Today on “First Coast Connect,” we spoke with John O’Brien (01:15), professor at Flagler College and CEO of the Vista Consulting Group, about Social Security reform. Our “First Coast Success” segment featured former CEO and philanthropist Barbara Drake (37:30), and Cole Pepper (45:26) brought us the latest sports news.
Social Security and Tax Reform
For many Americans, Social Security is nothing short of indispensable. The Social Security Administration says 61 percent of retired workers currently receiving benefits count on their check to provide at least half of their monthly income. And according to a study from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, more than 40 percent of seniors would be living under the poverty rate if not for their monthly Social Security income.
‘First Coast Success’ - Barbara Drake
Barbara Drake founded two Jacksonville recycling companies and has long been involved in local philanthropic activities including the United Way and JASMYN. She told Karen Brune Mathis about how she came to Jacksonville and got started in business and her charitable work.
Cole Pepper
It was a rough Saturday practice for Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles, who threw five interceptions. Eyes will be on him to see how he bounces back. The Jaguars will work in full pads all week. The Armada kicked off the fall season Sunday with a 1-1 draw against San Francisco. It was the first match under new owner Robert Palmer. And Clay County’s Caeleb Dressel became only the second swimmer to win seven gold medals at a swimming world championship, tying Michael Phelps.
Kevin Meerschaert can be reached at kmeerschaert@wjct.org, 904-358-6334 or on Twitter at @KMeerschaertJax.
