The South Florida Roundup

On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we discussed new WLRN reporting that shows larger Miami-Dade County ties to a firm at the center of an investigation involving former schools superintendent Alberto Carvalho [01:09]. We also spoke with former CBS4 news anchorman Eliott Rodriguez about his decision to run for the Miami congressional seat held by Maria Elvira Salazar [13:16]. And we looked at a new effort to make Spring Break more relevant — and enjoyable — for young Black people [27:20].

On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we looked at why Miami is now the “Billionaire Bunkers” capital [01:09]. More ultraluxury homes are sold here than any place in America — but where does that leave the rest of us? We also remembered Miami gunshot survivor Aaron Willis, who died by suicide last month — a reminder of the lasting pain young gun violence victims face [18:52]. And we talked with a local Iranian activist — and a local man stranded in the Middle East — about the hopes and risks of our new war [35:49].

On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we discussed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ newest campaign to eradicate Diversity Equity and Inclusion: a bill to let him remove local officials who dare to engage DEI [01:07]. We also looked at why the FBI this week searched the Los Angeles home of former Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho — and a home here [19:17]. And we tried to figure out the truth behind the alleged shootout between Cuban officials and Cuban expats off the Cuban coast [35:31].

On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we examined legislative efforts to rein in systems like Palm Beach County’s that make early voting easier [01:07]. Is it part of a larger campaign to make voting harder in upcoming elections? We also checked out Miami Beach’s Spring Break reform campaign to replace beer chugging with beach jogging — and toga parties with yoga parties [19:52]. And we looked at the 25th anniversary of the South Beach Wine & Food Festival: the increasing presence of Afro-Caribbean chefs and the ever-important role of FIU students [35:32].

On this episode of The South Florida Roundup, we talked to Julie K. Brown, the Miami Herald journalist who’s done the most to keep the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case alive. How does she assess the massive new release of files [1:09]? We also looked at disturbing complaints of alleged design errors and defective materials as Miami’s once celebrated Fountain bridge project faces even more delays and costs [19:33]. And we discussed the trials and triumphs of Puerto Rico that Bad Bunny was singing about at the Super Bowl [35:41].