BREAKING NEWS
WATCH LIVE: President Trump signs executive order aimed at ending price gouging for ticket resales
Read full article: WATCH LIVE: President Trump signs executive order aimed at ending price gouging for ticket resalesPresident Trump is set to sign an executive order Monday would direct federal authorities to prioritize cracking down on ticket scalpers and others who profit from reselling entertainment tickets to consumers at a markup.
Nonprofit groups and Democrats sue Trump administration over election executive order
Read full article: Nonprofit groups and Democrats sue Trump administration over election executive orderPresident Donald Trump's executive order seeking to overhaul the nation's elections is facing its first legal challenges.
‘A quiet storm’: City park could be renamed to honor Jacksonville trailblazer, Dr. Eartha White
Read full article: ‘A quiet storm’: City park could be renamed to honor Jacksonville trailblazer, Dr. Eartha WhiteJacksonville city council members are advocating for a significant change to honor a local legend with a proposed bill to rename Oakland Park after Dr. Eartha White, a renowned philanthropist and humanitarian who left a lasting mark on the River City. The Legacy of Oakland Park, located at the corner of Ionia and Union Streets, has been a staple of Jacksonville for over a century.
Florida Avengers women’s tackle football team suits up for new season
Read full article: Florida Avengers women’s tackle football team suits up for new seasonThe Florida Avengers are a women's tackle football team in Jacksonville. They are the only team in the state to compete in the Women's National Football Conference.
Trump endorses budget fix that would restore Washington, DC, shortfall and urges House to pass it
Read full article: Trump endorses budget fix that would restore Washington, DC, shortfall and urges House to pass itThe District of Columbia's non-voting delegate in the House of Representatives is hailing President Donald Trump’s support for a budget fix that would prevent immediate financial disaster for the city.
Women’s History Month: Recognizing local women leading the way in law, art, fashion and more
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Recognizing local women leading the way in law, art, fashion and moreAs we close out March, we’re highlighting women who have led the way locally in law, art, law enforcement and fashion.
Nancy Hogshead-Makar: A ‘privilege’ in fighting for the rights of girls and women in sports
Read full article: Nancy Hogshead-Makar: A ‘privilege’ in fighting for the rights of girls and women in sportsNancy Hogshead-Makar, a four-time Olympic swimming medalist and Episcopal graduate, would grace any top 10 list among athletes from northeast Florida. But her mission since the 1984 Games has been fighting for equal rights for girls and women in sports.
Women making history: Dreaming big & changing lives
Read full article: Women making history: Dreaming big & changing livesImagine a world without Marie Curie's groundbreaking research in radioactivity, Rosalind Franklin's crucial role in the discovery of DNA, or Ada Lovelace’s visionary work in computer programming.
Trump signs executive order to end collective bargaining at agencies involved with national security
Read full article: Trump signs executive order to end collective bargaining at agencies involved with national securityPresident Donald Trump is ending collective bargaining with federal labor unions in agencies with national security missions across the federal government, citing authority granted him under a 1978 law.
Katharine Graham: A pioneer for women in journalism and business
Read full article: Katharine Graham: A pioneer for women in journalism and businessIn a special Women’s History Month podcast conversation with News4JAX Anchor Joy Purdy, Graham Media Group CEO Catherine Badalamente discusses a new documentary detailing the life of Katharine Graham, the longtime Washington Post president and CEO who was the first woman CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Badalamente calls the documentary a must-see for women of all ages.
From court to community: How former WNBA president Donna Orender elevates, empowers women
Read full article: From court to community: How former WNBA president Donna Orender elevates, empowers womenDonna Orender, founder of Generation W and former president of the WNBA, has used what she learned on the court as a pro basketball player to help motivate and empower women and teenage girls.
Learning self-care led this sex trafficking survivor to pick up the pieces. Now, she’s helping others find their beauty
Read full article: Learning self-care led this sex trafficking survivor to pick up the pieces. Now, she’s helping others find their beautyJacksonville native Latoya Copeland survived sex trafficking in her 20s, and learning self-care after she came out of trafficking helped her heal. Now, she's sharing her healing gift with others as a licensed esthetician.
‘We saw the need’: How community spirit drives local Filipino American woman’s global mission in health care
Read full article: ‘We saw the need’: How community spirit drives local Filipino American woman’s global mission in health careThe experience of growing up Filipino American in a diplomatic family led Carmina Montesa Aldana, a mother of twins, to co-found the Neurosurgery Outreach Foundation, or NOF, in Jacksonville. The organization focuses on providing crucial neurosurgical care to underserved communities.
Adopting 7, raising 10 & seeking true love: Londeshua Kendrick shares her family’s journey
Read full article: Adopting 7, raising 10 & seeking true love: Londeshua Kendrick shares her family’s journeyNews4JAX was there at the Duval County Courthouse in December when Londeshua Kendrick adopted her brother’s seven boys, making her a mom of 10. In a candid conversation with News4JAX anchor Joy Purdy, Londeshua opened up about what led up to the adoptions, and the one big wish on her heart: Finding Mr. Right.
Women’s History Month: Painter hopes to bring historical women of Amelia Island to life for future generations
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Painter hopes to bring historical women of Amelia Island to life for future generationsThere are many notable women throughout the history of Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach. Many of their stories have been told, but most of those don’t have a face to connect to the name.
Mayor Hoffman celebrates women trailblazers at Beaches Museum
Read full article: Mayor Hoffman celebrates women trailblazers at Beaches MuseumThe Beaches Museum is embracing Women's History Month by highlighting the contributions of two remarkable women who shaped the community's history. Mayor Hoffman welcomed visitors to the museum, where she shared insights about these influential figures and their lasting impact. One of the women featured is a descendant of the family that owned the Oceanic Hotel, where she learned the hospitality trade and met visitors from around the world. She married JT McCormick of McCormick and Sons, a family that played a significant role in developing the Beaches area. In the 1960s and 70s, as the community evolved, she and her friends founded the Beaches Area Historical Society, ensuring the preservation of local history. A notable image of her climbing out of the Sandpiper Pool became iconic when a photographer from the Saturday Evening Post captured it shortly before her wedding to JT McCormick. Concerned about how her future father-in-law would react, she and her friends rushed to buy copies of the magazine to prevent any scandal. The second woman honored is Rhoda L. Martin, who was born into slavery and later moved to Jacksonville Beach in the early 1900s. Recognizing the lack of educational and religious resources for the African American community, she established a school in her kitchen and founded the St. Andrews AME Church. Her efforts laid the groundwork for education and spiritual engagement in the community, which continued until schools were desegregated in the 1960s. Rhoda Martin lived to the age of 116, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership. In her honor, the Jacksonville Beach Elementary School was renamed the Rhoda Martin Cultural Heritage Center, ensuring her contributions are remembered. Mayor Hoffman reflected on her own journey, noting that she became the first woman mayor of Jacksonville Beach at a time when both the mayors of Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach were also women. "I stand on the shoulders of the women here in Jacksonville Beach who have come before me," she said, acknowledging the trailblazers like Margaret McQueen and Benny Furlong. The Beaches Museum invites everyone to explore its exhibits, open six days a week with free admission. The museum actively engages the community through social media, sharing snippets of local history and celebrating the contributions of women in the Beaches area. "We want to engage our community as well as our visitors in what the Beaches was, is, and will become," Mayor Hoffman concluded, encouraging all to visit and learn more about the rich history of the area.
News4JAX anchor, reporter and meteorologist Jenese Harris wins 2025 Gracie Award
Read full article: News4JAX anchor, reporter and meteorologist Jenese Harris wins 2025 Gracie AwardThe All Women in Media Foundation has announced the 2025 winners of the annual Gracie Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions by women in media, both in front of and behind the camera. This year, we are proud to announce that WJXT’s Jenese Harris won a Gracie in the category of On-Air Talent.
Northeast Florida has cranked out 5 global women’s pro wrestling stars
Read full article: Northeast Florida has cranked out 5 global women’s pro wrestling starsSome of the biggest women's wrestling stars to ever live all have roots in Northeast Florida. That includes Michelle McCool, Jade Cargill, Alicia Fox, Kelly Kelly & Sable.
A lasting legacy: The story of Jacksonville grandmother who was a trailblazer for women in the military
Read full article: A lasting legacy: The story of Jacksonville grandmother who was a trailblazer for women in the militaryLois Day was a trailblazer and part of the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service, better known as the WAVES.
How faith, determination led to this Jacksonville woman owning a dry cleaning business for almost 50 years
Read full article: How faith, determination led to this Jacksonville woman owning a dry cleaning business for almost 50 yearsAt 18 years old, Pearl Graham fled an abusive home in Alabama and landed on Jacksonville’s Eastside where her faith and determination led to her becoming a pillar of the community.
Get inspired, connected and learn something new with Generation W
Read full article: Get inspired, connected and learn something new with Generation WIn honor of Women’s History Month, News4JAX will highlight local women who inspire and empower future generations through a special week-long streaming event featuring Generation W, beginning March 24.
How this woman’s engagement inspired her to bring a unique bridal dress shopping experience to Jacksonville and beyond
Read full article: How this woman’s engagement inspired her to bring a unique bridal dress shopping experience to Jacksonville and beyondKerrie Hileman is now the owner and founder of The White Magnolia, a bridal boutique born in San Marco in 2010 and that has expanded to seven other cities across the Southeast.
Women’s History Month: Celebrating local women leaders in politics, entertainment, sports & education
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Celebrating local women leaders in politics, entertainment, sports & educationFrom cancer research to architecture to engineering, this week we featured women who led their respective fields to recognize Women's History Month.
St. Johns County legendary stunt pilot Patty Wagstaff reflects on her years of aviation success
Read full article: St. Johns County legendary stunt pilot Patty Wagstaff reflects on her years of aviation successIt would be a crime to mention Women’s History Month without mentioning one of the greatest female aerobatic pilots in history, who also just so happens to reside in Northeast Florida.
Pumping brakes on barriers: Local woman accelerates herself into new career as auto repair business owner
Read full article: Pumping brakes on barriers: Local woman accelerates herself into new career as auto repair business ownerMelissa Pittman owns Truth Auto Repair near the intersection of University Boulevard and Philips Highway. She was once a corporate professional, but she turned the challenging economic downturn into a chance to shift gears into a male-dominated industry.
Northside Jacksonville family builds successful Black woman-owned carwash business
Read full article: Northside Jacksonville family builds successful Black woman-owned carwash businessKitty’s Carwash, a woman and Black-owned business on Jacksonville’s Northside, was founded by Nakita "Kitty" Watley. The Northside native and Ribault High alum, grew the business through passion and determination, becoming a standout in Duval County’s entrepreneurial landscape.
How one woman veteran found her saving grace through her service dog Bobbi
Read full article: How one woman veteran found her saving grace through her service dog BobbiWomen are becoming the fastest-growing demographic of the veteran population and are struggling to find the resources they need to deal with the invisible wounds of PTSD.
River City Plus: Celebrating female ‘food-preneurs’ for Women’s History Month
Read full article: River City Plus: Celebrating female ‘food-preneurs’ for Women’s History MonthChef Mimi Lan is a Michelin-trained chef who curates thoughtful culinary experiences through her private home dinners, popup dinners, and cooking classes.
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Experienced business psychologist shares how you can unlock success in midlife
Read full article: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Experienced business psychologist shares how you can unlock success in midlifeGet ready to unleash your inner boss as we hear from Dr. Erin Joy, a business psychologist with more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience.
Women’s History Month: Recognizing local leaders in engineering, architecture, medical research and more
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Recognizing local leaders in engineering, architecture, medical research and moreFrom cancer research to architecture to engineering, this week we featured women who led their respective fields to recognize Women's History Month.
Culhane’s Irish Pub has been a successful business for 20 years. It all began with 4 sisters and a dream
Read full article: Culhane’s Irish Pub has been a successful business for 20 years. It all began with 4 sisters and a dreamFour sisters have been running Culhane’s Irish Pub for the past 20 years, but what many people don’t know, is that their dream as entrepreneurs began over 4,000 miles away in Ireland.
Breaking Barriers: Meet the lone female apprentice in JEA’s Water Wastewater Program
Read full article: Breaking Barriers: Meet the lone female apprentice in JEA’s Water Wastewater ProgramAt JEA, one woman is breaking barriers. Ashley Tallman is the only female apprentice in JEA’s Water Wastewater training programs as a Maintenance Mechanic Utility Installer Servicer (MMIUS).
We caught up with the iconic Mary Baer and explored Grace Under the Oaks
Read full article: We caught up with the iconic Mary Baer and explored Grace Under the OaksGrace Under the Oaks is a therapy program that provides adaptive riding and Equine-Assisted Activities (EAA) to adults and children with cognitive and/or physical challenges.
‘When you look good, you feel good’: Jacksonville woman helping high school seniors, ex-convicts get suited for success
Read full article: ‘When you look good, you feel good’: Jacksonville woman helping high school seniors, ex-convicts get suited for successDressing for success means looking your best, especially if you’re a job applicant meeting a hiring manager for the first time. You want to look and sound presentable and professional.
Despite daily challenges, Mayor Donna Deegan says being Jacksonville’s mayor is ‘honor of my lifetime’
Read full article: Despite daily challenges, Mayor Donna Deegan says being Jacksonville’s mayor is ‘honor of my lifetime’It’s safe to say Donna Deegan has worn a lot of hats over the years. Local television broadcaster at First Coast News, a three-time breast cancer survivor, the founder of The DONNA Foundation, and now, the mayor of Jacksonville, becoming the first woman to hold the job in the city’s history.
A Clay County woman just celebrated turning 103. When asked her secret to longevity, peanut butter topped the list
Read full article: A Clay County woman just celebrated turning 103. When asked her secret to longevity, peanut butter topped the listIn Clay County, a rare celebration unfolded Monday as family and friends gathered to wish Elizabeth Arneal Kart a happy 103rd birthday.
Women’s History Month: Celebrating local philanthropists, political leaders & entertainers
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Celebrating local philanthropists, political leaders & entertainersMarch is Women’s History Month and all month long, News4JAX is sharing the stories of local women who have inspired and educated future generations.
From service to soulmates: The WAVES love story that blossomed at NAS Jacksonville
Read full article: From service to soulmates: The WAVES love story that blossomed at NAS JacksonvilleLois Talburt and her sister joined the WAVES during World War II after they lost their brother in the war. The decision changed the trajectory of Lois' life
WAVES of change: The legacy of women who took the Navy by storm, broke barriers during World War II
Read full article: WAVES of change: The legacy of women who took the Navy by storm, broke barriers during World War IIAs more and more men in the U.S. Navy deployed overseas during World War II, someone needed to fill traditionally male-dominated positions on the bases back home, like Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Enter the WAVES.
Women's rights are under attack 30 years after leaders adopted a blueprint for equality, UN says
Read full article: Women's rights are under attack 30 years after leaders adopted a blueprint for equality, UN saysThirty years after world leaders adopted a historic blueprint to achieve gender equality, a new United Nations report says women’s and girls’ rights are under attack and gender discrimination is deeply embedded in economies and societies.
Legendary Jacksonville opera singer, entertainer, Padrica Mendez to be honored at funeral service
Read full article: Legendary Jacksonville opera singer, entertainer, Padrica Mendez to be honored at funeral servicePadrica Mendez, an opera singer and entertainer with deep roots in LaVilla, died on Feb. 26.
These nuns advocated for immigrant rights for 40 years — now in their 90s, they’re not slowing down
Read full article: These nuns advocated for immigrant rights for 40 years — now in their 90s, they’re not slowing downFor over four decades Sisters JoAnn Persch, 90, and Pat Murphy, 95, have dedicated their lives to advocating for immigrant rights and the dignity of all people.
A new wave of ‘Jacksonville Ladies’ are making sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National Cemetery
Read full article: A new wave of ‘Jacksonville Ladies’ are making sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National CemeteryThey’ve made it their mission to make sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on the city’s Northside.
Personal trauma pushed this JSO commander to protect sex crime victims. Now she leads FSCJ’s criminal justice center
Read full article: Personal trauma pushed this JSO commander to protect sex crime victims. Now she leads FSCJ’s criminal justice centerDedication, heart and resilience make leaders shine in law enforcement. These qualities also highlight Commander Erika Weber’s remarkable career.
Short fiction and essays by 'To Kill a Mockingbird' author Harper Lee to be published in October
Read full article: Short fiction and essays by 'To Kill a Mockingbird' author Harper Lee to be published in OctoberEssays and early short stories by “To Kill a Mockingbird” author Harper Lee will be published this fall.
St. Augustine Fire Department to host annual camp inspiring girls to become firefighters, pursue their dreams
Read full article: St. Augustine Fire Department to host annual camp inspiring girls to become firefighters, pursue their dreamsThe St. Augustine Fire Department (SAFD) is gearing up for its annual Girls Empowerment Camp, which will take place on Friday, April 18, and Saturday, April 19.
Black History: A new Netflix movie tells the story of ‘The Six Triple Eight.’ A local family just learned its connection
Read full article: Black History: A new Netflix movie tells the story of ‘The Six Triple Eight.’ A local family just learned its connectionA hidden legacy was recently uncovered when a local family said they were surprised to learn their aunt was part of the legendary 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as “The Six Triple Eight.”
Dr. Hester Petty, 99, says her family experienced years of racial injustice. But they never let it defeat them
Read full article: Dr. Hester Petty, 99, says her family experienced years of racial injustice. But they never let it defeat themDr. Hester Petty said three memorable experiences in her life involving discrimination always kept her motivated to fight for truth and justice.
How the first Black woman pilot left her mark on Jacksonville and future aviators
Read full article: How the first Black woman pilot left her mark on Jacksonville and future aviatorsBessie Coleman was an ambitious young woman, inspired by Black pilots in World War I. Her accomplishments inspired generations of women and girls aspiring to become pilots.
Jill Biden says the nation's top teachers will be recognized at their own White House state dinner
Read full article: Jill Biden says the nation's top teachers will be recognized at their own White House state dinnerJill Biden says that when the nation's top teachers visit the White House this year, they'll be recognized at their own state dinner.
Jill Biden wrote children's book about her White House cat, Willow, that will be published in June
Read full article: Jill Biden wrote children's book about her White House cat, Willow, that will be published in JuneJill Biden has written a children's book about her White House cat, Willow, that will be published in June.
Women’s History Month: Katharine Graham’s legacy continues on through Graham Media Group
Read full article: Women’s History Month: Katharine Graham’s legacy continues on through Graham Media GroupThe movie "The Post" has several stellar actors, but it's the story the movie tells -- the life of Katharine -- that we believe led to its Oscar nomination for best picture.
500 miles in a toy car: A Guinness World Record attempt from Jacksonville to Key West for a worthy cause
Read full article: 500 miles in a toy car: A Guinness World Record attempt from Jacksonville to Key West for a worthy causeTwo women are attempting a 500-mile drive down the coast of Florida to receive the Guinness World Record for longest distance by toy cars, and their journey began right here in Duval County.
This is how International Women’s Day came into existence, and how it’s celebrated around the globe
Read full article: This is how International Women’s Day came into existence, and how it’s celebrated around the globeInternational Women's Day is a day that recognizes and upholds the achievements of women around the world, as well as promotes gender equality.
15 female submariners make history on the USS Wyoming stationed at Kings Bay
Read full article: 15 female submariners make history on the USS Wyoming stationed at Kings BayThe 15 enlisted women serving aboard the ballistic-missile submarine USS Wyoming recently reached a milestone accomplishment for all women who serve.
How much do you know about some of the most famous women in history?
Read full article: How much do you know about some of the most famous women in history?March marks Women’s History Month, and the world has spent the past few weeks highlighting and remembering some of the most famous achievements by women throughout the course of history.
15 women-founded products we could all use in our lives
Read full article: 15 women-founded products we could all use in our livesWhether it’s relaxing, getting in a much-needed workout or being productive, as women, it’s nice to take that break for ourselves when we’re able -- even if we have to make the time.
Aviatrix Jackie Cochran is the most fascinating woman you’ve never heard of
Read full article: Aviatrix Jackie Cochran is the most fascinating woman you’ve never heard ofJacqueline Cochran was a record-breaking aviatrix, entrepreneur and political mover and shaker who was close enough with President Lindon B. Johnson he refused to let her call him Mr. President.
Katharine Graham’s legacy continues living through Graham Media Group
Read full article: Katharine Graham’s legacy continues living through Graham Media GroupThe movie "The Post" has several stellar actors, but it's the story the movie tells -- the life of Katharine -- that we believe led to its Oscar nomination for best picture.
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Women with Jacksonville ties leave inspiring legacy for future generations
Read full article: Women with Jacksonville ties leave inspiring legacy for future generationsJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As part of Women’s History Month, News4Jax is highlighting several history-makers with ties to the River City. I spoke with historians about the impact of two women who reached new heights in very different ways. Bessie Coleman was the first African-American woman and first Native-American to hold a pilot license. And often she would wear pants and a hard hat on the job so that she would not stand out as much and be discriminated against,” said Dr. Wayne Wood. Paving the way for generations of women past, present, and future.
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1st trans woman to run for Florida Senate District 6 explains what Women’s History Month means to her
Read full article: 1st trans woman to run for Florida Senate District 6 explains what Women’s History Month means to herJACKSONVILLE, Fla. – During the month of March, News4Jax is highlighting the contributions women have made to history, culture and society. On Sunday, News4Jax sat down with Brooklyn Owen, the first trans woman to run for Florida Senate District 6, to see what Women’s History Month means to her. “It really is the time to empower women,” said Owen, a Jacksonville native. “I am not running because I am a trans woman, I am running because we need to fix education and we need to fix climate and we need to do it yesterday,” Owen said. “So that means we need to act now.”Like women before her, Owen said her goal is to contribute to Women’s History Month in a way that lifts up the women of the future.
11 women who should already be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Read full article: 11 women who should already be in the Rock & Roll Hall of FameWhile the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is known for celebrating excellence in music history, it’s not know for celebrating musicians of a certain category: Women.
These women have won the most medals in Olympic history
Read full article: These women have won the most medals in Olympic historyThe title of the most-decorated athlete ever belongs to United States swimmer Michael Phelps, who won 28 medals competing in five different Summer Olympics from 2000 to 2016. But there are so many highly decorated female Olympians, too.
43 years ago, Sandra Day O’Connor blazed a historic trail for women in the legal profession
Read full article: 43 years ago, Sandra Day O’Connor blazed a historic trail for women in the legal professionSandra Day O’Connor not only had a degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the world -- Stanford University in California -- but also a law degree she earned from the same institution in just two years.
31 photos you’ve probably never seen, showing Harriet Tubman, Underground Railroad history
Read full article: 31 photos you’ve probably never seen, showing Harriet Tubman, Underground Railroad historyHarriet Tubman did so much for others -- she escaped slavery and went on to become a leading abolitionist, leading enslaved people to freedom along the route of the Underground Railroad.