Jacksonville's Morning News Interviews

Meteorologist Garrett Bedenbaugh breaks down the weekend forecast, and what you can expect for your Halloween adventures tonight and the Florida/Georgia game Saturday, as we move into Autumn proper. Don't forget to set your clocks back Saturday night!

Aaron Terr, Director of Public Advocacy with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), addresses the challenges and risks of restricting free speech content. Should there be exceptions for controversial or inflammatory declarations? And if so, who should decide what is unacceptable - the public, by critique, or the government, by law? And how can the average person protect their right to free speech? Visit THEFIRE.ORG to learn more about their mission.

Brett Nolan, Senior Attorney with the Institute for Free Speech, joins JMN, addressing the following issues: What is the biggest threat to free speech right now? And what can the average American do to protect the Frist Amendment? Visit IFS.ORG for more information on the Institute for Free Speech's mission and current legal case work.

As Jacksonville's only improv comedy venue, no two shows are the same at First Coast Comedy. Visit FIRSTCOASTCOMEDY.COM to check their show schedules or to learn about their comedy school!

Clark looks at social media scams where people are using A.I. to pitch fake products. Don't believe the social media hype!

Curtis Dvorak, the Jacksonville Zoo Wildlife Wanderer, joins JMN -- in a Beaver costume (hence the opening musical homage!) -- as the Zoo closes out Spooktacular this weekend. Next up, it's the Teddy Bear Affair on Nov. 1st, before they transition into Colors of the Wild! Did we mention that kids get in free in November? There's always so much going on at the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Have you got your annual pass yet? Visit JACKSONVILLEZOO.ORG for more info!

JSO's Chris Hancock joins JMN with tips on how to safely manage or avoid the crowds and chaos of the Florida Georgia Weekend shenanigans.

No significant developments regarding the government shutdown, as we move through Day 30 and into a long weekend for the Senate. That doesn't mean nothing is happening in DC, though, as there was a Senate briefing on Trump's unilateral military strikes against alleged drug boats off the South American coast (now at 14 boats attacked). Someone forgot to invite the Democrats, though.

Mike McCormick and Dr. Herbert Wan from Florida's Poison Control (800-222-1222) join JMN to share some advice for managing a safe Halloween weekend. With the increased availability of certain legal products like THC edibles, OTC stimulants from the gas station, sweet alcohol beverages, etc., there are risks that kids may be accidentally exposed. If you notice issues such as lethargy, unusual hyperactivity, seizures, or possible allergic reactions, call Poison Control for advice or visit your local Urgent Care or ER. The toll free Poison Control contact # again is 800-222-1222.

Tonya looks at the continued impacts of the government shutdown, as the federally funded SNAP program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, colloquially known as "food stamps") loses funding effective November 1. This cuts food assistance funding for some 40+ million Americans, funding state assistance programs. States are turning to alternative resources where available -- locally, Gov. DeSantis is NOT offering state funding help to feed hungry Florida residents.

Clark looks at how a “balcony solar” setup may help you save on your energy costs – especially if you live in an apartment!

LeeAnn Mengel, Vice President Administrator, joins JMN to recap Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center's evolution over the past ten years, and looks toward continued expansion, growing resources, and continuing innovative holistic care.

Dr. Kim LaBree, Assistant Administator of Patient Services, addresses a number of listener questions regarding local area health concerns, diagnostic processes, and Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center care resources. Se asserts that the most important part of preventative or clinical care is routine checkups with your primary care physician. If you need to establish a primary care physician, Baptist invites you to contact them at 904-202-4YOU (4968).

Becky Ness, Oncology Social Worker, joins JMN to discuss ways cancer can impact family dynamics during and after treatment. She advocates support groups, communication, and social work teaching cooperation and prioritization to help families rally in care and support wihtout their o the patient's individual identities being subsumed by cancer. Her approach is that whole-person healing is the goal, not just clinical resolution.

Ryan has the latest on bipartisan efforts to address SNAP concerns, though party posturing is still getting in the way of budget bill approval to "re-open" the government. In the mean time, GOP bluster about President BIden's use of the "auto pen" for pardons is prompting discussion about a DOJ investigation, despite previous presidential use (including Trump) and previous DOJ reviews concluding that its use passed muster.

Theresa Pola, Outpatient Dietitian, joins JMN to discuss the role of lifestyle and diet in cancer prevention, treatment, and recovery. She also speaks to how nutritional needs can change relative to treatment protocols, and the impacts that exercise, relaxation, and stress management can have on overall health.

Dr. Gordon Guo, Radiation Oncologist, discusses the facts and the myths regarding prostate cancer. Ex: Fact - 1 in 8 men will develop prostate cancer; Myth - If you have no symptoms, you don't have the disease. Dr. Guo also speaks to what patients need to know about testing, diagnosis, and treatment protocols.

Dr. Laila Samiian, Chief of Breast Surgical Oncology, discusses the importance of screening and prevention resources for breast health, as Breast Cancer Awareness month wraps up. She shares how care processes vary with the patient's age, breast density, and individual needs, as each patient's cancer is different.

Joel Laton, Lead Chaplain, joins JMN to share his role and the role of his team of chaplains in the holistic treatment process at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center. Spiritual and pastoral care extends to spouses and family members, offering support and guidance for the "person," during clinical care processes.

Dr. Bill Putnam, Medical Director, joins JMN and shares how Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center has evolved and provided cutting edge cancer treatment resources for a decade - and how they work to meet the needs in various area communities, with campuses at Baptist Downtown, Baptist South, Baptist Clay, and more.

Clark looks at how online retails like Walmart offer you great prices online…but may be selling counterfeit goods from third-party sellers! But you can protect yourself from these bad deals if you make sure you have a full refund policy before you buy online.

What are the top concerns of Jacksonville residents? Housing categorically tops the concerns (cost, property taxes, insurance) at nearly 40% of all responses in UNF's most recent public opinion poll. These issues have been top concerns for much of this year. Dr. Binder breaks down these and what other issues are foremost in the public zeitgeist. and how they're being addressed.

Ryan looks at the latest impacts from the government shutdown, as air traffic controllers and SNAP recipients are both looking at no money available effective now. Federal employee unions are urging legislators to work it out already.

Military affairs expert Col. Chris Budihas joins JMN to look at recent developments with Trump's use of military force on alleged drug boats off the South American coast, the recent loss of two military aircraft into the South China Sea within a half hour of each other, and what's coming up on this weekend's First Coast Military Life.

Clark looks at how rental car companies are using AI to try and rip you off…and what you can do about it!

The Jags come off a bye week and gear up for a winnable (?) game at the Las Vegas Raiders this weekend. It starts up a 10-week uninterrupted schedule. Can the Jags recover their earlier momentum? Meanwhile, it's chaos for college football coaches, with LSU being the latest school to toss their boss; Florida, with their interim coach, face the Georgia Bulldogs this weekend in the SEC's biggest (local) rivalry!

Ryan has the latest on the government shutdown. Both sides blame the other for prolonging the shutdown, refusing to make concessions to the other. The civilian impact is beginning to manifest, as ATC's are not showing up to work, and SNAP benefits will not be issued beginning in November.

Clark looks at how HSA ‘s (that's Health Savings Accounts) can be a great savings resource for your benefits package – maybe even better than a Roth IRA!

Meteorologist Corey Simma looks at the weekend forecast. You might see a stray shower this weekend, but we're mostly sunny and pleasant until next week. A little wind, but a great weekend for the Sea & Sky Air Show if you're headed to the Beach.

The FBI announced a number of sports gambling busts - with some high profile NBA related arrests, including Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups.

Just after a visit from Vice President JD Vance - Sec. of State Rubio heads to Israel. Eben reports on why attitudes are still optimistic about a sustainable peace accord., despite recent challenges of increased/resumed violence last weekend and political instigations earlier this week.

Looking for long lasting candles or specialized scents? Check out Orange Park's "Selected Scent" for artisnal candles. Visit SELECTEDSCENT.COM for more information!

Clark shares his thoughts about distracted driving! When you're behind the wheel, keep your attention on the road, not on your phone, or your dashboard screens or doodads!

Mike McCormick from the Florida Poison Control Center joins JMN to share details about this weekend's Drug Take Back event. If you've got old or unused prescription meds to get rid of, or old bottles of OTC drugs (like old aspirin, Advil, Tylenol, Nyquil, allergy meds, etc.) - or things you don't want to go into detail about - you can turn them over, confidential and no questions asked, for proper disposal. This protects you, and it protects the environment. Google DEA TAKE BACK to find a dropoff point near you. Mike also has some Halloween safety tips for your kids, regarding their candy, and best practices to enjoy the holiday. If you need it, the emergency # for Poison Control is 800-222-1222.

Shellie Taylor, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Lindsey Pessia, Child Cancer Fund, join JMN to announce their "Round Up" fundraising total. $8,836 was raised, and WOKV will "round up" to $9000. All donations go toward supporting families in the Jacksonville community who are battling pediatric cancer. If you would like to donate, visit CHILDCANCERFUND.ORG, and support those businesses that support CCF by visiting any of the 3 locations for Nothing Bundt Cakes!

Ryan has the latest on the government shutdown, as Sen. Thune says there will be a measure introduced to pay essential government workers, forcing Democrats to take action. It still won't address the healthcare subsidies issue or affect "reopening" the government though. Meanwhile, White House renovations continue as the Trump Ballroom construction project moves forward - to much criticism.

Lots of fun stuff going on this weekend. Starting tonight, you've got The Dirty Heads playing at Daily's Place. Tomorrow & Saturday, the Jax Symphony presents Bewitched Broadway, with all sorts of Halloween-esque musc. Saturday night? It's Rocky Horror at the Florida Theatre! Spooktacular continues at the Jacksonville Zoo! And the Sea and Sky Air Show at Jacksonville Beach is ON for this weekend -- even if it's without the Blue Angels, there will still be lots of aerialist stunts and cool aircraft maneuvers for your enjoyment!

Jonathan Savage reports on a number of overseas headlines. European nations are joining the US in applying sanctions against Russia, in the hopes that economic pressure might persuade Vladimir Putin to back off of hositilites against Ukraine. Putin's response? Train Russian troops for nuclear attack scenarios. Over in North Korea, they're running missile tests ahead of President Trump's visit to Asia. And while the cease fire is (sort of) enduring in Gaza, tensions are still high as Israeli parliament members introduce an annexation measure.

Clark has a SCAM ALERT – scammers are using social media promotions for fake stocks to steal your money. Always, ALWAYS, do your due diligence before you invest in anything.

Jacksonville University President Tim Cost is transitioning into a new position as University Chancellor. He joins JMN to explain how this move reflects JU's growth and evolution, creating new opportunities for leadership initiatives as he moves from a student-focused service role to an administrative-focused role.

Adam Chaskin with Jewish Community Alliance joins JMN, to discuss the Mideast peace plan, its local imfluence and impact, and what gives him hope that circumstances will continue to improve. One way people can respond locally is through Together Against Hate summits coming up in November. Visit JCAJAX.ORG or TOGETHERAGAINSTHATEJAX.ORG for more information.

The government shutdown continues, after GOP senators met with Trump yesterday. Ryan reports that two votes are expected today - another vote on passing the Continuing Resolution funding, and a separate vote for a bill on paying certain federal workers (TSA, air traffic controllers, military personnel, and federal law enforcement staff on that list). Meanwhile, the Arizone state's attorney has sued Congress, as Speaker Johnson continues to postpone swearing in newly elected Rep. Adelita Grjalva.