Ransom Middle School Names Students Of The Month
May 6, 2022
Ransom Middle School recently announced their Students of the Month for March. They are Marley Jensen and Eli Hays. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Wahoos Fall Short In Rainy 2-1 Loss To Mississippi
May 6, 2022
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos played through a pair of rain delays on Thursday night but couldn’t prevail, falling 2-1 to the Mississippi Braves.
After a 45-minute pregame rain delay, the two teams played quickly and cleanly before more rain halted play in the top of the sixth inning with the M-Braves leading 1-0. The Blue Wahoos immediately tied the game up after a 1:03 delay on an RBI single from Troy Johnston, but an RBI single from Mississippi’s Trey Harris in the bottom of the seventh put the M-Braves back in front for a 2-1 final.
Mississippi starter Jared Shuster carried a perfect game into the fifth inning, and allowed only three hits over 5.1 innings before his start was halted by the weather. Cobie Fletcher-Vance hit a double in the sixth just as the rain started, and Johnston’s RBI single against Hayden Deal (W, 1-0) out of the delay knotted the game up 1-1. The Blue Wahoos then loaded the bases with an infield single and a walk, but Deal coaxed an inning-ending double play to preserve the tie.
Blue Wahoos starter Will Stewart struck out a season-high seven batters over 5.0 innings, allowing an early run on Yariel Gonzalez’s first inning RBI double but recovering nicely to keep his team in the game. Out of the delay, Josh Roberson pitched a scoreless inning of relief before Andrew Nardi (L, 1-2) allowed Harris’s go-ahead RBI single in the seventh inning.
With more rain bearing down on the area, Justin Maese (S, 4) worked around an infield single in the ninth inning to earn the save.
The Blue Wahoos continue their series against the Mississippi Braves on Friday.
by Erik Bremer, Pensacola Blue Wahoos
E.B. “Woody” Williams Jr.
May 6, 2022
E.B. “Woody” Williams Jr. passed away peacefully on May 5, 2022 with his wife Mary Frances Williams by his side. Woody was born April 17, 1937 in Pensacola. He lived his entire life in Pensacola and passed away in Pensacola.
He was preceded in death by his father, E.B. Williams Sr., his mother, Leo Williams, his sister Gwendolyn Williams, and Brother Larry Williams.
Woody is survived by his Wife Mary Frances Williams, his sons Monte Williams (Patrice) and Dean Williams (Taunia), Grandson Robb Whitfield (Amber), Granddaughter Amber Box (Jonathan), Great granddaughter Aria Whitfield, and Great Grandson Ian Box.
Woody carried out the role of husband, father, brother, and grand parent with strength and consistency. His impact on all who knew him and the community, cannot truly be measured. He led by Example!!
He was born in the back of a taxi on Garden St. as they were trying to make it to his aunt’s house that once sat where McGuires is today. He grew up in the Brent area and graduated from Pensacola High School in 1956. While in high school, he delivered papers for the Pensacola News Journal, which at that time had to be done on foot or bicycle. He biked the largest paper route at that time daily. He then spent 2 years in the Navy on board the USS Suribachi. He returned home to begin his longtime career.
He found work in the construction industry where he would have a big impact on many lives and careers. As a contractor for over 40 years, he constructed hundreds of homes. More importantly along the way he taught the trade and the business from the ground up to all of those worked with him and for him. His sons (Monte and Dean Williams) nephew (Danny Williams) and honorary son (Kevin Ward) all became local contractors and all have incredible respect and appreciation for the training, guidance, and advice he always provided. Many others went on to successful careers as well with help from his mentorship.
Woody and his family were heavily involved in East Brent Baptist Church from its very beginning. He served as a Deacon, Record keeper, Chair of the building committee, and any other capacity called on. Truly devoted to God, Church, and Family.
While he was a wonderful businessman, it was more important to him to help others and give back. He never asked for kudos or recognition. He would give anonymously to many at Thanksgiving and Christmas for example. Anyone who knew him will tell you his life is an example worth following and emulating him is a goal worth pursuing. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
In lieu of flowers please either donate to East Brent Baptist Church at http://my.simplegive.com/eastbrent OR send a check to the Home Builders Association of West Florida, Inc. 4400 Bayou Blvd., Suite45, Pensacola, FL 32503.
The service will be at East Brent Baptist Church on Monday, May 9, 2022 at 1:00 PM. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM.
Man Charged With Three Counts Of Attempted Homicide In Triple Shooting
May 5, 2022
An Escambia County man is charged in a triple shooting Wednesday night.
Jayshawn Wendell Jackson, 18, is charged with three counts of attempted homicide, two counts of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, carrying a concealed firearm, carrying a concealed firearm during the commission of a felony, discharging a firearm in public and marijuana possession over 20 grams. He remained jailed with bond set at $437,500.
Three people were shot just after 11 p.m. on Besma Drive. The victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment. One person suffered a gunshot wound to the leg that may require amputation, according to an arrest report.
The report states Jackson arrived at the home an argument ensued over an “ongoing dispute about personal property.” He allegedly pulled a gun and fired into the air before shooting three people.
Jackson was detained after deputies located Jackson with two guns inside a vehicle on Sarah Drive with four other people. Another occupant of the vehicle, 19-year-old Xavian Williams, was also charged with carrying a concealed weapon.
Puppy Rescued From Deep, Water-Filled Hole – With A Snake – Under A House
May 5, 2022
Escambia County firefighters rescued a puppy trapped in a deep, water-filled hole — with a snake — under a house in Byrneville Thursday afternoon.
The puppy, named Bailey, was discovered in a hole that was about four feet deep and located several feet under a house on Creamer Road in Byrneville. Only the puppy’s nose, mouth and one paw were above water in the hole. And there was a non-poisonous garter snake also in the hole.
Firefighters from Escambia County Fire Rescue’s Engine 519 in Century and Century volunteers responded. Due to the estimated one hour drive time from the animal shelter on Fairfield Drive to Byrneville, firefighters moved forward with the rescue rather than waiting for Escambia County Animal Control to arrive.
ECFR Lt. Scott Hunsucker was able to reach into the hole and use a broomstick to get a rope around the puppy.
Residents believe Bailey was the hole for several hours before she was discovered.
Using a special mask, oxygen was administered to the cold, shivering puppy and she was wrapped in a blanket before being reunited with her family.
Bailey is expected to make a complete recovery.
NorthEscambia.com exclusive photos, click to enlarge.
Molino Woman Delivered Cash To Domino’s Pizza, Now She’s Facing Charges, ECSO Says
May 5, 2022
A Molino woman is facing charges after she made a seemingly random delivery of cash to the Domino’s Pizza in Cantonment.
The restaurant reported that a woman, later identified as Karla Michelle Voorhees, pulled up to the restaurant’s drive-thru window and tried to drop off an envelope because an officer had told her to do so. The restaurant manager refused, but Voorhees insisted because the credit union next door was closed. She then put the envelope in the window and drove off, according to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The manager was able to get a tag number and called deputies.
The envelope with Voorhees’ name and address on the outside contained $345, a Walmart Money receipt and a stolen debit card, deputies said.
Back in March, Voorhees and her friend gave a man a $1,500 down payment on a vehicle before going to the friend’s home on Bopeg Road. The victim said she fell asleep, and her mother said Voorhees went into her room. When she woke up, she discovered that her Coach wallet containing her debit card and identification was missing.
The owner of the vehicle later decided not to sell and made a video as he returned the $1,500 to Voorhees to give to the victim. She never returned the money, according to an arrest report.
Voorhees also used the victim’s debit card to make multiple withdrawals totaling over $1,500, the report states.
Voorhees told the investigating deputy that she had left all of the money at Domino’s Pizza. She also stated that she did not know why she left the money at the pizza restaurant and knew that was not a smart thing to do.
She was charged with grand theft, petit theft and seven felony counts of fraudulent use of a debit card. She was released from the Escambia County Jail on a $7,000 bond.
Cantonment Rotary Awards $40,000 In Scholarships
May 5, 2022
The Cantonment Rotary Club Foundation annually awards scholarships to deserving students enrolled in various programs at Pensacola State College.
Recently, the club held a luncheon program during which it bestowed $40,000 in scholarships from various endowed funds in the Cantonment Rotary Club Foundation.
The following received $1,000 scholarships towards an associate degree in music from the Ike & Carolyn Hicks Terry Music Endowed Scholarship Fund:
Tristyn Barberi
Brody Beal
Amanda Duffey
Troy Harris
Sienna Hudak
Russell Hughes
Deelia Warfield
Carlos Lopez
Erik Mitra
Angie Perez
Tessa Tanner‐Szeman
Lauren Mills
The following received $1,500 scholarships to various technical/vocational programs from the Ted Ciano Vocational Endowed Scholarship Fund:
Constance Stewart
David Green
Samuel Dalton
Mason Gosselin
Bryce Vincent
Shakeel Myvett
Layton Davis
Travis Rentschler
M’Kaylyn Shepherd
Arthur Buckner
William Keethler
Colin Dorn
The following received $1,000 scholarships to various technical/vocational programs from the Vocational I & II Endowed Scholarship Fund:
Tiffany Alberter
Deanna Edwards
Daniel Shepetis
Mary Seeley
Georgia Beliech
Starr Bohannon
Diyawn Jackson
Brianna Lindsey
Sandra Savage
Nora Biggs and Carmen McInvale received $50 scholarships in paralegal studies from the Legal Assistant Endowed Scholarship Fund.
Before the awards, those attending were treated to a prepared musical presentation from music scholarship recipients. Jazz pianist Troy Harris and trumpeter Erik Mitra performed.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Severe Storms Possible Friday Morning
May 5, 2022
Severe storms are possible Friday morning and perhaps into the afternoon across the area, with a threat level 2 of 5.
The slight threats include very large hail and damaging winds. Although, a few tornadoes cannot be ruled out.
The storms should be clear by early afternoon.
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tonight: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. High near 82. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.
Friday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 65. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 88. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday Night: Clear, with a low around 60. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 90. Light and variable wind becoming west 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 65. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 67. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 93.
Tuesday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 67.
Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 90.
Wednesday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.
Thursday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88.
Bye Verizon! Town Of Century Switching To AT&T
May 5, 2022
The Town of Century has used Verizon for the past decade or so for their employee cell phones. But now, citing poor service, the town is switching to AT&T.
“At the present time, Verizon’s signal is inadequate and it is often difficult to reach our employees in the field or inside the maintenance hop. Verizon has advised… they do not plan to add additional cell signal in our area and will not be attaching to Diamond Towers cell tower,” Mayor Ben Boutwell said.
Diamond Towers constructed a tower at Century’s Anthony Pleasant Park and makes a monthly payment of $1,500 to the town. AT&T became the first provider on the tower in late 2021.
Century will switch to AT&T FirstNet service that provides priority access for government agencies.
The town will activate 12 mobile hotspots at $35 per month for unlimited data and 17 smartphones at $40 per month for unlimited talk, text and data — a total of $1,100 per month for service. The phones and hotspots will cost the town 99 cents each. With rebates totaling $4,300 ($200 per phone, $75 per hotspot), Century officials expect to see a net bill credit of about $3,371.
The smartphones –most of which will be iPhone 12s — will go to town employees, some of which are currently using Verizon flip phones provided by the town.
“We’ve still got flip phones?” council member James Smith asked. “That’s scary.”
The hotspots will be used at the town hall, maintenance shop, wastewater treatment plant, community centers and other locations, and at least one will be used for administrative travel. Each of the five council members will also receive a hotspot for the purpose of accessing council agendas and conducting other town business at their homes.
The town will be under a month to month agreement with no cancellation fees.
NorthEscambia.com file photo.
Cox Inspirational Student Heroes Recognized From Each Escambia County School
May 5, 2022
Cox Communications recently hosted the annual Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards in Escambia County, recognizing 53 students who have overcome extreme hardships in their lives. T
“We’ve all been through some difficult times over these past couple of years, but these students have overcome so much more in their young lives,” said Cox Gulf Coast Market vice president David Deliman. “They’ve not only been through the pandemic, but other family tragedies or life challenges, and they’ve pulled through with a smile on their faces while bringing happiness to others. They deserve their time in the spotlight for being such an inspiration to us all.”
“The Escambia County School District is extremely thankful to Cox Communications. Their heart for students, coupled with celebrating student achievement and perseverance, is both commendable and inspiring,” said Escambia County School District Superintendent Dr. Tim Smith. “We speak of unity throughout Escambia County for the benefit of our district and students; our partnership with Cox exemplifies this unity, and we are so very grateful for that.”
The students were chosen by a committee of leaders at their school, due to their resilience in the face of adversity. Whether they have overcome a loss of a family member, medical issue, difficult family situation or other hardship, they did so with a positive attitude and continued to encourage and inspire others around them.
During the event, Cox presented the students with a personalized engraved medallion and certificates of honor. The students were also presented with certificates of achievement from Congressman Matt Gaetz, Florida Sen. Doug Broxson and Florida representatives Michelle Salzman and Alex Andrade.
Escambia County Commissioner Robert Bender was also on hand and presented a proclamation from the Board of County Commissioners, celebrating the students for their achievements overcoming obstacles.
Escambia County’s Cox Inspirational Student Heroes for 2022 are:
- AK Suter Elementary School – Luca Grasso
- Bellview Elementary School – Monique Daniels
- Bellview Middle School – Cornell Hewitt
- Beulah Elementary School – Dae’lyn Grace
- Beulah Middle School – Kay-leigh Smith
- Blue Angels Elementary School – Eric Moudy
- Bratt Elementary School – Gaberiel Dunsford
- Brentwood Elementary School – Christian Funderburk
- Brown Barge Middle School – Austin Jackson
- Byrneville Elementary School – Allison Grant
- CA Weis Elementary School – Malik Lovette
- Cordova Park Elementary School – Nigel Goromo
- Ensley Elementary School – Said Rodriguez-Izaguirre
- Ernest Ward Middle School – Jessica Williams
- Escambia High School – Tyanna Hosea
- Escambia Westgate Center – Joseph Dull
- Ferry Pass Elementary School – Ka’Nyla Stanley
- Ferry Pass Middle School – Tredarius Lewis
- Global Learning Academy – Taejohn “TJ” Oliver
- Hellen Caro Elementary School – Cayman Nantista
- Holm Elementary School – La’Travion Hardy
- Hope Horizon (Elementary) – Gavin Lee
- Hope Horizon (Secondary) – Marcus Siewert
- Jim Allen Elementary School – Uriel Trevizo
- Jim Bailey Middle School – Leiland Remo
- Kingsfield Elementary School – Enrico Middleton
- Lincoln Park Elementary – Liana Blackmon
- Lipscomb Elementary School – Emmalyn Young
- Longleaf Elementary School – Brynne Reber
- McArthur Elementary School – Nicholas Stallworth
- Molino Park Elementary – Eli Miller
- Myrtle Grove Elementary – Tobiah Faunteroy
- N.B. Cook Elementary School – Ava Greene
- Navy Point Elementary School – Sophia Escobar
- Northview High School – Chevy Bingham
- Oakcrest Elementary School – Amyriah Barge
- OJ Semmes Elementary School Amelia Jampetro
- PACE Center for Girls – Eurshila Ross
- Pensacola High School – Tam Nguyen
- Pine Forest High School – Jason Le
- Pine Meadow Elementary School – Kristiyanah Backus
- Pleasant Grove Elementary School – Jaiden Lewis
- Ransom Middle School – Bryce Joachimi
- Scenic Heights Elementary School – Jamarion Hauser
- Sherwood Elementary School – Piper Dujmovic
- Success Academy – Zamyhia Turner
- Tate High School – Dawson Guy
- Warrington Elementary School – Shawntiava Washington
- Warrington Middle School – Joey Morrell
- Washington High School – Martin Bucio
- West Florida High School – Oscar Cano-Gasque
- West Pensacola Elementary School – Jeremiah Stevens
- Workman Middle School – Melody Garcia
The Cox Inspirational Student Hero Awards program began nearly 30 years ago in New Orleans, Louisiana. The program has spread to other Cox markets in the Southeast Region. To date, Cox has recognized nearly 4,500 students from Lafayette, Louisiana, to Gainesville, Florida.
The Heroes were recognized at a ceremony at the University of West Florida. This is the first Heroes event that was held in person at UWF since the beginning of the pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, the students were recognized virtually via a television show.