okeechobee the magazine fall 2012

FALL 2012

THE MAGAZINE

Daughters of the American Revolution with Julie Turner and Su George Dunklin Memorial Camp Founder Mickey Evans

Plus

Jonathon CrawfordBig League Bound

Big Lake Eye Care would like to welcome Dr. Carlo D. Fodor, a Board Certi�ed Optometric Physician to our practice here in Okeechobee.

Dr. Fodor graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Doctor of Optometry and is living in Sebastian with his family. He also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Vision Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a Minor in Biological Sciences. These accomplishments have enabled Dr. Fodor to teach the natural sciences in the past as an associate professor at the Palm Beach Community College. He brings his teaching skills into the exam room because educating patients on their conditions is a crucial part of every exam.

Dr. Fodor has excellent communication skills in English, Spanish, and Italian. He has completed

rotations in Primary Care, Ocular Disease, Glaucoma, Contact Lenses, Pediatrics Binocular Vision, and Low Vision.

He has also served two years working at the Visual Health & Surgical Center managing all types of post-operative patients. Dr. Fodor is well quali�ed and trained to identify subtle abnormalities in our eyes that may be able to be corrected.

Dr. Fodor has been working in the �eld since 1994 in numerous commercial and private o�ces. His knowledge and well-rounded background allows him to provide the best possible care of our patients. He enjoys hunting, �shing and spending time with his family.

We Accept and Bill Most Major Insurance,Medicaid, Medicare &

BlueCross Blue Shield Healthy Kids

(863) 763-3937

606 North Parrott Ave Okeechobee 863-763-3937 Visit : www.biglakeeyecare.com

Dr. Charles W. BartelsBoard Certi�ed Optometric Physician

Dr. Carlo D. FodorBoard Certi�ed Optometric Physician

4 | Fall 2012 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

We LOVE To Care...

Okeechobee Health Care Facility1646 US Highway 441 North - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

863-763-2226

Rehab Therapy, consisting of Physical Therapy,Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Out-Patient

Therapy, is available seven days a week in aloving, caring environment.

Long-term care is available for loved ones who canno longer be cared for safely at home, in addition

to a secured Dementia/Alzheimer's Memory-Care Unit.

Family owned and operated, Okeechobee Health Care Facility began providing

Long-term and Rehab careto the citizens of

Okeechobee and thesurrounding communities

in December of 1984. Betty Mills modeling her

Mardi Gras costume.

Herschel Haverlock receiving out-patient

therapy from Maurice Cogle, RPT. -

while Pat Lamm exercises with a smile"

Fred Hawkins beginning

weight-bearing exercises with

Maurice & Regner Dioquin,RPT.

Lorene Hancock,85, with her3rd and 4th-generation trick-or-treaters!

Dietitian-Developed Nutritious Meals & SnacksStimulating & Fun Daily Activities - Pastoral ServicesHome-Like Atmosphere - Dedicated Nurses and CNAs

Provide Personal Care 24 Hours Every Day.Shower room on A-Wing has been transformed

into a relaxing spa, complete withtowel warmers, background music and

soft, soothing colors.

John & Beverly Fix spend time

together outside under the

oak tree in one of the many

“sit & visit spots”.

Eula Morgan, 96, with her painting

that was selected as the cover for the

annual Resident Art Calendar. Hazel Herbert, Resident and ResidentAdvocate, spends time outside enjoying the

�owers and foliage with CNA Billie Jo Freeman, left, and Kareen Morata, RN.

Shirley Stephen, joined by daughter, Debbie,

& Son, Noel, for the Art Show Calendar Parade.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2012 | 5

Emergency Service!

Tires, Wheels & All Types of Mechanical Repairs

LicensedInsured

Tires • Shocks Brakes • A/C RepairsAlignments Welding • Trailer Repair

Diesel & Gasoline Engine RepairMobile Oil & Lube PM Service

Annual D.O.T. Inspections

ALWAYS THE BEST PRICES ON TIRES & WHEELS

863-634-6839

www.totalroadsideservices.com

3176 Hwy 710 East - Okeechobee

How Safe isYour Rubber?

SUMITOMO

How Safe isYour Rubber?

863-357-8772

OKEECHOBEE

24HR

$49.95 AlignmentCovers Light Duty Vechicles Only

In House Financing!Come In and apply for your

Total Roadside Card.6 Months /Same as Cash

221 NE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972We now have a 2nd location at 1120 NW Park Street

STATE LICENSED & INSURED - #CRC058109

Blue RibbonWinner

Treasure CoastParade of Homes

Quality - Commitment - Design

863-467-1933

Wind Mitigations& Home

Inspections

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2012 | 7863-763-3566 - 3126 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 34974

United Country MidFlorida Realty is conveniently at located at 3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974. Julie Turner is an Okeechobee native who has raised her family here because she loves Okeechobee. She is familiar with the community, its history, and uniqueness – qualities which enables her to help current or prospective residents find the perfect home and neighborhood for their needs. Julie has a B.S. from Florida State University and has been a Realtor since 2003. Julie is currently the President of the Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR). United Country MidFlorida Realty’s goal is to get you the best possible price in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of inconvenience to you. By remaining focused on this goal, it is our desire to obtain exceptional, individual results utilizing skills, honesty and integrity to create a lasting relationship one client at a time.

UNITED COUNTRY is America’s rural real estate company. Your best source for locating real estate for sale throughout the small towns and cities of rural America – residential, farms, ranches, recreational and business! Through a network of over 600 offices – nationwide, United Country has been uniting buyers and sellers of country real estate for over eighty years. MidFlorida Realty’s years of local experi-ence and reputation, provides sellers and buyers with a unique insight into the local marketplace. You can count on United Country - MidFlorida Realty to provide you with quality, professional service.

United Country MidFlorida Realty

3126 Hwy 441 SouthOkeechobee, FL 34974

United Country MidFlorida Team Pictured (L-R): Garry Smith, 2010 President of Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR) Julie Turner, 1999-2002 OCBR Treasurer Lynne Price, 2010 OCBR New Comer Award Wendy Bostwick and 2010 OCBR Treasurer Betsy Sheffield.

Broker Julie Turner

863-763-3566

Okeechobee’s Hometown Realtor

View all of our properties at www.MidFloridaRealty.net

Virtual Tours, Multiple Photos& Detailed Descriptions

on All Our Properties and the Entire Okeechobee MLSavailable on our Website.

publisher/managing editor

Maureen Budjinski

creative director

Bridgette Waldau

copy editorJason Budjinski

office assistant

Rose Brennan

bookkeepingCarol Lieberman

account executiveTrish Grygo

Gail Lockwood

photographersSharon CannonFelicia Maxwell

Sandra Pearce

writersRon Bukley

Rachel Buxon Raye Deusinger

Chris Felker

contributorsCharles MurphyMichael Shellen

distribution

Jackie Martin

ryan Martin

Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2012, all rights reserved by Okeechobee The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

volume 6, number 3 | Fall 2012

Okeechobee The Magazine is a magazine for all sea-sons, and as the fall season begins, Okeechobee stu-dents return to school and everyone can look forward to cooler weather.

Speaking of students, in this issue we feature a 2010 Okeechobee High School graduate and baseball player who is big league bound. Meet University of Florida standout pitcher Jonathon Crawford. Craw-

ford was an early on starter for the team who gained national recogni-tion for many games, including pitching a no-hitter and being selected to join the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team.

A milestone will be met in November as Dunklin Memorial Camp celebrates 50 years. Meet founder Mickey Evans, a deeply spiritual and kind man who has touched thousands of lives and has become an Okeechobee legend. Read how it all began 50 years ago.

Patriotism and history are alive in Okeechobee. Did you know we have our own chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)? Within these pages you’ll read interesting stories about our country’s past as we look behind the scenes with Julie Turner, local Realtor and 2012 regent of the local chapter, and Su George, who serves as history chair and was instrumental in getting the Battle of Okeechobee monu-ment moved to the battlefield site on US 441 South.

In this issue’s Home feature we take a peak of the beautiful waterfront home of Val and Ron Douglas in Buckhead Ridge. The home was custom built for their retirement. Val, a professional decorator, put lots of love into the home décor, and it shows.

This summer, the Okeechobee Main Street Art and Cultural Com-mittee held the dedication of the newest mural on State Road 70. We are proud to showcase this project on page 14. Also, one of my favor-ite events, National Day of the American Cowboy, was held in July. Check out the fun in this issue, along with all our other community events.

There will be many events happening throughout the fall season, and we will be there. Don’t be shy, as you may be met by our photogra-phers. So, get ready for a great season, and I hope you enjoy and share this issue of Okeechobee The Magazine — your magazine.

Sincerely,

Publisher

Publisher’s Note

Okeechobee The Magazine111 NE 2nd Street

Okeechobee, FL 34972Phone: (863) 467-0054

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com

Maureen Budjinskipresident

Joshua I. Manningvice president

Barry S. Manning chairman & ceo


features

departments

1214161820384662

74

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Around Okeechobee Advertiser Index

22

50

columnsFishing on Lake OkeechobeeBy Capt. Michael Shellen

Darby JonesBy Charles Murphy

78

82

8488

64

Fall 2012


By Chris Felker

A Proud HeritagePatriotism and History Alive in Okeechobee’s DAR

By Raye Deusinger

Mickey EvansFather Behind Dunklin Memorial Camp

By Rachel Buxton

Okeechobee at HomeBy Ron Bukley

Behind the Business Brown Cow Sweetery Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps

30

Upcoming ShootsSept. 15 -Sept. 29 -Oct. 13 -Oct. 19 -Oct. 20 -

Nov. 2 -Nov. 4 -Nov. 30 -

Dec. 2 -Dec. 8 -

NSCA ShootNSCA ShootAfrican Safari Club ShootSouth FLO Boy Scout ShootOkeechobee FFA AlumniShootCentral FL Boy ScoutsShootNSCA ShootWestminster AcademyShootNSCA ShootHighlands County CitrusShoot

FALL 2012

THE MAGAZINE

Daughters of the American Revolution with Julie Turner and Su George Dunklin Memorial Camp Founder Mickey Evans

Plus


ON THE COVERJonathon Crawford

Story on page 22Photo by Sandra Pearce

50

64

Contents

Waldau’s Junior Golf ClinicHistorical Bank of Okeechobee Mural DedicationOkeechobee Strongman CompetitionNational Day of the American CowboyOkeechobee Christian Academy Fun ShootFlorida Airboat Association Unity RallyWOKC Host Texaco Country ShowdownCommunity Partners for Health Throughthe Arts ReceptionGov. Rick Scott Visits Okeechobee

14

4042



Upcoming ShootsSept. 15 -Sept. 29 -Oct. 13 -Oct. 19 -Oct. 20 -

Nov. 2 -Nov. 4 -Nov. 30 -

Dec. 2 -Dec. 8 -

NSCA ShootNSCA ShootAfrican Safari Club ShootSouth FLO Boy Scout ShootOkeechobee FFA AlumniShootCentral FL Boy ScoutsShootNSCA ShootWestminster AcademyShootNSCA ShootHighlands County CitrusShoot

By Bridgette WaldauCommunity Event

Waldau’s Junior Golf held its 10th an-nual Junior Golf Clinic June 11-15 at the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club. Golf instructors Danny Lanman and Bubba Mul-lins, along with many volunteers, including boys and girls from the Okeechobee High School golf team, worked with the kids dur-ing the weeklong clinic. The final day ended with a tournament, luncheon and awards banquet on the last day. Upcoming Waldau’s Junior Golf events include the Okeechobee Junior Golf Championship Sept. 29 and the 21st Waldau’s Junior Golf Tournament Nov. 10. More information can be found at www.floridajuniorgolf.org and on Facebook.

Waldau’s Junior Golf Holds Golf Clinic

Participants take part in the put-ting contest.Grand-prize winner Piper Hans is presented a new set of golf clubs by Bridgette and James Waldau.The first-place team: Mark Lan-ning, Austin Shepherd, Zachary Stripling, Kenny Whaley and Preston Arnold with prize pre-senter Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen Taylor Fulford.Junior golf volunteer Kodi Ste-phen watches as Kenny Whaley participates in the putting con-test.The second-place team: Maxwell Abreu, Piper Hans, Kyle Lowe and Preston Hall with prize pre-senter Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen Taylor Fulford.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1 2

3 4

5

(Above) Waldau’s Junior Golf clinic participants, along with Okeechobee High School golf team volunteers and clinic instructors, are ready for the tournament.



OKEECHOBEEBlood Roundup

NEW LOCATION

Hwy 70E & 7th Ave.Saturday

NOVEMBER 17, 20129 am - 6 pmSunday

NOVEMBER 18, 20129 am - 6 pm

“Every Donation Saves 3 Lives”

For InformationCall 863-467-2557

HammerheadsBanquet Hall

Donors Must Have Photo ID

Make an appointment online atwww.fbcdonor.org and use Acct. #M4WK

OkeechobeeClaws Paws&Pet Boarding& Daycare

2949 Hwy 70 West - Okeechobee,FL

Call us at863-357-6700

Come and See us for

Treating your pets like our family.

Find Us OnFaceBook

863 467 7300www.bridgette-art.com

fine arts & graphic artsfrom concept to print

Bridgettestudio of graphic design

Waldau

111 NE 2nd StreetOkeechobee Florida 34972

Community Event

A dedication of Okeechobee Main Street’s fourth mural proj-ect was held June 21 at Flagler Park. The historical Bank of Okeechobee is now the home of a majestic art project depicting life as it was back in time when the bank and adjacent businesses were open, from 1923 through the 1950s. Located at the cor-ner of State Road 70 and Osceola Avenue, the building was the backdrop of the much-anticipated dedication and unveiling. Gil and Marie Culbreth, owners of the building, sponsored the art project, which was designed and painted by artist Joseph Steiert.

A close-up of the mural repli-cating the entrance to the old bank building.A close-up of a mural section replicating D&D Grocery.A large crowd gathered for the unveiling and dedication of the mural.The south side of the mural project is exposed to the delight of the public after the unveiling ceremony.

Photos By Sharon Cannon

1.

2.

3.

4.

Historic Bank of OkeechobeeMural Dedication

1

23

4

Okeechobee Main Street presented replications of the bronze dedication plaque that will be attached to the building. (L-R) OKMS Arts and Culture Chair Bridgette Waldau, artist Joseph Steiert, mural sponsors Marie and Gil Culbreth, and OKMS President Maureen Burroughs.

“Looking Back Through the Windows of Time”



863-357-1199

401 SW Park StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

Vera Bradley - Crabtree & Evelyn - Brighton HandbagsBridal & Baby Registry Available

www.raulersonsart.com

A SHOPPING ADDICTIONRau erson's

Call or stop by for information at

Absolutely Art Studio Opening Soon!

Art supplies! - Painting, Ceramics, Glass - After School Art Club!

(Above) Artist Joseph Steiert addresses the crowd during the ceremony. Origi-nally from Okeechobee, Steiert now re-sides in West Palm Beach.

(Below) Judge Bill Hendry shares the his-tory of the building during the dedica-tion, as the murals were unveiled.

(Above) One of the many ar-tifacts located inside the old bank building.

(Left) Visitors were given a rare look into the original W.J. Conner bank safe, locat-ed inside the old bank.

(Above): Phil and Lori Berger opened their office for the artists reception. (Left) After the dedication, the Culbreths opened the building for a public tour of the inside of the bank.

(Above) At the artist’s reception (L-R) Bridgette Waldau and Terry Burroughs talk with artist Joseph Steiert (holding his son, Sandro).

.


Photos By Sarah RenoCommunity Event

The Strongman Competition was held July 21 at Fitness Factory (306 NE Third Street) with physical enduring events, including a tire flip, truck pull, bench press and dead lifts. Fitness Factory owner and event coordinator Jay Creamer wants to bring awareness to health and fitness, and to motivate the community to pursue a healthful lifestyle. For more information, call (863) 357-6900.

1.

2.

3.

2 31

Waste ManagementOkeechobee Land�ll, Inc.

www.wm.com www.thinkgreen.com

863-357-0824Fax: 863-357-0772

Okeechobee Land�ll, Inc. Okeechobee Land�ll, Inc.

Waste Management supports e�orts for the YOUNIFIED Youth Rally to be held in January 2013.

A golf tournament was organized to raise funds for the event on August 4, 2012.

Pictured: Allison Chandler, Vice President/B.R.A.T. Club, Charlie Orcutt, Waste Management, Teresa Chandler, Waste Management

and Tony Bishop, Waste Management.

10800 N.E. 128th Ave.Okeechobee FL, 34972

Waste Management is proud to announceTrademark Metals opening fall of 2012.

Trademark Metals Recycling provides ferrous andnonferrous land�ll services for many

Florida communities. By providing these services TMR helps maximize the

volume of metals recovered and recycled which otherwise would end up in land�lls.

Okeechobee County Schools proudly presents Waste Management with the Commissioner’s Business Recognition

Award for their steadfast support of academic instruction, sponsorship and recognition e�orts.

Pictured: Teresa Chandler, Waste Management, Kelly Owens, Okeechobee County School Board and Ken Kenworthy, Okeechobee

County Schools Superintendant

Employee Commitment,Dedication and

Community Partner

Second Annual Okeechobee Strongman Competition

(Above) Roy Reno with son and strongman winner Kyle Reno.

Sandbag carry contestant Paul Belangia.Koban Reno, the proud son of participant Kyle Reno. Event coordinator Jay Creamer with daughter Madison.

Photos By Sharon CannonCommunity Event

National Day of the American Cowboy

The National Day of the American Cowboy was a two-day event held Friday and Saturday, July 27 and 28 at the Agri-Civic Center, presented by Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association and Okeechobee Main Street. A ranch rodeo was held both evenings, followed by live entertain-ment and a dance. Saturday’s festivities began with the annual cattle drive through downtown Okeechobee and ended at the Agri-Civic Cen-ter. In addition, there was a barbecue competi-tion, along with live music and vendors.

Delany Jones participated in the cattle drive.Lynn and Bob Yost of the Outback Snack Shack from Orlando sell fun-nel cakes.Lenae Morgan and Katelynn Roberts like the baby kangaroo.WOKC Radio’s Wayne Cunningham and Billy Dean.The young riders are all smiles.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

1 23 4 5

(Above and below) The cattle drive went through downtown Okeechobee.



$5 Appetizersafter 9pm in the Saloon

863-467-1104

Ladies Night

it’s ALWAYs

HAppY HOUr

At COWBOYs

including Bottles Beer

6pm-10pm Thursday

BAr-B-Q steAK CO.

102 SW 14th St. -Okeechobee

25¢DrAftsOn WeD.

(Above and below) The cattle drive went through downtown Okeechobee.

Eli’s Western Wear presents buckles to the winning ranch rodeo team, Cow Creek Ranch: (L-R) Miss Firecracker Brittany Avant, Florida Cattlemen’s Sweetheart Tay-lor Bolin, Lacie Anastasio, Beau Anastasio, Brody Anastasio, Latt Durrance, Justin Seagle, Case Durrance, Ladd Bass, Amery Bass, Miss Rodeo Okeechobee Kellie and Miss Speckled Perch Ashlie Clemons. Not pictured: Ernesto Franco and Julia Milburn.

(Above) Ranch rodeo cowboys wait for their turn to compete inthe exciting team rodeo competitions.

(Left) Burnt Biscuit wows the crowd withmodern country and rock ’n’ roll.

Photo by Sandra Pearce

Photos By Stephanie BeardCommunity Event

The 2012 Okeechobee Christian Academy Fun Shoot was held June 9 at the OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee. Proceeds will benefit the scholarship fund to help make quality Christian education available to more children. A fun day of shooting ended with a lunch provided by Cow-boys BBQ and Steak Co. For more information on OCA, visit www.okeechobeechristianacademy.net.

The first-place team sponsored by Okeechobee Cattle Women’s Associa-tion was (L-R) Travis Larson, Joel Bass, Kyle Reno and Steve Smith.Daniel Rickards takes aim. Frank DeCarlo and Thomas Barber.Dunklin Memorial team members with OCA Principal Nick Reynolds (second from left), Andy Williams, Richard Guthrie, Kevin Beard and Josh Mercer.The Bowline Construction team: Jeff Sheffield, Zachary Busbin, Steve Bus-bin and Chris Sheffield.

1.

2.3.4.

5.

12 3

4 5

Okeechobee Christian AcademyFun Shoot

OCA fourth-grader Cody Wojciezsak takes aim.


Photo by Tim Casey/UniversityAthletic Association

To hear his coaches talk about his talent — or if you know baseball and just watch him pitch — Okeechobee native Jonathon Crawford seems poised to become a source of hometown pride, if he isn’t one already.

The 2010 Okeechobee High School graduate, recruited into the University of Florida Gators’ baseball hothouse in the fall of his senior year, has posted some stellar numbers and had several memorable outings

for a hurler who’s only 20, especially after a disappointing freshman season.

Crawford had pitched only 3.2 innings in five 2011 appearances — and was left off the Gators’ roster for the National Collegiate Athletic Association World Series last summer — but then he posted a remarkable sophomore-year come-back that helped the Gators reach No. 1 in national rankings. UF is a perennial collegiate baseball powerhouse, sort of a greenhouse for growing young ballplayers, and the tall, lanky right-hander from the little town on the lip of Lake Okeechobee was out to prove that he belonged.

So Crawford stepped up his efforts in 2012, posting a 6-2 record with a stingy 3.13 earned run average and tying for second on the team

with 73 strikeouts in 77.2 innings. He was a workhorse for the Gators, mak-

ing 14 starts as they reached the NCAA World Series for the third

straight year.

And then on June 1, Crawford did something no UF player had done for 21 years. Called on to start the Gators’ open-er in the Gainesville Region-al, Crawford barely missed pitching a perfect game, end-ing up with a complete-game no-hitter in a 4-0 shutout of Bethune-Cookman Uni-versity at McKethan Stadium in Gainesville. He faced the minimum number of batters because the only Wildcat to

Jonathon Crawford

By Chris Felker O Photos By Sandra Pearce

Big League Bound



reach base (on a walk) was thrown out trying to steal second.

That made Crawford only the seventh player to throw a no-hitter in NCAA Championship history. UF head coach Kevin O’Sullivan called it “a night he will never forget and I will never forget. He was one walk away from a perfect game,” he said with admiration belying the awe he must have felt.

“It was crazy but a lot of fun,” Crawford said. “I guess it’s a pretty big deal.”

UF was the team to beat, but the Gators finally fell, with elimination coming in a 5-4 loss to Kent State on June 18. Still, they finished 47-20.

“It was a disappointment, but I don’t want to take anything away from our team and the accomplishments that they’ve had,” O’Sullivan said. “We’ve had one of the most successful three-year runs in the country.”

Two days later, it was announced that Crawford had been selected to join the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team, a huge honor. That meant another month of play with the 22-man Team USA squad, including trips to Cuba and the Netherlands.

For O’Sullivan, the June 1 game was the first no-hitter he’d ever been involved in from behind the bench, and it solidified his respect for Crawford.

“It was remarkable,” O’Sullivan said. “For me as a coach to see him from where he was his freshman year, to come back his sophomore year and do the things he was able to do, and then, obviously, the no-hitter — that was a great night, not just for him but for our program.

“He made a big comeback … to be one of our top starters, to pitch on the USA team, to beat Cuba in Havana — I think it was the first time since ’93 that that had been accomplished — and where he’s at, it just makes me feel good that we were able to be a part of it.”

And perhaps it’s somewhat of a lucky break for the Gators that they even have this country boy playing for them, let alone pitching. Crawford played several different sports while growing up, in-cluding basketball, soccer and golf. But he’s been playing baseball since he was a little boy.

“Baseball is the first sport I ever played, I think, and I just love playing that sport the most,” he said.

At OHS, after he had settled on his prima-ry sport, Crawford was quite the slugger and fielder, starting on the OHS varsity baseball team, playing in right field all four years.

“He was that good of an athlete,” said Crawford’s coach in high school, Dylan Tedders, now assistant principal of OHS. “We worked him in as a pitcher, and even as a freshman, he got a lot of in-nings. He started Game 1 of the district tournament for us as a freshman. He had a very productive year.”

Crawford had had a great instructor before Tedders — his father, Neal. “My dad was my coach, too, growing up,” he said. “We played a lot of catch.”

Crawford admitted that “hitting was really a lot of fun, but my future is in pitching.”


Get ready for theSecond Annual Adam Bryant

Minimal Regatta! This is the wildest homemade boat

race you will ever see! There will be food, games, and boat races!

Admission to the event is FREE!

Call J.D. Mixon at 863-634-1778 or visit our website to sign up.

Don’t miss out on all the family fun!


Lawn & LandscapeLawn & Landscape

863-763-5069

A Complete Property Maintenance

Professional Lawn &Landscape Maintenance

Complete Turn-Key Landscape CompanyIrrigation Installation & Repair

Large Pasture Mowing

Professional Lawn &Landscape Maintenance

Complete Turn-Key Landscape CompanyIrrigation Installation & Repair

Large Pasture Mowing

863-763-5069

We Are Dedicated to Serving Our Community

Licensed - Insured - Worker's Comp.Family Owned & Operated

Tom McCoin, OwnerTom McCoin, OwnerFamily Owned & Operated

Home-Grown Since 1974Tom McCoin with son, Tim

Florida Gator teammates celebrate Crawford’s no-hitter at the NCAA Championship on June 1.Photo by Tim Casey/University Athletic Association

That’s what UF recruited him for, and its scouts had good reason, as Tedders explained. “In his junior year, we were district champs in 2009, and he got the win in all three games of the district tournament,” Tedders said. “That was huge for his confidence.”

Not only that, but those performances drew a lot of attention, including from UF.

“His senior year was crazy because every time he was going to pitch, there were scouts there,” Tedders said. “The sum-mer before his senior year, the recruiter Craig Bell for the University of Florida saw him and liked him a lot as a pitch-er.”

Then in 2010, Tedders said, “I would have to send e-mails or texts about when he was going to start each week because there was a following of scouts who were going to come and see him wherever we were at. It was crazy for him because they were coming and meeting with his parents, wanting to figure out what his plan was. He had a lot going on his senior year. Everywhere he went, there were radar guns in the stands.”

Before Crawford found a measure of hometown fame and admiration on the diamond, he had a mostly typical child-hood for a small-town country boy.

863.467.2072

Family Owned & Operated Since 1983

Gifts & AccessoriesYANKEE CANDLE®

Furniture For Your Entire Home“Your Comfort Is Our Business”

Morgan’s Furniture

707 S.W. Park StreetOkeechobee, FL 34974

“He has always had pets,” said Jona-thon’s mother, Kristy, a vice president of CenterState Bank in Okeechobee. “He loves our family dog, Brody. He once had a pet squirrel that Grandpa Crawford found near his home. It was a baby that the mom squirrel acciden-tally left behind when being chased or something, and J.C. took care of it, feeding it with a dropper for some time.

“He loved motorcycles; he first got a four-wheeler ATV, then gradu-ated to a motorcycle, and he loved being outdoors.”

That translated into involvement in the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. “He began as a Tiger Scout and was involved for many years and made Life badge, which is right be-fore being an Eagle Scout,” Kristy

said. “He couldn’t find the time to do his project, as he was traveling almost year-round playing baseball, trying to obtain a scholarship to go to college — which he did.”

Not only did Jonathon earn a UF base-ball scholarship, but he also received

(Right) Jonathon with hisyounger brother, Kutter.

-Kevin O’Sullivan, UF head coach

I believe he’ll be one of the top collegiate arms in the country. He’s one of the top 10 playersin the country,I think.”



www.MimsVeterinaryHospital.com

to Okeechobee and our surrounding communities

Years of Service

Dr. Randall Mims

MimsVeterinary Hospital

on your

30

Congratulations!

grants from at least five local organiza-tions to help with college expenses.

The family always spent a lot of time en-gaging in outdoor activities. “We have a lot of great memories and made friends with a lot of people who give their time to the scouting program,” she said. “We as a family went on camp-outs and, of course, Neal or myself always assisted with badges.”

Jonathon’s mom added that he always loved cowboy boots as a boy. “He’d wear them with everything, but I don’t think he has a pair now,” she said.

Indeed he doesn’t, Jonathon confirmed, but he said that one vestige of his coun-trified upbringing — his preference for country music — won’t change. His “walk-out song,” played when he takes the mound, is “Thank God I’m a Coun-try Boy” by John Denver.

Jonathon said he also still does as much freshwater fishing as he can; he grew up fishing creeks and ponds in the Okeechobee area, and luckily, his room-mate at UF is also a fisherman. “We go around and we Google-map to try to find all kinds of ponds,” he said.

Jonathon’s younger brother, Kutter, 16, is following in his footsteps, playing ball at OHS, and the two still spend as much time together as possible — but that’s not much, anymore. “This sum-mer, I’ve actually had time off, so we’ve been golfing and hitting and stuff to-gether,” Jonathon said.

But he’s back at school now, and time off is a commodity he won’t be having much more of in the near future. Jona-thon said he does plan to finish his de-gree but fully expects to be drafted by a major-league team again this year. In 2010, he was drafted by the Florida Marlins in the 42nd round.

“Once I get into the fall, and we start


O

2750 Indian River Boulevard, Vero Beach - fleye.com

The Premier Eye Care Facility on the Treasure CoastFLORIDA EYE INSTITUTE

We Accept Medicare & Most Insurance Plans - Se Habla Español

Call 772.569.9500 for your evaluation today.

There has never been a better time to improve your vision

and your life.If you’ve noticed changes in your vision like difficulty driving at night or struggling to read, or if you worry about passing the driver’s license vision exam, give us a call. We’ll send you a FREE Focus Guide to Cataract Care & help you discover ways to see clearer than you ever thought possible!

Karen D. Todd, MD, FACS | Val Zudans, MD, FACS

Royal

Palm

Blvd.

US 1

37th St.

INDIAN RIVER MEDICAL CENTER

SR 60

17th St.

17th

STREET

BRIDGE

MERRILL BARBERBRIDGE

A1A

IND

IAN RIVER BLVD

.

US 1

Royal Palm

To I95

23rd St.

Aviation Blvd.

N

playing fall ball, that’s when all the draft-eligible players at UF will start our scout meetings,” Jonathon said. “We’ll sit down with the scouts and fill out all their questionnaires. Then we focus on baseball from then on out.”

Both Tedders and O’Sullivan believe Jonathon can write his own ticket to the majors.

“He’s a terrific kid, he’s a tremendously hard worker, and I’m awfully proud of what he’s been able to accomplish,” O’Sullivan said. “I believe he’ll be one of the top collegiate arms in the coun-try. He’s one of the top 10 players in the country, I think.”

Tedders was even more direct. “He’s got all the tools to be a Major League Baseball player,” he said. “I mean, physi-cally he’s got what it takes to be there, no doubt about it. Once he gets the mental side, you know, the confidence to go with it — which I think he’s get-ting there — his ceiling is going to be very high.”

Jonathon said his father is his greatest influence but that he has always ad-mired major-league pitcher John Smoltz and his team, the Atlanta Braves.

“If the Braves draft me,” Jonathon said, “I will be ecstatic, but I’m not going to be too picky.”


OAfter living in a lake house in Cullman, Ala., for a couple of years, Val and Ron Douglas moved to the Okeechobee area seven years ago to build their retirement home — a 4,700-square-foot house at the end of a finger canal near the lake in Buckhead Ridge.

“We had a lake house up on Smith Lake in Cullman,” Ron said. “We lived up there on the lake for a couple of years before we moved down here.”

Wanting to remain near the water, the Douglases found two lots at the end of a finger canal with a turning basin. “We finished the house in ’05,” Ron said.

The French doors of the front entrance open to a living room in the center of the house large enough to accommo-date several different furniture settings comfortably. On the opposite side of the living room are more French doors to the patio and pool area.

The kitchen occupies a quarter of the living area, separated with counters and a bar-style area allowing easy conversa-tion.

“We wanted to open the house,” Ron said. “We didn’t want a lot of walls and aisles and walkways.”

“We like the light and the outside,” Val said. “I wanted it all open because

when people come for Thanksgiving or Christmas or whatever, you know when you’re in the kitchen you don’t get to visit, and this way all of us are together.”Counters run almost all the way around the kitchen area, and a window opens to the pool so food can be passed

through. “That way we don’t have to walk around,” she said. “We have pool parties. We have one for the Fourth of July, and we get together and every-body brings a dish. We have bonfires out there quite a bit in the winter. For

By Ron Bukley O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

OkeechobeeAT HOME

Val and Ron Douglas

Thanksgiving and Christmas we have people over and we put up tables, and we put desserts and food on the coun-ters. It works really well.”

The bedrooms also have doors going outside to the pool. “It’s just wonder-ful when it’s fall and you open all the doors,” she said.

The openness of the home is enhanced by 12-foot waffle-style ceilings with recessed light fixtures in the living room, kitchen and master bedroom.

“We didn’t want a straight ceiling in here because it’s such a big room it would look funny, so with the waffle ceiling it looks good.”

The entire living area is covered with 16-inch tile laid diagonally. “I really like it tiled,” she said. “I didn’t want carpet in here because of the pool. I love hard-wood floors, but I wanted something coming off the pool you could walk in here, and it’s OK to get wet.”

A high ledge runs around the living room and kitchen where they keep family pictures and other knickknacks. Four remote-control electric shades shield the living room from the after-noon sun. “It keeps the sun and glare out,” Val said. “It’s practical because the windows are 8-feet tall. You couldn’t pull them down, and I didn’t want

(Above) Homeowners Val and Ron Douglas.(Right) The beautiful window decor lightens up the dining room.


AT HOME

(Above) The kitchen is a vital part of the home.

(Right) A beautiful table accents the en-tertainment area.

(Far right) A unique table adorns the kitchen.

(Below) A cozy con-versation area off the living room.

(Below right) Thedecorative room divider.



chains on the windows.”

The master bathroom has an ele-vated bathtub as well as a double walk-through shower with lighting from three panels of clear glass blocks. “Ron

calls this the car wash because you can walk through,” Val said. “I didn’t want a shower curtain, and I wanted the openness.”

The other side of the house contains a powder room as well as a guest room with another bath and separate door that opens to the swimming pool. “I like the idea that the guest room and their bath opens outside. They can have all the privacy they want.”

The Douglases built their house onto an existing 28- by 30-foot garage. “We incorporated that into the house,” Ron said. “We have two double garages, so

(Above) Val is able to shield theliving room from the afternoon sun

with remote-control shades.

A State CertifiedGeneral Contractor

St. Lic. CGC1507657

Mack “Hoot” WorleyPresident

863-467-2541863-467-2541

“Let us take you backto a simpler time.”

110 NW 5th StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

110 NW 5th StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

Custom Window &BlindsTreatments

www.cwtblinds.com

Fabric & TrimDecorative Rods

DraperiesValances ~ BeddingCornices ~ Blinds Shutters ~Verticals

All Window Coverings Custom Sewing

863-357-6555Call Val Douglas

Let's get the jobdone together!

Over 20 yearsExperience!

“Customer Service One on Oneby Appointment.”


(Above) The Douglas’ home located inBuckhead Ridge.(Left) The spaciousmaster bedroom.(Below) One of the unique dresserslocated in themaster bedroom.

(Far left) The master bathroom’s elevated bathtub.(Left) The double walk-through master shower.


we have a lot of garage space.”

“His” garage holds boating equipment, a 1956 Chevrolet Belaire and a bath-house with a separate doorway for the swimming pool.

“Her” garage is Val’s sewing room where she made all the curtains and comfort-ers for the house. “I’m a decorator,” she said. “I like a challenge, and this is what I do. We saved a lot of money doing that.”

The couple also has a double-bay boat-house on the canal containing an air-boat and 20-foot pontoon boat. They have access to the lake through Buck-

head Ridge lock about a mile and a half away.

It took a year and a half to build the house due to hurricane delays. “We moved in, in March of 2005, and every-thing in it we did,” she said. “I was able to go to furniture markets and stuff and buy everything wholesale.

We loaded everything in trailers how they needed to come into the rooms. One day we put in the blinds and

Tree Locators, Inc.“Don’t Destroy Nature When You Can Recreate It”

Plants - Trees - Natural Stone- Manufactured Stone

- Pottery - Decorative Stone- Design - Installation- Full Garden Center

863-763-773616162 Highway 441 N.Okeechobee, FL 34972

(10 Miles North of Hwy 70)

www.treelocators.com

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES

410 S.E. 2nd AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

O�ce: 863-763-0999Fax: 863-763-1945

D. Robert Willson, MAI,CCIMState-certi�ed general real estate appraiser

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Your Local Commercial Real Estate Expert

www.MyOkeechobee.com

The guest bedroom has a tropical flare.


O

window treatments, and the next day we moved our stuff in.

“It looked like we had lived here forever because we knew where everything was going to go, and we had a lot of help getting it in here.”

We Buy Scrap Gold

Guy Harvey & Hersey Kiss JewelryDiamonds - 14K Gold Jewelry

(Right) The whimsical flamingo invites you to the pool.

(Far right) The double bay boathouse is home for the airboat and pontoon boat.

(Left) The large patio and pool area.


Serving All Of Florida

Providing Quality Services at Affordable Prices

Landscaping Tree Service Lawn Care Sod Service Irrigation

Mulching Trimming Lighting Pavers Pressure Cleaning

PlantingTrees, Tropical Foliage, ShrubsNative Plants, Ground Covers (863) 634-1393

Commercial - Residential Licensed & InsuredFree Estimates

(863) 634-1393

The OkeechobeeDemocratic

Executive CommitteeEncourages You To

DEMOCRATIC in 2012!President Barack ObamaSenator Bill NelsonStan CurrenOkeechobee Property Appraiser

Phil BaughmanOkeechobee County CommissionerDistrict 1

Crystal DrakeHouse Seat District 55

Stacy McClandSenate Seat District 21

Will BronsonU.S. Congress - District 17

Paid political advertisement by theOkeechobee Democratic Party,

P.O. Box 2845, Okeechobee, Florida 34972

World WideDelivery

300 N. Parrott Ave.Okeechobee, FL 34972

863-763-9232Colleen Thomas

Send flowers for any occasion.

We offer a large variety offresh flowers, plants and gifts.

Committed ToQuality & Service

Experienced Designers

Competitive Prices



1.

2.3.4.

5.

919 NW Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972

Phone (863) 824-0641Fax (863) 357-4548

Private Mail Boxes NotaryServices

Park Street Parcel Service, Inc.

Authorized ShipCenter

Pack & Ship Services Packing Boxes Shipping Supplies

Printing/Copy Services Document Shredding FaxServices

Florida AirboatAssociation

Unity Rally held in Okeechobee

The skies were cloudy and rain loomed in the distance at the Florida Airboat Associa-tion’s Airboater Unity Ride and Rally held July 13-15 at the Pier II Resort.

Airboaters catch the spray from the boat in front of them.Airboating on the lake.Spectators watch the races.Airboaters watch the airboat races on the water of Lake Okeechobee at Lock 7.Peyton Rowe and Sarah Rowe of Naples have fun playing in the mud.

1

2

4

3

5


Resident of Okeechobee County for 34 years. Married to Michelle for 27 years. Two sons and a daughter-in-law. Served as National President of the Land Improvement Contractors of America. Current on the Okeechobee City planning and zoning board. Board member of Lake Okeechobee Airboat Assoc. Active in Okeechobee County. Vast knowledge of parliamentary procedures.

I want to make a differencefor YOU, the taxpayer!

Some of my GOALS are: To be available to Hear YOUR concerns. To work hard to achieve YOUR goals. To �ght for OUR tax dollars to be spent locally. To maintain and help create new jobs for our graduates and our community. To help preserve our Okeechobee Lifestyle while stimulating positive economic growth.

“Let Me Be YOUR Voice!”

Make a di�erence. VOTE Phil Baughman

for County Commission, District 1

-Phil Baughman

QUALIFIED AND READY TO BE YOUR VOICE!

Political Advertisement Paid for and Approved by Phil Baughman,

Democrat, County Commissioner for District 1

Behind the Business To step inside the Brown Cow Sweetery is not only an opportunity to find the best chocolates in Okeechobee, but it is to be invited into a friendly living room where one can relax, sit a spell, take a coffee break, meet with friends and leave refreshed.

Paulette and Mark Bragel opened their business Dec. 22, 2011, and it became a Christmas gift to Okeechobee. There are many adjectives to describe this store — unique, cool,

Brown Cow SweeteryRaye Deusinger O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

airy, homey, welcoming, friendly and delicious.

The Bragels are frequently asked if this is a franchise, and the answer is no. Though they have a combined 24 years in the chocolate business, this is their own creation. Mark, a skilled woodworker, built all the wood furnishings in the store, from beautiful shelving to display cases holding the “drool-wor-thy” chocolates, to the handsome swinging doors and even to the faux fireplace. He also laid the beautiful floor.

The Sweetery is truly a family affair. Paulette is the designer of the unique logo, and daughter Shannon Hert, skilled in com-puters, set up the easy-to-read menu, which appears on a huge TV screen. It changes from one display to another to list the varied items available.

Their other daughter, Jennifer Mag-giore, helped set up the marketing end of the business. They joke that their eight grandchildren are their board of directors.

The Brown Cow Sweetery began with an offering of chocolate, coffee and ice cream. The chocolate is available in many styles and endless combinations, including wonderful chocolate-dipped strawberries. It also specializes in creat-ing platters of treats for that special oc-casion.

The ice cream comes from the Ice Cream Club in Boynton Beach, which gets most of its ingredients from local sources. While offering 12 flavors of premium ice cream, they even make sundaes, floats and banana splits, top-ping them with fresh whipped cream.

In response to their customers asking why they don’t serve lunch, Paulette and

Paulette and Mark Bragel


Mark expanded their line to include specialty sand-wiches. Besides white-meat tuna salad, the Bra-gels make chicken salad with cranberries, walnuts and golden raisins, an egg salad with Wickles Pickles and spicy mus-tard, and turkey breast or ham with your choice of cheese. In the fall, they will be adding soup to the lunch menu.

Many individuals and groups have made the

Brown Cow Sweetery a meeting place, as it hosts a men’s group, a mom’s group, Bible studies, book clubs and baby showers. The comfortable sofa and chairs seated around the

fireplace and free WiFi promote relaxation and a place to en-joy superb coffee from the Dominican Republic. “You can enjoy brewed coffee, hot or frozen lattes or, if you prefer, an espresso,” Mark said.

Though a little concerned with moving from Lake Worth, the Bragels had visited Okeechobee relatives almost every week and loved the atmosphere and friendliness they found.

“We now belong to Okeechobee and really feel a part of the wonderful people we’ve found here and hope the feeling is reciprocated,” Paulette said.

Located at 103 SW Park St., the Brown Cow Sweetery is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For more information, call (863) 357-3357 or visit www.browncowsweetery.com. O

The Economic Future of Okeechobee County is in Good Hands

Culpepper & Terpening wishes to say Thank You to the Business Development Board of Okeechobee for their untiring work to bring responsible economic growth to Okeechobee.

The Business Development Board of Okeechobee is making a positive difference for the future of all of Okeechobee County.

The Business Development Board of Okeechobee is committed to diversifying the economy and increasing the number of high wage job opportunities for Okeechobee residents.

A special Thank You to the Board and its leaders!

(772) 464-3537 www.ct-eng.com

Behind the Business

H urricane, tornado, derailment, multi-ve-hicle pileup, an influenza outbreak — any of these would strike fear into a community, especially one as insulated as Okeechobee. If or when it happens, what would you do?

If you were a member of the Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), not only would you know what to do, but you would be ready, trained and authorized to act. The MRC is a community-based group of medical and non-medical vol-unteers ready to supplement existing local emergency and

Okeechobee Medical Reserve CorpsBy Raye Deusinger O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

public health resources during time of community need.

Brian Sell, public health preparedness and planning coordi-nator for the Okeechobee County Department of Health, urges the public to join this group and do what this area does best — be Okeechobeeans taking care of Okeechobee-ans.

The MRC effort began nationally in 2002; Florida joined the program in 2004. Each county is allowed to develop

the corps to suit local needs. As MRC co-ordinator and also as chairman of

the Community Health Advisory Team (CHAT), Sell is recruiting Okeechobee’s volunteer network now. Florida is divided into seven service areas with 32 local units and 17, 225 volunteers serving 60 counties in this FEMA program.

A trained community needs medi-cal personnel, interpreters, chap-lains, legal advisors, office work-ers, people to answer phones, distribute information and register victims. Necessary equipment is provided and training is offered at no cost to MRC members. Each must pass a background check, and become certified to assist first-line responders. “It’s not the day of the event we need them, it’s all the days after.,” Sell said. Volunteers meet the last Thursday of each month.

“As the volunteer program ex-pands, Sell said, “opportunities for a youth program may be avail-able where those who come right out of High School can get train-ing and have a career in honorable programs. In fact, FEMA has so many offerings on line that you could build a resume by taking

(l-r) Health Department Director ErinHess, Dr. Armando Santelices and MRCCo-ordinator Brian Sell.


FEMA courses.”

Sell has been with MRC for 10 months and, with the help of local partners, is building a network with St. Lucie and Indian River counties, creat-ing tri-county complimentary departments to work togeth-er for the benefit of all when needed. Working with him are Okeechobee County Sheriff

Paul May, county Volunteer Coordinator Sgt. Keith Strip-ling, Okeechobee County Fire Chief David McCain, Emer-gency Medical Technician Director Karl Holkamp, Emer-gency Management Director Mitch Smeykal, local American Red Cross Director Charles Parker, David Hazelieff of the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association, Russ Brown of Indian River State College, Dr. Armando Santelices of the Florida Community Health Center and many faith-based groups.

All communities face similar issues of needing sufficient per-

sonnel to cover emergencies. By training volunteers to assist in the mitigation of events, county response becomes stron-ger, and each department — as well as the whole community — benefits.

Okeechobee area is not just the city; it is outlying areas such as Fort Drum, the 714 Corridor, Buckhead Ridge, Basinger, Indian Hammock and River Acres. Each will benefit from trained volunteers assisting the county effort. “Fort Drum has an unmanned fire station,” Sell said. “We are currently working with them to establish a shelter area with a trained CERT [Civilian Emergency Response Team] and POD [Point of Distribution] volunteers.”

Currently five people are being trained, but 12 to 18 are needed. “We want to do this in all these outlying communi-ties,” Sell said.

For more information, contact Sell at the Okeechobee Coun-ty Department of Health at (863) 462-5865, visit www.med-icalreservecorps.gov or sign up at www.servfl.com. O

700 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL

863-763-0444

The8th wonder

of the world!

A never-endingcascade of

rich chocolate isyours for the dipping!

Steaks, Bu�et & Bakery

“My procedure didn’t hinder any of my physical activity at all. It is so great to know that I do not have to go through those painful periods again.”Carol Goodman, June 12th - Laparoscopic Hysterectomy patient at Raulerson Hospital.

1796 Hwy 441N • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • (863) 763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.comEmergency Services - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

LAPAROSCOPIC HYSTERECTOMY“Approximately twenty percent of women, at some time, experience prolonged menstrual bleeding, often as they approach menopause,” explains Dr. Bradfield. “In some cases physicians will recommend a hysterectomy as the best avenue for solving this or similar problems,” Dr. Bradfield said. There are all sorts of reasons women have hysterectomies. The most common are bleeding abnormalities, tumors or enlargements of the uterus, problems with endometriosis, pelvic adhesions and pelvic infections. A procedure, such as a hysterectomy, performed laparoscopically, is minimally invasive, replacing the traditional open abdominal incision. The procedure uses small instruments through very small incisions. This results in less pain and scarring and a quicker recovery time. Raulerson Hospital offers many minimally invasive procedures, including:

• Appendectomy• GallBladderremoval• InterStimTherapy(forincontinence)• Andmore

Minimally invasive surgery was perfect for Carol who’s very proud of her perfect attendance record at work. Also, Carol did not want to miss out on her summer. In Carol’s case, she only stayed overnight after her procedure. “The day after my surgery, I was grocery shopping,” Carol recalled. “It is so great to know that I do not have to go through those painful periods again,” stated Carol. “Everything about the procedure and the stay was pleasantly surprising to me. I was expecting drastic scars and I was hoping I could still feel comfortable wearing a bikini in the summer. I think I only ended up requiring three stitches. I was sore, but it wasn’t painful. Now I feel like nothing even happened,” Carol said. Carol’smotivationinsharingherstoryistwo-fold.Shewants other women to realize how simple and effective a minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomy can be and she wants to publicly acknowledge how the care she and her

family received at Raulerson Hospital exceeded her expectations. “If I required another surgery, I wouldn’t be nervous at all. Everyone at Raulerson Hospital worked as a team and checked on me continuously. I ended up not being in any rush to leave there,” Carol recalls. Carol explained that the information she received prior to her surgery was very accurate and there were no surprises.Sheexpressesabundantcomplimentsabouteverydepartment she encountered from Registration to the excellent food & service Raulerson Hospital’s Dietary Department provided her. Carol is a self-confessed ‘clean freak’. “I look at baseboards and everything when I go somewhere. I have visited other major hospitals and the cleanliness of Raulerson Hospital is awesome. Even the housekeeper emptying my waste basket was concerned to know if I needed anything. Amazing,” said Carol.

O U R PAT I E N T S ’ O W N W O R D S

S P E A K V O L U M E S

For a Free Physician Referral & Healthcare Questions, call CONSULT-A-NURSE ® at 763-9228

ForthepasttenyearsCarolGoodmanhasbeenaschoolbusdriverfortheOkeechobeeCountySchoolDistrictaswellasaFoodServiceAssistantatOkeechobeeHighSchool.Sheandherhusbandwerebothverynervousaboutherapproachingsurgery.“Myhusband was afraid for my health. I was afraid it would ruin my summer. I work the entire school season and I feared a surgery would mean I’d spend all summer recovering,” Carol admitted. “The Nursing staff at Raulerson Hospital made us feel so comfortable, explaining things at each step. They definitely kept my husband informed of my progress. He was able to follow the ‘patient tracker’ monitor on the wall in the waiting lounge to keep updated on my status. The nursing staff and my doctor also personally spoke to my husband shortly after my procedure, to provide him with a complete review of how things went,” Carol explained. “Honestly, If I knew four years ago a laparoscopic hysterectomy was this easy and painless, I would have done it then,” Carol explained. Prior to her laparoscopic hysterectomy at Raulerson Hospital Carol suffered from painful cramps and unpredictable, heavy menstrual cycles. Dr. James Bradfield performs laparoscopic hysterectomies at Raulerson Hospital. “I can’t say enough about Raulerson Hospital and my wonderful experience there,“ Carol stated.

Carol reconnects with members of her care team.lefttoright:RNAngelaVillalpando,CarolGoodman,

Dr. Bradfield and RN Erica Lipfert


1

2

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Ashley Shannon per-forms “Girls Night Out.”First-place winner Ashley Shannon with WOKC Gen-eral Manager Wayne Cunningham.The Blue Mason Barter Band per-forms “I Got What I Deserve.”WOKC Program Di-rector Billy Dean. The Gingers perform their own song, “Single on Valen-tine’s Day.”2012 Texaco County Showdown contes-tants.

3

The 11th annual Texaco Country Showdown was held July 14 at Good Spirits Lounge. WOKC 100.9 FM and 1570 AM Radio coordinated the event. The lounge was packed with people sup-porting their favorite artists while enjoying the entertainment. This year, the talent was extraordinary, with duos, bands and solo artists.

WOKC HOsts texaCOCOuntry sHOWdOWn

4 5

6



Experience Counts

forSupervisor of ElectionsKeep 17 Years of Experience

Working for YOU!Vote November 6, 2012

Paid by Diane Hagan, No Party A�liation for Supervisor of Elections

Diane Hagan

LUNCH SPECIALS$5.99

MONDAY AYCEBABY BACK RIBS

$9.99TUESDAY 1lb RIBEYE

$13.99

www.cowboysbarbqueandsteakco.com

Join our Loyalty Club and Eat Freeon your Birthday!

BAR-B-Q STEAK CO.

102 SW 14th St. -Okeechobee

863-467-1104

40 MENU ITEMS LESS THAN$10.00,

(Not including Daily Specials & Appetizers)

FREEDElivERy


3550 Highway 441 South · Okeechobee

(877) Go-Gilbert or (863) 763-3154

www.GilbertChevrolet.com - View on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet!

Your Hometown Discount Dealer Since 1933

SALES: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-7:00 PM • Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM • SERVICE & PARTS Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-5:30 PM • Sat. 8:00 AM-4:00 PMBODY SHOP Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-5:30 PM • Closed Sundays

let us show you how we stand apart


By Raye Deusinger O Photos by Sandra Pearce

Patriotism and History Alive in Okeechobee’s DAR


By Raye Deusinger O Photos by Sandra Pearce

While we see Okeechobee change daily, we can still look back and remem-ber the way it used to be. The library, the historical society, newspapers and Okeechobee The Magazine contain records of the area’s past. But America’s past, all the way back to the Revolution, is remembered daily by local members of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Founded in 1890, the DAR is a volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to keeping America strong by promoting patriotism, preserving history and supporting education programs. Its motto is “God, home and country.” The local chapter was begun in 1975 by Marian Wagner, who died June 6 at the age of 90.

Say “DAR” and most people respond, “I didn’t know they were still around.”

“Others have pictured the DAR as little old ladies trying to hold on to the past,” DAR member Su George said.

But when you come to a meeting of DAR’s Okeechobee chapter, you will find a vital, energetic group of all ages.

“It’s a place to hear interesting stories and be around people who care about our country,” said Julie Turner, a local Realtor and 2012 Regent of the Okeechobee DAR. “It’s not just a club; its members promote citizen-ship, honor their ancestors, educate youth and preserve the past. We want the next generation to revere the Constitution.”

Turner joined DAR in 2009. Her aunt, Debbie Clemons brought her in

Patriotism and History Alive in Okeechobee’s DAR

A Proud Heritage

“It’s a place tohear interestingstories and bearound peoplewho care aboutour country.”

- Julie Turner


The Berger Clinic

863-467-1117Call For Appointment

Jay S. Berger, MDOkeechobee Medical Park1713 Hwy 441 N. Suite D

Okeechobee, FL 34972(Located across the street

from the hospital.)

Dr. Berger and Staffhave proudly

served the Okeechobeearea since 1985.

Adult Health CareDiagnosis and Management of Medical Conditions

Preventive Health

Governor Mitt Romneyfor PresidentConnie Mack

for U.S. SenateTom Rooney

for U.S. CongressDenise Grimsleyfor Florida Senate

Cary Pigmanfor Florida Representative

Bill Shermanfor Property Appraiser

Paul MaySheriff

Heather Hancockfor Supervisor of Elections

Ray Domerfor County Commission

District 1

VOTE REPUBLICAN

Political advertisement paid for and approved byThe Republican Party of Okeechobee Executive Committee

863-532-9623

Republican Partyof Okeechobee

www.republicanpartyofokeechobee.com

863-467-9090NetworkingCablingAccessoriesAudio VisualWirelessManaged Services

““Featuring ICS Elite Seriesdesktops powered by the

new Intel i-Series Processors”

Computer Sales & ServiceServing Lake Area Since 1990

Authorized BusinessTelephone Systems

403 S. PARROTT AVE.OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA www.icsflorida.com

Email: [email protected]

COMPUTERS


because of her love of history, and Turn-er feels she is learning more all the time. Turner’s daughters, Kathleen and Eliza-beth, fourth-generation Okeechobee-ans, will become members. Turner is even a witness to local history, having seen the first set of traffic lights installed in Okeechobee. Her father’s family lived in Florida before the state entered the Union in 1845.

Through the genealogy resources of the DAR, Turner has been able to trace her ancestry, learning that both her hus-band’s and her side of the family were in Jamestown.

In fact, an ancestor of George Washing-ton Turner IV, Turner’s husband, was the first George Washington Turner, a sail-maker on the USS Constitution, which was launched in 1797. Turner also learned she had two ancestors at the Alamo.

Currently 30 members are enrolled in the local DAR, some of whom are win-ter residents. From October through May, they meet at the Okeechobee Li-brary the first Saturday of each month, to plan community projects such as the recognition of Constitution Week each September. At this time they feature

Celebrating 20 Years!

Your Secret is Safe With Us

Focus on Faces:Face Lift | Neck Rejuvenation | Brow Lift

Eyelid Lift | Rhinoplasty |OtoplastyMinimally Invasive

TherapiesBotox Cosmetic | Dysport

Restylane | SculptraLaser Surgery

Obagi Medical ProductsJuvederm | PerlaneRadiesse | Latisse

The Rosato PlasticSurgery Center

3790 7th Terrace, Suite 101Vero Beach, Florida

(772) 562-5859 www.rosatoplasticsurgery.com

Financing Available

Ralph M. RosatoMD, FACS

Complete Plasticand

ReconstructiveSurgery

Julie Turner


a week-long display, which includes a copy of the Constitution, a picture of its signing, a summary of our rights and freedoms, a Betsy Ross Flag and free booklets on the Constitution.

DAR also features guest speakers each month, such as Okeechobee The Maga-zine Publisher Maureen Budjinski, who will speak on organ donation awareness in October.

In addition, the organization plans proj-ects benefiting the community. In No-vember 2011, its project was moving the Battle of Okeechobee Monument. It was dedicated at the annual reenact-ment of the event on Feb. 4.

History Chair Su George enlisted the help of the two area DAR chapters, which originally placed the monument, to move it from the roadside on U.S. 441 to the Battle of Okeechobee State Park. Those chapters were the West Palm Beach Seminole Chapter and the Fort Pierce Cora Stickney Harper Chap-ter. George oversaw the procurement of permits from the State of Florida, the Department of Transportation and the DAR historian general, arranged trans-portation and personnel, enlisted the Seminole Tribe to preserve authenticity and planned the ceremony when all was completed.

George spent a lot of time on her com-puter during this period, and her son-in-law, Mark Hart, took notice. “It takes the faith of a mustard seed to move a mountain, but it takes a determined dame with a Dell [computer] to move a monument,” he said.

As history chairperson, George also is in charge of the essay contests held each fall for students from elementary to high school. Emphasizing U.S. history, the fall contest is open to students in ninth through 12th grades on the subject of Christopher Columbus. This year’s es-say title is titled “How Did the Faith


and Courage of Christopher Columbus Give to Mankind a New World?” The 2012 essay for fifth- through eighth-graders is titled “Forgotten Patriots Who Supported the American Struggle for

Independence.” The emphasis will be on the diverse ethnic groups who provided military, patriotic and public service in support of the American Revolution.

DAR’s Okeechobee chapter also con-tributed to Hospice of Okeechobee’s annual Festival of Trees fundraiser, donates ROTC awards, sponsors two scholarships and participates in the annual Battle of Okeechobee Reenact-ment weekend. The group supports the national Paws for Patriots program through which dogs are trained as com-panion animals for wounded veterans.

Any woman 18 years or older may join the DAR by documenting her lineage to an ancestor, either male or female, who aided the cause of American indepen-dence through military, civil or patriotic service.

An interested woman can attend meet-ings for two years before her lineage is turned in. Once submitted, she becomes

3936 SE 18th TerraceOkeechobee, FL 34974

www.paulmitchell.comMonday- Friday 9-5 Tanning 9-7

Saturday 9-3

HairTanningNailsPermanent Make-Up

Former location of Vanity Salon.New Location!

Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy Inc.Gretchen Robertson, Agent

309 NE 2nd STOkeechobee, FL 34972Bus: 863-763-5561 Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Like a goodneighbor,

State Farm isthere.®

301 NE 4th Avenue

Now Open

Monday - Friday ~ Opens at 6:00 am Breakfast & Lunch

Where the SONis always shining!

(863) 763-4127free WiFi

Sunday Church Services10:45 am - Contemporary

8:30 am - Traditional

Classes for all ages10:00am

Denistry from Infancy to Adolescence

PHONE: 863-357-7338 - FAX: 863-357-73422029 HWY 441 NORTH - OKEECHOBEE, FL 34972

MELISSA KINDELL, DMD

Su George


a “participating member” while her cre-dentials await verification. Certification usually takes six months unless there are major problems. Then she becomes an official Daughter of the American Revo-lution.

There is a Sons of the Revolution (SAR) organization for men who join through either the maternal or paternal side, and there is also a Children of the Revolu-tion (CAR) group for boys or girls 21 years and younger. Those in either group still have to prove lineage. These organi-

Brand NameNEW Fashions

863-357-8664Toni Doyle - Owner

123 SW Park StreetOkeechobee, FL

[email protected]

Toni's Chic Boutique“Where Fun & Fashion Meet”

& Consignment

Select PristineConsignment

Notary Public Services Available

Tired of Broken Buttons fromDry Cleaner Pressing?

At Toni's we iron by hand!

Jewelryand

Accessories

UniqueGifts zations interact but are separate entities.

George traces her lineage to Capt. Drury Pace from South Carolina. He joined the Revolution as a patriot, but the rest of his family were Tories (King George loyalists). As a result, Pace had to hide out from his family.

As a child visiting in Eatonton, Ga., George was read Uncle Remus stories. As she grew, history truly became alive when she began to recognize the roads around town from the story’s descrip-

“It takes the faith of a mustard seedto move a mountain, but it takes adetermined dame with Dell [computer]to move a monument.” -Mark Hart

Julie Turner and Su George at the site of the Battle of Okeechobee Monument.


TO AGRICULTURAL LOANS* MADE POSSIBLE

Kathleen Shatto andJohn MacchiaSeacoast’s Rural Banking Team

If you’re in agriculture, you know there’s no other business like it. When it comes time to purchase new equipment, acquire cattle, or obtain seasonal working capital, you need a partner there who can help make it happen. That’s exactly what we do at Seacoast. We’re local, which means you’ll always talk to someone who understands your unique needs and the types of loans and operating lines of credit that can help you most. So while you’re growing your crops and livestock, we’re here to help grow your business.

SeacoastNational.com

TO A MORE HUMAN WAY TO BANK

Kathleen ShattoOKEECHOBEE | GLADES | HENDRY

863.467.4663

John MacchiaHIGHLANDS | DESOTO | HARDEE

863.465.4834

*Subject to credit approval. Certain restrictions may apply.

-Mark Hart


Reclaim the real you.

CoolSculpting® and the CoolSculpting® logo are registered trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. The “snowflake” mark is a trademark of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. Copyright © 2012, ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. Results vary. Consult your physician. IC0529-A

Lose the muffin top.<

Located adjacent to the Treasure Coast Square Mall

at Women’s Health Specialists 3498 NW Federal Hwy

Jensen Beach, FL 34957

The Leader in Women’s Health Has

Something NEW!

CoolSculpting™ now available at Women’s Health Specialists.

Women’s Health Specialists has set the standard for women’s wellness on the Treasure Coast for decades. Now, we are proud to offer a new way to make that new body you’ve been wanting become a reality. No harsh dieting. No extreme exercise program. Just CoolSculpting™.

This revolutionary new body contouring treatment is FDA cleared and offers undeniable results in as little as one treatment. No surgery. No downtime. Free consultation.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. Or to learn more, call (772) 419-4836 or visit www.JeuneNu.com.


505 NE Park St. - Okeechobee, FL

LOG HOMEPACKAGES

FURNITURE - HOME DECORGIFTS

CUSTOM METALBLACK SMITHING

…how old you are…how young you are

…how educated you are

…if you have a job (or two)

Hunger Doesn’t Care...

TREASURE COAST

FOODBANK

You Can CareGo to stophunger.org(772) 489-3034

O

tions. Because the connection to the Revolution was through her mother’s side, not her father’s, as a child George’s nickname was “Half Yankee.”

She recounted a story that confirmed her sense of history. “During the ear-ly depression, we moved to Milford, Conn.,” she said. “My parents rented half a house that had been an inn dur-ing the Revolutionary War. It was well documented that Washington had stayed there. I was told the bed he had used had been stored in the attic until it was placed in the front bedroom. I was allowed to sleep on it a couple of nights.

Under the house there was a tunnel, which connected three homes. When King George’s men would come to a house in search of patriots, the rebels would go into the tunnel and into the adjoining houses, moving back when the king’s men would move to that house in their search.”

As of 2012, 850,000 women have been able to trace their lineage to become DAR members. The organization cur-rently has 168,000 members in nearly 3,000 chapters worldwide, including 12 foreign countries.

Philosopher G.K. Chesterton said, “The disadvantage of men not knowing the past is that they do not know the present. History is a hill or high point of vantage, from which alone men see the town in which they live or the ages in which they are living.”

If you think or know there is a patriot in your family or you just want to learn more about the local chapter, contact Su George at (863) 763-0266 or [email protected].

Information about the national orga-nization is available at www.dar.org or www.facebook.com/Todays DAR. It is also on YouTube and Flickr.


Pre-Treat •Termite Inspection • Full Termite & Pest Control Services • Rodents • Lawns

Highland Pest Control is Family Owned and OperatedWe Can Provide You with Quality Service for All of Your Pest Control Needs.

We get Bugs out! No Pest Problem is Too Big.

Call for a Free Estimate 863-467-6707

Keith Hickman & Bobby Hickman

Modern, Trendy or TraditionalWe do it all.

Large Beautiful Showroom Stop in to see our new

specialty cupcake designs!

863-763-5051800-260-2592

www.flowerpetalsokeechobee.com

“We deliver smiles.”

207 NE Park StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

LIBBYElect

MAXWELLFor

Supervisor of ElectionsFull Time - Energized - Quali�ed

Scan with smartphone tosee more from Libby Maxwell.

Also follow Libby on FaceBook!

www.LibbyMaxwell.com


Law Office OfGerald Lefebvre1910 S. Parrott Ave.

Okeechobee, FL

Se Habla Espanol~

763-3333

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”Your Hometown Injury Attorney

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”

accidentattorneyo�ce.com

Phone Answered 24/7

Florida’s Premier Discount Gun StoresBUY • SELL • TRADE

- DISCOUNT PRICING -

122 S.E. Park StreetOkeechobee, FL 863-623-4471

We are the Leading Discount Gun Store on theTreasure Coast and Okeechobee.

Check with us before you buy anywhere else - even the internet!

All Major Credit Cards Accepted Open Mon-Fri. 10 am - 6 pmSat 10 am - 5 pm

FRESH CHOCOLATE-DIPPEDSTRAWBERRIES

(Every Friday & Saturday)GOURMET CHOCOLATE

SPECIALTY COFFEEPREMIUM ICE CREAM

103 SW PARK ST

OKEECHOBEE

863-357-3357

We are nowo�eringLunch!

free WiFi

512 W. North Park Street Okeechobee, Florida 863-763-3823

Furniture - Appliances - Electronics

www.badcock.com

Serving You For 52 Years.

By Bridgette WaldauCommunity EventCOMMUNITY PARTNERS for HEALTH

Artsthrough the

Okeechobee Main Street held a reception at Grand Oaks Assisted Living Comminity on May 23 to present their new program, Community Partners for Health through the Arts. Okeechobee Main Street, along with other OCPHA partners, will uti-lize Okeechobee High School students as the heart of the program to provide arts, crafts, drama and mu-sical entertainment to the residents of Okeechobee senior citizen facilities. Okeechobee Main Street was awarded seed money to begin this valuable program for Okeechobee by Shands Arts in Medicine, found-ed in 1990 at Shands Hospital at the University of Florida, in partnership with Florida’s Division of Cultural Affairs and the Kresge Foundation.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

The Okeechobee Show Choir enter-tains the guests.Jennifer Dodd began the program with a beautiful flute performance.OHS Principal Toni Wiersma express-es the importance of this program.Grand Oak Residents Joe Staedelin ends the program with his saxophone performance.Guests watch Layton Watford per-form.OCPHA committee members and partners enjoy the entertainment (L-R) Kathleen Shatto, Jennifer Dodd, Carol Wood, Bridgette Waldau and Toni Wiersma. (Above) Guests enjoy the reception.

(Below left) Leslie’s Dance Studio dancer Shelby Kirton dances to “Hit Me Up.”

(Below right) Leslie’s Dance Studio dancer Layton Watford dances to “Saturday Night Fish Fry.”

1

2 3

4

5

6



119 So. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34974

863-763-2225

Order online atwww.syblesflowers.com

Syble’s Flowers

119 S. Parrott AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

Come seeall of our

uniqueflowers & gifts.

Fax 863-763-1797Owners:

Felicia Maxwell & O.M. Faircloth

Weddings - Pets - FamilyBoudoir - Baby Bumps - More

Felicia Maxwell Photographer

863-763-2225Fax: 863-763-1797 Cell: 863-634-0491

www.fmportrait.com

Bella Rose

Day Spa & Salon

FacialsMassagesHydrotherapyTeeth WhiteningIonic Foot DetoxMicrodermabrasion

HairManicuresPedicuresMake-Up

Hair RemovalEyelash Extensions

(863) 357-3333311 NE 2nd Street

(Behind Regions Bank & McDonalds)Gift Certificates

Available

www.mysalononline.com/bellarose


By Rachel Buxton O Photos By Felicia Maxwell

What began as one man’s vision while reading a book has turned into a refuge that has helped more than 7,000 men reclaim their lives from drugs and alcohol.

That man, Mickey Evans — known to many as Brother Mickey — is the founder of Dunklin Memorial Camp and has become what some would call an Okeechobee legend.

Evans was born Jan. 8, 1932, with the given name Donald, only to receive the nickname Mickey from his uncle, who said when Evans was born he came out like a prize fighter with his fists balled up, looking like then-boxing champ Mickey Walker. “I never wanted to fight my whole life,” Evans said. “But the nickname stuck, and I’ve been Mickey ever since.”

Evans has touched thousands of lives with his Christian beliefs. Ironically though, he did not grow up in a Christian household knowing who God was. He said he didn’t think God loved people like him. Both his parents were alcoholics, and it wasn’t until high school when he was dating his wife, Laura Maye, that he stepped into a church.

“Not because I was seeking God but because I was courting this little blonde-headed girl that was playing the piano,” Evans said.

Evans ended up marrying that “little blonde-headed girl” in 1951. And he and Laura Maye went on to

have four children together.

As for God, Evans may not have been seek-ing Him but Evans, at the young age of 19, received the calling to follow the Lord after attending a revival at the Grace Brethren Church in Okeechobee.

Evans followed that calling and attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary for a year.

He then attended Carson-Newman College in Jefferson City, Tenn., where he majored in Bible

studies.

Mickey Evans: FatherBehind Dunklin Memorial Camp


“To me the greatest thrill is watching the next generation.”


After school he and Laura Maye re-turned to Okeechobee, where he took on odd jobs, including teaching fourth grade, in an attempt to save up money to work toward his doctorate. His plans, however, didn’t turn out to be God’s plans.

Evans and Laura Maye started Dunk-lin Memorial Camp in 1962 and for

the past 50 years they have made it their mission in life. Dunklin Memorial Camp is a drug and alcohol regen-eration center that is like no other. Founded on the foun-dation of Christ, Dunklin uses core Christian principles to heal troubled souls. Referred to as the biblical term, a “city of refuge,” the camp is a spiritual, emotional and physical shelter from danger.

Nestled back in the woods on Martin County Grade Road Evans built Dunklin from the ground up.

When he purchased the 210-acre prop-erty it was pure swampland, home to al-ligators and moccasins.

At the time, Evans and Laura Maye were residing in Indiantown, where Evans was the pastor for Dunklin Me-morial Baptist Church. They had just moved into a new parsonage when Ev-ans said he became restless and wanted more. That’s when he received his vi-sion, one he describes came from God. “It was not my idea; I knew it was from God,” he said.

“I thought he was kind of crazy,” Laura Maye said. “It didn’t fit my plans. I was comfortable.”

And only adding to Laura Maye’s ap-prehension to pick up and move to the middle of nowhere, the first time Evans brought his wife out to see the land say-ing, “Honey, isn’t this the most beauti-ful piece of land,” a snake coiled itself

(Top) The original Dunklin Memorial Camp.(Bottom) Micky and Laura Maye Evans.Archive photos provided by the Evans family.

BATTERY TIRE

Home of Honest, Reliable Service

Tires & BatteriesFor

“Everything”

198 Hwy 98 NorthOkeechobee, FL

Proud Supporter of Our Community!1991- 2012

8 Other Locations to Serve You.

Tires for Loaders - Tractors - Trucks - Cars -TrailersLawnmowers - ATV - Hand Trucks

Phone863-357-2431

Toll Free800-432-1064

Batteries for Autos - Trucks - Motorcycles - Boats Golf Carts - RV’s - Crane Loaders and More!

Our Staff is Trained to Help You Find WhatYou Need & Keep Your Vehicle in Great Shape!

OF OKEECHOBEE

24 HOUR ROAD SIDESERVICE AVAILABLE

Call C.J. at 772-201-1594

www.slbt.comwww.slbt.com


around her leg. “That was almost the end of Dunklin,” Laura Maye said.

However, it was only the beginning. Evans began working fervently, clear-ing the land and bringing in four cabins from the coast for housing and class-rooms. And immediately with no ad-vertising, by only word of mouth, men came seeking help.

Evans and Laura Maye said it was diffi-cult in that they didn’t have any money, but anytime they needed financial sup-port for the camp, they prayed and God provided. Most times with the exact amount they needed.

“It still happens today,” Laura Maye said. “We’re still praying.”

Dunklin is always at full capacity hous-ing 68 men. The office receives numer-ous calls a day with people inquiring about admittance. There is currently a waiting list.

The men wanting to attend Dunklin do not have to be Christian. They do, how-ever, have to be open to the idea of let-ting God into their life and being taught recovery through spiritual means, Evans said. There is also an interview process that is conducted to determine if the

BUYER BROKER ONLY COMPANY OF FLORIDARealtor Bill F. Steg’kemper, crs, gri

Longest Licensed Realtor In Okeechobee

CELL (863) 801-9497P.O. Box 1074

517 SW Park St.Okeechobee, FL 34974

Full Time Realtor Since 1974Broker, Appraiser - BK129997

BROKER, CRS, GRI, APPRAISER

always saving buyer money$

RE-ELECT

POLITICAL ADVERTISEMENT PAID FOR AND APPROVED BY

RAY DOMER, REPUBLICAN, FOR COUNTY COMMISSION, DISTRICT 1

FOR COUNTY COMMISSION

VOTEDOMER.COM

A PROVEN LEADER FOR OKEECHOBEE.

Brother Mickey teaches.


Growing together with Jesus

School Phone: 863-763-7566Church Phone: 863-763-5042

Peace Lutheran School

750 Northwest 23rd Lane - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

NationallyAccredited School

Serving Children Ages 2 - KindergartenSmall Class Size

Christian Centered Program at an A�ordable Price

Accepting enrollment for the 2012-13 school year.Now accepting Step up for Students and McKay Scholarships for kindergarten.

individual seeking help is truly ready and serious about getting help and turning his life around. The decision is then made if Dunklin is the best fit for the individual and his road to recovery. There is a monetary fee to attend, but Evans said no man has or ever will be turned away because of lack of funds. “My father died on skid row in Miami. These men won’t,” Evans said.

Men who are accepted into Dunklin must be completely sober. Dunklin does not allow cell phones or comput-ers. Men communicate with the outside world through letter writing. Family members can visit on the weekends dur-ing specified visiting hours.

Over the years, the program has evolved from a three-month to a 10-month commitment. In the beginning there was no set curriculum. The Bible was the only teaching tool Evans had. He began reading anything and everything he could on addiction to gain insight. He studied secular rehabilitation pro-grams for guidance and education.

“I was told I milked every cow that came by and took the cream,” he said.

The one aspect that Evans realized that the secular programs lacked was the spiritual foundation. The very aspect he said has made Dunklin so successful.

The 10-month program is broken down into five stages: induction, orientation, regeneration, inner healing and dis-cipleship. The different stages include Biblical counseling, classroom teachings and small groups to address the issues involved with addiction.

The classroom lessons challenge the men’s faith and teach them about God and the acceptance and forgiveness that come with a relationship with Him. A special emphasis is put on quiet time with God. Men are taught the art of journaling, which Evans said is the


Complimentary “Hot Express Start Breakfast”

Outdoor Pool - Jacuzzi - Boat Hook-ups

863-357-3529www.HiExpress.com

Located 1 mile from Beautiful Lake Okeechobee

3101 US Highway 441 S.Okeechobee, FL 34974

Hotel & Suites

OkeechobeeFlroida

OkeechobeeFlorida

Local Residents,Mention This Ad and Receive

A 15% Discount O�Rooms or Our Meeting Space

On-Site Meeting Space Available for:Business Meetings, Seminars and your Special Events

1001 South Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee, FL863-357-8693

We are not justWestern.

Ladies - Men

Children &Now Plus Sizes

ShoesBoot & Sandals

Come In & Check Out Our

New Fall Line!

Gift ItemsAccessories

JewelryHome Goodsand More!

Micky and Laura Maye are at homeat Dunklin.Archive photo below providedby the Evans family.


Hours:Tuesday - Thursday

10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.Friday - Saturday

10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

most important tool learned in Dunk-lin. Quiet time and journaling is when a man has direct communication with God.

The program offers marriage classes to those who are married and attending the camp. There is a motel on the premises that allows wives and children to come and participate in the recovery process. Classes are available for parents of the men in recovery as well. Evans said ad-diction is a healing process for the entire family.

To further help families, Dunklin also offers a program called Family Devel-opment, which helps families that have never experienced life drug free learn to live together. The camp provides fami-lies with a house to live in for a year. During that year trainers mentor them in all aspects of life as a family living drug free.

Men learn discipline and good work ethics through manual labor while at Dunklin. Based on physical ability and skills, every man in the program receives a work task. Men work from 1 to 5 p.m. every day. Their tasks usually include working with the cattle or at the lum-beryard — the two entities that help fund Dunklin.

Dunklin completely funds itself receiv-ing no state or federal funding. The camp relies on its roughly 300 head of cattle and lumberyard. Wooden pallets is a major industry at Dunklin, with lo-cal and national corporations purchas-ing them. The only other funding is through donations. Evans is proud to say that Dunklin is debt free.

Since leaving the pulpit in Indiantown, Evans hasn’t looked back. He said he never had any doubts about starting Dunklin because it wasn’t his decision; it was God’s.

A vision that started off as a one-man

Loans for small businesses with big ambitions.

LONGEST HOURS • LEGENDARY SERVICE • HASSLE-FREE BANKING

To see how we can help your business, or for more information on special rates, visit TD Bank at 1506 South Parrott Avenue, or call Diane Davies at 1-863-824-6700

Purchasing, improving or expanding a business? TD Bank has the lending solutions for you.

• Term Loans and Lines of Credit up to $500,000

• Commercial Real Estate Mortgages

• Limited Time Promotional Rates Available!

TD Bank, N.A. | Equal Housing Lender | Loans subject to credit approval. Other terms and conditions may apply. Some credit restrictions may apply.


Over 15 years experience in thetreatment of all digestive disorders.

225 N.E. 19th Drive - Okeechobee, Fl 34972

(863) 357-8222

Board Certified in Gastroenterologyand Internal Medicine

Dr. Albert F. Bravo

No Need To Go Out Of Town For Expert Health Care Services!We Are Right Here In Okeechobee, Your Hometown!

Se Habla EspañolMost Insurance Accepted

Colonoscopy & Endoscopy Capsule endoscopy Liver disease (Hepatitis & Cirrhosis)

Colon Cancer Screening Irritable Bowel Syndrome Gallbladder Disease Ulcerative Colitis Crohn’s Disease Removal of Polyps

Treatment of Ulcers Diverticulitis Gastrointestinal Bleeding GERD


Heartland Discount PharmacyBetter Care...For a Better Community

Personal Attention Prescriptions Ready in Minutes FREE Same Day Home Delivery Rx Mail Available Free Antibiotics $3.99 Generic Program Best Cash Price in Town Low Cost OTC Medications Accept Most Insurance Including Medicaid, Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D Courteous, Professional & Friendly Sta� Compounding Meds (Non-Sterile) Take Time to Explain Your Prescription Medications Care with Dignity and Respect We Match Competitors Price

We Dispense Care

Extended HoursMonday - Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 4pm

Full Service Retail Pharmacy

407 S. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee

863-763-7633

Consultant PharmacistHARRY PATEL, Rph

Your NeighborhoodPharmacy

Where CustomerService & Personal

Attentionis our #1 Priority!

(We will help you save money and stay healthy)

(Next to Arby's on Hwy 441)

Get to know your neighbor.

WE PROMISE TO PROVIDE QUALITYSERVICE AT LOWEST PRICES

PHARMACY THE WAY IT’SSUPPOSE TO BE

OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE HEALTHCARE MORE AFFORDABLE

Here is how we are di�erent...Does Your Pharmacy accommodateyour special needs?Does Your Pharmacy keep yourprescriptions up to date withre�lls and stock status etc.?Does Your Pharmacy have spare time to discuss yo health?

Does Your Pharmacy have timeto �nd ways to save you moneyon your prescriptions?

Does Your Pharmacy handleSPECIALTY PRESCRIPTIONS andOn Demand COMPOUNDING?

NOW... it’s time to think about changing pharmacy!

Making a difference, one smile at a time.

Creating beautiful smiles in Okeechobeefor over 28 years!

2025 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972863-467-2332Vero Beach 772-562-5876 Sebastian 772-589-5959

Dr. David WemmerDr. Jennifer W. Schoenfeld

wemmerorthodontics.com

WEMMERoperation and four cottages is now a ministry with several trainers, 40 build-ings and Dunklin Memorial Church, referred to as the church that meets at Dunklin because, as Evans is quick to say, “the church is the people.”

All the trainers, with the exception of Evans and his son-in-law, Chris, have been through the program. After gradu-ating from Dunklin, if a man feels the calling to be a servant in Christ through recovery ministry, he is able to go through a one-year servant leadership-training program.

Several men have completed the train-ing program, some remaining at Dunk-lin to teach and others who have taken their recovery and knowledge to start their own rehabilitation centers using the Dunklin model in other cities, states and even other countries.

Evans said it is difficult when it is time to send a man home. He said he feels like he is the grandfather and that he was privileged to have been able to help them.

Nick Reynolds, an alumnus of Dunk-lin and now a trainer at the camp, said Evans is a physical example of Christ to the men in the program. He loves and forgives despite all the chaos, Reynolds said.

Laura Maye has had a change of heart since the beginning. She now calls Dunklin “a little piece of Heaven.” And as for Evans, he has been forced to slow down over the past few years. He now spends his days taking calls from past graduates, getting updates and driving around the camp speaking and praying with the men currently in the program, letting them know someone loves them.

“To me the greatest thrill is watching the next generation,” he said. “If I die today, Dunklin will keep going, and far beyond what I could do.” O



Governor Visits Okeechobee

Clockwise from top left: Okeechobee County Admin-istrator Robbie Chartier, Mack “Hoot” Worley and Gov. Rick Scott listen to a speaker; Upon arrival, Scott personally greeted all in attendance, including Wes Williamson of Williamson Cattle Company (shown here); the roundtable discussion last-ed one hour in the conference room of the Okeechobee Coun-ty Courthouse; and Scott takes notes of the meeting in prepara-tion for his return to Tallahassee.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott arrived in Okeechobee on June 7 to visit with community and business leaders in a roundtable format to listen to comments and concerns. He spoke on subjects such as education, taxes, jobs and Medicaid. In attendance were repre-sentatives from the state, county and city, the Cham-ber of Commerce of Okeechobee County, Economic Council of Okeechobee and Okeechobee Main Street as well as local business owners.


Boat

“ Insurance Assurance”

PritchardsAND ASSOCIATES

s You!ʻ

TRUSTWORTHY

INSURANCE PROTECTION

PritchardsAND ASSOCIATES

1802 S. Parrott AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

863-763-7711www.pritchardsinc.com

DOES IT ALL!Auto

Life

Health

Commercial

WorkersCompensation

Golf Cart/ATV

RV

Motorcycle

Liability

Property

Home

“We Shop ‘em Al l,So You Just Need To Cal l !

21+ Years � Integrity � Independent Agency

expl

re

2012/2013

11/15 • 2012Titanic:

The Musical

12/1 & 12/2 • 2012The Living

Christmas Tree

12/10 • 2012The Lowe

FamilyChristmas

Spectacular

1/8 • 2013The GreatAmericanSongbook

1/24 • 2013Juan SiddiFlamenco

2/1 • 2013Ernie Haase& Signature

Sound

2/12 • 2013Cirque

Zuma Zuma

2/25 • 2013Fiddler on

the Roof

3/12 • 2013Rave On! The

Buddy HollyExperience

3/25 • 2013Neil Simon’sBiloxi Blues

4/16 • 2013TAP - The Show!

5/4 • 2013The Wizard of Oz

5/10 • 2013Street Beat, Inc.

BUY TICKETS @www.dollyhand.org

BOX OFFICE561.993.1160

1977 College Drive | Belle Glade, FL

All dates, artists and programs subject to change.


Fast & Friendly ServiceDrive-Up Window

Pharmacist Accessibility forMedication Counseling

Phone Answered by Our Staffnot machines

105 NW 5th St.Okeechobee

We are a CompoundingPharmacy.

863-763-3222863-763-8247 FAX

Accept Most Insurances Medicaid, Medicare Part D

////////////////////////

N

Stat

e Roa

d 44

1

State Road 70

NW 5th Street

NAPA

NW 2n

d Ave

nue

“Helping You Is What We Do Best”

401 NW 4th StreetOkeechobee FL 34972

Hours:Monday - Friday8:30am - 5:00pm

Okeechobee County Farm Bureauis now on Facebook. Become a fan.

863-763-3101

Charlene DeweyFederation Clerk

Customer Service Representative

Lisa Marie MorganCustomer

Service Representative

Brandie Axt Customer

Service Representative

Tim Craig, Agency Manager and Celeste Hawk, Agent

Okeechobee County


www.PuebloViejoRestaurants.com

Bienvenidos!Stop by today & taste ourAuthentic Mexican Food

that will keep you comingback for more!

Serving Great Mexican Food in Floridaand the Treasure Coast Since 1999

Open For Lunch & Dinner

3415 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, Florida

7 Days a WeekFrom 11:00 am To 10:00 pm

863.357.9641

Happy Hour 7 Days A Week3 pm - 7 pm

Well Drinks and Draft Beer 2 for 1

Full Liquor Bar!

Serving Wine, Beer, Early Birds

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Prof

essi

onal

.Pri

ncip

led.

Pass

iona

te

Attorney at LawGlenn J. Sneider

863-467-6570200 SW 9th StreetOkeechobee, FL 34974www.SneiderLaw.Com

Our entire staffis dedicated to helping clients

with their legal matters.

•Family Law•Criminal Law•Civil Litigation

Serving the legal needs ofthe Okeechobee Community

The Honda“Spring Ahead” Celebration!

NO INTERESTMONTHSif paid in full within

with regular payments! Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment.*

NO INTERESTMONTHS

Honda Generators — The Power Of Choice

*The Honda Power Equipment Visa(r) credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. Regular minimum monthly payments are required during the promotional period. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at the regular APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full

within the promotional period or if you make a late payment. For newly opened accounts, the regular APR is 27.99%. The APR may vary. The APR is given as of 01/01/2012. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. Offer expires 6/30/2012. **Minimum Advertised Price. Not all dealers carry all product. Please read the owner’s manual before operating your Honda Power Equipment and never use in a closed or partly enclosed area where you could be exposed to carbon monoxide. Connection of a generator to house power requires a transfer device to avoid possible injury to power company personnel. Consult a

qualified electrician. ©2012 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

EU2000iSuper quiet — 53 to 59 dB(A)

2000 watts (16.7 A) of Honda Inverter 120 AC PowerLightweight — less than 47 lbs.

Eco-Throttle — Runs up to 15 Hours on 1 Gallon of Fuel

Parallel with other EU2000i for additional power

Power for microwave, refrigerators, hair dryer, and small AC units

DOUBLEYOUR POWER!Two identical wattage EU

generators can be linked in parallel to increase available wattage through the generator outlets.

Not available for EU6500is. Parallel link requires optional cable kit.

EU2000i CompanionSuper quiet — 53 to 59 dB(A)




30A Receptacle allows easy hook up to RV with optional connector

**

**

$1,099

$999

$1,099

$999

820 US Hwy. 98, North Okeechobee, FL. 34972

Store Hours: M-F 7am to 5pm

Sat 7am- 12n

10 full service locations to serve you.

www.EvergladesFarmEquipment.com

Since 1963

The Honda“Spring Ahead” Celebration!

NO INTERESTMONTHSif paid in full within

with regular payments! Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment.*

NO INTERESTMONTHS

Honda Generators — The Power Of Choice

*The Honda Power Equipment Visa(r) credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank. Special terms apply to purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. Regular minimum monthly payments are required during the promotional period. Interest will be charged to your account from the purchase date at the regular APR if the purchase balance is not paid in full

within the promotional period or if you make a late payment. For newly opened accounts, the regular APR is 27.99%. The APR may vary. The APR is given as of 01/01/2012. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. Offer expires 6/30/2012. **Minimum Advertised Price. Not all dealers carry all product. Please read the owner’s manual before operating your Honda Power Equipment and never use in a closed or partly enclosed area where you could be exposed to carbon monoxide. Connection of a generator to house power requires a transfer device to avoid possible injury to power company personnel. Consult a

qualified electrician. ©2012 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

EU2000iSuper quiet — 53 to 59 dB(A)




Power for microwave, refrigerators, hair dryer, and small AC units

DOUBLEYOUR POWER!Two identical wattage EU

generators can be linked in parallel to increase available wattage through the generator outlets.

Not available for EU6500is. Parallel link requires optional cable kit.

EU2000i CompanionSuper quiet — 53 to 59 dB(A)




30A Receptacle allows easy hook up to RV with optional connector

**

**

$1,099

$999

$1,099

$999

863-763-1921

WMP20 Multi-purpose 2” pump Designed for pumping industrial and agricultural chemicals Easy starting Honda OHV commercial engine 220 gal./min capacity Thermoplastic pump housing for chemical capability

$569.95$569.95

WB30 General purpose, centrifugal 3” pump Easy starting Honda OHV commercial engine 275 gal./min. capacity Silicon carbide mechanical seal Cast iron volute and impeller

$669.96$669.96

Honda Pumps- Tuff Rugged and Reliable

okeechobee mag.honda.indd 1 8/30/2012 4:20:16 PM


By Capt. Michael Shellen

The great fishing continues on Lake Okeechobee. The big lake has been on an upward swing

for several years now and just keeps get-ting better. Last year we caught record numbers of big bass and had a huge daily catch as well.

The lake level has not had highs above 14 feet for several years now, and each winter we have seen low levels around 11 feet or lower. The somewhat stable low-water periods have led to numerous great spawns that have exploded the fish populations of every species in the lake. In the past we have experienced many great years of pan fishing. This year has provided some of the best sum-mertime catches of shell cracker I can ever remember. Of course, the big blue gill are caught in the same areas as the shell cracker, but anyone who has eaten freshly caught and fried shell cracker filets knows exactly what I am alluding to. The tremendous run of shell cracker started on the full moon in April and has continued on each moon phase up through August. How long it can and will continue remains to be seen.

With the water level in the 11-to 12-foot range in early August, the pan fish stayed mostly to the outside edges of the vegetation, some even fanning spawning beds well out into the lake where the water was still only 2 to 3 feet. The primary baits have been grass shrimp, red worms and crickets. Many anglers target and catch large numbers of bluegill on a fly rod and popping bug when they are in such shallow water.

Bass fishing tournament anglers have found that it takes five bass that weigh 25 to 30 pounds to win a tournament on the lake. The numbers of quality sized bass in the 5- to 10-pound range in the lake right now are staggering, and these bass are growing each season, get-ting bigger and fatter.

Fishing on Lake OkeechobeeSERVICING

All MAKES

www.skullhillsteel.com

We are an Amsoil, Tucker Rocky and V-Twin Dealer

Our shop can handle all your Motorcycle needs with our

Tire Purchase & MountsFull ServiceRepairs - Minor to MajorCustomizing of Aftermarket PartsCustomizing of Custom Built PartsPaint and Body WorkChrome and Powder Coat

Come By & Check Us Out!

Just 1 mile South of the Hwy 70 & Hwy 441Intersection on the East side of Hwy 441.

We also have a showroom full of parts, accessories,bike wear and other stu�

MMI Certi�ed Harley Davidson TechnicianMMI Certi�ed Harley Davidson Technician

1505 C S. Parrott Avenue 1505 C S. Parrott Avenue

Services Provided:

Brandon BaughmanCerti�ed Technician, MMI Graduate

Laundry Room - Game Room - Bath HouseBoat Ramp - Boat & Dock Rentals

Laundry Room - Game Room - Bath HouseBoat Ramp - Boat & Dock Rentals

Nicely Furnished One & Two Bedroom RentalsNitely - Weekly - Monthly

Nicely Furnished One & Two Bedroom RentalsNitely - Weekly - Monthly

RIVER BLUFFRIVER BLUFF Fishing Resort Fishing Resort

Located on Beautiful Kissimmee RiverLocated on Beautiful Kissimmee River

www.OkeechobeeFishingResort.com14725 NW 1st Parkway (863) 467-4371


Capt. Michael ShellenShellen Guide Service(863) 357- 0892

www.OkeechobeeBassFishing.com

During the summer months we try to get onto the water before sunup, if possible, in order to take advantage of schooling action that takes place along the outside grass lines. Bass can be seen and heard, blasting bait fish such as shad and shiners in the cover and sometimes well out into the lake as well. When they are schooling on bait, a spinner bait tossed well back into the grass and worked toward the outside edge can present heart-stopping action.

Some morning we may catch 8 to 12 bass, and the action ends quickly. Other days we catch 35 to 40 in the first couple of hours. The catching can end in a second, and the rhyme or reason alludes me, but the sun rising higher into the sky is certainly one reason. Once they quit eating the spinner bait we switch to soft plastics — flukes, speed worms and senkos being a key part of our arsenal.

Those anglers who want to target only large bass very often will opt to flip and pitch matted vegetation or thick clumps of bulrush with a creature-style bait. There are many styles, configurations and colors of creature style baits; some use a jig with a trailer, while others use a punch skirt and creature baits. Per-sonal preference and confidence in your choice makes a world of difference. But don’t be afraid to climb out of your comfort level and try something new. There are new baits of all kinds hitting the market every day; some work well, some not so much.

Capt. Michael Shellen

O

on Lake Okeechobee Who Will Plan Your Funeral?

My family will plan my funeral and pay all the expenses even though it will be an emotional time. I understand they will have to make many decisions in a very short period of time.

863-763-1994

110 NE 5th StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

I will plan and prepay for my funeral so my family can concen-trate on themselves rather than worrying about making funeral arrangements and paying for them.

Pre-Planning Is Simple And Affordable. Call Us Today.

OR

OKEECHOBEEFU N E R A LU N E R A l HO M E& C R E M ATO RY

BASS

www.buxtonfuneralhome.com

205 NE Second StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

863-763-2111

1365 US Hwy 441 SE - Okeechobee, FL 34974(Next to the bowling alley)

863-763-4080

JOHNSON • EVINRUDE • YAMAHA • MERCRUISER I/OPOWER POLES • MINNKOTA TROLLING MOTORS

KEY WEST BOATS • LANDAU PONTOONS • MAGIC TILT TRAILERS

BOAT STORAGE - WINTERIZE - SUMMERIZEINSURANCE REPAIRS - ELECTRONIC SALES & INSTALLATION

FIBERGLASS REPAIRS - BOAT HAUL OUT / TRANSPORT

Serving Okeechobee Since 1993


WILLIAMSON CATTLECOMPANY PRESENTS

Photos of the Past

The �rst brick school was constructed in 1916. It was built when the downtown area was in St. Lucie County. Okeechobee County was created in 1917 from parts of Osceola, Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties. It has been reported this was the �rst building to have indoor plumbing. This lovely school’s teachers taught grades 1st-12th.

In 1926 another building was constructed on the same block, just north of the earlier brick school. This new high school served students in seventh grade through the twelfth grade. For the �rst time the grades 1st - 12th were separated. 1st - 6th in the original brick building and the 7th -12th was schooled in the new school, constructed in 1926.

FIRST BRICK SCHOOL1916

PHOTO CREDITS: First Brick School picture used with permission from the Okeechobee Historical Society’s President, Betty Chandler Williamson.Okeechobee First High School picture used with permission from Frank (Sonny) Williamson, Jr.

OKEECHOBEE’S FIRSTHIGH SCHOOL

1926

On the House™ hot breakfastOn the Run Breakfast Bag™

Cloud Nine. The Hampton bed experience.Business Center • Fitness CenterOutdoor Heated Swimming Pool

We love having you here.

Lake Okeechobee

1200 State Road 70 East, Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.okeechobeelakeokeechobee.hamptoninn.com

Phone: 1-863-824-0003Fax:1-863-824-0005

The Newest Hotel in Okeechobee.

Mention this Ad and get a 10% Discount!

Connie Award Winning HotelLake Okeechobee

Proudly serving our community.


O to play volleyball as she watched videos of them playing the game. She said she fell in love with the sport and wanted to be like the Okeechobee kids who played college volleyball.

Jones said a key to her talent and success has been the club volleyball program. They travel to many tournaments across the state and play against the very best in the sport. “Big Lake

Juniors has definitely helped,” Jones said. “You start at an early age and you prog-ress as you get older. When you get to high school you are ready to play in those tough games against top talent.”

The Lady Brahmans claimed a dis-trict championship during Jones’ soph-omore year and had an opportunity to host Titusville. Unfortunately, Okeechobee fell in a five-game mara-thon match. Last year they were run-ners-up in a tougher district and lost to Venice in the first round.

Jones said the team has the talent to progress further into the post season this year. “I think we have it in us. We must stay focused and play hard,” she added.

Jones admits that being the daughter of a volleyball coach has its challenges but that she enjoys having her dad as her coach, and that he has taught her a lot about the game.

“People think that I have it easy because the coach is my dad, but that isn’t true,” Jones said. “My dad is big on stats, and he wants every player to be able to prove [so] that they belong on the team. It puts pressure on me and some stress, but I still love the sport.”

Darby Jones has played vol-leyball since she was 7 years old, spurred on by her par-

ents, Todd and Rachel, who have been involved with local volleyball and played the sport when they were young.

Jones is part of a group of several seniors on the Okeechobee High School vol-leyball squad that is expected to achieve great things. OHS girls volleyball is fueled by the Big Lake Juniors program, which plays volleyball around the state and keeps the girls in shape and around the game most of the year.

Jones said she is super excited about her senior year. “I’ve been with the varsity team for four years, and ever since I was little and this is our little dream team with all of us still together,” she said. “I look forward to the season.

Jones also has aspira-tions of a college vol-leyball scholarship. She recently attended a camp at South Florida Com-munity College in Avon Park and has interest from a second university.

Several Okeechobee girls have gone on to play col-lege volleyball in recent years and Jones is proud her team has been able to continue the program’s success. “Experience on the court is definitely a key for us,” she said. “We’ve played together for many years and should have a pretty strong team this year.”

Jones was encouraged by her parents

O

By Charles M. Murphy, WOKC’s Voice of the Brahmans

Darby Jones l o o k s f o r w a r D t o t h e v o l l e y b a l l s e a s o n

Mama FlegosItalian Restaurant

10 Minutes or Less Lunch Specials or Meal is FREE

863-763-6235

202 NE 2nd Street - Suite 10Okeechobee, Florida

HoursTuesday - Friday

11:00 am - 9:00 pmSaturdays

4:00 pm - 10:00 pm

ClosedSunday & Monday

Additional Parking in Rear of Restaurant

Serving Lunch and DinnerDine In - Carry Out - Delivery

Free WI-FIDelivery Available

Great Italian and American FoodDesserts and Beverages

George Marshall, Jr.Owner

Major CreditCards Accepted

Check out our allNew Menu!


A Local Legend

863-467-1570 Fax 888-875-1570

10 years ago Billy Dean came to WOKC Radio and mornings have never been the same in Okeechobee. He keeps thousands of listeners entertained and informed each weekday from 7 - 11 am.

Billy not only represents WOKC and our 50 years of commitment to hometown radio, he has donated his time and energy to promote community events, help raise money for non-pro�t organizations and help people in need.

Behind his unforgettable laugh is a guy with a big heart and a love for this community.

Post Office Box 1177 - Okeechobee, FL 34973863.763.5593

Fax 863.763.7874

We Proudly Support The CommunityWe Live And Work In.

Family owned and operated since 1951As an organization and member of the community,

we are dedicated to the safety of our drivingprofessionals, as well as the motoring public.

Terminals also inTampa - West Palm Beach - Birminghamwww.walpoleinc.com


AROUND OkeechobeeOkeechobee Main Street Mixers

The following Okeechobee Main Street members held mixers at their businesses: (top) Brown Cow Sweetery; (middle) Seacoast National Bank and (bottom) Qual-ity A/C.

Dowling Watford received the award in recognition of “Service Above Self ” in the community during the Rotary Club of Okeechobee’s annual installation ban-quet held June 22 at Pueblo Viejo Mexican restaurant. Pictured above, Watford (left) accepts the award from outgoing Rotary President Lyle Fried.

Dowling Watford ReceivesRotary’s Prestigious Award

Waste Management recently recognized Teresa Chandler with a check for $250 that was donated to the BRAT Club on behalf of Chandler’s volunteer efforts to a local nonprofit organization. Pictured above, Waste Management Senior District Manager Tony Bishop (center) presents the check to employee Teresa Chandler (right) and BRAT Club Inc. Vice President Allison Chandler.

Waste Management EmployeeVolunteerism Program

Betty Clement, a proud reader of Okeechobee The Magazine, presented the publisher with this beau-tiful custom-made hand bag. Made from pages of past issues, it is com-pletely lined inside with a snap closure and macramé handle. Thank you, Ms. Clement.

Reader DesignsOkeechobee The Magazine Hand-Bag

Chamber of CommerceHolds Grand Opening

ECO CARE AWARD GOES TOCenterState Bank

The Economic Council of Okeechobee’s quar-terly Community Award Recognizing Enhance-ment (CARE) was presented to CenterState Bank for its new banking facility located at 2100 South Parrott Ave.

Waste Management presented a check for $1,000 to benefit Okeechobee Youth Football on June 29. Pictured here are (L-R) Waste Management Community Relations Representative Teresa Chandler, coach and Commissioner James Shockley, coach and Commissioner Brad Gibson, President Marvin Roberts, Treasurer Charlie Hukriede, assistant coach and Vice President Larry Boswell, board member Luci Wright, cheer coach and Secretary Paige Cloud, head coach and board member Eric Williams, Waste Management Senior District Manager Tony Bishop. Not pictured: Commissioner Chaka Smith and Vice President Terrance Pryor.

Local dignitaries joined members of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County and Okeechobee Main Street for the chamber’s ribbon-cutting cer-emony and open house June 7. The chamber’s office is located on the southeast corner of Parrott Avenue and State Road 70. For information on the cham-ber, visit www.okeechobeebusiness.com or call (863) 467-6246.

Okeechobee Main Street Mixers

CenterState Bank’s new facility.

Waste Management Donates to Okeechobee Youth Football

A luncheon was held Aug. 15 at Okeechobee Presbyte-rian Church to welcome new teachers to Okeechobee. Pictured above are (seated) Felicia Massie, Seminole Cove Elementary School Principal Tracy Downing and Assistant Principal Brian Barrett, and (back) Maribel Gonzalez and Rachel Williams.

Okeechobee School BoardHosts New Teacher Luncheon



Nikki looks up to our advertisers.

Okeechobee The Magazine111 NE 2nd Street

Okeechobee, Florida 34972

Continental U.S. only

Name:__________________________Address:_________________________________________________________City/State/Zip:____________________________________________________Phone:__________________________

Get 4 issues of Okeechobee The Magazine mailed directly to your home or office for just $6.95 and

keep up with “your community.”

Get Okeechobee The Magazine

Only$6.95/Year

Mailed Directlyto you!

Enclose a check for $6.95 made out toOkeechobee The Magazine and

mail with this form to:

Please Print Neatly

Dermatology Center of Florida............... 74Diane Hagan Campaign ........................ 47Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ............. 75DR Willson Land Co. ............................... 35

Edward Jones Investments ................... 54Everglades Farm Equipment .................. 77Everglades Pediatric Dentistry ................ 55

Farm Bureau ....................................... 76Florida’s Blood Centers ........................ 13Florida Eye Institute ............................ 29Flower Petals .......................................... 60

Gilbert Chevrolet .................................... 49Golden Corral ..................................... 43

Hampton Inn ....................................... 81Heartland Discount Pharmacy.............. 73Highland Pest Control ........................... 60Holiday Inn .......................................... 70

ICS Computers ..................................... 52

Jeanette’s Interiors ............................... 54

Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center..72Lakeshore Marine ................................. 79Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre ................ 61Law Office of Glenn J. Sneider ............... 77Law Office of Philip DeBerard ............... 87Libby Maxwell Campaign .....................60Lodge at the Lake Restaurant .................17Los Cocos Restaurant .............................71

Mama Flegos ......................................... 82

Mary Kay ............................................... 54MidFlorida Credit Union ......................... 80MidFlorida Hardware ............................. 86Mims Veterinary Hospital ...................... 28Morgan Furniture .................................. 27Murray Insurance .................................. 28

New Vision Eye Center ........................ 72

Okeechobee Claws & Paws ...................... 13Okeechobee Democratic Party .............. 37Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep ........ 21Okeechobee Health Care ......................... 4Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps .... 63

Park Street Parcel ................................... 38Pat’s Floral Design ................................. 37Peace Lutheran School .......................... 69Phil Baughman Campaign .................... 39Platinum Performance Builders ............ 6Pritchards & Associates .......................... 75Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant .................... 77

Quail Creek Plantation ....................... 11Quality Air Conditioning ................ 37, 76Quality Lawn Care ................................ 37

Raulerson’s Absolutely Art .................. 15Raulerson Hospital ............................. 2Raulerson Hospital ............................ 44, 45Raulerson Hospital ................ Back CoverRay Domer Campaign .......................... 68Republican Party of Okeechobee ........... 52Risato Plastic Surgery Center ................ 53River Bluff RV & Fishing Resort ............. 78Rustic Style & Cabins ........................... 59

14K Gold Store ...................................... 365th Street Pharmacy .......................... 76A & G Concrete Pools ........................... 69Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta............. 25Audibel Hearing Center ..................... 38

Badcock Furniture................................. 61Bass Electric ........................................... 36Bass Funeral Home ............................... 79Bella Rose Day Spa ............................ 63Berger Clinic.......................................... 52Big Lake Eye Care ..................................... 3Boots & Pearls Gala............................... 48Bridgette Waldau Graphic Design ........ 13Buyer Brokerage Co. of Okeechobee..... 68Brown Cow Sweetery... .......................... 61

CenterState Bank ................................... 47Charlie’s Landscaping ............................ 26Cowboys Steak & BBQ Co. ............... 19, 47Culpepper & Terpening ........................ 41Custom Window Treatments & Blinds .... 33

List of Advertisers

Your Local Hardware Store ForALL Your Hardware Needs

Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pmSaturday 8 am - 4 pm

863-467-1010

Now Open!U.S. Postal Service Contract Postal Unit

Mid-Florida Hardware Postal Center

Postage for Domestic and International MailingsInsurance and Certi�ed Mail with No Surcharges

Operating hours are:Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

www.okeechobee.doitbest.com

3603 HWY 441 S. Okeechobee, Florida 34974

"We match local advertised prices."

Sandra Pearce Photography ................. 54Seacoast National Bank ........................ 57Skull Hill Steel ....................................... 78Shooters Choice ..................................... 61SonRise Cafe .......................................... 55Southern Styles .................................... 70St. Lucie Tires ....................................... 66Stafford’s Salon .................................... 55State Farm Insurance ............................ 55Syble’s Flowers & Gifts ......................... 63

TD Bank ............................................... 71Teez 2 Pleez .......................................... 60Toni’s Chic Boutique .............................. 56Total Roadside Services .......................... 5Treasure Coast Food Bank.................... 59

Tree Locators ......................................... 35Trinidad Garcia, M.D. ............................. 9

United Mid-Country FL Real Estate .......... 7

UBS Financial ......................................... 25

VNA/Grand Oaks ................................. 67

Walpole, Inc. ......................................... 16Waste Management ............................. 69Wemmer Family Orthodontics .......... 73Williamson Cattle Company .................. 81WOKC 1570 AM ..................................... 83Women’s Health ................................... 58Worley Construction .............................. 33

Xplosion All Stars ................................. 81


1-800-I AM HURT863-467-7100

Serving All Of South Florida

Call24/7

Tractor Trailer, Car & Motorcycle CrashesSlip & Fall Accidents & Wrongful Death

Se Habla EspañolFree Consultation

Member of follow us on

INJURY ATTORNEY

®

www.PhilWillHelp.com


Emergency Services - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (863) 763-2151 • 1796 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972

RaulersonHospital.comCONSULT-A-NURSE ® • For Free Physician Referral & Health Care Questions call 763-9228

• Serving both the public & private sectors

• Guiding you through the complexities involved with Workers’ Compensation Services including State and Federal workforce regulations

• Meeting all Federal Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements for annual physicals, and Drug & Alcohol testing

• Striving for the desired outcomes that allow for a timely return to work

Raulerson Company Care, a department of Raulerson Hospital, is part of a comprehensive network solution to local companies’ occupational health needs. Through efficient and cost effective methods, Company

Care is dedicated to helping you build a healthier business.

Whether you have 5 employees or 500, we can design a program to meet your company’s needs.

General Surgery is a crucial function for any hospital. Many times the outcomes of diagnostic tools, such as tests and lab work, leave physicians with no choice but to recommend a surgical procedure to correct a patient’s condition. General Surgeons at Raulerson Hospital include Dr. Manuel Garcia and

Dr. Gregory Sainnoval. These physicians, along with the RNs in the Surgical Services Department, are professionals and their precision and experience are a comfort to patients requiring a surgical procedure. Raulerson Hospital offers a wide variety of Inpatient and Outpatient General Surgery procedures, including:

General SurgeonDr. Manuel Garcia

General SurgeonDr. Gregory Sainnoval

• Laparoscopic Gall Bladder Removal• Laparoscopic Appendectomy

• Lumpectomy / Mastectomy • Hernia Repair

• Colon Resection• Many other minimally invasive surgeries

GENERAL SURGERY

okeechobee the magazine fall 2012

Documents

primary care

longterm care

north okeechobee

cnasprovide personal

best possible care

rehab therapy

north parrott ave okeechobee

speech therapy