• President Bush pulled a fast one on Mayor John Peyton. Peyton had timed Wednesday’s press conference for the Iraq-America Freedom Alliance to coincide with the scheduled U.S. handover of Iraqi sovereignty. Bush announced the handover two days early for security reasons.
• Plans were announced Wednesday for a groundbreaking ceremony at Jim Rink Park in San Marco. Located on Cedar Street, Greenscape of Jacksonville will be doing much of the renovation work. The project should be complete by fall.
• Though he took the award for top City Council member Tuesday evening, Warren Alvarez was a no-show. Before a date was announced for the installation ceremony, Alvarez had made other plans. Noticing his absence outgoing president and award presenter Lad Daniels couldn’t help but make a joke. “This is for you Warren,” he said, “even though you’re probably at a garage sale in Ohio.”
• Chicken Express on East Adams Street plans to re-open next week under new management.
• Krispy Kreme lovers will soon have another outlet to find their favorite donuts. A new store will open later this summer on Atlantic Boulevard between Kernan and Hodges boulevards.
• The Chamber’s annual reception for the Duval Legislative Delegation is scheduled for July 14. It’s at the St. Joe building from 5 - 7:30 p.m.
• Reminder: the Jacksonville Bar Association’s Young Lawyers luncheon and election is Wednesday at noon at the Omni.