Florida Matters

By WUSF Public MediaNews

Florida Matters episodes

October 08 A historical motto or painful reminder on driver's licenses? Also, razing Tampa's past
The state’s driver’s licenses now feature an orange, a manatee and a phrase from the 1845 Florida flag. Why are these words getting pushback?
Then, closer looks at school bus safety after a deadly rollover crash in Polk County, and a new report that says ICE is wasting taxpayer money.
Finally, a century-old building on Tampa’s Davis Islands could face the wrecking ball. The building holds a lot of history.
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49 min
October 07 SNAP changes and the impact of food banks, plus a media merger with warning flags
People who rely on SNAP are getting a small cost-of-living adjustment, but there are changes to eligibility which could make it more challenging for SNAP recipients. In turn, local food banks are feeling the pressure of increased demand.
Then, what happens when giant media companies combine? What will it mean for your cable bill? Your news services? Your entertainment choices? We’ll talk about the Paramount-Warner deal and the effects on multiple industries.
Afterward, the botched execution in Tennessee is raising concerns about executions in Florida, and it’s “Banned Book Week.”
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49 min
October 06 Hubbard's Marina fills us in on the Cross-Bay Ferry's progress, and cop Flock abuse
A new cross-bay ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg will launch soon. Will you be riding? And we’ll learn more about a Flock investigation that led to the resignation and arrest of two Pinellas County deputies.

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49 min
October 05 Trop site's future awaits winner of St. Petersburg's mayoral race, and Brightline’s bankruptcy
In a few weeks, St. Petersburg will decide whether to keep Mayor Ken Welch in office or replace him with former Gov. Charlie Crist. Among the challenges of the next term: the redevelopment of the Tropicana Field site after the Tampa Bay Rays jump to Tampa.
How will the departure affect the city? What impact will it have on tourism and business? And how will the transformation of what is known as the Historic Gas Plant District shape the city’s future?
Then, Brightline’s massive debt has many wondering about the future of rail in Florida. And sports fans get a chance to reflect on a busy weekend in Tampa Bay.

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48 min
October 01 In search of accountability in the Hope Florida saga, and SpaceX launches
A grand jury investigation into Hope Florida and a $10 million Medicaid misappropriation left Floridians with plenty of questions. Many remained unanswered. One of the reporters who broke the story does his best.
Also, the latest space news, including a SpaceX rocket carrying NASA astronauts to the International Space Station.
For closers, a playwright discusses a new work from the Sarasota Jewish Theatre.
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47 min
September 30 Insight from the WUSF reporters behind ‘The Cost of Power’ series, and taking charge of AI
If you compare your electric bill from last month with, say, one from a couple of years ago, you’d probably see a jump. A three-part WUSF investigation digs into why, and we’re talking to the reporters who put it together.
Afterward, do you trust AI to get things right? Plus, Sarasota Orchestra's music director explains what's on tap for this season's schedule.
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48 min
September 29 Kathy Castor converses on costs of housing, and how student-athletes can play it safe
There can be a lot of pressure on high school and college athletes. How do they focus on sports and academics while maintaining physical and mental health?
Also, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor joins the show to talk about housing costs and mortgage rates.
Then, do short-term rentals need more regulations? And a local time capsule provides a glimpse of Tampa from 60 years ago.
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48 min
September 28 The debate over debates in Florida elections, and learning campaign finance loopholes
Even in this era of media saturation, a debate can make or break a campaign. But for the first time in 50 years, there may be no such meeting involving the leading candidate for Florida governor.
Afterward, a veteran political reporter talks about a court ruling that has opened the door to unlimited spending on Florida campaign advertisements.
Then, we hear from a Tampa physician who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he was helping Ebola patients.
Finally, meet the founder of a Tampa nonprofit focused on empowering minority children through art, music and dance.
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49 min
September 24 Parents trapped in a temporary foster care 'side door,' and Florida hunting prep
We learn more about a Tampa Bay Times investigation that found a "side door" in the foster care system that can leave parents struggling to reunite with their children.
Also, have you seen billboards floating off the beach? We get into that, fall hunting season, and a musician and bandleader bringing his ensemble to the region.

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49 min
September 23 Poring over the Amendment 3 property tax measure, and a dengue update
In just over a month, voters go to the polls. There are lots of races on the ballot, from governor to Senate to Legislature and more.
One thing all Florida voters will get to decide: whether to reduce property taxes. On this episode, we examine the possible effect on fire rescue services and community planning.
Also, why is Hillsborough County the epicenter of Florida’s dengue outbreak?

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49 min

About Florida Matters

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Your spot for real, daily conversations. Where neighbors become storytellers, newsmakers explain why and how changes happen and where locals — natives to the area and newcomers — discover and…