Tire Comes Off Vehicle On Highway 97, Slams Into Parked Vehicle
June 8, 2018
A vehicle in the parking lot of the Davisville Piggly Wiggly was damaged Thursday when a tire came off a vehicle several feet away on Highway 97.
The tire damaged the rear passenger door, breaking the glass out of it.
No one was in the vehicle at the time, and no injuries were reported.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Panel Looks For Ways To Increase School Security
June 8, 2018
The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Commission met Thursday as it continued reviewing events surrounding the Feb. 14 mass shooting in Parkland that killed 17 students and faculty members.
The commission, created in March as part of a school safety law (SB 7026) passed in the aftermath of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas massacre, discussed security risk assessments, school discipline programs and new mental-health assistance programs during the meeting at the BB&T Center in Sunrise.
But the meeting began with Andrew Pollock, whose daughter Meadow was killed at the school, announcing his resignation from the commission. Pollack did not attend the meeting but said in a letter he was resigning to help elect candidates to the Broward County School Board to “ensure that our schools are safe.”
On May 15, Ryan Petty and Lori Alhadeff, both of whom lost daughters in the shooting, held a joint press conference announcing their candidacies for the county school board.
Pollack also said that he will spend time on an independent investigation that will, “get to the bottom of who was responsible for the atrocities that occurred” and hold legally accountable agencies and individuals responsible for the shooting.
“I’m sad. I mean, Andy was a valuable member of this team. We liked his perspective, and it saddens me that he’s not here,” said Max Schachter, father of victim Alex Schachter and a commission member. “Hopefully, the governor will pick another very well-qualified candidate that can add experience and value to this commission so we can accomplish a lot of good things.”
The law passed after the shooting included a series of steps designed to improve school safety. The commission, which will meet again Friday, discussed some of those issues as it looks for ways to prevent other mass shootings.
Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri, who is chairman of the commission, said the new law requires every school in the state to have an on-site security risk assessment known as the Florida Safe Schools Assessment Tool by Aug.1. This assessment involves looking at facility vulnerabilities and site-hardening needs.
Also, the appointment of a school safety officer and school safety specialist in all districts is required by July 1. New mental-health assistance must be implemented for the start of the 2018-2019 academic year.
“The Department of Education must establish an evidence-based youth mental health awareness and assistance curriculum for students,” Gualtieri said. “By the start of the school year, students must disclose prior mental health bills.”
By having records of mental-health referrals, school districts can refer students to mental health services. Additionally, each school district is required to have a student crime-watch program. The program allows anonymous reporting to public-safety and school officials.
Gualtieri said he has 800 pages of records on Parkland shooter Nikolas Cruz’s mental health.
“I can tell you with absolute, objective certainty that through 2017 to 2018, Henderson Behavioral Health (a mental-health provider) had no contact with (Nikolas) Cruz whatsoever,” said Gualtieri. “The last contact was in December 2016, while Cruz was evaluated under the Baker Act in October 2016.”
State Vice Chancellor of Public Schools Jacob Oliva presented the board with changes to the Zero Tolerance Policy for Crime and Victimization. Changes include school districts adopting policies that require threat-assessment teams to consult with law enforcement when students exhibit patterns of behavior based on previous acts or severity of acts that would pose a threat to school safety.
Zero-tolerance policies would not be applied to petty acts. Incidents required to be reported to law enforcement are battery, homicide, kidnapping, sexual battery and weapons possession. Incidents that may not involve consultation with law enforcement include bullying, fighting, sexual harassment, harassment and tobacco.
Petty, a commission member and the father of victim Alaina Petty, asked Oliva if it was the Florida Department of Education’s role to track compliance with incident reporting or who would be responsible for that.
“Good question,” said Oliva. “The department requires districts to submit that data and adhere to timelines because we have to report some of those elements that federally determine those incidents and, I guess, analyzing the data at a local level. We get what the districts send us.”
Also during the meeting, Bob Kolasky, deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, explained best practices for schools for active assailant prevention and response. Kolasky said his department is studying ways to enhance school safety to prevent events similar to the Broward shooting.
“A lot of what we talk about is things that happen when someone with a gun gets there, but train and be ready for someone with a gun to get there,” Kolasky said. “School security needs to be designed with a learning environment in mind. Making sure that school is a place where kids learn is important.”
Kolasky mentioned the “If You See Something, Say Something” program, which can alert law enforcement or school officials to problems. He said he discussed it with his daughter and that “we must break the culture of not telling on others” to help prevent tragedies.
Florida Sen. Lauren Book, D-Plantation, asked Kolasky about the “Stop the Bleed” program, which trains people to perform triage before first responders arrive on scene. Kolasky said the program would increase the likelihood of survival.
Schachter said that the Stop the Bleed Program has started in Broward County.
“Westglades (a middle school next to Douglas) already has the kits and already trained the teachers and we’re in the process of doing it at Douglas,” Schachter said.
After raising a question about where the Department of Homeland Security stands on national school-safety standards, Schachter tearfully asked Kolasky to bring a message back to Washington: Please visit the site of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
“What’s so important in all of this is the funding, and we would certainly love the federal government’s help in increasing school safety,” Schachter he said. “Even though we’re appreciative of the Stop School Violence Act, $75 million for the entire United States is absolutely ridiculous. We need a lot of help. We need a lot of money. Just for one ballistic hardwood door and glass is $3,900 for one door.”
by Nathalie Sczublewski, The News Service of Florida
Update: New 4-H Livestock Facility In Molino
June 8, 2018
Update: The funds to construct a new 4-H Multipurpose Livestock Facility in Molino are from the Escambia County 4-H Foundation. The funds were distributed from 4-H to the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners in order to use the county bid process. The Escambia County Commission agenda stated the fund were from a county Local Option Sales Tax Fund, but did not reflect the original disbursement by the 4-H Foundation.
Escambia County has updated their practices to be more specific on funding sources.
Original Story:
Escambia County will build a new 4-H Multipurpose Livestock Facility in Molino.
The contract was awarded to low bidder J. Miller Construction for a $103, 398 for the facility to be constructed at the 4-H property on South Highway 99 in Molino.
“The multipurpose livestock facility will serve multiple uses for animal science teaching and animal husbandry. It will provide housing to 4H youth livestock projects and provide a safe environment for youth to learn and grow with their animals. The facility will also be used for day camps, workshops and seminars for other agricultural programs within Escambia County Extension,” according to bid documentation.
The next lowest bid was $125,000 from Diversified General Contractors. Three additional bids were received, with the highest at $171,000.
Summer Reading Program At The Molino And Century Library (Gallery)
June 8, 2018
The Summer Reading Program got underway this week at the Century and Molino branch libraries with a dynamic, interactive show featuring Japanese Taiko drums.
Next week, the free programs will feature musician Roger Day on the following schedule:
Tuesday, June 12, 11 a.m. – Southwest Branch Library – Weather permitting program will be held at Big Lagoon State Park Amphitheater
Tuesday, June 12, 4 p.m. – Tryon Branch Library
Wednesday, June 13, 11 a.m. – Century Branch Library
Wednesday, June 13, 4 p.m. – Pensacola Library
Thursday, June 14, 11 a.m. – Molino Branch Library
Friday, June 15, 11 a.m. – Tryon Branch Library
Day has performed with the Indigo Girls, Nancy Griffith and the Crickets (Buddy Holly’s band).
Pictured: This week’s Summer Reading Program at the Century and Molino branch libraries. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Registration Open For Tate Aggie Summer Baseball Camp
June 8, 2018
The 2018 Tate Aggie Baseball Summer Camp will be held June 11-13 from 8 a.m. until 11 a.m. for players 8-14.
The Tate High coaching staff and players will host a three day camp that will focus on all aspects of the games of baseball. Players will need to bring their glove, baseball cleats, bats, turf type shoes (for batting cages) and any other necessary equipment.
Spots are limited; preregistration is recommended. The cost is $100.
For a registration form and more information, click here.
Escambia School District Names Top Social Studies Teachers
June 8, 2018
Escambia County School District Social Studies Teachers of the Year have been named.
They are Bonny Shiflett, Lipscomb Elementary School; Nichole Beckius, Bailey Middle School; and Robin Blalock, Tate High School
“Mrs. Shiflett brings history to life for her students through reading The Adventures of Rush Revere Book Series. She has correlated many social studies standards, as well as ELA (English and Language Arts) standards, directly with the content of these books. She has instilled a true love for history with each of her students! She has also been instrumental in gaining many resources for our school, as well as the school district,” said Lipscomb Elementary School’s Principal Susan Sanders. “Her passion for teaching social studies is contagious. When asked if she would train other teachers in our district, she willingly accepted. As a result, she will provide professional development to other teachers at the beginning of next year. She is an inspiring, dedicated teacher and is a very deserving recipient of the Elementary Social Studies Teacher of the Year for Escambia County School District.”
“Nichole Beckius is a true Vision 2020 teacher. Her innovative style of teaching brings the world of history alive to her students. We can’t wait to see what wonderful project the students will be introduced to next,” said Jim Bailey Middle School Principal Janet Penrose.
“Robin Blalock has become an important part of the Tate High School community. Her sponsorship of Rho Kappa (Social Studies Honor Society) has helped nurture the strong ties Tate has with the military and their families. Her content knowledge is always growing and she is the first to offer guidance to new teachers,” said Pam Killebrew, Social Studies Department head at Tate High School.
Each recipient was nominated by their school for their outstanding work in social studies education.
“They will be recognized at the Florida Council for Social Studies’ Annual Conference and are now eligible to compete for the honor of selection as Florida’s social studies teachers of the year for their grade levels,” explained Cherie Arnette, ECSD’s Social Studies specialist.
Chiefs Football Volunteers Thursday At Care Center
June 8, 2018
Several members of the Northview High School football team volunteered Thursday at the Century Health and Rehabilitation Center after summer workouts and conditioning. The Northview football linemen also held a car was Friday in preparation for summer camp. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Wahoos Take Series With Narrow 3-2 Win
June 8, 2018
Wyatt Strahan (W, 5-4) overcame his Blue Wahoos Stadium woes and delivered a wonderful pitching performance that guided the Wahoos to a 3-2 game and series win.
It looked like an ugly start early for Strahan after Corey Ray pounced on the first pitch of the game with his ninth home run of the season. However, the University of Southern California product composed himself and retired the next three batters in order and escaped further trouble.
Offensively the Wahoos had their starter’s back with a swift response. After a leadoff single by C.J. McElroy, Nick Longhi scored McElroy with his eighth double of the season. With two outs in the inning, Luis Gonzalez singled home Longhi and later stole a base and scored on Narciso Crook’s first career Double-A RBI. When the dust in the first inning settled the Wahoos led 3-1.
Strahan cruised over the next three innings until he ran into Jake Hager in the fifth. The Shuckers shortstop jumped all over the 1-0 pitch and launched his sixth homer of the year to cut the deficit to 3-2. Again, Strahan rebounded and did not allow a run over his final 1.1 innings.
Jody Davis turned to his bullpen for a large portion of Thursday’s finale and once again the bullpen delivered. Victor Payano worked around a bases-loaded jam in the sixth and finished his night with two scoreless innings. Alejandro Chacin replaced Payano with one out in the eighth and finished off the frame with the lead intact. In the ninth, the skipper called upon Alex Powers and the Massachusetts-native finished off the Shuckers in dramatic fashion. With the tying run on second, Tyler Heineman hit a groundball to shortstop that was mishandled by Gonzalez. However, the Wahoos shortstop made a heads-up throw to third base, which caught Trent Grisham well off the bag and stuck in a rundown. After a couple throws, Gonzalez—who made the original error—caught the throw from Cassidy Brown to tag out Grisham and seal the win.
Pensacola will hit the road Friday morning towards Pearl, MS, for a five-game series against the M-Braves. LHP Seth Varner (2-0, 3.03) will make his third start of the year against former first-round pick Kyle Wright (3-6, 4.37). The upcoming series is the second-to-last series for the Blue Wahoos prior to the All-Star break
New ‘Aggressive’ Mosquito Species Found In North Escambia
June 7, 2018
The Escambia County Mosquito Control Division has identified a new species of mosquito within the county called Aedes japonicus, or Asian bush mosquito. Mosquito Control Technician Kimberly Betts identified the new species from a CDC light trap set in Cantonment near International Paper.
The Asian bush mosquito can also be found in Santa Rosa, Walton, Okaloosa, Bay and Leon Counties, and with the migration into Escambia, it brings the known list of mosquito species in Escambia County to 73.
Mosquito Control Technician Kimberly Betts realized the mosquito was not an Asian tiger mosquito, one of the local prominent container breeding mosquitoes, because the markings and colors were different. Two samples of the newly found mosquito were sent to a lab in Vero Beach, Florida and were officially verified as a new species within the county.
The Asian tiger and Asian bush mosquitoes both breed in natural and artificial water containers, including rock pools, bird baths, pet bowls and flower containers. Like the Asian tiger mosquito, the Asian bush mosquito is an aggressive daytime-biting mosquito, capable of transmitting several diseases to animals and people, according to Escambia County.
To help reduce the risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes, Escambia County said residents should follow the “Five D’s and an S” of mosquito control:
- Dusk to Dawn – is the time frame when mosquitoes are most active. Reduce or eliminate outdoor activity between dusk and dawn or take precautions to prevent mosquito bites
- Drainage – is key to eliminating breeding sites for mosquitoes. Check around your home to rid the area of standing water. Water found in old tires, flowerpots, clogged rain gutters, leaky pipes and faucets, birdbaths and wading pools is where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.
- Dress – in light colored, long sleeves and pants when you are outside, especially in mosquito infested areas.
- DEET – if you are going to be outside when mosquitoes are most active, make sure you apply insect repellent that contains DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide). Read and follow label instructions. Spray both exposed skin and clothing with repellent when outdoors.
- Screens – make sure window and door screens are in good condition.
Animals, such as dogs, cats and horses may be bitten by mosquitoes as well, though these animals may be protected by using vaccines and other methods as prescribed. Consult your veterinarian for methods to protect animals from mosquito-borne diseases.
To request Escambia County Mosquito Control Services including being added to the “no spray/fog” list, contact the Mosquito Control Division at 850-937-2188, mosquitocontrol@myescambia.com, submit an online request here.
Pictured: The Aedes japonicus mosquito. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Century May Hire New Accountant After Missed Deadlines, Late Audit; Grants In Jeopardy
June 7, 2018
The Town of Century is threatening to hire a new accountant after missed deadlines, the likelihood of a late audit submission to the state and the possibility that future grants could be denied as a result. And the issue $4 million in unpaid and possibly improper loans from a restricted revenue account remains.
Debbie Nickles, the town’s planner, said a $30,000 USDA Rural Development grant is in danger due to a 2016 audit. The USDA requested more information from the town after reviewing Century’s 2016 audit which showed “material weaknesses, significant deficiencies and and compliance findings”, according to an email from the USDA.
“It’s a real problem for future grants,” Council President Ann Brooks said.
In response to a NorthEscambia.com public records request, Brooks provided copies of email exchanges between Brooks, a representative of auditing firm Warren Averett and town accountant Robert Hudson.
Brooks said the this year’s town audit will not be completed in time for submission by the state’s June 30 deadline because accountant Hudson has not complete a list of tasks and provided documentation to Warren Averett.
“I have been corresponding with Robert directly for most of May. Each week he has promised he would be able to turn over the information, and then there is an issue and it is not ready. I emailed him again today to check on status. If you recall, we had tried to start the audit in January but were unable to get information at that time and told Robert we would try again in May,” CPA Kristen McAllister of Warren Averett said in an email to Brooks. “The Town’s audit is due to the State on June 30 and with only 1 month remaining until the deadline, I am not confident in being able to meet that deadline.”
“I had every intention of getting the audit completed timely this year, but we have not been able to get information to start the audit. I spoke with Kim earlier this month and let her know as well that we were waiting on information,” McAllister’s email said.
After missing a deadline to provide documentation, Hudson wrote on May 9, “I do expect to be completed within the next few days…..hopefully by Tuesday of next week. I am shooting for Friday of this week, but allowing additional time to put out a fire or two there as always happens”
The auditor followed up with an email on May 15 inquiring about the status of Hudson’s work.
He replied May 21 that several things were not completed by town employees. “Give me a couple more days,” Hudson wrote.
After a May 30 inquiry from the auditor, Hudson replied quickly that he was going back to the town offices “hopefully to complete the little things”. He also said the town’s Quickbooks software had to be updated, slowing the process.
In a June 4 email to Brooks, Hudson said everything should be in the auditor’s hands by the end of the week.
The Century Town Council voted to hold Hudson to a June 8 deadline to complete all work for the auditor. If not, the town plans to advertise for a new accountant. “…this letter serves as notice that we cannot have nor do we expect this type of service anymore. This is hurting our chances of getting grant money,” Century Mayor Henry Hawkins wrote in a demand letter to Hudson. [Click here to read the entire letter (pdf).]
“In the real world, I’d get fired,” council member Ben Boutwell said.
In his June 4 email to Brooks, Hudson offered explanations for the late submissions to the auditor. “There was difficulty in running down some of the entries needed to correct the books before we turned them over to the auditor,” he said, adding that the resignation of the town clerk and the appointment of a new clerk further slowed the process. He also stated that a search was underway for documentation to substantiate bills that had already been paid without invoices being posted. He also listed numerous tasks that are complete.
The 2016 audit found about $4 million had been borrowed from the town’s special revenue fund over several years to cover the general operations of the town. The revenues in the special revenue fund are restricted for specific purposes, and therefore, these funds will have to be repaid or it will be considered an inappropriate use of the restricted revenues. Century currently has an annual budget of $4.5 million and has been unable to repay the special revenue fund.
Since the 2016 audit was received, the town has continued to borrow from the special revenue fund, including money to keep the gas department afloat.
“This is the same situation as we referenced as a finding in the 2016 audit. All other amounts being borrowed from the special revenue fund have been treated as a loan as well. I would imagine this situation has continued through fiscal year 2017 as well, and would be included in the financial statement findings again this year,” the auditor wrote in a June 4 email to Brooks. Also, it would not be as significant of an issue if it was a small borrowing with repayment plan, however, it was approx. $4M (million) cumulative through fiscal year 2016. With that significant of a loan without a plan to reimburse the special revenue fund, it becomes a concern for the financial condition of the Town.”
Hudson wrote that he was working with the town attorney to resolve some of the “loans” from the special revenue fund by a reclassification as “maintenance of the street”, which is an allowed use.
Pictured top: Accountant Robert Hudson addresses the Century Town Council during a May 7 meeting. NorthEscambia.com file photo, click to enlarge.