Locals call it the “community table” at the Laurel Hill Grill. A spot where we gather around, spin a few stories and leave while others arrive to take their place.

Cassie and I enjoyed lunch at the table with locals recently. Robert, Bessie, Tinney, Barbara … among our friendly neighbors. Living in a small town has many privileges!

• Kathleen McMichael and I were guests Sept. 28 at the GFWC Woman’s Club of Crestview membership Tea.

The beautifully decorated clubhouse, delicious food and friendly ladies made us feel welcome. President Karen Boisjolie received the Rookie of the Year honor, presented by Jeanne Gutenmann. Lisa Brennan was chosen Woman of the Year. Gigi Allen gave the welcome and introductions. Marietta Birdsell presented an interesting program of history, purpose and membership. Teri McLead talked about the many worthwhile club projects and upcoming events. Sharlene Cox works with the high school Juniorettes, and a few of the beautiful young ladies served at the Tea. Velma Holmes was the guest of Jeri Jones, both seated at our table. Velma sends greetings to our Laurel Hill neighbor, Karen Turner.

Jordan Colclasure is a talented 16-year-old Crestview High School student. He presented beautiful selections for our listening enjoyment during the Tea. He has been playing keyboard professionally for about a year as his part time job. Coach N Four Steakhouse presents Jordan every Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. He will be performing a citywide Christmas Concert at the Crestview Community Center on Dec. 22 from 6 to 9 p.m. For more information call (850) 582-3273 or visit www.PianoByJordan.com

• There is a vacant spot at City Hall with the departure of city manager Tim Bolduc. Mayor Robbins is doing a good job of keeping the city running. I haven’t asked our new First Lady Robbins how she is dealing with the constant telephone calls. City clerk Christa and water clerk Barbara are doing double-duty filling in the gaps. We appreciate the city workers doing their best for the community.

• While traveling in Fort Walton Beach on June 22, my car was broadsided by a hit-and-run driver. Luckily, I was not hurt. My car was towed to a paint and body shop, where it remained for more than 90 days until it mysteriously burned during the night on Sept. 26. Needless to say, car shopping is now at the top of my agenda. Want to learn more about the car’s fate? Contact me via News Bulletin Editor Kyle Wright at kylew@crestviewbulletin.com.

• Carolyn Williams brings informative material to the new Alzheimer’s support group in Laurel Hill. Meetings are held at 10:30 on the third Thursday of each month at First Baptist fellowship hall. You are welcome to attend and learn more about this dreaded disease. Many in our area are dealing with this situation.

• Silvercrest Manor on Brookmeade in Crestview is one of the smaller nursing homes, but not in care and concern. A lovely courtyard is in the center of the building where residents enjoy a beautiful garden. When we recently were faced with making a choice of nursing homes for rehab,

I pressed for Silvercrest, even though I was told by the hospital social worker there was no room available. We found Silvercrest Manor provides first-class nurses and care givers. For information call (850) 682-1903.

• Community condolences to the family of Lexie C. Kendrick, a Laurel Hill resident since 1964. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Kendrick; and her daughter; Joann Peoples Prestwood. She passed away Sept. 23. Funeral services were Sept. 26, 2008. Burial was at Almarante Cemetery in Laurel Hill.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28