• Jacksonville’s metropolitan statistical area has come a long way since the summer. In July, the city was ranked seventh in the nation for foreclosures, with one foreclosure for every 133 households. According to the third quarter report released by RealtyTrac.com, a real estate database out of California, Jacksonville is now ranked 22nd out of the nation’s largest MSAs. There were 2,516 foreclosures in the third quarter — that’s one foreclosure for every 189 households.
• Police officer Ivan Pena and Community Service Officer R.A. Bias, as well as Jacksonville Fire & Rescue Department members Mark Johnson and Andrew Sallette, will be recognized by the Southside Business Men’s Club at their weekly luncheon at San Jose Country club Dec. 6 at 12:30 p.m. The officers will be presented with wall plaques, commemorating their achievements as officers of the year. The award has been presented by the club since 1932.
• The Holiday Showhouse at Palencia, decorated with holiday decor by popular area decorators, opened Nov. 18 and will run through Dec.15. Admission is free to see the house but folks who wish to visit are asked to bring donations for the Trinity Rescue Mission. Unwrapped toys and non-perishable food items can also be donated to the Trinity Rescue Mission Women and Children’s Center.
• City Council member and Jacksonville Waterways Commission Chair Lynette Self has called a special meeting of the commission for Dec. 4 at 9 a.m. in Committee Room A on the first floor of City Hall. The regular monthly meeting of the Waterways Commission is set for Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. in City Council Chambers.
• For the first time since it has been open in Jacksonville, Morton’s The Steakhouse will serve lunch on select dates in December. A special menu with prices based on entree ranging from $33.95 to $45.95 not including tax or service charge will be available Dec. 14-15 and Dec. 21-22.