Allstate casualty insurance property Association insurance massachusetts property underwriting Building insurance property rented Business insurance property Business insurance property small Casualty company insurance property Casualty ids insurance property Casualty insurance job property Casualty insurance license property Casualty insurance news property Casualty insurance property Casualty insurance property software Cheap insurance property uk vacant Citizen corporation florida insurance property Citizen corporation insurance louisiana property Citizen-corporation insurance property Citizen insurance property Claim insurance property Commercial insurance management property risk Commercial insurance property Commercial insurance property uk Florida insurance property High insurance net property uk worth Home insurance investment management property prudential Home insurance owner property rental Home insurance property title Insurance introduction liability property works Insurance investment property Insurance janney montgomery property scott Insurance landlord property Insurance let property Insurance liability property Insurance owner property Insurance personal property Insurance property rental Insurance property replacement service Insurance property title Insurance property uk Casualty insurance property Autoloan Online Casino Free Game Online Hairloss Treatment Product Mortgage Company Online Property Insurances Onlinem Texas Car Insurance Online Travel Insurances Online Datingservicesworld.com Acne Treatment Product Digitalphotosindia .com stockmarketnifty stockmarketsensex stockmarketindia   Summer Diversions Florida Matters helps you get the most out of your summer downtime and vacation budget. Whether it's summer reading in the back yard or a local road trip, Florida Matters has plenty of warm weather suggestions for you. Today's Drug Testing - Reprise Florida law requires public high schools to test for anabolic steroids. A report from the Florida High School Athletic Association is due out this summer. Some schools report a drop in non-steroid drug use since implementing random testing. But some people question the effectiveness of such programs as preventive measures. First broadcast March 14, 2008. Future of Water Drought, development and carelessness have combined to threaten Florida's water supply. Listen and learn as Florida Matters examines where the flow of this natural resource is headed and what's being done to avoid a potential water crisis. Living With Autism Listen and learn as Florida Matters examines new legislation to try to help families with treating autism and how some moms are helping others understand the disorder. The Changing Face of Journalism Shrinking newspapers, layoffs and new technological challenges have become the new reality that journalists have to deal with. Florida Matters examines how newspaper journalists are faring in the new age of journalism. Hurricane Season The 2008 hurricane season is at hand and Florida Matters examines how ready for disaster we are after a couple of relatively quiet hurricane seasons. Arts and the Environment Listen and learn as Florida Matters explores how the stories of Florida are told through art and literature. Mass Transit Florida Matters examines the latest efforts to improve mass transit in the Tampa Bay area and what is likely to happen next. 2008 Legislative Wrap-Up Florida Matters examines the issues that shaped the 2008 session of the Florida Legislature. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder A recent Rand Report finds that one in five Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffer from PTSD or major depression. Florida Matters examines how these injuries are treated at the bay area's two VA hospitals and we'll meet a local Iraq War veteran who knows the experience first-hand. Sarasota Growth Referendum Sarasota County voters will decide a major growth issue on May 6. The ballot question - if approved - would make is much more difficult to develop rural areas of the county. Hear what a developer, a community activist, a neighborhood association representative and a former Sarasota mayor have to say about it. Preventing Suicide Florida Matters talks with a woman on the front line of suicide prevention and a man whose family was forever changed when his oldest son took his own life. Mentally Incompetent Inmates 2 - Reprise By many accounts, Florida's mental health system is broken. At one point, Florida's former DCF Secretary faced jail time because of the backlog of incompetent jail inmates awaiting treatment. Listen and learn as Florida Matters takes another look at mentally incompetent inmates. First aired March 7, 2008. Digging into Fertilizer Policy Sarasota County residents face limits on how much and when they can apply fertilizer to help stem runoff pollution. Supporters want to implement the restrictions statewide and it's grown into a struggle over who controls what you can put on your lawn - state or local officials. Sales Tax Exemptions An amendment is heading for the ballot this November that if passed, would swap some property taxes for other sources of revenue. Possible new revenue sources include increasing the sales tax or eliminating some sales tax exemptions. Listen and learn as Florida Matters looks at how this could work and the implications for the state's businesses. Today's Drug Testing - Part 2 The discussion continues about the state of Florida's pilot program requiring random drug testing of high school athletes. Today's Drug Testing Florida law requires public high schools to test for anabolic steroids. A report from the Florida High School Athletic Association is due out this summer. Some schools report a drop in non-steroid drug use since implementing random testing. But some people question the effectiveness of such programs as preventive measures. Mentally Incompetent Inmates 2 By many accounts, Florida's mental health system is broken. At one point, Florida's former DCF Secretary faced jail time because of the backlog of incompetent jail inmates awaiting treatment. Listen and learn as Florida Matters takes another look at mentally incompetent inmates. 2008 Legislative Preview State lawmakers are ready to start the annual legislative session with the agenda already being shaped by a tighter budget. Listen and learn as this edition of Florida Matters talks to legislators about the prospects for successfully dealing with taxes, insurance, education and more. Foster Care Florida Matters examines the state's foster care system which has been plagued with problems and what is being done to improve it. Budget Cuts The economy will always have its ups and downs, but it's the down cycles that worry employers and employees the most. Three Tampa Bay area managers reveal how they operate during times of tight budgets. Century Commission Florida Matters examines a new report from the Century Commission. The Century Commission was created by state lawmakers to help plan Florida's growth. The Year Ahead Florida Matters looks at the year ahead with St. Petersburg Times columnist Howard Troxler and political reporter William March of the Tampa Tribune. Amendment 1 Florida voters head to the polls to decide the fate of Amendment 1, which would increase the homestead exemption, make the Save Our Homes cap on tax increases portable and offer up more modest caps on non-homestead property. Supporters call it a good first step in offering relief to homestead property owners. Critics say it doesn't do enough or the cuts in schools and local services would not be worth the small amount of actual savings that would result. Florida's Energy Future Florida's major electric utilities say it will take a lot to keep the lights on in the coming years. But just how will they do it? More power plants? Is nuclear energy the answer? And how does the effort to reduce greenhouse gases play into all this? Listen and learn about Florida's energy future in this edition of Florida Matters. Plant City Gangs The intersection of immigration, crime, race and gangs in rural Florida is examined this week on Florida Matters. Listen and learn how the problems in Hillsborough County's Plant City echo what's happening throughout the state. Film Industry State officials are hoping more car chases and boy-meets-girl stories are filmed in Florida. The hope is big screen exposure can diversify the economy and boost the state's image with national and international audiences. But does Florida have the workers? And is the state typecast on the silver screen? Join us this week as we look at the state's film industry. Year in Review This week Florida Matters examines topics covered in the past year. Subjects include stem cell research, the environment and the state's new presidential primary date. Home Schooling - Reprise Listen and learn why some parents turn their living rooms into study halls as they choose home schooling for their children's education. Climate Change - Reprise Listen to this week's Florida Matters and learn what experts say about how climate change could affect Florida and how the media is reporting the issue. Seminole Gaming Gov. Crist has signed a compact with the Seminole Indian Tribe to allow expanded gambling at tribal casinos in Florida in exchange for a cut of the profits. Not everyone thinks this is a good idea. Others say it's a good deal of the cards for the state budget. We'll take a look this week, on Florida Matters. Hillsborough - Tampa Merger? In these days of tax reform and tight budgets, local governments are looking to save money. There has been talk in Hillsborough County of merging some services with Tampa. Can it make a difference? Sarasota County Growth Sarasota County's cultural scene, beautiful beaches and warm weather attract people from all over the country. But not everyone agrees on how best to manage its rapid growth. Listen and learn what the various sides have to say about growth in Sarasota County on this edition of Florida Matters. World War II Experiences - Reprise This edition of Florida Matters explores the World War II experiences of Tampa Bay residents. - First aired July 6, 2007 National Catastrophic Fund The recent devastating fires in southern California are fanning debate about a national catastrophic fund in Congress. Listen and learn more about how this approach to mitigating the cost of disaster could affect Floridians. Pinellas County School Board Considers New Plan The Pinellas County School Board is considering a new plan that would keep students in schools close to home as an alternative to bussing students to integrate schools. Leadership Vacuum Legislators in Tallahassee are dealing with taxes, insurance and the state budget. That may leave it to local governments to consider the big picture of what Florida will look like in the 21st Century. Listen and learn how the need for innovative leadership squares with the reality of day-to-day politics in the Sunshine State on this edition of Florida Matters. Governmental Spending in Real-Life Terms Listen and learn as Florida Matters examines how the billions of dollars in the state's coffers, and how they are allocated, affect the daily lives of Floridians Home Schooling Listen and learn why some parents turn their living rooms into study halls as they choose home schooling for their children's education. Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority Listen and learn how a new regional mass transit authority hopes to improve the choices for commuters in the Tampa Bay area. Climate Change Listen to this week's Florida Matters and learn what experts say about how climate change could affect Florida and how the media is reporting the issue. Tallahassee Report Cards The state's lawmakers have been busy this year. So far they've tried to ease the burdens of property insurance and taxes -with mixed results according to some observers. Listen and learn as our guests grade the efforts of Tallahassee's politicians in this edition of Florida Matters. Florida's Presidential Primary Moving Florida's presidential primary election from March to January has made the national leadership of the Democratic and Republican parties unhappy. Florida Democrats stand to lose delegate votes and some candidates say they won't campaign here. Listen and learn how the change in Florida's primary election could affect presidential politics in the Sunshine State. Foreclosures Hit Florida Listen and learn how recent lending practices, including adjustable rate mortgages, are affecting Florida's housing market. Goodbye to PIP? Florida's no-fault auto insurance system is scheduled to sunset Oct. 1, 2007. Personal Injury Protection insurance, or "PIP," was introduced in the early 1970s as a way to compensate people injured in auto accidents regardless of fault. Listen and learn how the upcoming insurance change may affect Florida drivers. Property Insurance State lawmakers promised property insurance rate relief and a lot of people are disappointed in the results. Listen to this edition of Florida Matters and learn what happened and what are the prospects for reform in the future. Tampa History Listen and learn about Tampa's early days on this edition of Florida Matters. Carson Cooper speaks with local historians about some new discoveries that shed light on the city's beginnings. Going Green Gov. Crist wants a greener Florida with carbon caps and other eco-friendly proposals. But some critics say the cost of basic goods like groceries are going up because of such policies. Listen and learn more about how going green might affect the green in your wallet on this edition of Florida Matters. Downtown Tampa and St. Petersburg Forbes magazine ranked the Tampa - St. Petersburg metro area last in appeal and opportunity for young professionals in a recent survey. Listen to this edition of Florida Matters and learn what local business and civic leaders have to say about the Tampa Bay area's ability to attract young professionals. Stem Cell Debate - Reprise Stem cell research supporters are "banking" on more money and effort in developing the promises of the new medical technology. How will politics affect the future of stem cell research in Florida? Join the conversation with Carson Cooper and his guests on this edition of Florida Matters. First broadcast on April 27, 2007. Tax Cut Battle The mayor of Weston, Florida is racing against the clock trying to overturn the new property tax cuts. Listen to this edition of Florida Matters and learn why Eric Hersh has taken his fight to the courts and why he is in such a hurry. World War II Experiences This edition of Florida Matters explores the World War II experiences of Tampa Bay residents. The Big Squeeze: The Future of Citrus in Florida Disease, drought and development seem to be working against Florida's multi-billion dollar citrus industry. Listen and learn about the state of citrus in this edition of Florida Matters. Institutional Segregation? Institutional care for people with mental disabilities is often criticized as isolationist and bureaucratic. Florida Matters examines these claims and some alternative approaches to dealing with some of the state's most vulnerable citizens. Florida 'Bots We've come a long way since the mechanical robots of 1950s science fiction stories. Robots today are science fact - and some of the leading research in robotics is taking place right here in the Tampa Bay area. Show Us The Money Florida's more densely-populated counties are dealing with the problems of growth. But the state's rural areas face the problems limited development brings: low wages, limited opportunities and lean county budgets. Listen as we go beyond the urban sprawl and learn as we learn how rural counties are coping, on this edition of Florida Matters. Wired and Worried Newspapers are cutting jobs and costs because of financial losses. Many experts blame the money problem on an industry that's trying to catch up with non-traditional media. Listen and learn more about this topic on Florida Matters. Florida's New Budget The Florida Legislature has passed and Gov. Crist has signed the 2007 - 2008 budget. Listen and learn how the state plans to spend its citizens' money. Hometown Democracy The proposed so-called "Hometown Democracy" amendment pits environmentalists and preservationists against developers and business groups. Listen and find out more about this amendment to the state constitution that would give Florida voters the final say in any changes to local land use. A Changing Climate? The science and politics of climate change is the topic on this edition of Florida Matters. This Year's Drought Scientists say parts of Florida are heading for a serious drought. How bad is it? How does drought affect our drinking water supply, the environment and economy? Listen and learn more about this year's drought on Florida Matters. Stem Cell Debate Stem cell research supporters are "banking" on more money and effort in developing the promises of the new medical technology. How will politics affect the future of stem cell research in Florida? Join the conversation with Carson Cooper and his guests on this edition of Florida Matters. Property Taxes The Legislature is busy reforming property taxes. Florida Matters looks at the history and politics of taxation as well as various proposals. Light Rail for Tampa Bay? - Reprise what are the chances that you'll someday commute by light rail? Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they discuss this issue on Florida Matters. Tampa History It's Florida Heritage Month, and Florida Matters invites you to explore the perils and pleasures of early life in the Tampa area. Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they discuss the city's founding, prominent historical figures and events that helped shape the region. Mental Health and Young Adults The number of college students seeking mental health counseling has risen considerably in recent years. About 2,500 students sought help at the USF Counseling Center last year. That represents a fifty percent increase since 2001. A recent Stetson University study indicates all of Florida's universities are having a hard time keeping up with the demand for mental health services. Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they discuss the mental health of young adults. Tampa Bay 2057 Florida Matters continues its look into the future as we envisiion the Tampa Bay area in the year 2057. How will the region look and feel 50 years from now? Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they consider the future of the Tampa Bay area in this edition of Florida Matters. Property Taxes How to lower property taxes is the big issue this legislative session. Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they discuss possible solutions to concerns Floridians have about the cost of owning property and what can be done about them. Light Rail for Tampa Bay? What are the chances you will have the option of taking a train to work in the future? Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they consider the odds and merits of a light commuter rail system for the Tampa Bay area. 2007 Florida Legislature Preview The 2007 Florida Legislature convenes on Tuesday, March 6. Carson Cooper and his guests discuss the major issues the legislature will be facing as well as how Gov. Charlie Crist will influence the process. Sexual Offenders Some local governments - including Tampa - have considered banning sex offenders from living in certain areas. How do we best deal with "sexual offenders?" More treatment? More jail time? More of both? Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they discuss this topic on Florida Matters. Insurance Reform Gov. Crist has signed the insurance reform package into law. This edition of Florida Matters examines what was done as well as the prospects for beneficial results in the form of lower policy rates and improved availability of insurance. Black Leadership State and federal officials say health care, affordable housing and educational performance are among the challenges facing African Americans in Florida this year.<br> <br> NPR's Juan Williams joins Eric Deggans of the St. Petersburg times and Joseph Brown of the Tampa Tribune to discuss the problems and solution, the culture of failure and the role of the media. Human Trafficking Human trafficking is a worldwide problem that is, unfortunately, alive and well in Florida. What is human trafficking? Who are its victims? What is being done about the problem? We explore these and other questions on this edition of Florida Matters. The Future of Cuba Speculation continues as to the health of Fidel Castro, but it's nearly certain that a permanent change in leadership is on the way for Cuba. We discuss what may lie ahead for our neighbor to the south and how future changes might affect Florida. Wetlands Wetlands are vital to the health of the environment and to people, but they're disappearing as development builds over more of Florida. How bad is the problem? What's being done to reverse the trend? Join Carson Cooper and his guests as they take a look at Florida's disappearing wetlands. Tampa Bay 2057 How will Tampa look and feel in the next 50 years? Florida Matters host Carson Cooper and his guests look to the future and envision the Tampa Bay area in the year 2057. Mentally Ill Inmates, Part 2 Florida's Department of Children and Families came under fire recently over its handling of the mentally ill at correctional facilities. The issue has become so serious that former Governor Jeb Bush called for an emergency meeting of the Legislative Budget Commission to address the issue. Join Carson Cooper for an in-depth discussion on the next Florida Matters. Mentally Ill Inmates, Part 1 Florida's Department of Children and Families came under fire recently over its handling of the mentally ill at correctional facilities. The issue has become so serious that Governor Jeb Bush has called for an emergency meeting of the Legislative Budget Commission to address the issue in January. Join Carson Cooper for an in-depth discussion on the next Florida Matters. Senior Substance Abuse - Rebroadcast Sobriety is one of the greatest challenges facing our seniors. Listen as host Carson Cooper explores senior substance abuse with his expert guests. this program originally aired October 27, 2006. 2006 - The Year in Review Join host Carson Cooper and guest Howard Troxler, columnist for the St. Petersburg Times, in a conversation about the big stories and major issues of 2006 for Tampa Bay area residents. Florida's Property Tax Crisis The cost and fairness of property taxes is under study by a committee appointed by Gov. Bush. Carson Cooper has a conversation with the committee chairman and a representative from Florida Tax Watch. Listen and learn about this important issue on Florida Matters. Florida's Boot Camp System Revisited The death earlier this year of 14-year old Martin Lee Anderson at a Bay County youth boot camp had many Floridians wondering the about the need for and effectiveness of military-style youth boot camps. Eight people now face criminal charges related to Anderson's death and the boot camps have been abolished. This re-broadcast of "Does Florida's Boot Camp System Work?" examines the issues of justice and rehabilitation of young offenders.<br> Holiday Food The holidays are here and many of us over indulge at family dinners and holiday parties. Losing a few pounds is a goal some people will set for the new year. Eating healthy and well during, and after, the holidays is the topic Carson Cooper and his guests will discuss on this edition of Florida Matters. Florida's Aquaculture A report recently published recently in the journal Science predicts the world's edible fish and shellfish stocks could collapse by the year 2048. Others believe that, with regulation of pollution and limits on catches of popular species, ocean fishing can continue indefinitely. Will we still be harvesting seafood off Florida's coast in the future? Florida Manufacturers Florida companies are concerned about finding qualified industrial workers, while some educators recommend giving students a chance to learn job skills they can use without going to college. The state has provided $4 million to train Floridians for manufacturing jobs. Listen as experts representing industry and education discuss how to train Florida's work force with host Carson Cooper. A Look at Proposed Amendments Besides electing government officials on Nov. 7, Floridians will vote yes or no on six proposed amendments to the state's constitution. Listen and learn as Florida Matters examines the 2006 ballot initiatives. Senior Substance Abuse Sobriety is one of the greatest challenges facing our seniors. Listen as host Carson Cooper explores senior substance abuse with his expert guests. The Creative Class Economist Richard Florida coined the phrase "Creative Class" to describe the artists, musicians, engineers, entrepreneurs and others who become urban pioneers in revitalizing blighted areas. The potential benefits and how the Tampa Bay area is faring in attracting these creative types is explored in this edition of Florida Matters. Florida Matters Retrospective Over the past year, Florida Matters has brought together scholars, politicians, entrepreneurs, artists and citizens to discuss the important issues in our state. This week, we'll take a look back at the last year and revisit some of the area's most important concerns including: growth management, transportation, health care and affordable housing. The Returning War Veterans: PTSD and Other Challenges Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are facing new battles in adjusting to life back home. A recent military study found about 17 percent of soldiers who served in Iraq and Afghanistan had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms. Many more face other challenges in adjusting to civilian life. Childhood Obesity The Centers for Disease Control estimates more than 15 percent of the nation's children are obese. Who's to blame? The parents? The schools? The fast food industry? Many experts say teaching healthy eating habits may be the most important lesson they can learn. Listen as WUSF's Carson Cooper talks to our panel of experts and learn how what kids eat today may affect them tomorrow as adults. Bio-Fuel With considerable agricultural resources and plenty of cars, recent advances in developing bio-fuel supplies seems to make sense. But is it really an economical way to keep Floridians moving on the road? Listen and learn, as Carson Cooper talks to the experts about Florida's burgeoning bio-fuel industry. Affordable Housing Real estate prices are at an all-time high, putting home ownership out of the reach for many Floridians. That also means some lower income workers have trouble finding a place to rent. Listen to Florida Matters and learn how the lack of affordable housing is affecting our community. The Primary Election and the Race to November Floridians have chosen which of their party candidates to represent them in the November gene4ral election. From the Governor's race and the contests for U.S. Senate and House, to the state House and Senate races, WUSF is covering the candidates and the issues.<br> Listen as WUSF's Carson Cooper and his guests discuss the primary results and what lies ahead. The Achievement Gap Among Young Black Men National studies show that young African-American males have higher arrest rates, more poverty, more health and substance abuse problems and less education than other social groups. Listen and learn how tutoring, mentoring and counseling are being used to counter this social problem. Bay Area's Homeless Defy Stereotypes People who deal with the homeless say they are not necessarily those who choose a lifestyle of living under bridges. Many are families who find themselves on the street through circumstances. Florida Matters talks with those who know the plight of the homeless at street level. The Health of the Tampa Bay Estuary Tampa Bay is Florida's largest open-water estuary and it supports one of the world's most productive eco-systems. But by the late 1970's, the once pristine bay was dangerously polluted. The combined efforts of marine scientists, environmentalists and government officials brought the bay back to a healthier state but much work remains to be done. The Tampa Beltway Proposal: Pros and Cons Traffic congestion and construction delays have become a way of life for Tampa Bay commuters. Transportation planners are promoting a new project for West Central Florida: a ribbon of pavement that would encircle the city of Tampa by going through Manatee, Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. The beltway would be among the most ambitious and costly road construction projects ever attempted in the region. Some critics suggest we should devote more resources toward mass transit, light rail and other alternative modes of transportation instead. Can Tampa Bay pave its way out of gridlock? Four Decades After MLK's 'Dream' - A Reality Check In August of 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his influential "I Have a Dream" speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Host Robin Sussingham speaks with local leaders about the progress made since 1963 and what challenges lie ahead for Tampa Bay's African-American community. This week's program explores issues ranging from education to politics to the state of today's African-American family. Your 21st Century Commute Transportation planners insist it's time to start thinking regionally. The alternative, they say, is gridlock within 20 years. WUSF's Robin Sussingham hosts a discussion of the future of transportation in the Tampa Bay region. The Returning War Veterans: PTSD and Other Challenges Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are facing new battles in adjusting to life back home. A recent military study found about 17 percent of soldiers who served in Iraq and Afghanistan had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms. Many more face other challenges in adjusting to civilian life. Innovative Ideas Do you have an idea to improve life in Florida? The Speaker Designate of the Florida House, Republican Representative Marco Rubio of Miami wants to know about it. He's traveling the state asking Floridians to fill a book with the best 100 ideas for the state's future. Listen to some of the ideas and the ensuing conversation between Rep. Rubio, Democratic Representative Bob Henriquez of Tampa and USF political science professor Susan MacManus. Drinking Water Tampa Bay's growing communities are surrounded by water, but will there be enough to drink in the future? Hear what some experts think about the problem and what solutions may help quench residents' thirst. The Health of Florida's Beaches Florida's beaches are eroding. Nature's storms threaten the sandy homes of sea turtles and the foundations of waterfront houses and condominiums. Is it worth the millions of dollars needed to keep the sand where we want it, or should nature take its course? Listen to what some experts say on Florida Matters. Tampa Bids for the 2008 Republican National Convention Tampa and three other cities are competing to host the 2008 Republican National Convention. Does Tampa have what it takes to host the event and what would it mean if the GOP held its big party here? Florida's Disappearing Farm Land Florida's groves and pastures are being replaced with housing projects and strip malls. Can Florida agriculture find ways to adapt and coexist with development? Listen to what our panel of experts says about the future of farming in the Sunshine State. Preparing for a Pandemic: Is Florida at Risk? One of the most virulent pathogens known is making its way across the globe. Avian flu H5N1, known as bird flu, has killed 127 of the reported 224 people in 10 countries who've been sickened by it. Is the Tampa Bay area ready if it comes here? Listen and find out what every Floridian needs to know. Big Worries Over Property Insurance Insurers have lost $30 billion dollars in Florida over the last two hurricane seasons, and they're sending the bill to us, the property owners. Some of the companies are giving up and leaving the state. Listen and learn more about Florida's insurance crunch. Hurricane Season 2006 The hurricane season is upon us. Are you ready? We ask the experts how they're preparing for the 16 named storms, including six major hurricanes, that the National Hurricane Center is predicting this year. The State of Florida's Emergency Rooms Emergency hospital care does not always mean quick treatment. With reports of some patients waiting longer and longer for emergency care, we look at the situation in the Tampa Bay area's ERs. Is the system abused? Are there too few hospital beds? Will wait times get longer? Listen to what the experts say. 2006 Florida Legislative Session Overview What do the actions of Florida's lawmakers mean for you? They've made many decisions over the last two months that affect your everyday life - from housing to education to homeowner insurance and eminent domain. We invited a few legislators into our studio to talk about the 2006 session of the Florida Legislature. Affordable Housing, for Whom? Being able to afford a home is no longer just a problem for the poor. The average cost of a house in Florida has nearly doubled in the last five years, but people are earning only about 10% more. So now, even middle-class families are finding themselves getting squeezed out of the housing market. <br> Port Security How secure are our ports? The Port of Tampa is a huge, sprawling complex with a constant flow of people and cargo. It is close to downtown Tampa, MacDill Air Force Base and the Crystal River nuclear power plant. The Port is also the site for huge amounts of hazardous materials and petrochemicals. We talk to the people responsible for port security and learn what they're doing to keep us safe. Immigration Reform Recently, thousands of immigrant-rights activists took to the streets of Tampa and other Florida cities to proclaim their position on one of the hottest issues in America today. There were also counter-protestors from groups like the Minuteman Project.<br> Congress has different bills addressing the issue. Florida Senator Mel Martinez was one of several U.S. Senators from both sides of the aisle trying to broker a deal that would include a guest worker program. Many of the state's representatives in the House supported another piece of legislation that would not only tighten the nation's borders, but would make it a felony to be in this country illegally. In addition, it would make it a crime for anyone to knowingly assist undocumented persons. <br> <br> What does this all mean to Tampa Bay & West Central Florida? We assembled a panel to address this and more. <br> <br> After the Dream: A Student's Perspective Martin Luther King hoped African-American youths would someday live his dream of a better society. Our community discussion about Dr. King's legacy continues as we speak to a local high school student and his teacher. We'll explore issues ranging from education to the state of today's African-American family. It's a conversation everyone in Tampa Bay needs to hear. Lung Cancer in Women: A Florida Perspective Lung cancer kills more women every year than breast cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health.<br> Researchers, including those at the Moffitt Cancer Center, are studying the causes of lung cancer and searching for ways to prevent it. Find out what&#146;s being done in Tampa Bay in the fight against Lung Cancer and hear the personal story of a lung cancer survivor.<br> Does Florida's Boot Camp System Work? Dealing with juvenile crime and punishment is one of the biggest challenges we face. With the recent death of 14-year old Martin Lee Anderson at a Bay County youth boot camp, many Floridians are wondering the about the need for and effectiveness of military-style youth boot camps. We&#146;ll discuss the pros and cons of juvenile boot camps in Florida along with their possible future.<br> What's Happening With Desal in Tampa Bay? How Tampa Bay area residents will quench their thirst in the future is a big question for our time. In 2003, Tampa Bay's $160 million desalination plant was scheduled to open in Apollo Beach. It was slated to become the nation's largest desalination facility taking in salt water from the Bay and converting it to drinkable water for West Central Florida. Now, after years of delays and litigation, the plant is expected to come on-line in late 2006. We'll take a look at what happened and we'll explore how desalination will factor into the future of water for our region.<br> <br> The Best of StoryCorps Hear the personal stories some of your Tampa Bay area neighbors told to the StoryCorps project.<br> Last January, a mobile recording booth was set up in an Airstream&#153; recreation vehicle at St. Armand's Circle in Sarasota. It was part of StoryCorps, the national oral history project sponsored by NPR and the Library of Congress. <br> <br> Over a three week period, a diverse group of people from throughout the Tampa Bay area took the opportunity to share their unique Florida stories. On this edition of Florida Matters, StoryCorps' Maisie Tivnan and Nelson Sim&#243;n share local stories of hope and inspiration, fear and triumph, laughter and tears. <br> <br> The Tampa Bay Economic Scorecard How does the Tampa Bay area compare with other places in the South as a place to do business? Hear how our panel of experts respond to this question as we examine the local business climate in terms of job creation, salaries and affordable/attainable housing. <br> Looking Ahead to the 2006 Legislative Session Education and Insurance are among the hot topics state lawmakers will be tackling as they begin the next legislative session on March 7th. From school vouchers and overcrowded classrooms to higher insurance premiums and a bailout of Citizen's Insurance; we take a look at the issues that will take center stage in Tallahassee. Part 2- 40 Years After MLK's 'Dream' Speech, a Reality Check We'll talk to local leaders about the progress made and what challenges lie ahead for Tampa Bay's African-American community. WUSF explores issues ranging from education to community development to gay marriage and today's African-American family. It's a conversation everyone in Tampa Bay needs to hear. <br> Part 1- 40 Years After MLK's 'Dream' Speech, a Reality Check We'll talk to local leaders about the progress made and what challenges lie ahead for Tampa Bay's African-American community. We'll explore issues ranging from education to politics to the state of today's African American family. It's a conversation everyone in Tampa Bay needs to hear. End-of-Life Care The bitter division over the care of Terry Schiavo exploded from the confines of her family onto the national and global stage. The case touched politics, law, medicine, the media and the court of public opinion. <br> It's been almost a year since Schiavo died, and over 30 years since our society first started struggling with making rules on dying. How far have we come? And did the Schiavo case help us reach consensus, or just muddy the waters? We'll try to better understand the state of end-of-life care. <br> <br> Red Tide and the Health of the Gulf of Mexico This past year, we had weeks on end of spoiled beaches and fish kills. Local businesses suffered, too. Hotels, restaurants, fishermen and retail stores felt the economic impact of red tide. <br> <br> The situation has left many wondering whether red tide is worsening and if that's the case, then why? What needs to be done to deal with red tide in the next five to ten years? Do we need to change the way we do business in coastal Florida, based on what we saw in 2005? Those are just some of the questions we asked our guests. <br> <br> Our panel includes: <br> <br> Dr. Cindy Heil, Senior Research Scientist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute <br> Dr. Barbara Kirkpatrick, Environmental Health Program Manager, Mote Marine Lab <br> Mr. James Raulerson, Public Relations Representative St. Pete/ Clearwater Convention & Visitors Bureau <br> Making Sense of Medicare Plan D It seems like everywhere you turn, there's an ad for the federal government's new prescription drug plan. And with the advertising blitz, comes many questions: What exactly is Medicare Plan D? Who qualifies for this plan? How much does it cost? Do I need to sign up for coverage? How do I sign up? What's the best option for me? <br> <br> We'll go beyond the hype, and cut through the red tape to answer those concerns on this edition of Florida Matters. The Year 2005 in Review On this edition of Florida Matters: from Schiavo to hurricanes, outrageous gas prices to a wild real estate market; we'll take a look at the top stories that impacted Tampa Bay and West Central Florida in 2005. <br> <br> Plus, we'll hear the unique perspective and insightful commentary of St. Petersburg Times columnist Howard Troxler.<br> Tampa Bay Prepares for the Big Storm Despite two very active hurricane seasons, the Tampa Bay area has yet to suffer from a direct hit. Emergency Operations Center (EOC) directors Chuck Johnston, Ed McCrane, and Gary Vickers discuss how prepared the region will be when the big storm strikes our area. The Energy Crunch: Lessons Learned from Katrina and Rita This broadcast deals with our current gas situation and the possibility of oil drilling off the coast of Florida, along with viable alternatives for energy. <br> <br> We all feel the pinch in our wallets at the local gas station, when the price peaked just over $3.00 a gallon. Even after Katrina, the price of oil continues to rise. But the issue goes way beyond the gas pump; it affects electrical power, transportation, goods and service and much more. <br> <br> So, how much more is the average Floridian willing to pay for gas? And should we rethink about allowing oil drilling off the Gulf Coast of Florida? Those are just some of the issues we'll tackle. <br> <br> Guests Include: <br> <br> Wayne Andrews (an energy analyst from Raymond James) <br> Joe Murphy (of the Sierra Club) <br> Randy Bly (of AAA South). Children's Health Care Are Florida's Children getting a healthy start? <br> According to a recent study by the group Covering Kids and Families, one out of every four uninsured children in Florida received no medical care for an entire year.<br> <br> What is being done to make healthcare available to children? And is health insurance really affordable for the average family with kids? Those are just some of the questions we asked local experts. <br> <br> Our guests include: Tampa Bay Children's advocate Chris Card, Jodi Ray of the Chiles Center at USF and Dr. John Curran, a pediatrician and neonatologist. Tampa Bay Transportation On the next edition of Florida Matters: Can we pave our way out of Gridlock? To answer that question, we went to the experts, local and state decision makers who are in the know regarding Tampa Bay's transportation issues.<br> <br> <br> State Senator Jim Sebesta <br> Our guests include: State Senator Jim Sebesta (R) St. Petersburg, chairman of the Florida Senate Transportation Committee; Lucie Ayer of the Hillsborough Metropolitan Planning Organization; and Dr. Ed Mierzejewski of USF's Center for Urban Transportation Research.<br> <br> WUSF contributing correspondent Robin Sussingham moderates our discussion. Education The Pinellas School District and Superintendent Dr. Clayton Wilcox experienced a challenging year. The district has faced issues ranging from the academic achievement gap between whites and minority students to the highly publicized problems of safety, security and discipline. <br> <br> Thursday, June 2, Host Susan Giles Wantuck interviewed Dr. Wilcox about problems encountered in school districts throughout Florida. Monet to Mozart The recent developments with Tampa's Museum of Art and a proposal to build a Riverwalk promenade have focused attention on downtown redevelopment. <br> <br> Mayor Pam Iorio is touting a cultural arts district as key to further enhancing Downtown Tampa's image.<br> <br> But what would it take to sustain a cultural arts district? What have other Florida cities done to make the Arts an integral part of their identities? And is it really worth it?<br> <br> On Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14 WUSF 89.7 broadcast &#147;Monet to Mozart: Can the Arts bring new life to Downtown Tampa?&#148; <br> <br> Monet to Mozart was a special roundtable discussion on the role of the Arts in the redevelopment of downtown. Morning Edition host Carson Cooper moderated this WUSF 89.7 News special. <br> <br> Our guests included: the Hon. Pam Iorio, Mayor of Tampa; T. Trent Green, USF Associate Professor & Urban Planner; Hank Hine, Director of the Salvador Dal&#237; Museum in St. Petersburg; and Ellen Brown, owner of the Old Tampa Book Company in downtown Tampa.<br> <br> Prison Conditions The recent Abu-Ghraib prison scandal in Iraq and the devastating prison fire that claimed hundreds of lives in the Dominican Republic have many Americans turning their eyes towards our nation's prisons and jails. <br> <br> Many wonder, "How safe are our prisons? Are there any cases of abuse like those we've seen and heard about elsewhere?"<br> <br> The Commission on Safety and Abuse in America held a 2-day public forum here in Tampa on Tuesday, April 19th & Wednesday, April 20th, to hear testimony about conditions inside Florida's prisons and jails. <br> <br> "The Commission on Safety and Abuse in America's prisons is a national effort to clarify the nature and extent of violence, sexual abuse, degradation, and other serious safety failures and abuses in prisons and jails throughout the United States, as well as the consequences for prisoners, corrections officers, and the public at large." Commission on Safety and Abuse in America's Prisons Website. <br> <br> WUSF 89.7 News provided comprehensive coverage of the hearings during Morning Edition and All Things Considered. Read and hear Steve Newborn's article on the Commission's forum. <br> <br> If you missed the WUSF broadcast of a special roundtable discussion entitled, "Behind Bars: Conditions inside Florida's Prisons and Jails" with Veteran journalist David Molpus as moderator, Listen Now. <br> <br> Guests included: Judge John J. Gibbons (former Chief Judge of U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit);Gary D. Maynard (President-Elect of the American Correctional Association); Pat Nolan (President of Prison Fellowship's Justice Fellowship) and Colonel David Parrish (Director of Prisons Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department). <br> <br> For more information on the hearings, vist the Commission's Website<br> Housing What's Going On in the Region's Housing Market? <br> 1. Is this real estate bubble going to burst? <br> 2. Are speculators driving property prices?<br> 3. Can the average Floridian really find affordable housing?<br> <br> We'll talk to several local experts: Walter Walker Jr. of the Housing & Education Alliance; Seminole Realtor Alan N. Riley; and Florida Senate President Tom Lee, also is a home builder. WUSF's Carson Cooper moderates our discussion. <br>     Home   |   About Us   |   Home Loan Mortgage   |   Mortgage Guide   |    Resources   |   Contact Us

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