Today’s Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District Workshop Is Canceled
July 2, 2025
The July 2 Escambia Soil and Water Conservation District Workshop has been canceled.
The next ESWCD Workshop is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug 6 at 3 p.m. at the Escambia County Central Office Complex, located at 3363 W. Park Place.
The Escambia County Soil and Water Conservation District is a special district focused on conserving and developing soil and water resources. Its mission includes preventing erosion, controlling floods, maintaining navigable waterways, protecting wildlife, and preserving the local tax base.
New Gulf Coast Amtrak Service Launches, But Not To Pensacola Or Atmore
July 2, 2025
Ticker fares and schedules were announced Tuesday for new twice-daily Amtrak intercity starting August 18 between Mobile and New Orleans with stops along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The new state-sponsored Amtrak Mardi Gras Service will offer convenient morning and evening departures from both cities.
“We encourage customers to get their tickets now to experience this new, comfortable, and scenic service, and have the first opportunity to travel by train on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in nearly 20 years,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “Guests can plan travel for football trips this fall, for November and December holiday travel – and even Mardi Gras Season next year.”
Adult coach fares end-to-end start at $15 each way, less for shorter distances. There are everyday discounts for children ages 2-12, students, seniors, veterans, military personnel and families, small groups, large groups, and others.
The new services do not extend to Atmore, Alabama’s official “Rail Welcome Center” for the state, or into Pensacola. In 2020
In January 2025, Escambia County (FL) Commissioners joined about 60 Florida commissioners in supporting expanded Amtrak passenger rail service from Mobile to Jacksonville, and the Florida expansion had the support of the Florida Association of Counties.
In early 2016, an Amtrak expansion train loaded with dignitaries traveled the route all the way through Atmore and Pensacola as early discussion for the service began.
Amtrak Mardi Gras Route
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Amtrak back to Mobile, and with tickets now officially on sale, this long-awaited service feels closer than ever,” said Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, who spoke at a Government Plaza news conference today where the start date, schedule and fares were first announced. “Mobilians have looked forward to the return of passenger rail for years, and the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service promises to deliver not just convenience, but connection.
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Amtrak Mardi Gras Service guests have same-day connections in both directions daily to the renowned Amtrak City of New Orleans trains between New Orleans and Chicago via Jackson, Miss., and Memphis, and next-day connections in New Orleans to famous Amtrak Crescent trains to and from New York via Atlanta, and legendary Amtrak Sunset Limited trains to and from Los Angeles via Tucson, San Antonio and Houston.
“The Southern Rail Commission is incredibly proud and excited that the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service is starting so soon after decades of work by all our partners who have played indispensable roles in today’s announcement,” said Southern Rail Commission (SRC) Chairman Knox Ross. “We know this service will have tremendous impact in boosting our local economies, connecting people with jobs and education opportunities, and bolstering our vibrant tourism industry in the coastal cities along the route and we encourage everyone to start buying tickets for your upcoming travel.”
Amtrak plans to celebrate the start of service with an Inaugural Train to operate on August 16. Stops will be Mobile, Pascagoula, Biloxi, Gulfport, Bay Saint Louis and New Orleans.
NorthEscambia.com file photos, click to enlarge.
Northview Softball Wraps Historic Season With Banquet, Awards
July 2, 2025
The state runner-up Northview Chiefs held their annual banquet this week to wrap-up their historic season.
The Chiefs ended their season at 22-7, but what it season it was.
The Lady Chiefs had plenty of reasons to celebrate, including wins over Jay, their biggest rival. The Chiefs beat Jay 9-5 on April 3 in Bratt. And on a field in Jay that has seen more than its share of tears as seasons ended for the Lady Chiefs over the years. Northview claimed the district championship 9-1 over the Royals.
Then, for the first time ever, Northview earned a regional title with a 4-1 win over Jay.
Northview beat Branford 14-6 in their first ever trip to the Final Four, leading to the school’s first ever appearance in a state championship softball game where they fell 11-1 to Trenton.
This week, the Lady Chiefs honored the following players:
VARSITY AWARD
Rookie of the Year – Aubrey Hadley
Best Bat – Avery Stuckey
Best All Around – Day Randolph
Leadership Award – Riley Brooks
Best Hustle – Riley Brooks
Best Defense – Kylee Langham
MVP – Mikayla McAnally
JV AWARDS
Best Bat – Julianna Tidwell
Sportsmanship- Amanda Fernandez
Best Defensive Player -Bella Sanspree
Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Chance Of Rain Today, Clearing By Thursday
July 2, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Wednesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Northwest wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 92. North wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Independence Day: Sunny, with a high near 93. North wind around 5 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Saturday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. East wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Sunday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 91.
Sunday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Monday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 60%
Wahoos, Shuckers Suspended By Rain; Game Will Resume Wednesday
July 2, 2025
Tuesday’s series opener between the Pensacola Blue Wahoos and Biloxi Shuckers was suspended due to rain with the Shuckers leading 2-0 in the bottom of the first inning.
The Shuckers scored a pair of runs in the first inning on a Cooper Pratt sacrifice fly and Mike Boeve RBI single, and the Blue Wahoos built a two-out rally in their half of the frame with a Kemp Alderman single and Nathan Martorella walk before a light rain turned steady and forced a weather delay.
After waiting approximately an hour, the game was suspended. It will be picked up Wednesday at 4:05 p.m. CT, and the regularly scheduled game will follow approximately 30 minutes after its conclusion. In accordance with MLB’s rules and regulations, the second game will be shortened to seven innings.
Fans with tickets to Wednesday’s game will have admittance to both games in the seat listed on their ticket. Fans with tickets to Tuesday’s suspended game can exchange them for any remaining regular season game, subject to availability. Each ticket must be exchanged at least 24 hours in advance of the desired game at the Pensacola Blue Wahoos Ticket Office for a ticket of equal or lesser value. Exchanges must be made in person.
Escambia Man Gets 10 Years In Federal Prison For Armed Drug Trafficking
July 2, 2025
An Escambia County man has been sentenced to a decade in federal prison in a drug and firearm case.
Dillon Devontrez Royster, 31, was sentenced to 10 years after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
On April 17, 2024, members of the Escambia County Sherriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives executed a search warrant at Dillion Royster’s residence. During the search, law enforcement found approximately 1,851 grams of methamphetamine, 10 grams of fentanyl, and numerous firearms.
This sentence was the result of a joint investigation by Escambia County Sherriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp prosecuted the case.
“I applaud the substantial efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate, arrest, and help bring this drug trafficker to justice,” U.S. Attorney Heekin said. “This is yet another important case by my office fulfilling the promise of President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America by aggressively pursuing criminal offenders who victimize our communities. We will not stop until we have rid our streets of these criminals who peddle in violence and addiction.”
“This is a huge win for public safety in Northwest Florida,” said ATF Tampa Field Division’s Assistant Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Harrell. “Armed drug trafficking is a serious crime – this investigation demonstrates what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies work together to remove an armed drug trafficker from our communities.”
Boil Water Notice Issued For Neal Road, Forehand Lane And Surrounding Areas
July 2, 2025
UPDATE: THIS BOIL WATER NOTICE WAS LIFTED THE AFTERNOON OF JULY 3.
Cottage Hill Water Works has issued a boil water notice for Neal Road, Forehand Lane, and surrounding areas.
Specifically, the boil water notice includes all residents and meters on Well Line Road, Brookhill driver, Pine Top Lane, Forehand Lane, Neal Road, Hillock Driver, Ridge Way and Knollwood Drive. Scheduled system upgrades took place today in the area, resulting in a disruption of water service.
The utility is advising, as a precaution, that all water in the area that is used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes be boiled. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient. As an alternative bottled water may be used.
This precautionary boil water notice will remain in effect until the problem has been corrected and a bacteriological survey shows that the water is safe to drink.
This story will be updated when the boil water notice is rescinded.
Planet Fitness Construction Begins On Nine Mile As Costco Plans Remain In Limbo
July 1, 2025
Construction is now underway on a new Planet Fitness location on Nine Mile Road, while a new Costco remains in limbo.
Escambia County building permits have been issued for Planet Fitness at 312 East Nine Mile Road, next door to Aldi. It is in the remainder of a former Winn Dixie grocery store space that was converted into an Aldi with a smaller footprint, which opened in March.
The new Planet Fitness will occupy 19,315 square feet, according to the building permit, and will include a gym and fitness center, restrooms, showers, a new check-in desk and reception area, and a “Black Card Spa” area. An anticipated opening date has not been announced.
Planet Fitness is still open at 235 East Nine Mile Road — where a new Costco is proposed.
Tampa-based Thomas Engineering filed plans with the Escambia County Development Review Committee (DRC) for the store at 225 East Nine Mile Road back in June of last year. Then, in response to DRC feedback, updated plans were filed in late October 2024.
Since that time, the proposal has not gone before the DRC for consideration. Without a development order, the project cannot move forward.
Earlier this month, Escambia County told NorthEscambia.com that Costco “is currently under review with some state regulatory items still pending.” A DRC hearing has not yet been scheduled but could be forthcoming soon.
The latest plans filed with Escambia County show the 172,580 square foot Costco retail store with a gas station and 835 parking spaces at 225 East Nine Mile Road, at the corner of East Nine Mile Road and Chemstrand Road. That’s the site of the current Planet Fitness and a former Kmart store, spanning several parcels totaling just under 22 acres.
The plans show the existing Dairy Queen, Sam’s Seafood Restaurant, and Wells Fargo will remain, with a Costco gas station constructed between Sam’s Seafood and Wells Fargo in an area that is currently a parking area for the old shopping center. The current Planet Fitness building will be demolished to make room for the new Costco if it’s approved.
Pictured: Planet Fitness construction and the current location on Nine Mile Road as seen Saturday afternoon. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Dozens of Escambia County FFA Members Recognized During State Convention (With Gallery)
July 1, 2025
Dozens of Escambia County FFA students were recognized during the 97th Florida FFA State Convention & Expo recently in Orlando.
Tate High School
Leadership Development Events
Top 12
- State Finalist Creed Speaking – Luke Graham
Career Development Events
- Aquaculture – 3rd in State: Daniel Aldridge, Raevyn Aldridge, Luke Graham, Henry Merritt, Christopher Smythe, Caileigh Tonsetic, Anthony Villaverde, Parker White
Proficiency Awards
- Talia Smith – 1st Place in Veterinary Science
General Awards and Achievements
- National Chapter being advanced to Nationals
- Premier Chapter
State FFA Degrees
- Kaydon Biggs
- Blakely Campbell
- Christian Hollingsworth
- Brooke Hoomes
- Phoenix Myrick
- Ellen Rigby
American FFA Degrees
- Sarah Alexander
- Kamden Jones
- Austin Manning
- Francis Martin
- Lyllian Warne
Northview High School
Leadership Development Events
Top 12
- State Finalist Parliamentary Procedure
Proficiency Awards
- Braden Glick – 1st Place in Fiber and Oil Crop Production
General Awards and Achievements
- Premier Chapter Award
- Florida’s Finest Chapter (National Chapter Award)
- Chapter Advocacy Award – 2nd Place
- State Talent Performer – Hunter Manning
- Elected District 1 Secretary – Ona Spinks
Alumni Awards:
- Outstanding Young Alumni – Courtney Solari
- Outstanding Alumni Chapter – 3rd Place Northview FFA Alumni
State FFA Degrees
- Tyler Gilmore
- Jackson Bridges
- Hunter Manning
American FFA Degrees
- Cody Pugh
- Tyler Riggs
- Jayden Franklin
West Florida High School
Leadership Development Events
- Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Suzie Baker 4th place in state
- State Finalist Conduct of Chapter Meetings
Proficiency Awards
- Feeder Swine
General Awards and Achievements
- Premier Chapter Award
- National Agriscience Fair Finalist, Suzie Baker and Kayley Ramswell Social Systems, Division 6
- State Agriscience Fair, Lily Driver and Ally Aguilar Animal Systems, Division 6 2nd place
- State Talent Performer – Gabriel Flores, National Anthem – Session 1
- State Talent Performer – Kensi Armendariz, “Girl Crush” – Session 3
Beulah Middle School
Leadership Development Events
Top 12 In State
- Parliamentary Procedure – Gabriel Lang, Garrison Bruck, Grady Jackson, Lydia Arnold, Emma Malecki, Olivia Nunn
Career Development Events
- 5th Place Aquaculture – Solise Beeks, Louis Hartjen and Lydia Arnold
General Awards and Achievements
- Agriscience 3rd Place Animal Systems Division 1 – Cheyenne Armstong
Agriscience - Agriscience 3rd Place Social Science Division 2 – Izsabella Long
Other Achievements:
Isabelle Jenkins:
- Elected Florida FFA State Secretary 2025-2026
- State Star in Agriscience
- State Proficiency Winner in Agriscience
- Agriscience 2nd Place Animal Systems Division 5
- State Degree Recipient
- Finalist for the Ryan Ryam Outstanding District Officer
- 1st in the State in Aquaculture
- Highest individual in State in Aquaculture
Jayden Williams & Jonathan McIntosh (FLVS FFA Member)
- 1st in the State in Aquaculture
Rain Likely For Tuesday
July 1, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tuesday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 10am and 1pm, then showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. High near 85. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Tuesday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm, then a slight chance of showers between 10pm and 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Thursday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 91. North wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 71. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Independence Day: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Saturday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93.
Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly clear, with a low around 72.
Sunday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Sunday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Chance of precipitation is 60%.