• The Big Easy cajun restaurant in the Food Court at the Landing was closed Monday, which caught Landing officials by surprise, according to general manager John Kiddy. A spokesperson for the restaurant was tight-lipped about the closure, but said she thought it was “just temporary.”
• Though plans to convert the old Barnett Bank building into a mixed-use development are in the early stages, Mike Langton, managing partner with LB Jax Development, said he’s already eying some riverfront property where he plans to build another downtown residential project. Langton, who said he needs grants and low-interest loans to make the Barnett project a reality, said he won’t ask for any money from the City.
• The Caribbean Mercy ship returns to town Nov. 7 and will be docked in front of the Adams Mark Hotel until Nov. 30. A global charity, Mercy Ships has operated a growing fleet of hospital ships since 1978, treating more than 200,000 people and delivering more than $25 million worth of medical supplies to developing nations. While here in Jacksonville, the Caribbean Mercy will be open to the public for tours, which are free. Donations are accepted.
• Havana Jax Cuban restaurant is renovating its existing facilities, expanding its seating and adding a dance floor and second bar. It recently received a $743,879 loan from the Jacksonville Economic Development Company for the project.
• According to SMG officials, of the 28 suites at the new Veterans Memorial Arena, only seven remain unsold.
• Sisler-Williams Interior Design is not “kaput” as we said in a recent City Note. Minority stockholder Rita Williams, who was the marketing director, has resigned from the company and will no longer be involved in its daily activities. However, the company will remain in business.
• Yes, those were Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders at Ruby Tuesdays at the Landing Monday. They were in town for a photo shoot.
• Happy Birthday to Vanese Broadnea, assistant to 4th Judicial Circuit Court Administrator Britt Beasley. She’ll be celebrating Friday.
• Kristy Approbato, a legal assistant with the General Counsel’s Office, has a new role. She’s expected to take over for planning paralegal Madeline Munson, who left last month.
• Take a musical journey to the Emerald Isle Friday and Saturday as the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra presents “A Celtic Celebration, Irish Folk Song, Dance and Music” at the T-U Center. Shows begin at 8 p.m. Singers, step dancers and bagpipers will perform traditional folk songs and dance tunes, as well as Irish-themed selections from “Titanic,” “Braveheart” and “Far and Away.” For ticket information, call 354-5547.