Fernandina Beach cancels upcoming special events due to Covid-19 concerns

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
July 22, 2020

Fernandina Beach City Commissioners (FBCC) have continued to express their concerns over the rising Covid-19 infection rate.  They have noted the uneven response of the public to  the wearing of face coverings  and social distancing.  Last weekend the Buggies on the Beach special event brought out crowds of people who did not follow CDC guidelines.  When City Commissioners realized that City-approved special events appeared to be going forward as usual, they directed the City Manager to change that.

Phase 2 of Florida’s reopening plan states that “all persons in Florida are encouraged to avoid congregating in groups larger than 50.”

During last night’s FBCC meeting, City Manager Dale Martin emailed City Special Events Coordinator, Alisha Brown, that due  to the Governor’s restrictions on large groups (more than fifty people), the following events are cancelled:

Fishing Rodeo
Sounds on Centre
Together Nassau Music Event
Zooma Race Series
8Flags Car Show

Martin advised that other events are also cancelled until the Governor’s lifts the restrictions.

Event organizers were notified by email early today and advised to contact City Manager Martin with any questions or concerns.

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Teri D. Springer
Teri D. Springer (@guest_58382)
3 years ago

And yet JAX is still planning on having the RNC. So I guess the governor’s orders don’t apply there. Interesting.

Perry Anthony
Perry Anthony (@guest_58400)
3 years ago

The RNC cancelled the Jax event yesterday Teri.

Herman Wood
Herman Wood(@herman_wood)
3 years ago

As usual, punish all when one won’t behave. How about we simply cancel this group’s permit for next year? Or an appeal to organizers during the problematic event? Or a threat to end the event immediately? Deal with the problem children!!

Teresa Hunter
Teresa Hunter (@guest_58388)
3 years ago

Good call! If visitors and residents won’t wear masks, this is what should happen.

If they can’t play safe— they can’t play!!

Betty Philemon
Betty Philemon (@guest_58392)
3 years ago

Great news. Long time coming!