Welcome to WJCT First Read, your daily weekday morning round-up of stories from the First Coast, around Florida, and across the country. We'll also preview some of WJCT's upcoming news programming.
Southbank Riverwalk to be renovated despite objector: Work has begun to replace the city's aging wood boardwalk without the approval of the owners of the Crowne Plaza hotel.
Library branches to remain open: Funding for two branches of the Jacksonville Public Library that had been slated to close in October was restored by city lawmakers.
Local reps speak out against Syrian strike: Members of Florida's congressional delegation are among those who have come out the strongest against U.S. military intervention in Syria. (Florida Times-Union)
Florida could see multi-million dollar surplus: A new budget forecast says the state could end the fiscal year with a $845 million budget surplus. (CBS Miami)
Shirk emails with fired employee released: Several email exchanges between Jacksonville Public Defender Matthew Shirk and one female employee allegedly hired and fired in an unprofessional and potentially illegal manner show questionable content. (News4Jax)
UF research treats cancer with seaweed: New University of Florida research says certain types of seaweed may be effective in preventing prostate cancer. (Jacksonville Business Journal)
UNF police resignations following questionable DUI stop: The police chief and assistant police chief of the University of North Florida have resigned after news reports questioned the non-arrest of a student athlete who was pulled over with a blood alcohol content five times the legal limit. (First Coast News)
Florida higher ed. vice chancellor proposed as interim head: Florida State University System Vice Chancellor Jan Ignash has been proposed to serve as interim chancellor following the departure of Frank Brogan. (The Ledger)
Today on First Coast Connect, our Friday local media forum, and we'll announce the winner of HGTV's Smart Home 2013 giveaway.
You can get all the latest headlines online at WJCTNews.org, on our Facebook page, and on Twitter @WJCTJax.
