Highway 29, Highway 97 Intersection Floods
January 21, 2010
The Florida Highway Patrol is reporting that there is flooding at the intersection of Highway 29 and Highway 97 in Molino.
Motorists should use caution and avoid the area, according to the FHP.
Quarter Size Hail, Power Outages And Flooding Reported Across Area
January 21, 2010
Hail, flooding and a few power outages were reported as strong storms moved across the North Escambia area Wednesday night and into early Thursday morning.
NorthEscambia.com readers reported dime to quarter size hail. Most of the reports we received were in a line from Bay Springs and Enon to Walnut Hill, Bratt and near Bogia during the 10:05 to 10:20 p.m. time period. A severe thunderstorm warning was in effect for North Escambia at the time the hail was reported, but the warning has since expired.
Some flooding was reported, including problems just after midnight at the intersection of Highway 29 and Highway 97 in Molino. Flooding was also reported to be a problem in Atmore.
Scattered power outages were also reported across the area.
Pictured above: Water stands in a yard on Highway 97 in Davisville Thursday morning. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.
Town Commits $10,000 To Comp Plan; Looks At Roads
January 21, 2010
The Town of Century has committed $10,000 toward completing the town’s comprehensive plan, and town is going to take a serious look at the condition of its roads and bridges.
The town council voted to pay consultant Debbie Nichols $10,000 to finish work this year on the comprehensive plan. The “comp plan” dictates how land can be used and developed, as well as laying out the future plans for the town that are consistent with the state and county’s plans.
At their next meeting, scheduled for February 1, each Century council member will submit a list of roads and bridges that they believe need attention. That list will be combined with a list already maintained by the mayor to create a master list of bad roads. When dollars become available for road and bridge projects, the council will refer to their master priority list.
Last year, a portion of West State Line Road and Industrial Boulevard were resurfaced. The Industrial Boulevard project was funded by a settlement with a contractor that hauled debris to a dump site after Hurricane Ivan. A drainage project is currently underway on North Century Boulevard just south of the state line. North Century Boulevard (Highway 29) is a state highway.
Historic Pensacola Ghost Stories At The Library Today
January 21, 2010
Historic Pensacola volunteers will tell spooky dead of winter ghost stories this afternoon at the Century Branch library.
The ghost stories will tell the tale of Pensacola during a yellow fever epidemic. The free program will take place for children of all ages at 4:00 this afternoon at the Century Branch Library, 7991 North Century Boulevard. For more information, call (850) 256-6218.
Deputies Seek Murder Suspect
January 21, 2010
Authorities are looking for a man they want to question in connection with an Escambia County murder.
Escambia County Sheriff’s Office investigators want to talk to D’mario Smith, 21, about an October 23, 2009, murder at the Oakcrest Bar. Smith is described as a black male, six-foot one-inch tall and 160 pounds. His last known address was on Kipling Place in Pensacola.
Smith has outstanding warrants for violation of probation and failure to appear.
Anyone with information on Smith’s whereabouts is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 850-433-STOP (7867).
the road to the crown: Meet The Girls, Part 3 With Photos
January 21, 2010
Today, it’s part three of our five part series “the road to the crown” brought to you by Tammie’s Cuttin’ Loose and Mike Newton Photography. We are following 30 young ladies at Northview High School in their quest for the crown and the title of “Miss Northview High School” for 2010.
Today we introduce you to 15 of the contestants. Their biographies, as submitted by the girls, are below along with their photos. You can click any photo below to enlarge. To see the first 15 girls, click here.
Our series “the road to the crown” will continue tomorrow and Saturday with more behind the scenes photos. The pageant is Saturday night at 6:30, and NorthEscambia.com will have the new Miss Northview High School and all the photos here Sunday morning.
For a behind the scenes photo gallery from a recent practice, click here.
Miss Allie Rebecca Bryan
Allie is the 16-year old daughter of Keith and Becky Bryan. She has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for three years and a member of the Student Government Association for three years. Allie has been a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band for three years, where she has participated in both the color guard and the drum line. She has been a member chorus for three years, has played guitar for the Northview Performing Arts program for two years, and has been a part of the theatre program for two years. She has been a member of the Beta Club for two years and a member of the Spanish club for one year. In her community, Allie is an active member of the McCullough Christian Center, where she participates on the drama team. She is also an active member of the “Cause an Effect Youth Ministries.” She has spent time volunteering with missions work in Brazil and plans on returning there soon.
Her hobbies include singing, photography, listening to music and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend college and earn her degree in business.
Miss Tabitha Renea Steege
Tabitha is the 17-year old daughter of Gerald and Sudie Steege. She has been a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band for three years, where she acts as section leader. Last year, she was on the Northview television production staff. She has also been a member of the softball team for one year, the Interact Club for one year, and a member of the Science club for one year. Tabitha is currently a member of Alpha Rho Omega. In her community, she is an active member of the First Baptist Church of Atmore, where she participates in the C.H.A.O.S. youth group choir and drama team.
Her hobbies include playing the piano and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend college and become a dental hygienist. She also hopes to one day start a family.
Miss Caroline Lindsay Prater
Caroline is the 16-year old daughter of Donnie Prater and Jonice Casey. As a freshman, she was a member of the junior varsity cheerleading team and was selected by her peers to represent them on the Homecoming Court. This year, Caroline is a member of the varsity cheerleading team and she is also a member of the Northview High School competition cheerleading team that was selected to participate in the National High School Cheerleading Championship competition that takes place in Orlando, Florida. She serves as Sophomore class historian and was awarded the 2008 President’s Award for Educational Excellence. In her community, she volunteers her time with Hank and Lacy Lee at the Lee Veterinary Clinic. Caroline was also chosen to be a Student Ambassador with the “People to People” program and Alabama Governor, Bob Riley. She has also been invited to tour France, Italy, and Greece as the official representative of the state of Alabama delegation in the summer of 2010.
Her hobbies include reading, horseback riding, drawing and painting, traveling, golf, and spending time with loved ones.
Her future plans are to attend a major university and obtain a degree in one of the following areas; criminal justice, education, or law.
Miss Lauren Elizabeth Cloud
Lauren is the 16-year old daughter of Ronnie Cloud and Angela McMahan. As a freshman, she was on the junior varsity cheerleading team. She has been a varsity cheerleader for two years and is also a member of the Northview High School competition cheerleading team that was selected to participate in the National High School Cheerleading Championship competition in Orlando, Florida. She has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years, a member of the Five Flags Dance Academy for two years, and has played softball for the Molino Community team for three years. In her community, Lauren has volunteered her time to work the “Kicking Cancer Bike Run” and has worked Relay for Life events. She also participated in the 2009 “Trotting for a Cure” 20 mile Triathlon. Lauren also works as a waitress for the Alabama Wing House in Atmore. She is an active member of Highland Baptist Church and participates in the youth group.
Her Hobbies include cheerleading, photography, swing dancing, riding horses, going to the beach, and spending time with loved ones.
Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama and obtain her degree in business.
Miss Angel Monique Mitchell
Angel is the 14-year old daughter of Christal Bell. She was selected as the 2008-2009 Ernest Ward Middle School Student of the year. Angel has been a member of the cross country team for one year, where she was awarded the 2009 Coaches Award. She is also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America, the theatre program, the guitar program, and the track team. She was selected as the 2009 October Student of the Month. In her community, Angel created the “Angel’s Outreach” volunteer service and is part of the Chain Reaction Organization. She was the winner of the “Take Stock” Scholarship project and was awarded Team Leader for Chain Reaction.
Her hobbies include singing, dancing, cooking, and reading books written by James Patterson.
Her plans are to attend Florida State University and major in Climatology. While there, she hopes to become a part of the dance team.
Miss Ashley Renea’ Cunningham
Ashley is the 14-year old daughter of Andy and Christina Cunningham. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for one year and was elected by her peers as vice-president of the freshman class. Ashley is a junior varsity cheerleader and was the recipient of the prestigious Spirit Award. She is also a member of the Northview High School competition cheerleading team that was selected to participate in the National High School Cheerleading Championship competition in Orlando, Florida. Ashley is the reigning Miss Ernest Ward Middle School, as well as, the reigning Miss Molino Blue Belle. She is also a member of the Barrineau Park 4-H club. Ashley has a weekend job working on the “Five Ash Farm.” She enjoys caring for their many horses, goats, dogs and cockatoo.
Her hobbies include swimming, tennis, showing steers and taking family vacations.
Her future plans are to attend a major university and obtain her degree to become a dentist.
Miss Charla Suzanne Stark
Charla is the 15-year old daughter of Charles and Terri Stark. She has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for two years and a member of the track team for two years.
Her hobbies include playing the piano, reading novels, running and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend college and then medical school. She hopes to one day become a doctor or surgeon.
Miss Allison Rebecca Spence
Allison is the 18-year old daughter of Scott and Sandi Spence. She has been a member of the Color Guard team for the Tribal Beat Marching Band for four years. Last year, Allison served as co-captain of the team, while this year, she is captain. She was the recipient of the 2008-2009 Best Color Guard Choreographer award. She was also awarded the most outstanding Junior and the Best Flag Twirler Award. Allison has played junior varsity basketball for one year and was nominated to be among the “Who’s Who of American High School Students”. In her community, Allison attends the First Baptist Church of Bratt.
Her hobbies include swimming, shopping, talking on the phone, reading, writing, twirling, playing basketball and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend Pensacola Junior College to become a medical transcriptionist. She also hopes to one day start a family.
Miss Abigail Christie-Anne Odom
Abigail is the 15-year old grand-daughter of James and Mildred Windham. She is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and has participated on a dance team.
Her hobbies include listening to music, photography, reading, spending time with close friends and dancing.
Her future plans are to attend a four year university and obtain her degree. Upon graduation, she hopes to one day become a veterinarian.
Miss Elizabeth Ashley Wright
Elizabeth is the 15-year old daughter of Joe and Tami Wright. She has been a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band for three years, where she currently holds the title of assistant drum major. She was also the 2008-2009 Tribal Beat Public Relations Officer. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for two years, a member of the Interact Club for one year, and a member of Alpha Rho Omega for one year. Elizabeth has been a member of the Art club for one year and currently serves as treasurer. This year, she is the parliamentarian for the Future Business Leaders of America. She has also been a peer mediator for three years. Elizabeth was the winner of the 2008-2009 “Voice of Democracy” contest. She also placed 4th in the sculpture category at the 2009 National Gulf Coast Art show. Elizabeth plays many musical instruments including the flute, piccolo, bass flute, and the bells.
Her hobbies include creating art, playing music and spending time with loved ones.
Her future plans are to attend a local college for two years and then transfer to a major university. She wants to go to medical school and then join the United States Air Force.
Miss Felicia Michelle Settle
Felicia is the 17-year old daughter of Joseph and Jeanine Settle. As a freshman, she was a junior varsity cheerleader and on the color guard team for the Tribal Beat Marching Band. Felicia has been a varsity cheerleader for three years. This year, she holds the title of captain. She is also a member of the Northview High School competition cheerleading team that was selected to participate in the National High School Cheerleading Championship competition in Orlando, Florida. She has also been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years, where as a freshman, she served as parliamentarian, and as a sophomore, she served as sentinel. Felicia has been a peer mediator for three years and on the yearbook staff for four years. She has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year and a member of the Student Government Association for three years, where she currently serves as president. She has also been a member of the Interact Club for two years, a member of the Beta Club for three years, the Math team for one year, and the Academic team for one year. Felicia was selected to be an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All-Star. On four separate occasions, Felicia has donated her hair to the “Locks of Love” Foundation. She has also participated in Relay for Life for two years and has participated in the Pensacola Walk for Breast Cancer.
Her hobbies include cheerleading, camping, photography, talking on the phone, devoting time to her nephew and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend the University of West Florida and become a pediatric nurse.
Miss Brittany Danyel Thompson
Brittany is the 16-year old daughter of Anthony and Alicia Thompson. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for two years, a member of the Interact club for two years, and a member of Alpha Rho Omega for one year. Brittany has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for two years and this year, she holds the office of photographer/historian. She is also a member of the junior varsity cheerleading team. In her community, Brittany is an active member of Spoken Word and volunteers in her church nursery. She also volunteers her time with camp E.D.G.E.
Her hobbies include cheerleading, dancing, riding horses and spending time with family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend college and obtain her degree to become an ultrasound technician.
Miss Tiffany Diane Sutton
Tiffany is the 15-year old sister of Tracy Ann Adcock. At Northview, she is a member of the junior varsity softball Team. She also had an art project of hers featured at the Pensacola Interstate Fair. Last year, Tiffany was selected as Student of the Year. In her community, she is a member of Walnut Hill Baptist Church and is an active participant in the youth group.
Her hobbies include swimming, painting, softball and making jewelry.
Her future plans are to attend college and become either a marine biologist or a juvenile probation officer.
Miss Autumn Cheyenne Bobo
Autumn is the 15-year old daughter of Kenneth and Valerie Bobo. She has been a member of the Cross Country team for one year and a member of the Track Team for one year. In her community, Autumn has volunteered her time working at an animal shelter to help care for the animals.
Her hobbies include running, participating in church events and spending time with her family and friends.
Her future plans are to attend college and specialize in pet care. She hopes to one day own and operate an animal shelter.
Miss Dimond Brooke Tullis
Brooke is the 16-year old daughter of Bodie and Emily Tullis. As a freshman, Brooke was selected by her peers to represent them on the Homecoming Court and was on the junior varsity cheerleading team, where she served as co-captain of the squad. She has been a varsity cheerleader for two years and was the recipient of the 2009-2010 Best All Around Award. She is also a member of the Northview High School competition cheerleading team that was selected to participate in the National High School Cheerleading Championship competition that takes place in Orlando, Florida. Brooke has been the treasurer of her class for the past three years and has also been a member of the Tribal Spirit yearbook staff for three years. This year, Brooke was selected by her classmates to represent them on the Homecoming Court. She is a member of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and was 1st runner up in the 2008-2009 Poarch Creek Junior Princess Contest. Brooke attends Bratt First Baptist Church and is an active member of the youth group.
Her hobbies include beading, gymnastics, swimming, cheering, babysitting, and spending time with friends and family.
Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama obtain a degree in sports medicine. While enrolled, Brooke hopes to become a cheerleader for the Crimson Tide.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Hodgen Promoted To Assistant VP At FNB&T
January 21, 2010
Tracey Hodgen has been promoted to assistant vice president of the First National Bank & Trust in Atmore.
Hodgen has been with the First National Bank of Atmore and now the First National Bank & Trust for over 25 years. She began her career at the bank in the bookkeeping department and then worked for a short period of time as a teller. For the last 20 years, she has worked in an administrative capacity and as a loan officer in the FNB&Trust’s loan department.
“I’ve enjoyed working at FNB&Trust for the past 25 years and cherish the relationships experienced during these years. We are a family here at the bank and I couldn’t imagine my career without the support from my co-workers and customers,” Hodgen said.
“Tracey practices our core values of integrity, excellent service, confidentiality, and teamwork as well as we could ask. And, she is one of the most conscientious employees I have ever worked with,” said Shep Marsh, bank president.
Tracy is married to Greg Hodgen and they have one son, Travis, who recently graduated from the University of Alabama.
Flash Flood Warning North Escambia, Santa Rosa
January 20, 2010
The National Weather Service in Mobile has issued a Flash Flood Warning for northern Escambia County, Florida and northwestern Santa Rosa County until 12:30 a.m.
National Weather Service radar indicated heavy rainfall capable of producing flash flooding over the warned area moving east at around 35 mph. Most of the heavy rainfall will be along and north of 1-10 through 12:30 am Thursday. Radar estimates that locally 2 to 2.5 inches of rainfall has occurred during the past hour.
Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area through 12:30 a.m. Thursday.
Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of small creeks and streams, highways and underpasses. Additionally, ountry roads and farmlands along the banks of creeks, streams and other low lying areas are subject to flooding.
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. If flash flooding is observed act quickly. Move up to higher ground to escape flood waters. Do not stay in areas subject to flooding when water begins rising.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning For Santa Rosa County
January 20, 2010
A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for north Santa Rosa County until 11:15 p.m.
Radar indicated a severe thunderstorm in north Santa Rosa County capable of producing quarter size hail.
A severe thunderstorm warning for North Escambia was allowed to expire at 10:45 as the storm moved into Santa Rosa County.
Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Move indoors immediately. Lightning is one of natures number one killers. Remember, if you can hear thunder you are close enough to be struck by lightning.
Century Courts Two New Industries, New Jobs
January 20, 2010
Hopes are high in Century over the possibility that at least one of two manufacturing companies will locate in the town, bringing perhaps more than 300 badly needed jobs.
The two companies have both expressed interest in the former Helicopter Technology building in the town’s industrial park, according to Mayor Freddie McCall.
One company hired a construction company to evaluate the building, McCall said, to determine what work would be needed to add a large hydraulic press that requires a 24 foot ceiling clearance. That company, he said, would begin operations with about 20 employees and expand to about 100 within one year. Within three years, the company estimates it would employ 330 people.
The second company looking at the building is a subsidiary of a Georgia company that is looking at “branching off in a new venture”, McCall said. That company, according to the mayor, would begin with about 30 employees and expand to employ about 100.
“We are hoping that something good will come of this,” McCall said. “That’s good news.”
Monday night, the Century Town Council voted to accept bids to fix a leaky roof at the former Helicopter Technology building.
In August, the Town of Century purchased the building in the town’s Industrial Park at public auction — for less than $1 out of pocket –when it was sold at public auction following the town’s $745,000 foreclosure judgment against the now defunct Helicopter Technology.