South Florida Local News

As he tries to secure a modicum of relevance for Democrats in the Florida Senate, and chart a political future for himself, state Sen. Jason Pizzo is doubling down on a centrist message — and seeking distance from the party’s progressive wing.

Pizzo is at the beginning of a two-year term as the leader of the small band of Democrats in the state Senate — 12 out of 40 senators — with Republicans holding such a large majority they can implement anything they want.

Pizzo began his tenure as Democratic leader with warm words for the Republican Senate president, a pledge to work cooperatively with the majority party, a plea to be treated fairly — and some notable criticisms of fellow Democrats, nationally and at home.

Under the approach Pizzo outlined, woke is out, identity politics is out, and progressive policies are out.

Florida Senate Democrats aren’t the kind who fit the caricature he said Republicans like to draw. “If you need assurance that this (Democratic) caucus is not playing identity politics, for the very first time, there’s one white male in the caucus since Reconstruction and they’ve elected me to be the leader. We’re not playing identity politics,” he said. “We’re going to be more practical, perhaps less progressive.”

He said his caucus “believes in the worth of every Floridian,” but added that he wouldn’t “mince words: This caucus believes in equal opportunity, not equal outcomes.

“We believe in a social contract and we are not socialists.”

Pizzo described what he said is a new approach, not using “pollsters anymore to gauge our policy, and we will follow our conscience and not our consultants.”

And he went after Democrats at the national level, describing his party as “completely out of touch.” Florida Democrats shouldn’t be judged by what national Democrats do or say, he said. “We have not sought nor received their support. We have not solicited assistance nor been called or consulted,” he said.

Source of criticism

Pizzo, who currently represents most of Broward east of Interstate 95 north of Davie Boulevard and nearly all of the county east of Florida’s Turnpike south of Davie Boulevard, is a former Miami-Dade County prosecutor.

His posture as a centrist, some would say conservative, Democrat is nothing new.

He offered his views as the Democratic Party is trying to figure out what went wrong in the 2024 elections, and what combination of policies and messaging might help it make some gains in 2026 and beyond.

And as Senate Democratic leader, he’s one of the party’s two most prominent elected officials in Tallahassee, which gives him a higher-profile position from which to espouse his approach.

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At the same time, Pizzo is considering whether to seek the Democratic nomination for governor in 2026.

(His Senate term lasts through 2028. If he runs for governor he’d have to leave the Senate seat early under the state’s resign-to-run law.)

Florida Democrats have struggled with ideological positioning for decades. One school of thought is that moderate-centrist candidates have a chance to appeal to middle-of-the-road voters. Others think that an outspoken liberal or progressive candidate can energize the party’s base and bring in new voters.

Democrats have nominated candidates from both camps for governor in different years — and neither approach has worked. Florida hasn’t elected a Democratic governor since 1994.

Not so fast

Other Democrats don’t think that eschewing policies labeled as progressive is wise either in terms of substance or politics.

State Sen. Barbara Sharief, a former Broward County commissioner and mayor who just started her first term in the Senate, said she didn’t think the Democratic Party has been too progressively oriented.

“No, actually, I don’t. I think that we need to allow for more progressive thought in the Democratic Party, and I think that different thoughts and opinions help to move us further ahead,” she said.

And state Rep. Anna Eskamani of Orlando, one of the most prominent progressive Democrats in Florida, said those policies resonate with voters when the party is in the community talking to people.

Progressive policies aren’t what hurts the Democratic Party, she said. Instead, Democrats’ electoral problems in Florida stem largely from inadequate work to stay connected with voters, to listen to and respond to their concerns, and too little money and attention to registering voters and getting them to the polls.

Eskamani rejected the notion that too much progressivism doomed the Democrats.

State Rep. Anna Eskamani walks into the Orlando City Clerk’s office with cheering supporters to file paperwork for her campaign to be the next mayor of Orlando, on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. Eskamani currently represents Central Florida’s District 42 in the Florida House. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

“That frustrates me because, each of us, regardless of where we stand on issues within the spectrum of the Democratic Party, we each have responsibility to rebuild the brand. I find it ironic that fingers are pointed at lawmakers, myself included, who have flipped seats from red to blue, and running on the same platform I’ve always run on,” Eskamani said.

In her election last month, Eskamani said she and President-elect Donald Trump both won two precincts in her district, indicating there are “Trump-Eskamani” voters. She leaves the Legislature after the 2026 elections because of term limits and is running for mayor of Orlando in 2027.

In an interview with WFSU public radio, Pizzo amplified on his speeches surrounding his elevation to Democratic leader.

He faulted members of the state House of Representatives Democratic caucus — not the Senate, where he serves — for espousing far-left positions and being very active on social media.

He told WFSU that the progressives’ policy priorities allow the Republicans to paint all Democrats as out of touch. “I don’t want, nor is it necessary, nor is it important, nor is it pressing to talk about transgender high school athletes, CRT, woke AP African, all this book banning, all this (stuff). It’s all allowed deflection and distraction from actually rolling up our sleeves and taking care of the issues that are most important to families,” he told WFSU.

Eskamani cautioned against Democrats falling into traps set for them. For example, she said Democrats are accused of devoting enormous attention to issues related to transgender people. It’s actually Republicans who talk all the time about transgender issues, seeking to draw Democrats into defensive fights because they feel obligated to “stand up for any marginalized person.”

And, she said, it’s a mistake to rush to judgment post-election.

“After every bad election cycle … the finger pointing begins,” she said. “We have this huge motivation to quickly point fingers and deflect blame. There’s not a lot of self-reflection. The fingers are being pointed before we have data available.”

Eskamani said Democrats should emphasize economic issues important to voters and not worry as much about left-versus-right labels. “For me, it’s not about left versus right, it’s about the bottom trying to get to the top.”

Democrats ought to emphasize policies to counter what Eskamani called a “corp-tocracy. The corporations have captured our government” and get aid pursuing policies that benefit their shareholders and not constituents.

“I would argue that Democrats biggest, biggest challenge is we don’t have a consistent message that speaks to the working class because we’re self-censoring due to the influence of large corporations on our messaging,” Eskamani said.

Dr. Carolina Ampudia said progressives don’t have enough voice in the Democratic Party.

She is immediate past president of the Democratic Progressive Caucus of Florida and former president of the now-defunct Broward Democratic Progressive Caucus.

She said the strategy of “appeasing” people who are closer to the Republican Party isn’t going to help Democrats win elections in the future. “The electorate doesn’t need two Republican parties. Because right now we have a MAGA hard-core and light Republican Democratic Party. What we need to have is a set of real options and people who are willing to do what people are really in need of,” she said.

She said she was “very upset” at some of Pizzo’s post-election commentary since there are “progressive voices who have helped him throughout the years in campaigns.”

More to come

And Pizzo intends to have his views heard.

In formally nominating him to serve as Democratic leader, state Sen. Tracie Davis of Duval County, cited descriptions from the party’s other senators: “Confident, pernicious, charismatic, enthusiastic, determined, thorough and decisive.”

“He has never shied away from a fight or tough debate. He listens to all the viewpoints to find common ground when he can and never backs down,” Davis said.

The previous Senate Democratic leader, Lauren Book of Broward, described Pizzo in a speech as someone who “never met a fight he was afraid to take on,” adding that “you don’t want to be on the other side of an argument from Senator Pizzo. I’ve tried it. It’s not fun.”

Sen. Jason Pizzo said the regulation of vacation rentals is the No. 1 concern among his constituents in Broward and Miami-Dade. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

State Sen. Tina Polsky, who represents parts of Broward and Palm Beach counties, said Pizzo is “a very moderate Democrat.”

Polsky said she couldn’t assess whether Pizzo’s recent comments and positioning are motivated by a possible gubernatorial run. “If he’s looking to do something statewide, my sense is he believes a more moderate approach to appeal to the middle to the independent voters is the way to go, but I think it’s also kind of who he is.”

In the speech immediately after his colleagues ratified their choice of him as Democratic leader, he lamented the way the political system works.

“I regret that we blow millions, we waste millions on campaigns and propaganda against each other, that we don’t debate, that there are no forums, that there is no depth and profundity in any of these discussions before we get in his chamber,” he said.

He said that makes it hard to solve problems, running from affordable housing to human trafficking to long lines at drivers license offices. Yet, he said, Republicans manage to keep winning elections. “Let’s be honest. You guys did a very good job. Your registration numbers are great. Your (election) performance is outstanding.”

Anthony Man can be reached at aman@sunsentinel.com and can be found @browardpolitics on Bluesky, Threads, Facebook and Mastodon.

Q: I know. I know. Professional sports is as much (or more) a business than it is a sport or a game. But it will hurt to see Jimmy Butler wearing another uniform just like it did when Alonzo Mourning and Dwyane Wade did. I say keep Jimmy and if he opts out and becomes a free agent at the end of the season, then so be it. The Heat had a chance to keep him and said no to an extension. But let the Heat fans have at least one last dose of Playoff Jimmy.  – Bernardo, Fort Lauderdale.

A: First, when a player already has been with three previous teams – in Jimmy Butler’s case, the Chicago Bulls, Minnesota Timberwolves and Philadelphia 76ers – it’s not quite the same as, say, Dwyane Wade starring his career with the Heat or Alonzo Mourning establishing himself with the Heat (after time in Charlotte). There has always been a mercenary sense with Jimmy, that he was here for the winning and the money. For the most part, he largely has gotten both. But when the winning subsides and the money is no longer guaranteed, then he becomes like most in the game and looks for greener pastures. That is the non-Udonis Haslem reality of the NBA. The gift apparently was ours to borrow. And while another Jimmy Butler playoff run could be enticing, the question is whether it is worth dealing with the path to that premise.

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Q: Ira, why do these Jimmy Butler problems come out now when he has been here for six seasons? – Mel.

A: First, this is the NBA, and problems are not problems when you are winning, when a player is helping lift you to NBA Finals in two of his first four seasons. But contract years have always been different in sports, a time when money gets the opportunity to talk. And when money becomes a focus, business, including the business of basketball, can turn sideways. So that’s the difference, Jimmy being extension eligible through the end of June, or holding the right to opt out ahead of July free agency. The reality is Jimmy routinely has missed ample games over his Heat tenure, has marched to the beat of his own drummer amid the Heat’s culture. And Pat Riley and the rest of the organization have largely accepted that as part of the price of winning. But when you’re not winning, and when some of those losses come in the absence of your leading man, then you start to hear about Christmas parties skipped, even though that same Riley party has been skipped previously by Jimmy, without consequence or mention. The reality is that when Jimmy has been on the court this season, he largely has been at an elite level. But the b.s. meter tends to rise when the losses mount. So here we sit.

Q: Why keep Dru Smith on a contract when he can’t play? – Elliott.

A: Because – gulp, and this is not often heard in pro sports – decency? Two-way contracts do not count against the cap, and in many cases the players on such deals wind up spending a majority of time in the G League. The Heat still will have ample options even if Dru Smith is parked on one of their three two-way deals. Now it is up to the others to pick up the slack.

Q: After several years of renting, we plan to purchase our first home in the new year. Do you have any advice on how we can find our dream home? — Joan

A: Buying your first home is an exciting but anxious time. Getting caught up in the process and ‘losing the forest for the trees’ is easy.

When starting the process, make a written list of the top 10 things you are looking for in your new home. Some people want a big kitchen and a large yard, while others want a high rise with a view.

Many people drift away from what they initially sought when looking at various properties with different characteristics and price points. While buying a home often requires compromise, use this list as your guiding star to ensure your new home fits your unique needs.

The location of your new home should be one of your primary considerations. That said, focus on the characteristics of the location you want rather than requiring a specific town or community. I have seen people end up in a house too small for their family to live in a particular community while ignoring a great neighborhood a 15-minute drive away with larger homes in the same price range.

Do not give up on finding a home that suits you. The process of trying to find and buy a new home can be exhausting, which often leads people to give up and settle on a sub-par home just to avoid another month or three of the process.

When shopping around, sometimes it takes several months or more to find the right home for you. You will live in your new home for years to come, so invest the time required to find one that suits your needs.

After jumping through the hoops to find a great property, do not ignore warning signs that your dream home may be a money pit. Hire a talented home inspector and follow up on the results.

While every property will have a few issues, if the issues begin to pile up or a serious problem is found, walk away and find a better property. It is better to spend a few more months looking for a great home than spending years dealing with the issues you ignored.

The use of animal models in scientific and medical research has contributed to many advances in medicine, from the discovery of insulin to the development of vaccines. However, animal suffering and a growing body of scientific evidence have called into question the validity and ethics of using
animals in research. The increasing availability of recent biotechnological advancements means we no longer have to rely as heavily on animal models in treating human diseases. Scientific and medical research using animals should be phased out whenever possible because animal testing
has negative ethical implications, results are often inaccurate when related to humans, and many
other testing methods now exist.

Holly Salinas is a zoology student through Oregon State University but lives in Destin. (courtesy, Holly Salinas)

Animal testing raises troubling ethical concerns. Animals, while sentient, do not have the capacity to fully consent to an experiment without knowing and understanding the full scope of the trial. It follows that using animals in scientific and medical research is unethical regardless of how they have advanced human medicine and scientific research. Research animals are often subject to painful procedures in which they are starved, burned, blinded or forced to have heart attacks and seizures, among many more painful procedures.

Even when animals are subjects to experiments in which they are not undergoing painful and inhumane treatment, they are often forced to live in enclosures that are too small and unnatural, which leads to stress and abnormal behaviors in the animal subjects. Given that animal testing has such troubling ethical concerns, we should focus our attention on more humane
alternatives.

Besides, results from animal testing are often unreliable in predicting results in humans. In fact, around 90% of drugs that are proven reliable in animal models fail upon going to human trials and can even lead to patient harm. Vioxx, a drug that was considered safe during animal testing, led to about 320,000 cases of heart attack, stroke and heart failure — up to 140,000 of these were fatal. The list of drugs that lead to human harm is ever-growing as new drugs undergoing animal testing continue to give unreliable results. Given that results from animal testing are unreliable in predicting results in humans and often lead to human harm, more reliable forms of testing should be used.

Fortunately, such forms of testing are already being developed and implemented in scientific research. One of the many new methods that has replaced animal models is organs-on-a-chip. These human cells placed in grooves on disks can replicate the mechanical and biochemical environments of human organs. One study found that liver organ-on-a-chip was able to correctly identify 87% of drugs toxic to human livers — all of which failed to be detected by animal models.

Another method involves using a patient’s stem cells to create three-dimensional organ-specific tissues called organoids. One major benefit to organoids is that they contain a patient’s genetic information, meaning researchers could find the best drug to treat even that specific patient.

Given that many alternatives to animal models exist, we should look to use one of these alternatives whenever possible.

Phasing out animal models in research is both an ethical imperative and a scientific advancement. Due to ethical concerns around animal suffering, along with the high failure rates of translating animal results to human trials, we should phase out the use of animals in research whenever possible. Alternative methods like organ-on-a-chip and organoids offer more accurate and humane options for studying and treating human diseases. Although animal models have contributed heavily to so many scientific and medical advancements up until now, scientifically valid and ethically sound alternative methods are the future of science and medicine.

Holly Salinas is a zoology student through Oregon State University but lives in Destin. 

General Daily Insight for December 26, 2024

No idea is too grand or farfetched — at least, it seems that way at first. The Moon is in Scorpio, where it will quincunx Jupiter before trining Saturn, identifying the middle ground between enthusiasm and efficiency. The Moon will also muddle things with Chiron, over-sensitizing everyone. Don’t worry! We can come up with fabulous solutions when Mercury in Sagittarius opposes Jupiter in Gemini at 5:48 pm EST. That being said, we must remember to make these solutions realistic, or they won’t pan out.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Your brain is firing on all cylinders. A crackling opposition between Mercury in your 9th House of Learning and Jupiter in your 3rd House of Local Community will have you pinging back and forth all over the place! It’s likely your own ideas and enthusiasms that are sparking this exceptional energy. As fun as this process is, keep in mind that if you ever want these pitches to become reality, you will need to settle down and properly pursue them sooner or later.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Financial flights of fancy are certainly fun, but don’t go splurging just because you can. Mercury in your 8th House of Big Money eggs on powerful Jupiter in your 2nd House of Income, which could make it almost impossible to deny yourself anything. Mercury can provide you with lots of ways to afford the things you want, but you’d be wise to hold off on any major purchases until the planets move into less excitable places. Your bank account will thank you.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

People can get a reaction out of you at the drop of a hat. Intellectual Mercury is in your affiliation sector, making you especially receptive to other people’s ideas and opinions. That said, someone could set you off abruptly when Mercury shoves Jupiter in your sign. That isn’t to say this reaction is a bad thing or that you’re bound to act out in a negative way, but it may catch you off guard, nonetheless. Do your best to gauge your feelings properly before responding.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Watch out for what’s right in front of your nose! Today’s opposition between Mercury in your efficiency sector and Jupiter in your subconscious realm could have you digging so deep into the details that you fail to comprehend the bigger picture at play. Instead of getting stuck in a funk or blinded by internal walls, make a point of stepping back from things periodically to make sure everything is as it should be. If it isn’t, ask yourself what needs to change.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

This could be an exceptionally fun day — if you’re willing to go along to get along. Mercury in your 5th House of Decadence is encouraging you to do as you please, but an opposition between Mercury and Jupiter in your 11th House of Humanity will require you to get on the same page as other people to fully enjoy yourself. If you only follow your singular program, you may feel rather lonely or dissatisfied, so be willing to compromise and play nice.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Your emotions are a powerful tool when skillfully wielded at present. Mercury is striding through your deep-feeling 4th house, so you’re very in tune with your needs and sensitivities at the moment. As Mercury pokes lucky Jupiter in your career quadrant, your focus is drawn upward and outward. Instead of leaving your emotions behind, consider bringing them with you and allowing them to act as fuel to get where you’re going. Shoving yourself into an emotionless box won’t increase your productivity in the long run!

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Today could feel positively endless. Mercury is keeping you on your toes with one thing after another. In contrast, the messenger planet simultaneously opposes Jupiter in your philosophy sector, encouraging you to think as big as possible. There is nothing wrong with this, but if you spend all your time considering the possibilities then you won’t actually go anywhere! Make an effort to choose a path and stick to it, or else it will take much longer to reach the finish line.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Today could prove rather lucrative for you, lucky Scorpio. Mercury in your money zone is opposing Jupiter in your shared resources sector, which may result in a nice windfall landing in your lap. If you’ve been looking for a loan or dealing with important financial matters, then this alignment can further your progress toward a comfortable conclusion. Jupiter is encouraging other people to give you the benefit of the doubt as well. Be grateful as any gifts arrive, as days like this are rare.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Something wonderful can be built by allowing outside assistance. Your mind is positively buzzing with possibilities while energetic Mercury gallops through your 1st House of Action. This energy gets wonderfully amplified as Mercury opposes your sign’s ruling planet, Jupiter, in your 7th House of Partnerships. Their collaboration invites you to open up to others and allow them to bring their ideas to the table. Don’t block them out, because each and every person has unique insights to offer any situation. Lean into cooperation.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

It’s alright if you lose track of things every once in a while. You’re prone to being a little bit out of it or in a mental fog while messenger Mercury is in your secretive 12th house, even as its opposition to Jupiter in your dependable 6th house could remind you of something urgent that you’ve yet to accomplish. Fortunately, this is also a very supportive area, so chances are high that there will be helping hands to make sure you don’t fall behind.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

There’s rarely been a better day to do as you please. A stunning opposition between Mercury in your outgoing 11th house and Jupiter in your fame-seeking 5th house is encouraging you to put yourself out there and take the lead, even if you typically prefer to hang back and leave that to others. Follow your passions! You may soon realize everyone else is happy to fall in line and follow your example, so show them the way and everyone should wind up thoroughly satisfied.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Domestic matters may overshadow other affairs. You’ve got your mind set on achieving your goals while Mercury tours your 10th House of Status, but its opposition to Jupiter in your 4th House of Care could divert your attention, though not necessarily in a bad way. You may need to deal with a family matter or some issues around the house, which could get in the way of your original plans. Still, Jupiter doesn’t want to cause problems, so there isn’t much to fear overall.

Here’s a look at how the Miami Dolphins (7-8) and Cleveland Browns (3-12) match up in six key areas ahead of Sunday’s Week 17 game at Huntington Bank Field (4:05 p.m., CBS):

When the Dolphins run: At last, Miami finally, for the first time in seven games, had an effective run game in last Sunday’s win over the San Francisco 49ers. The Dolphins totaled 166 yards as a team on 5.5 yards per carry. De’Von Achane had 120 rushing yards, capping his effort with a 50-yard touchdown run. It was Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson behind him in the running back corps, with rookie Jaylen Wright not seeing action.

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel decided to rotate Isaiah Wynn and Liam Eichenberg at right guard. Wynn impressed in his first start and offensive snaps in 14 months since he injured his quadriceps in October 2023. He helped break open Achane’s long touchdown. McDaniel has a decision on whether to maintain that split of snaps or go full-time to Wynn against the Browns’ No. 19 run defense. Miami will have to look out for linebackers Devin Bush Jr., a Flanagan High product, Jordan Hicks and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, along with safety Grant Delpit, who leads the team in tackles.

In potential cold rain in Cleveland, will it be the Dolphins run game we just saw against San Francisco or the one from the previous six outings? Edge: Even

When the Browns run: The run game has been a staple for Cleveland in recent years, but the team only ranks 27th in that aspect this season. With Nick Chubb on injured reserve, it’s Jerome Ford who will handle ball-carrying duties for the Browns ground game. He has been averaging 5.5 yards per carry this season, and he’s coming off a 92-yard effort with a touchdown on 11 attempts last week against the Cincinnati Bengals.

With quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson possibly slated to start for the injured Deshaun Watson and Jameis Winston, he possesses dual-threat abilities and just had 49 rushing yards against the Bengals. Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin can pave the way for Ford and Thompson-Robinson on scrambles. Miami’s sixth-ranked rushing defense, spearheaded by defensive linemen Zach Sieler and Calais Campbell and leading tackler Jordyn Brooks, should match up well. Edge: Dolphins

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When the Dolphins pass: Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa bounced back from his first career four-turnover game to go without a turnover or take a sack against a solid 49ers defense. His 22-of-34 performance for 215 yards and a touchdown could’ve been much better if he didn’t have the drops from star wide receiver Tyreek Hill. Nonetheless, Tagovailoa continued to find Achane out of the backfield and feed tight end Jonnu Smith to find his production through the air.

Hill said this week he needs more practice reps with Tagovailoa, mentioning that his veteran rest days are catching up to him and his connectivity with his quarterback. It’s also unknown whether Jaylen Waddle can return this week from his knee injury. Having both available would help, as the Browns can use three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward able to maybe lock in on Hill.

Of primary concern anytime facing Cleveland, though, is containing All-Pro edge rusher Myles Garrett, who has 12 sacks this season. It helps that the Dolphins got tackles Terron Armstead and Kendall Lamm back last week, but they’re often limping their way to availability on game day. Tagovailoa should be mindful of Garrett at all times and use his patented quick release. Edge: Even

When the Browns pass: If it’s not Winston, who could provide a greater upset threat, the Dolphins will see behind center, it’s Thompson-Robinson after he struggled last Sunday against the Bengals, completing 20 of 34 passes for 157 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions, while taking five sacks.

The Browns, though, have significant pass-catching threats with South Florida ties. Jerry Jeudy, a Deerfield Beach High grad, is having a career year with 72 catches for 1,072 yards and four touchdowns. He could be Jalen Ramsey’s responsibility on the outside, but defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver also has the option of blitzing Ramsey or putting him against tight end David Njoku. The former University of Miami standout has 64 receptions for 505 yards and five touchdowns this season, and the Dolphins have struggled defending tight ends. Cornerback Kendall Fuller won’t play for Miami’s 11th-ranked pass defense, so that means elevated roles for Kader Kohou and Storm Duck in the secondary.

The Dolphins have hit their stride with their pass rush, as Sieler (8½ sacks) can produce it on the interior and edge rusher Chop Robinson now has six sacks on his rookie season. He can look to get another against Browns left tackle Germain Ifedi. Edge: Dolphins

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Special teams: The Dolphins don’t usually get the edge here, but kicker Jason Sanders is on fire, making 22 consecutive field goals and being named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his five-field goal performance against the 49ers. Miami’s punting game and coverage on those plays has also been on point, and Malik Washington is an asset in the return game.

Cleveland kicker Dustin Hopkins has struggled with nine field goal misses and three more fails on extra points. The Browns have a quality punter in Corey Bojorquez, but they have also allowed a kick return and punt return touchdown this season. Edge: Dolphins

Intangibles: There is a scenario where Miami could be eliminated before Sunday, but the Dolphins are preparing like they’re fighting for their playoff lives. The Browns have long since been eliminated and are down their top two quarterbacks and elite (when healthy) running back. The weather won’t even be as advantageous for Cleveland as some would’ve believed. Edge: Dolphins

PREDICTION: Dolphins 23, Browns 16.

The Miami Dolphins did not practice on Christmas Day, but they released a league-mandated injury report Wednesday which revealed new injuries to two starting defenders.

The Dolphins, in estimations of practice participation while not going through drills, reported that linebacker Anthony Walker and safety Jordan Poyer would have missed a Wednesday practice.

Poyer is dealing with new knee and finger injuries. Walker has a new knee ailment. Both appeared to make it through last Sunday’s win against the San Francisco 49ers fine.

The Dolphins face another must-win game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.

Along with the Poyer and Walker injuries, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle’s knee ailment that kept him out of the 49ers game also would’ve kept him off the practice field Wednesday. Cornerback Kendall Fuller, who is week to week after hurting his knee Sunday, was listed as a non-participant.

Also deemed to be missing a Wednesday session were left tackle Terron Armstead and defensive tackle Calais Campbell, Armstead with his ailing knee and Campbell for rest.

Listed as limited for Miami: wide receiver Tyreek Hill (wrist/rest), quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (hip), linebacker Jordyn Brooks (quadriceps/knee), fullback Alec Ingold (ankle), wide receiver Dee Eskridge (knee).

For the Browns, they listed three players as non-participants in their own practice report estimation: tight end David Njoku (knee), defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo (knee) and defensive tackle Shelby Harris (elbow). Among those limited: both quarterbacks in Jameis Winston (right shoulder) and Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) and leading wide receiver Jerry Jeudy (knee/shin).

No Christmas help

While not directly affecting the Dolphins’ playoff chances, it didn’t help that the Kansas City Chiefs locked up the AFC’s top seed Wednesday with their win against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Miami could’ve used a scenario where the Chiefs still had something to play for on Week 18, in the event the Dolphins are still alive by way of the playoff spot currently held by the Denver Broncos.

Should the Dolphins win Sunday in Cleveland and the Broncos lose in Cincinnati, one thing Miami would need in Week 18 would be a Denver loss to Kansas City. But it’s now unknown if the Chiefs will play their starters against the Broncos in that game.

The simplest path for the Dolphins to get into the postseason would be to win out, have the Indianapolis Colts lose one of their last two games and the Broncos lose both of their remaining games. But, they could also have two Los Angeles Chargers losses replace either the Broncos or Colts scenario, albeit unlikely as the Chargers face the lowly Patriots and Raiders.

Sanders, complementary football good to see in December

Coach Mike McDaniel said one reason the Dolphins were able to take a 22-17 lead in last week’s 29-17 win over San Francisco was because he had so much confidence in kicker Jason Sanders and the Dolphins defense.

Sanders, who has made a franchise-record 23 consecutive field goals, including eight consecutive from 50 or more yards, kicked a 48-yard field goal to cap a seven-play, 41-yard drive that took 4:27 off the clock.

Six of the seven plays of that drive were clock-chewing runs as McDaniel knew he could count on Sanders for a long field goal and the defense to make a stop.

The Dolphins’ defense, which is No. 7 in the league, got an interception two plays after the field goal.

“You can play appropriate complementary ball and that’s what we’ve been striving for,” McDaniel said, “but the play-calling decision was a direct result of that conviction and confidence which allows teams to really have to do above and beyond to beat you.

“And that’s the way you want to be playing December football, is hedging your bet, taking calculated risks, but being able to lean on all three phases to get the ‘W.’ ”

Getting ready for Myles Garrett

The Dolphins’ pass protection package has a huge challenge this week in Cleveland’s Myles Garrett (12.0 sacks), one of the league’s best pass rushers.

Left tackle Terron Armstead and right tackle Kendall Lamm led a strong pass-protection package last week that didn’t allow any sacks on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa against 49ers pass rushers Nick Bosa (7.0 sacks) and Leonard Floyd (8.5 sacks).

Interestingly, Tagovailoa has been sacked 14 times in 11 starts and there have only been two games in which he wasn’t sacked – the 32-26 overtime victory against the New York Jets three weeks ago and last week against San Francisco.

Tagovailoa, 6-5 as a starter this season, has taken multiple sacks in six of his 11 starts.

Pass protection, which also includes tight ends and running backs, has been feast or famine in the last four games with Green Bay recording five sacks and Houston recording three.

Today is Wednesday, Dec. 25, the 360th day of 2024. There are six days left in the year. This is Christmas Day.

Today in history:

On Dec. 25, 1776, Gen. George Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack against Hessian forces at Trenton, New Jersey, during the American Revolutionary War.

Also on this date:

In 1066, William the Conqueror was crowned King of England.

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In 1818, “Silent Night (Stille Nacht)” was publicly performed for the first time during the Christmas Midnight Mass at the Church of St. Nikolaus in Oberndorf, Austria.

In 1868, President Andrew Johnson granted unconditional pardons to “every person who directly or indirectly” supported the Confederacy in the Civil War.

In 1926, Hirohito became emperor of Japan, succeeding his father, Emperor Yoshihito.

In 1989, ousted Romanian President Nicolae Ceausescu (chow-SHES’-koo) and his wife, Elena, were executed following a populist uprising.

In 2009, passengers aboard Northwest Airlines Flight 253 foiled an attempt to blow up the plane as it was landing in Detroit by seizing Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab (OO’-mahr fah-ROOK’ ahb-DOOL’-moo-TAH’-lahb), who tried to set off explosives in his underwear. (Abdulmutallab later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison.)

In 2021, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, the world’s largest and most powerful space telescope, rocketed away from French Guiana in South America on a quest to see light from the first stars and galaxies and search the universe for signs of life.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Football Hall of Famer Larry Csonka is 78.
• Country singer Barbara Mandrell is 76.
• Actor Sissy Spacek is 75.
• Former White House adviser Karl Rove is 74.
• Actor CCH Pounder is 72.
• Singer Annie Lennox is 70.
• Country singer Steve Wariner is 70.
• Baseball Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson is 66.
• Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is 53.
• Actor Jeremy Strong is 46.

General Daily Insight for December 25, 2024

An undeniable intensity shades today’s skies with aggression. The Sun in no-nonsense Capricorn is making an unusual quincunx to Mars in Leo, so it may be tempting to push against expectations and play the rebel without a cause. The Moon will enter secretive Scorpio at 3:06 am EST before forming a pair of difficult back-to-back squares, first to power-player Pluto in Aquarius, then to Mars. Tempers can flare at the least provocation — ouch! Confrontation isn’t likely to lead to a positive outcome.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

It’s tempting to feel everything a bit more strongly. That’s natural as the Moon is moving into your intense 8th house, adding an extra weight to the day, but that doesn’t mean you need to let it weigh you down. Be honest about where your emotions are at. If someone enquires after them, don’t be cagey, because you’ll only feel worse if you hold it in. In contrast, when you keep yourself open, you should feel wonderfully light when all is said and done.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

It takes two to tango. Fortunately, this is the perfect day to double up, signified by the Moon entering your relationship sector. This oils the wheels so you can smoothly come together with others on the same page. This is also a good time to hash out any issues in a connection that have reared their heads recently, regardless of the exact nature of the relationship. Social equilibrium is on offer, but you will have to do your part to achieve it.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

You may feel rather picky without knowing why. The Moon is flitting into your analytical 6th house where it will be playing cosmic bumper cars, leaving you exceedingly sensitive, especially when it comes to anything and everything that isn’t exactly as you think it ought to be. If someone or something isn’t up to standard, don’t lash out or weaponize blame. Instead, ask yourself what parts of the situation really matter in the long run. Make an effort to take responsibility for your feelings.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Sprinkle positivity everywhere you go. The cosmos wants to send you on a personalized pleasure cruise as the caring Moon slides into your light-hearted 5th house, giving you every reason to do as you please. Think about how your joy can be infectious — by living life to the fullest, you can encourage others to join you in leaving their troubles behind. Be the Pied Piper by embodying what brings you bliss, allowing other people to follow your lead all day long.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Take a load off, Leo! You can get comfortable in your surroundings as the Moon settles into your homey 4th house, so there is no need to hit the ground running. Instead, turn your attention to your domestic affairs, whether they’re as simple as folding laundry or as complex as hosting a last-minute shindig at your place. Your home should feel like an authentic reflection of you, so consider planning a few style updates if that’s what you’re in the mood for.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Today might feel quite long, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored. The Moon is sprinting into your busy 3rd house, so you might find yourself running all over to see people and share meals and call friends and family who are in other zip codes. This can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a touch exhausting — and that’s valid. Make a point of setting aside pockets of time to rest up and refill your personal gas tank.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

There’s always something to do today. The Moon in your grounded 2nd house is tugging your attention toward more mundane affairs. That may not sound very exciting, but rest assured that you can use this to your advantage. Do your best to take a little bit of time away from the crowds and chaos so you can focus on your personal program. You’re capable of making major progress on an important project or weighty task, as long as you use your time wisely.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Returning to the start is not giving up. This isn’t about scratching out all your previous work as though it didn’t matter, but rather an opportunity to begin anew as the Moon enters your sign for its monthly visit. It’s offering clarity around your most vital issues. Use this as a moment to tune into yourself and ignore all the other voices swirling around you. Once you know exactly what your inner voice is saying, proceed in that direction without letting your past stop you.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Fog is obscuring the sharp edges of the day ahead. The Moon is sliding into your nebulous 12th house, so you may feel a bit out of it, or perhaps simply not very interested in what everyone else is up to. Even if you have fun on offer or invitations to exciting places, you may choose to dip out early or even excuse yourself altogether in order to get in some rest and relaxation while everyone else parties it up. Move at your ideal pace.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

You can be the solution to someone’s desperate situation. The opportunity to be your most helpful self is arriving as the Moon meanders into your altruistic 11th house, reminding you that sometimes the best way to make yourself happy is by bringing other people joy. Consider getting into the giving spirit by donating a few hours of your time to a good cause! Even if you’re short on time, simple things like sending a heartfelt text or dropping off a meal are equally valuable contributions.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Kicking back and relaxing is currently easier said than done. Ambition is intensified, thanks to the Moon entering your professional 10th house. Its presence there could leave you wanting to call the shots and organize everything while everyone else seemingly lazes about. People will likely be more than happy to let you take over, but if you do so with a negative attitude or a put-upon air, then they may not find your efforts all that pleasing. Only help if you want to.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

The world may feel bigger than usual. The Moon is flying into your boundless 9th house, encouraging you to look far afield in the name of chasing your bliss. There is practically nothing to be gained from playing it small, so instead of focusing on your perceived limitations, set your sights on some pipe dream possibilities! Even the most farfetched ones could be reachable. Once you start moving, you’ll likely achieve your aims more quickly than you’d planned, so get going and have fun.

MIAMI GARDENS — Miami Dolphins left tackle Terron Armstead sustained a right knee ailment against the New York Jets that was so bad it limited him to just five plays. Despite that, the next day Armstead hosted dozens of kids at Target for his “Team Armstead Holiday Blessing” Christmas shopping spree.

“It’s impactful to the community,” Armstead said in explaining why he hosted such an event for the ninth time in his 12-year career.

“It means a lot to me, too, personally, just to be able to do so. And it’s our duty as professional athletes. These people come and cheer us on, and fans spend their hard-earned money to support us. It’s just a small way to give back to the community.”

Armstead gets it.

The Dolphins get it.

During this holiday season the the Dolphins helped more than 1,200 South Florida residents among 25 events, delivering gifts and food, and spreading hope and good cheer.

Armstead was joined at his event by defensive lineman Calais Campbell, edge rushers Emmanuel Ogbah and Bradley Chubb, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, center Andrew Meyer, and offensive tackle Bayron Matos.

The next day, a group of players — Chubb, kicker Jason Sanders, quarterback Skylar Thompson, defensive tackle Benito Jones, linebackers Mo Kamara and Derrick McClendon, tight end Julian Hill and defensive lineman Zach Sieler – joined nearly 70 pediatric patients from local hospitals at Hollywood-Fort Lauderdale Airport as they boarded a United Airlines flight to the North Pole, where they were greeted by Santa Claus.

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Fullback Alec Ingold, along with his Ingold Family Foundation, hosted an event in which they announced plans to build a playground at SOS Children’s Villages Florida in Coconut Creek. The facility houses 72 foster children, newborn to 18 years old.

Wide receiver Braxton Berrios hosted an event that packaged more than 2,000 meals for local food shelters. 

Tight end Jonnu Smith, linebacker Anthony Walker Jr., running back Raheem Mostert and numerous others hosted and participated in holiday events this month.

That’s good stuff and it needs to be publicized.

Also, it’s Christmas, a good day to take a break from talking about job security, season record, and all that other stuff that raises everyone’s blood pressure.

You see a lot of aspects of a pro sports franchise when you cover a team.

I’ve never had to look far to see how the the Dolphins impact the community and what it means to the players and the organization to be good neighbors.

At Armstead’s event, each child got a $200 gift card.

With that gift card came lessons in budgeting, prioritizing and selflessness as Armstead and other players helped the kids make decisions on which family members they’d purchase gifts for, how much they could spend on each gift, and what they’d have left to spend on themselves.  

At one point I overheard Campbell telling a group of kids that he’s 38 years old. He asked one child his age. The boy said he was 9.

Campbell made the chat a learning experience.

He asked the kids the difference between his age and the boy’s age.

“Use your math skills,” Campbell said.

Finally, one child came up with the answer (honestly, it was only about a second or two after I figured it out.)

“Twenty-nine,” he said.

It’s reassuring to experience players interacting with the community in such a way that a Christmas shopping spree becomes a low-key learning event.

It’s even better to know that players understand this is about something bigger than them.

Ingold hosted his event the day after the Dolphins’ disappointing 20-12 loss at Houston. He knows being part of the community doesn’t end just because there’s a crushing outcome to a pivotal game.

Ingold knows it’s about something else.

“It’s those little things, the perspective, the smiles on their faces,” he said. 

There have been numerous times that I’ve said this is one of the best locker rooms I’ve ever covered in almost 30 years covering pro sports.

Yes, it’s been a disappointing season.

Set that aside.

These guys are a class act.

It’s good to pass along examples of positive off-field actions.

These community stories need to be told as much as most other things that go on in a pro sports organization.

The good thing is you never have to look far to find such stories with the Dolphins, especially at Christmas.

By DARLENE SUPERVILLE

WASHINGTON (AP) — The bald eagle, a symbol of the power and strength of the United States for more than 240 years, earned an overdue honor on Tuesday: It officially became the country’s national bird.

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President Joe Biden signed into law legislation sent to him by Congress that amends the United States Code to correct what had long gone unnoticed and designate the bald eagle — familiar to many because of its white head, yellow beak and brown body — as the national bird.

The bald eagle has appeared on the Great Seal of the United States, which is used in official documents, since 1782, when the design was finalized. The seal is made up of the eagle, an olive branch, arrows, a flag-like shield, the motto “E Pluribus Unum” and a constellation of stars.

Congress that same year designated the bald eagle as the the national emblem, and its image appears in a host of places, ranging from documents and the presidential flag to military insignia and U.S. currency, according to USA.gov.

But it had never been officially designated to be what many had just assumed it was — the national bird.

The bald eagle is indigenous to North America.

HONOLULU (AP) — One of the world’s most active volcanoes spewed lava into the air for a second straight day on Tuesday.

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The eruption of Kilauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island has stayed within the mountain’s summit caldera inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. No homes were threatened.

Molten rock began shooting from the volcano before dawn on Monday when fissures opened in the caldera floor and propelled lava 295 feet (90 meters) into the air. The red liquid formed tall fountains and then spread across 650 acres (263 hectares). The Hawaiian Volcano Observatory estimated the lava was about 1 yard (1 meter) thick.

Scientists expect activity to fluctuate in the coming days. The lava paused Monday afternoon but fountains reemerged Tuesday morning.

The eruption occurred in an area that’s been closed to the public since 2007 due to hazards including crater wall instability and rockfalls. Visitors to the park were able to watch the foundations at a distance from an overlook spot.

This eruption is the sixth in Kilauea’s summit caldera since 2020.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Kilauea also erupted in June and September.

By ADRIANA GOMEZ LICON

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump promised on Tuesday to “vigorously pursue” capital punishment after President Joe Biden commuted the sentences of most people on federal death row partly to stop Trump from pushing forward their executions.

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Trump criticized Biden’s decision on Monday to change the sentences of 37 of the 40 condemned people to life in prison without parole, arguing that it was senseless and insulted the families of their victims. Biden said converting their punishments to life imprisonment was consistent with the moratorium imposed on federal executions in cases other than terrorism and hate-motivated mass murder.

“Joe Biden just commuted the Death Sentence on 37 of the worst killers in our Country,” he wrote on his social media site. “When you hear the acts of each, you won’t believe that he did this. Makes no sense. Relatives and friends are further devastated. They can’t believe this is happening!”

Presidents historically have no involvement in dictating or recommending the punishments that federal prosecutors seek for defendants in criminal cases, though Trump has long sought more direct control over the Justice Department’s operations. The president-elect wrote that he would direct the department to pursue the death penalty “as soon as I am inaugurated,” but was vague on what specific actions he may take and said they would be in cases of “violent rapists, murderers, and monsters.”

He highlighted the cases of two men who were on federal death row for slaying a woman and a girl, had admitted to killing more and had their sentences commuted by Biden.

Is it a plan in motion or more rhetoric?

On the campaign trail, Trump often called for expanding the federal death penalty — including for those who kill police officers, those convicted of drug and human trafficking, and migrants who kill U.S. citizens.

“Trump has been fairly consistent in wanting to sort of say that he thinks the death penalty is an important tool and he wants to use it,” said Douglas Berman, an expert on sentencing at Ohio State University’s law school. “But whether practically any of that can happen, either under existing law or other laws, is a heavy lift.”

Berman said Trump’s statement at this point seems to be just a response to Biden’s commutation.

“I’m inclined to think it’s still in sort of more the rhetoric phase. Just, ‘don’t worry. The new sheriff is coming. I like the death penalty,’” he said.

Most Americans have historically supported the death penalty for people convicted of murder, according to decades of annual polling by Gallup, but support has declined over the past few decades. About half of Americans were in favor in an October poll, while roughly 7 in 10 Americans backed capital punishment for murderers in 2007.

Death row inmates are mostly sentenced by states

Before Biden’s commutation, there were 40 federal death row inmates compared with more than 2,000 who have been sentenced to death by states.

“The reality is all of these crimes are typically handled by the states,” Berman said.

A question is whether the Trump administration would try to take over some state murder cases, such as those related to drug trafficking or smuggling. He could also attempt to take cases from states that have abolished the death penalty.

Could rape now be punishable by death?

Berman said Trump’s statement, along with some recent actions by states, may present an effort to get the Supreme Court to reconsider a precedent that considers the death penalty disproportionate punishment for rape.

“That would literally take decades to unfold. It’s not something that is going to happen overnight,” Berman said.

Before one of Trump’s rallies on Aug. 20, his prepared remarks released to the media said he would announce he would ask for the death penalty for child rapists and child traffickers. But Trump never delivered the line.

What were the cases highlighted by Trump?

One of the men Trump highlighted on Tuesday was ex-Marine Jorge Avila Torrez, who was sentenced to death for killing a sailor in Virginia and later pleaded guilty to the fatal stabbing of an 8-year-old and a 9-year-old girl in a suburban Chicago park several years before.

The other man, Thomas Steven Sanders, was sentenced to death for the kidnapping and slaying of a 12-year-old girl in Louisiana, days after shooting the girl’s mother in a wildlife park in Arizona. Court records show he admitted to both killings.

Some families of victims expressed anger with Biden’s decision, but the president had faced pressure from advocacy groups urging him to make it more difficult for Trump to increase the use of capital punishment for federal inmates. The ACLU and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops were some of the groups that applauded the decision.

Biden left three federal inmates to face execution. They are Dylann Roof, who carried out the 2015 racist slayings of nine Black members of Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina; 2013 Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev; and Robert Bowers, who fatally shot 11 congregants at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life Synagogue in 2018, the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S history.

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin, Michelle L. Price and Eric Tucker contributed to this report.

From the baseball diamond to the soccer pitch, from Vancouver to Paris, 2024 was a historic year for Jews in sports.

Jewish athletes distinguished themselves across events, venues and tiers of competition — from the Olympics to the major leagues to college ball. This year also saw notable sports moments off the field, be they in the front office or during the commercial breaks.

Some of the year’s top moments featured familiar stars in the Jewish sports world, like ace pitcher Max Fried, Olympian Jessica Fox and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Fans also met some up-and-coming Jewish athletes, like college football player Sam Salz, or watched familiar faces like BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff and USC basketball coach Lindsay Gottlieb reach new heights.

Here are our top Jewish sports moments of 2024, presented chronologically — including two on the same day!

The fight against antisemitism gets the spotlight in a Super Bowl ad

As more than 100 million people tuned in to watch Super Bowl LVIII on Feb. 11, they saw what is believed to be the first-ever Super Bowl ad focused on antisemitism.

The New England Patriots weren’t in the big game, but their owner, Robert Kraft, paid an estimated $7 million for the 30-second spot by his charity, the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. The ad featured Clarence B. Jones, the former lawyer and advisor to Martin Luther King Jr. who drafted King’s famous 1963 “I Have A Dream” speech. It drew mixed reviews.

The ad was one of a series by FCAS, which is known for its “#StandUpToJewishHate” campaign, that sought to promote the fight against antisemitism by connecting it to other forms of discrimination.

The group placed a number of TV ads during popular televised events this year, including one spot depicting a real-life synagogue bomb threat, which aired during the Oscars. Another, about antisemitism at campus protests, aired during the NBA playoffs. And a recent ad calling for a “timeout against hate” featured sports icons including Shaquille O’Neal and Billie Jean King.

Jessica Fox, with two more golds, steals the show in Paris

Jewish and Israeli athletes won a slew of medals in Paris this summer — 18 at the Olympics and 13 more at the Paralympics. Jews took home medals in rugby, fencing, track, swimming and numerous other competitions, while Israel returned to Olympic soccer for the first time since 1976.

One of the brightest Jewish stars of the Games was Australian paddling legend Jessica Fox, who won two gold medals in three days, bringing her career total to six, half of them golds. She won gold in both the canoe single and the kayak slalom.

Fox is the most decorated Olympic canoe slalom competitor ever, and the only Australian Olympian in history with six individual medals. She had served as one of Australia’s flag bearers at the Paris opening ceremony.

And the magic didn’t stop there. Fox’s younger sister, Noemie Fox, earned a gold medal of her own in the inaugural kayak cross event. The win put the Fox sisters in rare company among Jewish siblings to medal at the same Olympics.

Amit Elor wrestles her way to Olympic history

A Jewish Olympian dominated on the wrestling mat as well as the water: Amit Elor, a California native with Israeli parents, entered Paris as the youngest U.S. Olympic wrestler in history, and left as its youngest medalist in the sport.

Elor, an eight-time world champion, made quick work of her opponents, extending her undefeated streak of five years with a gold medal win.

Elor, the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors who moved to Israel, experienced both online antisemitism and the sudden deaths of both her father and a brother during the years when she broke into the elite ranks of U.S. women’s wrestling. She wrestles at the 68-kilogram weight class and in October 2023 became the youngest American wrestler — male or female — ever to win a senior world title.

After her win, Elor spoke out against antisemitism — something she had largely avoided in the lead-up to Paris.

“Eighty years ago my grandparents survived the Holocaust, but antisemitism is still all around us,” Elor said in a video posted on social media. The clip showed a comment directed against her saying “you belong in the gas chamber.”

3 Jewish players appear in one MLB at-bat

Pitcher Max Lazar’s first career strikeout on Aug. 10 was special for more than one reason.

Lazar, a Jewish Philadelphia Phillies rookie, was pitching to Jewish catcher Garrett Stubbs and struck out Diamondbacks designated hitter Joc Pederson, who is also Jewish. The moment marked a rare trifecta — in which the pitcher, catcher and batter were all Jewish. (Stubbs and Pederson both played for Team Israel at the 2023 World Baseball Classic.)

According to the Jewish Baseball Museum, it was only the third instance of a Jewish pitcher-catcher-batter combination in MLB’s more than 100-year history. And Stubbs and Lazar made up only the eighth-ever Jewish pitcher-catcher pairing, known as a battery.

It wasn’t Stubbs’ first historic moment of the season. In July, with the Phillies trailing the Oakland Athletics, Stubbs took the mound, faced fellow Team Israel alum Zack Gelof — and gave up a grand slam. It was the first-ever grand slam hit by a Jewish batter off a Jewish pitcher.

USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb notches her 300th career basketball win

University of Southern California women’s basketball coach Lindsay Gottlieb has established herself as one of the sport’s best.

Gottlieb, who in 2019 became the first women’s collegiate head coach to join an NBA staff, led USC to the No. 1 seed in the NCAA March Madness tournament this year after winning the Pac-12 Conference’s last-ever women’s championship (the conference since dissolved). USC made it to the Elite Eight in the Big Dance before losing to the University of Connecticut.

In April, Gottlieb signed a contract extension with USC that will keep her at the helm through the 2029-2030 season. And this season, USC is off to another strong start, now in the Big Ten.

On Nov. 12, Gottlieb reached another milestone: her 300th career coaching win, a 124-39 rout over Cal State Northridge. The victory set USC records for points scored in a single game and widest margin of victory.

Gottlieb is a member of the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame of Northern California. Following WNBA legend Sue Bird’s retirement in 2022, some fans turned to Gottlieb as the new face of Jewish basketball.

“I wondered if there would be someone to assume [Bird’s] place as basketball’s Jewish role model,” Sophie Bravo wrote for JTA’s partner site Hey Alma in April. “Lindsay seems to have stepped into the role seamlessly, balancing success, humility and determination, using her actions to guide and inspire.”

Sam Salz blazes a trail for Orthodox Division I athletes

Speaking of Jewish firsts, Texas A&M’s Sam Salz became likely the first-ever Orthodox Jew to appear in a Division I college football game when he took the field Nov. 16 with the Aggies.

Salz’s debut marked the culmination of a years-long journey, one that took him from Kohelet Yeshiva High School — a Modern Orthodox school in Philadelphia with roughly 100 students and no football team — to a legendary college football program that peaked at No. 15 in the national rankings this season and plays in the vaunted Southeastern Conference.

Salz, who had never played a snap of organized football in his life, let alone DI college ball, had walked onto the team in 2022 but had yet to appear in a game — in part because most college football games take place on Shabbat, when Salz doesn’t play.

But on the school’s senior night, with 42 seconds left in the game, he heard his name called and ran out on the gridiron.

“There’s probably a Jewish kid, and maybe even especially an Orthodox kid, who wants to play football, or wants to play sports, and is sitting somewhere confused about what he should do, or who’s told that he’ll never be able to do it,” Salz said in an interview. “Even getting to see me run down on that field, successful play or not, could have given him all the hope that he wanted.”

Jake Retzlaff enjoys a breakout season — and celebrates with some matzah

It sounds almost like the opening of a comedy routine: A proudly Jewish player at the flagship university of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints becomes a household name for college football fans.

But it’s no joke. For Brigham Young University quarterback Jake Retzlaff, this was a breakout season. Retzlaff goes by “BY-Jew” and made national headlines both for his on-field play and for how he publicly embraced his Jewish identity.

Retzlaff, who grew up attending a Reform synagogue in Pomona, California, is BYU’s first Jewish starting quarterback and one of only three Jewish students at the Utah school. He threw 20 touchdowns this season as he led BYU to a 10-2 record in the Big-12 Conference and a top-25 national ranking — peaking at No. 9 on Nov. 5, a program record.

And earlier this month, Retzlaff inked a sponsorship deal with Manischewitz, the Jewish food company’s first-ever sports deal. The package is set to include special-edition boxes of Manischewitz matzah emblazoned with Retzlaff’s likeness.

Max Fried signs the largest contract in Jewish baseball history

Retzlaff isn’t the only Jewish athlete with a landmark deal. Pitcher Max Fried entered the MLB offseason as one of the most coveted free agents on the market. And on Dec. 10, he got his payday.

Fried signed an eight-year, $218 million contract with the New York Yankees, the largest contract ever for a Jewish player as well as for a left-handed pitcher (topping David Price’s 2015 deal by $1 million in raw terms).

Fried, who turns 31 in January, has a 3.07 ERA in 151 career starts, all with the Atlanta Braves, and is a two-time All-Star, a three-time Gold Glove winner, a Silver Slugger winner and a 2021 World Series champion. In 2024, Fried posted an 11-10 record with a 3.25 ERA and 166 strikeouts in 174.1 innings.

Now, the Los Angeles native, who grew up worshipping Hall of Famer Sandy Koufax, will likely spend the rest of his career playing in the city with the most Jews in the world. Fried joins fellow Jewish pitcher Scott Effross, who was traded to the Yankees in 2022 but missed all of 2023 and most of 2024 with multiple injuries. Jewish Yankees pitching prospect Eric Reyzelman is working his way through the minor leagues. Brad Ausmus, the team’s bench coach, is also Jewish.

Aerin Frankel and Quinn Hughes headline a banner year for Jewish hockey

On the same day Fried signed his massive deal with the Yankees, the Vancouver Canucks became the first team in NHL history to feature three Jewish players in the same game.

Defensemen Quinn Hughes and Mark Friedman and forward Max Sasson all played for the Canucks as they lost to the St. Louis Blues 4-3 in overtime.

The Jewish hat trick capped a banner year for Jews in hockey.

Jews featured prominently in the inaugural season of the Professional Women’s Hockey League, which dropped the puck on New Year’s Day, led by Boston Fleet goalie Aerin Frankel, who is arguably the best Jewish player in the league.

Frankel posted a .929 save percentage in 18 games last season, but her breakout came in the playoffs, when the Northeastern alum saved over 95% of shots and earned the moniker “Green Monster” — an homage to another formidable Boston sports presence — for her clutch performances. Boston lost to Minnesota in the finals in May despite Frankel’s brick wall.

In the NHL, Edmonton Oilers star Zach Hyman put on a career performance last season, tallying 54 goals, the third-most in the NHL, plus 16 more in the playoffs. And Hughes finished with 75 assists, the third-most in the league, and won the James Norris Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the NHL’s best defender.

During the offseason this summer, Ryan Warsofsky became the first Jewish NHL head coach in three decades, University of Denver star Zeev Buium was selected 12th overall in the NHL Entry Draft and Jack, Luke and Quinn Hughes became the first brothers to grace the cover of the flagship NHL video game.

Israeli Yaniv Bazini leads UVM to its first-ever NCAA soccer championship

Before this month, the University of Vermont had won six national championships in the school’s history — all in skiing. On Dec. 16, the Catamounts captured the NCAA Division I soccer championship, thanks in large part to Israeli star Yaniv Bazini.

Bazini, a senior from Ness Ziona in central Israel, joined UVM in 2022 and became an anchor of Vermont’s offense. This season, Bazini led the team with 14 goals — including six scored in postseason games — which is the second-most in a single season in program history. His 30 points were third-best in the UVM record books.

Beyond his offensive prowess, Bazini was also known for his proud embrace of his Israeli and Jewish identity. Last October, Bazini draped himself in an Israeli flag after scoring his first goal following Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack. He brought the flag back out to celebrate the national title.

Bazini told JTA he cherishes the opportunity to represent Jews on the pitch — which he hopes to do professionally, either in the MLS or abroad.

“It means everything,” he said. “I got so many messages in the past couple days of kids that are impacted, and not only my soccer, but how I show that I’m Jewish and not afraid of it. By doing ‘Shema Yisrael’ at every beginning of the game or halftime, or every time I score, every time to thank God.”

Honorable mentions

Here are a few other Jewish sports stories from the past year that are worth noting:

Assaf Lowengart made history as the first Israeli-born position player to sign a professional baseball contract in the U.S. when he joined the Frontier League’s New York Boulders in February.

Hapoel Jerusalem honored slain hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whom they called “our friend in the stands.”

Orthodox MLB prospect Jacob Steinmetz continued his ascent through the minor leagues, joining the Hillsboro Hops, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ High-A affiliate.

MLB veteran Kevin Pillar enjoyed a late-career resurgence with the Los Angeles Angels — and embraced his role as a Jewish ballplayer.

Team Israel launched an American organization to strengthen its national team pipeline and support baseball’s growth in Israel.

Náutico Hacoaj became the first Jewish soccer club to compete in Argentina’s Amateur Promotional Tournament since 1967.

Israeli fencer Yuval Freilich won a gold medal at the 2024 Qatar Grand Prix on Jan. 31, while wearing a uniform with an Israeli flag and the message “Am Israel Chai,” Hebrew for “the people of Israel lives,” written on his shoulder. Qatar, which does not have diplomatic ties with Israel, has played home to Hamas’ leadership.

And last but not least, Jewish wrestling promoter Paul Heyman and boxing publicist Fred Sternburg were each inducted into their sport’s respective halls of fame. And the Jewish world mourned the deaths of Ken Holtzman, the winningest Jewish pitcher in MLB history, and Hall of Fame jockey Walter Blum, who rode to victory in the Belmont Stakes.

For more content, go to jta.org.

Last December, in a column about the Jewish books of 2023, I predicted that “next year’s list will include a slew of books dealing with the crisis in Israel or will be read through the lens of the war.”

It was an easy call: If this year’s nonfiction Jewish authors didn’t focus directly on the tragedy or aftermath of Oct. 7 — Israeli journalist Lee Yaron in “10/7: 100 Human Stories,” massacre survivor Amir Tibon in “The Gates of Gaza” and Adam Kirsch in “On Settler Colonialism: Ideology, Violence, and Justice,” to name a few — many added a chapter on the crisis to projects that had long been in the works.

Joshua Leifer told me he had to rewrite “about 20,000 words” of “Tablets Shattered: The End of an American Jewish Century and the Future of Jewish Life,” his autobiographical critique of the Jewish mainstream. Three books of Jewish theology intended for wide audiences — “To Be a Jew Today” by Noah Feldman, “The Triumph of Life” by Rabbi Irving “Yitz” Greenberg and “Judaism Is About Love” by Rabbi Shai Held — included additional chapters taking into account the fresh wounds and nascent implications of the attack and the war.

In a typical year, the books by Leifer, Feldman, Greenberg and Held — and perhaps “The Amen Effect,” an inspirational volume by Rabbi Sharon Brous — would have competed for the book that best captured the Jewish moment and discourse. It’s a category I’ve been thinking about lately, after asking JTA readers to suggest Jewish books that define 21st-century Jewry and that — here’s the key part — are likely to be found on the shelves of the Jewish readers they know. I was inspired by universally read, era-defining books like 1958’s “Exodus” by Leon Uris, which fed and presaged the Zionist fervor of the 1960s, and “World of Our Fathers” by Irving Howe, which in the 1970s remembered what the children and grandchildren of Eastern European immigrants were already starting to forget.

I’ll get to the readers’ nominees in a moment, but I want to start by suggesting that it is still too early to pick a book, or books, that best reflects where Jews have landed in the wake of Oct. 7. The war still grinds on, and the Jewish community remains uncertain how it will end or what it will ultimately mean. Some themes are emerging, including resurgent antisemitism, the international isolation of Israel, a rupture between Jews and the political left, and perhaps a return to Jewish religious practice and belonging. Any author will need some time and distance to make sense of the upheaval.

It may not be surprising then that the book most frequently suggested by the dozens of readers who responded to my callout, “People Love Dead Jews,” anticipated these upheavals and the Jews’ sense of abandonment. Novelist Dara Horn’s first nonfiction collection, published in 2021, posited that societies that are happy building memorials and museums to Jewish suffering are reluctant to show respect or understanding to actual living Jewish communities. The book “really helped me wrap my head around present-day antisemitism,” wrote reader Marianne Leloir Grange.

For many readers, “People Love Dead Jews” serves as a skeleton key to understanding the worldwide backlash against Israel in a war that began when Hamas slaughtered 1,200 mostly Jews on Oct. 7. As Horn explained in an interview in April with the online European Jewish magazine K., “You’ll see that people love dead Jews, as long as they’re vulnerable and helpless. In fact, I found it remarkable how much people seemed to relish the idea of showing their support for murdered Jews, until Israel responded with force. That’s how people love the Jews: powerless to stop their own slaughter. As soon as the Jews show any capacity for action, it’s all over.”

(When I asked Horn this week what books spoke to her this year, she said she appreciated Kirsch’s book, the anthology “Young Zionist Voices” edited by David Hazony, and Benjamin Resnick’s dystopian novel “Next Stop.”)

Another frequently mentioned book seemed almost to act as a balm to Horn’s thesis: “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” by James McBride. Last year’s best-selling, prize-winning historical novel is set in a small Pennsylvania town at a moment when immigrant Jews and poor Black families found common cause. “‘The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store’ by James McBride is probably one of the most popular recent books likely to be on an American Jew’s bookshelf,” Galina Vromen wrote me. “I would argue that part of the attraction to Jews today is in light of antisemitism and nostalgia when Jews and Blacks saw themselves on the same side of just causes and Jews were not regarded as enemy white people.”

Vromen, a novelist, had a number of strong suggestions for the kinds of recent books likely to be on American Jewish bookshelves, including “The Netanyahus,” Joshua Cohen’s 2021 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that serves as a cutting critique of present-day Israeli politics; “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay,” Michael Chabon’s best-selling 2000 novel about the Jews who pioneered superhero comics; and “Start-Up Nation” by Dan Senor and Saul Singer. The last one, published in 2009, presented Israel as an incubator of high tech innovation (and coined an enduringly popular nickname for the country) and offers readers a comforting rebuke to the activists who see Israel as an oppressor and colonizer.

A number of readers recommended Philip Roth’s 2004 novel “The Plot Against America,” which imagined an America run by the populist, isolationist, Nazi-sympathizing and antisemitic Charles Lindbergh in the early years of World War II. The book has had a number of lives: Roth said he wrote it as a rumination on Jewish security in America, but by 2016 it was seen by Donald Trump’s critics as an eerie prophecy of his rise and first election; HBO adapted it for a miniseries in 2020; and this year the New York Times named it one of the “100 Best Books of the 21st Century.”

Beyond that, no other book was suggested by more than one reader, although the ones they did mention seem like strong contenders for the current Jewish book shelf: “Everything Is Illuminated,” Jonathan Safran Foer’s 2002 magical realist novel that anticipated the current vogue for works about Jewish roots tours in Eastern Europe; “My Promised Land” by Ari Shavit and “Like Dreamers” by Yossi Klein Halevi, two 2013 nonfiction works by Israeli authors attempting to explain the country’s heart and soul; and Deborah Lipstadt’s 2019 “Antisemitism: Here and Now” (although I am guessing her 2005 memoir “History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier,” which became the motion picture “Denial,” is better known).

Samuel Freedman’s “Jew vs. Jew: The Struggle for the Soul of American Jewry,” published in 2000, fell just short of the 21st century, but was a prescient look at the internal political and religious divides that would only yawn wider in the coming decades.

I was also pleased to hear from readers who suggested cookbooks. “Jerusalem” by Sami Tamimi and Yotam Ottolenghi (2011) not only kicked off a mania for high-end Middle Eastern cooking but presented a complex and even hopeful version of Jewish and Palestinian coexistence (which did not, over time, include the authors). Joan Nathan’s “Jewish Cooking in America” (1994) cemented her role as Jewish cuisine’s Julia Child. And it’s the rare kosher-keeping home cook who doesn’t own a volume in Susie Fishbein’s “Kosher By Design” series. Fishbein “single-handedly raised Jewish cooking to a gourmet level [and] opened the floodgates to a new sub-industry,” Barbara Kessel wrote me from Jerusalem.

What became clear from my unscientific survey is that in a polarized and media-saturated age, there are fewer books that American Jews might have in common than, say, 40 years ago. But maybe that’s OK. Each year sees a flood of new Jewish books, capturing voices beyond the ashkenormative assumptions of the 20th century and as diverse as the people who write and read them: Mizrachim, women, interfaith families, LGBT Jews, Jews of color, Jews by choice, the religious, the formerly religious.

“Today, my understanding of Jewish life is so much bigger (and richer),” the writer Erika Dreifus wrote me, remembering her own childhood among Ashkenazi Jews in the metro New York area. “I’m so much more aware of Jewish experience that differs from my own.”

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media.

For more content, go to jta.org.

A 7-year-old boy critically injured Saturday by a falling drone during a holiday show in downtown Orlando remains in intensive care, his mother said Monday in a post on a GoFundMe page.

“Zander is out of surgery and still fighting!” Jessica Lumedge wrote. “I will be missing work at this time, and he will be celebrating Christmas in the ICU.”

The boy, Alezander, underwent emergency open-heart surgery Sunday after one of several drones that fell from the sky during the Holiday Drone Show at Lake Eola Park struck him in the chest and mouth.

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Saturday evening on X, formerly Twitter, that it’s investigating. It remained unclear Tuesday what caused the drones to collide and fall. About 25,000 people attended the evening event.

Adriana Edgerton, the boy’s other mother, said in an interview with WESH-TV that her family was watching the show when multiple drones fell from the sky.

“Everyone’s natural instinct was to duck and scatter,” Edgerton said. “Before we realized it, my daughter found my son on the floor unconscious. He had blood coming out of his face.”

An Orlando city spokesperson Tuesday did not return a message seeking comment. The city had said in a news release that there were “technical difficulties” during the show.

Just before 7 p.m. the Orlando Fire Department responded to calls that a person was injured by a drone, according to the release. The city then canceled the 8 p.m. show

The show was organized by Sky Elements based in Fort Worth, Texas. Representatives did not return calls or emails Tuesday seeking comment.

A company statement released Sunday said: “Sky Elements Drones wants to extend our sincere hope for a full and speedy recovery for those impacted at our Lake Eola show.”

On its website, the company states that one of its missions is safety and “protecting onlookers, staff members and property at all times.”

“Safety is our number one priority, borderline obsessed,” the website states.

Videos from the Orlando show posted on social media show multiple green and red drones falling from the sky. In one video posted to X, user MosquitoCoFL Podcast showed drones falling as Lake Eola’s famous swans vigorously flapped their wings and quickly moved away.

Dolphins (7-8) at Browns (3-12), Sunday, 4:05 p.m., CBS

Latest line: Dolphins are favored by 6 1/2 points

Dave Hyde, Sports Columnist (Season record: 8-7): Dolphins 24, Browns 12

One team is fighting for an improbable playoff berth and the other is ready to go home. The only question is if Cleveland finds some pride playing at home. Forget the cold. This is the kind of opponent the Dolphins deal with well, especially with the Browns unsure of who will be playing quarterback.

Chris Perkins, Dolphins Columnist (Season record: 11-4): Browns  28, Dolphins 24

I believe in trends. The trend says the Dolphins struggle on the road in December. The Dolphins are 1-5 in December road games in the Mike McDaniel-Tua Tagovailoa era (since 2022). The only question about this game is whether Browns ailing quarterback Jameis Winston plays. Dorian Thompson-Robinson replaced Winston, who was inactive with a shoulder injury, in last week’s loss at Cincinnati.

David Furones, Dolphins Writer (Season record: 11-4): Dolphins 23, Browns 16

Miami may luck out in terms of it being somewhat warm in Cleveland for this time of year. But they may be in for some cold rain. Sounds like a good time to have the running game going, as the Dolphins did with Sunday’s win against the 49ers. I’m not too worried about Dorian Thompson-Robinson at quarterback for the Browns, but Miami will have to be mindful of his dual-threat ability.

Kathy Laughlin, Sports Editor (Season record: 9-6): Dolphins 24, Browns 17

The Dolphins are 6-4 against non-playoff teams such as Cleveland this season, and 1-4 against playoff teams. That trend should continue Sunday against the 3-12 Browns. In the Mike McDaniel-Tua Tagovailoa era the Dolphins are 23-8 (.742) against non-playoff teams (including teams that would be in this year’s playoffs if the season ended today), and 4-16 (.250) against playoff teams.

Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor (Season record: 11-4): Dolphins 23, Browns 20

The Dolphins are favored by 6 1/2 points for good reason. Despite playing on the road, the Dolphins are the better team and should have no problem beating the woeful Browns. Miami is 5-3 at home and 2-5 on the road. Even if the Dolphins win their remaining two games (at Browns, at Jets), they’ll need help from other teams to sneak into the playoffs. The Jets pose a bigger challenge next week.

Steve Svekis, Assistant Sports Editor (Season record: 11-4): Dolphins 28, Browns 3

The Dolphins go up against an inept Browns offense that has gained only 252 passing yards its past TWO games and has given the ball away 18 times in the past five games. Cleveland appears poised to give quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who owns a 43.2 career passer rating, his fifth NFL start. However, if his calf injury keeps him out, it could be ex-Patriots backup QB Bailey Zappe. The Dolphins can easily get at least 10 turnovers and sacks combined in this game. Assuming Miami hasn’t been eliminated Saturday by wins by the Broncos and Chargers, they should easily remain alive for the playoffs going into the regular-season finale.

Today is Tuesday, Dec. 24, the 359th day of 2024. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve.

Today in history:

On Dec. 24, 1992, President George H.W. Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal.

Also on this date:

In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which ended the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate.

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In 1851, fire devastated the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroying about 35,000 volumes (about two-thirds of the library’s collection).

In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan.

In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of “Fire!” during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan.

In 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front between British and German soldiers.

In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe.

In 2013, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II granted a posthumous pardon to code-breaker Alan Turing, who was criminally convicted of homosexual behavior in the 1950s.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Immunologist Dr. Anthony Fauci is 84.
• Filmmaker Lee Daniels is 65.
• Basketball Hall of Fame coach Jay Wright is 63.
• Singer Ricky Martin is 53.
• Author Stephenie Meyer is 51.
• TV host Ryan Seacrest is 50.
• Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 33.
• NFL wide receiver Davante Adams is 32.

Brittani Rivera says she and her husband plan to stay for now as renters in Pompano Beach — but know that as their community is converted into condos, they’ll move out.

Residents of Envy Pompano Beach, at 475 SE 1st St., learned months ago that the community will be among the latest rental apartment buildings in South Florida being turned into condominium buildings.

Developers say the South Florida housing market is better-positioned now to offer condos. Condo conversions also are planned in cities such as Hollywood and Dania Beach. With the potential for lower mortgage rates, some would-be homeowners may find a better opportunity to buy.

“People want to buy their own homes,” said Envy’s developer, Peter Jago, the managing director of GCF Development. “It’s expensive to live in Florida, to get into something at a good price. I think (interest) rates will come off in 2025 and that will add a new dynamic to the market.”

“We took a right route,” he predicts. “Young people today can’t buy a home because it’s too expensive, and this is a perfect range of starter. Rents continue to climb but a mortgage doesn’t.”

Envy Pompano Beach, a new community built just a few years ago, features two buildings, each 14 stories tall. There, condo sales will start to the general public in late January, Jago said. The community’s new name could be either Envy Condos or Envy Residences, and sales will start at $350,000 and reach $1 million, he said.

Brittani Rivera said she has lived with her husband at Envy Pompano Beach, paying $3,600 a month for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence.

As the conversion was announced, she said they were given options: She said she was offered a chance to buy her home for $700,000, or less than it will be offered on the market.

Rivera said she and her husband declined, but took advantage of the offer to lease for another year. Then, they’ll move and shop for a house nearby instead, she said. She feels she can buy a bigger home for less money and “ultimately have more space,” she said.

Pompano Beach Mayor Rex Hardin said city officials always knew a condo conversion would happen for Envy. He said the original developer told him that the project was built with upscale amenities to “allow for future conversion when the market was right,” Hardin said.

“It was built as condos, with that in mind. It was destined to become condos eventually,” he said. “We need more housing, whether it’s condos or apartments.”

In addition to Envy, Jago’s company also owns Circ Apartment Residences in Hollywood, which could be renamed Circ Condominiums or Circ Residences as an apartment-to-condo conversion.

(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Peter Jago, the managing director of GCF Development, at the Circ Apartment Residences in Hollywood on Dec. 19, 2024. The building will be converted to condos. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

The project is 25 stories and 386 units. Circ officially began sales as condos in November for the one-, two-, and three-bedroom condominium homes.

The homes are being advertised as having oversized windows and expansive patios that offer “enchanting views of ArtsPark, Young Circle, or the picturesque Hollywood Beach, right at residents’ doorsteps.”

He said the project was built five years ago as rental apartments “because the market was not ready for condos.”

When the condo market came to what he called a “grinding halt, collapsed,” in 2007 and 2008, it took “many years to turn around.”

Jago said there is currently a “massive shortage of condos (between) $400,000 and $1.5 million.” These units are in downtown Hollywood, but since it is less than a mile from the ocean, there is an ocean view. “That’s where the shortage lies,” he said. “On the ocean is very expensive, there’s not a hell of a lot of availability.”

The process of a conversion takes about a year, with laws dictating the rights of tenants for both the notice and their first right of purchase, he said.

Housing experts say the trend of condo conversions could be returning. Featured here is the Circ Apartment Residences in Hollywood on Dec. 19, 2024 that will be converted. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel) Planning changes

Another condo conversion plan also is underway in another city: S2 Development President Marc Schmulian purchased the six-building Atlantica project in Dania Beach before it opened as rental apartments, he said.

It is now condos, and the first residents started moving in earlier in December.

The Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office said it is just now starting the process of creating new parcel identifications because it received the “Declaration of Condominium” documents showing it has been converted.

Schmulian said the project, which is walking distance to the beach, is the only new product on the market east of Federal Highway between Pompano and Bal Harbour that is less than a decade old and units less than a million dollars.

His units are selling from $450,000 to $760,000. Each of Atlantica’s six buildings are three stories tall, and the project has a total of 124 homes. A seventh building is reserved for amenities including a dog park.

(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Featured here is the sales office at Circ Apartment Residences in Hollywood on Dec. 19, 2024. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Schmulian said he pounced on the opportunity to buy the project because he anticipates the market changing because interest rates are coming down.

“When (interest) rates start to come down, there’s more appetite to buy than rent,” he said.

Developers, as part of their job, “try to preempt and anticipate what the market is going to do. The problem is developers are always two to three years in the process because that’s how long it takes to get from A to B.”

But a condo conversion gives you immediate inventory, he said, for times when “you see the writing on the wall, when there’s a lack of for-sale inventory and you want to get to the market much quicker than putting a shovel in the ground and waiting two-three years for a project.”

Preconstruction sales appeal to buyers who are “buying a dream, buying a lifestyle,” he said. “Whereas if you’re buying into an existing building, you know what you’re buying. You can see and touch and you can live that lifestyle from Day 1.”

Housing trends

Keeping an eye on the housing market has been Jack McCabe, a Deerfield Beach-based housing analyst.

“I think we can expect to see more, we’re on the cutting edge of it happening again,” McCabe said of condo conversions.

One of the last times that condo conversions were at their height was in the early 2000s. Prices had gotten so high on new condominiums and single-family homes that the majority of the South Florida population was priced out of buying, he said.

“So developers saw this and saw they could buy apartment complexes at a relatively cheap price per unit and do some cosmetic improvements … and resell them for $200,000 to $500,000 because that was the height at the time. And they were buying the units for $40,000-$80,000 each.”

Then came the Great Recession, which resulted after losses on subprime mortgages struck the U.S. housing market.

Today, McCabe expects more developers to buy older apartment buildings and tear them down “to the studs” and build brand new, or just spruce up newly built buildings yet again. It comes down to finding places to build new homes, since Broward County is considered built out, but still growing.

Lisa J. Huriash can be reached at lhuriash@sunsentinel.com. Follow on X, formerly Twitter, @LisaHuriash

I worked hard my whole career and retired feeling secure. Then I lost every last dime in a scam. I was left with $1,300 a month in Social Security benefits to live on in an area where monthly expenses run about $3,700.

I’m a smart woman, but scams against older Americans are increasing in number and sophistication. Whether through scams, strained savings or costs of living going up, half of older Americans — that’s 27 million households — can’t afford their basic needs.

And suddenly, I became one of them. The experience has taught me a lot about the value of a strong social safety net — and why we’ll need to protect it from the coming administration.

Sherlea Dony is a retired American Sign Language interpreter. (courtesy, Sherlea Dony)

I was ashamed and frightened after what happened, but I scraped myself up off the floor and tried to make the best of it. I reached out to a local nonprofit and they came through with flying colors, connecting me to life-saving federal assistance programs.

I was assigned a caseworker, who guided me through applying for public programs like the Medical Savings Plan (MSP), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), subsidized housing, Medicare Part D and Medicaid.

It’s hard to describe my relief at getting this help.

Before receiving the MSP, I’d been paying for medications and health insurance — which cost about $200 — out of my monthly Social Security check. With MSP, that cost is covered. I also found an apartment I liked through subsidized housing, and I have more money for groceries through SNAP. Now it’s easier to afford other necessities, like hearing aid batteries and my asthma inhaler.

But I’m worried about the incoming administration’s plans to cut programs like these, which have helped me so much. They’re proposing slashing funding and imposing overly burdensome work and reporting requirements. Studies show that requirements like these can cause millions of otherwise eligible people to lose critical assistance.

President-elect Trump has also indicated that he favors increased privatization of Medicare, which would result in higher costs and less care. And his tax promises are projected to move up the insolvency date of Social Security.

All told, the federal budget cuts the incoming Republican majority in Congress has put forward would slash health care, food and housing by trillions over the next 10 years, resulting in at least a 50% reduction in these services. And they plan to divert those investments in us into more tax cuts for the nation’s very wealthiest.

I want lawmakers of each party to know how important these social investments are for seniors and families. Older Americans — who’ve worked hard all our lives — shouldn’t be pushed out onto the streets, forced to go without sufficient food or health care due to unfortunate circumstances.

We have the tax dollars — the question is whether we have the political will to invest in seniors, workers and families, or only for tax cuts for the very rich. If we do the latter, that’s the real scam.

Sherlea Dony is a retired American Sign Language interpreter, consultant on access services for students who are deaf and hard of hearing, and copy editor currently living in Rochester, New York. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.