Man Injured When Gunfire Strikes Home
August 17, 2012
One man was injured in a shots fired disturbance Thursday evening in Escambia County.
Escambia County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the area of Miller Street and Baars Avenue, near I-110 and Texar Drive, after dispatchers received calls about shots fired. They discovered that a house was hit by gunfire in the 3000 block of Miller Street.
An adult male who was at the house during the shooting received minor injuries. He was reportedly grazed in the eye by a bullet. He was treated on the scene and refused to be transported to the hospital.
The shooting remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office at (850) 436-9620 or Gulf Coast Crime Stoppers at (850) 433-STOP.
Northview Volleyball Opens Play Next Week (With Printable Schedule)
August 17, 2012
The Northview High School Lady Chiefs have released their volleyball scheduled for 2012.
The varsity will begin play next Thursday, August 23 in a preseason classic at Northview. The varsity and junior varsity teams will begin their 2012 regular season on the road against Flomaton on August 28.
Members of the varsity team are: Misty Doran, Rebecca Grim, Paeton Hadley, Hannah Fiellin, Rebecca Masitias, Shelley Mothershed, Morgan Payne, Tiffani Pritchett, Taylor Roberson, Morgan Smith, Danielle Steadham and Lily Townson.
Members of the junior varsity team are: Penny Banda, E’Layzha Bates, Hope Coggins, Kayla Fears, Leah Fisher, Hanna Ging, Keyth Grice, Kyndall Hall, Hayley Lambert, Mckenzie Nassar, Shelby Nielson and Maddi Webber.
For a complete, printable schedule, click here.
Pictured top: The varsity Northview High School volleyball team. Pictured below: The junior varsity Lady Chiefs. Submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Escambia United Way Honors Key Partners And Volunteers
August 17, 2012
The United Way of Escambia County thanked special partners Thursday for a year that included $3.5 million that was leveraged into an $8.1 million impact in the local community.
“We couldn’t have done it without you. Your 30,000 hours of volunteer service and your generous giving means we can fund nine new programs. That combined with efforts of 2-1-1 and the 36 other funded programs will serve 212,000 citizens in Escambia County. Without you, we could never have leveraged our funds and efforts to the $8.1 million impact that will create opportunities for a better life in our community,” said local United Way President and CEO Andrea Krieger.
Special recognition was given to the following individuals and organizations:
DAY OF CARING VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Dan and Connie Cassidy have demonstrated exemplary support and innovation in the creation of a Breakfast Committee that helps with donations to keep costs down and inspiration that builds participation.
VOLUNTEER GROUP OF THE YEAR: Gulf Power Resistors always answer the call and help multiple area non-profits. The Bay Area Food Bank and BRACE joined United Way in thanking this group comprised of John Hutchinson, Ron Robertson, Chris Edwards, Mark Davidson, Jeff Pike and Caroline Wilson… all from Gulf Power.
VITA VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Nancy Taylor has served others for 20 years. With over 800 volunteer hours in 2012, she led 42 other volunteers who processed over 1,700 tax refunds for a $2.2M return to the community.
2-1-1 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Denise Ables joined the 2-1-1 team in the fall of 2011 and quickly became one of our community’s most valuable resources. She directs callers to the best available resources and referrals.
EMERGING LEADERS SOCIETY MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Cherri Baker served as the Engagement and Volunteerism Chair for the 2012 ELS Steering Council. She led volunteer activities and drives for Early Learning Coalition, the CDAC Early Riser program and Bridges to Circles.
BOARD MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Linda Hoffman’s peers on the United Way Board praised her for her quiet willingness to help whenever and however needed. Her hours and guidance provided as Chair of the Community Impact Initiative resulted in the first United Way impact initiative to improve third grade reading scores through The Next Right Thing tutoring program at the Global Learning Academy.
STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Tom Hilton was praised a United Way’s “unsung hero.” He is a constant at United Way on the weekends and volunteered 427 hours to United Way and to other charities in our area. His expertise and willingness to lead is shared with United Way staff and other non-profits who need financial guidance. Tom is United Way’s CFO.
RAYELL IRISH – COLOR A BRIGHTER WORLD AWARD RECIPIENT: Donna Fassett has been serving our community since 1979. She has dedicated her life to serving those in our community with developmental disabilities. During her time as the Executive Director of ARC Gateway, she has achieved many milestones and has expanded the organization’s programs to serve more than 900 children and adults with developmental disabilities.
AGENCY PARTNER OF THE YEAR: Gulf Coast Kid’s House was recognized for their exceptional partnership in 2012. They conducted 6 presentations, 3 agency tours and 1 agency expo for the annual workplace campaign. They hosted meetings of the United Way Agency Director Association (UWADA) and their Executive Director served as Secretary. On all levels, they participated in volunteer and fundraising efforts to support the community, while at the same time serving 2,000 child victims of child abuse. In addition, they excelled at collaborative partnerships and expanded their advocacy and preventive through a new prevention coordinator who enabled the organization to serve 620 children and 95 adults in Escambia County.
DISTINGUISHED COMMUNITY BUSINESS PARTNER: Gulf Power had 129 employees volunteer in service to the community through United Way partnerships. They collaboratively donated 1,470 hours to United Way and 9 partner agencies. Employees donated over $209,959 to multiple local agencies including United Way, Council on Aging, American Heart Association, Communities Caring at Christmas, Ronald McDonald House, Cram the Van and the American Cancer Society…to name a few. The corporate match in 2012 increased this giving by another $47,239. Their volunteer hours and efforts alone represented another $31,443 in free labor that enabled area agencies to do more to serve others.
UNITED WAY SERVICE AWARD: Shannon Lands has been serving her community with passion in partnership with United Way for over 12 years. Her dedication and commitment is evident in all that she does and can be seen in her engaged pursuit of service. In 2012, she donated 183 hours in service to United Way and our community. She was present at agency trainings, volunteer trainings, tours and oral presentations without exception. She even coordinated use of her company’s board rooms for agency oral presentations. Currently, she also serves on the Human Resources committee and the strategic planning committee with United Way. She has served as the Youth Support panel chair, the Family Support panel chair, the Health Support At-Large member of the Full Committee, the Physical Health Conditions panel chair, the Funds Distribution Vice Chair and now as the Funds Distribution Chair.
DISTINGUISHED COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD: Quint and Rishy Studer’s commitment and impact in the field of human services impact the Pensacola community is inspirational. They demonstrate a true empathy and compassion which they readily share for the betterment of others. While they do daily good works under the radar, any quick perusal of local media or the internet will show broad and significant gifts of time and financial resources from this couple. They embody the goodness of “uniting” to serve others. From a baseball team conducting charity nights at a University Field starting in 2002 to gifting proceeds from selling the team their philanthropy has grown. Their $2.25M gift to the stadium and their leadership in bringing the Wahoos was the fuel that is igniting positive change that lifts our entire community. Wherever they have seen success, they have willingly and generously shared with others. This includes the annual lead gift they have maintained as members of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society for the last five years. They also share the resources of their businesses and the assistance of staff and personnel trained to assist with organizational management and personal spend hundreds of hours annually serving as leaders in various roles in our community. They inspire others to do the same and in 2010 alone supported their employee’s performance of more than 5,000 hours of volunteer service in the Pensacola community. They feel that giving back to one’s community is not just an option – but an obligation. We are lucky to have Quint and Rishy as committed community partners who are dedicated to serving others. They continually live the ideals of Distinguished Community Service and are well-deserving of this award.
Schools Hold Orientation Sessions
August 17, 2012
Ernest Ward Middle School held a sixth grade and new student orientation Thursday, one of many held at schools across Escambia County. School begins Monday in Escambia County. Pictured top: Principal Nancy Perry speaks to students and parents. Pictured below: A school tour. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Wahoos And BayBears Postponed In Mobile
August 17, 2012
Thursday’s game between the Blue Wahoos and Mobile BayBears has been postponed due to rain. The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader on Friday beginning at 5:05 p.m.
Both games will be seven-inning contests. The second game will start approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of game one. RHP Kyle Lotzkar will start for the Blue Wahoos in the first game against Mobile RHP Brett Tomko. In game two, RHP Mark Serrano is scheduled to square off against fellow RHP Chase Anderson.
The Blue Wahoos’ next homestand begins on Sunday, August 19 at 4:00 p.m., with the Montgomery Biscuits.
David S. Arnette
August 17, 2012
David S. Arnette, 71, after a long and courageous struggle with cancer, went peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, August 14, 2012.
He is predeceased by his parents John Nathaniel Arnette and Ruby May Barlow and four siblings.
He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Marilyn Philen Arnette; three daughters: Cherie Monique Arnette, Pensacola, Carren (Tommy) Quinn, Mobile, and Jeanne (Chris) Williams, Pensacola; two grandsons Parker and Ryan Quinn; one brother Van Drew (Mae) Arnette, numerous nieces and nephews; faithful friends and Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church family.
His reserved demeanor belied a multi-faceted life lived to the fullest. He was a true Renaissance man who loved history, studied the natural sciences, and appreciated classical literature, poetry and the arts. He pursued various interests including restoring antique furniture and cars, serving on the Board of Directors for the Hawaiian Malacological Society, coauthoring the naming of a species of Cyprea, and meticulously researching genealogy proving direct lineage to American Patriots and becoming a lifetime member of the Jamestowne Society. Each of his daughters inherited parts of his passions which are reflected in their chosen careers.
He had a strong moral compass instilling a sense of honor and duty in his family and those he touched. His unwavering sense of patriotism was exhibited in service to his country for 22 years in the United States Air Force. A highly decorated Vietnam veteran, he traveled the world but had strong roots in his home and community. Following his retirement, he served for 20 years at the McDavid Post Office where his quiet acts of kindness made a difference in his community. He will be missed by all.
Visitation will be Saturday, August 18, 2012, from 12-2 pm with services following at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North, 1000 Hwy 29 Cantonment.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church, 170 Bogia Road, McDavid, 32568 or the American Cancer Society Pensacola, 5402 Corporate Woods Drive #100, Pensacola, 32504.
Honorary pallbearers will be Keith McDonough, Shannon Boles, Mike Pevahouse, Jason Harr, Russ Black, Eric Gilmore, Matt Gilmore, Ben Gilmore, Wesley Morris, and Travis Milstead.
Pensacola Wins $1 Million Hurricane Ivan Appeal
August 17, 2012
FEMA will reimburse the City of Pensacola another $1 million for costs associated with Hurricane Ivan.
The city incurred costs of $1,369,891 for the removal of debris from 64 city parks after the hurricane. Due to a disagreement over the reasonable cost for the work, FEMA reimbursed only $357,047. Appeals submitted by the previous City administration were denied, and the process stalled as FEMA closed the case in February 2010.
Shortly after taking office, Mayor Ashton Hayward traveled to Washington in March 2011 to renew the appeal, personally meeting with representatives from FEMA. Hayward also flew to Orlando to meet with Senator Bill Nelson about the appeal, and made regular calls to officials to ensure the appeal was on track.
FEMA approved another $1,012,389 for Pensacola.
“This is a huge win for the City of Pensacola,” said Mayor Hayward. “Immediately after taking office, I made pursuing these FEMA dollars a top priority. With our new form of government, one of the mayor’s duties is to truly advocate and fight for our city, whether it’s for jobs, investment, or federal dollars that we’re owed. I want to thank Senator Nelson, his chief of staff Pete Mitchell, as well as Congressman Jeff Miller for all of their support and hard work on this issue.”
“It’s incredibly important for a leader to leverage every relationship and have the tenacity and determination to get things done,” said City Administrator Bill Reynolds.
In a letter Thursday, FEMA Deputy Associate Administrator Elizabeth Zimmerman noted that FEMA’s initial denials were based on only collecting and hauling debris, and did not consider additional work performed by the City’s contractor, such as hazardous tree, limb, and stump removal. Finding that the city’s “requested funding … is a reasonable cost for the work performed,” Zimmerman determined that the city’s appeal should be granted in full. The determination represents the final decision on this matter.
Feds Sue Florida Prisons Over Kosher Meals
August 17, 2012
Arguing that prisoners’ rights have been violated, the U.S. Department of Justice this week filed a federal lawsuit aimed at forcing the Florida Department of Corrections to make available kosher meals.
The lawsuit, filed in Miami, says Florida abandoned serving kosher meals in prisons in 2007, except for a pilot program at the South Florida Reception Center.
“FDC’s (the Florida Department of Corrections’) denial of kosher meals substantially burdens the religious exercise of prisoners desiring to keep kosher, as consuming a kosher diet is a fundamental tenet of Judaism and other religions practiced by FDC prisoners,” the lawsuit says.
Before 2007, the lawsuit says prisoners who wanted to keep kosher could be sent to 13 prisons. It says an average of 250 prisoners a day took part in the kosher program. The lawsuit lists 13 prisoners who want kosher meals but are unable to get them at a variety of prison facilities.
By The News Service of Florida
Bobby Gerald Goodwin
August 17, 2012
Bobby Gerald Goodwin, 61, passed away suddenly in a local hospital on Monday, August 13, 2012. Bobby was born on March 7, 1951, in Pensacola, to A.J. “Dude” and Eunice Goodwin.
Bobby was predeceased by his father, A. J. “Dude” Goodwin and his brother, Donald Ray Goodwin.
He is survived by his mother, Eunice Goodwin; two sisters, Faye (Michael) Dees and Brenda (Terry) Bagwell; three brothers, Ronald (Collie) Goodwin, Larry (Joyce) Goodwin, and Edward (Sally) Goodwin. He is also survived by 14 nieces and nephews, 23 great nieces and nephews, six great-great nieces and nephews and a very special friend, Kenny Boone.
Bobby graduated from Tate High School in 1969. He worked in the pulp wood business driving a truck until an accident in 1972 which resulted in his quadriplegia. Bobby was lovingly cared for by his mother and family until his death. He was an avid horse lover, riding in many horse races and horse shows until his accident. Bobby loved the outdoors, family cookouts, and his faithful blue heeler dog, Barney.
Bobby will be missed by many in the Farm Hill community in Cantonment who often saw him traveling on the roads in his electric wheel chair visiting his neighbors and many friends. He never met a stranger and was loved by all who knew him.
The family would like to thank Interim Health care and Nurse Finders Health Care for their services in caring for Bobby.
Visitation will be at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 17, 2012, followed by a memorial service at 6:00 p.m. at Faith Chapel Funeral Home North in Cantonment
Brother Jeff McKee, pastor of the Victory Assembly of God Church in Molino, will conduct the services.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of their choice.
Eloise Enfinger
August 17, 2012
Eloise Enfinger, our dearly loved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend lost her battle with cancer on Wednesday, August 15, 2012. We miss you so much but your legacy of strength, love, devotion and faith will live on in us forever. Our hearts are joyful that you are united with your daughter in heaven. Always a woman of strength and devotion, she loved her family and friends with her whole heart and soul.
Eloise was born on December 12, 1935, in Westville, FL to Walter & Ettie Mae Jackson. She later made Cantonment her home. She was employed as a cashier with Winn Dixie for many years.
She is survived by two sons, David Sasnett (Tammy) of Eastpoint, FL and Danny Sasnett (Vicki) of Springville, AL; one daughter, Pamela Toms (Lewis) of Crestview; 11 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; one brother, Billy Jackson (Wanda); one sister, Carolyn Hood (Russell) and a host of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, August 17, 2012, at Faith Chapel North Funeral Home with Rev. David Davis officiating. Interment will follow in the First Pentecostal Cemetery in Molino.
The family will receive friends at Faith Chapel North from 1:00 p.m. until service time on Friday.
We would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Sacred Heart oncology floor, St. Catherine’s and Dr. Fitzgerald for all their love, concern and care of our amazing and wonderful mother. God Bless and let our hope and strength and comfort be found in him.