Donald Ray McKinley
May 29, 2012
Donald Ray McKinley, age 56 of Escambia County, AL, passed away May 26, 2012, in Atmore. He was a former resident of Jay.
He was a very loving, caring and generous person and enjoyed meeting people. He was a loving son, father, brother, uncle and friend to those that knew him.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Joseph and Tony, and sister Sandra Lee.
He is survived by his father and stepmother John and Lillie McKinley, brothers Bobby and Mitchell, son Chris and daughter Angelia, two stepbrothers, four stepsisters and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Wednesday, May 30, 2012, at 11 a.m. at Liberty Church Atmore with Rev Fred Burmitt and Rev. Thruyl Pearson officiating.
Jay Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Wahoos Drop Road Trip Opener
May 29, 2012
Jackson used a pair of extra-base hits in the bottom of the first inning to claim a 2-0 lead, and they never looked back as the Blue Wahoos opened their road trip with a 5-0 loss to the Generals at Pringles Park in Jackson, Tenn.
The Generals got on the board when Denny Almonte doubled home Nick Franklin who had tripled in the previous at bat. Almonte came home later in the inning on a base hit by Jesus Sucre.
Almonte struck again in the fifth with a two-run home run off of Blue Wahoos starter Tim Gustafson (2-2). Gustafson was charged with all five Generals runs after working 5.2 innings. Despite striking out a season-high seven batters, the Blue Wahoos starter was still tagged with the loss.
Offensively Ryan LaMarre, Didi Gregorius and Yordanys Perez all collected two-hit games. The Wahoos matched the Generals with nine hits but went 0-for-10 collectively with runners in scoring position.
Danny Hultzen (5-3) worked six shutout innings in the win. He walked two, struck out five and matched his season high allowing five hits.
The two teams continue the series on Tuesday when Pensacola sends right-hander J.C. Sulbaran to the mound against Jackson lefty Steve Garrison (2-1, 3.00). First pitch is set for 7:05 from Pringles Park in Jackson, Tenn.
By Tommy Thrall
Pictured top: Tim Gustafson struck out a season high eight batters Monday night. NorthEscambia.com photo by Chris Nelson, click to enlarge.
Northview Class Of 2012 Holds Baccalaureate Service (With Photo Gallery And Video)
May 28, 2012
The Northview High School Class of 2012 held their Baccalaureate service Sunday afternoon at the First Baptist Church of Bratt.
“Pray to withstand the temptations of life,” senior Savannah Singleton told her class members. “No matter what we do in life, we need to keep God in focus.”
Bro. Tim Hawsey of the First Baptist Church of Bratt echoed the need for the seniors to stay focused on the right things in life, including the Bible.
“The Bible is the most important book,” Hawsey said. “He wants you to know it, he wants you to apply it to your life.” Hawsey also offered words of encouragement for the future for the graduating seniors.
“God has a dream for you; God’s dream may no be the same dream you have for yourself,” Hawsey said. “There’s no greater calling that serving God wherever you are.”
For more photos from the Baccalaureate service, click here.
For a video of the Senior Ensemble performance of “White Flag”, click here.
Music for the service was provided by the Northview Senior Ensemble, including Austin Albritton, Taylor Dukes, Tyler Hester, Caleb Leonard, Blake Luker, Lauren McCall, Charleigh McPherson, Melissa Moretz, Abby Odom, Alex Payne, Darwin Robin, Savannah Singleton, Charla Stark, Mallory Turner and Elizabeth Wright.
Graduation for the Northview High School Class of 2012 will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 2 at the school.
Pictured top: Abby Odom (center) sings a solo during a Senior Ensemble performance of ” I Stand Amazed”, surround by (L-R) Taylor Dukes, Lauren McCall, Charleigh McPherson and Lisa Mortez. Pictured inset: Senior Savannah Singleton reads her favorite scripture to her classmates. Pictured below: A hundred people attended the service at the First Baptist Church of Bratt. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Memorial Day Events Planned
May 28, 2012
Here’s a look at Memorial Day programs planned across the area:
At 6 p.m. Monday, a Community Memorial Day Service will be held at the Mount Carmel United Methodist Church on Mount Carmel Church Road in Jay. Speaker will be Bro. Matt Dobson. Video tribute to those that have served from the Jay area and white table ceremony honoring POW’s and MIA’s.
Programs were held earlier today as follows:
At 9 a.m. Monday, there was a Memorial Day Service at The Naval Aviation Memorial Chapel aboard NAS Pensacola. Guest speaker was Ron Sepulveda, Veterans Administration assistant secretary for Human Resources and Administrations.
At 10 a.m. Monday, a Memorial Day program was held at the Atmore Memorial Monument in front of Atmore City Hall, presented by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7016 and the American Legion Post 90. Keynote speaker was Brigadier General (Ret.) Wendell B. McLain.
At 11 a.m. Monday, a Memorial Day Ceremony was held at the Santa Rosa County Veterans Memorial Plaza located at 5131 Willing Street in Milton. The event included a keynote address by Colonel James C. Slife, Commander of the 1st Special Operations Wing located at Hurlburt Field, a rifle salute, and a casting of the wreath on the water rite.
North Escambia Memorials Honor Those That Served
May 28, 2012
People across North Escambia and the country paused Monday to remember the brave men and women that have served our country as we celebrated Memorial Day.
In North Escambia, there are several memorials that honor those that have served in the military:
Walnut Hill Veterans Wall of Honor
The largest such memorial in the North Escambia area, the Veteran’s Honor Wall has stood in front of the Walnut Hill Community Center since its dedication in 2003. There are nearly 300 names on the wall, including names of just over a dozen soldiers killed in action. The wall honors those from the Walnut Hill area that have served in the nation’s military.
The Walnut Hill Ruritan Club began planning the wall in late 2001, and they decided that it would be a community project at no cost to the veterans listed.
Billy R. Ward began to engrave the names with an antique machine the club purchased off the internet, and there were 220 names on the wall when it was dedicated in 2003. He spent a lot of time on the project, even visiting the Wall South Memorial in Pensacola to get an idea what size the letters on the plaques should be.
On the Walnut Hill Veteran’s Honor Wall, everyone is equal. It was decided that no service rank would be include on the name plaques, just the branch and years of service.
It is estimated that about one-fourth of the veterans listed on the wall are now deceased.
The Walnut Hill Veteran’s Wall is located in front of the community center at 7850 Highway 97.
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LCpl Travis M. Nelson Park
The LCpl Travis M. Nelson Park was dedicated in Bratt on November 8, 2011, in honor of the local Marine killed in action in August 2011 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. It was just two weeks after his 19th birthday and only about a month after he arrived in Afghanistan.
The park features a memorial in Nelson’s honor. It is located on West Highway 4, just west of Northview High School.
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Atmore Veterans Memorial
The new Veterans Memorial in Atmore stands proudly on the lawn of the Atmore City Hall to pay tribute to those have served from around Atmore and North Escambia. Names of the fallen are on the spire, while commemorative bricks around the base of the spire name those that have served in the military past and present.
Those honored on the bricks date back to the Revolutionary War with a brick with the name of Benjamin Sasser, 1755-1840. His relative, Federick Sasser, 1794-1846, is also honored for his service in the War of 1812.
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Barrineau Park Wall of Honor
The Wall of Honor inside the Barrineau Park Community Center honors scores of area residents that have served in the military. The wall was a project of the Barrineau Park Historical Society. (Pictured above.)
Century Veterans Wall of Honor
About four dozen of those that served from the Century area are honored on the Century Veterans Wall of Honor at Century’s Roadside Park on Highway 29. The memorial was dedicated on July 4, 2008. (Pictured below.)
The Century Veterans Wall of Honor is located in the Nadine McCaw Park at the corner of North Century Boulevard (Highway 29) and Hecker Road.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Hot Weather Continues
May 28, 2012
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
- Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
- Tuesday: Isolated showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 96. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
- Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
- Wednesday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 95. West wind around 5 mph.
- Wednesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southwest wind between 5 and 10 mph.
- Thursday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Southwest wind around 10 mph.
- Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. South wind between 5 and 10 mph.
- Friday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southwest wind between 5 and 10 mph.
- Friday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. West wind between 5 and 10 mph.
- Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 91.
- Saturday Night: Clear, with a low around 65.
- Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 91.
- Sunday Night: Clear, with a low around 67.
- Monday: Sunny, with a high near 95.
Critical Need For O Negative Blood
May 28, 2012
There is a current a critical need for O Negative blood donors, according to Betty Roberts of Northwest Florida Blood Services.
“We need your help to boost the blood supply around Memorial Day weekend,” she said.
All donors today will receive a $10 Walmart gift card from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Northwest Florida Blood Services location at 1999 East Nine Mile Road (just east of Target).
Memorial Day Closures, Trash Schedule
May 28, 2012
Here is a look at what’s closed on this Memorial Day Monday in the North Escambia area:
- All county offices in Escambia (Fla. and Ala.) and Santa Rosa
- All city offices in Century, Jay, Pensacola, Atmore and Flomaton
- Schools in Escambia Escambia (Fla. and Ala.) and Santa Rosa
- West Florida and Santa Rosa County public libraries
- University of West Florida
- Pensacola State College
- ECUA business offices
- U.S. Postal Service, with no mail delivery except for Express Mail
- There will be no change in ECUA garbage collections, with North Escambia pickups as usual on Tuesday.
Boots On The Ground: Escambia Men To Run Pcola Marathon For Wounded Warrior Project
May 28, 2012
On November 11, 2012, a pair of friends — one a dedicated Army veteran and the other a civilian — will be two of nearly 1,600 people running the Pensacola Marathon.
However, Brad King and Alan Moses will not be wearing the normal athletic running gear associated with a 26.2 mile race. Rather, they’ll be running the Pensacola Marathon in military boots and a 50 pound ruck sack in an effort to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project.
“This challenge is my attempt to say ‘Thank You’ to these heroes,” commented Brad King, former Army Ranger. “Without these men and women who selflessly continue to leave their families at home and put themselves in harm’s way, we would not be the strong and proud Country we are today.”
The Pensacola Marathon, a Boston Marathon Qualifier, also features a half marathon course (13.1 miles). Runners are greeted by a beautiful sunrise over Pensacola Bay as the course winds through historic neighborhoods, the downtown district, views of Pensacola Bay, and finishes at Veteran’s Park, home to the country’s only replica of the National Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Alan Moses is a lifelong resident of Gulf Breeze, a small coastal community between Pensacola and Pensacola Beach. “When Brad approached me about running the Pensacola Marathon with a 50 pound ruck sack, AND wearing boots, I told him he needed to start wearing more sunscreen,” Moses jokingly commented. “However, after much thought and research, I realized there could not be a more appropriate way to offer up my gratitude to those who have sacrificed so much to defend the freedoms I often take for granted.”
People can contribute to the fundraiser by visiting the events website at www.marathonpensacola.com or by e-mailing Brad King at bradwick.king@yahoo.com.
The Wounded Warrior Project is a not-for-profit whose mission is to foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation’s history. They rely on this type of fundraiser and many more to help injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct program and services to meet the needs of injured service members.
“We are thrilled these two men chose the Pensacola Marathon as a vehicle to spread the word and raise money for such a great cause as the Wounded Warrior Project,” said Ray Palmer, Executive Director of the Pensacola Sports Association, the race’s management organization. “We have such a strong active and retired military presence in the Pensacola area so this fits perfectly. We congratulate and wish these gentlemen the best of luck in raising funds and for their efforts in running the Pensacola Marathon in November.”
Recipes: Flavorful, Festive and Fun Memorial Day
May 28, 2012
Memorial Day is often synonymous with a backyard barbecue to kick start the summer. As you celebrate this holiday weekend, have a delicious, grill-inspired meal ready in 45 minutes or less with these fun, flavorful recipe ideas.
With mouthwatering grilled beef, high-quality ingredients like canned tomatoes and bold bursts of flavor from lime juice, chimichurri and barbecue sauces, your Memorial Day menu is sure to be a memorable hit.
Get your grill sizzling with recipes like Lime-Marinated Flank Steak with Stuffed Poblano Peppers and Chimichurri Steak Wraps. And don’t forget a refreshing salad to complete your grilling holiday menu. Spicy Barley and Black Bean Salad is a fast option with a flavorful twist – perfect for your Memorial Day table.
(Scroll down to see all three recipes)
Ingredients
- 1 can (14-1/2 ounces) Ro*Tel Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies
- 3/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, divided
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 beef flank steak (about 1-1/2 pounds)
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 can (15 ounces) reduced-sodium or regular black beans, drained and rinsed
- 6 medium poblano chili peppers (about 4 inches long)
Toppings
- Toasted shelled pepitas (pumpkin seeds), crumbled queso frescos and lime wedges (optional)
Preparation
- Drain tomatoes, reserving juice for marinade. Set aside diced tomatoes with green chiles.
- Combine reserved tomato juice, 1/2 cup cilantro, lime juice and olive oil in medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate 1/3 cup marinade for rice. Place beef steak and remaining marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn steak to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or as long as overnight, turning occasionally.
- Combine rice, reserved 1/3 cup marinade, diced tomatoes, black beans and remaining 1/4 cup cilantro in medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. Set aside.
- Cut slit lengthwise down 1 side of each poblano pepper to create pocket, leaving stem and tip intact. Make another small crosswise cut just below the stem to form T-shaped opening. Remove and discard seeds and membranes, being careful to keep peppers intact. Spoon rice mixture evenly into peppers. Wrap each tightly in aluminum foil to seal.
- Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Place steak in center grid over medium, ash-covered coals; arrange peppers around steak. Grill steak, covered, 11 to 16 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill 16 to 21 minutes) for medium rare to medium doneness, turning occasionally. Grill peppers, covered, 25 to 30 minutes (20 to 25 minutes on gas grill) or until peppers are tender and filling is heated through, turning occasionally.
- Carve steak across grain into thin slices. Remove peppers from foil. Serve peppers with steaks and toppings as desired.
Serves
Makes 6 servings
Total Time:
45 to 50 minutes
Marinate Time:
6 hours to overnight
Ingredients
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Steak Wraps
- 4 medium whole wheat tortillas (8 to 10-inch diameter)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 12 ounces grilled beef steak, cut into slices
Preparation
- Place parsley and garlic in food processor or blender container. Cover; process until finely chopped. Add oil, vinegar and salt; process just until blended.
- Spread each tortilla evenly with Chimichurri Sauce, leaving 1/4-inch border around edge. Top with equal amounts spinach, bell pepper slices and beef slices on top two-thirds of tortilla. Fold bottom of tortilla up over filling. Fold right and left sides to center overlapping edges; secure with wooden picks; if desired.
Serves
Makes 4 servings
Total Time:
15 to 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup quick cook barley, uncooked
- 1 1/2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 can (15 ounces each) whole black beans, drained, rinsed
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) Ro*Tel Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, drained
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions, white and green parts
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Preparation
- Cook barley according to package directions; drain if necessary. Place barley in large bowl.
- Add corn, garlic salt and pepper; toss to combine. Add black beans, drained tomatoes and onions.
- Sprinkle with cheese just before serving.
Serves
Makes 4 servings (1-1/2 cups each)
Total Time:
25 minutes