Gratitude is the best attitude

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

February 11, 2017 11:46 a.m.

During the February 7, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC), many people took time to recognize city staff and members of the community for their service on behalf of the community. The FBCC also made several board appointments via unanimous votes.

Recognition

The agenda for the evening was amended to allow Organized Firefighters Local President James Tucker to present plaques recognizing high levels of service and outstanding employees of the city Fire Rescue Department: Fire Chief Ty Silcox, for outstanding leadership; Fire Department Administrative Coordinator Kaleigh Simmons, for exceptional administrative support; and Fire Department Firefighter/EMT Marcus Carter, who was named Firefighter of the Year.

Firefighters' Union President James Tucker presents plaques to outstanding FRD staff members (l-r) Kaleigh Simmons, Marcus Carter and Chief Ty Silcox.

Sheila Cocchi

Sheila Cocchi, one of the organizers of the Amelia Island Solidarity March, thanked the whole city of Fernandina Beach for their cooperation and participation in the successful and peaceful march of 1,400 on January 21, 2017. She singled out City Manager Dale Martin, Police Chief James Hurley, Jay Robertson of the Parks & Recreation Department, the march’s volunteer marshals, and the Police Auxiliary.

Many commissioners offered thanks and praise to efforts of city employees who over the past few weeks have demonstrated their commitment to serving the community:

• Commissioner Miller thanked Maintenance Supervisor Rex Lester and the City Manager for quickly responding to concerns of a wheelchair bound visitor to clear sand covered Mobi-Mat at Main Beach. He also thanked organizers of the Amelia Island Solidarity March for a well-run event;
• In connection with the opening of the Thiokol disaster museum in Kingsland, GA, Vice Mayor Len Kreger recognized the efforts of city firefighters 47 years ago in responding swiftly and helping mobilize additional help;
• Commissioner Tim Poynter expressed thanks to the Tourist Development Council and the First Baptist Church for providing financial support and venue for the recent Itzhak Perlman concert featured in the 2017 Chamber Music Festival;
• Mayor Robin Lentz congratulated former Nassau County Administrator on his recent retirement and expressed optimism at working with new County Administrator Shanea Jones. She also thanked those responsible for this year’s Desserts of Amelia at the Fernandina Beach Middle School. Lentz thanked the Fernandina Beach Police Department for their assistance in a recent running event, singling out Detective Marty Scott as the officer in charge of the event, as well as Detective Brian Evatt, Detective Mark Simmons and officer of the year Josh Paetsch;
• City Manager Dale Martin congratulated the golf course staff and crew for successful completion of their 60^th anniversary tournament. He echoed Mayor Lentz’ comments in recognition of Ted Selby and Shanea Jones;
• City Attorney Tammi Bach thanked the Fernandina Beach Branch Library for inviting her and Vice Mayor Kreger to participate in Black History Month commemorations;
• City Clerk Caroline Best thanked the Police Department for inviting her to participate in their annual awards banquet. She also echoed the appreciation expressed by Organized Firefighters of Fernandina Beach to Fire Chief Ty Silcox, Fire Department Administrative Coordinator Kaleigh Simmons, and Fire Department Firefighter/EMT Marcus Carter.

Board Appointments

The FBCC voted unanimously to approve the following appointments to city boards/committees:

• ARTS AND CULTURE NASSAU -- Ms. Liz Taylor
• BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE FIRE AND POLICE PENSION --Mr. Walter Sturges and Ms. Janet Griffin
• GREENS AND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE - Mr. Lee Murray and Ms. Victoria Galpin
• FERNANDINA BEACH HOUSING AUTHORITY –Ms. Kimberly Richo

Editor's Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne's many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.