the road to the crown Part Five: Tonight’s The Night

January 24, 2009

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Today, it’s part five of our five part series “the road to the crown” brought to you by Tammie’s Cuttin’ Loose and Kay Brown Photography. We are following 32 young ladies at Northview High School in their quest for the crown and the title of “Miss Northview High School” for 2009.

Today we introduce you to the last 16 contestants. Their biographies, as submitted by the girls, are below along with their photos. You can click any photo below to enlarge. And yes, moms and dads, relatives and friends…the photos are large enough to print if you click them to enlarge.

The pageant is Saturday night at 7:00, and NorthEscambia.com will have the new Miss Northview High School and all the photos here Sunday morning.

To see our first set of photos and bios from the other 16 contestants, click here.

Heather Danielle Ward
missnhs-heatherward1.jpgHeather is the 16-year-old daughter of Charles and Wendy Ward. She has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years, the yearbook staff for three years, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years. She has been a member of FCCLA for one year and the Beta Club for one year. As a freshman, Heather was a junior varsity cheerleader and was on the varsity cheerleading team as a sophomore. She has been on the weight lifting team for two years and has played softball for one year. Last year, Heather earned her training to become a lifeguard and volunteered in a tutoring program on the weekends. She has also participated in Relay For Life for the past two years.  Heather is an active member of Cornerstone Christian Center.

Her hobbies include singing, dancing, fishing, hunting, taking pictures, mentoring to small children, and devoting time to her son and family.

Her future plans are to attend the University of West Florida and major in nursing.  She hopes to become a neonatal nurse.

Hannah Deniece Jordan
missnhs-deniecejordan.jpgDeniece is the 18-year-old daughter of Dennis Jordan and Anniece Jordan. She has been a member of the NJROTC for four years and is currently a Lieutenant Junior Grade in her unit. Deniece has also been a junior varsity cheerleader for two years.

Her hobbies include writing poetry, going to the beach, talking on the phone, and spending time with her family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university and major in criminal justice. She hopes to one day become a criminal investigator.

Katelyn Nichole Mann
missnhs-katiemann.jpgKatie is the 15-year-old daughter of Kristopher Mann and Heidi Pittman. As a freshman, Katie was on the junior varsity cheerleading team and served as co-captain. This year, she is on the varsity cheerleading team. She has been a member of the NJROTC for two years and serves as the PT Commander. Katie has been a member of the cross country team for two years. She participated in and completed the Basic Leadership Training Camp for NJROTC in the summer of 2008. She was also one of the top five contestants in the 2008 Miss NHS pageant. Katie took first place in the 15-to-19-year-old age group in the Major Jim Ross Memorial 4 Mile Run. She also took first place in her age group at the Fiesta of Five Flags 5K run.

Her hobbies include going to the beach, attending festivals in downtown Pensacola, running 5K races, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend George Washington University in Washington, D.C. on a NJROTC scholarship. Upon graduation, she hopes to become an ensign in the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps.

Amber Nicole McMillan
missnhs-ambermcmillian.jpgAmber is the 16-year-old daughter of Mac and Donna McMillan. She has been a member of the varsity volleyball team for two years and a member of the junior varsity basketball team for two years. Amber has been on the junior varsity softball team for one year, the varsity softball team for one year, and the golf team for one year. As a sophomore, Amber was a varsity cheerleader. She has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years and a member of the Spirit Club for one year. In 2007, Amber was selected to represent the sophomore class on homecoming court.

Her hobbies include running, summer league softball, attending church, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend college and pursue a career in medicine.

Ashley Nicole McGhee
missnhs-ashleymcghee.jpgAshley is the 18-year-old daughter of Howard and Michelle Holley. As a freshman, she was on the junior varsity softball team. Her sophomore year, Ashley was selected by her classmates to represent them on the homecoming court. She has been on the volleyball team for one year and has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years. Ashley has been a member of the Student Government Association for two years and a member of the Interact Club for two years. This year, Ashley was selected by her peers to serve as senior class parliamentarian. In the 2008 Miss NHS pageant, Ashley received the Poise and Appearance Award.

Her hobbies include riding four wheelers, swimming, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama and pursue a career in nursing.  She hopes to one day marry and start a family of her own.

Magen Leigh Weekley
missnhs-magenweekly.jpgMagen is the 17- year-old daughter of Eddy and Lisa Weekley. She has been a member of the Interact Club for three years and a member of Chorus for two years. She has also been a member of the Spanish Club for one year and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for one year. Magen was selected by her peers to represent them on the homecoming court and was chosen as Junior Class Maid. In her community, Magen attends Highland Baptist Church and is active in the youth program there. She has volunteered at vacation Bible for the past two summers and has also volunteered her time at the spring carnival at Molino Park Elementary School.

Her hobbies include listening to music, taking pictures, and spending time with her family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university and obtain her degree in psychology.  She hopes to one day become a social worker.

Haley Danielle Knapp
missnhs-haleyknapp.jpgHaley is the 17-year-old daughter of Albert and Candace Knapp. As a freshman, she was a junior varsity cheerleader. Last year, Haley was on the varsity cheerleading team. She has been in the Future Farmers of America for two years and in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years. She was on Drill Team for three years and a member of 4H for five years. Haley has also done horse judging for one year.

Her hobbies include riding horses, running, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend the University of South Alabama and obtain her degree in criminal justice. She hopes to one day become a forensic scientist.

Mallory Ann Bell
missnhs-mallorybell.jpgMallory is the 16-year-old daughter of Alan and Gail Bell. She has been a member of the FCCLA for two years, where she currently serves as president. She has been on the cross country team for one year, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years, and the weight lifting team for two years. Mallory is also an active member of the Performing Arts Department here at Northview, and has participated in many of the school plays and dramas. She was also selected as an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All-Star. She is a member of First Baptist Church of Bratt and is an active part of the youth group.

Her hobbies include playing guitar, singing, playing the piano, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama and major in psychology.

Caitlin Noelle Roley
missnhs-caitlinroley.jpgCaitlin is the 17-year-old daughter Jimmie and Mitzy Aden. At Northview, she is a member of DCT and a member of the prom committee. In her community, Caitlin attends Bratt First Baptist Church and is an active member of the youth group and a member of the volleyball team.

Her hobbies include scrap-booking and photography.
Her future plans are to attend the University of West Florida and major in elementary education.

Amanda Ann Morgan Sellars
missnhs-amandasellars.jpgAmanda is the 18-year-old daughter of Anthony and Paula Sellars. She has been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for three years, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for three years, and a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years. She has also been a member of Rho Kappa for two years, the Beta Club for two years, and a member of the swim team for two years where as a sophomore, she served as captain. Amanda has been on the track team for three years and on the cross-country team for one year. She has been a member of the NJROTC for four years and is currently serving as the commanding officer. In her community, Amanda has been a member of 4-H for 12 years and has held various offices that range from president to secretary. She has also been a delegate on club, county, and district levels. Amanda is an active member at McCullough Christian Center.

Her hobbies include going to the beach, attending church, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Auburn University on an NROTC scholarship and major in marine biology. After graduating from Auburn, she hopes to be commissioned as a United States Navy Ensign, where she plans to serve her country for 20 years.

Lauren Ashley Wilson
missnhs-laurenwilson.jpgLauren is the 17-year-old daughter of Derrek and Ashley Wilson. At Northview, she is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and a member of the Future Farmers of America. In her community, Lauren attends First Assembly of God Church and is an active member of the youth group.

Her hobbies include playing volleyball, going to the beach, shopping, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend a major university and pursue a degree in physical therapy.

Tabitha Renea Steege
missnhs-tabithasteege.jpgTabitha is the 16-year-old daughter of Gerald and Sudie Steege. As a freshman, Tabitha was a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band. This year, she is on the Northview Television Production Staff. In her community, she is a member of Unity Baptist Church where she actively participates in the youth group. Tabitha also volunteers her time to help with the children’s ministry there.

Her hobbies include playing the piano, talking on the phone, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend college and become a mortician. Upon graduating, she wants to build her career and have a family.

Sarah Malinda Killam
missnhs-sarahkillam.jpgSarah is the 15-year-old daughter of Gary and Melanie Killam. She has been a member of the junior varsity volleyball team for one year and a member of the cross country team for one year. She has also been a member of the softball team for two years and a member of the weight lifting team for two years. Sarah has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years and currently serves as secretary. She has been elected by her peers for the past two years to serve as class president. She was also selected by her peers to represent them on the homecoming court, both her freshman and sophomore years, and was chosen Freshman Class Maid. Last year, Sarah was an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All-Star. She has taken ballet for 10 years and is a member of Flomaton First Baptist Church. She is active in both the youth group and the choir there.

Her hobbies include playing the guitar, playing the piano, singing, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Auburn University.

Kristina Renea Nellums
missnhs-kristinanellums.jpgKristina is the 17-year-old daughter of Jerry and Anita Nellums. At Northview, Kristina has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year and a member of the Performing Arts program for two years, where she participates in guitar. She has also been a member of the Future Farmers of America for one year.

Her hobbies include reading, tutoring, playing guitar, and racing.

Her future plans are to attend the University of South Alabama, where she will pursue a major in math. Kristina hopes to one day become a math teacher. Along with her career, she also hopes to marry and start a family.

Allie Rebecca Bryan
missnhs-alliebryan.jpgAllie is the 15-year-old daughter of Keith Bryan. She has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years and a member of the Student Government Association for one year. Allie has been a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band for two years, where she has participated in both the color guard and the drum line. She has been a member chorus for two years, has played guitar for the Northview Performing Arts program for two years, and has been a part of the theatre program for one year. In her community, Allie is an active member of McCullough Christian Center where she participates on the drama and dance team. She is also an active member of the Cause an Effect Youth Ministries. She has spent time volunteering with missions work in Brazil and plans on returning there in June of this year.

Her hobbies include singing, talking on the phone, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend college and earn her degree in business.

Courtney Michelle Merritt
missnhs-courtneymerritt.jpgCourtney is the 16-year old daughter of Kevin Merritt and Candace Knapp. As a sophomore, Courtney was on the junior varsity cheerleading team and was the recipient of the 2007-2008 Most Improved Award. This year, she is on the varsity cheerleading team and was the recipient of the prestigious 2008-2009 Spirit Award. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for one year, a member of the Interact Club for one year, and a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years. She has been a member of the Spanish Club for one year and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year. Courtney has also volunteered her time to help at the Major Jim Ross Memorial Run.

Her hobbies include cheerleading, riding horses, spending time with her family and friends, and making people laugh.

Her future plans are to attend college and become a therapist.


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Items Needed For Benefit Yard Sale Next Weekend

January 24, 2009

Your donations are needed for a yard sale to benefit Drew’s Field.

The yard sale will be held next Saturday, January 31 to benefit Drew’s Field at the Northwest Escambia Little League’s Drew’s Field at Bradberry. The field will allow NWE to offer Wee Ball for three and four year olds for the first time ever. It is named in memory of Drew Marlow who was killed along with his father Danny Marlow in early 2008.

The yard sale will be next Saturday at the former daycare on Highway 97 at the Alabama-Florida line. Your donations of items that could be sold in the yard sale are needed now. Email  drewsfield@yahoo.com for information on how to donate your items.

Wet Saturday Is Forecast

January 24, 2009

After a start with fog in the area, the weather service says expect rain for your Saturday.

There is an 70 percent chance of widespread showers for today, with a high near 63.

There is a 30 percent chance of rain ending by around midnight tonight, with a low of 45.

Sunday is forecast to be mostly cloudy and 60; Sunday night will be cloudy with a 20 percent chance of rain and a low of 48.

Production Halted At Jay Oil Field; Employees Laid Off

January 23, 2009

Production has been suspended at the Jay Oil Field, and almost 30 employees have been laid off.

morelocallayoffs.jpgQuantum Resources of Denver, Colorado, laid off 29 employees and stopped production due to a large drop in oil prices and the recession. A company spokesperson says the company hopes to once again begin pumping oil if and when there is an improvement in the oil market.

At peak production about a year ago, there were 72 Quantum employees in Jay.  In the meantime, Quantum officials say the company plans to work to decrease expenses like taxes and electricity and royalty payments in order to return the oil field to production.

The oil field was purchased from Exxon and ConocoPhillips  in 2007 for about $200 million. When oil prices soared earlier this year, company officials were quoted as being pleased with their return on the investment, even though they sold 75 percent of their rights in a bet against falling prices. The Jay Oil Field’s first crude flowed back in 1970 and was estimated to contain 100 million barrels, making it one of the largest discoveries in the history of U.S.

Special Election Set To Fill Seat Of Senator Who Died On Hunting Trip

January 23, 2009

Alabama Gov. Bob Riley has announced a special election will be held in Escambia and other southwest Alabama counties to fill a state senate seat left empty by the death of state senator on a weekend hunting trip.

Riley announced Thursday that the special election dates are set for Senate District 22, which became vacant with the death of Senator Pat Lindsey earlier this month. The special election will be held to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the senate term, which ends in November 2010.

The deadline for candidate qualification with the two major political parties is February 17 at 5:00 p.m. Party primaries will be held on Tuesday, April 14. Primary runoffs, if necessary, will take place on Tuesday, June 2. If no runoffs are necessary the general election will be held on Tuesday, June 2. In the event of a runoff, the general election will be held on Tuesday, July 21.

Riley has communicated the schedule to the two major political parties and the probate judges of all counties in Senate District 22. Due to U.S. Department of Justice requirements, the special election could not be held in time to allow the winner to assume office during the 2009 regular session of the Alabama Legislature, according to Riley. Those requirements include allowing enough time between elections so all votes, particularly absentee ballots from overseas military personnel, can be cast and counted.

Lindsey, 72, was discovered dead in his bed on a hunting trip while staying with friends in Boligee in west Alabama.

Lt. Gov. Jim Folsom Jr., and State Senator Roger Bedford were also on the trip and among those in the group that discovered Lindsey. He was discovered as the group was getting ready to leave the home friends where they had been hunting.

Lindsey’s senate district included Escambia County in Alabama. Other counties in the district are Baldwin, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Mobile, Monroe and Washington counties.

Football Legend Carl Madison, 77, Returns To Coaching

January 23, 2009

Legendary football coach Carl Madison is returning to sidelines as the offensive coordinator for the Tate Aggies. From his first coaching job at Ernest Ward High School at age 26, Madison went on to become one of America’s most winning coaches.

carlmadison10.jpgMadison, age 77,  is 326-129-7 over a 45 year coaching career, making him number two on Florida’s all-time coaching victories list and in the top 30 in the entire nation. He coached Tate to a state championship in 1980, and took the Pine Forest Eagles to two state championships in 1987 and 1988. The 1988 Eagle team was named as national champions by USA Today, and Madison earned the title of the National High School Football Coach of the Year. All in all, he coached at five different Florida High Schools including Ernest Ward, plus three out of state schools.

His football days began early at Escambia County High School in Atmore where he played tailback under Coach Herbert Barnes from 1945 to 1947, making him one of Atmore’s semi-famous “Barnes Boys” with 30 straight wins. After a stint in the Army, from 1950 to 1952, Madison  played college ball for Texas Tech and Troy State Teachers College in the mid-1950’s.

Fresh out of college, Madison coached for four years beginning in 1957 at Ernest Ward High School in Walnut Hill. He moved to Milton High in 1961, coaching them to a state championship and 34 straight victories. He then took a coaching job at a Georgia High School, losing a state championship game in 1968.

Madison joined the coaching staff at Tate in 1971 on his way to winning that 1980 state championship. He left Tate in 1983, heading to Pensacola High for a couple of years. Then it was off to Pine Forest and those back-to-back state championships. He coached at an Albany, Georgia, school, another 10 years at Milton High and another short period at PHS during the period from 1989 until 2002.

In 2002, he took the head coach job at the small Jackson Academy in Alabama. The 71-year old took over a team that had gone 0-10 prior to his arrival. He lost his first two games at Jackson, but he went on to win the state championship. The following year, Jackson was undefeated and won another state championship.

Madison will continue to live in Atmore. On March 1, he will begin working with the Aggies, which finished with a 4-7 record last year.

the road to the crown Part Four: Meet The Girls (With Photos)

January 23, 2009

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Today, it’s part four of our five part series “the road to the crown” brought to you by Tammie’s Cuttin’ Loose and Kay Brown Photography. We are following 32 young ladies at Northview High School in their quest for the crown and the title of “Miss Northview High School” for 2009.

Today we introduce you to the first 16 contestants. Their biographies, as submitted by the girls, are below along with their photos. You can click any photo below to enlarge. And yes, moms and dads, relatives and friends…the photos are large enough to print if you click them to enlarge.

Our series “the road to the crown” will continue Saturday morning with biographies and photos of the second set of 16 contestants. The pageant is Saturday night at 7:00, and NorthEscambia.com will have the new Miss Northview High School and all the photos here Sunday morning.

Summer Denise Sanders
missnhs-summersanders.jpgSummer is the 17-year-old daughter of Johnny and Stephanie Victor. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for one year and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for two years, where she served as the drama leader. She was also elected vice-president of the sophomore class. As a freshman, Summer was a junior varsity cheerleader. She has been a varsity cheerleader for three years, where she was co-captain her junior year. This year, Summer is the captain of the squad. She was also the recipient of the 2008-2009 Squad Strength Award. She was a member of the track team for two years and has been a member of the weight-lifting and cross country team for one year. This year, Summer is a member of DCT and serves as the vice-president.  She was second runner-up to Miss NHS 2008. Summer is also a graduate of the Barbizon Modeling Agency. She is an active member of McCullough Christian Center.Her hobbies include sign language, running, cheering, dancing, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Jefferson Davis Community College, where she will obtain her degree and pursue a career as a Registered Nurse.

“the road to the crown” is brought to you by Kay Brown Photography and Senior Portraits and Tammie’s Cuttin’ Loose Salon in Atmore.

Amber Renae Holland
missnhs-amberholland.jpgAmber is the 17-year-old granddaughter of Joyce Benefield. As a freshman, Amber was a junior varsity cheerleader and on the junior varsity softball team. She has been a varsity cheerleader for three years and has been the co-captain for two years. She was also the recipient of the 2007-2008 Best All-Around Cheerleader Award, as well as, the 2008-2009 Best All-Around Cheerleader Award. Amber has been a member of the Interact Club for two years and is currently the vice president. She has been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for three years and a member of the Student Government Association for two years, where she served as parliamentarian last year. This year, Amber serves as the vice president. She was the recipient of the Miss Physical Fitness Award in the 2008 Miss NHS pageant and was also first runner up to Miss NHS 2008. Amber was selected to represent the senior class on the Homecoming Court and was chosen by her peers as first runner up. She has done volunteer work for hospice, some of which included making cards for the patients. She has volunteered to help with Relay For Life and walked six miles for the cause. Amber also volunteers her time with the Northwest Escambia Mini-Mite Cheerleaders.

Her hobbies include dancing (especially hip hop), cheering, singing, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend Pensacola Junior College and obtain her degree to become a phlebotomist.

Ashley Arlene Danielle Snow
missnhs-ashleysnow.jpgAshley is the 19-year old-daughter of James and Loretta Snow. She has been a member of the cross country team for one year, the NJROTC drill team for one year, and was selected as the NJROTC Princess for the 2005-2006 school year. She has been an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All Star for one year, a member of the Beta Club for two years, a member of Rho Kappa for two years, where she currently serves as secretary, and a member of the Student Government Association for two years, where she currently serves as president. Ashley has been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for four years and was president last year and holds the office of vice-president this year. She has been a member of the girls’ weight lifting team for two years, the Academic Team for two years, and the Math Team for two years and currently holds the title of co-captain. As a freshman and sophomore, Ashley was a junior varsity cheerleader, as well as a majorette for the Tribal Beat Marching Band. Ashley has been on the varsity cheerleading team for two years. She is also currently a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Ashley was selected as one of the top10 contestants in Miss NHS 2007 and was also voted Miss Congeniality in the 2008 Miss NHS pageant. This year, Ashley was selected by her class to represent them on the Homecoming Court. She was selected by her peers as second runner-up.

Her hobbies include volunteering at the Waterfront Rescue Mission, cheering, dancing, singing, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Pensacola Junior College and pursue a degree in nursing.

Ashley Faye White
missnhs-ashleywhite.jpgAshley is the 17- year-old daughter of Roy and Candice White. At Northview, Ashley has been a varsity cheerleader for one year. In her community, she is a member of Atmore First Assembly of God Church and actively participates in the Powerhouse youth group program there. She sings in the adult choir and is a member of the drama team and sign-language team. She has been an aid for three years at Camp AFA and has volunteered at their church Bible school for three years. Ashley has also participated in the Alabama Fine Arts program for four years and recently took second place in the drama group division.

Her hobbies include dancing, reading, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university and pursue a career in nursing.

Charleigh Victoria McPherson
missnhs-charleighmcpherson.jpgCharleigh is the 15- year-old daughter of Larry and Mary McPherson. She is currently on the junior varsity cheerleading team and was the recipient of the 2008-2009 Spirit Award.  She was also on the NHS golf team. Last year, she was voted Best All-Around by her peers. Charleigh has played on the Northwest Escambia softball team for six years and has played on the Molino softball team for one year. She attends church at Saint Robert’s Catholic Church and is an active member there. She also sings in the choir.

Her hobbies include cheerleading, playing softball and golf, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama and pursue a degree in sports medicine.

Kayla Velonia Hall
missnhs-kaylahall.jpgKayla is the 15-year-old daughter of James and Lori Hall. She has been a member of the Interact club for two years and a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for two years. This past year, Kayla placed sixth in business math at the FBLA District Competition. She has been a member of the Student Government Association for one year, the Spanish Club for one year, and a member of FCCLA for one year. Kayla has volunteered at the Little Red School House Learning Center. During her time there, she created learning themes and read to the children. She has also volunteered at the Hadji Temple where she brought Christmas presents to the Shriners children, as well as other disabled individuals.

Her hobbies include going to the beach, playing volleyball, dancing, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend the University of Central Florida. After graduation, she hopes to get into medical school, where she will learn the skills to become a pediatrician.  She also hopes to one day start a family.

Dimond Brooke Tullis
missnhs-brooketullis.jpgBrooke is the 15-year-old daughter of Bodie and Emily Tullis. As a freshman, Brooke was elected class secretary. She was also selected by her peers to represent them on the homecoming court. Brooke is currently the treasurer for the sophomore class. Last year, she was on the junior varsity cheerleading team and served as co-captain of the squad.  This year, she is a varsity cheerleader. She has also been a member of the Tribal Spirit Yearbook staff for two years. She is a member of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and was first runner-up in the 2008-2009 Poarch Creek Junior Princess Contest. Brooke attends Bratt First Baptist Church and is an active member of the youth group.

Her hobbies include beading, gymnastics, swimming, cheering, babysitting, and spending time with friends and family.

Her future plans are to graduate from Northview High School and attend college at the University of Alabama and obtain a degree in psychology. While enrolled, she hopes to become a cheerleader for the Crimson Tide. Upon graduation, she plans on becoming a child psychologist.

Felicia Michelle Settle
missnhs-feliciasettle.jpgFelicia is the 16- year-old daughter of Joseph and Jeanine Settle. As a freshman, she was a junior varsity cheerleader and on the color guard team for the Tribal Beat Marching Band. Felicia has been a varsity cheerleader for two years. She has also been a member of the Future Farmers of America for three years, where as a freshman she served as parliamentarian, and as a sophomore she served as sentinel. Felicia has been a peer mediator for three years and on the yearbook staff for three years. She has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year, a member of Students Working Against Tobacco for one year, and a member of the Student Government Association for two years. She has also been a member of the Interact Club for one year, a member of the Beta Club for one year, the Math Team for one year, and the Academic Team for one year.  Felicia was selected to be an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All-Star. On three separate occasions, Felicia has donated her hair to the Locks of Love Foundation. She has also participated in Relay For Life for two years and has participated in the Pensacola Walk for Breast Cancer.

Her hobbies include cheerleading, camping, photography, talking on the phone, devoting time to her nephew, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university where she hopes to obtain a degree in early education. She wants to open her own daycare or become an elementary school teacher.

Olivia Kaylen Bryan
missnhs-oliviabryan.jpgOlivia is the 18- year-old daughter of Keith Bryan. She has been an Atmore Rotary Club Academic All-Star for three years, a member of the Beta Club for two years where she serves as secretary, a member of the Student Government Association for three years, and a peer mediator for four years. She has been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for fours years and a member of Teens for Christ for four years. In FCA, she currently serves as president. Olivia has been on the video yearbook staff for three years and has been on the Tribal Spirit Yearbook staff for one year. She has been on the Academic Team for four years, where she currently serves as captain, the Math Team for two years, the Spanish Club for two years, where she serves as president, and the Northview Television Production Staff for two years. Olivia is a devoted member of the Northview Theatre program and has served as the mistress of ceremonies on several different occasions. This year, she starred in the Veterans Day Play. In the summer of 2008, Olivia represented NHS in Washington, D.C. While there, she was selected as Florida’s representative on the NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. Next month, she will proudly represent the state of Florida at the NRECA’s National Meeting.

Her hobbies include reading, writing, acting, playing the piano, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university to receive her master’s degree in marketing.  She hopes to one day pursue a career in advertisement.

Lauren Elizabeth Cloud
missnhs-laurencloud.jpgLauren is the 15-year-old daughter of Ronnie Cloud and Angela McMahan. As a freshman, she was on the junior varsity cheerleading team. This year, Lauren is a varsity cheerleader. She has also been a member of the Future Farmers of America for two years.  Lauren has been a member of the Five Flags Dance Academy for two years and has played softball for the Molino Community Team for three years. She also played softball for the Northwest Escambia Team for one year. She has volunteered to work Relay For Life events for the past two years, and has she walked 7 miles for the cause. Lauren is an active member of Highland Baptist Church where she participates on the drama team.

Her hobbies include cheerleading, photography, swing dancing, riding horses, going to the beach, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend the University of Alabama and study sports broadcasting.

Courtney Brooke Cooper
missnhs-courtneycooper.jpgCourtney is the 18-year-old daughter of Ken and Dawn Cooper. She has been a varsity cheerleader for two years, a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year, and a member of the weight lifting team for three years. She was on the junior varsity softball team for one year and on the cross country team for one year. Courtney has been a member of the Student Government Association for two years, where she served as secretary her junior year. This year, she holds the office of historian. As a junior, she was selected to represent her class on the homecoming court and was also elected as class secretary. This year, Courtney was again elected by her peers as senior class secretary. She is an active member of Flomaton First Baptist Church and participates in the youth group.

Her hobbies include cheerleading, weight lifting, going to church, and spending time with loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend Pensacola Junior College and obtain her cosmetology license.

Kolbi Shae Cobb
missnhs-kolbicobb.jpgKolbi is the 16-year-old daughter of Jamie and Becky Cobb. As a freshman, she was elected to serve as the class secretary. She has been a member of the cross country team for one year, the softball team for two years, and the golf team for two years. She has also been a member of Rho Kappa for one year, the Beta Club for one year, the Academic Team for one year, and the Math Team for one year. Kolbi was selected by her classmates to represent them on homecoming court for two years. She has also been a member of the Future Business Leaders of America for three years, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for three years, the Interact Club for two years, and the Student Government Association for two years. Kolbi has been a majorette for the Tribal Beat Marching Band for three years and currently holds the title of captain. She is a member of Twirl Time and has been a member of Century League Softball for seven years. She has also been on the Tri-County All Star softball team for three years. Kolbi is an active member of Faith Bible Baptist Church.

Her hobbies include twirling, playing softball, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Pensacola Junior College and enter the nursing program.

Ande Marie Gideons
missnhs-andegideons.jpgAnde is the 16-year-old daughter of Doug and Tammy Kaiser. Last year, she was selected to represent the freshmen class on the 2007 Homecoming Court. She was also elected freshmen class secretary by her peers. This year, Ande was again selected to represent her class on homecoming court and was voted Sophomore Class Maid. She is currently the secretary of the sophomore class. Ande has been a member of the Interact Club for one year, the Student Government Association for one year, and is currently on the junior varsity cheerleading team. Ande is a member of Atmore First Assembly of God where she actively participates in the Powerhouse youth group. She is also on the drama team, the sign language team, and sings in the choir. Last year, Ande advanced to national level at the Alabama Fine Arts program in the divisions of Human Video Solo and Female Vocal Solo. She has attended Camp AFFA for two years and volunteered her time as a camp counselor. This past summer, Ande was selected as Best Aide. She has also volunteered at SCAMP Camp, where she worked with disabled children.

Her hobbies include singing, drama, cheerleading, and devoting time to her nephew, as well as other loved ones.

Her future plans are to attend a major university where she will obtain a degree in early childhood education.

Allison Rebecca Spence
missnhs-allisonspence.jpgAllison is the 17-year-old daughter of Scott and Sandi Spence. She has been a member of the color guard team for the Tribal Beat Marching Band for three years and currently serves as the co-captain. She has also played junior varsity basketball for one year.  Allison was nominated to be among the Who’s Who of American High School Students.

Her hobbies include swimming, shopping, talking on the phone, reading, writing, twirling, playing basketball, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend a major university and obtain her degree in marine biology.  She also hopes to one day get married and start a family.

Patricia Sunshine Boughner
missnhs-patriciaboughner.jpgPatricia is the 18-year-old daughter of Kevin and Louann Boughner. At Northview, she has been a member of the Tribal Beat Marching Band color guard team for two years and currently serves as co-captain. She has also been a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year. Her sophomore year, Patricia was selected by her peers as class historian and is currently serving as junior class treasurer. In her community, Patricia attends Byrneville Methodist Church and is an active member there.

Her hobbies include photography, scrap booking, drawing, and spending time with family and friends.

Her future plans are to attend Virginia Technical College and become a surgical technician. She also hopes to one day have a family of her own.

Samantha Ann Macks
missnhs-samanthamacks.jpgSamantha is the 18-year-old daughter of Sam and Cheryl Macks. At Northview, she has been a member of the Future Farmers of America for four years, a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes for one year, and a member of the cross country team for one year. Samantha has also been in the Beta Club for two years. In her community, she is a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church and is an active member of the youth group. She has also participated in Relay For Life for three years.

Her hobbies include writing poetry, drawing and painting, playing softball, and hanging out with her friends.

Her future plans are to attend college and get her nursing degree. She hopes to one day become a registered nurse.


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Basketball: Jay Over Northview

January 23, 2009

Jay downed Northview Thursday night in girls high school basketball action, 53-32.

Jay took an early 11-6 lead by the end of the first period, and the Royals expanded that lead to 24-10 by the half. Both teams added a baker’s dozen in the third, making it 37-23 going into the fourth period.

Gabe Wesley led the Chiefs with a dozen points on the board at Jay. Shaniqua Jones added half a dozen. Angela Roddriguez, Laneicia Gomez and Shakeria White had four points each, and Taylor Byrd added a couple.

Tessa Hendricks scored 18 for the Royals. Amber Steadham had a dozen, as did Joy Gandy. Ginger Jennings added seven. Becca Calloway had three, and Leely Trevino scored a point.

The Northview boys are on the road Friday night against Walton. The NHS girls don’t hit the court again until January 29.

Carver/Century Closure Could Greatly Impact Byrneville Elementary

January 22, 2009

The impending closure of Carver/Century K-8 School could have a great impact on the future of Byrneville Elementary.

In this exclusive investigative story, NorthEscambia.com takes a look at the future of Byrneville’s charter school.

The facts are simple: Only about 44 percent of the students in the Carver/Century district actually attend the school. On the elementary level, 126 attend Carver/Century, 130 attend Byrneville Elementary and 32 attend Bratt Elementary. But where will the 126 elementary children at Carver/Century end up next year?

The official answer is Bratt Elementary, because Century will become part of  Bratt’s district.

But Dee Wolfe–Sullivan, principal at Byrneville, feels like many parents and guardians may choose to send their children to her school rather than having them bused to Bratt. Byrneville Elementary is a charter school ran under district guidelines but under its own set of rules; those rules would allow Byrneville to accept Carver students.

“Some of those parents will want to enroll their children here,” Wolfe-Sullivan said. “But the issue becomes if we have room or not.”

bvillefront.jpgThere are currently 166 students at Byrneville, and the school only has a capacity of about 200. When accepting new students, priority would be given to siblings of current students, children of employees and students that reside in the old Byrneville Elementary district. Only after those children were admitted would the school be open to others.

“Depending on how may would want to attend, we might have to have a lottery of some kind to choose,” Wolfe-Sullivan said. “I don’t have room for all of them. We might be able to finance some modulars, building on or something.”

NorthEscambia.com presented a “what if” scenario to Wolfe-Sullivan. “What if the school board closed Carver/Century and then offered the Carver/Century facility to Byrneville Elementary?” we asked.

“We have not discussed the Carver/Century building, so I would have no comment at the present time,” she said.

“If parents want to send their child to Byrneville, we certainly welcome them,” Wolfe-Sullivan added. “We are a small school. Every teacher knows every child, and they know most of the families. It is a great atmosphere.”

The Byrneville principal also said that she wanted to be clear that she is not in favor of Carver/Century’s closing.

“It is a very upsetting situation. I feel that Century needs to have a school,” Wolfe-Sullivan said. “I am concerned people think Byrneville may have played a part in the demise of Century. That’s just not the case.”

She said that most Byrneville charter students originated from the original Byrneville district when the school gained charter status to avoid closure in 2002.

“We didn’t steal students from Carver/Century,” Wolfe-Sullivan said.

Pictured top: Byrneville Principal Dee Wolfe-Sullivan at lunch with a group of students. NorthEscambia.com file photo, click to enlarge.

Update: 20 Percent To Recycle; Most Have Cans

January 22, 2009

A little less than 20 percent of ECUA customers have signed up for their optional curbside recycling program, and most of those people now have their recycling container.

District 5 Emerald Coast Utilities Authority member Larry Walker says that as of last week, 13,934 customers had signed up for the once a week recycling pickups. Of those, Walker said 12,378 should have received their can by the end of the day last Monday.

The remaining 1,556 should have their recycling cans delivered by next Monday, January 26. Customers that ordered recycling containers by yesterday but after January 14 should have their cans by next Thursday.

Former Allied Waste customers in North Escambia can sign up for the free recycling container by calling 476-0480, emailing support@ecua.org, or downloading a sign-up form from ecua.org.

The new trash and recycling day for most former Allied Waste customers in North Escambia is Tuesday. A few former Allied customers east of Highway 29 and south of Kingsfield Road have Friday as their new pick-up day.

The collection service includes weekly garbage pickup, weekly pickup of recyclables, and weekly yard waste pickup. All services are provided on the same day of the week. In addition, bulky waste pickup service is available once each calendar month at no additional charge.

Trash pick-up in Century continues to be provided by Allied Waste under a contract with the town.

For complete information on the recycling program and ECUA service, click here (pdf).

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