Local

A person rides an electric bike on the sidewalk along Atlantic Avenue in Fernandina Beach.

A person rides an electric bike on the sidewalk along Atlantic Avenue in Fernandina Beach.

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Fernandina Beach unanimously approves e-bike policy

Nick Blank
Friday, July 10, 2026
Fernandina Beach has a new policy to regulate e-bikes after a unanimous vote at Tuesday’s city commission meeting. On the third reading, commissioners unanimously passed the ordinance that regulates speed and where the motorized bikes can be ridden.
Alexandra LaJoux performs as the town crier ahead of the reading of the Declaration of Independence in downtown Fernandina Beach. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

Alexandra LaJoux performs as the town crier ahead of the reading of the Declaration of Independence in downtown Fernandina Beach. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

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Freedom Rings at Fernandina Beach Declaration of Independence reading

Nick Blank
Friday, July 10, 2026
In the intense heat, government officials and community members read passages of the Declaration of Independence, delivering the 100-strong crowd the force of each paragraph from one of the nation’s foundational documents.
John Gilbert helps fix a bike. Submitted photo

John Gilbert helps fix a bike. Submitted photo

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Longtime nonprofit director retires

Nick Blank
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
A man who headed a local nonprofit for decades recently retired after a career of service. John Gilbert Sr., who led the Nassau County America’s Youth chapter for about 30 years, told the News-Leader that the children were his favorite part.
Residents and visitors gather downtown to watch the fireworks downtown Fernandina Beach on the Fourth of July. Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

Residents and visitors gather downtown to watch the fireworks downtown Fernandina Beach on the Fourth of July. Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

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Fernandina celebrates America 250! with annual July 4 event

Marisa DeMar
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
The annual Fourth of July firework display presented by Light Up Amelia, Inc., Florida Public Utilities (FPU), and the City of Fernandina Beach, lit up the city sky with an array of colors.

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Nassau sees millions in appropriations for projects, programs

Nick Blank
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Nassau County is set to receive millions in appropriations for a variety of projects and programs, with only one major project vetoed by Gov. Ron DeSantis last week. DeSantis vetoed $500,000 for County Road 107 Widening & Intersection Improvements. Other than that, it was relatively smooth sailing.
Workers from White’s Clock and Carillion assemble the bell wheel on the restored bell Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church.

Workers from White’s Clock and Carillion assemble the bell wheel on the restored bell Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church.

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Bell returns to historic downtown Fernandina church

Ashley Chandler
Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Members of the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Fernandina Beach gathered outside the historic building Tuesday to watch the local church’s bell be returned to its proper place — the church’s belfry.

Publix back in business

News Staff
Monday, July 6, 2026
Sentiments of excitement and relief were shared by the those waiting in line for the opening of the rebuilt Publix in Fernandina Beach.“The universe is back in order,” Fernandina Beach City Commissioner Genece Minshew said ahead of the ribbon cutting.