I have spent the past four years doing quite a bit of education about marine debris and plastics in the environment. After sharing the research detailing the enormity of this growing problem, listeners are often anxious to know what they can do to help. I typically recommend the five R’s: refuse, reduce, repair and recycle, in that order.

Refuse and reduce are the first two actions to take, as this is how to keep plastic, particularly one-time-use plastic, out of the environment. You can easily refuse to buy or use bottled water and other drinks by simply carrying your own water bottle. There are several great brands on the market that keep you drinks cold, or hot, whatever your preference. 

Another item that has a bad reputation and is easy to refuse is the plastic straw. Campaigns like "Ban the Straw" and "The Last Straw" have encouraged people to forgo the straw or use a reusable straw. I’ve also seen compostable straws and even some edible straws. You can also easily avoid Styrofoam plates and plastic cutlery by using real dishes and silverware at events and picnics.

Finally, refuse to use plastic bags from the store. While convenient, they are disastrous to the environment.  Simply get some reusable bags to haul your groceries and other products, put them in your car and, this is sometimes the hardest part, remember to take them into the store with you! It’s simply a matter of developing a new habit.

Repair items as best you can versus dumping them at the first sign of wear. Can you fix those holes in your socks and pants instead of throwing them away?

Recycling is at the end of the list. This is because recycling is often not the solution imagined. 

While many plastics are recyclable, that does not mean that they actually get recycled. Recently, China stopped accepting plastic waste from the U.S., and as a result, the market dried up. Now, much of what is collected for recycling is ending up in the landfill anyway. 

Recycling is part of the solution, but the primary goal should be refusing and reducing your personal use of plastics on a daily basis.

Laura Tiu is an agent at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension office in Crestview.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Enact the 5 Rs: refuse, reduce, reuse, repair, recycle

CRESTVIEW — A local march and celebration honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. began Jan. 19 on the avenue that bears his name in Crestview.

Participants of various ages, accompanied by a drummer,  sang spirituals as they made their way to the Okaloosa courthouse on Main Street.

The Rev. Clay Williams, of Greater Union Baptist Church in Century, opened the celebration near the Veterans Memorial wall. The event soon moved to the gazebo due to intermittent rain and strong gusts of wind.

Participants said the Pledge of Allegiance, then Natalie Grisby led them in singing the national anthem.

Master of Ceremony David Wheeler introduced Crestview Mayor David Cadle. Cadle said  King believed "humble citizens, united in faith, can come together to save the world." He quoted King's words, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, and that a true neighbor will risk his position, his prestige and even his life for the welfare of others."

Wheeler said King was "a man who sometimes doubted the path that he chose, but he was influenced like all of us … When you start dealing with oppressed people and give them some kind of light, you better watch out because the light will then be on you," Wheeler said. "You must be able to stand up and face it," even when it's actually easier to sit down and do nothing.

Parade participants and attendees also included city council members Shannon Hayes and J.B. Whitten.

Tanisha Hines introduced the program's guest speaker, Vivica Aaron, who she described as her sister in Christ and friend for over 15 years.

Aaron gave a history of Dr. King's life, using a timeline she received when she visited The King Center in Atlanta. It detailed his life, including the fact that he was stabbed in 1959 while autographing one of his books in Harlem, New York. In 1964 he was named Time Magazine's Man of the Year, and won the Nobel Peace Prize. He was fatally shot in Memphis April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tenn.

With scriptures such as Isaiah 41:10, and "putting on the whole armor of God," Aaron encouraged attendees to face adversity with faith and courage, taking a stand about things that matter, things like racism.

"Yes it is still happening," Aaron said. "Let's take a stand. Domestic violence — take a stand." She also encouraged taking a stand against child abuse, physical and sexual. "Human trafficking, bullying, elder abuse, animal abuse, anything immoral or unethical — take a stand," she said.

She and Wheeler encouraged those present to educate themselves further on King's life and works.

The Crestview Concerned Citizens group, a civic organization which coordinated the event, thanked everyone who helped bring the celebration about, including the JRL Conyers Masonic Lodge No. 364 of Crestview.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview march, celebration honor Dr. King's legacy

Here are upcoming Crestview Public Library-related events. The library's address is 1445 Commerce Drive.

UPCOMING

CRESTVIEW WRITERS GROUP: The CWG doesn't meet again until 6 p.m. Jan. 28 at the library. The special project for the January session is to write a 300-500 word short story, essay or poem and email it to group member Tami Kidd, tamilynnkidd@gmail.com, by Jan 21. She will present the works at the meeting, remove the author names and then see if attendees can determine who wrote what and provide feedback. http://www.cityofcrestview.org/library.php. 

BEGINNER'S CHESS CLUB HOURS EXTENDED: The group now meets from 3-5 p.m. every first and third Thursday at the library. For ages 6 and up. Learn to play the game.

RECURRING

ADULT COLORING THERAPY: 5-6 p.m. third Mondays for ages 18 or older. Hot tea, coloring pages, pencils and markers are provided.

CRESTVIEW WRITERS GROUP: 6-7:30 p.m. every fourth Monday, Crestview Public Library. Online: http://www.cityofcrestview.org/library.php.

POETRY OPEN MIC READING: 6:30 p.m. second Tuesdays. Arrive at 6 p.m. for conversation and snacks. Poets and musicians may read, perform, improvise and play together. Free. Esther Hurwitz, 682-4432. 

FAMILY HISTORY CLUB: 10 a.m. to noon every third Thursday features the basics and a question-and-answer discussion led by volunteer Cindy Barber. Contact dotdane99@gmail.com for information.

BEGINNER'S CHESS CLUB: 3-5 p.m. every first and third Thursday at the library. For ages 6 and up. Learn to play the game.

ESSENTIAL OILS 101: 6 p.m. every fourth Thursday and 2:30 p.m. every fourth Saturday learn about essential oils with volunteer consultant Lynisha Smith. Contact 758-6482 or YLBlessed1@gmail.com for more information.

TEEN TIME: 2-4 p.m. Fridays at the library for students in grades six through 12.

READ TO DOZER: 10 to 11 a.m. on the first Saturdays of each month (as long as it's not raining).

COFFEE & CRAFT: 10 a.m. second Saturdays, Crestview library. Call 682-4432 to reserve your spot.

BRIGHT FUTURES VOLUNTEER HOURS: for students in grades nine through 12 to use toward Bright Futures scholarships. Contact Youth Librarian Heather Nitzel, 682-4432, for details.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview Public Library events

The library will have its Hot Wheels Speedometry event at the end of the month. Hours are  6-7:30 p.m. Jan. 25 Open to first 40 children ages 6 and up who register at ptop.panhandle@militarychild.org. Please email number of children attending.

Babies are happiest when they can communicate with the people who love them the most – their families. Did you know that babies can actually understand spoken language before they are physically able to speak?

Signing is a tool that can be the key into your baby’s thoughts and the springboard for future language development. The benefits of using baby sign language range from increased bonding with the parent or caregiver to a positive impact on cognitive and verbal development.

Bring your baby and learn baby sign language together at the Crestview library, 1445 Commerce Drive! Baby sign in begins at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 31, and the 30-minute class starts at 10:15 a.m. Classes are limited to the first 30 children who sign in that day.

Older children are welcome. Call 682-4432 with any questions.

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

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CHECK IT OUT: Library offers class on baby sign language

CRESTVIEW — Here are upcoming and recent events in North Okaloosa County and surrounding areas. 

Tourist Development Council to meet

FORT WALTON BEACH — Tourist Development Council will convene at 9 a.m. Jan. 17 at the Emerald Coast Convention Center, 1250 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach for its regular meeting.

Super Soaker inventor to speak on perseverance 

NICEVILLE — The public is invited to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center for a free program titled The Power of Perseverance, featuring Lonnie Johnson, U.S. Air Force veteran, NASA engineer and inventor of the Super Soaker squirt gun.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 18 and the program begins at 7:30 p.m. at Northwest Florida State College, 100 College Blvd., Niceville. Limited seating is available.

Johnson, who invented the Super Soaker squirt gun, will discuss his history and how the ever increasing rate of technology evolution impacts the future. The gun received multiple industry awards, including Outdoor Toy of the Year.

“Lonnie Johnson has made a significant impact with his work, and I encourage educators, parents and leaders throughout our region to bring students to the Mattie Kelly Arts Center for an opportunity to learn from a NASA Nuclear Engineer,” NWF President Dr. Devin Stephenson.  

The next free event in the President's Speaker Series features money experts Rachel Cruze and Chris Hogan at 7:30 p.m. April 4.

Martin Luther King Jr. parade is scheduled 

CRESTVIEW — The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade begins with a line up at 9 a.m. Jan. 19, at the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Lloyd Street in Crestview. The parade will march to the Okaloosa County Courthouse lawn for a program immediately afterward.

Paint refinishing open house set

CRESTVIEW — A local boutique will host a Jolie Home all-day paint refinishing open house this weekend. It will include live painting demos, and hands-on instruction for various finishing techniques and color mixing.

Shades of BLU's free event is 10 a.m. to  4 p.m. Jan. 19 at the store, 426 James Lee Blvd. W, Crestview. Call 331-2690 for more information.

Courts to close Jan. 21 for holiday observance

CRESTVIEW — The courts of the First Judicial Circuit will be closed Jan. 21 in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. Regular operations will resume Jan. 22. 

Local Boy Scout troop now open to girls

CRESTVIEW — For the first time in its 100-year history, the Boy Scouts of America will be open to young women. 

The Men’s Club of the First United Methodist Church is chartering the first Scouts-BSA troop for girls ages 11-17 in North Okaloosa County.

Troop 33's meet and greet is 7 p.m. Jan. 21 at FUMC, 599 8th St., Crestview. Email smicrestviewtroop33@gmail.com for more information.

Historian to present information on West Florida's early days

CRESTVIEW — Historian Hank Klein will speak on the topic "The Early Days of West Florida." The presentation starts at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 23 at the Crestview Public Library, 1445 Commerce Drive, Crestview.

Call 682-4432 to reserve a seat.

The remainder of his presentations are listed below.

•"The Old East Pass & Destin Lighthouse Keepers," 6 p.m. Jan. 25, Heritage Park and Cultural Center, 139 Miracle Strip Parkway SE, Fort Walton Beach. Call 833-9595 to RSVP.

•"Major Public Land Laws of the U.S.," during the Genealogical Society of Okaloosa County meeting, 10:30 a.m. Jan. 26, Fort Walton Beach Library, 185 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach.

•"Miramar Beach was Once Shoals, Florida," 10 a.m. Jan. 30, Coastal Library of Walton County, 437 Greenway Trail, Santa Rosa Beach.

•"Destin Pioneer Settlers – A Land History of Destin from 1819-1940," during The Resurrection Snowbird Group meeting,  10 a.m. Jan. 31, Resurrection Catholic Church, 259 Miramar Beach Drive, Miramar Beach.

•"History Mystery Too," 7 a.m. Feb. 6, duinrg the Mid-Bay Rotary Club meeting, American House at Bluewater Bay, fifth floor, 4595 U.S. Highway 20 East, Niceville.

•Second "Early Days of Northwest Florida" presentation during the Destin History and Fishing Museum membership and board meeting, 6 p.m. Feb. 13 at the museum, 108 Stahlman Ave., Destin.

•"How Did Destin Become Destin?" presentation is 5 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Destin museum, 108 Stahlman Ave.

Boyles to host Coffee with the Commissioner event 

BAKER — Okaloosa County Commissioner Nathan Boyles will discuss issues relating to the services, programs and improvements provided by Okaloosa County.

Multiple members of the Board of County Commissioners may attend and participate in the discussion, which is open to the public.

"Coffee with the Commissioner" starts at 5 p.m. Feb. 19 at the Camp Retreat, 5493 U.S. Highway 4, Baker.

Law enforcement leaders graduate from leadership academy

TALLAHASSEE — The Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute announces the recent graduation of 37 first-line supervisors from the Florida Leadership Academy. These graduates serve in leadership roles representing 29 criminal justice agencies throughout the state. 

The graduates met for four week-long sessions at the St. Johns River State College in St. Augustine. They learned skills necessary to support the needs of their agencies and their communities as they prepare for future challenges. 

The goal of the Florida Leadership Academy is to prepare first-line supervisors in criminal justice organizations to exemplify the character and integrity expected of criminal justice professionals and to examine the various components necessary to being an efficient leader. 

Graduates include Jason Folley and Samantha Schill, both of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa Community Briefs

CRESTVIEW — The Crestview Police Department and the U.S. Army 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) are searching for a soldier who failed to report for duty Monday morning. Sgt. Greco Antoine Tucker Jr., 23, was last heard from Friday.

Sgt. Tucker’s Crestview home shows no signs of forced entry and his personal property is in place, but his 2014 four-door, white Dodge Charger SE sedan is gone.

“It is possible he left the area,” Crestview Police Commander Ray Harp said. “He hasn’t reported to work, or to family or friends. It is very out of character for him.”

The 7th Group described Sgt. Tucker as an exemplary soldier.

“We’re looking into the circumstances of Sgt. Tucker’s disappearance to determine if he left on his own accord,” Cmdr. Harp said. “At this point in the investigation, we don’t have any indications of foul play.”

Anyone spotting Sgt. Tucker, possibly in his white Dodge Charger, Florida tag number 044-QCF, is asked to please contact the Crestview Police Department, 682-3544.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Police, Army looking for missing soldier

CRESTVIEW — The Main Street Crestview Association will have a chili contest for trophies, cash prizes "and bragging rights for the whole year," according to an announcement for the event.

The Chili Cook Off is 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Hub City Smokehouse & Grill, 168 Main St. S, Crestview. 

Winners for best chili and People's Choice will be selected.

Awards include $100 cash and a trophy, $50 cash and a trophy, and $25 cash and a trophy for first through third Best Chili winners, plus $100 cash and a trophy for the People's Choice winner.

The schedule is as follows:

•10 a.m. — arrival and set up

•11 a.m. — tasting kits on sale

•3 p.m. — judges' tasting begins

•4 p.m. — winners announced at Hub City Smokehouse 

Registration costs $25.93. Go to https://www.downtowncrestview.org/events-1/chili-cook-off-contestant to enter.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Main Street Chili cookoff competition is this month

CRESTVIEW — Melissa Hanks is the founder of Ruck Up Cup, a mobile, drive-through coffee stand at 4110 Ferdon Blvd. S, Crestview.

Hanks — who started the business last summer — and her employees serve hot and cold drinks of various types. They cater and deliver.

Mochas, lattes, frappes, bubble teas and Italian sodas are some menu options. There are about 12 kid-friendly beverages, as well as fresh-baked goods provided by Fruitable Flowers of Crestview.

An energy-based drink on the list is the Red Bull Sparkler.

"It's Red Bull infused with flavoring like watermelon or cherry with a little bit of cream. It's really good," Hanks said.

Hanks grew up in Washington state, with coffee stands on every corner, she said.

"I just love coffee … so I started working at a couple of those growing up."

At 19, she began working at a Starbucks, and in the next two years, she and her husband, Zane, an airman, were stationed in Italy. The espressos they experienced there inspired them to start a drive-through coffee stand for military members.

On Friday, Ruck Up launched a business delivery system via ubereats.com. The five-drink minimum previously in force has been cancelled for businesses within Uber Eats boundaries, which are based on the center of Crestview to guarantee freshness.

Home delivery begins Jan. 14. and deliveries to Duke Field and the 7th Special Forces cost an additional $3.

Melissa considers mobility a necessity due to her family's military status.

"We can take it with us anywhere we go. That's kind of the number one thing that's hard when you're a military spouse, being able to stay at a job," she said.

Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday – Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday in the parking lot of BT Kitchen and Baths, a granite supplier.

Call 850-398-9677, or visit Ruck Up Cup on ubereats.com to place an order.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Love coffee? Try Ruck Up Cup in Crestview