• District Court Judge Waddell Wallace is one of four candidates being considered for a vacancy in the First District Court of Appeals by Gov. Charlie Crist. The vacancy is a result of the resignation of Judge Edward T. Barfield. Crist has 60 days to choose a candidate.
• Jaguars first-round draft pick Eugene Monroe has purchased a house in Queen’s Harbour — home to many Jags over the years — for $930,000. The seller is significant, too: former Jags quarterback Byron Leftwich.
• The City’s derelict vessel problem seems to be under control for now. According to Jody McDaniel of the Planning Department, 15 derelict vessels have been removed and there currently aren’t any considered derelict.
• Speaking of local waterways, the City built two artificial reefs this year and finished three new boat ramps.
• Jacksonville isn’t the only government that recognizes the benefits of developing business relationships with Ireland. The Ireland-based grocery chain SuperQuinn has partnered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to promote Florida’s premier winter berry crop, strawberries, to shoppers.
• Attorney Isabelle Lopez of Lewis, Longman & Walker has been elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Jacksonville Human Rights Commission. The Commission voted Tuesday at their monthly meeting to promote Lopez, who will serve for the 2010 term. She has served on the Commission for just over a year.
• The January issue of “Southern Living” magazine is scheduled to hit the news stands Dec. 19. It includes an article on the best comeback neighborhoods of the South, and Jacksonville’s first National Historic District, Historic Springfield, is ranked No. 1 by the publication.
• As a way of saying “thanks” for making the business successful since 1904, Gus & Company on Laura Street has a treat for anyone who walks in the door. Just go to the iconic shoe repair shop on Laura Street near Hemming Plaza, climb up in the chair and have your shoes professionally shined free of charge. The offer is in effect through the close of business Dec. 23.