Tax Collector: Cantonment Office Closed; Warrington Office Flooded
June 11, 2012
The Escambia County Tax Collector’s Cantonment is closed starting today, as it is moved permanently to a new location in Molino. A newly constructed 7,000 square foot building for the tax collector and property appraiser will open in Molino on Monday, July 2.
The Warrington Tax Collector’s office on Navy Boulevard is now closed until further notice to due to water damage during weekend’s heavy rains. Tax collector Janet Holley said the building had about two inches of water inside.
The Molino service center on Highway 95A will process motor vehicle and vessel registrations and titles, hunting and fishing licenses, property taxes, and business tax receipts. Limited driver license and ID card services will be available by appointment only. The new office will continue to offer drive thru service and a 24-hour drop box. Office hours will remain the same — Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m
The county currently leases the Cantonment service center location in the old Winn Dixie Shopping Center for about $60,000 per year. That money, Holley said, will likely be saved and returned by her office to the county’s coffers at the end of the fiscal year.
The current employees at the Cantonment location will be transferred to the tax collector’s Marcus Pointe office during the move, and then moved to Molino on July 2.
The Escambia County Tax Collector offices remaining open are:
Marcus Pointe
6451 North W Street
Pensacola, Florida 32505
Downtown
213 Palafox Place
Pensacola, Florida 32502
All offices are open 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Pictured: The new Escambia County tax collector and property appraiser office in Molino. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Photos: Pensacola’s Wettest Weekend Ends On Bright Note
June 11, 2012
After one of the wettest weekends ever in the Pensacola area — with over 20 inches of rain in some areas, there was a bright ending in the skies early Sunday evening. At sunset, a full rainbow was visible across much of Escambia County.
Pictured top: Rainbow of Myrtle Grove, by Monica Nelson. Pictured left inset: Rainbow of Gulf Breeze Hospital, by Sheila Tucker. Pictured below: Rainbow over Pensacola Sunday evening, by Desere Downing. Reader submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Teamsters, Dept. Of Corrections Battle About Probation Visits
June 11, 2012
A state judge heard arguments last week about whether the Florida Department of Corrections acted improperly this year when it severely restricted probation officers from going to probationers’ homes to check on them.
The department placed travel restrictions on probation officers in March as a cost-cutting move. But the Teamsters union, which represents officers, contends that the department needed to go through a formal rule-making process before approving the change — and that the restrictions endanger public safety.
“I think we are putting the community at risk,” Miami probation officer Kimberly Schultz testified during a hearing before Administrative Law Judge Elizabeth McArthur.
But department officials said the change has not compromised safety. If officers suspect wrongdoing, they can seek permission from supervisors to visit probationers’ homes and also have other ways to conduct monitoring, such as drug tests, the officials said.
“Nothing has been brought to my attention that we have jeopardized public safety,” said Jenny Nimer, a department assistant secretary who helped author the changes.
The case centers on past requirements that officers make periodic visits to the homes or workplaces of probationers, with the number of visits based on the offenders’ backgrounds and potential risks. Schultz said, for example, that such visits were required at least once a month for “maximum” cases — which she said can include people who have served long prison terms and have records of violent crimes.
The department approved the restrictions because it faced a $79 million budget deficit this fiscal year, Nimer said. In February, it paid $277,000 in probation-related travel reimbursements, a total that dropped after the change to $99,000 in March and $80,000 in April.
Nimer said the department intends to lift the restrictions when the 2012-13 fiscal year starts July 1. Some visits, such as to the homes of sex offenders, have not been restricted.
McArthur listened to nearly five hours of arguments and testimony about the issue and will likely rule this summer.
Offenders are required to go to probation offices once a month and provide information about such things as where they live and work. But Schultz said it is critical for officers to visit homes to verify the information, look for signs of possible criminal activity and make sure probationers are complying with requirements such as curfews.
“When the offender just comes into the office and fills out a report, he can say whatever he wants,” said Schultz, who has a current caseload of 43 people, with the majority either sex offenders or “maximum” cases.
The challenge in the Division of Administrative Hearings, however, centers on more-arcane questions of rule-making instead of whether restricting visits is a good idea or jeopardizes safety. State law often requires agencies to go through a public process of adopting rules when changing the way policies are carried out.
The department argues that documents outlining the travel restrictions are “internal management memoranda” that are not subject to rule-making. Also, it contends that such information is not subject to the state’s public-records laws because it involves “surveillance techniques.”
“Rulemaking in this area is not feasible, practicable or advisable,” the department said in court document. “Requiring the Department of Corrections to promulgate restricted surveillance techniques and procedures would violate the confidentiality required for effective surveillance and supervision of parolees and probationers.”
But Teamsters attorney Holly Van Horsten said that the department’s actions are a rule that significantly affects the jobs of probation officers. She also said the issue deals with officers making contacts with probationers — not surveillance — and that the department was trying to “fly under the radar” by describing it as a travel matter.
By The News Service of Florida
Flomaton Grad Named One Of South Alabama’s Brightest
June 11, 2012
A Flomaton High School graduate was one of just 12 students named to the 2012 Mobile Press-Register’s 2012 Top Academic Team.
Victoria Creamer was the only Escambia County (Ala.) student named to the prestigious list of South Alabama’s brightest grads. Honorees “have more than impressive resumes. They possess heart, talent and gumption,” according to the newspaper.
Victoria Creamer
Wahoos Take Fourth Straight With 4-3 Win In 10 Over Birmingham
June 11, 2012
It took 10 innings, but the Blue Wahoos have extended their win-streak to a season-high four games with a 4-3 win over the Birmingham Barons on Sunday evening at Regions Park in Hoover, Al. The win marks the first time Pensacola has won four games in a series since the season-opening series with the Montgomery Biscuits in early April (5-9).
The Blue Wahoos got it started with a single tally in the top of the first inning. Joel Guzman drove home Josh Fellhauer from third with a sacrifice fly to right field. The lead was short lived. Birmingham was quick to answer with a run against Blue Wahoos starter J.C. Sulbaran in the bottom of the first. The Barons loaded the bases, but only scored one run. Sulbaran was able to coax a double play ball out of Seth Loman to end the threat.
The Blue Wahoos reclaimed the lead in the third. Josh Fellhauer doubled with one out and scored two batters later on a two-base hit by Guzman, his second RBI of the game. Didi Gregorius walked and scored on an RBI single by David Vidal to give the Blue Wahoos a 3-1 advantage.
The Barons got a leadoff single against Sulbaran in the top of the second before he proceeded to retire the next 10 batters he faced through the first batter in the fifth inning. They got to the Wahoos starter for three singles in the fifth, but didn’t score. The Barons evened the game with back-to-back home runs in the sixth by Tyler Saladino and Seth Loman to make it 3-3. Pensacola’s bullpen kept the game tied as five relievers combined to work 4.2 scoreless innings.
In the top of the 10th, Mark Fleury singled to open the inning before Gregorius singled him home from second with two outs. That proved to be the winning run as Justin Freeman (2) worked a perfect bottom of the 10th to earn his second save of the season. Drew Hayes (1-2) pitched a one-two-three ninth and got credit for the win. Kyle Bellamy (0-1) took the loss after surrendering the winning run in the 10th inning.
The Blue Wahoos look to earn their first series sweep in franchise history as they wrap up the five-game set on Monday. The Blue Wahoos will send right-hander Daniel Corcino (2-4, 3.77) to the mound against lefty Matt Wickswatt (1-4, 13.32). First pitch is set for 7:05 p.m. from Regions Park in Hoover, Al.
By Tommy Thrall
Photo by Chris Nelson for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Landfill Offers Kids Camp
June 11, 2012
If you are looking for something for your kids to do this summer, you can send them to camp at the county’s landfill.
The Escambia County Department of Solid Waste invites kids to participate in “Dump your Kids at the Perdido Landfill for a Day!” camp this summer. The dates of the camp are June 13, June 28, July 11, July 18, August 1 and August 8 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This one-day excursion to the Perdido Landfill allows kids, ages six to 12, to participate in fun-filled activities designed to teach the importance of the reduction of generated waste through source reduction, recycling, reuse or composting.
Activities include a tour of the Perdido Landfill, recycling education, household chemical waste education, hands-on recycling projects, arts and crafts with recycled materials, games that focus on recycling and reuse as well as an eco-walk on the Perdido Riverwalk Nature Trail.
The cost of the camp is the donation of one pair of new or gently used shoes to be donated to Soles4Souls. Campers will need to bring clothes that are appropriate to play in and be worn outside, a brown bag lunch, snacks, a reusable water bottle and drinks. (A zero waste lunch packed in reusable containers is encouraged by organizers.) One snack will be provided at the beginning of the day.
For more information or to preregister contact Recycling Operations at (850) 937-2160. Space is limited. The camp is sponsored by Escambia County Department of Solid Waste Management Waste Services.
Auburn Shooter On The Run; AU Players Among Six Shot, Three Killed
June 10, 2012
A massive regional manhunt is underway for 22-year old Desmonte Leonard of Montgomery after six people were shot and three died during a shootout at an Auburn apartment complex Saturday night.
At about 10:03 p.m. Saturday, the Auburn Police Division responded to a report of shots fired in the area of a clubhouse at the University Heights apartments located in the 200 block of West Longleaf Drive.
When officers arrived on the scene they located multiple gunshot victims — former Auburn football player Edward J. Christian, age 20, of Valdosta, GA, was pronounced dead at the scene by Lee County Coroner Bill Harris. Two others, former Auburn player Ladarious K. Phillips, age 20, of Roanoke, AL, and Demario A. Pitts, age 20, of Opelika, AL, were transported by ambulance to East Alabama Medical Center where they were pronounced dead.
Three additional victims, Xavier D. Moss, age 19, and John Q. Robertson, age 20, both of Roanoke, AL, and current Auburn football player Eric R. Mack, age 20, of Cameron, SC, were transported by ambulance to EAMC for treatment of gunshot wounds. Moss was treated and released while Mack was admitted to EAMC and Robertson was transferred to UAB Hospital in Birmingham. Mack was released from the hospital Sunday afternoon.
Auburn police say they have a motive in the shooting, but they are not yet releasing it.
The shooter, who fled the scene in a vehicle along with two other men, has been identified as Leonard, according to police. The vehicle was later found abandoned off Wire Road in Macon County, AL.
Warrants for three counts of capital murder have been obtained on Leonard and officers are working to determine his whereabouts. Police are also working to locate and question the two men who fled with Leonard. Their identities are not being released at this time.
“This is a sad, sad day for everyone associated with the entire Auburn family. I am devastated by the passing of three young men, including two that I personally knew in Ed Christian and Ladarious Phillips and my heart goes out to their families,” Auburn head football coach Gene Chizik said.
“My thoughts and prayers are with their families and all of the victims involved in this tragic incident. Nobody should ever have to endure such unimaginable grief, and we will love and support the victims’ families during this terribly difficult time. We have a lot of people on our football team that are hurting right now and we’re going to do everything we can to help them get through this. We are relieved that Eric Mack, who was also a victim in this incident, is expected to make a full recovery. This is a very trying time for everyone involved, and I would just ask that you lift up the victims and their families in your prayers,” Chizik continued.
The case is being investigated by the Auburn Police Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Lee County Coroner’s Office, and the State Medical Examiner’s Office. The Montgomery Police Department, Opelika Police Department, Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Macon County Sheriff’s Office are also assisting in the case.
Anyone with information pertaining to the case is asked to contact Auburn Police Division detectives at (334) 501-3140 or anonymously by text or voice to the tip line at (334) 246-1391 or by phone to their local law enforcement agency.
Pictured below: Police stand guard at the entrance to the University Heights Apartments in Auburn, Ala., Sunday morning as the investigation continues into a shooting with multiple victims. Photo courtesy al.com for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Historic Flood: Many Homeless, Damage in The Millions; More Rain Likely
June 10, 2012
Heavy rain Saturday in southern Escambia County left an unknown number of people homeless, forced over 100 people into shelters, and caused untold millions of dollars in damages.
A Red Cross shelter at Ferry Pass Middle School reached capacity Saturday night at 82 people as shelters were opened at Tate High and Molino Park Elementary schools. Just before midnight, there were 30 people reported to be at the Tate High shelter and three at Molino Park. All shelters have now closed, except for Ferry Pass.
A record 13.11 inches of rain fell at the Pensacola airport, while portions of the southwestern county received over 20 inches according to radar estimates.
Flooding let to multiple water rescues as first responders pulled people from flood cars and residences. The Escambia County Jail flooded, leaving the facility without power [read more].
For a photo gallery, click here.
Damage totals to public and private property is expected to be well into the millions of dollars. If the water recedes on Sunday, damage assessment teams will begin inspecting flooding areas.
“I’ve lived here a long time and never seen anything like this before,” Cam Johnson, an Escambia County public information officer, said. “There were roads and areas flooded that I’ve never seen flood before.”
The National Weather Service is forecasting more rain though Sunday, with as much as 5-8 additional inches possible in Escambia County.
Emergency officials have asked Escambia County residents to stay home and not travel; many roads remain flooded and impassable.
Pictured: Reader submitted photos of flood in Escambia County on Saturday. Courtesy photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Record Report: Saturday Rain Was Second Highest Ever In Pensacola
June 10, 2012
The second highest official rainfall total ever was recorded Saturday in Pensacola at 13.11 inches.
That also set a daily record for June 9, breaking the old record of 1.95 set in 1913.
Pensacola’s all-time record daily rainfall was 15.29 inches set in 1934.
Several areas of southwestern Escambia County received even more rain; rainfall estimates were over 20 inches in some areas.
Pictured: This graphic from the National Weather Service shows rainfall amounts in southern Escambia County. Click to enlarge.
After A Flood: The First Steps
June 10, 2012
Here are tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for those with flood damage or in flooded areas:
- Use local alerts and warning systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available.
- Avoid moving water.
- Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
- Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
- Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.
- Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
- Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.
- If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded.
- Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
- Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it’s also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.
- Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
- Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
- Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
Staying Healthy
A flood can cause physical hazards and emotional stress. You need to look after yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair.
- Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage.
- Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewer systems are serious health hazards.
- Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink
- Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.
- Rest often and eat well.
- Keep a manageable schedule. Make a list and do jobs one at a time.
- Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area.
Cleaning Up and Repairing Your Home
- Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your community. That way, you can decide when your home is dry enough to turn it back on.
- Download a copy of the book Repairing Your Flooded Home. It will tell you:
- How to enter your home safely.
- How to protect your home and belongings from further damage.
- How to record damage to support insurance claims and requests for assistance.
- How to check for gas or water leaks and how to have service restored.
- How to clean up appliances, furniture, floors and other belongs.
- The Red Cross can provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies.
- Contact your insurance agent to discuss claims.
- Check NorthEscambia.com or other media for information in the coming days on assistance that may be provided by the state or federal government or other organizations.
- If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, check references and be sure they are qualified to do the job. Be wary of people who drive through neighborhoods offering help in cleaning up or repairing your home.