lifestyle | Crestview News Bulletin

HAPPENINGS: Sharing Mother's cranberry nut bread recipe

Written by archive on December 5, 2014. Posted in columns, lifestyle.

I am now busy with my baking, decorating and Christmas cards.

But for now, let's focus on the baking.

See below for Mother's Cranberry Nut Bread recipe; I think she has made this bread for about 50 years. I baked two loaves and took one into the Crestview News Bulletin offices for them to sample. (Editor's Note: It was delicious!)

•••

CRANBERRY NUT BREAD

1 package rinsed fresh cranberries

1/2 cup water

1-3/4 cups white sugar

6 ounces orange juice concentrate

4 cups all purpose flour

1 Tablespoon baking powder

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

4 eggs

2/3 cup oil (I use canola)

2 teaspoons orange peel

1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans

Boil the cranberries, water, sugar and orange juice concentrate in a sauce pan until the cranberries pop.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda, then gently add the cranberry mixture and mix well.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, add oil, orange peel and nuts and mix well, then add the egg mixture to the flour and cranberry mixture and mix thoroughly.

Coat 2 loaf pans with cooking spray, lightly dust the bottom of the pans with flour, then evenly divide the mixture into the loaf pans.

Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees. A toothpick should come out clean when the bread is done.

Cool for 10 minutes, gently remove from the pan and continue to cool on baking racks.

Enjoy!

•••

Now, on to December Happenings:

•Laurel Hill Middle School Christmas Program: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 9, 8078 4th St., Laurel Hill. Tickets: $1.

•Crestview High School Choir Winter Program: 7 p.m. Dec. 9, Pearl Tyner Auditorium, 1250 N. Ferdon Blvd., Crestview. Tickets: $7 adults; $5 children.

•Advent Service: 7 p.m. Dec. 10, Our Savior Lutheran Church, 171 W. North Ave.

•Schola Cantorum from Northwest Florida State College: 7 p.m. Dec. 10, First Presbyterian Church, 492 N. Ferdon Blvd., Crestview. Offering accepted.

•Crestview High School Drama presents "Harvey": 7 p.m. Dec. 12; 7 p.m. Dec. 13; and 3 p.m. Dec. 14, Pearl Tyner Auditorium, 1250 N. Ferdon Blvd. Tickets: $5.

•"The Living Nativity": 5:30-8 p.m. Dec. 13, Laurel Hill Presbyterian Church, 8115 4th St. This is the story of the first Christmas told in a fun, interactive way. A combined church effort with Laurel Hill and Crestview Presbyterian, as well as other Laurel Hill churches; features live animals.

•Red Roots gospel concert: 6 p.m. Dec. 13, Central Baptist Church, 951 S. Ferdon Blvd. Donation: $10.

•"What Sweeter Music," a Christmas Cantata written by Mark Hayes: 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dec. 14, Crestview First United Methodist Church, 599 Eighth Ave., Crestview.

•Crestview High School Band Christmas Program: 7 p.m. Dec. 16, Pearl Tyner Auditorium, 1250 N. Ferdon Blvd. No charge. Come hear music to celebrate the season played by Crestview's finest young musicians.

If you see me on my jaunts around town, please wish me a "Merry Christmas." I hope that you have a wonderful week.

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.

The former music teacher enjoys scrapbooking, sewing, playing the piano and studying the Bible.

Email listings of upcoming events and activities of public interest to NorthOkaloosaHappenings@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HAPPENINGS: Sharing Mother's cranberry nut bread recipe

Look Good, Feel Better program scheduled

Written by archive on December 4, 2014. Posted in health-fitness, lifestyle.

MIRAMAR BEACH — Look Good Feel Better's next session is 5-7 p.m. Dec. 15 at Sacred Heart Hospital of the Emerald Coast, Olson’s Women’s Diagnostic Center, 7800 U.S. Highway 98 W., Miramar Beach.

Advance registration is required to provide cosmetics that match your skin tone.

This group program is open to all women with cancer who receive chemotherapy, radiation or other treatments.

Call the American Cancer Society, 1-800-227-2345, for details.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Look Good, Feel Better program scheduled

North Okaloosa Medical Center helps residents sign up for health insurance

Written by archive on December 4, 2014. Posted in health-fitness, lifestyle.

CRESTVIEW — North Okaloosa Medical Center is helping area residents learn about the Health Insurance Marketplace and enroll in affordable plans.

“As a primary health provider in Okaloosa County, we want to help educate residents in an easy-to-understand way, as well as assist those who haven’t yet signed up for health insurance or Medicaid, if qualified,” said David Fuller, CEO of North Okaloosa Medical Center.

ONE-ON-ONE HELP

The Marketplace offers U.S. citizens access to affordable health insurance. Depending on household income, some individuals may qualify for financial assistance from the government — subsidies — toward the cost of the premium.

All Marketplace health plans must offer comprehensive benefits, and individuals cannot be denied coverage based on a pre-existing condition.

Health benefits include preventive care and wellness services, doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital and emergency department care, lab services and pediatric services, among others.

“During the next few months, we’ll be going out in the community to educate consumers, hosting in-hospital events, and meeting one-on-one to help these individuals find affordable coverage for themselves and their family," Fuller said. “With many people in our community lacking access to a computer or having difficulty enrolling on the government’s website, our application counselors can help.

"We can (help) individuals and their families evaluate the health plan options and determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or other financial assistance.”

MEDICAID

In all states, Medicaid provides health coverage for some low-income families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

In some states, the program covers all low-income adults below a certain income level.

“Even though Florida has chosen not to expand Medicaid, there are still many individuals in our community who qualify for Medicaid coverage,” Fuller said. "We can help screen these individuals and, if they qualify, we can enroll them at any time, with health coverage beginning immediately.”

Though a major function of www.healthcare.gov is assessing whether individuals and families qualify for financial help to lower the cost of health insurance, North Okaloosa Medical Center application counselors can perform the same analysis and help with the sign-up process.

Need help? Call 689-8170 to make an appointment to meet with an application counselor.

DID YOU KNOW?

As part of the Affordable Care Act, most U.S. citizens must have health insurance.

If you can afford health insurance in 2015, but don’t sign up, you may have to pay a penalty ($325 per adult; $162.50 per child— up to $975 per family or 2 percent of family income, whichever is higher).

And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all your medical costs.

BY THE NUMBERS

During the first enrollment wave, October 2013 through March, almost 10 million uninsured individuals enrolled in a Marketplace plan.

Still, approximately 30 million Americans remain uninsured.

Learn more about the Health Insurance Marketplace at www.healthcare.gov.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: North Okaloosa Medical Center helps residents sign up for health insurance

Eglin Chapel St. Michaels events include masses, Advent service

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in Faith, lifestyle.

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE — The Eglin Chapel will host St. Michael's Community masses and a penance service in December.

Holy Day of Obligation Masses-Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin-are 11:30 a.m. at the Chale Center and 5:30 p.m. at the West Gate Chapel on Dec. 8. Anyone with base access is welcome.

An Advent penance service is also scheduled at 6 p.m. Dec. 10 at the West Gate Chapel.

For details on any of these events, call 850-882-7320.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Eglin Chapel St. Michaels events include masses, Advent service

Saturday concert to benefit Covenant Hospice

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in health-fitness, lifestyle.

FORT WALTON BEACH — The Emerald Coast Community Band presents "By Golly, Be Jolly," a holiday concert benefiting Covenant Hospice, on Saturday.

The event, including a guest performance by Joy a Capella Quartet, begins 7 p.m. at Fort Walton Municipal Auditorium, 107 Miracle Strip Parkway SW.

Tickets cost $10 in advance, and $12 at the door.

Call 729-1800 to purchase tickets or visit Covenant Hospice or UpBeat Music, Crestview; Covenant Hospice, PS Gifts or Playground Music, Fort Walton Beach; or Bayou Book Company, Niceville.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Saturday concert to benefit Covenant Hospice

Joyful sounds: Local Christmas concerts are gifts for the ear

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in lifestyle.

CRESTVIEW — Throughout the area, school, church, professional and community choirs and bands are preparing annual Christmas concerts. Take a break from shopping and gift wrap and enjoy some of these musical gifts.

DEC. 4, 7 p.m.: The Davidson Middle School band presents its annual Christmas concert at the Crestview High School Pearl Tyner Auditorium.

DEC. 6, 6:30 p.m.: “The Winter Rose,” Joseph Martin’s Christmas cantata, is presented by the Florala (Ala.) First Presbyterian Church, featuring performances by singers from Laurel Hill and Crestview churches. Free. 23492 5th Ave., opposite Piggly Wiggly. Free, donations accepted. Buffet dinner follows.

DEC. 7, 2 p.m.: “A White Tie Holiday” featuring the music of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, is an extravaganza of holiday music, favorite holiday movie moments, a carol sing-a-long, and multimedia light show. Performed by the Northwest Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra and the White Tie Rock Ensemble, free, Mattie Kelly Arts Center Mainstage, Niceville. Donations accepted.

DEC. 8, 7:30 p.m.: The Jazz Ensemble of Northwest Florida State College presents its Winter Concert featuring a wide selection of seasonal and jazz favorites as well as new works. Free, Mattie Kelly Arts Center Mainstage Theater, Niceville.

DEC. 9, 7 p.m.: The Crestview High School chorus’ Winter Concert features holiday tunes, oldies and classic vocal selections. Pearl Tyner Auditorium, $5 admission benefits the chorus travel fund.

ALSO: 7:30 p.m.: Baker School bands annual Christmas concerts in the auditorium.

ALSO, 7 p.m.: The Shoal River Middle School band performs its annual Christmas concert in the gym.

DEC. 10, 7 p.m.: “The Marvel of This Night,” Northwest Florida State College’s Schola Cantorum community choir Christmas concert. First Presbyterian Church of Crestview, Courthouse Terrace at State Road 85. Free admission, donations accepted.

DEC. 11, 7 p.m.: Davidson Middle School chorus presents its annual Christmas concert, Crestview High School Pearl Tyner Auditorium.

DEC. 12, 7:30 p.m.: Sinfonia Gulf Coast presents an “Orchestral Holiday” featuring several grandchildren of Capt. Georg and Maria von Trapp of “The Sound of Music” fame. Tickets: $29.50-42.50 available online or from the box office to SinfoniaGulfCoast.org or 269-7129. Destiny Worship Center, 122 Poinciana Blvd., Destin.

DEC. 13, 6 p.m.: “The First Noel,” presented by gospel performer Chevon Corlew-Coleman and the Rev. Isaac Coleman of Praise, Power and Compassion Ministries, is a multi-church evening celebration of Christmas music, worship and praise. Admission; $5 children 6-12, ages 13 and up, $10. Children 5 and under: free. Admission benefits Hope House of Crestview. At Praise, Power and Compassion Ministries, 2188 James Lee Blvd. Information: IsaacColeman850@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/IsaacColeman.

ALSO, 7:30 p.m.: Seabreeze 106.3FM presents “A Peter White Christmas” featuring the renowned guitarist with trumpeter Rick Braun and singer/saxtress Mindi Abair in a concert of smooth contemporary jazz and holiday music. Tickets: $80 main floor, $40 all other seats from www.seabreeze.fm or 729-6000, Mattie Kelly Arts Center Mainstage, Niceville.

DEC. 16, 7 p.m.: The Crestview High School band presents its annual Winter Concert, featuring ensembles including the popular jazz band, performing holiday standards and other instrumental selections. Pearl Tyner Auditorium, free admission.

ALSO: 7:30 p.m.: Baker School choruses Winter Concerts in the auditorium.

ALSO, 7 p.m.: The Shoal River Middle School chorus performs its annual Christmas concert in the gym.

Email News Bulletin Arts Editor Brian Hughes, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Joyful sounds: Local Christmas concerts are gifts for the ear

Bible college announces winter schedule

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in Faith, lifestyle.

CRESTVIEW — The Emerald Coast Freedom Bible College and Seminary at 644 N. Ferdon Boulevard in Crestview is registering students for winter classes.

Registration and enrollment ends Dec. 19, with classes starting Jan. 5. Visit http://bit.ly/1CIWHmx to see the winter schedule.

For more information, call 850-398-6991, email emeraldcoastbranch-fbcs@cox.net or visit the website at http://ecbfreedombiblecollege.org.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Bible college announces winter schedule

EXTENSION: Spotlight on 'The Round Up' 4-H Club

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in lifestyle.

“The Round Up," a 4-H club, has many things to offer students.

For instance:

•Our next meeting will consist of planning the Christmas parade, learning the educational side of keeping records, and having fun, giving thanks while we eat turkey and cupcakes.

•At our Oct. 13 meeting, our officers were elected and we were educated on the basics of a horse.

•This year’s Florida State 4-H Horse Show filled every stall at the Tampa State Fair Grounds. The competition was at an all time high, having an average of 40 entries in the classes.

•Last year, we had several students go to the Area A Horse Show in Okaloosa County; one rider out of five took the challenge to compete at the state level.

Alex Cooke qualified from the Area “A” 4-H Horse Show in April, and was awarded the SR High Point Hunter of the show.

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization. The Florida 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach and caring adults to help youths gain the knowledge and life skills they need to be productive, responsible citizens.

To achieve its mission, 4-H accesses the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and a nationwide network of Cooperative Extension Service faculty and staff.

4-H meetings consist of a business meeting with officers, educational programs, and recreation.

We salute the 4-H flag, American flag and have bylaws, just as our country has a constitution. There is also just as much fun as there is learning throughout the club year. We have overnight stays at Camp Timpoochee, go to horse shows, and participate in the fair and parades.

Even if you don’t own a horse, youths are still welcome to attend 'The Round Up' club meetings and learn all about horses. There are hands-on activities for youths to apply the knowledge that they learn at the club meetings.

Programs like 4-H can give today’s youths a bigger field to dream in as the top riders also headed to the Southern Regional 4-H horse show at the end of July.

If your child would like to participate or you would like to volunteer in 4-H, visit our website, http://okaloosa.ifas.ufl.edu/4h.shtml or contact me, your 4-H extension agent, at 689-5850.

WANT TO GO?

WHAT: 'The Round Up' 4-H club meetings

WHEN: 6 p.m. the second Monday of every month

WHERE: Laurel Hill Farm

Misty Smith is an agent at the University of Florida's Extension office in Crestview.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: EXTENSION: Spotlight on 'The Round Up' 4-H Club

Jehovah's Witness assembly planned

Written by archive on December 3, 2014. Posted in Faith, lifestyle.

PANAMA CITY — Large delegations of Jehovah's Witnesses from a four-county area (including Crestview and Okaloosa County) will attend the next assembly in Panama City.

The "Keep Seeking Jehovah's Righteousness" assembly includes two presentations to accommodate more than 2,000 witnesses attending. The program starts at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 13 and 14 at the Marina Civic Center, 8 Harrison Ave., Panama City, FL 32401.

By means of a series of lectures, interviews and re-enactments, the program will provide answers to questions such as: How can we distinguish right from wrong? How can we help others to seek Jehovah's righteousness?

Attendance is free, no collections will be taken.

For more information, contact Scott Hatton, 850-217-3032.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Jehovah's Witness assembly planned

Crestview art auction, featuring abstract works, ends Thursday

Written by archive on December 2, 2014. Posted in lifestyle.

CRESTVIEW — A silent auction benefiting the Foy Shaw Memorial Scholarship Fund ends Thursday morning.

Bidding for Peggy Hollingshead's acrylic artwork ends at 7:30 a.m. during the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce's monthly breakfast meeting.

Available artwork includes "Mountains," 18 by 24 inches; "Love," 14 by 18 inches; "Flower," 6 by 11 inches; "End of the Rainbow," 24 by 30 inches; and "Secrets," 18 by 24 inches.

The fund benefits three graduating Crestview area high school seniors.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview art auction, featuring abstract works, ends Thursday

850.682.6524