Who is to Blame: For Collapse of Champlain Towers, Surfside from a Real Estate Perspective? By Local Realtor Ricardo Wolf July 29, 2021 Share On Thursday, June 24th, the Champlain Condo Tower South, in the small beach community of Surfside Florida, had collapsed The South Florida market is unique, desirable and increasingly expensive. Why have some of our small beach communities and charming coastal cities deviated so aggressively from previous long term ambitions? In order to understand the motivation behind the high-rise, high density and high-priced displays of modern architecture, one must examine previous CDMPs, or Comprehensive Development Master Plans. On Thursday, June 24th, the Champlain Condo Tower South, in the small beach community of Surfside Florida, had collapsed. As someone who grew up in coastal Miami-Dade since the mid-seventies, this news reawakened feelings of sadness not experienced since September 11th and a certain deja-vu. But, unlike September 11th, after weeks of search and rescue efforts, an unwavering commitment by the world’s leading disaster response teams and implementation of immense resources, machinery and technology, we are still clueless in determining how this could have ever happened. This severe structural failure causing a building to pancake to the ground, similar to a professionally executed controlled blast, has never happened before in this country. The Champlain towers are also not decrepit forty-year-old buildings; these are staple, luxury properties, very well maintained that marked a new era in luxury condo construction in South Florida. The City of Surfside is an unlikely candidate when it comes to lack of vigilance or enforcement by the city, county or state authorities, primarily because of Surfside’s size, density and relative wealth. Surfside is a tiny beach community that sits between Miami Beach and Bal Harbour on the Atlantic Ocean, consisting of just 361 acres of land and under 6,000 residents. The community is made up primarily of single-family homes, with commercial and retail standing just west of the beaches and a strip of hotels and condos along A1A and the beach. The city was chartered in 1935, with the signatures of 35 founding residents, and it remains one of the few coastal communities that has successfully preserved the overall appeal and lifestyle residents have grown to love. Due to the area’s exceptional location and access to deep waterways and Biscayne Bay to the west, and the white sand beaches off the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Surfside naturally evolved into an area favored by lifelong Floridians and affluent domestic and international buyers. The city has always preserved it’s intrinsic appeal, finding a balance between the financial obligations of the city, the needs of a small business community and the uncompromising expectations of residents. That said, life-long residents in South Florida can attest to occasionally walking under rusted underground pipes, rusted metal columns, exposed and corroded rebar, support columns with chunks missing due to car accidents, roofing problems, poor plumbing, electrical concerns and occasional flooding. These older beachfront structures did not have the benefits of modern-day materials, superior engineering, state-of-the-art technology and building codes that have continued to evolve beyond the construction date of the Champlain condo development. But do these shortcomings imply that the hundreds of buildings constructed forty-years ago or more have a real potential of being unsafe? If so, the implications for all condo development activities would be severe and cast serious doubt about the long-term viability of condo ownership. But, buildings, especially those designed to withstand hurricanes and the elements of salt, severe heat and tropical rains, do not crumble to the ground, antiquated codes or not, without a very powerful trigger. So why are we witnessing this knee jerk reaction to start taking an uncompromising look at residential buildings, all while city and county agencies scramble to play catch up inspecting older structures that have for years gone overlooked? A liability nightmare that could hurt the city, county and State, while creating financial calamity for industry and property owners. These cities will be asked to explain why structures are being vacated for issues that had been previously ignored and deemed inconsequential to safety. Could These extreme cases have been mitigated through proper inspections and enforcement of an already strict building, zoning, and public safety codes? Who is responsible for making sure these buildings remain safe and for the circumstances condo owners find themselves in today? One should not blame unit owners, board members, handymen or even condo management companies, since none are qualified to make these kinds of structural assessments. This is why we have governmental agencies and local building, zoning and planning departments, required to direct builders and residents on matters that fall beyond their expected scope of knowledge and expertise. However, many buildings employ general repair personnel, frequently asked to perform minor structural repair work, so it is common to see damages being patched up and painted, using pumps to resolve flooding issues, without the knowledge or direction of the city. From the unit owner’s point of view, they are maintaining the property and addressing issues as quickly as their finances will permit. However, one can’t detect issues they no longer can see, so a well-intentioned repair could result in allowing a small issue to fester and evolve into a cancer that will, over time, compromise the structural integrity of a building. In Surfside’s case, one can only assume that there must be something else that caused this building to fall. Implying that condo board members, residents, contractors or building staff should bear the responsibility is absurd. Condo board members are owner/managers that work without compensation on the behalf of the residents of a condominium community. While they may hold flashy titles, they are frequently under qualified and disinterested. Condo Associations are notorious for putting off costly special assessments, especially when applied to expenses that can’t be seen or enjoyed and have not created an inconvenience or danger to the property and residents. Without diligent inspections and enforcement, it is extremely difficult for a board to insist they raise the funds to get repairs addressed. It is the local and state government’s role to investigate, identify and enforce building and zoning code violations while prioritizing public safety. But, when you’re busy successfully recreating a small city into a modern playground for the rich, there is a tendency to experience a lack of organization and leadership, complacency and lack of oversight. Add inflated egos and an enormous amount of money being generated into the mix and you could have a serious problem. What happened in Surfside will have enormous implications for older condo developments and generate millions in lawsuits and special assessments. It will also give birth to the usual price gouging, unscrupulous contractors and unwarranted pressure on condo boards and homeowners to make costly repairs immediately, or suffer dire consequences. Local agencies’ must anticipate what will come next and we are ready to serve and protect those most affected, particularly those in middle to lower income areas, the elderly and retirees living in older, under serviced buildings. It will not take much to create a financial crisis for homeowners, while crippling and displacing others. The price tag to get many of these neglected buildings back to a satisfactory condition may prove to be financially unfeasible for many. In many cases, the amount of work required and the costs to do the work will exceed the value of the unit owner's property. This will inevitably force property owners to either assume a staggering, unmanageable and usually unwise financial obligation, or risk losing their homes. When condo owners are in a situation where many cannot afford to assume these liabilities, they must look at another option, and fortunately for some, there may be one to consider. Due to an overwhelming demand for land in South Florida, many of these problematic properties are well positioned, with large and valuable parcels of land. That land does not represent a monetary value to the owners individually, only a liability, unless a majority of unit owners collectively decide to sell the entire complex for future redevelopment. One must consider that structural repairs require obtaining a bank loan, establishing long-term assessment to all unit owners, committing to months of evaluations and preparations, and then initiating a long and highly intrusive reconstruction process. While this option may ease the minds of condo unit owners, it will also create huge financial debts, while diminishing unit owner equity, destroying property values and their properties' marketability. Getting a large number of unit owners to approve the sale of an entire condo development is complicated and difficult, especially on properties located on intrinsically valuable land sites. However, under these circumstances, buyers and sellers have a very strong motivation to get a purchase and sale completed. Developers will pay a huge number for the land of any problematic property, as long as it is in a desirable location. Redevelop-ment activities are also highly desirable for a city and county, since replacing older structures with newer, safer, modern structures is always an improvement. Developers are also frequently required to make substantial investments in city owned infrastructure, public spaces and pedestrian walkways and other beautification, safety and functionality requirements as part of their construction approval process. This is all accomplished while generating a great number of jobs and a virtual windfall of re-valuated property taxes for the government agencies. Unfortunately, unscrupulous individuals will look at this dilemma as an opportunity to hijack troubled properties, while portraying themselves as modern-day Robin Hoods. If this becomes a new reality for condo owners, it will be essential for elected officials to have a short and long-term plan on how to guide condo-associations and property owners through the process, while protecting them from being taken advantage of. In order to ensure owners are permitted to properly evaluating their options, bid out repair work, determine their properties’ land fair market value and to initiate their best course of action, they will need guidance and protection. Our cities, counties and the State must take a proactive approach to ensure there is a process in place to handle these unprecedented situations without further disrupting or destroying lives. Protecting residents is the primary role of our government agencies, and while we still haven’t determined who is to blame for this catastrophic situation, we must not unjustly penalize homeowners. We are still far from understanding how a quality building like the Champlain Tower South can crumble to the ground in the manner which it did. All this ominous conversation about possible future collapses and changes to building codes, board member neglect or complacency by inspectors may be an important conversation to have, but could prove to be irrelevant in ascertaining the root cause for the collapse in Surfside. All we can do is wait and see what the investigations turn up, focus on supporting those affected and praying that everyone involved approaches this critical moment in South Florida’s history with a desire to protect the most vulnerable and to ensure this kind of event is never repeated. More about Wolf Realty Wolf has been developing and brokering South Florida residential and commercial real estate since 1970. We have developed dozens of commercial and residential projects and have sold well over a billion in luxury residential homes and condos through the united states and also internationally. Today we are focusing on representing buys and sellers on luxury properties as well as placing clients on coastal Florida markets that have historically been overlooked. Website URLs: http://www.wolfgroupmiami.com < Previous News Next News >

Christmas With Love: The Concert Featuring Leah Rae December 12, 2022 Share Join Captain Sandy Yawn as she welcomes the Holiday Season with recording artist, Leah Rae. With singing careers in Gospel and secular music, Leah's passion is in Modern Country Music which allows her to express herself in a raw and authentic way. Joining Leah in this Holiday extravaganza will be Grammy nominated producer Kent Wells and Emily Benford from the hit tv series, The Voice. Captain Sandy Yawn, a Fort Lauderdale native with over three decades of yachting experience, is one of the most respected captains in the industry. Star of Bravo's Below Deck Mediterranean, Captain Sandy is excited to host this charitable event to benefit her new portfolio of marine charities. A special VIP option is available for this event which will include a Pre-concert Meet & Greet with Captain Sandy & surprise Bravolebrities, and a VIP Swag Bag. VIP guests will have the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Captain Sandy’s new book, Be the Calm or Be the Storm. Vip Packages A special VIP option is available for this event which will include a Pre-concert Meet & Greet with Captain Sandy & surprise Bravolebrities, and a a VIP Swag Bag. VIP guests will have the opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Captain Sandy’s new book, Be the Calm or Be the Storm. This special VIP event will take place starting at 5:30 PM before the show and go thru 6:30 PM. Late arrivals may not be able to take advantage of all the benefits included in this package. Tickets Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Tickets start at $55 and you can purchase tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - by phone at: 877.311.7469. Or: 954.462.0222 or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: 954.660.6307. Parking Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School. Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. We accept major credit cards or mobile payment apps including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at: 3385 N.E. 188 Street in Aventura. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter. < Previous News Next News >

Gobble Up SoFlo: The Hottest Spots For Dine-In And Takeout Thanksgiving Feasts South Florida Sun Times Nov 19, 2025 Thanksgiving In South Florida Is More Than Just Turkey And Pumpkin Pie—It’s A Culinary Celebration Infused With Global Flavors, Coastal Flair And Sunshine-Soaked Hospitality. Whether You’re Craving A Spanish-Inspired Feast, A Refined International Dinner, Or A Laid-Back Oceanside Meal, SoFlo’s Vibrant Dining Scene Offers Countless Ways To Give Thanks Without Lifting A Finger In The Kitchen. From Coral Gables To Fort Lauderdale, Restaurants Are Rolling Out Indulgent Dine-In Experiences And Gourmet Takeout Options Perfect For Gatherings Big And Small. This Year, Skip The Stress Of Cooking And Let Some Of The Region’s Top Chefs Craft Your Holiday Spread—Think Roasted Turkey With Guava-Morita Mole, Almond-Studded Green Beans, Tequila-Glazed Ham And Decadent Desserts Like Tres Leches De Turrón And Goat Cheese Flan. Whether You’re picking Up A Family-Sized Feast To Enjoy At Home Or Reserving A Festive Table With An Ocean View, These Standout Spots Across Miami-Dade And Broward Are Ready To Make Your Thanksgiving Deliciously Memorable. Here’s Your Guide To Where To Eat (Dine-In Or Take Out) On Thanksgiving In SoFlo. Miami-Dade: Arcano Arcano invites guests to celebrate Thanksgiving with a Spanish twist through its Thanksgiving To-Go Feast, a vibrant, chef-crafted spread designed to serve 8–10 guests for $225. Blending holiday comfort with Spanish flair, the menu includes an array of dishes thoughtfully prepared for an effortless, flavorful gathering at home. Guests will begin with Ensalada Mixta, featuring living lettuce, carrots, red pearl onions, and cabbage tossed in a mustard-sherry vinaigrette, alongside the traditional Tortilla de Patatas y Cebolla, a classic Spanish potato and onion tortilla. For the main course, guests will select either Pavo Asado en Salsa, herb-roasted turkey with giblet gravy, or Brasado de Cordero, roasted spiced lamb shoulder with pan jus. Complementary sides include Pure de Patatas with chives; Almendra de Judias Verdes green beans amandine with butter and almonds; Pan de Cacao with honey butter; Arroz Tropical with jasmine rice, coconut, pineapple and mint; Relleno with sausage, soffrito, bread stuffing, Salsa de Arandano y Naranja and a cranberry, orange and vermouth sauce. To finish, guests may choose between two indulgent desserts: Tres Leches de Turron, an almond sponge cake with Spanish nougat, milk cream and meringue or Flan de Queso de Cabra con Higos, a goat cheese flan with caramel and fig glaze. Preorders are now available, offering an opportunity to bring Arcano’s signature Spanish-inspired flavors home for a truly memorable Thanksgiving celebration. Pick-up or delivery will be available on Wednesday, November 26th. Arcano is located at 259 Giralda Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. For more information or to place your order, visit: https://arcanomiami.com/ Babette This Thanksgiving, Babette’s invites guests to celebrate the holiday with a refined, globally inspired feast that showcases the restaurant’s signature elegance and creativity. The Thanksgiving Dinner begins with a velvety Roasted Pumpkin and Seven Spices Soup, followed by Little Gem Lettuce dressed in a delicate truffle vinaigrette with migas and ginger scallions. For the main course, diners may choose between Roasted Turkey, Roasted Suckling Pig “Iberico,” or Branzino, each accompanied by classic holiday sides including stuffing, haricots verts, pumpkin casserole, and cranberry sauce. To finish, guests can indulge in a choice of Apple Millefeuilles or Les Deux Chocolats for dessert. Priced at $99 per person, the experience may be enhanced with Chef’s selection wine pairings for an additional $45, making Babette’s Thanksgiving a sophisticated and memorable culinary celebration. For those wishing to enjoy Babette’s flavors at home, a Thanksgiving To-Go Dinner for Two is available for $140, offering the same thoughtful preparation and festive spirit in the comfort of your own dining room. Babette is located at 301 Alcazar Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. For more information or to make a reservation, visit: https://babettemiami.com/ Toro Toro Celebrate Thanksgiving at Toro Toro, Chef/Restaurateur Richard Sandoval’s acclaimed Pan-Latin steakhouse inside the InterContinental Miami. On Thursday, November 27th from Noon to 10:00 p.m., guests can enjoy a special prixe-fixe Thanksgiving menu featuring a variety of seasonal holiday dishes. Start your holiday feast with a choice of starters including Yellow Courgette Soup with Tequila marinated strawberries, charred green peas and crispy shallots; Crispy Honey Apple Salad with Goat Cheese foam, caramelized cancha corn, endives, pomegranate, golden beets puree and white balsamic dressing. For the main course, guests can choose between Oven Roasted Turkey Breast served with creamy guava-morita mole, Granny Smith apple bread stuffing, watercress salad and prune au jus and Pan Seared Halibut accompanied by green beans, tomato curd, mojo verde and sweet potato mash. A Thanksgiving feast is incomplete without delicious desserts and as such, Toro Toro is offering Zucca E Crema with mascarpone cheese, pumpkin puree, lady fingers, espresso coffee and liquor. Advance reservations are encouraged and can be made on www.OpenTable.com . For more information, visit: www.torotoromiami.com/thanksgiving - Phone: (305) 372-4710. Broward: La Fuga On Thanksgiving Day, guests can look forward to a four-course Italian-American Thanksgiving feast for the family priced at $75++ per person, $40 for kids under 12 by reservation only. The evening will start with Antipasti including a selection of Assorted Cured Salumi & Cheese served with olives, roasted peppers, artichokes, sourdough and signature table oil and Bruschetta. For Primi, – first course in Italian – Lasagna al Forno di Melanzane and Nonna’s Sunday Gravy and Bucatini. Secondi, main course options include Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast and Turkey Leg Confit served with sweet potato mashed, green bean casserole, Italian sausage dressing and cranberry sauce. The holiday meal will finish on a sweet note with several Dolci treats including Pistachio & Chocolate Chip Cannolis, and Pumpkin & Pecan Tarts. For those interested in enjoying just the main course, the restaurant is offering “The Plate,” $40++ per person and $25 for kids under 12 which includes the herb-roasted turkey breast and turkey leg confit with all of the fixings. Advance reservations are encouraged and can be booked on: www.OpenTable.com. La Fuga is located at 2900 Riomar Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 at the Kimpton Shorebreak in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit: www.lafugarestaurant.com ; Telephone: (954) 908-7308. Lona Cocina & Tequileria Celebrate Thanksgiving oceanside with a Mexican-style feast at Lona Cocina & Tequileria on Fort Lauderdale beach. On Thanksgiving Day, the restaurant is offering a special holiday menu for $40++ per person. Curated by Chef de Cuisine Juan Carlos Peña, the delicious menu offers a traditional Thanksgiving feast with a Mexican twist and begins with Sweet Cornbread for the table. The main course, served with holiday ‘salsas’ including turkey gravy and cranberry sauce, offers guests a choice between Slow-Roasted Turkey Breast or Tequila-Glazed Ham; accompanied by side dishes of Mashed Potatoes and Green Beans Al Ajillo. Diners can also add a tequila twist to Thanksgiving and pair the feast with a specialty Salted Caramel Apple Margarita crafted with tequila, apple cider, caramel syrup, triple sec and lime juice, served with a salted caramel rim ($15). Lona’s full a la carte dinner menu will also be available on Thanksgiving Day. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online on: www.OpenTable.com. Lona is located at The Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort at 321 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Boulevard. Discounted valet parking is available. For more information, visit: www.lonarestaurant.com - Telephone: (954) 245-3069. Instagram: @lonarestaurantfll Sufrat Mediterranean Grill Family-owned and celebrated for its welcoming hospitality and traditional flavors, Sufrat Mediterranean Grill has become a South Florida favorite. Founded by the Altillawi brothers from Jordan, Sufrat offers a menu rooted in authentic Mediterranean recipes meant for sharing, from falafel and chargrilled octopus to lamb chops and customizable mixed grill platters. Kicking off on Friday, November 14th, Sufrat will debut a special “Shukran Dish & Platter;” (shukran means “thank you” in Arabic) for the Thanksgiving season. A portion of proceeds from each platter sold will be donated to Feeding South Florida, supporting their mission to end hunger in our community. The Shukran Dish: $18 includes 2 Ground Turkey Kabobs with Tzatziki and a side of sweet potato mash and the Shukran Feast: $90 – that feeds 6 people – includes 6 Chicken Kebabs and 6 Turkey Kebabs with Tzatziki and a side of Sweet Potato Mash and Basmati Rice. This special will run through the end of November at all locations. For those looking to skip the cooking and mess this holiday season or interested in bringing something impressive to your Thanksgiving feast, Sufrat’s catering platters have you covered. See below for the three holiday packages, available at all locations. • Holiday Catering Feast #1 - $300 – serves 10 people Sufrat Sampler: Large Hummus, Baba Ganough, Tzatziki, 8 Kibbeh, 8 Grape Leaves and Pita, Large Sufrat Combo: 6 Chicken Kebabs, 6 Beef Kebabs, 4 Kefta, 6 Lamb Chops, portion of Chicken Shawarma and Beef Shawarma, Basmati Rice and Greek Salad. • Holiday Catering Feast #2 - $220 – serves 10 people Sufrat Dip Sampler: Large Hummus, Baba Ganough, Labneh, Muhammara, and Pita, Sufrat Roastery (½ tray Chicken Shawarma and ½ tray Gyro), Basmati Rice and Greek Salad • Holiday Catering Feast #3: $220 – serves 10 people Sufrat Dip Sampler: Large Hummus, Baba Ganough, Labneh, Muhammara and Pita, Sufrat Build Your Own Combo: 24 skewers of your pick of one or more of: Chicken Kebab Skewers, Beef Kebab Skewers, Kofta Kebab Skewers, Shrimp Kebabs with Basmati Rice, Yellow or Angel Hair and Greek Salad. Sufrat has three South Florida locations: Pines City Center, Pembroke Pines located at 10430 Pines Boulevard, Suite#: C101, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33026; Doral Yard, located at 8455 Northwest 53rd Street, Suite#: 106, Doral, Florida 33166 and Miami Beach located at 1570 Alton Road, Suite#; C, Miami Beach, Florida 33139. On Thanksgiving Day, all stores will close at 4:00 p.m. Hours vary by location: Monday–Thursday, 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.; Friday & Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. For reservations or more information, visit: www.sufratgrill.com - Or follow: @sufratgrill on Instagram. Previous Next

A Spine-Tingling October: Musical Thrills And Supernatural Chills All Month October 13, 2022 Share There is no need to wait for Halloween to experience spine-tingling excitement this October when the Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker hosts musicians Tauren Wells, Weird Al Yankovic, YES, Steve Vai and Amos Lee along with the jaw-dropping stage antics of Bill Blagg and an incredible evening with paranormal expert Josh Gates. "Weird Al" Yankovic presents his “The Unfortunate Return Of The Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour” with Special Guest Emo Philips on Wednesday, October 12th, 2022 and Thursday, October 13th, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. on both evenings. For the second time in his storied career, the world's foremost musical satirist and five-time Grammy Winner foregoes his usual high-octane, big-production show for an intimate evening of music, focusing on original non-parody songs from his 14 Album Catalog. The biggest selling comedy recording artist of all time, he saw his 2014 release Mandatory Fun become the first Comedy Album in history to debut at Number 1 on Billboard’s Top 200. Yankovic is one of only five artists along with Michael Jackson, Madonna, U2 and Kenny G. to have Top 40 Singles in each of the last four decades. Philips has performed more than 7,000 stand-up comedy shows across the globe including a two week theater run in London’s West End. Tickets for the show are $47.50 - $97.50 with $339 VIP Tickets that include a meet and greet with the artist and other exclusives. An Evening with YES: Close To The Edge “50th Anniversary Tour” comes to the Lillian S. Wells Hall in a concert presented by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, October 14th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. A pioneer of progressive rock, YES has achieved worldwide success through a prolific and enduring music career spanning 45 years and 20 Studio Albums. The band's current line-up consists of core members: Steve Howe on Guitars along with Keyboardist Geoff Downes, Singer Jon Davison and Bassist Billy Sherwood. With an ever growing fan base, YES continues to electrify audiences with its daunting virtuosity, cosmic lyrics, complex musical textures and powerful lead vocals. It’s an unforgettable evening of YES at its best, featuring its existential prog masterworks and instrumental pyrotechnics. Tickets are $59.50 - $129.50 with VIP Packages priced at $219 and $249 that offer various exclusives. Called "Unbelievable!" by USA Today and "Absolutely Incredible!" by Chicago Tribune, The Magic of Bill Blagg Live! is presented on Sunday, October 16th, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. Blagg's show combines his mind-blowing magical talents along with his trademark off-the-cuff personality that takes audiences on a magical journey as they witness objects float in mid-air and vanish in the blink of an eye in an interactive magic experience of jaw dropping illusions. Tickets are $29 - $39. Virtuoso Guitarist, visionary composer and consummate Producer Steve Vai brings his “Inviolate Tour” to The Parker on Wednesday, October 19th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Sculpting musical sound with infinite creativity and technical mastery, Vai continues to use unbridled guitar virtuosity and soulful artistry to explore the spectrum of human emotion. At age 12, he started taking guitar lessons from Joe Satriani. At 18, he began his professional musical career transcribing for and then playing with the legendary Frank Zappa. More than three decades later, he has 15 Million Album sales and three Grammy Awards. Tickets are $40.50 - $72.50 with VIP Packages ranging from $207.50 - $1,582.50 offering varying exclusives. Josh Gates Live! delivers “An Evening of Ghosts, Monsters and Tales of Adventure” on Thursday, October 20th, 2022 at 8:00 p.m. Gates is an explorer, author and intrepid investigator from Discovery Channel's smash-hit series Expedition Unknown and Syfy's Destination Truth. He will share lore and legends from his most spine-tingling expeditions from cases involving puzzling paranormal encounters to reports of cryptozoological creatures. Gates transports his audience into the world of the unexplained and keeps them on the edge of their seats. Tickets are $37 - $75 with a $100 VIP Package that includes a meet and greet with the artist. Amos Lee with Special Guest Slim Dan performs Saturday, October 22nd, 2022 at 7:30 p.m. With one foot in the real world and the other in a charmed dimension of his own making, Lee creates the rare kind of music that's emotionally raw yet touched with a certain magical quality. On his eighth album, Dreamland, the Philadelphia-born Singer/Songwriter intimately documents his real-world struggles with alienation, anxiety, loneliness, despair, an outpouring born from deliberate and often painful self-examination. Tickets are $54.50-$79.50. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of The Parker. You can purchase tickets online at: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com and at: www.Ticketmaster.com ; By phone at: (954) 462-0222. In person at The Parker box office and the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office. About The Parker The Parker is Fort Lauderdale’s iconic, heritage theater presenting concerts, comedy, dance, family fare and more. Beautifully renovated in 2021, The Parker offers audiences enhanced entertainment and hospitality experiences. The Neo-classical Lillian S. Wells Hall features outstanding acoustics, unobstructed sightlines, wide rows and continental seating. The grand S. Donald Sussman Lobby, the intimate Haller Club and the Private Member’s Lounge, The Place To Be, provide ample opportunities for audiences to enjoy culture, cocktails and conversation with every visit to the theater. The Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker is located in Holiday Park at 707 Northeast Eighth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33304 for more information, visit: www.ParkerPlayhouse.com . < Previous News Next News >

Keller’s Korner - 2026 College Football Championship Game By Neil Keller Feb 17, 2026 Welcome To Keller’s Korner. The 2026 College Football Championship At Hard Rock Stadium Delivered One Of The Most Compelling Storylines In The History Of The College Football Playoffs. Miami Became The First Program Ever To Play For The National Title On Its Home Field, While Indiana—Long Considered The Worst Team In Power 4 History—Completed An Unlikely Cinderella Run To The Championship Stage. Layered atop the historic matchup was a rich cultural connection: Miami Head Coach Mario Cristobal and Indiana’s Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza both share Cuban-American roots and both played football at Christopher Columbus High School in Miami. With the local excitement, record-breaking ticket demand, and a “Hoosierslike” underdog narrative, the stage was set for a memorable night. The game sold out quickly, and energy filled every corner of Hard Rock Stadium. Throughout the week, I had the opportunity to speak with coaches, players, media members, and—given my frequent focus—several Jewish figures surrounding the event. Rather than asking the same standard questions, I aimed for unique angles that captured the human side of this championship. Curt Cignetti, Indiana Head Coach When I asked Coach Cignetti who inspired him to become the leader he is today, he did not hesitate: his father. “He was a great role model growing up,” Cignetti said. “I was the oldest of four children, and he led by example. He had a presence, a great work ethic, and disciplined commitment.” He recounted how his father coached at Pitt, Princeton, and alongside Bobby Bowden at West Virginia before becoming WVU’s head coach in 1976. Tragically, cancer cut his tenure short at WVU during Curt’s senior year of high school. “He didn’t get to finish what he started,” he reflected, “but he was my big inspiration. My Dad went on to have an amazing coaching career at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.” Mario Cristobal, Miami Head Coach With Miami staying at the Fontainebleau rather than their Coral Gables campus, I asked Cristobal whether the change of routine was a distraction. “We’re in a great routine,” he said. “The Fontainebleau is awesome, and we are in isolation—if you go over there, it looks like Fort Knox. We have the right people. They know how important it is to be locked in, and we came to the right spot.” Carson Beck, Miami Quarterback When I asked how he liked hotel life compared to campus, Beck lit up. “I love it,” he said. “Being in the hotel lets you lock in. It’s football, sleep, football, sleep and then repeat. If I have a question, I just walk downstairs to a meeting room. It keeps me focused.” Fernando Mendoza, Indiana Quarterback Given his Miami roots, I asked Fernando whether he dreamed of playing for the Miami Dolphins—or perhaps the Indianapolis Colts. “My favorite team to play for would be the Indiana Hoosiers—especially on Monday night,” he said. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The NFL is a blessing, but I’m staying in the present. I’m focused on this National Championship. God bless.” Roman Hemby, Indiana Running Back Roman’s interview felt personal, as he transferred from my alma mater, the University of Maryland. He told me, “Being a Terp alum is something that is in my heart forever. After my career here, I want to pursue the NFL—God willing, a long career—and maybe get on ESPN one day.” When I joked that he could make Maryland fans happy by joining the Washington Commanders, he laughed. “That would be awesome. I would be blessed to play anywhere. If any team takes a shot on me, I will repay them with hard work and dedication.” Alberto Mendoza, Indiana Backup Quarterback I asked Alberto to share something unusual about his older brother, Fernando. Laughing, he said, “He is not a good singer. You do not want to hear him sing. Trust me.” With Pitbull performing the halftime show, Alberto added, “He is definitely no Pitbull.” Andrew Cohen, Miami Wide Receiver (Redshirt) As the only Jewish player on Miami’s roster, Andrew shared his plans beyond football. “I loved my experience at Miami,” he said. “After I leave, I would love to move to Denver and get into snowboarding.” Ian Plaskoff, Hoosier Network Reporter Ian, a student reporter for Indiana, offered his prediction. “I feel confident Indiana will put up enough points to win,” he said. This was his first year covering the team—one he called “so much fun”—missing only the Oregon game. Dave Revsine, Lead Studio Host, Big Ten Network As a longtime viewer of the BTN, it was a pleasure to speak with Dave as I often watch him on television. He told me he has been with the network since its 2007 launch and considers college football and basketball tied as his favorite sports to cover. On Indiana’s rise? “This is perhaps the most amazing sports story I have ever covered,” he said. “To think a school with the most losses in the history of the sport—one that won one conference game two seasons ago and needed four overtimes to beat Akron—could go undefeated and play for a National Championship is mindboggling.” Brett Daniels, Director of Communications, College Football Playoff Brett shared that he has spent five years with the college football playoffs and previously worked on Super Bowls and Final Fours. “It is impressive to see the excitement for this game,” he said. “It shows the passion fans have to buy tickets.” A Championship for the Ages More than 67,000 fans packed Hard Rock Stadium for the soldout showdown. In a thrilling finish to a miraculous season, Indiana defeated Miami 27–21, completing one of the greatest turnarounds in college football history. Celebrities such as Pitbull, Tom Brady, Michael Irvin, and Mark Cuban joined the crowd in witnessing a night that college football fans will not soon forget. Neil Keller is a Jewish historian. Visit: www.NeilKeller.com to learn who is Jewish. (Photo Credit Jeff Friedman) Previous Next

William And Mary Brickell - Founders Of Miami And Fort Lauderdale - Author Beth Brickell’s Book Signing About Two Visionaries Who Helped Shape South Florida’s Industrial Boom Aventura Digest Feb 17, 2026 History Fort Lauderdale, Committed To Preserving Our Collective Heritage, Promoting Historical Literacy, And Fostering A Sense Of Pride And Stewardship For The Vibrant Tapestry Of Our Region's History, And HistoryMiami, Sharing Miami Stories For More Than 80 Years, Will Present Book Signings And Lectures With Beth Brickell, Former Gentle Ben Actress, Producer, Director, And Author Of “Willam And Mary Brickell: Founders Of Miami And Fort Lauderdale” On Saturday, February 21st, 2026. Brickell Will Appear At A Special Breakfast From 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. At History Fort Lauderdale, located at 231 Southwest Second Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312 And Then At A Fireside Chat From 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. At HistoryMiami, Located At 101 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33130 Where She Will Discuss The Pivotal Role William And Mary Brickell Played In Transforming A Frontier Settlement Into A Thriving Urban Center, Offering Fresh Insight Into The Forces That Fueled South Florida’s Growth. Her Broward Appearance Is Part Of History Fort Lauderdale’s “Florida Scribes & Stories,” A Meet The Author Series That Offers Literary And History Enthusiasts A Chance To Speak With Local Authors, Purchase Their Latest Releases And Have Them Signed. Beth Brickell is an actor, award-winning producer, and writer with numerous stage and screen credits. She is most widely recognized for her 1967–69 leading role on the CBS TV adventure series Gentle Ben, which filmed in Miami also starring Dennis Weaver, Clint Howard and their family pet, a 650-pound black bear named Ben. She’s also appeared in The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Marcus Welby, M.D., Bonanza, Hawaii Five-O, and Fantasy Island. In 1972, she appeared in the feature film The Only Way Home, followed by the 1975 movie The Posse and 1977’s Death Game. She has also engaged in film production and investigative journalism, the latter relating to the 1957 disappearance of Maud Crawford. Brickell ceased acting in order to become a directing fellow at the American Film Institute Conservatory in Los Angeles, receiving an MFA in 1978. In the 1980’s, she taught for three years at the Lee Strasberg Institute in New York and Los Angeles, while also directing. She was writer and producer for the award-winning A Rainy Day (1978) which was broadcast on PBS and Summer’s End (1985) on A&E, Nickelodeon, PBS, and Showtime, which won 16 film industry awards. She also wrote, directed, and produced the lauded 2005 holiday movie Mr. Christmas. Brickell has served as chair of the steering committee of the Director’s Guild of American Women, was an Emmy Awards panelist, and served on the grants committee for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. She is president of the independent company Luminous Films Inc. with several projects in development. In addition to “William and Mary Brickell: Founders of Miami and Fort Lauderdale” (2011), Brickell authored “The Disappearance of Maud Crawford” (2013), featuring reprints of her investigative series for the Gazette. She subsequently produced three other books relating to her investigation into Crawford’s disappearance. For the History Fort Lauderdale breakfast which includes food and beverages, tickets are $50 and guests may RSVP to: bit.ly/FloridaScribesBrickell2026 . For the HistoryMiami fireside chat, guests may visit: historymiami.org/event/builders-of-miami-william-and-mary-brickell/ . Members are free; general public tickets are $10. “William and Mary Brickell: Founders of Miami and Fort Lauderdale” books are $25 each and will be available for purchase separately at each venue or via: www.Amazon.com . For more information about History Fort Lauderdale, please call: (954) 463-4431. Or visit: https://historyfortlauderdale.org . About History Fort Lauderdale Since 1962, History Fort Lauderdale has been committed to preserving our collective heritage, promoting historical literacy, and fostering a sense of pride and stewardship for the vibrant tapestry of our region's history. Through dynamic exhibitions, engaging educational programs, and meaningful community initiatives, it strives to connect individuals of all ages and backgrounds with the stories, artifacts, and experiences that shape our shared past, present, and future. Guests to Fort Lauderdale are invited to explore the city’s rich past that is housed in historic buildings on a lushly landscaped campus - the History Museum of Fort Lauderdale situated in the 1905 New River Inn, the 1907 Pioneer House Museum, the 1899 Ivy Cromartie Schoolhouse Museum and the Hoch Research Library, South Florida’s foremost history center housing print resources and newspapers from 1910 - present plus 400,000 archival photos, 2,500 maps and 5,000 architectural blueprints. History Fort Lauderdale is located at 231 Southwest Second Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. Museum tickets are available online at HistoryFortLauderdaleTickets. History Fort Lauderdale is a NonProfit agency supported by memberships, grants and charitable contributions. For more information, call: (954) 463-4431. Or visit us online at: https://historyfortlauderdale.org. Follow us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ftlhistory - And on Instagram: @ftlhistory. Subscribe to us on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/user/FTLhistory . About History Miami HistoryMiami Museum is Miami’s oldest continuously operating cultural institution and a Smithsonian Affiliate. Through exhibitions, programs, research, and collections, the museum safeguards and shares Miami’s stories, connecting people to the past, present, and future of our community. History Miami is located at 101 West Flagler Street, Miami, Florida 33130. For more information, call: (305) 375-1492. Or visit: https://historymiami.org . Previous Next

The Deep State’s Triumph: 2024 And The Erosion Of Liberty By John & Nisha Whitehead January 8, 2025 Share We have become a nation adrift in a sea of government overreach, abuse and corruption. The following is a sobering account of the challenges we faced in 2024, which were marked by the government’s never-ending power grabs and relentless assaults on our civil liberties. 2024 saw a continued rise in government overreach and abuse of power. The militarization of police forces continued unabated, with local departments increasingly resembling extensions of the military. Schools, meant to be places of learning and growth, became more prison-like with the implementation of “safety” measures that criminalize minor infractions and create an environment of fear. The right to private property was further eroded, with the government increasingly empowered to seize assets under various pretexts. The plight of the homeless worsened, with cities criminalizing homelessness and implementing policies designed to make their lives even more difficult. Military veterans, once hailed as heroes, were increasingly treated with suspicion and subjected to surveillance. On almost every front this year, the government overreached and abused its powers. With every new law enacted by federal and state legislatures, every new ruling handed down by government courts, and every new military weapon, invasive tactic and egregious protocol employed by government agents, we were reminded that in the eyes of the government and its corporate accomplices, “we the people” possess no rights except for that which the Deep State grants on an as-needed basis. Surveillance eroded what little privacy we have left. The Surveillance State grew even more pervasive. Facial recognition technology expanded into new areas of our lives, with vast amounts of our biometric data collected, often without our knowledge or consent, eroding our anonymity and enabling unprecedented tracking of our movements. Data breaches continued to expose the vulnerability of our personal information. Free speech continued to be under attack. Protest laws, free speech zones, and other restrictions made it more difficult for citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights. Social Media companies, often in collusion with the government, engaged in censorship of viewpoints they deemed unacceptable. This online censorship creates an echo chamber and limits the free flow of information. The influence of the Deep State and the military-industrial complex continued to grow. Endless wars abroad drained the nation’s resources while doing little to make Americans safer. The military-industrial complex’s grip on almost every aspect of American life tightened. The president became more imperial. Although the Constitution invests the President with very specific, limited powers, in recent years, American presidents have claimed the power to completely and almost unilaterally alter the landscape of this country for good or for ill. The powers amassed by each successive president through the negligence of Congress and the courts—powers which add up to a toolbox of terror for an imperial ruler—empower whoever occupies the Oval Office to act as a dictator, above the law and beyond any real accountability. The presidency itself has become an imperial one with permanent powers. The cost of endless wars drove the nation deeper into debt. Policing the globe and waging endless wars abroad hasn’t made America—or the rest of the world—any safer, but it has made the military industrial complex rich at taxpayer expense. The courts failed to uphold justice. Time and time again, the Supreme Court failed to right the wrongs being meted out by the American police state. A review of critical court rulings over the past decade or so, including some ominous ones by the U.S. Supreme Court, reveals a startling and steady trend towards pro-police state rulings by an institution concerned more with establishing order and protecting the ruling class and government agents than with upholding the rights enshrined in the Constitution. The rich got richer, and the poor went to jail. Not content to expand the police state’s power to search, strip, seize, raid, steal from, arrest and jail Americans for any infraction, no matter how insignificant, the courts continued their practice of jailing individuals who are unable to pay the hefty fines imposed by the American police state. These debtors’ prisons play right into the hands of those who make a profit by jailing Americans. This is no longer a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.” It is fast becoming a government “of the rich, by the elite, for the corporations,” and its rise to power is predicated on shackling the American taxpayer to a debtors’ prison guarded by a phalanx of politicians, bureaucrats and militarized police with no hope of parole and no chance for escape. Police became even more militarized and weaponized. Despite concerns about the government’s steady transformation of local police into a standing military army, local police agencies continued to acquire weaponry, training and equipment suited for the battlefield. There are now reportedly more bureaucratic (non-military) government civilians armed with high-tech, deadly weapons than U.S. Marines. Schools turned into prisons. So-called school “safety” policies, which run the gamut from zero tolerance policies that punish all infractions harshly to surveillance cameras, metal detectors, random searches, drug-sniffing dogs, school-wide lockdowns, active-shooter drills and militarized police officers, turned schools into prisons and young people into prisoners. The government waged a renewed war on private property. The battle to protect our private property has become the final constitutional frontier, the last holdout against our freedoms being usurped. We no longer have any real property rights. That house you live in, the car you drive, whatever money you manage to keep in your bank account after the government and its cronies have taken their first and second and third cut…none of it is safe from the government’s greedy grasp. At no point do you ever have any real ownership in anything other than the clothes on your back. Everything else can be seized by the government under one pretext or another (civil asset forfeiture, unpaid taxes, eminent domain, public interest, etc.). In sum, 2024 was a disheartening year for those who cherish freedom. Yet no matter who sits in the White House, politics won’t fix a system that is broken beyond repair. As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, we are at our most vulnerable right now: the gravest threat facing us as a nation in 2025 is not extremism but despotism, exercised by a ruling class whose only allegiance is to power and money. Editor’s Note: John Whitehead is an Attorney and Author who has written, debated and practiced widely in the area of Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Popular Culture. John Whitehead's Commentary are his views and he is open for discussion, he can be contacted at: johnw@rutherford.org . Information about The Rutherford Institute is available at: www.rutherford.org . < Previous News Next News >

Colombian Artist Juliana Ferreyros Returns - To The Miami Art Scene With Global Energy And A Heart-Fueled Mission South Florida Sun Times May 1, 2025 After A 15-Year Global Journey Of Artistic Exploration And Soul-Expanding Experiences, Colombian-Born Artist Juliana Ferreyros Is Lighting Up The Miami Art World Once Again. Based In Miami But Rooted In Cali, Colombia, Ferreyros Brings Her Unique, Multicultural Perspective And Unmatched Creative Passion To A City That Thrives On Color, Diversity And Energy. A self-made artist and single mother of three, Juliana began by selling her art across Colombia—turning passion into purpose while raising a family. Her background in interior design fuels her artistic eye, allowing her to merge spatial aesthetics with raw emotional expression. Ferreyros is more than an abstract artist—she's a storyteller in texture, emotion and vision. Her work fuses mediums like canvas, reverse plexiglass, wood and metal, resulting in powerful visual narratives that reflect a life lived across continents. From Colombia to Dallas, London to Dubai and now back in Miami, her journey has shaped her artistic voice and amplified her purpose: spreading love through art. Juliana Ferreyros, a plastic artist, designer of spaces and interior designer, born and raised in Cali, Colombia. She currently lives and works in Miami, Florida. Ferreyros work demonstrates a particular interest in painting and research into various techniques using materials other than canvas, such as wood, synthetic paper, metal and fabrics. Her concern for vital elements like water, ecology and environmental sustainability has become a creative focal point, generating a sense of immersion and constant movement in her paintings. Her art evolves through layers of colors that flow, spill, emerge and explode from the depths of the paper, settling in a vibrant chromatic cascade that invites viewers to connect intimately with the sacred elements of nature – the watery and the wild. In Ferreyros work, seemingly spontaneous or indefinite forms gain meaning through integration with her palette, pigment density and composition, immersing viewers in a deep, immersive, psychedelic and emotionally engaging experience. The artist emphasizes the intimate connection produced by each brushstroke, fundamental to her creative process, where every work reflects the observer's presence. Ferreyros art serves as a transparent and intense offering that encourages reflection on our commitment to the natural water resources that sustain us on this turbulent yet beautiful planet. Juliana has exhibited in various galleries and significant cultural spaces nationally and internationally. She was the only Colombian artist featured in the inaugural edition of "30 Selected International Contemporary Artists," a gold edition published by the Museum of the Americas. Additionally, she contributed to "Arte en el Valle del Cauca," a publication highlighting artistic talent from her region. She has been interviewed by major television networks such as Univisión and Telemundo, as well as radio and print media in the United States and Colombia. Throughout her career, Juliana Ferreyros has garnered recognition through awards and distinctions at various important artistic events. Her work has received honorable mentions from institutions such as the Museum of the Americas, Concept Fair during Miami Art Basel Week, the Texas State House of Representatives, the Colombian Association of the Metroplex in Dallas and the Colombian Consulate in Houston. She also received a special mention from the Governor of the State of Texas and an honorary mention at the Biennale de Morocco, Taza-Morocco. Most recently, her work was featured during a shoot at a private mega-mansion in Miami for a Netflix series spotlighting the elite Club of Billionaires in Palm Beach—an exclusive preview of the caliber and cultural richness her pieces bring to any space. But Juliana’s art is just the beginning. Her energy, compassion and vibrant presence are unforgettable. She is the soul behind the canvas and meeting her in person is the only way to fully understand the depth of her work and spirit. Now, as she reclaims her place in the Miami art world, Juliana Ferreyros is ready to connect, collaborate and inspire. Media, galleries, collectors and creatives—we invite you to meet Juliana, explore her art and be part of the next chapter in a story that continues to defy borders and celebrate humanity. Previous Next

It’s Not Just Football - Why Playground Falls Must Be A Part Of The Childhood TBI/Concussion Discussion South Florida Sun Times Oct 8, 2026 When Parents Hear The Words “Concussion” Or “Traumatic Brain Injury,” Many Immediately Think Of Youth Football, Soccer, Hockey Or Other Organized Sports. But For Young Children, Playgrounds Can Be An Important Source Of Falls And Head Injuries (And One That Receives Far Less Attention In The National Conversation About TBI Prevention). According To Children’s Hospital Of Chicago, Falls (Including Playground Falls) Are The Most Frequent Cause Of TBI, Particularly In Young Children. As awareness of childhood concussion and traumatic brain injury continues to grow, it is worth looking beyond sports and considering where younger children are actually encountering serious fall risks. Playground accidents can happen during ordinary childhood play, often when children are too young to participate in organized sports or consistently use protective equipment. That makes one overlooked safety feature particularly important: the surface beneath the playground equipment. As the Chief Technology Officer at Rubberecycle Corporation (which offers top quality rubber surfacing products for playgrounds), I have seen firsthand how frequently playground surfacing is treated as an afterthought (especially for backyard playgrounds). Parents carefully consider helmets for bikes and scooters, but they may give considerably less thought to what happens when a child falls from a swing, slide or climbing structure onto the ground below. The reality is that the surface itself can play an important role in determining how much impact a child absorbs during a fall. The Missing Piece in the Childhood TBI Conversation When parents think about preventing childhood TBIs, sports injuries may be the first thing that comes to mind. But falls are actually one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries in children, especially young children. Falls, including playground falls, are also among the most common reasons children end up in the emergency room. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, falls account for nearly 30% of pediatric trauma cases. Playground falls deserve special attention because young children are still developing their balance, coordination and judgment. A child can lose their balance or fall from playground equipment in just seconds. While not every playground fall results in a serious injury, a fall involving the head can have significant consequences. Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can occur when a child's head strikes the ground with enough force. That's why playground safety isn't just about making sure equipment is sturdy and well maintained. The surface a child lands on matters, too. Choosing safer impact-absorbing surfaces can help reduce the risk of serious injury when falls happen. The Ground Beneath the Playground Matters One of the most common misconceptions parents have about playground safety is that grass or dirt automatically provide a soft landing. Unfortunately, natural surfaces can become compacted, worn or uneven over time. Grass beneath high-use areas can thin out, while soil can become increasingly hard. These conditions can provide considerably less impact attenuation than parents might assume. Wood mulch can also shift, scatter and compact over time, which reduces consistent protection in high-impact areas. Rubber mulch offers a more durable, resilient alternative, as it maintains its cushioning properties without decomposing like wood mulch. For homeowners installing backyard playsets, this is an important consideration. A playground can have safe, properly installed equipment, but the surface beneath it is still part of the overall injury-prevention equation. Understanding Impact Attenuation and HIC One of the key measurements used in playground safety is the Head Injury Criterion (HIC), which evaluates the severity of an impact and helps assess a playground surface's ability to reduce the forces associated with a fall. The goal of impact-absorbing surfacing is straightforward: if a child falls, the surface should help absorb some of the impact rather than transferring all of that force directly to the child's body and head. This is why playground surfacing should not simply be viewed as landscaping around a playset. It is a functional safety component. Parents and property owners should look for surfacing that is appropriately tested for impact attenuation and installed according to applicable safety requirements and manufacturer specifications. Why Impact-Absorbing Surfacing Should Be Part of the Playground Conversation When planning a playground, the conversation shouldn’t stop at choosing the equipment. What’s underneath the playground matters just as much. Falls are an expected part of play, which is why impact-absorbing surfacing should be an integral part of any playground installation (not an afterthought). Unlike grass, dirt, or other hard-packed surfaces, purpose-designed playground surfacing is engineered to help absorb the impact of falls. Options include rubber mulch, poured-in-place rubber and rubber tiles, each offering different performance characteristics and installation considerations. Among these options, rubber mulch offers some of the strongest impact-attenuation ratings available for playground surfacing and can meet or exceed applicable playground safety standards when properly installed and maintained. Its ability to provide a resilient landing surface makes it particularly well suited for areas beneath and around playground equipment where falls are most likely to occur. Rubber mulch also offers practical advantages for high-use play areas. Unlike traditional wood mulch, it does not decompose in the same way and can provide a long-lasting surfacing solution when installed at the appropriate depth and properly maintained. The takeaway for anyone planning a backyard or community playground is simple: surfacing deserves the same thoughtful consideration as the equipment itself. A well-designed playground isn’t just about what kids play on; it’s also about what they land on. Bounce, not bruise. It's Time to Expand the TBI Conversation Parents should understand the risks of youth sports, but childhood TBI prevention shouldn’t stop at the football field. For young children, playground falls are an everyday part of growing up, making playground safety an equally important part of the conversation. To prevent childhood TBIs, we need to look beyond the football field (and beneath the playground). Sheryl Berkley is the Chief Technology Officer at Rubberecycle Corporation, makers of Playsafer; a leader in rubber safety surfacing products for playgrounds and commercial establishments since 1996. The company specializes in impact-absorbing playground mulch, tiles and poured-in-place surfacing. A playground safety expert, Sheryl educates the public on best practices for safe play environments, the benefits of sustainable surfacing materials and strategies for preventing common injuries. For more information, visit: https://www.rubberecycle.com/ Previous Next

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