SUMMER 2008
THE MAGAZINE
Leslie Stokes
Inspiration & Culture Through Dance
Plus
Culbreth Family Tradition Anna Jane O’Steen The Pickle Lady Cattle Barons’ Ball Shopping with Juanita White
RAULERSON
OSPITAL We Care From the CEO of Raulerson Hospital
e are proud to be part of Okeechobee The Magazine, promoting our community and its vision. This year, Raulerson Hospital celebrates its 29th Anniversary of service to Okeechobee and the surrounding areas. Raulerson Hospital is proud to serve this community and will continue to strive to be your first choice for all your medical needs. Raulerson Hospital provides a full spectrum of medical and surgical services performed by physicians and support staff who take a team approach to treating you like one of their own family. Whether it is a routine exam or a revolutionary procedure, Raulerson Hospital partners with you to provide everything you need -- including the services, physicians, surgeons, staff, and the latest high tech equipment -- right here in Okeechobee. As our community grows and the need for new technology increases, you can count on us to continue to invest in the resources necessary to ensure your family's well-being for years to come. Health Grades, the nation's leading independent healthcare ratings organization, recognized Raulerson Hospital as one of 23 hospitals selected in the State of Florida to receive the Distinguished Hospital Award for “Patient Safety.” This is a great honor for our facility and another testament to the “OUTSTANDING” work and effort put forth by the healthcare and administrative staff at Raulerson Hospital, says Robert Lee, CEO. Being named one of Health Grades' Distinguished Hospitals for Patient Safety is a tremendous accomplishment. We will continue to improve patient safety through the use of best practices, improved technology, and increased patient involvement in their healthcare, says Mr. Lee. As we continue to meet your needs, we encourage your feedback. Feel free to stop by anytime with comments and suggestions -- my door is always open. Robert Lee
Chief Executive Officer
is just around the corner. The Raulerson Hospital Emergency Room is available 24/7/365 Phone: 863-763-2151
1796 Highway 441 North Okeechobee, Florida 34972
www.raulersonhospital.com
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Publisher’s Note volume
Hello and Happy Summertime to all. The past three months have been exciting as we lead into the summer. We followed many events, which you will read about in this, our biggest issue ever of Okeechobee The Magazine.
2, number 2 | Summer 2008
publisher/managing editor
Maureen Budjinski creative director
I continue to be fascinated with the rich history of our community. Another milestone was reached as Gilbert Chevrolet celebrated its 75th birthday and you will read about the Culbreth family history while meeting Gil, Jr. See if you can recognize anyone in the historic photo of one of the famous Culbreth Christmas parties. The photo is from 1939.
Bridgette Waldau office manager
Vickye Polizzi bookkeeping
Betty Buglio Robin Jones account executive
Louise Dowling senior photographer
Rafael Pacheco contributing photographer
Sandra Pearce copy editor
Marilyn Rinear writers
Jan Fehrman Charles Murphy Joyce Murphy Michael W. White contributors
Steve Detweiler distribution
Shelly Doyle
Okeechobee The Magazine 1549 Lake Drive Okeechobee, FL 34974 Phone: (863) 484-0110 Lew Blatte president
Speaking of history, no doubt you have seen the historic mural on Parrott Avenue depicting the first telephone operator, Byrd Sizemore, and her husband, first telephone installer, T.A. Sizemore. Look inside this issue and read about one of their descendents, Anna Jane O’Steen, aka The Pickle Lady. And YES, I’m very proud to say that the commissioned artist is indeed my son, Matt Budjinski. From history to modern day, we bring you dance in Okeechobee with a feature story on Leslie Stokes of Leslie’s Dance Studio. She found the cultural need and created an award-winning team of local dancers. Meet our shopper, Juanita White, a championship golfer, who shopped at Ferrelgas, Western Décor Living, and Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. Also, in this issue, we feature our Day of Beauty contest winner, Marta Sherwood, who enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at Stafford’s Salon. I continue to enjoy the letters you send with a common theme of reading Okeechobee The Magazine cover to cover. One reader said it best. Carol Stiteler from Okeechobee wrote, “Thank you for creating your magazine. It’s the only one I read completely, every word, every ad. I love it.” Well, THANK YOU, Mrs. Stiteler. Kick back, relax, enjoy the summer and enjoy this issue of Okeechobee The Magazine, YOUR Magazine.
Sincerely,
Josh I. Manning vice president
SUMMER 2008
Barry S. Manning chairman & ceo
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Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2008, all rights reserved by Okeechobee The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing. OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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contents
SUMMER 2008
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34
features 20
departments
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12 OKEECHOBEE SHOPPER
Juanita White takes us on a shopping spree to Ferrellgas, Western Living Decor, and the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club, where she also enjoyed lunch. BY JOYCE MURPHY
30 DAY OF BEAUTY
24 LESLIE STOKES
Inspiration and Culture through Dance BY JAN FEHRMAN .
34 GIL CULBRETH, JR.
Carrying on the Culbreth Family Tradition BY JAN FEHRMAN
46 ANNA JANE O’STEEN They call her “The Pickle Lady” BY MICHAEL W. WHITE
Marta Sherwood spends an afternoon at Stafford’s Salon.
columns
BY JAN FEHRMAN
56 AMERICAN RED CROSS BY JOYCE MURPHY
COMMUNITY EVENTS
SUMMER 2008
18 20 22 40 41 44 54 60 62 66 65
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Rotary Club of Okeechobee L.O.S.T. Event Okeechobee County Fair Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Spring Rodeo The Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner The Democratic Party Jefferson Jackson Dinner Congressman Tim Mahoney Visits Okeechobee Annual Cattle Barons’ Ball Okeechobee Junior Golf Championship Clay Shoot Benefits Hospice of Okeechobee American Red Cross Heroes Okeechobee Main Street Third Mural Dedication
72 BUSINESS PROFILES 78 ADVERTISERS INDEX 80 AROUND OKEECHOBEE OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
70 Gas Pains & Fuel Efficiency BY STEVE DETWEILER
75 Mary Huff Leaves Lasting Impression BY CHARLES MURPHY
SUMMER 2008
THE MAGAZINE
ON THE COVER Leslie Stokes of Leslie’s Dance Studio
Leslie Stokes
Inspiration & Culture Through Dance
Plus Culbreth Family Tradition Anna Jane O’Steen The Pickle Lady Cattle Baron’s Ball Shopping with Juanita White
Read more about Leslie on page 24. PHOTO BY RAFAEL PACHECO
74 Day of Beauty Contest
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Okeechobee Shopper Shopper Juanita White, Executive Assistant to Sheriff Paul C. May STORY BY JOYCE MURPHY O PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIDGETTE WALDAU
Each issue, Okeechobee The Magazine will send a local resident out into the community to visit local retailers on a $10,000 shopping spree. To help narrow the choices, each retailer selects three items for our shopper to consider. The shopping spree is imaginary; we don’t really fork over the cash. However, we do get a great look at what’s available at area stores.
Juanita White, Executive Assistant to Sheriff Paul C. May, was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and moved to Okeechobee with her parents in 1968. She has an extensive career history in Okeechobee County: 1975-1977 Civil Defense; 1977-1979 B.O.C.C. Finance Division; 1982-1985 Clerk of Courts Traffic Division; 1985 -1999 Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office; 1999-2000 McAlpin, Calvacanti & Lewis, CPA Firm; and 2001-current, Okeechobee County Sheriff Office as the Executive Assistant to the Sheriff. Affiliations include membership in the Florida Sheriff’s Association and the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. S h e volunteers for the Skip Bryant Memo-
rial Fund An n u a l G o lf Tournament to raise money for scholarships and hardship support for law enforcement families. Juanita is the 2008 Ladies Club Champion at OGCC. On her shopping trip Juanita visited Ferrellgas, Western Living Décor, and the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club where she also enjoyed lunch. Juanita started her shopping trip at Ferrellgas (7637557). Lisa Eilers, general manager for Southeast Florida, and Jill Bennett, construction specialist, greeted our local shopper as she entered the showroom. As Juanita looked around the small but tasteful display area of Ferrellgas, a tall patio heater, shaped like a palm tree, caught her eye. The ‘trunk’ was a dark chocolate brown and the ‘leaves’ were a weathered copper.
(Left) Juanita’s second purchase, a gift for her husband, was this Alfresco Grill and Island combo, designed by Effon.
SUMMER 2008 ISSUE
(Right) This tall patio heater caught Juanita’s eye and was her first purchase.
12 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
(Below) Juanita chooses her custom ceramic designs for her new grill with the help of (l-r) Lisa Eilers and Jill Bennett.
Lisa explained that the 40,000 BTU heater ($1499) was also a mister. “You can use it year round,” she said. “In winter, the heater warms up to 20 feet and, in summer, the mister sprays a fine mist up to 10 feet.” Juanita was enchanted with the Patio Palm heater and mister. She decided it would make a nice gift for her stepson, Mike White, and his wife Samantha. For her second purchase, Juanita chose an Alfresco Grill and Island combo ($3,399). Designed by Effon, the custom ceramic and cement combo has a 30-inch grill surface with regular and infrared grills as well as a rotisserie. The top of the grill is a sand-colored porcelain tile. “My husband Ronnie will love this grill,” Juanita said. The grill also comes with free propane for a year (5 refills for the 20 lb tank). Ferrellgas is a full service gas company. From new home construction to remodeling and service, Ferrellgas can install and repair a wide variety of gas appliances. They have conventional gas water heaters as well as the instant hot water heaters. Ferrellgas even carries gas fireplaces and gas logs for installation or to retrofit an existing fireplace. David Fountain is the Operations Manager of Ferrellgas which is open Monday through Friday from 7:30
a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Ferrellgas installs gas tanks for commercial or residential facilities and emergency gas service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Next Juanita headed over to Western Living Décor, formally known as Rustic Ranch. Nancy Gagliardi owns the western style store. Her daughter, Christina Drake, has her own store within the store, Cowgirl Diva, in the front of the large showroom. Billed as “a touch of western class,” Western Living Décor is a treasure trove of unique and unusual items. Nancy invites everyone to “come in, browse, bring your children and enjoy the store.” From handcrafted furniture made in Mexico to cypress log beds made locally, Western Living Décor has items not found anywhere else. Nancy carries a full line of Blonder towels and bath accessories at a very reasonable price. Juanita found a charming handcrafted Indian doll on a board by ckCanfield ($395). The limited edition doll and board is individually numbered and is made using feathers and real rabbit skins. Juanita looked over Nancy’s large selection of hand carved furniture made from juniper, cypress, cedar
(Left) Juanita sits at her newly purchased Bistro table made of Ponderosa pine with carvings of palm trees. (Right) One of many hand-made Tee Pee lamp shades. (Below left) Juanita admires a charming handcrafted Indian doll on a board by ckCanfield. (Below right) l-r Owner Nancy Gagliardi, and her daughter Christina Drake, write up Juanita’s purchases of the day.
SUMMER 2008
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Stan Moles, Superintendent of Maintenance, stopped by to talk to Terry. According to Stan, OGCC is a 214acre complex that includes the greens, wetlands, lakes and nature preserves. It is common to see deer, sandhill cranes, otters and sometimes alligators around the course.
tarawood and Ponderosa pine. A bistro table ($595) made of Ponderosa pine with carvings of palm trees caught Juanita’s eye. The pedestal table had a glass top that showed off the palm tree carving and came with two barstools with matching palm tree carvings. Juanita looked over the selection of tops and jeans in the Cowgirl Diva shop before deciding to save clothes shopping for another day.
Juanita decided to splurge on new Footjoy shoes ($60), a golf bag with clubs to which she added a driver and 3 wood ($2000 total). Adding 10 dozen Titleist ProV1 golf balls ($500) to the mix, Juanita declared herself ready for vacation.
Juanita was off to one of her favorite places, Okeechobee Golf and Country Club (OGCC). Located at 405 NE 131st Lane, Okeechobee Golf and Country Club (7636228) is open to the public as well as offering annual memberships. The 18-hole championship golf course is open seven days a week from 7:00 a.m.until 6:00 p.m. in the summer.
Juanita has played golf at OGCC long enough to know that tournaments as well as fundraisers are all played on the 18-hole course. Non-members are welcome to play. The price of golf includes a golf cart rental. Only annual members are allowed to walk the course.
Terry Lanman is the Head Golf Professional and General Manager of OGCC. Terry greeted Juanita downstairs in the pro shop that carries a full line of golf accessories as well as snacks and beverages for golfers and guests.
Bidding Terry goodbye, Juanita moved upstairs to Okeechobee Golf & Country Club restaurant and lounge to see what restaurant manager Paul Rox was fixing for lunch. The open, light-colored dining room was a welcome respite from the heat. When the weather is nice, diners may sit outside on the porch that surrounds the nonsmoking facility or enjoy the patio that overlooks the pool and the 9th hole.
This is where you sign up for memberships and pay daily golfing fees. Juanita, an avid golfer, was eager to renew her annual family membership ($1254). Besides golf, the country club also has a pool and an upstairs restaurant and lounge that serves light meals.
(
SUMMER 2008
(Above) Juanita with her purchase of a new set of golf clubs.
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(Above) l-r OGCC Club Pro, Terry Lanman and Amy Haddan assist Juanita as she signs up for a family golf membership. OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
(Above and inset) Juanita could not leave without buying this pair of Footjoy golf shoes.
SUMMER 2008
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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With a dance floor and a stage area, the OGCC dining room is the perfect setting for a wedding reception, birthday party or other special function. The restaurant is open to the public everyday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and the bar is open until 6 p.m. Chicken strips, chicken wraps and hamburgers are just a sample of the variety of appetizers and sandwiches on the menu. There is also a daily special. Choosing a BLT and tea, Juanita talked about her love of golf. “I love to play. I am in every tournament at the course. I’m looking forward to the Skip Bryant Memorial Tournament,” she said. Paul returned quickly with Juanita’s lunch. As she began to eat, Juanita’s thoughts were already on her next round of golf.
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With lockers and showers downstairs, she could have a quick round of golf and still make it back to work. Well, maybe just a couple of holes. After all, a 2008 Ladies Club champion has to keep on her game. O (Below) As she was heading back to work, Juanita, bid farewell to the golfers looking over their scorecards enjoying a beverage at the bar. (l-r) Russ and Linda Papy, Dr. Norm Koff, Leo Weaver, Bubba Mullins, Chuck Groves and Paul Rox.
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Community Event
BY MAUREEN BUDJINSKI
ROTARY CLUB OF OKEECHOBEE 5th Annual L.O.S.T. Bike-Run-Walk
Okeechobee Rotary Club’s 5th Annual L.O.S.T. (Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail) Bike-Run-Walk was held on March 29, 2008. The event began with registration at Scott Driver Park. Participants from all over enjoyed the magnificent vistas of Lake Okeechobee while they rode the scenic trail in a 12, 20, or 40-mile stretch or in the 54-mile, round-trip course. Proceeds from this event benefited the Rotary Club’s scholarship program and 1 Okeechobee Boy Scouts.
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4 1. (l-r) Lance Harner with parents Lauren and Randy Harner from The Acreage in Palm Beach County 2. Rotary Committee Members (Kneeling l-r) Jeanette Miller, Jim McInnes, Maureen Budjinski and Colin Cameron (Standing l-r) Susan Barber, Eric Pope and Kristy Crawford. 3. (l-r) Mark Greenberg with event chair, Jim McInnes. 4. Enthusiatic bikers, runners and walkers head to the dike on Lake Okeechobee. 5. Walking, from the Okeechobee Business Women’s Networking group: (l-r) Eileen Casian, Teresa Chandler, Karen Hanawalt, Crystal Workman, Susan Barber, Janet LaCroix and Maureen Budjinski.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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(l-r) Ed Downey, Joe Atterberg and Don Goering from Palm Beach County.
SUMMER 2008
First participant to complete the 54 mile roundtrip ride, Jesus Estrada. OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE 
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Community Event
BY JOYCE MURPHY
Okeechobee County Fair
“Lasso Some Fun”
The second annual Okeechobee County Fair was held March 7th - March 16th. This year’s theme was “Lasso Some Fun” and a fun time was had by all. This year featured the popular livestock show, top-notch entertainment, a demolition derby and was also host to the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Spring Rodeo. The fair opened with the first Miss Okeechobee County Fair pageant, crowning Mary Barber.
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Around the Fair
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7
4
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Photography by Jim Davis
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Photography by Jim Davis
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Photography by Rafael Pacheco
1. Newly crowned Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen, Mary Barber. 2. Award winning quilts on display. 3. Okeechobee County Fair Association treasurer, Terry Burroughs. 4. Rebekah Bishop, Dairy Overall Grand Champion. 5. Tadpole the clown. 6. A popular food booth lights up the midway. 7. Aaron Tippin signing autographs. 8. Zachery Lawrence, Hog Grand Champion. 9. One of the popular rides, Super Shot. 10. President of the Okeechobee County Fair Association, Linda Syfrett, prepares to cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony. 11. Tyler St. Pierre, 3, pets a buffalo calf in the petting area. 12. Jessica Humphrey, Steer Grand Champion.
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Community Event
PHOTOS BY SANDRA PEARCE
Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association
Spring Rodeo Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association held their 2008 Spring Rodeo at the Agri-Civic Center on March 8th and 9th, in conjunction with the Okeechobee County Fair and the Livestock show.
2
The event was exciting and entertaining for all the rodeo fans attending.
1
National Day OF THE AMERICAN
COWBOY
1. Saddle Bronc Riding 2. Mutton Bustin’ 3. Bull Riding 4. Girl’s Barrel Racing 5. Calf Roping
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SAVE THE DATE! Okeechobee Cattle Women
Labor Day Rodeo Dinner Dance August 29, 2008
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SUMMER 2008
10:00 am Cattle Drive on 70 East starting at Flagler Park and ending at the Agri-Civic Center 2:00 pm Ranch Rodeo at the Agri-Civic Center
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Presented by Okeechobee Cattlemen's Association and Okeechobee Main Street OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Inspiration and Culture Through Dance BY JAN FEHRMAN O PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO Pink ribbons festoon the door to Leslie’s Dance Studio announcing the arrival of Leslie and Robert Stokes’ daughter, Reese Greiner Stokes. Inside, Reese watches the dancers’ movements as they turn and plie, already settling into life at her mother’s dance studio. Leslie Greiner Stokes hails from Madison, Fla., where her parents own Townsend Livestock Market. She met her husband Robert through his sister Katrina and soon moved to Okeechobee in April of 2004. When she first arrived, Leslie worked with her husband on his cattle ranch and enjoyed it, but two and a half years ago she decided she needed something for herself. With her husband’s support, Stokes fulfilled her dream of teaching dance when she opened her studio on SW Park Street. She was anxious to bring the art of dance to Okeechobee, which did not have a dance studio at the time. Stokes credits Kelley and Davy Raulerson with giving her a lot of encouragement to open the studio and continuing to offer support. Stokes began dancing at age three, but she also had an early love of rodeo and competed in all-girls events such as barrel racing, goat tying, team-roping, pole-bending and cutting. Stokes was drawn to both rodeo and dance by their competitive edge and performing. “I love being on stage or in the rodeo arena,” she said. “Performing is empowering.”
SUMMER 2008
While still participating in junior rodeo in the ninth grade, Stokes changed her main focus to dance. During her preteen and teenage years, Stokes studied at Becky’s Dance Steps Studio in Madison. She credits her teacher Becky Robinson for inspiring her to become a dance teacher as well. By her sophomore year, Stokes was co-teaching 200 students with Robinson. Stokes’ favorite dancer was the late Steven Boyd, with whom she studied lyrical ballet and jazz during master classes at national competi-
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tions where she won many awards. She also studied under Laura Haynes at the Santa Fe Theater in Gainesville. “She had a huge impact on my dance and what I wanted for my studio,” Stokes said. Stokes recalls dancing in two of her favorite shows: the Rockettes scene in Annie and in The Goodbye Girl. But her most exciting dance event was Power and Light at the University of Florida, choreographed by the students. Leslie’s Dance Studio began in 2006 with 67 students and now numbers 112. Students ages three and up can study ballet, lyrical ballet, tap, jazz and hip-hop. Stokes also offers classes for adults in tap and jazz. Stokes said she dances every day with her students, including during her pregnancy. Assisting her is co-teacher Cody McCoy, as well as Mary Barber and Alexis Ariail. Ashley Watford and Jessica Ziglar keep things running in the office or wherever they’re needed. Last year Stokes decided to form a competitive dance team so exceptional girls would be able to compete and have the opportunity to learn from master teachers at nationals. She started with a team of 12 and now has 27. This year they are competing in lyrical, tap, jazz and variety. To go to nationals, the dance must score a 90 or better. Stokes encourages kids to work together and said the dance team competition is a great way to achieve this goal. In November Leslie’s Dance Studio performed 19 dances at the state competition of Dance Makers, Inc. in Daytona Beach; nine of these
Leslie
Stokes
“Through dance, a child can become more self-motivated and disciplined.”
SPRING ISSUE
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dances were selected to go to nationals to be held in Myrtle Beach, S.C., in June.
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A trip to the national competition costs $1,000 per child, so Stokes has formed a nonprofit organization, Leslie’s Dance Team, for the competitive dance team. The students and their parents work hard to earn enough money to be able to participate. This year they sponsored a golf tournament, bake sale, yard sale and sold tickets for rodeo parking. Stokes said she has a great group of parents who pitch in to help with the studio and its students. She said she feels privileged to teach in a town where parents are so committed to their children. Stressing the importance of family time, Stokes said she believes the competitive dance team brings parents and children closer together. Stokes — who is stepmother of Justina, 16, and Cade, 13 — has her own family involved with dance as well. “My family gives me terrific support,” Stokes said. Her husband Robert helps her set up for shows, and Cade runs the music. The annual
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dance recital each June is a big part of the dancers’ focus and allows them the opportunity to showcase their talents. On a busy spring day Stokes posed the girls in their colorful satin and tulle costumes for their photographs for the program. Parents and students sell ads in the program to finance the recital. Stokes is excited to have brought more culture to Okeechobee and lauds the Top of the Lake Art Fest as helping further the arts here. Her dancers performed at this year’s art fest and also were selected to perform at the Okeechobee County Fair Beauty Pageant. Stokes choreographed the opening number for the pageant and was a pageant coordinator. “I love for my dancers to entertain the community and want them to perform at every opportunity,” she said.
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Stokes recommends dance for children as a way to build self-confidence. “Parents can’t believe it at the end of the year when they see how much confidence their child has developed,” she said, noting that ballet is especially good for structure. “Every child needs structure.”
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With her daughter Reese’s arrival, Stokes says her focus is changing from competing and shows to concentrating on the child as an individual and a performer. “Through dance, a child can become more self-motivated and disciplined,” Stokes said.
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Gretchen Robertson, who dances in the adult jazz class, said the students in her class feel like Stokes has given them their youth back. “Going to Leslie’s Dance Studio is like going to the fountain of youth,” Robertson said. “Leslie is one of the greatest things to happen to Okeechobee. She offers culture and inspiration to all ages.”
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Leslie’s Dance Studio is located at 401 SW Park Street. For more information, call (863) 357-3571. O
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Day ofBeauty Marta begins her day with a manicure, given by Barby Smith.
The wish to be Queen for a Day inspired Marta Sherwood to apply for Okeechobee The Magazine’s Day of Beauty. But this is not just any ordinary queen. Marta is a hardworking mother and grandmother, who has been one hundred percent deaf since an accident at the age of nine. In her letter she said she had always dreamed of hearing again. Her dream came true recently when she underwent surgery and received a cochlear implant that has given her fifty percent hearing with hopes of more. Marta felt like a day at the salon would help rejuvenate her and make her feel beautiful again. When she arrived, the friendly staff of Stafford’s Salon, owned by Angie Griffin, welcomed Marta and whisked her away to manicurist Barby Smith for an acrylic refill, reshape, and polish. Marta chose to have an O.P.I. French manicure with delicate white tips and a pink base on her nails. From there, Barby escorted Marta to the pedicure “throne.” While she enjoyed the swirl of the footbath over her feet and ankles, she confided that she’d never had a pedicure before. With a husband and two active sons at home, she doesn’t often take time to sit and relax. Marta also has a son and two grandchildren in Miami who keep her busy. When she’s not with her family, her favorite activity is baking award-winning pies.
A relaxing foot spa preceded Marta’s pedicure.
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(left) Hair stylist, Kayla Cherry begins styling Marta’s hair using Paul Mitchell Hair Care products. (below left) While being styled, Marta enjoys reading Okeechobee The Magazine. (below right) Makeup artist, Mercedes Castenada, mixes the right shade of color for Marta’s makeup using Cara products.
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Stafford’s Salon Gives Relaxing Day At The Spa BY JAN FEHRMAN O PHOTOS BY MAUREEN BUDJINSKI
Next, Barby gave Marta’s feet, ankles, and calves an exfoliating massage with delicious smelling Mandarin Honey Sugar Scrub followed by a Mandarin Honey Moisture Mask. For her polish, Marta opted for the French look to match her nails. When the pedicure was finished, Marta said, “I feel like walking on a cloud.” Moving on to the stylist’s chair, Marta met Kayla Cherry who shampooed and conditioned her hair with Paul Mitchell products before cutting, shaping and smoothing her new coiffure. She created layers around the face, but still kept the dramatic style of Marta’s waist length black hair.
Marta is radiant and ready to return home from her day of beauty.
The final treat was a visit to makeup artist, Mercedes Castenada, who, using Cara products, blended powder and blush to create a smooth and rosy complexion and chose to enhance Marta’s striking black eyes with pale green and brown eye shadows. She finished with lip liner, a soft pink lip-gloss, eyeliner and mascara. After Marta completed her royal day, the gracious staff at Stafford’s Salon presented her with a farewell gift of hair care products and their best wishes. Radiant from A Day of Beauty designed just for her, Marta prepared to return to her home and family, saying, “I feel like I’ve just taken the first step towards becoming a new woman.” O
Stafford’s Salon staff with Marta at the end of her day of beauty. Front: (l-r) Marta and Barby Smith. Back row: Heather Parker, Kayla Cherry, Kelly Demeter, Deana Williams, Chandley Arnold and Mercedes Castenada. Angie Griffin, Owner of Stafford’s Salon
(below left) Makeup artist, Mercedes Castenada, applies eye shadow to Marta. (below right) Applying the final touch, Mercedes applies lip liner and lipstick which completes Marta’s makeup application. (right) A display of some of the many Paul Mitchell products available at Stafford’s Salon.
SUMMER 2008
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SUMMER 2008
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Carrying on the
C
ulbreth Family Tradition BY JAN FEHRMAN O PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
On South Parrott Avenue, there’s a large modern building with sparkling mirrored windows surrounded by late model cars and trucks. Although it is one of the most contemporary sites in town, the Gilbert Chevrolet Dealership has been in Okeechobee’s Culbreth family for 75 years. Gil Culbreth, Jr. recalls the story of his father and his father’s parents setting out in 1924 in a Model T truck from Madrid, Alabama, for the “new frontier” in Florida. Gilbert Culbreth, Sr. came looking for opportunities, stopped to spend the night in Okeechobee on his way to Miami and never left. Over the years he developed businesses as he saw a need for them. From offices at Gilbert Chevrolet, Gil, Jr., along with his wife and children, continue to run the companies begun by his father. “We’re trying to carry on a family tradition,” he said. Gil, Jr.’s Okeechobee roots reach back even further on his mother’s side, to his grandfather Hardy Walker, Sr., who arrived in Bassinger in 1885 and was one of its first settlers. He moved to Okeechobee in 1917 where he was instrumental in the development of Okeechobee County and served as its first property appraiser. Walker was a leading cattleman and citrus grower, and took an active part in the community for many years. One of Gil, Sr.’s first ventures was a service station near Taylor Creek that he owned in 1925 with Walter Watford. In 1928 Gil, Sr. established Gilbert Oil. Soon he saw other possibilities and expanded his ventures to include Gilbert Hardware and Appliances, which later become Parrott Tire and Appliance, and in 1933 he established the Gilbert Chevrolet dealership. In the 1930s, Gil, Jr. said, it was important to have more than one business if you were going to make it. In 1934, Gil, Sr. built the Gilbert Theater for $6,000. It entertained the community until it was torn down in 1969. Gil, Jr. recalls that his dad was a big promoter and had clowns, bands, raffles and even gave away cars to bring in customers. He tells the story of one promotion where his dad let people into the theater for free if they came barefoot. Gil, Jr. reminisces about his two sisters: Suzy Hoover, a realtor for Gil Culberth Real Estate and Virginia Lee Durrance, an attorney who at 18 was elected the youngest Democratic Committee Woman in Florida. Virginia’s birthday was near Christmas, so her father threw her a big party at the theater. Eventually he invited all the children in town and it became a Christmas party he hosted for over 30 years.
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Okeechobee Historian Betty Williamson remembered Gil and his sisters on the stage helping give out tangerines and candy. “I walked a mile in from the country to get to this special event, one of the highlights of Christmas,” Williamson said.
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Gil put his considerable energy and love of the community into this party, going out in his panel truck with OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
“I can’t think of any other place I’d rather live than Okeechobee.”
SUMMER 2008
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Santa and a speaker to invite the children to the theater, where they would watch cartoons and receive gifts. He hosted several thousand children in its heyday. For many children this would be their only Christmas celebration and gift. Like his father before him, Gil, Jr. continues to be generous to the youth of Okeechobee through his support of ball teams, 4-H, the FFA, Scouts and an annual scholarship established in Gil, Sr.’s memory. Gil, Jr. and his wife Marie also are involved with the Economic Council of Okeechobee, United Way, March of Dimes and their major charity, Hospice of Okeechobee, where Marie is a board member. Gil, Jr. remembers his childhood in Okeechobee as a “happy time, a simpler way of life.” He enjoyed the small community where his high school graduating class numbered 38 in 1963. He worked at the dealership, attended college and after serving in the Navy
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
for three and a half years, returned to Okeechobee, where he helped the family businesses thrive. Today the Culbreth’s companies have expanded to include not only the Gilbert Chevrolet Dealership and Gilbert Oil Company, but also Gilbert Snapper and Golf Cars, and Gil Culbreth Real Estate. The Culbreths celebrated the 75th anniversary of the car dealership in May and the 80th anniversary of Gilbert Oil in January. Gil, Jr. believes they have the oldest Snapper lawn mower dealership in the country.
“Our children are our biggest achievement.” In 1969 Gil, Jr. married Marie Allen, who has worked in the business with him ever since. Marie came to Okeechobee when she was ten from Silver City, Miss. She graduated from Okeechobee High School in 1967. Their daughter Christa Luna is the general manager of Gilbert Chevrolet and their son Bert runs Gilbert Snapper and Golf Cars; however, both are involved in all the businesses. Christa is on the economic council and Bert helps coach little league. “Our children are our biggest achievement,” Gil, Jr. and Marie said.
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Gil Culbreth, Jr. stands in front of a picture of his father.
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Christa and her husband Mark, originally from Bassinger, are the parents of two children: Grace and Alex, the fifth generation in the family to live in Okeechobee. Gil, Jr. said the family business philosophy has always been to take care of customers and offer service first. With more than 70 employees, it may be the largest family owned local retail business in Okeechobee. I can’t think of any other place I’d rather live than Okeechobee,” Gil, Jr. said. “I enjoy the people, the atmosphere and quality of life.” His father was quoted with having similar sentiments in a newspaper article in 1957 when he said, “Okeechobee is a fine place to live, and the best people in the world live here.” In appreciation of Okeechobee’s history, the Culbreths are making plans to renovate the old Bank of Okeechobee building at the corner of State Road 70 West and Osceola.
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Gil, Jr.’s maternal grandfather raised cattle and citrus here and helped found the county. His father developed early business ventures that Gil, Jr. and his family carry on to this day. With roots deep in Okeechobee, four generations of Culbreths have contributed to making this a “fine place to live.” O
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a Quantum Group company
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Community Event
PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
The Republican Party of Okeechobee
Lincoln Day Dinner
The Republican Party held their annual fundraising dinner at the Okeechobee Shriners Club on April 19, 2008. Chairman Dick Ahrens chaired the event and Debi Large served as Mistress of Ceremonies. Speakers were Hal Valeche, Tom Rooney, and Florida Representative, Gayle Harrell - all candidates for Congress in the District 16 Republican primary.
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1 1. Tom Rooney, candidate District 16 2. Gayle Harrell 3. Hal Valeche 4. Seated (l-r) Veronica and
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Tiffani Castilleja. Standing (l-r) Rene Luviano and Osiel Torres 5. Noel and Laurie Stephen 6. (l-r) Debi Large and Shirley
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Ahrens
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PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
Community Event
Okeechobee County Democratic Executive Committee Present Jefferson Jackson Dinner
D.E.C. Chairman, Dr. Pat Brennan
Keynote Speaker Congressman Tim Mahoney
The Okeechobee County D.E.C. held their Jefferson Jackson Dinner on May 3, 2008, at the Okeechobee Shrine Club. Proceeds benefited the Okeechobee Democratic Party and the H.O.P.E. Scholarship Fund. Chairman, Dr. Pat Brennan, assisted by Stephanie Pierce, D.E.C. Secretary, facilitated the evening. Congressman Tim Mahoney served as Keynote Speaker.
(Pictured Left) Okeechobee County Commissioner Noel Chandler and son John present a barbeque stick to Congressman Mahoney. (Picture Center) Dr. John Geake and Glades DEC Chair, Ellen Geake. (Pictured Right l-r) Becky and Marion Ellis, Larry Paxton, and Margie Mauk.
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Cardiologist Pacemakers, Transesophageal Echocardiograms, Cardio Versions
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Community Event
BY MAUREEN BUDJINSKI
CONGRESSMAN MAHONEY Spends Day in Okeechobee
Congressman Tim Mahoney arrived early on March 25 to spend the day with community leaders, business owners, students, and residents of Okeechobee. He talked about issues and listened to concerns. The day ended with a town hall meeting at the Freshman Campus.
SUMMER 2008
1. Congressman Tim Mahoney with 2008 Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen, Mary Barber. 2. (l-r) Theta Sclegal, Terry Burroughs, and Congressman Mahoney. 3. Breakfast meeting with Okeechobee officials. (l-r) Brian Whitehall, Denny Davis, Herb 1 Smith, Lowry Markam, Congressman Tim Mahoney, Noel Chandler and Clayton Williams. 4. (l-r) Congressman Mahoney with the Smiley family. Kevin, mom Geanna, Andrew, Nathan, and Justin. 5. Congressman Mahoney listens to a group of OHS students. 6. Sheriff Paul May and Congressman Mahoney. 7. Devin and Libby Maxwell with 2 Congressman Mahoney.
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SUMMER 2008
“
I make the best pickles in the world, but I started that rumor.
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THEY CALL HER
“The Pickle Lady” BY MICHAEL W. WHITE O PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet. - William Shakespeare.
M
eet Anna Jane Evans Breland O’Steen, a.k.a. the Pickle Lady, known for her award winning pickles and guava jelly. She was born in Okeechobee in 1930 to parents P.P. and Lucile Evans. Mrs. O’Steen, has a very interesting background. As a child, she lived in East Okeechobee, and to this day still maintains property in her old neighborhood. At 78 years old O’Steen is an Okeechobee staple who has many stories about our great small town. She graduated from Okeechobee High School when the graduating class had only 12 students. Wow, how times have changed. Today, O’Steen continues to involve herself in the community by selling her tasty pickles and jams as well as being an important member of the Okeechobee Historical Society. She previously had been a pianist, organist, choir member and Sunday school teacher at First United Methodist Church.
O’Steen is amazed at Okeechobee’s change in landscape. She can remember when Okeechobee had not more than 5,000 people in the whole county. O’Steen walked the dirt roads of the city as a teenager. While growing up, she even worked for the Markham Canning Plant, an Okeechobee historic location along Park Street. Although an Okeechobee native, O’Steen hasn’t always resided in Okeechobee. While married to her first husband, Ardell Breland, they moved around. O’Steen has called many locations home, including Jacksonville, Gainsville, Fort Pierce and the Virgin Islands. O’Steen missed the country life in Okeechobee. It was no surprise she ended up back here. Life with Ardell, who tragically passed away from a heart attack, was not without great memories. Recalling a memory of her late husband, O’Steen recalled that he was a passionate pilot and once went down in the Bermuda Triangle but lived to tell about it. After treading water for five hours, Ardell and his three passengers, Herb Nix and Howard and Ruby Altman, also from Okeechobee, were rescued. This story is currently being worked on by the historical society. After Ardell’s death, O’Steen lived as a widow for 21 years. On February 20, 2000 she married Barney O’Steen who was a previous boyfriend from the 1950’s.
Today, they live happily together here in Okeechobee. One of the things Anna Jane O’Steen loves about Okeechobee is the fact she was able to raise children here. Having two sons, Dennis and Dale, and a daughter, Dana Dell, O’Steen was busy keeping them on the right track. However, her small-town family life was interrupted with tragedy when her daughter passed away six years ago at age 45. As hard as something like that is to deal with, she found some bright light. It was with this tragic event O’Steen found a way to cope. To this day, she is a strong advocate of organ donation based on her constant thought that her daughter is still around due to her organs contributing to the well being of others. Every chance O’Steen gets, she promotes organ donation. One year, during an annual festival in the park, O’Steen won rodeo tickets. Knowing she couldn’t attend, she wanted to give them to another who could use them, with a catch of course. She had a stage performer announce that the first person who could produce an organ donation card could have the tickets. This is just an example of her constant fight for the cause in honor of Dana Dell. If you run into O’Steen, show her your organ donor card. It will bring a smile to her face. A large part of O’Steen’s life has been her job as a hair stylist — 50 years of her life, to be exact. She was the owner of Anna Jane’s Beauty Parlor in Okeechobee for many of those years. Painting is also a true love of O’Steen. Few people know that it was she who painted the original 1968 painting of OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
O’Steen’s Okeechobee roots run deep. Her lineage is now seen as you drive through town on the newest of our great murals. You may have seen the new mural on the Embarq building near the main intersection of Parrott Avenue and Park Street. The mural shows Okeechobee’s historic introduction into telephone communication. Depicted in the mural are two individuals, T.A. and Byrd Sizemore. Thomas (T.A.) Sizemore, who installed the first telephone system in our town, is O’Steen’s uncle. Byrd Sizemore is
her aunt, and was Okeechobee’s first telephone operator. O’Steen’s mother, Lucile Burns Evans, was the second operator. O’Steen remembers hearing stories about how her father courted her mother at the phone company during his lunch breaks.
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the Southland Hotel before it was torn down at the current site of CVS Pharmacy. The original hangs today inside the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce building, and prints are for sale there as well. Her painting was also that subject of the 36th Annual Speckled Perch Festival poster. O’Steen recalled that her art instructor, the late Dorothy Chilcutt, told her that as O’Steen was painting the hotel, “that hotel is gonna make you famous.” Little did she know, it would be the pickles. One day while in her hair salon, O’Steen was doing a customer’s hair and a topic came up. She was told about a good recipe for pickles. O’Steen tried it out
Homes by Jolicoeur,Inc. and they were very good, so she kept making them. She liked these pickles so much that she knew she needed a good knife. O’Steen liked her pickles thin and was going to make them her way. Eventually, she graduated to using a food processor for relishes and trying different flavors of pickles.
SUMMER 2008
Phone: 863.357.2700
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1669 Highway 70 East - Okeechobee, Florida 34972 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Whatever the flavor, 18 years later O’Steen is still making pickles. It keeps her busy and she loves it. Due to her many years in the pickle business, she calls herself simply the “Pickle Lady.” It is also interesting to know that one of her regular customers
Okeechobee’s Oldest & Most Trusted Sign Shop
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
30 Years in the Business
707 S.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
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sends her delicious pickles to Russia. Yes, Russia. “I make the best pickles in the world, but I started that rumor,” O’Steen said.
It appears that Mrs. Chilcutt did indeed have it wrong. It wasn’t the hotel, but the pickles that made O’Steen famous.
SUMMER 2008
Pick up the phone and call O’Steen at (863) 357-7919; she would be pleased to make them for you. However, be warned, get ready for a good story about Old Okeechobee. O
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
econd to
one
SERVICE INTEGRITY EXPERIENCE
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s a recognized leader in the South Florida Real Estate industry, The Tucker Group, LLC is comprised of a diverse group of South Florida Real Estate professionals specializing in residential, commercial, industrial, large acreage acquisition and South Florida Real Estate development as well as agriculture and special use properties. The Tucker Group, LLC also provides accelerated marketing through the public auction method of sale throughout Florida.
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he Tucker Group, LLC home office is based in Okeechobee, Florida on beautiful Lake Okeechobee. Having over 100 years of combined professional experience, we are confident we can meet your individual South Florida Real Estate needs.
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SUMMER 2008
Licensed Real Estate Broker and Auctioners
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We Love To Care... Family owned and operated, Okeechobee Health Care Facility began providing care to the elderly citizens of Okeechobee and the surrounding communities in December of 1984. g her e describrinpainting. g a G y d n Sa da Ar t Calen Resident
Sh & Sonirley Steph , Noel en, jo , for t ined b he Ar y da t Show ughte Betty Mills modeling her Calen r, Debbi Mardi Gras costume. dar P e, arade .
Rehab Therapy, consisting of Physical Therapy, Occpational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Out-Patient Therapy are available seven days a week in a loving, caring environment. Long-term care is available for those loved ones who can no longer be cared for safely at home, in addition to a secured Dementia/Alzheimer's Unit.
Gerelda Perry, pHr ill with volun t eparing for kite-efler, Logan ying.
ing work s l e i Dan ith . elyn lifts w , RPT Jacqu on legSanchez ia Cecil
Herschel Haver lo therapy from ck receiving out-patient while Pat Lam Maurice Cogle, RPT. m exercises wit h a smile"
Dietitian-directed, nutritious meals and snacks, stimulating, fun activities, full-time pastoral services, and dedicated Nurses and CNAs provide individualized, personal care to our residents 24 hours a day.
asing Jim Price te tine balloon. with his Valen
Jeannie Cr Rose Mauw ford with da u their Erpahy, modelingghter, ster hats.
F wei red Hawki Maurgihc t-bearing nexs beginning e & Reg ercises w ner Dioq ith uin,RPT . e with som ssaboontmas gifts. o C n e w O his Chris of
Okeechobee Health Care Facility 1646 Highway 441 North - Okeechobee, Florida 34972
Call 863-763-2226
SUMMER 2008
For A Personalized Tour With Sandy.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
53
Community Event
PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
Third Annual Cattle Barons’ Ball Benefits American Cancer Society
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The third annual Cattle Barons’ Ball was held at beautiful Quail Creek Plantation on April 12, 2008. Teresa Chandler and Billy Dean cochaired the event. A special feature for the Okeechobee CBB is the live auction of a picnic table branded by local ranchers. The special speaker for the evening was Britney Stone. Britney is a two-time cancer survivor and an attendee at the American Cancer Society’s R.O.C.K. (Reaching Out To Cancer Kids) Camp, which is specifically for children with cancer and a place where kids can just be kids. She will return next year as a camp counselor.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
1. Cattle Barons’ Ball Committee: Front (l-r) Frank and Debbie Riddle, Sonny and Betty Williamson, Teresa Chandler, Billy Dean, Cindi Domer, Clinton Griffin. Back: Maria Tanizzi, Shannon Martin, Keri Hughes, Carrie Heineman, Teri Sauter, Debra Mathews and Keith Stripling. 2. Baron and Baroness, Wes and Darin Williamson 3. Winners of the auctioned picnic table, branded by local ranchers. (l-r) Mark Smith, President Seacoast National, Big Lake and his wife Amy. 4. Waste Management sponsored table: (l-r) Tony Bishop. Gary & Pam Casperson, Jenny & Butch Pung, Jason and Janelle Johns. 5. Doctors Manuel and Trinidad Garcia. 6. Davy & Kelly Raulerson with daughter Emma. 7. ACS Unit Executive Director, Keri Hughes looks on as two-time cancer survivor Britney Stone tells her story. 8. (l-r) Travis Brown, Larry McWhorter and Jeremiah Kesner. 9. Everglades Farm Equipment sponsored table: (l-r) Sandy Scruggs, Lisa Dailey, Richard & Jeanne Ireland, Kim & Chet Pluskot and James & Kim Frazier.
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Brahma Bull Restaurant & Lounge
Serving Lunch & Dinner Daily Specials Banquet Room Entertainment
New!
Unique Sunday Brunch 9 am - 6 pm
Open 7 Days A Week
863-467-0050
2405 S.E. Highway 441 Okeechobee, FL 34974
AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE
FULL LINE OF ACCESSORIES FOR SPRINT & NEXTEL
Over 10 Years Sales & Service Locally Owned & Operated by Gary & Nancy Davis
863.763.6115
1418 S. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee, FL 34974
Gas, Diesel & Lubricants
Oil Company
We deliver to seven counties centered around Okeechobee, Florida We carry a full line of Amalie oils, greases and other lubricants. We also stock fuel pumps, filters and other accessories. A Family owned business staffed by courteous and knowledgeable professionals.
Office 863-763-0666 Toll Free 800-357-4187 303 NW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
www.gilbertoil.com
80 Years of Experience OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE 
SUMMER 2008
Established 1928
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American Red Cross Here for Us In Times of Disaster BY JOYCE MURPHY
T
he American Red Cross office in Okeechobee is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. but much of the work is done behind the scenes, even in the middle of the night during a disaster.
keeping firefighters and police officers hydrated; helping a family that has lost everything find shelter, clothing, and comfort; or even consoling a child who lost a pet in the fire.
Branch manager, Debbie Riddle, and branch specialist, Julie Shook, are the leaders of area volunteers in times of disasters. Before being promoted to Okeechobee as Manager of Branch Operations for the American Red Cross, Debbie was at Chapter Headquarters in West Palm Beach as executive assistant to the CEO.
The Red Cross also offers health and safety classes, baby sitters’ training classes, and a youth club geared towards eighth through 12th
SUMMER 2008
For the third year in a row, the Red Cross Heroes have stepped forward to raise funds for the local Red Cross. In a four-week period, each hero raises $1,000.00 or more to help fund the local Red Cross in times of future disasters.
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At a moment’s notice, Red Cross volunteers are ready to respond to any type of emergency. Responding to a structure fire may include OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Getting disaster training before a disaster threatens is something that the American Red Cross strongly recommends. In fact, when a situation is declared a national disaster, Disaster Services Human Resources (DSHS) certified volunteers come together from all over the country. Currently there are two Red Cross certified shelters in Okeechobee. They are Osceola Middle School and South Elementary.
Along with full-time volunteer Frank Riddle, the two ladies coordinate everything from disaster relief to training and fundraising for the donation-supported service. The Okeechobee branch of the American Red Cross is one of the four branches affiliated with the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter. All branches are funded by donations; so any monies raised in Okeechobee County stay in Okeechobee County.
check. Then they receive free training from the Red Cross. The Volunteer of the Year of Okeechobee’s American Red Cross is Peggy DuBose. Peggy is a science teacher at Osceola Middle School who is also a volunteer health and safety instructor for the Red Cross.
graders. Currently, the Red Cross Youth Club has 11 volunteer members and is seeking more community-minded youth.
The Red Cross also serves as a communication link between the Armed Forces and military personnel.
Red Cross staff and volunteer instructors train all volunteers. Volunteers choose their level of participation: class instructors, Disaster Action Team (DAT) members, or shelter workers. These are just a few of the volunteer opportunities available at the Okeechobee Red Cross.
“We have support here,” Debbie said of the Okeechobee community.
“Volunteers make the Red Cross,” Debbie said. “Thank goodness for our volunteers.” Volunteers must fill out an application and submit to a background
For more information about the American Red Cross or volunteer opportunities, contact Debbie or Julie at 763-2488 or stop by the office at 323 North Parrot Avenue between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. O Pictured: Debbie Riddle, Okeechobee Manager of Branch Operations for the American Red Cross.
John & Linda
Woloski
863-634-7267 863-532-0790
Becky Barber 863-697-9786
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863-357-6555
4253 Hwy 441 So. Okeechobee, FL 34974
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Perfect Pools of Okeechobee, Inc. We Build Fun!
Swimming Pool Service & Repair
Family owned business since 1970 The Skinner Family
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Welcome to Okeechobee ~ A Great Place to Live
Toll Free 1-888-824-004C
Phone 863-824-004C Fax 863-357-0064
SUMMER 2008
Robert & Jacqueline Claxton
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2931 NE 52nd Drive Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.ccccproperties.com OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Selling or buying? Call us for all your real estate needs! Let one of our professionals serve you: Elbert R. Batton, Broker Melissa Arnold, Agent Jonathan Bean, Agent Shelly Batton, Agent Lisa Molyneaux, Agent
Elbert R. Batton Licensed Real Estate Broker
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Your Hometown Discount Dealer Is Celebrating 75 Years!
Established in 1933 • Still Family Owned and Operated
3550 Hwy 441 South • Okeechobee, FL 34974
Toll Free: 1-877-GO-GILBERT
SUMMER 2008
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Community Event
PHOTOS BY BRIDGETTE WALDAU
Okeechobee Junior Golf Championship On Saturday, April 26, Waldau Junior Golf, Inc. presented their second annual Okeechobee Junior Golf Tournament. Tournament directors were Jim Waldau, Tom and Renea Finney, and Bubba Mullins. Twenty-nine Junior Golfers participated in the 18-hole tournament, hosted by the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club. 1. 2008 Junior Champion, Kodi Stephen with Mary Barber, 2008 Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen, who presented all the awards. 2. (l-r) Seth McWhorter and Calvin Platt. 3 3. Richard Donegan takes his second shot from where he landed the longest drive of the tournament. 4. Corey White watches Kodi Stephen as he putts out on hole #3. 5. Mark Weir waits as Danny Busbin hits his shot on hole #1. 6. Ryan Reister walks up the #9 hole. 7. On the #8 putting green (l-r) Jacob Greseth, Jack Radebaugh and Tyler Milrot. 8. Putting contest: (l-r) Chance Murphy, 6 Michael Watson, Tommy Farrell, Jack Radebaugh, Brad Coleman, instructor Darrell Bearden, Bailey Kirton and Richard Donegan. 9. Ricky Gonzalos gets ready to putt. 10. First Flight winner, Tyler Finney 11.Second Flight winner, Kutter Crawford. 12.Third Flight winner, Jack Radebaugh. 13. Fourth Flight winner, Seth McWhorter. 14. (l-r)) Ethan Lightsey sits in the background as Justin Morgan, caddie, waits for Elijah Finney to tee off. 8 15. Tim Gray tees off #8 tee.
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THE
ALARM
COMPANY
of Okeechobee
Security Systems Fire Alarm Systems 24 Hr. Monitoring Wireless Security Medical Alert Systems Closed Circuit TV Intercom Central Vacuum Surround Sound
863-357-2004 LICENSE # EF20000613
www.thealarmco.org
Real Cracker Cowboy Camp!
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE 
SUMMER 2008
Da ain dern Based Tr stry o M A Mini aith Whip Cracking & A F ecovery Calf Roping For R Riding Demos 863-634-1680 Hay Rides 863-634-1410 Animal Petting 11655 Highway 441 SE Alligators Okeechobee, FL 34974 Good Food
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Community Event Residential Commercial
Land Services, LLC
Licensed - Insured
Come Home To Paradise
Lawn Care & Landscaping
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Homemade All Natural Treats For Your Pet! A treat boutique with a passion for pets
Made fresh when you call!
Pet Treats - Doggy Birthday Cakes Upscale Pet Boutique - Spa Products
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SUMMER 2008
Mention this ad and receive $150.00 credit toward closing cost.
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Mark and Jill Turlington
Family Owned and Operated
White House Plaza 1126 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34974
863-763-8030
www.okeechobeemortage.com OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Benefits Hospice of Okeechobee
170 shooters participated either individually or as a team in the Hospice Fun Shoot at Quail Creek Plantation on April 5. The monies raised from the event support the Hospice of Okeechobee and the Hamrick Home. Hometown Hospice provides the support to help patients live as pain free and comfortable as possible. Hi g h T e a m , H i g h S c o r e M e n , Sharpshooter, Sure Shot and Close Encounter were honored with trophies. Title sponsors included Frank and Bridgette Irby, Gilbert Chevrolet/ Gilbert Oil, Riverside Bank, Syfrett Feed, Joseph Farish Jr., The Medicine Shoppe, Town Star Food Stores, Walpole, Inc. and Walpole Feed. Syble’s Flowers and Gifts sponsored the first place team. 1. (l-r) Frank Irby with Tim Luke, high score men’s division winner. 2. (l-r) Frank Irby with Mike O’Connor, Cliff O’Donnell, Paul Platt and Tim Luke, high score team division winner. 3. Beautiful scenery at Quail Creek. 4. (l-r) Frank Irby with Tuff Durrance, sure shot winner.
Quality Professional Service with Hometown Hospitality
100% Financing First Time Home Buyers New construction Commercial - Residential VA Loans
CLAY SHOOT
BY JOYCE MURPHY
Entrance sign.
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SUMMER 2008
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Cottage One-Eleven
Visual Arts Studio
graphics-photography-web marketing consultant
Senior Photographer of Okeechobee The Magazine
studio of graphic design
Bridgette Waldau
SUMMER 2008
award winning artist - fine arts & graphic arts logo design - corporate branding ad design specialist - full color print design the studio with the education and experience you deserve stetson university (bfa) & art institute of ft. lauderdale (aa) over 25 years experience locally & nationally all work done professionally on a mac
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www.okeechobeegraphics.com OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
from concept to print
Creative Director of Okeechobee The Magazine
863.467.7300
111 NE 2nd Street . Okeechobee . Florida . 34972
PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO
Community Event
Okeechobee Main Street Presents Third Mural Project On May 19th, Okeechobee Main Street presented their third mural project. The mural, located on the Embarq building at 115 South Parrott, is a historical representation honoring the first telephone company in Okeechobee. The mural shows a representation of the first telephone operator, Byrd Sizemore and the first telephone installer, T.A. Sizemore. The mural was funded by Okeechobee Main Street and Embarq.
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1. OKMS Board of Directors with the artist and Embarq Rep. (l-r) Kathleen Shatto, Bridgette Waldau, Toni Doyle, Maureen Burroughs, Matt Budjinski, artist, Donna Huth, Jeffrey Mechlin, Embarq Public Affairs Manager, and Terry Burroughs. 2. Sonny Williamson addresses the crowd at the mural presentation reception. Mural artist, Matt Budjinski of West Palm Beach, 3. (l) Maureen Budjinski, and (r) Gary FL, painted the mural in unique style of medium Budjinski with son, Matt and Anna Jane using spray paint with specialized artist nozzles. O’Steen.
Pet Paradise Day Care “Where Every Paw is Welcomed” Board by the hour, day, night, week or month. We offer a well secured atmosphere, plenty of play areas, pool, indoor A/C and much more.
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Office Phone 863-763-3763 Cell Phone 863-610-0168
Come by and tour our facility 502 North Highway 98 - Okeechobee, FL (Just North of the Livestock Market)
SUMMER 2008
Matt Budjinski with Bridgette Waldau, OKMS Arts and Culture Chair. OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Community Event
BY JOYCE MURPHY
AMERICAN RED CROSS HEROES
Wrap Up Party
On April 29, 2008 the American Red Cross held their wrap up party at Pier II Resort.
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1. (l-r) Donna Huth, Co-Chair & Marnie Lauter, Chair. 2. Melody Hodges and Ted Starr. 3. Karen and Chuck Parker. 4. Mike Faulkner, Terry Burroughs, Rick Amiet, Nicholas Amiet, Delores & Sheriff Paul May and Okeechobee City Councilman, Dowling Watford. 5. (l to r) Heroes, Paulette Wise, Donna Huth, Cathye Folsom, Don Patel, Brandon Hudson, Marnie Lauter, Melody Hodges, Amber Hudson, Chuck Parker, Teresa Chandler, Billy Dean, Rick Amiet and Eileen and Bill Casian.
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We are the
ultimate destination
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the only waterfront hotel
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Best Rates In Town Guaranteed Waterfront Pool & Decks! Boat Ramp (863) 763-8003 Fishing Piers (800) 874-3744 Pet Friendly
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OPEN TO CONTRACTORS AND THE PUBLIC New Construction & Remodeling Cultured Stone - Schlage Locksets Standard & Custom Sizes Available Contractor’s Supplies
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Join us for Fun and Entertainment in the Lounge!
Happy Hour
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$1.00 Drafts - $2.00 Wells
SUMMER 2008
Hours of Operation Monday - Friday 4pm - Late Saturday - Sunday 1pm - Late
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2200 US HIGHWAY 441 SE OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Wednesday Showtime by Gator Thursday Latin Night Friday Karaoke - DJ Saturday Live Entertainment & Ladies Night (buy 1 get 1 FREE!) Sunday Bike Night
PHONE
863-357-4444 FAX 863-357-4445
Under New Ownership!
www.pier2resort.com
504 NW Park Street - Okeechobee
If you think a morning on the Lake is relaxing... When you get back, Call me.
863.634.3414
BENEFITS OF MASSAGE THERAPY THERAPY Improve Circulation Reduce Spasms & Cramping Greater Energy-Enhanced Sleep Quality Improved Concentration - Decreased Anxiety Alleviate Back Pain - Relieve Headaches Ease Sciatic Pain
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24 Hr Oxygen Service Specialty Walkers - Wheelchairs We are open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Lift Chairs & Hospital Beds Se Habla Español Rentals Available
412 NE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL
PET
MaximumTanning More than just Tanning 7 Large Beds To Choose From - 10 Minute Tanning Open 7 Days A Week
Under New Ownership
Jim Harvey & Celeste Hawk
863-763-7434
SUMMER 2008
Visit Our Skate Shop!
609 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 We Have Gift Certificates OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Visit Okeechobee's Friendliest Restaurant! Breakfast Buffet - 7 Days a Week
863-467-2224
Call In An Order To Go! Open Sun. - Thurs. 6am - 10pm Fri. and Sat. 6am - 11pm
BANQUET ROOM ~SEATS 50!
SUMMER 2008
1111 S. Parrott Avenue
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
ALL OVER BAIL BONDS IT AIN’T OVER ‘TIL IT’S “ALL OVER” Gordon Suleiman Cynthia Suleiman
863-467-2021
863-467-2031 - Español
Servicing: Martin, St.Lucie, Glades, Palm Beach, Okeechobee, Indian River, Desoto, Hendry & Highlands counties.
909 S. Parrott Avenue 9E Okeechobee, FL 34974
We Specialize In In House & Off Site Repairs Complete Desktop / Laptop Repair Custom Computer Builds Hardware Sales & Networking
863-763-8340
We Are Okeechobee’s 1st Internet Gaming Cafe
909 S. Parrott Avenue - Suite 11C Okeechobee, Florida 34974
www.computershopp.com
863.763.6157
Call for your appointment today!
Full Service Salon Hair . Nails . Facials Waxing . Body Wraps . Massages OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
909 South Parrott Avenue 7G - Okeechobee, Florida
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Gas Pains
&Fuel Efficiency BY STEVE DETWEILER
Life
is full of waiting. Just the simple things bring a smile to our faces and lift our hearts because of how complicated life really is. We wait for the rain to come; wait for the rain to stop; wait for the fish to bite; wait to plant our vegetable garden, and wait for healthy calves to be born. The list goes on and on as our waiting never ends. Right now most folks are waiting for an up-swing in our economy and we are waiting for our gas prices to come down. Gas pains… we all suffer at the pump. Our tank gets full while our wallets empty. While we wait for the reasonable fuel prices to return, we can all save on fuel now and in the future. Fuel efficiency not only saves money, it helps Mother Nature at the same time. We all know the basics:
• Having regular engine tune-ups, transmission tune-ups and oil changes. • Using the recommended motor oil. • Checking and replacing air/fuel filters. • Keeping brakes properly maintained. • Keeping tires properly inflated. Keep your engine properly maintained by a professional. It’s affordable and saves time and money, and it will prevent serious maintenance problems in the future. Having a good relationship with a trusted certified auto-repair shop is most important.
SUMMER 2008
Have a safe and happy summer.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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WEMMER Family Orthodontics Making a difference, one smile at a time. Vero Beach 772-562-5876
Steve Detweiler is the owner of E & E Automotive Clinic on 3585 Highway 441 North, and can be reached at (863) 763-2666.
Okeechobee 863-467-2332
Sebastian 772-589-5959
Specializing in Unique Hancrafted and High Quality Furnishings 123 SW Park Street Okeechobee, Florida 34974 Hours Monday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm Sunday by Appointment
863.763.9899
Formerly Rustic Ranch
SUMMER 2008
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BUSINESS PROFILES BY JOYCE MURPHY
Computer Shop Café Would you like a place where you can get tutoring, Internet access and computer repairs? Look no further than Computer Shop Café (7638340). Owned by Cindy and Gordon Suleiman it is located at 909 South Parrot Avenue, Suite 11C, Computer Shop Café offers a gaming café as well as full service computer sales and repairs. They also provide on-site service calls. Employees - Adam, Billy and Mike - work at the shop and stay overnight during the “World of Warcraft,” “Starcraft,” and other gaming sieges. A two-modem connection ensures the high speed required for gaming.
SUMMER 2008
Currently there are 10 computers available for public use at the shop, with more computers being added in the future. WiFi is available for use on your own laptops. Use of Internet for school projects is free. There is a charge for printing.
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Computer Shop Café also offers free computer diagnos t i c s . N o r m a l b usiness hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, by appointment only for special events.
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Pet Paradise Day Care Pet Paradise Day Care (763-3763), open over a year, is dedicated to your pets. The staff members are all about tending to your pets’ needs, whether they are exercising them or just showing them their accustomed attention. They encourage you to bring your pet’s personal items. Pet Paradise welcomes dogs, cats, birds and most other pets. Staffers make a point of exercising and playing with your pets, seven days a week. There are several divided play areas - some with carpet under shade; a pool; a wellsecured, air-conditioned building and more. Elaine Nash has lived in Okeechobee her entire life and her husband, Randy, has lived in Okeechobee for twelve years. They opened the business because they know there is a need. St o p b y t h e i r f a c i l i t y “Where Every Paw Is Welcome”. Their hours are Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. until noon. Pet Paradise Day Care is located just north of the Livestock Market at 502 North Highway 98. Randy and Elaine Nash of Pet Paradise Day Care with their dog, Snowball.
Best Built Homes
Fly-N-Hi Enterprises
Best Built Homes, Inc. is owned and operated by Paul Howell.
Fly-N-Hi Enterprises LLC/ Rhino Linings of Okeechobee (763-8866) is a full auto repair and accessory shop. From sprayed on Rhino Linings to auto repair and every imaginable accessory, Fly-N-Hi is your one-stop shop.
Paul, who owned H & H Aluminum, worked to get his contractor’s license and opened Best Built Homes. Licensed and insured (lic. # RR0067720), Paul and his staff strive to offer ‘Best Built Homes At Best Values.’ With four staff members and several subcontractors, Best Built Homes can build on your lot or theirs. Best Built Homes works with the homeowner to create a custom- built home. Located at 517 SW Park Street, Best Built Homes is e a s y t o f i n d . P a u l invites everyone to stop by and inquire about the owner/builder program. Vis i t t h e i r w e b s i t e a t w w w . b b l f l a . c o m. Their email address is bbhomes@earthlink.net or you can call them at 863-824-0224.
Located at 415 North East Park Street, Fly-N-Hi offers “from the street to the mud” service. A large workshop allows work to be done on vehicles while another area can be used for spraying in Rhino Linings. Head Mechanic Dave Presnell has multiple certifications and does precision wheel alignment with high definition alignment technology. Jay Horst is in charge of installing the Rhino Linings and custom fabrications such as hunting buggies. Service manager Justin King can tell you about any of the many services that Fly-N-Hi offers. Fly - N - H i E n t e r p r ises is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Stop by and meet the guys at Fly-N-Hi soon. Check out their website at www.fly-n-hi-ent.com.
Real Stone & Granite Corporation Real Stone and Granite Corporation (772-489-9964) offers the highest quality stone for use in residences or commercial properties. Countertops, bar and reception desks, fireplaces, floors and bathrooms are just a few areas where Real Stone and Granite can impact an impressively rich aura of luxury and elegance.
Order 20655 8/23/2007 1:28:07 PM 4.750 x 6.000
President Jose Ubilla and staff offer quality workmanship, quality control, and most important, quality service. Well staffed with artisans, craftspeople, installers and support personnel, Real Stone and Granite offers functional pieces that are a work of art. Real Stone and Granite offers a full range of finishes and natural colors that suit almost every budget and taste. Real Stone and Granite offers clients an impressively expansive inventory, high efficient productivity, and state of the art automation. The main office is located at 427 South Market Avenue in Fort Pierce. Their warehouse/showroom is located in Boynton Beach at 4020 Thor Drive.
" " "
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" $ ! #
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE 
SUMMER 2008
Mr. Ubilla invites you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of stones at Real Stone and Granite.
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“The Largest Selection of Quality Sunglasses in Town”
COSTA DEL MAR
Big Lake SUMMER 2008
763-EYES
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606 North Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, Florida 34972
www.biglakeeyecare.com
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Mary Huff Leaves Lasting Impression
BY CHARLES M. MURPHY
It wasn’t always so easy for Huff. She started playing softball when she was nine years old, a late start compared to many other players. She had seen a game on television and asked if she could play. Her parents, John and Vickey, agreed to let her give it a try. “I was hooked; I thought it was kind of cool. I wasn’t really good at first but I worked at it and practiced,” she said. For the past eight years, she has played a lot of softball and has improved ev e r y y e a r . U n t i l M a r y ’ s s u ccess, her father John was the athlete in the family when he attended Moore Haven High School. She thanked her father, her coaches, and some special camps she attended, for assisting her with her skills.
She’ll move on to play college ball at St. Petersburg College next year. She and fellow senior Lauren Throop decided to play softball in Pinellas
County. Huff said she is looking forward to meeting new people and challenging herself against even stronger competition. Still, she is proud of the legacy she will leave behind at OHS. “I’m just another ball player but I think I’ve done pretty well. I’ll leave this school with my name in their heads.” O
REACHING OUT TO MORE PEOPLE IN THE LAKE AREA THAN ANYONE ELSE WITH CLASSIC COUNTRY AM1570 WOKC, CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY FM99.5 WAFC AND REGIONAL MEXICAN AM590 WAFC 210 W. North Park Street Suite 102 Okeechobee, Florida 34972 Tel: 863 863--467 467--1570 Fax: 863 863--763 763--3171
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
Mary had an excellent senior year as she pitched 17 consecutive scoreless innings to help the Lady Brahmans reach the second round of the playoffs. Every time she pitched this year
she had a solid outing. “I’m really glad how everyone did this year. They underestimated us and we wanted to prove everyone wrong. We did a good job of doing that this year,” she said.
Glades Media Group
T
here are some people that you meet in life that you will never forget. Mary Huff is one of those people. The engaging, outgoing and fun-loving Huff just completed an exceptional career at Okeechobee High School, leading her team to two consecutive district titles and helping to put Okeechobee on the state softball map.
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Introducing...
Single Stream Recycling Brought To You By:
WASTE MANAGEMENT You may have noticed a change recently in the way Waste Management collects recyclable material at your curbside. Waste Management has invested in new technology at its Recycle America-Reueters facility in Pembroke Pines; it is called single stream recycling. Single Stream recycling is exactly what it sounds like. It is one stream of recyclable materials...no more sorting! A special recycle truck is no longer required. The rear-load fleet can now be utilized to pick up recyclables. Residents no longer have to sort their recyclable materials and can fill their bins with mixed recyclable materials regardless of what color the bin is. Do not be confused when you see a traditional garbage truck collecting your recyclables; your recyclables are being recycled. The increased convenience of single stream recycling should equate to increased participation. If your neighborhood is part of Waste Management’s recycle route and you need to request bins please call, 863-357-0111, option 1. If your neighborhood does not currently receive curbside recycling, you can drop off all your recyclable items a the Recycling Drop-Off Center located at 306 N.W. 9th Avenue. The center is open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m weekdays. It is closed from noon until 1 p.m.
Think Green
®
SUMMER 2008
Businesses can recycle too. To learn more about commercial recycling accounts, contact Waste Management customer service at 863-357-0111, option 1.
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Okeechobee List 14K Gold Store .................................................. 71 4C Properties ....................................................... 58 Aaron’s Sales & Lease ..........................................78 Abney & Abney .................................................. 78 Alarm Company ................................................... 61 Ameriprise Financial ........................................... 17 Best Built Homes ..............................................70 Bevis Construction Company .................................18 Big Lake Cancer Center ....................................... 68 Big Lake Eye Care ......................................... 3, 33 & 74 Big Lake Hospice ............................................... 21 Big Lake Roofing .................................................44 Brahma Bull Restaurant ...................................... 55 Bridgette Waldau Graphic Design .........................64 Brooke Insurance ..................................................32
Rhino Linings Car & Truck Accessories Lift Kits - Leveling Kits Brush Guards - Window Tinting Custom Wheels & Tires Train Horns - Alignments
863-763-8866
Build Better, or over 35 years, Abney and Abney Construction has Build Green! been Okeechobee’s home town builder. Whether it is
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providing general contracting or construction management services, Abney and Abney Construction's goal remains the same: to deliver quality construction projects by building better .
Cabela’s Trophy Properties.................................. 41 Cattlewomen’s Dinner Dance............................... 22 Charlie’s Landscaping ........................................... 80 Clock Family Restaurants ................................. 68 CoCo Sod Farm ............................................... 37 Coldwell Banker – Faith Nielson ........................ 15 Computer Shop Cafe, All Over Bail Bonds, and Razz-Ma-Tazz ................................................... 69 Cooke’s Environmental Services........................... 77 Costopoulos & Helton, P.A. ................................ 9 Cracker Cowboy Experience................................. 61 Creations in Fotografia ........................................ 64 Custom Sights & Sounds ..................................... 67 Custom Window Treatments & Blinds ................... 57 Custom Windows & Doors..................................... 66 Davis Communications ....................................... 55 Day Of Beauty Contest ....................................... 82 East Coast Signs & Shirts ................................21 Emory Walker Company ......................................80 Everglades Farm Equipment ................................17 Fantasy Lighting & Hunters’ Den ........................... 50 Ferrell Gas ........................................................ 61 First Bank & Trust of Indiantown .......................... 45 Fly-N-High Enterprises ......................................... 78 Foot Doctors ...................................................... 38 Garcia, Trinidad, MD .......................................... 68 Gilbert Chevrolet ................................................. 59 Gilbert Oil ........................................................... 55 Gilbert Snapper & Golf Cars................................... 23 Glades Gas ........................................................ 16 Golden Corral ................................................... 71 Green Medical Oncology....................................... 32 Hagin Family Daycare ........................................ 49 Heller, Leland M. MD .......................................... 6, 7 Highland Pest Control ......................................... 19 Homes By Jolicoeur .............................................. 48 ICS Computers ................................................... 57 Independent Nuclear PET Imaging ....................67 Jersey Mike’s Subs .............................................. 4 K & N Welding ..................................................... 19 K Builders ............................................................ 65
Contact us today to learn why building green is building better!
Lakeview Builders / Cumberland Realty.................58 Landing Strip Restaurant ...................................... 63 Law Firm of Hoskins & Turco .............................. 16 Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre ............................ 36 Law Offices of Philip DeBerard ........................... 83 LiAnn Whipple, LMT...............................................67 Liberty Fence Company..........................................23 Luviano Roofing .................................................... 40
John Abney CGCA03425
Wes Abney CBC058152
Kyle Abney
SUMMER 2008
CGC1513130
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863.763.6541 805 SW 15th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
ENERGY STAR PARTNER
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
www.abneyandabney.com
Maximum Tanning ............................................... 67 MidFlorida Hardware ........................................... 48 Morgans Furniture .................................................. 49 Morton Ag ......................................................... 36
of Advertisers
New and Used RVs Sales & Service - Parts & Accessories and Consignment
National City .................................................... 73 Nat’l Day of the American Cowboy ..................... 22 Okeechobee Air Conditioning .............................49 Okeechobee Golf & Country Club ......................... 23 Okeechobee Health Care .................................... 52 Okeechobee Mortgage.......................................... 62 Open MRI of Okeechobee ................................... 32 Paradise Land Services / Dog Dish.......................... 62 Perfect Pools ....................................................... 58 Pet Paradise ..................................................... 65 Pier II Resort ........................................................ 66 Platinum Performance Builders ............................. 63 Platinum Performance Realty ............................. 5 Porter’s Dry Cleaning .......................................... 50
STUART’S Recreational Depot 4300 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
Office: 863-357-6531
stuartrvdepot@embarqmail.com
Quail Creek Plantation ......................................... 11 Raulerson’s Absolutely Art .................................... 36 Raulerson Hospital ............................................... 2 Raulerson Hospital ........................................ 42, 43 Raulerson Hospital .............................Back Cover Real Stone & Granite ............................................. 29 Renaissance Health Systems ..............................38 Riverside Bank ................................................... 27 Seacoast National Bank ....................................... 79 See The Difference, Inc. ...................................... 26 Sign Guy .............................................................. 49 Singh, Roshan MD................................................41 Special Occasions ................................................ 73 Stafford’s Salon ................................................... 61 Stepping Stones Academy .................................... 39 Stitchin Post ...................................................... 67 Stuart RV Sales ................................................ 79 Suncoast Medical Supply ............................. 67 Superior Water Works .......................................... 50 Syble’s Flowers & Gifts ......................................... 26
Join our family at Seacoast. As President and CEO of Seacoast National Bank’s Big Lake Region, I promise that all of us at Seacoast will continue our tradition of true local banking with a strong commitment to the Okeechobee community. Please stop by our South Parrott location for a visit. Amy, Hunter, Dylan, Summer and I are pleased to call Okeechobee home, and we look forward to meeting you.
Mark Atom Smith President, Big Lake
The Tucker Group ............................................... 51 Treasure Coast Dermatology .............................. 28 United Country MidFlorida Realty ..................... 57 Warehouse Rent.................................................. 37 Waste Management ......................................... 76 Wemmer Family Orthodontics.............................. 71 Western Living Decor ....................................... 71 WOKC 1570 AM .......................................... 75 Women’s Health Services ..................................... 53 Yates & Associates.............................................. 82
Feel good about your bank
1409 S. Parrott Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974 l 863-467-4663 500 N. Parrott Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974 l 863-467-5330 www.seacoastnational.com
5312.HalfIslandMech2.indd 1
4/30/08 2:24:00 PM OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
Okeechobee The Magazine Summer 2008 edition hot off the press.
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Charlies
Lawn & Landscape
AA Complete Complete Property Property Maintenance Maintenance
Complete Complete Turn-Key Turn-Key Landscape Landscape Company Company Irrigation Irrigation && Repair Repair -- Large Large Pasture Pasture Mowing Mowing
863-763-5069
Okeechobee Main Street MIXERS Law Offices of Philip DeBerard
We Service All Of Central Florida Licensed Licensed -- Insured Insured -- Worker's Worker's Comp. Comp.
Tom Tom McCoin McCoin
k l e a r W Co., I y r o Em Serving the Lake Area Since 1966 nc. Emory Walker Co., Inc. is a fully licensed and insured company providing reliable, professional service in the HVAC industry. Our highly trained and experienced service technicians are qualified to work on all types and brands of commercial and residential equipment. At Emory Walker Co. we guarantee quality and dependability. Whether you are interested in a new air conditioning system, or you need service on your existing air conditioner, our comfort specialists are eagerly awaiting to help you with sales, installation or service, of the air conditioning system that is ideal for your home or business.
Hosting the April Okeechobee Main Street Mixer (l-r) Rosanna Schachtele, Attorney Philip DeBerard and Bonnie Kinchen.
Raulerson Hospital
Pictured at the Okeechobee Main Street mixer in May (l) Bill Casian, Director Marketing/Public Relations Raulerson Hospital and Robert Lee, CEO Raulerson Hospital, welcome Toni Doyle, new Main Steet Executive Director.
RIVERSIDE BANK SHOWS THEY CARE FOR CUSTOMERS
SUMMER 2008
“HOME COMFORT BEGINS WITH EMORY WALKER CO., INC.”
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208 S.W. 5th Avenue Okeechobee, Fl. 34974 (863)-763-6742 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
License # CAC014022 CAC042747 CAC057219
(l-r) Jennifer Lafferty, AVP Regional Sales Leader, Gail Dawley-Knight, sweepstakes winner, and Tabitha Trent, VP Okeechobee Branch Manager.
Around Okeechobee
2008 Image Awards
Photography by Sandra Pearce
(l-r) On April 22 the Florida Public Relations Association presented two awards each, for a total of four awards, to Dorothy Kamm of Yates & Associates and Robin Delgado of the Law Offices of Philip DeBerard recognizing them for outstanding public relations programs.
Happy 75th Birthday Gilbert Chevrolet!
(l-r) GMAC Rep. Frank Rose, Marie Culbreth, GM Zone Manager Carlos Latour, Gil Culbreth, Grace (Christa’s Daughter), Christa Luna holding Alex (son), Bert Culbreth, Marsha Owens from GM, and GMAC Rep. Joe Glevenyak.
Hospice Volunteer Luncheon
Okeechobee Historical Society Kicks Off Fundraising Efforts to Repair the Tantie School House
Front Row: (l-r) Betty Williamson, Marie Kirchkoff, Pearl Godwin, Back Row: Sonny Williamson, Susanne Morton, Anna Jane O’Steen, and Zelda Mixon. (Top picture) Volunteers gathered at a luncheon for the Hospice Volunteer of the Year awards. (Bottom picture) Volunteers of the year (l-r) Bobbi & Tom Wilkins, Barb &Walt Golden.
Arnold’s Wildlife
RED CROSS HEROES’ TEEN DANCE Held at the Pier II Resort
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2008
The cable television series Wildlife Nannies was in Okeechobee recently to film segments at Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Maggie Buccino, 12 was the youngest volunteer to star in the show. Pictured (l-r) Camera assistant Marcel Riedle, camera man Frank Gutsche, Maggie, and director Igor Hartmann.
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Something New for our Readers! Are you Ready for a
Okeechobee The Magazine will select one lucky reader to enjoy a day of relaxation and luxury at a local salon/spa.
Can you use an escape from your daily grind? If so ENTER this CONTEST today.
Day of Beauty
All you have to do is fill out this form and Okeechobee The Magazine Contest mail it to the address on this form. Please include a photo of yourself and a short Name: _______________________________________________________________ note as to why we should pick you. Address: _____________________________________________________________ Mail this Entry Form to: Okeechobee The Magazine, Day of Beauty Contest 1549 Lake Drive - Okeechobee, FL 34974
Phone Number(s) ______________________________________________________
Photo copies of this entry form will be accepted.
Contest Rules: You must be 18 years or older to participate. We choose the salon/spa and the beauty experience. Contest entrants must be available to take a weekday off from work. The decision of the selection committee is final. Employees of Okeechobee The Magazine, all affiliated companies and their family members are not eligible to enter. Accepting your Beauty/Spa package includes the agreement that we may use your image, take photos of you at the spa/salon and publish information about your Day of Beauty in Okeechobee The Magazine.
Name:
Address: City/State/Zip:
SUMMER 2008
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Send this form to: Okeechobee The Magazine 1549 Lake Drive Okeechobee, Florida 34974
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RAULERSON
OSPITAL
... your community health care facility
We Care Celebrating 29Years of service to Okeechobee! (863) 763-2151 Raulerson Hospital Okeechobee, Florida
SUMMER 2008
1796 Highway 441 North - Okeechobee, Florida 34972
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www.raulersonhospital.com