Clerk Of The Court Functions, Century Courthouse Closed On Monday
September 20, 2026
The Escambia County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller court offices at the M.C. Blanchard Judicial Building, Theodore Bruno Building-Juvenile, Public Records Center and the Billy G. Ward Courthouse in Century will be closed Monday, September 21 in observance of Yom Kippur.
The Clerk’s court functions follow the judicial holiday schedule, and the First Judicial Circuit courts will be closed.
The Clerk’s Official Records, Finance and Clerk to the Board offices, located at 221 Palafox Place, will be open.
Pictured: The Billy G. Ward Courthouse in Century. NorthEscambia.com file photo.
No. 14 Austin Peay Upends No. 17 UWF, 38-16
September 20, 2026
Despite entering Saturday night as the home favorite, No. 17 University of West Florida could not overcome an early deficit and miscues, falling 38-16 to No. 14 Austin Peay at Pen Air Field.
A crowd of 5,712 watched Austin Peay (3-1) jump out to an aggressive start in the first half and thwart UWF’s comeback attempts down the stretch with timely defensive stops and a backbreaking pick-six.
The Governors wasted little time making an impression. Midway through the opening frame, Chris Parson hit Jaden Robinson on a 61-yard touchdown strike down the right sideline to break the ice. Just over two minutes later, following a Markell Redding interception of UWF quarterback Ty’Ray Davis, Denver Harper ripped off a 41-yard scoring sprint on an end-around to put Austin Peay up 14-0.
Parson widened the gap to 21-0 on the second play of the second quarter with a 10-yard scamper into the end zone.
The Argos (2-1) responded when Davis engineered a 6-play, 76-yard march, highlighted by a 54-yard gallop from running back Markel Townsend. Davis capped the drive himself with a 10-yard rushing touchdown to get West Florida on the board at 21-7.
Austin Peay pushed its advantage back to three possessions when Courtland Simmons punched in a 5-yard touchdown run with 5:09 remaining in the half. UWF capitalized on a turnover on downs late in the period, setting up an 18-yard Reid Grek field goal as time expired to cut the margin to 28-10 at the break.
The Argos came out firing in the third quarter, controlling the tempo on an 11-play, 83-yard drive that chewed up nearly seven minutes. A 48-yard pass from Davis to Tyshon Mansell set up a 1-yard touchdown toss from Davis to Avery Giddens, pulling the Argos within 28-16 after a missed extra point.
UWF seemed poised to trim the deficit further early in the fourth quarter after marching deep into Governors territory, but Austin Peay’s defense stood tall, stopping Davis on fourth-and-1 at the 25-yard line for a turnover on downs.
The Governors answered with a methodical drive that culminated in a 37-yard field goal by Hamilton DiBoyan with 6:42 left, stretching the lead to 31-16.
Any hopes of an Argo comeback were extinguished moments later. With backup quarterback Donovan Leary in the game, Austin Peay defensive back Justin Wimpye stepped in front of a pass and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown with 4:26 remaining, sealing the 38-16 victory.
Townsend paced the Argo attack with 93 yards on nine carries, while Davis added 118 yards through the air and a touchdown pass alongside his rushing score. Austin Peay’s balanced offense churned out 235 rushing yards and was led defensively by Malik Denkins, who recorded eight tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and a sack.
Next Saturday, the Agros will travel to Southeast Missouri State.
Cantonment Woman Sentenced In 2025 DUI, Drug Possession Case
September 20, 2026
A Cantonment woman has been sentenced in a 2025 DUI case in which she was arrested after an Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed her driving erratically recently on West Nine Mile Road.
Tiffany Ann Baisden, now 60, was convicted of DUI, refusal to submit to DUI testing, and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription (alprazolam). She was sentenced recently to 18 months of probation on the possession charge, 12 months for DUI, and time served for refusal to submit to DUI testing.
According to an arrest report, Baisden was pulled over in the Kohl’s parking lot on November 23, 2025, after being seen driving without tag lights, accelerating and braking without reason, and drifting across traffic lines. The deputy noted Baisden appeared unsteady and unable to focus.
After performing poorly on field sobriety tests, Baisden was taken into custody. The report states that the deputy found 10 alprazolam pills in her wallet during a search prior to booking.
At the jail, Baisden initially agreed to provide a urine sample but then failed to do so in a timely manner, which was taken as a refusal. Deputies said she also spontaneously stated that she had snorted methamphetamine in the past two days.
George Warren Hairston
September 20, 2026
George Warren Hairston of Molino, Florida passed peacefully on September 17, 2026, at the age of 86. George leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion and kindness to all who were lucky enough to know him.
George was born to Florence Ruiz Hairston and Glenn Leon Hairston in Port St Joe, Florida on November 5, 1939. He was the middle of three sons. His father passed away when George was a young boy and he was especially close to his mother, Florence. Growing up, he spent much of his time with his maternal grandparents, George and “Cookie” Ruiz. They were big influences in his life and he spoke about them often as he aged. His mother remarried Bill Creel when George was a young boy and he became an important person in George’s life, as well. George often spoke fondly of him.
George was introduced to Glenda Ann Morgan, by his cousin Carolyn. She was the woman that he would be devoted to for the rest of his life. They were married December 14, 1962 and it began an epic love story spanning fifty-three years, until it was cut short in 2016 with Glenda’s death. They traveled as much as possible and were known as a fun loving couple who were inseparable.
As a young man, George worked at a dairy. He told many colorful and humorous stories about his adventures while working there. He later worked at construction jobs before going to work for Caraustar Industries as a machinist. He would work for them until his retirement. He could build anything, fix everything, and solve any engineering puzzle. After he retired, he and Glenda continued their love of travel, visiting most of the United States and Canada. George also loved deer hunting, fishing, and camping. More than anything, he loved his family, both immediate and extended, especially the children.
George and Glenda had two daughters, Terra and Vicki. George poured his love into them and was an amazing “girl dad” even before that was a popular term. He always encouraged and supported them in everything they did. He taught them many life skills and through his love and respect for Glenda, he set an expectation for his girls as to how they should be treated in relationships.
George was blessed with five grandchildren; Emily, Joshua, Savannah, Molly and Madeline. He was an amazing grandpa/papa. He adored them and was a constant presence in their lives as both children and adults. He never missed an important event in their lives. He was present for every birthday party, ball game, recital, play or any event. He always made time for each of them. He taught them to fish, took them camping and on many other adventures. They in turn blessed him again with five great grandsons Leo James 13, Noah Thomas 9, Donovan Reed 7; and Liam Warren 11 and Hairston Michael 8 who were named in his honor. They are so fortunate to have had their time with their Papa George/Gpa.
George was truly everyone’s favorite nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. He is gone but the world is forever a better place because he was here.
George was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Florence Hairston; his devoted wife Glenda; brothers Glenn “Sonny” Hairston and Robert Hairston.
He is survived by his daughters, Terra Hairston Reading (John), Vicki Hairston Holland (James); Grandchildren, Emily Ann Reading, Joshua Dillon Holland, Savannah Nicole Holland (James), Molly Caroline Reading, Madeline Paige Raggard (Tyler); Great Grandchildren, Leo James Page, Liam Warren Raggard, Noah Thomas Powell, Hairston Michael Tingle, Donovan Reed Jackson; and dozens of nieces, nephews, and cousins
A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.
Florida Government Weekly Roundup: Taking Side On Amendments
September 20, 2026
Florida Weekly Roundup is a look back at last week in a Florida politics and government.
ALCATRAZ AUDIT
An audit released Monday from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of the Inspector General stated the detention camp known as “Alligator Alcatraz” in the Everglades failed to comply with standards for environmental health and safety, medical care and simple detention standards.
Photos included in the report, made during an unannounced visit to the facility in January, showed 18-square-foot metal enclosures called “calming areas” used to confine detainees.
Critics of the detention center and efforts, previously calling the facility “inhumane,” were quick to call the findings “appalling.”
“Those responsible must be held accountable,” U.S. Rep. Lois Frankel, a Democrat from West Palm Beach, said in a release. “This cannot happen again.”
When asked about the audit during a press conference Monday in Lakeland, DeSantis said he hadn’t read the report but defended the state’s immigration enforcement efforts.
“Some of this stuff is going to be characterized in a certain way, no matter what,” DeSantis said. “But I can tell you, when they set it up, their goal was not only to meet the federal standards, but to actually exceed the federal standards. That did require more resources.”
Alex Lanfranconi, a spokesman for DeSantis, issued a statement claiming Florida has taken action after the Biden Administration let “at least ten million illegal aliens entered our country.”
“The left-wing media wants to focus on a confinement area for violent criminal aliens who have proven they cannot remain peaceful while awaiting deportation,” Lanfranconi continued. “While it adheres to all federal standards for criminal confinement, we’d make it even smaller if we could.”
TAKING SIDES ON AMENDMENTS
DeSantis on Monday evening came out against Amendment 1, which would increase the amount of money lawmakers can put into a key reserve fund. It increases the cap on the balance of the budget stabilization fund from 10 percent of the previous year’s general fund revenue to 25 percent.
In doing so he split with the Republican Party of Florida and GOP legislative leaders who backed the proposal.
“This is a foolish constitutional amendment proposal. We already have a maxed out rainy day fund and have run the largest surpluses in state history,” DeSantis posted on X. “Any additional revenue should be used for lower taxes, including assisting local governments with grants so that homestead properties can be exempt from local property tax. Surplus revenue could also be used to remove tolls once the property tax issue is settled. I recommend a NO vote.”
by Jim Turner, The News Service of Florida
Kathy Lynn Murphy
September 20, 2026
Mrs. Kathy Lynn Murphy, 57, of Martinville, AL. passed away on September 18, 2026, at her residence. She was born on November 28, 1968, in Pensacola, FL, to the late Fred Eugene and Shirley Ann Kirchharr Murphy.
Kathy enjoyed being outdoors, whether it be spending time with her chosen grandchildren, camping, or feeding animals. She also enjoyed shopping, especially for fabrics for her sewing projects. Kathy was an amazing cook. She had the best homemade Mac and cheese in town.
Kathy wasn’t only known for her kind and compassionate heart, but also for her servant’s heart. She was a member of River of Life Church, where she loved to worship and fellowship with her brothers and sisters in Christ. The light of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ shined daily through her radiant smile.
Kathy is survived by her Siblings, Roxanne Murphy of Martinville, AL; Sandy (Myles) Johnson of Atmore, AL; and Doug (Ginger) Murphy of Martinville, AL. Kathy is also survived by her grandchildren Caitlyn Lambeth, Trinity Jones, and Keylen “KJ” Jones; and her nieces and nephews Matthew Johnson, Cameron (Ashley) Murphy, Cassidy Murphy, Carlie Murphy, and Callie Murphy; and great-nephews, Tucker and Tyler.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 11 AM at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Richard Daniels and her nephew Cameron Murphy officiating.
Interment will follow in Semirah Springs Cemetery in Jeddo, AL.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 10 AM until service time at 11 AM at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice nurse Natalie Parnell and caregiver Allyson King.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Carl Stanley Starrett
September 20, 2026
In Loving Memory of
Carl Stanley Starrett
July 15, 1947 – September 2026
Carl Stanley Starrett, a man of strong hands, a gentle heart, and a deeply devoted spirit, peacefully completed his earthly journey, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and faith.
Born in West Virginia on July 15, 1947, to the late Mr. Carl Jr. Starrett and Mrs. Mary Ellen Sprouse, Carl lived a life grounded in dedication to his family and the open road. For decades, Carl found a true sense of peace behind the wheel. As a lifelong truck driver, he saw the country mile by mile, embodying a strong work ethic that he proudly passed down to his family.
When retired from driving, Carl’s greatest joy was found closer to home—often sitting quietly by the water with a fishing rod in hand, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of his precious great-grandchildren. He also rarely missed a chance to cheer on his favorite team, carrying a lifelong passion for Alabama football that brought plenty of excitement and Crimson and White spirit to game days.
Above all the milestones of his rich life, none surpassed the profound peace he found in his final chapter. Just a few weeks before his passing, Carl gracefully accepted Christ, giving his life to Jesus after being led in the sinner’s prayer by his Pastors, Richard Daniels and Cody Westt. That saving grace brings immense comfort to all who love him, knowing his soul is safely home.
Carl is now reunited in eternal rest with his beloved wife, Clara Bell; his parents, Carl and Mary Ellen; his son, Ricky; his daughter, Cathy; his grandchildren, A.J. and Katie.
He leaves behind a vast and loving family to cherish his memory:
Children: Carl ( Mardy) Starrett Jr., Ellen, Joseph (Michelle) Rayborn, Tony, and Ricky Earl Rayborn. Grandchildren: Courtney, Stephen, Joseph Jr., Clara, Shonnan (Jonathan Jr.), Henry, Brittany, J.C., Alyssa, Santara, Tiffany, Trenton, and Jody; and great-grandchildren: Jonathan III, Jamesyn, Anastasia, and Alaura Taylor, Brianna and Damon Heritage, alongside many other cherished great-grandchildren.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
A celebration of Carl’s life will be held on October 3, 2026, at Steve’s Farm in Walnut Hill, FL at 3:00 pm, to honor a life well-lived, a journey well-traveled, and a soul finally at rest.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
FDLE Warrant Details Arrest Of Cantonment Man On Multiple Felony Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges
September 19, 2026
Newly obtained court records outline a Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigation that led to the arrest of a 30-year-old Cantonment man last week on charges related to the transmission and possession of child sexual abuse material.
Michael Anthony Hall Jr., of El Camino Drive, was taken into custody by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and charged with 11 counts of possession of obscene material depicting a child, eight counts of transmission of child sexual abuse material, and one count of use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.
According to an FDLE arrest affidavit, the investigation began in July 2026 after special agents received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding an Instagram account transmitting illicit files through direct messages.
Subpoenas and internet service records linked the account’s IP address, phone number, and account information to Hall’s Cantonment residence on El Camino Drive, investigators said. FDLE agents subsequently secured a search warrant for the social media account.
A forensic review of the account revealed 11 digital files depicting the sexual abuse of minors ranging from toddlers to children approximately 11 to 12 years old. Investigators reported that Hall transmitted eight of the files to another account using Instagram’s chat feature.
Because the files included video depictions of abuse, the 11 possession counts were reclassified from third-degree felonies to second-degree felonies under Florida statute enhancement guidelines.
During an interview with investigators following the execution of the search warrant, Hall initially denied involvement but ultimately admitted to operating the account, downloading the files from another social media platform, and transmitting them, according to the report.
Hall was booked into the Escambia County Jail. He was released on Thursday on a $155,000 bond.
Molino Community Center, Library, Museum Closed For The Next Week For Floor Work
September 19, 2026
The Molino Community Center, including the Molino Library, will be closed for the next week for restoration of the building’s vintage floors. Work is expected to be completed by next Saturday, September 26.
The book drop outside the library will be open during the period for patrons to return books while the Molino Library is closed.
The Molino Community Center was originally constructed as the Molino School in 1939. In 2012, the historic school building was renovated and repurposed as the Molino Community Center, which now also houses the Molino Library, an auditorium, meeting spaces, and the Molino Mid-County Historical Society Museum.
The building retains its original antique heart pine wood flooring, a defining historical feature. The last restoration date of the flooring is unknown, and its current condition reflects decades of wear and deterioration, according to Escambia County. Existing deficiencies include extensive surface wear, rusted nail heads protruding through the walking surface, inconsistent and deteriorated finish, and areas where the wood has become excessively worn and thinned, requiring selective replacement.
In July, the Escambia County Commission approved $31,872 in Local Option Sales Tax funds to Troendle Hardwood Floor Company to complete the repair and restoration of the floor.
The Molino Library will be closed during the process, along with the museum and rentals of the auditorium and meeting spaces.
The Escambia County Tax Collector and Escambia County Property Appraiser offices are in different buildings to the south of the main community center and will remain open, as will Escambia Head Start in a building to the north.
Other West Florida Public Library locations across Escambia County will remain open.
Pictured top: The Molino Community Center. Pictured inset: The original heart pine wood flooring the in library. Pictured below: A portion of the antique floor as seen during a public meeting in the auditorium. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Tate High School Names 2026 Homecoming Court
September 19, 2026
Tate High School has named its 2026 Homecoming Court.
The homecoming game for the Aggies will be Friday, October 16.
The Homecoming Court members are:
SENIOR COURT
Girls Court:
- Katie Byrd
- Zaria Cannon
- Livi Cherry
- Cydney Clanton
- Autumn Dinkle
- Angelina Figueroa
- Victoria Friedman
- Bristol Guy
- Isabella Killebrew
- Brooklyn Ray
- Lillian Vige
- Taylor Winslow
- Allison Wynne
Boys Court:
- Sebastian Arita
- Gavin Bramblett
- Teagan Broach
- Jamison Burchfield
- Owen Charles
- Elijah Crites
- Daniel Fernandez
- Micah Frazier
- Jesse Garrett
- Immanuel Harris
- Jacob Pierce
- Jayden Tyson
JUNIOR COURT
- Gracyn Campbell
- Camilla Carstens
- Ella Frank
- Kendra McDonald
- Nadia Mitchell
- Aubrey Moodie
- Kinsley Powell
- Isabella Ragland
- Taylor Seckinger
- Niyana Wiggins
SOPHOMORE COURT
- Brynn Donado
- Audrey Green
- Novalee Hudgens
- Myla Manoso
- Payton Palmer
- Yaretzy Sandoval-Bocanegra
FRESHMAN COURT
- Alyssa Cavnar
- Annabelle Hayes
- Madylin Madril
- Genesis Maxwell
- Sophia Pollard
- Reagan Stevens
Pictured: 2025 Tate Homecoming first runner-up Taylor Dyer, Homecoming Queen Destiny Moorer, and second runner-up McKenna Lister. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.