Cantonment Rotary Provides Thanksgiving Meals For Over 1,600 People (With Photo Gallery)
November 23, 2023
Over 1,600 people can enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal this year thanks to the members and friends of the Cantonment Rotary Club.
For a photo gallery, click here.
Wednesday, the club distributed everything for a turkey meal to 324 families in the North Escambia area. The recipients were chosen with the help of local school guidance counselors who helped identify families that might need a little help this time of year.
The Tate High School cheerleaders volunteered Wednesday at St. Luke United Methodist Church to help package the meals for delivery.
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Miracle League Holds Annual Turkey Fry (With Photo Gallery)
November 23, 2023
The Miracle League of Pensacola held their annual turkey fry fundraiser Wednesday at their park on East Nine Mile Road.
Volunteers with the Miracle League spent their day frying about 300 turkeys for a minimum $35 donation, with all of the proceeds going to benefit the Miracle League.
For a photo gallery, click here.
A small army of volunteers worked to deep fry the turkeys to perfection, rows of timers keeping track of the cooking time at a command center of sorts. Cadets from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office also volunteered to make sure the turkeys were ready to enjoy on Thanksgiving.
The Miracle League provides physically and mentally challenged children a safe and spirited program in which they can hit, run, and catch on a baseball field – just like other kids. MLP offers a unique and memorable opportunity these children would not otherwise have. It is a place where every player plays, every player hits, every player gets on base, every player scores, and every player wins – every inning.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Ice Flyers Give Thanks With Shutout Win, Gender Reveal, And Remain Unbeaten At Home
November 23, 2023
By Bill Vilona
After the team’s practice Tuesday, the Ice Flyers players went together on a grocery shopping mission for Thanksgiving dinner, where they were to all share all gather.
The Ice Flyers have now completed the first two months with an unbeaten (6-0) home record. It is such a turnaround from the past several seasons when home ice wasn’t such an advantage.
“Obviously, it’s fun to play at home,” said Ice Flyers veteran forward Ivan Bondarenko. “We have a great crowd behind us and we always get that that energy and you can tell by our record, we are playing very well at home.”
For more photos, click or tap here.
And though he didn’t factor into the scoring Wednesday, Bondarenko generated energy when he and his wife, along with their young son, stayed on the ice after the first period for a gender-reveal event.
Bondarenko swiped at an artificial puck that burst into blue, signifying another boy is on the way.
“Originally the plans were for him to just be with his wife and we said, no, we all want to be there,” said Ice Flyers coach Gary Graham. “That was a cool moment. All the years I coached, I have never been part of that.”
Added Bondarenko: “It was amazing. It was an incredible moment to do it around friends and family and all the fans. It was great.”
At the time, the Ice Flyers led 1-0. Dante Zapata, who had seven assists in his first 10 games with the Ice Flyers, scored his first goal Wednesday on a rebound wrister with 12:35 left in the first period.
The game stayed 1-0 through midpoint of the second period.
Birmingham kept much of the play in the Ice Flyers zone though the first 10 minutes until Meirs Moore got free along the boards on the right side. He swooped toward the goal cage and sent a wrist shot into the net with 6:58 left for his first goal this season.
The Ice Flyers then followed with two goals 69 seconds apart. Leading scorer Brett Mecrones scored a spectacular goal while falling backwards on the ice. He got off a good wrist shot on a rebound and set it into the net. Malik Johnson then scored his first goal on a shot through the goaltenders pads and just like that, the Ice Flyers went from 1-0 to 4-0 at second intermission.
“(Earlier) in the second period we weren’t very good,” Graham said. And Dinger (Mundinger) was just huge for us. He made some big saves for us.
“And when Meirsey had that goal and we had the chance to build momentum we really seized it and you could see bang, bang, bang we scored three goals.
The Ice Flyers generated only 20 shots through two periods. But they scored four goals. That kind of efficiency decided the game before final period began.
“We got secondary scoring from guys that frankly we haven’t gotten it from this year,” Graham said. “Whenever you see three players in the classic goal celebration where they take the (imaginary) monkey off the back and (pretend) throw it into the stands… you usually see that once a game, but you had three guys who scored and could say, been waiting awhile for this to come.”
Mundinger, 28, a Smithtown, New York native, played four seasons as a backup goaltender with the University of Maine, one of the top collegiate programs in the country. He has been a special addition to this year’s team.
Earlier Wednesday, Ice Flyers goaltender Kaden Fulcher received a callup to the ECHL with the Savannah (Ga.) Ghost Pirates.
“For Dinger it was about just getting into the net and playing games this year,” Graham said. “We are just ecstatic to have him. We love Kaden, we love Dinger.”
It was the fourth meeting with Birmingham this season. Both teams entered tied for third in the standings with 14 points. The Ice Flyers will travel on Friday for a rematch against the Bulls in Birmingham.
Following that game, the Ice Flyers will then travel to Macon, Georgia for a game on Sunday at 4 p.m. against the Macon Mayhem.
“Bulls activated two really good forwards in their lineup and they had lot more firepower than last two times we played them,” Graham said. “Knowing that, we talked about trying to win the game defensively tonight and really be stingy, trying to get more physical on them.”
Following that game, the Ice Flyers will then travel to Macon, Georgia for a game on Sunday at 4 p.m. against the Macon Mayhem.
“Bulls activated two really good forwards in their lineup and they had lot more firepower than last two times we played them,” Graham said. “Knowing that, we talked about trying to win the game defensively tonight and really be stingy, trying to get more physical on them.”
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WHAT’S NEXT?
WHO: Ice Flyers vs. Birmingham Bulls
WHEN: Friday, 7:05 p.m.
WHERE: Pelham Civic Complex, Pelham, Alabama.
Happy Thanksgiving! Chilly Temps In the 50s Today
November 23, 2023
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Thanksgiving Night: A 30 percent chance of rain before midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 44. North wind around 5 mph.
Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 61. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. North wind around 5 mph.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 65. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 47. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph after midnight.
Sunday: Showers likely, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 64. East wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Sunday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 58. North wind around 10 mph.
Monday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 54.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 33.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 57.
Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.
Thursday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 59.
Search Underway For ‘Armed and Dangerous’ Escambia County Homicide Suspect
November 22, 2023
At approximately 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, Escambia County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 12000 block of Meadson Road in reference to a shooting victim. Upon arrival, a 35-year-old female was located with a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased.
The suspect, 36-year-old Darryl Walker is believed to have shot his wife and then fled the scene. He fled in a black 2020 Hyundai Veloster with Florida tag #BG10PN. He is wanted for homicide. He is considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 850-433-STOP or the ECSO at 850-436-9620, or 911.
$189K In Taxpayer Reimbursement Requested From Escambia Children’s Trust For YouthFirst Century Program That Missed Goals
November 22, 2023
A children’s services provider in Century funded by Escambia Children’s Trust has failed to meet goals while requesting over $189,000 in taxpayer funding, according to organizers.
The Escambia Children’s Trust (ECT) awarded a contract to the Pensacola non-profit Urban Development Center for “YouthFirst Century” to serve 750 youth ages 11-18 over a three-year period at a total cost of $1.2 million. Of the 19 awards by ECT, it was the fourth-highest scoring program during the application proesss.
UDC CEO Dr. Jessica A. Griffen appeared before the ECT board last week, asking to lower her focus age group from 11-18 to ages 5-18. The program serves children from Bratt Elementary, Byrneville Elementary, Ernest Ward Middle and Northview High schools.
Griffen said the program has served the younger age group, but has experienced great difficulty in reaching the targeted middle and high school age groups. The UDC originally proposed to serve 750 youth ages 11-18 in the Century area, a number that does not exist in the entire Century zip code, according to U.S. Census data.
UDC has requested a $189,256.70 reimbursement despite reaching just 56 children, with less than 30 of those in the target age range. That equals $6,308 per targeted child in the 11-18 age group.
UDC’s reimbursement request from ECT included about $60,000 for personnel, $6,212 in travel, $2,692 for advertising, $37,000 for program supplies, $1,201 for field trips, $59,000 in “sub-grants to partners”, and $21,000 for professional services for 56 children, 29 of which are not in the program’s target group.
According to documentation presented to the ECT board, the Urban Development Center stated:
- We underestimated the need and desire for children outside of our proposed program age range to want to play an active role in the center activities.
- We underestimated the challenge that the children and youth of The Town of Century faced by not having a community-based school culture, which creates proximity and family participation issues.
- We overestimated the desire for youth in our proposed program age range to participate in program activities initially and consistently.
- We overestimated the commitment of parents to actively pursue out of school time (OST) and summer program educational activities for their children and youth.
In their application to ECT, UDC acknowledged that they did not have the cash on hand to operate under a cost reimbursement model. UDC approached the Century Town Council for help in early 2023. The town has provided the Century Business Center at 150 East Pond Street as meeting space, with upgrades such as lighting and an ice machine.
The Town of Century fronted $61,925 to The Urban Development Center to purchase items like computers and workbooks. The 500 workbooks at $52.75 per workbook were to be purchased from UDC for $26,375. UDC said they would reimburse the town after they received the ECT funding, but no specific deadline was established. At least $20,000 was recently repaid to the town.
The Escambia Children’s Trust tabled any action on Griffen’s request to lowet the focus age group.
Pictured: The Urban Development League’s Dr. Jessica Griffen introduces YouthFirst Century to a group at the Pilgrim Lodge Baptist Church in Century In February 2023. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Thanksgivng Forecast: Turning Cooler
November 22, 2023
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
This Afternoon: Mostly sunny, with a high near 59. North wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 38. North wind around 5 mph.
Thanksgiving Day: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 58. North wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 63. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Friday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 44. North wind around 5 mph.
Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 65. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. East wind around 5 mph.
Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. East wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48.
Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 59.
Monday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 55.
County Animal Welfare Officer Rescues Duck With Arrow Stuck In Its Wing
November 22, 2023
For Escambia County Animal Welfare officers, “all in a day’s work” may include tracking down and rescuing an injured duck with an arrow stuck in its wing.
That’s exactly what happened on Nov. 16, when Lead Animal Welfare Officer Merideth Roberson responded to a call about a Muscovy Duck that had been hit by an arrow. The injured duck was spotted by several concerned residents in the Wildwood Lakes neighborhood, but she kept her distance from anyone trying to rescue her.
Although the arrow appeared to be a toy arrow without a sharp tip, Sgt. Roberson said nearby residents were still concerned for the safety of the duck, along with the safety of other ducks that inhabit the lakes and canals in the neighborhood. Sgt. Roberson was also worried about the duck, which appeared to be less than a year old and was unable to fly due to the injury.
“There were multiple residents who stopped me, and they were concerned that it was injured,” Sgt. Roberson said. “They were just concerned about the duck and the safety of the other animals that were there.”
After several unsuccessful attempts to catch the elusive duck, a nearby resident let Sgt. Roberson borrow a canoe to assist with the rescue effort. She was finally able to catch the duck, using one arm to hold it while paddling back to shore with her other arm.
Escambia County Animal Welfare transported the duck to the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida, where she received appropriate veterinary care including radiographs and an exam. The duck is expected to make a full recovery, and she will be transported to a partner agency for adoption once recovered.
Sgt. Roberson said rescues like this are the most fulfilling part of the job since they involve helping animals in need – but it was also rewarding for her personally after working so hard to catch the duck and bring it to safety.
“I was very ecstatic that I was able to catch it,” Sgt. Roberson said. “I like a challenge, and I don’t like to be defeated in those challenges, so when I was able to catch it, I was pretty happy for myself – but mostly for the duck. I think the most rewarding part is just the satisfaction that the animal is going to get the help they need.”
Escambia County Animal Welfare Director John Robinson said this story is just one of many examples demonstrating how much his team cares about animals’ well-being, whether it’s someone’s pet or an undomesticated animal.
“Regardless of the nature of the call, the safety and well-being of animals in our community is always our top priority,” Robinson said. “I appreciate Sgt. Roberson going above and beyond to rescue this duck and bring it to safety, and I’d also like to thank the Wildlife Sanctuary of Northwest Florida for their continued partnership and dedication to animal welfare.”
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner Down Slightly From 2022 Record High, Survey Says
November 22, 2023
Gathering around the table for a Thanksgiving dinner won’t take as much of a toll on your pocketbook this year compared to 2022, but the meal still reflects historically high costs. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 38th annual survey provides a snapshot of the average cost of this year’s classic holiday feast for 10, which is $61.17 or less than $6.20 per person.
This is a 4.5% decrease from last year’s record-high average of $64.05, but a Thanksgiving meal is still 25% higher than it was in 2019, which highlights the impact high supply costs and inflation have had on food prices since before the pandemic.
The centerpiece on most Thanksgiving tables – the turkey – helped bring down the overall cost of dinner. The average price for a 16-pound turkey is $27.35. That is $1.71 per pound, down 5.6% from last year.
Farm Bureau “volunteer shoppers” checked prices Nov. 1-6, before most grocery store chains began featuring whole frozen turkeys at sharply lower prices. According to USDA Agricultural Marketing Service data, the average per-pound feature price for whole frozen turkeys declined further during the second week of November. Consumers who have not yet purchased a turkey may find additional savings in the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
“Traditionally, the turkey is the most expensive item on the Thanksgiving dinner table,” said AFBF Senior Economist Veronica Nigh. “Turkey prices have fallen thanks to a sharp reduction in cases of avian influenza, which have allowed production to increase in time for the holiday.”
The shopping list for Farm Bureau’s informal survey includes turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls with butter, peas, cranberries, a veggie tray, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream, all in quantities sufficient to serve a family of 10 with plenty of leftovers.
“While shoppers will see a slight improvement in the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner, high inflation continues to hammer families across the country, including the nation’s farmers,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Growing the food families rely on is a constant challenge for farmers because of high fuel, seed, fertilizer and transportation costs, just to name a few.
“While high food prices are a concern for every family, America still has one of the most affordable food supplies in the world. We’ve accomplished that, in part, due to strong farm bill programs. Although our focus is sharing time with family and friends this Thanksgiving, our thoughts also turn to encouraging Congress to double down on a commitment to passing a new farm bill with a modernized safety net to support those who raise the crops and livestock that supply Thanksgiving dinner and every dinner.”
In recognition of changes in Thanksgiving dinner traditions, the Farm Bureau price survey also includes boneless ham, Russet potatoes and frozen green beans, in an expanded menu. Adding these foods to the classic Thanksgiving menu increased the overall cost by $23.58, to $84.75.
This year’s national average cost was calculated using 245 surveys completed with pricing data from all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Farm Bureau volunteer shoppers checked prices in person and online using grocery store apps and websites. They looked for the best possible prices without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or purchase deals.
The AFBF Thanksgiving dinner survey was first conducted in 1986. The informal survey provides a record of comparative holiday meal costs over the years. Farm Bureau’s classic survey menu has remained unchanged since 1986 to allow for consistent price comparisons.
Individual Prices
16-pound turkey: $27.35 or $1.71 per pound (down 5.6%)
14-ounces of cubed stuffing mix: $3.77 (down 2.8%)
2 frozen pie crusts: $3.50 (down 4.9%)
Half pint of whipping cream: $1.73 (down 22.8%)
1 pound of frozen peas: $1.88 (down 1.1%)
1 dozen dinner rolls: $3.84 (up 2.9%)
Misc. ingredients to prepare the meal: $3.95 (down 4.4%)
30-ounce can of pumpkin pie mix: $4.44 (up 3.7%)
1 gallon of whole milk: $3.74 (down 2.6%)
3 pounds of sweet potatoes: $3.97 (up .3%)
1-pound veggie tray (carrots & celery): $.90 (up 2.3%)
12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries: $2.10 (down 18.3%)
United Way of West Florida Celebrates New Headquarters
November 22, 2023
United Way of West Florida proudly celebrated the opening of its new headquarters recently, symbolizing a significant step in the organization’s mission to unite and serve the communities of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. This achievement coincides with the anticipation of United Way of West Florida’s upcoming 100th anniversary.
The new headquarters, strategically located to enhance accessibility and engagement, symbolizes United Way of West Florida’s commitment to uniting and supporting communities across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. As the organization prepares to commemorate its 100th year of service, this new facility stands as a testament to its enduring dedication to creating a lasting impact in the region. In attendance for this evening were the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce, Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce, Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce, Cat Country 98.7, United Way of West Florida Board Members, sponsors, local non-profits, and community members.
Laura Gilliam, President/CEO of United Way of West Florida, expressed her enthusiasm for this significant development, stating, “The opening of our new headquarters is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines our work. We are thrilled to have a centralized hub from which we can continue our mission of empowering individuals and improving lives. As we approach our 100th anniversary, we are inspired by the decades of impact and energized to shape an even brighter future for our communities.”
The upcoming 100th anniversary represents a remarkable milestone for United Way of West Florida, highlighting a century of service, partnership, and resilience. The organization looks forward to commemorating this achievement by renewing its commitment to addressing the most pressing needs in the region and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
The new office is located at 7100 Plantation Road, Suite 18
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