Scott Signs ‘Pastor Protection’ Bill
March 11, 2016
Gov. Rick Scott on Thursday signed a controversial bill aimed at protecting clergy members from performing same-sex marriages against their religious beliefs.
Known as the “Pastor Protection Act,” the measure filed by Rep. Scott Plakon, R-Longwood, will prevent churches, pastors and church employees from facing lawsuits for discrimination if they refuse to perform gay and lesbian weddings. Its passage follows a landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling last year that found same-sex couples have a fundamental right to marry. P
lakon and Senate sponsor Aaron Bean, R-Fernandina Beach, said the verdict had shaken conservative Christians.
“The entire marriage world turned upside down,” Bean said last week as the Senate debated the measure. Opponents said the First Amendment already protects pastors who refuse to perform same-sex weddings and challenged supporters to show that any religious organizations have been punished for discriminating against gay and lesbian couples. But supporters of the measure maintained that it was too soon for such lawsuits to have surfaced because the Supreme Court ruling has been in effect less than a year
Opponents also said the bill could open the door for pastors to refuse to marry interracial couples or divorced people.
by The News Service of Florida
Escambia Fire Rescue Offers Free Smoke Detectors
March 11, 2016
Crew members from Escambia County Fire Rescue Engine 4 in Cantonment walked door to door Thursday in the Saint Matthew’s Lane and Stacey Road area Thursday to install free smoke detectors and change smoke detector batteries for interested residents.
Escambia Fire Rescue offers free smoke detectors with free installation to anyone in need. Call (850) 595-HERO (4376) for the free alarms.
Courtesy photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
One Seriously Injured In Cantonment Wreck
March 11, 2016
One person was seriously injured in a single vehicle accident in Cantonment Thursday. The driver of a car collided with a tree at the intersection of Santa Rosa and Well Line roads and was transported to an area hospital by ambulance. The accident remains under investigation by the Florida Highway Patrol;further details have not been released. NorthEscambia.com photos by Kristi Price, click to enlarge.
All-Star Basketball Games Are Tonight
March 11, 2016
The Pensacola Sports Association 2016 Subway All-Star Basketball games are tonight at Pensacola State. The girls game begins at 5:00 with the boys game to follow. Admission is $8, or $6 with a canned good or student identification.
The games will feature the top seniors from Escambia County high schools on the West teams, and the top seniors from Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties on the East times.
Rosters are as follows:
Boys East Roster
Baker — Austin Walters; Central — Cody Abel; Choctaw — D’eddrick Rodgers; Crestview — Marquis McClain; Fort Walton Beach — Trevor Cochran; Gulf Breeze — Perin Foote; Bradley Proctor; Brennan Sige; Ole Smollitch; Jay — Steven Archer; Laurel Hill — Cameron Gordon; Milton — Junior Ramos; Navarre — Demetre Page, Tre Baker, Marcus Richardson; Niceville — Mitchell Morken, Anthony Litscher; Pace — Nathan Harshany, Jahmiah Simmons; Rocky Bayou — Jonathan Colquitt.
Coach: Jarod Denmon, Gulf Breeze
Boys West Roster
Catholic — Connor Goodspeed; East Hill — Nate Roberts; Escambia — Torell Pinkerton, Tyriek Brown, Jailon Bryant; Northview — Bradley Van Pelt; Pensacola — Austin Shoemore; PCA — Elliott Lockett, Austin Flack, Nathan Middleton; Pine Forest — Devin Peters, Malaki Wesson, Eldred McLamb, DeAngelo Johnson; Tate — Jordan Watkins, Hunter Girdner, CJ McGhee; Washington — TJ Mathis, Deurlo Champagne; West Florida — Jamari Sharp.
Coach: Terrence Harris, Pensacola
Girls East Roster
Baker — Ashley Black; Choctaw — Dae Dae Matthews, Nadia Fingall, Justyce Riggs, Niyiah Roney; Fort Walton Beach — Leesa Greenwood; Gulf Breeze — Michelle Barrineau; Jay — Kennedy Salter; Navarre — De’Naizna Elder, Jordyn York, Khorri Newton; Niceville — Amanda Wilson; Pace — Bri Moore, Aaliiyah Neal, Tailer Preston; Rocky Bayou — Monica Marchena.
Coach: Don Brown, Choctaw
Girls West Roster
Catholic — Jenna Falco, Kiley Brady, Isabella Williams; Escambia — Tyanna Livingston, Sydney Walton, Janet Barrot; Northview — Jada Tucker; Pensacola — Victoria Samuel; Pine Forest — Destiny Ervin, Kim Payne, Raleigh Harvey; Tate — Brianna Daniels, Alexis Hoskins, Corine Lavender; Washington — Kaloni Pryear, Gabby Lawrence, Dazhnique Gould; West Florida — Faithe Franklin, Deja Jones, Astasia Lee.
Coach: Jade Brown, Washington
Pictured: Boys West team member Bradley Van Pelt. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Jeff Miller Won’t Seek Re-election
March 11, 2016
Congressman Jeff Miller has announced that he will not seek re-election. Here is his statement, in his own words:
Fifteen years ago when Vicki and I were praying about running for Congress, we could have never imagined what may lie ahead. As we made our decision, we knew there would come a day when it would be time to pass the torch. That day has come, and I am announcing I will not seek reelection to Congress.
I am deeply humbled that the good people of Northwest Florida have chosen me to be their voice in the halls of Congress for nearly a decade and a half. The confidence and support the voters of the First District have placed in me are honors I have never taken for granted. I will be forever grateful for the trust, encouragement, and love my constituents have shown to Vicki and me.
As the first Republican Member of Congress to take the oath of office after the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001, the safety and security of this country have never left my mind. I sought positions on the Armed Services and Veterans’ Affairs Committees – two places where I felt I could best represent my district and make a difference for the entire Nation.
I’ve been blessed with many successes during my time in Congress. There are now two “new” VA Clinics serving the veterans of the First District, including the Joint Ambulatory Care Clinic, which was the prototype for many others around the country. After a host of powerful storms, including a 2004 Hurricane named Ivan, we worked together to rebuild our community time and again. When the Deepwater Horizon disaster affected the Gulf of Mexico and its surrounding communities, we passed the RESTORE Act, which will help our community recover for years to come. And after exposing VA’s delays in care and accountability crises, we wrote and passed the most significant reform bill in the history of the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Some of our greatest successes, however, are unknown to most. Things like cutting through red tape to help a widow, assisting a veteran with a disability benefits compensation claim or mediating a bureaucratic dispute for a constituent rarely make front-page news. But they are important responsibilities every member of Congress has a duty to fulfill. Thanks to my dedicated staff, a group that has always understood the importance of providing first-rate constituent services, we have made a positive difference in the lives of thousands of our neighbors.
There is still more to accomplish before I depart. I intend to complete my tenure as House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs chairman while maintaining the same robust oversight of VA that has defined my chairmanship. As we approach the markup and consideration of the annual Defense Authorization Bill, I will do everything in my power to ensure our Armed Services remain the finest and most equipped fighting force in the world. And in an ever dangerous world, I will continue my service on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
When it comes time to elect a new U.S. Representative for the First District, I have every confidence that Northwest Floridians will choose someone who embodies the integrity, optimism, and values of the people of our great community. And when I return home to Chumuckla at the conclusion of my time in office, I will do so with a deep love of this Country and a strong belief that her best days are not behind her, but yet to come.
Roundup: Wins For Tate, Northview
March 11, 2016
BASEBALL
Tate 12, Escambia 0
The Tate Aggies beat the Escambia Gators Thursday 12-0.
The Aggies never trailed after a three run second. The Aggies added another four runs in the fifth and five more in the sixth for the win.
Jake Davis struck out six for the Aggies in five innings of shutout ball, allowing just four hits.
Tate hitters – Reid Halfacre 3-4, RBI, 2 runs, double; Mason Land 2-4, 2 runs; Cole Halfacre 2-4, 4 RBIs; Hunter NeSmith 1-3, 3 runs; Madison Lockman 1-2; Trevor Hoffman 1-1; Logan Blackmon 1-3, run; Josh Barnes 1-1, RBI;
Northview JV 8, West Florida freshmen 4
The Northview JV baseball team defeated the West Florida freshman team tonight, 8-4.
The Jaguars scored first to take a 1-0 lead, but the Chiefs scored 4 runs in the 2nd and 2 runs in the 3rd to take a 6-1 lead. The Jaguars cut the lead to 6-3 in the top of the 4th inning, but the Chiefs responded with two runs of their own to go up 8-3. West Florida added one more run in the top of the 5th.
Leading hitters for the Chiefs were Jackson Moore (2-3, 3B, 2 RBI), Sam Stott (2-3, 2B, 2 RBI, 1 run), John Chivington (2-3, 1 run), Heath Sheldt (2-3, 1 run), MJ Jones (1-3, 1 RBI, 1 run), Seth Killam (1-2, 1 RBI), Cade Allen (1-2, 1 run) and Jason Fischer (1-2, 2B, 1 RBI, 1 run). Alex McMinn scored 2 runs for the Chiefs.
Seth Killam earned the win on the mound, throwing a complete 5 innings, striking out 9 batters while allowing 7 hits.
The Northview JV baseball team defeated the West Florida freshman team tonight, 8-4.
The Jaguars scored first to take a 1-0 lead, but the Chiefs scored 4 runs in the 2nd and 2 runs in the 3rd to take a 6-1 lead. The Jaguars cut the lead to 6-3 in the top of the 4th inning, but the Chiefs responded with two runs of their own to go up 8-3. West Florida added one more run in the top of the 5th.
Leading hitters for the Chiefs were Jackson Moore (2-3, 3B, 2 RBI), Sam Stott (2-3, 2B, 2 RBI, 1 run), John Chivington (2-3, 1 run), Heath Sheldt (2-3, 1 run), MJ Jones (1-3, 1 RBI, 1 run), Seth Killam (1-2, 1 RBI), Cade Allen (1-2, 1 run) and Jason Fischer (1-2, 2B, 1 RBI, 1 run). Alex McMinn scored 2 runs for the Chiefs.
Seth Killam earned the win on the mound, throwing a complete 5 innings, striking out 9 batters while allowing 7 hits.
The Chiefs improved to 8-1 and return to action Monday night at Central.
SOFTBALL
Tate 15, Escambia 3
The Tate Aggies beat Escambia 15-3 Thursday night.
Savannah Rowell pitched the win for the Aggies in seven innings, allowing just three runs, four hits and striking out 12. At the plate, Rowell also delivered a grand slam for the Aggies.
Tate hitters – Hannah Brown 2-2, RBI, run; Savannah Rowell 2-4, grand slam, 5 RBIs; S. Ulrich HR, RBI.
Baker 3, Northview 2
The Baker Gators came out on top of the Northview Chiefs in Baker 3-2.
Batting for the Chiefs: Laurie Purdy: 3-3 with 3 singles and 1 RBI. Tori Herrington: 1-4 with a single and a run. Aubree Love: 1-4 with a double and a run. Lydia Smith: 1-3 with a single and a stolen base. Daphne Young: 1-2 with a single and a walk. Brittany McLemore: 0-3with an RBI.
The Chiefs will host Chipley Friday night at 5:00.
Pictured: NHS JV action from Thursday. NorthEscambia.com photos by Ramona Preston, click to enlarge.
George Thomas Van Pelt
March 11, 2016
George Thomas Van Pelt, 83, passed away on Monday, March 7, 2016, in Pensacola. He was born in Henderson, Texas on October 30, 1932.
He is preceded in death by his parents, James Lester and Geraldine Van Pelt; and wife of 49 years, Elizabeth Barnett Van Pelt.
He is survived by his two sons and their spouses, George T. Jr. and Michelle Van Pelt of Orange Beach, Stephen L. and Christie Van Pelt of Walnut Hill; grandchildren, Caroline Van Pelt Gardner and husband Levi Gardner, Michael Van Pelt, Bradley Van Pelt, Bailey Van Pelt and Bentley Van Pelt. He is also survived by his brother and sisters-inlaw, James and Doris Van Pelt of Walnut Hill and Dianne Barnett Rose of Atmore.
The family moved to Pensacola in the 1930’s. George graduated from Pensacola High School, attended Texas A&M University and finished college at Auburn University before serving as a United States Marine Corp officer. After his time in the service, he moved to the dairy farm in Walnut Hill that he operated with his brother.
George was very active in the Atmore First United Methodist Church where he served in many capacities. He also served on the Farm Credit of North West Florida’s Board of Directors, as a 4-H Camp Trustee and board member of the Pensacola Interstate Fair.
A memorial service was held at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore on Friday, March 11, 2016.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Marian Fillingim Mobley
March 11, 2016
Marian Fillingim Mobley joined her Lord on Tuesday, March 8, 2016, at the age of 77. Marian was raised in Molino where she lived most of her life and raised her family on the same property where she grew up. She truly loved the Lord and worshiped Him at Lathram Chapel United Methodist Church and later at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. This loving mother and wife of 52 years cherished her family, was passionate about local history and genealogy, and loved gardening, cooking and crocheting. She retired from the U. S. Postal Service where she served the Cantonment and Molino areas for many years.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Glen; her parents, A.J. and Cora Fillingim; son, Gregory; brother, Jack; and sister, Lillian.
She leaves behind to mourn her passing, her son, Robert (Amy); daughter, Mary Bishop (Darrel); grandchildren, Joshua, Nicholas, Matt, Sara, and Marina Mobley and Nathan and Nolen Bishop; sister, Maxine Smith; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.
The family would like to thank Dr. Shadi Oweis and the staff at Davita for the compassionate care shown to her over the last few years.
Services will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at Faith Chapel North with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. followed by funeral services at 2 p.m.
Burial will be at Aldersgate Cemetery on Highway 95A in Molino.
Pallbearers will be John, David and Ted King, Alan Smith, Dustin Harvey, and Nathan Bishop.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home North is in charge of arrangements.
Helen Dean Pious
March 11, 2016
Helen Dean Pious, age 80, of Pensacola, was called home March 7, 2016. She was born in Pensacola on September 8, 1935, to the late Lucius and Eva Dean. Helen is fondly remembered for her service as a Licensed Practical Nurse, as well as her volunteer efforts with those under hospice care. She was known for her affinity for all forms of fine art and music. Helen had a particular talent for drawing and sketching.
She is preceded in death by her cherished husband, Warren Pious; son, Warren Joseph Pious; and her parents.
She is survived by her daughter, Margaret (James) Kendrick; son, Micheal E. Riggins; and daughter, Helene Pious of Punta Gorda, FL; grandchildren, Simario Pious, Jessica Kendrick, Lance Nawahine of Punta Gorda, FL, Dedrick Pious of South Carolina, Nicole Kendrick of Portland, OR, and Adorian Pious of Pembrook Pines, FL; great-grandchildren, Simariah Pious, Tristyn Roberts, and Vincente Raymond; brother, Lucius C. Dean, Jr.; sisters, Mary T. Simmons and Joanne D. Boller; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until services begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at New Dimensions Christian Center, 3500 W. Navy Blvd in Pensacola.
Interment will be Monday, March 14, 2016, at 11:45 a.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery where she will be placed with her husband.
Faith Chapel Funeral Home South is entrusted with arrangements.
Donna Marie Lambeth
March 11, 2016
Donna Marie Lambeth, age 48, of Brewton, passed away on March 4, 2016, at Santa Rosa Medical Center due to a short illness.
She is preceded in death by her father, Albert Lambeth and nephew, Albert Lambeth Jr. (AJ).
She is survived by her son, Lee Candido Morena (age 6); mother, Effie Lee Lambert; Donald Greg (Lisa) Lambeth, Clayton (Bertha) Lambeth, and Danny Madden and sister, Sandra Lambeth. Donna was blessed with six nephews and five nieces.
Memorial services honoring the life of Donna Marie Lambeth will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2016, at 2 p.m. at Jay Funeral Home.