Wahoos Avoid No-Hitter, But Fall 2-1 To Clingstones
July 13, 2025
written by Willie Phaler
The Pensacola Blue Wahoos narrowly avoided a no-hit bid in a 2-1 loss to the Columbus Clingstones Saturday night.
With one out in the bottom of the ninth, third baseman Josh Zamora broke through with an RBI double to center field against Zach Thompson (W, 1-0), allowing Nathan Martorella to score and ending the chance of the Blue Wahoos being no-hit for just the second time in franchise history.
Alex Williams made his first start at the Double-A level for the Wahoos and set a career high in strikeouts with nine. In a spot start in place of Futures Game participant Thomas White, Williams held the Clingstones scoreless across 5.1 innings without walking a batter.
The Columbus pitching staff matched the work of Williams. Right-hander Samuel Mejia went 5.0 innings without allowing a hit in his Double-A debut. Amos Willingham held the no-hit bid through 2.0 innings of work before Thompson entered in the eighth.
The Clingstones pushed across their two runs in the eighth. After a Drew Compton double and intentional walk, catcher Adam Zebrowski broke the scoreless tie on an RBI single to right and David McCabe scored on a wild pitch by Blue Wahoos reliever Gabe Bierman (L, 0-1).
The Blue Wahoos will finish their series against the Clingstones on Sunday. First pitch from Synovus Park is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. EDT/12:05 p.m. CDT.
Pauline Cooper McKinley Gandy
July 13, 2025
Pauline “Polly” Cooper McKinley Gandy, 88, of Gandyville, FL. passed away July 12, 2025 in Pensacola, FL. She was born to the late Howard and Cora Mae Barnett Cooper on May 18, 1937, in Canoe, AL. She is preceded in death by her parents, daughter Diane Salter, son Troy Gandy, brother Claude (Nell) Cooper, and her grandson Caleb King.
She was a longtime member of Poplar Dale Baptist Church. She was a loving and caring person and was loved by many.
She is survived by her husband Carl Gandy of Gandyville, FL. Her children Jan (Robert) Whitton of Foley, AL; Rick (Suzi) McKinley of Dallas, TX; Rhonda Wright of Century, FL; Robert (Yvette) Gandy of Berrydale, FL and Katie and Roger Burkett of Byrneville, FL; and her sister Bonnie (Sonny) Davis of York, S.C. She is also survived by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of family and friends.
Funeral services for Mrs. Pauline “Polly” Cooper McKinley Gandy will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 11 AM at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home with Bro. Mitch Herring and Bro. Robert Gandy officiating. Interment will follow in Poplar Dale Baptist Church Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Patrick Salter, Jeremy Grimes, Javis Grimes, Jared Gandy, Phillip Gandy, Mark McKinley, Cody McKinley and Brett Spears.
Honorary pallbearers will be Floyd Fuzer, Gene Findley, Will Williams and Kenny Salter.
Visitation for Mrs. Polly will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 10 AM until service time at 11 AM at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Michael Glen Williamson
July 13, 2025
On July 3, 2025 Michael Glen Williamson took his last breath on Earth, surrounded by family, he peacefully left the pain of this world behind and entered the light of heaven. He was 51 years old when he was completely healed after his extended battle of illness that he fought long and hard, with family and friends by his side.
Mike was born in Pensacola, Florida. He spent the last 20+ years of his life employed by Panhandle Grading and Paving in addition to being the crew chief for multiple race teams. He was the owner of Mike Williamson Race Cars (MWRC), and co-owner of Club 151 Race Cars. He was hard-working and known for sharing his knowledge with those around him. He was an artist, innovator, and a pioneer in the racing world. His work ethic was unmatched.
Known for his authenticity and grit, he was equally known by those close to him for his quiet generosity and fierce love for his family. He was a proud father-his love for his son was immeasurable, cherishing Gage with all his heart. He also was a devoted stepfather, to Trenton and Bryant, loving them and embracing them as his own. From the sidelines of soccer fields to the front rows of dance recitals and karate tournaments, he was always there-supporting, cheering, and celebrating his nieces and nephews with unwavering love. His sense of family extended beyond traditional boundaries.
In addition to his loving legacy he leaves behind to his family and friends, he also left a significant impact on the racing world. Mike’s love and knowledge of dirt and asphalt racing was widely appreciated. He was a crew member in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. Also, as a crew chief, he led many drivers to multiple championships and prestigious wins on asphalt and dirt, including the Snowball Derby in several divisions, Baby Rattler, Southern Street Stock Nationals, The Fall Classic, and The Clash at the Mag. It cannot go unmentioned that Mike was a talented driver himself. While the latter of his career was focused on investing in the next generation of racing, his knowledge was built from experience. Mike was a fierce competitor and a force to be reckoned with behind the wheel on any surface. He was driven, fearless, and battle-tested.
Mike will be missed by many. The love and devotion to family and friends he leaves behind will be his lasting legacy. If you were a friend to Mike, you were family. Mike knew how to show up and put words into action. He was genuine and dependable and we can move forward blessed and better to have known him.
Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Roger P. Williamson, Sr. and Jewel “Judy” Hildebrand Williamson.
Mike is survived by his wife, Stephanie Norton Williamson; his son, Gage Williamson; his stepsons, Trenton and Bryant Norton,Father and Mother-in-laws, Rex Sutton, Nancy and Buddy Connelly, Donald and Brenda Long; his former wife and mother of his son, Holly Long; Granny,Betty Long, Brother and Sister-in-laws, Gary and Valerie Sutton, Johanna and Hunter Robbins, Haley and Josh Hamner, Tony Bowes; his sister Terri Bowes; Nieces and Nephews, Darren, Emery and Miller Sutton, Rory and Rhett Robbins, Sadie and Hayes Hamner, Jen and Dan Bowes. Alongside his relatives, he leaves behind dear friends who shared in his life like brothers and sisters.
A special thank you to Donald and Brenda Long, whose steadfast love and support meant so much throughout Mike’s journey and passing. Their generosity and care will never be forgotten.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Pensacola memorial Gardens Funeral Home beginning at 9:00 am. Memorial service to immediately follow at 10:00 am. The procession will take you to Five Flags Speedway for Mike’s final “green, white, checkered” laps. A private burial for family will follow. The family has invited everyone for food and fellowship at Long Acres following Mike’s final victory lap.
Gregory Franklin Boatwright
July 13, 2025
Mr. Gregory Franklin Boatwright, age 64, departed this life on July 8, 2025, in Atmore, AL. He spent the majority of his life in Canoe, AL; where he dedicated many years to the building homes.
In his leisure time, he found joy in fishing and cruising around in his truck. A devoted fan, he delighted in watching Alabama football games and classic western films. Additionally, he had a passion for car repairs and loved to tinker with small engines and boat motors.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland F. (Lillie Mae Harrelson) Boatwright, and his wife, Teresa Boatwright.
He is survived by his two sons, Steven (Nancy) Flowers, of Mexia, AL; Christopher Boatwright (Courtney Bryant) of Atmore, AL; one sister, Lechia Perry of, Atmore, AL; nine grandchildren, Beka Carpenter, Stephanie Flowers, Dawson Flowers, Joshua Boatwright, Olivia Boatwright, Karissa Boatwright, Abagail Boatwright, A J Patterson, Gunner Bryant, two great-grandchildren, Aspen Johnson and Riley Williams.
Graveside and burial service will be held Monday, July 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Bowman Cemetery with Brother Malcolm Harrelson officiating.
Pallbearers will be Michael Harrelson, Rickey Harrelson, Scott Griffis, Stoney Mason, Squanto Joiner, and Alex Williams.
Petty-Eastside Chapel Funeral Home, LLC Atmore, Alabama is in charge of all arrangements.
Donald Roy Beans
July 13, 2025
Donald Roy Beans, 89, of Atmore, AL, passed away peacefully July 6, 2025, in Atmore, AL. Donald was born August 25, 1935, to Lester Grant Beans and Hannah Mary Smith in New Castle, WY. Donald attended the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science where he obtained a degree as a Certified Register Nurse Anesthetist. He later retired from Atmore Community Hospital as a CRNA. Donald was an active member of the University Parkway Seventh-day Adventist church in Pensacola, FL. Donald loved his family and friends dearly and will be missed greatly by them.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents; his wife; Edith Beans, and his sister; Ruth Leach.
Donald is survived by his children; Connie (Tim) Mercer of Bristol, TN, Cathy (Clark) MCcrain of Firestone, Co, Kevin (Linda) Beans of Hopkinsville, KY, Troy Beans of Atmore, AL, and Jodi (Jim) Burrill of Apoka, FL, Eleven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Memorial Service for Mr. Beans will be held August 2, 2025 at 4:30 PM at University Parkway SDA Church. 8751 University Parkway, Pensacola, FL 32514.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Congressman Jimmy Patronis Files Amendment To Keep The Blue Angels In Pensacola Forever
July 12, 2025
Friday, Congressman Jimmy Patronis filed an amendment to the Defense Appropriations Act, which prevents any funds in the Defense Appropriations Act from moving the Blue Angels from their base in Pensacola.
The Blue Angels have been a staple of Pensacola and the Emerald Coast for 70 years,” Patronis said. “To celebrate the 70th Anniversary of the Blue Angels calling this region home, I was proud to file an amendment to the Defense Appropriations Act that simply ensures that no funding will be used to transfer the Blue Angels from their historic base in Pensacola. While there is no known risk of them leaving the Pensacola area, I wanted to take the extra step to make sure the Blue Angels remain here forever. The Blue Angels are awesome, creating economic opportunities and fostering a sense of pride throughout the community.”
As currently drafted, the Defense Appropriations Act also provides funding to increase Active-Duty base pay by 3.8%. The Defense Appropriations Act is expected to be considered by the U.S. House of Representatives soon.
“The Defense Appropriations Act funds our military’s essential functions, including military personnel, operations and maintenance, Research and Development, and more. I’m proud to represent one of the largest military districts in the country, and numerous military facilities,” Patronis added. “As written, this year, the Defense Appropriations Act provides funding to increase the base pay for our military servicemembers by 3.8%. These men and women defend our country 24/7/365, and I’m grateful to Congress for showing some appreciation for our heroes in uniform and the sacrifices they make for our country.”
Pictured: The Blue Angels over Pensacola Beach on Thursday as seen from onboard a Coast Guard ship in the Gulf. NorthEscambia.com photos by Perry Doggrell, click to enlarge.
40% Chance Of A Saturday Shower
July 12, 2025
If you are headed to Pensacola Beach for the air show, rain chances are lower at the beach that in inland North Escambia. The chance of rain today at Pensacola Beach is 30%, mainly after 4 p.m.
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Saturday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Monday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Monday Night: Mostly clear, with a low around 74. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 96. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Wednesday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Wednesday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73.
Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 89. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Thursday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74.
Friday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 88. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
4-Year-Old Seriously Injured When ATV Overturns
July 12, 2025
A 4-year-old boy was seriously injured in an ATV crash in northern Santa Rosa County.
The Florida Highway Patrol said a Polaris Ranger side-by-side was being driven off-road by a 10-year-old at a property on Dixonville Road and overturned.
The 4-year-old was ejected and sustained serious injuries. He was airlifted to an area hospital.
Blue Angels Wow Huge Crowds In Friday Dress Rehearsal (With Photo Gallery)
July 12, 2025
Friday was the full dress rehearsal for Saturday’s official Pensacola Beach Air Show.
For a photo gallery, click here.
Saturday, demonstrations begin at approximately 10:30 a.m., and the Blue Angels fly at 2 p.m.
Luke Carrico will make his inaugural debut as the voice of the air show on Friday and Saturday, with veteran Paul Entrekin serving as Air Boss for his 32nd year.
Before the official airspace closure, a handful of pre-show flight demonstrations will be overhead starting around 10:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, including:
- The Black Ducks in WWII-era aircraft.
- Sheldon Heatherington in a Zenith 75 STOL named “Redbird.”
- Gene Valentino in an Icon A-5.
- Tanner Matheny in a 1946 NAvion named “Olivia.”
- Veterans Flight team in their WWII-era Stearman biplanes honoring WWII and Korean War veterans, led by Roy Kinsey.
- HT-18 training helicopters from TAW-5 aboard NAS Whiting Field.
- VT-10 flying T-6 Texans from TAW-6 aboard NAS Pensacola.
- U.S. Coast Guard Search & Rescue demo from a MH-65E Dolphin.
At approximately 11:40 a.m., the official air box will close and the lifeguards will clear the water. Shortly following, hold onto your hats for some mouth-dropping aerial performances!
2025 Official Performers Schedule:
- USAF B-1B Lancer arrives to tease the raw power and speed of the legendary swing-wing bomber.
- Red Bull Air Force team performs the “Presentation of the Colors” by skydiving with the American Flag – landing at show center. Expect aerobatics from helo pilot Aaron Fitzgerald and pilot Kevin Coleman in his Extra 330 SC, too.
- B-1B Lancer comes back for more action and maneuvers to impress.
- RJ Gritter is next overhead, flying a red, white, and blue Decathlon and bringing high-energy aerobatics to Pensacola for the first time.
- The father-son duo of Ken and Austin Rieder with Redline Airshows will deliver formation thrills and precision flying in their RV-8s.
- Next up, the four-man Titan Aerobatic Team performs synchronized loops and bomb bursts in their WWII-era AT-6 Texans.
- Kevin Coleman and Aaron Fitzgerald team up again in a high-adrenaline, two-aircraft routine to finish up with the Red Bull Air Force finale before a short 10-minute water break.
Blue Angels Take Flight at 2 p.m.
As always, closing out the show at 2 p.m. will be yoour U.S. Navy Flight Demonstrations Squadron, the Blue Angels. Look to the Gulf horizon as the famous C-130J aircraft, affectionately known as Fat Albert, followed by six signature blue and gold F-18 Super Hornets, make their way over Pensacola Beach.
For the next 45 minutes, spectators will get a glimpse of the Blues’ aeronautic maneuvers like the Diamond Dirty Loop, the Double Farvel, the Vertical Pitch, the Fleur-de-Lis, the Opposing Knife-Edge pass, and the crowd-favorite Sneak Pass. These are just a few of the mind-blowing displays of choreographed precision flying the Navy’s flight demonstration team has perfected over the past 79 years.
Know Before You Go
- Drones are strictly prohibited during air show waiver hours.
- Glass is not allowed on the beach.
- Dogs are only permitted at the dog beaches on the island and must remain on leash.
- Help us protect our beach: Please Leave Only Your Footprints.
Pictured: The Blue Angels over Pensacola Beach on Friday. NorthEscambia.com photos by Perry Doggrell, click to enlarge.
NWE 12U All Stars Bagging Groceries Today Ahead Of Tourney Trip
July 12, 2025
Northwest Escambia 12U All-Star Baseball Team is bagging groceries for tips today to earn money to cover travel expenses to the Southwest Cal Ripken Regional Tournament in West Monroe, Louisiana, which begins July 16.
The NWE athletes will be at the Piggly Wiggly on Highway 97 in Davisville (at the Alabama state line) from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m.
Donations are also being accepted by Venmo @NWEbaseball.