North Escambia Resident Honored As She Turns 102 Years Old
January 25, 2009
North Escambia resident Elmira Gandy Crapps turned 102 Sunday. Sunday was official designated as Elmira Gandy Crapps Day in the Town of Century.
She was born in Butler County, Alabama, near Georgiana in 1907. Theodore Roosevelt was president. A loaf of bread cost four cents. A gallon of milk was 29 cents. A new Ford? That would set you back 600 bucks.
She moved to a farm with her family in the Gandyville community in 1925, and still lives just down the road from that home.
As of last year, she was still driving, mostly to three places: the Piggly Wiggly for groceries, her church and her hairdresser. She’s still an active member of Poplar Dell Baptist Church, and very quick to give the Lord all the credit for her age and her health.
When asked her secret for a long life, she quickly replied that there was no secret. “It’s good living and a love of God. I’ve been blessed by the Lord and walk with Him,” she said. “The Lord always takes care of me.”
When asked about the biggest change in her lifetime, she said “the way people wear, or don’t wear clothes”.
She never had children, but has “a ton” of nieces and nephews. Her father, John Oxford Gandy lived to the age of 108. In 1973, the Florida Legislature named Gandyville after him. He, by the way, had a first cousin that also lived to be 108.
Saturday afternoon, friends and relatives gathered at Popular Dell Baptist to honor Mrs. Crapps. Century Mayor Freddy McCall presented her with an official proclamation in honor of her birthday, and the Alger-Sullivan Historical Society presented her with a certificate and a copies of a few documents in their collection related to her family.
The only person at Saturday’s celebration that did not seem to think that birthday number 102 was such a big deal was Mrs. Crapps herself.
“Everybody has birthdays,” she said.
Pictured above: 102-year old Elmira Gandy Crapps receives a proclamation in her honor from Century Mayor Freddie McCall Saturday afternoon at Poplar Dell Baptist Church. Pictured inset: North Escambia resident Elmira Gandy Crapps turned 102 Sunday. NorthEscambia.com exclusive photos, click to enlarge.
University Of Alabama Chimes Play In Honor Of Area Woman’s Birthday
January 25, 2009
The famous Denny Chimes at the University of Alabama were played Friday in honor of an Atmore woman on her birthday. Her father was among the men that crafted the chimes in 1929.
The Tuscaloosa News reports that Irma Helton, 94, of Atmore paid a visit to the University of Alabama on Friday and was surprised by the honorary playing of the chimes. Her son-in-law, Steve Shirley, had told her only that they were going to Tuscaloosa to meet a niece and nephew for the first time.
For the complete story and a photo, click here.
the road to the crown Part Five: Tonight’s The Night
January 24, 2009
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
Heather 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
Deniece 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
Katie 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
Amber 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
Ashley 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
Magen 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
Haley 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
Mallory 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
Caitlin 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
Amanda 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
Lauren 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
Tabitha 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
Sarah 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
Kristina 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
Allie 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
Courtney 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.
the road to the crown Part Four: Meet The Girls (With Photos)
January 23, 2009
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
Summer 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
Amber 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
Ashley 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
Ashley 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
Charleigh 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
Kayla 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
Brooke 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
Felicia 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
Olivia 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
Lauren 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
Courtney 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
Kolbi 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
Ande 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
Allison 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
Patricia 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
Samantha 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.
Northview NJROTC Holds Military Ball
January 22, 2009
The Northview High School NJROTC held their annual Military Ball recently at the National Museum of Naval Aviation about NAS Pensacola.
It was a joint event with the Washington High School NJROTC unit and the first time any NJROTC unit had held their ball at this unique location. Over 110 cadets and their dates attended the evening. Kings and queens, princes and princesses were selected by their peers.
The King and Queen were Dalton Cummings and Kayla Brewer (pictured top). The Junior/Sophomore Prince and Princess were Elliott Ross and Tyler Hunter (pictured below). The Freshman Prince and Princess were Cardean Smith and Kayla Miles (pictured bottom).
Click here for more photos from the Military Ball.
Submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com.
the road to the crown Part Three
January 22, 2009
Today, it’s part three of our five part series “the road to the crown”. 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.
We’ve posted more photos today from Wednesday afternoon’s dress rehearsal. They are in black and white so we can show them to you without spoiling the excitement of seeing the gowns in their colorful splendor Saturday night. Plus we thought the black and white was just cool looking in a retro old-newspaper kind of way. See the photo gallery by clicking here.
All of the tickets for Saturday night’s pageant have been sold. The final practice is over. Our series “the road to the crown” will continue Friday and Saturday morning. We will introduce you to each girl and learn more about their accomplishments with a complete biography for all 32 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.
Click here to read part one of “the road to the crown”.
Click here to read part two of “the road to the crown”.
Big Kickoff For Relay For Life
January 21, 2009
Century’s Relay for Life officially got underway Tuesday night with a kickoff meeting for team captains.
“Welcome to the beginning of the official start of the relay season”, Paula Jernigan told the team captains.
Team captains and members from Byrneville Elementary School, Century Library, Century Correctional Institute, Carver/Century K-8, Critter Caregivers, Ray’s Chapel Baptist Church and NorthEscambia.com turned out for Tuesday night’s meeting, which included sandwiches provided by Subway of Flomaton, door prizes and team awards.
Century Correctional Institute was awarded Most Faithful Team and received 10,000 spirit points. They also received the Purple Pig for turning in the most money at Tuesday night’s meeting. The Purple Pig, which is a purple piggy bank, must now be filled with money raised for Relay for Life and turned in at the next meeting. Century Library was awarded Most Members in Attendance, with a total of nine team members present.
Paula Jernigan said she would love to see Century reach their goal of twenty Relay teams. “Churches, business, families…anyone can be a team.”
Century Relay for Life will be held Saturday, April 25th from noon until sunrise on Sunday April 26th.
For more information, contact Paula Jernigan, Event Chair, at 256-3842 or B.J. Davis, ACS Community Partner, at 475-0850.
For additional information, visit www.CenturyRelay.com
the road to the crown Part Two
January 21, 2009
Today is the second part of our 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. We’ll introduce you to each girl and go behind the scenes for a look at a Northview High School pageant like you have never seen before.
Today, we bring a behind the scenes photo gallery from a recent practice. Click here to see the gallery.
A new installment of “the road to the crown” will be posted each morning and continuing until Saturday. Then, on Sunday morning, we’ll introduce you to the new Miss Northview High School.
The annual Miss Northview High School Pageant will be held on Saturday, January 24 at 7:00 in the school auditorium.
The pageant is sponsored by the Northview High Varsity Cheerleaders. Tickets for the pageant are sold out.
“the road to the crown” is brought to you by Kay Brown Photography and Senior Portraits and Tammie’s Cuttin’ Loose Salon in Atmore.
Click here to read part one of “the road to the crown”.
Reading First Program, Two North Escambia Schools Honored
January 21, 2009
The Reading First program in Escambia County has been recognized as being in the top 25% in the state of Florida. The Reading First program in North Escambia includes students at Bratt Elementary and Carver/Century K-8 School.
The schools and the 14 Reading First coaches in the district were honored Tuesday night by the Escambia County School Board.
Reading First grants assist schools to implement proven methods of reading instruction in kindergarten through fifth grade classrooms.
The reading coach at Carver/Century K-8 is Lee Cassady, and the reading coach at Bratt Elementary is Tammy Calloway. Molino Park and Byrneville elementary schools are not part of the Reading First program.
Pictured top: Lee Cassady (left), Reading First coach at Carver/Century K-8 and Tammy Calloway (right), Reading First Coach at Bratt Elementary, hard at work in their offices. Pictured above left: Bratt Principal Sheryl Pomeroy accepts the Reading First award on behalf of Bratt. Pictured below: Lee Cassady (white sweater) is congratulated by District 5 School Board member Bill Slayton Tuesday night. Submitted and NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Remembering A Dream And Looking To The Future
January 20, 2009
As people across the area gathered to honor the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, the message in Century was one of both remembrance and hope.
“It is a blessing to see his dream become a reality,” Bishop Johnny Cunningham, pastor of the Beloved AFM Church of God in Selma, Ala., told those gathered to remember Dr. King in Century.
Cunningham (pictured left), a Century native, said that the community should strive to use their talents to serve before death.
“Dr. King had the dream, but we have to run with the dream,” the pastor said, adding that Dr. King’s words were for people any race, not just black Americans. “Don’t go to the cemetery with what God has deposited in you. Don’t die with the talent laying dormant inside of you.”
“What God has placed inside of you is not just for you; it is for somebody else,” he added.
Cunningham told the gathering sponsored by the Century-Flomaton Improvement Association that there is great importance in guiding young people to succeed.
“Some people have not realized that they can live above and beyond their circumstances,” the pastor said. “We can see what a great, great responsibility we have to push this generation forward…There must be something down inside of us that says ‘I can make a change’.”
“He paved the way for a lot of us,” Century Mayor Freddie McCall said of Dr. King’s legacy. King also, the mayor said, paved the way for Barack Obama to be the first black man elected president.
“We need to get behind our new president, Mr. Obama,” McCall said. “The Bible teaches us that we should honor our leaders.”
The day’s events celebrating Dr. King in Century included the presentation of award winners in Century-Flomaton Improvement Association essay contest.
First place in the essay contest went to Charles Houston, 17. Second place was awarded to Ernest Ward Middle School student Natalie Suggs, 13. Third place was given to Kassandra Lett, 17, a junior at Northview High School. Carver/Century student Azeen Grissett, 13, received an honorable mention for his essay “What Dr. King Means to Me”.
Click here for a complete photo gallery from the commemorative ceremony.
Pictured top: Participants in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration join hands while singing “We Shall Overcome”. Pictured below: Essay contest winners: Azeen Grissett, honorable mention; Kassandra Lett, third place; Natasha Suggs, second place; and Charles Houston, first place. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.