Homeowner Shoots Suspect During Home Invasion; Six Charged
March 4, 2021
Six people were arrested after a home invasion in which one suspect was shot, and the homeowner’s granddaughter is accused of orchestrating the crime.
During the early morning hours Thursday, ECSO deputies were called to the 7400 block of Jackson Street.
Pensacola Bay Bridge Probably Won’t Reopen In March; More Damage Found
March 4, 2021
The Pensacola Bay Bridge is unlikely to open on March 22 as previously announced by the Florida Department of Transportation because more damage has been found.
As FDOT contractors were conducting repairs to the Pensacola Bay Bridge, it was determined that additional repair work was needed for one of the bridge’s trophy pieces. FDOT said the full replacement of the trophy piece will uphold FDOT’s commitment to provide the safe and efficient reconnection of the communities of Gulf Breeze and Pensacola and the delivery of a bridge that has a 75-year design life.
FDOT is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of the replacement to determine how it will affect the current reopening schedule. FDOT previously announced its goal to re-open the Pensacola Bay Bridge in phases beginning with restoring two lanes of traffic by the week of March 22.
Trophy pieces, when placed atop piles, constitute bridge piers that are mounted at the end of each span to support the superstructure and transfer loads to the foundations.
Multiple crews are working around the clock to complete repair projects critical to the opening of the Pensacola Bay Bridge.
To date, completed repairs include:
- 30 piles driven.
- Five trophy pieces installed.
- Twenty of 36 beams set.
- Five of eleven partial decks replaced.
- One of two full decks replaced.
FDOT’s phased approach will open two lanes of traffic (one in each direction) for the first 4,000 feet on the Pensacola side. The remaining approximate two miles of the bridge will be open to four lanes of traffic (two in each direction). During this initial phase, the speed limit will be temporarily set at 35 mph and emergency refuge areas will be available on the bridge. The second phase consists of opening the remaining 4,000 feet to four lanes of traffic.
All Florida Teachers Now Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccinations Regardless of Age
March 4, 2021
COVID-19 vaccinations are now open to all Florida teachers and staff, along with child care workers, regardless of age.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the new policy on Thursday following a Biden administration mandate. An order previously issued by DeSantis allowed vaccines for only those educators age 50 and over.
“The federal government put that order in,” DeSantis said from a press conference early Thursday. “So they’ve made the teachers, regardless of age, eligible. So they are eligible to get vaccinated per that order.”
But DeSantis said Florida will continue to push for the vaccination of seniors.
“Our view is just if your are 25, you are at less risk that somebody that’s 80. That’s just the bottom line,” the governor said. “The age based approach, we think, is the most effective to reduce mortality. At the same time, the federal government is one sending us the vaccine. If they want it to be for all ages, then they have the ability to go and do that.”
“But one our number one goal right now is to get through the senior population.”
Pictured: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks about teacher vaccinations at a press conference in Crystal River Thursday morning. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Alabama Gov. Ivey Extends Mask Mandate One Final Time, Says It Will Be Lifted For Good April 9
March 4, 2021
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has extended the state’s mask mandate for another five weeks, but after that it will end, she announced during a press conference Thursday morning in Montgomery.
“Let me be abundantly clear. After April 9, I will not keep the mask order in effect,” Ivey said.
“Folks, we are not there yet, but goodness knows we are getting closer,” Ivey said. “If we keep it up and get through Easter, I think we will be in much better shape.”
Other changes announced by the governor included:
- Outdoor programs will be allowed at senior centers within guidelines
- Summer camps will be able to resume operations this year
- Seating limits at restaurants will be lifted
- Up to two caregivers will now be allowed to visit people in nursing homes and hospitals
“We are finally rounding the corner,” Ivey said.
Newly Renovated Century Branch Library Reopens (With Photo Tour)
March 4, 2021
The Century Branch Library reopened Tuesday after being closed for a month for renovation.
One of the most notable features of the new library design is a much improved use of space. The children’s area has been expanded, now incorporating what was formerly a storage room. The adult area, shelving and the circulation desk have been rearranged, creating a large open reading area that can be used for events and library programs.
And, it’s like a park inside the library.
That’s how Escambia County Director of Library Services Todd Humble describes the newly renovated library.
“We are pleased to present a bright, open and airy space for our residents to enjoy within the Century Branch Library. The design concept behind this renovation was to represent nature,” Humble said as he describe the new, modern look of the library. “The paint color on the walls is blue to simulate the sky and the carpet pattern was chosen to simulate a patio. The color of the furniture was selected for a bright contemporary look, which will include orange, green and light blue colors.”
There will be two aquariums in the library on North Century Boulevard, one of which will include fish that might be caught in the Century area.
“The adult section will incorporate flowers and trees in the artwork. The lobby will include artwork of squirrels. The idea is to create a peaceful and inviting experience for residents to enjoy nature within the library.”
And then there’s the pod chair, likely to become very popular with library patrons. It’s comfy, with soft fabric inside. The hard dome-shaped outside shell provides sound isolation, making for a quiet reading spot.
Due to shipping and other delays, the renovation project is not quite compete. An official grand opening ceremony will be scheduled for a later date.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Century Reschedules COVID-19 Grant Hearing After Oversight Leads To Wrong Address In Public Notice
March 4, 2021
The Town of Century has rescheduled a grant application public hearing after a simple oversight led to public notices that listed two different locations for the meeting.
The public hearing will allow the town to apply for coronavirus funding through a Small Cities Community Development Block Grant from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. The grants will be awarded in amounts ranging from $200,000 to $5 million for neighborhood revitalization, commercial revitalization, economic development, public service, planning or housing.
A public notice distributed in the council’s agenda pack and a public notice posted on the front door of Century Town Hall both listed the location of Monday’s night’s public meeting as Century Town Hall on North Century Boulevard. However, the town council voted in January to move all of their meetings to the Century Community Center on West Highway 4 beginning February 1 in order for more social distancing space and to allow for more public participation.
Town planner Debbie Nickles told the council that a public notice submitted for publication in a local weekly printed newspaper had the correct meeting location of the community center, which is where the council meeting was being held.
An improper public notice would be in violation of the Florida Sunshine Law and might invalidate Century’s grant application.
“I believe we will need to have another public hearing because the address is incorrect, although a number of people obviously figured out where the meeting was,” interim City Manager Vernon Prather said. “It is listed at 7995 North Century Boulevard (town hall). We’re not there so we have enough, we need to re-advertise. We’re trying to make transition from the old address to the new address.”
“Make sure we are all on the same page at the same time because people came by tonight with questions and concerns,” council member Sandra Jackson said in comments directed to town staff. “One person print, the next person proofread so we can go on and conduct the town’s business in a professional manner.”
The public hearing has been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 9 at 7 p.m. at the Century Community Center on West Highway 4. The public is encourage to attend to offer input on how the funds could be spent if the town is awarded a grant.
Pictured: Consultant Robin Phillips discusses a Community Development Block Grant. Pictured below: Members of the public attended the Town of Century council meeting. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Greater Pensacola Chamber Honors Community Excellence At 61st Annual PACE Awards
March 4, 2021
The Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce held its annual Pensacola Area Commitment to Excellence (PACE) Awards Wednesday night at Blue Wahoos Stadium.
The following winners were announced:
Spirit of Pensacola: Dave and Mary Hoxeng, Cat Country 98.7, NewsRadio 92.3, ESPN-94.5, WEBY-99.1
Advocate Leader: Brian Wyer, CEO, Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce
Leader in Education: Shannon Nickinson, Director of Early Learning, Studer Community Institute
Professional Leader: Dr. David Josephs, Clinic Director, Lakeview Center
Business Leader: Norris Ayvazian, Operations Manager, Peaden Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical
Community Leader: Lisa Lyter, Creative Strategist, Red Iron Design House
Emerging Leader: D.C. Reeves, Co-Founder/CEO, Perfect Plain Brewery
“My congratulations go to this year’s PACE Award honorees,” stated Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce President Todd Thomson. “After such a trying year, it is wonderful to come together and celebrate our community’s excellence.”
Pictured: Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce Pensacola Area Commitment to Excellence (PACE) Awards winners. Photo Cat Country 98.7 for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Baptist Has COVID-19 Vaccination Appointments Available In Pensacola And Jay
March 4, 2021
Baptist Health Care has vaccine appointments available in the communities of Pensacola, Gulf Breeze and Jay, Florida while supplies last. Vaccinations will be given by appointment only to those who meet Florida eligibility criteria. Evening and weekend appointments have been added to accommodate work schedules, including those of school employees. Time and location will be provided once the appointment is confirmed.
COVID-19 vaccinations are currently designated for Florida residents who are one of the following:
- Age 65 or over
- Health care worker
- K-12 school employee 50 years of age and older
- Sworn law enforcement officer 50 years of age and older
- Firefighter 50 years of age and older
People who are in one of the allowable workforce groups must present an ID badge or proof of employment at the appointment.
How to Make a Vaccination Appointment
Appointments can be made one of three ways:
- Visit EasySchedule.com. Click “procedure appointment” and complete the registration.
- Email name and contact information to BHCVaccine@bhcpns.org.
- Those without email/internet access can call 850.908.SHOT (7468), Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tate Beats Fort Walton Beach; Escambia Tops Northview
March 4, 2021
Tate 15, Fort Walton Beach 1
With an explosive 10-run fifth inning, the Tate Aggies beat Fort Walton Beach 15-1 Wednesday night.
Jordan Jarman gave up one run on three hits in three innings while striking out two on the mound for Tate. Tucker Griffin and Joseph Pusateri closed out the game in relief.
Jadon Fryman, Frankie Randall, Drew Reaves and Jackson Penton had multiple hits for the Aggies. Fryman went 3-for-4 at the plate to lead Tate.
Escambia 7, Northview 5
The Escambia Gators defeated the Northview Chiefs 7-5 Wednesday night in Pensacola.
The Chiefs tied it up at three in the top of the third when an error scored three runs for Northview, but Escambia took the lead for good with a run in the fourth.
Northview’s Clay Allen allowed four hit and four runs over five innings. Kaden Odom and Jamarkus took the mound in relief.
Odom, Bryce Korinchak, and Aron Chavira had one hit each for the Chiefs.
Pictured: The Tate Aggies beat Fort Walton 15-1 Wednesday night. Photos by Laura Glodfelter for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
The Book Fair Is Back At Molino Park Elementary School, And There’s A New Way To Pay.
March 4, 2021
The Scholastic Book Fair is back this year at Molino Park Elementary School, and it’s been extended with a new way for parents to pay.
For over 30 years, those mobile cases of the Scholastic Book Fairs have offered a chance for schools to make a little money while giving students access to affordable books to read.
For cashless shopping, parents or guardians can create a payment wallet online by clicking or tapping here. The digital wallet can be used at the Molino Park book fair or online at a virtual book fair. Cash and checks are also accepted at the school. (Checks should made out to Molino Park Elementary and include a phone number.)
The book fair at Molino Park will continue through Wednesday, March 10.
“All proceeds Molino Park makes will be used for new purchases to update our school library collection,” said MPES Media Specialist Rebecca Hatch.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
