Tuesday on “First Coast Connect, Florida Times-Union reporter talked about what is expected at the trial of former U.S. Representative Corrine Brown for federal mail and wire fraud. Jacksonville field coordinator for the American Association of Retired Persons Justine Conley discussed some concerns seniors have over proposed changes to the Affordable Care Act. Shay Hill and Theresa Bennett Hill from the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council told us about The Great Electric Emergency and we heard from Don’t Miss a Beat artistic director Ulysses Owens Jr. about an album recorded last week in New York City.
Nate Monroe- Corrine Brown
Twenty-one potential jurors were excused Monday in the federal trial of former North Florida Congresswoman Corrine Brown. After 24 years in Congress, Brown is facing federal fraud trial is expected to get underway Wednesday. She’s accused of enriching herself with money from a bogus charity, One Door for Education. The trial is expected to last two to three weeks.
AARP- Affordable Care Act
After failing to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, Republicans in Congress say they’re going to try again. That is causing some concern for seniors who fear cuts in Medicaid and Medicare, along with other changes, would allow insurers to deny coverage for pre-existing conditions.
The Great Electric Emergency
For thousands of struggling families on the First Coast just keeping the lights on at home can be difficult. The Downtown Ecumenical Services Council is trying to help. The organization group provides groceries, clothing and financial assistance to families facing emergency situations.
They’re launching The Great Electric Emergency. It’s a fundraising event to raise dollars to help keep on the lights or help with rent for families with children, disabled members and senior citizens. The event is from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 25 at the Mellow Mushroom, 3611 St. Johns Avenue.
Don’t Miss a Beat
Some talented local students got the thrill of a lifetime by going to New York City this past weekend to record their first album of original songs.
It’s all thanks to the local organization Don’t Miss a Beat. It was part of a trip to perform a concert at The Juilliard School. It included a visit to the Harlem School of the Arts and met Rev. Al Sharpton at his National Action Network offices. They also were able to experience their first Broadway show.
Producer Kevin Meerschaert can be reached at kmeerschaert@wjct.org, 904-358-6334 or on Twitter at @KMeerschaertJax.
