Free Groceries And Books At Century, Tryon And Main Library Locations On Wednesday
July 19, 2021
Children and their families can receive free groceries and books on Wednesday at three library locations.
FoodRaising Friends, the Escambia County School District and West Florida Public Libraries will be hosting “Hungry to Read”.
At 10 a.m. Wednesday a free bag of groceries and books will be distributed to children and families at the Century, Tryon and Main libraries while supplies last. The books are furnished by Navy Federal Credit Union.
There will be a limited supply off 100 bags of groceries available at each location. For more information, contact FoodRaising Friends at (850) 346-5950 or email foodraisingfriends@gmail.com.
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Rain Chances At 90% For Monday And Tuesday
July 19, 2021
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 85. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Monday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 82. South wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Tuesday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 84. Southwest wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Wednesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph.
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Southwest wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Saturday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Sunday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Gas Prices Weaken As Crude Prices Tumble, AAA Says
July 19, 2021
The state average price for gasoline in Florida has fallen back below $3 a gallon for the first time this month. The average price for gasoline is now $2.99, down two cents from last week.
The average price per gallon in Escambia County was a bit higher at $3.02. A low of $2.92 could be found Sunday night at a Highway 29 station in Cantonment, while two Pensacola stations were at $2.83.
Crude oil prices declined last week, which has enabled gasoline prices to weaken,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The crude futures market is digesting the recent news that OPEC and its oil producing allies plan to gradually increase oil production this year. Initial reports led to lower prices last week, but it’s unclear where the crude market will go from here. For now, drivers can enjoy a break from rising prices at the pump, with the possibility that retail prices slip a few more cents this week.”
Pictured: Regular unleaded was $2.99 a gallon Sunday afternoon in Molino. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Dorothy Al Langham Ryan
July 19, 2021
Dorothy Al Langham Ryan died Monday, July 19, 2021 at the age of 81. She was one of four children born to Emery Lee and Nancy Griffin Langham of Bay Minette. She attended Baldwin County High School and raised her own family in her hometown, where she worked at various positions including local drug stores, cleaners and as a church secretary, among other positions. Her family said her most important job was as a mother to her four children, as well as countless cousins and neighbors as part of a big extended family. While there are many adjectives that can be used to describe “Ginga” – as she was known to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren – some of the most often used are humble, kind, loving, generous, and selfless. She was always willing to help to anyone in need, even when she didn’t have it to share. She always put others needs ahead of her own and was never able to turn anybody down that needed a helping hand. She was generous in spirit and in deed.
Ms. Ryan was a young bride and young mother and was devoted to her close-knit family which included her four children and a host of nephews, nieces and neighbors. She truly enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and would find great joy in attending their sporting and school events or any get-together. She was a member of 14th Street Church of Christ. Her children credit her with instilling the importance of attending church in each of them and she often brought along many of the neighborhood children as well.
She leaves behind a legacy of love for her four children, Diann Ryan (Al) Peavy, Carol Ryan (Jerry) Ballard, both of Bay Minette, Earnie (Martha) Ryan of Bay Minette, Eddie (Kimberly) Ryan of Bratt, FL; grandchildren, Danielle Brown, Ryan Watson, Megan Hester, Mallory Glick, Austin Ryan, Kaston Peavy; great-grandchildren, Ryder Nease, Bear Brown, Story Jean Brown, Juniper Rae Brown, Slayden Peavy, Jase Hester, Grady Hester, Dustin Watson, Peyton Watson, Jayden Watson, Maelyn Glick; and baby Ryan who will be born in January 2022 to Austin and Emily, and lifelong friend, Clarise Cook.
She is preceded in death by her parents Emery Lee Langham and Nancy Griffin Langham; and three siblings, Donald Langham, Jimmy Langham and Gloria Bell Gilliland; and Adolph Ryan, the father of her four children.
Visitation will take place 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, July 22, 2021 at Norris Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at noon at the funeral home, followed by burial at Bay Minette Cemetery. Brother Jerry Childs will serve as the officiant.
Pallbearers will include Kaston Peavy, Austin Ryan, Ryan Watson, Peyton Watson, Joel Bell and Bart Bell. Honorary pallbearers will include Keith Langham, Tommy Langham, Brandon Hester, Michael Glick and Bubba Brown.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to 14th Street Church of Christ, P.O. Box 694, Bay Minette, AL 36507 or Community Hospice, 1450 N. McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535.
Harold Lee Milstead Sr.
July 19, 2021
Harold Lee Milstead Sr. was taken from this world too soon and went to be with his Lord and Savior, July 17, 2021 in Pensacola, FL. He was born in Atmore, AL on May 27, 1955 to Charles (Buck) Lester Milstead and Dorothy Elois Brooks. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Harold Lee Milstead Jr. and his brothers, Charles Milstead and John Milstead.
Harold was raised in Cantonment, FL and spent the the last 22+ years traveling with his wife Debbie throughout the United States for his career in Electrical Instrumentation. He was a Project Manager until his retirement in June 2019. Harold was a member of the Ensley Lodge No. 278, __A & A Scottish Rite and Hadji Shrine. He loved spending his free time fishing, hunting, golfing, and occasionally visiting the casino. He also enjoyed watching college football and was an avid Florida Gators fan. After his retirement he returned to his home in Cantonment, FL where he enjoyed spending time on numerous projects around the house, “piddling” around in his garden and making sure the yard was always well maintained.
Harold was a wonderful husband, father, Pawpaw, brother, friend, and a mentor to many. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed making memories with them at every opportunity. He brought life to everything, was truly one of a kind and will be greatly missed.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 40 years, Debbie, two daughters, Melissa (Steve) Whisler and Cassandra “Sandie” (Joacim) Borg, seven grandchildren, Montana (Britt) Biggs, Dagan Biggs, Wyatt (Kyla) Milstead, Dillon Milstead, Brychan Whisler, Isabella Borg, Kynaston Whisler, four great grandchildren, Keylan and Maisie Biggs and Jayce and Adelyn Milstead, his five siblings, William (Janet) Milstead, Dorothy “Polly” Woods, Francis Chilton, Betty Jo (Lynn) McNorton, Ray (Donna) Milstead as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers are Steve Whisler, Joacim Borg, Montana Biggs, Dagan Biggs, Wyatt Milstead and Brychan Whisler.
Visitation will be at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North on Friday, July 23, 2021 between 12:30-1:30 pm and service will follow. Graveside service will follow at Pensacola Memorial Gardens. Pastor Doug Kimsal will be officiating.
FWC Hunter Safety Course Offered In Cantonment
July 19, 2021
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is offering a free hunter safety internet-completion course in Escambia County.
Students who have taken the online course and wish to complete the classroom portion must bring the online-completion report with them.
All firearms, ammunition and materials are provided free of charge. Students should bring a pen or pencil and paper. An adult must accompany children younger than 16 at all times.
Anyone born on or after June 1, 1975, must pass an approved hunter safety course and have a hunting license to hunt alone (unsupervised). The FWC course satisfies hunter-safety training requirements for all other states and Canadian provinces.
The course will be offered as follows:
Langley Bell 4-H Center (Cantonment)
- July 28 (6 to 10 p.m.) and July 31 (7 to 10 a.m)
A course had also been planned for Molino but was canceled due to low enrollment. Those students have been transferred to the clinic in Cantonment.
Those interested in attending a course can register online and obtain information about future hunter safety classes at MyFWC.com/HunterSafety or by calling the FWC’s regional office in Panama City at (850) 265-3676.
Blue Wahoos Shine On Defense, But Fall Short Offensively In Loss To Chattanooga
July 19, 2021
Infielders Devin Hairston and Connor Justus wowed the Pensacola crowd on Sunday afternoon, each making a trio of stellar defensive plays in the early innings of Sunday’s game against Chattanooga, but Pensacola’s offense fell short again in a 3-1 loss to the Lookouts.
While the team turned in a collection of tremendous defensive plays behind a strong start from Jeff Lindgren (L, 3-6, 5.0 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 1 K), the story remained Pensacola’s lack of offense. The Lookouts pitching staff, fronted by starter Graham Ashcraft (W, 4-1, 6.0 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 5 K), held Pensacola scoreless until the ninth inning.
Over the past two weeks, a period during which the Blue Wahoos have fallen from first to third place in the Double-A South, the Blue Wahoos have hit a league-low .197. Those struggles continued Sunday, as the Blue Wahoos were out-hit by Chattanooga for the third consecutive game and left nine runners on-base.
Pensacola’s lone run came in the ninth inning thanks to outfielder J.D. Orr, who doubled home Hairston, who had reached on a fielder’s choice. Orr joined Pensacola on Tuesday from A-Jupiter and continued to be a bright spot offensively for the Blue Wahoos, going 2-4 on Sunday and raising his batting average in his first week at the Double-A level to .350.
On the mound for Pensacola, Lindgren provided 5.0 strong innings, allowing a pair of runs on five hits. A bullpen combination of Andrew McInvale (1.0 IP, 2 K), Josh Roberson (1.0 IP), Andrew Nardi (1.0 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, K), and Alberto Guerrero (1.0 IP, K) combined to throw four innings of relief without allowing an earned run to keep the score close.
After a day off on Monday, the Blue Wahoos will head on the road to Montgomery to play the Biscuits (33-29). LHP Will Stewart (3-5, 4.52 ERA) projects to start the series opener for Pensacola on Tuesday.
Escambia County Celebrates 200 Years (With Photo Gallery)
July 18, 2021
Escambia County celebrated its 200th anniversary Saturday.
A sunrise “Mvskoke Mekusvpkv” prayer by the Santa Rosa Creek Tribe began the festivities, followed by a formal program, exactly 200 years after the exchange of Spanish and American flags.
For a photo gallery, click here.
“There were a wide range of events taking place this weekend to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the transition of Florida from being a colony of a foreign European country to a Territory of the United States,” said 200th Commission Committee Chair Dr. Judy Bense. “There was something for children, teenagers and adults of all ages. Our program included patriotic music, statements by current leaders, a flag raising, children’s scavenger hunt, live reenactments of the Battles of Pensacola and live performances by Hispanic and African-American dancers. Embedded in each event was the significance of the historic moment of transition on the exact same day and place that it occurred two centuries ago right here in Pensacola.”
Collier Merrill, Chairman of UWF Historic Trust said, “We are proud to have has such a celebration for this important event in Florida’s history. As in most port cities, Pensacola has many diverse communities, who all come together to honor of our past, present and future. Our rich history continues to be a highlight of our community, a wonderful complement to out beautiful weather and white beaches. Special thanks to Commission co-chairs, Dr. Judy Bense and Margo Stringfield, as well as the entire commission and events committee. We were honored for Secretary Laurel Lee, Sen. Rick Scott and guests to be a part of today’s historic event, helping us to celebrate Florida’s Territorial celebration.”
Pastor Freddie Nathan Tellis said, “I want to extend my congratulations to the county of my youth and my retirement on this, its 200th anniversary. Escambia county has seen historic changes in public policies, educational gains and sports heroes unlike any other county I know of. My military service has taken me to many states and counties across this country and the old saying ‘there’s no place like home’ holds true for me.”
Chief Dan “Sky Horse” Helms, Santa Rosa Creek Indian Tribe said, “You have just heard the Muscogee Language spoken openly and publicly here in Pensacola for the first time in 191 years.” He said in translation: Hello. How are you. I am Chief Sky Horse. I have deer hides I want to trade.
“The Indian Removal Act of 1830 not only banned our language from being spoken, but it would have banned our sunrise Muscogee Blessing. This great city was founded by people of varying heritage and culture. They come together in harmony and unity of purpose. That purpose was to create a better life for themselves and their descendants.”
UWF President Dr. Martha Saunders said, “Congratulations to all who made this celebration a reality. It has been an honor to partner with our community on this Bicentennial Celebration. UWF takes great pride in our role in preserving the eight-acre area known as Historic Pensacola in the heart of our vibrant downtown.”
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott said, “It’s great to be here. We are going to put in one of my Navy hats in the time capsule signed by my wife, Ann, and me. Congratulations, it’s wonderful to be here on a beautiful, hot Pensacola day.”
Florida Rep. Michelle Salzman remarked, “As a native of the community, it is my distinct privilege to be a part of this historical cultural occasion. Commerce by trade has made Pensacola a viable settlement, and as we move beyond our 200 years, we must continue to focus on diverse and sustainable growth while continuing to respect our heritage and history.”
“I could not be prouder to celebrate Escambia County’s 200th anniversary,” said Florida Rep. Alex Andrade. “Celebrating our history, warts and all, is the only way we can continue to progress without losing what makes our region, state and country so special.”
Captain Timothy Kinsella stated, “There has been a continuous military presence on the grounds of NAS Pensacola since Fort San Carlos de Austria was built here in 1698. Ever since Florida’s entry into the Union in 1821, the United States Military has had a continuous presence in Pensacola through the Navy Yard, Fort Barrancas and the Navy’s first air station. During those 200 years of sometimes tumultuous, but often joyful history, the City of Pensacola and the military community have been inextricably linked, and it is our privilege to continue that legacy into the future.”
“Florida is rich with history and culture and the Territorial Bicentennial commemoration in Pensacola inspires us to reflect on the lasting legacy of all who have called Florida home,” said Florida Secretary of State, Laurel M. Lee. “I am honored to have participated in the commemoration of this major historical turning point in Florida’s history and look forward to continuing to preserve and share the history and heritage of our great state.”
Florida Sen. Broxson said, “When I made the proclamation in the Senate, I told the story of Escambia County. There was a battle between Escambia and St. Johns County to a point that we were alternating which would be the capitol each year, Pensacola or St. Augustine. We decided we would meet at a central site and headed toward Tallahassee to be our capitol. Dr. Bense legitimized that Pensacola is really the oldest settlement in the state of Florida and not St. Augustine. What a great time it is. What an honor to be here. My family has been here for over 200 years and many of your families, the streets were named after them. On behalf of the state Senate of Florida, I want to give this proclamation to Dr. Bense and thank you, Pensacola, thank you Escambia, thank you Florida for such a great place to live.”
Escambia County Chairman Bender said, “Although Escambia County has grown with development and population over 200 years, in many ways it has remained the same. We still get to enjoy the clear water it was named after, the best beaches in the world and the abundant sea life. Spanning 200 years, there has been continuous improvement to provide efficient, responsive services that enhance our quality of life, meet common needs and promote a safe and healthy community. I’m proud to call Escambia County my home, and I hope you are too. It’s nice to take the time to pause and celebrate how far we’ve come in 200 years!”
“It is an exciting day to celebrate the rich history of Pensacola, Escambia County and the State of Florida, and to celebrate all who came before us to pave the way for creating the thriving community we see today,” Mayor Grover Robinson said. “We are fortunate to have such a diverse blend of cultures and rich heritage in our community. We truly are Florida’s first and Florida’s future, and I’m excited to see what the future has in store for Pensacola as we continue to grow and prosper.”
After remarks, Caitlyn Moore from Sacred Heart Cathedral School read her winning essay, “What it means to me to be an American.” Leo Day sang “America the Beautiful” and “God Bless America.”
The formal program concluded with UWF bands playing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” while there was a re-enactment of an exchange of flags from the Spanish flag to the American flag. There was a Navy flyover, a special historic marker dedication by Robinson and Bender, and the storing of a time capsule at the UWF Historic Trust to be reopened in 25 years.
For a photo gallery, click here.
Programing was structured to reflect our community’s rich and diverse heritage and the collective influences that make our community what it is today. Pensacola’s Historic Village remained open until 4 p.m., featuring a performance by the Ayoka Afrikan Drum and Dance Ensemble on stage and a history and archaeology scavenger hunt for kids. Various other demonstrations, re-enactments, live music and dance routines wrapped up the bicentennial at Historic Village. A keel boat was at Pitt Slip Marina, and on Friday two historic Battle of Pensacola war reenactments unfolded at Fountain Park, 300 East Zaragoza Street.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Christmas In July: Santa Takes Part In Walnut Hill Toy Giveaway
July 18, 2021
Santa Claus made a special visit to Walnut Hill Saturday for a Christmas in July Toy Giveaway.
The event was held at a the Walnut Hill Community Center for children ages 2-17. Preregistered families received a selection of toys and more.
For a photo gallery, click here.
The toy giveaway was sponsored by Youth and Family Community Outreach, Good 360, Toys for Tots, and Renovot.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Rain Chances Increase
July 18, 2021
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 87. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Sunday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 85. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Monday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 83. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Tuesday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Calm wind.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. High near 85. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Wednesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 88. Chance of precipitation is 60%.