Local

John Elwell, Bill Flynn and John Schroeder celebrate Flynn’s birthday at Cafe Karibo last week. Photo by Nick Blank/News-Leader

John Elwell, Bill Flynn and John Schroeder celebrate Flynn’s birthday at Cafe Karibo last week. Photo by Nick Blank/News-Leader

‘He built bridges’

Nick Blank
Friday, May 8, 2026
A Fernandina Beach man with a wealth of business and international expertise remarked on a long career of service, notably his advocacy on behalf of the Fernandina Beach library.You may have seen Bill Flynn’s name on the library. The building was dedicated after him in 2017.
The current flagpole at Fort Clinch was planted in 2009, but is quickly aging. It will be replaced by a Friends of Fort Clinch F.O.R.T. project. Submitted photo

The current flagpole at Fort Clinch was planted in 2009, but is quickly aging. It will be replaced by a Friends of Fort Clinch F.O.R.T. project. Submitted photo

Friends of Fort Clinch launch fundraising initiative

Amy Mulligan
Friday, May 8, 2026
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a prominent symbol at Fort Clinch is getting an upgrade. The Friends of Fort Clinch launched a fundraising effort to replace the aging flagpole at the historic site with a taller structure and a larger, more historically accurate American flag.
Maverick Marine Services brings the vessel, Coco, onto the beach on Fernandina Beach near Beach Access 16N. Nick Blank/News-Leader

Maverick Marine Services brings the vessel, Coco, onto the beach on Fernandina Beach near Beach Access 16N. Nick Blank/News-Leader

Steer clear

Nick Blank
Friday, May 8, 2026
North Beach saw more heavy machinery than usual this week, as passersby approached a crane attempting to remove a boat that grounded on Saturday from the beach.
FBMS students plant flowers and vegetables in raised beds to beautify the campus and learn more about plants. Submitted photo

FBMS students plant flowers and vegetables in raised beds to beautify the campus and learn more about plants. Submitted photo

FBMS students get hands-on gardening experience

Marisa DeMar
Friday, May 8, 2026
Students at Fernandina Beach Middle School are learning how to grow their own food in raised garden beds which were donated by Keep Nassau Beautiful.The initiative of growing food is part of the science curriculum which teaches children about the carbon cycle, water cycle, and photosynthesis.
The Insiders performed on the main stage Friday at Shrimp Fest. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

The Insiders performed on the main stage Friday at Shrimp Fest. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

IN PHOTOS: Live music at Shrimp Fest

News Staff
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Live music was scheduled to be performed on all four days during the 61st Shrimp Festival.

Poynter declares mayoral candidacy

News Staff
Wednesday, May 6, 2026
A second Fernandina Beach city commissioner has announced a mayoral run. Commissioner Tim Poynter declared his intention to run Tuesday, according to the city. He joins Commissioner Genece Minshew, who threw her hat in last week, in running for mayor.