Fernandina Beach Shrimp festival parade this past Thursday Email Newsletters RSS Feeds Contests and Rules Contact Us Careers at WJXT / WCWJ Closed Captioning / Audio Description WJXT Public File WJXT EEO Report WCWJ Public File WCWJ EEO Report Terms of Use Privacy Policy Do Not Sell My Info FCC Applications Copyright © 2025 News4JAX.com is managed by Graham Digital and published by Graham Media Group The Sunshine State hosts some of the most popular destinations in the United States From the electric nightlife in Miami to the world-class theme parks in Orlando millions of visitors are drawn by the prospect of experiencing these glorified cities some people like to avoid the crowds and the pandemonium that such places come with and the best alternatives lie in the small rural communities that rarely get talked about A detour outside the major metro areas introduces vacationers to quaint little towns with a slow pace of life complementing the state's cozy year-round weather and authentic cultural attractions provide the ideal off-the-beaten-path escape for travelers seeking a novel vacation experience From the emerald-green waters of Cedar Keys to the inland treasure of Mount Dora here are off-the-grid Florida towns to visit in 2025 This remote Amelia Island getaway in the state's northeast corner charms visitors with its small-town feel and pristine Atlantic Coast beaches It is designed for a no-frills retreat and invites travelers to let down their hair and revel in the sandy shoreline of Peter Point Beachfront Park This popular waterfront property is a hub for sunbathers offering unmatched panoramas of the Atlantic Thanks to Amelia River Cruises & Charters guests enjoy easygoing excursions along pristine beaches and salt marshes for a unique sightseeing experience accompanied by informational narrations Fernandina Beach showcases a rich cultural heritage at the Amelia Community Theatre Local performers treat visitors to compelling live performances in an intimate atmosphere George Island is a secluded community off the Florida Panhandle where tourists go to seek solitude It is vast open spaces with few or no bodies to run into allowing vacationers to enjoy their own company Bruce George Island State Park offers a peaceful playground for outdoor recreation like swimming with several shorebird species calling it home Those planning to venture out to sea can charter the Southern Salinity Guide Service for remarkable excursions to nearby islands try walking around the pedestrian-friendly downtown and meeting the locals Art of Glass presents the ideal stop for casual shoppers displaying a charming collection of jewelry and other art forms that would make terrific souvenirs Florida's soothing allure stretches beyond the coasts to inland treasures like Mount Dora This easygoing lakefront community has the vibes for a relaxed retreat A nonchalant walk along Palm Island Park's boardwalk lets you soak up the gorgeous natural scenery framed by calm lake waters and lush forests with beautiful bird species Mount Dora has a lovely downtown area with exciting One of the best times to explore the neighborhood is during the Mount Dora Village Market tourists interact with the welcoming local vendors The Donnelly House provides a glimpse of the past in a well-preserved 19th-century mansion It sports a gorgeous Queen Anne-style design and exhibits fascinating period artifacts don't leave Mount Dora without getting on the water for a nonchalant cruise courtesy of Rusty Anchor Mount Dora Nicknamed "The City on the Circle," this lakeside community is known for its natural beauty and Nationally Registered historic downtown district The old town harbors a fair share of historical landmarks this rustic mansion offers an idea of the middle-class lifestyle at the time the Military Sea Services Museum provides a glimpse of Sebring's colorful military heritage Its vast collection features rare war memorabilia from World War II and the Gulf War Those touring with kids can take them to the Children's Museum of the Highlands for a fun educational experience where they learn and explore interactive exhibits to stimulate their creativity Outdoor lovers can escape from the town square to Highlands Hammock State Park for wildlife viewing and hiking in a dense 9,000-acre wilderness area Gulf Breeze is an excellent escape from the crowds in downtown Pensacola providing one of the most off-the-grid Florida towns to visit in 2025 it boasts pristine shores and emerald-green waters a soothing combo to make the most of at Shoreline Park This uncrowded recreation spot is perfect for a peaceful picnic with friends or strolls with your canine companion Visiting families will have a blast at the Gulf Breeze Zoo where they will have an opportunity to interact with exotic species like giraffes One of the best ways to enjoy Gulf Breeze's serenity and cozy weather is to play golf at Tiger Point Golf Whether a seasoned professional or a first-time amateur the 18-hole course presents a great way to test your swing This island city on the Gulf of America (Mexico) charms vacationers with a unique combination of isolated coastal settings, beautiful wildlife shelters, and a longstanding seafood heritage. Cedar Key is a thriving animal sanctuary for different species which you can witness at the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge This 891-acre outdoor area features a cluster of thirteen offshore islands providing a habitat for numerous bird species There is more to explore about the island's diverse flora and fauna along the Cedar Key Railroad Trestle Nature Trail The Cedar Key Museum State Park preserves fabulous local history in a 1920s dwelling with artifacts about the community's past as a busy port art connoisseurs will fancy checking out colorful pieces by area creatives at Turtle Trail Art Gallery Crystal River is a charming town in western Florida famed for its pristine natural beauty and unforgettable eco experiences It famously harbors a thriving population of the Florida manatee who reside in the clear waters of Three Sisters Springs Majestic trees surround this magical oasis a popular hub for kayakers who enjoy glimpses of the gentle giants through the clear water Fort Island Trail invites vacationers to experience the area's undisturbed nature in a 14-acre sanctuary through boating Guests have the rare opportunity to get up close with the Florida manatee courtesy of Swim with the Manatees These remarkable snorkelling and boating tours let you get inside the water to snuggle with and pet the beautiful animals visit the Franklin Anderson Gallery of Arts to browse contemporary fine art pieces This waterfront town in Seminole County offers a break from the chaotic scene in nearby Orlando it still grants visitors a taste of the trademark amusement park experience at Planet Obstacle This magnificent 50,000-square-foot venue harbors a mixture of obstacle courses and other amenities to deliver wholesome entertainment for all ages The Lake Mary Museum preserves and interprets local history through a stockpile of photographs you can interact with friendly Lake Mary residents at the Lake Mary Farmer's Market The atmosphere is always festive as vendors lay out their farm produce and crafts for potential buyers outdoor lovers will be at home exploring quiet nature trails at Liberty Park Captiva is an excellent escape for anyone repulsed by the chaotic city life and looking for a relaxed retreat This island gem charms visitors with its tranquil shores and powdery sands which you can take advantage of at Turner Beach this idyllic outdoor space encourages guests to let down their hair and forget all their problems Captiva Cruises treats newcomers to unforgettable excursions at sea where you get a unique perspective of the area and native maritime species through the crystal-clear waters A trip to Captiva is not complete without tasting the mouth-watering island cuisine consider popping into the Green Flash Restaurant to indulge in scrumptious seafood dishes Anna Maria is a small barrier island that introduces vacationers to the quieter side of the Gulf Coast It is home to the board and pristine beaches with sugar-white sands compelling newcomers to bask on the tranquil shores of Bean Point Beach The atmosphere is ideal for unplugging during a lazy stroll or an uninterrupted picnic Sightseers who simply want to soak up the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of America (Mexico) can find the perfect vantage point at the Anna Maria City Pier The surrounding waters are a playground for aquatic adventurers with numerous boat tours taking guests on wild excursions at sea You can book a trip with Anna Maria Island Dolphin Tours to witness the island's wonderful sea life Islamorada is a popular tourist spot in the Florida Keys with the ideal atmosphere for an isolated retreat by the beach Its rich maritime heritage earned the community the nickname "Sportfishing Capital of the World." First-timers can tour the History of Diving Museum to learn more about this The venue showcases a quirky collection of helmets and other artifacts related to the area's diving history Families love to gather at the Theatre of the Sea for wonderful spectacles starring cute sea creatures ranging from singing parrots to dancing seals you won't mind visiting the Old Road Gallery to admire a pleasant display of pottery those craving isolation can escape Anne's Beach and unwind along a peaceful shoreline Not to be confused with the famous Upstate New York town that hosted two Winter Olympics is an inland summer hotspot just south of Sebring It boasts a pleasant waterfront at HL Bishop Park and a fishing pier allow newcomers to enjoy the soothing lake breeze Lake Placid is famous for its downtown murals which decorate the streets with life-size impressions of various topics You can find the intriguing story behind the murals and other interesting facts about the town's past at the Lake Placid Historical Society wrap up your Lake Placid tour by checking out the bizarre collection of exhibits inside the American Clown Museum & School which pays tribute to the country's clowning culture Although most visitors have historically gravitated toward the big cities in the Sunshine State you can always seek unique adventures in the backcountry and have a similarly gratifying experience These off-the-grid Florida towns to visit in 2025 showcase that going against traditional travel could be a fresh breath of air for your itinerary they expose you to secluded lakeside towns like Mount Dora and historic treasures like Sebring for a wholesome view of the state photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com FERNANDINA BEACH – The annual Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival kicked off with the parade on Thursday Dozens of decorated floats inched down the Fernandina Beach streets as spectators gleamed and watched The festival is celebrating its 60th anniversary with 400 vendors The weekend will also feature a market filled with Nassau County small business and tours on the Lady Jane a real shrimp boat at the Fernandina Harbor Marina Get all the latest details on shrimpfestival.com. Copyright 2025 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved. Proud alumnus of Bethune-Cookman University. Click here to take a moment and familiarize yourself with our Community Guidelines TV Listings Extended Search Fernandina Beach employee Chad Manning hand crafted and sealed the time capsule that was buried at the visitor’s center on Centre Street Fernandina Beach City Commissioners Tim Poynter and Genece Minshew Communications Manager Mary Hamburg and Youth Advisory Committee Vice Chair Clay Hicks throw dirt to bury a time capsule that will be opened in 2075 City employees Steven Flannery and David Taylor place a time capsule in the ground that will not see the light of day until 2075 Premium Content is available to subscribers only. Please login here to access content or go here to purchase a subscription Read News-Leader, Fernandina Beach Florida Need ideas for your next weekend trip? HGTV recently put out its list of the "40 Most Charming Small-Town Downtowns in America," featuring one in Florida The home improvement and real estate network explored the history attractions and beauty that make small-town downtowns across America so charming "Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets," the HGTV article said adding the writers specifically sought downtowns inviting to visitors Only one Florida town appeared on HGTV's list — Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island "Situated in the northeast corner of Florida Amelia Island is bursting with charm and a distinct character all its own," HGTV writes "It's also home to Fernandina Beach and its delightful 50-block historic district that has something for everyone particularly along Centre Street where you’ll find antique shops eclectic boutiques and local favorites like indie bookstore HGTV narrowed its list of the best small-town downtowns across America down to 40 destinations Walter Pendergrass JACKSONVILLE – Jacksonville Beach Ocean Rescue is warning people about beach safety ahead of the summer The Fernandina Beach Police Department said a man in his 40s drowned on Friday at Main Beach This comes days after a teen drowned on Easter at Hanna Park in Jacksonville RELATED: Teenager drowns on Easter Sunday at Hanna Park: JSO The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the teen was caught in a rip current while swimming Lieutenant Maxwell Ervanian said that as we get closer to summer more people will start coming to the beach and filling it up He said to pay attention to the different colored flags that indicate ocean conditions these flags should dictate whether you get in the water or how far out you go Ocean Rescue said the number one thing they want to stress is to never swim alone and always swim in front of a lifeguard “The second biggest thing that we want to stress to anyone whether they are enjoying the beach or going into the water or what have you is in case of any land or water emergency In the event you don’t see one is to immediately call 911,” Ervanian said He added that if you see someone in distress in the water don’t try to help them if you aren’t trained Click here if you want to know the condition of the water before you head there. Khalil Maycock joined the News4JAX team in November 2022 after reporting in Des Moines, IA. Before joining the “night beat” at WJXT in 2024, Walter spent 10 years in Miami at WSVN and CBS Miami.  Walter first picked up a camera in 1998 in Charleston, SC. In his off time, Walter loves playing sports and spending time with his family. Baptist Nassau is building a new primary care office in Fernandina Beach The construction is expected to be finished in November This website is unavailable in your location It appears you are attempting to access this website from a country outside of the United States therefore access cannot be granted at this time A loggerhead Sea Turtle was the first to nest on Amelia Island this year A beachgoer photographed these sea turtle tracks Thursday morning from what appeared to be two false crawls Mary Duffy of Amelia Island Sea Turtle Watch said it was most likely the same young loggerhead trying to figure things out In recent weeks two people have lost their lives drowning in the Atlantic Ocean because of rip currents RELATED: Missing 4-year-old boy with autism drowns in Baymeadows retention pond: JSO Curtis, 38, was with his family at the Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach on April 24 Curtis began attempting to rescue his son and niece but Curtis was unable to make it out alive said that her husband was an Army veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan for the 101st Airborne Infantry The photo below shows Curtis in uniform with his son in 2019 “He was the most wonderful father,” Wall said you could only want this kind of father.” He and his family were looking for shark teeth the day he drowned that isn’t the only drowning death to occur in recent weeks Twenty-one miles south of Fernandina Beach, at Hanna Park, a teenager drowned during Easter Sunday. officials with the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said a child drowned at Pine Ridge Plantation Amenity Center in Middleburg The drowning happened at a pool and is being actively investigated drowning deaths are highest during the summer months and that is whether it is in the ocean or a pool CDC also reports that approximately 4,000 unintentional drowning deaths occur annually in the United States, and that it is the leading cause of death for children 1 to 4 years old Veteran journalist and Emmy Award winning anchor Will Sandidge Chris Will – The city of Fernandina Beach is bracing for a legal showdown with Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) RYAM, or Rayonier Performance Fibers, has filed a federal lawsuit alleging unfair treatment after Fernandina Beach rejected its plans for a new bioethanol facility RYAM says the city didn’t follow proper procedures and misclassified its project READ: Lawsuit filed by Rayonier Performance Fibers against Fernandina Beach The Fernandina Beach City Commission has passed a resolution to defend the city in court and is denying all claims by RYAM RYAM’s pulp mill in Fernandina Beach transforms wood into fibers used in everyday products like paper the company proposed a plan to convert some of the waste from its operations into bioethanol citing concerns over potential health risks for residents The city also argued that the project didn’t meet local zoning rules labeling it as chemical manufacturing instead of a pulp operation RYAM claims the city misinterpreted the project and did not follow the appropriate review process asking the court to overturn the city’s decision The city says it stands by its decision and has the legal funding and insurance coverage to handle the lawsuit READ: City of Fernandina Beach resolution on federal lawsuit there is also a bill being considered in the Florida Senate that could reopen the door for RYAM’s bioethanol plant The bill, Senate Bill 1118, which is still in committee, has had an amendment added PRODUCTION OF ETHANOL.—For the purposes of this section the production of ethanol from plants and plant products as defined in s and drying is not chemical manufacturing or chemical refining This subsection is remedial and clarifying in nature and applies retroactively to any law or ordinance or any interpretation thereof The city’s comprehensive plan currently states “chemical or petroleum manufacturing or refining or other uses generating potentially harmful environmental or nuisance impacts shall be prohibited.” a bioethanol plant which uses “fermentation and drying,” would no longer be considered “chemical manufacturing or chemical refining.” Sen. Stan McClain, who represents Marion, Levy, and part of Alachua counties, introduced the bill, saying the goal of it is to address the influx of people moving to Florida and tweak the local development process. “We have an inconsistent application of the laws we currently have,” McClain said. “One day, we’re approving development. The next day, we try and stop development, and that’s not consistent.” Tom Budd, the president of Fernandina Wins, which also operates as No Ethanol Fernandina, voiced his opinion against the bill. “This proposal completely destroys local control of zoning, and it is a precedent that should upset every single community in the state of Florida,” Budd said. “It’s like the legislature is going to say, ‘The argument’s over, we’re ordering that Fernandina Beach loses in their argument and they have no control over their own zoning in this case.’” Again, the bill has not yet advanced beyond the committee stage. This native of the Big Apple joined the News4Jax team in July 2021. Will Sandidge has been with WJXT since April of 2024. Will has worked in many different areas around the country as an Emmy Award-winning photojournalist. – The Publix supermarket in Fernandina Beach is set to close on April 26 as crews will begin its demolition and reconstruction According to News4JAX partners, the Jacksonville Daily Record a Publix spokesperson confirmed the 57,086-square-foot store will be replaced with a 58,834-square-foot version matching a store that opened in Wellington in November RELATED | Publix offers fresh-flavored popcorn, burritos, and pizza at new Florida location The city of Fernandina Beach permitted the project Jan Johns River Water Management District issued an environmental resource permit in 2023 The nearest Publix to Fernandina Beach following the closure will be Publix Super Market at Villages of Amelia at 463855 Florida 200 in Yulee Read more on The Jacksonville Daily Record Marcela joined News4JAX in 2023. She grew up in Mexico and eventually moved to California to pursue her dream of becoming a journalist. Now, she is a proud San Diego State University alumna who has many years of experience in TV and digital journalism. Put this Florida island town on your bucket list stat – Fernandina Beach city commissioners are exploring details for paid parking downtown saying it could generate around $2 million in additional revenue RELATED: Fernandina Beach city leaders discuss plan to bring additional parking to downtown The initial proposal would be to charge for “premiere” parking spots bordered by Ash and Alachua streets including the main parking lot at the marina The city said there are roughly 1800 parking spaces downtown Commissioner Tim Poynter told the Fernandina Observer that the city doesn’t have the money to pay for its many projects, including improvements and aging buildings. Poynter said they’re trying to make more money without putting the onus on the taxpayers. He also said the one million tourists who visit Fernandina Beach annually pay nothing to park downtown. About a dozen residents and business owners spoke, with most saying commissioners should dismiss plans for paid parking. Marisol Triana owns Hola Cuban Cafe in downtown Fernandina Beach. She walked around to other businesses to tell them about what the city commission is planning. “There’s a million questions and they have gone forward with asking for a request for proposals when there’s a lot of questions that need to be addressed in the request for proposal,” Triana said. “They’re going to push people out from downtown like the people who work in those restaurants,” Marian Phillips said. Another business owner said she’s for paid parking in some parts of the area because it could help her business. She said it could ensure people don’t stay in one spot all day and block others from coming downtown. They’d be forced to move or extend their time, possibly letting another person park in that spot. But other residents said if people parking in one all day is a problem, then the city should enforce it signs that say you can only park for three hours. The city said he request for proposal would go out in the next couple of weeks, and they could receive it back by June, and the commission could change their mind at any time on pursuing this matter. 2025 at West Nassau High School in Callahan West Nassau edged Fernandina Beach 5-4 winning in a best of three series 2-1 The City of Fernandina Beach said state law requires it to reject the site plan application for Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) Rayonier is a chemical company that also manufactures products for lumber and paper The rejection is based on the requirements of the comprehensive plan and land development codes Multiple groups in Nassau County raised concerns about the impact the possible plant could have had on resident’s health The company says the new plant would have provided stable jobs and created a more sustainable future for the region The interpretation is subject to appeal, which may be filed with the city manager no later than 30 days from now. The city says there’s no indication of what RYAM’s next steps will be, but for now, the city plans to take no further action on the site plan application. Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved. – The family of a Fernandina Beach Fire Department lieutenant was displaced Tuesday after a fire ravaged their home while he was on duty Kevin Ross' home on Sunset Road a little after 4 p.m His wife and two daughters safely evacuated but the blaze that started in the rear of the home left severe fire It took FBFD and Nassau County Fire Rescue crews 20 minutes to put out the flames The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating "We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the FBFD and NCFR firefighters who responded as well as the community members who have offered their support during this difficult time Please keep the Ross family in your thoughts and prayers as they begin the recovery process," FBFD said Click here to donate. A land development package cleared a House committee with new language that could benefit a North Florida ethanol plant distillation or drying of plant products does not constitute chemical manufacturing or chemical refining “This subsection is intended to be remedial and clarifying in nature and shall apply retroactively to any law or ordinance or any interpretation thereof,” the bill reads The language about ethanol was added to the bill through an amendment first published Monday The language lands before lawmakers as a legal battle unfolds between Rayonier Advanced Materials (RYAM) and the City of Fernandina Beach. The Northeast Florida municipality in February rejected an application to build a bioethanol plant there, as reported by News4Jax Officials in the city based the rejection on Fernandina Beach’s comprehensive land-use plan and local development codes but RYAM said the city misclassified the nature of the plant The company has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the city decision and the case could get an assist from the Legislature if lawmakers say ethanol production cannot be considered chemical refinement or manufacturing located at the site of an existing pulp mill would allow for the creation of a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels while creating 300 local manufacturing jobs “Four generations of RYAM employees have lived and worked locally RYAM continues to invest in Fernandina Beach creating jobs and making products that directly benefit local residents,” the website reads “The 2G BioEthanol project will help sustain good jobs and build a bright future for Fernandina Beach.” The company published a hazard analysis that determined there were “no scenarios in which the effects have an impact on the existing pulping process area and no effects outside the property boundary.” But the project has attracted local opposition. Fernandina Wins published a website opposing ethanol manufacturing in the city arguing the plant poses an environmental risk to the Amelia River That website says the city’s comprehensive plan specifically prohibits chemical manufacturing and refining “Ethanol is a highly flammable hazardous chemical that carries substantial risk of accidental fires and explosions,” the No Ethanol Fernandina website reads The House bill heads now to the floor for a vote. A Senate companion bill (SB 1080) also is awaiting a vote on the floor in the upper chamber Reply … and one wonders why citizens have lost all faith in state government Legislators do the bidding of the donor class and could not care less about citizens Reply and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" This platform and all of its content are owned by Extensive Enterprises Media Publisher: Peter Schorsch @PeterSchorschFL © Copyright by Extensive-Enterprises 2025. All rights reserved. STAFF LOGIN – The city manager of Fernandina Beach confirmed on Thursday the building where the restaurant Brett’s Waterway Café is located will be demolished City Manager Sarah Campbell said the building is expected to be torn down sometime next year Last week, the Fernandina Beach City Commission voted unanimously last week to emphasize the urgency of addressing the demolition of Brett’s Waterway Cafe and determining the future of its riverfront location, according to the Fernandina Observer. A small shop up front and Brett’s Waterway Café which is owned by Center Street Restaurant Group A document obtained through the city’s records request portal shows a sublease agreement from 1988 with the Restaurant Group They intended to jointly build and furnish a 200-person restaurant on the marina (can we have the restaurant slide in next to the document here.) Campbell also mentioned the last people who helped decide the future of this building was the Marina Advisory Board RELATED | Fernandina Beach restaurant declared structurally unsafe by city In July 2021, the Fernandina Beach restaurant was declared structurally unsafe due to the “active collapse of concrete double-tee structure member.” The notice also said there was an elevated risk of substructure failure, collateral damage, and repairs necessary. The restaurant had until Sept. 2, 2021, to repair the building. A few years after that, the restaurant group filed a complaint against the city asking for arbitration, saying the city “wrongfully caused great damage to Brett’s business.” Campbell said a company is looking into how to properly demolish the building without damaging the docks around it. The city manager also said the commission hasn’t decided on what will happen after the building is demolished. They are hoping to engage with the public in the future to decide that. The Publix  super market in Fernandina Beach is scheduled to close April 26 followed by its demolition and reconstruction The store is in the Island Walk Shopping Center at 1421 Sadler Road near South 14th Street A Publix spokesperson confirmed the 57,086-square-foot store will be replaced with a 58,834-square-foot version Read the rest of this story at the Jacksonville Daily Record By Dan Scanlan FDOT has been working on the I-10 widening for almost five years Nassau County set to help bear cost of construction Photo by Julia Roberts/News-Leader “It would be nice to not to have to drive to Jacksonville to skate,” Fernandina Beach native and Olympian skateboarder Poe Pinson said told the Fernandina Beach Parks and Recreation Advisory Board That board approved new conceptual design for a new skate park as the Nassau County Board of County Commissioners has agreed to help fund an expanded facility Submitted At the March 11 meeting of the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board plans were unveiled for a new skate park facility which would be larger than its current footprint at Main Beach An amendment to a bill running through the Florida Legislature could allow a controversial bioethanol plant to be built in Fernandina Beach despite the City Commission’s denial of the plan City officials do not believe the bill’s amendment has any bearing on the bioethanol plant proposed by Rayonier Advanced Materials But longtime opponents believe differently Fernandina Beach city commissioners rejected the plant Feb 6 under the reasoning that making bioethanol is akin to chemical manufacturing which is not allowed under the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code But on Friday, state Sen. Stan McClain, R-Ocala, added an amendment to a land use and development regulation bill that worries Rayonier’s opponents The amendment says production of ethanol from plants and plant products is done through fermentation and “is not chemical manufacturing or chemical refining.” As such “this subsection is remedial and clarifying in nature and applies retroactively to any law or ordinance or any interpretation thereof.” The Senate’s Community Affairs committee approved the amendment by a 5-3 vote on Monday questioned McClain before the vote Jones asked whether the amendment changed the definition of what a chemical is McClain said the amendment does not change the definition only “how it’s actually done.” whether he is concerned that the bill might represent “potential overreach” by the state after a community has already acted on a land use or development issue Jones added that Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach residents have expressed their “fear of ethanol plants being built next to private homes,” based on how the amendment redefines ethanol “I think that’s why we are here to have a discussion about what things that we need to do to help local governments move forward with development,” McClain said “I don’t know the particulars of that particular project and where its located What we wanted to do is be able to define ethanol production and how it takes place Jacksonville Today asked the city of Fernandina Beach whether the amended bill could have any effect on the RYAM’s proposed bioethanol plant City Manager Sarah Campbell responded that she doesn’t think the amendment “applies in our situation.” “The section of the statutes that this applies to is specific to agricultural zoned lands,” Campbell said in an email “That would not apply to the situation at hand in Fernandina We will certainly discuss this with our attorneys further I will ask the City Commission (Tuesday) … if they would like to take a formal stance on this legislation.” long opposed to the proposed $51 million facility at Rayonier’s Gum Street complex is “assessing all avenues to oppose this amendment,” said Tom Budd Budd said McClain’s new amendment is an “unconscionable attempt to manipulate the legislative process and provide RYAM an ‘end run’ around local control of zoning decisions.” And if the state bill is successful it will set a precedent “so onerous that Florida communities will suffer the consequences in perpetuity,” Budd said in a statement “Committee members charged with the responsibility of considering this amendment should refuse to be manipulated in this obvious and reprehensible way,” Budd’s statement added. “Local control is the premier tenant of our system of government. All legislators should be horrified by this blatant assault on local control of zoning decisions and vote accordingly.” RYAM began efforts over a year ago to expand its existing pulp mill site just south of downtown Fernandina to build a second-generation plant to produce bioethanol for sale. On its website, RYAM calls its Second Generation BioEthanol “a cleaner greener alternative to fossil-fuel based gasoline” that will help sustain 300 local jobs plus help property values and support the city’s economy The No Ethanol Florida website says the group recognizes ethanol as an alternative fuel source But members oppose manufacturing it adjacent to densely populated residential areas on Amelia Island and along the environmentally sensitive Amelia River The plant also would bring tanker trucks filled with ethanol to Fernandina Beach Florida 200 and the Shave Bridge through Nassau County to Interstate 95 “It is simply too dangerous.” No Ethanol Florida’s website states “Ethanol is highly flammable and carries substantial risk of accidental fires and explosions by producing it within a manufacturing site that already processes large quantities of other extremely hazardous and highly reactive chemicals.” 28 stating that the project is a permissible use under city codes and not chemical manufacturing “The Project’s proposed method of creating biomethanol relies on the same fermentation process used to making beer yogurt and certain baked goods,” the suit states “Once bioethanol is made through fermentation it can be isolated depending on end use.” the fermented bioethanol mixture will be distilled so the bioethanol can be used as a clean energy fuel source The suit asserts that city staff bowed to “political pressure from the community candidates for political offices and members of the City Commission to adopt this erroneous interpretation at the heart of this dispute.” Rayonier did not respond to Jacksonville Today‘s requests for comment about McClain’s bill and the concerns of No Ethanol Fernandina By Michelle Corum Signs have appeared saying "Protect the Trail." A Jacksonville Today reader wonders what's going on FBHS opens second season; first year for Lady Hornets Victoria Rushing at the net Tuesday in the Lady Pirates’ season opener at Main Beach This is the second season for beach volleyball at Fernandina Beach High School which will also play its home matches at Main Beach Join the community on Jan. 25 at 10 a.m. at Main Beach Park in Fernandina Beach for a unique opportunity to create a life-size North Atlantic right whale mosaic art installation using oyster shells. Curated by local artist and shell collector Lauri Holton, this project promises to be both inspiring and impactful. The North Atlantic right whale, one of the most endangered marine mammals, faces a precarious future. With fewer than 350 individuals remaining, raising awareness about their plight has never been more crucial. Now is a critical time of year when these majestic creatures migrate to the warmer waters off the coasts of Florida and Georgia to give birth. From November through March, this region serves as the only known calving grounds for the species, making it a hub of conservation activity and a focal point for awareness efforts. Every single female North Atlantic right whale and calf is vital to the species’ recovery. Researchers estimate about 70 reproductively active females remain, and this season, five calves have already been identified. These whales are dying faster than they can reproduce, largely due to human causes such as entanglements in fishing gear and collisions with vessels. Since 2017, an Unusual Mortality Event has claimed more than 20% of the population, leaving many whales sick, injured or dead. Females are producing fewer calves each year, impacted by stressors like vessel strikes, entanglements, and changes in prey availability due to climate change. While 20 newborns in a season would be considered productive, researchers estimate that 50 or more calves per year are needed for recovery. Reducing human-caused mortality and injuries is crucial to reversing this decline. By participating in the Right Whale Mosaic Project, you can help shed light on these challenges and support the conservation efforts necessary to protect these gentle giants. To make this mosaic a reality, thousands of oyster shells are needed, and that’s where the community comes in! Here’s how you can contribute: After covering the weather from every corner of Florida and doing marine research in the Gulf, Mark Collins settled in Jacksonville to forecast weather for The First Coast. Fernandina Beach opened a Cold Night Shelter on Sunday at the Martin Luther King Jr Recreation Center The city said the shelter will be open until Friday Ellen Foltz and Dave Capps bundled up to take a morning walk with Arlo on Tuesday morning in Downtown Fernandina Beach Temperatures were expected to drop overnight bringing chances of icy road conditions and snow into this morning Nassau County Emergency Management shared this National Weather Service graphic on onenassau.com this winter weather is not messing around," Sheriff Bill Leeper said in a video update shared by Emergency Management on Tuesday evening before temperatures dropped below freezing Leeper said Nassau County is expecting freezing rain and snow beginning at 7 p.m He said the Emergency Management team has been monitoring the storm since Friday and forecast have "only gotten worse." Leeper said the most impacted parts of the County will be people on US 1 "We might have to suspend traffic on the US Coastal Waterway Bridge because of ice The extreme cold could knock out power in some areas Leeper said if you don't absolutely need to go out and think about what you will do if power goes out.  "Please take this seriously and take care of yourself and your neighbors," Leeper said.  The National Weather Service is showing the following conditions at Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport as of 6:35 p.m.: Light snow Nassau County departments under the authority of the Board of County Commissioners also will be closed on Wednesday The county announced the closure on its blog. Offices are expected to reopen for normal operations Thursday "Residents are urged to follow Nassau County Emergency Management for storm updates, including potential road closures, at www.onenassau.com or on social media at https://www.facebook.com/NassauEM," the county said in the update Tuesday Fernandina Beach said city offices will have a delayed opening Wednesday due to the expected winter weather "While the City is not in a declared emergency deteriorating conditions related to a winter storm are expected between 7 p.m tonight and noon tomorrow," the city said on social media The city said "tonight's Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting and City Commission Regular Meeting will proceed as scheduled." The Jacksonville International Airport will close following the "last departure" tonight. It is expected to reopen noon Wednesday The Jacksonville Aviation Authority provided the following statement Tuesday afternoon:  "Due to winter weather conditions expected to impact Northeast Florida Jacksonville International Airport will close following the last departure this evening The airport is anticipated to reopen at noon tomorrow Travelers are encouraged to check flight status with their airlines for the most up-to-date information about their itineraries and for rebooking options." Waste Management said Wednesday trash collection will be delayed until Thursday Fernandina Beach shared the following message from the City's sanitation partner Tuesday afternoon: "Due to the inclement weather event beginning this evening and continuing into tomorrow we will be delaying Wednesday trash collection for Residential and Commercial collection until Thursday 1/23/25 We plan to resume collection on Thursday morning and will be operating on a one day delay through Saturday The Nassau County School District has announced all schools and district offices will be closed Wednesday and all after-school activities scheduled for this evening are canceled.  and families is our top priority," the district said "We are working closely with Nassau Emergency Management to monitor conditions and will share updates as they become available." For more information, visit: Nassau.k12.fl.us Nassau County Emergency Management joined other Northeast Florida communities in preparation for potential wintry conditions expected tonight and into Wednesday morning.  EM said a Winter Storm Warning was in effect for Nassau due to expected snow freezing rain and wintery mix of precipitation Nassau County Emergency Management (EM) said residents could see potential traffic hazards if roads and bridges become icy.  EM said in preparation of the potential conditions it has been coordinating with the county manager Nassau County School District superintendent National Weather Service (NWS) (Jacksonville) and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) “EM is closely monitoring the winter weather forecast and potential threats to our community We have participated in NWS and FDEM coordination calls,” EM said Nassau County residents (can) anticipate potential traffic hazards if roads/bridges ice over This could result in road and bridge closures if they become unsafe for motorists to travel.”  but the highest chance for impacts is between sundown today until freezing temperatures subside Wednesday morning.  “Ice accumulation could threaten power infrastructure resulting in power loss This threat is greater West of Interstate 95 and increases the further Northwest you proceed across our county,” EM said.  EM said it encourages people that do not have to travel during the impacts to stay home.  “We also encourage citizens to have a personal plan for potential power loss,” EM said “As always Nassau County emergency services will respond to life-threatening situations weather conditions may result in delayed response.” Today the city shared an update stating it was increasing its active hours due to expected severe weather Deputy City Manager Jeremiah Glisson said city staff will be joining Nassau EM at 2 p.m Emergency Management posted on social media informing the public that Nassau would be under a Winter Storm Watch for potential snow and freezing rain between late Tuesday through Wednesday morning EM suggested to be prepared by staying informed and monitoring forecasts; checking and stocking your emergency supply kits for your home and car; prepare you home and take necessary protective measures for your pets and livestock plants and sensitive vegetation and family; plan for alternative power sources in case of power outages; fuel your vehicle; and consider adjusting travel plans To stay informed, visit www.onenassau.com/ just over the Shave Bridge on Amelia Island has been found in violation of the codes of Fernandina Beach; the owner has been put on notice by Code Enforcement to clean it up or pay fines