“The Finish-Line” (A brief history of AMVETS Post 35)
In the beginning, there was the “Finish-Line”, an entrepreneurial effort to create a commercial bar, bytwo individuals, Earl Phelps and Claude Stiles. Located at the corner of Chestnut and Main, the buildinghad been occupied by a previous business, but they had a small fire in the kitchen area, making thebuilding appear bad and rundown.
The previous occupants were instrumental in causing the City of Crestview to tighten the alcoholordinance, such that it could not be served within 2000 feet of a school or a church. This location beingwithin the 2000 foot range of the Assembly of God church kept the ‘Finish-Line’ from obtaining a liquorlicense. The previous occupants, another club, was aware of a sewer line from the building hadcollapsed, and sewage would on occasion back-up causing a smelly situation. The occupants of that clubwould then simply go out the back door, walk a few feet to the adjacent building (Wooley Electronics)where the owner lived on the premises, and knock on his door asking to use his facilities. Mr. Wooleythen approached the City of Crestview with a complaint, asking that they increase the distance fromserving alcohol to a church. The City responded by increasing the distance from 500 to 2000 feet.When the two entrepreneurs applied to the City for a license, they were denied. And so they then beganwondering how to recover some of their costs.
Claude Stiles was a member of AMVETS Post 78 in Valparaiso, Florida. He acquired a ‘new post’application package, found the required ten eligible members or applicants, and applied for acharter. The charter was granted on January 7, 1986….and the new AMVETS Post 35 continued tooperate as a ‘bottle club’ for approximately six months. The application allows the new post to choosetheir own designation as long as it does not already exist within the State or what is known as theDepartment of Florida. Since the zip code for Crestview was at the time, 32536….the number 36 wasrequested, but denied since it already existed elsewhere in the State. It was lowered one digit to 35which stuck.
AMVETS Post 35 Auxiliary was chartered in April 1986. The sewer problem became intolerable, and so the new post began looking for another location. Anew member, Fred C. Bowman, a realtor in North Okaloosa County owned several pieces ofproperty. One being the old Gulf Power Company building at 148 East Woodruff was available throughFred. This new location was larger, the roof did not leak, and although the restroom was some distancein the back, it functioned well. And best of all, Fred rented it to the AMVETS for $300 per month….$200less than the previous location.
Our ‘bottle club’ continued to operate….member/patrons purchasing beer and product from localsources, depositing it in the coolers….and then buying it back from themselves. Operating hoursfluctuated up and down….all bartenders were volunteers in the beginning, and membership grew tobetween 100 and 150.
Jesse “JD” Way, being an employee of the Niceville Cash and Carry hardware store, kept an eye onneeds and requirements. He fashioned the first bar of plywood and polyurethane coated bartop. Driving the pieces of the bar together with 3 inch screws, the bar was sturdy and permanent. Post 35 began to mature by holding fish-fries, steak night and other events. At one point was visitedby United States Congressman Earl Hutto who represented this district. He joined Post 35. I thinkeveryone was afraid to check to see if he was even eligible to join. Mr. Hutto was not only a U.S.Representative, but a local TV personality after he retired.
In the Spring of 1988, the members began talking of owning their own property, far enough fromtown such that they would not be restricted from getting an alcohol license. The search went on forseveral months. Finally Fred Bowman again came through with another piece of property he owned,with an old ‘trailer’ on it he would let go as well. It was located in the 100 block of John King Road, nearthe present location, but further east by two lots. There was city water already on the property….and asewer line was available just across the road.
We drew up a contract for purchase and gave him $100 earnest money as a deposit. While wewaited for the closing to take place, title searches, survey and the necessary papers for closing….anothermember spotted an adjoining property….with a small building on it.
This property was owned by Mr. Joe Bell of Foxworth Mortgage in Crestview. It was a more level lotalso. He had it listed for $36,100. Our members contacted Mr. Bell to see if his price was flexible. Hewas offered exactly his selling price, provided he would accept it with zero down, and amortize thepayment schedule over 30 years instead of 20 as usual for commercial properties. Our members thenasked Fred Bowman again if he would mind our decision not to buy his property. Fred was a goodnatured individual and agreed. He even returned the deposit.
That same money was given to Joe Bell, and the contract for sale was consummated. Fred Bowmanwas such a good member, he allowed us to tap onto his city water supply, run a PVC line across the twolots to the new place, and our members applied to the City of Crestview for annexation into the Citylimits, being contiguous to the city limits and adjacent to George Mack’s property next door. Annexationwas done to make the sewer and water lines available.
We then applied to the City Public Works for a tap onto the sewer line and onto the water line aswell. Since the ‘tap fees’ amounted to nearly $1,500….our members approached the City Clerk, Mr. EdNeal, and requested he allow us to make payments for these fees over a period of time. He gave us oneyear.
Now began the work of preparing this building to house AMVETS Post 35. It was a long hotSummer….and the pressure was on. The pressure being that a Department SEC (State ExecutiveCommittee) meeting was being hosted by AMVETS Post 78….with meetings being held at the Holiday Inn(now the Quality Inn) across from the La Rumba Mexican restaurant here in Crestview.
Post 35 had six weeks to clean things up, make all the connections, and to apply and receive our firstDivision of Alcohol license to sell liquor, beer and wine. I believe I remember the SEC meeting being inOctober 1988. The license was received from Tallahassee, and was effective September 30th ….to berenewed each year for a fee of $400. An additional $25 also allowed the Post to sell cigarettes providedwe purchased them from legitimate distributors. Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club are those distributors. Luther Eddy Paulk was first Chairman of the Board of Trustees, then called “House Committee.” Eddywas given the task of stocking the bar. A new bar top was constructed in place by Patrick Vinson, andwe opened for business. The SEC arrived, and our members and officers attended the meeting acrossthe highway 85. There was lots of socializing with those members from down state….but we noticednever once was any announcement made that a new AMVETS Post existed right across the street. Atdays end, it was simply announced there was a bus to carry members and patron south to Post 78. As acounter measure, several of our members simply took 3X5 cards across to the social gatherings, signedthe cards and wrote “Good for one free Drink.” The first night open, Post 35 was packed with standingroom only. Smoke was so thick, it could be cut with a knife. It was a successful SEC for both Posts. The mortgage payment amounted to $327.13 while financed through Mr. Joe Bell. However, neverwas a payment sent to him for he had immediately sold the mortgage to another company, ChryslerFinancial Services in Panama City, Florida. We found out that he had discounted his mortgage to$22,000.
Over the years, many things changed now that we had purchased property and had all the appropriatelicenses.
During this time period, several community service events took place; the Auxiliary conducted icecream socials at Crestview Manor, a congregate living facility for the elderly made from the old CountyHospital at the corner of Hwy 85 and U.S. 90.
Birthday parties were held at the Crestview Nursing Home (now called the Parthenon) for someelderly whose families had all but forgotten them.
AMVETS Post 35 was a major participant in the “Old Spanish Trail Festival” at the current Old SpanishTrail Park off Stillwell Avenue for two years. The State of Florida allows licensees to move their alcohollicense for three day periods to support community events. The Post liberally shared their alcohol profitswith the Society for the purposes of employing entertainment. One year’s share to the Society was$1500 dollars. After two years, the Society chose to abstain from alcoholic beverages, even thoughthere had been no problems whatever.
Then for several years in a row, as many as 50 members of Post 35 would share 4th of July on theChoctawhatchee Bay in Tom Pride’s 70 foot boat. The Post would conduct a pot-luck dinner or picnic onthat trip, and then finish the evening anchored in the Bay to watch the fireworks display inNiceville. Commander Jesse “JD” and Dixie Way were married on board Tom’s boat on the 4th of July1989.
Another event in this time period was the twice each year, campouts and canoe trips down theBlackwater River. For those who may not know, the County name; “Okaloosa” is a Creek Indian wordfor “Blackwater”….hence the Blackwater River along with the Blackwater State Forest north ofBaker. These canoe trips were traditionally held on both Memorial Day weekend and Labor Dayweekends.
AMVETS Post 35 also initiated the first Veteran’s Day parade in downtown Crestview in manyyears. AMVETS did all the notifications of participants, alignment of units in the parade, and did all theadvertising to let the citizens know about it. After the parade, the other veteran’s organizations wereasked to take the responsibility for the parade in alternating years. They agreed.
A community service event for which AMVETS is most proud is the “Meals-on-Wheels.” The OkaloosaCounty Elder Services, headed by Ms. Ruth Lovejoy in Fort Walton Beach is in charge of daily “meals onwheels” for every day of the year…except Thanksgiving and Christmas Days. AMVETS Post 35 someyears back, chose to take on this event, while shouldering the entire expense themselves. The purchaseof turkeys or hams, whether donated or bought, and all the necessary trimmings to include pumpkin piefor dessert, are prepared, boxed and delivered to as many as 225 persons each year. This is a majoreffort involving as many as 50 AMVETS or couples for the preparation and delivery. “JD” Way usuallydoes most of the mapping and dividing of the meals and directions. The Thanksgiving meals aretraditionally Turkey, while Christmas allows a choice of either Turkey or Ham.
Other community service events include the Ladies making “ditty bags” for patients at the VA Hospitalin Gulfport, Mississippi.
During Phil “Tennessee” Davis’ time as Programs Officer, he suggested the Post “Adopt-a-Mile” ofhighway 85 for clean-up. In fact, the Post did adopt two miles….both sides of the highway from I-10north to the intersection of Ferdon Boulevard and Main Street. The requirement was for clean-up atleast once each quarter. The State DOT provided signs, vests, pickup tools and bags. All the Post hadto provide was the personnel.
AMVETS Post 35 also developed a tradition of Christmas parties at the Post home to include typicallya children’s party earlier in the day. Again, “JD” Way has usually played the part of Santa Clause.A Sons of AMVETS Squadron was chartered during this time. Maybe another can remember the exactyear.
Another tradition is the annual “St. Valentine’s Day” party, with its elected King and Queen for theday. This even is hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary, and is one of their most important money makers fortheir community service events.
Before the growth near our vicinity, we conducted “Turkey Shoots” in the Fall of each year. This wasactually held on the adjoining property, then owned by a different owner than at present. Little by little,the lot was cleared, and the parking area expanded. Riding mowers would chip away at the undergrowth until one could actually see most of the lot. A 12X28 foot addition was made to the front of thebuilding, expanding the play area for musicians and dancing. The back porch was closed in with securityin mind for storage of stock. What follows is a list of those deceased member from over the years, current as of May 2007;Outland, Gerald C 1986Grandstaff, George U. "Capp" (Father Of The Plumber On Your New Building) 1986Fischer, Roger F (Service Officer, Transfered From Post 78) 1988Hicks, Douglas W 1989Badcock, Lenoard G. 1990Baker, Raymond F. 1992Marshpund, David L. 1992Way, Orelious E. (Father Of Your Immediate Past Commander, 2007) 1992Lawrence, Cecil 1993Liston, Cecil 1993Little, Stanley (Raf) 1993Whitehouse, William P. (Partial Namesake Of Post 35) 1993Montie, Arnold "Moose" 1994Lambert, Joseph 1995Jones, Raymond 1996Jordon, Roger 1996Porter, Walter T. 1996Al Porter, (Father To Walter Above, Year Unk.) (Retired Navy Commander)Steele, John L. 1996Armstrong, Jack 1997Just, William 1997Rowley, Byrl L 1997Wieland, Russ 1997Counts, Jr. Harold L. "Butch" (First Post 35 Adjutant And Bar Manager) (Year Unk.)Counts,. Harold L. Sr 1998Fredrick, H.E. 1998Frane, Art 1999Henry, "Ht" Kieth 2000Hritz, Walter G. 2000Mcdonald, William 2000Parker, Jim 2000Givens, Elmer (Father Of Henry Givens) 2001Smith, Paul 2001Mechtly Iii, Gerald L. "Skip" 2002Baker, Tina 2003Batten, Robert "Bob The Batman" 2003Johnson, Henry Clay 2003Bowman, Fred C. (One Of Five Original Mortgage Co-Signers) 2004Howell, Jack L. 2004Moore, Gilbert "Chuck" (Remains A Permanent Part Of The Foundation) 2004Peasley, Leon "Mitch" 2004Banks, Ray 2005Gentry, Willie D. 2005Gilroy, William "Bill" F. 2005Lewallen, Ray (Remains A Permanent Part Of The Foundation) 2005Boehmer, Karl R. 2006Fleetwood Jr., Clifford G. 2006Haas, Robert W. 2006Labit, Davis J. 2006Lisabelle, William P. 2006Maddox, Edward G 2006Sutton, John F. 2006Trepak, Peter 2006Wilson, Carl D. 2006 Some have asked where the “Sherman” tank from World War II came from. Prior to coming toAMVETS Post 35, the tank was, parked on the northwest side of Twin Hills Park in downtownCrestview. It had been there for several years, and was assumed to come from the Eglin AFB rangesupport. It was probably a range target at one time in the past. While in the park, many children wouldplay on and climb over the tank. The City attorney had said there was a certain bit of risk involvedwhenever the children climbed onto the tank. The City Council voted to remove the tank. AMVETS requested it be given to them, and the City agreed. But the City also said that AMVETSwould have to move the tank. Contact was made with the 823rd. Civil Engineering Squadron, “RedHorse” at Hurlburt Field. Could this be a bit of Community Service for the Red Horse Squadron. Theyagreed, and once the move began, it took less than half a day. It was winched onto a flat-bed low-boyheavy equipment trailer, tied down securely and moved to its present location on AMVETSproperty. Since being place there, it has received a new paint job and markings. I am sure it willremain in place until Eglin needs it back. The Post did survive and prosper, but there were occasional ups and downs. Although the mortgagepayment was low, there were occasions when there was not enough money to make it along with all theutility payments too. During those times, we would either ‘pass the hat’ or ask if the Post LadiesAuxiliary had any money they would like to donate in support. More recently, Post 35 became more organized, monies were budgeted, and a better accounting waskept of funds and cash on hand. As we approached the end of the mortgage, multiple payments weremade….thereby amortizing the balance due more rapidly. Instead of one event per month, we steppedit up to some kind of entertainment each weekend, and at least one food event per month. Themembership continued to grow. With things improving, we began thinking more of a new facility/building. Several members took itupon themselves to present proposed designs. We began searching for contractors….and as soon asenough cash had been accumulated, an architect was hired. The architect’s name was Warren Lisenbee,a State of Florida licensed and certified architect. This was required for the design of a commercialbuilding. He was provided a few design parameters to go on. The size of the building was to be 60X80with a 20X60 covered patio on the back side. Inside the west wall of the building, built-in storage wasto be a full 6 foot wide for the entire length of the building. There was to be a “walk-in cooler”inside. Men’s and women’s restrooms were sized with the appropriate number of fixtures and lavatoriesin each, mirrors and lighting. The bar was to seat a minimum of 25 barstools, with two servingstations. The bar was to be offset from the north wall enough such that additional tables and seatingcould be placed. A window was specified to be full 15 feet wide. The south wall was to be partitionedsuch that a separate meeting room and a second office for the Ladies Auxiliary would be built. ThePost’s officer for business would be built in the northeast corner of the hall. A 12X30 foot kitchen wouldbe required along the west wall. The main entrance to the building was to be on the west wall betweenthe kitchen and the restrooms. Just beyond to the north would be a service entrance for distributorsand stock. Mr. Lisenbee drew up the plans, and after three or four minor changes, he presented the plans readyfor construction. The charge was one dollar per foot, or $6,000. This provided several copies of thecompleted plans suitable for a contractors to bid. Several general contractors were asked tobid. Names were Mike Moulton of Moulton’s Century 21 Realty….and Robert CadenheadContracting. Another was Harrelson Contracting in Baker, Florida. At the same time, an engineering company was contacted, Southern Engineering Group, ownerKermit George of Crestview, Florida. He was asked to provide the ‘site development’ for theproject. This was to cover land contours, elevations, building location, drainage, utility feeds….and aretention pond for runoff water. This was also to include a preliminary and final survey suitable for thelending institution. The estimated charge for this work would be approximately $5,000. At the same time, we began searching for financial support, a lending agency, bank or mortgagecompany. Three approached in Crestview each required varying numbers of ‘co-signer’ for any loanasked for. Someone suggested we approach the First National Bank of Florida, Destin branch. Theywere called and an appointment made for an estimated $250,000 loan. Coincidentally, the loan officer’sname was Justin Woodard….grandson of the former Department Commander, Al Woodard. He had theauthority to approve our loan….without ‘co-signers’ up to his limit of $250,000 dollars. While awaitingcontactors to bid, he was provided a set of the plans, and the completed site developmentengineering. A final survey would follow at completion. Two of the named contractors chose not tomake a bid. The third contractor’s bid came in at $355,000 for a completed building as specified. At more than $100,000 over our expectations, Mr. Harrelson was anxious to get started on theproject. He was told we were waiting for other bids to compare. We called the architect again and asked if he could make some adjustments for us to lower theestimated costs. He was told to modify the building by eliminating the kitchen, the second office andthe separate meeting room….but to keep the same number of fixtures in each of the restrooms forfuture growth. This change reduced the size of the building from 6000 square feet to 4200 under theroof. A reduction of 1800 square feet. As it would seem all was coming together at the same time….thehurricane season was fast approaching. Along came “Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.” Eachcrossing the state of Florida. Our loan for $250,000 was approved, but now there were no general contractors available to do thework. The prices would go up. AMVETS met and decided to attempt to do the job themselves. The Citypermitting department said that if we were attempting to build a single family dwelling, we could be ourown general contractor. However, since it would be a commercial building, we must get a generalcontractor qualified to do commercial buildings. Phil Bowman, son of Fred C. Bowman named earlier agreed to sell the use of his license for a fee of$15,000….made in four separate installments of $3,750 following receipt of permits, completion of thefoundation slab, building erected and dried in, and at completion of the entire building, the old structuredemolished and disposed of. One of AMVETS members, Paul Orosco of Young’s Contracting was the first supervisor ofconstruction. He brought in heavy earth moving equipment to begin the job, first by constructing theretention pond on the back side of the building location. Southern Engineering sent one of there crewsto site the building according to the pre-determined plan. The stakes were placed and thesquared. Foundation footers dug with the help of several members. Mr. Grandstaff of Grandstaff Plumbing in Crestview placed all the necessary roughed in plumbing pipein accordance with the architect’s plan. Paul Orosco provided company equipment, tripod and level for determining the level of the slab to be,and all bracing reinforced. Reinker Concrete company of Crestview gave AMVETS a reduced price forthe concrete, as well as being exempt from the sales tax. After all the compacting and settling of thesoil under the slab, wire and reinforcing steel was placed and tied down. Dollies or cradles to hold thetie-down “J” bolts exactly during the pour. In this area, the AMVETS building must meet state hurricanewind requirements of 130 mph. There were two pours. One for the main slab for the building, and thesecond for 1200 square foot of “patio” on the back. Paul Orosco is in the business of concrete foundations and retention ponds….and he gave AMVETS aprofessional job. The steel building had been ordered from General Steel Corporation of Arvada, Coloradoapproximately three months earlier. Upon its arrival, another local benefactor, Mr. Carry Huff of BayouMechanical Co. across John King Road volunteered his crane and operator to off-load the building kit. Allparts of the kit were laid out in an order of need, and an inventory of part numbers taken. David Lobb, an AMVETS member and employee of Phil Bowman Industries would be the jobsupervisor for the second phase of erecting the building. David garnered a crew of hard-hatconstruction workers, and began erecting red-iron steel. As each vertical column went up and squared,braces were placed and joined with tensioning rods to also square the entire building. Heavy steelbeams were lifted into place with another vintage crane from Phil Bowman’s company. The crane wasoperated by Bob Johnson, an AMVETS member and employee of Phil Bowman. David Lobb was getting behind with his regular work, and so was replaced by Ken Henninger, also anAMVETS member and former general contractor. He completed the top iron structure of the building,tensioning rods, and installation of insulation and siding over the entire building. General SteelCorporation failed to send us door frames and steel doors we ordered, we were reimbursed for theshortage. This caused us to purchase these materials from a local door company in Niceville. Theprice included installation. An outside roofing crew was hired to complete the roof and insulation. This contractor had to showproof of insurance and necessary ‘workman’s compensation’ coverage. Our members although willing toclimb to the top and complete the job, were inexperienced at such a danger level. A second crew of six AMVETS from Post 12 in Pensacola, led by Drew Rains and Joe Flynn, arrivedwith all material on hand, and began partitioning the entire interior as well as framing the outside wallinteriors. This portion was done in its entirety in one single weekend….although some finish work wasrequired to follow-up and ‘Some’ adjustments had to be made. The plumbing rough-in was slightlydifferent than the partitioning floor plan. While the framing was being accomplished, Jim Kaim, amember was installing the walk-in cooler, which had been temporarily stored at Ron Clark’s paint shopoff east Hwy 90 in Crestview. It is worth mentioning that prior to the concrete pour for the slab, a threeinch layer of Styrofoam sheeting was place below the pour. This served as an insulation below our12X12X8 foot refrigeration cooler. The cooler was placed in such a way the glass display door wasinside the bar area. The cooler was made operational and tested. Jim found the compressor size wasinsufficient for continuous operation, and had to be upgraded and replaced. During this same time period, Ken Henninger, also had to leave the job, and was replaced by JohnPorter. John and Jerry Lachman, both members of the Post were already working on the interior,specifically the bar. John was asked if he could complete the job. The heating and air conditioningcontractor arrived on site and began preliminary ducting all his work. Bob Meyers and Billy Gravidonni worked to add additional framing materials between thestudding. The Electrical Contractor, Crestview Electric, owner John Milligan’s people arrived on site andbegan their work of wiring the entire building. Bob and Billy with much help from other memberscompleted the dry-wall all around, and had a spackle finish done to the wall prior to painting. A specialcrew from Eglin AFB Civil Engineering sent a small crew of young airmen for training purposes to installthe ‘suspended ceiling’ following Bob and Billy’s installation of the ‘grid work’. Johnny Hughes of Florida Glass in Crestview framed and installed the double paned window on thenorth wall overlooking the patio area. When the patio concrete was poured, a small stoop was also poured at the front door. The finish wasa special finish simulating ‘slate’, and acid stained for its best look. A mansard overhang was constructed over the bar area by John Porter and Jerry Lachman, uniquelyshaped to hold two large LED TV screens, one on each side of the bar. A third and like sized LED TV wasmounted on the east wall between the pool table area and the Karaoke stage area. This one is wired insuch a way that it can double as a Karaoke monitor. A wired public address (PA) system is built into theceiling of the hall, with controls in the store room behind the bar. Two other LED moving message signsare mounted on opposite walls, both east and west. A larger LED traveling message sign is mounted atthe entrance to the AMVETS property. It stands on an eight foot pole with a lighted AMVETS logo signindentifying Post 35 above the LED. Since over the life span of Post 35, the Post has been robbed or broken into several times, it wasdecided to install a security system, in the form of a small closed circuit TV monitor with twocameras. One camera is mounted on the outside of the building scanning the parking lot area, while thesecond camera is mounted inside the foyer area, so the bartenders can see who is ringing the door entrybutton. There are also ‘motion detector’ units inside the building, and the system is monitored by asecurity company who will report or notify us of any irregularities after hours. The City of Crestview’s Planning and Permitting Department required AMVETS to complete ‘all’ workbefore occupancy. That included finishing the parking lot, landscaping and sod as specified, and razingthe old building and clearing the lot. The Post’s aim for occupancy was to be in by the 4th of July2006. In fact, the ‘end of construction’ party took place on that date. John Porter worked with a pavingcontractor who paved the parking area with 4000 psi concrete. A sprinkler system was installed. Anddue to a “glitch” the slab was poured 18 inches too low, thereby requiring a ‘lift station’ be installed. Mr.Grandstaff’s plumber finished installing all fixtures in the restrooms, and behind the bar. He alsoinstalled a ‘tankless’ gas water heater on the outside of the west wall, just south of the serviceentry. Restroom partitions were purchased locally and Bob and Billy installed them in each of therestrooms. They also constructed the railing on the outside around the patio. Jesse “JD” Waypurchased a nice stainless steel gas grill for the patio….and Lynn and Larry Mobley constructed the brickbase to hold this ‘drop-in’ style grill. Worthy of mention, is that two of our former members, “Chuck” Moore and Ray Lewallen have theircremated remains imbedded in the concrete slab below the building patio. A marble plaque will soon beinstalled to commemorate this fact. A gate was cut in the railing around the patio to allow for access on the east side without having toclimb the rail. Tim Critcher had suggested we build a small play yard for children, to be completed on the west sideof the patio. Suzy Orosco, bar manager and AMVETS member accomplished the plantings on the front (south) sideof the building. Her husband, Paul brought his employers equipment from work to tear down the old building. Sometime during the first half of the year 2007, a new ancillary organization of this Post, the“AMVETS Riders” was chartered with its first President, Donald Lee. Others may join either with orwithout the benefit of ownership of a bike, but if you choose to ride with the club, your bike must becapable of Interstate Highway speeds, and you must be a member of AMVETS Post 35. Bruce R. HoonPublic Relations OfficerCharter Member for LifeOn this day, May 30, 2007
Before the growth near our vicinity, we conducted “Turkey Shoots” in the Fall of each year. This wasactually held on the adjoining property, then owned by a different owner than at present. Little by little,the lot was cleared, and the parking area expanded. Riding mowers would chip away at the undergrowth until one could actually see most of the lot. A 12X28 foot addition was made to the front of thebuilding, expanding the play area for musicians and dancing. The back porch was closed in with securityin mind for storage of stock. What follows is a list of those deceased member from over the years, current as of May 2007;Outland, Gerald C 1986Grandstaff, George U. "Capp" (Father Of The Plumber On Your New Building) 1986Fischer, Roger F (Service Officer, Transfered From Post 78) 1988Hicks, Douglas W 1989Badcock, Lenoard G. 1990Baker, Raymond F. 1992Marshpund, David L. 1992Way, Orelious E. (Father Of Your Immediate Past Commander, 2007) 1992Lawrence, Cecil 1993Liston, Cecil 1993Little, Stanley (Raf) 1993Whitehouse, William P. (Partial Namesake Of Post 35) 1993Montie, Arnold "Moose" 1994Lambert, Joseph 1995Jones, Raymond 1996Jordon, Roger 1996Porter, Walter T. 1996Al Porter, (Father To Walter Above, Year Unk.) (Retired Navy Commander)Steele, John L. 1996Armstrong, Jack 1997Just, William 1997Rowley, Byrl L 1997Wieland, Russ 1997Counts, Jr. Harold L. "Butch" (First Post 35 Adjutant And Bar Manager) (Year Unk.)Counts,. Harold L. Sr 1998Fredrick, H.E. 1998Frane, Art 1999Henry, "Ht" Kieth 2000Hritz, Walter G. 2000Mcdonald, William 2000Parker, Jim 2000Givens, Elmer (Father Of Henry Givens) 2001Smith, Paul 2001Mechtly Iii, Gerald L. "Skip" 2002Baker, Tina 2003Batten, Robert "Bob The Batman" 2003Johnson, Henry Clay 2003Bowman, Fred C. (One Of Five Original Mortgage Co-Signers) 2004Howell, Jack L. 2004Moore, Gilbert "Chuck" (Remains A Permanent Part Of The Foundation) 2004Peasley, Leon "Mitch" 2004Banks, Ray 2005Gentry, Willie D. 2005Gilroy, William "Bill" F. 2005Lewallen, Ray (Remains A Permanent Part Of The Foundation) 2005Boehmer, Karl R. 2006Fleetwood Jr., Clifford G. 2006Haas, Robert W. 2006Labit, Davis J. 2006Lisabelle, William P. 2006Maddox, Edward G 2006Sutton, John F. 2006Trepak, Peter 2006Wilson, Carl D. 2006 Some have asked where the “Sherman” tank from World War II came from. Prior to coming toAMVETS Post 35, the tank was, parked on the northwest side of Twin Hills Park in downtownCrestview. It had been there for several years, and was assumed to come from the Eglin AFB rangesupport. It was probably a range target at one time in the past. While in the park, many children wouldplay on and climb over the tank. The City attorney had said there was a certain bit of risk involvedwhenever the children climbed onto the tank. The City Council voted to remove the tank. AMVETS requested it be given to them, and the City agreed. But the City also said that AMVETSwould have to move the tank. Contact was made with the 823rd. Civil Engineering Squadron, “RedHorse” at Hurlburt Field. Could this be a bit of Community Service for the Red Horse Squadron. Theyagreed, and once the move began, it took less than half a day. It was winched onto a flat-bed low-boyheavy equipment trailer, tied down securely and moved to its present location on AMVETSproperty. Since being place there, it has received a new paint job and markings. I am sure it willremain in place until Eglin needs it back. The Post did survive and prosper, but there were occasional ups and downs. Although the mortgagepayment was low, there were occasions when there was not enough money to make it along with all theutility payments too. During those times, we would either ‘pass the hat’ or ask if the Post LadiesAuxiliary had any money they would like to donate in support. More recently, Post 35 became more organized, monies were budgeted, and a better accounting waskept of funds and cash on hand. As we approached the end of the mortgage, multiple payments weremade….thereby amortizing the balance due more rapidly. Instead of one event per month, we steppedit up to some kind of entertainment each weekend, and at least one food event per month. Themembership continued to grow. With things improving, we began thinking more of a new facility/building. Several members took itupon themselves to present proposed designs. We began searching for contractors….and as soon asenough cash had been accumulated, an architect was hired. The architect’s name was Warren Lisenbee,a State of Florida licensed and certified architect. This was required for the design of a commercialbuilding. He was provided a few design parameters to go on. The size of the building was to be 60X80with a 20X60 covered patio on the back side. Inside the west wall of the building, built-in storage wasto be a full 6 foot wide for the entire length of the building. There was to be a “walk-in cooler”inside. Men’s and women’s restrooms were sized with the appropriate number of fixtures and lavatoriesin each, mirrors and lighting. The bar was to seat a minimum of 25 barstools, with two servingstations. The bar was to be offset from the north wall enough such that additional tables and seatingcould be placed. A window was specified to be full 15 feet wide. The south wall was to be partitionedsuch that a separate meeting room and a second office for the Ladies Auxiliary would be built. ThePost’s officer for business would be built in the northeast corner of the hall. A 12X30 foot kitchen wouldbe required along the west wall. The main entrance to the building was to be on the west wall betweenthe kitchen and the restrooms. Just beyond to the north would be a service entrance for distributorsand stock. Mr. Lisenbee drew up the plans, and after three or four minor changes, he presented the plans readyfor construction. The charge was one dollar per foot, or $6,000. This provided several copies of thecompleted plans suitable for a contractors to bid. Several general contractors were asked tobid. Names were Mike Moulton of Moulton’s Century 21 Realty….and Robert CadenheadContracting. Another was Harrelson Contracting in Baker, Florida. At the same time, an engineering company was contacted, Southern Engineering Group, ownerKermit George of Crestview, Florida. He was asked to provide the ‘site development’ for theproject. This was to cover land contours, elevations, building location, drainage, utility feeds….and aretention pond for runoff water. This was also to include a preliminary and final survey suitable for thelending institution. The estimated charge for this work would be approximately $5,000. At the same time, we began searching for financial support, a lending agency, bank or mortgagecompany. Three approached in Crestview each required varying numbers of ‘co-signer’ for any loanasked for. Someone suggested we approach the First National Bank of Florida, Destin branch. Theywere called and an appointment made for an estimated $250,000 loan. Coincidentally, the loan officer’sname was Justin Woodard….grandson of the former Department Commander, Al Woodard. He had theauthority to approve our loan….without ‘co-signers’ up to his limit of $250,000 dollars. While awaitingcontactors to bid, he was provided a set of the plans, and the completed site developmentengineering. A final survey would follow at completion. Two of the named contractors chose not tomake a bid. The third contractor’s bid came in at $355,000 for a completed building as specified. At more than $100,000 over our expectations, Mr. Harrelson was anxious to get started on theproject. He was told we were waiting for other bids to compare. We called the architect again and asked if he could make some adjustments for us to lower theestimated costs. He was told to modify the building by eliminating the kitchen, the second office andthe separate meeting room….but to keep the same number of fixtures in each of the restrooms forfuture growth. This change reduced the size of the building from 6000 square feet to 4200 under theroof. A reduction of 1800 square feet. As it would seem all was coming together at the same time….thehurricane season was fast approaching. Along came “Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.” Eachcrossing the state of Florida. Our loan for $250,000 was approved, but now there were no general contractors available to do thework. The prices would go up. AMVETS met and decided to attempt to do the job themselves. The Citypermitting department said that if we were attempting to build a single family dwelling, we could be ourown general contractor. However, since it would be a commercial building, we must get a generalcontractor qualified to do commercial buildings. Phil Bowman, son of Fred C. Bowman named earlier agreed to sell the use of his license for a fee of$15,000….made in four separate installments of $3,750 following receipt of permits, completion of thefoundation slab, building erected and dried in, and at completion of the entire building, the old structuredemolished and disposed of. One of AMVETS members, Paul Orosco of Young’s Contracting was the first supervisor ofconstruction. He brought in heavy earth moving equipment to begin the job, first by constructing theretention pond on the back side of the building location. Southern Engineering sent one of there crewsto site the building according to the pre-determined plan. The stakes were placed and thesquared. Foundation footers dug with the help of several members. Mr. Grandstaff of Grandstaff Plumbing in Crestview placed all the necessary roughed in plumbing pipein accordance with the architect’s plan. Paul Orosco provided company equipment, tripod and level for determining the level of the slab to be,and all bracing reinforced. Reinker Concrete company of Crestview gave AMVETS a reduced price forthe concrete, as well as being exempt from the sales tax. After all the compacting and settling of thesoil under the slab, wire and reinforcing steel was placed and tied down. Dollies or cradles to hold thetie-down “J” bolts exactly during the pour. In this area, the AMVETS building must meet state hurricanewind requirements of 130 mph. There were two pours. One for the main slab for the building, and thesecond for 1200 square foot of “patio” on the back. Paul Orosco is in the business of concrete foundations and retention ponds….and he gave AMVETS aprofessional job. The steel building had been ordered from General Steel Corporation of Arvada, Coloradoapproximately three months earlier. Upon its arrival, another local benefactor, Mr. Carry Huff of BayouMechanical Co. across John King Road volunteered his crane and operator to off-load the building kit. Allparts of the kit were laid out in an order of need, and an inventory of part numbers taken. David Lobb, an AMVETS member and employee of Phil Bowman Industries would be the jobsupervisor for the second phase of erecting the building. David garnered a crew of hard-hatconstruction workers, and began erecting red-iron steel. As each vertical column went up and squared,braces were placed and joined with tensioning rods to also square the entire building. Heavy steelbeams were lifted into place with another vintage crane from Phil Bowman’s company. The crane wasoperated by Bob Johnson, an AMVETS member and employee of Phil Bowman. David Lobb was getting behind with his regular work, and so was replaced by Ken Henninger, also anAMVETS member and former general contractor. He completed the top iron structure of the building,tensioning rods, and installation of insulation and siding over the entire building. General SteelCorporation failed to send us door frames and steel doors we ordered, we were reimbursed for theshortage. This caused us to purchase these materials from a local door company in Niceville. Theprice included installation. An outside roofing crew was hired to complete the roof and insulation. This contractor had to showproof of insurance and necessary ‘workman’s compensation’ coverage. Our members although willing toclimb to the top and complete the job, were inexperienced at such a danger level. A second crew of six AMVETS from Post 12 in Pensacola, led by Drew Rains and Joe Flynn, arrivedwith all material on hand, and began partitioning the entire interior as well as framing the outside wallinteriors. This portion was done in its entirety in one single weekend….although some finish work wasrequired to follow-up and ‘Some’ adjustments had to be made. The plumbing rough-in was slightlydifferent than the partitioning floor plan. While the framing was being accomplished, Jim Kaim, amember was installing the walk-in cooler, which had been temporarily stored at Ron Clark’s paint shopoff east Hwy 90 in Crestview. It is worth mentioning that prior to the concrete pour for the slab, a threeinch layer of Styrofoam sheeting was place below the pour. This served as an insulation below our12X12X8 foot refrigeration cooler. The cooler was placed in such a way the glass display door wasinside the bar area. The cooler was made operational and tested. Jim found the compressor size wasinsufficient for continuous operation, and had to be upgraded and replaced. During this same time period, Ken Henninger, also had to leave the job, and was replaced by JohnPorter. John and Jerry Lachman, both members of the Post were already working on the interior,specifically the bar. John was asked if he could complete the job. The heating and air conditioningcontractor arrived on site and began preliminary ducting all his work. Bob Meyers and Billy Gravidonni worked to add additional framing materials between thestudding. The Electrical Contractor, Crestview Electric, owner John Milligan’s people arrived on site andbegan their work of wiring the entire building. Bob and Billy with much help from other memberscompleted the dry-wall all around, and had a spackle finish done to the wall prior to painting. A specialcrew from Eglin AFB Civil Engineering sent a small crew of young airmen for training purposes to installthe ‘suspended ceiling’ following Bob and Billy’s installation of the ‘grid work’. Johnny Hughes of Florida Glass in Crestview framed and installed the double paned window on thenorth wall overlooking the patio area. When the patio concrete was poured, a small stoop was also poured at the front door. The finish wasa special finish simulating ‘slate’, and acid stained for its best look. A mansard overhang was constructed over the bar area by John Porter and Jerry Lachman, uniquelyshaped to hold two large LED TV screens, one on each side of the bar. A third and like sized LED TV wasmounted on the east wall between the pool table area and the Karaoke stage area. This one is wired insuch a way that it can double as a Karaoke monitor. A wired public address (PA) system is built into theceiling of the hall, with controls in the store room behind the bar. Two other LED moving message signsare mounted on opposite walls, both east and west. A larger LED traveling message sign is mounted atthe entrance to the AMVETS property. It stands on an eight foot pole with a lighted AMVETS logo signindentifying Post 35 above the LED. Since over the life span of Post 35, the Post has been robbed or broken into several times, it wasdecided to install a security system, in the form of a small closed circuit TV monitor with twocameras. One camera is mounted on the outside of the building scanning the parking lot area, while thesecond camera is mounted inside the foyer area, so the bartenders can see who is ringing the door entrybutton. There are also ‘motion detector’ units inside the building, and the system is monitored by asecurity company who will report or notify us of any irregularities after hours. The City of Crestview’s Planning and Permitting Department required AMVETS to complete ‘all’ workbefore occupancy. That included finishing the parking lot, landscaping and sod as specified, and razingthe old building and clearing the lot. The Post’s aim for occupancy was to be in by the 4th of July2006. In fact, the ‘end of construction’ party took place on that date. John Porter worked with a pavingcontractor who paved the parking area with 4000 psi concrete. A sprinkler system was installed. Anddue to a “glitch” the slab was poured 18 inches too low, thereby requiring a ‘lift station’ be installed. Mr.Grandstaff’s plumber finished installing all fixtures in the restrooms, and behind the bar. He alsoinstalled a ‘tankless’ gas water heater on the outside of the west wall, just south of the serviceentry. Restroom partitions were purchased locally and Bob and Billy installed them in each of therestrooms. They also constructed the railing on the outside around the patio. Jesse “JD” Waypurchased a nice stainless steel gas grill for the patio….and Lynn and Larry Mobley constructed the brickbase to hold this ‘drop-in’ style grill. Worthy of mention, is that two of our former members, “Chuck” Moore and Ray Lewallen have theircremated remains imbedded in the concrete slab below the building patio. A marble plaque will soon beinstalled to commemorate this fact. A gate was cut in the railing around the patio to allow for access on the east side without having toclimb the rail. Tim Critcher had suggested we build a small play yard for children, to be completed on the west sideof the patio. Suzy Orosco, bar manager and AMVETS member accomplished the plantings on the front (south) sideof the building. Her husband, Paul brought his employers equipment from work to tear down the old building. Sometime during the first half of the year 2007, a new ancillary organization of this Post, the“AMVETS Riders” was chartered with its first President, Donald Lee. Others may join either with orwithout the benefit of ownership of a bike, but if you choose to ride with the club, your bike must becapable of Interstate Highway speeds, and you must be a member of AMVETS Post 35. Bruce R. HoonPublic Relations OfficerCharter Member for LifeOn this day, May 30, 2007