This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Rosalynn Carter to speak at Chautauqua Assembly

CRESTVIEW — Debbie and Lamar Stephens, of Crestview, announce the April 20, 2013 wedding of their daughter, Tiffani, to Stephen Schmidt of Troy, Ala.

Tiffani is a 2005 Florida State University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in communication studies. She serves as Troy University’s High School and Community College Relations director and pursues her master’s degree in strategic communications through Troy University.

Stephen is the son of Dr. John and Vicki Schmidt, of Pike Road, Ala. He is a 2005 Troy University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in design, technology and industry. He is a webmaster at Troy University.

The wedding ceremony will be at First Baptist Church in Crestview.

The News Bulletin publishes north Okaloosa County residents' engagement, wedding and anniversary announcements at no charge. Submissions may be edited for length and style. Call 682-6524 or email news@crestviewbulletin.com for more information.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: WEDDING: Stephens and Schmidt planning April ceremony

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE — When Col. Mark Fluker arrived in 2009 to help set up maintenance operations for the military’s newest and most expensive fighter jet, he had a staff of only nine people.

The entire 33rd Fighter Wing, in fact, had only 60 people, mostly high-level command staff.

They were tasked with building the F-35 program from the ground up. When Fluker arrived, the now state-of-the-art airplane hangars weren’t just empty, they didn’t exist. A lone I-beam had been put in place.

Today, the wing has grown to 1,500 people. As commander of maintenance operations, Fluker oversees about 390 maintainers who work on a fleet of 22 F-35s, the largest in the world.

On Friday, Fluker, 51, will step down from his post, his first move toward retirement this summer after 30 years in the air force.

Navy Capt. Lance Massey, the maintenance group’s deputy commander, will take over.

Fluker’s years at the forefront of putting the new F-35 into action have been the highlight of his career, he said.

“This has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said Wednesday. “There is no other place I’d rather be in the Air Force than right here.”

Building a program from scratch had its challenges.

Fluker was rushed to Eglin in August 2009 to serve as deputy commander of maintenance in advance of the arrival of the F-35s. That didn’t come for more than two years because of cost overruns and performance problems.

“It was very frustrating, but it turned out it was probably a good thing, all said and done,” he said.

The team was able to work through a lot of problems before the first aircraft arrived.

They pored over newly developed maintenance manuals and sent back corrections that would make the procedures safer and more efficient.

Several maintainers were shipped off to test units to learn about the jets.

They made improvements to the hangar and built a tire and wheel repair shop.

Finally, in July 2011, the first F-35 touched down at Eglin. They were ready.

Seventh months later, in March 2012, the jet took to the sky.

In the nine months since, the 33rd has been able to fly more than 1,000 hours in the F-35, said Col. Andrew Toth, the wing’s commander.

“This is a commendable achievement that could not have been accomplished without (Col. Fluker’s) unwavering dedication and leadership,” Toth said.

Maintenance for those first flights took great leadership and responsibility on behalf of everyone working to service the planes, including the newer staff sergeants and senior airmen, Fluker said.

“I am immensely proud of those guys, down to the youngest one,” he said. “They have really proven how professional they are.”

He said some of the younger guys were given a high level of responsibility that they might not have gotten in other air force jobs because they were working with such a new aircraft.

They are charged with maintaining a $150 million jet, the world’s most expensive fighter. That comes with the need to report to high-ranking officials on maintenance issues and all the challenges they face, Fluker said.

“I’ve got a 19 year-old standing tall and briefing and telling a general all about the airplane,” Fluker said. “Every time I see it, it just makes me proud.”

The maintainers are the often unsung heroes of the fighter jet. No pilot could take to the sky without them, Fluker said.

Every flight requires eight to nine maintainers to work about five-and-a-half hours to prepare an F-35 for takeoff. That’s if nothing goes wrong.

Using several complicated computer systems, they check for discrepancies and make sure every system is working properly. They walk around the airplane to look for aberrations and leaks, check gauges and tire pressure, and replace parts or refill fluids.

Then the plane is service ready, but not yet set for takeoff. Another round of checks is conducted with the pilot in the cockpit. As a final precaution, they roll the plane forward to check the underside of the tires.

 “Then we go launch that airplane,” Fluker said.

One highlight for Fluker was when the group designed its own training procedure to certify maintainers to do their own engine runs. Now they don’t have to call a pilot in to power up the plane to check if a repair they made did the trick.

 “Nobody else in the Air Force does that,” he said.

The training center at Eglin should start graduating maintainers next January. Lt. Gen. Christopher Bodgan, the F-35 program director, said recently that Eglin will remain the “center of the universe” for the jet’s maintenance training.

Toth said Fluker’s greatest accomplishment was helping bring a fledgling program to fruition.

 “When Col. Fluker arrived over three years ago, what you see here around the 33rd Fighter Wing — in terms of personnel, structures and F-35 aircraft — was only a vision,” he said. “His greatest feat was helping make that vision a concrete reality.”

Contact Daily News Staff Writer Lauren Sage Reinlie at 850-315-4440 or lreinlie@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @LaurenRnwfdn.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Col. Mark Fluker to step down as F-35 maintenance chief

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CRESTVIEW — The Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge is in the process of purchasing the former Sasquatch Zoo, and needs a little help along the way.

The zoo is expected to reopen as the Emerald Coast Wildlife Zoological Park in mid-February, pending license approval, officials said.

"This is the first time (the refuge) has taken on a task like this," Amanda Wilkerson, the refuge’s executive director, said.

The not-for-profit organization primarily volunteers efforts in rehabilitating Florida’s orphaned, injured and endangered species “in accordance with good wildlife management practices," the group’s official website, ecwildliferefuge.com, states.

The refuge seeks assistance in preparations for the re-opening.

"We are asking for volunteers to help with a variety of things including landscaping … we could definitely use a professional landscaper and (an) electrician," Wilkerson said.

Although some specialized help is required, the refuge welcomes anyone interested to contact volunteer supervisor Susan Leveille at 850-650-1880.

"We will have a project for everyone that comes," Wilkerson said, adding only adult volunteers are needed.

Wilkerson expressed gratitude for those who have shown their support by volunteering. Volunteers this month have been meeting at the zoo on Saturdays. Nearly 25 volunteers showed up to participate on Jan. 5, Wilkerson said.

The Sasquatch Zoo — established in 1987 near Shoal River — moved to Deer Springs Drive two years later after flooding. It houses more than a hundred animals including lions, bears and monkeys.

Debbie Mattox — who has managed the zoo since it opened — contacted the refuge when she decided to retire.

"I wanted to find a way to keep the zoo here for the community," she said, adding county officials referred her to the refuge.

The zoo closed at the end of December to allow the refuge and volunteers to work.

It was a win-win situation for the refuge and the zoo’s inhabitants, for which Mattox deeply cares, she said.

"I have raised most of the animals since they were infants. They are like my children to me,” she said.

Mattox and her husband, Bill Bitsche, plan to stay involved with zoo operations after the transition.

Especially since they live next door.

"I joked with the refuge that they would have to keep me away with a broom," Mattox said.

She particularly anticipates additions.

The refuge will add "animal ambassadors" after the zoo re-opens; details will be released later, Wilkerson said.

The park also will add a summer educational program and new exhibits.

The refuge still will need help maintaining the park and its inhabitants after the zoo re-opens, officials said.

Want to go?

Contact Susan Leveille, volunteer coordinator, 650-1880 or sleveille@ecwildliferefuge.com, to volunteer at the Emerald Coast Wildlife Zoological Park.

The zoo is at 5262 Deer Springs Drive in Crestview.

Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Developing zoo seeks volunteers

CRESTVIEW — The U.S. Air Force’s 919th Special Operations Wing, or SOW, inducted six community leaders in its honorary commander program Jan. 12 at Duke Field.

The program pairs inductees with commanders, allowing them “to visit the 919th Special Operations Wing and learn about (its mission and its Air Force Reserve role in) national defense and support personnel involved in worldwide operations,” said Dan Neely, a 919 public information officer.

“Our mission is to employ specialized personnel and to equip and support the community of us special operations commanders and geographical combatant commanders in the execution of world special operations.”

The unit has approximately 1,300 personnel, Neely said.

The wing commander takes his place at the top, followed by the wing command chief and the Mission Support Group, Operations Group, Maintenance Group and Medical Squadron.

Wing commanders annually select applicants recognized as leaders in their community, whether they are civilian or otherwise, “though many are members of the Chamber of Commerce,” Neely said.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 919th Special Operations Wing inducts six new members

CRESTVIEW — Instead of having a regular Sunday evening service, New Life Missionary Baptist Church had a panel discussion on current events.

The discussion, sponsored by the Carver-Hill Memorial and Historical Society, involved input from community members of different political backgrounds including members of Republican, Democratic and Tea Party organizations.

County Commissioner Wayne Harris represented the Okaloosa County Commission and the Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also on the panel was Sabu Williams, representing the National Association of the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, and the Rev. Charles Flowers, representing the local clergy.

The discussion became heated when gun control was raised in a question regarding the Dec. 14 tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.

Williams and Democratic Party member John Whitley favored banning the sale of assault rifles that can fire multiple rounds before reloading.

"When (the Founding Fathers) wrote the Second Amendment, they only had muskets," Whitely said.

Williams agreed with banning assault weapons, but said Americans should be able to defend themselves.

"I believe every household should have a gun," Williams said.

Harris weighed in on the impact of additional gun laws.

"There are over 25,000 gun laws in this country; one more won't make a difference," he said.

Instead, the country should focus on improving mental health treatment, he said, adding that God should be brought back to public schools, a statement that drew applause.

Among other topics discussed involved Crestview's economic infrastructure and political differences within the parties.

Organizers allowed questions from the audience, one of which pertained to whether Crestview traffic can be alleviated on State Road 85.

The county lacks the funds to add or improve roadways, Harris said, adding that neither he nor the other commissioners have a say on S.R. 85.

 "Highway 85 is a state road; we can't touch it," he said.

The Rev. Jerry Jones, associate pastor at Mercy Seat Ministries in Fort Walton Beach, was the discussion’s facilitator.

"Things got a little heated at the end, but that’s the thing about living in this country where there are different points of view," he said.

The Rev. Sanford Hayes was pleased with the event.

"It was a good turnout," he said. "The (panel members) answered the questions in an intelligent manner."

Hayes said he thought the audience gained insight on the issues discussed.

The panel was part of Carver-Hill's recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Hayes previously said this panel discussion is part of King's dream of becoming one nation, not divided.

Shalimar residents Gary and Nancy Stelling attended to support Whitley and the Democratic Party.

"It was good to get everybody together and talk about it,” Nancy Stelling said. "It seems to me it was at least a good starting point."

Arden Farley, an Okaloosa County resident, agreed.

"I thought it was good," Farley said. "I thought they all made excellent points."

"I plan on coming to the next one," Farley said.

Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Gun ownership rights fuel heated debate at MLK panel discussion

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CRESTVIEW — The Emerald Coast Young Marines on Saturday learned about being a U.S. Marine as they honored a service member injured in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan.

Sgt. Kirstie Ennis, of Milton, reportedly received six surgeries for injuries including a torn rotator cuff, shattered jaw and a brain injury. In addition, she experienced post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.

But on Saturday, she was the Young Marines’ honored guest an Elks Lodge luncheon.

She appreciated meeting group members who sent her letters of encouragement while she recuperated.

“To put faces to the names of the young Marines that have been writing me throughout my recovery is a great feeling,” Ennis said. “I hope I can empower them half as much as they have done for me.”

Elks Lodge 2624 provided lunch for Ennis, her family and the Young Marines, their parents and staff.

Attendees said Ennis was a role model.

“She really inspires me … how she can be in a helicopter crash and (still) be here to tell us about her experiences,” Pfc. Michaela Cantwell, 10, of Milton, said.

“Now I’m thinking about being a gunner,” Michaela said. Ennis served as gunner on helicopters that transport military personnel and supplies.

Many Young Marines said Ennis’ story wouldn’t deter them from facing dangerous situations.

Pfc. Carson Caldwell, 10, of Crestview found Ennis’ ordeal “emotional,” but said he still wants to be a Marine. “I think I can handle it; I’m strong enough.”

Carson's brother, William, also is a member of the ECYM. Their mother, Michelle Caldwell — a group volunteer — has personal experience dealing with wounded service members. Allen, her eldest son, received a serious head injury during hand-to-hand combat training at the United States Naval Academy, ending his military career with an honorable discharge.

Allen has since attended the University of Central Florida and, all things considered, his mother said he is doing well.

“It has left him with some personality changes … I don’t know if he will ever be fully recovered,” Michelle said.

Although being a military mom can be difficult, Michelle said her children have chosen this path.

"Some other countries, you don't have a choice, but in this one, you do," she said.

“We should all do what we can for our country and our community,” Michelle said. “Sometimes, we have to sacrifice ourselves for other people.”

As for Ennis, she plans to meet with a medical review board to learn whether she can continue her drill instructor career.

If she retires, Ennis would like to pay it forward with a medical degree.

"I want to work with service members who have PTSD," she said.

Want to join?

The Emerald Coast Young Marines meet on the first and third Saturday each month at the Elks Lodge in Crestview. Boys and girls ages 8-18 may join the group.

Deadline to register this year is Jan. 30.

See emeraldcoastyoungmarines.com for more information.

Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Matthew Brown at 850-682-6524 or matthewb@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbMatthew.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Emerald Coast Young Marines honor wounded troop member

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CRESTVIEW — Area green thumbs will celebrate Florida’s Arbor Day Friday morning with a tree giveaway and tree planting at the University of Florida/IFAS Okaloosa County Extension location on Airport Road.

The Daughters of the American Revolution’s Choctawhatchee Bay chapter donated a $200 winged elm tree to be planted during Friday’s events. The tree can grow as high as 40 feet, Okaloosa County Master Gardener Sandie Olsen said.

“Its seeds are a great bird attractor,” Olsen said. “And it’s not susceptible to Dutch elm disease.”

The Dogwood Garden Club of Crestview likewise donated a tree, also to be planted during Friday’s events.

“They (county Master Gardeners) have a landscape master plan and this will be part of it,” Dogwood member Celia Broadhead said.

County Extension officials, Master Gardeners and state forestry officials will offer advice on tree planting in the north county region, including a planting demonstration by County Extension commercial horticulture agent Sheila Dunning. Maria Wilson, the Florida Forest Service’s senior forester, will distribute free mayhaw, red maple, cherry bark oak and yellow poplar saplings.

Planting these and other trees native to northwest Florida is preferable to importing non-native exotic species, such as the palm trees some residents like to plant in their yards, retired forester and Forest Service Poet Laureate John McMahon said.

“Native trees are likely to adapt better to our local conditions,” he said. “They grew up here and are acclimated to growing in our soil. They’ve adapted to our conditions, including our colder winters. They are easier to maintain than exotic trees.”

Events begin Friday at 9 a.m. with the sapling giveaway, which lasts until noon or until all trees are given away.

Dedication of the DAR’s winged elm is at 10:30 a.m.; Dunning’s planting demonstration will follow.

Coffee and a guided tour of the new extension building will be provided at 11 a.m.

All events are free.

McMahon encouraged interested residents to visit the Crestview McMahon Environmental Center on Butler Circle, off Maypoles Street, beneath the fire tower. The center has been the location of past years’ Arbor Day events.

“We have more than 100 native species tagged for easy identification,” said McMahon, for whom the center was named.

Though national Arbor Day is celebrated on the last Friday in April, state Arbor Days are observed to correspond with optimal local tree planting conditions.

Florida’s Arbor Day is the third Friday of January.

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Want to go?

Arbor Day events — Friday at the University of Florida/IFAs County Extension office, 3098 Airport Road — are as follows.

9 a.m. to noon: Sapling giveaway (while supplies last)

10:30 a.m.: Dedication of DAR winged elm; tree planting demonstration

10:45 a.m.: Dedication and planting of Dogwood Garden Club’s tree

11 a.m.: Refreshments and tour of County Extension building

Admission for all events is free.

Contact News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes at 850-682-6524 or brianh@crestviewbulletin.com. Follow him on Twitter @cnbBrian.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Tree giveway among Arbor Day events on Friday

In December, the state Department of Transportation awarded a $13.9 million contract for the project intended to relieve traffic congestion on U.S. 98 and provide better access to Hurlburt’s Field’s main gate.

Two two-lane bridges will be built on U.S. 98 over Cody Avenue. Construction should begin this summer.

Col. Jim Slife, commander of the 1st Special Operations Wing, said congestion at the intersection has been frustrating for Hurlburt and surrounding communities for years.

“I see this as a tremendous opportunity for both those of us who commute to Hurlburt Field and those who drive past the installation,” he said in an email.

The overpass should extend to about 3,750 feet west of the intersection and 2,500 feet to the east, according to the DOT.

In addition to the overpass, the work will include improvements to utilities, drainage, traffic signals, traffic management systems, lighting, signs and pavement markings.

Temporary lane closures will occur during utilities relocation, said Tanya Branton, a spokeswoman for the DOT. Officials will provide advance notice.

That job should be finished by the time construction begins this summer, she said.

The contract for design and construction of the overpass was awarded to Superior Construction Co. and Michael Baker Corp.

It came in under budget. Last spring, DOT officials said they had set aside $21.2 million for the job.

The $7.3 million in savings was passed on to other projects in the DOT’s Northwest Florida district, Branton said.

Officials said traffic likely will get a little worse before it gets better, but they are working to provide alternatives during construction.

Dan Wilcoxen, Hurlburt’s chief of military construction, said they are working closely with DOT and Okaloosa County to coordinate potential secondary gate access points.

The options being considered would be implemented about July.

The entire project is expected to be complete in the winter of 2014, Branton said.

Contact Daily News Staff Writer Lauren Sage Reinlie at 850-315-4440 or lreinlie@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @LaurenRnwfdn.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crews start preliminary construction for Hurlburt overpass