Florida Matters

Friday is Juneteenth. It marks the day enslaved people in Texas learned they were free. It became a federal holiday in 2021. On “Florida Matters Live & Local,” we talk with people from across Tampa Bay’s Black community about the legacy of celebration — and what freedom means to them. We start with Florida’s emancipation story and how it fits into the broader history of emancipation. You’ll al...

The U.S. and Iran are set to formally sign a deal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. But there are questions about details and what comes next. "Let the oil flow." With that, President Donald Trump announced the U.S. and Iran are set to formally sign a deal to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. But there are questions about details and what comes next. Our expert has answers...

He was at his Fort Myers home when a fast-food security camera in Jacksonville Beach snapped a picture of a criminal suspect. An artificial intelligence tool used by police agencies somehow identified him as the perpetrator, and he was arrested. Technology got it wrong, but it wasn't alone. Afterward, Latino voters are seen as the key to winning elections in Florida, but are candidates really payi...

Recently, a woman sleeping in an alley was struck by a garbage truck and killed. The tragedy has raised the ire of homeless advocates against the state’s ban on public camping. Is the law necessary or simply driving our most vulnerable into dark, dangerous places? Then, we talk about the role of the arts in commemorating Juneteenth. And, summer mosquito season is near — with our blood on the menu....

Can it possibly be a decade since the horrific Pulse shooting in Orlando? On "Florida Matters Live & Local," hear reflections from a clubgoer who was there the night 49 people were killed and a journalist who covered the aftermath. Plus, a look at the challenges for some just to feed their families over the summer. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wus...

For the second time “teen takeover” in the Tampa Bay region has ended in arrests. A Polk County teen is facing an attempted murder charge after an incident at Clearwater Beach just over a week ago. Could social media be the key to keeping teens out of trouble? We also talk with the local architect undertaking the renovation project for the Jackson House in downtown Tampa. Also, does Hillsborough C...

We’re still reacting to the shock of a Florida earthquake. And we get into youth camps on Day 2 of our summer prep segments. Speaking of sun and fun, it’s time for reminders on avoiding flesh-eating bacteria. Then, hear about an epic water survival story that is the subject of a new book. Also, St. Pete Pride is recognized as the largest Pride celebration in the Southeast, but for how much longer?...

Orlando will mark a somber milestone this week: 10 years since a gunman murdered 49 people at the Pulse nightclub. At the time, it was the worst mass shooting in modern American history. This tragedy and others raise discussions about preventing gun violence. A related topic: Off-campus housing raises safety concerns after two incidents near USF. Then, we talk this week about summer activities, an...

Florida voters will decide this November whether to dramatically expand exemptions and cap property tax increases. But more money in homeowners’ pockets could mean less for local governments. “Florida Matters Live & Local” examines the details. Then, World Cup fans are descending on the U.S. from all corners of the globe to celebrate the beautiful game. We talk about the Florida connections —...

A little outdoorsy talk on " Florida Matters Live & Local." Amid the rise of pickleball, the USTA says there aren't enough public tennis courts in the state. Can communities find the room and investment for both? Also, why do hikers love Florida? Let us count the ways with two trail experts. Plus, we explore a growing movement to save coastal areas called "living shorelines," and give the back...

A federal jury found Ticketmaster and Live Nation were acting as a monopoly. What does this mean for concertgoers and smaller venues in the area? On "Florida Matters Live & Local," an outspoken club owner who trekked to Washington, D.C., to share his views with lawmakers talks about the challenges. Plus, for one Tampa resident, the war with Iran is not distant news but a personal reality. His...

The budget may finally be complete, but lawmakers are back at the state Capitol this week for a special session on cutting property taxes. "Florida Matters Live & Local" takes a look at the governor's plan. Also, have you ever worried that something you posted online could affect your job? Should public employees be held to a different standard? We talk to a civil liberties attorney about a re...

Our series of hurricane prep programs covers legal questions and important home documents. How do you pick up the pieces after the storm is gone? Then, why was a local emergency manager put on leave? Tampa’s firefighters and police battle it out for charity. And pickleball for beginners. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletter Foll...

Whether you’re a longtime Floridian or a newbie to this godforsaken hurricane business, preparing for storm season can be quite intimidating. What do you store in a survival kit? How can you protect your home? When should you evacuate? We rein in a panel of pros with those answers and more. After that discussion, we talk about a new app for those suffering from a painful illness that is often misd...

Forecasters are expecting eight to 14 storms this hurricane season, which starts Monday and runs through November. And while last year was relatively quiet, you may still be recovering from Helene, Milton and Debby if you were here for 2024. On “Florida Matters Live & Local,” we talk about why forecasters are calling for fewer storms than average and what you should pay attention to. Website:...

Simple questions: What is a love bug? And why do they give their lives for a little smooch with our car grilles? We have someone on “Florida Matters: Live & Local” with the facts. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletter Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wusfp...

Another candidate vying to be St. Petersburg's mayor is in the studio. Meet Jim Large, a longtime fire chief who says he's a public servant, not a politician. He fills us in on his vision for the city and why he's the most qualified for the job. Plus, a new housing development in Pasco County is creating a neighborhood designed for adults with mental illness. And, we investigate how St. Petersburg...

There’s plenty of support in high places for the plan to build a Tampa Bay Rays baseball stadium with up to $976 million in public dollars. Among the proponents are Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, Hillsborough County Commission Chair Ken Hagan and Gov. Ron DeSantis. There's also an assortment of boards and organizations, multiple chambers of commerce, Hillsborough College, the Westshore Alliance, the Pol...

Thousands of Black cemeteries have been destroyed, built over or fallen into disrepair. Hear about a movement to protect them that started at USF. Plus, an update on the Legislature’s budget sessions, examining state records over police conduct and an artist’s collaborative exhibit. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletter Follow us...

Four South Florida men have been convicted in the 2021 assassination plot targeting Haitian President Jovenel Moïse. But there are lingering questions over what really happened in the months leading up to the killing. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newsletter Follow us on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WUSF Instagra...

Public sector unions in Florida say they are under threat by a new law requiring at least 50% participation in certification and recertification votes. Two teachers' union leaders are on "Florida Matters Live & Local" with reactions. Plus, will a plan to extend the Tampa streetcar line help local transit? And how has rebranding changed Scouting? Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our da...

In her final State of the City last week, Mayor Jane Castor highlighted investments made on her watch. “Live & Local” takes a closer look at what was said (infrastructure) and what was left out (stadiums). Plus, a sports psychologist on athletes' mental health and a quick dip under the sea. Website: https://www.wusf.org Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.wusf.org/wakeupcall-newslett...

A hantavirus has captured the world’s attention, especially here in Florida, where the cruise industry has a big footprint. We’ll talk about how dangerous this disease really is and how cruise companies deal with outbreaks. Plus, a dive team has located an interesting piece of Tampa history on the Atlantic floor that dates to World War I. Also, we'll catch up on this week's budget special session...

If you booked a flight in the last couple of months, you likely felt a few amps of sticker shock. As we know, fuel prices are flying, bumping up airfares. And now comes the sudden shuttering of Spirit airlines. If you’re flying this summer, what can you do to stay on budget? Also on tap, the dean of USF’s College of Marine Science updates us on Saturday’s devastating structure fire. Website: https...

The 2024 hurricanes may be a distant memory for some. For St. Petersburg resident Kevin Batdorf, the floods that drenched his Shore Acres neighborhood prompted him to run for mayor. He talks about the issues and how he would steer the city if elected. Also, an abandoned resort near Disney World became a refuge of sorts for people who lost homes and jobs. And we meet a blues artist who’s performed...