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Tate Geometry And Pre-Cal Teams Shine At Tournament

Tate High School’s geometry and precalculus teams recently placed at the Nicky Walker Math Tournament, held at Milton High School. The Tate geometry team took first place, with members Kristina Vasileva, Bryan Chen, Aden Bailey, Fathi Abuokab, and Christopher Pennewell leading the charge. They were coached by Cody Nelson. The precalculus team claimed 2nd place, thanks to the efforts of Courtney Reichard, Hayden Graybill, Carter Hayden, and Lawson Killingsworth. Their success came under the guidance of coach Rachel Wisdom. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Cantonment Masonic Lodge Honors And Adopts Ernest Ward Middle School Educators

Cantonment Masonic Lodge #322 honored several educators from Ernest Ward Middle School recently. The Lodge recognized Teacher of the Year Maria Willis. They also adopted two novice teachers, Courtney Barrow and MaryBeth Geary. Additionally, the Lodge formally adopted Ernest Ward Middle School as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local education initiatives. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Escambia County EMS Hosting Open House This Saturday

Escambia County EMS will host a free open house for the public on Saturday from 12-4 p.m. “Escambia County EMS is excited to welcome everyone to our open house,” said EMS Chief Chris Watts. “We invite you to learn more about your EMS provider, participate in hands-on activities, and enjoy delicious chili prepared by our team. As we continue to evolve as an organization, we want to get to know the neighbors we serve daily. This is a family-friendly event with a lot of activities for the kids, including an Easter Egg Hunt, so we invite the whole family to come out on April 12.” Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the EMS facility, check out brand-new ambulances and life-saving gadgets, participate in first responder demonstrations, learn hands-on CPR, enjoy fun activities for the kids, and be a judge in the EMS employee chili cook-off. The open house will occur in the EMS ambulance parking lot, behind the Escambia County Public Safety building at 6575 N. “W” Street. The event was previously scheduled March 15 but was rescheduled due to weather. File photo.  Read More →

Tate Lacrosse Hosts District Tournament Opener Tonight

The Tate High School lacrosse team opens play tonight in the 2025 FHSAA Girls Lacrosse District Tournament. No. 4 Tate will host No. 5 Milton at 6 p.m. Thursday in Pete Gindl Stadium with the winner advancing to the semifinals on April 14 at No. 1 Gulf Breeze. Tate defeated Milton twice during the regular season by scores of 7-5 and 6-2. No. 3 Niceville will be at No. 2 Navarre in the semis on April 14. The District championship game will be April 16. NorthEscambia.com file photo.  Read More →

Molino Park Elementary PTA Carnival Is Friday Evening

Get ready for an evening of family fun as Molino Park Elementary School hosts its 2025 Spring Carnival this Friday, April 11th. Sponsored by the Molino Park PTA, the event promises a delightful experience for the entire community. From 5-8 p.m., the grounds of Molino Park Elementary, located at 899 Highway 97, will transform into a vibrant carnival atmosphere. Attendees can look forward to a wide array of classic carnival games, delicious food, lively music, and various local vendors. Adding to the excitement, the carnival will feature a bake-off competition, highlighting the culinary talents within the community. A live and silent auction will offer attendees the chance to bid on unique items and experiences, with proceeds supporting PTA initiatives and school programs. Organizers emphasize that this event is designed for the whole family to enjoy together. Wristbands are available from 7:10 until 8 a.m. with cash sales only on Thursday and Friday. Pre-sale wristbands are $12; regular price is $15 at the carnival Friday evening.  Read More →

Wahoos Fall Behind Early, Sustain First Loss of Season

written by Bill Vilona For the first time in five games, the Blue Wahoos were in a mid-game hole. They weren’t able to climb out. The Montgomery Biscuits jumped to an early lead, extended it to 5-1 in the sixth inning and went on to a 6-3 victory that ended the Blue Wahoos’ unbeaten start to the season at Blue Wahoos Stadium. The Biscuits (3-1) produced 10 hits against Pensacola pitching, the most allowed in the Blue Wahoos’ (4-1) first five games. Even so, the game still had some final at-bat intrigue. Blue Wahoos third baseman Johnny Olmstead caused a crowd reaction by driving a pitch deep to centerfield with Josh Zamora on second base. The ball was caught by the Biscuits’ Homer Bush Jr. near the base of the wall to end the game. Zamora and catcher Sam Praytor both had two hits, accounting for the bulk of the team’s seven hits. Praytor reached base three times, scored a run and threw out two runners trying to steal. It became a tough start for Blue Wahoos righthander Jacob Miller. In the second inning, he allowed three hits as the Biscuits scored three runs. Left fielder Matthew Etzel led off with a bunt single. Cooper Kinney then doubled. Tatem Levins followed with an RBI single. The Blue Wahoos just missed turning a double play to end the inning, but instead a second run scored. The Biscuits then pulled off a double steal to plate the third run. Miller pitched four innings, allowing six hits, but did record seven strikeouts in his first start of the season. The Blue Wahoos’ Mark Coley II homered with two outs in the bottom of the second—his first Double-A level homer. Etzel gave the Biscuits a 4-1 lead with a fifth-inning homer off Tristan Stevens. Kemp Alderman’s sacrifice fly in the sixth scored Jake Thompson, who had led off with a triple, and Praytor scored the Blue Wahoos’ final run in the eighth after leading off with a single. The Biscuits win evened the series. The two teams will play the third game on the first “Mullet Thursday” when the Blue Wahoos will take on their alternate identity and wear Pensacola Mullets uniforms. There will be beverage specials throughout the game for those of legal age. Robby Snelling, one of the Blue Wahoos’ Top 10 rated prospects in the Miami Marlins organization, will make his second start after a sharp opening night last Friday. GAME NOTABLES — The Navarre Youth Sports Association softball teams attended Wednesday’s game and participated in a pregame parade on the field. The group had 250 members attending the game. — The Blue Wahoos honored Travis (TJ) Presley on his birthday Wednesday. Known as TJ, he greets fans as they arrived at the top of the main entrance staircase each game. He’s the guy you can hear say, “Welcome To the Wahoos Life” as people come into the ballpark. — On Tuesday, the Blue Wahoos honored a 98-year-old resident “Miss Bobbie” who sat above the home team dugout and had the entire stadium singing “Happy Birthday” wishes to her on her 98th birthday. WANT TO GO? WHO: Montgomery Biscuits vs. Blue Wahoos WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium WHEN: Thursday Thru Sunday. GAME TIMES: Thursday through Saturday games all start at 6:05 p.m. The game on Sunday starts at 1:05 p.m.  Read More →

Flooding Road Closure Updates

Here is the latest on flooding road closures in North Escambia. River Annex Road and Nokomis Road were added to the closure list on Tuesday, while Arthur Brown Road reopened. REOPENED Arthur Brown at Brushy Creek — REOPENED Arthur Brown at Freedom Springs Branch — REOPENED O.C. Phillips Road at Brushy Creek — REOPENED (possible rough approach) Pineville Road at Brushy Creek — REOPENED (possible rough approach) CLOSED NEW — Rockaway Creek bridge over Rocky Branch Nokomis Road between Albritton & Tullis — detour in place River Annex Road off Muscogee Pine Forest Road (Walnut Hill) — North of Arthur Brown (collapse) Barrineau Park Road bridge over Perdido River into Alabama Pictured above: River Annex Road off Muscogee Road. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Tate Girls Tennis Beats Pace 6-1

The Tate Aggies girls tennis team earned a 6-1 senior night win over Pace on Tuesday. Next up, the Aggies will be at Choctaw on Wednesday. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Northview Softball Beats Gulf Breeze, Baseball Slips To TRM

SOFTBALL Northview 7, Gulf Breeze 4 The Northview Lady Chiefs beat the Gulf Breeze Dolphins 7-4 in Gulf Breeze Tuesday night. Jamison Gilman pitched six and one-third innings for the Chiefs, surrendering eight hits and four runs in six and one-third innings while walking four and striking out three. Mikayla McAnally faced five batters in relief over two-thirds of an inning, allowing two hits while striking out two and walking one. Bailey Burkette led NHS with three RBIs as she went 1-2.  Mikayla McAnally, Daviona Randolph, and Avery Stuckey recorded two hits each for the Chiefs. Northview will continue a three game road series Thursday at West Florida. BASEBALL T.R. Miller 3, Northview 2 The T.R. Miller Tigers slipped past the Northview Chiefs on Tuesday night in Brewton. Jackson Bridges was on the mound for five innings, allowing three runs (two earned) on four hits while walking two and striking out seven. Braynt Mason pitched a one-hit inning with no runs, strikeouts or walks. Jase Portwood led Northview with two RBIs as he went 1-3. Cole Davis, Dane King, Jase Portwood, and Grayden Sheffield each had one hit for the Chief. Up next, Northview will host Baker in a district game Thursday at 6:30 p.m.  Read More →

Mack’s Homer Leads Wahoos To Win And Record-Tying Season Start

written by Bill Vilona Blue Wahoos catcher Joe Mack had a couple of hard-hit outs in his first two games to start this season. Fate changed his way Tuesday. Mack blasted a two-run homer—part of a three-hit, three-RBI night—then got a birds-eye view behind the plate of reliever Josh Ekness’ clutch relief as the Blue Wahoos held on for a 5-4 victory against the Montgomery Biscuits, going 4-0 to start 2025 at Blue Wahoos Stadium. The game began a six-game series between the teams. The win enabled the Blue Wahoos to tie their best start in franchise history, matching the 2021 team, which was their first season as a Miami Marlins affiliate. They can set a record Wednesday in the second game of the series. On the first “Doggone Tuesday,” where fans could bring their beloved dogs and tickets were all one price with a meal included, Mack provided another look at why he’s viewed as a rising talent. His two-run homer in the third inning gave the Blue Wahoos a lead they kept. In addition to his homer, Mack doubled home another run, singled, scored two runs, and threw out a runner trying to steal. He also helped Ekness dial up brilliance as the Blue Wahoos’ closer. The Biscuits cut a 5-1 deficit to a one-run game in the eighth inning. Blue Wahoos reliever Orlando Ortiz-Mayr struggled with location, yielding three hits and two walks after retiring the first batter. Ekness entered with two on and one out. He struck out the first batter he faced, then got a deep flyout to end the inning. In the ninth, he struck out the side to end the game and record his first save. This game also featured a memorable moment for Cody Morissette. A former multi-sport athlete and talented hockey player, Morissette scored three beers with one home run shot. His line-drive rocket in the fourth inning sailed beyond the right field wall. The ball landed at a table of fans, part of a group outing A The people were fine. The drinks were replaced. And Morissette had his first homer of the season to give the Blue Wahoos a 3-1 lead. Blue Wahoos starter Luis Palacios worked four innings, giving up a run on four hits with three strikeouts. In the third inning, Jared Serna led off and reached on a throwing error. Mack then blasted a fastball out of the ballpark. He came into the game with one hit in his first seven at-bats. Mack followed with a double that scored Serna in the seventh. Nathan Martorella then singled home Mack. Shane Sasaki was robbed of a potential home run in the fourth inning when Biscuits centerfielder Colton Ledbetter leaped above the wall to snare the ball with his glove. Jacob Miller will be the Blue Wahoos’ starter on Wednesday in the second game of the series. GAME NOTABLES Blue Wahoos corporate sales executive Andie Masten and group sales executive Jessica Voigt together performed the National Anthem. Rachel Balkovec, the Marlins director of player development, watched Tuesday’s game from the Blue Wahoos dugout. WANT TO GO? WHO: Montgomery Biscuits vs. Blue Wahoos WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium WHEN: Wednesday thru Sunday  Read More →

River Annex Road In Cantonment Closed Due To Perdido River Floodwaters

River Annex Road off Muscogee Road in Cantonment has been closed by rising water from the nearby Perdido River. According to the National Weather Service, the Perdido River is near crest and is expected to begin slowly falling by tonight. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Beulah Middle School Media Specialist Gardner Honored With Association Award

Inette Gardner, media specialist at Beulah Middle School, is the 2025 recipient of the Dr. Paula Gleason Award. Each year, the Escambia County School Library Association presents the award to one school media specialist for their commitment to excellence in their library program. Nominees were asked to complete an application to describe leadership roles within our district and state-wide professional communities; how they support digital citizenship within their school; and contributions to support information literacy for students and staff. Those applications are reviewed anonymously by a committee of past award recipients. Gardner has been a media specialist at Beulah Middle School since 2023. Students, staff, and administrators have expressed their appreciation for the many roles she fills and her commitment to creating a welcoming school library. One of her nominators states, she is “a true champion of education, and her dedication and impact on her students’ growth and love for reading make her a truly deserving nominee for this prestigious award.” Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Nine Local Students Named Florida FFA 2025 State Degree Candidates

Florida FFA on Monday announced the named of nine local students who applied and have been selected as a candidate to receive the coveted State FFA. The State FFA Degree is the highest honor bestowed upon any regular member of the Florida FFA Association. Each candidate will be recognized and will receive their degree on the main stage during the 5th General Session of the 97th Florida FFA Convention and Expo at the Caribe Royale in Orlando this June. The 2025 State Degree candidates from North Escambia are: Tate High School Kaydon Biggs Blakely Campbell Christian Hollingsworth Brooke Hoomes Phoenix Myrick Ellen Rigby Northview High School Jackson Bridges Tyler Gilmore Andrew Manning  Read More →

Driver’s License, Tag, Tax Collector Services Available Next Week In Century

Driver’s license and other tax collector services will be available in Century on April 17 The Escambia County Tax Collector will be at the: Billy G. Ward Courthouse in Century on Thursday, April 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mobile Licensing and Identification Office (MILO) is a fully functional tax collector office on wheels, offering a range of services. The mobile unit provides a convenient method to renew a driver license, obtain a replacement driver license, conversion/reciprocation of out-of-state license, change a name or address on a current driver license or identification card, and get a first-time identification card. In addition to licensing services, the mobile unit also provides an opportunity to renew or replace a vehicle registration, receive a parking placard, transfer a title, pay property taxes, and apply for a business tax receipt. Written and driving tests are not available from the MILO unit. The Billy G. Courthouse is at 7500 North Century Boulevard. Pictured: The Escambia Tax Collector’s MILO.. NorthEscambia.com file photo, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Pilot Program Seeks To Put Trade Certified Century Prison Releasees To Work

A pilot program at the Century Correctional Institution is aiming to get inmates into jobs when they get out of prison. The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) hosted an employment partner showcase last week at CCI to introduce prospective employers to the program. About a year ago, a facility was established inside the prison to construct tiny homes which are later sold. Inmates receive certifications in HVAC, plumbing, carpentry and more, according to FDC Region 1 Community Transition Coordinator Alicia “Lee” Warren. “When the inmates are released, they have their certifications, and employers need employees that have their certifications,” Warren said. “We work to match with employers.” “We can match employers with inmates, so that when they are released, they can get to work,” she added. “The employers are very interested because they can put the qualified releasees into entry level positions and teach them.” Employers can specify criteria for which type inmates will be acceptable, and even arrange a virtual, phone or in-person interview with inmates before their release. The program is also available to employers outside the construction trades. For more information, employers can email Warren at alicia.warren@FDC.myflorida.com. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Former Corrections Officer Trainee Charged With Smuggling Contraband Into Fountain Prison

A former Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) trainee was arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle contraband into Fountain Correctional Facility in Atmore. ADC said Tommy Middleton was found in possession of approximately 212 grams of marijuana and two cell phones during a search conducted by ADOC K-9 officers. The discovery was made as part of a joint investigation involving the ADOC’s K-9, Narcotics, and Law Enforcement Services Divisions. Middleton was taken into custody and transported to the Escambia County Jail. He faces multiple charges, including possession of marijuana 1st, promoting prison contraband 2nd, attempting to commit a controlled substance crime, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental operations.  Read More →

Crude Oil Prices Fall To 4-Year Lows

Florida gas prices shot up early last week, but were back on the downward trend through the weekend. The state average rose 15 cents per gallon last week, reaching $3.22 per gallon, before drifting lower again. Sunday’s state average was $3.19 per gallon. That’s 8 cents more than a week ago, 6 cents more than last month, and 29 cents less than a year ago. The average price per gallon in Escambia County was a quarter below the state average s $2.94. A low price of $2.73 was available Sunday night at a station on East Nine Mile Road. In North Escambia, the lowest available price was $2.79 at a station of South Highway 29 in Cantonment. “Oil prices plummeted last week, which should contribute to lower prices at the gas pump,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “The oil price plunge is reportedly attributed to concerns that tariffs could cause a global economic slowdown, potentially resulting in a reduction in fuel demand. The market is also now worried about an over abundance of global oil supplies. This comes after OPEC+ announced plans to raise oil production in May by about three times more than previously planned.” The U.S. price for crude oil settled at $61.99 per barrel on Friday. That’s the lowest daily closing price since April 2021. NorthEscambia.com photo.  Read More →

These Are This Week’s Road Construction Trouble Spots

Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities. Escambia County: State Road (S.R.) 196 (Bayfront Parkway) Navy Federal Credit Union 5K Race – Motorists will encounter a road closure of S.R. 196 from East Chase Street to South Palafox Street on Saturday, April 5 from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. for the Navy Federal Credit Union 5K Race. U.S. 90 (Scenic Highway) Resurfacing, from South of Interstate 10 (I-10) to south of Hyde Park Road – Drivers on Scenic Highway will encounter intermittent lane closures, from south of I-10 to south of Hyde Park Road, Sunday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10, from 8 p.m. to 5:30 a.m., for milling and paving operations. Law enforcement will be on site and traffic flaggers will direct drivers safely through the work zone. Garden Street (Business U.S. 98) Construction from Pace Boulevard to the Interstate 110 Ramp – Garden Street, between Pace Boulevard and N. Donelson Street, is reduced to two travel lanes (one in each direction), as crews perform construction activities on the south side of the street. This temporary traffic configuration will be in place through early 2026. A detour route has been established using Pace Boulevard, Cervantes Street and A Street. Directional signage will be in place to safely direct drivers through the work zone. U.S. 98 (Gregory Street) Resurfacing from North Palafox Street to east of 14th Avenue – Drivers on Gregory Street, from North Palafox Street to 14th Avenue, will encounter alternating, intermittent lane closures Sunday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for milling and paving operations. North Palafox Street (U.S. 29) Resurfacing from Cervantes Street to Brent Lane (S.R. 296) – The week of Sunday, April 6, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on North Palafox Street, from Cervantes Street to Brent Lane, between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., as crews place thermoplastic striping and perform traffic signalization work. Pine Forest Road (S.R. 297) Resurfacing, from Mobile Highway (U.S. 90) to Blue Angel Parkway (S.R. 173) – The week of Sunday, April 6, drivers may encounter intermittent lane closures on Pine Forest Road, from Mobile Highway to Blue Angel Parkway, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m., for milling and paving operations. Interstate Circle Bridge Over Eight Mile Creek Construction – Interstate Circle is closed at the Eight Mile Creek Bridge through mid-2025 while crews replace the bridge. Signs are in place to detour drivers around the work zone using Pine Forest Road, Longleaf Drive and Wymart Road. I-10 at Nine Mile Road Interchange (Exit 5) Construction – Drivers will encounter the following construction related traffic disruptions: Intermittent I-10 inside lane closures near the Nine Mile Road interchange, Sunday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Nine Mile Road will be reduced to one travel lane in each direction between the I-10 ramps, Sunday, April 6 through Friday, April 11, from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Law enforcement will be on site, and directional signage will be in place to guide drivers through the work zone. I-10 at U.S. 29 Interchange (Exit 10) Construction – The week of Sunday, April 6, drivers will encounter the following construction-related traffic disruptions: North Palafox Street, between Hope Drive and Whitehead Drive, will have intermittent daytime lane closures. Signage will be in place to direct drivers safely through the work zone. I-10 between U.S. 29 and I-110, is reduced to two travel lanes in each direction. The U.S. 29 northbound ramp to I-10 eastbound is closed. U.S. 29 northbound drivers are being detoured to make a U-turn at Broad Street onto U.S. 29 southbound to access I-10 eastbound. A new temporary on-ramp for U.S. 29 southbound drivers accessing I-10 eastbound is now open. Detouring traffic to the temporary ramp will allow crews to continue work to reconstruct the I-10/U.S. 29 interchange. U.S. 29 (North Century Boulevard) Resurfacing between S.R. 4 and the Alabama State Line – The week of Sunday, April 6, drivers on North Century Boulevard, between S.R. 4 and the Alabama State Line, may encounter intermittent lane closures for paving operations and construction activities. Signage will be in place to direct drivers safely through the work zone. U.S. 90 (Scenic Highway) Routine Maintenance North of East Olive Road – Motorists will encounter intermittent lane closures Tuesday, April 8 and Wednesday, April 9 form 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for routine maintenance. Santa Rosa County: U.S. 90 Resurfacing from West of Avalon Boulevard to East of Stewart Street – Drivers may encounter intermittent U.S. 90 lane closures, between Avalon Boulevard and Stewart Street, Sunday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10 from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for shoulder work and placement of thermoplastic striping. U.S. 90 Bridge Replacement over Simpson River – Drivers on U.S. 90 may encounter intermittent lane closures over the Simpson River Bridge, Sunday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10, between 8 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as crews perform bridge construction work. Drivers are reminded that the speed limit is 35 mph through the work zone. U.S. 98 Widening from Bayshore Road to Portside Drive – Motorists will encounter the following traffic impacts: Median and turn lane closures from Bayshore Road to Tiger Lake Drive. Intermittent lane closures and additional median closures between Bayshore Road and Tiger Lake Drive, Sunday, April 6, through Friday, April 11, from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. for paving operations. U.S. 90 Coring Operations on White River Bridge – Motorists will encounter intermittent lane closures east of the county line Monday, April 7 from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. for coring operations. All activities are weather dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.  Read More →

Praytor’s Homer In Debut Pushes Wahoos To Series Sweep

The Blue Wahoos have begun a new season in a most desired way. After an early lead Sunday was erased in the middle innings, the Blue Wahoos’ bats reignited to power an 8-4 victory against the Biloxi Shuckers and complete a three-game sweep at Blue Wahoos Stadium. A crowd of 4,004 on the first Military and Family Sunday watched a different kind of win. This time, the Blue Wahoos overcame four errors and used four pitchers to grind their way into a satisfying finish to their season-opening series. “We’re relentless. We always feel like we’re in a good spot to win the game and think we showed that (Sunday),” said catcher Sam Praytor, a former Alabama Crimson Tide star, who smashed a game-changing two-run homer in the fourth inning to regain the lead. All the better, it was Praytor’s first start in Double-A. In his second at-bat, his first hit was a towering blast over the left field wall off a 97-mph fastball. “It was awesome,” said Praytor, who celebrated his 26th birthday Friday. “It is one of those things you think about it, and then once you get it out of the way, you’re like, oh thank God. “Once I rounded first, I saw that it had cleared the wall,” he said. “It was a great feeling. I honestly wasn’t thinking that I had just put us ahead. I was just trying to have a good at-bat and something good happened.” A lot of good things happened in Praytor’s collegiate career at Alabama. He led the team in home runs in his final two seasons and was first-team All-Southeastern Conference catcher in 2021. That season he played all 58 games. It led to being a sixth-round pick by the Miami Marlins in 2021. He climbed two levels last season and was elevated to Double-A following spring training. Praytor understands his role to start this season as the Blue Wahoos’ No. 2 catcher behind returning Joe Mack, the Marlins’ Double-A Player of the Year in 2024. “Joe is an absolute stud,” Praytor said. “He’s a great player and a great teammate, so I am glad I get to play with Joe, but also whenever I get the opportunity just make the most of it and something good will happen.” The win Sunday matched how the Blue Wahoos started last season – sweeping the Mississippi Braves in what became their lone series sweep. “It’s great. I think we have a special ballclub here,” Praytor said. “We have a great locker room and everybody loves to play with everybody, so I think it’s going to be a really fun year.” The fun times continued following Sunday’s game. This was the first Family and Military Sunday game of the year. Children 12 and under were able to run the bases, and families tossed soft baseballs in the outfield for 30 minutes. Each Sunday home game, the first 100 active or retired military members can receive a free general admission ticket by showing a military ID at the stadium box office. The Blue Wahoos wasted little time jumping to a lead. Jared Serna led off the first with a single. Jake Thompson walked. Kemp Alderman reached on an infield single to load the bases. A wild pitch scored Serna. Josh Zamora’s fielder’s choice grounder scored Thompson. Shane Sasaki had a two-out single to score Alderman for a 3-0 lead. Sasaki had a big day. He went 2-for-3 at the plate, reached on a walk in another at-bat, drove in two runs, scored a run, and made a great catch of a deep fly ball. Serna was the team’s other multiple-hit batter, beginning the season with a .333 average. On the mound, Dax Fulton made his first start in nearly two years. He’s battled back from injury issues that began following his previous start way back on May 11, 2023. After missing last season while recovering from Tommy John elbow surgery, this was a moment Fulton had long awaited. He got through the first inning while overcoming a walk and a throwing error on a pickoff attempt. But in the second inning, a leadoff walk and two singles led to the Shuckers’ first run. In the third inning, he gave up a leadoff triple that led to a second run when outfielder Mark Coley II was unable to corral a fly ball. The Shuckers got a third run on a base hit. Fulton was lifted by manager Nelson Prada after a leadoff single in the fourth inning that led to a go-ahead run at the time. He finished throwing 72 pitches, 45 for strikes, while giving up five hits, three walks, and striking out two. But getting him back on the mound again became a big win. “Dax is a great pitcher and he’s a great competitor, so it was a lot of fun to be able to catch him (Sunday),” Praytor said. The Blue Wahoos quickly answered in their half of the fourth inning. Sasaki reached on a one-out walk, raced to third on an errant pickoff attempt, and scored on Harrison Spohn’s single. Then Praytor followed with his blast. The Blue Wahoos tacked on two more runs in the sixth inning on Sasaki’s RBI double and Johnny Olmstead’s sacrifice fly. They also got stellar relief efforts from Ricky DeVito and Dale Stanavich, with both throwing two scoreless innings to seal the win. After having Monday off, the Blue Wahoos will remain at home to begin a six-game series against the Montgomery Biscuits on Tuesday at Blue Wahoos Stadium. GAME NOTABLES Sunday’s game was the first of the season’s “Kazoo’s Reading Program” parades. Five different regional elementary schools, including one from Panama City, had children and parents attend and make a lap on the field during a pregame parade. It will be repeated throughout the early part of the season. Blue Wahoos group sales executive Jessica Voigt performed the National Anthem. On Sunday games, the Blue Wahoos storefronts offer a $6 value meal with a hot dog, chips, and soft drink. The Elberta (Ala.) Youth Baseball organization attended the game with a group of 250. WHAT’S NEXT? WHO: Montgomery Biscuits vs. Blue Wahoos WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium WHEN: Tuesday (April 8 Thru Sunday (April 13) GAME TIMES: Tuesday through Saturday games all start at 6:05 p.m. The game on Sunday starts at 1:05 p.m.  Read More →

Industrial Cleaning Company Proposes Warehouse And Office On Hwy. 29 Cantonment

An industrial cleaning service is proposing to construct a new office and warehouse facility on Highway 29 in Cantonment. According to documents filed with the Escambia County Development Review Committee, Smith Industrial Services provides industrial cleaning services to many industrial plants and local municipalities in the area. They have proposed building an 11,468 square foot office and warehouse facility at 460 South Highway 29, between Companion Animal Clinic and an existing shopping center. The company said the proposed 2.83 acre site will house their local business offices, staging for all of their equipment, and a service facility to maintain their equipment. The lot is currently vacant. The application states the road frontage portion of the site will be paved with asphalt paving for employee parking. Beyond the rear of the office, the interior portion of the site will be secured by perimeter chain-link fencing with two electronic gates at both driveways. The interior impervious portion of the site is proposed to be crushed stone surfacing. The perimeter of the site will be designed with landscaping buffers. Site drawings of the proposed facility were not available at time of publication. In 2023, an engineering firm filed plans prepared for HCA Healthcare, which operates HCA Florida West Hospital, for a 10,860 square foot emergency department on the lot. Those plans never developed.  Read More →

Pensacola Airport Expansion, Modernization Program Forthcoming

A terminal expansion and modernization program is forthcoming at the Pensacola International Airport (PNS). With 104% growth in passenger traffic over the past decade, Pensacola International Airport is embarking on a multi-phase expansion to accommodate increasing demand, enhance the passenger experience, and position the airport for future success. The Terminal Expansion and Modernization Program will include additional gate capacity, upgraded amenities, advanced security features, and an improved overall airport infrastructure. The airport has announced the launch of TransformPNS.com, a dedicated and dynamic website providing the latest updates, project details, and community engagement opportunities for the Airport’s Terminal Expansion and Modernization Program. The website offers visitors an interactive and user-friendly experience, featuring: Project Overview – A detailed look at the Terminal Expansion and Modernization Program’s goals, phases, and expected benefits. Latest News & Updates – Timely announcements on construction milestones, new features, and project progress. Community Engagement – Information on public meetings, feedback opportunities, and ways for the community to be involved in the expansion process. Visuals & Renderings – Concept images, blueprints, and video updates showcasing the future of PNS. Additional real-time updates will be posted as the project progresses. “Pensacola International Airport continues to grow as a key gateway to the Gulf Coast, and this expansion is critical to ensuring we provide the best possible experience for our travelers,” said Executive Airport Director Matt Coughlin. “TransformPNS.com allows us to keep our passengers and stakeholders engaged, informed, and excited about the future of PNS.” PNS connects over three million passengers per year and offers over 20 nonstop flights to major cities across the United States.  The airport currently has 12 gates and will be expanded to 17 gates.  Read More →

Escambia Animal Shelter Offering Free Adoptions This Week

The Escambia County animal shelter is offering free adoptions for all cats and dogs one year or older through next Saturday, April 12 Puppies will be available for $50, and kittens will be available for $25. A $15 licensing fee will be applied to all adoptions for Escambia County residents. To see a full list of adoptable pets in Escambia County, visit 24petconnect.com and choose “Escambia County Florida Animal Services” as the specific shelter. The Escambia County Animal Welfare and Adoption Center is located at 200 West Fairfield Drive. The shelter is open from noon until 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Free Sports Physicals Offered For High School Athletes

Free sports physicals will be offered for local high school student athletes ahead of summer sports. The free physicals will be held April 10 and April 15 from 3-6 p.m. at Grace Care Medical at 4929 Mobile Highway in Pensacola. The physical is for high school athletes that need their FHSAA participation physical evaluation form completed. To schedule the free physical, call (850) 960-7971.  Read More →

Alderman’s Grand Slam Powers Blue Wahoos Past Biloxi

As the selected player of the game, Kemp Alderman received the customary water bucket dousing by his Blue Wahoos teammates. Two games into this season, it’s the only chill the former Ole Miss star has experienced. Just as Alderman did in October at the Arizona Fall League, he’s stirred a buzz. After three hits on Friday, he delivered the big hit on Saturday with a grand slam into a forceful wind blowing in from left field off the water, powering the Blue Wahoos to a 7-1 victory against the Biloxi Shuckers before a capacity crowd of 5,038 at Blue Wahoos Stadium. How fitting, right? The rapidly played game, completed in 2 hours, 13 minutes, led right into the first post-game fireworks show of the season. Under these wind conditions, it was going to take a rocket to get a ball out of this ballpark the past two days. On a fastball he saw with the bases loaded in the fifth inning, Alderman barreled it just right. The pitch exited at 104 mph – just enough to clear the left-center fence. The home run turned the game from a 3-0 lead into a far more comfortable zip code. Alderman has now collected four hits, scored three runs, and stolen a base in two games while reaching base five times. Alderman, 22, a Mississippi native, helped the Ole Miss Rebels to their dramatic triumph in the 2022 College World Series championship series. He was chosen in the second round by the Miami Marlins in the 2023 Draft and has risen to be ranked as the No. 11 overall prospect in the organization. Once again, the Blue Wahoos’ pitching was the main narrative. Starter Evan Fitterer carried a strong spring training into his first season start. With his breaking pitches on point and his fastball well-located, Fitterer faced just one batter above the minimum in his five innings. He allowed one hit, one walk, struck out six, and yielded only two fly-ball outs. Of his 64 pitches, 44 were strikes. The two relievers who followed, Adam Laskey and Tristian Stevens, were sharp as well. Laskey worked three innings, allowing two hits and the lone Biloxi run, but did not allow a walk and struck out three batters. Stevens finished the game in the ninth. These teams will finish their three-game series Sunday at 1:05 p.m. – the first of four early Sunday starts on the home schedule – with the Blue Wahoos sending Dax Fulton to the mound to make his first start since 2023. He missed last season recovering from elbow surgery. The Blue Wahoos had runners on base in each of the first five innings. They got a pair of runs in the second inning off Biloxi starter Nate Peterson. Dalvy Rosario doubled with one out. Johnny Olmstead reached on an error. Cody Morissette’s hard groundout enabled Rosario to score. Harrison Spohn then hit a two-out RBI single. The Blue Wahoos blew open the game in the fifth when Olmstead led off with a single, Morissette followed with a walk, and Spohn singled. Jared Serna’s RBI single made it 3-0. With one out, Alderman connected in a big way for Pensacola’s first home run of the season and first grand slam since last July. Olmstead then made a season-highlight defensive play in this second game of the year. He made a full-extension leaping dive in the seventh inning to rob Biloxi’s Eric Brown Jr. of a hit with a runner on base. It elicited a standing ovation. GAME NOTABLES Home games have produced a winning tradition in Blue Wahoos history. Last season their home record of 35-34 marked their eighth consecutive season with a winning home record. Emerald Coast Okinawa Drum Group, based in Niceville, which promotes Okinawan culture, performed outside the main gate prior to Saturday’s game. WANT TO GO? WHAT: Blue Wahoos Season-Opening Weekend Series WHO: Biloxi Shuckers vs. Blue Wahoos WHEN: Sunday, 1:05 p.m.  Read More →

One Injured When RV T-Bones Car In Century

One person was injured when a large recreational vehicle T-boned a Kia sedan Friday night in Century. It happened on North Century Boulevard between West Highway 4 and Hudson Hill Road just before 8 p.m. According to witnesses, the Kia pulled onto Highway 29 and into the path of the southbound RV. The RV pushed the Kia for several hundred feet before coming to a complete stop. The driver of the KIA was transported to an area hospital by Escambia County EMS with injuries that were not considered life threatening. The occupants of the RV — two adults and two children from the Atlanta area — were not injured. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating. The Century Station of Escambia County Fire Rescue and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the crash, which closed one southbound lane of North Century Boulevard for well over two hours. NorthEscambia.co photos, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Tate Showband Members Receive Superiors At State Solo And Ensemble

Several members of the Tate High School Showband of the South received a superior rating for their performance at the State Solo and Ensemble last weekend in Tallahassee. Senior: Jax Hardnack Brooklyn Summerlin Junior: Carter Hayden Freshman: Mason Soto Kendra McDonald Gracie Ferlo Jaren Ridgon Not pictured: Jax Hardnack and Brooklyn Summerlin. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Tate Lady Aggies Get Walk-Off Win Over West Florida

The Tate Lady Aggies secured a 5-4 walk-off home run win over the West Florida Jaguars Friday night in the annual Strike Out Cancer game at Tate. (We will have complete coverage and photos of the Strike Out Cancer events and game action coming up on Sunday morning.) The Lady Aggies were down 4-3 in the bottom of the eighth inning when Kara Wine slammed a homer to center field to score two runs. Tate’s scoring also began with a home run — a solo homer from Kaylie Mitchell to center field. Jordan Smith earned the win for Tate as she surrendered six hits and three runs (two earned) in a complete game eight innings while walking two and striking out four. Kara Wine recorded two RBIs, and she went 2-3 on the night. Peyton Womack went 2-4. In junior varsity action, Tate beat West Florida 8-1. Up next for the Aggies is a home game ast South Warren on Monday and Gulf Breeze on Thursday. First pitch is 6:30 p.m. for both games. (We will have complete coverage and photos of the Strike Out Cancer portion of the game coming up on Sunday morning.) Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Escambia Woman Charged With 20 Counts Of Child Porn Possession

A 46-year-old Escambia County woman has been charged with 20 counts of child porn possession. Danielle Marie Ballard was booked into the Escambia County Jail where she’s being held with bond set $1 million. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office investigation into Ballard began after a Crime Stoppers tip received in February alleged that she was in possession of child porn files. Deputies contacted he at her home, and she allowed a deputy to do a preliminary search of her laptop. According to an arrest report, the deputy found about 50 images of child porn, including some images that were of children as young as toddlers. The porn images were found in a folder on the laptop where it appeared the trash bin had accidentally been moved, according to the ECSO report. Ballard “became hysterical and repeatedly asked if she was going to jail,” the report states. She then confessed, according to the report, that “she had an interest” in child porn and state that she had been viewing and receiving child porn for five years.  Read More →

Central Water Water Works Says Over 1,000 Customer Bills Were Apparently Lost In The Mail

Over 1,000 Central Water Works customers may not have received their bills this month after the bills were apparently lost in the mail. The utility says the customer bills were taken to the McDavid Post Office for processing on March 25, and they were sent from there to the main Pensacola post office on Jordan Street. But Central now says that they don’t believe any of the bills were ever delivered to customers, and as of Friday afternoon they have received no explanation from the post office. Central customers can call the office to find out the amount they owe this month, or register for their online billing system here. The online site will allow customers to view their bills back to January 2024, but the site is not yet set to take online payments. Online payments should be made available beginning in June.  Read More →

Navarre Falls To Northview Softball, Tate Baseball On Friday Night

SOFTBALL Northview 3, Navarre 2 Coming off a big district win 9-4 over Jay Thursday night, the Northview Lady Chiefs added another one to the win column with a 3-2 defeat of the 1A Navarre Friday night in Bratt. Mikayla McAnally earned the win for Northview, surrendering five hits and two runs (one earneed) in seven innings, walking three and striking out three. Aubrey Hadley, Addysen Bolen, and Daviona Randolph each had two hits for the Chiefs. Riley Brooks, Aubrey Hadley, and Addysen Bolen each had one RBI for Northview. The Lady Chiefs will have two road games next week — Tuesday at Gulf Breeze and Thursday at West Florida. BASEBALL Tate 5, Navarre 1 The Tate Aggies beat Navarre 5-1 Friday night at Navarre. Tatite Davis hit a two-run homer in the top of the fourth for the Aggies to led Tate with two RBIs as he went 2-4 for the night. Nathan Ozuna  and Cal Foxworth also had two hits each for the Aggies. Keelan Beasley earned the win for the Aggies. he allowed four hits and one unearned run while striking out five and walking two over six innings. Nathan Connors threw one no-hit, no run inning for Tate in relief.  Read More →

Blue Wahoos Win Season Opener 4-0 Over Biloxi

Robby Snelling made his prior Opening Day start a couple years ago, but not in a packed stadium or this kind of level. “I’m looking forward to being in a great atmosphere,” said Snelling, earlier in the week before the Blue Wahoos’ first practice. Friday night, he delivered a memorable impression. Snelling, only 21 years old but already one of the Miami Marlins’ top-rated prospects, tossed a five-inning, two-hit gem to set a tone that was followed by the Pensacola bullpen in a 4-0 victory against the Biloxi Shuckers that delighted a sellout crowd of 5,038 at Blue Wahoos Stadium. The season-opening win, crisply played in 2 hours and 35 minutes, gave Blue Wahoos new manager Nelson Prada a win in his Double-A managerial debut. Prada is coming off a special time in guiding Spain to the championship round of the World Baseball Classic in February. Snelling, a 6-foot-3 lefthander from Reno, Nevada, who pitched in several Major League spring training games for the Marlins, flashed the same kind of quality stuff he’s showed since being acquired by the Marlins in a trade last July. He was drafted in 2022 by the San Diego Padres in the competitive balance portion of the first round. After giving up a first-inning single to the second batter he faced – Biloxi’s star prospect Cooper Pratt — Snelling faced just two more batters above the minimum in his five-inning quality start. He struck out five and did not issue a walk. Pratt, rated No. 2 in the Milwaukee Brewers organization, was thrown out on a terrific play by Blue Wahoos centerfielder Shane Saski, as Pratt tried to stretch the hit into a double. From that point, the Shuckers got only two more baserunners against Snelling. Three relievers followed Snelling and they were all outstanding. Zach McCambley, one of the veteran returnees, tossed 2.0 scoreless innings with four strikeouts. Newcomer Lane Ramsey pitched a scoreless eighth inning and closer Josh Ekness finished the game with a 97-mph fastball for a game-ending strikeout. The game featured outstanding defense on both sides. The Shuckers threw two Blue Wahoos runners out at the plate, including a terrific relay throw that got catcher Joe Mack out on a diving slide attempting to score on a Kemp Alderman double. It was a big night at the plate for Alderman, a former Ole Miss star, who went 3-for-4 with two runs scored. The same for Nathan Martorella, who went 3-for-4 with two RBI. This duo accounted for six of the Blue Wahoos’ eight hits. The Blue Wahoos broke through with three runs in the fourth inning. After Martorella drove home Alderman with the game’s first run, the Blue Wahoos loaded the bases and drew back-to-back RBI walks from Cody Morissette and Sasaki. Morissette walked three times in the game. After Mack was thrown out at the plate in the seventh inning, Martorella drove home Alderman a second time to make it 4-0. The teams will continue the three-game season opening series on Saturday night, the first post-game fireworks night of the season, in a 6:05 game featuring Blue Wahoos returning pitcher Evan Fitterer on the mound against the Shuckers Nate Peterson. GAME NOTABLES In starting their 13th season in club history, the Blue Wahoos are now 9-4 in openers. This was their sixth Opening Night win in the nine years they’ve started the season at home. These teams will play 27 times this season, the most meetings of any Blue Wahoos opponent. WANT TO GO? WHAT: Blue Wahoos Season-Opening Series WHO: Biloxi Shuckers vs. Blue Wahoos WHEN: Saturday, 6:05 p.m.  Read More →