Man Arrested After Sunday Night Drive-by Shooting
July 1, 2013
Multiple charges have been filed on a Pensacola man after a drive-by shooting occurred Sunday night.
Robert D. Bruster, 18, of 2606 W. Gonzalez St. was charged with fleeing/eluding a law enforcement officer with lights/siren active, driving with license suspended, child neglect
without great bodily harm, resisting an officer, possession of cocaine, and possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana.
Just after 10 p.m. Sunday, a drive-by shooting occurred in the area of DeSoto Street and Sixth Avenue where a 30-year-old male was shot in the hand. A description of the vehicle was broadcast to officers, and Officer David Rogers saw a vehicle matching its description at Pace Boulevard and Jackson Street. Rogers followed the vehicle to B and Gadsden streets where the driver – later identified as Bruster – jumped out and began running. Bruster was taken into custody nearby.
Officers found two children ages 13 and 14 in addition to some crack cocaine and marijuana inside the vehicle.
The shooting remains under investigation.
Man Pushes His Way Into 92-Year Old’s Home
July 1, 2013
Escambia Sheriff’s investigators are looking for clues after a suspect pushed his was into the home of an elderly woman over the weekend.
The home invasion occurred in the 10400 block of Lillian Highway about 1 p.m. Sunday. The 92-year-old victim told deputies a man had knocked on her door inquiring about an item for sale. As they were standing on the porch talking, the suspect pushed the victim inside of the home and began rummaging through her house. The victim tried to flee, at which time the suspect grabbed her and pushed her back inside of the house. The suspect was observed fleeing in a red, two-door, unknown model car with an unknown Florida tag number.
The suspect was described as a white male in his late 20’s, about 6-feet tall with an athletic build. At the time of the incident he was wearing a blue t-shirt with a cross design and dark pants. Anyone with any information about this crime is asked to contact the Escambia Sheriff’s Office at (850) 436-9630 or Gulf Coast Crime Stoppers at (850)433-7867.
Daily Chance Of Rain
July 1, 2013
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
- Monday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
- Monday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming northwest after midnight.
- Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. North wind around 5 mph becoming south in the afternoon.
- Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
- Wednesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 88. East wind around 5 mph.
- Wednesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph.
- Independence Day: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 87. East wind around 5 mph.
- Thursday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
- Friday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 87.
- Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70.
- Saturday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89.
- Saturday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72.
- Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89.
4-H Task Force Completes Report On Potential Future Locations
July 1, 2013
A task force on a fact-finding mission about potential future land for Escambia County 4-H has issued its findings in a report to a University of Florida dean.
After reviewing the report, UF/IFAS Extension Dean Nick Place could choose to act on the task force’s findings or ask the group to continue its fact-finding research. The task force was created following the sale of the 240-acre Langley Bell 4-H Center to Navy Federal Credit Union for $3.6 million. From the sale proceeds, $2 million was placed in an endowment fund with interest used to support Escambia County 4-H, and $1.6 million was reserved for 4-H use under the guidance of UF/IFAS.
The group was tasked with identifying options for meeting the 4-H’s animal science and outdoor education needs while complementing the new 4-H Center to be constructed next to the Extension office on Stefani Road.
The report contains multiple detailed proposals about land purchase options as well as “non-land” options that would use existing property and facilities to meet current and future 4-H needs. There is no timetable for a decision by Place.
Some of the land facilities considered by the task force and their findings included:
LAND OPTIONS
Bayer Crop Science Facility, Molino. The 250 acres are owned by Bayer Crop Science with an expected purchase price of $1.3 to $1.5 million. The facility has existing land, three ponds, three office buildings, three bands and state of the art greenhouses. Many areas of 4-H could be done in one place. With existing amenities and room to expand, the property would continue to serve 4-H well into the future. This facility will be capable of hosting such as 4-H livestock shows, livestock camps, agriculture workshops, large and small animal demonstrations, competitions, and other 4-H educational programs.
Cottage Hill State Forest, Cottage Hill. About 31 acres; the state is willing to deed the property to Escambia County. Site would support environmental and horticultural sciences, outdoor education, forestry and other 4-H activities. Currently has horse trails.
Escambia County Equestrian Center, Mobile Highway. Owned by Escambia County, includes 151 acres. Not currently equipped to handle any livestock except horses. A memorandum of understanding would ensure the 4-H could use the facility for animal shows.
Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds. Livestock facilities currently in a state of disrepair, but no cost for use. 4-H would be responsible for building structures and manure disposal. Would support livestock showmanship programs.
Highway 196. Four unimproved parcels ranging from about 40 to 85 acres. $2,800 per acre, currently owned by United Bank. Land would need to be cleared and structures constructed. “Unimproved raw property can have long-term potential. However, without more specific knowledge about this particular piece of property, it is difficult to say how it would exactly directly support 4-H programs,” the task force found.
IP-ECUA/Becks Lake. Unknown number of acres. Purchase price unknown. Can meet livestock needs and includes a lake. Space would allow for needs of outdoor environmental education activities.
NON-LAND OPTIONS
Privately Owned Land. The Barrineau Park 4-H and the Livestock 4-H currently use the facilities of private landowners for livestock. By recruiting other members of the agriculture community, more sites could be developed with leases and grants to provide opportunities for 4-H club members to have off-site raising facilities. No cost to 4-H.
National, State and Local Parks. This option is low cost and does not involve land ownership or maintenance.Allowing 4-H Clubs to visit state parks and have the opportunity to use the park as an educational site opens up various topics that address outdoor education and natural resource topics.Many of the parks also have youth programs open to the public on various topics that are included in 4-H project areas.
Roy Hyatt Environmental Center. About 20 acres, owned by the Escambia County School District. Usage fees unknown. Would provide space for livestock and other activities.
To download the complete 4-H Task Force report, click here (4.8Mb, 121 page pdf).
Pictured: Two of the buildings located on the Bayer Crop Science Facility in Molino, one of the properties being considered by a task force for Escambia County 4-H. Courtesy photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Ernest Ward Seaching For Yearbooks
July 1, 2013
Ernest Ward Middle School is searching for yearbooks from 1957, 1994 and 1995 in order to complete their library’s collection of Ernest Ward High/Middle School yearbooks.
The three books would complete the library’s collection from 1948 to the present. If anyone would like to donate the books to the library, call the school at (850) 327-4283.
Florida Creates Firefighters Memorial
July 1, 2013
During a Florida Cabinet meeting, Governor Rick Scott, along with Cabinet members, passed a resolution to create a Florida Firefighters Memorial at the Florida State Capitol Building. The memorial will be a place for all visitors to the state capitol to visit and honor firefighters who have given their lives to help protect the Floridians they serve.
“Florida firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect Florida families and their property. I am happy today to join the Florida Cabinet in designating a place for all Floridians to recognize and remember the sacrifice that Florida’s fallen fighter fighters have given. As we honor those gave the ultimate sacrifice today, we also look forward with new legislation that aims to give the fire fighting community the tools they need to keep Floridians safe,” Scott said.
After the Cabinet meeting, Governor Scott signed SB 1410, which will give the Florida Chief Fire Marshal more authority to protect lives and property. This legislation updates continuing education requirements for fire safety inspectors, gives firefighters and volunteer firefighters more options for retaining certifications and updates old statute regarding the State Fire Marshal.
Health Dept: Drain And Cover Defense Against Mosquitoes
July 1, 2013
The Florida Department of Health in Escambia County is advising the public to “Drain and Cover” to protect against mosquitoes. Drain standing water in and around your home to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, and cover your body to protect against bites. Mosquitoes are known carriers of West Nile Virus, and other disease-causing viruses.
“Given the recent rains we have experienced, mosquitoes may be more prevalent in the upcoming weeks,” says DOH-Escambia Director Dr. John J. Lanza. “Individuals should do all they can to avoid mosquito bites, in order to prevent the spread of infections carried by the insect.”
Adult mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing or slow-moving water. Even one teaspoon of water is adequate for breeding. Mosquitoes are most active during evenings, nighttime and the dawn hours. Being outdoors at these times increases people’s chances of being bitten unless they cover their skin with clothes and/or an effective mosquito repellant.
Drain standing water.
- Drain water from garbage cans, house gutters, buckets, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots or any other containers where sprinkler or rain water has collected. Water held in open containers in your house is also a potential breeding location for mosquitoes.
- Discard old tires, bottles, pots, broken appliances and other items that aren’t being used.
- Empty and clean birdbaths and pets’ water bowls at least twice a week.
- When protecting boats and vehicles from rain, ensure that tarps don’t accumulate water.
- Maintain swimming pools in good condition and keep them adequately chlorinated. Empty plastic swimming pools when not in use.
Cover skin with clothing or repellent and cover doors and windows.
- Clothing – Wear shoes, socks, long pants and long sleeves when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
- Use repellents with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535.
- Always use repellents according to the label. Using too much repellent doesn’t make it work better or last longer.
- Re-apply mosquito repellent as often as needed to prevent mosquito landings and bites.
- When using repellent on children, apply to your hands first and then rub on their arms and legs.
- Instead of repellent, use mosquito netting to protect children younger than 2 months old.
- Place screens on windows, doors, porches, and patios. Always repair broken screens.
For more information contact the Florida Department of Health in Escambia County at (850) -595-6700 or visit www.EscambiaHealth.com.
Milwaukee Brewers Send Gindl Back To Triple A Nashville
July 1, 2013
After a 10-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates Friday night, the Milwaukee Brewers optioned outfielder Caleb Gindl of Molino back to Triple-A Nashville and recalled right-hander Tyler Thornburg.
Gindl was called up on June 15 after Ryan Braun was placed on the disabled list with an injured thumb. He had five hits in 19 at-bats, appearing in nine games. The Brewers promoted him after placing left fielder Ryan Braun on the 15-day disabled list.
Back in Nashville Sunday, Gindl snapped tie between the Sounds and the Oklahoma City RedHawks by hitting his ninth home run of the season. The solo shot to right field put the Nashville Sounds up 4-3 on their way to a 5-3 victory.
Gindl, 24, was a Brewers’ fifth-round Draft pick in 2007 out of Pace High School, and he was 22 when he debuted in Triple-A in 2011. He had been waiting there patiently for a promotion. Gindl was batting .274 at Nashville with eight home runs and a team-best 38 RBIs. He hit .364 over his last 10 games.
Jacksonville Suns Outshine Pensacola Blue Wahoos 5-4
July 1, 2013
The Jacksonville Suns saw an early three-run lead evaporate, but ended up walking off winners in 11 innings, 5-4, over the Pensacola Blue Wahoos on Sunday evening at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville.
Danny Black started the 11th inning rally for the Suns with a leadoff single against Loek Van Mil. Zack Cox then walked to put runners at first and second before Mark Canha sacrificed both runners over. Pinch-hitter Michael Main was intentionally walked to load the bases, setting the stage for Taylor Krick. Van Mil’s 2-2 offering ran up and in on Krick and glanced off his left wrist for a hit by pitch to force in the game-winning run.
Jacksonville appeared to have gone ahead for good in the eighth after entering the frame tied at three. With two away in the inning, J.T. Realmuto drew a five-pitch walk against Chris Manno, which seemed harmless at the time. However, Realmuto stole second base and on the very next pitch, Jake Marisnick smoked a single to right field, scoring Realmuto to put the Suns on top 4-3.
Pensacola responded in the top of the ninth, though, against Suns closer Michael Brady. Corey Wimberly led off the frame with a first-pitch single before stealing second base and advancing to third on a throwing error by the catcher Realmuto. Wimberly was then driven home on a sacrifice fly by Marquez Smith to knot the game at four.
The Suns jumped out to a 3-0 lead early on in the contest against Pensacola starter Tim Crabbe. The first four batters reached in the first inning against Crabbe, with a run coming across on a fielding error by first baseman Marquez Smith and another scoring on a Mark Canha RBI single to give Jacksonville a 2-0 lead.
In the third inning, Danny Pertusati put the Suns up by three with a sacrifice fly to score Krick. Crabbe battled through four innings before being lifted, after allowing three runs on eight hits with two strikeouts and a walk.
The Wahoos slowly chipped away, scoring single tallies in three separate innings to eventually tie the game at three. In the fourth, Tucker Barnhart slapped a two-out single up the middle, scoring Donald Lutz to cut the lead to 3-1. Barnhart tried to score on Ryan LaMarre’s single later in the inning, but Jake Marisnick threw him out from center field for the final out.
In the fifth, Yorman Rodriguez continued his torrid pace with an RBI double scoring pinch-hitter Theo Bowe from second. Pensacola eventually loaded the bases with one out in the frame, but Smith struck out and pinch-hitter Matt Kennelly flew out.
Pensacola loaded the bases again in the seventh inning, this time with nobody out. Lutz was plunked with an 0-2 pitch from Edgar Olmos to push across the tying run. However, the Wahoos couldn’t convert on the golden opportunity to take the lead as Smith struck out and Kennelly grounded into a 6-4-3 double play.
Van Mil took the loss for Pensacola, falling to 0-5 by allowing the game-winning run on two hits and three walks in 1.1 innings.
Grant Dayton (2-3) picked up the win for Jacksonville by firing two shutout innings with five strikeouts. Dayton was the sixth pitcher used by Jacksonville as starter Sam Dyson went five innings and gave up two runs on eight hits with two strikeouts and a walk.
The two teams square off again in a Monday matinee at 11:05 a.m. CT. Ryan Dennick (3-9, 3.44) gets the call for Pensacola against fellow southpaw Adam Conley (7-2, 3.97).
by Kevin Burke
Hattie Lou Morris
July 1, 2013
Hattie Lou Morris, 85 of Poarch, passed away Saturday, June 29, 2013, at her residence. She was a homemaker, born in Atmore on July 23, 1927, to the late Dave and Molly Rolin Presley.
She is preceded in death by her husband, M.C. Morris; two sisters, Lunie Mae McGhee and Elba “Coot” McGhee; one brother, J.D. Presley; two grandchildren, Brandy Shane Morris and Phillip Brandon Nall.
Survivors include eight children, Marybell and the late Benny McGhee, three children, ten grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren; Marilyn and the late Gene Ross, two children, four grandchildren; Mack and Pam Morris, four children, four grandchildren; Annette and Don Nall, three children; Mack, Jr. and Sandra Morris, three children, five grandchildren; Lanette and the late Michael Tuberville, three children, two grandchildren; Gailette and David Moore, four children, five grandchildren; David and Tina Morris, two children; Granny’s legacy totals eight children, 24 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.
Services will be Tuesday, July 02, 2013, at 11 a.m. from Atmore Memorial Chapel with Rev. Michael Montgomery and Rev. Gene Pickern officiating. Interment will follow in New Home Cemetery.
Active Pallbearers will be Wesley Morris, Coley McGhee, Austin Tuberville, Kipp Moore, Colt Morris and Brian Moore.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Buford Rolin, Stephen Bryan, Brad Nall, Benjamin Tuberville, Steven Ross, Garvis Sells, Odell McGhee, and Charles Gregson.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home, Inc, is in charge of all arrangements.