Podcasts about wusf

There's a certain model of handgun that's popular with gun owners across the country. It's popular with  law enforcement too. But recently, some  agencies- including right here in Tampa Bay- opted to remove the Sig Sauer P320 from their arsenals because of safety concerns. On this episode you'll hear from a journalist who's been covering this issue for The Trace and Mother Jones. Ava Sasani explains why some police departments and sheriff's offices don't want officers using this gun- and why these weapons are being sold back to the general public. But first - an update on state politics. You remember back at the start of May, lawmakers were supposed to wrap up their two month lawmaking stint by passing a budget. Only- they didn't. WUSF's Douglas Soule, part of the 'Your Florida' team reporting on how state government affects you, joins Florida Matters to walk us through what lawmakers need to do to pass a budget- and what could happen if they can't reach an agreement by the end of June.

If your home flooded during hurricane season last year, you may still be recovering from the damage. A lot of neighborhoods flooded as a series of storms impacted the Tampa Bay region- Hurricane Debby, then Helene and soon after that- Milton. And it wasn't just places on the coast. Inland neighborhoods flooded too. So- with hurricane season almost here- what are local governments doing to prevent more flooding? And how are people rebuilding? WUSF journalists Jessica Meszaros, Kerry Sheridan and Steve Newborn join Florida Matters to discuss their reporting on the ongoing recovery from flooding in communities across the greater Tampa Bay region. 

If your home flooded during hurricane season last year, you may still be recovering from the damage. A lot of neighborhoods flooded as a series of storms impacted the Tampa Bay region- Hurricane Debby, then Helene and soon after that- Milton. And it wasn't just places on the coast. Inland neighborhoods flooded too. So- with hurricane season almost here- what are local governments doing to prevent more flooding? And how are people rebuilding? WUSF journalists Jessica Meszaros, Kerry Sheridan and Steve Newborn join Florida Matters to discuss their reporting on the ongoing recovery from flooding in communities across the greater Tampa Bay region. 

When it comes to baking cakes, most of us reach for the same ingredients—milk, eggs, butter…But Sira Garib says you can have all of the flavor with none of the animal products—good news for her customers, many of whom are vegan or have dairy allergies. Sira is the founder and CEO of Pure Vegan Cakes, which specializes in custom plant-based cakes, cupcakes and cookies. Originally from South Florida, she has baked for some pretty big names, including actress and vegan influencer Tabitha Brown—an encounter that Sira credits with taking her business to the next level.Sira stopped by the Zest studios at WUSF for a chat with Dalia Colón. In this conversation, she shares how she went from baking cakes for family and friends to being South Florida's go-to plant-based celebrity baker and developing her own line of baking mixes. She also shares advice transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle and tips for baking a better cake.Related episodes:Plant-Powered Education: Solid Rock Community School in Tarpon Springs Offers 100% Vegan Cafeteria MenuHow “Fab the Vegan” Dropped 150 Pounds, Reversed Diabetes & Became a Plant-Based InfluencerNatalia Veganizes Recipes from The Great British Baking ShowHow to Start a Cottage Food Business in Florida: Lessons from the Lentil House

When it comes to baking cakes, most of us reach for the same ingredients—milk, eggs, butter…But Sira Garib says you can have all of the flavor with none of the animal products—good news for her customers, many of whom are vegan or have dairy allergies. Sira is the founder and CEO of Pure Vegan Cakes, which specializes in custom plant-based cakes, cupcakes and cookies. Originally from South Florida, she has baked for some pretty big names, including actress and vegan influencer Tabitha Brown—an encounter that Sira credits with taking her business to the next level.Sira stopped by the Zest studios at WUSF for a chat with Dalia Colón. In this conversation, she shares how she went from baking cakes for family and friends to being South Florida's go-to plant-based celebrity baker and developing her own line of baking mixes. She also shares advice transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle and tips for baking a better cake.Related episodes:Plant-Powered Education: Solid Rock Community School in Tarpon Springs Offers 100% Vegan Cafeteria MenuHow “Fab the Vegan” Dropped 150 Pounds, Reversed Diabetes & Became a Plant-Based InfluencerNatalia Veganizes Recipes from The Great British Baking ShowHow to Start a Cottage Food Business in Florida: Lessons from the Lentil House

When Manatee County got rid of bus fares- ridership went up. And it's not the only place in Tampa Bay where more people started taking the bus after fares went away. Hillsborough County made its most popular bus route, from downtown Tampa to the University of South Florida, free for this year, and ridership is way up. On this episode of Florida Matters, Manatee County Transit Division Manager Kevin Hoyt explains why it makes sense to get more people on the bus, even when they're not collecting fare revenue. And, Streetsblog USA senior editor Kea Wilson talks about how other transit agencies around the US have adopted the fare-free model, and the arguments for and against removing the fare box.  Also, if you've driven the recently reopened Howard Frankland Bridge, you might have noticed it's built higher to withstand storm surge like Tampa Bay experienced during the last hurricane season. WUSF's Sky Lebron caught up with historian Rodney Kite Powell on top of the bridge, before it reopened to traffic. Hear how the original bridge, which opened in 1960, was built for a post-war population boom, much like the remodeled bridge is built to handle traffic for Tampa Bay's current population boom. And you'll get caught up on some of the latest transportation news from around the greater Tampa Bay region. Hear why the cross bay ferry is sailing for the last time, about efforts to ease traffic woes on the dreaded I-4 corridor, and how Tampa International Airport is dealing with animal problems. 

When Manatee County got rid of bus fares- ridership went up. And it's not the only place in Tampa Bay where more people started taking the bus after fares went away. Hillsborough County made its most popular bus route, from downtown Tampa to the University of South Florida, free for this year, and ridership is way up. On this episode of Florida Matters, Manatee County Transit Division Manager Kevin Hoyt explains why it makes sense to get more people on the bus, even when they're not collecting fare revenue. And, Streetsblog USA senior editor Kea Wilson talks about how other transit agencies around the US have adopted the fare-free model, and the arguments for and against removing the fare box.  Also, if you've driven the recently reopened Howard Frankland Bridge, you might have noticed it's built higher to withstand storm surge like Tampa Bay experienced during the last hurricane season. WUSF's Sky Lebron caught up with historian Rodney Kite Powell on top of the bridge, before it reopened to traffic. Hear how the original bridge, which opened in 1960, was built for a post-war population boom, much like the remodeled bridge is built to handle traffic for Tampa Bay's current population boom. And you'll get caught up on some of the latest transportation news from around the greater Tampa Bay region. Hear why the cross bay ferry is sailing for the last time, about efforts to ease traffic woes on the dreaded I-4 corridor, and how Tampa International Airport is dealing with animal problems. 

She's a podcast host, the child of immigrants and a self-described picky eater. Today we're getting to know Malaika Hollist. As brand manager of WUSF's Arts Axis Florida, Malaika creates content to promote local artists and arts organizations. While she doesn't call herself a foodie, Malaika recognizes commonalities between what she does at Arts Axis and what we do here at The Zest.Malaika sat down in the studio with The Zest's Dalia Colón and Alexandria Ebron. In this conversation, Malaika shares her favorite ways to combine food with the arts, discusses what she ate growing up as the child of parents from Sierra Leone and reflects on the importance of sharing her culture with pride.Related episodes:Couples in the Kitchen: Melissa Santell & Bryce BonsackGiuliano Hazan Honors Mother Marcella Hazan's Legacy Through Italian Cooking Classes in Sarasota and ItalyDr. Fred Opie on the “Fascinating” African Roots of Florida Foods

She's a podcast host, the child of immigrants and a self-described picky eater. Today we're getting to know Malaika Hollist. As brand manager of WUSF's Arts Axis Florida, Malaika creates content to promote local artists and arts organizations. While she doesn't call herself a foodie, Malaika recognizes commonalities between what she does at Arts Axis and what we do here at The Zest.Malaika sat down in the studio with The Zest's Dalia Colón and Alexandria Ebron. In this conversation, Malaika shares her favorite ways to combine food with the arts, discusses what she ate growing up as the child of parents from Sierra Leone and reflects on the importance of sharing her culture with pride.Related episodes:Couples in the Kitchen: Melissa Santell & Bryce BonsackGiuliano Hazan Honors Mother Marcella Hazan's Legacy Through Italian Cooking Classes in Sarasota and ItalyDr. Fred Opie on the “Fascinating” African Roots of Florida Foods

You know the Tampa Bay Rays. If you're a baseball fan, you follow the wins and losses. But if you're a taxpayer in St Petersburg or Pinellas County, the ongoing stadium saga may grab your attention.The city of St Petersburg is fixing the damaged roof of Tropicana Field. Across the Bay in Tampa - the team plays its home games at Steinbrenner FieldBut here's the question you - and a lot of your neighbors - really want answered once and for all: Will the team stick around long-term after the one-point-three billion dollar deal to redevelop the stadium collapsed? WUSF's Steve Newborn, and Tampa Bay Times reporter Colleen Wright stopped by Florida Matters to help get you caught up with the latest twists and turns with the Rays and why this story reverberates far beyond the Trop. “The [St. Petersburg] mayor [Ken Welch] won't work with this ownership group,” Wright added. “I know that that sentiment is the same, also at the county level, they feel the same way, and they also feel like, if the Rays couldn't make it work with 700 plus million dollars in public funding, would it ever work? I don't know.” Newborn said negotiations on a new stadium go back decades. “This was pitched by Mayor Welch as a way to right what he views as an historical wrong. He had relatives who grew up in that old Gas Plant neighborhood which was bulldozed back in the 1980s to build this [Stadium], you know, which was by no means a sure thing. It was kind of ‘build it and they will come', right?” “So all this was seen as basically spurring a development that would create new taxes in the area around the stadium, right, that would make it profitable.”

At the start of the session, you heard from WUSF's ‘Your Florida' team. Reporters Meghan Bowman and Douglas Soule are keeping tabs on the legislature up in Tallahassee and talking with you and your neighbors across Tampa Bay about issues that you think are important. On this episode you'll hear from Douglas and Meghan about how the session is going. Lawmakers are debating things like loosening gun legislation and proposed changes to the constitutional amendment process. Meanwhile, a legislators have reversed a law passed a couple years ago that would have mandated later start times for middle and high school students. There's also tug of war over taxes in the Florida legislature. Lawmakers and the governor want to cut taxes in this already low-tax state. But they disagree over what taxes to cut. And you'll hear the latest on whether Florida will get a new state bird. 

At the start of the session, you heard from WUSF's ‘Your Florida' team. Reporters Meghan Bowman and Douglas Soule are keeping tabs on the legislature up in Tallahassee and talking with you and your neighbors across Tampa Bay about issues that you think are important. On this episode you'll hear from Douglas and Meghan about how the session is going. Lawmakers are debating things like loosening gun legislation and proposed changes to the constitutional amendment process. Meanwhile, a legislators have reversed a law passed a couple years ago that would have mandated later start times for middle and high school students. There's also tug of war over taxes in the Florida legislature. Lawmakers and the governor want to cut taxes in this already low-tax state. But they disagree over what taxes to cut. And you'll hear the latest on whether Florida will get a new state bird. 

This week, alongside some pop culture recommendations, we dive into the legislative bills you should keep an eye on as the session ramps up, from labor to voting and so much more. Find Your Representative and Find Your Senator. Learn how to call your Congresspeople here concerning a number of topics. We've donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. If you can spare it, we recommend you do the same here. I mention a map of Orange County's rural boundary in this episode, and site the source as WUCF. It was actually WUSF and can be found here.    Pick up your copy of FLORIDA! right here! Thank you to Chelsea Rice for her incredible design of our logo! Follow Chelsea on Instagram here!   All of the music was originally composed.

Birding- or bird watching- is booming. The US Fish and Wildlife service estimates there are 96 million birders in the United States. That's one in three adults in this country. And even if you aren't one of them- you may just be birdwatching by default. On this episode, Florida Matters executive producer Gracyn Doctor takes you on a bird walk at Lettuce Lake. And you'll hear about the appeal of birdwatching- and why young people in particular are flocking to the hobby. Joining the conversation- Ann Paul,  President of the Tampa Audubon and Florida Ornithological Society; Kara Cook, Suncoast Rooftop Biologist with Audubon Florida; and WUSF's Kerry Sheridan. Sheridan has reported on efforts by birders in Sarasota to protect a popular birdwatching site from development, and on young Floridians taking up birdwatching. Cook and Paul also share tips on what you need to get started on birdwatching and how to get involved in monitoring bird populations and conservation efforts. 

Birding- or bird watching- is booming. The US Fish and Wildlife service estimates there are 96 million birders in the United States. That's one in three adults in this country. And even if you aren't one of them- you may just be birdwatching by default. On this episode, Florida Matters executive producer Gracyn Doctor takes you on a bird walk at Lettuce Lake. And you'll hear about the appeal of birdwatching- and why young people in particular are flocking to the hobby. Joining the conversation- Ann Paul,  President of the Tampa Audubon and Florida Ornithological Society; Kara Cook, Suncoast Rooftop Biologist with Audubon Florida; and WUSF's Kerry Sheridan. Sheridan has reported on efforts by birders in Sarasota to protect a popular birdwatching site from development, and on young Floridians taking up birdwatching. Cook and Paul also share tips on what you need to get started on birdwatching and how to get involved in monitoring bird populations and conservation efforts. 

Today we're getting to know dietitian Deanna Wolfe. But she needs no introduction if you're among her hundreds of thousands of social media followers.On Instagram and TikTok, Deanna is an open book. She chronicles her journey recovering from an eating disorder, what she eats in a day as postpartum mom (including dessert every night!) and even her income, for the scores of other dietitians she mentors.Dalia met Deanna at a USF Health event and couldn't get enough of her common-sense nutrition advice. So she invited Deanna to our studio at WUSF to share her approach with you.In this conversation, Deanna gives her take on trends like seed oil, green powders and Ozempic and offers guidance for anyone struggling with disordered eating. If you're not already doing so, be sure to follow Dietitian Deanna on Instagram or Tiktok. She shares some great info and her posts are so relatable. She IS like us!Related episodes:7 Tips for Eating More at Home: Advice from Dietician/Nutritionist Wendy WesleyEat Better, Feel Better: Simple Swaps from Carly Paige of FitLiving EatsGuac This Way: Sleepy Lizard Avocado Farm in the Everglades Specializes in Florida (Green) AvocadosBrunch Advice from First Watch

Today we're getting to know dietitian Deanna Wolfe. But she needs no introduction if you're among her hundreds of thousands of social media followers.On Instagram and TikTok, Deanna is an open book. She chronicles her journey recovering from an eating disorder, what she eats in a day as postpartum mom (including dessert every night!) and even her income, for the scores of other dietitians she mentors.Dalia met Deanna at a USF Health event and couldn't get enough of her common-sense nutrition advice. So she invited Deanna to our studio at WUSF to share her approach with you.In this conversation, Deanna gives her take on trends like seed oil, green powders and Ozempic and offers guidance for anyone struggling with disordered eating. If you're not already doing so, be sure to follow Dietitian Deanna on Instagram or Tiktok. She shares some great info and her posts are so relatable. She IS like us!Related episodes:7 Tips for Eating More at Home: Advice from Dietician/Nutritionist Wendy WesleyEat Better, Feel Better: Simple Swaps from Carly Paige of FitLiving EatsGuac This Way: Sleepy Lizard Avocado Farm in the Everglades Specializes in Florida (Green) AvocadosBrunch Advice from First Watch

For many Floridians, getting ready for hurricane season means things like dusting off the emergency supply kit, checking flashlight batteries and making sure you know where your important documents are stashed. But for some Tampa Bay residents who lived through the 2024 hurricane season- they're still dealing with flooding from Hurricane Milton- and worried about what the next season may bring. WUSF's Sky Lebron explains how people in Polk and Pasco Counties are trying to put their lives back together without electricity, running water, and homes ruined by floodwaters. And you may know that oyster beds can help protect shorelines from the impact of powerful storms. WUSF's Steve Newborn takes us on a tour of an artificial island in Hillsborough Bay, where oysters help protect an important bird nesting site. 

If you experienced Hurricane Milton- or Helene or Debby- it's something you don't want to relive. But for some people in Tampa Bay- they're still dealing with flooding from last year's storms. WUSF's Sky Lebron visited people in Pasco and Polk County who whose homes were flooded during last year's hurricane season. Some are living in RVs because floodwaters left their homes uninhabitable. Others are still unable to get into their houses because the water never went down. Lebron talked with Florida Matters about how they are coping and why it's been so hard for them to get help. 

If you experienced Hurricane Milton- or Helene or Debby- it's something you don't want to relive. But for some people in Tampa Bay- they're still dealing with flooding from last year's storms. WUSF's Sky Lebron visited people in Pasco and Polk County who whose homes were flooded during last year's hurricane season. Some are living in RVs because floodwaters left their homes uninhabitable. Others are still unable to get into their houses because the water never went down. Lebron talked with Florida Matters about how they are coping and why it's been so hard for them to get help. 

For many Floridians, getting ready for hurricane season means things like dusting off the emergency supply kit, checking flashlight batteries and making sure you know where your important documents are stashed. But for some Tampa Bay residents who lived through the 2024 hurricane season- they're still dealing with flooding from Hurricane Milton- and worried about what the next season may bring. WUSF's Sky Lebron explains how people in Polk and Pasco Counties are trying to put their lives back together without electricity, running water, and homes ruined by floodwaters. And you may know that oyster beds can help protect shorelines from the impact of powerful storms. WUSF's Steve Newborn takes us on a tour of an artificial island in Hillsborough Bay, where oysters help protect an important bird nesting site. 

On this episode of "Florida Matters," we discuss Gov. Ron DeSantis' State of the State address to the Legislature. Topics he covered during the half-house speech included immigration, gun laws, education and property taxes.Florida's 2025 legislative session is underway. Top issues Floridians can expect to hear lawmakers debate over the next two months include immigration, gun laws, housing and insurance.Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis began the session with his annual speech laying out his vision for the state. The Democrat rebuttal came from House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa and Senate Minority leader Jason Pizzo of Hollywood.In this episode, we break down the governor's speech with veteran political journalist William March and Meghan Bowman, who is part of WUSF's Your Florida government reporting team.You'll also hear the voices of some of the Floridians who have been reaching out to WUSF to share what they think lawmakers should address. 

On this episode of "Florida Matters," we discuss Gov. Ron DeSantis' State of the State address to the Legislature. Topics he covered during the half-house speech included immigration, gun laws, education and property taxes.Florida's 2025 legislative session is underway. Top issues Floridians can expect to hear lawmakers debate over the next two months include immigration, gun laws, housing and insurance.Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis began the session with his annual speech laying out his vision for the state. The Democrat rebuttal came from House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa and Senate Minority leader Jason Pizzo of Hollywood.In this episode, we break down the governor's speech with veteran political journalist William March and Meghan Bowman, who is part of WUSF's Your Florida government reporting team.You'll also hear the voices of some of the Floridians who have been reaching out to WUSF to share what they think lawmakers should address. 

If you watched the Grammys this year, you probably caught Beyonce's acceptance speech, when, at long last she landed the album of the year. Beyonce said she hoped to keep pushing forward and opening doors. And her album- Cowboy Carter, which won the Grammy for best country album- is also a door to the past. The album tour- Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin Circuit tour- evokes the network of clubs and venues that Black musicians and performers toured during segregation last Century. And the Chitlin Circuit is referenced in one of the tracks on the album: Ya Ya Beyonce's not the only artist to cast back to the Chitlin Circuit. Kendrick Lamar, who netted an armful of Grammys this year, refers to the circuit in ‘Reincarnated' Musicians who honed their craft on the circuit include Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles and Little Richard They're just some of the artists who performed on the Chitlin Circuit. And on this episode of Florida Matters, you'll hear how the circuit shaped the sound of jazz, blues, soul, rock n roll- the foundations of American popular music. One of the guests you'll hear from- Dr Michelle Scott, professor of History at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County- will be part of an upcoming discussion presented by WUSF and Arts Axis Florida- about the Chitlin Circuit's impact in Tampa. Also joining the discussion: Dr Nashid Madyun, executive director Florida Humanities.

If you watched the Grammys this year, you probably caught Beyonce's acceptance speech, when, at long last she landed the album of the year. Beyonce said she hoped to keep pushing forward and opening doors. And her album- Cowboy Carter, which won the Grammy for best country album- is also a door to the past. The album tour- Cowboy Carter and the Rodeo Chitlin Circuit tour- evokes the network of clubs and venues that Black musicians and performers toured during segregation last Century. And the Chitlin Circuit is referenced in one of the tracks on the album: Ya Ya Beyonce's not the only artist to cast back to the Chitlin Circuit. Kendrick Lamar, who netted an armful of Grammys this year, refers to the circuit in ‘Reincarnated' Musicians who honed their craft on the circuit include Louis Armstrong, Ray Charles and Little Richard They're just some of the artists who performed on the Chitlin Circuit. And on this episode of Florida Matters, you'll hear how the circuit shaped the sound of jazz, blues, soul, rock n roll- the foundations of American popular music. One of the guests you'll hear from- Dr Michelle Scott, professor of History at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County- will be part of an upcoming discussion presented by WUSF and Arts Axis Florida- about the Chitlin Circuit's impact in Tampa. Also joining the discussion: Dr Nashid Madyun, executive director Florida Humanities.

Immigrants in the Tampa Bay region who are here without legal documentation are waiting anxiously to see what President Trump's vow to carry out mass deportations means for them. WUSF's Nancy Guan joins Florida Matters to discuss her reporting on the potential impact of tough new immigration policy on immigrants, Florida's economy and more. And Jason Delgado, Florida Capitol correspondent for Bay News 9 and My News 13, joins Florida Matters to discuss the state immigration policy and the relationship between state lawmakers, DeSantis and Trump.

Immigrants in the Tampa Bay region who are here without legal documentation are waiting anxiously to see what President Trump's vow to carry out mass deportations means for them. WUSF's Nancy Guan joins Florida Matters to discuss her reporting on the potential impact of tough new immigration policy on immigrants, Florida's economy and more. And Jason Delgado, Florida Capitol correspondent for Bay News 9 and My News 13, joins Florida Matters to discuss the state immigration policy and the relationship between state lawmakers, DeSantis and Trump.

Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton upended peoples lives across the greater Tampa Bay region, and WUSF reporters were there to report on the storms as they happened, and the recovery as people rebuild their homes, businesses and get their lives back on track. Three reporters from the WUSF news team join Florida Matters for a look back at their reporting on the hurricane season. You'll hear Kerry Sheridan's insights on how Sarasota and Manatee Counties were impacted by back to back storms. And Gabriella Paul who talked with people who rode out the storms in Pasco County, and rode along with emergency workers as they scrambled to help people in the days and weeks after the storms had passed. Other highlights include the saga of a missing owl that brought the community together, and stories of how people are getting back to work after back to back hurricanes. Meszaros, Sheridan and Paul also reflect on some of the stories that made the biggest impact in 2024.

Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton upended peoples lives across the greater Tampa Bay region, and WUSF reporters were there to report on the storms as they happened, and the recovery as people rebuild their homes, businesses and get their lives back on track. Three reporters from the WUSF news team join Florida Matters for a look back at their reporting on the hurricane season. You'll hear Kerry Sheridan's insights on how Sarasota and Manatee Counties were impacted by back to back storms. And Gabriella Paul who talked with people who rode out the storms in Pasco County, and rode along with emergency workers as they scrambled to help people in the days and weeks after the storms had passed. Other highlights include the saga of a missing owl that brought the community together, and stories of how people are getting back to work after back to back hurricanes. Meszaros, Sheridan and Paul also reflect on some of the stories that made the biggest impact in 2024.

From back to back hurricanes to the twists and turns of the US presidential election, there's been a lot to keep up with in 2024. Reporters in the WUSF newsroom who covered the issues that had the biggest impact on the greater Tampa Bay region join Florida Matters to share their insights. Steve Newborn covers politics and the environment, Nancy Guan focuses on immigration and education, Stephanie Colombini covers health care and Sky Lebron covers transportation among other things. Highlights include stories about polarizing constitutional amendments on recreational marijuana and abortion access, immigration issues, the high cost of groceries and housing, campus protests, and a widely criticized plan to put amenities like pickleball and golf courses in state parks. Reporters also covered some lighter stories including a quest to find the source of mysterious sounds in Tampa Bay, which some speculate was caused by fish mating.

From back to back hurricanes to the twists and turns of the US presidential election, there's been a lot to keep up with in 2024. Reporters in the WUSF newsroom who covered the issues that had the biggest impact on the greater Tampa Bay region join Florida Matters to share their insights. Steve Newborn covers politics and the environment, Nancy Guan focuses on immigration and education, Stephanie Colombini covers health care and Sky Lebron covers transportation among other things. Highlights include stories about polarizing constitutional amendments on recreational marijuana and abortion access, immigration issues, the high cost of groceries and housing, campus protests, and a widely criticized plan to put amenities like pickleball and golf courses in state parks. Reporters also covered some lighter stories including a quest to find the source of mysterious sounds in Tampa Bay, which some speculate was caused by fish mating.

Be sure to see Mindi Abair live in concert on Friday, December 20 at the Capitol Theatre in Clearwater, FL. You can learn more at RuthEckerdHall.com.“ She'll Move You” – Keb' Mo'“Forget You, Who's Your Sax Player? – Steven Tyler on American Idol“21st Century Sophistication, A Gritty, Raucous Spirit, And Exceptional Creative Imagination” – Allmusic.ComDuring her remarkable 24-year recording career, saxophonist/vocalist Mindi Abair has garnered 2 GRAMMY nominations, recorded with some of the biggest names in music, and built a substantial following among jazz and blues audiences with her soaring melodies and powerhouse style. In 2014, Mindi received her first GRAMMY nomination in the Best Pop Instrumental Album category for Summer Horns with Dave Koz, Richard Elliot and Gerald Albright, followed by a 2015 GRAMMY nomination for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for her solo LP Wild Heart featuring the late Gregg Allman, Joe Perry, Trombone Shorty, Booker T. Jones, Keb' Mo', and Max Weinberg.You might know her as the featured saxophonist on American Idol, sitting in with Paul Shaffer on The Late Show with David Letterman and The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, or from moonlighting on tour with Duran Duran or Aerosmith. As a solo artist, she has consistently topped the Billboard Contemporary Jazz and Blues charts. In 2018, Mindi Abair and The Boneshakers won 8 Independent Blues Awards including Artist of the Year, and an Independent Music Award for Best Blues Song Fan Award for “Pretty Good For A Girl” featuring Joe Bonamassa. They won the 2019 LA Critics Award for Best Holiday Album for All I Got For Christmas Is The Blues. And in 2019, 2020 and 2021 Mindi was nominated by the Blues Music Awards as the Best Instrumentalist: Horn.As creator, designer and owner, Mindi launched www.wineandjazz.com in 2019 as a lifestyle concept that brings together the worlds of wine and music through members-only exclusive wines paired with personally curated music playlists, label art and branded wine and music worldwide adventures and festivals.Mindi wrote the book “How To Play Madison Square Garden – A Guide To Stage Performance” and served 10 years as an LA Chapter Governor, President and National Trustee for The Recording Academy.Mindi has toured and/or recorded with: Aerosmith, Joe Bonamassa, Smokey Robinson, Joe Perry, Trombone Shorty, Booker T. Jones, Gregg Allman, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Fantastic Negrito, Waddy Wachtel, Bobby Rush, Keb' Mo', Teena Marie, Lee Ritenour, Adam Sandler, Duran Duran, Bill Champlin, Richard Elliott, Jimmy Webb, Max Weinberg, Dave Koz, Peter White, Gerald Albright, Mandy Moore, Lalah Hathaway and the Backstreet Boys.Today's audio was recorded over Zoom. Production assistance by Chandler Balkcom, Adam Darbyshire, and Arantza Romero. Host and editor: Warren Buchholz. Arts Axis Florida is a product of WUSF and is sponsored by Community Foundation Tampa Bay, the Gobioff Foundation with support from the Palladium by you. Thank you for your support. Learn more about Jazz on Arts Axis Florida by visiting our website at wusfjazz.org. Copyright 2024 WUSF.

affordable houses in short supply and lots of competition. But if you do own a home in the Tampa Bay region, you might be facing another challenge: getting insurance. WUSF's Jessica Meszaros has been reporting on what the homeowner's insurance crisis looks and feels like in Tampa Bay, and her reporting is featured on WWNO's ‘Sea Change' podcast. Meszaros' podcast ‘The Stormy Insurance Crisis in the Sunshine State' dropped back in August, before Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. Those back to back storms brought the insurance crisis into focus, as the region recovers. Meszaros joins Florida Matters why Florida is the “origin story” of the collapsing home insurance market, and how sketchy companies and climate change are fueling the crisis.

affordable houses in short supply and lots of competition. But if you do own a home in the Tampa Bay region, you might be facing another challenge: getting insurance. WUSF's Jessica Meszaros has been reporting on what the homeowner's insurance crisis looks and feels like in Tampa Bay, and her reporting is featured on WWNO's ‘Sea Change' podcast. Meszaros' podcast ‘The Stormy Insurance Crisis in the Sunshine State' dropped back in August, before Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. Those back to back storms brought the insurance crisis into focus, as the region recovers. Meszaros joins Florida Matters why Florida is the “origin story” of the collapsing home insurance market, and how sketchy companies and climate change are fueling the crisis.

On election night 2025, Florida Matters heard from reporters at WUSF and partner stations at watch parties in the Tampa Bay region as results came in. Political journalist William March shared insights on the races that were set to have the biggest impact on the balance of power in federal and state government. And the proposed constitutional amendments - on recreational marijuana, abortion access and more. And listeners called in to share their experience of the election, from voting to the issues that were top of mind as they cast their votes. Guests on this episode include: Political journalist William March WUSF reporters Nancy Guan, Steve Newborn and Stephanie Colombini WLRN reporters Verónica Zaragovia and Wilkine Brutus

On election night 2025, Florida Matters heard from reporters at WUSF and partner stations at watch parties in the Tampa Bay region as results came in. Political journalist William March shared insights on the races that were set to have the biggest impact on the balance of power in federal and state government. And the proposed constitutional amendments - on recreational marijuana, abortion access and more. And listeners called in to share their experience of the election, from voting to the issues that were top of mind as they cast their votes. Guests on this episode include: Political journalist William March WUSF reporters Nancy Guan, Steve Newborn and Stephanie Colombini WLRN reporters Verónica Zaragovia and Wilkine Brutus

The economy is a leading topic mentioned by voters this year. A poll from the Pew Research Center published in September revealed eight in ten registered voters said the economy will be very important to their vote in the presidential election. People who responded to an unscientific WUSF survey said they have concerns about property and auto insurance. Income inequality, the cost of housing, inflation and the national debt are among the other economic issues that you say you're worried about. And basic needs - like the cost of food - are important for voters of all ages. On this episode of Florida Matters, you'll hear from WUSF's Steve Newborn about the economic concerns of senior citizens and students across the greater Tampa Bay region as they think about how they'll vote. And Michael Snipes, an associate professor of instruction in economics at the University of South Florida, explains the relationship between the election and the economy when it comes to issues like inflation, the cost of housing and homeowners insurance, and policy proposals like eliminating tax on tips. And, with the presidential election just days away, a lot of people are worried about election integrity. Marion County elections supervisor Wesley Wilcox talks about how you can be sure your vote will be counted, and what's being done to prevent cyberattacks on elections offices.

The economy is a leading topic mentioned by voters this year. A poll from the Pew Research Center published in September revealed eight in ten registered voters said the economy will be very important to their vote in the presidential election. People who responded to an unscientific WUSF survey said they have concerns about property and auto insurance. Income inequality, the cost of housing, inflation and the national debt are among the other economic issues that you say you're worried about. And basic needs - like the cost of food - are important for voters of all ages. On this episode of Florida Matters, you'll hear from WUSF's Steve Newborn about the economic concerns of senior citizens and students across the greater Tampa Bay region as they think about how they'll vote. And Michael Snipes, an associate professor of instruction in economics at the University of South Florida, explains the relationship between the election and the economy when it comes to issues like inflation, the cost of housing and homeowners insurance, and policy proposals like eliminating tax on tips. And, with the presidential election just days away, a lot of people are worried about election integrity. Marion County elections supervisor Wesley Wilcox talks about how you can be sure your vote will be counted, and what's being done to prevent cyberattacks on elections offices.

People had barely even begun picking up their lives after Hurricane Helene two weeks ago when Milton hit the Gulf Coast. A day after Hurricane Milton slammed into the Gulf Coast, Florida Matters heard from people across the greater Tampa Bay region about the storm's impact and the recovery ahead. Milton made landfall Wednesday night as a Category 3 hurricane near Siesta Key, just south of Sarasota, with dangerous storm surge, damaging wind and flooding rain. Millions across the state were still without power as first responders continued to rescue people stranded by floodwaters and assess the damage. For many, Hurricane Milton is a life-changing event, and Florida Matters opened the phones to hear people share their experiences of the storm and ask questions about what's next for recovery and restoration from our panel of reporters and expert guests. Among the voices you'll hear are WUSF reporters Stephanie Colombini, Kerry Sheridan, and Gabriella Paul, former FEMA director Craig Fugate, chair of the University of South Florida's Psychology Department, Dr. Judith Bryant, Axios senior climate change reporter Andrew Freedman, University of South Florida College of Public Health instructor in Global Disaster Management, Humanitarian Relief and Homeland Security Elizabeth Dunn, former state senator Jeff Brandes, and Pinellas County Public Information Manager David Connor.

People have strong opinions about immigration, and during this presidential election campaign, anxieties over America's broken immigration system- and hopes the election might bring change- are top of mind for many voters. Some of you have told WUSF you're worried about border security. Others are concerned about the rise in xenophobic rhetoric directed at immigrants. Immigration law is complex. And so is the way the immigration system works- and doesn't work. And it's not just immigrant communities who are affected. Joining Florida Matters to share their stories about how the immigration system impacts their lives and businesses are Diego Dulanto-Falcon, a DACA recipient and Masters student at the University of South Florida, Elizabeth Arranda, Professor of Sociology & Director of USF's Immigrant Well-Being Research Center and Gary Wishnatzki, a 3rd generation berry farmer and owner of Wish Farms in Hillsborough County. You'll also hear from WUSF's Nancy Guan who has been reporting on immigration in the greater Tampa Bay region. And an update from WUSF's Octavio Jones on the impact of Hurricane Helene on Hernando Beach and Aripeka, two weeks after the powerful hurricane brought storm surge to Florida's gulf coast.

Across the greater Tampa Bay region, people are taking stock of the destruction left behind by Hurricane Helene. Storm surge of eight feet and more in some places flooded homes and businesses. Tens of thousands of homes and buildings are damaged- some completely destroyed. Some beachside towns look like a war zone after a wall of water bulldozed sand through the streets. And as of Monday, 11 people were confirmed to have died in our community. On this episode hear what recovery looks like as people pick up the pieces after this monstrous storm. And - the voices of people who experienced the fear and confusion of last Thursday night, and shared moments of camaraderie as the water rose higher and higher. WUSF's Stephanie Colombini, Gabriella Paul and Jessica Meszaros join Florida Matters to share their reporting from Hurricane Helene and its aftermath

DONATE TO THE ZESTIt's the most delicious time of year at the Most Magical Place on Earth. We're talking about the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. The annual event takes place through Nov. 23 at EPCOT's World Showcase. That's the area of the theme park whose architecture replicates a bunch of different countries. One minute you're taking a selfie in front of a replica Eiffel Tower; next thing you know, you're climbing the steps of an Aztec temple in fake Mexico. Throughout the year, each “country” in EPCOT highlights its cuisine. But during the Food & Wine Festival, things get even more elaborate, with special kiosks featuring bespoke food and drinks.Dalia recently attended the festival, as did her WUSF colleagues Leslie Laney and Mark Schreiner. In this bonus Zest episode, they'll share their experience and offer tips for eating and drinking your way around the world.Related episodes:EPCOT Culinary Director Albert Youngman Brings a World of Flavors to FloridaJournalist Judith Smelser on Zoom Wine Tastings, Disney Sommeliers and How to Find Your Next Favorite Bottle of Wine“Happiest Plate on Earth” Podcast Hosts Dish on Disney DiningAJ Wolfe of Disney Food Blog

It's election season. And if you're a new voter, it may be intimidating trying to decipher the flood of campaign ads, figure out your ballot or even know who it is you are being asked to vote for. Two people paying close attention to elections are Tara Newsom and Alex Mahadevan. They sat down with WUSF's elections podcast: Our Changing State, Vote 2024 to talk about how young voters are navigating the election and how the media covers politics. Alex Mahadevan is the director of Mediawise at Poynter, which aims to empower people with media literacy skills to identify misinformation. As media organizations shrink and trust in the media slips, Mahadevan says people are turning away from legacy media organizations for their political news and information. “They're going to like an influencer on Tiktok who agrees with, like, how they feel about the world, and they're going to media platforms that kind of match their information consumption habits,” says Mahadevan. And Newsom, who is a professor of government and civic learning at St. Petersburg College has been talking with students about issues they think are important. “In this election they recognize that democracy, their reproductive freedoms, climate change, foreign policy's all on the ballot,” says Newsom.

In this episode of Florida Matters, you'll get a taste of what's on offer from the host of the Zest Podcast, Dalia Colon. Season 10 of The Zest includes vegan fare for theme park buffs, what basketball pros eat when they're on the road, and even some kitchen hacks. If you're a foodie, you're probably already streaming the new season of The Zest, WUSF's podcast celebrating the intersection of food and Florida. Host Dalia Colon travels around Tampa Bay telling the stories of its unique residents. This season, she's talking hot sauce, kitchen hacks and gadgets, and coffee that uplifts the people.

In the upcoming general election, Florida voters will get a chance to decide whether they want to approve the use of marijuana for recreational purposes. Matthew Peddie, host of "Florida Matters" and the podcast "Our Changing State," speaks with WUSF reporter Sky Lebron about what Amendment 3 means. And- it takes a savvy voter to separate fact from fiction when it comes to making sense of political advertisements. Alex Mahadevan, the director of MediaWise — the Poynter Institute's digital media literacy project — explains what voters need to know to make informed decisions.

WUSF's Gabriella Paul has been talking to renters, homeowners and investigators to find out what's been going on with the housing market. She says investors are changing the market by adding competition on houses deemed affordable. Paul joins Florida Matters along with Kristin Washington, a Tampa realtor, to explain the impact of large and small investors on the housing market. Plus- Alex Mehadevan, director of Mediawise at Poynter talks about deep fakes and their influence on politics and the 2024 election.

Florida's Department of Environmental Protection revealed plans to build golf courses, pickleball courts and lodges on some state parks- and people aren't happy about it. Now the group backing the golf course proposal has pulled out. The uproar over the development proposal shows just how strongly Floridians feel about their state parks. Coming up, you'll hear what makes these wild places so special, and why people want to protect them. You'll meet Wilma Norton and Peter Couture, a St. Petersburg couple on a mission to visit all 175 state parks. And, what the primary election revealed about voter turnout and what it means for your ballot in November. You'll hear from WUSF's Kerry Sheridan and Steve Newborn as they discuss highlights from the election, school board politics and more.

Abortion is a polarizing issue. But whatever your opinion, if you're a Floridian voting this November, you'll have a say in whether the right to an abortion is written into the state constitution. Like voters in 11 other states this fall, Floridians will have the chance to vote on abortion access - in this case through a constitutional amendment. But since May, Floridians seeking an abortion have faced an added hurdle as have medical practices and groups that support people who are seeking abortions Today, the procedure is banned beyond the sixth week of pregnancy with some rare exceptions. That's after the Florida Legislature replaced a 15 week ban that had been in place since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade in 2022. Florida Matters created space for conversations on both sides of this controversial issue. In a special program recorded live at at WUSF in Tampa, you'll hear the background to the proposed amendment and how it could roll back Florida's current ban on abortions. During the conversation you'll hear from Kathryn Varn, Tampa Bay Reporter with Axios; Bree Wallace, Director of Case Management, Tampa Bay Abortion Fund; John Stemberger, President & Senior Counsel, Liberty Counsel Action; and Louis Virelli, Lawyer & Constitutional Law Professor, Stetson University College of Law.

Debby dumped 12 inches of rain in some parts of Tampa Bay on her way through the area over the weekend. Cities are starting to assess the damage. And the Tampa Bay Rays are finally getting a new stadium, and then some, after the St. Petersburg City Council greenlighted the plan. Hear from WUSF's Kerry Sheridan about Debby's Impact on Sarasota. And Tampa Bay Times reporter Colleen Wright, who covers St. Petersburg, explains how the stadium deal got approved despite opposition from some residents, and what comes next.

School board elections have been nonpartisan in Florida since 2000. That's because voters here approved a constitutional amendment on the issue back in 1998. But now there's a proposal to make school board races partisan again: a constitutional amendment to reverse the one decided 25 years ago. Floridians will get to vote on Amendment 1 in November. One reason may be that in the past four years, school board meetings have gotten a lot more polarized. And these county level government agencies are getting a lot more attention from the Republican Party and the Democratic Party. Three people paying close attention to local school boards and this amendment are Tampa Bay Times education reporter Jeff Solochek, Republican political strategist Rod Thomson, who also chairs the Communications Committee with the Sarasota County Republican Party, and Damaris Allen, the executive director of Families for Strong Public Schools. They discussed the arguments for and against partisan school board elections with Florida Matters and took questions from an audience of Tampa Bay area residents at the WUSF performance studio in Tampa.