John Johnson Running For Escambia Sheriff
July 14, 2015
John D. Johnson of Oak Grove has prefiled to run for Escambia County Sheriff as a Republican.
Johnson is a 34-year law enforcement veteran, first employed in 1979 by the Commanche County Sheriff’s Department in Lawton, OK. He moved to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office in 1982, where he served for nine years, both as a patrol deputy and an investigator in the narcotics unit.
He was recruited as a special agent by the DEA in 1991. After graduating from the DEA Basic Agent School at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA, Johnson was assigned to the newly established DEA office in Pensacola where he supervised criminal investigations across the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.
In his 22 years with the DEA, Johnson served both as a special agent and the resident agent in charge of the Pensacola office. During his career, Johnson has received numerous local, state, national and international awards and commendations for his exemplary service, including the Enrique” Kiki” Camarena award from the Benevolent and Protected Order of the Elks in 2002 and the Miami Field Division Agent of the Year award in 2010.
Johnson is a Florida certified law enforcement officer and has attended thousands of hours of specialized law enforcement training. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a Master’s degree in public administration from Troy University, graduating with high honors.
After retiring from the DEA, Johnson became an adjunct instructor at the University Of West Florida College Of Professional Studies and a government contractor.
“I feel my 34 year career in law enforcement, as well as my academic credentials make me the best candidate to serve the citizens of Escambia County as their sheriff. I look forward to meeting them on the campaign trail to discuss the many issues facing our community,” Johnson said in a released statement.
Wahoos Win Record Sixth Straight
July 14, 2015
The Pensacola Blue s set franchise records Monday night by winning its sixth game in a row and sweeping its first five-game series.
Not only that, Pensacola is now 11-7 in the second half of the Southern League season and in sole possession of first place in the South Division. The last time the Blue Wahoos were in first place this late in the season was July 22, 2012.
The Blue Wahoos defeated the Montgomery Biscuits, 6-2, on Monday in front of 4,143 at Pensacola Bayfront Stadium.
How have they turned around a last place team in the first half to a first place team in the second half?
Pitching and defense, says Blue Wahoos manager Pat Kelly.
“All along I have thought this was a good ball club,” Kelly said. “Pitching and defense wins this league.”
During the first half, Pensacola finished in last place at 25-43 and 18 games behind the Biloxi Shuckers, who were 43-25. Kelly has said that Biloxi is the only team that he thought was better than Pensacola, winning eight of 10 games against the Blue Wahoos to start the year.
They face the hottest team in the Southern League North Division next — the Birmingham Barons. After winning, 2-0, over Jackson Generals Monday, the Barons are 14-3.
“They may be hotter than us,” Kelly said of the Barons. “It’ll be a good test for us. Our motto has been to win every series.”
Pitching and defense beat the Biscuits Monday night.
Tim Adleman earned his fourth win in a row and improved to 6-6 on the season with a 1.95 ERA. He allowed a solo home run by Montgomery catcher Justin O’Conner. In seven innings he gave up five hits, one walk and struck out five.
In his past four games, Adleman has allowed three earned runs in 28 innings for a 0.96 ERA. He also has given up 20 hits, four walks and struck out 24.
Plus, the Blue Wahoos turned three double plays and leads the Southern League with 102 double plays total.
Pensacola utility infielder Ray Chang, who is batting .323 this season, says player development is great but winning is even better. He endured a 59-79 record in 2013 and 60-80 in 2014.
“It feels great,” Chang said. “Throughout my career, I have not been a part of too many winning clubs. The last two years were rough. To start off the way we have in the second half gives the fans something to cheer about. It has been awesome.”
Pensacola catcher Kyle Skipworth hit his third homer in three games and fourth in six when he launched a bomb to straight away center field that scored three runs and put the Blue Wahoos ahead, 3-1, in the fourth inning.
“We’re just enjoying it right now,” said Skipworth, who said he didn’t want to know how many games the team has won in a row.
Adleman, the Blue Wahoos mainstay in the rotation this year, said he hopes to keep winning.
“It would be nice to win the second half and send the Blue Wahoos to the playoffs,” he said. “It would be fun, a lot of fun.”
Pensacola’s main closer Zack Weiss, who has a team-leading nine saves, added: “We just want to be competitive and give ourselves a chance to make the post season. It’s nice to get rolling. We’re not thinking about the first half.”
After second baseman Zach Vincej singled to lead off the first inning for Pensacola, Montgomery right-hander Austin Pruitt struck out five of the next six batters between the first and second innings.
Vincej also scored during a three-run eighth inning on a double into the left field corner by third baseman Marquez Smith. Vincej singled in three at bats to extend his hitting streak to eight games. He’s batting .444 (12-27) over that span.
The 24-year-old is hitting .248 this season, raising his average from .210 on July 2. This series against Montgomery, Vincej went 7-14 or .500 with three runs, one RBI and a walk.
No matter what happens, Kelly said he likes this team.
“At no time do they quit,” he said. “They always play hard.”
The Blue Washoos start a five-game series at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, July 15-19 with the Chicago White Sox Double-A affiliate Birmingham Barons. Pensacola returns home to host a two-game series at 6:35 p.m. Monday, July 20-21 with the Miami Marlins Double-A affiliate Jacksonville Suns.
Freida Margene Allen
July 14, 2015
Freida Margene Allen, 58, of Molino, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2015.
She was a loving wife and mother who will be missed.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Jeanette McCrory of Cantonment.
Freida is survived by her husband, Larry Allen of Molino; her children, Rodney (Carol) Allen of Cantonment and Dale (Joan) Allen of Tampa; grandchildren, Gracie and Brady of Cantonment and Justine of Tampa; and siblings, Carolyn of Cantonment, Theresa of Arlington, TX, Wayne of Cantonment and Marilyn of Cantonment.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2015, with Bro. Fred Stallworth officiating.
Burial to follow in Pugh’s Chapel.
Visitation will begin one hour prior to services.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is in charge of arrangements.
Senior Rae Gilbert Griffin
July 14, 2015
Senior Rae Gilbert Griffin, 85, of Jay, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 11, 2015. She was prepared to meet her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Senior was born on March 8, 1930, and grew up in Ashland, Alabama. During her early life, she was an active member of Jay First Baptist Church and was involved in many activities for the youth and the choir. She was also a member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Carlton Griffin; and parents, Perry and Nellie Jane Waldrop Gilbert.
She is survived by her loving children, daughters, Joan Byrd, Doris Jackson, and Debbie (John) Bell; sons, James Griffin and Bryan Griffin; grandsons, Michael Holland, Gary Holland, Daniel Haan, Joey Wolfe, Ryan Wolfe, and Greg Byrd; granddaughters, Lacy Griffin and Vonda Byrd Buckhault; 11 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Voncille Shannon and Shirley Caldwell; and brother, Charles Gilbert.
Senior’s mother died when Senior was only 13, so she became the mother figure and caregiver to her siblings, which helped shape her as the caring and generous woman that she became. She was selfless and giving of herself and truly had a servant’s heart. Her early career as a kindergarten teacher not only provided many of the town’s children a head start on their education but also educated their hearts, teaching them how to love and treat others.
Through her many years as a florist, she shared in countless memories with the people of Jay and its surrounding areas. She helped the community celebrate joyous occasions, as well as comfort them in times of sickness, sorrow, and grief with her beautiful floral arrangements that she lovingly created. She was always there to offer a kind word and a warm hug to her customers. She worked hard and long hours doing what she loved to do, helping provide a good life for her family and bring joy to others. Her house was always open to her children’s friends, and she became a mother to all of them.
She always made those around her smile. During her two years residing at Century Health and Rehabilitation Center, she brightened the day of the other residents with her witty remarks, compliments, and classes on flower arranging. She was a gentle and generous Southern lady to the end.
The family wishes to extend its thanks to the entire staff of Century Health and Rehabilitation Center for its tremendous love and care of their mother. Also, sincere thanks to Covenant Hospice, Dr. David Smith, and roommate Nancy Thames.
Visitation at Jay First Baptist Church will be held Saturday, July 18, 2015, from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. for immediate family and from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. for friends. Funeral services will begin at 4 p.m.
Interment will be at Jay Cemetery.
Jay Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
William Hubert Parker
July 14, 2015
William Hubert Parker, 99, passed away Monday, July 13, 2015. As we celebrated granddad’s 99th birthday, we will now celebrate his new life. He was a man of humility and never spoke an unkind word about anyone. He was born May 28, 1916, in Brewton to the late Lydia Douglas Parker and Archie Parker.
He was the past president of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles. As an ordained Pastor he faithfully served his Lord and congregation and was often referred to as “Rabbi.”
He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Gladys Louise Thompkins Parker; daughter, Mary Louise Harrell; granddaughter, Debbie Brown; great-grandson, Ronnie Brown; daughter-in-law, Marie Parker; brother, Elbert Lee Parker; and sister, Mary Sue Parker McIntosh.
He will be lovingly remembered by his son, James Kenneth Parker; daughters, Rosa Lee Ard and Pamela Kay (Frank) Murphy; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
His family extends their thanks to Ms. Velva and Regency Hospice nurse, Kalie.
To his “special” sons, Clayton and Frank, thank you for fulfilling all his dreams. You were his sons-in-law by chance, but became his sons by choice.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, July 17, 2015, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North with Pastor Jean Comans and Pastor Virgil Pope officiating.
Burial will follow in Jordan Cemetery.
Family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2015.
Pallbearers will be James Parker, Chris Parker, Josh Parker, Tanner Montanez, Suede Collins, Jacob Hawkins, Gary Hawkins, Rece Howard, and Ryan Floyd.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and encouragement which reminds us all that ‘Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted’. Matthew 5:4.
Police: Missing, Endangered Flomaton Teen Found Safe
July 13, 2015
A Flomaton teenager reported missing over two weeks ago has been found.
Jasmine Nicole Smith, 16, was located about 3:00 this afternoon in Central Alabama, according to Flomaton Police Chief Bryan Davis. He declined to release complete details, but Davis said the girl is “fine” and in good condition. Davis said additional details will be released later by Flomaton Police.
Smith was reported missing from her residence in Flomaton on June 27. On July 9, police upgraded the case from a runaway to missing/endangered status after receiving information from a family member that the teen was in physical danger. Flomaton Police warned July 8 that because Smith is a juvenile, anyone harboring her without the consent of a parent “is committing a crime and will be prosecuted”.
Highway 97 Temporary Bridge Nears Completion
July 13, 2015
Work is nearing completion on a temporary bridge in Walnut Hill, part of the replacement of a 75-year old Highway 97 bridge over Little Pine Barren Creek in Walnut Hill.
Last week, the approach lanes to the temporary bridge were paved, after months of work that began on the structure at the end of March.
The work is part of a $2.5 million contract which consist of replacing the existing structurally deficient bridge, including roadway reconstruction, milling and resurfacing, guardrail, drainage, new signs and pavement markings. Drivers will utilize a temporary roadway and bridge during construction of the new bridge. Work is anticipated to be completed in the spring of 2016. No overweight loads will be permitted onto the temporary bridge (loads weighing over 88-thousand pounds).
The bridge is located at the intersection of Wiggins Lake Road, about one mile north of Ernest Ward Middle School. The bridge was constructed in 1940.
There’s no word yet from the Florida Department of Transportation as to when traffic will shift to the new temporary bridge.
Pictured: A temporary bridge nears completion on Highway 97 in Walnut Hill. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Upper 90’s, Slight Chance Of Storms
July 13, 2015
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Monday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 106. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 107. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Sunny, with a high near 95. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 95. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 95.
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.
Saturday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 95.
Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.
Sunday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94.
Justices Could Hear Satellite TV Tax Fight
July 13, 2015
The Department of Revenue has filed a notice of appeal in the Florida Supreme Court after a lower court ruled that a state law is unconstitutional because it imposes a higher tax rate on satellite-television companies than on their cable-TV competitors.
The department is seeking to overturn a ruling last month by the 1st District Court of Appeal, which also ordered that a circuit court determine how much money should be refunded to satellite-TV companies.
The case focuses on the state communications-services tax being set at 6.65 percent for cable TV and 10.8 percent for satellite service. The appeals court, in a 2-1 decision, found that the tax is discriminatory and violates the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
Alleged Drunk Driver Plows Into Deputy’s SUV
July 13, 2015
An alleged drunk driver was jailed after slamming his SUV into an Escambia County Sheriff’s deputy in a marked Tahoe.
Joseph Gavin Merritt, 34, was eastbound on Gulf Beach Highway in a 2003 Chevrolet Suburban about 11:30 Saturday night. Merritt crossed the center line into the path of Deputy William Hallford, 51. Hallford swerved in an unsuccessful attempt to avoid a collision.
Hallford was transported to Baptist Hospital with minor injuries.
Merritt was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and refusal to submit to a lawful DUI test. He was later released from the Escambia County Jail on a $1,000 bond.