• As with previous Super Bowls, the NFL is planning a three-night concert series at Veterans Memorial Arena. No word yet on the performers; the NFL says they’ll release the lineup in December. The concerts will be the Thursday, Friday and Saturday before the game.
• JEDC executive director Kurt Wendland says he’s changing his philosophy in how he wants to hire for the JEDC’s top positions. He previously said he wants to hire a deputy director first and seek input from that post on hiring subordinate directors. Now he’s looking to put together the best team and will likely fill the positions together. “I want to find the right mix among the top three or four positions,” said Wendland. He’s received about 25 applications for the top jobs, but wouldn’t specify how many were being seriously considered. “I don’t want to hurt anybody’s feelings,” he said.
• Several groups hosted a Raise the Minimum Wage Rally Friday afternoon in Hemming Plaza. They also provided free lunch for those who attended.
• Best wishes to City Council member Glorious Johnson’s daughter. She’s recovering from surgery.
• Despite very little advertising and no grand opening, Ieyasu is experiencing a steady dinner business thanks in part to activities at the T-U Center.
• According to City Council president Elaine Brown, discussions on what to with the Haydon Burns Library once it closes next year are on hold for now. Several parties have already expressed an interest in the building.
• City traffic engineers responded quickly when commuters complained about flashing signals at the intersection of Main Street and Riverplace Boulevard. Already wary from the closure of the Main Street Bridge, commuters complained that the flashing red and yellow signals were backing up traffic for southbound travelers over the bridge. City Traffic chief Richard McCubbin said he didn’t know the intersection was in flash mode and quickly changed the lights back to normal. Commuters who see flashing signals should report them to 630-CITY.
• When Option One Mortgage Corporation’s incentive package came up for a JEDC vote, commissioner Susan Hartley had to declare the company was a client of her coffee vending service. But Hartley could vouch for the way Option One treats its workers. “They’re good to their employees,” said Hartley. “Believe me, the coffee lady knows. They tell us everything.”