• Duval County Republican Party chair Mike Hightower, who also chairs the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, is having a hard time letting director Alison Miller leave to go to work for Council vice president Kevin Hyde. Said Hightower: “She’s always been an excellent partner and the Chamber’s loss is definitely (Hyde’s) gain. She took our committee to levels it had never been before and, like I always say, she’s made me look good for a long time.”
• City General Counsel Rick Mullaney is getting roasted at an April event sponsored by Emergency Pregnancy Services. Mullaney, who is usually a pretty good sport, says he’s looking forward to whatever potential critics come up with. “It shouldn’t be so bad,” he said. “It will be just like every other day in the editorial page.”
• A replica of the Liberty Bell was supposed to be on display at City Hall this week, but technical problems canceled the exhibit. Workers unloaded the 3,200-pound bell and were preparing to install it when City engineers stopped them, saying the floor would not support the weight. The bell will be on display Saturday at the Veterans Memorial Wall and at the Jags game Sunday.
• When it comes to dining at the Landing, spokesperson Rachel Kaltenbach has the opportunity to craft her own meals. Among her favorites? A large salad she orders at Vito’s that has two kinds of lettuce, turkey, ham and other veggies mixed with a special dressing. “And only one server there can make it,” she said. “It’s top secret.”
• More holiday happenings: the Landing is hosting A Holiday Affair Dec. 17 from 8 p.m.-
1 a.m., featuring gospel jazz music. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. For more, call 379-5575.