Mayor Lenny Curry and Sheriff Mike Williams are inaugurated under the theme of unity. President Barack Obama announces the official resumption of diplomatic relations with Cuba. More types of vaccinations will soon be available to customers in Florida pharmacies, and some long-time gay rights activists are transitioning into new jobs.
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 8 stories you don’t want to miss.
New Florida Law Offers More Vaccines In Pharmacies
A new law went into effect Wednesday that allows Florida pharmacies to give more types of vaccines to customers. Pharmacies were previously allowed to administer vaccines only against viruses like the flu.
Mayor Lenny Curry And Sheriff Mike Williams Inaugurated, ‘One City One Jacksonville’
Mayor Lenny Curry says he vows to connect with Jacksonville’s people, something Sheriff Mike Williams echoed. Williams says community engagement with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will be a measure of its effectiveness.
Florida AG Joins Multi-State Lawsuit Against EPA's ‘Clean Water Rule’
Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi joined the suit this week. Industry groups support the suit — which refers to the rule as a “significant overreach” by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Nelson On SpaceX: 'When We Have A Mishap, We Learn From It'
Investigators continue looking into what caused a SpaceX rocket to explode after takeoff from Cape Canaveral on Sunday. In Jacksonville on Wednesday, Florida Senator Bill Nelson said he’s confident in the investigation.
U.S., Cuba Formally Resume Diplomatic Relations
President Obama on Wednesday announced the formal resumption of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba after more than half a century of hostilities. The two countries have agreed to reopen embassies in Washington and Havana.
Florida's 24-Hour Abortion Waiting Period Law In Doubt After Court Ruling
The day before a new Florida law would have begun requiring women to wait 24 hours before having an abortion, a Leon County judge placed the law on hold while a constitutional challenge goes forward.
Distracted Motorist Drives Over Raised Drawbridge
James Montano crossed a raised drawbridge in Palm Beach by plowing through the caution arm and jumping the gap.
After Supreme Court Decision, What's Next For Gay Rights Groups?
Having clinched the long-sought prize of same-sex marriage in all 50 states, some long-time advocates are now waking up to the realization that they need to find a new job. At least one major same-sex marriage advocacy group is preparing to close down and other LGBT organizations are retooling.
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