The Crestview Robert L.F. Sikes Public Library officially challenges all children ages 6-14 to read at least 20 minutes each day from June 2 to July 11.

It’s not too late to jump in. You can earn 40 Funny Money Dollars by reading every day!

Ask for extra fun reading logs (complete with stickers while supplies last) at the library’s front desk. Not-as-fun-but-functional reading logs are available at www.cityofcrestview.org/library.php on the Programs and Services page. Turn in your reading logs at the library’s front desk no later than July 12 and come to the Reader Awards on July 18 at the Crestview Community Center.

During the Reader Awards, readers will receive a certificate and their funny money for use at the Funny Money Store. All guests will enjoy a yummy treat.

Call 682-4432 or come in with questions.

Heather Nitzel is the Crestview Public Library's youth services librarian. 

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: The reading challenge is on

CRESTVIEW— Habitat for Humanity in Okaloosa County donated their 58^th home to a Crestview family with the help of more than 450 volunteers contributing more than 2,100 hours. 

Rosalind Cruz and her mother, Carol, said they are excited to finally be homeowners after moving around frequently. 

“I’ve always moved around from house to house, especially when I was younger,” Rosalind said. “I haven’t really had any stable place to call home.” 

Thanks to Habitat for Humanity, now she does. After completing an application and volunteering for the organization, the Cruz family was handed the keys to their home in front of dozens of supporting guests. 

“There are some financial requirements… and then you have to complete 300 hours between a previous house and your house,” Rosalind said. “The application was maybe 10 questions and I got approved within two or three months.” 

Members of the Habitat for Humanity board of directors, volunteers and community members joined the Cruz family at their home to congratulate them on their hard work and accomplishments. 

Debbie Bodenstine, chairman of the board, welcomed attendees to the Cruz home and introduced special guests. 

Pastor Jeff Burnett of Crosspoint North Crestview blessed the home and the family, and recited the Litany for Shelter which is done at every Habitat for Humanity home dedication. 

Jack Robinson of ReStore, a company sponsor, said a few words to the guests. ReStore is a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories and building materials to the public at a lesser cost. 

Karl Jackson of Gulf Power then awarded the organization with a check for $50,000, and Kate Beam of ERA Realty also presented a check. 

Nitsi Bennett, president of ReStore, spoke about Rep. Mel Ponder’s dedication to low-income housing and presented him with a plaque for his commitment. 

Mary Hauge, a member of the Habitat for Humanity board, presented Rosalind and her mother with a Bible signed by volunteers and guests at the dedication. A Bible is given to every new homeowner from Habitat for Humanity. 

A gift basket with kitchen supplies, a welcome mat and a fire extinguisher from B&C Fire Safety was given to the family, along with an embroidered plaque with their name from the Embroidery Guild and an American Flag from the Republican Women of Okaloosa. 

David Hyre and Dick Davitt managed the construction of this home in downtown Crestview; Hyre congratulated Rosalind and Carol and presented them with the keys to their new home. 

Although Rosalind said she was shy, she thanked everyone who came and all those who made her dream a reality. Pastor Burnett ended the dedication with the benediction, and guests were offered refreshments and a tour of the home. 

Rosalind and Carol will be living in the home with their three pets.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Habitat for Humanity donates 58th home

CRESTVIEW — U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Tyler J. Culligan graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed eight weeks' training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Basic training graduates earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Culligan earned distinction as an honor graduate.

He is the son of Lynn and Mike Culligan of Crestview and a 2013 graduate of Crestview High School.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Culligan graduates from basic military training

PEARL HARBOR — A Crestview, Florida native and Rocky Bayou Christian School graduate, Seaman Natalie Pippins, is serving in the U.S. Navy as a member of the Navy Information Operations Command in historic Pearl Harbor during the 75th commemoration of the Battle of Midway.

Pippins works as an NIOC Cryptologic Technician Collection Specialist, supporting real-world strategic intelligence missions primarily in support of U.S. Central Command and U.S. Pacific Command. The work done at their operation center remains as important today as it did in turning the tide of war in the Pacific 75 years ago.

Following the Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, the Navy and nation relied on the U.S. Navy “Station HYPO” code breakers in Hawaii who deciphered the Japanese messages ahead of the Battle of Midway from June 4-6, 1942.

Armed with critical insight about Japanese battle plans, Pacific Fleet commander Adm. Chester Nimitz dispatched three American carriers to surprise the Japanese force at the area named for being “midway” in the Pacific.

The U.S. Navy sunk the four enemy carriers while losing one of their own. The victory turned the tide in the war and is widely considered the most important victory in the U.S. Navy’s history.

“Continuing the traditions established during World War II and the Battle of Midway helps keep the nation safe and our brothers and sisters in the services safe as well,” Pippins said.

In today’s connected information environment, the need for talented, committed Americans to fulfill these assignments is critical. Recruiting, retaining and training technically oriented and dedicated Americans for this capability helps to keep the nation and our forces prepared against adversary’s actions, including cyber attacks.

"I am very proud of our nearly 2,000 officers, chiefs, sailors, and Department of the Navy Civilians at Navy Information Operations Command Hawaii. The work they do is a testament to the legacy of the father of cryptology, Capt. Joseph J. Rochefort, and his team of cryptologists,” said Cmdr. James W. Adkisson III, NIOC Hawaii’s executive officer.

“From code breaking that informed the Battle of Midway 75 years ago, to the Information Age today, cryptologic and cyber warfare serve as a key role, countering terrorism and aggression, and protecting the United States, our way of life, and our interests worldwide.”

“I joined because I believe that every American is supposed to serve their country,” Pippins said. “This is the way that I chose to serve.”

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Continuing a tradition

CRESTVIEW — Need help or want to volunteer for a worthy cause? Here are some local services and organizations for consideration. 

SENIORS VS. CRIME VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: The Seniors vs. Crime Crestview office, which assists senior citizens of whom someone scammed or took advantage, needs help. Hours are 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays at 296 S. Ferdon Blvd., Suite 8. To volunteer, contact Office Manager Sheila Parish, 306-3176, or Region 5 Deputy Director JB Whitten, 813-489-5657. Contact 306-3176, www.seniorsvscrime.com or 800-203-3099 for help.

REPORT ELDERS ABUSE: Call the Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-96-ABUSE (800-962-2873) if you suspect elderly friends and neighbors are being abused. Many elders may suffer from financial exploitation, neglect or physical or emotional abuse, often caused by family members. The NFAAA is a private, non-profit agency supported by the federal Older Americans Act and the State of Florida General Revenue Fund through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. Gwen Rhodes, 494-7100 or rhodesg@nwflaaa.org

UWF ACADEMIC ADVISING: The University of West Florida offers assistance with admissions, academic and degree advising and registration in Crestview. Contact Deborah Cluff, 863-6550, to schedule an appointment for first Thursdays at the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce, 1446 Commerce Drive.

HOMELESS ASSISTANCE: Need help? Contact the Okaloosa Walton Homeless Continuum of Care, 409-3070, www.okaloosawaltonhomeless.org; Opportunity Inc., 659-3190; or Helping Hands of Crestview, 428 McLaughlin St., behind First United Methodist Church. Helping Hands is open 1-4 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE AND SERVICES FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, Tri-County Community Council, 290 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Crestview. 306-1134.

CRESTVIEW SOUP KITCHEN NEEDS VOLUNTEERS: Serves Mondays through Saturdays. To volunteer at Central Baptist Church, call 682-5525; Our Savior Lutheran Church, 682-3154; LifePoint Church, 682-3518; Community of Christ, 682-7474; First Presbyterian Church, 682-2835; or First United Methodist Church, 682-2018.

FREE CLOTHING GIVEAWAY: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 1-3:30 p.m. Thursdays; and 9 a.m. to noon second and fourth Saturdays of the month at 247 S. Booker St., Crestview. Free items include shoes and other accessories. Presented by Concerned Citizens of Crestview. Details: 689-1582 or 428-6997.

FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION FOR NEEDY RESIDENTS: 9 a.m. second Saturdays, 383 Texas Parkway, Crestview. Dry goods and fresh produce available while supplies last. Hosted by House of Restoration, a partner agency of Feeding the Gulf Coast. Details: Ruby Chatman, 398-0577.

WOMEN AND FAMILY INTERVENTION SERVICES AND EDUCATION: a Crestview-based Community Drug and Alcohol Council program that helps pregnant women with substance abuse. 689-4024.

CHILDCARE ASSISTANCE: Eligible low-income families can receive financial assistance through the Early Learning Coalition of Okaloosa and Walton Counties. Apply at www.elc-ow.org. Hover over “Services” and click “School Readiness” to register.

FREE MEDICARE COUNSELING: By appointment, Crestview Public Library and Elder Services of Okaloosa County, in Crestview, 494-7101 or 1-866-531-8011.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY seeks Crestview area lots for families needing housing. 758-0779 or 315-0025.

VA VETERANS CRISIS LINE: Veterans in crisis, their families and friends can call 800-273-TALK (8255), and press 1 to talk with qualified, caring VA responders. Confidential. www.veteranscrisisline.net.

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF NORTHWEST FLORIDA NEEDS MENTORS: Adult volunteers spend two hours weekly mentoring children. Pairs go to the library, museum, park or beach, hike, roller-skate or play sports. 664-5437.

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS ACTIVE IN DISASTERS: Group needs people to work in the Emergency Operations Center assisting county personnel. Contact: Yvonne Earle, 863-1530, extension 230.

FREE HAZARDOUS HOUSEHOLD WASTE DROPOFF: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, Okaloosa County Recycling Office, 80 Ready Ave., Fort Walton Beach. Okaloosa residents may drop off paints, pesticides, pool chemicals, used oil, gas, antifreeze, computers, televisions, fluorescent lamps, car batteries, rechargeable batteries, cleaners, solvents, aerosols and printers. The office is currently selling rain barrels for $65 and compost bins for $55.

MUSEUM SEEKS VOLUNTEERS: Heritage Museum of Northwest Florida seeks friendly, reliable volunteers to greet guests and answer phones in its gift shop 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Details: 678-2615, stop by 115 Westview Ave., Valparaiso, or email info@heritage-museum.org.

CARS NEEDED: Opportunity Inc. accepts donations of cars, boats and other vehicles to support Opportunity Place, an emergency shelter for families. Shelley Poirrier, 409-3070 or shelley@okaloosawaltonhomeless.org.

SHELTER HOUSE FINANCIAL SUPPORT: It costs just more than $100 a day to shelter a domestic violence victim. Every little bit helps. 683-0845.

DRIVE VETERANS to appointments at the VA Outpatient Clinic in Pensacola two days a month. Veterans Service Office, 689-5922.

VEHICLES NEEDED: Covenant Hospice accepts cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, boats and RVs. Qualified professionals pick up vehicles from Pensacola to Tallahassee at convenience. Rachel Mayew, 428-0605.

LAKEVIEW CENTER'S FAMILIES FIRST NETWORK NEEDS BEDS for local children in protective services. Cribs and beds for children must be in good condition. 833-3840.

EMERALD COAST HOSPICE seeks volunteers in a number of areas, from administrative help to offering support to a hospice patient through visits or weekly phone calls. Details: Ann O’Connor, 689-0300.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: North Okaloosa County services calendar

CRESTVIEW — Here’s a calendar of upcoming events in North Okaloosa County and surrounding areas. 

CAREER SOURCE MINI JOB FAIR: 1-4 p.m. June 7, 409 Racetrack Road NE, Fort Walton Beach. Employers hiring on the spot. Includes Waffle House, Boeing, Grifols, BH Corporation, BAE Systems, Kelly Services, and C-Sharpe. Positions include field tech, sanitation driver, proposal writing, restaurant manager, avionics and aircraft maintenance.

PEANUT PRODUCERS SCHOLARSHIP: The Florida Peanut Producers Association will award two $1,200 scholarships to high school seniors and/or college students in 2017. The applicants or one of their family members must be actively producing peanut growers, not necessarily a member of the FPPA. Award recipients should attend a Florida junior college or four-year university. Winners receive $600 each. The remaining $600 is awarded after the completion of one semester and documentation of passing grades is submitted. Details: 526-2590. Deadline: July 1.

CRESTVIEW HIGH CLASS OF 1977’S 40-YEAR CLASS REUNION: 6 p.m. July 15, Warriors Hall in Crestview. “We are searching for classmates that we have lost contact with,” an event organizer said. “If you haven't already received information about the reunion, contact Sharry, krustin@cox.net." Tickets must be purchased in advance.

SISTER CITY FRANCE TRIP: The Crestview Area Sister City Program welcomes residents to join the Sept. 7-18 journey to Noirmoutier, France. Participants stay with host families in this immersive cultural and educational experience. They must join the Crestview Area Sister City Program and assume responsibility for their own air travel arrangements to and from France. Dues are currently $20 per individual, $2 per full-time student, and $30 per family. Details: www.CrestviewSisterCity.org.

BAKER GATOR REUNION: Baker School Class of 1967 graduates seek classmates for their 50-year reunion Sept. 9 at the Baker Arena Community Center, 5503 U.S. Highway 4, Baker. Call 537-9191, 758-7966, 978-2135 or 978-1974 for details.

ARMY REUNION, 100TH ANNIVERSARY:  Sept. 13-17, Arlington, Virginia. The Second (Indianhead) Division Association is searching for anyone who served in the Army's 2nd Infantry Division at any time. The association will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the division, which was formed in France during World War I. Details: Secretary-treasurer Bob Haynes at 2idahq@comcast.net, 224-225-1202, or visit www.2ida.org. 

MA-CHIS LOWER CREEK INDIAN TRIBE OF ALABAMA GENERAL MEETING: 1 p.m. June 10, 64 Private Road 1312, Elba, Alabama. GPS users can enter 2950 County Road 377, Elba, Alabama. Agenda: Low Income Home Energy Program, summer cooling, 2018 plans, Community Service Block Grant plans, scholarships, WIA Pow Wow, a new program for rental housing and guest speakers. At 4 p.m., there will be the Annual Little Green Corn Ceremony. Bring a covered dish. Details: Chief James Wright or Vice Chief Nancy Carnley, 334-897-3207, machis@centurytel.net or chiefjames@centurytel.net.

TRANSPORTATION PLANNING ORGANIZATION MEETINGS:

• 3 p.m. June 15, Niceville Community Center, 204 Partin Drive N., Niceville.
• 3 p.m. July 20, Niceville Community Center, 204 Partin Drive N., Niceville.
• 3 p.m. Oct. 19, Robert L.F. Sikes Center, Northwest Florida State College, 805 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview.
• 3 p.m. Dec. 14, training room of the Okaloosa County Administration Building, 1250 Eglin Parkway, Shalimar.

Meeting schedule and location are subject to change. For updates and agendas, visit www.wfrpc.org or emailtiffany.bates@wfrpc.org.

OKALOOSA COUNTY COMMISSION: 8:30 a.m. June 20, Okaloosa County Administration Building, 1250 N. Eglin Parkway, Shalimar.

BLACKMAN FIRE DISTRICT BOARD: 7 p.m. first Mondays, 1850 U.S. Highway 2, Baker.

CRESTVIEW CITY COUNCIL: 6 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, City Hall, 198 N. Wilson St., Crestview.

CRESTVIEW HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD: 5:15 p.m. third Mondays, 371 Hickory Ave. W, Crestview. Open to the public.

CRESTVIEW CITY COUNCIL: 6 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, City Hall, 198 N. Wilson St., Crestview.

MILLIGAN WATER SYSTEM BOARD: 6 p.m. second Tuesdays, 5340 U.S. Highway 4.

BAKER FIRE DISTRICT COMMISSION: 7 p.m. second Tuesdays in the Baker Area Public Safety Building, 1375 19th St.

REP. JAYER WILLIAMSON OFFICE HOURS: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. first and third Thursdays, Okaloosa County Extension office, 3098 Airport Road, Crestview. Call 995-3698 for an appointment.

LAUREL HILL CITY COUNCIL: 6 p.m. first Thursdays, City Hall.

DORCAS FIRE DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS: 7 p.m. first Thursdays, 5232 Deer Springs Drive, Crestview, off Highway 90.

HOLT FIRE DEPARTMENT: 7 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, fire station, 490 W. U.S. Highway 90, Holt.

ALMARANTE VOLUNTEER FIRE DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS: 7 p.m. second Thursdays, Almarante Fire Station, 3710 Old California Road, Laurel Hill.

OKALOOSA-WALTON NORTH OKALOOSA FIRE DISTRICT: 6 p.m. third Thursdays, fire station 82, 5549 John Givens Road, Crestview.

HOLT FIRE DISTRICT COMMISSION: 6:30 p.m. third Thursdays, 490 W. U.S. Highway 90.

HOLT FIRE DEPARTMENT: 7 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, fire station.

LAUREL HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT: 7 p.m., second Fridays, in Laurel Hill City Hall's fire department office.

CRESTVIEW AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTS: for chamber members and their employees. Details: 682-3212 or info@crestviewchamber.com. http://www.crestviewchamber.com.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS: 5-6:30 p.m. June 8, 5516 Frontier Drive, Crestview. Includes a preview of a Parade of Homes house by Toolan Development.

MAC COMMITTEE: 11 a.m. June 13, Samuel's Roadhouse, 114 John King Road, Crestview. Membership fees apply to this committee. Marian McBryde, MAC@crestviewchamber.com.

GOVERNMENT ISSUES COMMITTEE: 8:30 a.m. June 14, chamber office, 1447 Commerce Drive, Crestview. Guest speaker: Jason Autrey, Okaloosa County Public Works Department director.  Among topics that may be discussed are north county roads and the new courthouse.

PILOT COMMITTEE: noon June 15, Waffle House, 298 James Lee Blvd., Crestview. For people ages 21-41.

AMBASSADORS 'LET'S DO LUNCH': 11:30 a.m. June 20, Panera Bread, 2670 S. Ferdon Blvd. No. 102, Crestview. Informal, no-pressure networking lunch. Invite a new member, a friend or someone who is thinking about joining the chamber. RSVP: ambassadors@crestviewchamber.com 

HEALTH & WELLNESS COMMITTEE: 8:30 a.m. June 21, chamber office, 1447 Commerce Drive, Crestview.

ANNUAL INSTALLATION & AWARDS BANQUET: 5:30 p.m. June 22, Crestview Community Center, 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview. Tickets: $40 per person, $400 per table. Go to http://www.crestviewchamber.com/events/register/10799, call 682-3212 or email info@crestviewchamber.com to purchase.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: What’s Happening in North Okaloosa County

1. WATCH A DRAG RACE. Emerald Coast Dragway will host Friday Night Frenzy 6-11 p.m. June 9 at 7134 Garner Landing Road, Holt. Gates open at 6 p.m. and racing is from 6:30-11 p.m. Events include test-n-tune, fun runs and grudge racing. General admission is $12; $10 admission for military and police; kids 10 and younger enter free. 

2. ENJOY LOCAL MUSIC. Bands on the Blackwater returns 7 p.m. June 9 on South Willing Street. The outdoor concert series, held Friday nights in downtown Milton, is free to attend. You can pull up a boat or bring a lawn chair and relax while listening to music. This week’s featured band is Deja Vu. 

3. FIGHT AGAINST BULLYING. Guardian Anti-Bullying Campaign, Inc. will host its first Crestview Kids Fair 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 10 at the Crestview Community Center, 1446 Commerce Drive. Events include live action stunts from the Red Power Ranger, a cosplay contest for children and adults, and a live action role play contest where each contestant will get up to four minutes to perform as their favorite superhero. There will also be various vendors, face painting, bounce houses and food. This event will be used to educate the community on bullying as well as introduce them to the Guardian Anti-Bullying Campaign to help children and adults. Tickets are $5 advance purchase or $8 at the door. Kids 2 years and under enter free. Email guardianbully@yahoo.com or text 812-1676 for vendor information or details about the event. 

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 3 things to do this weekend in Northwest Florida

CRESTVIEW—Vacant buildings are a common sight when traveling through the city’s downtown area.

There are 104 vacant property parcels within the Community Redevelopment Agency’s boundaries that encompass downtown, Twin Hills Park and a stretch of Martin Luther King Boulevard. A majority of these properties are zoned for commercial use, with a few zoned residential.

The CRA’s 2017 master plan views these sites as opportunities to consolidate and redevelop for sale and use. However, they pose a potential warning sign to investors and could discourage growth before any such consolidation takes place.

“Vacant parcels that are unkempt and overgrown become a further detriment to progress toward revitalization,” CRA Master Plan Project Manager David Haight said during a presentation to city officials.

Some of these issues can be resolved with effective and efficient code enforcement, Haight added. However, even a well manicured vacant building is still just that—vacant.

“Vacancy rate is an indicator buildings in the area are not being utilized,” CRA Director Brenda Smith said. “They can become neglected or discourage people from going to the area.”

Nearly a dozen of these vacant properties are located along Main Street, the city’s business district hub.

The master plan shows an increase in vacancy rates in recent years, indicating a shift away from the downtown area. This can give the impression of business hardship or decreasing customer flow in the area, which can be a deterrent to investors and developers.

Companies scope the success of other businesses in an area before deciding to expand there, Joe Strauss of Retail Strategies told officials during a City Council meeting in March. Retail Strategies has been conducting assessment studies of Crestview since October to lure new businesses into the area.

Large numbers of vacant buildings, on an inclining trend, could be a major red flag to some of these businesses. Although, others might view them as an opportunity to purchase an already constructed building for renovation rather than a full build-out on a new property.

Either way, Crestview’s issue of vacant property isn’t likely to go away anytime soon. The construction of new Walmart and Publix shopping centers along Ferdon Boulevard North and near the existing Publix along the south portion of the road indicate growth is happening but downtown is being left out.

“With less draw, there’s less people in the area,” Smith said.

Less people in downtown will be a certain hurdle for redevelopment and the prosperity of the area.

THE ISSUE: The area around downtown Crestview has 104 vacant parcels

LOCAL IMPACT: Vacant buildings can be a red flag to investors and hinder revitalization

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: THE VACANT BUILDING FACTOR

CRESTVIEW — Last summer, Okaloosa County residents enjoyed the Pokemon Go craze. This summer, an increasing number have found a new phenomenon: in the form of inspirational rocks.

The Crestview Rocks and Okaloosa Rocks Facebook groups have more than 3,000 members between them who enjoy painting, hiding, finding and sharing decorated rocks for themselves and others.

The Kindness Rocks Project, a global effort, inspired such gatherings. Megan Murphy, a women’s empowerment coach, lost her parents at a young age and would search for signs on morning walks, divine messages to let her know everything would be OK, according to her website, thekindnessrocksproject.com. Murphy realized others needed similar signs and a hobby (painting and hiding rocks) soon became a movement. 

BRINGING THE TREND TO CRESTVIEW 

Crestview resident Nicole Bishop started the local rock group in February.

"My mom discovered a rock group where she lives down by Tampa. So I looked for one here and found Okaloosa Rocks. I noticed not a lot of people were hiding rocks in Crestview, so I decided to start a group for just here," Bishop said.

The family-friendly trait is just one reason Bishop enjoys the activity.

"I love seeing families come together to paint and hunt rocks,” she said. “I've had people say that finding a little painted rock brightened their day. Some people have used this as a form of therapy, some to help with anxiety and depression, and some to get out and exercise.”

Her favorite types of rocks are those with positive messages. While they're also her favorite ones to paint, rock decoration subjects vary.

Both Facebook pages bear photos of rocks that look like ladybugs, turtles and other animals. Some have military symbols, television and movie themes. Most also include the Facebook group name on the back for later posting online.

Facebook members often post photos of the rocks they have finished painting and hiding, and some give clues about where people may find them. 

‘IT’S A VERY COOL THING’

Amy Huwa started Okaloosa Rocks in 2016. She'd been a member of the Whidbey Island Rocks group in Washington before moving to Niceville.

"The whole reason I started my rock page here was because when I moved here I didn't know anybody at all. And that's what I missed the most," she said. "I thought if I could start a page here, I could start meeting more like-minded people."

And Huwa has found those people. About 2,300 have answered the call since she started the page, for a variety of reasons.

"Personally, I know people that have had horrible, crippling anxiety and depression, and they're getting outside of their house looking for rocks. They start doing that and it pushes them forward," Huwa said.

One of the best parts about the experience is where some of the rocks wind up.

"I've had rocks taken back to Canada, Mexico, Chile and even had one geocached," Huwa said.

"I've had people start groups because they found my rock. It's a very cool thing." 

GETTING STARTED 

Here are Bishop and Huwa's recommendations for beginners.

1. Get some rocks. (The cost varies, but purchase locations include Lowe's river rocks for $8 to $9 a bag in Crestview; $5 per bucket at Helms Hauling and Materials in Niceville; and assorted prices at dollar stores.)

2. Clean residue off rocks.

3. Decorate them with inexpensive acrylic paint, Sharpies or markers (Huwa prefers the Posca brand).

4. Put the name of your rock group's Facebook page on the back so those who find them can post photos there later if they wish. Huwa recommends people add their initials as well.

5. Finish each rock with a sealant, like Mod Podge, for durability.

6. Hide them in a public place, where no mowing is required. Participants can also hide rocks on private property after getting permission from the owner. Popular Crestview locations include around the lake at Twin Hills and up and down Main Street. "I also like to leave one wherever I go," Bishop said. "Whether it's the grocery store, gas station, dentist, anywhere. I always throw a couple in my purse to leave on my way out."

7. Those who come across a decorated rock may keep or hide it, and share it with the rock group if they wish.

There are only a few other tips to keep in mind.

"You just have to remember that once you paint a rock and hide it, it's no longer yours. It may get posted in the group, it may not. Someone might decide to re-hide it or keep it. It may travel to another state or end up in the trash," Bishop said.

"You just have to let it go and hope it made someone smile."

Some organizations have scheduled public rock painting parties.

•Hardee's summer kickoff, "Paint the Rocks," is 5-8 p.m. June 5 at the restaurant, 3702 S. Ferdon Blvd. S., Crestview. The free event will have plenty of rocks, paint, stickers and other decorating items for participants, Assistant Manager Teri Stubbs said.

•Joe Faulk of Edward Jones will host a free paint party and Northwest Florida Guardian Ad Litem fundraiser 9 a.m. to noon June 10 at the Old Spanish Trail Park, 201 Stillwell Blvd., Crestview. Rocks and supplies will be provided. He will also accept GAL donations. There will be door prizes and raffles.

WANT TO GO?

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Uniting and inspiring the community

THE QUESTION 

What has happened to the Crestview Old Spanish Trail Festivals … we used to have every year and the OSTF music lineup? These [were] things that people [looked] forward to every year and now nothing. What's happening with this area and people? – Terri B. Owens, Crestview       

THE ANSWER 

According to City Clerk Elizabeth Roy, the Old Spanish Trail Festival has not been held for many years. 

“That was actually from a separate committee from the city,” Roy said. “It hasn’t been done in years and years. 

“I was on the committee when I first moved here before I worked for the city. It was an Old Spanish Trail Festival committee that did that.” 

Roy said she doesn’t know the exact reason the committee stopped meeting, but that some of the committee’s founders have since died. 

“They used to have a parade, they had everything,” Roy said. “It’s been several years; I would say at least 10 years.” 

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU 

The Old Spanish Trail Festival committee is no longer intact; therefore, no Old Spanish Trail festivals or concerts are planned for the future. 

Crestview does have festivals like the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce's annual Triple B Cook-off, the Spring Carnival, the Carver-Hill May Day Festival, the Fourth of July Celebration, the Downtown Fall Festival, the Fall Circus and many other festivals and parades, some of which are held at Spanish Trail Park. 

Visit http://www.cityofcrestview.org/256/City-Events for a list of Crestview events. 

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 'What's happening with this area and people?'