Wahoos Begin Final Homestand With 6-1 Loss To Biscuits
September 11, 2024
written by Erik Bremer
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos dropped the opener of their final series of the regular season on Tuesday night, falling 6-1 at the hands of the Montgomery Biscuits.
After a pregame rain delay of one hour and 37 minutes, the Blue Wahoos kept the game in check before a four-run Montgomery fourth inning, highlighted by a three-run homer from Mason Auer.
With the loss, the Blue Wahoos backed themselves into a corner in their bid for a wild card playoff spot. The Blue Wahoos trail the Biloxi Shuckers by 4.0 games with five to play, and now need to win all five of their remaining games to keep their hopes alive.
Pensacola starter Evan Fitterer (L, 6-6) worked around command trouble to put up 3.0 scoreless innings before he paid the price in the fourth. A Dominic Keegan double was followed by two walks, setting up a Willy Vasquez sacrifice fly to give the Biscuits a 1-0 lead. Auer’s big three-run homer capped the rally, extending the Montgomery advantage to 4-0.
That would be more than enough run support for Yoniel Curet (W, 4-0), who returned to the site of his August Double-A debut and twirled a gem for the Biscuits. The young righty worked 6.0 innings of one-run ball, striking out eight and allowing only a Nathan Martorella solo homer in the fourth among seven scattered hits.
Montgomery added a run in the fifth on a Tanner Murray RBI single, and another in the seventh on a Carson Williams solo homer. The bullpen trio of Evan Reifert, Keyshawn Askew and Paul Gervase each contributed an inning of scoreless, hitless relief for the Biscuits to complete the 6-1 final.
The series continues Wednesday at Blue Wahoos Stadium, with a first pitch scheduled for 6:05 p.m. CT.
Linda Minchew Crowder
September 11, 2024
Linda Minchew Crowder, a resident of Dothan, AL passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024, at Southeast Health after a life well-lived and cherished. Born on July 21, 1945, in Nokomis, Alabama, Linda’s presence brought joy and warmth to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date.
Linda’s journey through life was one marked by devotion, both to her faith and to her family. As a member of the Rainbow Baptist Church in Dothan, Alabama, Linda’s belief and trust in Jesus were the cornerstones of her existence. The values she upheld were evident in her love and nurturing of her family.
She was predeceased by her parents, Druie Minchew and Ila Tullis Minchew, along with four sisters and two brothers.
Linda is survived by her devoted husband of 61 years, James Crowder Jr., her son, Thomas Crowder, and her daughter Julia Braswell (Ray) Sisters, Retha Heston and Margaret Walker. Her love blossomed further with the arrival of each grandchild and great-grandchild. She took immense pride and boundless joy in her granddaughter Katherine Atwell and her husband Chet, her grandchildren Adam and Billy Crowder, and her great-grandchildren, Jacob, Liam, Isabella, Gabriella, and Caleb Atwell.
Her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother was not merely a title but an identity she held dear, manifesting in every hug, story, and tender moment shared. Linda also embraced a community of friends, numerous nieces, nephews, and individuals whom she touched throughout her life. She had a passion for crocheting, a pastime through which she showed her care by creating tangible memories. Her affinity for butterflies was known to all, a symbol of the transformation and beauty she appreciated in the world.
Friends and family would agree that Linda was the embodiment of loving kindness. Her ability to listen, her gentle guidance, and her open heart made her a confidant and comfort to many. Her legacy is not merely in the family she leaves behind but in the countless lives enriched by her presence.
Wednesday After School Events For Escambia (FL) Schools Cancelled
September 10, 2024
Escambia County Public Schools (Florida) have canceled all practices, games, and extracurricular activities for tomorrow afternoon and evening, Wednesday, September 11, 2024. School will be in session as usual on Wednesday.
George Stone Technical College will hold classes as scheduled on Wednesday evening.
Due to the potential for severe weather tomorrow evening through the early morning hours on Thursday morning associated with Hurricane Francine, and with the safety of ECPS students and staff in mind, Superintendent of Schools Keith Leonard has announced the cancellation of all practices, games, and extracurricular activities on Wednesday.
Normal activities are expected to resume on Thursday.
One Arrested, One Wanted In Cantonment Attempted Robbery Attempt That Ended With Gunfire
September 10, 2024
One suspect has been arrested and another is on the run following the attempted robbery of an individual with shots fired Sunday in Cantonment.
Ja’tarius Lavell Johnson, 19, was charged with robbery with a firearm, grand theft, and grand theft of a firearm. The second suspect, Aviaun Smith, 22, has an active warrant for the same charges.
The ECSO responded to the 400 block of Forrest Avenue. A homeowner told deputies that she was cleaning out a rental property with the help of two black males, according to Sgt. Melony Peterson.
“One of them pulled a handgun and attempted to rob and take the victim’s purse. A struggle ensued, and the victim was able to retrieve a handgun out of her purse and fired one shot,” Peterson said. The victim told deputies that she believed she struck one of the suspects before they fled in a white car.
Johnsone arrived later at Baptist Hospital with a gunshot wound to his foot, according to ECSO.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (850) 433-STOP or the ECSO at (850) 436-9620.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Francine Is Now A Hurricane
September 10, 2024
Francine continues to move across the western Gulf of Mexico towards a landfall as a hurricane in Louisiana on Wednesday.
The National Hurricane Center said Francine became a tropical storm Monday morning, making it the sixth named storm of the 2024.
The latest details are in the graphic above from the National Hurricane Center.
TDC Approves Recommending $90 Million For Indoor Sports Facility At Ashton Brosnaham Park And Bay Center Upgrades
September 10, 2024
In a special meeting Monday afternoon, the Escambia County Tourism Development Council (TDC) approved recommending an indoor sports facility costing up to about $60 million for Escambia County’s Ashton Brosnaham Park, and about $30 million in upgrades for the Pensacola Bay Center.
The recommended bond issue will now go to the Escambia County Commission for consideration and a final vote.
At Tuesday’s TDC meeting, Escambia County Commissioner Jeff Bergosh made the motion to move the bond issue forward to the entire BOCC for a vote. His motion was seconded by Shirley Cronley, one of three TDC members representing the hotel and motel industries.
It is anticipated that a TDC bond issue would be repayed from TDC funds.
The motion passed 3-2, with two other hotel and motel industry representatives — James Reeves and Mitesh Patel — voting negative. Hotel and motel industry representatives, and other members of the public express concern that a feasibility study on the proposals were done without adequate public or stakeholder input.
The proposals were pitched at a Tourist Development Council meeting on August 29, but decisive action was not taken on either item.
Ashton Brosnaham Indoor Sports Facility
A proposal for an indoor sports facility at the county-owned Ashton Brosnaham Park calls for a building that’s 100,000 square foot, including 73,000 square feet of open floor space that would be large enough to host eight basketball courts that could be converted into 16 volleyball courts with support space, or it could be used as large exhibition hall for other types of events.
Other key takeaways on the proposed facility:
- 14 acres of the park is flat, open, undeveloped and already zone for recreation
- 700+ paved parking spaces in the current design
- Primary support for hardwood sports and related events
- Open common areas would include meeting spaces, viewing areas, vendor space, concessions, retail space
- Second floor walking track and viewing area
- Open to the public for recreation, will also host tournaments and events
- Collaboration with Escambia County Public Schools on access and utilization
- Community use of facility on non-tournament dates
- Projected operating deficit offset by ~$37 million in economic impact per year
- Projected new tax revenues of ~$2.7 million per year
- Total project cost range: $48 – $61 million
“It’s a tried and proven location; it doesn’t get any better than the SEC,” Escambia County Parks and Recreation Director Michael Rhodes said The Park has hosted the 2024 SEC Women’s Soccer Tournament and will host it again this year on November 3-10. “We are willing to grow that, and we want to grow that and make that (Ashton Brosnaham Park) the true sports destination in Escambia County. Which we feel it’s already one its way.”
Rhodes said the school district has expressed a willingness to provide property for second roadway into the facility that would also benefit current soccer programs that have 700-800 youth players annually.
“It’s in a growing area in our community,” Rhodes added as he touted Ashton Brosnaham of 10 Mile Road as the perfect location. “This project can be a win-win for everybody…and this is something that will stand the test of time.”
A feasibility study funded by Pensacola Sports came in at over pages, but TDC members only saw a 12-page presentation at their August meeting.
Pensacola Bay Center
A plan to spend $43 million, with $30 million coming from a bond issue by the TDT, was also presented.
The upgrades would modernize the aging facility and add more seating for events like concerts.
NorthEscambia.com photos/graphics, click to enlarge.
Neglected Dog Finds Forever Home through Escambia Foster Program
September 10, 2024
When the Miller family opened their home to a severely neglected dog through Escambia County Animal Welfare’s foster program earlier this year – as they’ve done for many dogs and cats before – they had no idea that this foster dog would end up becoming a permanent part of their family.
The dog, now called Rosario or “Rose” by her new family, arrived at the Escambia County Animal Shelter in April, nearly starved to death, covered with fleas, and afraid.
Rose was especially afraid of humans and withdrew from staff, but the shelter’s veterinary team was able to win her over after a couple of weeks and help her gain 2 pounds. Once she was ready, Animal Welfare put out a call for a foster family to help socialize Rose, show her love, and help her gain some weight so she could ultimately be adopted.
The Miller family stepped up to help, taking Rose into their home to nurture her and shower her with affection.
“It was so sad when she first arrived,” said Ashley Ratz, who regularly fosters animals with her husband, Zack Miller, and their three daughters. “She was probably less than half the size she is now. She had a lot of scars and open wounds on her, she was really timid, and she was so shy. It was like she didn’t know how to be a dog yet. When she first got to go in the yard, that’s when we first saw her excitement.”
Over time, Rose grew more comfortable around the Miller family, becoming especially attached to their three daughters and sleeping next to them every night. Rose also got along well with the family’s two cats and their dog, an Akita named Koda.
Once Rose gained enough weight to be eligible for adoption, the Miller family knew they wouldn’t be able to let her go back to the shelter or even to someone else’s home.
“We just realized we couldn’t put her back in any environment that wasn’t our home,” Ratz said. “She just fits in so well. We all love her, and we couldn’t think of it any other way.”
Ratz said the positive changes she’s seen in Rose have been incredible to watch, and she’s truly become part of their family. Rose even waits by the door every weekday, ready to hop in the car and go pick up the girls from school.
“She’s like a completely different dog,” Ratz said. “She’s the sweetest girl. She just has more confidence, and we can actually take her out in public without her getting scared and nervous. She plays with toys now, she plays fetch – she’s amazing. She’s turned into a real dog.”
Even with a full house of two dogs and two cats now, the Miller family is continuing to foster pets through the Escambia County Animal Shelter’s volunteer program, which Ratz said has been a great experience for their family.
“A lot of people I talk to don’t know that you can go to the shelter and just give a dog a freedom for a weekend, they don’t know you can take them out for walks,” Ratz said. “The dogs that are inside the shelter are completely different than when they’re inside your home, and just being able to give an animal some space is so nice. It’s a lot easier than you think it is, and it means so much to them.”
Escambia County Animal Welfare Director John Robinson said families like the Millers are an example of the incredible positive impact volunteering and fostering can make in an animal’s life.
“A little love and attention can change an animal’s life tremendously, and this heartwarming story is a prime example of that,” Robinson said. “We always have a need for volunteers and fosters to help free up shelter space until dogs and cats can find their forever home, and we are so grateful for generous people like the Miller family who step up to help animals in need in our community. I think Rosario’s smile says it all: This foster ‘fail’ is a true win for everyone involved.”
Increasing Rain Chances As Francine Approaches Northern Gulf Coast
September 10, 2024
For the latest specific forecast on Francine, click here.
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tuesday: A slight chance of showers before 10am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 10am and 4pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 4pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. East wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday Night: Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 7pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 7pm and 1am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Wednesday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 75. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Wednesday Night: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 71. East wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Thursday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm, then showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. High near 80. South wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.
Thursday Night: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 67. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 86.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 68.
Sunday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 69.
Monday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86.
Here’s A Look At What Is In Century’s $10.6 Million Budget
September 10, 2024
The Century Town Council voted unanimously a week ago to approve a tentative $10.6 million budget for fiscal year 2024-2025, which starts October 1.
The town did not make the complete budget available to the media or the public before the vote. The town provided it the following day in response to a formal public records request citing Florida statutes. The town’s delay caused a delay in our reporting.
RELATED: Transparency In Question: Century Council Approves Budget After Shutting Out Public Review
We’ve now had time to look at the complete budget and offer the following highlights of interest:
The budget summary states, “The proposed operating budget for this fiscal year is 43%greater than the previous year’s budget due to additional grants.”. The general fund grants decreased from a budgeted amount last fiscal year from just over $2.3 million to $350,000 as water fund grants increased from zero to $5 million.
The 2024-2025 budget includes an increase of $2,434,114 in both the total budget and the total expenditures of $10,607,009 this fiscal year compared to $8,172,895 last fiscal year. (Mathematically, that’s actually a 29.78% increase, not the $43% stated in writing by the town.)
Town employees will receive a 2.5% cost of living raise, while several employees that were at or near minimum wage will receive an additional $1 increase. Council members will be paid $3,606 annually, while the mayor makes $9,836 — both with no cost-of-living increase reflected in the budget.
The budget includes $132,000 for an interim town manager — split evenly three ways between the general fund, water fund and gas fund. That is much like the way the town splits the town clerk salary between departments.
The budget summary reflects $55,122 from ad valorem proceeds (property tax). There is an anticipated increase in miscellaneous revenue, mostly from $125,333 rent to be paid by AlgaPlast that located in the industrial park.
The budgets shows the town moving funds into the general fund by using $198,400 from reserves (much like a savings account), using $65,050 transferred from the garbage fund (revenue paid by residents for sanitation services) and $67,879 from the water fund (revenue from water customers).
General fund expenditures include a $6,000 increase for phone service, $1,200 more for the town hall alarm system, and increases for mayor and town manager travel, a previously unbudgeted $15,000 for council education, plus liability insurance, and $1,900 for Christmas hams and turkeys and $6,500 for fireworks (a decrease of $1,500). A “Culligan water rental” is $400. There is an increased allocation of $100,000 for street department salaries.
The “special revenue fund” shows the influx and expenditure of $554,449 in American Rescue Plan funds.
The town expects to spend an extra $72,00 on the water purchased for resale to consumers, and they allocated over $73,000 less for salaries while cutting callout time (overtime) by $10,000. There is $44,000 for a city manager/utilities director compared to zero last fiscal year.
They forecast $25,000 less revenue from natural gas customers this year. Budgeted salaries decrease $80,000, while the gas fund will contribute $44,000 for a city manager/utilities director as overtime drops by $7,500.
For the complete budget (pdf), click here.
Pictured: Last Tuesday night’s Century Town Council meeting. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Reminder: Big Free Food Distribution Today In Cantonment
September 10, 2024
The Cantonment Improvement Committee will host a special food distribution on Tuesday, September 10 at Carver Park, 208 Webb Street.
There will be a bag of food for the first 500 families, an estimated total of 25,000 pounds or more.
The distribution is sponsored by SEG Grocers/Winn Dixie and Farm Share. Organizers said residents of the greater Cantonment, Molino, Walnut Hill, Century and surrounding areas are invited. No identification is required.
The event will start at 3 p.m. Attendees should like up facing north on Webb Street. The bag of food will be placed directly in the vehicle.
NorthEscambia.com file photo.