Cantonment Man, 44, Identified As Fatality In Escambia Bay Bridge Crash
June 20, 2024
The victim of a fiery crash last week on the I-10 bridge over Escambia Bay has been identified as a 44-year-old Cantonment man.
The Florida Highway Patrol released the information Thursday afternoon but did not release the man’s name or any update on the cause of the wreck.
The crash happened about 2:15 p.m. June 13 on I-10 eastbound near the Scenic Highway overpass.
The Florida Highway Patrol said four vehicles were involved with one confirmed fatality in a vehicle that was fully engulfed.
A 55-year-old Milton man, 15-year-old Shreveport, Louisiana girl, 26-year-old Dothan, Alabama, man were also injured and transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.
FHP is continuing to investigate the crash.
Photos: Florida Highway Patrol and Florida Department of Transportation.
Escambia, Florida, School Board Discusses Student Phone Policy; Escambia, Alabama, Will Lock Phones In Pouches
June 20, 2024
The school board in Escambia County, Florida is discussing how changes could be made to cell usage in local schools along with a Florida law already in place.
The discussion comes as Los Angeles school board on Tuesday moved to ban cellphones all day on campuses for a half million students in the nation’s second largest district.
Meanwhile, a new cell phone policy has already been adopted in Escambia County, Alabama, banning usage during the high school day. Students will be able to have their phones, but they’ll be locked in pouches.
Details on both Escambia counties are below.
Escambia County, Florida
A Florida law last year prohibits school networks from using social media, and gives teacher discretion to ban cell phone use in their classrooms during classroom time.
“I appreciate the guidelines we currently have in place, but cell phones and earbuds and headphones are a top problem in the classroom,” Escambia County teacher Cheryl Zigler told the school board. “They are a distraction in the classroom. I am not recommending banning them, but in districts where they have been banned, grades went up.”
“We do need a district-wide policy, so every school is doing the same thing,” Zigler added. “There’s a company that sells these awesome pouches that kids can lock up their phone; they get it back at the end of the day. They can carry around their phone, but they can’t open it (the pouch).
Parents need to work with their children on cell phone usage. Parents don’t need to text their kids at school during class,” she added.
“They use their cell phones to cheat; they’ll take pictures of test questions; they’ll text pictures to friends. We’ve got to do something.”
“This is a crisis across America,” District 1 school board member Kevin Adams said.
“School board are not the reason that students have cell phone,” District 5 board member Bill Slayton, nothing that the board did have regulations against cell phones in schools maybe 20 years ago. “But a father that was on the Legislature wanted to be able to get in touch with their child, and the Legislature passed the statute that said that we could not prohibit cell phones in schools. And look what we have come around to.”
“Please bear with us as we make this new rule,” Slayton continued. “It will probably have to be modified many, many times just because it is very difficult nowadays to stop it.”
“I do hate to see a child fail or be suspended because of this,” he said, holding up his phone. “But that is kind of where we are going…bear with us. This is going to take a while.”
Superintendent Keith Leonard said he’s discussed cell phones with students representing the district’s high schools, and they are planning a student-led “unplugged day” next school year.
“Every year, we have tried to give teachers and instructors more power over the cell phones in their classrooms,” District 4 member Patty Hightower said.
Escambia County, Alabama
The Escambia County Board of Education in Alabama has banned student cell phones during the high school day beginning with the upcoming school year.
The district will issue Yondr pouches to each student at the beginning of the school year. When they arrive on campus, they will lock their phones inside the pouch that will be unlocked by the school at the end of the school day. The students will be unable to unlock the pouch containing the phone without a special device, and if they damage the pouch, they will be charged $20. Pouch searches may be conducted during the school day.
The locking policy does not apply to school-issued computers.
“There is no reason that a student should need a cell phone during the regular school day,” the policy states. “In any instance requiring emergency communication with a student, our school will immediately assist the
student, a parent, or other responsible adult with that situation by using a school telephone.”
The policy also states, “instances may occur where administration will unlock pouches for students to call home such as severe weather, unplanned early release, etc.”
Violations can lead to in or out of school suspensions or even alternative school for 15 days following the sixth offense.
To read the Escambia County, Alabama, policy, click here (pdf).
Pictured: Escambia County (FL) School Board member Bill Slayton hold up his phone during a board meeting this week. NorthEscambia.com image, click to enlarge.
Friends Of The Library Announces Summer Book Sale
June 20, 2024
The dates for the Friends of the West Florida Public Library HOT Summer Book Sale have been announced with a hot summer sales twist.
The Friends’ Hot Summer Book Sale will be held July 26, 27 and 28th and this year. For every t10 items (books, DVD’s, audiobooks, and CDs) purchased, library supporters will be invited to select an 11th item – for free! This includes all books, (paperback, hardback, kids’ books, etc.) except those in the Collector’s Corner. The books in Collector’s Corner are always individually priced.
The books will be sorted by genre to make it easier to find your favorite novels, children’s books, books about gardening and decorating, biographies, and so many more.
Friday, July 26, 2024, 3-7 p.m., $5 admission (free for member), Hot Summer Sale: Buy 10 items and get one more for free.
Saturday, July 27, 2024, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., free admission, Half-off prices all day! Hot Summer Sale: Buy 10 items and get one more for free.
Sunday, July 28, 2024, 9a.m. – 3 p.m., free admission | $7 bag sale (Collector’s Corner closes on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.)
The sale will be held at the downtown library, located at 239 North Spring Street. Debit and credit cards will be accepted.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
About 90 Degrees Today With Pop-up Showers
June 20, 2024
Here is your official North Escambia forecast:
Thursday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. East wind around 10 mph.
Thursday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 71. East wind around 5 mph.
Friday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 91. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 72. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming south in the afternoon.
Saturday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Monday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94.
Monday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 76.
Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Century Votes To Spend Up To $15K For Flooring With Company That Can Start Work Fastest
June 20, 2024
The Century Town Council voted Tuesday night to spend up to $15,000 for new flooring in areas of town hall with the company that can get to work the fastest.
“We could take the lowest two and make a condition: whoever can get it done quicker,” was the recommendation of council member Alicia Johnson that became the motion approved by the council.
The two lowest bids were Home Depot at $12,926.44 and Shamar Carpet on North Old Corry Field Road in Pensacola for $15,000 to replace flooring in the back office area of town hall.
“I would say the one that could get here quickest, that we would engage them,” Johnson recommended.
The town also received a bid of $21,145.57 from Cannon’s Carpets in Brewton, and it previously reached out to Atmore Carpets, which has closed due to the owner’s retirement.
The town plans to pay for the purchase with American Rescue Plan funds.
In 2022, the town refinished the lobby floors at a cost of $2,952 (pictured).
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Before:
Amateur Radio Field Day Is This Weekend, Free Demonstrations At Ashton Brosnaham And Bratt Parks
June 20, 2024
Local ham radio operators will gather at two locations in Escambia County this weekend for the 2024 American Radio Relay League Field Day.
ARRL Field Day is an opportunity for thousands of amateur radio enthusiasts throughout the U.S. and Canada to set up temporary communications stations and make contact with like-minded people. Licensed radio operators, often called “hams,” spend the weekend practicing community outreach, emergency preparedness and technical skills.
Local hams participate in providing emergency communications during hurricanes and other disasters when normal communications are disabled and during local events like triathlons, bikeathons, parades or wherever real time communications are needed.
The Five Flags Amateur Radio Association will begin operations beginning at 1 p.m. Saturday and operate continuously until 1 p.m. Sunday at Ashton Brosnaham Park, 10370 Ashton Brosnaham Drive, off East 10 Mile Road.
The Southern Amateur Radio Union will participate from Travis Nelson Park on West Highway 4 in Bratt, just west of Northview High. Club members from both Escambia counties (Alabama and Florida) will participate from noon Saturday until noon Sunday.
The public is invited to stop by both locations to observe and learn.
“I’m excited to welcome our amateur radio friends back to Escambia County’s Ashton Brosnaham and Travis Nelson parks for their annual field day, and I wish them a fun and successful event,” District 5 Commissioner Steven Barry said. “I encourage the public to come watch amateur radio in action and learn more about the important service they provide. I’d like to thank both groups for all they’ve done over the years in our community, and for sharing their expertise with the public through these exciting events.”
The Escambia County Commission recently proclaimed June 17-23 as “Amateur Radio Week” in the county to recognize the key role amateur radio plays in our community.
Pictured: 2023 American Radio Relay League Field Day events at Travis Nelson Park in Bratt and Ashton Brosnaham Park. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Molino 12U All-Star Softball Wins Area Tournament
June 20, 2024
The Molino 12U softball team won the area all-star tournament recently in Semmes, Alabama. Up next, they will be playing in the state all-start tournament in Alexander City, Alabama. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Blue Wahoos Fall In Lopsided Loss To Chattanooga
June 20, 2024
written by Bill Vilona
The fireworks and capacity crowd easily won the night for the Blue Wahoos.
As for the game, well, it quickly became a forgettable experience in the home dugout.
Chattanooga pounded its way to seven runs in the first three innings en route to a 9-1 victory Wednesday on a specially-crafted Juneteenth recognition night before 5,038 fans at Blue Wahoos Stadium.
The game ended with the Blue Wahoos’ Harrison Spohn being robbed of extra bases on a sensational leaping catch by Lookouts left fielder Quincy McAfee.
A variety of pregame activities outside and inside the ballpark created a festive atmosphere, presented by Escambia County commissioner Lumon May, which included 1,000 fans being provided free tickets, courtesy of various entities.
It was capped by a massive fireworks show – double the number of fireworks shells – lighting up the sky above the bay and downtown Pensacola.
The City of Pensacola, Escambia County, the Escambia-Pensacola Human Relations Commission and Community Relations Equal Employment Fair Housing all joined together for the ticket giveaway and unique event wrapped around the game.
The Blue Wahoos wore uniforms of the Pensacola Seagulls, members of the Negro Southern League, originally formed during segregated times.
It was the first time the Blue Wahoos hosted a Juneteenth celebration night event during a game.
Most of the crowd remained for the fireworks show that followed the game. The start of the display initiated the biggest cheers of the night.
There were few opportunities in the game.
The loss further hindered the Blue Wahoos’ (35-29) hopes of winning the first half South Division in the Southern League. They caught a break when the Birmingham Barons held on to beat the Montgomery Biscuits 4-3, keeping the Biscuits lead to 1.5 games with four games remaining in the first half schedule.
Blue Wahoos lefthander Adam Laskey, making only his second start, had his roughest outing of the season. He allowed seven runs on seven hits to absorb his first loss. He entered the game 3-0 with a 2.61 earned run average.
But on this night, the Lookouts were lights out with clutch hits. They scored their first eight runs with two outs.
The Lookouts (19-46), the Cincinnati Reds’ Double-A affiliate, entered this week’s series with by far the worst record across all levels of Minor League Baseball. They were 2-8 in their previous 10 games. They now have won the first two games of this final week of the first half.
Just like Tuesday’s series-opening win, Chattanooga blasted big hits. A two-run double from Francisco Urbaez was the big one in the second inning. There were two out, none on when the Lookouts rallied with three hits and a walk.
In the third, Justice Thompson, who had not homered this season, launched a three-run bomb as part of a four-run inning.
The Blue Wahoos meanwhile were issued eight walks in six innings from Lookouts starter Kevin Abel. But they were unable to score a run until pushing across an eighth inning run on an error.
GAME NOTABLES
— The game’s pregame activities began with youth football players from the Southern Youth Sports Association Tigers and the East Pensacola Tigers playing a 15-minute scrimmage in shorts out in centerfield. The idea was to help promote the Soul Bowl in October – a series of age division games between the teams at Blue Wahoos Stadium.
— The Brownsville Silver Seniors performed several songs prior to ceremonial first pitches.
— Blue Wahoos team owner Quint Studer and Escambia County commissioner Lumon May addressed the stadium crowd before the National Anthem. May led efforts to give 1,000 free tickets to fans visiting an information booth. The tickets came with a food voucher at the stadium concessions, along with a Blue Wahoos hat.
— A moment of silence was held prior to the National Anthem and tribute was read for Willie Mays, one of the game’s greatest players and a Birmingham, Alabama native, who died Tuesday at age 93. The crowd produced a loud applause in tribute.
— The National Anthem was performed by Marilyn Franklin.
— Prior to the start of the fireworks show, Pensacola mayor D.C. Reeves and May addressed the crowd, along with a video tribute to Juneteenth and various officials and community leaders gathered at home plate before the fireworks.
WANT TO GO?
WHO: Chattanooga Lookouts vs. Blue Wahoos
WHEN: Thursday, 6:05 p.m.
WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium
Thomas L. Hedger, Sr.
June 20, 2024
Thomas L. Hedger, Sr. was born August 28, 1940, in Pensacola, Florida. He was the fifth child born to Jim Hedger and Lillie Bell Hedger. Thomas graduated from Washington High School. Thomas was a devoted and loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great great grandfather. He was a great storyteller, he had a photogenic memory, he like to fish and he never met a stranger, he spoke to everyone and helped people in many ways!
On, March 1, 1958, Thomas married his high school sweetheart, Sonjair Harris. His memories and legacy will be cherished by his loving and devoted wife of 66 years. They were blessed with raising six wonderful children, each of whom held a very special place in his heart. Thomas was well known in Pensacola as one of the best Upholstery Refinishers. He retired from Pensacola Junior College in 2006 after serving 25 years in the Maintenance Department. In 2007 he was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Lillie Bell Hedger and 4 siblings; Bessie Mae Peazant, Jimmy Hedger, Nellie Dees, and Delores Thomas. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 66 years, Sonjair Hedger; and 6 loving children, Thomas (Dora) Hedger, Jr., Belinda (Wallace) Benson, Angela (Wayne) Taylor, Christopher (Sylvia) Hedger, Pamela Lanier, and Anthony Hedger. 17 Grandchildren, Evan, Ella Simone, Naomi, Desmaca, Fonte, Lester, Kiearra, Demacklin, Doniellie, William, Christina, DeMarcus, Terrell, Dominique, Douglas, Antwann, and Tamira; 39 Great Grandchildren; 3 Great Great Grandchildren; Special in-laws, that were like his sisters and brothers, Sister-in-laws, Wanda Bright and Cynthia Knight; brother-in- law, Charles Harris; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins; and one very special nephew, Don Peazant who Thomas had a very special relationship with. Thomas was loved dearly by many relatives and friends, too many to name.
Memorial service will be Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at 11:00 am at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 S. Highway 29, Cantonment, Florida 32533. Visitation will be prior to service at 10:00 am.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment, is entrusted with arrangements.
George Baxter Howard
June 20, 2024
George Baxter Howard, age 86 of Cantonment, Florida, passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024. He was kind hearted, hardworking, and a friend to everyone he met.
George, also known as Paw Paw to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was born in Blountstown, Florida, on October 4, 1937 to Amos and Florence J. Howard. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, who raised him in Blountstown, and his mother, father, and six siblings.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jurene Howard; two daughters, Lori A. Banitt (John Banitt) and Lisa A. Foster (Gary Foster); his brother, Ronald Johnson; many nieces and nephews; six grandchildren, Shane Reeves, Abbie Ripple, Thomas Fisher, Deven Banitt, Delanie Foster, and Gavin Foster; and six precious great-grandchildren who he adored, Isla, Evelyn, Jonah, Caleb, Noelle, and Micah.
George was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He worked for Gulf Coast Grading and Paving for many years until his retirement. He had a passion for race car racing, fishing, camping, riding motorcycles, and his beloved family. In retirement, he enjoyed building wagons, much like his grandfather, Joseph Davis. These were a labor of love, and on each wagon he built, he added the initials L.A.H. for his daughters, Lori Ann and Lisa Ann.
The family of George B. Howard would like to say a heartfelt “thank you” to the wonderful first floor staff at Life Care Center of Pensacola. They took outstanding care of George for the past two years, and we are eternally grateful.
George was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was dearly loved by his family, and he will be dearly missed.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 26 at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 South Highway 29, Cantonment. Family visitation begins at 2 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in memory of George B. Howard to the Panhandle Pioneer Settlement or the Alzheimer’s Association .