Local

Beautiful Biodiversity

Marisa DeMar
Friday, March 20, 2026
As the warmer weather settles into North Florida, many residents take advantage of the opportunity to revamp their yards with the addition of new plants and decorative flowers.
A local signs a recall petition in February at the Fernandina Beach Farmers Market - Mid-week Market. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

A local signs a recall petition in February at the Fernandina Beach Farmers Market - Mid-week Market. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

City to challenge recall efforts in court 

Marisa DeMar
Friday, March 20, 2026
The legal council appointed to Genece Minshew and Timothy Poynter, the two City of Fernandina Beach Commissioners facing recall charges, have filed a lawsuit against Pat Gass, the chair of Recall FB 2026,  and Janet Adkins, in her official capacity as Supervisor of Elections for Nassau County, on...
Sheriff Bill Leeper with Madrina Addison-Harris

Sheriff Bill Leeper with Madrina Addison-Harris

NCSO honors employees, life saving efforts

Nick Blank
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
ore than a dozen Nassau County Sheriff’s Office employees were recognized for their service and efforts Friday at the agency's training complex in Yulee at its annual ceremony.Sheriff Bill Leeper served as MC and family members and coworkers packed into the presentation room.

Pair of long-time Fernandina Beach employees to retire

Nick Blank
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Two Fernandina Beach employees with a combined 50 years of experience are retiring from their roles.Conservation and Environmental Manager Kathy Russell will retire following 32 years with the city and Code Enforcement Director Michelle Forstrom is retiring after 21 years.
The Happy Tomato Courtyard Cafe & BBQ on South 3rd Street in Fernandina Beach. By Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

The Happy Tomato Courtyard Cafe & BBQ on South 3rd Street in Fernandina Beach. By Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

Happy Tomato offer 'Backyard' BBQ

Marisa DeMar
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
The Happy Tomato Café has been a part of the Fernandina Beach community for 36 years. Its courtyard sitting area and quaint restaurant are perched directly off the beaten path of South 3rd Street in the historic downtown district.
A paid parking ticker on a vehicle parked downtown Friday. Amy Mulligan/News-Leader

A paid parking ticker on a vehicle parked downtown Friday. Amy Mulligan/News-Leader

Downtown 30-day grace period ends

Marisa DeMar
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
 The paid parking program in downtown Fernandina Beach has officially started as of Monday. The 30-day trial period which began on Feb. 16, served as an educational opportunity for visitors to learn the system prior to receiving a legitimate citation.
Redbones Dog Bakery at 809 S 8th Street in Fernandina Beach. By Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

Redbones Dog Bakery at 809 S 8th Street in Fernandina Beach. By Marisa DeMar/News-Leader

Bakes, brews, & buddies

Marisa DeMar
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Since 1999, Redbones Dog Bakery has produced handmade dog treats and boutique items for dogs in the Fernandina Beach community.While most people know the store as a pet supply hotspot, Redbones also has a craft beer bar which provides treats for the owners while they shop for their furry friends.
The fifth annual Astronomy Night was held Friday, March 13 at Fort Clinch State Park. Photos by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

The fifth annual Astronomy Night was held Friday, March 13 at Fort Clinch State Park. Photos by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

Stars align at Fort Clinch

Ashley Chandler
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Hundreds of people were welcomed inside Fort Clinch after dark last week, to the delight of local lovers of the stars.The fifth annual Astronomy Night was hosted at Fort Clinch State Park, sponsored by Friends of Fort Clinch with the help of the Northeast Florida Astronomical Society.