Florida State’s Olympians

America led the 2016 Olympics with an astonishing medal count over the next two closest countries, Great Britain and China.  It is safe to say that having Michael Phelps, Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles representing the United States is a major reason for the gap between medals. With almost every news outlet covering the events and social media going crazy for the legends that represent us, coverage for the College Olympics remained slim.

Several people stand unaware that Florida State University bred some of the finest Olympians of our time. The reasoning probably due to the underground nature of the College Olympics. Unlike Michael Phelps, Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles, the glory and fame for our “rock star” Olympians stays concealed. Sophistication, professionalism and pride make up the qualities that brand our “stars” near perfection. Most students come and go every two or four years. For this reason, the College Olympics only apply to faculty members. During this special time students back their professors and show ultimate college pride.

Synonymous to America in the Olympics, Florida State University brought home the most gold in the past decade with a serious lead over the next two closest competitors, Florida and Miami. Through the professional degree programs offered, Florida State University maintains an All-Star lineup. Practically a given, when competing with a track record of constantly producing major careers for students, FSU retains a considerable amount of wins. Standing out as best of the best, the precision and skill of teaching from the Communication Department proves to go above and beyond; increased graduation rates solidify this truth.

I mention the Communication department due to the fact I have experienced first-hand the power of knowledge and teaching that they hold. Without these teachers, I would not receive the proper guidance for my career after school or the right knowledge needed upon graduating. Even drowsy and hardheaded students walked away with skillful knowledge from these departments. Many will claim that success lies within the student, but there is no arguing that a successful teacher can impact a student’s life.

Teachers at Florida State take their time with students and they refer to them as people, not numbers. The personal dedication impacts students and their success rates. That’s what sets Olympians apart from the normal. They perfect their craft, such as teaching, and change people with it.

Shout out to all of the Florida State University Olympians!

— Jay Sullivan

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Note: Like the medicine man Abiaka, this column embraces the crazy and absurd world by delivering its own “medicine.” The stories are satire pieces and in no way should be taken seriously. Sharing and continuing Abiaka’s legacy is an honor that will bring more awareness towards his history. Read more about Abiaka's history

What is SGC and why should I care?

As a student of Florida State University, you have direct access to your student government and a voice as to what happens here on your campus, yet you also have all the rights and privileges of any other student of FSU. All you need do is choose to participate.

Who makes up the SGC?

The SGC is made up of 11 students: a president, a president pro-tempore, a Senator and eight representatives/committee chairpersons. Students just like you who want to:

• be leaders on this campus
• make this campus the best place for our students to earn a degree
• learn marketable leadership skills future employers want
• enhance their college experience

SGC reps can be freshmen to grad students with ages ranging from 17 year olds to students in their 60s. There are no age limits. The only requirements are:

• be a currently enrolled student, in good standing with the university and all departments
• have and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 (3.0 for grad students)
• have a desire to serve the students of FSU Panama City

Is SGC totally separate from the SGA in Tallahassee?

No. The SGC is a part of the Student Government Association (SGA). The FSU Student Body Statutes gives our SGC autonomy to govern this campus. University-wide issues are voted on in Tallahassee. Our students are represented by our SGC Senator, who travels to Tallahassee at least once a month to keep the Panama City campus active in the processes there. Yet, student concerns from our campus are handled here. When needed, larger issues may be taken beyond here to “the powers that be,” as happened recently when our students expressed need for a mental health counselor on this campus. Our students decide what happens here.

How do students get involved with the SGC?

There are many ways for students to be involved:

• Attend the bi-weekly meetings, ask questions, give your viewpoint and let it be known that you care about what is going on.
• Attend one or more committee meetings. Read student emails to see the variety of committees (standing and ad-hoc). The standing committees of SGC are:
• Awards and Scholarships
• Elections
• Finance 
• Historian
• Programming
• Publicity
• Special Events
• Student Development & Wellness
• Apply for an appointment to SGC when a seat becomes available. Sometimes a representative feels the need to step down either for one semester (hiatus) or permanently. This leaves a void that must be filled on council.
• Run for a seat in the student elections. Each fall and spring semester five representatives are elected to the SGC. 

Hopefully, now you will see why you should care. Government takes involvement from everyone to be effective.

— Sarah Schreck

contributing writer

Teaching English in Morocco

“You know, like popcorn. It goes ‘pop’! It pops from you, to you, to you. Pop, pop! POP!” I scream as I hop around the room. Luckily, at this point in my time volunteering at Fedora, a Moroccan foreign language institution in Taroudant, I feel comfortable making a fool of myself in front of my students. With each of my hops, the classroom roars with laughter and my students’ hands shoot up into the air higher and faster in excitement to be “popped” and, therefore, chosen to read aloud to the class.

Today’s lesson revolves around an article titled “Sign Language to Speech” which presents a new glove engineered for those who are deaf or mute that interprets sign language and electronically speaks out loud in English for the user.

Besides the fact that I’m acting a little crazy, today my students are mostly intrigued by the projector and laptop I had set up before they walked into class. Usually to utilize articles in class we are forced to do a dictation, which is where I read a section of the article aloud and my students write down what they hear in their notebooks. In a nutshell, dictations are very time-consuming and ineffective, especially in my lower-level classes. Today, though, things are looking up with our new toy. Now, each student is able to read aloud off of the projector, allowing them to practice both their reading and speaking skills.

“Alright class, would you like to see the glove? Okay, during the video I want you write down in your notebooks as many phrases as you can hear and try your best with spelling them correctly. Got it?” In response I get a bunch of nodding, smiling heads; most of them were still giggling from all of the popcorn.

I go ahead and start the video, but no sound comes out. I turn the volume on the laptop to its highest setting, but even the students sitting closest to where I’m standing can’t hear the audio.

Well, there goes the listening portion of the lesson...

— Dana Leger

contributing writer

Networking 101: How to open doors you didn’t know were even there

In 15 years in the business world, the most uncomfortable I ever felt was during my first business-networking experience. I was 20 years old, working for a non-profit, desperately looking for community partners, and I had no idea what I was doing. This was a Chamber of Commerce mixer, and the sea of people around me looked like they already knew everyone else. They all seemed to be having conversations I couldn’t break into, and I ended up being a wallflower for most of the meeting and left with no leads.

It took me many of these meetings to really become comfortable, and then a few more beyond that to really start building my network in the community and getting results. Thirteen years later in TV ad sales, many of my biggest deals were with clients I met at social events just like these. The learned ability to effectively network gave me a huge advantage over people with more experience who didn’t have this skill. I only wish that in the beginning I had someone who could have helped to jump-start my professional network and given me pointers.

Now that I find myself the president of the Communication Club, I want to help you do exactly that.

Each month, you’ll have opportunities to network with the business community through events with the Bay County Chamber of Commerce and Business Referral Luncheons, and through Q&As with monthly speakers. Sharpen your skills here in college before you find yourself learning on the fly out in the “real world.”

Is all this networking practice really worth it? U.S. News states that building your network is one of the two most crucial ways you can guarantee landing a job when you graduate. Meeting the right person while in college can absolutely be the difference between getting an interview and missing a great opportunity.

On Oct. 17, our first speaker of the year was Andre Boyd, a FSU alumnus and the owner of “Andre Knows Marketing,” a local marketing and PR firm. Students of all majors are encouraged to attend future events. Please email Brian Garmon with any questions or to receive a club application online.

— Brian Garmon

contributing writer

Following in a Seminole Legacy

My mother graduated from Florida State University in 1978 with her bachelor’s degree from the School of Music, and she played Clarinet in the renowned FSU Marching Chiefs. She raised me from the day I was born to be a Seminole.

While the road has not been easy, following in my mother’s footsteps to continue the legacy set forth by her has been a dream of mine to accomplish since I was old enough to start doing the chop. Our family has been Seminole Boosters for almost 30 years, and we regularly attend many home and away football games. I have always been known to most of my peers as among the most passionate fans they knew, and getting the chance to become an actual student to the school I love is a gift I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Growing up in a Seminole Booster household required me to become very acquainted with FSU football, basketball and baseball. To this day, my mother has missed only one football game in Tallahassee in over 30 years. As a child growing up, I would also attend 12-15 basketball games and over 30 baseball games annually with my father. Growing up seeing the deep passion that my parents shared in attending so many sporting events led me to develop into my own true Seminole obsession. FSU games quickly became more than just a hobby, but we recognized it as the true passion that we all shared together as a family. Rarely does an entire family share the same common interest, and I really believe it was the glue that held our family together over many years. Times may not always have been the greatest, but we always knew on trips to Tallahassee that it was a day guaranteed with smiles and sometimes cries. We always knew that it was those moments as a family that we would cherish forever.

On Sept. 16, 2009, my father unexpectedly passed away, and it was a moment that changed our family forever. My mother and I had to make a decision on whether to stop attending the games or try to keep the tradition alive that had always been a part of what we did for so many years. We finished the 2009 season, which was one of the most difficult times in my life. We came to the conclusion that my father would have wanted us to keep going to enjoy something that we loved to do, and knowing his presence is felt so strongly, changed the perspective into something much greater than being at a football game. There are still times where I will look to my right and still expect him to be there, but knowing we are exactly we should be is heartwarming.

Becoming a student at FSU was always one of my father’s greatest goals, he would often tell me growing up. After many years of hard work, to be a student at the university that I so greatly admired for all these years is a gift that nobody will ever quite understand outside of my house. Now that I have achieved one major goal, my next is to earn my bachelor’s degree in communication. Afterward, I plan to get my master’s degree in sports management. I will hopefully be able to show future generations the excitement around sports and maybe start a new legacy for other families down the road.

— Chad Newberry

contributing writer

Simple, delicious pasta sauce

When I think of my favorite comfort foods, one of the first things that comes to mind is my mother’s tomato sauce served over pasta. My mother has been using the same recipe for as long as I can remember, and with good reason. This sauce is incredibly easy to make, it freezes well, and it reheats perfectly in the microwave. Great for busy college students, this sauce can be stored in individual portions, so it is ready to reheat and serve.

When I cook, I make an effort to make as much from scratch as possible, but within reason. It is not always practical to make a sauce using fresh tomatoes; but, I still like to avoid the jars of ready-made marinara. My mother’s sauce is made with canned tomato sauce (I like to use Hunt’s). The glory of this recipe is in the other three ingredients: Fresh garlic, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil.

What sets this tomato sauce apart from a typical marinara sauce is its velvety, smooth texture. The sweet flavor of tomato is interrupted by bursts of garlic and large pieces of basil. The simplicity of this recipe allows the flavors to really sing.

Served over pasta, this sauce tastes great topped with Parmesan. However, this sauce tastes particularly wonderful topped with sharp cheddar. This recipe makes a great base for meaty Bolognese style sauce, and it also works very well for making lasagna and pizza.

— Phoebe Isaac

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Ingredients:

• 2 large cans of tomato sauce
• 2 ounces of fresh basil, rinsed and dried, cut into 1 inch strips
• 4 to 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

Steps:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium. 

2. Decrease heat to medium-low, and add garlic to saucepan.

3. Cook, stirring frequently, until garlic is fragrant and slightly soft (about 5 minutes).

4. Add tomato sauce, and stir to combine; increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil (I highly recommend using a splatter-guard to cover saucepan).

5. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and the basil, and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow sauce to simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Remove saucepan from heat and allow sauce to rest (5 minutes). Serve over pasta. Refrigerate or freeze leftover sauce.

Inside the rally with Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton visited the Martin Luther King Jr. Rec Center on East 14th Court in Panama City on Saturday, Oct. 22. One of our students had the privilege of attending the event and took some pictures.

— Todd Hallett

contributing writer

From homeless veteran to FSU student: Three months and one admissions fee later

I never appreciated the fact that I was a pack rat until I had to use my clothes as a mattress. The old sea bag I held onto looked like a giant slug after I’d punched it into the right shape for my back, and the driver’s side door of my tiny 2004 Ford Ranger was just right to prop my heels up as I forced my shoulders into the passenger’s side door as far as the “mattress” would let me. I was pouring sweat, it was summer, and my air conditioner wasn’t repaired as of yet, but it was better than the alternatives.

I suppose it doesn’t need to be said that I’m no role model when it comes to success, but I do know a thing or two about weathering bad situations. I was a homeless veteran, like the posters you see in random buildings or the things you hear about in ads. I thought the idea that this was a normal situation for many people (all over America) was insane, but there I was. My diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder resulted in my nearby family being terrified of allowing me to live with them, after reading so many horror stories about individuals having violent outbursts. I didn’t have a support system. I didn’t have income beyond my disability stipend, but I did have some time left on my G.I. Bill.

The staff at FSU Panama City didn’t act terrified of me. They were kind to me, even when I walked in pouring sweat and looking worse than those old scenes from Wild West movies (you know, where the cowboy returns from being stranded in the desert and walks up to his first building in town). The VA department guided me through the process of registering, and by orientation day in late August, I had already been linked to resources that were helping me find clothes, food, and ways around the established policies that actually make it harder to “pull yourself up by your boot straps.”

There were little lessons I learned, such as putting aside $10 to $15 for a gym membership guarantees you a place that you can shower anytime. Another helpful tip is that laws prevent you from sleeping in your vehicle overnight in most areas, and nearly every police officer who checks on you will be determined to give you a breathalyzer. However, Panama City has RV parks and campgrounds where you don’t have to worry about the typical ordeals you may be subjected to when testing out 90 percent of your options.

Life is still chaotic, as I sprint to surpass the obstacles I’ve dealt with all summer, but I find it funny that the title of this article was my path to salvation; rather than a social work program or some other solution that people might expect. College really can empower you.

— Johnathon Alleman

contributing writer

Thunder Beach Fall 2016

This weekend, Panama City Beach hosted the 16th annual Thunder Beach motorcycle rally. This event included multiple venues with food tents, games for children and free concerts. If we’ve ever met, you would probably guess that the last place you’d find me is a motorcycle rally. And you would be right, but my husband loves riding. I’ve only ever been on two motorcycles, and it was a round trip to a restaurant or something. My husband usually plans for these events months in advance. This time, family and friends found themselves with multiple events and plans, so I decided to step up and get on the back of his Harley. I really enjoyed myself, considering how terrified I was. I was able to spend time with my best friend and get a glimpse of his world.

Here are three things I enjoyed about Thunder Beach:

1. The people: I met the nicest people at multiple venues. Everyone seems to love leather, and everyone was wearing my favorite color, black. 
2. The organization: You can really tell when an event is put together well. Maybe it was because it was the 16th year so they’ve had time to get it right. Nevertheless, it was clean, lines moved quickly and parking thousands of bikes wasn’t complicated.
3. The bikes: Holy smokes! It’s a different world. I have never seen such beauty in a motorcycle. Some have monster sound systems and some have amazing paint jobs. Just incredible stuff. 

— Sandra de Arrigunaga

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

TBI survivor, FSU Panama City alumnus discusses 'This Beautiful Injury'

FSU Panama City alumnus James Durham shared his experience with a traumatic brain injury during a Nole Talk "This Beautiful Injury" on Oct. 19. 

"Love the life you live, and life will love you right back," Durham said.

Durham is the founder of TBIOneLove, a nonprofit that provides a positive forum for TBI survivors and caregivers.

Job listing: Accreditation & Compliance Manager - Police

Job Title:  Accreditation & Compliance Manager
Department/Division:  Police
Annual Pay: $34,083.66
Plus competitive benefit package.
Type of position: Full-time
Hours: 40/week
Nonexempt

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

This is a responsible professional and technical position that coordinates, oversees, and plans the Department’s adherence to the standards set forth by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA). The member keeps informed on accreditation processes, including proposed changes or amendments to the standards, transition policies or process changes. The member may also be tasked to perform other compliance audits, as well as performing various planning and research activities as directed by the Chief of Police. Work is performed under the general direction of the Support Services Captain.

ESSENTIAL  DUTIES

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Administers the CFA accreditation process that ensures compliance with standards developed. 
• Continually monitors, edits, maintains, develops and distributes department policies, procedures and forms to ensure compliance with State, Federal and City laws and rules, and accreditation standards. 
• Advised Command Staff of weaknesses in directives and procedures and recommends changes to protect the agency from liability. 
• Analyzes, evaluates and maintains documentation to show proof of compliance with accreditation standards. 
• Ensures all annual and/or time sensitive reviews, reports, audits and inventories are completed as required by CFA. 
• Oversees and participates in the preparation of detailed reports, summaries and recommendations based on the analysis of applicable data. 
• Provides training to employees to increase their knowledge of the accreditation and compliance process. 
• Conduct compliance and audit inspections as directed by the Chief of Police and Command Staff. 
• Coordinate policies and procedure development and dissemination. 
• Serves as the department’s liaison to outside agencies, CFA and FLA-PAC as well as assisting assessors during on-site assessments for re-accreditation. 
• Attends required training to remain current in accreditation requirements and procedures and other professional practices as directed 
• May assist the training coordinator with background investigations of both sworn and non-sworn personnel. 
• Sets work deadlines as they apply to accreditation requirements and provide matrices. 
• Assist the Chief of Police and Command Staff with writing and/or review of all new and revised policies to ensure compliance with CFA standards and best practices. 
• Become a CRA Assessor and participate in mock and or onsite assessments of other agencies. 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of the accreditation process. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the general public, as well as providing guidance, giving technical direction and explaining or interpreting policy. 
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing on a variety of topics related to the accreditation process. 
• Knowledge of City and department policies, rules and regulations. 
• Knowledge of principles, practices and equipment used in police work, to include administrative investigations. 
• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws or ordinances, rules of evidence, laws regarding search and seizure as well as administrative/personnel procedures. 
• Knowledge of intermediate computer skills including a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe products. 
• Ability to learn and maintain accreditation files and provide training utilizing Power DMS software. 
• Ability to learn and use Adobe Acrobat. 
• Possess excellent time management skills and be able to organize, prioritize, schedule and manage daily work activity, tasks and special assignments. 
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision. 
• Possess problem-solving skills to look beyond the surface issues to identify, analyze and handle problems with little supervisory intervention and develop effective responses and solutions to resolve such problems. 
• Ability to clearly communicate the Agency’s position on proposed changes to accreditation processes or standards. 
• Ability to speak in public. 

MINIMUM  QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree in criminal justice, business, public administration or related field and (3) three years of experience in an accreditation field; with accreditation experience in law enforcement or criminal justice preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, business or public administration may substitute for (1) one year of the required experience. 
• Have completed the CFA’s managing the accreditation process course or must obtain within the first (6) six months of employment 
• Have completed CFA’s new assessor training within (1) year of employment. 
• Must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License. 
• Able to work shift work and subject to recall during emergencies as essential personnel. 
• An equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position may be substituted at the discretion of the Chief of Police. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

SUMMARY

• Occasionally: Lift/Carry up to 20 Lbs, Push/Pull up to 25 Lbs,Twist/Turn, Climb, Reach Above Shoulder, Reach Outward, Operate A City Vehicle to Facilitate Travel To Training, Conferences And Assessments.
• Frequently: Lift/Carry:  10 Lbs. or less, Push/Pull: 12 Lbs. or less, Bending, Squat/Kneel, Stand, Walk
• Constantly: Acceptable Eyesight (with or without correction), Acceptable Hearing (with or without hearing aid), Ability To Communicate Both Orally And In Writing, Sitting, Handling/Fingering, Type/Keyboard Functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is performed predominantly in an office environment. The position requires sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time, exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a recurring basis and routine keyboard operations 
• Subject to varied work hours and recall during emergencies as essential personnel. 

These are intended only as illustrations of various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Read on

Job listing: Government Analyst

Req No: 71000605-51266343-2016101311150

Agency Name: Law Enforcement

Description:

Working Title: GOVERNMENT ANALYST II

Broadband/Class Code: 13-1111-04

Position Number: 71000605-51266343

Annual Salary Range: $46,381.14- $86,778.17

Announcement Type: Open Competitive

City: FORT MYERS

Facility:

Pay Grade/ Pay Band: BB010

Closing Date: 10/23/2016

The State Personnel System is an E-Verify employer. For more information click on our E-Verify website.

To be considered as a potential candidate, you must meet the minimum requirement(s) listed below. Degrees must be from an accredited college or university as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

• MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: (1) A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and four years of professional experience in systems analysis, management analysis, program planning, program research, program evaluation, engineering or administrative work. (2) A master's degree from an accredited college or university can substitute for one year of the required experience. (3) Professional or nonprofessional experience as described above can substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required college education. (4) Any combination of professional or nonprofessional experience as described above and college education at the rate of 30 semester or 45 quarter hours per year can substitute for the required education.
• DUTIES: This position will conduct compliance audits of criminal justice officer employment files, instructor files, and training center class files and prepare reports for the Criminal Justice Standards & Training Commission regarding the audit findings; provide direction, assistance and customer service for the criminal justice community and private sector; exercise independent judgment in formulating or assessing policies and/or procedures impacting agencies and training centers; provide management consultant services and assistance to agency, training center, and criminal justice selection center officials and their staff to promote the most efficient and effective means of accomplishing the operating objectives of these groups and to ensure compliance with Commission and statutory requirements; implement a statistically sound method of verifying training, disciplinary, and employment records of the state’s criminal justice officers within the officer database in the Automated Training Management Systems II (ATMS II); research criteria for the approval of K-9 team certification by the Criminal Justice Standards & Training Commission; conduct formal and informal field inquiries as appropriate or assigned; and review, research, and evaluate on an annual basis as required by the Commission, high liability training facilities and satellite training facilities.
• KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the criminal justice system. Knowledge of the methods of data collection and analysis. Knowledge of basic management principles and practices. Ability to understand and apply applicable rules, regulations, policies and procedures regarding the criminal justice system. Ability to collect, evaluate and analyze data to develop alternative recommendations, solve problems, document work flow and other activities relating to the improvement of management practices. Ability to organize data into logical format for presentation in reports, documents and other written materials. Ability to conduct fact finding research. Ability to utilize problem solving techniques. Ability to work independently. Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments. Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• SPECIAL NOTES: This position will service the following counties in Florida: Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Lee, Manatee, and Sarasota. Applicant must live within one of these serviced counties. Extensive day travel is required with some over-night travel periodically.
• NOTES: Applicants being considered for employment must pass a drug screen and background investigation which will include a financial credit check. Responses to qualifying questions will be credited only if verifiable by skills and/or experience listed on the employment application, including specifically required software/computer skills. The elements of the selection process may include a skills test and/or interview. Applicants may be notified by email to participate in a selection process. Failure to reply within a designated time frame may exclude the applicant from further consideration. Future vacancies may be filled from this position advertisement. Preference will be given to those with criminal justice experience. Starting salary will be the minimum of the class pay range, unless otherwise dictated by FDLE’s pay policy.
• REMINDERS:
• Male applicants born on or after October 1, 1962, will not be eligible for hire or promotion unless they are registered with the Selective Services System (SSS) before their 26th birthday, or have a Letter of Registration Exemption from the SSS. For more information, please visit the SSS website: http://www.sss.gov/.
• If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS on how your current benefits will be affected if you are reemployed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.

The State of Florida hires only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or the People First Service Center (1-877-562-7287). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455,

F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.

VETERANS’ PREFERENCE DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS HAVE RECENTLY CHANGED. To obtain revised and updated information on Veterans’ Preference documentation requirements, click here. Pursuant to Chapter 295, Florida Statutes, applicants eligible for Veterans’ Preference will receive preference in employment and are encouraged to apply. However, applicants claiming Veterans' Preference must attach supporting documentation with each application submission that includes character of service (for example, DD Form 214 Member Copy #4) along with any other documentation as required by Rule 55A-7, Florida Administrative Code. All documentation is due by the closing date of the vacancy announcement. For information on the supporting documentation required, click here. Applicants may also fax their supporting documentation to People First at 1-888-403-2110.

Apply online via the People First Web site or fax a State of Florida application to toll-free fax number: 1-888-403-2110 by 11:59 p.m. EST on closing date. Applicants may reapply for advertised vacancies whenever they occur. If you have problems applying online, call the People First Service Center at 1-877-562-7287. All documentation must be submitted to People First.

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The sandy Seminole

I clock into work at the brisk hour of 6:30 a.m., the sand squeaks under my bare feet, soft waves roll onto wet sand and seagulls yelp good morning as I run by. It strikes 9 a.m. as I step off the beach. Fifteen minutes later, I unfold my laptop and begin typing. My job for the morning is done; working toward my bachelor’s degree has just begun.

I work for La Dolce Vita, an elite beach service in Destin and South Walton along the majestic beaches of the Emerald Coast. Every morning my alarm sounds at 6 a.m. I load my equipment into the truck and head to serve my weekly guests. The next two or three hours, I hustle to prepare chairs, umbrellas, paddleboards, kayaks, bicycles and much more for my guests. I do the heavy lifting so tourists are left with only the relaxing. Throughout the day, I accept phone calls, run deliveries and tend to anyone in need of our services. When the day is over, I head back to the beaches to put everything away for the night.

I love my job; I fully believe it is the most enjoyable job I could have at this age. In respect to my job, my college degree is more important. Last year I took a look at my life and asked myself what I could do to avoid debt, complete college and ultimately enjoy myself. Florida State University Panama City was my solution. I easily planned my schedule and worked it out with my employer. I agreed to a 58-hour work week and on top of that, I scheduled three classes toward my professional communication major at FSU Panama City.

After I complete my morning duties, I head to the office and usually have about two hours to grab some breakfast and complete some class work before the phone starts ringing. I spend this time writing my papers and studying for exams. Two days out of the week, I make a short 38-mile commute to the beautiful Florida State campus in Panama City. A strong coffee and amazing professors help me advance my skills toward my future job career.

Before or after class I will often find myself in the library. I never spend much time in libraries, but FSU Panama City's library is outstanding. While working, I'm surrounded by large, multi-story glass windows overlooking the calm bay laced with pine trees. I honestly feel the library enhances my creativity. A creativity I hope I turned into an understanding for you about my life here as a Seminole.  After all, this story may have started in my office at work, but I conclude it from the magnificent library here at FSU Panama City.

— Cole Glass

contributing writer

FSU Panama City takes the field during Homecoming

As a 28-year tradition, FSU Panama City students wave from the 50-yard line to more than 50,000 fans

Students, alumni, and the student government council of the FSU-Panama City Campus banded together in Tallahassee, Florida this past Saturday at Doak Campbell Stadium to uphold a 28-year Homecoming pre-game tradition and to watch the FSU Seminoles take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.

Before the game, the FSU Panama City group gathered at the renowned statue of Chief Osceola at the entrance of the stadium. After entering the gates together, the student government council members departed to be escorted onto the field for their appearance in the pre-game show.

“Panama City pride” was said to fill the hearts of those students and alumni who watched as the student government council members carried a lighted torch and campus banner across the field.

The Student Government Council holds the FSU Panama City Campus banner on the Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium in Tallahassee, Florida, on October 15, 2016, as part of a 28-year Homecoming tradition. A lighted torch is held by President Camerin Hatcher.

Several members of the council described the moment as “unforgettable” as they were met by the eyes of nearly 50,000 fans, flashing lights of photographers, roar of the announcer and glimpse of being on one of the nation’s largest college football stadium screens.

FSU led the Homecoming game to victory over Wake Forest, 17-6.

— Camerin Hatcher

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Heroes

Can you have heroes for different areas of your life, or are you only allowed one? I think about things I have accomplished and what led me to those accomplishments. There was always someone who challenged me, not necessarily someone who went easy on me, but someone who carefully guided me down the right path. I am facing one of the biggest accomplishments of my life and staring it right in the face: graduating from college.

I started school in spring 2001. I was 19 and was trying to balance work and school in a new city. Living 350 miles away from my parents, I didn’t have anyone to hold me accountable, so I quit.

It wasn’t until 2007 or so when I decided to go back. I was working full time and really thought I was where I was supposed to be. School at that point was almost like an extra-curricular activity. I knew I wanted to finish; I just didn’t know if I would ever get there being a part-time student.

When I moved to Georgia in 2012, I decided to enroll in school hoping to perhaps meet new friends or gain a strong network to get back into the work force. I moved again the next year and then the next, and that’s how I ended up here in Panama City. I applied for admission to FSU, and they told me I needed another math class in order to be accepted into the program.

I felt defeated. After two semesters of remedial math, I thought, "Forget it. Not going to happen."

I called my in-laws. (Really, they are like my parents I don’t treat them any differently and I love them just the same.) I talked about how frustrated I was and how I decided I was just going to throw in the towel. Five schools and four states later, there was no way I would get through another math class.

Lt. Col. Ramon E. de Arrigunaga USAF (Ret.) 

My father-in-law, a retired lieutenant colonel, basically told me it was something I had to do. “After all of the time, the money, the credit hours, the lost credit hours, why would you give up now? You have two years left, the time will pass anyway,” he said. I took the math class at Gulf Coast State College, got an A, and here I am.

I am one semester and six credit hours away from graduating. If it weren’t for him, I never would have kept going.

We moved here in 2014, and he was right; time passed anyway. He lost his battle with cancer on Sept. 10.

This semester has been the toughest I’ve ever had. Forget struggling with math for half of my college life, moving on after losing the person who cared the most about my academic success has been absolute hell. It’s like playing a sport without the ball, it just hasn’t made much sense. When you have people in your life that inspire and motivate you, tell them. Make sure that they know because at the end of the day, I think that’s why we are all here – to leave our mark in the world.

If you’re in the position where you’re failing a class or you’re just now going back to school, I know the mountain seems high, but you will get over it. Don’t give up, there are so many people wishing they had the opportunities that you do. And if you say to yourself, “it’ll take forever,” my advice to you is: the time will pass anyway.

Rest in Peace Lt. Col. Ramon E. de Arrigunaga USAF (Ret.) Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

— Sandra de Arrigunaga

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Inside the Donald Trump rally

I attended the Donald Trump rally this past week at Aaron Bessant Park. Not because I’m a Republican, I’m actually an independent voter, but because it was a historical local event and my first ever political rally. I would have attended a Hillary Clinton or Gary Johnson rally for the same purpose; they are the main presidential candidates that could be the next leader of our country. There were strict rules of what could be brought in, excluding professional photography, so I didn’t risk it and only used my cell phone for pictures. I highlight some of my experience below.

— Jay Sullivan

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Trump/Pence truck outside Aaron Bessant Park 

“Make America Wait Again?”

 Inside the gates awaiting security searches. 2-hours after waiting in line…

Finally made it inside the park and the atmosphere was a lot cozier than the lines were.

 .

Cozier until one got closer to the stage! Three giant screens displayed live coverage for the thousands in attendance

Close up of Donald Trump on the giant screen.

Supporter leaving early near the end of the rally.  I also left early due to congested traffic.

Let’s Get Rough for Powder Puff

It’s time to “throw like a girl” again. No, that is not an insult, its anything but rude considering how beastly the FSU Panama City females are at throwing the pig skin.

FSU Panama City is hosting its second annual Powder Puff game in which the females play football, and the boys whip out the pom-poms.  

No big deal right? Wrong. Last year, the student players put on a show that still lingers in the minds of all who witnessed the glorious event, especially the losers. Pitted against each other, the female students took on, destroyed, and humiliated the female staff members in a crushing victory of 33-0. It was not that the staff players weren’t capable, it was that the students were stacked. 

Some even questioned whether some of the girls were abusing the ‘roids due to the obvious dominance. Coach John Daw denied such allegations of his players. Fortunately, all of the female students tested negative for any performance-enhancing drugs. They were found guilty of harboring an excessive amount of talent though. 

The backbone and quarterback of the student team, Mercedes “Taz” Ardley, carried the team with her impermeable defense that shut down the staff team. I recently caught up with Ardley, where the unanimous MVP of the game stated, “Jameis Winston could take a few notes.” Indeed, he could.

Not to mention, the male cheerleaders made quite the attractive pieces of eye-candy. In addition to the colorful pom-poms, the cheerleaders adorned pretty tutus embellished in glitter. 

With a great turnout to last year’s event, we can only expect to see an even greater audience presence in anticipation for another show-down. If you want to bask in another epic performance, mark your calendar for October 12th, 4:00 p.m. near the volleyball courts. Come watch the tough play in Powder Puff!

— Elizabeth Rios

contributing writer

Oh, that’s what that is!

“The great myth of our times is that technology is communication.”

— Libby Larsen

Communication technology: sounds like a mouthful. I mean, over three syllables per word? My attention span is so brief I barely made it through reading aloud. (Millennials these days, am I right?) But what if I told you that you use them daily? Have you ever texted your friends, posted a status update on Facebook, or emailed your boss that you’d be sick tomorrow? *cough cough* If so, you’ve just caught yourself red handed and guilty of partaking in communication technology.

But what happens when that communication technology disrupts other forms of communication? Riddle me this: you’re sitting in class and your phone goes off. First of all, you’ve just been humiliated for having Celine Dion ring out for everyone to hear, and secondly all your peers just lost a valuable moment in their education. Most of us have been guilty of causing an interruption at school at some point in time, but only a mere 20 years ago this would have never occurred. With the adoption of cell phones, tablets, and interactive apps, our education system has both excelled and taken a blow.

As technology advances, our opportunities for the re-invention of education are seemingly endless. Children and adults alike now have access to all different means of learning. Professors use learning management systems like BlackBoard to reach out to students and make important and organized announcements. Graduate students can obtain knowledge on virtually any topic with the use of Lynda and YouTube combined. The occasional outburst of Mrs. Dion is not the end of the world, and with all the resources now laid at our feet, I’d easily say our opportunities and benefits that come with communication technology vastly outweigh our cons. I look forward to seeing how our education systems evolve over time as I get older, and have high hopes they will continue building and growing from the use of communication technologies to achieve a higher learning. My greatest admiration will come the day my generation can look back and say, “Wow. I wish we had that back then.”

— Shayli Tharp

contributing writer

Campus dumping scandal?!?

The Bay County Health Department announced a shocking new scandal surrounding Florida State University Panama City this week. For years now, Garnet and Gold has been taking over the Gulf of Mexico and parts of the Atlantic Ocean. Researchers and scientists have formed many tests and it was always conclusive that Florida State University had a contagious effect that kept spreading Garnet and Gold. With collaboration from the Florida State Diving program and the Environmental Protection Agency, those tests are now false, as new evidence has come to surface.

Subsequently, due to numerous complaints filed from residents incurring vibrant Garnet and Gold colors through their water supply lines, it was time for action.  The Gainesville health department issued a local water hazard until they discovered more information. Teams of ocean researchers were tasked to start the nearly impossible tracking progress, roughly a year ago, until it led them to the 26-acre waterfront campus of Florida State University.  Confronted with hard evidence of the leak, Florida State University was forced into helping different government agencies identify where the leak was coming from. After multiple dives, it was apparent there was never a leak. Instead, research shows Florida State University is behind one of the largest dumping scandals of all time, even larger than the infamous BP oil spill.

Records indicate that the dumping has been going on since the foundation of the campus, dating back to the 1980s. Local residences often thought the different shades of color were a form of bacteria made from the ocean, dismissing the notion of any wrongdoing.  However, after hours of interrogation, the dean of FSU admitted that there has been massive dumping of Garnet and Gold into the Gulf of Mexico for some time. “As dean of the prestigious Florida State University, I am obligated to spread Garnet and Gold as far as I can. This is a tradition of responsibility that has been handed down from dean to dean, and I had to play my role. I’m sorry this had to be a secret, but it’s necessary.“

In becoming not only the largest college scandal of all time, but also the largest scandal of this generation, Florida State had some explaining to do. The dean from the University of Florida was furious when informed of the Garnet and Gold invasion of Gainesville, and personally demanded answers along with justice to be served. The dean from the University of Miami could not be reached for comments, probably because Garnet and Gold has always dominated Miami and his say doesn’t matter when FSU is involved.

After the initial admittance to the dumping scandal, the law team representing Florida State University released multiple documents from various academic scholars.  The documents showcased findings that proved that the Garnet and Gold was all natural, environmentally friendly, and perfectly legal to dump. In a time when staying ahead of the competition means everything, Florida State leads with the upper hand again. As one researcher noted, “The amount of Garnet and Gold that has been dumped is irreversible; it will only keep spreading now that it’s in the world.”

— Jay Sullivan

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Note: Like the medicine man Abiaka, this column embraces the crazy and absurd world by delivering its own “medicine.” The stories are satire pieces and in no way should be taken seriously. Sharing and continuing Abiaka’s legacy is an honor that will bring more awareness towards his history. Read more about Abiaka's history

Abiaka

When thinking of the Seminoles, how many historic figures can you think of or name? For the majority, it seems to only be Chief Osceola. That’s not a bad thing, considering he’s Florida State’s mascot and is always on TV, but there has to be other prominent Seminoles, right?

Abiaka, also referred to as Sam Jones, wasn’t as famous as Osceola, but was highly respected within the Florida Seminole tribe. He was a medicine man and also a wise and inspirational leader of the Florida Seminoles. Abiaka was known to give his warriors “medicine” to get them wild and ready for battle. Sometimes it was complete absurdness what he would tell them, along with being on “medicine,” but they managed to win many battles and it uplifted the warriors. One of his most famous battles was the Battle of Okeechobee.

Like Abiaka, this column embraces the crazy and absurd world by delivering its own “medicine.” The stories are satire pieces and in no way should be taken seriously. Sharing and continuing Abiaka’s legacy is an honor that will bring more awareness towards his history.

— Jay Sullivan

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Afternoon Tea

My first afternoon tea experience was at a restaurant called Sketch in London. Afternoon tea is big in the U.K. and consist of mini sandwiches, pastries, scones and, of course, tea. They aren’t hard to find in England, especially in London. There is even an afternoon tea bus tour that takes you for a ride on a big red bus. I did some research before booking my first afternoon tea experience as I wanted to go somewhere special.

My research led me to the restaurant Sketch in Mayfair, London, because of its eccentric/quirky vibe. Sketch features artwork by David Shrigley with about 230 drawings. Aside from the incredible artwork, many A-list celebrities have dinned at Sketch, such as Taylor Swift, Jessica Alba and Kendall Jenner.

My friend, Alice, and I decided on the Champagne afternoon tea. For 61 pounds a person, it included everything on the left side of the menu plus a glass of champagne. My favorite assortment from the sandwich selection was the corn-fed coronation chicken. It tasted like a curry chicken salad. The presentation on our three-tier cake stand was incredible.

The next part about my afternoon tea experience I am going to tell you about it very odd. Sketch is also known for their bathrooms. Or should I say “pods.” If you dine at Sketch and don’t take a photo or selfie in the bathroom, you haven’t had the full Sketch experience. The toilets are in an actual pod and the ceiling is covered in multi colored lights. Not only does it feel like a disco, it is by far the coolest bathroom I have ever seen. Although that’s a weird thing to say.

I am dying to go back to Sketch in London. It is one of my favorite dining experiences. They serve breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Not only has Sketch won multiple awards, it also holds two Michelin stars. If you are ever in London, I would recommend going to this place. Book your reservation in advance, as they stay booked up. Check out their Instagram page.

— Brittany Sowell

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major

Makeup products review

I am a huge makeup geek. I can’t explain my excitement when I go into a beauty store. The day I found out Panama City Beach was finally getting a Sephora I felt as if my life was complete. Doing makeup is hard work, and I can’t forget to mention time consuming. I am constantly watching YouTube tutorials by bloggers who teach you new ways to apply makeup with the various products out on the market. My favorite makeup artist is Jaclyn Hill. She used to work for Mac Cosmetics but her career is now based off of making Youtube videos.

I have tried many makeup brands out there and I have some ride or die products. The following products I am going to share with you are ones I can’t live without:

I have been using this primer by Smashbox for years. You can find this at Sephora for $36.00. I apply this on before my foundation as it helps foundation apply smoothly and makes it long lasting.

After I apply my primer I then use Urban Decay Naked Skin foundation. This is another product I have been using for about 4 years. It can be purchased from Sephora for $40.00 which is quite expensive but it last for ages. The smaller tube is under eye concealer. This is a newer product by Urban Decay and runs for $28.00. I would recommend both of these to anyone looking for foundation that doesn’t make your face feel cakey but gives amazing coverage. 

If you love a good pigmented eyeshadow, this palette is a must have. It is from Morphe Brushes which is a company based in California. I heard about this brand from Youtube blogger Jaclyn Hill. This palette has 28 colors and it was under $30.00 when I ordered it from their website. For how many different colors this comes with for the price, it’s a bang for the buck. 

If you want to have your eyebrow game strong, look no further. Anastasia Beverly Hills has you covered. I’ve used this dipbrow ever since its been out. For $18.00 you can find this at Sephora or Anastasia’s direct website. This product is creamy and easy to apply. Oh and its waterproof which is great for humid climates like we have in Florida. 

I’ve recently started using this They’re Real! Mascara by Benefit cosmetics. The brush inside makes your lashes have extra volume. The staggered bristles are really good for separating the lashes which is why I like this mascara so much. This is also sold at Sephora for $24. 

There are a lot of different bronzers in the market. I currently use this matte one by Too Faced. It applies smoothly while giving my face a nice matte bronzed tone and this product has lasted for ages. For $30, this can be bought at Sephora. 

So many people have raved about this translucent powder by Laura Mercier for so long I finally got it about two weeks ago. You use this to set liquid concealer/foundation that gives you a silky long lasting finish. Your makeup will not move once it has been set with this powder. I don’t know how I went as long as I did without it. This can be found at Sephora for $38.

It’s all about a highlight. This is also by Laura Mercier in the color Devotion. The pigmentation of this highlighter is amazing as its very light reflecting. I tried all four colors available in this collection and I was so in love with them all. This is sold for $44 at Sephora.

There is so many amazing liquid lipsticks that have recently came out. I just tried this new one by Smashbox the other week and I think it is my #1 go to for liquid lipsticks at the moment. With an eight-hour wear, this product is very light and comfortable. Some other liquid lipsticks I have used before can be very thick and therefore feel cakey. There are about 15 different colors available in this product for $24 (without matching liner) sold at Sephora. The liner is an additional $21 and not completely necessary. 

And lastly, the brushes. Make up brushes are essential to how makeup will apply. The majority of these brushes are from Mac Cosmetics with the exception of 5. The others I ordered online from Morphe Brushes which are actually priced really well compared to the Mac ones. If you are looking for good makeup brushes, I would definitely recommend any from Mac or Morphe Brushes. 

Sorry to any guys I may have bored with my make-up product review (if it was read). For anyone looking to try new cosmetic products I hope this review has helped. Go check out Jaclyn Hill’s YouTube tutorials I mentioned at the top as she is amazing at showing how to use all these products.

— Brittany Sowell

Four Crossed Logs intern

professional communication major