Walton County and City Law Enforcement

[Seeker1]

I saw it as Cooper, Cornman and Brown.
And once again I asked, not challenged, adkinson about internal policy and decisions and I was told to see his captain for answers. Not what I expected.

[Seeker1]

Allow me to suggest this for interesting reading:

http://www.waltonsun.com/articles/jo...h_sheriff.html

[seagrovegirl]

Very strong opinion from the editor..........and I agree. Ralph has got to go!

[idlewind]

The high attrition rate in late 2005 / early 2006 was due to the change in administration. I can count five employees off the top of my head who jumped from the PD to the WCSO, and one who accepted a position with DOT and eventually went back to the WCSO . Most - not all, but most - happened at the same time or before Mike took the reins. And, of course, several left after Mike came in.

If you want to compare apples to apples, compare 2006 in the DFSPD to 2000 in the WCSO. That's the only point I'm trying to make.

You are exactly correct that many people leave jobs for reasons other than being dissatisfied or being fired/ encouraged to depart. And I would guess a comparison to the sheriff in 2000 would reveal a simular rate as the PD. The points I am making is that all the candidates and their shrills are attacking each other with all sorts of truth, half-truth and out and out untruth and we all should be careful and analyze for ourselves.When things are true about a candidate, they should admit and move on. Mr. Cornman to his credit has owned his issue ( non-residency) and Ralph to his discredit has sent a spokesman or denied or blamed others or refused to answer. Mr. Adkinson should make sure he does not copy cat Ralph if he wants support.

[idlewind]

Very strong opinion from the editor..........and I agree. Ralph has got to go!

The editor is to be commended for a well-researched article on the shortcomings of our soon to be (hopefully) ex-sheriff.

[sunspotbaby]

Read the letters to the Editor...

[Alicia Leonard]

The editor is to be commended for a well-researched article on the shortcomings of our soon to be (hopefully) ex-sheriff.

I am very weary of speaking on this issue, but as someone who has covered almost all of these issues, I have to disagree with some statement's made in this editorial. I am in no way promoting or endorsing this candidate or any other.That's not my job and I don't get to have an opinion as a writer or even as a voter, due to my job. I have no issue with any other media source as well, but these statements bother me, because I can't find fact behind them.

In 2007-08, Johnson constructed a training range complete with driving track and rapelling tower. Cost, $345,824 (approximately).

It has never been constructed and if so, I'd like to see it. That project was given to the Triple G Committee to research and work on and it is still in the planning stages by the county to my knowledge. Johnson started it, but the BCC told him they had to bid it out and the WCSO turned the project over to them. The funding for this was also returned to the BCC. (BCC attorney stated that a capitol expense comes in when a building has to be constructed or the project is over a certain amount)

Johnson also contracted with Motorola in 2007-08 for a new communication system at a cost of $311,431. Neither of these big ticket items was let for bid or approved by anyone other than the sheriff himself. The debate on the legality of both is still unanswered.

When I covered the famous no-show meeting in Feb the County attorney stated, on record, that he believed Johnson was within his rights as a Constitutional Officer to bid the 911 equipment out. That was included in my write-up on that issue. My understanding is that the issue arose with this purchase from holding the funds to pay for them after the close of the fisical year, not from the purchase it'self.

Now we hear the IRS has assessed additional fines.

I have been chasing this rumor for over three weeks now and cannot find any viable source to confirm it.If you have one, please contact me.I have contacted the WCSO three times and all times they have catagorically denied this rumor.As I've said before, this is not opinion on my part, but factual information, that has been printed and on record for the first two statements. The third has not been printed by the publication I work for, because it is a rumor we cannot confirm.

I can only hope that voters can get factual information on all of the Gentlemen running for this office. Do your homework as voters and make the best choice for you, your family and your community, whomever you believe that may be.

[seagrovegirl]

I am very weary of speaking on this issue, but as someone who has covered almost all of these issues, I have to disagree with some statement's made in this editorial. I am in no way promoting or endorsing this candidate or any other.That's not my job and I don't get to have an opinion as a writer or even as a voter, due to my job. I have no issue with any other media source as well, but these statements bother me, because I can't find fact behind them.

In 2007-08, Johnson constructed a training range complete with driving track and rapelling tower. Cost, $345,824 (approximately).

It has never been constructed and if so, I'd like to see it. That project was given to the Triple G Committee to research and work on and it is still in the planning stages by the county to my knowledge. Johnson started it, but the BCC told him they had to bid it out and the WCSO turned the project over to them. The funding for this was also returned to the BCC. (BCC attorney stated that a capitol expense comes in when a building has to be constructed or the project is over a certain amount)

Johnson also contracted with Motorola in 2007-08 for a new communication system at a cost of $311,431. Neither of these big ticket items was let for bid or approved by anyone other than the sheriff himself. The debate on the legality of both is still unanswered.

When I covered the famous no-show meeting in Feb the County attorney stated, on record, that he believed Johnson was within his rights as a Constitutional Officer to bid the 911 equipment out. That was included in my write-up on that issue. My understanding is that the issue arose with this purchase from holding the funds to pay for them after the close of the fisical year, not from the purchase it'self.

Now we hear the IRS has assessed additional fines.

I have been chasing this rumor for over three weeks now and cannot find any viable source to confirm it.If you have one, please contact me.I have contacted the WCSO three times and all times they have catagorically denied this rumor.As I've said before, this is not opinion on my part, but factual information, that has been printed and on record for the first two statements. The third has not been printed by the publication I work for, because it is a rumor we cannot confirm.

I can only hope that voters can get factual information on all of the Gentlemen running for this office. Do your homework as voters and make the best choice for you, your family and your community, whomever you believe that may be.

Thank you for this information, In MO no one works harder to get the facts to the public than you.

I'd also like to know why the Sheriff did not participate in the Federal grant that paid for most of the communication upgrades for the rest of the county...

It is my understanding that the Sheriff should have bidded out the communication system, but did not.

[Andy A]

IW, if you keep pounding your head against that red board, the least you'll get is an awful headache and the worst, a skull fracture.

[Alicia Leonard]

Thank you for this information, In MO no one works harder to get the facts to the public than you.

I'd also like to know why the Sheriff did not participate in the Federal grant that paid for most of the communication upgrades for the rest of the county...

It is my understanding that the Sheriff should have bidded out the communication system, but did not.

Thanks SGG. I was very weary about putting a post out there on this subject but since I have had to cover it and put it in print, I can only hope other posters understand I would try and get facts out no matter what office they are about. Seeing a statement that something had been built that hasn't just kinda blew my mind.

I did an article on the 911 grant around the first of the year, if not earlier. The EOC communications person told me then that they had offered to include the WCSO in that grant as they did the DFSPD. I was told and reported on record that the WCSO ask to not be included since they had their own funding and had already contracted with Motorola. That article is archived in our office.

I should correct my earlier post and say that the County attorney stated that Johnson was within his rights to purchase the 911 system, due to him being a Constitutional officer. My personal understanding is there were two companies and the WCSO chose to go with Motororola. I do not know why. I do know that the County attorney is on record saying, in his opinion, that the WCSO was within their rights to purchase it during that no-show meeting. This article is also archived in our office.

The unconstruced track on the other hand was considered a capitol expense and had to undergo a bidding process by the BCC and was given back to them to bid out after being research by The Triple G comittiee. Early construction on it had began and then they were shut down and it was turned over to the BCC.

That's the only facts I know and thanks for the kind words. I, like many of the candidates, am more than ready for Aug 26th to pass, so we can all try to get back to business as usual and everything will stop revolving as much around local politics and rumors.

Edit......even though the sticking point on the 911 issue was not the bidding process, IMHO, any large purchase should undergo this process. But, even if they do, I have often seen that the lowest bidder does not always get the contract.

[seagrovegirl]

Thank you, aleonard....I agree, the communication system is a big ticket item and "should" be bidded out. It's also MO that a low bidder is not always the best bid, especially if the SO is already establisged with Motorola.....The communications system is still out dated and as I've mentioned before on this forum, the radios the deputies carry with them do not work in most areas of sowal. The car radios work, but not the hand held.......scary huh?

[Bob Wells]

Really the issue is not whether the track has been built or the IRS has assessed more fines or whether the sky is falling, it is whether you like the current Sheriff. I voted for him the first time because I felt as though he was a change candidate, then I find he was not. The only thing that separates him from the one he replaced was he at least communicated to the public. I support Tom Cooper because I have known him for 12 or 13 years proefessionally. I have known him to be fair and honorable individual. I trust Tom to do what is right by the community, and the employees of the Sheriffs Department. I trust Tom that is the reason I will vote for Cooper.

[Alicia Leonard]

Really the issue is not whether the track has been built or the IRS has assessed more fines or whether the sky is falling, it is whether you like the current Sheriff. I voted for him the first time because I felt as though he was a change candidate, then I find he was not. The only thing that separates him from the one he replaced was he at least communicated to the public. I support Tom Cooper because I have known him for 12 or 13 years proefessionally. I have known him to be fair and honorable individual. I trust Tom to do what is right by the community, and the employees of the Sheriffs Department. I trust Tom that is the reason I will vote for Cooper.

I agree with your statement in bold. I also know that everyone does not get all the facts right 100% all the time.Not me or any other reporter. But, my point was, I think due diligence in what you write or report to the public to be important.

Thanks as well for posting why you choose to vote for your candidate. I hope everyone will be able to make a clear choice, based on their own reasons, when entering the booth. I am a non-partisan, so, I won't get to vote in the Primary for sheriff, but I encourage everyone who can vote, to do so, for the candidate of their choice.

[idlewind]

IW, if you keep pounding your head against that red board, the least you'll get is an awful headache and the worst, a skull fracture.

Man, my head was damaged long ago.

[idlewind]

Thanks SGG. I was very weary about putting a post out there on this subject but since I have had to cover it and put it in print, I can only hope other posters understand I would try and get facts out no matter what office they are about. Seeing a statement that something had been built that hasn't just kinda blew my mind.

I did an article on the 911 grant around the first of the year, if not earlier. The EOC communications person told me then that they had offered to include the WCSO in that grant as they did the DFSPD. I was told and reported on record that the WCSO ask to not be included since they had their own funding and had already contracted with Motorola. That article is archived in our office.

I should correct my earlier post and say that the County attorney stated that Johnson was within his rights to purchase the 911 system, due to him being a Constitutional officer. My personal understanding is there were two companies and the WCSO chose to go with Motororola. I do not know why. I do know that the County attorney is on record saying, in his opinion, that the WCSO was within their rights to purchase it during that no-show meeting. This article is also archived in our office.

The unconstruced track on the other hand was considered a capitol expense and had to undergo a bidding process by the BCC and was given back to them to bid out after being research by The Triple G comittiee. Early construction on it had began and then they were shut down and it was turned over to the BCC.

That's the only facts I know and thanks for the kind words. I, like many of the candidates, am more than ready for Aug 26th to pass, so we can all try to get back to business as usual and everything will stop revolving as much around local politics and rumors.

Edit......even though the sticking point on the 911 issue was not the bidding process, IMHO, any large purchase should undergo this process. But, even if they do, I have often seen that the lowest bidder does not always get the contract.

I have found out that you are correct about the driving range and I should not have praised this error. I stand corrected. As to the whole 911 issue, the sheriff should have agreed to participate in the grant, should have attended the first meeting and should have bid the project out in the first place. Just MHO.

[Alicia Leonard]

I have found out that you are correct about the driving range and I should not have praised this error. I stand corrected. As to the whole 911 issue, the sheriff should have agreed to participate in the grant, should have attended the first meeting and should have bid the project out in the first place. Just MHO.

Not arguing any of that.......just posting what was said during those meetings, as I reported them and the article I did on the grants.

[DFSboy]

Below is factual information and comparison of local law enforcement in Walton County and the City of DeFuniak Springs. It shows budget cost, crime stats and attrition rates. The truth is very interesting.

Budget comparison for Law Enforcement in Walton County

Total 2008 Walton County SO budget is $15,053,110.00

Total 2007 population living in the county was 51,805

• This equates to $290,572.53 spent per 1000 citizens for law enforcement by the WaltonCountySO.

Total 2008 DeFuniak Springs PD budget is $1,746,480.00

Total 2007 population living in DeFuniak Springs was 5,288

• This equates to $330,272.31 spent per 1000 citizen for law enforcement by the DeFuniak Springs PD.

It is easy to see that the DeFuniak Springs PD spends $39,699.78 per 1000 citizens more than the SO does.

We all know that Johnson has not been a fiscal conservative of county taxpayer money, but if that is so then Adkinson is horrendous. He has a lot higher budget per citizen than the SO.

All above data can be proven by visiting the below websites and page numbers:

ftp://gisftp.co.walton.fl.us/County_Website/OMB/08/FY%2008%20Approved%20Budget.pdf (page 9)

http://www.defuniaksprings.net/budgetexpenditures07-08.pdf (page 5)

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FSAC/UCR/2007/CoMuOff2007annual.pdf (page 67)

Comparison of 2007 Crime in the County against 2007 Crime in the City

(How is this wasteful spending Adkinson is doing working?)

MAJOR CRIME NUMBERS FOR WCSO

· Forcible Rapes 4–or 1 for every 12,951 citizens
· Robbery 5 – or 1 for every 10,361 citizens
· Agg Assault 80 – or 1 for every 648 citizens
· Burglary 179 – or 1 for every 289 citizens
· Larceny 756 – or 1 for every 69 citizens

MAJOR CRIME NUMBERS FOR DFSPD

· Forcible Rapes 2– or 1 for every 2,644 citizens
· Robbery 7 – or 1 for every 755 citizens
· Agg Assault 44 – or 1 for every 120 citizens
· Burglary 71 – or 1 for every 74 citizens
· Larceny 109 – or 1 for every 48 citizens

When looking at this data it is easy to see that the law enforcement services provided by the DFSPD which cost taxpayers $39,699.78 more per 1000 citizens is inferior (worse) even though it cost more.

All the above data on population and crimes can be proven by visiting the below website:

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/FSAC/UCR/2007/CoMuOff2007annual.pdf (page 67)

How Walton County and City Law Enforcement Attrition (officers leaving) rate compares to the state average

The WaltonCounty Sheriff’s Office had a 2007 officer population of 141

The WaltonCounty Sheriff’s Office had a 2007 officer attrition of 21

• This shows that the Walton County Sheriff’s Office had an attrition rate of 15% or 1.5 officers out of every 10 leave.

• The average attrition rate for Sheriff’s Offices in Florida is 5% which is 10% lower than the Walton County SO.

To many officers are leaving the SO


The DeFuniak Springs Police Department had a 2007 officer population of 18

The DeFuniak Springs Police Department had a 2007 officer attrition of 5

• This shows that the DeFuniak Springs Police Department had an attrition rate of 28% or 2.8 officers out of every 10 leave or more than one in every four.

• The average attrition rate for police departments in Florida is 7.5% which is 20.5% lower than the DFSPD.

DeFuniak Springs Police Department has a much larger attrition problem.

All the above data on officer population and attrition can be proven by visiting the below websites:

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/cjst/cjap/2007/demographics/demo_so_le.html (SO Officer Population)
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/cjst/cjap/2007/statistics/attr_so_le.html (SO Attrition)

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/cjst/cjap/2007/demographics/demo_pd.html (PD Officer Population)
http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/cjst/cjap/2007/statistics/attr_pd.html (PD Attrition)

CONCLUSION

DeFuniak Springs Police Department under the management of Michael Adkinson Jr. spends more money per citizen for law enforcement services, has more crime per citizen and even has a higher attrition (officer leaving) rate than the Walton County Sheriff’s office does. We need a change in Walton County but Adkinson is not the change we need. Check the facts out and become an informed voter.

Wow!

Still, I still think Adkinson should be greatly considered for the job. He is a homegrown boy, seems to take care of his fellow native Waltonians by giving them decent jobs and is apparently related to the "right people". For example, I hear he is a close relative of our great former sheriff, Quinn McMillian, and first cousin to Commissioner Scott Brannon. His uncle is City of DeFuniak Springs'; attorney, and Freeport, I think. I also understand his second in command at the City Police is the Mayor's (DeFuniak Springs) nephew. I, personally, believe in taking care of our natives, not so much the outsiders.

I would guess he would surround himself, when elected sheriff, with native Waltonians’, just as he has done with the City Police. By doing so, and being related to the "right people (such as noted above)" should help him deliver us a greater Walton County Sheriff's Office.

This is just a few reasons you should consider when voting for sheriff. I’ll be back later for other reasons for you to consider when time to vote for Adkinson.

Forget about all the numbers above. Vote for one of us...
You "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or "Outsiders," well I guess you vote too.

Go Adkinson!!

[idlewind]

Wow!

Still, I still think Adkinson should be greatly considered for the job. He is a homegrown boy, seems to take care of his fellow native Waltonians by giving them decent jobs and is apparently related to the "right people". For example, I hear he is a close relative of our great former sheriff, Quinn McMillian, and first cousin to Commissioner Scott Brannon. His uncle is City of DeFuniak Springs'; attorney, and Freeport, I think. I also understand his second in command at the City Police is the Mayor's (DeFuniak Springs) nephew. I, personally, believe in taking care of our natives, not so much the outsiders.

I would guess he would surround himself, when elected sheriff, with native Waltonians’, just as he has done with the City Police. By doing so, and being related to the "right people (such as noted above)" should help him deliver us a greater Walton County Sheriff's Office.

This is just a few reasons you should consider when voting for sheriff. I’ll be back later for other reasons for you to consider when time to vote for Adkinson.

Forget about all the numbers above. Vote for one of us...
You "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or "Outsiders," well I guess you vote too.

Go Adkinson!!

Thank you for providing an "outsider" with further input on who I should vote for. I had already decided to vote for Mr. Cooper but your information helps solidify my decision. If this was meant "tongue in cheek" then it is darn funny.

[Johnny Post]

Gotta love a sarcasm laced post like that. Nice job DFSboy.

Question though, I think we all have heard abou the whole who Mike Adkinson's uncle is, but where do you come up with the conclusions he is related to McMillian or Brannon?

I don't truly care if he is related to McMillian, but it is interesting if he is related to Comm. Brannon. Not sure it really matters, but it is interesting.

On the other hand, I have to question the credibility of a post clearly intended to be negative.

[The Watcher]

Wow!

Still, I still think Adkinson should be greatly considered for the job. He is a homegrown boy, seems to take care of his fellow native Waltonians by giving them decent jobs and is apparently related to the "right people". For example, I hear he is a close relative of our great former sheriff, Quinn McMillian, and first cousin to Commissioner Scott Brannon. His uncle is City of DeFuniak Springs'; attorney, and Freeport, I think. I also understand his second in command at the City Police is the Mayor's (DeFuniak Springs) nephew. I, personally, believe in taking care of our natives, not so much the outsiders.

I would guess he would surround himself, when elected sheriff, with native Waltonians’, just as he has done with the City Police. By doing so, and being related to the "right people (such as noted above)" should help him deliver us a greater Walton County Sheriff's Office.

This is just a few reasons you should consider when voting for sheriff. I’ll be back later for other reasons for you to consider when time to vote for Adkinson.

Forget about all the numbers above. Vote for one of us...
You "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or "Outsiders," well I guess you vote too.

Go Adkinson!!

Wow, I too hear he takes care of the locals... Is he related to the DOT Officer who hangs out up there? How bout that WCSO female officer who keeps singing his praises? Who is he Not related to?

As for Yankee, Snowbird or Outsiders, that's a bit harsh. Do not forget where all the money and revenue comes from.

[idlewind]

I'm not related, course I am an outsider so I don't count.

[graytonbeachguy]

New contribution reports are posted at http://www.voterfocus.com/ws/WScand/...=4&committee=N

Interesting. Jay Odom going BIG ($2,500) for Adkinson. Also ANOTHER beverage consultant (see Cornman) going for Adkinson.

Since princesspea suggested www.sunbiz.org, new things come to light.

[The Watcher]

New contribution reports are posted at http://www.voterfocus.com/ws/WScand/...=4&committee=N

Interesting. Jay Odom going BIG ($2,500) for Adkinson. Also ANOTHER beverage consultant (see Cornman) going for Adkinson.

Since princesspea suggested www.sunbiz.org, new things come to light.

Follow the money, one knows not what they'll find...

[DFSboy]

Gotta love a sarcasm laced post like that. Nice job DFSboy.

Question though, I think we all have heard abou the whole who Mike Adkinson's uncle is, but where do you come up with the conclusions he is related to McMillian or Brannon?

I don't truly care if he is related to McMillian, but it is interesting if he is related to Comm. Brannon. Not sure it really matters, but it is interesting.

On the other hand, I have to question the credibility of a post clearly intended to be negative.

Johnny Post,

Negative? I think not. I am clearly advocating the homegrown voters, like me, to consider voting for Mike Adkinson. I would guess your're a "Snowbird, "Yankee, or otherwise "Outsider", however. Such Walton population, apparently like you, caused Sheriff Johnson to be re-elected the last time. Not us homegrown voters.

Really, Go Adkinson!!

[idlewind]

DFS Boy:

10 years ago the population of Walton County was about 25,000. Today the population is about 55,000. Therefore, do you really think it is smart to P*** off over half the voters by calling them "outsiders" and yankees?" If I had not already made up my mind who to vote for, you would have just convinced me.

S/ the outsider

[DFSboy]

Wow, I too hear he takes care of the locals... Is he related to the DOT Officer who hangs out up there? How bout that WCSO female officer who keeps singing his praises? Who is he Not related to?

As for Yankee, Snowbird or Outsiders, that's a bit harsh. Do not forget where all the money and revenue comes from.

The Wather,

Most likely the "DOT Officer" is a homegrown Walton native who is preparing for a job under soon-to-be Walton County Sheriff Adkinson (hopeful). I don't blame the Officer or Adkinson for their apparent close relationship. Adkinson should take care of the "Originals' (locals)" first and foremost, as I believe he does. If I was elected to such a position I, too, would surround myself people with people that had significant family ties to Walton, thereby being worth a few votes come next election. Just plain common sense politics.

But I can't understand whose side you’re on. And, as far at the "WCSO female officer," well at least she's not scared of getting fired, uh?

If the "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or otherwise "Outsiders" of Walton County re-elect Sheriff Johnson, maybe we homegrown natives (mostly in the north-end) should let them have that south-end, and their "money and revenue?" Two separate counties? Moreover, this is probably why Adkinson has seemingly concentrated his great campaign on the north-end. Hopefully the north-end will take back the elections in this county.

Go Adkinson!!

[idlewind]

The Wather,

Most likely the "DOT Officer" is a homegrown Walton native who is preparing for a job under soon-to-be Walton County Sheriff Adkinson (hopeful). I don't blame the Officer or Adkinson for their apparent close relationship. Adkinson should take care of the "Originals' (locals)" first and foremost, as I believe he does. If I was elected to such a position I, too, would surround myself people with people that had significant family ties to Walton, thereby being worth a few votes come next election. Just plain common sense politics.

But I can't understand whose side you’re on. And, as far at the "WCSO female officer," well at least she's not scared of getting fired, uh?

If the "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or otherwise "Outsiders" of Walton County re-elect Sheriff Johnson, maybe we homegrown natives (mostly in the north-end) should let them have that south-end, and their "money and revenue?" Two separate counties? Moreover, this is probably why Adkinson has seemingly concentrated his great campaign on the north-end. Hopefully the north-end will take back the elections in this county.

Go Adkinson!!

Sounds like you have your new position staked out as well. Will you bring your boot shining station or will the taxpayers be required to purchase it?My friend, you represent the worst of all Waltonians, those who wish to pit north v. south and wish to take their marbles and go home if they do not get their way. While the south is most often accussed of such behavior, it is nice to know that some in the north who feel the same way are coming out of the closet.Before you go and split from us, you may want to tour Holmes County because without SoWal that is all you would have.I think our first constitutional officer from SoWal (Mr. Cooper) will prove to do a good job and convince everyone that more county officials should call the world's most beautiful beaches home.

[beach_umbrella]

Johnny Post,

Negative? I think not. I am clearly advocating the homegrown voters, like me, to consider voting for Mike Adkinson. I would guess your're a "Snowbird, "Yankee, or otherwise "Outsider", however. Such Walton population, apparently like you, caused Sheriff Johnson to be re-elected the last time. Not us homegrown voters.

Really, Go Adkinson!!

According to DFSboy, it seems as though Adkinson is far better suited to the job he ALREADY Holds; DFSboy and his ilk seem to relish denigrating "snowbirds, yankees, outsiders, etc." who provide a tax base for everything he and his ilk enjoy of late. If "north" Walton is his descriptive choice, so be it. But we need a Sheriff who fairly represents the whole of Walton County; short of that we need "incorporation" of "south" Walton or a split into two counties. [I would suspect even Adkinson is wincing at DFSboy's comments at this point...] { Aside to DFSboy: your 'camo' is showing and it's not flattering in this case....}.

[seagrovegirl]

My parents first home was in Woodlawn in 1972. My mother wanted to join the country club in DFS, but was refused because she was a yankee (New Jersey). She found a house in sowal and joined the club on the beach. Seems that mentality is still the same up north and it is a shame. You run the yankees and outsiders out of your part of the county but take their money. I'm all for division in that case.

[Bob Wells]

Please, lets not discuss incorporparation of SoWal as that would burden those who complain about taxes and the inefficiency of BIG GOVERNMENT. This government has done alright for SoWal, roads are getting paved, in the south end emergency services are excellent, the North end emergency services are going through some growing pains but will catch up, government services for the most part are pretty good with a few exceptions, but if we place people with their own agendas, in the office then we will all suffer. Before we say we are paying to much, I remeber what it was like 16 years ago and for the most part it was due to some folks from NoWal and SoWal that brought us here, quality of life and services have improved.

I voted early for Cooper, Braunstein, L Jones, Davis, Wilkerson, Anderson.

[Seeker1]

These are almost all the reasons I hear from people that have stopped supporting adkinsson and voted early for another candidate.

[DFSboy]

Sounds like you have your new position staked out as well. Will you bring your boot shining station or will the taxpayers be required to purchase it?My friend, you represent the worst of all Waltonians, those who wish to pit north v. south and wish to take their marbles and go home if they do not get their way. While the south is most often accussed of such behavior, it is nice to know that some in the north who feel the same way are coming out of the closet.Before you go and split from us, you may want to tour Holmes County because without SoWal that is all you would have.I think our first constitutional officer from SoWal (Mr. Cooper) will prove to do a good job and convince everyone that more county officials should call the world's most beautiful beaches home.

idlewind,

Listen, talk is cheap. Add the sheriff candidates' numbers (according to each individual polling place) for the entire county on Wednesday. You should then see, that the north-end polls will be where the voters decided the sheriff's candidate for the Republican Primary. Adkinson should not even have to travel south of the bridge to win the election. Just wait. We try and take care of our own people up here, idlewind.

[Johnny Post]

How many here in SoWal truly believe that Mr. Adkinson will neglect our area? I for one doubt that will happen.

And please, let's leave the north vs. south thing alone.

And DFSBoy, I think most of us see through the act. You are clearly not an Adkinson supporter with those statements. SoWal voters are more intelligent than you think.

[idlewind]

How many here in SoWal truly believe that Mr. Adkinson will neglect our area? I for one doubt that will happen.

And please, let's leave the north vs. south thing alone.

And DFSBoy, I think most of us see through the act. You are clearly not an Adkinson supporter with those statements. SoWal voters are more intelligent than you think.

I think he represents the average Adkinson supporter and you Mr. Post are trying what is called damage control because you let one of your stone-age supporters near a computer.Now tell us how ralph is going to win if we don't do what you say.

[5th Gen Local]

I think he represents the average Adkinson supporter and you Mr. Post are trying what is called damage control because you let one of your stone-age supporters near a computer.Now tell us how ralph is going to win if we don't do what you say.

So Cooper Good and Mike Bad....I think we are all getting your position down now. Thanks for clarifying

[idlewind]

No, Cooper best available, Adkinson supporters making me heave.

[DFSboy]

How many here in SoWal truly believe that Mr. Adkinson will neglect our area? I for one doubt that will happen.

And please, let's leave the north vs. south thing alone.

And DFSBoy, I think most of us see through the act. You are clearly not an Adkinson supporter with those statements. SoWal voters are more intelligent than you think.

Johnny Post,

You have absolutely NO intelligence on this matter, as you think. I really do support Adkinson. If you only knew. Facts are facts, however. I support good ole' boy politics. To be honest, its always worked well (in Walton) for me, being about a sixth generation native myself. Right or wrong... So be it. Apparently you are just upset because you are an "Outsider." No worries, though. I hope you will consider voting for Adkinson.

[ShallowsNole]

Johnny Post,

You have absolutely NO intelligence on this matter, as you think. I really do support Adkinson. If you only knew. Facts are facts, however. I support good ole' boy politics. To be honest, its always worked well (in Walton) for me, being about a sixth generation native myself. Right or wrong... So be it. Apparently you are just upset because you are an "Outsider." No worries, though. I hope you will consider voting for Adkinson.

At least you are honest!

And DeFuniak / NoWal doesn't have the market cornered on the how-many-generations thing. I'm 5th gen as well, and we are training the 6th and 7th generations as we speak...

[The Watcher]

The Wather,

Most likely the "DOT Officer" is a homegrown Walton native who is preparing for a job under soon-to-be Walton County Sheriff Adkinson (hopeful). I don't blame the Officer or Adkinson for their apparent close relationship. Adkinson should take care of the "Originals' (locals)" first and foremost, as I believe he does. If I was elected to such a position I, too, would surround myself people with people that had significant family ties to Walton, thereby being worth a few votes come next election. Just plain common sense politics.

But I can't understand whose side you’re on. And, as far at the "WCSO female officer," well at least she's not scared of getting fired, uh?

If the "Yankees, "Snowbirds, or otherwise "Outsiders" of Walton County re-elect Sheriff Johnson, maybe we homegrown natives (mostly in the north-end) should let them have that south-end, and their "money and revenue?" Two separate counties? Moreover, this is probably why Adkinson has seemingly concentrated his great campaign on the north-end. Hopefully the north-end will take back the elections in this county.

Go Adkinson!!

I appreciate your comments and opinions. As it was already pointed out to you (it was a hint, a clue) in a previous post, you are hurting your candidate as opposed to helping. Your post is severely slanted to the "North-End, North-End, etc." I can appreciate that you do not want change, not many people "enjoy" change, especially if it means the "balance of power" may be a bit more equal come November 2008.

As for Adkinson surrounding himself with "Originals" how is that productive to the Citizens of the County?

Sure, it may benefit him, but what happens when educated individuals dig up public records and start to really LOOK at some of Adkinson's employees? Originals should be replaced with Qualified (if Originals are Qualified, then great). Qualified officers and proven leaders who will do what is right for the citizens, not the candidate or "the agenda". A quality sheriffs office will be re-elected time and time again. We have not had a quality office for years. This obvious loyalty to Walton County Originals is the first mistake you make in your post. We are all residents and we all love and support OUR County. This site is SoWal, do you think South Walton wants the "O.G.'s"? You don't give your "enemies" clubs to beat you with...but, thaks for the club.

As for the female officer out there banging the drum for "her candidate", it is great she is not affraid of getting fired. WHERE WAS SHE WHEN TWO OF HER FELLOW OFFICERS GOT FIRED FOR BEING PREGNANT? SHE TOO WAS PREGNANT AND GOT LIGHT DUTY, JUST PRIOR TO THE OTHERS BEING DISCRIMINATED AGAINST. It is great to stand for something, its better to stand for something meaningful and with purpose, not something that one stands to gain from.

Thanks for the post.

w

[idlewind]

I really find this interesting, as a 5 person race for our commission seat should be dominating the conversation. However, the sheriff's race continues to be the big topic. I began this race wanting the incumbent out due to his policies along the beaches and 30-A. I was leaning towards Adkinson until Cooper came in the race. I was intrigued by a SoWal resident being elected to a constitutional office in this county for the first time. But what made up my mind is the sense of entitlement that the Adkinson supporters have, like it is their right to "regain" this office from ralph. Your story about the supporter who said nothing while she recieved light duty and her fellow officers were fired illustrates it. The least we could expect is that she would be loyal to the sheriff who gave her preference over others, but apparently she is on the other side. I do not like those type of people and do not want them in charge of who does/does not go to jail.

[The Watcher]

I really find this interesting, as a 5 person race for our commission seat should be dominating the conversation. However, the sheriff's race continues to be the big topic. I began this race wanting the incumbent out due to his policies along the beaches and 30-A. I was leaning towards Adkinson until Cooper came in the race. I was intrigued by a SoWal resident being elected to a constitutional office in this county for the first time. But what made up my mind is the sense of entitlement that the Adkinson supporters have, like it is their right to "regain" this office from ralph. Your story about the supporter who said nothing while she recieved light duty and her fellow officers were fired illustrates it. The least we could expect is that she would be loyal to the sheriff who gave her preference over others, but apparently she is on the other side. I do not like those type of people and do not want them in charge of who does/does not go to jail.

You have used a key word that I feel needs to be explored. The word is: ENTITLEMENT

I will define it here: (my scarcasm is not directed at you, but you already know that)

Entitlement

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


Jump to: navigation, search


Look up Entitlement in [ame="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wiktionary"]Wiktionary[/ame], the free dictionary.

Entitlement is a guarantee of access to benefits because of rights, or by agreement through [ame="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law"]law[/ame]. It also refers, in a more casual sense to someone's belief that he/she is deserving of some particular reward or benefit.[1] It is often used as a negative term in popular parlance (i.e. a 'sense of entitlement'). The legal term, however, carries no value judgment: it simply denotes a right granted. In clinical psychology and psychiatry, an unrealistic, exaggerated, or rigidly held sense of entitlement may be considered a symptom of Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
In Land Development, the Entitlement Process is the legal method of obtaining approvals for the right to develop property for a desired use. (example: Re-zone)
In computer security, it can also refer to [ame="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Access_control"]access control[/ame].
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I have seen, read and heard about enough of how certain candidates are expecting to win based on very, very shallow reasons and/or beliefs. The reasons people logged into this (and other sites) are sometimes quite laughable. He'll support the North End, He'll hire "originals", his uncle is so and so, he saved me from the killer whale, etc., etc., etc.,

Well maybe that's part of the problem here. The sense of Entitlement.

I just forced myself to re-read some of Ralph's political fodder from his recent "communication" to his very few brain washed minions. What a load of poop. He fired two pregnant officers, who currently have a law suit pending against the county (show me the $$$). He talks and talks and talks about his accomplishments, but fails to acknowledge his short comings (oh so many), my wallet hurts $$$.

Now, the last few of the "original" supporters, who clung to the savior Adkinson, as the ONLY hope to save us from Ralph, are trying to salvage the remains of a once "Entitled" Campaign. What they failed to realize is that the X-Factor arrived (shortly after B. Imfeld was unlawfully asked to exit) and he has taken the county by storm. People fear Adkinson (the name), they will say anything to his face, but in the election booth, it is a different story. Why should anyone fear a candidate? I want a candidate that I can trust. One that I can respect (one that lives in county) and one that surrounds him or herself with winners, leaders, integrity. A very wise man once told me that people are like elevators, they either bring you up, or they bring you down. It is obvious to me who has surrounding themselves with whom, just review recent posts.

As for the real victims in all this, the deputies (I'm not talking about the supervisors, many of which (not all guys and gals) I feel are pawns for RJ, just as Adkinson has his "leaders", although some are still collecting State Pay Checks). These men and women risk their lives for us each and every day/night. They are living in fear of loosing their jobs. Is it any wonder they have met (in secret of course), with certain candidates? They need a pay check and most of them have a great respect for the badge/star and they do not want to give it up. It is a sad time when those who matter most must censor their comments to maintain a job. Those that have not, have already made "plans" which is a somewhat unfair advantage but it is commendable, just please stop doing it in your uniform. Who knows what conversations, held between "originals" have occurred...

I firmly believe that the best candidate will prevail on Tuesday. This candidate will go on and win the election against the viable candidate from the Democratic Party (its not Chapman again, is it?). People will cry and moan after Tuesday. They will call "Foul" at any chance. After all is said and done I can only hope that those who have fallen short will reflect on what was done wrong and realize that the citizens of Walton County want and deserve a Sheriff and a Sheriffs Office that has morals, integrity, experience, and a Future.

thank u,

w

[idlewind]

Well said Watcher. We saw this same sense of entitlement in the spring on the democratic side and what the results were. I can only hope that Tesday is a Hillary Clinton moment in more ways than one.