Florida Welcomes Snowbirds Escaping Cold Weather

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
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They are birds of a different feather, who flock to Florida in winter to escape the cold weather in the north. They occupy golf courses and RV parks and oceanfront condominiums, and provide a seasonal boost to local economies -- including in Nassau County, Florida. They are snowbirds. They are mostly retired, mostly wealthy, and mostly good for a state weakened by the worst recession in decades. READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Nov 25, 2009 - 11:15:51 AM Read more

Fernandina Beach Noise Ordinance Whiplash

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
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A recent development in Fernandina Beach with a restrictive and punitive noise ordinance is already causing a whiplash of negativity.  Recent letters to the News-Leader include tourist complaints that revolve around the city’s new noise ordinance. Yes, we need a noise ordinance for order and sanity. But maybe not this one. A happy balance has to be struck between providing activities, both day and night, and protecting the sanctity, order and peace.  Let’s continue to foster ways to keep the good times rolling -- and the tourists coming.  READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Nov 9, 2009 - 1:41:40 PM Read more

BAD IDEA: Fernandina, Nassau County Recreational Fees

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
Since when did the city and county have to “make” money on services they provide? Government is not a for-profit entity. Government is designed to provide public services to residents -- trash pickup, road maintenance, police and fire protection, etc.  Do officials feel they need to “turn a profit” on the recreational department now? Parks, ball fields and buildings came from public tax dollars -- and are there for the use and enjoyment of residents.  READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Oct 27, 2009 - 12:47:33 PM Read more

FLOWERING FERNANDINA: Blossoming Grass Roots Effort

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
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Fall is in the air and it’s time for the flowers to bloom in downtown Fernandina Beach.  “Flowering Fernandina” is a blossoming grassroots effort to instill beauty through bountiful flowers in the historic downtown area. It has been embraced by city officials, business owners, and individuals alike.  Flowers are being placed by the nurturing hands of enthusiastic volunteers and donors.  READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Oct 19, 2009 - 4:32:35 PM Read more

Some Positive Developments in Nassau County

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
While the economy in Nassau County, Florida is still sluggish, some new developments – particularly from the government sector – appear to be positive in nature.  After years of being stuck in the mud (literally), the Fernandina Beach city marina has taken a new direction. The longstanding feud between the city of Fernandina and the airport operator is nearing a conclusion.  READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Oct 14, 2009 - 9:07:31 AM Read more

Hometown Democracy: Is it Time to Diversify Florida’s Revenue Streams?

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
A major initiative has been gaining momentum through the grass roots of the state of Florida. It's called Hometown Democracy. There are more than 1 million petitions to have the issue placed on the 2010 ballot... READ MORE FROM STEVE NICKLAS...

Oct 7, 2009 - 10:35:46 AM Read more

Trends Fuel Popularity of Community Colleges, Online Courses

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
Some forecast that the days are limited of going off to the traditional college campus for four expensive years of studying, partying, and socializing. Except for those with excessive wealth or intelligence, the mode of internet learning or the community college down the street will become enticing.

Sep 22, 2009 - 9:32:25 AM Read more

Raising Taxes & Fees in Difficult Economy?

Posted in: Steve's Marketplace
A recent letter written to local Nassau County, Florida commissioners conveyed both advice and caution. It concerned the budget process for this year. It centered specifically on property taxes and fees.  The letter carried even more meaning because of its author -- John Crawford, who is the clerk of courts...

Sep 11, 2009 - 8:38:57 AM Read more