Flash Flood Watch In Effect Through Thursday
August 1, 2018
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tonight: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Low around 72. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Some of the storms could produce heavy rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. East wind around 5 mph.
Saturday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 91. East wind around 5 mph becoming south in the afternoon.
Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph after midnight.
Sunday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 90. Southeast wind around 5 mph.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Monday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Tuesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91.
Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 74.
Wednesday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Rep. Bradley Byrne Touts Bipartisan Workforce Development Bill At Local Town Hall
August 1, 2018
President Donald Trump signed a bipartisan workforce development bill Tuesday that enables federal workforce development program to send $1.2 billion to states with fewer federal restrictions. And in Atmore, Congressman Bradley Byrne (R-AL) praised the effort.
The legislation reenables the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act to provide career and technical training to provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the economy of today and tomorrow.
“Every day, we are lifting our forgotten Americans off the sidelines, out of the margins, and back into the workforce,” Trump said.
“It’s money to send out to the school and the state so they have money for instructors, for equipment and the supplies, so that we can teach young people and sometimes no so young people the skills that they need to take these jobs “ Byrne said during a town hall meeting Tuesday afternoon in Atmore, one of the first stops in his district-wide “Better Off Now” town hall tour.
“Here’s what true about the American economy today and will be getting truer over time. The jobs that we are creating are requiring every higher levels of education and skills. A lot of what we used to think about skilled work out there is much different that it used to be. We are going to have to have levels of skills education and training for people in order to give them what they need to participate in the economy. If we don’t do that, we are going to slow down our economy. Not having enough workers will slow down the economy.
“By doing that, we lift them out of poverty forever, and their live are intrinsically better….But unfortunately in America we have this mindset where we can’t lift people out of poverty; we are just going to keep paying them money. Well if I gave you the educational skills you need to get a job, you don’t need the government. You don’t want the the government. You have a good job that pays good wages. We should be all about that in America. That should be our main focus,” Byrne said.
A number of major companies attended the bill signing in Washington and pledged to offer millions of new education and job-training opportunities for American workers.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Back To School Sales Tax Holiday Begins Friday; Laptops, Electronics Not Included
August 1, 2018
With Florida’s back-to-school sales tax “holiday” starting Friday, some retailers may face an enthusiasm dip as laptops and other electronics are not on the discount menu.
But as giant retailers such as Walmart and Target offer their own wide-ranging discounts, state economists and industry lobbyists don’t foresee much difference from past years as parents and other shoppers are still expected to rush out for a weekend of savings on clothes, footwear and school supplies.
“Without technology, I think some of those retailers may not push it as hard. But we still expect it to be popular,” said James Miller of the Florida Retail Federation. “It’s always one of the biggest things we hear about from our members and from the consumers.”
The three-day tax holiday, which will run from Friday through Sunday, will allow shoppers to avoid paying state and local sales taxes on most clothes and footwear costing $60 or less and school supplies that cost $15 or less.
However, this will be the second time in six years that electronics are not in the offering.
Early proposals this year in the Legislature would have offered a 10-day holiday, as requested by Gov. Rick Scott, with taxes lifted on the first $1,000 of the cost of personal computers and related accessories.
But as lawmakers shifted budget priorities after the Feb. 14 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, a broad package (HB 7087) of tax and fee reductions was scaled down from a high of $618 million to a final amount of $171 million. And a proposal to extend the tax discount to computers was cut.
An estimate from state economists doesn’t indicate the exclusion of computers from the tax holiday will alter the plans of families getting ready for the August start of the school year.
The holiday this year is projected to save shoppers $32.7 million, reducing state revenue by $26 million and local-government revenue by $6.7 million.
In 2017, when laptops were on the discount list, the overall savings stood at $33.4 million.
Miller said retailers will push for electronics to be included in any back-to-school discount period considered during the 2019 legislative session.
Lawmakers vote annually on the holiday, which has almost come to be an anticipated shopping period.
The state has offered the school tax holiday 16 times since 1998. The discount period went away a decade ago during the recession. Since being revived in 2010, it has been held annually. Other than in 2015, when the discount period was extended to 10 days, the holiday has lasted for three days.
by Jim Turner, The News Service of Florida
FWC Law Enforcement Report
August 1, 2018
The Florida FWC Division of Law Enforcement reported the following activity during the weekly period ending July 5 in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
ESCAMBIA COUNTY
Officers Clark, Allgood, Manning and Long teamed up in two vessels to work a saltwater fisheries enforcement detail in the Gulf of Mexico. During their patrol, they discovered two different for hire charter boats fishing in federal waters that did not have the proper licenses. A vessel captain conducting a charter fishing trip in federal waters for reef fish is required to have a federal reef fish permit. In addition, one of the charter vessels possessed two king mackerel, which requires a separate permit to possess a coastal migratory species on a for hire vessel. Three federal citations were issued for the violations.
Officer Allgood and Captain Glover were on vessel patrol in the Gulf of Mexico south of Pensacola when the officers arrived on an artificial reef where several vessels were fishing. One of the vessels in the group noticed the officers approaching and attempted to leave the area. As Officer Allgood approached the vessel, the operator spun his vessel around to attempt to conceal the left side of the vessel. Officer Allgood maneuvered his patrol vessel to the left side of the subject’s vessel and Captain Glover boarded the vessel. Captain Glover saw an amberjack laying on the deck of the boat which is currently closed for harvest. After inspection of the fish box, Captain Glover found another undersized amberjack on board the vessel. The operator was issued two federal citations for amberjack out of season and not landing fish in whole condition.
Officer Long was on vessel patrol and stopped a vessel for violating the wake zone near Galvez Landing. After a boating safety inspection, Officer Long noticed several fish tails protruding from the cooler on the vessel. A fisheries inspection revealed that the operator was in possession of five king mackerel, two over the daily bag limit. The operator was issued a citation for over the bag limit of king mackerel and violation of the idle speed zone.
SANTA ROSA COUNTY
Lieutenant Hahr was on vessel patrol on the Blackwater River when he stopped a vessel to address a violation of registration numbering. The subject was operating the vessel with a woman and child on board. Lieutenant Hahr saw indicators of impairment from the operator and after field sobriety tasks, determined that the operator was impaired. The man was arrested and cited for operating a vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
This report represents some events the FWC handled over the past week; however, it does not include all actions taken by the Division of Law Enforcement. Information provided by FWC.
NorthEscambia.com photo.
Molino 18U Lady Astros Wrap Up Season
August 1, 2018
The Molino 18U Lady Astros softball team has wrapped up a great summer after making the championship game in three state and local tournaments.
The Lady Astros took part in the USSSA Slike Into Summer, USSSA South State and Southern Nationals tournaments.
Pictured: (top, L-R) Coach Donnie Nicholson , Meredith Mogan, McKenzie Parker, Alyssa Baxley, Madison Nelson, Avery Jackson, Haylee Watson, Coach David Synder, Katie Synder, Christa Sanders, Sheridian Mauldin, Coach Kathy Blackmon and Coach Dana Blackman. (bottom, L-R) Haileigh Sutton, Kolby Bray, Kelsey Hodges, Katelyn Harrison, Madison Parker and Heather Knowles
Bobby Lee O’Dell
August 1, 2018
Bobby Lee O’Dell, 81, died Sunday, July 29, 2018, at home.
He was born December 27, 1936, in Richmond, MO to Roy O’Dell and Izetta Seek. He was a retired Letter Carrier from U.S. Postal. He enjoyed spending time with family and was am avid clock collector.
He married Myrtice McNally on November 7, 1958.
Also surviving are two daughters, Vicki (Jim) Kelnohofer, Lisa Brisson; three sons, Danny (Edna) O’Dell, David (Marion) O’Dell, and Mike (Miki) O’Dell; three grandsons, Robert, Andrew, and Corey; four grand-daughters, Rachel, Rebekah, Amy, and Sarah; 10 great grand-kids, Kaleigh, Britton, Mattie, Kristopher, Kaleb, Dana, Kadence, Brooke, Briar, and Stevie Rae.
Services were held Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North with Pastor Mike Davis and Pastor James McNally officiating.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Michael J. Fox (Parkinsons) foundation.
Century Historic Board Limits Fence, Shed Options For Some Residents
August 1, 2018
Tuesday, the Century Historic Preservation Board approved a property owner’s new fence in the Alger-Sullivan Lumber Company Residential Historic District – limiting his options under a new ordinance and restricting a temporary shed.
Felic Fussner filed an application for development to construct an 8-foot privacy fence in the side and rear yard of a home and a storage shed in the 400 block of Front Street, in historic district. He also applied to construct a 4-foot picket fence in the front yard.
At their last meeting, the Century Town council approved new ordinance recommended by the historic board to allow only wooden fences in the historic historic district while reducing the side and rear fence allowable height from eight to six feet. Only transparent picket fences can be used in front yards. The council also agreed to restrict the use of freight containers as storage buildings in the historic district.
“We are not trying to put pressure on you,” board member Regi Burkett told Fussner. “We are tying to protect the historic significance in the district.”
Fussner said he is currently storing tools and materials in a metal freight container on his property — a practice that is now banned. But the board will recommend to the Century Town Council that he be granted a temporary permit for 90 days, with an option to renew for an additional 90 days.
The Century Town Council will consider that historic board’s recommendations on August 6.
Pictured: he Century Historic Preservation Board member Regi Burkett (front left) addresses Felic Fussner (front right) during a board meeting Tuesday. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Ireland Lee Brock
August 1, 2018
Ireland Lee Brock was born on June 30, 1942, the third child of Robbie and Bennie Brock in Pensacola, Florida. Being the youngest child, we have been told that he was harassed by his older brothers and thus adapted strong survival skills at an early age. He graduated from Pensacola Technical High School, attended Pensacola Junior College (now Pensacola State College). He transferred to Florida State University and graduated in 1966. He later earned his Masters of Education from The University of West Florida in August 1973.
Ireland had a strong work ethic having worked all through his school years from Pensacola News Journal, Dixie Grading and Paving, Y.M.C.A., Equipment Manager at the F.S.U. Athletic Dept., and Chemstrand. Upon graduation from F.S.U., he was employed by the Escambia County School Board and assigned to Tate High School for one year to coach under his mentor, Ralph Chaudran. Then back to Tate High School as Dean, then Assistant Principal. Other assignments include Principal at Ferry Pass Junior High, Escambia High School, Woodham High School, and retiring as Director of Student Services at the J.E. Hall Center.
He married Joyce Rains Brock on his birthday in 1961 and they celebrated their 57th anniversary this year. They have one daughter, Kelly Sallee Doheny and son-in-law, David Doheny, Jr.
Ireland loved sports and enjoyed watching and sometimes coaching his two grandchildren, Dustin Lee Clements and Bailey Michelle Clements; and great-grandchildren, Justin Washburn, Raylee Joyce Harper, Jayden Clements, and Chandler Clements. In addition, he has a brother, Charles Julia Brock and wife, Peggy Brock; sister-in-law, Gloria Brock Farris, sister-in-law, Linda Rains; brother-in-law, Ned Elzo; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bennie Lingo Brock, Sr.; mother, Robbie Head Cooper; mother-in-law, Mary Ellen Rains; step-father, Henry Cooper; brother, Bennie Lingo Brock, Jr.; brother-in-law, Kenneth Rains; sisters-in-law, Jean Walker and Helen Elzo; and niece, Cindi Beck.
Ireland was a private person but he loved God, family and helping others. And Will Rogers!
A memorial service will be at Faith Chapel North on Thursday, August 2, 2018. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. with the service starting at 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that you consider donating school supplies for needy children.
Trump Goes All In With Desantis At Tampa Rally
August 1, 2018
In a boisterous political rally held in Florida’s largest media market, President Donald Trump on Tuesday thrust his outsized persona into the middle of Florida’s governor’s race, with a full-throated endorsement of U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis.
Less than a month before the Aug. 28 gubernatorial primary, Trump opened his speech by telling a raucous crowd of more than 10,000 people packed into the cavernous Expo Hall at the Florida State Fairgrounds that DeSantis was a “good friend” and a “tough, brilliant cookie.”
“He’s going to be your next governor, Ron DeSantis,” Trump said.
DeSantis, a three-term congressman who grew up in nearby Dunedin and represents parts of Northeast Florida, said it was “a true honor to be standing here endorsed by the president of the United States.”
“I appreciate your support. But I appreciate more the leadership you are showing,” DeSantis said, citing Trump’s record on the economy, Israel and U.S. Supreme Court appointments.
DeSantis said Florida “is going in the right direction” but can continue to improve on “economic opportunities,” and “we can fight illegal immigration.”
His last statement drew a loud cheer and chants of “build that wall.” DeSantis said he would support imposing an electronic-verification system to make sure Florida workers have legal immigration status. He also said he would “stop sanctuary cities,” although there are none in Florida.
Trump’s support, which he has also given in tweets, has tilted the Republican primary for governor in favor of DeSantis over Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam. Independent polls have shown momentum among GOP voters for DeSantis in recent weeks, after Putnam, a former congressman and two-term member of the Florida Cabinet, had a solid lead in earlier polls.
Putnam, who was celebrating his 44th birthday Tuesday at a political event highlighting veterans in The Villages retirement community, said he supports Trump and his agenda.
“But this is about being Florida’s governor. This is about leading a $1 trillion economy in the third largest state, and to do that you need to know Florida,” Putnam said. “I know Florida better than any of the other candidates running. I’m confident that there’s an awful lot of Trump-Putnam voters out there who want a governor who actually understands the challenges facing them and puts them first.”
The venue Tuesday was important because the Tampa Bay media market can potentially reach a quarter of the state’s voters and has the largest concentration of Republican voters, said Susan MacManus, a longtime political-science professor at the University of South Florida.
“It’s clear now that DeSantis is playing offense and Putnam is playing defense. We’ll have to see. Putnam probably still has a lot of loyalists who see polls that suggest he could be better against any of the Democratic nominees,” MacManus said.
Several times during Trump’s speech he made sure to mention his support for DeSantis, who has been a frequent guest on the Fox News network and is an ardent defender of the president.
“He’s going to be an incredible governor,” Trump said.
Trump also said he doesn’t “do these endorsements easily,” but then cited his recent endorsement of Brian Kemp, a hard-line conservative who went on to a landslide victory in a Georgia Republican primary for governor.
Incoming Florida House Speaker Jose Oliva, a Miami Lakes Republican who was one of the opening speakers at the Tampa rally, said he supported the president’s decision, noting the differing political agendas of the Republican and Democratic parties.
“At a time we’re engaging in this debate, the sidelines is no place for a leader,” said Oliva, who was one of the first major Tallahassee leaders to endorse DeSantis.
The rally also included an appearance by DeSantis’ wife, Casey DeSantis, who is now featured in a light-hearted Trump-centric commercial for the campaign, along with the couple’s two small children.
“Ron is a conservative warrior. He is a fighter. Like our president, when he makes a promise, he keeps his promise,” she told the crowd.
Linda Kubilius, who attend the rally as part of “Trump Train” of Clearwater women who support the president, said she had already made up her mind to support DeSantis based on his performance in a Fox News debate in late June.
“We saw the debate, and it was DeSantis for me,” the Clearwater Beach resident said, saying Putnam did not “have the answers I wanted to hear.”
She said one of her top concerns for the next governor was dealing with the outbreak of toxic algae that has hit coastal communities in southeast and southwest Florida, after the release of polluted water from Lake Okeechobee.
DeSantis and Putnam meet in the second and final televised debate of the primary campaign Aug. 8 in Jacksonville.
by Lloyd Dunkelberger, The News Service of Florida
Courtesy photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
No Major Injuries In Major Looking Cantonment Wreck
July 31, 2018
Two people walked away with no major injuries after a major looking wreck in Cantonment Tuesday afternoon.
The accident happened just before 5:00 on Highway 29 at Morris Avenue and involved a Dodge Ram and a Buick Regal.
The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating. The Cantonment Station of Escambia Fire Rescue and Escambia County Fire Rescue’s Cantonment Station also responded.
NorthEscambia.com photos by Kristi Barbour, click to enlarge.
