okeechobee the magazine winter 2014

WINTER 2014

Bringing You the Best of Okeechobee

Louise Gopher Seminole Trailblazer and Hero to her People

Plus Guardian ad Litem Gives Voices to Children

Okeechobee Youth Carissa Licata

Looking Back First Ladies of Okeechobee

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

Have your joints left you with some unwanted gifts?

Exchange them for new ones!

Treasure Coast Healthcare System

Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute+ Raulerson Hospital + St. Lucie Medical Center

PAINs t i ffn e ss

ACHES

SOME GIFTS LAST A LIFETIME, unfortunately your joints often don’t. Whether it’s an old sports injury, arthritis or normal wear and tear, joints can give out over time — leaving you in a lot of pain.

You don’t have to live with the pain any longer. At Raulerson Hospital, our orthopaedic surgeons perform total joint replacement to get you feeling better again. Imagine getting back to life on your terms. Being able to walk or bend or move without pain is possible. In addition to total joint replacement, we also specialize in arthroscopic surgery and fracture repair.

So, maybe it’s time to trade in your old joints for some new and improved ones. It may be the best gift you’ve ever received.

To find an orthopaedic physician in Okeechobee, call 863.763.9228.



(863) 763-3937





(863) 763-3937



www.Gilbert-Ford.com

(863) 763-21213175 U.S. Hwy 441 SouthOkeechobee, FL 34974

Serving the Heartland Areafor over 90 Years!

Over500NEW and Pre-OwnedVehicles to Choose From!

Family Owned & Operated Since 1975!

863-763-6461echolsplumbingandac.com

Thank You for Your Loyalty and

Continued Support!

PRICE MATCH

PRICE MATCH

of Fast & Friendly Service 40th Year

and our

RingingNew Year

in the

LIC #CFC022585 LIC #CAC1817236

EcholsW14_2.indd 1 11/2/14 1:18 PM

As 2014 comes to a close, Okeechobee The Magazine concludes its eighth year of publication. We are so very thankful to have the support of all the businesses that

have allowed us to grow and continue to serve this wonderful community of ours.

It’s also the time of the year to recognize the people and organi-zations that work hard every day to better our community, and this issue’s cover story is no exception. It introduces you to Louise Gopher, a Seminole trailblazer and one of this year’s Florida Women’s Hall of Fame recipients.

You will also learn about Okeechobee’s Guardian ad Litem Program through the story of three Okeechobee children who received a new chance at a normal happy life because of the extraordinary volunteer organization.

Our Okeechobee Youth story features OHS graduate Carissa Licata, who received a full Division I Athletic scholarship. And in our Looking Back feature we bring you the first in a series by Betty Chandler Williamson that introduces you to some of Okeechobee’s First Ladies who played pivotal roles in the community.

Our Behind the Business feature invites you to meet Captain Bob Stafford of Okeechobee Charters and Peggy Carpenter Brady of Carpenter Insurance, and our newest feature, now in its second issue, In The Kitchen With… features Mark Bragel who shares a recipe and an even sweeter memory with us.

Of course, there are lots of community events to show off, including the Labor Day Festival and Parade, the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, Boots & Pearls, OHS Homecoming and so much more. So, as we approach the start of another new year, may peace, joy, hope and happiness be yours during this holiday season and throughout the new year.

And may the magazine capture all those wonderful moments. Because after all, it is Okeechobee The Magazine — your magazine.

PublisherSusan GiddingsCreative DirectorLorraine Vogel

Design ConsultantBridgette Waldau

EditorChris Felker

Writers Rachel BuxtonAudra ClemonsRaye Deusinger

PhotographersSharon CannonJane KaufmanSandra Pearce

ContributorsMaureen Burroughs

Charles MurphyMichael Shellen

Betty Chandler WilliamsonAccount Executives

Trish GrygoDebi Large

Office ManagerPatti Berglund

Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2014, all rights reserved by OTM Publications, Inc. Contents may not be reproduced in any form with-out the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsi-bility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occu-pied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

OTM Publications, Inc.DBA Okeechobee The Magazine

316 N.W. Fifth StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972Phone: (863) 467-0054

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com

President Susan Giddings

FounderMaureen Budjinski

Volume 8, Number 4│Winter 2014

Susan Giddings

Publisher’s Note

8 | Winter 2014 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

It’s so hard to believe it’s December already with Christmas around the bend.Hoping this past year was a memorable one as it comes to an end.Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a great New Year too. Please remember to have fun and enjoy yourself in whatever you choose to do.

– By Patti Berglund

from your friends at863.467.0042

www.Entegra.comOkeechobee, Florida

we bring, to you of good cheer.Good Tidings at Christmas and a


Winter 2014Contents28

52

74

70Look for the video and camera icons, then visit www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com to view videos and additional photos!

Like Us on Facebook.

Features:

WINTER 2014


Louise Gopher Seminole Trailblazer and Hero to her People

Plus Looking Back First Ladies of Okeechobee

Guardian ad Litem Gives Voices to Children

Okeechobee Youth Carissa Licata

On the CoverLouise Gopher

Story on Page 28

Cover By Sandra Pearce


Community Events:Labor Day Festival and Parade ............................... 18Cowtown Labor Day Rodeo ..................................... 20Boots & Pearls Gala ................................................ 24NRA Banquet ........................................................... 40Achieving Excellence Luncheon .............................. 48Chamber of Commerce Leadership ........................ 62Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant ................................... 66Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta ................................. 70Chamber of Commerce Year in Review Luncheon .. 84Okeechobee High School Homecoming .................. 88OK Corral Gun Club Fall Harvest Festival ............. 100NOPE Candlelight Vigil .......................................... 106Hope & A Future Gala ............................................ 108Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids' Sake ......... 112

♦ Around Okeechobee ................................. 120♦ Advertiser Index .......................................... 122

♦ Louise Gopher Seminole Trailblazer and Hero to her People .......................... 28 By Rachel Buxton♦ Guardian ad Litem Gives Voices to Children .................................................... 52 By Rachel Buxton

Departments:♦ Looking Back By Betty Chandler Williamson .................................................... 44♦ Okeechobee Youth Carissa Licata ................................................................... 74 By Audra Clemons♦ Behind the Business Carpenter Insurance ..................................................... 92 Okeechobee Charters ................................................... 96♦ In the Kitchen With… Mark Bragel ....................................................................114 By Rachel Buxton

Columns:♦ OHS Sports: Aubrie Reister By Charles M. Murphy ...........................................................104 ♦ Fishing on Lake Okeechobee By Captain Michael Shellen .....................................................118

Florida Public Utilities (FPU)is delighted to announce that we are now officially serving commercial customers in the City of Okeechobee! Business owners, learn how you can get thousands of dollars in rebates (and conserve energy every month!) when you purchase qualifying natural gas equipment.

Natural Gas is Now In The City of Okeechobee!

New Energy!New year.

PROMO: MA14-243 103114 *Commercial rebate amounts for FPU-Indiantown Division customers may differ from what is displayed. Limit one rebate for each eligible appliance. Maximum rebate of up to $10,000 per account per year for appliances rebated under the New Construction and Retention (Gas to Gas) programs. Appliances will only be rebated under the Retention (Gas to Gas) program when the previous appliance has failed and is not repairable. Leased and used appliances are not eligible to be rebated under this program. Please contact FPU for more complete details regarding rebate categories, industry definitions and other factors that may influence rebate amounts and eligibility. PREQUALIFICATION IS REQUIRED.

Take Your Business to the next level and put the performance of natural gas to work for you!

ӹ Save money and energy

ӹ Upgrade to high-performance

equipment that works smarter

ӹ Enjoy a smaller carbon foot-

print and a larger bottom line

ӹ Use domestic energy

Call FPU at 888.220.9356 or visit

FPUC.com/CommercialRebates

Proudly Celebrating 90 years of Energy Excellence!

Also ask about eligible natural gas space conditioning units!

GET CASh REBATES

up to

$50 per ton!

Commercial

APPLIANCEMaximum

REBATE

Tank-sTyle WaTeR HeaTeR $2,000

Tankless WaTeR HeaTeR $2,500

Range $1,500

FRyeR $3,000

DRyeR $1,500

Get natural gas rebates up to the following amounts:


Community Event

Labor Day Festival & ParadeMain Street, B.R.A.T. Club Team Up to Produce Lively Holiday

The 2014 Labor Day Festival & Parade took place Aug. 20 through Sept. 1 in Flagler Park. The festival was organized by Okeechobee Main Street and the parade was organized by the B.R.A.T. Club. Family members and friends lined the streets to watch the parade, and there was something for everyone as the park was filled with vendors, great food and live enter-tainment.

Martha’s House Float.

Mekhi Neal – Baby Mr. Firecracker 2014.The crowd always enjoys the horses.

For additional photos and video visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Winter 2014 | 19

Photos by Sharon Cannon

The B.R.A.T. Club.

Joe Melluso, owner of Tin Fish. Ronald McDonald waves to the crowd.

Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Float.

Avianna Gonzales creates art as Kristie Gonzales and Isabella Miller watch.

Sage Allen and Joseph Tilsworth.


Community Event Photos by Shannon Cannon and Sandra Pearce

Florida’s Cowtown Labor Day Rodeo entertained a lively crowd of rodeo spectators over Labor Day weekend, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1 at the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Rodeo Arena. Produced by the Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association, this year’s rodeo pleased all who came out. The two-day Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) event featured bareback riding, calf roping, saddlebronc, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bull riding, mutton bustin’ and hilarious NFR Specialty Act winner, Rockin’ Robby the Clown.

The Cattlemen’s Rodeo Arena is already gearing up for their next PRCA rodeo event, which will take place on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15, 2015. For more information, please visit: www.okeechobeecattlemensassociation.com.

Cowtown Labor Day roDeo

Entertains Big, Raucous Crowds



www.okeechobeervpark.com

(863) 357-575712766 US Hwy 441 SEOkeechobee, [email protected]

(863) 357-575712766 US Hwy 441 SEOkeechobee, [email protected]

Located on the Rim Canal of Lake Okeechobee, Water's Edge is just minutes from shopping and restau-rants in the nearby community of Okeechobee. The Resort is only a short distance from the Seminole Casino, I-95 and the East Coast of Florida, with major malls and some of the most beautiful beaches of Florida.


Both hotels located 1 mile from Beautiful Lake Okeechobee.Close to Restaurants and Shopping.

FREE hot breakfast and WiFiBoat Hook-ups and Parking

863-357-7100 www.bestwestern.com

863-357-3529 www.HiExpress.comOn-Site meeting space available.


Community Event

Hospice of Okeechobee hosted its ninth annual Boots & Pearls Gala at the KOA Convention Center on Friday, Oct. 24. Over 500 people attended this signature event, which featured silent and live auctions along with great music and dancing. The event netted more than $80,000 for Hospice. For more information, visit www.hospiceofokeechobee.org.

David and Betty Hazeilief family: Back row, from left:

Erick Rucks, Clint Rucks and Justin Hazellief;

front, Michael Hazellief, Jeanne Hazellief,

Amanda Rucks, Heather Rucks, Betty Hazellief,

David Hazellief and Angela Hazellief.

In back, from left: Leslie Burdette, Lee Watford, Randa Kellogg, Shannon Watford and Joanna Sherman; seated, Anne Marie Nail and Fletcher Nail.

Perry and Carolyn Smith.

9thBoots Pearls&GalaRaises $80,000 for Hospice of Okeechobee


Photos by Sandra Pearce

Okeechobee FamilyHealth & Safety Expo

Saturday, January 31, 20159:00 am - 2:00 pm

Agri-Civic Center

Promoting Health & Safety

Eighth Annual

It’s a Family Fun-filled Educational Day!

For More Information, Please ContactSharon Vinson (863) 462-5000 ext. 257

or Donny Arnold (863) 634-6464

Premier Sponsor:Children’s Services Council of Okeechobee County

Platinum Sponsors:Florida Community Health Center

Molina Healthcare of FloridaQuit Doc Research and Education Foundation

Raulerson Hospital

4601 Highway 710 East - Okeechobee

All Free!

863-697-9786

863-623-5097 (FAX)

Rebecca "Becky" BarberBroker

www. preferredpropertiesofokeechobee.org

Ana JonesRealtor

561-718-1212

Email: [email protected]

517 SW Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972

John WoloskiRealtor

863-634-7267

Kaydee YatesRealtor

772-571-7950

Back row, from left: Rachel Buxton, Morgan Buxton and Matt Buxton; front,

Paul Buxton and Marilyn Buxton.

Kristy and Neil Crawford.

Robbi and Jeff Sumner.


Dentistry fromInfancy to Adolescence

863-357-7338 FAX: 863-357-7342

Your child’s health is important and finding a positive relationship between kids and their dentist is a good way to build lifelong healthy habits.

Melissa Kindell, DMD, makes every child who visits feel welcome and comfortable and is dedicated to educating and providing quality treatment to maintain your child's oral health.

Everglades Pediatric Dentistry, provides dental care for children inthe Greater Lake Okeechobee area and surrounding counties.

Service with a Smile, for a Smile

2029 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972

Preventative Care - Restorative DentistryIn-Office Sedation

Interceptive Orthodonic TreatmentExtractions - Emergency Dental Treatment

New Patient Exams

Dental care for special needs andmedically compromised patients.

Most insurances are accepted and emergencies are welcome.

www.evergladespedodent.com Find Us OnFaceBook

“Education is important. Education is your

gold mine. If you learn something, it is

going to stay with you.”


When most people hear the name Seminole Tribe, they instantly think of casinos and Hard Rock Cafes. There is much more to the Seminole Tribe of Florida, however, than just gambling and Hard Rock Cafes. And one local individual has made it her mission to spread that news, not just to the general public but also within her very own tribe.

At 69 years old, Louise Gopher, a member of the Panther clan of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, is nowhere close to slowing down. Not even after receiving one of the most prestigious awards for the state of Florida. Earlier this year, Gopher was selected by Gov. Rick Scott as one of the most distinguished women in the state for her dedication and contributions toward education for her tribe, and was inducted on March 12 into the Women’s Hall of Fame.

“I was like, ‘Wow, what am I doing with these people?’” Gopher said. “It was a big honor. I didn’t feel like I fit in.”

Gopher’s nomination came from former Brighton Charter School teacher Crystal Drake, whom Gopher claims she didn’t even know that well.

Drake had Gopher come speak to her class, and from there she made the nomination process a class project.

Gopher, who has received many outstanding awards in her lifetime, admits she didn’t really think anything of the Hall of Fame nomination.

“I didn’t know what it was about or how prestigious the award is,” Gopher said. “When I started getting calls from the governor’s office, I knew something was happening.”

Then in December 2013, Gopher received a call notifying that she’d been selected, making her the second Seminole woman in the Hall of Fame. Former Chairwoman Betty Mae Jumper was inducted in 1994.

“I was on the news all day,” Gopher said. “This one was the topper.”

The Florida Women’s Hall of Fame was created in 1982 to honor women who have made significant contributions to the improvement of life for citizens of the state. That’s one task Gopher has never taken lightly.

Seminole Trailblazer,and Hero

to her peoplePemayetv Emahakv founder Louise Gopher deserving

Florida Women’s Hall-of-Famer

By Rachel Buxton Photos by Sandra Pearce


For over 40 years, Gopher has worked to better the lives of Seminole youth and to instill in them the importance of a quality education.

Before Gopher even realized it, education played a prominent role in her life. When most tribal students were hiding from the bus to skip school, Gopher embraced schooling and education.

“My father wanted us to go to school, so I went,” Gopher said. “He had to go to the school board to get us in.”

At the time Gopher started school at Fairlawn Elementary in Fort Pierce, she was in the first grade, living in a chickee outdoors, and spoke no English.

From left: Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, Sandy MacKinnon (accepting for his late wife, inductee Dottie Berger MacKinnon), Attorney General Pam Bondi, Louise Gopher, Gov. Rick Scott, inductee Sheriff Susan Benton, Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera and Rep. Cary Pigman.

Daughters Carla Gopher, left, Rita McCabe, right, and granddaughter Ila Trueblood celebrate Louise Gopher's special day with her.

Photo

cour

tesy o

f Flor

ida W

omen

’s Ha

ll of F

ame


www.irsc.edu | 1-866-792-4772Indian River State College

TOP TEN NATIONAL FINALISTAspen Prize for Community College Excellence

Proudly ServingOkeechobee!

4thU.S. Department of Education

MOST AFFORDABLE COLLEGE IN THE U.S.

U.S. News and World Report9th BEST PUBLIC REGIONAL

COLLEGE IN THE SOUTH

With Creek being her native language, Gopher had to learn English very quickly in the classroom.

“I don’t remember being scared,” she said. “I remember learning English. I picked it up my first year.”

That first year of school was followed by many more years of academic studies.

In 1963, Gopher graduated from Dan McCarty High School and, a week later, enrolled in Indian River Junior College, now known as Indian River State College.

“It seemed natural,” Gopher said about attending college. “It was just like a continuation of high school.”

After receiving her associate’s degree there, Gopher attended two semesters at the University of Florida. But then she decided that UF was way too big of a school for her and definitely too far away from home, so Gopher trans-ferred to Florida Atlantic University, where she made history. Gopher became the first female and only the second member of the Seminole Tribe to graduate from college in 1970, receiving a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

“I was a trailblazer,” Gopher said jokingly.

But a trailblazer is exactly what she turned out to be, visiting Tallahassee to represent her tribe not once but multiple times.

Before completely getting immersed in the academic quest for her tribe,however, Gopher worked for variousstate agencies in and around Okee-chobee and Fort Pierce, including vocational rehabilitation, the employ-ment office and the Florida School for Boys.


TAMMY PLATT

FacialsWaxingsBody WrappingsMicrodermabrasionBioActive Peels

Targeted treatments toaddress top skin concernsfor a quick fix.Professional Skincare Products also Available.

“In 1982, the Boys School was going to turn private,” she said. “It seemed like the old people were slowly being booted out. I got the writing on the wall.”

For some, this may have left them discouraged and scrambling for employment, but for Gopher, this was just the beginning. She took this as an opportunity to expand on what she had already been doing. While working for the Florida School for Boys, Gopher was also working part-time at night for her tribe helping teach youths and young adults their native Creek language.

“It struck the Seminole Tribal Council that we were raising kids that didn’t know how to speak their language, didn’t know their history or their culture,” Gopher said. “We had stepped back to catch up with the modern world.”

Louise Gopher speaks at her alma mater, Florida Atlantic University.

1527 US HWY 441 SEOkeechobee, Florida 34974

(Next to the Bowling Alley)

www.travelodge.com/okeechobee863-824-3431

All rooms with Stove,Full Refrigerator and MicrowaveFree Boat Parking with Plug-Ins

Special Daily/Weekly Rates(1 & 2 Queen Bed Available)


Even though the tribe was able to reach some youth, Gopher was not satisfied with the results of their efforts to teach the younger generation with their nightly program. She knew more had to be done.

“It was not a successful effort because it was not mandatory,” she said. “I realized we were losing it, our last generation of Creek speakers. The students understood their Creek language but answered in English.”

And that’s when Gopher decided to make a career change. With the position at the Boys School coming to an end, Gopher applied for a job on the Brighton Reservation and got it,

Inset: Louise Gopher's high school graduation picture.

E LlusionTrading Post Flea Market

Booth 238863-801-5991

Full Repair Facility • Complete A/C Repair • Computer Diagnostics

863-467-6633Roger Elgin

704 NE 2nd Ave., Okeechobee, FL

CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE& CUSTOM EXHAUST ASE Certified

An Alternative to cigarette smoking without the cold turkey withdraw, weight gain and edginess.Electronic Cigarette Hardware, Accessories, Custom Made Juices, Flavor Bar and Flavor Parties!Hours: Weekdays by Appointment OnlyWeekends 8am-3pm

www.cwtblinds.com

Fabric & Trim • Decorative Rods • DraperiesValances • Bedding • Cornices • Blinds

Shutters • Roller Shades • VerticalsAll Window Covering • Custom Sewing

863-357-6555

Val Douglas

Let's get the jobdone together!Over 20 years Experience!

“Customer Service One on Oneby Appointment.”

Custom Window Treatments & BlindsOwner

Let's get the jobdone together!


becoming the new cultural education coordinator.

From there, Gopher gradually moved her way up the ladder, working to better her tribe’s education efforts.

Gopher finally got her chance to truly make an impact when she became the education advisor for the Brighton Reservation.

In that Brighton position, Gopher continued her visits to Tallahassee. One of her first goals in her new position was to expand on the voluntary night classes she had helped out with so many years prior. Gopher’s daughter, Rita, suggested that the tribe develop a program similar to one the Okeechobee School System had at the time, referred to as gifted education.

Under that program, selected students from across the county were pulled out of class one day a week to attend a specialized class at another location.

Gopher took this idea to Phoebe Raulerson, the superin-tendent of schools in Okeechobee County at the time.

“She had just got done having a conversation with one of the high school students about them losing their language,

and then a couple days later, here I come,” Gopher said. “Right away she said, ‘Sure, do it.’”

From Okeechobee, Gopher and the tribe headed to Tallahassee to the Department of Education to get the program approved.

In September 2002, the Pull-Out Program on the Brighton Reservation became a reality. One school day a week, tribal students stayed on the reservation to learn their language, culture and history. The Pull-Out Program was soon embraced by everyone.

“The students took ownership of it; it was their Indian school,” Gopher said. “It did something to their self-esteem. Their identity came out, and they couldn’t wait to come back.”

For five years, students continued to attend school on the reservation one day a week.

During those years, Gopher was often called upon to step in as the tribal-wide acting education director or acting assistant education director until finally, in August 2003, she was appointed by the Tribal Council to be the director of education for the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

Pemayetv Emahakv ribbon-cutting.

Photo courtesy of Seminole Tribune.


Even with the Pull-Out Program succeeding, the tribe began to outgrow it. Simply put, the parents wanted more.

So more is what Gopher gave them. She began spearheading the development of the charter school on the reservation. Again, she headed to Raulerson, who had already retired as superintendent, for advice and then to Tallahassee to get help writing the school’s charter.

The school received its charter with a focus on Seminole culture and language.

Still, however, it follows all the same educational standards required of any Florida public school.

Along with several other elders, Gopher worked to establish the Seminole curriculum of the school.

“We developed our own teaching materials and notebooks of curriculum,” Gopher said. “I’m very proud of that.” The doors to Pemayetv Emahakv (translated as “Our Way School”) opened in 2007, with 123 students attending kindergarten through fifth-grade classes, and it became the first Native American charter school east of the Mississippi River.

The school has been such a success that it only continues to expand, with almost 250 students now enrolled. The

Louise Gopher with tribal students from Pemayetv Emahakv.


chemotherapy, Gopher never slowed down. She has continued to be instrumental within her tribe. She has helped create several documentaries on Seminole topics to help educate the youth coming up.

She says she hopes that receiving the Hall of Fame award, along with her actions that got her there, sets a good example for young Seminoles and that they see she is just like them and they, too, can achieve such accomplishments if they push themselves and become educated.

“Education is important,” she said. “Education is your gold mine. If you learn something, it is going to stay with you.”

charter school also serves middle-school grades now and is building a new gymnasium and media center to keep up with the growing demand.

Pemayetv Emahakv became so much more than Gopher originally thought.

“At the time I didn’t see the tribe running the school,” she said. “I just thought we would be a satellite campus.”

Shortly after the school opened, Gopher retired as director of education. But that didn’t mean she was done working.

Even after being diagnosed with colon cancer and battling


Carlos Alejo, MD Board Certified, General Surgeon• General Surgery• Endoscopy• Minimally

Invasive Surgery

Hablamos Español

1924 Hwy 441 North (co-located with Orthopaedic Specialists at Raulerson)

Okeechobee, FL 34972

357-0540

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

425 SW Park StreetOkeechobee, FL 34974

Philip Y. BergerLicensed Real Estate Broker

863-763-5335

www.cbbergerrealestate.comThinking of buying or selling? Call the Professional at Coldwell Banker Berger Real Estate.

BERGER REAL ESTATE


CONSUMER & COMMERCIAL LOANS | HOME MORTGAGES | AGRICULTURAL LOANS

COMPLETELY FREE BUSINESS & PERSONAL CHECKING

www.centers tatebank.com

A COMMUNITY BANK YOU CAN DEPEND ON!

Okeechobee Of f ice

863.763.55732100 South Parrot Ave. • Okeechobee, FL 34974

Your Local Community Partners!

Okeechobee Team (L to R): Sara Sparks, Teller; Heather Hancock, Executive Assistant; TabithaTrent, Market Manager/VP; Jamie Brammeier, CSR; Jennifer Lafferty, Residential Lender; JohnWilliams, Community President/SVP; Patricia McWhorter, Teller/CSR; Shannon Conrad, AssistantBranch Manager; Sherri Enfinger, Consumer Lender; Elisabeth Garduno, Teller; Faveola Carrillo,Teller Supervisor; and not pictured Kristy Crawford, Portfolio Loan Manager/VP.

CSBOkeechobeeMagDependOnHalfPageAd:Layout 1 10/7/14 8:25 AM Page 1

williamson cattlecompany presents

Photos of the Past

Submitted by Betty Chandler Williamson

FOUR PIECE BAND PLAYING AT THE AMERICAN LEGION HALLSeated on the left, playing an electronic

instrument is Hubert Thomas; standing is Howard Lightsey, playing the bass fiddle.

The other two members of the band are unknown to me.

501 S.E. 2nd Street, Okeechobee, Florida1948

AMERICAN LEGION SQUARE DANCES

The ‘Legion Hall’ was the place for square-dancing on Saturday nights.

Shown above are couples doing intricate steps to the music played by the local band.

These photographs were taken in 1948 when Fuller Warren was campaigning to be the 30th governor of Florida (note the sign in the background, partially covered, which has his name on it.). He was sworn into office on January 4, 1949. The dances began early in the evening to the sound of ‘The Orange Blossom Special’ played by the band. Frolicking around the room with your partner was fun. The building was not air-conditioned so a fan was a necessity. This old-fashioned dance is now taught in physical education classes at some schools. There are many ‘Square Dance’ groups who are in competition around the nation.


Community Event

For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.

The Okeechobee Friends of the NRA Banquet fundraiser took place on Sept. 11 at the KOA Convention Center. Proceeds from the event help to finance grants related to the future of shooting sports, such as firearm safety programs, law enforcement training programs and other educational events related to shooting. Over $14,000 was raised at the event. For more infor-mation, go to www.friendsofnra.org.

$14K Raised for NRA

Educational Grants

From left, committee members Jennifer Williamson, Carie Muldoon,

Joanna Hoover and Jeff Sumner.

Back row, from left: David James, Jenny Hoover, George Pawliski and Roger Rice. Front row: Holly Mixon, J.D. Mixon, Christa Luna and Mark Luna.



Mike Wise runs the 52-card raffle table.

Tony Stockstill and Erica Stockstill enjoy bidding on the silent auction.

Norm Wagner and Wes Garlotte.

(863)763.2400Call Now!

Dr. Kevin Platt and His Staff are

Ready and Willing to Help You!

►Medical Treatment►Physical Therapy

►Pain Management►Chiropractic Manipulation

If you are suffering from chronic or debilitating lower back or neck pain that is not responding to conventional treatment YOU MAY BENEFIT FROM SPINAL DECOMPRESSION

You May Be A Candidate for Spinal Decompression Therapy

If Your Condition Has Not Responded To

Spinal Decompression

Located at 280 SW 32nd Street in OkeechobeePlatt Chiropractic

Now Available in Okeechobee!


Fawn’s StudioCelebrating Creation

BRUCE HOMERINSURANCE

AGENCYServing Okeechobee

Since 1985

We’re in yourneighborhood...

there when you need us.

Home - Auto - LifeBoat RV's

MotorcyclesCommercial Insurance.

INSURANCEFOR YOUR NEEDS

We also provide financialservices such as

IRA's and Retirement Planning.

Bruce HomerInsurance Agencyis a representative

of Allied Insurance

Owner Agent: Bruce HomerCSR’s

Linda Sain, Nancy Mijaresand Wendy Madrigal

900 S. Parrott Ave.Okeechobee, FL

Call Now - Se Habla Espańol

863-467-4522


A great variety of women blazed trails into

leadership positions in Okeechobee County, paths that contemporary

women are following to this day.

Louisiana Chandler Raulerson < (1861-1948) = was the first Caucasian female to live in what is now Okeechobee; she arrived with her husband, Peter Raulerson, and family in 1896. She was my “Great-Aunt Anna.” A hospital was named in her honor in 1948 and opened in January 1949; she was also the mother of the first white child born in this area. Many of their descendants are still residing in Okeechobee. Her parents were Shadrach and Adeline Tucker Chandler.

Looking Back

Mattie R.Walker < (1878-1918) =

daughter of the first pioneers, Peter and Louisiana Chandler Raulerson, served as the first female postmistress of what was then “Tantie” and is now Okeechobee. She married

Hamp Walker and had a family. Her father, Peter, carried the mail by horseback, free, for 18

months, and the Star Route was established.

First in a series

ofFirst Ladies Okeechobee

By Betty Chandler Williamson


Ella Wakefield Hulsey < (1870-1944) = was employed as a school nurse for the Red Cross after World War I. She was the third child of Henry and Martha Given Wakefield, born in 1870. She married William A. Hulsey in 1886, and the couple moved to Okeechobee around 1911. They became parents to nine children. Nurse Ella assisted in delivering babies and at times traveled with local physicians to make house calls. This photograph was taken of her in front of the Tantie Schoolhouse.

Bessie Walker Alderman < (1891-1967) =was the first female Okeechobee County tax collector. She was appointed to the office after the death of her husband, R.H. Alderman, and served from 1932 until 1956. Their daughter, Athleon Alderman, was later elected to that same office and served from 1957 to 1988. Juanette Prescott Shirey served as tax collector from 1989 to 2000. Celeste Woodham Watford is the present official in this capacity, elected in 2001. All tax collectors in our county have been females since 1932.

Annie McKinnon Raulerson < (1905-1997) = met and married Hiram Raulerson, grandson of pioneers Peter and Louisiana Chandler Raulerson, in 1926. Annie became involved with the Red Cross after the devastating hurricane of 1928. She was active with this organization through World War II and for many years afterward. “Miz Annie” (as she was called) was an Episcopalian, but there was no church here of that denomination, so she and her family attended the local Methodist church. This Southern lady was instrumental in establishing an Episcopal house of worship, The Church of Our Saviour, in the early 1950s. She was involved in many community activities such as serving as president of the Woman's Club and of the Okeechobee Garden Club, and was also the first president of the Okeechobee Historical Society, which was organized in 1976. She and husband Hiram had three sons, Al, Raulie and Pete. Raulie (Hiram H. Raulerson Jr.) became a physician and came home to set up a practice. He died early at the age of 44, one year after his wife, Joy, passed away. In appreciation for all the lives he had touched, Raulerson Hospital was named in his honor. A large picture of him hangs in the lobby of the local hospital. Annie and Hiram took care of the children of Joy and Raulie, giving them much love and support.

Nora Bachand < (1888-1962) = was the first female supervisor of registration in Okeechobee; the post is now called supervisor of elections. Ms. Bachand was elected in 1948. She and her first husband, Mr. Haskill, were charter members of the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, which was organized in 1915. I knew her personally when I was a young girl. She would create beautiful corsages for those of us who were in piano recitals. I also worked in the Clerk of Circuit Court’s Office in the early 1950s. The clerk’s office was situated across the hallway from the voter's registration office. This was located in the Historic Courthouse, and we mingled during our breaks. All supervisors of elections since Ms. Bachand have been females. They were Rowena Thomas Parkerson, Gwen Wherrell Chandler and, presently serving, Dianne Hagan.

Betty Jane Whidden Davis < (1891-1967) = is one of the first known female graduates of Okeechobee High School to become a registered nurse. “B.J.” (as she was called) graduated from St. Mary's School of Nursing in West Palm Beach. She was employed as a nurse at the Louisiana Chandler Raulerson Hospital in the 1940s. B.J. became director of nursing at the Okeechobee General Hospital, which opened in the 1950s. She and husband Johnny Davis had three children, Marty, Jeff and Melissa. Melissa is a registered nurse and has been employed by Raulerson Hospital for 25 years. Her daughter Tricia is also an R.N.; another daughter, Alisha, is attending nursing school. There are three generations of nurses in this family.

Eugenia Hollingsworth Simmons < (1895-1990) = became Florida's first woman sheriff in January 1938. Gov. Fred Cone appointed her to fill the vacancy when her husband, Claude Simmons, died in office. She served in this capacity from his death until the next general election, when her brother-in-law, Cossie Simmons, was elected sheriff, in May 1938. She stated, “I never made an arrest or carried a gun but depended on my deputy, Cossie Simmons, to do that service.” She later married Bryant Bowden. I personally knew this well-mannered, lovely lady. I had the privilege of being a member of the Fine Arts Club of Okeechobee with her in the 1980s.


I studied genealogy for several years, and I often found that histories of women were hard to find because their pasts always seemed to stop as soon as I reached their maiden name. It was almost as if they didn’t truly become anyone until they got married. Prior to marriage they had no identity and were often overlooked. I found this to be very interesting as I have always been proud of strong women who stand out as individuals. When I chose to continue using my maiden name after I got married, people thought it was so strange. But I was proud of it and wanted my own identity. We as a society and community have evolved so much over the years, and I feel there are females who deserve recognition for their hard work in doing what some might say was a “man’s job.” Some are the first females to be elected, while others have shown their contributions in other ways. And this is why I felt a need to document these strong female individuals. I have been planning the publication of this information for quite some time. Okeechobee The Magazine has offered to print it in installments. I do not mean to exclude any female due for praise, and I apologize in advance for any errors or omissions; neither would be my intention. Some women stand out in our local history and my memory more than others. My husband, Sonny, has been my best supporter and is truly the “wind beneath my wings.” He has always been supportive of my desire to keep my own identity like many of the women you will soon read about, and I thank him for that. So I encourage you to look for more information in following issues on these women who set such a great example for our past, present and future.

Sarah McCrary Price < (1928-2009) = was the first female county commissioner in Okeechobee County. She was appointed by Gov. Bob Graham to serve in the interim position when County Commissioner Hiram Raulerson died in office, but Sarah was elected in her own right in October 1980. Kent Price, her husband of over 60 years, was extension director for Okeechobee for 10 years. The couple had two children, Harold and Kenna, and one grandson, Ben Noonan.

Rhea Frentress Hunt < (1911-1988) = was the first female superintendent of Okeechobee County schools and served from Nov. 5, 1962, until July 1963. Her husband, Omar Hunt, was the superintendent of schools from 1956 until 1962. The couple had four children, Ronnie, Merle, Danny and Marcia. She taught school for many years.

A Note from the Author}}Betty Chandler Williamson is a fifth-generation Floridian; her roots go back to the mid-1800s. Her husband of more than 60 years, Frank “Sonny” Williamson, is also a fifth-generation Floridian.Her hobbies are genealogy and local history. She has been president of the Okeechobee Historical Society for over two decades. Williamson is the coauthor (with Twila Valentine, now deceased) of Strolling Down Country Roads. She was responsible for compiling the first 75 years of the membership of the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, where she taught Sunday school for 39 years and served as director of the Girls Auxiliary Mission Club for many years. She was also the church historian for a period of time.Williamson wishes to thank the following people for assisting her with the articles she submits:~ Sonny, who encourages his wife to write.~ Heather Williamson Rucks, a granddaughter, who assists with emailing the material to Okeechobee The Magazine.~ A writing club she belongs to, The Okeechobee Writers League (OWL), led by published author Jan Fehrman.~ Sonny Elliott for producing the photographs.

About the Author



From left: board members Ben Sims, Sharon Vinson, Denise Whitehead, Tabitha Trent, Kelly Owens, Linda Syfrett, Gretchen Robertson,

Debbie Clements, Celeste Watford and Mary Hurley.

Mini-grant recipient Rae Ann Whiteside, Central Elementary.

OHS graduate and scholarship recipient Taylor Davis.

Linda Syfrett, Okeechobee Educational Foundation president.

Assists Foundation’s Giving

Community Event

The Okeechobee Educational Foundation hosted its Achieving Excellence luncheon on Wednesday, Sept. 24, at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. The foundation manages the majority of the scholarships given by the community to the graduating seniors of Okeechobee

High School, along with all of the mini-grants. Since the inception of the foundation, the total of all scholarships

received is approaching $3 million.


Assists Foundation’s Giving



BOX OFFICE 561.993.1160

1977 College DriveBelle glaDe, Fl 33430

January 6 Stormy Weather:

The Music of Lena Horne

January 15 How to Succeed on Broadway

January 29 David Phelps

February 6 The Mayhem Poets

February 9 The Doo Wop Project

February 19 Rock Legends: People’s Choice

February 28 The Valerie Tyson Band

March 3 Jekyll & Hyde

March 23 Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

March 28 Galo’s Tribute to Santana

April 14 Nashville Chicks with Hits

April 23-24 Extreme Vegas:

A Magical Cirque Spectacular!

May 9 The Jungle Book

FREE!

FREE!

December 6 & 7 Living Christmas Tree

December 18 American Big Band’s

Home for the Holidays

Open Monday through Friday: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 3079 NW 8th Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972

Let Us Feed Your Animals!

(863) 763.5586

♦ Cattle & Chicken Feed♦ Hog, Sheep & Goat Feed♦ Whole & Cracked Corn

We understand your needs!

Healthy! Affordable!

“It’s Performance That Counts!”

“An ounce of performance is worth a pound of promises.” Trustworthy...57 Years!

“Guardian volunteers are there from the beginning to the end.”

– Kathleen McGowan

The Hinojosa Family: Parents Juan & Alba with Isabella, Sophia and Rafael.

the care of their paternal grandmother.

“The grandmother was very caring,” McGowan said. “We thought she was going to adopt.”

But the grandmother had her hands full with a demanding job, children of her own, other grandchildren living with her and a very ill husband. All of which left very little time for anything else, much less raising three additional young children.

After the trio was placed with the grand-mother, McGowan made frequent house visits to see how the children were doing and made sure they were not doing without.

“It’s important for the Guardian ad Litem volunteer to get to know the family,” she said – “to see if there are any special needs.”


As children, we take the smiles, laughter and unconditional love for granted. They are usually a given. Also as children, we are told the sky is the limit. Alas, that isn’t always the case.

It was not until April 15, 2014, that the sky truly became the limit for siblings Rafael, 8, Isabella, 7, and Sophia, 5. That is the day they were given the chance to live a normal, prosperous life and finally received the smiles, laughter and unconditional love that they so deserve.

With the help of the Okeechobee Guardian ad Litem Program, after two very long and stressful years, the Okeechobee siblings were kept together and received a permanent, stable home. But more than anything, they gained two loving parents.

“Adoption is the happiest day; even

the judges are happy,” said Kathleen McGowan, volunteer supervisor for Guardian ad Litem of Okeechobee.

The Guardian ad Litem Program consists of appointed volunteers who make independent recommendations to the court by focusing on the needs of the children.

For two years, McGowan was the Guardian caseworker being the voice in and outside of the courts for Rafael, Isabella and Sophia.

The hope was to reunite the children with their biological parents. But early on, McGowan saw that that might not be the end result, especially when issues were not remedied after case plans were given out to the parents.

After the biological mother surrendered her rights, the children were placed in

As Children Seek Forever FamiliesGive Them Voices

Guardians

By Rachel Buxton Photos by Sandra Pearce


‘They went from having no children to three,' McGowan said. 'They hand led it so well.

It was a natural fit.'

McGowan noticed that young Rafael was struggling in school, so she met with his teacher to discuss how he could improve. From there, McGowan worked with the grandmother and the dependency caseworker to help get tutoring for the boy.

“We are not the same agency,” McGowan said about the dependency caseworker, “but we all work together to achieve the same goal.”

Unfortunately, even with the same goal in mind, there can be setbacks. And this case was no exception.

Just when McGowan thought progress


convenient and professional women’s services.1713 Hwy 441 North • Suite F

Okeechobee, FL 34972 • RaulersonGYN.com763-8000

Board Certified Gynecology

Dr. Bradfield has more than 30 years of experience in women’s healthcare.

• Laparoscopic Hysterectomy• Urogynecology• Pelvic Prolapse• Minimally Invasive Surgery• Infertility• Menstrual Abnormalities• Endometriosis• Urinary Incontinence• Loss of Libido• Sterilization• Menopausal Disorders

was being made and the children were going to have a permanent living situation, a new caseworker would be appointed. In just a two-year span, the children had several different appointed caseworkers. “It was like a couple of steps back,” McGowan said, “because a new depen-dency caseworker comes in and has to relearn the case.”

But it wasn’t just the case that the new caseworker would have to learn. The person also had to get to know the children.

With so many inconsistencies in their lives and people coming and going, McGowan made sure that she had a relationship with the children and that they were always comfortable with her. She wanted to be the one consistent part of their life.

“Guardian volunteers are there from the beginning to the end,” she said. “We have a very important role and need to be one of the stable faces advocating for the children. Whenever I pulled up in their driveway, they knew exactly whose car it was.”

McGowan and Guardian ad Litem were with the children throughout their entire journey. Eventually, their grandmother made the decision that she was in no condition to give them the proper care they deserved. The children were then officially put up for adoption in the database.

Instantly, Juan and Alba Hinojosa were matched as potential adoptive parents for the three children. Their Spanish and Catholic roots caught the attention of the grandmother.

“It was very important to her that whoever adopted the children had the same values,” said Juan.

3960 SE 18th Terrace - Okeechobee, FL 34974

Peggy Carpenter-BradyVP & Commercial Account Specialist

(Cell) 863-697-6209 (O�ce) 863-824-0885 [email protected]


Juan and Alba received a call from the adoption agency and were told they were one of three couples the grand-mother was interested in.

“It all happened right before my birthday,” Juan said. “I said if it all worked out, it would be the best birthday present of my life.”

Juan received that birthday present, and it didn’t take much convincing to do so. The children were immediately drawn to the Hinojosas after meeting them for the first time.

Sophia, who was 4 at the time, walked right up to Juan, climbed up on the park bench, got eye to eye with him and said, “Are you going to be my new daddy?”

“It scared the crap out of me,” Juan said. “I’ve never experienced anything

like that.”

Park visits soon turned into house visits that eventually turned into overnight visits. The Hinojosas and the three young children were slowly becoming a family. Throughout the entire process, McGowan continued to make her own visits to ensure that the children were on the right path.

“I could not believe they went from having no children to three,” McGowan said of the Hinojosas. “They handled it so well. It was a natural fit.”

While the children were growing more and more attached to the Hinojosas, the grandmother was having a harder and harder time letting go. McGowan helped calm the grandmother down and reassured her that the children were going to be in good hands and that they were truly happy.

After eight months of visits, sleepovers and plenty of positive recommenda-tions from McGowan during judicial reviews, the adoption was finalized. The children were finally able to begin their new lives as Rafael, Isabella and Sophia Hinojosa.

“I was happy,” said Rafael. “I have my own room.”

A room may not seem like much, but to three children who never had such a thing of their own, it was like winning the lottery. Along with their own rooms, the children received more clothes and toys than they knew what to do with.

With the adoption over, it was time for a new start.

“We had to play catch-up in every aspect,” said Alba. “There was a lot of restructuring and training.”

Okeechobee Guardian Volunteers: Front row from left, Pat Gelatka, Barbie Campbell, Sharon Buck, Kathleen McGowan, Marlene Burns,Linda Spector, Laura Nilson; back row, Maureen Burroughs, Gail Griffith, Debbie Egan, J’Mana Jarvis, Bette Hughes, Kizzy Boswell.

The restructuring has proven effective, as the children have gone from being D and F students to now A and B pupils. Their personalities are developing more, and they are becoming more comfortable with who they are.

“It’s amazing what stability can do, and a family of your own,” McGowan said. “If the kids can’t be with their parents, this is what needs to happen. They need to be in a happy, loving place.”

Prior to adoption, the children hadn’t experienced much. But since then, they have definitely made up for lost time. They have been on numerous family trips, including to Gatorland, Chuck E. Cheese, Chicago and, of course, the most magical place on Earth, Disney World.

In addition, the girls have started dance classes, and Rafael soon will be starting to get involved in sports. It is truly a fresh start for these three children, who now can be told with some certainty that the sky is indeed the limit.

McGowan continues to stay in contact with the Hinojosas, with the children referring to her as Auntie Kathleen.

“They send me text messages with pictures,” she said. “Cases have a flow of their own and change as they progress. This one couldn’t have had a more perfect outcome, and Guardian ad Litem helped achieve that.”

Currently in Okeechobee, there are 75 kids out of their homes or placed with a relative and between 130 and 150 children in homes under court super-vision. Guardian ad Litem volunteers

are appointed to 94 children at the moment. With only 20 volunteers, there is always a need for more help.

“I have five cases,” said Okeecho-bee Guardian volunteer Maureen Burroughs. “Most [Guardians] have multiple cases because there’s not enough [of us] to go around.”

Burroughs said many people are dis-

couraged about volunteering because of not having enough time, but she said that shouldn’t stop anyone.

“The time is your own making,” she said. “Your schedule is what you want. If you work during the day, you can go by and visit after supper. You can put in as much or as little time as you want.”

Along with taking care of their cases,



Guardian ad Litem volunteers hold a Christmas gift drive each year in which they collect items for their current children or any past children who may need assistance. They collect lists from the children on what they need, specific clothes sizes, favorite colors and any other relevant personal details.

“It’s very personalized, which is very important to them,” Burroughs said. “They want to feel special.”

Along with the Christmas drive, Guardians are always looking for ways to help and make the children feel normal, whether it be by simply taking them school shopping for clothes or out to eat at a restaurant.

“Their world is upside down, so they’ve never had a normal childhood,” said Burroughs.

She admits that some cases can be difficult but said the rewards that Guardian volunteers get from helping these children and being their voices in court is so worth it.

“It’s rewarding for the relationship that you build with the children,” she said. “You are not a threat to them, so they develop a firm relationship with you. That’s rewarding.”

For more information about the Guardian ad Litem program visit www.guardianadlitem.org or contact Vern Melvin, Circuit Director at 772-785-5804.

103 SW PARK STOKEECHOBEE

863-357-3357

free WiFi

Chocolate...it’s what’s for dessert!

Brown Cow Sweetery

SandwichesQuiche • Salads

Ice CreamChocolates

Co�ee • EspressoLattes

Frozen Blends

Mon. - Thurs. 7am - 7pmFri. 7am-8pm &Sat. 8am - 8pm

Sun: 12 noon – 5pm

Merry Christmas from our family, to yours!

863.467.2072Family Owned & Operated Since 1983

YANKEE CANDLE®

GIFTS & ACCESSORIES

707 S.W. Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34974

Morgan’s Furniture“Your Comfort Is Our Business”

F U R N I T U R E F O R Y O U R E N T I R E H O M E

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.®


Earning Trust, One Patient at a Time.

Dedicated to Providing Customized, Personal Eye Care.

EYE CENTERPaul V. Minotty, MD

1055 37th Place, Vero Beach, FL 32960 • 772-257-8700 • 1-877-MINOTTY • www.NewVisionEyeCenter.comWe Accept Medicare & Most Insurance Plans

Paul V. Minotty, MDBoard Certified Custom Cataract SurgeryLaser Cataract Surgery Near Vision Lenses General Ophthalmology Glaucoma

Roger J. Meyer, MDBoard Certified Retina Fellowship TrainedMacular Degeneration Diabetic Eye Care•Glaucoma

Stephen M. Tate, MDBoard Certified Custom Cataract SurgeryLaser Cataract Surgery Near Vision LensesGeneral OphthalmologyGlaucoma

Paul L. Winslow, III, MDBoard Certified Retina Fellowship TrainedSurgical Retina Macular Degeneration Diabetic Eye Care

David J. O’Brien, MDBoard Certified Fellowship Trained Refractive Surgeon General OphthalmologyGlaucoma•Eyelid Surgery•Aesthetics

Visit RaulersonHospital.com to see average ER wait times and learn more about minimally invasive options. Call Consult-A-Nurse® at 863.763.9228

for a free physician referral or to speak to a registered nurse.

CARDIOLOGYPacemaker and AICD implantation,

EKGs, cardiac stress tests

UROLOGYMinimally invasive procedures for

bladder or bowel incontinence

GASTROINTESTINALNow o�ering endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

for the best possible images of theGI tract and the ability to safely

obtain a specimen, when necessary

ORTHOPAEDICJoint Replacement: knee, hip, shoulder

WOMEN’SHEALTH

Breast health, gynecologyand more

AS OUR COMMUNITY GROWS, so does our medical sta�. Since January 2013, Raulerson Hospital has welcomed 36 new physicians to our team, including ER physicians, hospitalists, a general surgeon and a gastroenterologist — all to serve you better.

EMERGENCYMore than 26,000 ER

visits last year alone. Our ERtreats kids too!

Treasure Coast Healthcare SystemLawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute + Raulerson Hospital + St. Lucie Medical Center

MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY is exactly what it sounds like. It is a surgical procedure performed using tools and technology that leaves patients with fewer scars, a quicker

recovery and shorter hospital stays. The skilled surgeons on our medical sta� can performa variety of minimally invasive procedures, including hysterectomy, gallbladder surgery,

breast biopsy, appendectomy and more!

From emergency services to surgical care andeverything in between, Raulerson Hospital is Here For You.

SURGICALSERVICES

Minimally invasive procedures.Recognized as a “Top Performer”

in Surgical Care by TheJoint Commission

DIAGNOSTIC IMAGINGUltrasound, CT, nuclear medicine, digital mammography, MRI accredited bythe American College of Radiology

EXPERT ORTHOPAEDIC CARE IS AVAILABLE RIGHT HERE IN OKEECHOBEE. From total joint replacement to arthroscopic surgery and bone fractures, our experienced team can

relieve your orthopaedic pain and help you return to the activities you love.

35 YEARS OF CARING

PODIATRYDiabetic foot care,

ankle fractures,bunionectomy











WOMEN’SHEALTH










SURGICALSERVICES






35 YEARS OF CARING













WOMEN’SHEALTH










SURGICALSERVICES






35 YEARS OF CARING




Community Event

The Chamber of Commerce kicked off its second Leadership Okeechobee class at Indian River State College’s Williamson Conference Center on Sept. 17 with motivational exercises and orientation.

The second class was given in the same location on Oct. 15 and featured presen-tations on the history of Okeechobee, cultural arts and service organizations. The eight-month program is designed to cultivate leadership through educa-tion, exposure to the community and interaction between class members.

CHAMBER KICK-STARTS SECOND LEADERSHIP OKEECHOBEE CLASS

Front row, from left, Cecilia Elliott, Teresa Lara, Allison Chandler, Angie Griffin, Paula Smith, Tammi Kelly; back row, Gary Bell, Robert Keefe, John Creasman, Patrick Malone, Jonathan Bean, presenter Bridgette Waldau, presenter Maureen Burroughs.


Okeechobee Main Street Arts and Cultural Director Bridgette Waldau gives a presentation about arts in our community.



COMPUTERS

Rick Chartier(863) 467.9090

403 South Parrott Avenue • Okeechobee, FL

• Sales• Service• Audio Visual• Networking• Phone Systems• Cabling• Accessories

email: [email protected] www.icsflorida.com

Gayle MolyneauxIndependent Beauty Consultantwww.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux561-801-1336

OKMS President Maureen Burroughs presents information about Okeechobee Main Street and

the Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee.

Ron Hays speaks about the Okeechobee Community Theatre.

Terry Burroughs, Heather Hancock and John Gurney.


Presenting Sponsors

Dennis DeYoung The Music of STYX

An Unforgettable Evening

Michael BoltonAn Evening withEngelbert Humperdinck

Olivia Newton - John

The Colors of ChristmasPeabo Bryson, Jennifer Holliday, Ruben Studdard & Taylor Dayne

Wynonna & The Big NoiseA Simpler Christmas

American Big BandHome for the Holidays

Trace AdkinsThe Christmas Show 2014 Tour

State Ballet Theatre of Russia’sThe Nutcracker

An Evening with

Don Williams The Beach Boys

Russian National BalletTheatre’s

Sleeping Beauty

Dancing Pros Live! Hosted by Alan Thicke& Dancing With The Stars Pros

PFX

The Pink Floyd Experience

Masters of Illusion Believe the Impossible!

Scotty McCreerySee You Tonight Tour

Get The Led Out The American Led Zeppelin

Jay LenoABBA MANIAABBA Tribute

Sponsored in part byRoger Dean Chevrolet

Sponsored in part byFairfield Inn & Suites Marriott

Sponsored in part byHampton Inn & Suites

Sponsored in part byInlet Grill & Beachfront Inn

Sponsored in part byAnimal Emergency &

Referral Center

Thurs., Feb. 19

Sun., Dec. 7 Thurs., Dec. 11 Fri., Dec. 19 Sat., Dec. 20 Fri., Dec. 26

Thurs., Mar. 26Fri., Mar. 20

Sun., Mar. 1Fri., Feb. 20

Wed., Mar. 4

Sat., Feb. 21 Sat., Feb. 28

Sat., Mar. 28

Thurs., Jan. 8 Fri., Jan. 9 Sun., Jan. 25 Wed., Jan. 28 Fri., Feb. 6

Sunrise Theatre FOR THE PERFORMING ARTSThe Best Entertainment on the Treasure Coast

2014/2015 SEASON GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

(These are the shows confirmed to date. Additional Shows and Attractions will be added throughout the season. Programs are subject to change)

Become a Member Today!Get the Best Seats in The House

Call 772.461.4775 or Visit SunriseTheatre.com117 South 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce


863-824-0347Open 7am to 2pm ─ Seven Days a Week!

Breakfast or Lunch Available All Day!

Daily Breakfast and Lunch

863-824-0347Come Join The Herd!3235 US HWY 441 SE

TREASURE ISLAND PLAZA OKEECHOBEE

Cell/Text: 863.697.0270Office: 954.309.0255 ext 134

email: [email protected]

Associate of Independent FranchiseMixon, Ardila & Associates • Coral Springs, FL

Toll Free: 877.588.2279 ext.134

WishMakers!

Your Vacation

Groups • Family Reunions • CouplesMeetings at Sea • Honeymoons

Ocean Cruises • River Cruises • Wine Cruises Tour Resorts • All-Inclusive Singles

First Time CruisersAndy Farrow Vacation Specialist

AsYouWishVacations.com

PenrodConstructionCompany.com

PENRODCONSTRUCTION

COMPANY

Located at: 210 NE 3rd Ave.Okeechobee, FL 34972

863.634.0546CGC1516178

■ Commercial■ Residential

Corey Penrod (Owner) and Family

Call today!

Committed to Quality, Excellence and

Customer Satisfaction!


Community Event

The KOA Convention Center served as the stage Sept. 25-27 for the Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant this year in Okeechobee. The contestants had several events to attend and were judged on their knowledge of horsemanship, speech and public speaking, poise, modeling, appearance, personal interviews, personality and the ability to answer impromptu questions. A dinner and fashion show took place on Friday evening, Sept. 26, and crowning of the new queen took place at a luncheon the next day. The 2015 queen and her court will represent the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association throughout Florida.

Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant

Winners, from left: Miss Teen Rodeo Florida Jenna Herstich from St. Cloud, Miss Rodeo Florida Princess Addison Roberts of Fort Pierce, Miss Rodeo Florida Sweetheart Heaven Crosby from Fort McCoy, and Miss Rodeo Florida Sheila Shirah of St. Cloud.

Alexandra Ortiz of Jupiter presents her showmanship.

All the contestants for the Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant.

From left, Judges Raylah Holm of Ellensburg, Wash., Judy Mason of River Ranch, Fla., and C.J. Brown of Lake Alfred, Fla.

Crowns New Queen




Miss Rodeo Florida 2014 Devon Firestone takes her final and farewell walk.

Little Miss Silver Spurs, Brighton Mick, models for Western Spirit.


Wishing You a Merry Christmas & a Happy, Healthy New Year

Doctors ClinicFamily Health Center, LLC

Primary Care For The

Entire Family Walk-Ins Always WelcomeMost Insurances Accepted

New Look Coming Soon!

Multi-Lingual (English, Spanish and German)

863-763-1107204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee

Stanley H. Sweda, MDArmando A. Santelices, MD

Theresa Biemer, PA-C

Proud Supporters of “Heroes 4 Hope”


The racers jostle for position.

Community Event

Adam Bryant Regatta Entertains Thousands, Helps Finance Scholarship and Playground ProjectTouted as ‘a homemade boat race

with a twist,’ the fourth annual Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta

took place Saturday, Oct. 4, at C. Scott Driver Park on the Kissimmee River. The regatta brings together people of all ages for a series of engaging races in minimally constructed plywood boats. Open to the public, this year’s event was hosted by For Okeechobee Inc., with community residents and local businesses sponsoring the watercrafts and an estimated 4,000 people in attendance. The wonderful Kids’ Zone brimming with games, crafts and bounce houses was provided by The Children’s Services Council of Okeechobee. In tribute to Adam, the proceeds raised from the regatta will help send a local individual to Fire/EMT school and help finance the construction of a special-needs playground.

DeAnne Martin and Christina Stone race in the Gilbert Ford and Gilbert Chevrolet boats.

Dylan White in the Bridgette Waldau Studio of Art boat. The race is on.

From left: Thomas Barber, Angie Griffin, Pam Peppers and Mike Hopkins. Dr. Benjamin Epstein captains the Orthopaedic Specialists at Raulerson boat.

Jeff Reno won the Holy Ship Award for his Aircraft Carrier entry.

Taylor Davis with the Team Peace Lutheran School boat and Frank DeCarlo.

Bert Culbreth holding Madelyn, Joe Melluso and Krissy Culbreth.



Photos by Sharon Cannon & Jane Kaufman

Adam Bryant Regatta Entertains Thousands, Helps Finance Scholarship and Playground Project

Racing neck and neck, Mike Leppert and J.D. Mixon.

Team Mixon Real Estate Group, winners of the Overboard Award, back, from left, Mike Sadlon, Patrick Malone and Joe Stas; front, J.D. Mixon, Jamie Hans, Holly Mixon holding Magnolia, Lori Mixon, Ron Mixon, Elbert Batton and Natalie Hubbard.

Meghan Woohouse, Brooke Brazil and Tammi White.

Ethan Doyle races as the Mad Hatter.

Tin Fish Restaurant Team: Courtney Hicks, Saraya Vanderhoff and Donavan White.

The Pregnancy Center team, winners of the Motley Crew Award, from left: Jamie Hans, J.D. Mixon, Lisa Lumpkin,

Rene Juarez, Cindy Maynard, Nicole Juarez and Donna Summerall; back, Natalie Hubbard.

The racers jostle for position.


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

Youthcarissa Licata

okeechobee


By Audra Clemons Photos by Sandra Pearce

Carissa Licata graduated from Okeechobee High School on June 7, 2014. As if being a member of the Key Club, the High School National Honors Society and the Beta Club weren’t enough, Licata graduated with Advanced Placement classes from Indian River State College behind her as well. These accomplishments were all the more enticing for the softball coach of the lady Eagles from Florida Gulf Coast University, of whom Licata joined the ranks in fall of 2014.

“We seek exceptional and well-rounded young women for our team,” said David Deiros, head coach for Florida Gulf Coast University.

Licata is one of the few and far between, outstanding OHS graduates to receive a full scholarship to a Division I collegiate athletics program. Anyone who has achieved this goal can tell you that this type of merit doesn’t come easily and isn’t achieved overnight. Reaching this kind of goal takes time, love, practice, dedication and patience.

When Licata was 6, she began playing ball and fell in love with it from that point forward. A few years later, a 10-year-old Licata found herself playing on a coastal travel ball team, where she learned advanced softball techniques that helped her hone her skills in the game.

“She is easily the fastest player I have ever coached,” Deiros said.

Once Licata entered high school, she continued to play softball and coupled that love with a focus on academics, setting her sights on receiving a Bright Futures Scholarship.

Initiative, drive earn her a full scholarship

“I want to give back to the community that gave to me.”

In order to be a contender for this scholarship, the student has to score at least a 1290 on the SAT and a 29 on the ACT, plus put in over 100 hours of service learning.

Throughout high school, Licata was carrying a 3.93 GPA while oscillating between three sports: cross country, soccer and softball. Beyond high school-based activities, Licata was again on a travel ball team for the extra practice and exposure that weekend showcase tournaments provided. These games would give her a reputation outside of Okeechobee, which she says was very pivotal in the scholarship process.

“If you’re serious about playing a sport in college and receiving a scholarship, you have to put yourself out there. You have to go to places and participate in tournaments where you can be seen outside of your community,” said Licata.

Licata detailed the collegiate recruiting process. Above and beyond what she was doing in school, Licata was also keeping tabs on recruiting coaches.

“My dad would help me email coaches and let them know if I was in a tournament near them. He would let them know where I was playing and where I would be,” Licata said. “If you are serious about getting a college scholarship, you have to be involved and proactive in the recruiting process.”

This is the type of initiative that got Carissa Licata noticed by head coach Deiros.

“During my junior year of high school, Coach Deiros saw me at an annual showcase tournament and we stayed in touch after that. My dad would email him and let him know where I was playing and how I was doing,” Licata said.

“We typically look for players who stand out in at least one aspect of the game,” Deiros said. “In Carissa's case, it is unquestionably her speed.”

Then it happened. In her junior year of high school, Licata was offered a full ride, aka a full scholarship, to a Division I collegiate athletic program.


'Carissa bleeds green and blue'

~ Coach Deiros


515 SW Park Street863-763-2233

Lunch - DinnerSandwiches - Salad

Paninis - SoupsQuiches - Baked Goods12 Flavors of Ice Cream

Mon. – Fri. 10:30 am to 7 pmSat. and Sun. 11 am to 3 pm

Find us on Facebook for more Information and Daily Specials.

nutmeg’s cafe

“I made a verbal commitment in April, and then in November I signed my scholarship contract with Florida Gulf Coast University,” said Licata.

“Carissa bleeds green and blue,” Deiros said. “She made it very clear in the recruiting process that she loved everything about FGCU and wanted to make a difference on our team and campus. That devotion made a huge impact on me because it is always fulfilling to bring someone who wants to be on your team as much as you want them there.”

It may seem hard for a 17- or 18-year-old to leave home; to find herself in an environment surrounded by people she doesn’t know and places she's never seen, in a place much different than small-town Okeechobee. But for Licata, it was an easy transition. Once the girls from the FGCU softball team knew who had committed, they found each other on Facebook and began creating friendships their senior year of high school. As college freshmen, the girls had already established a bond and knew a little bit about each other — all thanks to social media.

On top of playing softball games, there is travel time, weight training and footwork training. But those aren’t the only things that define Licata. There is much more to her than softball. There is also her academics. For her under-graduate major, Licata chose nursing. The medical field requires a lot of study time and is certainly not a cakewalk for a degree.

Although no one in Licata's family is in the medical field, she always had an interest in nursing. During her senior year in high school, she sought out conversations with people in the health-care industry and also with her guidance counselor, who suggested that

Vicki Anderson (863) 634-4106 Eric Anderson(863) 634-4107

21442 E. SR 78 -Buckhead RidgeOkeechobee, FL 34974

[email protected]

For All Of Our Listings, Please Visit Our Website: www.AndersonRealtyCo.com

Shelly DoylePersonal Assistant863-801-8463

[email protected]


she major in nursing so that she would always have it as a background. With a nursing undergraduate degree, she could always go back to school and specialize later.

During Licata’s senior year, Raulerson Hospital gave out 10 scholarships to graduating seniors. Licata received one of the scholarships to help her pursue her nursing degree — a degree she is tackling and excelling at.

“Off the field, Carissa is again excep-tional because she is already a year ahead of schedule to graduate with her degree in nursing,” Deiros said. “That is almost unheard of, considering the average student takes at least five years to graduate from college.”

After college, Licata’s goal is to return to Okeechobee, where she aspires to work at Raulerson Hospital as a registered nurse or as a cardiovascular sonographer.


Mother Alin Perez, Carissa, father Frank Licata and stepmother Trina Licata

1924 Hwy 441 North (co-located with Orthopaedic Specialists at Raulerson)


357-0540

Board Certified, Orthopaedic Surgeon We are proud to provide complete orthopedic care for adults and children, right here in Okeechobee.

• Total hip and knee replacements

• Arthroscopic surgery• And more

Benjamin Epstein, DO We Treat Kids Too!


“I want to give back to the community that gave to me,” said Licata. “I moved from West Palm Beach to Okeechobee when I was 10, and I really like the town. It's smaller and a calm environment, a place where everyone knows each other and supports each other.”

Even with her grueling schedule that includes academics and sports, Licata still enjoys her involvement in community service activities. Coach Deiros has orchestrated two community service projects for the softball team to participate in: Habitat for Humanity and the Harvey Chapman Food Bank. These projects will help the girls under-stand the importance of giving back and volunteering for communities and charity work.

Her time spent on the field as a team player has only helped round Licata out as an individual.

“Playing team sports means that you can't play for yourself and for the team at the same time; it just doesn't work like that,” Licata said. “And in life, it's the same way; you can't just focus on yourself when you have a family and friends and so on.”

The drive that brought Licata to play Division I softball will be the same drive that helps her to achieve her goals in academics and athletics, as well as her career path. Initiative and discipline will help her navigate through life and through the prosperous or difficult times that will unravel throughout. A college athlete does much more than just play a sport. A college athlete learns invaluable lessons about management and goal-setting, which in turn helps to develop the proverbial “toolkit” for a successful life.

Carissa (center) with dad Frank and stepmother Trina on signing day.

PIER IIResort and Lounge

“Okeechobee’s Resort on the Water”

2200 SE Hwy 441 • Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 863.623.4704 Pet Friendly! Smoke Free

Look For Our Bar to Re-Open in the Fall of 2014!

Newly Re-Decorated Rooms! Under New Ownership


Welcome new physician Erick Calmet, M.D.

Our providers offer a full range of family practice services.

Walks-ins Welcome!

• We provide Medicare Physicals• Management of chronic

& acute health issues• Annual wellness visit

202 N.E. 2nd Avenue (Suites 3 & 4) Okeechobee, FL 34972

RaulersonPrimaryCare.com467-2159

We accept most major insurance plans.

Hablamos Español

Style TrendsLinda’s

Fashion Purses Fashion JewelryBible Covers Collegiate Items

College In�atable

Let us help you �nd the right gift.

512 W. North Park StreetOkeechobee, Florida

Located Inside Badcock Furniture

863-763-3823


Keratin Smoothing Treatments,Shine Treatments,

Colors, Cuts...and More!

Our Services:

We pride ourselves in customer service for an enjoyable experience!

909 South Parrot Ave., Suite GOkeechobee, FL 34974

ALL AGES WELCOME!Men, Women and Children

(863)824.3338Walk-ins Welcome ♦ Appointments Preferred ♦ Hours: Mon―Fri: 9 to 5 and Sat: 9 to3

Donate today at stophunger.org or call 772-489-3034.

nurturing our community, together.

providing meals, together.

1 in 6 people face hunger on the Treasure Coast, even though billions of pounds of food go unused in the U.S. every year. Together we can close the gap.

together we can solve hunger.

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

Phones Answered 24/7


Photos by Sharon CannonCommunity Event


The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County held its inaugural Business of the Year awards and year in review luncheon at the Williamson Center at Indian River State College on Thursday, Oct. 16. The chamber recapped its accomplishments for the past year and presented the inaugural Business of the Year Awards to Brown Cow Sweetery, American Drilling Services and Waste Management/Okeechobee Landfill. For more information about the Chamber of Commerce, call (863) 467-6246 or email [email protected].

The event was well-attended.

National Corporate Winner – Waste Management/Okeechobee Landfill, Inc.From left: Chamber President Terry Burroughs, Chamber Executive Director Antoi-nette Rodriguez, with Waste Management representatives Jeff Sabin, Teresa Chandler and Tony Bishop.

Gross Income $1 Million or More Winner – American Drilling ServicesFrom left: Mayor James Kirk, American Drilling Services owner Frank DeCarlo, Chamber Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez and Chamber President Terry Burroughs.

Gross Income of $1 Milliion or Less Winner – Brown Cow SweeteryFrom left: Mayor James Kirk, Brown Cow Sweetery owners Mark Bragel and Paulette Bragel, Chamber Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez and Chamber President Terry Burroughs.

Awards Given at Chamber’s First Year in review Luncheon


We Buy Scrap Gold

Guy Harvey & Hershey Kiss JewelryDiamonds - 14K Gold Jewelry

Guy Harvey now hasMilitary Charms & Double Marlin Pendants with Genuine Stones.


A State CertifiedGeneral Contractor

St. Lic. CGC1507657

Mack “Hoot” WorleyPresident

863-467-2541863-467-2541

110 NW 5th Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972110 NW 5th Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972Email: [email protected]

www.facebook.com/G.M.WorleyInc

"Making Dreams Come Truefor 30 Years"....

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., owns the certification mark CFP®, in the U.S. ©2014 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 14-BR3DW-0021 AL 9/14

COMMITTED TO HELPING YOU MAXIMIZE YOUR SUCCESS

ERIK MELVILLE, CFP® Financial Advisor

603 North Indian River Drive, Suite 300 // Ft. Pierce, FL 34950T 772.460.2500 // F 855.540.3723

[email protected] // melvillewealthmanagement.com

Our prudent approach to planning and managing risk has helped our clients attain positions of financial strength since 2002. We never follow a one-size-fits-all approach to managing something as complex and personal as your wealth. Call us today to formulate a plan centered on your unique objectives and let us help you secure your financial future.


Football Queen Lia Keith and her escort Greg Hernandez.

Community Event

Homecoming Queen and King Taylor Pearce and Marshall Hale.

Superintendent Ken Kenworthy and OHS Principal Toni Wiersma.

Senior class float.Parade, Festivities Warm Hearts for

OHS HomecomingThe Brahman spirit was in full force as homecoming festivities kicked off Thursday, Oct. 9, with the Homecoming Parade. On Friday night, the football game was played and the homecoming king and queen were crowned. The three-day event finished up Saturday night with the Homecoming Dance.

From left: The Homecoming Court, Alyssia Boldin, Michael Daniel, Mirizzi Villalobos and Colt Root.


Photos by Sandra Pearce

OHS Class of 1985.

Friday night OHS Football.

The bonfire.

Junior varsity and varsity cheerleaders at the pep rally.

From left: Cheyenne Tankersly, Kylie Daniel, Kayla Nunez, Ro Wingfield, Colt Root, Samantha Wine and Taylor Pearce.

Sophomore class float.

Junior class float.

From left: senior football players Daniel Nunez, Matthew McClanahan, Greg Hernandez, Brandon Shockley, Markies McDonald, Juan Mata, Devon Wigfall, Cornelius Horton and Tyrone Peterson.


Employee Commitment, Dedication and Community Partner

Waste Management/ Okeechobee Landfill, Inc.is awarded the 2014-2015 National Corporate “Business of the Year” from the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce. WM is a true community partner supporting local non-profits and Youth Organizations. Pictured: Sr. District Manager Tony Bishop, Public Affairs Manager Teresa Chandler, Okeechobee Mayor James Kirk and Government Affairs Manager Jeff Sabin.

WM Lead Operator Mark Broadrick's daughter Katilyn Broadrick paddled the WM boat in the

4th Annual Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, homemade boat race receiving 2nd place in

the Age 8-12 division. Way to go Kaitlyn!

Pictured: Sr. District Manager Ron Pruim, Capt. Gary Bell, Driver JC Causey, Undersheriff Noel Stephen, WM Public Affairs Teresa Chandler, Sgt. Shannon Pete, WM Route Manager Tim Egger and Sgt. Belen Reyna.

�

#MOVEOVER LawOkeechobee County Sheriff and City of Okeechobee Police support the new “Move Over” Law passed to include Sanitation and Utility Vehicles.

�

SERVICING

All MAKES

www.skullhillsteel.com

• Tire Purchase & Mounts• Full Service• Repairs - Minor to Major• Customizing of Aftermarket Parts

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

MMI Certi�ed Harley Davidson Technician

Brandon BaughmanCerti�ed Technician,

MMI Graduate

• Purchase New and USED Bows & Accessories• Serving includes but not limited to: • Installation of Peep Site, D-Loop, Main String & Bus Cable • Cut and Fleetch Arrows • Complete Bow Service and Paper Tune• Shooting Lessons Available

• Modi�cations and Repairs• Poylmer Sales and Installation• Repower and Customization• Custom Bow Fishing Platforms

We’ve Got You Covered at Skull Hill Steel!

Come By & Check Us Out!

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

Behind the By Raye Deusinger


The office 'family': from left, Mary Burris, Tonya Stamm, Peggy Carpenter Brady and Danny Heim.

Carpenter Insurance

Entering the offices of Carpenter Insur-ance is like being welcomed into a gracious home. That is the atmosphere created by Peggy Carpenter Brady, third-generation representative of a business founded almost 80 years ago. Her grandfather, Dan Carpenter, had moved from Oklahoma to Pahokee to join other family members during the Great Depression to farm and live off the land. He started a real estate/insurance business on the front porch of his home in 1935. Peggy said her Grandpa Dan was known as a man of integrity, concluding each transaction with a simple handshake.

Shortly after the 1928 hurricane, Dan’swife, Ruth, gave birth to Milton who, in the 1950s, joined his father in what became Dan Carpenter & Son Insurance. Both Ruth and daughter Dorthia also worked in the office.

While helping grow his father’s insur-ance business, Milton and his wife, Nancy, eventually opened the Milton Carpenter Insurance Agency in Belle Glade in addition to pursuing his true passion, orchid culture. Today, he is known worldwide for his hybridizing expertise and judges across the globe for the American Orchid Society. He’s also written books on the subject. Upon entering Brady’s Okeechobee office,

you will find many beautiful examples of his award-winning orchids.

There, you will also find Peggy Brady carrying on the family tradition in insurance. Growing up in Belle Glade, she graduated from Glades Day School,went off to Florida Southern College for a year but began living in Okeechobee after marrying her high school sweet-heart, Frankie Brady. After living here for the past 32 years, she has now become a true Okeechobeean.

For a while she worked in agriculture, helped her husband run Brady Ranch and build the family’s Okeechobee hunting preserve while raising their three children. After earning her insur-ance license in 1987, Brady gained experience working in her father’s insurance office in Belle Glade and

several other agencies. She tried several other career paths, including earning her real estate broker’s license.

In 2005, however, her husband had a fatal car accident. “It was the hardest thing I had ever encountered,” she said, “but God’s grace and wonderful family and friends brought me through.”

In 2009, Brady joined her father in his insurance business in Belle Glade. While there, she became highly involved in that community as a member of the Belle Glade Historical Society, the Lions Club, Leadership Glades and LORE (Lake Okeechobee Regional Economic Alliance) — an organization that promotes citizen involvement in and appreciation for community.

In 2013, she opened the Okeechobee


background, today handles all their office Internet technology as well as serving as a licensed agent.

Already a member of the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce and Okeecho-bee Main Street, Brady is looking forward to becoming involved in othercommunity-building efforts here. Someof her leisure time is spent relaxing with her three children and six grandchildren. An accomplished photographer and a “sometimes” artist, she also loves fishing and everything outdoors.

Stop by her office, enjoy the orchids andmeet Peggy Brady. Her office is located at 3960 S.E. 18th Terrace, or contact her at (863) 824-0885 or [email protected].

office of Carpenter Insurance Agency, located in the Taylor Creek Plaza, which she says is “Home for all Your Insurance Needs.” It is an Independent Insurance Agency, offering both personal and commercial insurance around the lakeand throughout South Florida, through a large selection of “A-rated” companies.

In commercial insurance, the agency specializes in municipalities, agriculture and all aspects of the construction industry, as well as small businesses. Noting that she loves working with people, Brady said: “You are protecting their assets, and that is a very important job. Developing a relationship with my clients is fun. Our mission is to treat you like a member of our family.”

Her office family, and that of her father’s agency in Belle Glade, has a combined 150 years of insurance experience. Working with her in the Okeechobee

office is Mary Burris, a longtime Okee-chobee resident and licensed agent with more than 11 years experience, who also offers bookkeeping service at the office.

Licensed Agent Tonya Stamm, who works primarily in the Belle Glade office, introduces a fourth generation to the family insurance dynasty, as she is Brady’s cousin and serves as manager of customer service for all commercial accounts. Brady’s son Blake is studying to possibly also enter the insurance business.

It will become an even bigger family affair soon, as Brady is engaged to the fourth office member, Danny Heim. Heim, with an information technology

Log on to OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com and click on “Online Exclusives” to learn more about Carpenter Insurance.

Quality Repairs and High Customer Satisfaction.

We Service All Makes and ModelsCome SeeGeorge &Christina

3550 Hwy 441 S • Okeechobee • (863) 763-3154

GilbertCollision.com • GilbertHasIt.comHOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Visit us from your computer, mobile phone, or tablet.

Customer Testimonial We have worked with George & his team for more than two decades. Their state of the art equipment, expertise, professionalism, & integrity have stood the test of time producing both pleased customers & insurance carriers.

-Lowell PritchardOkeechobee Resident & President of Pritchards & Associates


4300 US Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL. 34974

Ph. 863-623-4689 Fax 863-623-4695 www.floridaoutdoorsrv.com

THE BEST RV’S !

CLASS C MOTORHOME!

5TH WHEEL!

CLASS A MOTORHOME!

TRAVEL TRAILER!

THE BEST PRICES ! THE BEST SERVICE !

Rv-ing THAT’S WHERE THE FUN IS!

Okeechobee The Magazine316 N.W. Fifth Street

Okeechobee, FL 34972Phone: 863.467.0054

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com

What People Are Saying...

“When we first came to Okeechobee from West Palm, we were a little bit worried how we were going

to advertise our business. But as soon as I saw the stack of glossy magazines sitting on a table, I knew it was going to be just fine. Okeechobee The Magazine is definitely meant to be saved and not to be thrown away.

— Paulette Bragel, Brown Cow Sweetery

“We advertise in Okeechobee The Maga-zine because we want to support a local publication that

promotes our local busi-nesses and community. We look forward to seeing each edition and appreciate the contribution OTM has made to enhance our quality of life here in Okeechobee.”

— Paula M. Younger, CPA Tax Solutions, PLLC

Behind the By Raye Deusinger


Captain Bob Stafford

Okeechobee ChartersBob Stafford ran heavy equipment for 22 years, fished the ocean with his daddy, messed with ’gators as a kid and today happily guides people to Lake O’s best fishing spots as well as alligator and duck hunting sites through his business, Okeechobee Charters.

Always an outdoorsman, Stafford went out on the ocean with his dad, who was a charter fishing captain, and learned the love of fishing. Being around clientele all the time, he learned about the business. He preferred lake to ocean fishing, and became an avid bass fisherman, ultimately participating in a BASF (fishing tournament) national championship in Georgia.

To provide a living for his family, he

had a heavy-equipment company on Florida’s east coast, operating from Port St. Lucie to Boca Raton/Delray Beach, which ultimately became the largest Bobcat company in Florida with two crews, one to work the north and the other the south.

Enjoying his outdoor life, as a sportsman/hunter, he conducted guided trips for alligator and duck hunters. To get away from work tensions, he and his wife, Norma Jean, bought 40 acres in southeastern Okeechobee where they have cattle and raise chickens in a peaceful setting under huge stands of oak trees.

In 2007, the falling economy cut into Stafford’s business to the point where he had to find another income. “I had been a fierce tournament angler, going all over the country,” he said, “then a local tackle shop called me because they needed an extra guide. They had a lot of group trips booked, so I helped out and

have been guiding ever since. But, he said, “becoming a fishing guide became a test of faith.” He believes there is no trick to being a good guide — “just trust your instincts and have confidence in your abilities.”

Today, most jobs Stafford books are from word-of-mouth advertising. He especially loves fishing for bass with shiners. “People often say that shiner fishing is boring — you just sit and stare at a bobber,” he said. “But when I take people out, I know where to find the spot, and we usually catch 20 to 50 fish on a trip. That is exciting. I like shiner fishing because it produces bigger fish and it’s a lot of fun to watch a shiner jump from the water with a bass leaping right behind it.”

Stafford says that while the busy season, October through May, is the preferred time, June and July are also plentiful months. “Even though it’s hot, the fish are still biting then, and, of course,


that’s the time of discounted rates.”

Stafford runs half-day trips from “safe-light” to 11 a.m. and full day trips from “safe-light” to 3 p.m. The past two years have brought changing weather patterns, which often forced fish to move to new locations, but “I stay alert and flexible so that my client has a good time, and that is what I strive for,” he said. “I want the customer to have the whole experience of Okeechobee.”

Both fishing and alligators are synon-ymous with Okeechobee, and Stafford has been “playing” with alligators since childhood. He began guiding alligator hunts in the mid-1980s and said most people hunt for a trophy alligator. He recently guided a father and his 10-year-old son on a hunt, and they were thrilled when they each bagged one. He once took a customer who, in one season, got nine alligators, only one

of which was less than 10 feet in length. He had two mounted as alligators locked in battle.

Stafford hunts either from an airboat or a johnboat, depending on terrain. “This is the most exciting of our tours, but it is also the most dangerous,” Stafford said.

Another favorite venture is guiding a duck hunt. Stafford said people come from all over the country to hunt here. “Each year, as the season approaches, I go out and scout to stay on the birds and be ready for the hunters,” he said. He described two types of prey — puddle ducks and diving ducks. Puddle ducks, including wood ducks, teal, mallards and wigeons, are prettier and

live in marshy and weedy areas. Diving ducks, like ring necks and blue bills, are hunted on open water.

For puddle ducks, Stafford takes the hunters into the marsh area by airboat. He drops them off with stools and a floating table so they are comfortable, then returns after parking the airboat some distance away; he believes in pampering his customers with comfort, even in the wild. He said: “Most duck hunters love to hunt because they love to shoot. Two things motivate them, getting a prize for mounting and the joy of shooting.”

Bob Stafford’s Okeechobee Charters can be reached at (561) 719-9320 or at [email protected].

Log on to OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com and click on “Online Exclusives” to learn more about Okeechobee Charters.

877-763-6625Se Habla Español

HOME • LIFE • HEALTH • FLOOD • AUTO • COMMERCIAL • BOAT • MOTORCYCLE • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

OKEECHOBEE1802 S. Parrott, Okeechobee, FL 34974

Direct: 863-763-7711

MOORE HAVEN691 US Hwy 27, Ste.2, Moore Haven, FL 33471

Direct: 863-946-9133

PORT ST. LUCIE10791 SW Tradition Square, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987

Direct: 772-345-7700

Paying too much for insurance? Our team will shop for you.


Restaurant

505 NE Park St.Okeechobee, FL

HOME DECOR - GIFTS

Adding a Little Charmto Okeechobee...

Ask Us About Our

1306 SW 2nd AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

863-532-9096O�ce: 863-763-6000

[email protected]

Rustic Style and Cabins presentsBORACHO’S

RED NECK WINE


RED NECK WINE

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!!

Niki Salmon Realtor – Mixon Real Estate Gourp, LLC – CBC 1256085-PCC 056704

CBC 1256085 - PCC 056704

ALSO SEE AD ABOVE: RUSTIC STYLE AND CABINS (LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!!)

1815 S. Parrott Avenue(Next to Pogey’s Restaurant)

Oil Change & Filter 18.99

Reg.$22.99

$

FREE TIRE ROTATION21 Point Inspection. Frequent, vital

engine maintenance includes re�ll of up to5 qts. of 5W-30 Oil

Plus $1 Disposal Fee. Most Cars.

(863) 763-3308Open Daily

8am-5:30pmSaturday 8am-2pm

MV47426

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIALINDUSTRIAL

Dealer of

Generators

2801 SW 3rd Terrace • Okeechobee, Florida 34974

863-467-8705Licensed & Insured #EC13001339

Joel W. Bass, Owner

BASSELECTRIC

Of Florida, Inc.

BASSELECTRIC

505 NE Park St.Okeechobee, FL

HOME DECOR - GIFTS

Adding a Little Charmto Okeechobee...

Ask Us About Our

1306 SW 2nd AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

863-532-9096O�ce: 863-763-6000

[email protected]


RED NECK WINE


RED NECK WINE

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!!

Niki Salmon Realtor – Mixon Real Estate Gourp, LLC – CBC 1256085-PCC 056704

CBC 1256085 - PCC 056704

ALSO SEE AD ABOVE: RUSTIC STYLE AND CABINS (LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!!)


Community Event


The OK Corral Gun Club staged its first Fall Harvest Festival on Sunday, Oct. 19. Families enjoyed a great afternoon of fun that included many activities, including hay rides, youth shooting contests, a Halloween costume contest, a bounce house, pumpkin decorating, pumpkin bowling, face painting, food, music and more.

OK Corral Gun Club Throws Its First

Sharon Vinson with her grandchildren Aubrey Kate Cook (left) and Amber Kay Cook (right).

Ashley Wallis

Everyone was a winner at the Halloween Costume Contest.

Briley Barton enjoys decorating her pumpkin.

Marina Shoup plays corn hole while her friends watch.The bounce house was busy all afternoon.

Fall Harvest Festival


Photos by Susan Giddings

Home FrontElectric, Security & Sound

Specializing in all of your electrical needs.Commercial - Residential - Industrial

Generator & Solar InstallationRecreational Pavilion Lighting

Emergency Service Calls WelcomedLight Installation for Streets & Landscapes

LED LightingHome / Business Security & Sound Systems

Fire AlarmMonitoring Test & Inspection Services

For Professional Service With 15 Years Experience.

Johnnie Ray (863) 801-6617 orTim Leal - Security & Sound (772) 678-0774

Fax: (863) 824-0686

Covering All Surrounding Counties of Okeechobee,including St. Lucie and Martin Counties

State Licensed & Insured, Lic. # EC0002334

Electric

Security

Lighting

Solar

Sound

863-763-3417

WELDING u TRAILER HITCHES

TRAILER JACKS u U-BOLTS

TRAILER BRAKE LIGHTS

204 SE 10TH AVENUE u OKEECHOBEE u WWW.DOMERSINC.COM

PROVIDING RELIABLE PRODUCTS AND SERVICE FOR 88 YEARS

Come See Us For Your Boat Trailer Needs and Repairs.

Nancy Taylor and Taylor Boyd made cotton candy and snow cones.

Avery, Treyson and Jaeden Somerville.

Conner Hill and Fred Hill Jr. enjoy the games.

Alvina Robertson with grandchildren Emma Farmer and Briley Barton.


Thomas A. Baudo, MD, FACS Board Certified Ophthalmologist - Retina Fellowship Trained

Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Eye DiseaseMedical & Surgical Treatment of the Retina & Vitreous

FLORIDA EYE INSTITUTE

Meet Dr. Thomas Baudo Guardian of the REAL Retina Display

772.569.9500 • fleye.com • 2750 Indian River Blvd, Vero Beach

Complex eye conditions make it difficult to focus and can interfere with reading, driving, even recognizing faces. If you have Macular Degeneration or Diabetes, trust your sight to a Fellowship Trained Retina Physician. Exclusively treating retina patients for 15 years, Dr. Baudo brings a practiced eye to the latest advances so you can keep doing the things you love.

See all life has to offer, call for your appointment today.

Restaurant


Reister has her eyes set on the University of Florida or Florida Gulf Coast University but knows she still has another year to hone her skills and get ready for college.

“I think we have the potential as a team to set a lot of records in the next year. The district and regional were really exciting for me because I really want to swim in college,” she added.

Reister broke the record in the 200 freestyle and the 400 freestyle. The time in the 200 free was expected, but the 400 time came as a bit of a surprise. “That was awesome and unexpected. I was very thankful to break that.”

Reister said the future of the swim program is bright and that she’ll be glad to be a part of it next season. “We have a lot of potential. I think I can beat my records, and maybe I can push the other girls, too. We’d like to see more girls join the swim team,” she noted.

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

Junior Swimmer Reister Breaks Records, Aims for More

Junior Aubrie Reister has already set school records and does not plan to rest on her laurels as she pushes herself to be a college swimmer at a Division I school.

The OHS swim team completed a dynamic and exciting season in 2014, with 16 swimmers qualifying to compete in the regional meet in Miami Nov. 1.

Reister was a key part of the Lady Brahman team as she set the school record in the 200 freestyle and was also a part of several relay teams – the medley relay, the 200 freestyle relay and the 400 freestyle relay.

She comes from a family of athletes. Her mother, Wendy, played softball and her dad, Randy, played football and ran cross country while they attended Long Island University.

Reister said she has always enjoyed the water and started at the early age of 3 with lessons and then the Shockwaves youth program.

“My mom started me with lessons, and I loved the water. She used to complain that I stayed too much in the water,” she noted.

Capt. Bob Stafford’s

OKEECHOBEECHARTERS

www.OkeechobeeCharters.com

• Bass Fishing• Gator Hunting• Duck Hunting• Airboat Tours

PremierLake Okeechobee

GUIDE & GATORHUNTING AUTHORITY

13441 Hwy 441 SE

Book Your Trip Today

561.719.9320

20 Years Experience.


863-467-1570 Fax 888-875-1570

Front row (L-R): Viridiana Allen, Wayne Cunningham and Taylor Marie. Back row: Charles Murphy, Merrilee Berglund, Francisco “Paco” Sangabriel, Billy Dean and Ken Keller.

Okeechobee’sONLY

HometownRadio Stations

The Staff


Photos by Sharon CannonCommunity Event

The Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education Task Force, known as NOPE, hosted a candlelight vigil sponsored by the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and Okeechobee Substance Abuse Coalition at the Okeechobee County Civic Center on Oct. 23 in memory of those lost to drug- and alcohol-related incidents.

NOPE’s Vigil Commemorates

Lives Lost to Drugs, Alcohol

From left: Undersheriff Noel Stephen, Angela Varson, Frank Whiting, County Commissioner Bryant Culpepper, Judge Jerry Bryant.

Frank Whiting and Angela Varson.

Candlelight vigil.

Master of Ceremonies Marty McCormick.

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


Todd EverettFLOORING

222 South Parrott Avenue → Okeechobee FL 34974

We Install ANY Flooring

No Matter Where You Buy It!

Skip the Middleman

Buy Direct From Us

3rd Generation Installer

Call Our Showroom at: (863)763.3368

Inc.

Experience

Licensed and Insured

Carpet → Ceramic/Porcelain → Tile → Wood Floors → Laminates → Vinyl → Boat Carpet

Why advertise with us?

Because if you're reading

this...there's a good chance your customers

are too.

316 N.W. Fifth StreetOkeechobee, FL 34972

Phone: 863.467.0054www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com


Community Event


The Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee conducted its fifth annual fundraising gala on Oct. 17 at the Recreation Outreach Center. Over 300 people attended the event, which featured Pastor Jeffery Dean as keynote speaker, as well as some very moving testimonials. Betty Williamson was presented with the Esther Award. The award is given to a woman who makes a difference in their ministry and our community. Approximately $75,000 was raised for the Pregnancy Center. For information about the Pregnancy Center, call (863) 467-8748 or visit www.okeepregcenter.com.

Raises Thousands for Pregnancy Center

Hope & A Future Gala

From left: Jay Trent, Tabitha Trent, Patti Wilson and Charlie Wilson.

Krista Waybright and Joshua Waybright with baby Eva spoke about adoption.

Kyle Reno, Catherine Jeffers, Karen Matthews, Heather Rucks, Lisa Lumpkin, Cheri Watford, Donna Helton and Ernie Tumoszwicz.


www.SneiderLaw.com

200 SW 9th Street•Okeechobee, FL 34974

863-467-6570

Glenn J. SneiderAttorney at Law

Divorce ■ Custody ■ Family Law ■ DUI ■ Criminal Law

Helping good people facing tough problems.

SNEIDER LAW


www.FishOkeechobee.com

Largest Selection of Gambler Lures! Low Prices!Great R

od Selection for All Techniques!En

ough

Bai

t to

Kee

p A

ny F

ishe

rman

Bus

y!

5% Discount to All Who Mention This Ad!(Excluding Live Bait)

Hope & A Future Gala

Marci Albert and Matthew Lookabill.

Executive Director Lisa Lumpkin presents Betty Williamson with the Esther Award.

The keynote speaker, Pastor Jeffery Dean.

ATTN

: SUS

AN G

IDDI

NGS

OK

EECH

OBE

E TH

E M

AGAZ

INE

Due:

Frid

ay, O

ctobe

r 31,

201

4 Si

ze: T

rim -

8.37

5"x1

0.87

5"; B

leed

- 8.6

25"x

11.1

25";

Live

- 7

.375

”x9.

875”

. Ful

l Col

orFi

le na

me:

“MF1

3968

_Don

’tMov

eIm

prov

eREV

_Oke

eThe

Mag

.pdf

”Se

nt o

ut v

ia e-

mail

to L

esley

on

10/2

2/14

Fran

Row

e, Cl

ark/

Nikd

el/Po

well

Adve

rtisi

ng, 8

63-2

99-9

980

x103

0

Rates as low as

APRfirst 12 months

APRthereafter

1.99%1

3.25%1

Offer valid as of December 1, 2014. A $5 deposit is required for membership with MIDFLORIDA Credit Union. Limited time offer and may be cancelled without notice. The approval of a Home Equity Line of Credit account is subject to application, credit and acceptable property (property must be your primary residence). Offer available for owner-occupied property only and excludes manufactured homes. Property insurance is required and flood insurance is required where necessary. Offer is not available for the refinance or consolidation of existing MIDFLORIDA loans. Minimum loan amount is $10,000. Maximum loan amount is $500,000. 1. Rates offered are based on credit and will vary with your credit score. The variable Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is as low as Prime + .00 (as low as 3.25% as of 8/1/2014) and is subject to change quarterly. There is no limit on the amount by which the rate can change in any one-year period. The maximum Annual Percentage Rate is 18%. 2. Closing costs generally range between $300 - $600 and will vary with the loan amount. For home equity lines of credit with a minimum initial draw of $25,000 or more, MIDFLORIDA will pay up to $400 of closing costs. 3. For home improvements only with licensed contractors. Not available for debt consolidations, cash outs or investment purposes. Not all homes will qualify to be mortgaged for more than their original purchase price.

Master Bedroom

man cave

bathroom

kitchen

Pool

Garage

Renovate your home at anextremely low rate.

Home Equity Line of Credit

• Borrow up to 100% of home’s current value3

• No closing costs (up to $400) with major draw2

• Access funds within Online Banking

Don’t move.Improve!

LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT CENTRAL FLORIDA

Okeechobee 3261 U.S. Highway 441 South Call 863.467.0188 • Toll free 855.560.5626

Extended 7am to 7pm Drive-thru and Saturday Hours

Federally insured by NCUA.

Extended 7am to 7pm Drive Thru and Saturday Hours




“Family Owned and Operated”

(863) 763-3221Frank DeCarlo, Owner

405 S.W. 2nd Street Okeechobee, Florida 34973

Fax (863) 467-8485Over 20 Years’ Experience Specializing in PVC Well Drilling

Commercial, Residential, Industrial and AgriculturalService, Installation and Repairs | Solar Pumping Packages

Windmills | Water Testing | Water Treatment | Irrigation | Pumps | Tanks Licensed & Insured

Free EstimatesEmail [email protected]

Professional document preparation without the high cost of an attorney.

Telephone: 863.824.6776

• Title Insurance • Real Estate Closings• Paralegal Services • Misc. Document Preparation

Okeechobee The Magazine to publish a special limited edition issue commemorating the

Collector’s Edition, Free of Any Advertisements

For more information or to purchase a sponsorship contact Susan Giddings at:

863.467.0054

of the City of Okeechobee.

BE A PART OF HISTORY

SPONSORS

NEEDEDSponsorship Levels:Platinum – $3,000.00Gold – $ 2,000.00Silver – $1,000.00Bronze – $750.00Friends of Okeechobee – $150


Community Event

Volunteers for Big Brothers Big Sisters conducted the third annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Chobee Play. Proceeds from the event will help support BBBS programs for the children of Okeechobee County. For more informat ion, ca l l (863) 824-2227 or visit www.bbbs.org.

All the event participants.

Kacy Hackett, Kamryn Hackett, Marlene Gonzalez, Brande Cobb, Wendy Luaces-Moreno, Lynn Levins, Morgan Davis and Kari Steiert.

Kelly Chicvarva, Cristina Paniagua, Gay Carlton, Sharon Vinson,

Nick Blount, Judi Miller and Rachel Heddings.

Volunteers Raise Cash to Help Underprivileged Okeechobee Youth



Owned and Operated by the Murray Family Since 1974

www.MurrayInsuresYou.com210 NW Park St. • Suite 103 • Okeechobee, Florida

...and Going Strong!40(863) 763.5551

Fax: (863) 763.0329

PEST CONTROL, INC.

We provide quality service for all of your pest control needs!

Family Owned and OperatedLawn & Ornamentals

Ants • Fleas • Rodents • TermitesAnimal Trapping • Pretreats

2005 SE 31st • Okeechobee, FL 34974

863-467-6707www.highlandpest.com

Residential • Commercial

Chris Hickman, Dave Mach, Bobby Hickman, Keith Hickman & Gary Crosswhite

Emily Campbell throws a good ball.

Jody Vanhoose poses before bowling.

Andrew Hines won the 50/50.


Turnovers2 cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon of salt¾ cup of well-chilled all-vegetable shortening4-8 tablespoons ice cold waterAny flavor prepared pie fillingPreparation Directions For Crust Blend flour and salt in medium mixing bowl. Cut chilled shortening into ½ inch cubes. Mix shortening cubes into flour mixture using a pastry blender in an up-and-down chopping motion until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some small pea-sized pieces remaining. Sprinkle half the maximum recommended amount of water over flour mixture. Using a fork, stir and draw flour from bottom of bowl to the top, distributing moisture evenly into flour. Press chunks down to bottom of bowl with fork. Add more water by the tablespoon until dough is moist enough to hold together when pressed together. Test dough for proper moistness by squeezing a marble-sized ball of dough in your hand. If it holds together firmly do not add any more water. If the dough crumbles add more water. Pat dough into a ball, wrap with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Turnover Preparation Directions Sprinkle work surface with flour and roll chilled dough out to ¼ inch thick. Using a pie cutter, cut dough into circles. Spoon pie filling evenly in center of circles and fold circles over to make a crescent shape. Press edges down using a fork to seal edges. Whisk two eggs in small bowl. Brush turnovers with egg wash. Place turnovers on baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake 20-25 minutes at 325 until shiny and golden brown on top. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Please visit www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com for a step-by-step video.

Carpenter by trade, restaurateur by choice, Mark Bragel is making a name for himself in small-town Okeechobee. Known for his delicious chocolates and sweets, Bragel was destined to own a restaurant, one might say. After all, he had a great teacher — his father, George A. Bragel.

Bragel fondly remembers spending Sunday afternoons with his father making pastry turnovers in the basement of

The Cubby Hole, a quaint diner once located just outside of Boston.

“When I was a little kid I used to watch him make them,” Bragel said. “I used to be able to do the egg wash for him. It’s just a good childhood memory.”

Mark Bragel

By Rachel Buxton

By Rachel Buxton

In the Kitchen With…

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Winter 2014 | 115 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Winter 2014 | 75

Do You Have a Favorite Recipe to Share?

email: [email protected]

Bragel’s father joined the military after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. While in the Navy, his father went to Bakers School and compiled quite a recipe repertoire that he hand-wrote into a cookbook that he passed down to Bragel.

Bragel still has the 1940s cookbook today, where he recently found his father’s turnover recipe.

The recipe brings back many memories of that New England basement crowded with his father’s friends.

“Always had company,” he said. “Everybody knew my dad. He fed everyone in town.”

Bragel and his father both favored his raspberry-filled turnovers. But Bragel specifically remembers his dad making apple turnovers and putting four fork holes in them before putting them into the oven so when they came out he would know exactly what flavor they were.

Even though his father was in the restaurant business the majority of his life, he constantly told Bragel to get out of it. However, his father would be proud to know that the Bragel restaurant business has come full circle.

“What’s funny is he ran a diner in a small town, right downtown,” Bragel said. “I now own a shop right downtown, in a small town.”


on Lake Okeechobee

Fishing

Okeechobee

WE NEED YOU!

Okeechobeans Taking Care of Okeechobee

Join The

Be A Local Hero! Join the Okeechobee MedicalReserve Corps Today!

For More Information or to Request an Application, Call 863.462.5819

We currently needmedical and non-medical

volunteers forLocal Disaster Response,

Emergency Preparedness, and Community Health

Improvements.

‘Fall Bonanza’ Calls Anglers to

Know Sweet Spots, Follow Bass

By Captain Michael Shellen

With the advent of state stocking and lake management programs, there are many great bass fisheries in the United States, but none compares with the incredible everyday fishing found on Florida's Lake Okeechobee.

The sheer size of the “Big O,” the nation’s second-largest natural lake, is prohibitive for all but the most seasoned anglers. It draws fishermen from all over the world, and many are shocked to learn also that it’s surrounded by a massive earthen dike to prevent flooding.

Each year, seasoned anglers here antic-ipate the arrival of a “fall bass bonanza.” Around mid-October, the first wave of big bass make their presence known, showing up in daily catches of artificial bait anglers, even more so for those using live wild golden shiner. For success, you need an understanding of the movements of the “Okeechobee Largemouth.”

Bass of all sizes swim and grow large in Lake O’s fertile waters. Many never leave the weedy perimeter cover areas, but some migrate toward the open waters when done spawning.

This fall, the first wave of pre-spawn bass appeared along the weed lines right

Five Convenient Showrooms: Okeechobee, Belle Glade, Clewiston, Immokalee and Sebring

Make it Your Home!

(863) 763.6293804 E. North Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972

www.RoyalsInc.com

Celebrating 84 Years Serving the Glades

In Store Financing Available.


When it’s time to buy, be sure to buy the rite tire!

[email protected]

Call: 863.467.1010

Serving Okeechobee 20+ Years!

Located just 6 Miles North of the High School

11071 Hwy 441 NorthOkeechobee, FL 34972

$10.00 OFF$50.00 OR MORE PURCHASE

Captain Michael Shellen

Captain Michael ShellenShellen Guide Service(863) 357-0892

www.OkeechobeeBassFishing.com

on schedule, feeding around points and trails that lead further into the marshes. Cooler weather, the new moon phase and shorter daily light drive their movement. Catch rates soared.

Big bass were in this mix as well, with 6- to 8-pound fish falling prey to a live wild shiner. Shallow bass fishing gets better each moon phase. As the initial onslaught of fish spawn, another wave will take their place. This means you can catch them coming and going.

Each area of the lake has features known to attract and hold bass; the key is to find a spot they can't seem to leave. The north end has the Kissimmee River, the lake’s primary feeder. Its inflow is rich with nutrients that feed the food chain. Native grasses prevalent on the north end are key. And non-native hydrilla is also a fish magnet.

Areas of the lake known to be productive include the Monkey Box along with Horse Island, Tin House Cove and Indian Prairie. Whatever area you settle on, persistence is key as you seek that one-in-a-thousand spot where the bass are not only plentiful but large, every fishermen's dream.

Brought to You By:Around Okeechobee

120 | Winter 2014 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.

Inkwell Tattoos Gives OHS 2nd Check for Art Supplies

On Sept. 3, Inkwell Tattoos & Piercings donated a check for $1,233 to Okeechobee High School to help in the purchase of art supplies for students. This is the second year that Inkwell has created a donation wall of money in their shop at 909 S. Parrott Ave. for this purpose.

From left: Sherry Wise, Toni Wiersma, Stephen Neafsey, Erik Clay and Dylan Tedders.

Chamber Ribbon-Cuttings

Racing to Save Lives, the Okeechobee Blood Roundup pre-drive, was conducted Sept. 6 at Gilbert Ford, Gilbert Chevrolet and Okeechobee Dodge. Blood donors Ron Main and Charles Hornbach each won a ticket package for the final NASCAR race, Nov. 16 in Homestead. Each package contained two NASCAR tickets donated by Gilbert Ford, a dinner-for-two contributed by Okeechobee Dodge and a two-night reservation courtesy of Holiday Inn. The drive saw 100 people sign in to donate blood, and an actual 75 units were drawn.

Racing to Save Lives2 Donors Win NASCAR Tickets in Pre-Drive

From left: Bert Culbreth, Charles Hornbach, Raye Deusinger, Ron Main, Christa Luna, J.D. Mixon and Russ Colwell.

CSC All Stars 3 Bee's Layne Allure Institute

Your Inner Space Rodeo and Juliet Boutique

Create and Decorate

Cowboys

Brought to You By:Around Okeechobee


From left: Paula Younger, Christa Culbreth Luna, Corey Penrod, Desiree Penrod, Susan Giddings and Tara Minton Rowley.

Main Street Mixers

Keen Focus Earns Awards for One of OTM’s Own

Okeechobee The Magazine’s very own cover and feature photographer, Sandra Pearce, was honored with several Focus Imaging Awards at the 2014 Florida Professional Photographers State Convention recently in Orlando. Pearce wasawarded Artist of the Year, ASP State Elite, Photo of the Year, Becker Award for Creative Photo-graphy and several other honors, making her a top recipient.

The 2014 Women’s Health Luncheon took place Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College. Shown at left are the guest speakers and the Raulerson Hospital administrative team: back row, from left, Dr. James Bradfield, Dr. Carlos Alejo, CEO Robert Lee and CNO Brian Melear; front row, Dr. David Sigalow, Dr. Benjamin Epstein, Dr. Erick Calmet and CFO Terry Brown.

2014 Womens Health Luncheon Presented by Raulerson Hospital

The Economic Council of Okeechobee presents its Community Award Recognizing Enhancement, known as the CARE Award, to Penrod Construction Co., located at 210 N.E. Third Ave. in Okeechobee.

Economic Council of Okeechobee CARE Award

Photo

cour

tesy o

f San

dra P

earce

Pho

togra

phy

Okeechobee Main Street members hosted mixers at their businesses.

Applebees of Okeechobee Restaurant

Brown Cow Sweetery

Rustic Now Furniture


Glades AC ......................................... 40Glen Sneider, Attorney ................... 109Golden Corral ................................... 72

Heartland Discount Pharmacy ............ 9Highland Pest Control .................... 113Holiday Inn/Best Western ................. 23Home Front Electric ........................ 101

ICS Computers.................................63 Indian River State College ................ 31Inkwell Tattoos ................................ 94

Jeanette’s Interiors........................... 77

Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center ................................. 116 Lakeshore Medical Center ................ 67Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre........... 82Linda's Style & Trends ....................... 81Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant .......... 31

Main Street Salon ............................. 22Marcum & Associates ....................... 87Mary Kay .......................................... 63Melville Wealth Management of Raymond James ............................... 86MidFlorida Credit Union ................. 110Mims Veterinary............................... 85Mixon Real Estate Group .................. 78Morgan Stanley ................................ 69Morgan’s Furniture ........................... 58Murray Insurance ........................... 113

New Vision Eye Center ..................... 59Northlake Veterinary Hospital .......... 23Nutmeg’s Café ................................. 77

OK Corral & Gun Club ........................ 27Okeechobee Charters ..................... 104Okeechobee Cowtown Rodeo ........... 21Okeechobee Family Health & Safety Expo ................................... 25Okeechobee Fishing Headquarters .. 109Okeechobee Health Care .................. 42Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corp .. 118Okeechobee Realty........................... 81

Peace Lutheran School ..................... 67Peace Lutheran School Event ........... 22 Penrod Construction ........................ 65Pier II Resort ..................................... 80Platinum Performance Builders ..........91Platt Chiropractic ............................. 41Porcelain Esthetics ........................... 39Preferred Properties ......................... 25

1 Stop Party Shop ............................. 6714K Gold Store ................................. 85211 Helpline ..................................... 78A & G Concrete Pools ........................ 43A Child’s World ............................... 119 Abney Building & Consulting ........... 59Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta ......... 73Allure Institute for Plastic Surgery .... 17American Drilling Services .............. 111Anderson Realty ............................... 77 Badcock Furniture .......................... 115Bass Electric ..................................... 98 Berger Clinic ................................... 106Berger Real Estate ............................ 38 Big Lake Eye Care ............................... 3Brennan Eye Care ............................. 50Bridgette Waldau Studio of Art ...... 116Brown Cow Sweetery ....................... 58Bruce Homer Insurance .................... 43Buxton & Bass Funeral Home ........... 10

Carpenter Insurance ......................... 55CenterState Bank ............................. 39Choice Automotive ........................... 33Christ Fellowship .............................. 49Clear Title & Legal Services ............. 111Cowboys ........................................... 68Cowtown Café .................................. 65CPA Tax Solutions ............................. 12Crossroads Restaurant ...................... 98CruiseOne ......................................... 65Custom Sights and Sounds ............. 111 Custom Window Treatments............ 33

D4 Powersports ................................ 82Doctors Clinic Family Health Care ..... 68Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ........ 50Domer’s.......................................... 101Dr. Joe Water Treatment .................. 98

Echols Plumbing & A/C ....................... 6Edward Jones Investments ............... 81Entegra Roof Tile .............................. 13Everglades Pediatric Dentistry.......... 26

Family Health and Wellness ............. 35Fawn’s Studio ................................... 43Florida Eye Institute ....................... 102Florida Outdoors RV ......................... 94Florida Public Utilities ...................... 16Flower Petals ................................... 38

Gilbert Chevrolet ............................ 123Gilbert Collision Center ..................... 93Gilbert Ford ........................................ 4

Pritchards & Associates .................... 97Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant ............... 85

Quail Creek Plantation ..................... 15Quality Air Conditioning ....32, 107, 115

Raulerson Hospital ................. 2, 60-61, Raulerson Surgical Specialists .......... 38Raulerson Gyn .................................. 55Raulerson Orthopaedic Specialists ... 79Raulerson Primary Care .................... 81Raulerson Hospital .............. Back CoverRegions Bank ................................... 48Rite Tire by Izzy .............................. 119Royals Furniture ............................. 118Rustic Now Furniture & Emporium ... 99

Salon Safari ...................................... 82Sandra Pearce Photography ........... 105Schuler, Halvorson, Weisser, Zoeller & Overbeck ........................... 117 Silver Palms RV Resort...................... 51Skull Hill Steel .................................. 90Sprint Communications ...................... 7Stafford’s Salon ................................ 67State Farm Insurance ....................... 58 St. Lucie Battery & Tire ..................... 95Sunrise Theatre ................................ 64Syfrett Feed ...................................... 50

Tammy Platt .................................... 32Teez 2 Pleez ..................................... 38The Tucker Group .............................. 72Tin Fish Restaurant........................... 22Tire Zone .......................................... 98Todd Everett Flooring ..................... 107Toni’s Chic Boutique ......................... 26Travelodge Suites ............................. 32Treasure Coast Food Bank ................. 82Trinidad Garcia, M.D ......................... 95

UBS Financial ................................... 11

Visiting Nurse Association .............. 103

Waste Management ........................ 90Water’s Edge RV Resort .................... 22Wemmer Family Orthodontics ......... 79Williamson Cattle Company ............. 39 WOKC 100.9 FM ............................. 105Wolfgang Jewelers......................... 102Women’s Health Specialists ............. 83Worley Construction ........................ 86

Yetti Outfitters ................................. 57

List of Advertisers

Enclose a check for $11.95 (made payable to Okeechobee The Magazine) and mail

along with this completed form to:Okeechobee The Magazine

316 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972

Only $11.95 a Year!

Continental U.S.A. Only!

mailed directly to your home or office.

Please Print Neatly

Name:Address:

City/State/Zip:

Phone:

Receive 4 Issues of

Keep up with “Your Community!”

316 N.W. Fifth Street

FALL 2014

Rabe RabonLife in the Saddle

Pays Off for Rodeo Champ

PlusIRSC:

Looking Back

Not Just Your

Hometown College

Okeechobee Youth

Jessica Trent

Okeechobee County

Cattlemen’s Rodeo


Serving the Heartland Areafor over 90 Years!

www.GilbertChevrolet.com

(863) 763-31543550 U.S. Highway 441 South


Over500NEW and Pre-OwnedVehicles to Choose From!

-Daniel RickardsLifelong Okeechobee Resident

“I always get the service I deserve from Gilbert’s.”

HealthyResolutions

From New Year’s to the last day of the year.

We’re here 365/24/7.

Regardless of the reason or the season, the skilled medical professionals in the Emergency Department are here for you. Last year our ER had more than

26,000 visits. We offer the right care, right here. Our ER treats kids too.

To speak to a Registered Nurse 24/7 call: 763-9228

1796 Highway 441 N • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • RaulersonHospital.com

okeechobee the magazine winter 2014

Documents

okeechobee children

north parrott ave okeechobee

major insurance

old joints

new ones

new chance

year of publication

total joint replacement