City of Fernandina Beach Proclamations: February 19, 2019

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
February 20, 2019

 

Recognizing Sean Poynter’s accomplishments

On behalf of the City of Fernandina Beach, Mayor John Miller congratulated 29 year-old Sean Poynter as the first ever two-time International Surfing Association (ISA) Standup Paddle Surfing Gold Medalist (2013 & 2015). Poynter is a two-time national champion (2017 & 2018). After eight years of working towards his goal, Sean achieved it when he won his first Association of PaddleSurf Professionals (APP) World Title in 2018.

Poynter’s love of surfing began at just ten years of age when his family moved from Ohio to Fernandina Beach. He rapidly took to wave riding and quickly become a stand-out East Coast surfer.   He was a Volcom rider from 2003 to 2008.

In the summer of 2009, he was introduced to stand-up paddleboarding. Amazingly, just a few months after catching his first wave, he was jet-setting around the globe to compete internationally. Now based in Jacksonville, Sean competes each year on the APP World Tour and coaches stand up paddle surfing through the company “SUP ‘n’ Surf Retreats” in Mexico and “Paddle Surf Hangouts” in Fernandina Beach. 

Sean Poynter accepts city proclamation from Mayor Miller.

Miller said, “Despite being a world-traveler and winning multiple national and world championships, Sean Poynter remains exceptionally humble and grateful for his loving family and friends. He believes wholeheartedly that if you commit to a goal, work hard and stay consistent, there is nothing you cannot achieve.”

Following the Mayor’s reading of the proclamation Poynter received an energetic round of applause from the audience.  He thanked Mayor Miller and the City Commission for the honor and recognition.  He said, “Fernandina is where I grew up, so it’s a special place for me.  I want to thank Driftwood Surf Shop , my first sponsor, and Steve Sjuggerud, who introduced me to stand up paddling.”  He also thanked Beth Jones and the News Leader for their support and for covering local events that he puts on.  He concluded his remarks by thanking local surfing friends and his family for their support and encouragement as he pursued his goals.

Take Stock in Children Month – March 2019

Fernandina Beach recognized Take Stock in Children of Nassau County,  for providing unique educational opportunities for deserving, academically talented, low-income students to escape the cycle of poverty by proclaiming the month of March 2019 as, “Take Stock in Children Month.”

Take Stock in Children is celebrating its 22nd year of service in Nassau County. Their mission, “Keep the Promise,” has delivered mentoring and complimentary college scholarships to more than 577 Nassau County students. This innovative and transformative program is a life- changing opportunity for students who would likely not graduate High School and go to higher education.

Fernandina Beach Mayor John Miller encouraged all citizens to attend Take Stock’s  annual “Light up a Life Gala and Silent Auction” event on March 28, 2019, at the Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island.  The college scholarship monies collected by Take Stock in Children are matched by the great State of Florida making the value of local scholarship donations total 200%.

Take Stock Director Robin Lentz, accompanied by members of her Board, thanked the city for the proclamation and invited the public to participate in upcoming events.

Former Mayor Robin C. Lentz and members of the Take Stock in Children of Nassau County, Inc. Board of Directors accepted the Proclamation following a round of applause.  She thanked the City for the recognition.  She said that their organization is proud of the community support they receive through the student mentoring program and financial contributions.