• At Wednesday’s Quarterly Cornerstone luncheon, a new Chamber practice was added to the introductory remarks — a brief talk on safety in the event something should happen to include a reminder about emergency exit signs and a designated 9-1-1 caller, this time it was Bob Baldwin, director of the Small Business Center.
• Speaking of the luncheon, the 600 or so attendees had to share space at the Hyatt with the national Progressive Baptist Convention and the many exhibits set up on the second floor lobby. Items for sale included jewelry, clothing and books.
• One more. In light of recent legislation passed regarding gifts and other freebies to our state legislators, Shalley was quick to point out that the guest speakers — Florida Senate President Tom Lee and Florida Speaker of the House of Representatives Allan Bense — paid for their lunches.
• Museum of Science and History President, Margo Dundon, has been appointed to the Florida Historical Commission by Allan Bense, Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives. Her appointment is effectively immediately and her two-year term ends Jan. 4, 2008.
• Community Hospice of Northeast Florida has named DeAnn Collins as vice president of philanthropy and executive director of its foundation. She previously was the main fundraiser for Episcopal High and succeeds Jane Jordan, who is leaving to start a consulting practice.
• A little advice if you are heading to Gus and Co. — show up in a good mood. There’s a sign on the wall that says the price of services is subject to the customer’s attitude.
• Here’s a real Valentine’s Day gift. Adopt a manatee through Save the Manatee Club. The adoption includes a certificate, photo, biography, membership handbook and a subscription to Save the Manatee Club’s newsletter. For 10 more bucks you get a plush manatee. A personalized Valentine’s Day gift card and message is included with every adoption. Info at www.savethemanatee.org.
• The Bolles School will celebrate the 80th anniversary of Bolles Hall with an open house Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The school will rededicate the building during the event with a Roaring 20’s-themed party.
• This year’s American Heart Association Heart Ball is set for Feb. 18 at Deerwood Country Club. The black tie event gets underway at 6 p.m. with a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner. It could be an expensive evening, too. “Presenting Sponsors” will pay $40,000 for 16 tickets and other benefits. The least expensive way to attend is as an individual – $250.
• New Duval County School Superintendent, Dr. Joseph Wise, is the guest of honor at Wednesday’s stakeholder reception of the Museum of Science & History.
• ImprovJacksonville Comedy Theatre will host a brown bag lunch (that means bring your own) and improv comedy show next Friday from noon-1 p.m. at the group’s performance space next to Nine West shoes at the Landing. Admission is $5 and you’ll get a free soft drink. Reservations are recommended, so call 361-5779 or visit www.improvjacksonville.com.
• The Jacksonville Historic Preservation Committee has approved development of a retail and condominium complex at the corner of Main and 3rd Streets in Springfield. The San Marco-based Cesery Cos. is planning a mid-rise development called The Lofts on Main. The land has been cleared and pre-sales are set to begin soon.
• Reginald Gaffney, older brother of former Florida Gator quarterback Don, is organizing a reception for Mayor John Peyton Wednesday at the Radisson at 6 p.m. According to Gaffney, it’s the first time an African-American group has openly backed a Republican candidate for office. Gaffney is the executive director of the Community Rehabilitation Center.