Fernandina Beach

The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office participates in a wreath laying for Memorial Day with members of American Legion Post 54 in Fernandina Beach on Monday. Nick Blank/News-Leader

The Nassau County Sheriff’s Office participates in a wreath laying for Memorial Day with members of American Legion Post 54 in Fernandina Beach on Monday. Nick Blank/News-Leader

Honor & Sacrifice

On a sweltering Memorial Day, retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Montieth Stewart bellowed at the crowd Monday morning about the life of one fallen local soldier, and the sacrifices it took for the U.S. military to achieve its global position.
A person rides an e-bike May 20 at the intersection of North Fletcher and Atlantic Avenue. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

A person rides an e-bike May 20 at the intersection of North Fletcher and Atlantic Avenue. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

City passes new e-bike policy on first reading

Fernandina Beach commissioners unanimously approved a new e-bike policy on first reading, setting speed limits for the vehicles. It’s common to see motorized bicycles zipping by in Fernandina Beach, often by teenagers.
Fernandina Beach High School’s Maya Kovalcik (1600m race), finished seventh at the State Championships in Track and Field last week. Photo by Cedric Gillette

Fernandina Beach High School’s Maya Kovalcik (1600m race), finished seventh at the State Championships in Track and Field last week. Photo by Cedric Gillette

FBHS track celebrates state placers; pivot to new track in ’27

Two Fernandina Beach Pirates Track & Field put in strong performances at state championships in Jacksonville last week. At the University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium, freshman Maya Kovalcik (1600m race) and junior Samuel Colwell (high jump) both placed.
Gov. Ron DeSantis announces the expanded Atlantic Red Snapper Season on Monday at Amelia Island Marina. Photo by Nick Blank/News-Leader

Gov. Ron DeSantis announces the expanded Atlantic Red Snapper Season on Monday at Amelia Island Marina. Photo by Nick Blank/News-Leader

More freedom to fish

Anglers can enjoy a 39-day Atlantic red snapper season from now on, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Monday at the Amelia Island Marina. Flanked by boats, county officials and boaters, he said the state will see a significant expansion from the two-day federal season allowed in 2025.
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’

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 opening ceremony was held Friday. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

The opening ceremony was held Friday. Photo by Ashley Chandler/News-Leader

IN PHOTOS: Shrimp Fest Opening Ceremony

The 61st Annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival held its opening ceremony on Friday ahead of the Shrimp Festival pageant. 
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

Live music was scheduled to be performed on all four days during the 61st Shrimp Festival.

Poynter declares mayoral candidacy

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.