative council of the Territory of Florida was held on January 3 of that year. This marked an important step in the process of Florida becoming a state, which it did in 1845.

2. On January 3, 1946, the Everglades National Park was officially established. Located in southern Florida, the park is home to a unique ecosystem of wetlands and supports a wide variety of plant and animal life.

3. In 1987, on January 3, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection was created. This agency is responsible for monitoring and protecting the state's natural resources, including its waterways, beaches, and wildlife.

4. On January 3, 2004, the Miami Heat basketball team defeated the Los Angeles Clippers 97-79. This was a significant moment for the Heat, as it marked their 11th consecutive victory, which at the time was a franchise record.

5. In 2011, on January 3, the Florida Marlins officially changed their name to the Miami Marlins. This came as part of a larger effort by the team to establish a new identity as they moved into a new stadium in downtown Miami.