Fernandina Observer – A 4th anniversary

May 16, 2016 1:00 a.m.

“So how will the Fernandina Observer benefit our community? We will inform and educate, not confuse and mislead. When credit is due, we will build up our community, not tear it down. When issues arise that demand public attention, or if mistakes are made that demand accountability, you will be informed.” May 14, 2012

What a history! Although being in the news business for four years does not compare to the time span of other news publications, we recognize the information contained in the Fernandina Observer serves as a tremendous source of information and as a resource for future historians.

Why? Unlike other print publications, we are not limited to space and our coverage of city commission meetings and workshops are detailed and accurate accounts of what transpired. It helps to have Suanne Thamm, reporter-news analyst, as a contributor for these important moments. She is recognized far and wide for her writing skills, and she is key to our success.

A quick look over our coverage during the past four years takes our city from tropical storms to the great recession and recovery, a city commission split over political ideologies confronting a difficult budget (it was messy and at times embarrassing), a fight for the library and non-profit funding, the battle against coal transfers at the port, lawsuits and elections, followed by more elections. Added to the list are reports on  the deterioration of the post office and railroad tracks (Sidewalk to Nowhere), the Shrimp Festival Parade – Sons of the Confederacy ‘s whip cracker, reports on the arts and restaurants, and the magnificent restoration of the train depot.

It takes countless hours for our volunteer writers and those involved behind the scenes to bring information to our readers. A line in our opening post,  “We are committed and we will be different,” has proven so true. Thank you to the Fernandina Observer’s committed staff of Suanne Thamm, Gerry Clare, Adam Kaufman, Deborah Powers, Anne Oman, Karen Thompson, and Evelyn McDonald. Deborah is responsible for putting together our weekly updates, a time consuming process, and we are grateful for her efforts. A special thanks to Eric Bartelt who fills in when needed and our steadfast advertisers for supporting our efforts.

The benefits of being a credible source of information creates a more informed and involved citizenry and helps build a better community. Those of us who work hard to bring news and information to our community receive tremendous satisfaction for our efforts. We know the news you read today, will be our community’s history tomorrow.

So as we begin our fifth year, we wish to extend our gratitude and appreciation to our readers. You joined us on this journey and along the way you cheered us on.  Thank you for your continued support.

Douglas M. Newton
Susan Hardee Steger
Co-Editors