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HUBBUB: Readers weigh in on panhandlers, doctors

Written by archive on April 22, 2015. Posted in columns, more-voices, Opinion.

Facebook fans answer: What do you think about panhandlers?

•You never know someone's story or circumstances. I give whenever I can. What they do with it they have to answer for one day. God knows that I'm giving out of a caring heart. Cat Taylor Dobson

•I will buy them a meal or give them bag with miniature bathroom supplies, but give no money because I don't know what they will buy. I also have talked to some and they don't want help, and choose this lifestyle. It's sad. JasonandTracy McDaniel

•There are many local agencies who can help homeless people. They can get a shower, food, clean clothes, etc. I won't give money to panhandlers. Katherine T. Morrow

Harder to find good doctors

My "current" physician — who I've made a point to not deal with in months (almost a year) — thinks everyone in Crestview is a drug-seeking hypochondriac. I got a lecture about how he wasn't going to give me drugs on my first visit. Which I didn't even ask for.

… There are doctors out there that care, but they are getting harder to find. I would rather go to the ER or CVS minute clinic than go back to my physician, but finding another is really difficult. Especially if you have a lot of medical issues.

Brandi Fickling

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HUBBUB: Readers weigh in on panhandlers, doctors

A Crestview woman's 'tribute to an honest man'

Written by archive on April 21, 2015. Posted in columns, more-voices, Opinion.

On a lovely Sabbath afternoon in the earth's infancy, with the sun shining down on Florida's lush forest and the Gulf of Mexico's crystal blue waters, the Holy Trinity was busy resting and admiring all creation.

And God said, "It has been some time since we created the Earth, and I feel the need to add something outstanding to it. So, we shall create a man in our image."

"That's an excellent idea," the Son and the Holy Spirit said.

'HUSBAND, FATHER AND ROLE MODEL'

God said, "He must be a fine specimen of a man: pleasant looking, but not too handsome, with eyes as blue as the sky. He shall be tall — at least 6 feet, so he doesn't have to look up to many men. Also, he must be strong and healthy, with the physical stamina to cope with all situations."

"Can we make him an outstanding tennis player?" the Son said. "Just so he has some outlet for his energy and can keep in shape at the same time.

"But back to serious things: He must be supportive of the Trinity and have a talent for writing and speaking so that he can teach others about us and assist them as they travel the path of knowledge that leads to salvation. He must accept the sacrifice I made for him and for all mankind."

"Yes," agreed the Holy Spirit, "but he must be aware that I am always with him and he only has to call on me for the strength he will need to remain faithful in any crisis that life on Earth may bring."

And God said, "He must live a long, productive life — at least 90 Earth years — as a husband, father and role model. He will not only teach others about the Trinity, he also shall love and respect the earth We have created. He shall spend his years teaching others to appreciate and take care of the resources We have provided. He must be pure and strive toward a high moral standard. He will never use evil, unkind, profane or in any way unjust language. And he will deal fairly with all people."

'I WILL BE WITH HIM'

"That is good," the Son said. "And he must keep the two great commandments, which I gave to mankind during my time on Earth."

The Holy Spirit responded, "That is all well and good, but above all these things, he must be an honest man."

"Whew," God and the Son said. "You have given him a really hard task. You know how difficult it is to be honest and live among men, and how few honest men there are.

"Do you believe he is up to the task?"

"Yes," the Holy Spirit said. "Remember, I will be with him always to sustain and strengthen him. Also, he will have both of you to reinforce my help."

'WE MUST GIVE HIM A NAME'

God said, "All these things shall come to pass, but we must give him a name. Since it was my idea, I will go first. I have chosen the name John, for many men of that name will be committed to us."

The Son said, "I like the name Houston, for many men of that name will play a large part in the development of our chosen people."

Not to be outdone, the Holy Spirit chimed in.

"Well, I have given this much thought and have decided on the good Irish name McMahon, simply because I like it and it seems fitting."

The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit gazed upon their creation, John Houston McMahon.

And all three said, "This is good."

Crestview resident Doris McMahon's husband, John, was the McMahon Environmental Center's founder and namesake.

John died last month at age 90. While alive, the retired forester and state forestry poet laureate spent many years teaching countless children about Florida's trees and instilled in them a love of nature.

What's your view? Write a letter to the editor or tweet @cnbeditor.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: A Crestview woman's 'tribute to an honest man'

DICKSON: Kids need a place to play ball

Written by archive on April 21, 2015. Posted in columns, Sports.

In the 1960s and '70s, I played Dixie Youth baseball while growing up in Gulf Breeze.

As a 12-year-old kid, I didn’t think about adults' investment of their time and resources for my friends and I to have a league and a place to play. I think most kids just want a chance and a place to play.

The Gulf Breeze Sports Association, which ran Gulf Breeze's leagues, was a volunteer group that made sure kids could play organized ball.

We had one field for 8- to 12-year-old boys. There was another field for 13- to 14-year-old boys. The same complex had a football field and a yellow-brick concession stand.

Gulf Breeze's Shoreline Drive recreation complex looks nothing like the one I knew as a boy. Even before I graduated from high school, the face of the complex was starting to change as the community's population increased and young women became more involved in sports.

This scenario is not unique to Gulf Breeze.

The fact is, almost every healthy community will face a space crunch associated with growing youth leagues and an abundance of children.

Crestview is now amid such a dilemma. The city's youth baseball and softball leagues have grown at a faster-than-anticipated pace. Soon, there will be no place for all the children.

Fortunately, Wayne Steele, Crestview’s director of Public Works, has a plan in place for a new recreation complex.

The city has the property needed to develop a new facility, but budgets are tight and resources are limited as Crestview faces several other challenges of a town that's doubled in population the past 25 years.

Steele is calling on the community to help build a recreation complex on Brookmeade Drive, just behind North Okaloosa Medical Center. If enough volunteers stepped in with skills, or money, the project could be finished in time for next spring's baseball and softball seasons.

The Brookmeade complex will eventually cost about $500,000 to finish. Steele estimates it will cost about $100,000 to finish the project's first phase and have it ready for next spring.

You might not have $1,000 or even $100, but maybe your life was enriched by playing youth ball in Crestview and you want to give something.

Former teammates could honor a coach by donating money to the new complex in his or her name. Maybe you have a bulldozer to help level the field. Or you could volunteer to lay sod or carry lumber.

These are just a few ideas.

The fact is, our kids need a place to play, whether it's Crestview, Gulf Breeze or any of the other communities we once called home.

Email News Bulletin Sports Editor Randy Dickson, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: DICKSON: Kids need a place to play ball

DICKSON: A comeback to remember

Written by archive on April 21, 2015. Posted in columns, Sports.

NAVARRE — Like most people I had given up Crestview High School’s baseball team for going into the seventh inning of Tuesday’s District 1-7A tournament semifinal game against Tate.

The Bulldogs trailed the Aggies 11-6, and while they had put on perhaps their best hitting display of the season, a five-run deficit seemed a little too much to ask.

I still didn’t give Crestview much of chance when Jared Gaszak had an infield hit to lead off the inning. One base runner wasn’t going to make a difference, but I know baseball and anything is possible in a game with no clock.

A game without a clock is one of the beauties of baseball. In another sport, such as football or basketball, the clock can be a team’s worst enemy as it tries to mount a comeback. Without the constraints of a clock five runs can be overcome as long as there is a batter at the plate. I’ve witnessed my share of seventh-inning rallies in high school baseball games and more than a few ninth-inning comebacks in professional games.

I won’t be forgetting the Bulldog seventh any time soon.

Crestview sent 11 batters to the plate and faced three different Tate pitchers. Seniors trying to stretch their high school careers a couple of more games stepped up big. And a group of hungry Bulldogs determined to give it their all came together in a magical inning.

By the time Crestview finished batting in the seventh the Bulldogs led 12-11. When Tate went down in order in the bottom of the seventh the victory was complete.

Gaszak was the unlikely hero of the inning with two hits, both of the infield variety and two runs batted in. Gaszak was one of those seniors fighting to extend his final season. Gaszak has been a spot starter, who has probably seen less playing time than he had hoped for, but when his number was called he was ready.

His hustle carried the day when the Bulldogs needed a spark.

An inning or at bat can be kept alive in the most basic of ways. A foul ball or two can force a pitcher into extra pitches and lead to walks. And timely hits always come in handy.

The Bulldogs had those things and a little magic Tuesday night. I’m sure it’s a game none of the players will ever forget.

Email News Bulletin Sports Editor Randy Dickson, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: DICKSON: A comeback to remember

BROADHEAD: Christians are their own worst enemy

Written by archive on April 17, 2015. Posted in columns, Opinion, your-voice.

Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of columns on how to restore any lost respect for Christianity. Here's Part 2.

—

Over recent years, there has been a great deal of weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth among this nation's Christians over the perceived loss of respect for Christianity.

Some people blame politicians for insisting on separation of church and state, even though the Constitution has been grossly misinterpreted regarding this issue.

Some people blame the influx of other religious traditions and demands to have their religious practices recognized among society.

Some people blame school systems for taking prayer out of public schools.

Folks, pointing fingers is a great way to avoid a greater issue at hand. The truth of the matter is, “We have met the enemy, and he is us” (first said in 1813 by American Navy Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry and reworded by Pogo, 1970).

We Christians in this nation (and around the world) have become our own worst enemy.

My next several articles will address what has been going on within Christianity, from my point of view. And I'll offer some suggestions for how to get back on the right track.

But honestly, I wonder if it is too late for Christianity to right itself. Have we gone too far afield to repair the damage?

The answer is a resounding yes.

We cannot fix what we have done, but Jesus Christ has the power to fix it. And I believe He is calling us to open our minds and hearts in a different way so He can work in us and through us.

He will empower us to serve Him and not ourselves.

To be continued…

The Rev. Mark Broadhead is Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church of Crestview's pastor.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: BROADHEAD: Christians are their own worst enemy

CROSE: This could only happen in a small town

Written by archive on April 17, 2015. Posted in columns, lifestyle.

I have had to stay home and get well this week after my latest bout with illness, but I got out Wednesday and made several stops.

The kindness of the people we deal with is why I love small-town living.

I went to Compass Bank and, as usual, everyone was nice; on to Leavins Automotive, another positive experience; and while returning something at Wal-Mart, I dealt with a very nice lady in customer service. While at my next stop, McDonald's, the nice staff made fresh coffee — my beverage of choice. Visiting Tractor Supply for cat and dog food offered another pleasant experience. I had one more stop, but given that the rain and thunder had begun, it was time to get home so sweet Jasmine, my rescue collie, and I could comfort each other.

We are being deluged by so much rain it seems as though we need to build an ark; yet California is in the midst of a drought. I wish we could share some of our rain with them, but alas, that is not the way things work.

Still, Jasmine and I would happily export the lightning and thunder to someplace less populated — like the middle of the Sahara desert. Thunder absolutely terrifies her and makes for anxious times. And since I am not adept at speaking collie, I can't explain what is going on to her. She stresses, poor darling.

But I digress.

Speaking of small-town treatment, I received a call from a local doctor's office making sure they weren't one of the offices referred to in last week's article; they weren't. (Editor's Note: See "Here's why many people don't sympathize with doctors.")

I was pleasantly surprised that the office manager took the time to call me. She also reassured me that all messages for their doctor get given directly to the physician, not stopped at the front desk.

Only in a small town would someone care enough to call.

Thank you, Ms. Betty, you are a gem!

Janice Lynn Crose lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim; her brother, Robb; her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine; and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CROSE: This could only happen in a small town

BONI: 'Good ol' boys club' has a new meaning in Crestview

Written by archive on April 15, 2015. Posted in columns, more-voices, Opinion.

Monday night, the new Crestview City Council sat at the dais for its first regular meeting.

But something was different compared to their March meetings.

Did you notice what it was?

I'll give you a hint: When former City Councilwoman Robyn Helt in her last few weeks of service said some residents believe Crestview government is "a good ol' boys club," she was referring to perceived nepotism.

She called for an ordinance restricting an outgoing elected official's hire "within a certain timeframe of leaving office." In addition, she said the new council should prohibit elected officials' immediate family members from receiving city of Crestview jobs.

A number of our readers championed her words, but Okaloosa County Commissioner hopeful Graham Fountain said on crestviewbulletin.com that the state already governs the matter. Further, he said, "just because someone runs and is elected to the city council does not mean that such official's family member who is employed should be excommunicated or removed."

Fair enough.

However, I feel that the larger point here is not whether the state restricts nepotism. Rather, it is that a number of people here do perceive that the city's inner workings deal more with "what have you done for me lately." And the Joey Floyd controversy certainly didn't quell that perception.

So Helt had a point.

But her stepping down contributed to the new, all-male city council, and gives her words new meaning. Now, no Hub City district has female representation. No voting member on the dais will offer a woman's perspective. This is not to slight the current City Council; I've written about how the newest council members, Bill Cox and JB Whitten, already demonstrated plenty of civic involvement and passion for their community. And perhaps that's why no one ran against them.

However, the News Bulletin strives to cover 360 degrees of an issue, so it's time to analyze this further.

First of all, any perception of female under-representation is not isolated to Crestview.

'THAT'S POWER'

The number of women leading in local governments "hasn't improved since Ronald Reagan was president," according to Government Executive Magazine, which cites a report from the January-February issue of the International City/County Management Association’s Public Management Magazine.

Nationwide, just 13 percent of female city employees in leadership roles move to higher-ranking positions such as chief administrative officer, according to PM Magazine.

Granted, this doesn't seem to be the concern for Crestview. The council recently appointed Teresa Gaillard as Administrative Services director, a role with sweeping responsibilities such as preparing ordinances, resolutions and council meeting and workshop agendas. In addition, City Clerk Betsy Roy has served her elected office since January 2012, according to the city's website. And in my opinion, there's no glaring disparity among the sexes when it comes to the city's various departments.

However, having no women as voting members — which, I think anyway, is really where it counts — should concern all residents.

As Helt said, “Some would say the city council member doesn’t have direct supervision over employees, but a city council member does have direct supervision over planning the budget or cutting positions from a department."

City leaders are public servants and represent the people. But let's face it: planning a budget, cutting positions from a department — that's power.

And let's also face this: men and women are different.

DIFFERENT TRAITS

A 1999 survey by Richard L. Fox and Robert A. Schuhmann — still cited in government trade publications — found that women city managers have different traits than male counterparts. The results, published in the journal Public Administration Review, state that women "are more likely … to incorporate citizen input, facilitate communication and encourage citizen involvement in their decision-making process."

It's important to distinguish between appointed city managers and elected city leaders, but it's unlikely that this difference changes men and women's traits much. So the point stands.

And what is perplexing is why a woman didn't run for city council this time. In Laurel Hill, three men — Daniel Lane, Scott Moneypenny and Randy Tickle — and three women — Debra Adams, Joan Smith and Willie Mae Toles — sought office.

When Helt resigned, didn't Crestview's women see this coming?

So why didn't even one woman run for Crestview City Council this past campaign season?

I want to know what you think.

What's your view? Write a letter to the editor or tweet News Bulletin Editor Thomas Boni.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: BONI: 'Good ol' boys club' has a new meaning in Crestview

3 Crestview bypass questions from a long-time resident

Written by archive on April 15, 2015. Posted in columns, more-voices, Opinion.

The article about a “dream map” in last week’s Crestview News Bulletin left me with a few questions of interest.

•First, I wonder about this statement: that after the 7th Special Forces located their facility quite close to Range Road 211, “they basically shut down the option” of making that a western corridor bypass route to help alleviate the very crowded, dangerous situation that occurs on State Road 85 twice daily, Monday through Friday, at minimum.

Add to that tourists traveling and occasional evacuations, and we are in a mess. I believe all would agree. Could someone give us written verification that this is a decision that the authoritative powers, either 7th Special Forces or Eglin Air Force Base, have actually made a final decision about?

We, the taxpayers and concerned citizens, have been told so many rumors and misinformation that we have become somewhat dubious about hearsay. It was “rumored” several years ago that Eglin had already granted permission for a western route bypass. True or false?

•Second topic: Money! Since a bypass is going to require county, state and federal funds, has anyone made an effort to seek any federal or state grants? If not, why not?

Certainly, with monies that are thrown around in Washington or Tallahassee, a good grant writer could obtain a major portion of the necessary funds for this desperately needed project.

•Finally, tourists are traffic savvy. If they have to continue to fight this traffic madness, they will begin to drive a few miles east or west from the south of us and take less congested routes just to avoid sitting in stalled traffic.

They can always grab fast food and get gas — cheaper — not risking accidents and frustrating situations. And they most likely will save money.

When we located here in 1983, there was an unwritten understanding that this was a “good ol’ boy” community, and no change was necessary or wanted. I really believe that is not the best attitude to try to hang on to 32 years later.

Some changes are good and some changes are not.

Some changes are necessary.

Moral climates should remain moral. Friendly and loving communities should remain as such. Safety climates should be given top priority and change as necessary.

What’s your view? Email commentary on local issues that you are passionate about to news@crestviewbulletin.com.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 3 Crestview bypass questions from a long-time resident

HELMS: Overcoming sin is challenging, but possible

Written by archive on April 12, 2015. Posted in columns, Opinion, your-voice.

As you study Samuel's story, you will learn of Eli, the priest, and his sons.

These sons were everything priests were not supposed to be, using their positions to obtain food, women and anything else they wanted.

A man of God confronted Eli about his sons' actions, and he just offered lip service to try to stop their improper behavior.

With a stronger reaction, Eli could have brought about a change in his history of him and his sons. But he chose to not bring them under submission.

As a result, their repetitive debauchery ended in judgment.

Lifestyle trends that draw us away from God; comfort in sin; and daily routines that take time from our relationship with God present challenges, but we can overcome them.

Paul stated that he had to die daily — that is, give things to the Master's leadership and command.

Not only is He our Blessed Redeemer, but in order for us to stay on the right path of our journey, we must make Him Lord and Master over all that we do. If not, correction and judgment will come, for He corrects those He loves.

We must bring all that we have and lay it at Jesus' feet, then allow Him to correct the path and shake us for His kingdom.

Rev. Richard Helms serves at Miracle Acres Ministries, 3187 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HELMS: Overcoming sin is challenging, but possible

DICKSON: Working toward a healthier me

Written by archive on April 12, 2015. Posted in columns, Sports.

As I worked out Friday at Planet Fitness in Fort Walton Beach, I thought about what a difference a year makes.

The second weekend in April 2014, I had an episode that landed me in Fort Walton Beach Medical Center. Doctors thought I might be having heart problems, but all tests came back good.

To this day, I don’t know what caused my body to overheat or why I felt so light-headed. I don’t concern myself about what happened last week or last year. I just try to push forward.

It's safe to say I’m in better health than I was a year ago. I joined the gym in the fall, and was pretty good about showing up three or four times a week through the middle of February. The last few weeks I haven’t done as well, but I’m getting back to the routine.

I usually spend 40 minutes on the stationary bike, and I try to ride 8 to 10 miles. I follow the bike ride with 20 or 30 minutes of weight training. I’ll soon be 57, and I no longer have to prove to myself how strong I am. But it's still nice when someone comments on the size of my biceps or forearms. I guess there is a little male vanity in this old body.

Another step I’ve taken toward a healthy me is I’ve cut down on Cokes. Before, I would drink 3 or 4 gallons of Coke a week. But I don’t think I’ve had 4 gallons of my favorite beverage since October. I still drink the occasional glass of sweet tea or Sprite. My beverage of choice is now Sprite Zero, but I plan to cut back on it in the coming weeks.

The next big step will be getting chocolate candies out of my system. Yes, I have a sweet tooth that has helped lead to my Type 2 diabetes.

Forty years ago this spring, I was 2-miler for Gulf Breeze High School's track team. I weighed about 150 or 155 pounds, and I could run 7 or 8 miles with no problem. I was in the best shape of my life.

I don’t want to be 155 pounds again, but it would be nice to get back to my young adult weight, 190-200 pounds. The good news is I don’t have to make that goal to be a healthier me.

Deanna, my diabetes educator, has helped me understand that I can’t judge myself for things I feel I’ve failed to accomplish, but rather to celebrate a day at the gym or another week without a Coca-Cola as victories.

I’m the one responsible for becoming a healthier me. I’m healthier today than I was a year ago, and this time next year I plan on being even healthier.

Getting healthy isn’t easy, but it beats a stay in the hospital.

Email News Bulletin Sports Editor Randy Dickson, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: DICKSON: Working toward a healthier me

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