Jacksonville's Morning News Interviews

Jared reports on the anniversary of last year's January 6th events. Capitol Police have increased their security measures, and President Biden is expected to speak. Unlike last year, the House is not currently in session.

Jared reports on government support for small businesses in the face of supply change issues, inflationary cost increases, and limited competition for some products.

Alicia reports on new safety precautions in place for returning students, staff, and visitors to Duval Count schools.

Jessica reports that some COVID testing facilities are maxing out on their available testing earlier in the day than anticipated.

Alicia reports on the COVID/Omicron impact on students returning back to school in Duval, Clay, Nassau, and St. Johns Counties.

Brian joins JMN to discuss federal covid testing resources, vaccine mandate impacts, and the upcoming Senate vote to modify filibuster rules.

Jared looks at the ongoing discourse between Presidents Biden & Putin on the issue of Ukraine. The Russian president insists there is no plan to invade Ukraine, despite the amassed forces there, while the US president on behalf of NATO threatens severe economic sanctions in the event of transgressions.

Rich teases some of the top stories of the year. Tune in Friday for a special edition of Jacksonville's Morning News when we'll recap the big news stories of the year starting at 630am!

Trey reports on the Biden/Putin dialogues that continue today amid increasing Ukraine tensions.

Alicia reports on covid testing resources locally, why some people prefer a testing facility rather than home testing, and the variable costs and challenges involved in all of these options.

Jared reports on the high-level discussions between the U.S. and Russia over troop movements along the Russia/Ukraine border. Delegates will engage on January 10, though it is yet to be determined whether this will be in-person or through distance communication. Russia maintains their position that they do not intend any action along the border.

Greg McGarity, President of the Tax Slayer Gator Bowl, joins JMN to update us on this year's game. After Texas A&M withdrew from the game, Rutgers stepped up and will face Wake Forest, with the game kicking off Friday at 11am. Tickets are available, and the game will air on ESPN.

Jared reports on President Biden's meeting with governors regarding state and federal government covid responses.

John Ward, Director of Clay County Emergency Management, reports on his repair crew's experiences in Kentucky as they return from assisting in the disaster cleanup. Ward says "we really haven't seen inland wind damage like that probably since as far back as Hurricane Andrew."

Alicia reports on the ongoing suspension of curbside recycling pickup, and how designated dropoff sites have gotten (even more) overwhelmed.

Jared reports on SCOTUS convening early to address the Biden vaccination mandate objections.

Eben reports on national concerns about surging coronavirus cases as the year wraps, though new treatments including pill medications give hope for progress against the pandemic.

Alicia reports on a fatal Westside plane crash over the holiday weekend.

SCOTUS will hear the case about Biden's vaccination mandate starting January 7, which is several days sooner than they were expected to start the 2022 session.

Greg McGarity joins JMN to update us on the team change for this year's Gator Bowl game. Wake Forest remains committed, but Texas A&M had to withdraw from the game. New prospects include Rutgers, Syracuse, and Illinois, and of course we'll follow this story online and on air as a new team announcement could happen any time.

Rich Jones highlights some of the top stories of the year. Get the full 2021 recap with a special edition of Jacksonville's Morning News - Year in Review to start your Christmas Eve.

Alicia updates her Florida travelers story, as gas prices around the state come down just in time for the millions of drivers hitting Florida roads for the holiday.

Alicia reports that +/- 110 million people are expected to travel nationally today, and of those about 5 million will be in Florida, one of the most popular destinations. If you're hitting the roads today, the busiest travel period is expected to be noon-6pm.

Jared looks at President Biden's address regarding the Omicron variant and ongoing measures to overcome the pandemic, the "patriotic duty" to get vaccinations and boosters.

Dr. Neilsen joins JMN to discuss the Omicron coronavirus variant, what makes it different from other variants so far, and your best ways to reduce your risks of exposure during the holiday season.