Jacksonville's Morning News Interviews

Curtis Dvorak, the Wildlife Wanderer from the Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens, joins JMN with an update on the new manatee rehabilitation exhibit, and to share details of the upcoming ExZOOberation Seagrass Derby on May 2. Visit JACKSONVILLEZOO.ORG for more information.

Rich Jones sits with Action News Jax State & Local Government Reporter Jake Stofan looks at investigations into JEA and into the Jacksonville City Council. He also explains why Gov. DeSantis wants several special legislative sessions in the near future.

2026 midterm environment taking shape with Republicans grappling with razor-thin margins and high-profile resignations while Democrats are dealing with scandals and a "socialist label."

NATO is allegedly looking at backup plans should the US pull out of the alliance. While that is extremely unlikely (it would require a 2/3rds approval vote of Congress), Trump can and has threatened to reduce military support, and that would radically increase expenses and resource deployment coordination among European members -- a valid concern, given active military campaigns between Ukraine/Russia and US/Israel/Iran.

FRI – Clark looks at rising airfare costs. One mistake people make when shopping flights is just looking at a favorite airline. Shopping multiple airlines, though, using sites like Google Flights or Hopper, can save you a ton.

The UF Proton Therapy Institute celebrates 20 years of service in Jacksonville, and today's Good News features Michael Klein's story, as he celebrates his 1-year anniversary of finishing treatment - cancer free, and advocating proton therapy!

Kemal Gasper from VyStar Credit Union and Claire Chenn from Ronald McDonald House Jax join JMN to discuss the Ronald McDonald House McGala on Saturday, April 25 at TPC Sawgrass. Funds raised support the RMHC Jax faciltiies, assisting families with children undergoing medical care in the Jax community. Visit RMHCJacksonville.ORG for more information.

WOKV military analyst and host of First Coast Military Life, Col. Chris Budihas, looks at recent and ongoing military activities, including more US Nay strikes on alleged drug-boats (now in the Pacific), the Iran conflict, the Strait of Hormuz blockade, and more. He also previews this weekend's edition of FIrst Coast Military Life (Sun 8am) with Lt. Gov. Jay Collins -- AND there are several events happening you should know about: 4/22 the NDTA Maritime Indutrial Base Symposium at UNF (NTAJAX.ORG), and "From Service to CIty Hall" - A panel disussion featuring veterans who have tranisitioned into public service, at Block Jax on May 21.

President Trump says Iran war is 'very close to being over,' but is it really? Any ceasefire negotiations are at least slow in advancing, in part due to disputes on Iran's nuclear development programs, and also in ongoing hositilities between Israel and Hezbollah resources in Lebannon, whom Iran claim as an extension of their forces. There does seem to be some positioning toward future talks, though, as Israeli and Lebanese representitives are expected to have unofficial discourse soon, while Pakistani negotiators attempt to moderate additional agreements between US and Iranian negotiators.

Yesterday saw the official ground breaking on The Village at Lake Forest, a housing project partnership between Ability Housing, Duval Public Schools, The Community Foundation, and Bank of America. The Village will be on the site of the old Lake Forest Elementary School.

The House attempts to vote on spy powers - an extension of current FISA Section 702 rules that allow coincidental spying/monitoring on US citizens WITHOUT a warrant if it arises from a foreign existing citizen investigation. Can the GOP rally sufficient support to extend the current policy? And why is there dissention within the party over this issue?

THU – Clark looks at online shopping – and how many of the things you buy are counterfeit! Clark has tips on how you can make sure your seller is reputable, and what your rights are if something you buy is misrepresented.

Paul Renner, former Speaker of the Florida House, wants to be your next Governor. He joins JMN to share his positions on a variety of issues. Of local interest, he talks about home affordibilty, property taxes, A.I. data center concerns, economic and wildlife issues, lobbyist/PAC influence, and more. Learn more about Renner's campaign positions at VOTERENNER.COM.

Jimmy Failla joins Kristine Bellino to laugh about Tax Day, Trump vs. the Pope, share some thoughts on Trump's "Jesus Meme" walkback, and a look at what's ahead on tonight's show. Hear more from Jimmy Failla every weeknight 6pm-9pm on Fox Across America!

Wednesday is Tax Day - last day to file or request an extension. Eben looks at common tax filing issues, what to do if you're not ready/able to settle your taxes, and the two types of tax filiers -- those who do it early, and those who postpone the inevitible.

Jonathan has the latest on possible Iran negotiations, and the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz.

WED – Clark looks at Federal Student Loans, and changes you need to know about how the government is handling them. Print out a hard copy of your payment records FREQUENTLY, so you can make sure your account is being credited properly and on time!

Dr. Christine Cauffield, CEO LSF Health Systems, joins JMN to discuss stress management and mental health. Stress can have physical, behavioral, and psychological impacts. Chronic stress can cause sustained high levels of cortisol production, leading to weight gain, anxiety, and sleep issues as physical symptoms of stress, in addition to behaviors, irritibility, depression, concentration issues, and more. And stressors can be experiential, circumstantial, and/or existential! As such, managing and reducing stress is important for your physical and mental well being. For more information, call 877-229-9098 and LSF Health will connect you to community resources.

FOX News's Jared Halpern shares the latest update on cease-fire talks between the US and Iran, as President Trump has deployed a blockade to prevent traffic into and out of Iranian ports.

Erick shares thoughts on the AI-generated President Trump image that some say was a "religious depiction." While the image was arguably a bad joke or in bad taste, its cooincidental timing of public criticisms of Pope Leo XIV has not gone over well with Catholics. Given Trump's other categorical declines in public support (over the war, the economy, etc.) it isn't doing him any favors. Hear more on the Erick Erickson Show, 12pm to 3pm daily!

Holy wars? President Trump and Pope Leo are verbally sparring over Iran, and over a recent social media post featuring a Christ-like depiction of Trump (who claimed he thought it showed him a s a "doctor."). The post has been removed, but not before it added to the growing backlash. While Trump had broad support among Catholics in the last election, his support is waning dramatically after comments attacking the Pope.

Popular online gaming platform Roblox announces new accounts to make the user experience safer for children under the age of 16.

TUE – Clark looks at A.I. in health care. Patients use it more than doctors – and that could be dangerous, because A.I. could be wrong! If you've got medical decisions to make, TALK. TO. A. DOCTOR.

Dr. Kelly Tremblay, an audioloist, neurologist, and reaearcher, discusses symptoms and treatments of hearing loss.

Easy 102.9's Toni Foxx joins JMN to share details of a VyStar Credit Union promotion to help people manage and pay off their debts -- including a contest that could pay the winner $5000. (To use toward their debt. Or not. It's their money, right?!)

Dr. Danielle Madril, Chief Medical Officer of United Healthcare of Florida –explains the role of doulas in providing education and support for parents-to-be before and after baby delivery. It is a complimentary role to a midwife, but not the same thing, and can be a beneficial part of the mother's medical team. Dr. Madril cites statistics of reduced delivery complications, and decreased incidents & serverity of post-partum depression and parental anxiety.

Over the weekend, President Trump criticized Pope Leo XIV, after the Pope declined an invitation to visit for July 4. Trump also announced plans for the US Navy to blockade Iranian ports in the Straits of Hormuz after VP Vance-led peace negotiations failed over the weekend. The existing cease-fire has another week to last. In other news, Trump ally Orban lost the Hungarian election for Prime Minister over the weekend, after last week's support visit from VP Vance.

Iran latest - VP Vance's overseas talks with Iran were unsuccessful, as he returns from Pakistan with no advancement in a permanent cease-fire. President Trump, meanwhile, has announced plans for the US Navy to blockade the Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, drawing criticism from Iran, and driving global oil prices higher again.

MON – Clark looks at printer costs. While you may find a cheap price on a fancy printer, the “getcha” is buying expensive ink or toner – especially colors! Want to beat that cost? Just buy a basic blank ink printer.

The UF Proton Therapy Institute celebrates 20 years of service in Jacksonville, and today's Good News features Kelly Jones, and how a chance meeting changed her life on her journey through breast cancer therapy, and with help from the UF Proton Therapy institute -- she just celebrated her 14th anniversary of being cancer-free.

Lisa Almeida, co-owner of Freedom Boat Club, is hosting a free boat ride event this Saturday April 11 at the Trout Creek Marina. Want to learn about boat ownership? Want to learn about boat rentals? Want to just take a ride in a boat?!? Come out! Visit FREEDOMBOATCLUB.COM or find them on social media for more information!

Kim Hall of the North Florida Land Trust discusses a new area of 1,600 acres in Baker County that have been designated as a preserve.

Jake Stofan, local and state government reporter, joins JMN with how (Republican) candidates are polling in advance of the Gubernatorial election this year, updates on when the next Florida Legislative Special Session will begin, considerations in revising Florida districting, and a new law on septage (septic waste) management that has septic service companies and municipal waste management companies facing radically increased expenses.

Meteorologist Garrett Bedenbaugh looks at the weekend forecast, as we're getting warm again over the next week. Still in a draught too, so be mindful of fire risks. Garrett also recaps his experience as a Celebrity Guest Chef with the Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary. Check out Garrett's social media for his "chicken divan" recipe!

Ross Eisenberg joins JMN to discuss the plastics industry's integration through so many other industries, including manufacturing, mining and refining fuel materials, textiles, retail, and more. It positions the plastics industry as a key player in recycling research and innovation.

Vice President Vance heads a US negotiation team in "high-level talks" with Iranian reps in a meeting in Islamabad, Pakistan this weekend. The existing US/Iran ceasefire is facing criticism (and alleged violations) from both sides, and traffic does NOT seem to be moving through the Strait of Hormuz as stipulated. How long will this fragile agreement last? Separate talks regarding Israel's hostilities with Lebannon will be addressed when their respective negotiators come to the US next week.

President Trump says Iran is not fully living up to terms of the ceasefire, regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Iran continues to protest the ongoing aggressions between Israel and Lebannon (vs Hezbollah), calling this a violation of the ceasefire. How fragile is the agreement, and what is being done to try and bolster it?

FRI – Clark looks at Air BNB and resort rentals. If you're booking a vacation getaway, check whether your reservation is refundable or not. Either way, protect your trip (or your need to cancel it!) with travel insurance!

Jacksonville Morning News' Kristine Bellino invites Major Matthew C. Weber, the commanding officer of Jacksonville's recruiting station to discuss NROTC and scholarships.

Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins joins Jacksonville's Morning News with Kristine Bellino to talk more about his position in the gubernatorial race.

FOX's Jonathan Savage joins Jacksonville's Morning News with the latest on the ongoing ceasefire updates happening in Iran.

FOX's Eben Brown joins Jacksonville's Morning News with Rich Jones to discuss the first instance of AI "take it down" laws.