Published by the Florida Center for Government Accountability
Florida Phoenix Celebrates Three-year Anniversary
Today, the Florida Phoenix celebrates our three-year anniversary, a whirlwind of reporting and writing about policy, politics and players that make Florida’s stories remarkable and unforgettable.
The cast includes the governor, the lawmakers, the lobbyists, the lawyers, the environmentalists, the state employees, the first responders, the journalists and, of course, you — the readers.
The Phoenix launched July 5, 2018, as other media outlets around the state faced layoffs and buyouts. It featured tough and determined journalists who aimed to cover the state Capitol and make a difference for Florida and Floridians.
We set up shop in an office at the Florida Press Center in Tallahassee, with an editor, a deputy editor and two reporters, plus two columnists – one a Pulitzer Prize winner, the other a university professor, author and longtime columnist.
In three years our news outlet has blossomed, adding a third columnist, focused on the environment, and another reporter. We are a member of the Florida Press Association, and we have credentials to cover the governor and the state Legislature.
We are now part of a powerhouse — the nonprofit States Newsroom that boasts more than 20 states doing Capitol coverage.
The Phoenix competes in a robust Florida media environment, and we strive to avoid pack journalism, in which reporters gather and tend to produce the same stories.
Instead, we explain difficult issues, examine policies that impact Floridians, comb through data to enhance our stories and capture the state’s pulse and politics – all to inform and serve the public.
Three years is just a start, and we want to continue our work and expand our efforts.
For this third anniversary, we’re hoping for two things: First, we’re asking you to donate. Whether the amount is large or small, it’s up to you, and we appreciate your support.
Second, please get the word out about the work we do at the Florida Phoenix. Urge readers to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Please forward this email.
Thank you, readers, for reading.
Editor-in-chief Diane Rado and the staff of the Florida Phoenix