• With terrorism fears cropping up, the February program of the World Affairs Council Jacksonville should interest attendees. Jane Holl Lute, deputy security of Homeland Security, will discuss “Keeping the Homeland Safe,” Feb. 2 beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the University of North Florida’s University Center. It’s part of the organization’s ongoing Global Issues Evenings, with more information at www.unf.edu/lectures or by calling 620-2117.
• The University of Central Florida recently released its latest Florida & Metro Forecast study forecasting 2010–13, with a mixed bag of projections. The good news, according to the report’s outlook summary, has Jacksonville expected to see strong growth in most economic indicators, relative to the state. Personal income will have an average growth of 4.8 percent and average annual wages are expected to grow 2.7 percent, making it the highest in the state. Additionally, it predicts the professional and business services sector to be the fastest growing with an annual average rate of 4.3 percent. On the downside, it forecasts unemployment to average 10.2 percent.
• Technology gone awry: Look for the Florida State Supreme Court to soon examine recommendations from a Florida Bar committee on the issue of jurors using electronic devices while in court to do research or post post case information on Facebook and Twitter sites. Changes to how judges instruct jurors could include language directly related to texting, tweeting, blogging, e-mails and other internet related information sources. (via Florida New Service)
• If you are interested in becoming a solar contractor, Ponte Vedra-based SolarEOS is holding a “mini-conference” Thursday at the Marriott Sawgrass. The cost is $195 before the conference and $295 the day of. For more information, call 644-6090, ext. 27.
• Marketing consulting and communications firm Burdette Ketchum has hired Amber Gusa as production manager and associate art director. Gusa will manage the creation and distribution of all of Burdette Ketchum’s print-produced client projects. Prior to joining Burdette Ketchum, Gusa served as a communications specialist for Girl Scouts of Gateway Council Inc. She also served as the organization’s assistant administrator for its social media presence.