Matthew Peddie
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Articles by Matthew Peddie
A historical motto or painful reminder on driver's licenses? Also, razing Tampa's past
The state’s driver’s licenses now feature an orange, a manatee and a phrase from the 1845 Florida flag. Why are these words getting pushback? Then, closer looks at school bus safety after a deadly rollover crash in Polk County, and a new report that says ICE is wasting taxpayer money. Finally, a century-old building on Tampa’s Davis Islands could face the wrecking ball. The building holds a lot of history.
A time capsule discovery helps local Boys & Girls Clubs commemorate 100 years
Amid a copper tin box sealed shut for decades lay a host of pictures, letters and other items — documenting history for one local organization: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Tampa Bay. This nonprofit focuses on preparing "young people for school, career and life," according to its website. It officially began in 1926 when the Tampa Rotary Club founded the West Tampa Boys Club. This would be the first Boys & Girls Club in the state.
SNAP changes and the impact of food banks, plus a media merger with warning flags
People who rely on SNAP are getting a small cost-of-living adjustment, but there are changes to eligibility which could make it more challenging for SNAP recipients. In turn, local food banks are feeling the pressure of increased demand. Then, what happens when giant media companies combine? What will it mean for your cable bill? Your news services? Your entertainment choices? We’ll talk about the Paramount-Warner deal and the effects on multiple industries.
Hubbard's Marina fills us in on the Cross-Bay Ferry's progress, and cop Flock abuse
A new cross-bay ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg will launch soon. Will you be riding? And we’ll learn more about a Flock investigation that led to the resignation and arrest of two Pinellas County deputies. (0:00) Two boats are being refitted in Tarpon Springs, while funding is in place for a third. Hubbard’s Marina is a private partner with the Pinellas transit agency on the project.
Trop site's future awaits winner of St. Petersburg's mayoral race, and Brightline’s bankruptcy
In a few weeks, St. Petersburg will decide whether to keep Mayor Ken Welch in office or replace him with former Gov. Charlie Crist. Among the challenges of the next term: the redevelopment of the Tropicana Field site after the Tampa Bay Rays jump to Tampa. How will the departure affect the city? What impact will it have on tourism and business? And how will the transformation of what is known as the Historic Gas Plant District shape the city’s future?
Before Hollywood, Florida was already making movies. A new exhibit tells the story
Long before Hollywood became synonymous with moviemaking, filmmakers were bringing cameras to Florida. Rodney Kite-Powell discusses the Tampa Bay History Center's exhibit of Florida's film history during a recent "Florida Matters Live & Local." A new Tampa Bay History Center exhibit, "Cinema in the Sunshine State," explores those early film annals, the studios that operated here, the actors that took part and the importance of the 100-year-old Tampa Theatre.
In search of accountability in the Hope Florida saga, and SpaceX launches
A grand jury investigation into Hope Florida and a $10 million Medicaid misappropriation left Floridians with plenty of questions. Many remained unanswered. One of the reporters who broke the story does his best. Also, the latest space news, including a SpaceX rocket carrying NASA astronauts to the International Space Station. For closers, a playwright discusses a new work from the Sarasota Jewish Theatre.
Insight from the WUSF reporters behind ‘The Cost of Power’ series, and taking charge of AI
If you compare your electric bill from last month with, say, one from a couple of years ago, you’d probably see a jump. A three-part WUSF investigation digs into why, and we’re talking to the reporters who put it together. Afterward, do you trust AI to get things right? Plus, Sarasota Orchestra's music director explains what's on tap for the season's schedule. (0:00) Electricity bills can be complicated, with charges that go far behind the pace of inflation and beyond the cost of the power itself.
Kathy Castor converses on cost of housing, and how student-athletes can play it safe
There can be a lot of pressure on high school and college athletes. How do they focus on sports and academics while maintaining physical and mental health? Also, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor joins the show to talk about housing costs and mortgage rates. Then, do short-term rentals need more regulations? And a local time capsule provides a glimpse of Tampa from 60 years ago.
A Tampa-based doctor returning from Congo on the challenges of treating the Ebola outbreak
There probably aren’t a lot of people in the U.S. who know a lot about the Democratic Republic of Congo or Ebola, the deadly disease spreading through the central Africa nation. Congo is facing the second largest Ebola outbreak in recorded history, with more than 8,000 cases as the country struggles with a shortage of health workers.The disease has spread to new health zones with 3,901 deaths reported as of Saturday.
The debate over debates in Florida elections, and learning campaign finance loopholes
Even in this era of media saturation, a debate can make or break a campaign. But for the first time in 50 years, there may be no such meeting involving the leading candidate for Florida governor. Afterward, a veteran political reporter talks about a court ruling that has opened the door to unlimited spending on Florida campaign advertisements. Then, we hear from a Tampa physician who recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where he was helping Ebola patients.
An investigation revealed a foster care 'side door' that keeps children separated from their parents
Hillsborough County once had more children in foster care than anywhere else in the state. In the last five years, the number of kids in foster care has dropped. But an investigation by the Tampa Bay Times has found some families ending up in what they're calling a "side door" in the foster care system — a patchwork of family arrangements that can leave parents struggling to reunite with their children.
An investigation revealed a foster care 'side door' that keeps children separated from their parents
Hillsborough County once had more children in foster care than anywhere else in the state. In the last five years, the number of kids in foster care has dropped. But an investigation by the Tampa Bay Times has found some families ending up in what they’re calling a "side door" in the foster care system — a patchwork of family arrangements that can leave parents struggling to reunite with their children.
Parents trapped in a temporary foster care 'side door,' and Florida hunting prep
We learn more about a Tampa Bay Times investigation that found a "side door" in the foster care system that can leave parents struggling to reunite with their children. Also, have you seen billboards floating off the beach? We get into that, fall hunting season, and a musician and bandleader bringing his ensemble to the region. (0:00) An investigation by the Tampa Bay Times examines temporary custody arrangements that can place children outside the formal foster care system.
Poring over the Amendment 3 property tax measure, and a dengue update
In just over a month, voters go to the polls. There are lots of races on the ballot, from governor to Senate to Legislature and more. One thing all Florida voters will get to decide: whether to reduce property taxes. On this episode, we examine the possible effect on fire rescue services and community planning. Also, why is Hillsborough County the epicenter of Florida’s dengue outbreak? (0:00) Supporters say Amendment 3 would give homeowners more money by reducing property taxes.
A good day to walk or bike (and not drive), and Florida’s fascinating role in film
Biking and walking advocates in Tampa are gathering this weekend to spread the word about going car-free. And before L.A. became America’s movie-making hub, our state was "Hollywood East." Plus, updates on two local neighborhoods: St. Petersburg’s Shore Acres is still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and Sarasota’s Newtown is looking to maintain its character amid plans for redevelopment. (0:00) Tampa is celebrating World Car Free Day on Saturday.
Pinellas County School District weighs closures and mergers, more on FWC surveillance
Pinellas County schools face declining enrollment. And like other districts facing dwindling rolls, Pinellas may have to close a number of campuses and merge others. District officials have difficult choices confronting them amid concerns for students, staff and teachers. Plus, an update on a case involving Florida wildlife officials’ surveillance of activists and a conversation with the outgoing president of The Ringling Museum.
Fired over a social media post, and a local club owner’s fight over concert fees
As our staff focuses on WUSF’s annual fall pledge drive this week, “Florida Matters Live & Local” is presenting some of our favorite interviews from the past few months. First, have you ever worried that something you posted online could affect your job? Should public employees be held to a different standard? Some lessons from a recent lawsuit.
Hospital association CEO ties property taxes to healthcare, and PlayStation's disc-continuation
As our staff focuses on WUSF’s annual fall pledge drive this week, “Florida Matters Live & Local” is presenting some of our favorite interviews from the past few months. You’ll hear about the effects the property tax amendment could have on children's healthcare and Medicaid. And what happens when residents push back against local immigration enforcement and ask local elected leaders to take a stand against it?
What is a love bug? Here’s an expert with many flying facts to give
What is a love bug? And why do they give their lives for a little smooch with our car grilles? Also, a sleep specialist explains how a permanent daylight saving time could affect you, and how to address shortages and delays with the VA. Drive anywhere in Florida right now, and your car is probably dotted with squashed lovebugs. Not great for your car’s paintwork.
A collective sign from teachers unions, homes built with 3D printing, winning by the sword
Published September 14, 2026 at 12:33 PM EDT Listen • 37:18 stock.adobe.com; courtest of James Jubilee As our staff focuses on WUSF’s annual fall pledge drive this week, “Florida Matters Live & Local” is presenting some of our favorite interviews from the past few months. Interested in donating? Click here. And thank you for listening. A very hard bargain (0:00) A new Florida law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis makes it harder for public sector unions to form and maintain membership.
A collective sign from teachers unions, homes built with 3D printing, winning by the sword
As our staff focuses on WUSF’s annual fall pledge drive this week, “Florida Matters Live & Local” is presenting some of our favorite interviews from the past few months. Interested in donating? Click here. And thank you for listening. (0:00) A new Florida law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis makes it harder for public sector unions to form and maintain membership. The changes affect teachers, nurses and local government unions, though police and fire unions are exempt.
How a book about a St. Petersburg bodega serves as a 'love letter' to the author's parents
One author's "love letter" to her parents gives a peek into a community anchor in St. Petersburg. Amaris Castillo grew up around bodegas, which are small, owner-operated convenience stores. Her new book "Bodega Stories" is a portrait of the bodega her parents own in St. Pete called Orlando Latin Market. The book is part autobiography and part oral history of her family and the customers who frequent the store.
Kids left in limbo by closing of juvenile justice facility, and following political money
The Hillsborough County Juvenile Detention Center closed at the end of August. It was located on land where the Tampa Bay Rays are planning to build a stadium. Turns out those actions are related. The sudden shutdown has reportedly left judges, lawyers and officials confused about where to house the youths who were placed there. Then, we try to pack in a lot of info about PACs — Political action committees, which funnel the big money in political races at all levels.
25 years later: How 9/11 changed the country, the skies and the future
Friday marks 25 years since 9/11. It was a watershed moment for the U.S. and the world. It changed how we approached the world, flying, security, patriotism and society in general. Journalists, an aviation executive, a robotics rescue expert, a college professor — and several deeply affected callers — share their experiences from the day and describe what has changed for them since. (0:00) One was a new radio reporter covering President George W. Bush’s Sarasota visit.
As cyclosporiasis wanes, does lettuce still make you nervous? And where are the hurricanes?
If the summer had you second-guessing your salad, you’re not alone. Cyclosporiasis, a nasty stomach bug caused by a microscopic parasite, spread across several states, sickening more than 1,100 people and killing two. The outbreak was linked to iceberg lettuce grown at a Mexican farm. It appears the outbreak’s settling down. So, what should you know about leafy greens? How safe are they to eat? And how did the Cyclospora parasite get into the food supply in the first place?
Tampa Bay Comic Con is this weekend. Meet your host for the cosplay competition
One of the biggest events to come to Tampa is happening this weekend. The Tampa Bay Comic Convention starts Friday and runs through Sunday at the Convention Center in Downtown Tampa. If you’re unfamiliar, comic cons are where fans of comic books, movies and TV shows, cartoons and anime — pretty much all things pop culture — gather to celebrate the things they love. And not just celebrate. They even become the things and characters they love through cosplay.
The Clancy trial and understanding postpartum psychosis, plus inside the art of cosplay
The Lindsay Clancy case in Massachusetts has sparked conversations about perinatal mood disorders. Many of us are trying to learn more about postpartum psychosis. A local expert is here to oblige. Also, a report reveals the Pinellas County Jail detained people in ICE custody longer than federal guidelines permit. Finally, some cool spots to look for in your neighborhoods and Tampa Bay Comic Con is more than just costumes.
Why cats are crowding shelters, and when environmental worry overwhelms
Animal shelters in Tampa Bay have too many pets and not enough space. What’s leading to the overcapacity — especially for cats? And what can be done to reduce the number of stray and abandoned animals? Also, eco anxiety is a “chronic fear of environmental doom.” And it can be bad for your health — and the environment. Do you have it? We also revisit a report from WUSF's Jessica Meszaros about how climate change is taught in Florida schools.
Why this St. Petersburg artist is thrilled Haslam’s owners condemned his parking lot show
Felipe "Fil” Bergson says that when the owners of Haslam’s Book Store in St. Petersburg condemned his plan to hold an unsanctioned concert in their parking, it was “the best thing that could have happened." The St. Pete artist has been selling t-shirts and zines for months with the goal of raising enough money to purchase the beloved community bookstore, which closed during the pandemic and never reopened.
The Rays’ next steps, Hope Florida’s money trail, and an alternate Haslam’s plan
After years of proposals, political fights and false starts, the Rays finally have approvals for a new stadium. Now what? Plus, a grand jury report reveals a "doozy" of a situation involving millions of dollars and the Hope Florida charity. And what happened to plans for a concert in support of a closed bookstore in St. Petersburg? A leaked grand jury report is putting new scrutiny on Hope Florida and $10 million in Medicaid settlement money used to fight a recreational marijuana amendment.
Here’s why people are concerned about Flock cameras and other public surveillance tools
Backlash is growing against Flock Safety cameras, automatic license plate readers (ALPR), and other public surveillance tools. The opposition is so severe in some places it's led people vandalizing the devices and taking up the mantle of "Flock Blockers." Even Gov. Ron DeSantis recently voiced concerns, saying he’s never supported automatic speeding tickets. "I'm all about having law enforcement have tools to be able to hold criminals accountable," DeSantis said.
Flock critics share their concerns, and earthquake help for Colombia and Venezuela
The backlash is growing against Flock automatic license plate readers. Pasco and Manatee are the latest counties to ban or pledge to remove the cameras. Law enforcement leaders say ALPRs can be used to fight crime and find missing people, but opponents point the potential for abuse of privacy and mass surveillance. Also, we’ve got an up on local relief efforts after the recent earthquakes in Colombia and Venezuela.
This food truck provides adults with disabilities a place to develop skills and confidence
Eric Silverman has plenty to do when he works on the Goodness Gracious Great Balls of Love food truck. He greets customers. He helps prepare orders. He serves the truck's signature ice-cream balls, made with marshmallows and a crunchy cereal coating. There is one problem with the job. “I don't eat ice cream,” he admits. What he does like is the food truck. It’s a converted short school bus, and Silverman has been fascinated by the yellow vehicles since he was a child.
Wanted: a new generation of truck drivers. And every generation gets an ‘Odyssey’
Ever look at a big rig and think, “That sure looks fun”? We meet a newly graduated driver from a local trucker school and hear why America needs more licensed operators. Also, did you watch Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster treatment of “The Odyssey”? We wonder why the source material is still so inspiring and polarizing. And, a new musical looks at Homer’s epic poem with fresh eyes. (0:00) The Tampa City Council was in session vote on a new stadium for the Tampa Bay Rays.
A new monument will honor Tampa’s tie to the all-Black Buffalo Soldiers regiments
A new monument to the Buffalo Soldiers will be dedicated at Veterans Memorial Park in Tampa on Saturday, Aug. 29. They were all-Black segregated units of the U.S. Army from the 1860s until the last of them were disbanded in the 1950s. And like much of United States history, they have ties to Tampa. ALSO READ: A Tampa historian reflects on Juneteenth and the city's Black history About 30,000 troops arrived in Tampa to leave for Cuba in the Spanish-American War in April 1898.
Florida’s shadowy immigration database, and remembering the Buffalo Soldiers
State and local police have been collecting information about people they suspect of being in the country without legal documentation – and filing it in a database. President Trump wants to change the childhood immunization schedule. Florida pediatricians aren’t happy with his executive order. We also learn about a Tampa connection to the Buffalo Soldiers, the first all-Black regular U.S. Army regiments established by Congress in 1866.
How are Tampa Theatre's renovations going ahead of its 100th birthday? Its new CEO explains
The Tampa Theatre's centennial anniversary will arrive in October with a relatively new leader heading up the historic venue. George Levesque started his role as the CEO and president in June after John Bell retired. Before this, Levesque was the executive director at the Paramount Theatre in Abilene, Texas, since 2018. On "Florida Matters Live & Local," the new man in charge gives insight into how the historic renovation is going, what brought him to Tampa and more.
A county rethinks park funding, the appeal of going old-school, the latest on sloth deaths
Pinellas had recommended cutting funding for Weedon Island and Shell Key, state-owned preserves that the county leases and operates. But there has been a reprieve. Ever want to ditch your music streaming service for a turntable and needle? Do you reach for a film camera to capture a moment? Also, some insight on the Orlando sloth deaths that resulted in no criminal charges.
A school board’s partisan pendulum swings, and multitasking food trucks
Sarasota County voters have reshaped a school board that became a flashpoint for Florida’s culture wars. Our guest panel looks at what comes next. Then, meet the owner of a food truck that gives people with disabilities the chance to learn food prep, customer service and other job skills. Finally, the Zest’s Dalia Colon checks in with another food truck working to reduce food waste and hunger. (0:00) For four years, the board had a conservative-leaning majority.
This author's graphic novel highlights 'Operation Pedro Pan' and Cuban children's journey to America
The Cuban Revolution might not be the first thing to pop into your mind when thinking of a graphic novel for young adults. But one author is informing younger generations about a big part of both American and Cuban history. Back during the revolution, thousands of families in Cuba decided to send their children to Miami to escape the Fidel Castro regime. It became known as Operación Pedro Pan.
Scrubbing climate science from textbooks, and Tampa Theatre turns back the clock
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law two years ago removing references to “climate change” from Florida statutes and redirected energy policy away from climate-friendly solutions. But that’s not all. A WUSF investigation shows how textbook authors were asked to rewrite references to “climate change.” We get more detail from the reporters. Later, we meet the president and CEO of Tampa Theatre, which is prepping for its 100th birthday, and the new state director of a nonprofit that protects outdoor lands.
Carlson's priority ahead of Tampa mayoral run: addressing billions of dollars in infrastructure needs
With midterm primaries done and the November election ahead, Tampa voters probably haven’t given much thought to who will be their next mayor. Excuse city councilman Bill Carlson if he isn’t among them. After all, he is among 12 people currently seeking to replace Jane Castor in March. Carlson, president of the Tucker/Hall public relations firm, has represented the city’s District 4 — South Tampa — on the council since 2019. Chances are you’ve seen his name in more headlines in recent months.
Breaking down primary night's winners and losers, and Hillsborough schools get an A
Primary night 2026 is in the past. Florida voters picked the major party’s candidates for governor, U.S. Senate and state Agriculture Commissioner. There's also St. Petersburg’s mayoral runoff that's already getting a bit contentious. Anyway, it’s time to follow up with a panel of reporters who've been closely watching the campaigns and campaigners. We also talk about the state's grade for school districts. One local county just earned a coveted A for the first time in a decade.
Class acts: Rethinking school success for teens under stress, and a head start in hospitality
Teens have a lot on their plates these days: studying for tests, navigating social media, after-school jobs, juggling schoolwork with sports practices. With all this pressure, how can they balance grades and self-confidence? Award-winning teacher Daniel J. Evans has written a book packed with tips. And class is not dismissed yet. Later in the show, a local high school has launched a magnet curriculum focused on the hospitality industry.
USF College of Nursing expansion is open for learning, takes aim at workforce shortage
“Someday, someone will trust us with their life, and we want to be ready.” That’s how Ariana Sawyer, an undergraduate student at the University of South Florida’s College of Nursing, described the goal of the school’s newly expanded facility on the Tampa campus. USF Health held a ribbon-cutting on the expansion Friday, adding 42,000 square feet of modern classrooms, clinical training space and simulation facilities as it works to increase the number of nurses it trains.
Vindman challenges political headwinds, and USF nursing school's major expansion
Midterm elections can be tough for the party in power. In Florida, however, Democrats running for statewide office face uphill battles in a GOP-dominated state. Alexander Vindman believes he can buck the trend. He’s running to be the Democratic Party’s nominee for U.S. Senate. He tells us why he’s running. Also, the USF College of Nursing just opened a $33 million modern building expansion. The dean of nursing explains how this will help alleviate the state’s workforce shortage.
Spotting Big Tech and AI in local politics. Also, a college turns trash into treasure
Attack ads have always been part of politics. But with artificial intelligence, a new front has opened in the battle for votes. On top of that, Silicon Valley is pouring megabucks into Florida campaigns. Plus, what makes someone dive into a swamp in pursuit of big snakes? And, discarded dorm fridges, microwaves and other left-behinds are getting recycled at Eckerd College. (0:00) Big tech is spending millions to shape elections, including here in Florida.
'Don't be following me': Why a Tampa Bay man is protesting Flock cameras by blocking them
Carl Gunn spends some of his Saturdays sitting in a lawn chair on the side of roads in Tampa Bay — bearing the summer heat as he holds a massive sign pole. Whatever for? To block and protest Flock cameras in his area. These black "license plate readers" sit atop poles with solar panels attached. They area slightly inconspicuous and can be found from parking lots to neighborhoods to interstates.
Why the 'Flock Blocker' opposes these cameras, and an iconic game room pulls the plug
What in the heck is a Flock camera? Depending on whom you ask, it’s a crime-fighting tool or a symbol of creepy surveillance. Meet “Flock Blocker,” who believes the latter and is staging a one-man protest against them. Also on the show, the importance of voting in primary elections, and an iconic Tampa arcade has played its final level. (0:00) Flock cameras are everywhere around Tampa Bay, recording license plates and vehicle details to help law enforcement investigate crimes.
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