Each week a panel of journalists from South Florida and around the state discuss the week in news.
The Miami mayor's latest scandal, Florida seeing some good in DEI, Haiti's troubles deepen
On the South Florida Roundup, we looked at widening ethics investigations into Miami Mayor Francis Suarez’s lucrative moonlighting – and Democrats telling him to resign as he proposes city reforms (00:05). We also discussed an exclusive WLRN report about Florida’s anti-'woke' government finding something positive about diversity, equity and inclusion (17:50). And we examined Haiti’s new struggles against violent gang government as its real government faces a deadline to step down next week (33:36).
2/2/2024 • 49 minutes, 53 seconds
Broward inmate deaths, Hialeah's RV crackdown and Cuba's private sector
On The South Florida Roundup, we examined a rash of inmate deaths and suicides in Broward County’s jail facilities (01:03). We also looked at the city of Hialeah’s vote this week to stop the rental of recreational vehicles as residences — and what it says about our affordable housing crisis (18:56). And we discussed the new debate about the Cuba crisis. But this time it’s not about communism — it’s about capitalism (34:45).
1/26/2024 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Possible changes to state gun control laws, a South Florida Muslim conference cancellation and Miami's asylum case backlog
In this episode of The South Florida Roundup we’ll look at bills in the new Florida state legislative session that would roll back gun control measures passed after the massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School six years ago (01:02). We also discussed last week’s cancellation of the South Florida Muslim Federation’s annual gathering at a Broward venue (18:51). And we asked what could be done about the record logjam of asylum cases in U.S. immigration courts like Miami’s (34:48).
1/19/2024 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
Lubby Navarro's arrest, WLRN's 'Never Drop the Ball' documentary and gang violence in Latin America
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed more 'Miami mess': the arrest of former Miami-Dade County School Board Vice Chair Lubby Navarro for allegedly stealing tens of thousands of dollars from the school system (01:03). We also talked to the makers of “Never Drop the Ball,” WLRN-TV’s new documentary about America’s pioneering 20th-century Negro baseball leagues (18:25). And we tried to make sense of the new outburst of narco-cartel violence plaguing Ecuador and Latin America (35:12).
1/12/2024 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
'Miami mess' for its city manager, the homeless seek a home in Cutler Bay and Venezuela’s alleged crime mastermind gets released
In the first show of 2024, we discuss WLRN's investigation into Miami's hiring of the city manager’s wife for office remodeling. We look at a proposal to place homeless seniors and veterans into transitional housing in Cutler Bay that is being met with resistance (18:37). And we examine President Biden’s decision to free Venezuela’s alleged corruption mastermind, Alex Saab, from his Miami jail cell (35:29).
1/5/2024 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Everglades restoration, the future of Palestinians in Florida and the Latino vote
On the South Florida Roundup, we close out 2023 by looking at how tough the year was for South Florida’s most critical commodity: its environment. And that includes the Everglades, whose revival feels dangerously dormant (01:03). We also examine the face and the future of the Palestinians, both in Gaza and here, amid the brutal Israel-Hamas war (17:58). And we discuss new polls that suggest President Biden and the Democrats are in more trouble with Latino voters next year than they thought (34:00).
12/29/2023 • 51 minutes
The year in review: Education, affordable housing and Latin America.
On The South Florida Roundup, with the year nearing its end, we look back at some stories that helped define 2023 in South Florida. First, education — and the often bitter debate here involving diversity, parental rights versus LGBTQ+ rights and book-banning (01:01). We also discuss how the affordable housing crisis finally took center stage across the region (18:01). And we examine the American immigration crisis — and the Latin American leaders, like Venezuela’s, who made it worse (33:04).
12/22/2023 • 18 hours, 43 minutes, 34 seconds
Miami's budget dysfunction, farewell to a Miami Herald leader and the Venezuela-Guyana territorial dispute
On the South Florida Roundup, we looked at the holiday edition of the Miami mess: embattled City Attorney Victoria Mendez gets to keep her job — for the moment — while the city commission corrects all the multi-million-dollar mistakes it’s made with the budget (01:01). We also spoke with Nancy Ancrum, the Miami Herald’s editorial page editor who is retiring after leading the paper to two Pulitzer Prizes (18:39). And we examined why Venezuela claims it should have two-thirds of neighboring Guyana (35:19).
12/15/2023 • 50 minutes, 43 seconds
Art transforming a local community, a former diplomat allegedly spied for Cuba and a potential building boom in the Keys
On the South Florida Roundup, we looked at how Miami Art Week and events like it are now a development engine for some of South Florida’s once struggling communities like Opa-Locka (1:00); a retired U.S. diplomat and former ambassador to Bolivia who was charged with spying for Cuba (8:40); and how the state of Florida may soon loosen development restrictions in the Florida Keys (22:48).
12/8/2023 • 35 minutes, 39 seconds
Transgender athlete controversy in Broward schools; Big sugar; Puerto Rico's healthcare system
On the South Floria Roundup, we discussed the Broward County controversy over whether a transgender student can play girls’ volleyball (01:03), the new WLRN Everglades podcast Bright Lit Place – and Big Sugar’s role in blocking the cleanup of one of our key eco-treasures (18:35) , and we examine how Puerto Rico’s mortality rate is going up as its healthcare system tumbles down (34:16).
12/1/2023 • 50 minutes, 50 seconds
Holiday travel; Food insecurity across South Florida; Univision going Trumpista?
On the South Florida Roundup, we examine how our region’s three major airports are likely to perform amid what’s likely to be record holiday traffic in the skies (01:03), we also look at a more unsettling aspect of the holidays: the fact that a larger share of people here are experiencing food insecurity than the rest of the country (18:45), and we ask if the country’s largest Spanish-language TV network is suddenly cozying up to Donald Trump (33:57).
11/24/2023 • 51 minutes
The launch of the Better Bus Network; Citizens Insurance's home inspections; Argentina's presidential election
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed Miami-Dade’s new public bus system that launched this week (01:02), a WLRN investigation that finds Citizens Property Insurance is using unlicensed inspectors as it moves to drop homes from its burgeoning coverage rolls (16:38), and Argentina's presidential election (33:39).
11/17/2023 • 50 minutes, 56 seconds
Palm Beach County sugarcane burning protest; Coral Gables could annex Little Gables; Sunken treasure off the coast of Colombia
On The South Florida Roundup, we looked at South Florida’s sugarcane harvest season – also known as the sugarcane burning season – and asked just how dangerous it is to the health of nearby residents (01:01). We also examined affluent Coral Gables’ renewed effort to annex the low-income Little Gables neighborhood – where many residents fear they’ll just be booted out (17:54). And we discussed the latest dispute over a sunken ship – this one containing an estimated $20 billion, found off Colombia’s coast (33:56).
11/10/2023 • 49 minutes, 47 seconds
A rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in South Florida; Elections in Miami-Dade County
We talked with both Jewish and Muslim community leaders about the disturbing increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents (01:01). We also preview next week’s local elections in Miami-Dade County (35:17).
11/3/2023 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
Palm Beach Ag Reserve deal voted down; The life and legacy of Shirley Gibson; Venezuela’s new presidential hopeful
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed why the Palm Beach County Commission rejected a land-swap proposal that supporters hoped could alleviate the housing crisis (01:00). We also recalled the life of the late Shirley Gibson, who helped create Miami Gardens 20 years ago (18:09). Later, we ask if Venezuela’s new opposition candidate, Maria Corina Machado, can dislodge a dictatorship (34:22).
10/27/2023 • 50 minutes, 28 seconds
Special edition of the South Florida Roundup: Waiting for America
A year ago this week, the Biden Administration launched a humanitarian parole for migrants escaping crisis and dictatorship in Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela. It’s brought a quarter million people to the U.S. – especially South Florida. But has it alleviated the crush at the U.S. southern border? On the South Florida Roundup, WLRN reporters discussed WLRN News' new series: “Waiting for America” – examining the successes and failures of President Biden’s key immigration policy.
10/20/2023 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
The war in Israel; Florida's court consolidation proposal; a condo tower approved in a Miami Beach historic neighborhood
On the South Florida Roundup, we spoke with a respected former Middle East correspondent to help make sense of the tragic conflict now raging in Israel – and how it affects our local Jewish and Arab communities (01:03). We also examined the Florida House Speaker’s attempt to reduce the number of the state’s judicial circuits (19:26) and we looked at whether Miami Beach is spoiling its celebrated historic look with more luxury condo towers (34:39).
10/13/2023 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
Miami's court battle with a commission candidate; Broward College's new acting president; Haiti's multinational security force
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed a court decision to stop the City of Miami’s attempt to keep a business owner from running for the District 1 commission seat (01:00), Broward College’s uncertain future after it suddenly lost a president and picked another (08:42) and the U.N. sending a police mission to gang-ravaged Haiti (21:27).
10/6/2023 • 34 minutes, 23 seconds
Scholarships pulled for alleged ties to China; Cuba relinquishes some economic control; Miami-Dade wants to replace septic tanks
On the South Florida Roundup, we examined Florida’s decision to yank voucher money from two South Florida private schools because it says their owner is a shill for China (01:00), why the Cuban government is allowing more economic freedom — but not political liberalization (08:22) and Miami-Dade County’s ramped-up efforts to get rid of septic tanks (29:17).
9/29/2023 • 32 minutes
The city of Miami's affordable housing effort; PFAS in South Florida water; TPS extension for Venezuelans
This week on the South Florida Roundup we discussed the city of Miami's decision to spend millions of dollars on a half dozen homes as part of their effort to create more affordable housing (01:03); Broward County finding 'forever chemicals' in their water (19:24); and the Biden Administration's decision to extend and redesignate temporary protections for Venezuelans (41:04).
9/22/2023 • 0
Speed enforcement cameras in school zones; county budgets; a court order that'll affect Cubans with I-220A forms
This week on the South Florida Roundup we discussed a proposal to bring speed enforcement cameras to school zones in Miami-Dade County (06:49), the big things to have your eyes on for the coming fiscal year across South Florida (19:20) and a court order that will block thousands of recently arrived Cubans from getting permanent residency in the U.S. after one year and one day (37:56).
9/15/2023 • 49 minutes, 56 seconds
Miami Wilds controversy; Jimmy Buffett's legacy; Cuba's 'crackdown' on Russia's alleged human trafficking
This week on the South Florida Roundup we discussed the clash between the proposed Miami Wilds water park at Zoo Miami and conservationists (1:01); the Parrothead culture that “tropical rock” music legend Jimmy Buffett left in Key West and beyond (19:02); and Cuba’s sudden — and questioned — claim that it’s broken up a smuggling ring sending Cubans to fight for Russia in Ukraine (36:10).
9/8/2023 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
The Miami-Dade Mayor's proposed budget, Francis Suarez's ethics issues and the Canaan massacre in Haiti
This week on the South Florida Roundup we discussed the Miami-Dade County mayor’s budget priorities (1:00), the City of Miami mayor’s ethics issues and his short-lived run for president (19:06) and the international community’s inability to come up with a workable plan of intervention to help Haiti overcome gang rules (34:46).
9/1/2023 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Plans to protect Miami's coastline; Florida taking control of MDX toll roads and Nicaragua's Jesuit ban
This week on The South Florida Roundup, we discussed new plans to protect Miami's coast from storms (1:00), the state taking control of Miami-Dade County's busiest local toll roads (19:00) and the Nicaragua's dictatorship outlawing the Jesuits (36:02).
8/25/2023 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
Miami-Dade recycling program, voters who remain loyal to Donald Trump and gang violence in Ecuador
The Aug. 18 episode of the South Florida Roundup dives into why Miami-Dade is so bad at recycling; why Donald Trump still has strong support in South Florida (19:20) and why gangs have taken over Ecuador — and much of Latin America (35:40).
8/18/2023 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Back to school, affordability crisis in Broward and the importance of the Amazon
This week on the South Florida Roundup, we got AP Psyched-out for the new school year, looked into Broward facing its own cost-of-living crisis (19:22) and why protecting the Amazon rainforest matters here (35:10).
8/11/2023 • 50 minutes, 48 seconds
A Miami exodus, rescuing Florida’s coral reef and mass incarceration in Central America
On the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about whether Miami is facing an exodus, the race to rescue our local coral reef from the effects of climate change (18:44), and we examined Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele’s draconian crusade to bring down the gangs whose violence drives so many Central American migrants here (35:15).
8/4/2023 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
A police tragedy, Black history in education and the real José Martí
This week on the South Florida Roundup, we discussed the tragedy of Miami-Dade’s police director and the triumph of Miami Beach’s new police chief (12:41), the challenges of teaching Black history in Florida (18:50) and a play that shows who was the real José Martí (36:18).
7/28/2023 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Excessive heat, FAU presidential search and soccer in South Florida
This week on the South Florida Roundup: Miami-Dade County moves to protect workers from this terrible heat, Florida Atlantic University’s president selection is in chaos (19:33), but right now — it’s all about soccer here, as Messi mania and the Women's World Cup get underway (35:03).
7/21/2023 • 51 minutes, 1 second
New Broward schools superintendent, inflation in South Florida and a Tequesta archaeological site
A discussion with the new Broward schools superintendent following his first week on the job, a look into the rise in inflation and home insurance in South Florida (19:33) and looking at the Tequesta archaeological site and the back and forth on its preservation (35:03).
7/14/2023 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
Miami-Dade trash dilemma, small airports' toxic pollution and two centuries of Monroe County
A look into where Miami-Dade County is going to take all its trash, South Florida’s small public airports leading the country in toxic lead pollution (19:00) and the 200-year anniversary of America’s southernmost county (34:24).
7/7/2023 • 50 minutes, 41 seconds
Hialeah's troubled 911 system, more Guardianship revelations and Guatemala’s presidential election
This week’s episode discusses Hialeah’s troubled 911 emergency call dispatch system, new revelations about Miami-Dade County’s Guardianship program (18:32) and whether Guatemala’s presidential election is reason for hope (36:08).
6/30/2023 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
Citizens insurance hikes, remembering Danny Agnew, and Cuba's visit to the Pope
This week on The South Florida Roundup, we discussed Citizens Insurance's rate hikes for homeowners and their efforts to transfer policy holders to private providers (01:00), took a look back on the community impact made by Danny Agnew (19:24), and talked about the relationship between Cuba and the Roman Catholic Church (35:30).
6/23/2023 • 51 minutes
Migrant labor, Broward schools, a mess and a miracle in Colombia
This week on The South Florida Roundup, we discussed Florida’s migrant labor, whether Broward County finally put its recent troubles behind it with the selection of a new superintendent (18:40) and Colombia seeing messes (34:54).
6/16/2023 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Ex-Parkland officer on trial, Messi in Miami and the crisis in Haiti
A Parkland school resource officer faces an unprecedented trial, Lionel Messi is coming to Miami (19:40) and battered Haiti needs our help more than ever (35:16).
6/9/2023 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
Hurricane season, children in nursing homes and a leftist mic drop
The South Florida Roundup covered whether Southeast Florida could extend its five-year winning streak with hurricanes, a decade-long federal lawsuit that may force Florida to remove medically fragile kids from homes for the elderly (18:55) and the modernizing effect Chile’s young President Gabriel Boric may have on a movement that haunts South Florida: the Latin American left (34:42).
6/2/2023 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
Miami mayor under ethics investigation, book censorship in Miami Lakes, and Russia in Cuba
This week on the South Florida Roundup, WLRN’s Tim Padgett led a discussion about the latest happenings in Miami’s government, examined why a Miami-Dade public school removed books from the shelves for elementary students (18:40) and whether Russia’s footprint is about to get bigger in Cuba (34:54).
5/29/2023 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Safety measures in Broward schools, heat in Miami and violence in Haiti
On the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about the Broward County school board’s closed-door discussion about backpacks and uniforms, how dangerous climate change is making Miami heat (19:38), and how difficult daily life is in Haiti amid the country’s violent security collapse (37:46).
5/19/2023 • 50 minutes, 39 seconds
How this year’s contentious legislative session will affect South Florida
This week on the South Florida Roundup we held our annual post-legislative session discussion with the editorial page editors of South Florida’s three major newspapers. We examined the immigration crackdown (1:00) and the effects measures like abortion restriction will have in South Florida (19:14), as well as what this all may mean for Gov. Ron DeSantis if he seeks the Republican nomination for President (34:27).
5/12/2023 • 50 minutes, 58 seconds
Proud Boy convictions, Broward's superintendent search, and vigilantism in Haiti
On The South Florida Roundup, we spoke about the convictions placed on four members of The Proud Boys. We also looked at Broward County's current search for another superintendent, and the wave of vigilantism across Haiti.
5/5/2023 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Commuter rail to Homestead, Hialeah considers annexing parts of Brownsville, and Juan Guaidó shows up in Miami
On the South Florida Roundup, we looked at the effort to use freight-train tracks, running mainly across Miami-Dade’s west suburbs, for passenger rail lines to reach long neglected areas of the county: north, east, west and especially south. We also examined Hialeah’s controversial bid to expand into unincorporated Brownsville — one of Miami’s most important historically-Black neighborhoods (21:28). Finally, we talked about why Colombia expelled Venezuelan democracy hero Juan Guaidó — and why he is now in South Florida (37:56).
4/28/2023 • 50 minutes, 46 seconds
Broward's flood damage, a Miami Beach state rep.
in a political storm and a role reversal on abortion
On The South Florida Roundup, we received updates on the flooding that impacted all of Fort Lauderdale and other parts of Broward County (01:02); we discussed Fabián Basabe, a controversial state lawmaker at the center of a political storm in Miami Beach (19:54); and we looked at a reversal in the the abortion realities in Florida and Latin America (35:07).
4/21/2023 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Historic flooding in Broward, Black maternal health and a Miami commissioner in a federal trial
On this week's South Florida Roundup we looked at the flooding that impacted all of Fort Lauderdale, the call for action on the disparities in health care outcomes that Black pregnant women face in the U.S. (17:37), and the civil trial against Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo (41:12).
4/14/2023 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Miami's "unfriendliness" puts it at the bottom of rankings, and a rare intersection of religious holidays
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about Miami's low ranking as one of the friendliest and helpful cities in America. We also spoke about a rare intersection of faith, as Christians, Jews and Muslims all observe some of their holiest periods this week (21:41).
4/7/2023 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
The end of Medicaid's expansion, insurance rate hikes, and Florida in the Final Four
On The South Florida Roundup, we looked at the end of Medicaid's expansion as the federal government's public health emergency ends. We talked about Citizens Insurance's proposed rate hike for Florida and its potential effects in the state (19:42). We also talked about Florida's presence in the Final Four of the NCAA March Madness Tournament (39:23).
3/31/2023 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
Spring break violence, an anti-illegal immigrant bill in the legislature, and the ongoing gang violence in Haiti.
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about spring break violence in South Beach and possible solutions (01:03), a bill targeting illegal immigrants that's making its way through the Florida legislature (21:31), and the continuously worsening gang violence in Haiti (39:11).
3/24/2023 • 50 minutes, 56 seconds
Marching for labor rights, ending a 400-year sentence, and the effects of a bank's collapse on South Florida
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about the march across Palm Beach County for labor rights, the exoneration of a man who had been handed a 400-year sentence in Fort Lauderdale (8:59), and the impact Silicon Valley Bank's collapse had on South Florida (21:59).
3/17/2023 • 34 minutes, 15 seconds
Broward's municipal elections, lack of meetings in North Miami Beach, and 10 years since the death of Chávez
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we looked at the ballot for Broward's municipal elections and the reasons behind absenteeism among North Miami Beach Commissioners (14:15). We also spoke to a journalist about Venezuela and its diaspora 10 years after the death of president Hugo Chávez (32:36).
3/10/2023 • 51 minutes, 44 seconds
FL legislative session, UF West Palm Beach campus on hold, and the new city of Miami District 2 commissioner-elect
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed some of the bills headed into the Florida legislative session (1:06), the stalemate between the University of Florida and a key developer over naming rights (26:37), and spoke with Sabina Covo, the city of Miami’s new District 2 commissioner-elect (39:28).
3/6/2023 • 50 minutes, 40 seconds
Doral incinerator fire, Student walkouts across Florida, and the U.S.'s relationship with Nicaragua.
On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we looked into the fire that started at the Covanta waste incinerator plant in Doral two weeks ago and the county’s trash problem (01:10), the walkout that college students in South Florida staged to protest Gov. DeSantis’ plans to block race and diversity programs (20:07), and U.S.’s relationship with Nicaragua in the face of the release of hundreds of prisoners (37:45).
2/24/2023 • 50 minutes, 41 seconds
Arrests over Moïse assassination, fears for Little Haiti Cultural Center, and municipal elections in Palm Beach County
On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we looked into the four arrests that were made in South Florida in connection to the assassination of Haiti's President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 (01:03), the unsafe structure violations that the Caribbean Marketplace at the Little Haiti Cultural Center received (18:37), and Palm Beach County’s upcoming municipal elections (39:11).
2/17/2023 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
Parkland five years later, new superintendent in Broward schools, and a new ambassador for the OAS
On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we spoke to a survivor as we mark five years since the tragic shooting in Parkland. Plus, we spoke about the new superintendent of Broward County Public schools and school vouchers. And a look at the state of the Americas from the new U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States.
2/10/2023 • 51 minutes, 23 seconds
AP African American Studies revisions, nursing fraud, and allegations against FPL
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we looked at the revisions made to the potential AP African American Studies course, the investigation of a nursing wire fraud scheme (14:01), and the multiple scandals involving Florida Power & Light (37:36).
2/3/2023 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
State rejects curriculum for AP African American history course; the future of DeSantis' election crimes unit; reimagining Riviera Beach
On this week's South Florida Roundup, we spoke about the state rejecting the College Board's proposed curriculum for their AP African American History course, the current state of the Office of Election Crimes and Security (24:11), and plans to redevelop the City of Riviera Beach (40:14).
1/27/2023 • 50 minutes, 56 seconds
Detention By Design: Today's migrant crisis is a continuation of a narrative from 50 years ago
On this week's South Florida Roundup, we had a special live edition of WLRN’s Detention By Design. We covered the current wave of migration (02:42), the Biden Administration’s new parole program (13:56), and gave some historical context to today's situation (34:40).
1/20/2023 • 50 minutes, 45 seconds
Could a light rail line help ease the congestion in Palm Beach County?
On this week's South Florida Roundup, we covered: The City of Miami's decision to hold a special election to fill a vacancy; Broward County and the sheriff’s office decision to partner up once again (17:18); and a plan for a potential light rail line in Palm Beach County (36:20).
1/13/2023 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
How will Biden's new immigration policy affect sponsoring families?
On this week's South Florida Roundup, we covered: the recent waves of immigrants from Haiti and Cuba; the Biden Administration's immigration policy change (20:28); and the 'broken promises' the City of Miami and Miami-Dade County have failed to follow up on (39:22).
1/6/2023 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Education and housing: Where will 2022's hot button issues go in the new year?
In the last South Florida Roundup of 2022, we spoke to WLRN reporters about the most topical issues of the year and how we can expect to see them play out in the new year: education and news in Broward; affordable housing and Miami-Dade's push for demolitions (19:29); more fallout from the Surfside disaster (38:12).
12/30/2022 • 48 minutes, 15 seconds
The best of 2022
On this episode of the South Florida Roundup, we look back at some of our favorite conversations and reporting from 2022, including: the return of Fantasy Fest; an interview with Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (8:58); and the band made up of Miami-Dade firefighters (40:14).
12/23/2022 • 52 minutes, 29 seconds
Largest Cuban exodus in decades, Miami’s FTX debacle and Florida's property insurance crisis
On the South Florida Roundup, we spoke about the spike in Cuban immigrants arriving in Florida (1:02), how the collapse and bankruptcy of the bitcoin exchange FTX are impacting South Florida (20:32) and the major property insurance bill that was passed in Tallahassee (39:10).
12/16/2022 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
Meet WLRN's new government accountability reporter, more school board controversy in Broward and the 'Tripledemic'
On this week's South Florida Roundup: meet WLRN's new local government accountability reporter; controversy after an anti-LGBTQ speech made by a newly-elected Broward school board member; flu, RSV and COVID cases on the rise.
12/10/2022 • 32 minutes, 39 seconds
A ban on sugar imports, Miami Art Week at 20 and guest author at FIU causes Cuba controversy
In this week's South Florida Roundup, we discussed: the Biden administration's decision to ban imports from a Dominican sugar company with Palm Beach County links (01:03); Miami Art Week at 20 is bigger than ever and less NFT-obsessed (19:16); a Miami-Dade commissioner calls out FIU's Cuban Research Institute for arranging a talk about Cuban advantages in the federal immigration system (36:40).
12/2/2022 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
The arts, hurricanes, and Haiti's humanitarian crisis: a look back at this year
On this Thanksgiving edition of the South Florida Roundup, we revisit some of our favorite segments from 2022: Miami-Dade County Public Schools block students from watching Anna In The Tropics (01:04); Hurricane Irma's legacy (19:42); and Haiti's humanitarian crisis (27:30).
11/25/2022 • 49 minutes, 23 seconds
Plans for funds from Broward's penny surtax
Broward County voters approved a 30-year penny tax to improve transit in the county. It’s been four years since the bill was passed, and there are 26 more to go. Has the tax made a difference in Broward? What more needs to be done to improve public transportation in Broward?
11/21/2022 • 0
South Florida Roundup Transit Breakdown From Miami-Dade To West Palm Beach
On the South Florida Roundup, we discussed Tri-Rail possibly making its way to Downtown, Miami-Dade County commissioners voting to accelerate and extend the existing Metrorail system, as well as the Broward County penny tax from 2018 and how it has been implemented.
11/18/2022 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
‘I think we are leading the way’: Republican wave hits South Florida
Miami-Dade county has experienced a political shift that Republicans have been building on for years.
11/11/2022 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
City of Miami takes over historically Black beach, Brazil's tight presidential election, wetlands boundary moved
On this week's South Florida Roundup, we discussed: Miami-Dade County’s decision to move a boundary that protects wetlands (01:02); the results of Brazil's presidential election (15:31); and the anger over the City of Miami's ousting of Virginia Key Trust's majority-Black board (38:04).
11/4/2022 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
A lawsuit over LGBTQ+ flags in a classroom, the race for District 27, Fantasy Fest returns
A lawsuit filed in Palm Beach County over LGBTQ+ flags in a school classroom could be the first of many linked to Florida's recent parental rights laws. On the South Florida Roundup, we also spoke to Senator Annette Taddeo about her run for congress in District 27 and to WLRN’s new Florida Keys reporter Gwen Filosa about Fantasy Fest returning in full for the first time since 2019.
10/28/2022 • 51 minutes, 4 seconds
Voter fraud arrests under fire, breaking down the amendments on Florida's midterm ballots
Ex-felons are now "afraid to vote" on the back of a series of contentious arrests trumpeted by Governor Ron DeSantis, a social justice reporter tells the South Florida Roundup. With early voting about to start, opinion editors from two newspapers dissect the three congressional amendments that Floridians have on their midterm ballots.
10/21/2022 • 49 minutes, 24 seconds
The fate of Nikolas Cruz and the tumultuous situation in Haiti
A jury unanimously decided to sentence Nikolas Cruz to life in prison for the shooting of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High. In Haiti, a humanitarian crisis has led the prime minister of the country to call for foreign intervention — but is there another solution for the troubled nation?
10/14/2022 • 34 minutes, 9 seconds
Voting access post-Hurricane Ian, WLRN reporters cover Southwest Florida devastation, the future of Tower Theater
Some of WLRN's reporters made their way to Southwest Florida to help fellow public media stations after Hurricane Ian — they tell the South Florida Roundup what they saw. With the destruction caused by the hurricane, how will the upcoming election be impacted? Finally, the City of Miami aims to terminate its contract allowing Miami Dade College to operate the historic Tower Theater.
10/7/2022 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
Hurricane Ian's impact on South Florida
On this week's episode of the South Florida Roundup, we looked at Hurricane Ian through a South Florida lens. How are we helping those in Southwest Florida and how were the Florida Keys damaged by Ian?
9/30/2022 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
Miami-Dade Commissioner suspended, another hurricane devastates Puerto Rico, and shifting housing trends in South Florida
Governor Ron DeSantis recently suspended Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez, and is looking to appoint his replacement in a few weeks. Hurricane Fiona left Puerto Rico with floods and power outages all over the country. In South Florida, housing prices have dropped slightly, while in West Palm Beach more people are buying houses with cash. A $1.3 billion transit village project was also approved in the city.
9/23/2022 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Defense rests in Parkland sentencing trial, and students blocked from attending a play in Miami-Dade Public Schools
The defense in the Parkland sentencing trial abruptly decided to rest their case, surprising everyone, especially Judge Scherer. Miami-Dade County Public Schools denied students from attending the Pulitzer Prize-winning play "Anna in the Tropics" by Nilo Cruz
9/16/2022 • 50 minutes, 58 seconds
It's peak hurricane season in South Florida, five years since Hurricane Irma
It's peak hurricane season in South Florida... but where are all the storms? On this week's South Florida Roundup, we mark the five-year anniversary of Hurricane Irma, get an update on the storms currently swirling in the Atlantic and look at a new plan to address the housing affordability problem in Miami-Dade County.
9/9/2022 • 50 minutes, 48 seconds
Commissioner Joe Martinez arrested, a new Broward School Board, and the restoration of a historic hotel
Miami-Dade Commissioner Joe Martinez was arrested on unlawful compensation charges. What does this newly appointed Broward school board mean for the county, and what impact will the restored Gulfstream Hotel have on Lake Worth Beach?
9/2/2022 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Tight congressional races and school boards shaken up after Florida primaries
The Florida primaries saw DeSantis endorsed candidates winning their races across Florida. How will two candidates change the dynamic of the Miami-Dade school board? Plus, four Broward school board members were removed by DeSantis.
8/26/2022 • 51 minutes, 5 seconds
Narcan in Palm Beach County, the start of a new school year, and Surfside scammers
From the South Florida Roundup: deputies in Palm Beach County are now allowed to carry Narcan; a new school year has started, leaving teachers feeling anxious; and scammers from across the country are trying to get some of the Surfside settlement funds.
8/19/2022 • 50 minutes, 50 seconds
Fire devastates Cuban oil supply, and voting on the Inflation Reduction Act
A fire in Matanzas, Cuba, destroyed four oil tankers, worsening the country's desperate energy situation. Also, The U.S. House is expected to vote today on the Inflation Reduction Act, a package of actions that includes allowing the federal government’s Medicare health plan to negotiate prices for some prescription drugs.
8/12/2022 • 50 minutes, 34 seconds
Affordable housing at the cost of the Agricultural Reserve, and a plan to rehome the homeless on Virginia Key
Palm Beach County approved plans to build affordable housing in the county's Agriculture Reserve, but the plan has environmentalists sounding alarms. In Miami-Dade County, a plan to build mini-homes for the homeless on Virginia Key has brought out many voices of dissent.
8/5/2022 • 50 minutes, 58 seconds
Inflation and back-to-school goods, home insurance downgrades, and Miami-Dade flooding predictions
Parents, teachers, and school districts are adjusting to inflated prices for school supplies ahead of the new school year. Also, many home insurance companies are at risk of downgrades. Plus, what would Miami-Dade County look like if it were hit by Hurricane Irma in 30 years?
7/29/2022 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Testimony begins in Cruz death penalty trial, and no sex ed for Miami-Dade public school students
The jury began hearing testimonies this week for Nikolas Cruzes penalty trial, and will decide if he lives or dies. Also, the Miami-Dade school board rejected the health education curriculum for middle and high schools students that they previously approved, meaning students will not have sex education classes.
7/22/2022 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Instability in Haiti, and a big expansion for a coral reef sanctuary
Haiti has been troubled by gang violence, food and water scarcity and a need for humanitarian aid. What will the U.N. do? The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary aims to expand by almost 1,000 square miles.
7/15/2022 • 50 minutes, 58 seconds
Florida companies and the 15-week abortion ban, and potentially higher taxes to fund Broward schools
With the 15-week abortion ban being reinstated in Florida due to the state's appeal, how will companies handle helping their employees with abortions if they choose to do so? Also Broward County residents will vote in August to decide whether or not to increase their taxes to help keep funding teachers and schools.
7/8/2022 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
The death of a top Cuban official, the end of jury selection and Miami might see underground tunnels for commuting in the future
A man who had the Cuban economy on his resume has recently died. The 12 jurors who decided whether Nikolas Cruz gets life in prison or dies have been selected. The city of Miami and other cities have been looking into the potential of underground tunnels to help ease traffic congestion.
7/1/2022 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
One year since the collapse in Surfside, Roe v. Wade overturned, and rising costs in South Florida
A ceremony marked one year since the Champlain Towers collapse. The reversal of Roe vs. Wade has people wondering how abortion access will look like in Florida. And, how has inflation and increasing costs affected South Florida’s communities?
6/24/2022 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Synagogue challenges state abortion law, COVID in South Florida, Miami gets first Michelin stars
A religious institution argues in favor of abortion rights. Florida reverses decision not to preorder COVID-19 vaccines for kids amid a surge in cases. Several Miami restaurants earns high marks from the prestigious Michelin restaurant ratings.
6/20/2022 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
Heavy rain brings flooding and sewage spills to South Florida
On this week's South Florida Roundup, WLRN’s Wilkine Brutus spoke to two guests about the flooding and sewage spills in South Florida caused by the recent tropical system that went through the region.
6/10/2022 • 49 minutes, 59 seconds
Books in PBC schools, bike safety in Miami-Dade, the start of hurricane season and more
Teachers in Palm Beach County have to review books in their classrooms to comply with new state law. Miami-Dade County aims to improve biker and pedestrian safety. Plus, this year's hurricane season is predicted to be another busy one, and a new media group aims to change Spanish language radio in Miami.
6/6/2022 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
The high — and getting higher — cost of living in Florida
The economy and high prices are likely to be the top issues as voters go to the polls this summer and fall.
6/3/2022 • 50 minutes, 29 seconds
The effect of Uvalde on Cruz's jury selection, COVID and the economy in South Florida, and a Surfside inspired law
The shooting in Uvalde, Texas, had an immediate impact on jury selection for Nikolas Cruz' trial. A rise in COVID cases in South Florida has brought only masking recommendations as The Federal Reserve seeks to lower inflation and keep the economy growing. What will be the impact of the Surfside-inspired law passed by the Florida Legislature?
5/30/2022 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
Some sanctions on Cuba lifted, historic settlement reached for Surfside victims, and phase two in the Cruz trial begins
The Biden Administration recently lifted some Trump-era sanctions on Cuba, a settlement for the families of the victims of Surfside has been reached, and the Nikolas Cruz trial continues with the second stage of jury selection.
5/23/2022 • 50 minutes, 55 seconds
Potential pay raises in Broward, Miami-Dade's Heat Season, and unionizing in South Florida
911 workers in Broward may see immediate pay raises soon, Miami-Dade's first Heat Season is underway, and a Starbucks unionizing in South Florida may be a sign of an upward trend.
5/16/2022 • 50 minutes, 17 seconds
Rental protection in Miami-Dade, F1’s journey to Miami Gardens, and the legacy of Michael Tilson Thomas
A “Tenant’s Bill of Rights” was passed in Miami-Dade County, offering protections to renters. The F1 Grand Prix made its way to Miami Gardens, with many residents opposed to its stay. Finally, Michael Tilson Thomas steps down as the New World Symphony’s artistic director.
5/9/2022 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
The trial resumes, COVID cases rise again, and unanswered calls in Broward County
Jury selection for Nikolas Cruz' trial was heading for a restart, but the judge reversed her decision. COVID-19 cases have been increasing in South Florida as a new subvariant rises, but are we better prepared? And a deeper look at the unanswered 911 calls throughout Broward County.
5/2/2022 • 51 minutes, 4 seconds
Cuba and the U.S. resume immigration talks, and Miami might get a new stadium
Cuba and the U.S. held immigration talks for the first time in four years, and a blockbuster deal might bring a new soccer stadium to Miami.
4/25/2022 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
A potential delay to the Nikolas Cruz trial, an affordable housing crisis and cut bonuses for public schools
The jury selection for Nikolas Cruz's sentencing trial remains underway. Plus, an affordable housing crisis was declared in Miami-Dade County and cut bonuses for public schools in Broward may bring legal action.
4/18/2022 • 51 minutes, 4 seconds
Cruz’s sentencing trial, increase in Cuban migrants, and an apartment complex evacuated
After four years, Nikolas Cruz’s sentencing trial begins, more Cubans have been entering the U.S. through its southern border, and the Bayview 60 apartment complex in North Miami Beach was evacuated after an inspection.
4/11/2022 • 35 minutes, 36 seconds
Settlement for owners in Surfside, and the expected jump of Alzheimer's in Florida
A settlement has been reached for the families of victims and survivors of the Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside. Plus, new research predicts Florida will have one of the fastest growing rates of Alzheimer’s Dementia by the middle of this decade.
4/1/2022 • 33 minutes, 8 seconds
Concerns over Spring Break curfew and race, a local duo performs at Ultra Music Festival and the missing time capsule in Key West
Miami Beach’s handling of Spring Break has led to concerns about over-policing in largely Black crowds. Ultra Music Festival welcomes back Afrobeta. Plus, there’s a lost time capsule from 1972 somewhere in Key West.
3/25/2022 • 50 minutes, 58 seconds
Florida's inaction on condo reform, crushing Haitian migration and mass drug overdoses
Cultural issues dominated Florida's 2022 legislative session. Speech in schools, corporate training programs, and other cultural issues received plenty of attention. What about critical issues in South Florida? Reforms to condo associations and home insurance went nowhere. Meanwhile, the region is seeing a crush of migrants this year and street drug deaths.
3/19/2022 • 51 minutes
The Don't Say Gay Bill, Elections in South Florida and the Firing of a Police Chief
What does Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay Bill” mean in the classroom? Elections in Broward and Palm Beach Counties and the firing of Fort Lauderdale’s police chief.
3/12/2022 • 50 minutes, 53 seconds
A South Floridian nominated to the Supreme Court, spring break returns to Miami Beach, and more transparency in Miami-Dade’s condominium associations
A South Floridian might take seat on the nation's highest court, Miami Beach gears up in hopes of a lighter spring break, and a new law was passed that should give condo and home owners a better look into where they live.
3/4/2022 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Trayvon Martin's legacy, Russia's growing influence, Latin America's abortion rights movement
Trayvon Martin’s image came to symbolize injustice for a generation. Russia increases its political influence in Latin America. Plus, Latin America's abortion rights movement contrasts against U.S. abortion restrictions.
2/28/2022 • 50 minutes, 59 seconds
Rental relief in Hialeah, projected increase in sea levels, and illegal tourist cruises to Cuba
Hialeah may be a blueprint for a solution to the rental crises, sea rise increase set to accelerate in 30 years, and evidence has been found showing tourist cruises to Cuba may have been illegal.
2/21/2022 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
A new superintendent, party affiliations being changed and pharmaceuticals in our bonefish
The old interim is the new superintendent for Broward County Public Schools, allegations of unknowing voter affiliation changes, and drugs found in Key Biscayne and Key's fauna.
2/14/2022 • 50 minutes, 52 seconds
Broward's superintendent search, a lawsuit against the NFL, and a new plan for handling peacocks
The search for a superintendent of schools in Broward County is down to two. A fiery lawsuit against the Miami Dolphins and the entire NFL alleging bribery and racism, plus peacocks: - love them or hate them, they may lose some of the protections they enjoy.
2/5/2022 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
Migrant boats capsizing, MDCPS ending its superintendent search, and astounding rent hikes
Today on the South Florida Roundup, we discussed this week's biggest topics — from the deadly journey for more than three dozen migrants to the growing affordable housing crisis.
1/29/2022 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
A police chief's federal lawsuit, continued search for superintendents and restoring The Everglades
Miami’s former top cop accused commissioners of corruption, leading to an investigation. And he’s suing. Miami Dade’s school board narrows its superintendent candidates to three. Plus, how will almost $1.1 billion be spent on Everglades restoration?
1/22/2022 • 51 minutes, 3 seconds
The state sidelines a top health official after email, and the housing affordability 'emergency' in Florida
The top state health official in Orlando is put on leave after encouraging his staff to get the covid vaccine. Plus, the housing crisis is spreading across the state.
1/21/2022 • 50 minutes, 29 seconds
The newest member of the U.S. Congress, searching for a new superintendent and coping with cars taking back the streets
The newest member of Congress comes from South Florida. Finding a new Miami-Dade County Public Schools superintendent is happening fast — too fast for some. And Miami Beach's Ocean Drive will open up again soon for cars.
1/14/2022 • 50 minutes, 43 seconds
Condo regulation after Surfside, bracing for another COVID surge and the legislative session
Editorial page editors Nancy Ancrum from the Miami Herald, Steve Bousquet from the South Florida Sun Sentinel and Tony Doris from the Palm Beach Post joined host Tom Hudson on The South Florida Roundup. They looked at the big issues facing Florida as COVID surges and the state Legislature heads back into session.
12/17/2021 • 49 minutes, 51 seconds
Miami-Dade's superintendent heading to Los Angeles, and schools and parents cope with uptick in threats
Alberto Carvalho is negotiating a new contract to become the superintendent of schools in Los Angeles, ending a 13-year tenure heading up Miami-Dade schools. And school police have been busy this week, tracking down school violence threats on social media.
12/10/2021 • 35 minutes, 14 seconds
Takeaways from this year’s hurricane season, plus artist diversity and NFTs at Miami Art Week
South Florida didn’t see a major storm this hurricane season, but rapid intensification could catch people by surprise next season. Also, Miami Art Week’s representation, equity, and non-fungible tokens (a.k.a. NFTs).
12/3/2021 • 50 minutes, 51 seconds
The Haitian diaspora in South Florida continues to grapple with the country's unrest
On this edition of the South Florida Roundup we discussed the ongoing instability in Haiti, a mix of climate change efforts and goals from local leaders, and the fate of two local college football programs.
11/19/2021 • 50 minutes, 57 seconds
School mask mandates get revised, and addressing the gender pay gap in South Florida
Miami-Dade and Broward County Public Schools made masks optional this week. Plus, a new dashboard aims to collect data on gender inequity in South Florida.
11/12/2021 • 50 minutes, 54 seconds
An election with very few voters, and the heat season — but not the basketball team
Election Day was a mostly quiet affair, certainly compared to just one year ago. And what a 'heat season' means in hot and steamy South Florida
11/5/2021 • 49 minutes, 48 seconds
Mental health and mask changes in Broward Schools, plus Jupiter's town manager resigns after controversy
Broward Public Schools changes mask requirements for high school students as the U.S. Dept. of Education files a legal complaint against the Florida Dept. of Education for withholding funds over the county's mask mandate. Plus, students' mental health, a scandal in Jupiter local government and the dangers of driving the Overseas Highway.
10/29/2021 • 51 minutes, 1 second
Next steps in the Parkland shooter case, and the upcoming primary for a U.S. congressional seat
What to expect next in the Parkland shooter case and the crowded race in the Democratic primary for the 20th U.S. Congressional district Democratic primary.
10/22/2021 • 51 minutes, 3 seconds
Miami's police chief is fired, South Florida preps for a busy event season, and the fate of Florida Memorial
Miami Police Chief Art Acevedo has been fired, a look at what some event and performance goers can expect in terms of COVID safety this busy season and Florida Memorial University's provost discusses the school's fate.
10/15/2021 • 50 minutes, 37 seconds
The politics at play in the Miami police chief saga and South Florida's connection to the 'Pandora Papers'
The latest on the drama involving City of Miami Police Chief Art Acevedo and City of Miami Commissioners, and the Latin American and Caribbean connection in the 'Pandora Papers' investigation.
10/8/2021 • 34 minutes, 45 seconds
Drama unfolds between Miami police chief and commissioners, and Broward schools safety concerns
The latest on the escalating tensions between the City of Miami's chief of police and the City Commission, and a statewide public safety commission expresses concerns over safety in Broward schools.