South Florida recently witnessed an end of an era for journalism with Carmel Cafiero’s passing – she was one of South Florida’s premier investigative reporters, with nearly four decades worth of reporting experience to call upon and an unflagging pursuit for truth and justice. She will long be remembered in South Florida.

Early Life and Initial Steps in Journalism

Cafiero’s journey in journalism began in the heart of New Orleans, her birthplace. Her tryst with the microphone started in radio, but it was at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge where she made history, becoming the first woman to anchor an evening newscast in Louisiana.

AspectDetails
BirthplaceNew Orleans, Louisiana
Early CareerStarted in radio; first woman to anchor an evening newscast at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge
Channel 7 EntryJoined in 1973 as a general assignment reporter
Landmark ContributionsBecame the first female journalist at Channel 7
Notable InvestigationsWent undercover to expose unlicensed doctors and deceptive clinic workers
AwardsAlfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award for her work on the opioid crisis
Social ImpactInstrumental in passing a prescription drug monitoring program in Florida
Career Span43 years
Areas of FocusHealth, social issues, crime, crisis reporting, and more
Key CharacteristicsTenacity, persistence, commitment to truth
Compassionate ReportingCovered Hurricane Andrew and rallied community support for individuals in need
International ReportingTracked a Miami-Dade Commissioner in Australia; covered a cruise ship disaster in Italy
FamilySurvived by husband Bob, daughter Courtney, and granddaughters Mariah and Melanie
LegacyLeft an indelible mark on journalism in South Florida

Breaking Ceilings at Channel 7

However, it was in 1973, when she boarded the ship of WCKT, now Channel 7, that she embarked on a transformative journey not only for herself but for the entire region’s journalistic landscape. At a time when newsrooms across the country were majorly male-dominated, Cafiero carved a niche for herself at Channel 7.

Undercover Investigations and Advocacy

One of Cafiero’s most notable investigations involved her going undercover, donning a wig, to unmask unlicensed doctors and deceptive clinic workers. The audacity of her investigation came to light when she was falsely declared pregnant based on a urine sample that, in fact, belonged to her male photographer.

Exposing Health and Safety Risks

Her relentless spirit did not stop there. South Florida homeowners are indebted to her for exposing the menace of defective Chinese drywall. In another revelation, she highlighted the peril of pet jerky treats from China, implicating them in numerous dog fatalities.

Highlighting the Opioid Crisis

Cafiero’s undying commitment to her profession can also be gauged from her pivotal reporting on the opioid crisis that had Broward County at its heart. She was instrumental in highlighting the widespread misuse of these potent prescription drugs.

Confronting Social Issues

However, it wasn’t just the big stories that defined her. From confronting nightclub owners about young teens overdosing to exposing the dubious claims of self-proclaimed psychic Miss Cleo, Cafiero’s reportage was a testament to her tenacity.

Reporting in Times of Crisis

Her spirit was unwavering even during national emergencies. After the harrowing September 11th attacks, she was the foremost journalist to step inside the former residence of terrorist Mohamed Atta in Hollywood.

An International Footprint

The breadth of her journalistic journey took her from local streets to international waters, be it tracking a former Miami-Dade Commissioner in distant Australia or interrogating the captain involved in a major cruise ship debacle in Italy.

Compassion Beyond Reporting

Cafiero’s commitment wasn’t just limited to hardcore investigative journalism. She was equally compassionate, evident from her coverage of Hurricane Andrew’s aftermath or the touching tale of Selma Shapiro, a lady living in a rat-infested home.

Legacy and Impact

For 43 years, Carmel Cafiero stood as a pillar of integrity, strength, and determination. As South Florida mourns the loss of this journalistic giant, her legacy remains, reminding everyone of the power of truth and the importance of the Fourth Estate.

Family and Memories

Cafiero’s life, marked by numerous accolades and groundbreaking stories, is survived by the love and memories of her husband, daughter, and granddaughters. Her tale, like her impact, is timeless.

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