Nikesha Williams, producer of the Black & Published podcast author of The Seven Daughters of Dupree; Megan Mallicoat, education reporter at Jacksonville Today; David Bauerlein metro reporter at the Florida Times-Union; and Obi Umunna, attorney and political consultant.(First Coast Connect)

Each Friday, our media roundtable dives into the biggest stories of the week. Among our topics this week:

• Duval Schools keeps taxpayers in the dark, citing a public records exemption as grounds to withhold contract bids for its Downtown headquarters. 
• Florida’s surgeon general compares vaccine mandates to “slavery,” announcing the DeSantis administration's intent to eliminate compulsory immunizations. 
• Jacksonville City Council pushes ahead with budget-tightening tax cuts but may need to dip into reserves to pay for them.
• Pub subs are coming to the urban core, as Publix inks a deal to become a Downtown grocer.
• The governor’s race gains steam as former Florida House speaker (and First Coast lawmaker) Paul Renner throws his hat into the ring.

Guests:

• Megan Mallicoat, education reporter at Jacksonville Today.
• David Bauerlein, metro reporter at the Florida Times-Union.
• Nikesha Williams, producer of the Black & Published podcast and most recently author of The Seven Daughters of Dupree.  
• Obi Umunna, attorney and political consultant.

Then, a beloved event allowing folks to walk along the St. Johns River with a drink in hand is set to make its comeback this month. The Third Thursday Sip & Stroll returns on Jacksonville’s Southbank Riverwalk Sept. 18, putting a special spotlight on local businesses, musicians and diverse and authentic cuisines. We’ll talk about what makes this year's event stand out and how you can get involved.

Guest:

• Haley Tinkle, director of events for Downtown Vision Inc.