my opinions on District 5

**sharris827** · 08-19-2008, 01:40 PM

I have attended many commissioner meetings over the past 25 years and I have personally seen Alan lose his temper when addressing the commissioners. I have read the lawsuits he has filed against the county and Sandestin and I do not see any possible way he can work with the other commissioners. I agree we need someone from the south end to represent the people here but I think his inability to work with the others will cause his opinions to be rejected and he will be a lone voice and it will be a wasted 4 years.

Cindy Meadows at the last few meetings I attended berated property owners who spoke at public hearings that did not agree with her. This is not the old Cindy who we worked t get elected. something happened to her if she would act berate to the people who put her in office.

We must have commissioners that can work together in order for ALL of Walton County to prosper and become one. It should NEVER be the south end against the north end.

**rapunzel** · 08-19-2008, 01:56 PM

Well, first I open my email and see a piece of spam smearing Alan Osborne, then I log on to this site and see yet another person posting virtually the same thing in a new thread.

I have no idea who is behind these smears, but I have a pretty good guess.

Here's what I know -- virtually every SoWaller I know who is deeply involved and informed on local politics and the BCC is supporting Alan Osborne.

From the far right leaning Andy A., to the somewhat libertarian Smiling Joe, the progressive Dargs, and even me -- the fact that we all agree on a candidate speaks volumes.

Mr. Osborne is passionate, and what has been done in Driftwood is a travesty. I applaud his activism, given the situation. Further, I think it would be a great move on the part of the electorate to let the BCC know that the citizens of Walton are no longer willing to look the other way as they do the bidding of developers.

Given the choice between passion and intolerance, I'll choose passion for doing the right thing.

The smears must stop. If, in a five way race, we allow this underhanded tactic to work -- we will have the goverment we deserve -- an underhanded one.

**scooterbug44** · 08-19-2008, 02:04 PM

Nothing like unfounded and anonymous smears to make you certain you voted correctly!

Makes me think people can't win on the issues when they resort to such tactics!

**Rose Anna** · 08-19-2008, 02:41 PM

You know what really makes me crazy? I mean -- I don't even know the person who sent me an email with a link to the Democratic website that implies Osborne is some kind of crazy lunatic 'cause he yelled at some lying lawyer or something.

So, I asked around and nobody knows this 'Ann' person that sent the email. Is she a Democrat? 'Cause that would be rich since they were too big a bunch of wussies to even put someone up to run and now whoever wins some 5-way race (and we all know it's going to be that chick from DeFuniak that will be I guess the token tourist on the BCC, since she don't even live here) is who we're gonna be stuck with cause they're all so scared the republicans would get everyone to change parties if they did, and I'm so p.o.'d about that.

But I digress. So, I look at all the other people that got this email. I know most of them. All of the sudden, it dawns on me. It's a fake email. I'm so p.o.'d now, cause even these Republicans can't just put a decent candidate out there without sitting in some sweaty office eating baloney sandwiches with little chunks of nasty white stuff in 'em all glistening and stuff, and sending fake emails out to me and all my friends trying to tear each other down.

And these people fighting over volleyball nets and stuff? I mean, these people are filing lawsuits over volleyball nets they wanna leave on the beach like it's 1976 or something, and they wanna act out a Dr. Pepper commercial or something. And then they've got the nerve to criticize someone for filing a lawsuit because a bunch of snooty rich people don't want to let a firetruck come through to save someone if the one way out of neighborhood gets flooded? It's enough to make you sick, I tell you.

**DuneLaker** · 08-19-2008, 02:44 PM

I find your post false and negative and an insult to this board, the people of SoWal and Walton County. We deserve commissioners who are honest and will work for the people of Walton County. Mr. Osborne should be given the chance to a fair election and not have to face these last minute attacks.

**sharris827** · 08-19-2008, 03:16 PM

Unlike you rapunzel and scooterbug, I had guts enough to use my name. Mine was not an anonymous post . YOUR POST WAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

**DuneLaker** · 08-19-2008, 03:48 PM

Lets not get off topic here on your false and negative last minute attack post. Most in SoWal and NoWal get along great, share many common community activities and benefits and desire for only the best for the entire county. It is only a few that try to stir up a South/North conflict, usually around election time that fits their usual negative campaign tactics. In the past, this county split tactic has been used to the extreme and backed by big bucks and sometimes through illegal campaign means. I am not surprised, just disappointed, to see it surface in this election.

**Santiago** · 08-19-2008, 04:18 PM

Originally Posted by sharris827

I have attended many commissioner meetings over the past 25 years and I have personally seen Alan lose his temper when addressing the commissioners. I have read the lawsuits he has filed against the county and Sandestin and I do not see any possible way he can work with the other commissioners. I agree we need someone from the south end to represent the people here but I think his inability to work with the others will cause his opinions to be rejected and he will be a lone voice and it will be a wasted 4 years.

Cindy Meadows at the last few meetings I attended berated property owners who spoke at public hearings that did not agree with her. This is not the old Cindy who we worked t get elected. something happened to her if she would act berate to the people who put her in office.

We must have commissioners that can work together in order for ALL of Walton County to prosper and become one. It should NEVER be the south end against the north end.

It's because of his willingness to file these suits that makes me think he has what it takes to handle the job.

**Murray Balkcom** · 08-19-2008, 04:21 PM

I've seen the other four Commissioners beat up on Commissioner Meadows, but to say that she hasn't worked for the people of South Walton would be incorrect. The other four often never even second her motion. Occasionally, Commissioner Jones will second her motions, for discussion, but the votes usually fail. I am not sure how you think that Mr Osborne will bring South Walton downhill and worse than Commissioner Meadows, who has done nothing but elevate the level of the Board of County Commissioners of Walton County. I think Mr Osborne will do a fine job of going against the flow when need be. Someone needs to stand up against them when the occasion calls.

My vote has been cast for Mr Osborne.

**rapunzel** · 08-19-2008, 04:25 PM

Originally Posted by sharris827

Unlike you rapunzel and scooterbug, I had guts enough to use my name. Mine was not an anonymous post . YOUR POST WAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My name is Christi Commander. You can see my picture on my profile. Everyone who posts here regularly knows me and Scooterbug. S Harris isn't a name that I recognize.

So, now that we all know who you are -- please tell us something positive about the candidate you are supporting. I'm guessing someone who doesn't support "Leave No Trace" and is very pro permanent structures on the beach?

**Andy A** · 08-19-2008, 07:21 PM

Rapunzel, on a personal note, Rush Limbaugh would call me a Moderate.

**idlewind** · 08-19-2008, 08:30 PM

I have vacillated all summer as to how to vote on the D-5 race.

I was close to a decision after finding that Mr. Osbourne was the only candidate that supports the public's use of the beach.

Now I read this post from someone I believe to be one of the spokespersons for closing off the beach to all except those few who can afford beachfront property.

That cinches it for me, I will vote for Mr. Osbourne along with Larry Jones, Mark Davis and Carlene Anderson.

I am still looking at the other races.

**nu2dabch** · 08-20-2008, 06:15 AM

I'm kind of new to the scene. I looked at a map and it appears district 5 is just South Walton but district 1 runs the entire East side of Walton County?? Is that correct? I am trying to vote for Sowal candidates so could someone tell me which candidates actually live in South Walton (in all the races)? I read somewhere that one of the sheriff candidates do not live in walton County, AT ALL.

**Smiling JOe** · 08-20-2008, 09:26 AM

Currently, in the District 5 County Commissioner race, the following candidates are reported to be living in South Walton:

Sid Braunstien
Bob Hudson
Alan Osborne

According to many, Ceclia Jones owns a house in South Walton, Dist 5, but has been residing in north Walton.

As for George Wallace Smith, I have yet to meet anyone who claims to know the person, so I couldn't tell you where he currently resides. I did see one campaign sign of his the other day, but only one.

The rule is that if elected, you must reside in your district on the day you take office. For the Sheriff's race, on the day elected, you must reside in Walton County.

Yes, Tony Cornman, Sheriff candidate, is reported to currently live in Bay County, and his house if for sale. Technically, he could rent a studio apartment in Walton County if he wins, and move in. With a salary well above $100,000 as Sheriff, he could probably afford if.

**Sidb** · 08-20-2008, 09:54 AM

Please read my bio on SoWal to learn more about my background as well as my views on public beaches & many other topics.

**princepesa** · 08-21-2008, 11:33 PM

I find it very interesting the S. Harris of Edgewater Condos is trashing Meadows and Osborne. She/her condo assoc. sued the county a number of times. I was at the meeting she announced that they were suing the county because the county asked
them to please move their volleyball net under the leave no trace program. Ms. Harris
is usually the one who insults the BCC with her arrogance and threatens lawsuits everytime she speaks to the BCC.

**Smiling JOe** · 08-22-2008, 10:07 AM

lol. I had no idea that was the same Ms Harris of Edgewater Condo. Now, it is all starting to make sense. She's a feisty one, and she does like that permanently placed volleyball net. I wonder if they shine lights on it at night so that their guests and owners don't run into it. ??

**idlewind** · 08-22-2008, 10:50 AM

Originally Posted by princepesa

I find it very interesting the S. Harris of Edgewater Condos is trashing Meadows and Osborne. She/her condo assoc. sued the county a number of times. I was at the meeting she announced that they were suing the county because the county asked
them to please move their volleyball net under the leave no trace program. Ms. Harris
is usually the one who insults the BCC with her arrogance and threatens lawsuits everytime she speaks to the BCC.

Look at the elections site and you will find that in addition to the D-5 race they/she has given substantial contributions to two sheriff's candidates: Mike Adkinson and Ralph Johnson. Guess they will guard her volleyball net.

**seagrovegirl** · 08-22-2008, 10:52 AM

Originally Posted by idlewind

Look at the elections site and you will find that in addition to the D-5 race they/she has given substantial contributions to two sheriff's candidates: Mike Adkinson and Ralph Johnson. Guess they will guard her volleyball net.

Covering her arse in case Johnson is voted back in........

**beach_umbrella** · 08-23-2008, 01:23 AM

The latest "trash-job" against Alan Osborne is a full page ad on the last page of section 1 of the latest issue of the "Walton Sun" ("paid for by BobbyBowick, Miramar Beach, FL"). This is a low-life tactic taken right out of the playbook of move-on.org's wealthy socialist benefactor, George Soros.
Alan Osborne is demanding and agressive and disruptive when addressing Commissioners at public meetings ? Alan Osborne has filed three lawsuits against Walton County ? How refreshing !!! He knows how to get politicians' attention and will not be put off, distracted, or ignored by their use of tired political rhetoric.
Every day I'm more and more convinced that my vote for Alan Osborne was the best choice for South Walton representation; We need him, and we need him now. We've had our fill of 'go-along-to get-along' politicians, you can easily find a large enough selection of them in any political arena.
Alan is a "breath of fresh air" where "air-conditioning" is needed most.

**BeachSiO2** · 08-23-2008, 07:13 AM

Originally Posted by Stripes

The latest "trash-job" against Alan Osborne is a full page ad on the last page of section 1 of the latest issue of the "Walton Sun" ("paid for by BobbyBowick, Miramar Beach, FL"). This is a low-life tactic taken right out of the playbook of move-on.org's wealthy socialist benefactor, George Soros.
Alan Osborne is demanding and agressive and disruptive when addressing Commissioners at public meetings ? Alan Osborne has filed three lawsuits against Walton County ? How refreshing !!! He knows how to get politicians' attention and will not be put off, distracted, or ignored by their use of tired political rhetoric.
Every day I'm more and more convinced that my vote for Alan Osborne was the best choice for South Walton representation; We need him, and we need him now. We've had our fill of 'go-along-to get-along' politicians, you can easily find a large enough selection of them in any political arena.
Alan is a "breath of fresh air" where "air-conditioning" is needed most.

Just curious as to who paid for the ad.

**Interested Girl** · 08-23-2008, 07:37 AM

Read the post - it plainly states that it was paid for by Bobby Bowick. I think that he was one of the victim's of an attack by Ms. Meadows as he addressed the Commission.

What goes around comes around.

I found the ad to be factual and expresses a viewpoint that is his opinion.

Surely in this day people are still entitled to express their viewpoint. It is a viewpoint not shared by some that post here, but it is his right.

Guess Smiling Joe will hand me another "Red chicklett" for expressing a point of view in the "land of liberals."

Note: I just realized that my red chicklett has turned Green - Guess it's not as hard to remove as Smiling Joe so proudly stated. Tolerance of differing viewpoints should prevail unless they are malicious or untruthfull.

**BeachSiO2** · 08-23-2008, 07:40 AM

Originally Posted by Interested Girl

Read the post - it plainly states that it was paid for by Bobby Bowick.

Thanks, I missed that and it was even in blue. That's the trouble with asking questions before I get my coffee fix.

**Jdarg** · 08-23-2008, 07:58 AM

Originally Posted by Stripes

The latest "trash-job" against Alan Osborne is a full page ad on the last page of section 1 of the latest issue of the "Walton Sun" ("paid for by BobbyBowick, Miramar Beach, FL"). This is a low-life tactic taken right out of the playbook of move-on.org's wealthy socialist benefactor, George Soros.
Alan Osborne is demanding and agressive and disruptive when addressing Commissioners at public meetings ? Alan Osborne has filed three lawsuits against Walton County ? How refreshing !!! He knows how to get politicians' attention and will not be put off, distracted, or ignored by their use of tired political rhetoric.
Every day I'm more and more convinced that my vote for Alan Osborne was the best choice for South Walton representation; We need him, and we need him now. We've had our fill of 'go-along-to get-along' politicians, you can easily find a large enough selection of them in any political arena.
Alan is a "breath of fresh air" where "air-conditioning" is needed most.

Thanks Stripes. We saw this ad too this morning- it is tacky and low-rent, but not surprising.

The weather is not terrible yet, so we are hoping the early voting is not canceled today- Bdarg is heading over to vote for Alan Osborne in a bit!

**Smiling JOe** · 08-23-2008, 10:03 AM

Originally Posted by Stripes

The latest "trash-job" against Alan Osborne is a full page ad on the last page of section 1 of the latest issue of the "Walton Sun" ("paid for by BobbyBowick, Miramar Beach, FL"). This is a low-life tactic taken right out of the playbook of move-on.org's wealthy socialist benefactor, George Soros.
Alan Osborne is demanding and agressive and disruptive when addressing Commissioners at public meetings ? Alan Osborne has filed three lawsuits against Walton County ? How refreshing !!! He knows how to get politicians' attention and will not be put off, distracted, or ignored by their use of tired political rhetoric.
Every day I'm more and more convinced that my vote for Alan Osborne was the best choice for South Walton representation; We need him, and we need him now. We've had our fill of 'go-along-to get-along' politicians, you can easily find a large enough selection of them in any political arena.
Alan is a "breath of fresh air" where "air-conditioning" is needed most.

Stripes, I didn't see the add, and I can see how one may think it is negative based on what you wrote above. However, anyone who has seen Mr Osborne state his case numerous times over four years of dealing with the incompetent Board of County Commissioners, will know that the being demanding after the lack of action from the BCC, was called for and needed. Was he aggressive, perhaps, but only with the facts, not in a threatening way. If anyone was threatening, it was Commissioner Jones who unnecessarily and shockingly called for the Balif. Commissioner Jones later apologized, as I understand it. Comm. Jones was so wound up that he left for the remainder of the meeting. I think most everyone in the audience was commending Mr Osborne for standing up to a roll-board of County Commissioners (Comm. Meadows excluded). Someone needed to wake their butts up, and Alan has just the facts and evidence to do it, showing wrong-doings on the behalf of the developer and the County. If the County screwed anyone over the way they did the owners and residents of Driftwood Estates, I'd say that they should be as diligent as Mr Osborne with their fact-gathering and persistance, and if that means filing suit to wake them up, so be it. Obviously four years of presenting the facts did nothing to nudge them.

I'd like more concerned citizens who give a rat's ars about our community and our people, to sit on the Board of County Commissioners. Alan has my vote!

Originally Posted by BeachSiO2

Thanks, I missed that and it was even in blue. That's the trouble with asking questions before I get my coffee fix.

You didn't miss it, bchsi02, it was edited to include it.

Interested Girl, I gave you a disapproval for an uninformed negative comment you made regarding Mr Osborne. Simply disagreeing is not worthy of a disapproval click.

**seagrovegirl** · 08-23-2008, 10:18 AM

Anyone here know Bobby Bowick??? Politics are his game....he had some dealings in Mississippi if I remember correctly. I used to have dealings with him and he is very enthusiastic, forceful and you NEVER disagree with him. He will chew you up and spit you out!!! I respect his right to have a voice, however, I disagree with his thinking on this. I would not be surprised if he reads and I get a phone call................and he'll let me know what he thinks alright!!!