Tate Aggies Beat Fletcher, Advance To Regional Semifinals
April 27, 2025
The Tate Aggies beat the Fletcher Senators 8-3 on Saturday afternoon in game three of a best-of-three series in the FHSAA 6A Baseball State Championship regional quarterfinals in Neptune Beach.
With the win, Tate took the series 3-0,0-8,8-3.
The No. 4 Tate Aggies (16-12) will travel to Gainesville on Wednesday, April 30 for the first game in a best-of-three regional semifinal series with the No. 1 Buchholz Bobcats (28-1). The third game, if necessary, will move back to Cantonment.
Lance Brady earned the win for Tate, giving up four hits and three runs in a full seven inning game, while striking out two and walking four.
Kaden Posta went 2-for-5 with three RBIs for the Aggies. Cal Foxworth went 2-3, and Tate also had one hit each from Kaleb Posta, Nathan Ozuna, Brayden Beck, Griffin Cook, and Connor Dethlefs.
In other regional semifinal action, No. 2 Pace will host No. 3 Tocoi Creek on April 30.
NorthEscambia.com file photo.
Historic Four-Homer Inning Lifts Wahoos To Fourth Straight Win
April 27, 2025
written by Bill Vilona
If you’re going to set franchise records for home runs in an inning, as the Blue Wahoos did in this game, doing it on Fireworks Saturday is perfection.
In an all-time memory, three consecutive Pensacola hitters blasted bombs, then a fourth homer followed two at-bats later in a five-run third inning that carried the Blue Wahoos to their 6-3 victory against the Knoxville Smokies, delighting a massive sellout crowd (5,038) at Blue Wahoos Stadium.
It was the first time since the Blue Wahoos began in 2012 with a trifecta of back-to-back-to-back homers. The four homers in an inning were also a team record.
In five other games in their history, the Blue Wahoos had three homers in an inning, but none were in a trio succession and never were four homers hit in the same inning.
“As they say, hitting is contagious, and when you watch the guys go up there and do it in front of you, it makes you feel a little easier and you want to follow suit,” said Blue Wahoos second baseman Johnny Olmstead, whose 2-run homer completed the fab four of homers in the third inning. “So, I had to go up there and see a good pitch, and it went out.”
That inning further energized a Saturday crowd that watched the Blue Wahoos (15-5) clinch the series with their eighth win in the last 10 games. They have the best record to start the 2025 season among all 30 Double-A teams across three leagues in Minor League Baseball.
This game began with a festive scene. It featured nine ceremonial first pitches. Three different youth league teams with kids ran out with Blue Wahoos starters.
Most of the crowd remained when the post-game fireworks capped the evening.
“We got the best fan base in minor league baseball, so let’s keep it rolling,” said Olmstead in the post-game, on-field interview with the Blue Wahoos’ Carter Bainbridge.
The Blue Wahoos will get a chance to do just that in Sunday’s series finale. This will be the third of four 1:05 p.m. Sunday starts to begin the season.
Another fast start occurred Saturday. In the first inning, Jake Thompson walked and scored when Nathan Martorella’s hard single got under the glove of right fielder Parker Chavers for a two-base error that allowed Thompson to provide a 1-0 lead.
In the eventful third inning, it was bombs away.
Thompson started things off with a no-doubter off the scoreboard in right field that exited his bat at 107 mph. Alderman then clouted a pitch over the left-center wall for a 3-0 lead. Nathan Martorella then set the club record with his line drive into the right field berm.
All of these homers were off Smokies’ starter Grant Kipp, who had a 2-0 record and 0.60 earned run average entering the game. The Blue Wahoos’ Tony Bullard tripled with one out and Olmstead’s homer ended the outing for Kipp with his two-run blast.
That also got Olmstead doused with ice water, of course, as he was trying to explain his big night.
“Yes it does,” said Olmstead, laughing, when asked if the ice bath felt good. “Ice water is always good. That means we won, so can’t complain about anything. Feel good at the dish and I’m just trying to keep it going.”
The Blue Wahoos carried a 6-0 lead through five innings behind starter Orlando Ortiz-Mayr, who earned his second win with his best night.
But a defining part of Saturday’s game occurred in the sixth inning. The Smokies had scored two runs off reliever Justin King, who became injured, forcing Dale Stanavich to be summoned for the second time in three games.
After rapidly warming up from the mound, he faced a situation with two on and two out when he struck out Hayden Cantrelle on a sweeper to end that inning.
In the seventh inning, after the Smokies scored their third run, Stanavich faced another jam with two on, one out. He struck out Smokies touted prospect Pablo Aliendo on a 96 mph fastball and ended the threat by a strikeout of Corey Joyce on a 3-2 slider.
Jesse Bergin pitched two hitless innings with three strikeouts to end the game.
The Blue Wahoos will close out this homestand on Sunday with left-hander Luis Palacios (0-0, 2.45 ERA) on the mound against the Smokies’ right-hander Antonio Santos, who is scheduled to make his second start of the week.
Santos pitched 3.2 innings in Tuesday’s series opener, allowing three hits, one run, two walks, and two strikeouts.
Following Sunday’s game, the Blue Wahoos embark on a back-to-back set of six-game road trips. They will travel to face the Birmingham Barons on Tuesday through May 4. They will then return home for an off day, before traveling to face the Biloxi Shuckers in a six-game series starting May 6.
The next Blue Wahoos homestand begins on May 13 against the Rocket City Trash Pandas.
WANT TO GO?
WHAT: Homestand Finale
WHO: Knoxville Smokies vs. Blue Wahoos
WHERE: Blue Wahoos Stadium
WHEN: Sunday, 1:05 p.m.
Century Community Mourns Passing Of Longtime Educator William ‘Edsol’ Smith
April 27, 2025
The Century community is mourning the loss of a longtime educator and community member Edsol Smith. He was 97.
William “Edsol” Smith was a graduate of Jay High School, the University of Florida and Mississippi College. He had a lifelong passion for learning — and his beloved Florida Gators.
He devoted his life to education, serving as a visiting teacher, classroom teacher, coach, and principal. Generators of Century Blackcats were shaped by his mentorship, guidance, and leadership.
His service extended beyond the classroom. Edsol was a dedicated deacon of First Baptist Church of Century, a proud member of the Century Lion’s Club, Masonic Lodge, and Kappa Delta Pi. He gave generously to causes focused on youth wellness, missionary work, and supporting those in need.
Funeral services for William “Edsol” Smith will be held at noon on Tuesday, April 29 at Jay Funeral Home Chapel, following visitation from 10 a.m. until noon. Interment will follow at Cora Baptist Cemetery on Chumuckla Highway in Jay.
For the complete obituary, services and contribution in lieu of flowers information, click here.
Maxine May Ivey
April 27, 2025
age 91, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in Jay, Florida surrounded by her family and friends.
Maxine, also known as “Meme” by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, was born on October 5th, 1933, in Jay, FL, during a time when the country was still recovering from the Great Depression. She was raised in a hardworking farming family, where despite the economic hardships, their lifestyle ensured the table was always full. Life on the farm shaped Maxine’s incredible work ethic and kindness, traits that she carried throughout her life. In 1951, Maxine graduated from Jay High School and married the love of her life, Grady Donald Ivey. Together, Maxine and Donald built a wonderful life in the Jay area. Though they didn’t continue farming, their rural upbringing shaped their love for the outdoors – especially Maxine’s favorite pastime: bass fishing.
Maxine became a Licensed Practical Nurse with Surgical Training and worked beside Donald, the Jay Hospital Administrator, for many years. Her nursing career was only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to helping others. After retirement from nursing, Maxine’s hard-working nature moved her into another career working for the Northwest Florida Agency for Aging, where she served as acting president. Maxine also became the Executive Director of the Northwest Florida Rural Health Network. These achievements allowed Maxine to do what she loved most, helping people and her community. Maxine was a member of the First Baptist Church of Jay, Fl for 59 years and was always involved with church activities, especially with the youth and church finances. Her love of community extended further as she served as a city council member for 28 years. During those years, she was able to facilitate vital grants that benefited the Jay area.
Although Maxine was very engaged with her church and community, her biggest love was for her family. Ball games, graduations, trips, events, etc., Meme would always be present. She made sure that her family knew she was just a phone call away and her home was their home. Maxine is survived today by three devoted sons: Keith, Craig, and Michael. Her special daughters-in-law; Vicki, Deidra, Pamela and Toddie Milstead. Her nephew Gary May, wife Dixie. Her pride and joy; five grandchildren: Ashley, Ryan, Meagan, Morgan, and Jessie. She was also blessed with six sweet, special, spoiled and energetic great-grandchildren: Grayden, Grady, Kenyard or aka (Peanut), Nico, Elle and Everett. Maxine is preceded in her journey home by her father Cecil May, mother Gertrude May Sprow and her stepfather Karl Sprow. Her husband Grady Donald Ivey and son Terry Dewayne Ivey. Also, her brother Ray May, sister-in-law Jean May, their son Chris May and one grandson Scott (Chip) Wallace.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who have helped celebrate Maxine’s remarkable life. Her vibrant spirit, unwavering faith, and deep love for her family and Jay community will be profoundly missed. The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Dr. David Smith, Debbie Hayes, the entire Jay Medical and Jay Hospital staff for the excellent care they provided Maxine. They are the best. Also, to Dr. Brett Smith at the North Florida Bone and Joint Clinic.
In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Jay First Baptist Church.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, April 28,2025 at 2:00 PM in the Jay First Baptist Church. Visitation will take place at the church from 12:00 (noon) until service time. Burial will follow at the Cora Baptist Church Cemetery.
Alan Cole Presley
April 27, 2025
Mr. Alan Cole Presley, age 65, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was a native of Perdido, AL; where he has lived most of his life. Before his retirement, he was employed as an equipment operator in the construction industry.
Mr. Presley had a passion for fishing, hunting, motorcycles, tinkering with gadgets, gardening, and working with tractors. He enjoyed cruising along the roads with his friends. His affection for family and friends was immense, often filling his life with laughter and chaos. He cherished spending time with his grandkids, sitting on the porch while observing the dance of the wind and clouds.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Jimmy Presley and Annie Sue Killcreas, one brother, Kent Presley, and his grandparents.
He is survived by his loving wife of 25 years, Sophie Presley, of Perdido, AL; two daughters, Paige Presley, of Perdido, AL; Hillary Presley (Frankie) of Morristown, TN; three brothers, Faron (Lynn) Presley, of Bay Minette, AL; Troy Presley, of Perdido, AL; Tyson (Christy) Presley, of Perdido, AL; three sisters, Kathy Presley, of Pensacola, FL; Pam Presley, of Perdido, AL; Tonya Presley, of Daphne, AL; seven grandchildren, Aleiah, Jace, Raiah, Nova, Kyler, Orian, Estella other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at 1:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC. with Brother Michael Hadley officiating.
Burial will follow at Presley Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2025 from 11:30 AM until service time at 1:00 PM at Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Homes, LLC.
Pallbearers will be Les Smith, Tripp Presley, Tyler Davis, Wes Smith, Jesse Smith and Tyler Presley.
Honorary pallbearers will be Faron Presley II.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements.
Forest Service Celebrates National Arbor Day With Tree Giveaway In Century (With Gallery)
April 26, 2025
The Florida Forest Service held a tree giveaway Friday morning to celebrate National Arbor Day.
A line formed before the 10 o’clock start time at the community center on West Highway 4.
Over 125 tree were available — including sycamore, red maple, Chickasaw plum and common persimmon in one gallon containers — with a limit if two trees per person.
For a photo gallery, click to enlarge.
Forest Service personnel were on hand to share helpful planting information for the free trees, or to answer other tree-related questions.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Winning Fantasy 5 Ticket Worth Over $125,000 Sold In Beulah
April 26, 2025
Someone is over $120,000 richer after purchasing a winning Florida Lottery Fantasy 5 ticket in Beulah.
The ticket, which was not a Quick Pick, was sold at the Publix at Nine Mile Crossing in Beulah. It was the only winning ticket in the Friday evening drawing and is worth $121,663.84. The winning numbers were 4-11-16-19-26.
NorthEscambia.com file photo.
Over 2,200 High School Students In Escambia County Have Now Received CPR Training
April 26, 2025
Over 2,200 Escambia County students have received hands-on CPR and and AED training.
Escambia County Public Schools, in partnership with Nemours Children’s Health and the American Heart Association provided the state-required basic first aid training, which includes hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instruction.
The program reached 2,200 students after training was conducted this week at West Florida High School, the seventh and final high school in this year’s program.
For more photos from CPR training at Northview High School, click here.
According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest. With more than 350,000 cardiac arrests occurring outside of a hospital setting each year, bystander intervention plays a crucial role in clinical outcomes.
Florida statute requires students in 9th and 11th grade to participate in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training.
Pictured: Students receive CPR training at Northview High School earlier this year. Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Fog Possible Overnight
April 26, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tonight: Slight chance of an early evening shower. Patchy fog after 3am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 66. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday: A 20 percent chance of showers after 4pm. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Monday: Sunny, with a high near 87. Light and variable wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Wednesday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light in the evening.
Thursday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84.
Thursday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67.
Friday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85.
Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62.
Saturday: Sunny, with a high near 82.
Century Man Arrested On Multiple Felony Drug Charges After Traffic Stop
April 26, 2025
A windows tint violation led to a traffic stop and arrest of a Century man on multiple drug-related charges.
Joseph Edward Campbell, 39, was charged with four counts of possession of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute a schedule 2 controlled substance, all felonies.
According to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy observed Campbell driving a black Chevy Silverado with heavily tinted windows along Century Boulevard. After pulling the vehicle over at the Century Kwik Stop, the deputy noted the strong odor of burnt marijuana.
During a probable cause search of the vehicle, deputies found a black magnetic box under the driver’s seat containing illegal substances, according to the arrest report. Items reported seized included 3.43 grams of methamphetamine, 18 Amidon Metadona pills, several pills testing positive for fentanyl, Buprenorphine and Naloxone sublingual films, and a glass smoking pipe with residue. The substances were packaged separately, a method commonly associated with drug distribution, according to the ECSO.jos
Campbell was detained without incident. A search of his wallet revealed $598.75 in cash, mostly in small and large denomination bills, the report states. Deputies also seized his iPhone and the 2023 Chevy Silverado he was driving.
Campbell was released from the Escambia County Jail on a $45,000 bond.
Pictured: Campbell’s truck was seized and towed from the Century Kwik Stop. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.