Hot, Dry Days Ahead All This Week

September 14, 2025

Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:

Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Monday: Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning.

Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 63. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 64. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night: Clear, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 90.

Thursday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 65.

Friday: Sunny, with a high near 91.

Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 92.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Archive

Flomaton Man Arrested In Century For Concealed Brass Knuckles

September 14, 2025

A Flomaton man was arrested in Century on weapons charges for brass knuckles.

Cody Alexander Leverette, 27, was charged with two counts of carrying a concealed weapon and one count of loitering or prowling.

The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 7600 block of Mayo Street for a suspicious person complaint. Deputies circulated the area, locating Leverette walking in a wooded area between Lodge Street and Alger Road before he scaled a six-foot tall privacy fence in the backyard of a home on Lodge Street. Deputies located him under a trailer, according to an arrest report.

When Leverette was searched, deputies reported finding a pocket knife, a short fixed blade knife, and two pairs of brass knuckles that were hidden between his pants and underwear.

The homeowner declined to press charges against Leverette for entering his property by scaling the privacy fence.

The report states Leverette has a previous felony conviction in Mississippi.

He remained in the Escambia County Jail with bond Sunday morning due to a violation of probation charge in a previous weapon case.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News

UWF Center For Cybersecurity Awarded $2 Million Grant To Expand Training

September 14, 2025

The University of West Florida Center for Cybersecurity has been awarded a $2 million grant to expand the UWF Florida Cybersecurity Training Program, a statewide initiative that provides free cybersecurity education for eligible Florida government personnel. The program is funded by the Florida Legislature through the Cyber Florida: FirstLine initiative.

“This program will equip Florida’s government workforce with the latest knowledge and skills to defend against evolving cyber threats,” said Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, associate vice president at the UWF Center for Cybersecurity. “By integrating AI and emerging technologies, we’re not just meeting today’s challenges, we’re building stronger, smarter defenses and strengthening Florida’s cyber resilience.”

The free training program is open to state, county, city, K-12, higher education, tribal and territorial government personnel. By expanding course offerings, the program supports Florida’s efforts to enhance cybersecurity readiness at all levels of government.

“This investment in cybersecurity training is vital to protecting Florida’s infrastructure and communities,” said UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. “Through this program, UWF continues to play a leading role in building a highly skilled cyber workforce and serving as a catalyst for innovation and resilience in our state.”

From September 2025 through June 2026, the Center will launch 41 new online courses designed to strengthen Florida’s cyber workforce and help protect critical state and local systems from cyber threats. The expanded schedule introduces new industry certification prep courses, advanced technical training and interactive one-day cyber skills exercises with a focus on leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance cybersecurity.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News

Escambia Man Gets Federal Prison For Possessing Stolen Mail

September 14, 2025

An Escambia County man has been sentenced to federal prison for mail theft.

Rashaad Tariq Lee, 31, was sentenced to 25 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of stolen mail and means of identification.

On February 22, 2024, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office executed a residential search warrant at an apartment Lee resided at and obtained through fraud, utilizing a senior citizen’s identity. Law enforcement located stolen mail, counterfeiting tools, and identification for individuals’ including driver’s licenses, social security cards, stolen and counterfeit checks. Investigators identified 71 additional victims based on the items located and seized from the residence.

“I truly appreciate the outstanding investigative work by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service that put an end to this offender’s fraud and theft schemes,” U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida John P. Heekin said. “Mail theft and identity theft has a devastating impact on the victims of such crimes, and my office will aggressively pursue prosecutions to ensure offenders face maximum consequences for the harm they have caused.”

“This prosecution sends the message that mail theft will not be tolerated, and the perpetrators will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector in Charge, Bladismir Rojo, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division. “The Postal Inspection Service will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue criminals who victimize postal customers.”

“Teamwork delivers results,” said Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons. “Through our partnership with the US Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, a suspect in a stolen mail and ID case has been sentenced to 25 months. If you steal from our community, you will face justice.”

Lee’s imprisonment will be followed by a three-year term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration.

The case was investigated jointly by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News

Here Are This Week’s Traffic Slow Down Construction Spots

September 14, 2025

Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.

Escambia County:

Interstate 110 (I-110) Resurfacing from Interstate 10 (I-10) to U.S. 98 – The week of Sunday, Sept. 14, drivers will encounter an outside lane closure on the I-10 westbound ramp to access I-110 southbound (Exit 12). Crews will be performing drainage improvements on I-110 southbound near mile marker 6.
Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard (State Road (S.R.) 296) Resurfacing, from Davis Highway (S.R. 291) to Baisden Road – Drivers may encounter the following traffic disruptions, Sunday, Sept. 14 through Thursday, Sept. 18, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. for milling and paving operations:
- Intermittent lane closures on Brent Lane/Bayou Boulevard, from Davis Highway to Baisden Road.
- On-street parking closures on Bayou Boulevard, between 12th Avenue and Baisden Road.
Michigan Avenue (S.R. 296) Resurfacing from Mobile Highway (U.S. 90) to North Palafox Street (U.S. 29) – The week of Sunday, Sept. 14, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Michigan Avenue, from Mobile Highway to North Palafox Street, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., for paving operations and placement of thermoplastic striping.
S.R. 292 (Gulf Beach Highway) Resurfacing from Gulf Beach Highway to Manchester Street – The week of Sunday, Sept. 14, drivers traveling S.R. 292 from Gulf Beach Highway (County Road (C.R.) 292A east) to Manchester Street may encounter nighttime lane closures between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for milling and resurfacing work. Additionally, a new traffic configuration will be implemented on S.R. 292, between Mills Avenue and Patton Drive, all lanes will shift south. Signage will be in place to guide drivers safely through the work zone.
U.S. 90 (Scenic Highway) Resurfacing, from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road – Drivers on Scenic Highway may encounter intermittent lane closures, from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road, Sunday, Sept. 14 through Thursday, Sept. 18, from 8 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., for paving operations. Law enforcement will be on site and traffic flaggers will direct drivers safely through the work zone.
Garden Street (Business U.S. 98) Construction from Pace Boulevard to the I-110 Ramp – The week of Sunday, Sept. 14, drivers may encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Garden Street, between Pace Boulevard and N. Donelson Street, is reduced to two travel lanes (one in each direction), as crews perform construction activities on the south side of the street. This temporary traffic configuration will be in place through early 2026.
- Temporary side street closures south of Garden Street, from B Street to J Street, for stormwater management upgrades. Signage will be in place to direct drivers through the work zone.
- On-street parking is closed on the south side of Garden Street, between B Street and L Street. Additionally, periodic on-street parking closures will occur on Garden Street, between A Street and Alcaniz Street, for sidewalk and crosswalk improvements.
Beulah Road (S.R. 99) Resurfacing from Mobile Highway (S.R. 10A) to Isaacs Lane – Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures on Beulah Road, from Nine Mile Road to Mobile Highway, Sunday, Sept. 14 through Thursday, Sept. 18, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., for concrete work and shoulder stabilization operations.
I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions:
- Intermittent I-10 inside lane closures near the Nine Mile Road interchange, Sunday, Sept. 14 through Thursday, Sept. 18, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps, Sunday, Sept. 14 through Friday, Sept. 18, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone.

I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions from Sunday, Sept. 14 through Friday, Sept. 19:
- I-10 east and westbound travel lanes are shifted away from the median area of the roadway, between mile markers 10 and 12, near the U.S. 29 interchange.
- The length of the U.S. 29 southbound turn lane access to the I-10 eastbound on-ramp has been permanently reduced to allow crews to complete construction activities. A concrete barrier wall and new pavement striping is in place to direct traffic through the work zone.
- I-10, between U.S. 29 and I-110, is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction.
- The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound.

U.S. 90 (West Cervantes Street) Routine Underground Utility Maintenance between North Palafox and North Spring Street – Motorists may encounter intermittent nighttime lane closures Wednesday, Sept. 17 through Friday, Sept. 19 for routine underground utility maintenance.

Santa Rosa County:

S.R. 87 Resurfacing, from south of East Bay Boulevard (C.R. 399) to Vonnie Tolbert Road – Next week, drivers may encounter the following disruptions between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. for paving operations:
- Intermittent lane closures on S.R. 87, from East Bay Boulevard to Vonnie Tolbert Road, Monday, Sept. 15 through Friday, Sept. 19.
- East River Boat Ramp Road will be reduced to one lane, Monday, Sept. 15. Traffic flaggers will be on site to safely direct drivers through the work zone.
U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts:

o Median and turn-lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive.

o Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive Sunday, Sept. 14 through Friday, Sept. 19.

All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News

Trimble, Wahoos Run Wild in 4-3 Win

September 14, 2025

written by Bill Vilona

Back in spring training, the Blue Wahoos made stolen bases a point of emphasis in 2025, along with the entire Miami Marlins organization.

On a record setting night for steals, they got a signature season win because of it.

Led by outfielder Fenwick Trimble, who tied Billy Hamilton’s 2012 team record with four steals in a game, the Blue Wahoos set a team record with seven thefts in a single game, which became pivotal in a 4-3 victory Saturday against the Columbus Clingstones before a capacity crowd of 5,038 at Blue Wahoos Stadium.

“You gotta get on, first, so that was cool to get on (base) a couple times and our coaches do a great job teaching us fundamentals, so you try to stick with that,” said Trimble who reached on a walk and single, scoring both times.
Three of the four runs were delivered from stolen bases, including a double-steal that forced a throwing error to score a run.

The Blue Wahoos have now stolen 199 bases this season, blowing past the previous team record of 168 set In 2022. An ambitious preseason goal of 200 steals can be attained in Sunday’s season-finale against Columbus.

This year-ender game also presents opportunity for the Blue Wahoos (68-79 overall, 34-34 second half) to produce a winning second-half mark and extend a streak of non-losing season records to nine consecutive years.
“Finish strong, have fun and play all the way to the end,” said Trimble on the team’s approach to wrapping up six months and 138 baseball games.

Saturday’s performance led into the final fireworks show of the season and kept the crowd at the ballpark roaring with approval after the show’s grand finale in the sky ended.

The night also featured the famed Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s world renowned Flight Demonstration Squadron, attending a game in their hometown community on a rare weekend off.

All of this led to a crowd-pleasing night as the Blue Wahoos wrap up their 13th season as a franchise.

The Clingstones starting pitcher was Ian Anderson, a star of the Atlanta Braves 2021 World Series run, when he won two games in postseason, including Game 3 of the World Series against Houston.

Anderson is now trying to make another run toward being part of the Braves again. He was solid on Saturday, going 5.2 innings, allowing four hits, one earned run, one walk and five strikeouts. But he absorbed the loss after exiting in the sixth inning when the Blue Wahoos took a 2-1 lead.

Trimble got a two-out single off Anderson before he was replaced. Trimble then stole second. After Tony Bullard walked, the Blue Wahoos pulled off a double-steal that led to Trimble scoring on a throwing error by Columbus catcher Adam Zebrowski.

In the eighth inning, the Blue Wahoos extended the lead, scoring two runs on one hit. Gage Miller led off with a walk, then went to third on Emaarion Boyd’s single and scored on Cam Clayton’s sacrifice fly. Boyd had stolen second, advanced to third on that play and throw home, then Boyd scored on a two-out wild pitch.

Columbus loaded the bases and scored a pair of runs in the eighth against reliever Jack Sellinger, but Jesse Bergin followed and thwarted the tying run from scoring.

Bergin then retired the Clingstones in order in the ninth, striking out the final two batters.

WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Blue Wahoos 2025 Final Game
WHO: Columbus Clingstones vs. Blue Wahoos.
WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium.
WHEN Sunday, 1:05 p.m. (Special start time as final game).

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News, Sports, TOP sports

Wilburn Cleo Drew

September 14, 2025

Mr. Wilburn Cleo Drew, age 93, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. A devoted family man, veteran, and pillar of his community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith.

Born on February 28, 1932, in Lottie, Alabama, Wilburn was the son of James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew. He grew up surrounded by a large and close-knit family that instilled in him the values of hard work, kindness, and integrity—principles he carried with him throughout his life.

Wilburn proudly served his country during the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Army’s 711th AAA Gun Battalion. His commitment to service continued with the Alabama National Guard from 1950 to 1955. These formative years shaped his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

Following his military service, Wilburn embarked on a long and successful career as a chemical operator at Monsanto, where he worked diligently for over 30 years before retiring. His dedication to his work was matched only by his devotion to his family and community.

A man of deep faith, Wilburn was one of the original members of The Point Church. His relationship with God was central to his life; he lived each day guided by Christian principles and shared that light with everyone around him.

Wilburn was also deeply involved in Masonic life. As a dedicated Mason and dual member of Carney Masonic Lodge in Atmore and Ensley Masonic Lodge in Pensacola, he exemplified the values of brotherhood and charity. He was also an active member of the Shriners organization and took great pride in transporting children to the Shriners Hospital in Tampa—a mission close to his heart.

An avid gardener with a green thumb and a love for all things outdoors, Wilburn found joy in nurturing plants and spending time under open skies. Green was not only the color that flourished under his care but also his favorite hue—a reflection of his vibrant spirit.

He is lovingly remembered by his son Barry Kirk Drew (Kymberley), daughter Tonia Anderson (Rex), grandson Barry Kirk Drew Jr. (Jessica), Jeremy Sean Drew
great-grandchildren Easton and Havanah Drew, and sister Voncile Branch.

Wilburn now reunites with those who went before him: his beloved wife Mildred Hadley Drew; son Keith Drew; parents James Alex and Ettie Solomon Drew; brother Onas Drew; and sisters Estelle Dean, Jessie Criswell, Essie Josey, and Dorothy Barber.

Those who knew Wilburn will remember him as a loving husband and father—a gentle soul whose positive outlook uplifted everyone around him. He raised his children with strength tempered by compassion and always had words of encouragement ready for anyone facing hardship: “Tomorrow will be a brighter day,” he would say—and it always was.

His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.

No one can ever fill the void he has left behind. We are immensely grateful for every moment we shared with him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him—and may tomorrow indeed be a brighter day because he walked among us. A Service will be held on September 15, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Lottie New Home Cemetery 22555 Lottie New Home Road. Graveside service

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries

Ellajean K. Bledsoe

September 14, 2025

Ellajean K. Bledsoe, 69, died August 28, 2025, at The Heritage at Sagewood in Grand Island NE.

Ellajean was born July 17, 1956 in Pensacola, FL, the daughter of Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Cunningham.

Ellajean graduated from Escambia High School, Pensacola, FL, in May 1974 and later moved to West Palm Beach FL. She worked in the banking industry for several years, while attending various College courses and seminars to obtain her Emergency Medical Technology (EMT) certification in August 1984. She worked with Emergency Medical Services in Jupiter FL, before moving to Atchison KS to be closer to her beloved grandmother. Ellajean worked as an EMT with the Atchison Kansas Fire Department until she completed her Fire Service Training. Ellajean was the first female fire fighter hired in Atchison, October 1986.

It was there that she discovered her passion for healing as she continued her education and later became a Physician Assistant.

She completed her Bachelor in Health Science at Wichita State University, Wichita, KS, May 1993. Ellajean worked at Riverbend Rural Health and Atchison Hospital, Atchison, KS. And then moved on to Nebraska.

Ellajean went on to complete her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies, Emphasis on Emergency Medicine at the University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE. Dec 2001. She started working at Bryan Heart Institute Lincoln, NE and Crete Area Medical Center Oct 2008. She finally retired in Molino, FL, Dec 2018.

Ellajean was an adventurer. Often leaving for weeks to chase wild mustangs in the Rockies or hike the Grand Canyon on two replaced knees. She seldom spent an entire day relaxing on the beach. She loved traveling the world. I don’t think she missed a continent.

She had a great love for all things Doberman. Gypsy, XON, Finn and Nico. She once told a house sitter, “I don’t care if the house burns down, just get the boys out”.

Ellajean was a past member of the First Christian Church, Martha Washington Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 215.

She is preceded in death by her parents Billie E. Bledsoe and Viva Jean Bledsoe.

Survivors include: her sister, Patricia Storey (Greg) Molino, FL; her brother Billie E. Bledsoe, CA; several nieces, nephews, grandchildren and her beloved dobie Nico.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries

Wilburn Cleo Drew

September 14, 2025

His wisdom lives on through another cherished saying: “You can’t do wrong and get by.” These simple yet profound words reflect the moral compass by which he lived.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries

Matthew Jacob Dockham

September 14, 2025

Matthew Jacob Dockham, known to his family and friends as Jake, passed away on September 8, 2025, in his hometown of Pensacola, Florida, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on November 19, 1993, Jake was a beloved husband, father, and friend. He built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Jake was predeceased by his father, Ronald Dockham; and mother-in-law, Judy Maglione.

Jake leaves behind his wife and partner of nearly ten years, Liz; and their two precious sons, Jalen (2) and baby Jake (7 weeks), who were the light of his life. Although his time with them was far too short, he poured every ounce of his heart into being the best husband and father.

He is also survived by his mother, Stephanie Dockham; brother, Travis Dockham; father-in-law, Phil Maglione; mother-in-law, Lindsey Duval; as well as many brothers and sisters-in-law whom he welcomed into his life through marriage and his childhood best friend, Ryan Lackey.

Nine months ago, Jake received a diagnosis of a very aggressive cancer. In the months that followed, he displayed remarkable strength, resilience, and optimism. Even in the hardest moments, his spirit inspired those around him. His love for his family carried him through unimaginable challenges, and his bravery will never be forgotten. Jake’s passing leaves his family’s hearts broken beyond words.

He will be forever missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of Liz, Jalen, baby Jake, and all who knew and loved him.

His family asks that those who knew Jake honor his memory by keeping his spirit alive through sharing stories, holding loved ones close, showing kindness every day and living each day with the same strength and love he showed throughout his life. Tell your loved ones how much you love them as often as you can.

In lieu of flowers we are asking for your support to help his wife and their sons during this difficult time. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help provide stability and comfort as they navigate the days ahead. Your generosity will honor Jake’s memory and help his family feel the love and support he brought into so many lives.

Donations can be made at TogetherForJake.com

Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under Obituaries

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