It’s Budget Time: Escambia County, Century Beginning Budget Workshops
July 19, 2021
Both Escambia County and Century are moving into the process of establishing their budgets and tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year.
Escambia County will hold their first budget workshop on Tuesday, July 20 at 9 a.m. Escambia County has made preliminary budget information available online here.
The Town of Century will hold their first budget workshop on Thursday, July 29 at 5:30 p.m. No preliminary budget information has been made available as of yet.
The new fiscal year begins October 1, 2021, for both entities.
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.
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.
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.
Traffic Alerts: What To Expect This Week
July 18, 2021
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
- Pensacola Bay Bridge (U.S. 98) Replacement - The Pensacola Bay Bridge will be reduced to one lane in each direction from the bridge approach in Gulf Breeze extending for approximately 3,500-feet from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Wednesday, July 21, and Friday July 23. Crews will be pouring concrete decks for the westbound (Gulf Breeze to Pensacola) structure that remains under construction. In addition, drivers may encounter right lane closures for barrier wall painting Monday, July 19, Tuesday, July 20, and Thursday, July 22 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
- 17th Avenue Interchange construction – 17th Avenue southbound remains closed at Bayfront Parkway. Access to the Pensacola Visitor’s Center and boat launch is open from 17th Avenue. Westbound access to the bridge is available via Bayfront Parkway, however, there are no left turns permitted from 14th Avenue to Bayfront Parkway. These drivers should detour to Ninth Avenue southbound, turn east onto Chase Street, and then continue east to Bayfront Parkway and the Pensacola Bay Bridge.
- North Ninth Avenue (State Road (S.R.) 289) Carpenters Creek Bridge Replacement- All travel lanes are temporarily shifted to the northbound side of the bridge as crews work to replace the southbound portion of the structure.
- Brief, intermittent lane closures are anticipated to continue through the end of the year as crews mobilize materials and equipment.
- Pile driving operations are underway and will take place during daytime hours. Nearby residents and commercial property owners may experience noise and vibration.
- · U.S. 29 from South of Muscogee Road (County Road (C.R.) 184) to Atmore Hwy (S.R. 97) – Motorists will encounter intermittent lane closures Sunday, July 18 through Friday, July 23 throughout the limits of the project for striping operations and signal work.
- West Cervantes (U.S. 90) Pedestrian Safety Improvement Project – Drivers will encounter inside lane closures between North Pace Boulevard and J Street to perform median improvement work. The speed limit between Dominguez Street and A Street has been permanently reduced to 30 mph.
- Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90) Widening from Pine Forest (S.R. 297) to U.S. 29 – Drivers will encounter intermittent east and westbound traffic shifts between Pine Forest Road and U.S. 29 as crews lay the final layer of asphalt.
- U.S. 90 (Nine Mile Road) Widening from Beulah Road to S.R. 297 (Pine Forest Road) – Drivers can expect intermittent east and westbound lane closures between Beulah Road and Surry Drive 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. the week of Monday, July 19 for paving operations and other construction activities.
- Sorrento Road (S.R. 292) Intersection Improvements at the Innerarity Point (C.R. 292A)–
Motorists can expect daytime shoulder closures the week of Monday, July 19 as crews will perform drainage work. - Interstate 10 (I-10) Routine Bridge Maintenance over Eleven Mile Creek Bridge– Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures over Eleven Mile Creek Bridge, .5 miles west of U.S. 90, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Tuesday, July 20 as crews perform routine maintenance.
- I-10 Routine Bridge Maintenance over the Alabama & Gulf Coast Railway Overpass – Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures over the railway overpass 12 a.m. to 2 a.m. Wednesday, July 21 as crews perform routine maintenance.
- Fairfield Road (S.R. 295) Routine Bridge Maintenance over the CSX Railway Overpass – Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures over the railway overpass near the Pearl Avenue intersection 2 a.m. to 4 a.m. Wednesday, July 21 as crews perform routine maintenance.
Santa Rosa County
- Pensacola Bay Bridge (U.S. 98) Replacement - The Pensacola Bay Bridge will be reduced to one lane in each direction Wednesday, July 21, and Friday July 23 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. The lane restrictions will begin at the bridge approach in Gulf Breeze and extend for approximately 3,500-feet. Construction crews will be pouring concrete decks for the westbound (Gulf Breeze to Pensacola) bridge that remains under construction. In addition, drivers may encounter right lane closures for barrier wall painting Monday, July 19, Tuesday, July 20, and Thursday, July 22 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
- U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Crews continue utility relocations, clearing, excavation, drainage improvements, and pond construction. There are no traffic impacts currently.
- U.S. 98 Routine Maintenance East of S.R. 87 Between Luneta Street and Pullam Street – Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 20 and Wednesday, July 21 as crews perform routine maintenance along the roadway.
All activities are weather-dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
Blue Wahoos Fall Late To Chattanooga
July 18, 2021
Zach McCambley turned in a quality start in his Blue Wahoos Stadium debut; however, TJ Hopkins go-ahead homer in the top of the ninth gave the Lookouts a 3-2 win Saturday night.
Leading 2-1, Dylan Bice was brought in to close the ninth. After a single from Wilson Garcia, Hopkins belted a two-run homer to left to give Chattanooga the lead. Despite getting the tying run on the in the bottom of the inning, Hector Perez (S, 1) shut down the ‘Hoos to preserve the win.
The late-game dramatics from Chattanooga spoiled a dazzling home debut for McCambley. After allowing six runs and five walks in his Double-A debut on July 10, the right-hander rebounded with six solid innings against the best hitting team in Double-A.
McCambley allowed one run (zero earned) while scattering three hits and two walks while striking out six. The only run he allowed was due to a throwing error on a pickoff attempt before a base hit into center by Jay Schuyler.
Pensacola played very well against Nick Lodolo, who was making his first start since featuring in the SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game. After a double and a walk to begin the second inning, Jhon Nunez grounded an RBI single to right to bring home J.D. Osborne, giving the Wahoos an early 1-0 lead. After Chattanooga tied the game in the top of the fifth, Pensacola scored on a bases loaded walk off Lookout reliever Michael Byrne.
Neither team was able to generate much offense throughout the night until Hopkins game-winning hit.
The series concludes Sunday afternoon.
Concealed Weapons Licenses Available In Molino, Warrington; Soon In Marcus Pointe
July 18, 2021
Concealed weapons licenses are available at the Escambia County Tax Collector’s Molino and Warrington offices, and will be coming soon to Marcus Pointe, according to Tax Collector Scott Lunsford.
The concealed weapons licenses will be issued at the Marcus Pointe office, located at 6451 North “W” Street, beginning July 26.
Appointments will be required for concealed weapons services at the Marcus Pointe location. Applicants may visit EscambiaTaxCollector.com to schedule an appointment.
In most cases, applicants renewing their concealed weapon license will be able to receive their renewed card the same day upon successful submission of their application. While renewed licenses will be printed in the office, new applications will be submitted to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for final approval. The statutory turnaround time for this process is within 90 days.
Applicants for a concealed weapon license should visit EscambiaTaxCollector.com for a list of document requirements.