Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
October 5, 2018 11:30 a.m.
City proclaims October “National Long-term Care Residents’ Rights Month”
Florida Ombudsman Program First Coast District Manager Tracie Rayfield attended the October 2, 2018 Fernandina Beach City Commission meeting to accept the Proclamation reaffirming nursing home residents’ rights guaranteed by the Federal 1987 Nursing Home Reform Law. The law requires nursing homes to promote and protect the rights of each resident and places a strong emphasis on individual dignity and self-determination. In accepting the Proclamation from Mayor John Miller, Rayfield thanked the city, informing the audience that her organization advocates for patients in long-term care facilities.
City recognizes the month of October as “National Colonial Heritage Month”
Mayor John Miller recognized the efforts of the National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century, whose more than 11,000 members nationwide share a common interest in American history, love of, and respect for, the United States, and a desire to work together in harmonious fellowship.
Georgia Murray, president of the Princess Amelia Chapter of the organization, accepted the proclamation. She expressed gratitude to the city and provided a summary of activities the Chapter is undertaking, including reading to Second Graders throughout the county about Colonial history and donating children’s books relating to Colonial history to the county library system. The organization has also raised funds for the county’s Veterans Court program. Lisa Bauer, Chapter Vice President, accompanied Murray.
City proclaims October 7, 2018 – October 13, 2018 “Fire Prevention Week”
Fernandina Beach Fire Chief Ty Silcox, accompanied by several city firefighters, accepted the city proclamation with thanks. He encouraged ongoing citizen efforts to identify and correct situations that could lead to house fires. “Even though Fire Prevention Week is in October, we like to encourage that same level of attention all year,” he said. He encouraged residents to check their smoke detectors and make sure they have an escape plan in case of fire.
At the end of the City Commission meeting, Commissioner Phil Chapman reinforced the Chief’s message, adding that it is too late to draw up a plan when your house is on fire.
City declares October October “Community Planning Month.”
The month of October has been designated “National Community Planning Month” throughout the United States of America to publicly recognize the participation and dedication of the members of planning commissions and other citizen planners who have contributed their time and expertise to the improvement of their communities. Through the Proclamation, the city Commission recognized the many valuable contributions made by our “award winning” planner team in Fernandina Beach and extend heartfelt thanks to city planners for their continued commitment to public service.
Accepting the Proclamation on behalf of the Planning Department was newly appointed city arborist David Holley, who thanked the Mayor and told the audience that he has been on staff two weeks and two days.