The Florida Roundup: A Weekly Dive into Florida’s Issues
‘The Florida Roundup’ is a live, call-in program dedicated to the issues affecting Floridians. Each Friday at noon, listeners can engage in discussions with journalists, policymakers, and fellow residents concerning the evolution, policies, and future of life in the Sunshine State. The show is hosted by WLRN’s Tom Hudson, broadcasting from Miami.
Homeowners Insurance and Climate Risk
“Just waiting for the insurance check,” reads a sign beside a skeleton. This image highlights the challenges Floridians face with property insurance.
‘The Florida Roundup’ recently addressed the escalating challenges of homeowners insurance and climate risk, drawing comparisons between Florida and California. The devastation caused by wildfires in Los Angeles underscores the interconnectedness of insurance markets. The show featured insights from Danielle Venton, a KQED Science reporter, and Anne Geggis, the insurance reporter for the Palm Beach Post.
Florida’s Educational Standing
Next month marks five years since the start of lockdowns and stay-at-home orders that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program examined the lasting impact of this period on Florida students. Guest Jeff Solochek, education reporter for the Tampa Bay Times, discussed the ongoing struggles in math and reading experienced by many students despite schools reopening.
Weekly News Briefing
Other topics covered included potential reforms to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), with a focus on the implications for Florida. It was noted that few states have as much at stake regarding changes to FEMA as Florida, given its vulnerability to hurricanes and other natural disasters. The program also paid tribute to the late Geraldine Thompson, a former state senator and advocate for Black history, who passed away due to complications following knee replacement surgery.
In addition, the program highlighted the increasing popularity of young birder groups that have emerged across the country, encouraging teens and tweens to explore the outdoors.
