Edward Waters College experiences a huge surge in applications for the upcoming school year, local supporters take on the nationwide conversation sparked by Caitlyn Jenner on transgender issues, and Rick Scott vetoes two bills, including one meant to give Citizens Property Insurance policyholders more options.
Welcome to WJCT First Read, your daily weekday morning round-up of stories from the First Coast, around Florida, and across the country.
Here are 6 stories you don’t want to miss.
Edward Waters College Overcomes Challenges; Sees Striking Increase in Applications
Joel Walker, Director of Admissions at Edward Waters College, said the school received more than 3,000 applications this year in comparison to only 1,800 applications during the same time last year.
Watchdog Group Contests City Council’s Pension Reform Plan
The Concerned Taxpayers of Duval County is challenging the city’s latest Police and Fire Pension Fund proposal in court.
Caitlyn Jenner Sparks Conversation About Transgender Issues In Jacksonville
During an appearance on WJCT's “First Coast Connect,” a panel of local transgender and gender non-conforming supporters talked about some of the issues faced by the minority group.
Northeast Florida Hospitals Take Steps To Enhance Breast-Feeding Practices
Three hospitals in Northeast Florida received $10,000 grants to start an education program called Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding.
Incoming City Council Unanimously Votes On President, Vice President
On Wednesday, the future council unanimously approved Greg Anderson and Lori Boyer as President and Vice President respectively.
Scott Vetoes Bills On Convenience Stores, Citizens Insurance
Gov. Rick Scott vetoed bills Tuesday that were intended to increase convenience-store security and to give policyholders more options as the state seeks to move them out of Citizens Property Insurance Corp.
You can get all the latest headlines online at WJCTNews.org, on our Facebook page and on Twitter @WJCTJax. You can follow Ray Hollister on Twitter @RayHollister.