Seascape forum

[Justfactsplease]

Tell me it isn’t so!

I heard that Ralph showed up at the Seascape Forum. It was also said that two of the sheriff candidates, Adkinson and Cooper, praised him for a job well done as sheriff during their presentations. These are the same two candidates that have been bashing him for the last 3 or 4 forums and all over the newspaper. At least now people can see their true colors and it just shows that they will say whatever they think will help them , they absolutely can’t be trusted. I just don’t understand why either one of them are running in this race if they feel that Ralph has done such a great job. It must be for personal reasons and not for the better of the county reasons as previously stated. They both should either apologize to Ralph for all the past comments or should apologize to those that attended the forum because they have lied to one or the other. Maybe they are scared to say those bad things to his face…either way they can’t be trusted. Make sure you become informed about each candidate before you vote.

[Smiling JOe]

Interesting. I didn't attend, so don't know if that is true. Maybe someone who attended can confirm or deny your statements.

I agree with you about that riding the fence and teeter totting to touch the ground on either side at any given time. That seems like the typical politician. It really doesn't surprise me if it is true. I am supporting Adkinson in the Sheriff's race because I think he seems to have the most leadership skills of all of the candidate's I've seen, but he is still a politician. Any easy way for him to take a strong lead, would have been for him to bash on Sheriff Johnson last night, rather than commending him. Give me a candidate who is willing to state his or her mind, no matter the audience before him or her.

After hearing all of the candidate's for Sheriff speak, I think all are grasping for their share of voters, and will say things that they think the people want to hear. One thing they all have in common is that they all put down Sheriff Johnson for his lack of accountability and his lack of availability. I guess they think that Johnson is their best competition, which on the surface, sounds rather dumb.

I want a Sheriff who walks and talks like a Sheriff, and quite frankly, most of the candidates seem shy and meek (including the current Sheriff, which shows in his lack of willingness to speak before the BCC in the past), with the exception of Adkinson, Cooper, and Cornman. No offense to Wise, as he is not shy at all, but it seems like he would rather be a writer and getting certified in something, rather than managing the Office of Sheriff.

Out of the three viable candidates, Adkinson may seem the most personable, but that may also come off as being too much like a good-ole-boy. Cooper seems totally unapproachable, though that may not be true in a one on one situation. Cornman reminds me of a kid who got picked on, and is now trying to get even as an adult behind a badge. (gut feelings, with no factual evidence.)

I'd like to believe that all of the candidates are good people with good intentions. Often times, one has to go with gut instincts when choosing a politician, because a true politician will say almost anything to get elected. Thankfully, there are some people running for local elections who are the exception to that rule, and to them, I say, Thank You!

[idlewind]

Interesting. I didn't attend, so don't know if that is true. Maybe someone who attended can confirm or deny your statements.

I agree with you about that riding the fence and teeter totting to touch the ground on either side at any given time. That seems like the typical politician. It really doesn't surprise me if it is true. I am supporting Adkinson in the Sheriff's race because I think he seems to have the most leadership skills of all of the candidate's I've seen, but he is still a politician. Any easy way for him to take a strong lead, would have been for him to bash on Sheriff Johnson last night, rather than commending him. Give me a candidate who is willing to state his or her mind, no matter the audience before him or her.

After hearing all of the candidate's for Sheriff speak, I think all are grasping for their share of voters, and will say things that they think the people want to hear. One thing they all have in common is that they all put down Sheriff Johnson for his lack of accountability and his lack of availability. I guess they think that Johnson is their best competition, which on the surface, sounds rather dumb.

I want a Sheriff who walks and talks like a Sheriff, and quite frankly, most of the candidates seem shy and meek (including the current Sheriff, which shows in his lack of willingness to speak before the BCC in the past), with the exception of Adkinson, Cooper, and Cornman. No offense to Wise, as he is not shy at all, but it seems like he would rather be a writer and getting certified in something, rather than managing the Office of Sheriff.

Out of the three viable candidates, Adkinson may seem the most personable, but that may also come off as being too much like a good-ole-boy. Cooper seems totally unapproachable, though that may not be true in a one on one situation. Cornman reminds me of a kid who got picked on, and is now trying to get even as an adult behind a badge. (gut feelings, with no factual evidence.)

I'd like to believe that all of the candidates are good people with good intentions. Often times, one has to go with gut instincts when choosing a politician, because a true politician will say almost anything to get elected. Thankfully, there are some people running for local elections who are the exception to that rule, and to them, I say, Thank You!


I believe that you have donned your "rose colored glasses" on this one.:shock: Mr. Adkinson is often personable, but does not react well to opposing viewpoints and does not stay in the conversation when someone questions him. :angry: Mr. Cooper is somewhat arrogant in groups but is engaging one on one and will tolerate disagreement. ;-) Mr. Cornman can be charming but is arrogant and does not like questioning. :yikes: All three could use lessons in dealing with the public from what I have seen. :bang:And of course all three are a huge improvement over Ralph.:clap:

[Andy A.]

IW, so who are you supporting and why? This is meant to be a serious question. I do not have a clue regarding the sheriff's race. I know Rick Brown to be a nice personable person. He stopped me once on 30A for exceeding the speed limit. His demeanor was very good and he cautioned me pleasantly on why I shouldn't be speeding on 30A and then sent me on my way. Other than that contact, my contact with the present candidates has been non-existent.

[Dennis Wise]

Interesting. I didn't attend, so don't know if that is true. Maybe someone who attended can confirm or deny your statements.

I agree with you about that riding the fence and teeter totting to touch the ground on either side at any given time. That seems like the typical politician. It really doesn't surprise me if it is true. I am supporting Adkinson in the Sheriff's race because I think he seems to have the most leadership skills of all of the candidate's I've seen, but he is still a politician. Any easy way for him to take a strong lead, would have been for him to bash on Sheriff Johnson last night, rather than commending him. Give me a candidate who is willing to state his or her mind, no matter the audience before him or her.

After hearing all of the candidate's for Sheriff speak, I think all are grasping for their share of voters, and will say things that they think the people want to hear. One thing they all have in common is that they all put down Sheriff Johnson for his lack of accountability and his lack of availability. I guess they think that Johnson is their best competition, which on the surface, sounds rather dumb.

I want a Sheriff who walks and talks like a Sheriff, and quite frankly, most of the candidates seem shy and meek (including the current Sheriff, which shows in his lack of willingness to speak before the BCC in the past), with the exception of Adkinson, Cooper, and Cornman. No offense to Wise, as he is not shy at all, but it seems like he would rather be a writer and getting certified in something, rather than managing the Office of Sheriff.

Out of the three viable candidates, Adkinson may seem the most personable, but that may also come off as being too much like a good-ole-boy. Cooper seems totally unapproachable, though that may not be true in a one on one situation. Cornman reminds me of a kid who got picked on, and is now trying to get even as an adult behind a badge. (gut feelings, with no factual evidence.)

I'd like to believe that all of the candidates are good people with good intentions. Often times, one has to go with gut instincts when choosing a politician, because a true politician will say almost anything to get elected. Thankfully, there are some people running for local elections who are the exception to that rule, and to them, I say, Thank You!

HI!! It's Mrs. Dennis Wise! Dennis is fishing at the moment somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico, and I'm hoping he's going to catch fresh fish for a late lunch, as he so often does! He loves to fish. In fact, my husband has many interests, and I can assure you, thinking he would rather be writing or getting certified in something would most definitely be right up there with his interests! Later today (5:30 to be exact), my husband will be in Niceville to present the Medal of Honor to the widow of the slain Okaloosa Officer, along with financial support and other considerations from the organization that he is president of. That is one of his interests too. Dennis is very concerned with the welfare of Officers in the Line of Duty, and their families......especially at such a sad time as this.

Walton County residents need to open their eyes and see what my husband is about, and that is caring for not only the Officers' safety and well being, but that of the residents also. As for his running for sheriff, I staunchly support his decision, for I know he is doing it out of concern and looking out for the best interest of the people of Walton County. You mention he might rather be getting certified in something.....I don't know if there is any other law enforcement certification he could possibly get....if there is, you're right he probably will get it as law enforcement is a huge passion of his. That is why he wants to be sheriff, he knows what to do and who to put into administrative positions, as well as who would make the best deputies, and how to train them to remain safe and servants of the people, all at the same time. Dennis is NO POLITICIAN.....he simply wants to do what's best for the residents of the county we live in. As for "The Watcher" thinking Dennis simply "wants to supplement his state retirement income", I think he and any other person that believes this should go back and read his first post! Dennis and I fully intend to support Women and Children in Distress and Animal Shelters first and foremost with much of the extra income that will be generated by the job! A passion shared by both of us. My husband and I can live very comfortably the rest of our lives without any additional income from the state or anyone else, of course barring any unforseen tragedy. We have God on our side, along with many Angels and are very happy exactly the way we are now! Of this you may rest assured. Do your homework......find out as much as you can about all the candidates and then MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE, NOT FOR DENNIS, NOT FOR ME........FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND THE BETTERMENT OF WALTON CO. I would just as soon keep him all to myself....

Thank you very much,

Proud to be, Mrs. Dennis Wise

P.S. I would greatly appreciate all to refrain from bashing my husband, as he is a good man and does not deserve to be criticized for anything. He only wants to do good for all.

[idlewind]

IW, so who are you supporting and why? This is meant to be a serious question. I do not have a clue regarding the sheriff's race. I know Rick Brown to be a nice personable person. He stopped me once on 30A for exceeding the speed limit. His demeanor was very good and he cautioned me pleasantly on why I shouldn't be speeding on 30A and then sent me on my way. Other than that contact, my contact with the present candidates has been non-existent.


That is a great question Andy A because the answer is I am still trying to decide:idontno: and am somewhat under the gun as I do not look to be in town on primary day and thus must vote early. :pissed: If forced at this time I would rank them: 1. Cooper
2. Adkinson
3. Cornman
4. Brown
5. Macon
6. Wise
7. Johnson

This is subject to change and would have been radically diferent a month ago except the Johnson would still have been last.:clap:I am still looking at this and district 5 in particular because I am still undecided. If forced I would rank that race: 1. Braunstein
2. Hudson
3. Osbourne
4. Jones
5. Smith.
I will continue to look and gather facts at least until early voting starts August 11.:biggrin:

[idlewind]

Proud to be, Mrs. Dennis Wise

P.S. I would greatly appreciate all to refrain from bashing my husband, as he is a good man and does not deserve to be criticized for anything. He only wants to do good for all.

Are you kiding us? If you/your husband did not want to face criticism then HE SHOULD HAVE STAYED OUT OF POLITICS! Everyone faces critics every day, the fact is no matter what we do, a large segment of the population will not agree with us and will be critical. What do you think Charlie Morris is getting in Okaloosa County for a situation that wasn't his fault and could have gone terribly bad no matter what course of action was chosen? People get criticism, especially public servants and prospective public servants. If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.

[Andy A.]

Proud to be, Mrs. Dennis Wise

P.S. I would greatly appreciate all to refrain from bashing my husband, as he is a good man and does not deserve to be criticized for anything. He only wants to do good for all.

Are you kiding us? If you/your husband did not want to face criticism then HE SHOULD HAVE STAYED OUT OF POLITICS! Everyone faces critics every day, the fact is no matter what we do, a large segment of the population will not agree with us and will be critical. What do you think Charlie Morris is getting in Okaloosa County for a situation that wasn't his fault and could have gone terribly bad no matter what course of action was chosen? People get criticism, especially public servants and prospective public servants. If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Oh get a life! The comments were those of a woman proud of her husband. Ignore the sentiment expressed in this post, Mrs Wise. And, no, I haven't yet made up my mind who I am voting for. But I'll do it with less rancor than that expressed in this post, and hopefully, with some degree of civility.

[Smiling JOe]

Someone who attended last night's meeting, informed me of his understanding of what was said by Adkinson:

"The Sheriff has done some things very well (ie… raise deputies pay, increase their numbers) and that for those things he should be commended."

[Dennis Wise]

Proud to be, Mrs. Dennis Wise

P.S. I would greatly appreciate all to refrain from bashing my husband, as he is a good man and does not deserve to be criticized for anything. He only wants to do good for all.

Are you kiding us? If you/your husband did not want to face criticism then HE SHOULD HAVE STAYED OUT OF POLITICS! Everyone faces critics every day, the fact is no matter what we do, a large segment of the population will not agree with us and will be critical. What do you think Charlie Morris is getting in Okaloosa County for a situation that wasn't his fault and could have gone terribly bad no matter what course of action was chosen? People get criticism, especially public servants and prospective public servants. If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.
Idlewind....hmmm......is that another name for fart?? Also, I am not familiar with the word kiding.....unless of course you mean kidding.....in which case I must inform you that undeserved criticism is hurtful, (to Charlie Morris too), as you probably gathered from my first and second sentence here, and that if you don't check out Dennis Wise thoroughly along with all the other candidates you are going to make a huge mistake in voting for someone else!!! Monumental......and I would say this even if I weren't just sentimental because I happen to be married to the most qualified MAN for the position of Sheriff of Walton Co. I repeat, you all need to open up your peepers and add... GET A CLUE! Anyone wishing to get first hand knowledge of what my husband is all about should contact him/me and we will surely arrange for you to find out exactly what I'm talking about! Either email, phone or pm us and we'll get together!!! Let's just say, "It's not going to be good for the wrong person to be elected, as I can only assume you have already noticed???" I suppose I should have said that Dennis is a politician in the sense that he is seeking an office, but as far as the negative aspect of politician goes........he is NOT. Seems some in Walton Co. cannot see the forest for the trees.

Sheila Wise

[sowalgayboi]

Someone who attended last night's meeting, informed me of his understanding of what was said by Adkinson:

"The Sheriff has done some things very well (ie… raise deputies pay, increase their numbers) and that for those things he should be commended."

I'm suspicious since this seems like the exact same font used in another thread by another poster.

The funny part is the screenname just the facts and then used creative editing to make a quote sound like something it wasn't and turned the context on it's head. I believe Mr. Johnson has employed a troll and I don't mean the deputy at the end of the bridge with a radar gun.

[Smiling JOe]

I typed that message using the same font which I use on 99 % of my posts. I don't understand what you are saying at all.

[idlewind]

Oh get a life! The comments were those of a woman proud of her husband. Ignore the sentiment expressed in this post, Mrs Wise. And, no, I haven't yet made up my mind who I am voting for. But I'll do it with less rancor than that expressed in this post, and hopefully, with some degree of civility.


I intended no "rancor" my friend, just a dose of reality.:funn: My point was that politics, like life, is sometimes unfair, criticism happens no matter what you do:yikes: and in the end you must ignore the pundits, craft out what you believe in and proceed withour fear of the critic.:clap: I apologize if this type of reality check is too mature for some viewers. Discretion is advised.:floor::floor::floor:

[4dogs]

Cornman reminds me of a kid who got picked on, and is now trying to get even as an adult behind a badge. (gut feelings, with no factual evidence.)

Hiding behind a badge! He has been wearing a badge for 25 years. He has more experince in varied fields of law enforcement than all the canidates put together.
If you vote Adkinson you will just be bringing the good old boys back into the sheriffs office.

[ShallowsNole]

Ok...I wasn't there, but if either Mike or Tom did commend the Sheriff for bringing up pay and adequately staffing the department, I would understand that, because he did. That part is true.

Mrs. Wise, I commend you for sticking your neck out. It is hard when people are critical of one's spouse. Several years ago, prior to the 2004 election, somebody that was married to a member of Sheriff Johnson's staff at the time - a person we trusted - wrote a letter to the editor of the Herald-Breeze, praising Mr. Johnson and stating that all of the men who had been demoted and who said they didn't know why, were liars. If I dug around here long enough, I am sure I could come up with the exact verbage and possibly the name of the author. :roll: It was very difficult for me to not fire back a response when, after all we had been through, all we had lost, and all we stood to lose, my husband was called a liar.

Oh well. Bygones are bygones, and even though we still have never been given a reason, it's water under the bridge now. He's back in (which I am grateful for), we didn't lose our home, I didn't go to the looney bin, and even though we are still recovering financially, life is great.

:welcome: to the board, and tell Dennis hello for us!

[Smiling JOe]

Hiding behind a badge! He has been wearing a badge for 25 years. He has more experince in varied fields of law enforcement than all the canidates put together.
If you vote Adkinson you will just be bringing the good old boys back into the sheriffs office.I never stated he was "hiding behind a badge." Go back and slowly reread what I said.

[idlewind]

Ok...I wasn't there, but if either Mike or Tom did commend the Sheriff for bringing up pay and adequately staffing the department, I would understand that, because he did. That part is true.

Mrs. Wise, I commend you for sticking your neck out. It is hard when people are critical of one's spouse. Several years ago, prior to the 2004 election, somebody that was married to a member of Sheriff Johnson's staff at the time - a person we trusted - wrote a letter to the editor of the Herald-Breeze, praising Mr. Johnson and stating that all of the men who had been demoted and who said they didn't know why, were liars. If I dug around here long enough, I am sure I could come up with the exact verbage and possibly the name of the author. :roll: It was very difficult for me to not fire back a response when, after all we had been through, all we had lost, and all we stood to lose, my husband was called a liar.

Oh well. Bygones are bygones, and even though we still have never been given a reason, it's water under the bridge now. He's back in (which I am grateful for), we didn't lose our home, I didn't go to the looney bin, and even though we are still recovering financially, life is great.

:welcome: to the board, and tell Dennis hello for us!


Shallows, that is my point, I just guess due to senior moments I don't communicate very well.:idontno: Even public employees and especially candidates face negative comments and criticisms. By not responding in kind you do not give credence to the statement and maintain your personal dignity. I would guess you and yours maintaining a dignified face during adversity is a huge factor in your recovery.:clap: The key to being a successful public servant is knowing who you are, having confidence in your views and courage to stick with them and thick skin to take the barbs that are sure to come and not only perservere but triumph.:clap:Telling taxpayers/constituents that they cannot be critical or negative about you is unrealistic and is in fact unflattering and damaging to the servant/candidate.:bang:

[eagle11rb]

In the last forum at Freeport High, Rick Brown stated “he would use pregnant women and deputies with broken legs” to serve the large amount of unserved warrants. What is it with Walton County Sheriff’s and wanabe Sheriff’s have with pregnant women? Are these “good o’ boys” who don’t believe women make good officers? Does Mr. Brown think these warrants are for people who jaywalked? Most of those individuals are people who will hide, run and fight law enforcement officers to avoid being arrested and Mr. Brown wants to use pregnant women and injured deputies to do this? Maybe Mr. Brown thinks these individuals can be called up and ask to turn themselves in, Maybe Mr. Brown does not know what “serving warrants” means, Maybe Mr. Brown doesn’t need to be running for Sheriff!

[Badges?]

I never stated he was "hiding behind a badge." Go back and slowly reread what I said.

I don't know what you intended to convey, but in reality there is no practical difference in "adult behind a badge" and "hiding behind a badge," when used in the context of your statement.

[Justfactsplease]

I think most have missed the point. That point is both of these candidates say one thing when the person is not around and then something else when they are around. In other words they talk out of both sides of their mouth and will do the same to you and me if elected. I understand they did not mention anything in particular just that Johnson has done a great job. These are the same folks that say they use conservative fiscal control when dealing with taxpayer dollars but yet raise their buget over 90% and then criticize someone else about their budget. The same folks that say they have 20 years law enforcement experience but in reality have maybe 10 as a full time law enforcement officer the rest as an auxiliary officer working fairs and football games. Just make sure that you check out all of what each candidate says and how he says it...some of it is misleading

[Walton Voter]

This is my first time posting yet I have been a long time reader. Now it's time to express my opinions.

A quick background, I have been a taxpayer in Walton County since 1975, and I have watched the county evolve to what it is today. I have experienced all of the good old boy politics and corruptness in the past. Consequently, when I express my opinion, I am speaking of years of experience in this county and looking forward to many more years of successful growth for all Walton County residents.

I attended the political form for the South Walton Republican Club held at Seascape this past Thursday. I believe this is one of the best attended so far, and I was very impressed with the turnout of candidates.

This is the third candidate form that I have attended, and I arrived early all of the candidates running for Sheriff were definitely criticizing our current Sheriff. It was very interesting though how their demeanor changed once Sheriff Johnson arrived. Talk about personality changes and bicycling backwards you could see it immediately. To include when they got up to speak, I believe three of them complemented the Sheriff, on his office. My first impression was of a child being caught with their hands in the cookie jar the way that they were very careful on how they addressed the Sheriff's Department. This was the first time to hear Sheriff Johnson in this campaign he stated facts and figures that cannot be disputed. It made you think of our past years and how much better off we are today.

I believe it would be safe to say that the race is ON!

County Commissioner District 5

Bob Hudson came across the strongest, Sid Braunstien was a strong second. I will elaborate more on a later date.

I was slightly impressed with Mr. Osborne's youth and enthusiasm, but I question his ability to perform. I was reading his advertisements today in the Sun and one of his statements under Enforcement is he will consistently hold people accountable for code compliance. Yet he is unable to control his own campaign on placing his political signs in their proper places. He's gone through subdivisions and randomly placed signs in the right away. While the other opponents have followed the guidelines outlined by the state. If you can't control your campaign team are you going to be able to enforce the county's rules just a question that crossed my mind.

County Commissioner District 3

I was very impressed with Johnny Smith, I believe Larry Jones will have a run for his money.

Well, I have rattled long enough for my first posting, and I look forward to expressing my opinions in the future.

[Smiling JOe]

Walton Voter, I too, grow tired of seeing so many political signs illegally posted. From the numbers I see, most of them are on the public right of way. There are exceptions to that. Do you not see Hudson, and Braunstein's signs illegally placed as well?

[Walton Voter]

Not as many, the majority of the signs for Hudson have been placed on private property of course there will be one or two that will get moved out to the right away. The other day I observed a lady in a Cadillac going down Hwy 20 placing Osborne signs all in the wrong places. She had a trunk full of the signs so it was obvious that she was one of his team members.

[sowalgayboi]

I typed that message using the same font which I use on 99 % of my posts. I don't understand what you are saying at all.

My apologies, the second paragraph was directed at the original poster not you. :wave:

[idlewind]

Walton Voter, I too, grow tired of seeing so many political signs illegally posted. From the numbers I see, most of them are on the public right of way. There are exceptions to that. Do you not see Hudson, and Braunstein's signs illegally placed as well?


Every candidate's signs (with possibly one or two exceptions) are all over the right of way and in improper places.:eek: They are an eyesore to put it mildly.:pissed: But they all do it and will continue to do so as long as the laws are ignored and no consequences come from violations:bang: The candidates that really upset me are those who say they will follow the law, condemn other candidates for not following the law and then break it themselves:pissed: Those are what is commonly known as hypocrites.:funn:

[drivingthru]

Tell me it isn’t so!

I heard that Ralph showed up at the Seascape Forum. It was also said that two of the sheriff candidates, Adkinson and Cooper, praised him for a job well done as sheriff during their presentations. These are the same two candidates that have been bashing him for the last 3 or 4 forums and all over the newspaper. At least now people can see their true colors and it just shows that they will say whatever they think will help them , they absolutely can’t be trusted. I just don’t understand why either one of them are running in this race if they feel that Ralph has done such a great job. It must be for personal reasons and not for the better of the county reasons as previously stated. They both should either apologize to Ralph for all the past comments or should apologize to those that attended the forum because they have lied to one or the other. Maybe they are scared to say those bad things to his face…either way they can’t be trusted. Make sure you become informed about each candidate before you vote.

I belive you have some facts incorrect. I dont think that Adkinson or Cooper made any attempts to take pot shots at Johnson. I do not believe that they "praised" him for anything. Love him or hate him he HAS done some positive things for the county. I do believe they offered a professional courtesy (if that is possible), and made factual statements that followed with what the shortcommings were and where they wanted to make improvements. I attended the Mossey Head event as well, and of those that made pot shots, and there were some knives thrown, it was not Adkinson or Cooper. Maybe those that cant speak their mind unless its behind someones back should be the ones you are throwing stones at. Although neither Adkinson or Cooper stood out in my books, I commend them for speaking their mind and being professional and I, as an independent listener, did not find the comments obtrusive at all. Maybe you are getting some bad information and should attend a forum on your own, or maybe you were at this one...disquised as a candidate????

[drivingthru]

This is my first time posting yet I have been a long time reader. Now it's time to express my opinions.

A quick background, I have been a taxpayer in Walton County since 1975, and I have watched the county evolve to what it is today. I have experienced all of the good old boy politics and corruptness in the past. Consequently, when I express my opinion, I am speaking of years of experience in this county and looking forward to many more years of successful growth for all Walton County residents.

I attended the political form for the South Walton Republican Club held at Seascape this past Thursday. I believe this is one of the best attended so far, and I was very impressed with the turnout of candidates.

This is the third candidate form that I have attended, and I arrived early all of the candidates running for Sheriff were definitely criticizing our current Sheriff. It was very interesting though how their demeanor changed once Sheriff Johnson arrived. Talk about personality changes and bicycling backwards you could see it immediately. To include when they got up to speak, I believe three of them complemented the Sheriff, on his office. My first impression was of a child being caught with their hands in the cookie jar the way that they were very careful on how they addressed the Sheriff's Department. This was the first time to hear Sheriff Johnson in this campaign he stated facts and figures that cannot be disputed. It made you think of our past years and how much better off we are today.

I believe it would be safe to say that the race is ON!

County Commissioner District 5

Bob Hudson came across the strongest, Sid Braunstien was a strong second. I will elaborate more on a later date.

I was slightly impressed with Mr. Osborne's youth and enthusiasm, but I question his ability to perform. I was reading his advertisements today in the Sun and one of his statements under Enforcement is he will consistently hold people accountable for code compliance. Yet he is unable to control his own campaign on placing his political signs in their proper places. He's gone through subdivisions and randomly placed signs in the right away. While the other opponents have followed the guidelines outlined by the state. If you can't control your campaign team are you going to be able to enforce the county's rules just a question that crossed my mind.

County Commissioner District 3

I was very impressed with Johnny Smith, I believe Larry Jones will have a run for his money.

Well, I have rattled long enough for my first posting, and I look forward to expressing my opinions in the future.

I am a taxpayer too, have been since 1982 and I remember the good old boys. Johnson said nothing of a record, he mumbled through a speech that someone else wrote that was full of quotes from people that Johnson does not even know. He has been a public official for almost 8 years. You would think that he would be confident enough now to speak to a group of his constituents for 5 minutes without reading from a paper. And I dont recall any stated facts or figures from him. You claim the candidates demeanor changed? I personally witnessed 3 of them approach him and speak to him, of course THEY had to approach him, because he stood in a corner when he arrived and didnt speak to anyone but those who came with him.
I also disagree with you on the Dist 5 and in the Dist 3 race, Jones has that one locked up but just so you know, I am not a Jones (or Johnson) supporter

[drivingthru]

I think most have missed the point. That point is both of these candidates say one thing when the person is not around and then something else when they are around. In other words they talk out of both sides of their mouth and will do the same to you and me if elected. I understand they did not mention anything in particular just that Johnson has done a great job. These are the same folks that say they use conservative fiscal control when dealing with taxpayer dollars but yet raise their buget over 90% and then criticize someone else about their budget. The same folks that say they have 20 years law enforcement experience but in reality have maybe 10 as a full time law enforcement officer the rest as an auxiliary officer working fairs and football games. Just make sure that you check out all of what each candidate says and how he says it...some of it is misleading
Dear Johnson (or whoever) supporter
Thank you for this post and I went and checked out the facts. I assume the 90% Budget guy that you are targeting is Mr Adkinson and the Auxillary guy is Cooper (why not throw Cornman Macon and Wise in the mix? You must not think they have a chance?) Adkinson increased a budget becasue he was allowed to do so by his council to enhance the service to the city. Not a fan of higer taxes, but did the taxes of the residents of the city increase? And for Cooper, I believe your facts are not correct there either, as he as not an Auxillary Officer, yes Mr uninformed there is a difference, and regardless of what you claim he did while he was serving, he was serving in the capacity of a law enforcement officer, like it or not was that wrong? Have these two hidden anything?. I dont feel mislead at all, infact more informed so thank you for this information.
Fortunately (or unfortunately), I know some of the candidates and each of them (including Johnson) have both good qualities and bad. The problem is those of you who think you have a dog in the race that is lagging behind, want to get out there and stir the pot with your word spinning or counter misleading innuendos. I dont care one bit about what someone has done, (I keep an eye on what they have not done though) how long they have lived in the county (or not), who their wife is, or how much training they have. I look at the person and formulate my own opinion on whether they will be good on their word and do what they say as an elected official. If Donald Duck was running and could convince me he was the best for the job, I would vote for him. Maybe its time we got a Sheriff that was not a cop at all, and just moved to the county from some small town in Idaho and had the ability to make a decesion, hire intelligent people, and be available to the public.
And in closing, why dont you attend a forum on your own and get your own facts instead of being someones puppet? I have been to two of them now. They are interesting. Think I will go to the next one in South Walton just to check out the crowd, forget all the political stuff, I want to find the ones that are stiring the pots. If you are interested, its at South Walton High School I believe they said July 30 or 31 (could not understand the guy that was talking).

[Andy A.]

It is at SWHS on July 31st, and God williin' and the creek don't rise my wife and I will be there.

[idlewind]

Dear Johnson (or whoever) supporter
Thank you for this post and I went and checked out the facts. I assume the 90% Budget guy that you are targeting is Mr Adkinson and the Auxillary guy is Cooper (why not throw Cornman Macon and Wise in the mix? You must not think they have a chance?) Adkinson increased a budget becasue he was allowed to do so by his council to enhance the service to the city. Not a fan of higer taxes, but did the taxes of the residents of the city increase? And for Cooper, I believe your facts are not correct there either, as he as not an Auxillary Officer, yes Mr uninformed there is a difference, and regardless of what you claim he did while he was serving, he was serving in the capacity of a law enforcement officer, like it or not was that wrong? Have these two hidden anything?. I dont feel mislead at all, infact more informed so thank you for this information.
Fortunately (or unfortunately), I know some of the candidates and each of them (including Johnson) have both good qualities and bad. The problem is those of you who think you have a dog in the race that is lagging behind, want to get out there and stir the pot with your word spinning or counter misleading innuendos. I dont care one bit about what someone has done, (I keep an eye on what they have not done though) how long they have lived in the county (or not), who their wife is, or how much training they have. I look at the person and formulate my own opinion on whether they will be good on their word and do what they say as an elected official. If Donald Duck was running and could convince me he was the best for the job, I would vote for him. Maybe its time we got a Sheriff that was not a cop at all, and just moved to the county from some small town in Idaho and had the ability to make a decesion, hire intelligent people, and be available to the public.
And in closing, why dont you attend a forum on your own and get your own facts instead of being someones puppet? I have been to two of them now. They are interesting. Think I will go to the next one in South Walton just to check out the crowd, forget all the political stuff, I want to find the ones that are stiring the pots. If you are interested, its at South Walton High School I believe they said July 30 or 31 (could not understand the guy that was talking).


All in all you raise some good points, although I thought maybe this person was a Brown or Cornman supporter (do Macon and Wise have any supporters?) since they took Adkinson and Cooper apart.:confused: One thing about Mr. Adkinson's record though, when a leader asks for a budget increase, it is somewhat disingenuous to "blame" the city council/board of commissioners for approving it. They may face their own political kudos/criticisms for the action but the agency leader is responsible for what he/she asks for.:clap: Second, if one particular budget was raised without increasing taxes, then services somewhere else had to have been cut. So it would be for the citizens to detirmine if the overall efect was good or bad.:biggrin: As to Mr. Cooper, part-time in any job is not the same as full-time. That said, you are on the money when you said that what we (citizens) should be looking for is the best leader and facilitator out of the field. Johnson is obviously not the best choice.:rofl:

[Seeker1]

I never stated he was "hiding behind a badge." Go back and slowly reread what I said.



Out of the three viable candidates, Cornman reminds me of a kid who got picked on, and is now trying to get even as an adult behind a badge. (gut feelings, with no factual evidence.)


What else can that mean then? Its exactly what you said.

[Seeker1]

As for the wise one. He should not have used a fallen officers wake to campaign for sheriff. It was sickening and made people behind him step out of line. The few people in front of him that overheard him shook their heads in disbelief and came very close to asking him to leave.
AND, Mrs. Forgionne was already wearing the medal when he got there.
Shameful, shameful and embarassing behavior and he owes an apology. No excuses.

[Dennis Wise]

As for the wise one. He should not have used a fallen officers wake to campaign for sheriff. It was sickening and made people behind him step out of line. The few people in front of him that overheard him shook their heads in disbelief and came very close to asking him to leave.
AND, Mrs. Forgionne was already wearing the medal when he got there.
Shameful, shameful and embarassing behavior and he owes an apology. No excuses.

My husband refuses to lower himself to your level and I am sick to my stomach to think you would say this.......Dennis was never in a line, other than the viewing line, and certainly didn't say anything to anyone then and never campaigned as he didn't even speak to anyone other than Mrs. Forgione, Sheriff Morris and some BSO deputies! There is no way Mrs. Forgione could have received the Medal of Honor other than the President of the American Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens presenting it to her.......which he did! How dare you insinuate something like this about such a sensitive issue!!! He made sure all the campaign signs were removed from the car before leaving the house, so as not to offend!! You are outrageous and dispicable to insinuate this. Excuse me while I go throw up now!!!

If anyone doubts my husbands demeanor, check with Charlie Morris or Colonel Coup. Also, after the viewing, my husband had the honor of sitting with Mr. and Mrs. Altman whose son had also been killed in the line of duty!!! I am quite sure they would willingly attest to his professionalism also.

Mrs. Dennis Wise

[The Watcher]

I believe that you have donned your "rose colored glasses" on this one.:shock: Mr. Adkinson is often personable, but does not react well to opposing viewpoints and does not stay in the conversation when someone questions him. :angry: Mr. Cooper is somewhat arrogant in groups but is engaging one on one and will tolerate disagreement. ;-) Mr. Cornman can be charming but is arrogant and does not like questioning. :yikes: All three could use lessons in dealing with the public from what I have seen. :bang:And of course all three are a huge improvement over Ralph.:clap:

yes, all are HUGE improvements over Ralph...

However, from what basis do you base your assessment on? I agree with some of your review, but question others... Just asking?

[The Watcher]

Idlewind....hmmm......is that another name for fart?? Also, I am not familiar with the word kiding.....unless of course you mean kidding.....in which case I must inform you that undeserved criticism is hurtful, (to Charlie Morris too), as you probably gathered from my first and second sentence here, and that if you don't check out Dennis Wise thoroughly along with all the other candidates you are going to make a huge mistake in voting for someone else!!! Monumental......and I would say this even if I weren't just sentimental because I happen to be married to the most qualified MAN for the position of Sheriff of Walton Co. I repeat, you all need to open up your peepers and add... GET A CLUE! Anyone wishing to get first hand knowledge of what my husband is all about should contact him/me and we will surely arrange for you to find out exactly what I'm talking about! Either email, phone or pm us and we'll get together!!! Let's just say, "It's not going to be good for the wrong person to be elected, as I can only assume you have already noticed???" I suppose I should have said that Dennis is a politician in the sense that he is seeking an office, but as far as the negative aspect of politician goes........he is NOT. Seems some in Walton Co. cannot see the forest for the trees.

Sheila Wise

This is a fact that should have been realized long ago. Things are VERY different here... I know you and Dennis know this, I am not sure that now is the time for us to all realize it... Your phrasing of "some" should encompass more than what the word implies. I know that Dennis is doing what he believes in. It does not mean others c it that way...

w

[Andy A.]

I think this thread has convinced me Dennis Wise is the Wise choice. I've read his qualifications and backround and they are exemplary. While I'm at it, what is your opinion of the sheriff's race, Seeker1 and why? You obviosly have some stake in the game as your post regarding Dennis Wise's conduct at the wake of the fallen officer certainly indicates such. BTW, it was an obscene, malicious and unnecessary post under any circumstances. Also, I will believe Mrs. Wise's explaination of what transpired long before I believe yours. As SJ says, "just a gut feeling". The main drawback cited to the Dennis Wise campaign is his lack of a college degree. The amount of education and courses he has taken more than make up for this. College degrees, except for certain professions are highly over rated IMO. People can do quite nicely without them unless they are a physician, jurist or a few other professions. But, as a nation, we have grown to think that an intelligent person cannot evaluate, comprehend or react positively unless they have a college degree. It is my conclusion that we would all be much better balanced if not so much emphasis was put on what and how many degrees one has.

[Seeker1]

Wise was in fact in the very long line for the viewing as you very well pointed out.

He introduced himself to the person in line standing behind him saying Im Dennis Wise, Im running for walton county sheriff.
The gentlemans response was thats nice, I dont know enough about your county or sheriff.
Dennis said we have fifity to sixty thousand people in walton county except when the south end is full of tourists, then population really grows. But thats not including what seems like 10,000 mexicans.
The two people now standing behind them left the line and went to the rear shaking their heads.
There was one person standing in front of Dennis, me.
I was really disappointed in him and partly in myself for not asking him to stop. The woman in front of me turned and "shushed" in his direction and he must have heard her because he went silent.

You say you have read his qualifications and backround and find him exemplary.
This site is a wonderful place to get and give information. Allow me to suggest something from one of the better recent posts.
"Read more than what is hand fed to you". I encourage you and others to keep checking. You may all be surprised sir.
As for my opinion of the sheriff race. I always enjoy a political race.
Do I have a stake in the race? Heck YEAH! I think the current sheriff stinks and is not much different than the one before him. I live here. Im invested here. My entire family is here. I plan on staying here. I hope Walton County grows enough to help keep everyones children here. Thats my "stake here". I have yet to make my mind up on who to vote for though.
My comment would have been the same for anyones behavior. Is he evil, no, not at all. Was it bad judgement, I think he got carried away. Your more upset by the fact I brought it up than the actions of a candidate seeking the most powerful position in the county. I dont care if you believe me or not. I was there. Others were there. You would argue with anyone else who was there and witnessed it too I suspect.
I agree on the education point you bring up. Charlie Morris was a school resource officer prior to being sheriff. Hes done a great job. Diplomas dont always indicate ability. Performance based evaluations carry more weight than acedemic diplomas. Though both are very close. Succesful experience is more valuable over a classroom.
My post is far larger than intended. Support who you wish. But I still encourage you and everyone to check, verify, validate, ask questions and demand answers.

[sowalgayboi]

Seeker1 part of verifying what someone states as fact in a situation as the one you describe is to have a second party verify what happened.

I'm not doubting you or what you are saying happened and it very well could be true, but until it is verified, it is hearsay. Right now it is very much a 50/50 split as to what happened. In my experience of a he said/she said (this is no indication of posters identity just a common term for example purposes) situation it is best to ignore the statement and focus on other verifiable issues.

[Andy A.]

Seeker 1, thanks for the civil response. We will just have to agree to disagree on this one, though we agree about education vs. experience.

[Seeker1]

Thank you for the kind response Andy A.. I will continue to enjoy exchanges in the future with all who participate.
SWGB, I can. I was not aware that I was able to until this evening reading my personal e-mail. But at this point it will serve no purpose.
I will try to be more sensitive to issues I bring forward. I'll make an effort to be more considerate to family members and others who may get too upset. If necessary I will pass on bringing things to light and leave it to others. Sometimes its not worth the cost, no matter what the issue.