Don Fletcher

Officials: Dry air, winds could lead to burn ban
By DON FLETCHER News Staff Writer As a wildfire continued to ravage the Florida Panhandle this week, and despite the absence of any state-issued burn bans, local fire officials warned that conditions are approaching the stage where any type of outdoor fire could lead to disaster. “It’s dry, but we’re not technically in a drought,” said Atmore Fire Department Capt. Daniel Love. “There hasn’t been any drought advisory or burn…
Graduation of a different kind
Students turned in their work packets Tuesday, May 5. Shown accepting the packets at the front of the school are, from left, assistant principals Kevin Everett and Randall Jackson, and special education aide Jonathan Barnes who volunteered to help. By SHERRY DIGMON News Publisher This is the plan – Thursday, May 21, 92 graduates will walk across the stage at Escambia County High School and they will receive their diplomas.…
Mayfest set for July 31, Aug. 1
News Staff Report Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce officials announced Friday, May 8, that Mayfest, which has served as the unofficial kick-off to summer in Atmore for years, has been rescheduled for Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, at Tom Byrne Park. The Chamber was forced to postpone the two-day event due to the COVID-19 virus. “The Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce … is looking forward to putting on…
Coming back to life
Restaurants, other entities reopen with restrictions By DON FLETCHER and SHERRY DIGMON News Staff Writers Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey loosened last week some of the restrictions placed on businesses and residents under her Stay at Home order. Businesses considered “non-essential,” such as clothing and shoe stores, furniture stores and general retail stores are now allowed to open, with social distancing and occupancy restrictions. The same goes for barber shops, beauty…