• The Jacksonville Regional Chamber of Commerce is launching a new Web site in January. The site will connect local employers with prospective college interns. The internships will be posted and students will be able to apply online. “For technology-driven young professionals capable of finding work opportunities around the globe, using tools native to their generation is essential in attracting students to Northeast Florida for an internship or job opportunity,” said Bob White, city president of Compass Bank and 2007 existing business and work force development chair for the Chamber.
• All three Jacksonville locations of Sofa Express are closing. According to Alisa Schueneman, the company’s human resources director, the stores on Arlington Expressway, Blanding Boulevard and Phillips Highway are closing due to “financial situations.” A total of 49 employees will be “permanently” laid off.
• Speaking of closing, Needless Things on West Monroe is closing. Items from the novelty store will be for sale for the next week to 10 days and, according to an employee, all prices are negotiable.
• Bet you didn’t know this year marks the 50th anniversary of The Honey Baked Ham Company. The company was founded in 1957 by Henry Hoenselaar. Today, there are over 400 stores nationwide with two in Jacksonville. Company Marketing Coordinator Jennifer Dunaway has asked Mayor John Peyton to proclaim Dec. 20 “Ham Day” in Jacksonville.
• Looking for the “perfect gift for the person who has everything”? Tomorrow in the training room on the first floor of the Ed Ball Building on Hogan Street the City will auction 22 vacant lots to the highest bidders. Registration begins at 6 p.m. with the bidding to begin at 7 p.m.
• If you plan to attend the City’s holiday open house at City Hall Thursday, please bring a new pair of adult socks, at hat or gloves. The items are for the Sulzbacher Center. The open house is from 5-6:30 p.m.
“The 5th Amendment is an old friend and a good friend…. one of the great landmarks in men’s struggle to be free of tyranny, to be decent and civilized.”
– William O. Douglas, former Associate Justice, U.S. Supreme Court.