Ceremony welcomes American Police Hall of Fame officials
By FRED KRUPSKI
When something new comes to Titusville, everybody knows about it. That was especially true last Tuesday when about 75 residents accepted an invitation from Space Coast Economic Development executive director Walt Johnson to join him and other city officials in welcoming Donna Sheppard and W. Chitwood, officials of the American Police Hall of Fame.
Several weeks ago the new neighbors were the subject of a feature story in this newspaper, but last week guests at the ceremony learned what it took to attract them to the area, and some of the problems confronting Johnson and his team who were responsible for the "dog and pony" show that took them to Miami for a last ditch presentation extolling the benefits of the museum relocating to Titusville.
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| SCEDC executive director Walt Johnson presents frame containing number of stories the local press published announcing the relocation of the Police Hall of Fame to Titusville. With Johnson (from left) are police museum officials Donna Sheppard, executive director, and finance officer Debra Chitwood. |
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City Council should approve naming of street in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
EDITORIAL
Dr. King, noted for preaching non-violence and racial harmony whose death was remembered on Monday, should make us aware that this man has not one street, avenue or alley named in his honor.
Something of a fatalist as he spearheaded the drive for racial equality, this martyr to the black struggle was fatally shot in 1968 as he leaned over the second-floor balcony railing just outside his room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. The death of this 39-year old civil rights leader sent shock waves throughout much of the city and the nation.
Moments before he died he had just asked a musician friend to play a Negro spiritual, "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," at a rally scheduled to begin two hours later in support of striking Memphis sanitation men. He was rushed unconscious to St. Joseph's Hospital, where he died.
Today, too many of us forgot, or never understood the message of peace preached by King. Nowhere in Brevard County is there a memorial to King as in other states or, for that matter, many cities in Florida.
That is wrong.
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'Dearie, Do You Remember When...'
Old age is one of my favorite topics since, as a recent poll produced, "Geezers" are anyone over 65. I've got a five year cushion having commemorated my 70th birthday last September. You'll notice I didn't say "celebrate."
Even by the most generous of analyses, I have lived long enough to regret singing "I hope I die before I get old," sung by Pete Townsend of The Who.
A California-based social psychologist, Stephen Richardson has written a report entitled, "The Young West: How We Are All Growing Older More Slowly." Actually, I find the years longer and the days shorter. But, oh well. What I really gage aging by is how many hours are taken up each week driving to different doctors' appointments for one malady or another. Some life-threatening, but none absolutely serious.
Once there was a time when I thought 35 was middle-age. Now, with modern medicine, middle-age seems to be somewhere in the 50 to 55 range.
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SPACE MUSEUM ... continued
Among the adults present were many well-known faces and names of the the Gemini, Mercury and Apollo program, including Bob Seik, Sam Beddingfield, Francis Reilly, Ray Smith, Charlie Mars, and Cal Fowler, who joined other public officials and dignitaries.
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| Cutting ribbon officially opening new U.S Spacewalk of Fame is retired astronaut Andrew Allen, (center), flanked by Commissioner Truman Scarborough, (left), and Mayor Ron Swank. |
The museum has been open since December, but last Saturday was its official opening to the public. Joining other space workers, the featured speaker was retired Shuttle astronaut Andrew Allen, who flew three times as a shuttle pilot and commander, and was accompanied by his parents to the museum opening. While many visitors had the ear of his parents, describing Allen's exploits in space and his interest since early childhood, Andrew was busy signing autographs on programs and other space memorabilia. Allen received laughs when he said, "It doesn't take a lot of intelligence to get strapped into a rocket, contrary to what everyone believes. The intelligence comes from the people that strap you in the rocket and make it work."
Many of those who made it "work" were present, several giving tours to visitors at the new museum and explaining their role in America's space program and what went on behind the scenes as the space program grew up and came of age. Many of those were responsible for the many space artifacts displayed, and were either gifts or on loan.
Prior to the opening prayer delivered by the Rev. Jeff Moody, Pastor of the Great Outdoors Church, and opening remarks by Titusville Mayor Ron Swank and County Commissioner Truman Scarborough, children were treated to a rocket launching demonstration by Mr. Science, so popular with the kids it delayed the official presentation for a few minutes. Several of the young shuttle "pilots" quickly approached Andrew Allen for his autograph and stood in awe at being this close to a space hero. Allen was obviously delighted at the interest displayed by the youngsters.
The staff of the museum is made up of volunteers and foundation members also responsible for Space View Park, where monuments of different programs, such as Mercury, Gemini and soon to be constructed Apollo, to join them. The monuments honor the astronauts and all the people who have worked on them. Space workers can have their names engraved on the monuments and many of those names are those of Titusville residents who have since retired, but whose interest in the program have never diminished.
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POLICE HALL OF FAME ... continued
It began when Alan Loud of PAL, with the assistance of TPD Cmdr. Mel Williams, said he met some people interested in relocating from Miami, where they were running out of space with no place to relocate to. Walt Johnson picked up on the lead and immediately shifted into first gear.
The officials were shown several buildings. "The one I had in mind was the USA building and initially they agreed," said Johnson. Officials of the Police Hall of Fame appeared ready to cement the deal, however Boeing decided not to sell. "I guess that one was just not to be, so we went back to the drawing board with a group of local business people and drove to Miami for the day where we discussed alternatives," he said.
Obviously the "alternative" was accepted and not long after the American Police Hall of Fame bought the property next to the Astronaut Hall of Fame. Ironically, it is also owned by Boeing.
Mayor Ron Swank had glowing words describing the efforts of the business team of negotiators. "They had quite a task ahead of them after what had happened to previous efforts," he stated.
Also complimenting the efforts of SCEDC was Donna Sheppard of the Police Hall of Fame, describing Titusville as a "friendly city and well prepared" as they had no intention of allowing this one to slip through their fingers, particularly when they knew that executives already had a good feeling for the community.
Donna Sheppard told the News Observer that about half of the facility's 40 employees would be moving to Titusville from Miami, probably in early 2003. The grand opening of the museum is scheduled for May 15, 2003.
Which, coincidentally, just happens to be National Police Memorial Day.
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EDITORIAL ... continued
It is understandable that when this issue was raised in Titusville, many businesses along the South Street corridor raised objections. Not because of any racial overtones, but primarily because of the economics and costs involved in stationary, location identification and other administrative costs.
However, as we editorialized many times suggesting that DeLeon Ave. be considered for the naming, low and behold comes former Titusville councilmember Cheryl Lawson-Young who now agrees with us.
She is again attempting to honor King and has asked civic groups whether they wanted to urge City Council to rename DeLeon Avenue for King.
Approval is a no-brainer.
Lawson-Young said that we (Titusville) need to identify a road that represents what he (King) represented.
DeLeon is not only one of the longest streets in Titusville, but right in the heart of the largely residential black community. Lawson-Young should not be forced to door-knocking, petitioning residents for support. Why would residents object?
It would cost them nothing; the City relatively little for sign changing, and it would encourage the youth of the neighborhood to learn more about the man they all owe a debt of gratitude to. There should be little, if any, resistance to the renaming--even from those who argue that a King Avenue or Parkway would discourage people from entering a section of a city known as a high-risk area.
The request by Lawson-Young is rational as well as realistic. She understands that naming a major thoroughfare in the city would provoke controversy, consequently her request should be taken under serious consideration by this current and enlightened council.
A few years ago Council had sufficient reason for not approving South Street for the renaming.
Now there is no reason to deny the request by Lawson-Young should she have the support of those most affected by the name change.
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KALEIDOSCOPE ... continued
Now I find that while I know a lot of stuff about the past, I can no longer recall it on a moment's notice. But a good thing about aging is that I'm no longer obsessed with youth.
While I've written a great deal about aging I always enjoy observations written by others who do not have a weekly column. My friend Jack Kuntz, while much younger than I, seems to be fixated by the process and often has some sage comments regarding the issue--along with some amusing messages. While some segment of our society thinks "Senior Citizens" are two dirty words, Jack feels differently.
Recently he wrote: "Senior citizens are constantly being criticized for every conceivable deficiency of the modern world, real or imaginary. We know we take responsibility for all we have done and do not blame others. But, upon reflection, we (I) would like to point out that it was not the senior citizens who took:
- The melody out of music.
- The pride out of appearance.
- The romance out of love.
- The commitment out of marriage.
- The responsibility out of parenthood.
- The togetherness out of family.
- The learning out of education.
- The service out of patriotism.
- The civility out of behavior.
- The refinement out of language.
- The dedication out of employment.
- The prudence out of spending, or
- The ambition out of achievement."
Continued Jack: "Does anyone under the age of 50 know the lyrics to 'The Star Spangled Banner?' Just look at those old folks with tears in their eyes and pride in their hearts as they stand at attention with their hand over their hearts."
Jack also notes that unless many of our younger generation learn to count in the absence of computers and calculators, they will back to counting on their fingers and toes.
If for some insane reason you're not sure what age category you fall into, give this small test to anyone you suspect is lying about their age. Don't give it to women though. Many have instructed their descendants not to even reveal their age in their obit.
When asking the following questions, make sure they answer honestly. Count all the ones they remember.
- Blackjack chewing gum.
- Candy cigarettes.
- Home milk delivery in glass bottles with cardboard stoppers.
- Party lines.
- Newsreels before the movie.
- P.F. Flyers.
- Butch was.
- Phone numbers with a word prefix (Olive - 6933).
- Peashooters.
- 45 RPM records.
- Mimeograph paper, and blue flashbulbs.
- Roller skate keys.
- Drive-ins.
- Studebakers.
- Wash tub wringers.
If you remembered most of them you're older than dirt.
I took the test, responded honestly, and it turns out that I'm "mud."
Even before I married Sue I didn't date anyone younger than me. The only thing we would have had in common was a cold.
But even with Susie I sometimes feel ancient, particularly when after a couple of pops I show her my rendition of the Charleston, then have lie down in bed for half a day.
I've got a golf joke too, Mr. Hudson
Have you heard this one, Bob?
At a golf course, four men approached number 16 tee box. The straight fairway ran along a road and bike path fenced off on the left. The first golfer teed off and hooked the ball in that direction. The ball went over the fence and bounced off the bike path onto the road where it hit the tire of a passing bus and was knocked back on to the fairway. As they all stood in amazement, one man asked him, "How on earth did you do that?"
He shrugged his shoulders and said, "You have to know the bus schedule."
On a personal note, last week I hit my drive to the fourth hole at Willow Lakes (the one with the ocean between you and the green). I hit a liner that skipped over the water, bounced up to the green and hit the flag stick dead solid perfect. But it was traveling so fast when it hit the pin it ricocheted back into the water. I took a bogey instead of the ace I thought was going to make--and which I would have taken credit for regardless of how I made it.
One More Note On Sports: I miscalled one of last weekend's four playoff football games. This week I'm going to bet the farm that it will be St. Louis and Pittsburgh (with the help of a recovered Jerome Bettis) who make it to the SuperBowl.
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BCC, Job Link host fair to assist those who lost jobs
Brevard Community College and Brevard Job Link will host another Operation Paycheck Training Fair on Thursday, Jan. 24, to assist people who lost their jobs as a result of the events of Sept. 11.
The Fair will be held at all four BCC campuses, from 1 to 4 p.m., and will include career information sessions regarding credit for life experiences, apprenticeship training, security and public safety careers, health occupations, and information technology programs.
Programs such as machining, phlebotomy, PC repair, and Microsoft Office User Specialist may be added if interest is sufficient.
Operation Paycheck is an emergency workforce initiative aimed at assisting laid-off workers by rapidly retraining them in higher skill, higher wage jobs that are in demand, and by providing placement services once training is completed.
Funding for tuition, books, and training material will be provided by the Federal Workforce Investment Act for those who qualify.
By BOB SOCKS
Lots going on...
- Landscaping has begun around the Roadhouse Grille...maybe it will open soon.
- A large builder from the Melbourne area is interested in two hundred acres in the Titusville area to build a single family development. Prices will be in the low to middle hundreds ($100 - 150K).
- Sanctuary II is booming and the first families have moved in. Nineteen homes are under construction.
- Mercedes Homes in south Titusville looks like a mini-Orlando with homes under construction in all areas with much more to come. Two hundred homes and a 150 unit multi-family project is planned just off the 405 expressway.
- There is a lot of interest in the recently annexed FEC project. Expect to see homes under construction between Grissom and Kings Hwy. within the next year.
- Childre Homes is building on Maryland Ave. off Old Dixie. They are selling as fast as they are built.
So, maybe after many years, Titusville is beginning to take off. As has been predicted, the growth seems to be from the west and our partnering with Orlando and Mayor Glenda Hood is paying off.
Keep them coming!
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Why buy your NASCAR car collectibles in Daytona? Ross and Barbara Walker's Pit Stop Shop will be open longer on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays during February for your convenience. See their ad for the new hours.
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Grandma's Detail Shop will be having a Super Wednesday--$5 off a wax job--every Wednesday in February and March. Look for the coupon in this issue and save!
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Custom Decor has carpet remnants and bound carpet at drastically low prices. Plus they offer 70% off retail on all vertical, mini and pleated blinds.
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Cabinets Plus can help you redesign your kitchen or bath. Call Nancy for an appointment.
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Are you facing the loss of a loved one? Hospice of St. Francis understands all the emotions you're experiencing-- the sorrow, the sadness, and the anxiety--and can help you and your loved one during this fragile time in life.
The staff and volunteers of Hospice of St. Francis take to heart the meaning of "each day is a gift." Caring for terminally ill patients over the past 25 years has heightened their awareness of this personal feeling. And, since they are an independent, not-for-profit service directed by a local volunteer Board of Directors, the unique character of this community's requirements for hospice care can be met.
For more information on how they can help, contact them at 269-4240.
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BUSINESS BULLETIN ... continued
Sold!
Po' Folks Restaurant on U.S.1, formerly Perkins, has been officially sold to a local businessman. Plans for the building will be released soon, but it will not be a restaurant.
Florida still among population leaders
For the period July 1, 2000 - July 1, 2001 the population of Florida increased 2.13%. Nevada was the fastest growing at 4.33%. North Dakota was the state with the biggest decrease amounting to -1.01%.
The economic slowdown is causing fewer people to move in search of work because even once-strong states have been hit by layoffs. The fastest growing states were those most attractive to retirees, who continue to migrate to sunnier states such as Arizona (+2.75%) and Florida because a still-strong house market has allowed them to sell homes in colder states. States that attract a steady stream of foreign immigrants, including California and Texas, also remain growth leaders.
Florida real estate
Home resales remained a beacon for Florida's economy in November as the median sales price of a single-family home grew 10 percent from last November to $128,800, the Florida Association of Relators reported. Statewide, 12,637 existing single-family homes were sold in November, up one percent over November 2000.
Among the larger metropolitan statistical areas in the state, Orlando reported a two percent increase in sales to 1,864 homes. The median sales price in Orlando rose eight percent to $120,000.
In the state's small to medium-size metropolitan areas, Daytona Beach reported a nine percent increase in total homes sold. The median sales price rose four percent to $94,500. The median price for homes in the North Brevard area is $75,000.
The substantial gains in resales is partly attributed to declining interest rates.
Real estate transactions of note in North Brevard
- A commercial property in Indian River City (South Titusville) sold for $500,000.
- A home at 740 Baytree Drive (Great Outdoors) sold for $230,000.
- A new home at 3075 Sandlewood Drive (Hickory Hills) sold for $200,428.
Best retirement town in Florida
Out of "America's 100 Best Retirement Towns" in Where To Retire magazine, 26 are in Florida. My analysis of the Florida towns are as follows: All are small to medium cities; all have relatively low crime rates; cost of living is average; average cost of a new home ranges from $107,000 (Deland) to $600,000 (Longboat Key).
No Brevard communities are listed.
BUZZ ... continued
Kloiber's Cobbler & Eatery says you don't have to wait for Valentine's Day to give your sweetie something warm and wonderful. Bring your special someone in for lunch or dinner, then take home some of their delicious cobbler today!
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Sand Point Barber Styling, which offers hair services for both men and women, welcomes a new stylist to their establishment--Kim Blankenship, formerly of Smart Style in Wal-Mart.
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Stop in and check out all the name brand clothing at New Name Fashions on Garden St. They have a sale going on everyday.
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Weight Watchers has moved to 2825 Garden St., right next door to New Name Fashions. Join now for only $35 (seniors $30). See their ad in this edition for days and times to sign up.
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Take advantage of the 10% off regular price Valentine's Special at Hair Image Family Salon, located on Garden St. next to Bowman's Meats.
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Do you like a good chili dog? Use the coupon for Arbetter Hot Dogs in this issue and buy five chili dogs for just $5.
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Carter's Pub is having a Super Bowl party on Sun., Feb. 3, featuring a BBQ plate for only $2 and free pool until 9 p.m.
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Bagel World's flavors of the month are horseradish, bacon and cream cheese. And they feature Boarshead meat. Stop in for breakfast or lunch, or pick up an assortment of bagels and cream cheese for the office.
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Need to get rid of some baby items and want to make money in the process? The Baby Garden has a "Wanted" ad in this week's News Observer featuring items they are in need of.
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Do you need to get extra keys made for your home, office or vehicle? Call A-1 Locksmith for help. In addition, they have after-hours service available.
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Stop by Spencer's Photography in Downtown Titusville and have pictures taken for your sweetie. You can also get I.D. or passport photos for only $8.
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Rent any one video or DVD at Spaceport Video Center and get a free rental.
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If you looking for your real estate man, Thomas Al Taylor, you can find him at Axsys Resources Real Estate, 383-0201.
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Are you suffering from a loss of bladder control? All Brevard OB/GYN Associates can help. Give them a call to make an appointment.
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Kolors Salon says it's time to pamper yourself! Take advantage of the special in their ad and treat yourself to a paraffin hand dip or face mask.
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Get your Valentine and all occasion cards at The Mail Center--they're just two (2) for $1.
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Boutique Plus features new and pre-owned clothes for women in sizes 4 up to 4X. In addition, they can place catalog orders for all kinds of fashions and African wear.
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Novatech Computers has relocated from next door to The Mail Center over to 4332 S. Hopkins Ave., next to Bowdean's Meats. Stop in their new shop and let them help you with your computer repairs or upgrades.
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Are you a Beloved Cherished Teddies collector? If so, stop in Marilyn's Bears & Things on Garden St. She's got rare, retired Cherished Teddies along with all kinds of other bears in her shop. See her ad for more info...
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There's Winter Clearance Days taking place at Altman's Air Conditioning & Heating--get a free air handler when you purchase a new, complete A/C system, and a free digital thermostat to the first 25 customers.
See their ad for more details...
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Eat, drink and be Irish with Mickey Doyle, the owner of Mickey's Shamrock & Thistle located at 2035 Cheney Hwy. Take in their coupon from this edition and get $1 off any meal or beverage.
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Claudia and Donna of Travel Service Network & Travel Barter Network invites the public to a very special evening aboard the Sterling Casino ship sailing from Port Canaveral on Fri., Jan. 25. A private buffet will be served in the Ambassador Room. Call 269-0802 or fax 269-8101 for more info.
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