Memorial Day Closures, Trash Schedule
May 26, 2024
Escambia County:
In observance of Memorial Day, the following Escambia County offices will be closed Monday, May 27:
- Escambia County Board of County Commissioners (all departments)
- West Florida Public Libraries (all locations)
- Escambia County Property Appraiser
- Escambia County Tax Collector
- Escambia County Supervisor of Elections
- Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare
- Escambia County Clerk of the Court and Comptroller
- Escambia County Extension Office
- Waste Services Administration
- Escambia County Area Transit Administration and Customer Service
Escambia County Exceptions:
- The Perdido Landfill will be open Monday, May 27.
- ECAT will operate limited service on Monday, May 27, with regular service resuming Tuesday, May 28:
- Route 59X: The last bus will depart NATTC at 6:50 p.m.
- Route 64 Beach Jumper: The last bus will depart NAS Pensacola at 7 p.m.
- Pensacola Beach Trolleys: The Pensacola Beach Trolleys will run until midnight.
ECAT:
ECUA business offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. However, all residential and commercial sanitation collections for ECUA customers will be unaffected by the holiday and will be carried out as usual. Customers may contact ECUA Customer Service at 476-0480 for more information.
Town of Century:
Town of Century offices will be closed Monday, May 27.
Escambia County EMS Recognized During EMS Week
May 26, 2024
Escambia County wrapped up a celebration of EMS Week on Saturday after honoring the hard-working men and women who make up Escambia County’s Emergency Medical Services Division.
The Board of County Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing EMS Week.
2024 marks the 50th year of National EMS Week, with the theme “Honoring Our Past. Forging Our Future.” EMS Week honors the entire EMS profession and its importance in protecting the safety and health of citizens.
From Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2023, Escambia County EMS responded to 81,329 calls, an increase of 7,269 calls from 2023. Available 24 hours per day, 365 days a year, they stand ready to provide critical care advanced life support, Basic life support, and bariatric transports to residents and visitors.
“The men and women of Escambia County EMS work tirelessly day-in and day-out to provide life-saving services to our citizens and visitors, as evident by more than 81,000 calls for service,” said EMS Deputy Chief Chris Stephens. “Their dedication and compassion to the life of another goes above and beyond, and I’m fortunate to work alongside this excellent group of professionals.”
Photo NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Atmore Community Hospital Awards Scholarships
May 26, 2024
Atmore Community Hospital (ACH) recently awarded scholarships to eight graduating seniors from Escambia Academy, Escambia County (AL) High School and Northview High School.
“This marks the first year of the ACH High School Scholarships. This year, we were able to reward the effort of the students, as well as provide assistance to those entering health related fields of study,” Brad Lowery, administrator of Atmore Community Hospital said. “We wish all the 2024 seniors the best of luck in the future.”
Lowery said that the scholarship applicants this year were all exceptional. The hospital awarded two $1,000 and six $500 scholarships to eight applicants heading into a health related field of study for a total of $5,000. The senior classes of 2025 will have an opportunity to apply for these scholarships next spring.
Scholarship winners were: Patrick Byrd and Makaila Rodriguez from Escambia Academy; Evereona Jackson from Escambia County High School; Sarah Bailey, Kendal Beasley, Carsyn Dortch, Berklee Hall and Leila Mason from Northview High School.
Their chosen fields of study range from nursing to pharmacy to pre-med. Some are attending Coastal Alabama Community College, while others will attend the University of South Alabama, Auburn University, Troy University, University of Alabama, and UAB.
Pictured: (L-R) Atmore Community Hospital Administrator Brad Lowery with Northview High ACH scholarship winners Sarah Bailey, Kendal Beasley, Carsyn Dortch, Berklee Hall and Leila Mason. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Blue Wahoos’ Bats Come Alive, But Smokies Win
May 26, 2024
written by Bill Vilona
Kevin Alcantara appears well on a path for an eventual opportunity with the Chicago Cubs.
He’s certainly blazed a trail this week in Pensacola.
Alcantara, 21, a 6-foot-6 rising star outfielder, who is the No. 3-ranked Cubs prospect, did damage again to Blue Wahoos pitching, blasting a 3-run, go-ahead homer in the seventh, then doubling and scoring the winning run in the ninth as the Tennessee Smokies took a 5-4 win Saturday night at Blue Wahoos Stadium.
A sellout crowd of 5,038 continued the Blue Wahoos season trend of large weekend crowds. This one watched the teams combine on 21 hits and back-and-forth big moments.
Most of the crowd stayed for the post-game fireworks show, which completed an event-filled game.
The Blue Wahoos wore colorful specialty uniforms as part of Marvel ’s Defenders of the Diamond program. The fifth inning was paused to feature a powerful Home Run For Life, saluting a 5-year-old girl who overcame a massive surgical procedure and long odds. And there was the overall festive scene a filled stadium brings.
The Smokies (26-18), who boast 12 of the Cubs’ top 30 prospects, have now won four of the five games this week heading to Sunday’s finale.
The Blue Wahoos (23-21) received another gritty outing from starter M.D. Johnson. Though he walked four and allowed six hits, Johnson worked six innings, had a 3-1 lead and was in line for the win. In each of the first four innings, the Smokies had two runners on base, but Johnson made big pitches to end threats.
But in the seventh, Alcantara, who went 4-for-4 in Tennessee’s win Friday, came up with one out and two runners on base against Blue Wahoos reliever Zach McCambley. On a 2-0 pitch, McCambley’s fastball was met with a loud connection, resulting in a 441-foot, 3-run homer for the lead.
The Blue Wahoos had built their lead on a sacrifice fly RBI from Nathan Martorella in the fourth inning, then loaded the bases in the fifth and got a sacrifice fly from Harrison Spohn. A throwing error on a fielder’s choice grounder by Joe Mack scored Jacob Marsee with the inning’s second run.
Paul McIntosh tied the game again in the eighth inning on his leadoff home run. Martorella then hit a two-out triple, but a strikeout against Sean Roby ended the inning.
Alcantara led off the ninth with a double against Blue Wahoos reliever Patrick Murphy. He moved to third on a single. Murphy, a lefthander, then was on his way to working out of the jam. He struck on the next two batters. But he was called for a balk, allowing Alcantara to score and raising the ire of the crowd and Blue Wahoos manager Kevin Randel.
After the umpires consulted, the call stood. In the bottom of the ninth, the Blue Wahoos were retired in order.
The team will close out the well-contested series – matching the two Southern League championship series opponents the past two seasons — in Sunday’s final game of the homestand.
Pregame activities and ceremonial first pitches will begin at 3:40 p.m. with the actual first pitch of the game set for 4:05 p.m..
GAME NOTABLES
— When their daughter, Hannah, was only 3-weeks old in 2018, Layne and Ryan Lillie of Santa Rosa Beach had their daughter rushed from a local care center in Walton County to emergency room at The Studer Family Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart.
Doctors conducted multiple surgeries, discovering that Hannah’s small intestines were twisted, a condition called volvulus, and she was in septic shock as a result. Over 99% of Hannah’s intestines had to be removed. Hannah spent five months in the hospital. But she is now fully recovered and active.
She easily circled the bases Saturday in a poignant moment as both teams lined each baseline and greeted her.
— Among those throwing out a first pitch prior to Saturday’s game was Robert Roberts, father of Blue Wahoos reliever Austin Roberts, who happened to be his catcher on the ceremonial first pitch. The family is from Sacramento, California.
— The Marvel-themed game jerseys worn by the players were auctioned during a live auction at the top of the sixth inning. Four other players’ Marvel jerseys are being auctioned online.
— There were five youth teams gathering on the field during pregame and having team members join Blue Wahoos players on the field for the National Anthem. Teams were Coastal 28, Bill Bond Rookie Warriors, Crestview Marlins, USA Prime Panhandle and the Gulf Shores (Ala). 12-under All-Stars.
WANT TO GO?
WHO: Tennessee Smokies vs. Blue Wahoos
WHEN: Sunday, 4:05 p.m.
WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium
A Future Focused On Helping Others: Meet Hannah Williams, Tate High’s Valedictorian
May 25, 2024
Tate High School’s Class of 2024 valedictorian, Hannah Williams has a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. Her commitment to serving her community has shaped her future aspirations, leading her toward a career path in pharmacy.
Hannah will attend the University of West Florida and major in chemistry. Eventually, she aims to attend pharmacy school to fulfill her dream of becoming a pharmacist.
“I really want to be able to help people, and I think that that’s a really good way to because I’ll be able to help people get better,” Hannah said. “I like working with people and helping people. So, it’s like the perfect job for me.”
Looking ahead 20 years, she envisions herself working at a pharmacy or hospital, while also cherishing time with a family and loved ones.
For current high school students, Hannah offers a simple piece of advice: “Stay involved and even when it seems hard to keep pushing through because it will get better and easier. There is always something to enjoy that’s going on.”
During her high school journey, Hannah actively participated in numerous community service activities such as Special Olympics and for the Ronald McDonald House.
Hannah activities in high school included being a member of the National Honor Society for three years, an officer in the National English Honor Society, the Rho Kappa Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society, and the. Science National Honor Society. She was also a band assistant.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
AAA: Record-Setting 2.5 Million Floridians Will Travel For Memorial Day Weekend
May 25, 2024
Floridians are forecast to travel in record numbers for this year’s Memorial Day weekend. AAA forecasts more than 2.5 million Floridians will journey 50 miles or more. That’s 126,500 more holiday travelers than the previous high, which was set last year.
Nationally, AAA projects the second highest traveled Memorial Day on record. Nearly 43.8 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more during the holiday travel period*. That’s 1.7 million more travelers than last year (4% increase), yet slightly behind 2005’s record of 44 million.
“Memorial Day will be the start to a very busy summer of travel,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “American travelers are forecast to surpass pre-pandemic levels, making this the busiest Memorial Day holiday weekend in nearly two decades. The main driver of the projection is strong consumer interest in traveling both domestically and abroad. Interest in traveling internationally is at the highest level in recent years.”
Road Travel
Road trips are expected to set a record in Florida and nationwide, with nearly 1.5 million more Americans on the road than last year. AAA projects nearly 38.4 million Americans will drive to their destination. That’s the largest automobile travel volume for this holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The national number of auto travelers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019.
“Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “However, that holiday road trip may cost more at the gas pump this year.”
During last year’s holiday weekend, Florida gas prices averaged $3.41 per gallon.
“Drivers should expect continued volatility at the pump as the summer driving season ramps up,” Jenkins continued. “The wildcard remains the cost of oil. And unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – which have the ability to roil the oil market at any time.”
Air Travel
Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million Americans to travel by air this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and a 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million Americans flew for the holiday, as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11.
Airfares are more expensive than last year. According to AAA booking data, the average price for a round trip domestic flight will cost $778. That’s 2% more than last year’s holiday weekend. International flights are 4% more expensive – averaging $1485 for a roundtrip ticket. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.
Other Modes of Transportation (Bus, Train, Cruise, etc.)
Nearly two million people are forecast to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year. “This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic,” Haas said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Leading the charge is the resurgence in both ocean and river cruising, which came back extremely strong and continues to gain popularity. With ships of all sizes being introduced each year, there is constantly something new and exciting to explore for both first time and repeat cruise enthusiasts.”
Hotel and Rental Car Prices
Domestic hotel prices are less expensive than last year. In reviewing all hotel bookings with AAA, domestic hotels are 5% cheaper this Memorial Day weekend compared to last. The total average cost per stay (which can be multiple nights) is $500. International hotels are about the same as last year. The average cost per stay is $660.
Domestic car rentals are 17% cheaper this Memorial Day weekend compared to last. The average total cost for a rental (which is typically for a few days) is $439. International car rentals are 16% cheaper this Memorial Day weekend compared to last. Average total cost for a rental (which is typically for a few days) is $617.
Man Charged With Trafficking After ECSO Closes ‘Drug House’
May 25, 2024
An Ensley man was arrested on drug charges in Ensley, closing another drug house, according to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and SWAT Team served a search warrant in the 8600 block of Gardenia Circle.
The ECSO said during the search, deputies located $952 cash, 44.5 grams of fentanyl, 64.5 grams of methamphetamine, 82.5 grams of marijuana, a handgun, and a stolen 16-foot enclosed trailer.
Christopher Tod Benton was arrested for trafficking fentanyl, trafficking methamphetamine, possession of marijuana with intent to sell or distribute, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
The labels on the evidence photo (below) were added by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Tate High’s Lucas Williams Signs College Basketball Scholarship
May 25, 2024
Lucas Williams, a three-year varsity basketball player at Tate High School, recently signed a full-ride scholarship with Owens Community College (Perrysburg, Ohio) recently.
Williams was named PNJ All-Area First Team and to the Pensacola Sports’ All-Star Basketball Game. Named the Aggies’ MVP, the point guard led the team in points, assists, and steals.
Photos by Tate High School Yearbook for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Blue Wahoos’ Tough Luck At Plate Continues In 2-1 Loss To Smokies
May 25, 2024
written by Bill Vilona
For a split-second, the capacity crowd Friday at Blue Wahoos Stadium was instantly energized as leadoff batter Joe Mack connected on a ninth-inning pitch with a resonating crack.
Alas, his laser drive smacked right into the glove of Tennessee Smokies right fielder Cole Roederer as the stadium groaned.
Nothing more typified the Blue Wahoos’ night at the plate, as the Tennessee Smokies took a 2-1 victory and extended the home team’s recent trend of offensive struggles.
Four Smokies pitchers held the Blue Wahoos to three hits in a loss that knocked Pensacola into second place in the Southern League division standings. It was the sixth time in the last 10 games the Blue Wahoos were held to two or less runs.
The only inning when the Blue Wahoos had two runners on base happened in the seventh. That’s when the 5,038 at the ballpark on Giveaway Friday became most excited.
Cody Morissette sliced a pitch down the left field line. The ball, however, bounced over the wall for a ground-rule double that scored Mack, but thwarted Zach Zubia from scoring the tying run while rounding third base.
Reliever Cam Sanders then struck out Harrison Spohn to end the inning. The Blue Wahoos went down in the order in the eighth and ninth innings.
Blue Wahoos starter Evan Fitterer overcame a rocky first three innings to deliver another quality start. His only blemish happened in the third inning when the Smokies’ Kevin Alcantara and Luis Verdugo connected on back-to-back doubles. The latter was a bouncer that hugged the third-base line.
Fitterer absorbed the loss after working six innings, allowing six hits with four strikeouts. The Blue Wahoos bullpen arms of Lincoln Henzman and Raffi Vizcaíno tossed three shoutout innings, allowing just one hit.
The win enabled the Smokies (25-18) to take a 3-1 lead in the series that now shifts to
WANT TO GO?
WHO: Tennessee Smokies vs. Blue Wahoos
WHEN: Saturday, 6:05 p.m.
WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium
Escambia Man Guilty Of Murdering Roommate Before Staging Her Drowning
May 25, 2024
An Escambia County man has been convicted of killing a woman before staging the scene to make it appear she drowned in a small water feature in a yard.
James Edwards Hicks, 62, was found guilty by an Escambia County jury of second degree murder.
The jury found that, on August 12th, 2022, James Hicks killed his roommate, 65-year-old Terri Jo Williams, and then staged a scene to make it appear as if she had drowned herself in a small garden pond in the front yard. During the death investigation, Hicks stated that his roommate had been emotional and depressed for weeks, and that he thought she committed suicide.
The jury was presented with evidence from the scene, death investigation, neighbors and family members, and the medical examiner who determined the victim’s death was the result of homicide.
Following the verdict, Judge Nobles revoked James Hicks’ bond and he was remanded into custody to await sentencing. A sentencing date has not been set at this time. Hicks faces the possibility of a life sentence.