Hospice of Okeechobee A special kind of caring
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We LOVE to celebrate the Holidays! We Wish You a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Treasure the Memories!
Much to the delight of the residents, the Therapy Department dressed in 50s outfits for Halloween and “cut a few rugs”! Left to Right: Sonny Lawrence (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant - COTA), Jessica Wong (Physical Therapy Assistant - PTA), Kyle Allen (COTA), Norbert Canete Jr (PT), Rachel Anderson (COTA), Primrose Beckles (Dept Head/COTA), Dr. Kathy Walsh (PT), Greg Sutton (PTA), Sherrie Nichols (PTA), Trish Bacon (Speech Therapist - ST), and Marie Damas (PTA). Not pictured: Alysha Allen (COTA), Edita Jancauskas (Occupational Therapist OT), Ashley Ramos (ST), Nandanee Singh (COTA), Mark Uy (PT), and Nadine Lewers (OT).
Other employees who dressed up for Halloween making the day exciting and fun! Left to Right: Cassandra Terrazas-(Registered Nurse – RN), Cheri Tharpe-Certified Nursing Assistant – CNA), Jackie Dennis-CNA, Tammi Kelly-Activities/Photographer, Takia Corde-(Nursing Assistant - NA), Lisa Jones-Dietary, Marisa Montoya-CNA, Shalimar Santos-CNA/Cosmetologist, Gloria Salazar-Dietary, Amanda Walls-Dietary and Toni Martinez-Housekeeping.
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Publisher’s Note Volume 12, Number 6 │December 2018
“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” ~ Hamilton Wright Mabie
F
lorida is beautiful. My wife and I moved here from Colorado to enjoy the warm weather and beaches and the hope that we would never have to shovel snow from a driveway ever again. But Colorado has something that Florida doesn’t: a day that comes in late September or October where I would walk out in the morning to find out that summer is gone. On that morning, the weather is sharp and cool and the air smells like autumn. It’s also the moment that I would realize the holidays are coming.
Publisher David Jones Managing Editor Rachel Buxton Creative Director Lorraine Vogel Graphic Designer Valerie Wegener Editor J.D. Vivian Writers Raye Deusinger Robbi Sumner
There is no such early warning system in Florida, so the holidays tend to sneak up on me and leave me a little homesick for cool mornings and snow-covered mountains. This year is a little different, as our family faces its own trials, and I find myself focusing on the importance of tradition, faith, and family in my own life. In the words of President Calvin Coolidge:
Cover/Feature Photographer Sandra Pearce
“Christmas holds its place in the hearts of men because they know that love is the greatest thing in the world. Christmas is celebrated in its true spirit only by those who make some sacrifice for the benefit of their fellow men.”
Account Executive Trish Grygo
With that thought in mind, what you will find in this issue of Okeechobee The Magazine is a celebration of people who work hard every day to make the world a little bit better. This issue takes us from the Hospice of Okeechobee, where both patients and families are supported with love and dignity; to the OHS JROTC, where bright young minds are encouraged to develop an ethic of service and good citizenship; and to a free clinic that operates wholly on donations and a volunteer staff. It is in these places where the strength of a community is revealed—in the giving and caring, in the selfless moments. It is also where we find that spirit of Christmas that President Coolidge spoke of, where the best of the holidays are made manifest beyond the glitz and the pricy toys. It is the quiet love and concern that we show each other every day. In that spirit, we would all like to wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and a truly joyous holiday season.
David Jones 2 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photographers Jane Kaufman Patrick Van Tassell
Office Manager Patti Berglund
Kuimba River Publishing, LLC DBA Okeechobee The Magazine 314 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: (863) 467-0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com President David Jones Founder Maureen Budjinski Kuimba River Publishing, LLC DBA Okeechobee The Magazine, is published bi-monthly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2018, all rights reserved by Kuimba River Publishing, LLC DBA Okeechobee The Magazine. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.
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I
nside this issue
December 2018
14
30
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64
Features:
Departments:
Around Okeechobee......................86
Hospice of Okeechobee..................14
Behind the Business:
Advertiser Index.............................88
By Rachel Buxton
Val Gibson........................................30 By Raye Deusinger
Open Hands Health Center.............50 By Robbi Sumner
Table & Vine.....................................64 By Rachel Buxton
Fast Break Bait & Tackle.................74 St. Lucie Battery & Tire..................78
Community Events: Labor Day......................................10 Toys for Tots..................................26 Special STARS................................42 Oktoberfest City Walk.....................46 Business of the Year Awards..........60 Boots & Pearls.................................70
Cover photo by Sandra Pearce.
Columns: Our Traditions.................................82
Like Us on Facebook. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Community Event
Rain or Shine
Matt Buxton goes pink to raise money for Hospice.
Annual Labor Day Parade and Festival Draws Crowd
Okeechobee residents and visitors braved the heat and occasional rain showers to enjoy the annual Labor Day festivities and rodeo. The holiday celebration kicked-off Sept. 1 with the B.R.A.T. (Building Relationships Among Teens) Club parade followed by a weekend of contests and activities in the park. That first night culminated with a Battle of the Bands which was won by local metal band I Killed Anubis. On Monday, a lawn mower race took over Park Street. In addition, Matt Buxton and Marcos Montes De Oca going the extreme to raise money for Hospice and Martha’s House.
Michelle Cohen wins the lawn mower race.
Marcos Montes De Oca gets tased to raise money for Martha’s House.
10 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Patrick Van Tassell
South Campus 4664 Hwy. 441 SE Okeechobee 863.467.1400
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December 2018 | 11
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In memory of my father, Paul Buxton, who also served as founding father of Hospice of Okeechobee.
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A Very Rare Gem
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Hospice of Okeechobee ensures quality of life By Rachel Buxton
he term “hospice” can be a scary notion. The word alone evokes fear and sorrow, as it’s usually thought of for patients who are about to die — almost as if it were a death sentence — and that doesn’t exactly bring about a warm and fuzzy feeling. And let’s be honest: Death is scary and a topic that most people don’t like to discuss — a topic that they usually ignore until it’s the inevitable. No one wants to think about losing a loved one or someone dear to their heart. However, death is a major part of life, and a part that we will all most likely have to experience in different ways at some point. Unfortunately, we don’t always know the when and where. But some are given notice and have the opportunity to make the most out of their time left. They don’t need to run
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Sandra Pearce
and hide. Death can bring about great beauty. This is where the concept of “hospice” can help, and Hospice of Okeechobee is doing just that for hundreds of patients, and for thousands of family members, in our community each year. Founded in 1983, Hospice of Okeechobee has continued to work hard to start a dialogue, and to help educate the community about all the agency has to offer and how the process of dying doesn’t have to be a scary time. Rather, it can be a beautiful moment for all involved. Growing up, I always knew of the concept of hospice. One, because my father, Paul Buxton, helped start Hospice of Okeechobee; and two, because I grew up the daughter of a
Dorothy Bulger
Paul Buxton
funeral director and spent my childhood in a funeral home. But even then, I, like so many, had a misconception of what hospice care truly is and what it does. I had visited my aunt, who had only days to live in a hospice facility on the coast — which was basically just another hospital in my eyes — and that was my only real personal experience with hospice. So when my father was in the hospital two-and-a-half years ago and we were advised to bring him home under the care of Hospice of Okeechobee, I immediately got sick to my stomach and felt like we were giving up and just accepting death as the final result.
Fran Syfrett
“It’s not about dying; it’s about living,” says Margaret Sowell, the at-home nurse and Scottish voice of Hospice of Okeechobee. “If we can get to them soon enough, we can give them quality of life.” And this is exactly what I came to learn through my personal experience. It gave me a new perspective on death and helped me to get through the most difficult time in my life. And instead of being afraid, I was able to spend quality time and make memories with my father, during his final week, memories that I will cherish forever, thanks to Hospice of Okeechobee.
Hospice staff, front, from left: Judi Winchester, Nicki Allgood, Doris Harrison, Margaret Sowell, Gail Gerntrup, Alyson Dyer, Andrea Chase, Mary Catalano and Joey Dunham. Back: Charlotte Bailey, Connie Vallee, Taylor Williams, Ruth Bobst, Sherri Spencer, Katie Vickers and Casandra Wait. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 15
Hospice of Okeechobee’s Board of Directors.
It Takes a Village — Hospice of Okeechobee’s Beginnings Hospice of Okeechobee volunteers who operate the agency’s yard sale September to May, held twice a month. Items sold are community donations.
The first modern hospice was founded by Cicely Saunders — both a doctor and a social worker — in 1967 in London. The first American hospice opened in 1974. Hospice of Okeechobee wasn’t far behind, holding its first meeting on Sept. 19, 1983, at Buxton Funeral Home. At that time, a hospice in Okeechobee was just a dream of my father, Fran Syfrett and Dorothy Bulger. Together, they were able to form a local branch under the umbrella of Hospice of the Treasure Coast with my father appointed president, Ms. Syfrett vice president and Ms. Bulger as treasurer. Today, both ladies remain actively involved with Hospice of Okeechobee’s Board of Directors. Hospice of the Treasure Coast’s Okeechobee branch began with just $450, with a commitment for more to come. Hospice immediately held volunteer training sessions and an accelerated course in order to become operational as soon as possible. If there was ever a question of whether there was a need for a hospice in Okeechobee, it was quickly quashed — as they already had a patient waiting for them prior to even becoming operational.
Hospice of Okeechobee was awarded the 2016-2017 Non-Profit Business of the Year Award presented by the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. 16 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
In 1986, the Okeechobee branch received its own charter and certificate of need. As a result, it was able to break away from Hospice of the Treasure Coast and become a nonprofit organization licensed by the State of Florida to care for people in Okeechobee, St. Lucie and Martin counties.
In 2006, Hospice of Okeechobee built a 12-bed hospice residence, named the Hamrick Home in honor of its main benefactor who donated the land it sits on. This residence features all private rooms that can be decorated to add a personal touch, a communal living room, screened-in back porch and 24/7 entry access for family members. The Hamrick Home is truly a home away from home for some patients while they receive the full-time care they need. This is the only in-patient residence of its kind in Florida — a little something Okeechobee can be proud of.
In 2006, Hospice of Okeechobee built a 12-bed hospice residence … The Hamrick Home is truly a home away from home for some patients while they receive the full-time care they need.
No Two Are the Same Many people believe that “hospice is hospice,” and that certainly is not the case. Not all hospices are created equal, and no one knows this better than Hospice of Okeechobee Chief Executive Officer Gail Gerntrup. Gail has worked at other hospice agencies on the coast — giving her rare insight into the differences. But she has also experienced hospice on a personal level: first in Oklahoma for her father; followed by her stepfather; and, most recently, with her mother, who received care from Gail’s own Hospice of Okeechobee. “It was hospice at its very best, start to finish!” Gail says about her mother’s time at the Hamrick Home. “We are a very rare gem.”
Harms $350,000 Legacy Donation in memory of Bill Harms. Pictured: Hospice Board President Frank Irby, Judi Thogerson Harms and Greg Thogerson.
On the coast, it’s not unusual for local hospices to have anywhere between 700 and 1,500 patients a day in their care. This is exactly what I witnessed with my aunt and only added to the “hospital” feel. Hospice of Okeechobee doesn’t even come close to those numbers, but that certainly doesn’t make them any less of an agency. In my opinion, that fact only adds to the appeal of our little hometown hospice. At Hospice of Okeechobee, you have access to all of the same services, if not more, that a big hospice in the city has to offer — but in a more intimate setting.
Hospice of Okeechobee Awarded:
2015 Organization of the Year: Okeechobee County 2016 Hospice Honors for nationally outstanding customer satisfaction ratings. 2016 Spectrum Award for business with outstanding customer service rankings. 2016-2017 Business of the Year: Non-Profit Business 2017, 2018 Hospice Honors Elite 2018 MVP Award
“We have to do everything the big guys do. We have to follow all those 700 to 800 pages of rules that they have to follow. We have to send in all the same federal paperwork. We have to have the same licenses, the same credentialing. We have to do all the same required services in the same timelines and timeframes that are required,” Gail explains. “But we do it better.”
The late Herbert Wells, U.S. Marines, received the first Veteran to Veteran pinning honors. Pictured with Debbie Penton RN and Nicki Allgood CNA.
‘It’s not about quantity of life; it’s about quality of life.’ ~ Margaret Sowell, at-home nurse for Hospice of Okeechobee
And I don’t think Gail is being biased, because I, along with many others, agree hands-down with her, and we don’t have a stake in the game. The high quality of care my father received in comparison to my aunt is undeniable. Margaret was my dad’s nurse, and there is no way he could have received better care.
Angels in Disguise Ultimately, I believe what sets Hospice of Okeechobee apart are the men and women who, day after day, put the needs of others ahead of their own and who work tirelessly to make the patients’ last days, weeks, months — possibly years — worth living for. “It’s not about quantity of life; it’s about quality of life,” Margaret explains. “When I walk into the homes, I can see the fear on their faces. I take it from them on how to act, and then you can see them start to relax because you’re giving them something to live for.” Once patients get home and come off all the machines and medications, they can finally get comfortable, Margaret says. She recalls a patient who was miserable and just wanted to die. He even asked her to end his life for him. She, of course, said she wasn’t able to do that but what she could do was make him comfortable. The next day, when she went to visit, the patient was up laughing and giggling. “That’s what it’s all about,” she notes. “I
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like to know I’ve done everything for a patient.” At the hospital, my father was scared. He expressed his fear and told me over and over how he didn’t want to die. And this was coming from a funeral director who had dealt with death on a daily basis. Once we got him home and settled — and Margaret walked through the door — the fear was replaced with comfort and contentment. That’s what hospice is. Margaret is a family friend so that, of course, helped. With Okeechobee being so small, this is all too common. CEO Gail says, “These are our neighbors. We either know them or we know someone that knows them. It’s very much a community operation.”
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What many people fail to realize is that these nurses aren’t just caring for the patient; they also are caring for the family members. They are giving that wife or husband, who has been the caretaker for who knows how long, a bit of respite and much-needed support. “It’s for the family as well as the patient,” explains Margaret. “When the patient goes, the family is still there.” When a nurse enters into a family’s home, he or she has no idea what
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December 2018 | 19
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Hospice of Okeechobee educates at Health and Safety Expo.
‘It’s not about dying; it’s about living.’ ~ Margaret Sowell, at-home nurse for Hospice of Okeechobee
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
the dynamic is going to be. It truly takes a special person to be able to do what these hospice nurses are doing. It takes a special person to be compassionate to strangers. And Hospice of Okeechobee nurses do so selflessly. In fact, the nurses have even come together to help pay for a patient’s room and board who needed assistance. That’s how much compassion these men and women possess. When asked how she handles death and seeing individuals she has cared for die, day after day, Margaret is quick to respond: “It is a privilege to be with a patient when they die. It makes you realize how vulnerable you are. No day is a given.”
Knowledge Is Power The biggest battle that Hospice of Okeechobee fights isn’t the fact no one wants to talk about death. It’s that many people don’t know what hospice offers — in that it is so much more than just clinical care. Shares Gail: “One of the great advantages of me going through this experience with my mother is the knowledge that I have. It has empowered me and given me great peace and comfort knowing that my mother received the very best possible care.” Hospice of Okeechobee offers caregiver support groups; bereavement classes; and Five Wishes classes that take the guesswork out of caring, thus giving everyone peace of mind knowing what to expect and not having to plan “in the moment.” Hospice also offers a Veteran to Veteran program that recognizes military veterans, thanking them for their service. The Hamrick Home, with the help of countless volunteers, offers complimentary therapies, such as aromatherapy, massage and music therapy; as well as spa baths — because who doesn’t feel better after a nice bubble bath? Anything Hospice of Okeechobee can provide, they will, in order to help make the patient and family more comfortable — all at no extra cost. And they do this because … they aren’t working with the dying; they are, instead, working with living people.
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December 2018 | 21
‘These are our neighbors. We either know them or we know someone that knows them. It’s very much a community operation.’ – Gail Gerntrup, Hospice of Okeechobee CEO
Ruth Bobst, Margaret Sowell and Casandra Wait.
No one will ever be turned away from Hospice of Okeechobee because of finances. As long as they have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and have ceased all aggressive treatment, they are qualified to receive care. Medicare, Medicaid and most insurances will cover the cost of services. Patients are responsible for room and board, if they’re residing in the Hamrick Home, but fees
are assessed on a sliding scale that takes financial needs into account. Hospice of Okeechobee’s Board of Directors helps to raise funds to keep the agency sustainable. Their biggest fundraiser, Boots and Pearls, is always the must-attend gala of the year. The sold-out event provides a night of dinner and dancing for community members
307N. Parr ot tAvenue, Okeechobee 22 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
and local businesses, with several auctions held to raise money. Donations and memorials are the main source of financial support for hospice. These include sizeable donations by individuals, as well as money in lieu of flowers donated after someone’s passing. Hospice of Okeechobee is definitely a community effort.
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Hospice of Okeechobee relies on the support of the people in the community in order to fund the care of patients and families who receive hospice care in the Hamrick Home. To make a donation by Credit Card: Call 863-467-2321.
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Community Event
Toys for Tots Gala Committee.
Toys for Tots Gala Captures the Spirit of Giving
Guests once again dazzled in their finest attire at the annual Marine Corps Toys for Tots Gala, held Sept. 22nd, at the Silver Palms RV Resort. This yearly soirĂŠe raises thousands of dollars to help make Christmas a little brighter for local children in need.
Buddy Mills. Jacalyn Sutton, Debbie Schooley and Sherri Bodden.
Toys for Tots Okeechobee’s Official Santa and Mrs. Claus AKA Tom and Bonnie Peer.
26 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Kristi Morgan and Malissa Morgan. Billy Dean and Taylor English.
Photos by Jane Kaufman
Ken and Elaine Keller.
Luis and Jackie Morales.
Corey and DesireĂŠ Penrod.
Heather and Steven Dobbs.
Antoinette Rodriguez and Wes Abney.
Emily Kuhlewind and Katie McFarland.
Ann Alexander, Cary and Libby Pigman and Connie Pinner.
Jessie and Buddy Mills. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 27
SAVE THE
DATE!
FIRST ANNUAL
Public Safety Ball
Get to know your First Responders!
! e c n a D t r a e H t e e w S FEBRUARY 16, 2019 | 6:00pm to 1:00am Okeechobee Shrine Club Featuring: 50/50 Raffle, Door Prizes, Music & Dancing
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Buffet Dinner Tickets: $25 each “Sponsorships are Available” CONTACT: Chuck Akers 772-260-9026 Make checks payable to: Okeechobee City Volunteer Fire Department 55 SE 3rd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 Proceeds to support
OKEECHOBEE
City & County FIRE RESCUE VOLUNTEERS
MOLDING FUTURE LEADERS Retired Army Sergeant First Class Val Gibson passes on discipline, experience to cadets at OHS By Raye Deusinger
M
any now-successful and -respected people had dreams for the future when they were very young and could not be swayed to abandon those dreams. Such was the case with Valparisia “Val” Swinton. Val’s constant dream, while living in Cocoa, Florida, was to finish school and then go to New York to study criminal justice. To accomplish her goal, she worked a job at the local Sears store. Mom and Dad — Doris and Willie — wanted her to attend a local college on graduation, but she was determined to follow her own plans. One day, she told her mom that she had a special early meeting at Sears … but Val didn’t go to Sears. Instead, she went to an Army recruiting station for testing. Once home, she told her mom, “I took a test for the military. If I didn’t pass, I just wouldn’t tell you, but I passed.” Now there was a new dream. Mom Doris knew about the military. She grew up in a family of nine boys and three girls. Two brothers went into the Air Force, one into the Army. Growing up in a male-dominated household, Doris had decided that when she married, she wanted only girls — no boys. But after having three boys, she finally had her girl and now that girl was going into the service.
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Photos by Sandra Pearce
Not thrilled, Doris said, “If that’s what you want to do, remember that God is everywhere; put Him first, and you follow Him.” Willie kept saying “no,” “no,” but he soon gave in. Val was processed in the Jacksonville MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station), where applicants for military service go to complete the enlistment process. Here they have a physical and (if they pass), choose their job and ultimately are sworn in. Thus began her military life. Val today has a different job, and a different name. Now she is Val Gibson — also known as Mrs. Cedrick Gibson — and better known to Okeechobee High School (OHS) students as Sergeant First Class (Retired) Valparisia Gibson, teacher of the JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps) program. Dylan Tedders, principal of OHS, says he has been at OHS for nine years and has watched two colonels and now a major lead that program, but that “SFC Gibson is the glue for that program. The kids see her as a teacher/mentor, but as a mother-type also. She has an innate ability: They may share with her what they don’t share with their parents. He adds, “Students gravitate to her. She is not a pushover; she respects them and they respect her. She could, at any time, get a job on the coast in Fort Pierce, where she lives, but she wants
‘Teaching brought me back to who I am. I find it easy to relate to students, and I enjoy helping them, through leadership, to become better citizens.’ ~ Val Gibson
Val explains, “While on active duty, you can have a special assignment for which you can volunteer or be assigned. I volunteered as a recruiter.” While on recruiting duty in 1999, she met Cedrick, who later became a Navy Reservist. She recalls, “I was recruiting future soldiers, but needless to say, Cedrick recruited me.” They married in 2000 and had daughter, Taylor, in April 2001.
to be here in this place and among the kids she loves, and she doesn’t want to leave it.” SFC Gibson has served as the JROTC instructor since 2008. In 1987, Val became a soldier. She was sent to a duty station in Garlstedt, Germany. For the next 12 years, she was stationed in various German cities — Garlstedt, Darmstadt, Wiesbaden and Bremerhaven — and for a time in Saudi Arabia in 1990. Upon her return to the States in 1998, she became an Army recruiter with the Miami Recruiting Battalion, Jupiter Company, stationed in Fort Pierce. Florida is divided into battalions, which are further divided into companies, and then recruiting stations.
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When Taylor was only 3 months old, Val was deployed to Iraq for a year and then back to Germany for six months; that was followed by another year in Iraq. She was part of Operations Desert Storm, Desert Shield and Iraqi Freedom. Mama Doris recalls, “We had to keep on praying and trusting in God. Kuwait’s Desert Storm, it was bad, but God brought her through.” Leaving her baby behind was difficult, and the years away were extremely hard. Taylor was being cared for by Val’s husband and mother back in Cocoa. The co-parenting was hard on all of them. Cell-phones were not common then and long-distance calls were too expensive, so before leaving, they made recordings talking to her baby and singing lullabies so that Taylor would grow up knowing her mother’s voice. Val was later shipped to Fort Lee, Virginia, for two years.
‘While she is very involved in the program, she is also like a second mom, a confidante but yet a disciplinarian, very tough when she needs to be.’ ~ Major (Retired) Donavan Locklear, director of the JROTC program at OHS
Val Gibson with family.
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December 2018 | 33
‘SFC Gibson is the glue for that (JROTC) program. The kids see her as a teacher/ mentor, but as a mother-type also.’ ~ Dylan Tedders, principal of Okeechobee High
While at Fort Lee, she learned that the Army was going to re-deploy her to Iraq. So she retired. But after 21 years in the military, she needed something to do. Her husband, Cedrick Gibson, is president of Florida State College in Jacksonville, where he lives. Val says, “We commute on weekends to catch up with each other. He is a military-minded person but utilizes his doctorate degree as president of that school. Our daughter, Taylor, is now a high-school junior who wants to go on to college to study forensic science. It’s a field she can use in civilian or military life.” Val’s initial plan after retirement had been to go into real estate and to earn her master’s degree. Friends, however, talked to her about working with a JROTC
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program, which would be a good fit after her years in the military. She did earn her master’s degree in administration, with a minor in human resources. At the same time, Toni Wiersma, then principal of Okeechobee High School, needed a new leader for JROTC. She went online, to a military database, to find someone qualified. SFC Gibson’s name came up; Toni called her at her mother’s house. Val went for an interview and fell in love with the school and the hospitality shown to her. When asked if she would like the position, she accepted. Val says, “I am so grateful to Ms. Wiersma for allowing me to work with young men and women in such a program.” Val now is part of the 6th Brigade U.S. Army Cadet Command, as a certified instructor. She says, “It was already planned out, and it was there for me. I had praying parents and a praying church, which kept me guided and rooted.”
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So, a year and a half after retiring, she found herself back in uniform. “Teaching brought me back to who I am,” she notes. “I find it easy to relate to students, and I enjoy helping them, through leadership, to become better citizens.”
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December 2018 | 35
‘There’s something special about her with her kids. She expects obedience, and they respect her because of the person she is. We can be somewhere, and a kid will call her and she always answers. She can change them.’ ~ Doris Swinton, Val Gibson’s mother
Mother Doris says, “There’s something special about her with her kids. She expects obedience, and they respect her because of the person she is. We can be somewhere, and a kid will call her and she always answers. She can change them.” Dad Willie now says he is glad he didn’t try to stop her. Val explains, “When someone walks into the program, leadership begins. There is discipline, which will guide them in their career as a cadet. It gives me a joyful heart to know that this program is so effective. Whether they go into the workforce, continuing education or the military, they will do better. Anybody can fail, but we’re here to help them through the transition.” Former OHS Principal Wiersma says, “Val is a wonderful, dedicated, committed teacher. She has held the program together even through changes of colonels. It has been through
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her hard work that the program is successful. She is at every event and always gives 2,000 percent. I can’t sing her praises enough.” The practical teaching of cadets is done through a curriculum of four levels known as LET (Leadership Education and Training). In LET I, they learn the basics of the military: how to wear a uniform, rank structure, the flag, the national anthem and self-awareness. LET II covers first aid; citizenship skills, including the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution; and how to conduct group meetings. LET III involves decision-making, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and how to give speeches and write résumés. LET IV involves communication skills, mentoring, financial guidance, checkbook balancing, dealing with money, creating lesson plans and learning how to teach a class.
“We tell them,” SFC Gibson says, “what we expect and how they are to execute it. By learning that they must respect me, they learn how to respect each other. I am the facilitator of their decision — if it is safe, will not harm others, then it’s a go. You don’t hover over grown people. “The assistant principal drops in for evaluations. This helps cadets learn that teaching does not occur only in class. You are learning how to deal with any situation and to do whatever is the right thing to do. This is where military discipline comes in, without question. In JROTC, the military provides what to teach, and the high school gives the tools of how to teach.”
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Caring is important, because some cadets are difficult to teach or train due to discipline or behavioral problems. SFC Gibson explains, “When this happens, we work with them as long as they are not harmful to themselves or to another. The goal is to motivate them to be better citizens.”
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DIRECTV SVC TERMS: Subject to Equipment Lease & Customer Agreements. Must maintain a min. base TV pkg of $29.99/mo. Programming, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change at any time. Visit directv.com/legal or call for details. ©2017 AT&T Intellectual Property. All Rights Reserved. AT&T, Globe logo, DIRECTV, and all other DIRECTV marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.
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The director of the JROTC program, Major (Retired) Donavan Locklear, says, “While she is very involved in the program, she is also like a second mom, a confidant but yet a disciplinarian, very tough when she needs to be. The kids trust her, talk to her, and she keeps confidences. She is also up to her neck in duties and responsibilities, both at the school and in the community. She is the instructor, but she is also responsible for maintaining supplies and ordering materials.” Locklear also notes how she stays as late as any child needs her, and how she works in many ways that affect the development of her charges.
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December 2018 | 37
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In the community, the JROTC has been called on to work with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Okeechobee Blood Roundup, Church in the Woods, Real Life Children’s Ranch, Martha’s House, Elks, Moose, law enforcement and directing parking at the rodeos. Cadets even talk to the elderly in a nursing home, and they “present colors” at events, including holiday celebrations.
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All of this lets the cadets learn more about their community, to be a part of it and to know that they have helped. It promotes honor, loyalty, and respect for community. All kids need praise. Sometimes, members of the community say, “Thank you. You did a good job.” They practice many hours and appreciate the recognition and feel the pride. SFC Gibson explains, “It is good for youth to have those feelings.
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“I would not want to do anything else. I’ve been here 10 years and love it, and I don’t even live here. I tell my cadets that I commute 45 minutes from Fort Pierce each way just to be here, just to teach you. I deal with community, staff and administration because I care enough to do it. I am here on weekends, holidays and late at night, because I love the job
and I love my cadets. Many feel this is their safe haven. As long as they’re here, I want to be here. I take it year by year and haven’t got tired of it yet.” Stacia Steins’ daughter Shellia was in JROTC all four years of high school. Stacia says, “I can’t sing Sgt. Gibson’s praises high enough. We are kindred souls, sisters from somewhere else; she’s even my grandson’s godmother. Without her, my daughter would not have graduated. This program and Sgt. Gibson turned her around. Even after my daughter graduated, I have continued to volunteer with Val, and I’ll be there as long as she needs me. She is a definite influence on this whole community.” Sergeant First Class Valparisia Gibson concludes, “I have the honor of seeing lives changed. Cadets come back as responsible adults. If it wasn’t for this program, I would not have achieved such happiness.”
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December 2018 | 39
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Season’s Greetings Happy FLU Year The flu is a viral infection, like a cold, but flu symptoms will come on suddenly and can lead to bacterial pneumonia, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions.
Flu Symptoms: • • • • • •
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Fever or chills Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Muscle, body or head aches Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
Fast breathing or trouble breathing Bluish skin color Not drinking enough fluids Not waking up or not interacting
High Risk:
• People 65+ years • People with chronic medical conditions (asthma, diabetes or heart disease) • Pregnant women • Young children
Prevention: • • • •
Emergency warning
The best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccination. Staying away from people who are sick Washing hands frequently Covering your mouth when you cough & sneeze
Period of Contagiousness:
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Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough Fever with a rash
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In Adults Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen Sudden dizziness Confusion Sever or persistent vomiting
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Community Event
H Special STARS
Provides Outdoor Fun for Kids and Adults With Disabilities
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With more than 120 participants, Special STARS (Sports Training and Recreational Services), a non-profit organization based out of Avon Park that caters to children and adults with mental and physical disabilities, hosted a track and field day Oct. 5 at the Okeechobee County softball fields. It was a fun-filled day complete with bicycle and tricycle races, a softball toss, wheelchair races, 50-meter run and walk, and a tennis-ball roll competition. A lunch provided by Jersey Mike’s was enjoyed followed by an award ceremony. For more information on how to get involved, contact Bernard Marker at 863-801-3393.
HH
Thomas “TJ” Kayser and Kerry Rodriguez.
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Photos by Patti Berglund
8
201
H
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S ea s o n 9 1 20
Celtic Angels Christmas December 6
Ross Vickers, Cindy Marshall and Bernard Marker.
Forever Young January 17
Farewell Angelina February 1
Jason Domingo.
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The Gospel According to the MACG February 7
Illusions & Beyond March 1 Motown Magic March 14
Billy McGuigan’s Rock Twist February 15 FAMU’s Strikers and Mahogany Dance Theatre February 23
All dates, artists and programs subject to change.
Sandi Patty March 22 Love is a Rose: Celebrating the Music of Linda Ronstadt March 26
Box Office 561-993-1160 Buy tickets @ www.dollyhand.org 1977 College Drive, Belle Glade, FL 33430
Raul Castellanos and Kerry Rodriguez.
Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 43
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Community Event
Director-at-Large of Main Street Kristina Stas of Mira Realty.
Oktoberfest
A crowd in Brand It.
Turns downtown into craft-beer tasting venue
City Walk
Oktoberfest City Walk, sponsored by Okeechobee Main Street, was held Oct. 13. Ticket-holders were invited into nine Park Street businesses to sample various craft beers and to enjoy the talents of local artists, including the band Hard Country and recording artist Chris Fox. Guests were offered appetizers, promotional gifts, and in-store discounts. All proceeds went to the Okeechobee Main Street Arts & Culture Alliance program designed to bring awareness to the downtown business district and allow the public to tour local businesses they may not have visited yet.
Stafford’s Salon with Angie Griffin, owner of Stafford’s and president of Main Street.
Chris Fox performs in Unique Boutique. Debbi Johnson and Dale Nowlin enjoying entertainment and food inside Unique Boutique.
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Photos by Patrick Van Tassell
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Jim Clark performing at Zippy’s. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 47
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48 | December 2018
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‘I see how God has used life experiences from day one of my life to mold me to pursue this vision of Open Hands.’ ~ Nicole Talley
Opening Her Heart Nicole Talley
O
turns her life experiences into a free health clinic
pen Hands Health Center Inc., Okeechobee’s free, Christ-centered healthcare provider, is the culmination of many years of heart-felt thought and consideration by Nicole Talley, founder and board president.
By Robbi Sumner Photos by Sandra Pearce
‘For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore, I command you,“You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.”’
at the time. She was given confirmation to pursue this in many ways, one of which was through the movie Patch Adams that was recommended at the end of a Bible study. While watching the movie, her thoughts were, “Look at all this man did in his own strength and compassion. Imagine what a clinic guided by God could do.”
“I felt led to help people who are without medical insurance receive the medical assistance that they need,” she shares during She spoke with then-First Baptist pastor, ~ Deuteronomy 15:11 a recent visit. As a baby, Nicole had to Randy Huckabee, about her desire to help undergo open-heart surgery, and a charitable organization others through a Christian-based healthcare organization. stepped in to help her family with the resulting bills. Her Her first thoughts were small — in the form of conducting father also suffered from heart problems. So through the years, blood-pressure clinics in a church room every once in a while. her family continued to be financially impacted by increasing But Pastor Randy steered her toward a free health clinic in medical bills, even though they had insurance. Leesburg that was massive. She’d had no clue that this was even possible, and was overwhelmed by the support of that Other experiences in her life as a healthcare professional also community to make it a reality. Pastor Randy also encouraged contributed to Nicole’s desire to help others. During her time her to share the vision that had been laid on her heart with working as a phlebotomist, she recalls having to turn away unher church. insured clients who were unable to pay to have their bloodwork taken and processed. “I see how God has used life experiences After sharing her vision with her church congregation, she was from day one of my life to mold me to pursue this vision of approached by Dr. Armando Santelices, who initially cautioned Open Hands,” she explains. Nicole about the complexities of such an undertaking but also offered support. This meeting with Dr. Santelices prompted In 2010, while Nicole and her husband, Robert, were leading a Nicole to dig deep into God’s word for direction to move Sunday-school class at First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, she forward with her vision — all the while attending nursing began to feel called to start a free clinic. She was in nursing school school and raising two young daughters with Robert.
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Lyn Palm, Debbie Couden, Marcy Spelts, Donna Watson, Tyna Futch, Stacy Pasquarella, Eric Phillips, Nicole Talley, Ron Grogg, Janet Holden, Penny Homer, Chuck Palm and Cheryl Grogg. (Not pictured: Dr. Armando Santelices, Mickey Bandi and Crystal McGovern.)
Plans were pretty stagnant for a long time. Nicole, not yet a nurse, was not sure how her vision was going ‘I felt led to help people to become reality without who are without medical a medical provider, lawyer, insurance receive the accountant and others. She medical assistance then met Physician’s Assisthat they need.’ tant Stacy Pasquarella, who at the time was working full-time, ~ Nicole Talley a pastor’s wife and a mom with three kids. She couldn’t help but was very encouraging and prayerful for this ministry. Then God began to do the impossible. He began to move Stacy in the direction of leaving her job to be at home with her kids. Once Stacy took that leap of faith, she dove right in and started making strides in getting the clinic open, including leading multiple fundraisers in fall 2014. In faith, all involved in establishing the clinic scheduled an opening date. They had no idea how they would do this financially — or how they would get a medical director, which was vital. (As a physician’s assistant, Stacy can see patients but must work under the supervision of a doctor.)
Nicole Talley and Dr. Armando Santelices.
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Dr. Santelices, who offered support in the beginning, had
Stacy Pasquarella and Nicole Talley.
April Ferguson and Tyna Futch.
been battling health issues and had to have a liver transplant, so they did not think he was an option. Out of the blue, he called Nicole and told her that God had given him a second chance at life, so he wanted to revisit the clinic with her and agreed to volunteer as the medical director. Finally, in March 2015, Nicole’s vision became a reality, and Open Hands Health Center Inc. opened its doors in its current location, 309 NW Fifth Street. “We’ve been blessed to rent space from Dr. Neil Wright, who has been another supporter of the program’s mission from day one,” says Nicole.
Services provided at Open Hands include biblical counseling, primary care, electrocardiograms (EKGs), urinalysis, labs, colon-cancer screenings and mammograms; as well as wellness education pertaining to diabetes, weight management and blood-pressure control. The center also uses a drug-assistance program to help patients get free medication. In fact, to date, the staff at Open Hands has helped those in need to receive over $100,000 worth of medications at no cost.
Those who receive medical services at Open Hands have no health insurance (including Medicaid or Medicare), and their family income is at or below 200 percent of Federal Poverty-Level Guidelines, as mandated by the State of Florida. Recipients of Open Hands’ aid provide photo identification and proof of income to ensure that the clinic’s health resources are supporting those who qualify.
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December 2018 | 53
‘The healthcare industry is moving more toward preventive medicine. We help many patients develop individual plans that can reduce the need for medications through proper nutrition and exercise.’ Linda Wright and Dr. Neal Wright.
~ Nicole Talley The center also hosts a yearly dental mobile unit, with the support of Oakview Baptist Church. “We host a dental van from the First Baptist Convention for a week, and local dentists volunteer their time and services for our patients,” Nicole explains. In 2015, about 60 people were treated through the dental unit. This year, “Dental Week” was extended a few extra days, and — with the help of local dentists, six dental assistants and 10 other volunteers — 97 patients were treated, and 43 fillings and 71 extractions were done!
Stacy Pasquarella, Eric Phillips and Penny Homer.
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“The healthcare industry is moving more toward preventive medicine. We help many patients develop individual plans that can reduce the need for medications through proper nutrition and exercise,”
explains Nicole. A partnership with a local gym has allowed many patients to improve their overall health with regular workouts. The staff members at Open Hands pride themselves on providing a more holistic approach that includes prayer and ministry, not just pharmaceuticals. In fact, they prefer to offer alternative ways to cope with pain, anxiety and depression when possible. So many people in the Okeechobee community have come together to make Open Hands a reality. Many feel that they can’t help because they have no medical background. This is far from the truth. Open Hands requires volunteers ranging from medical and office help, to cleaning and maintenance. It truly “takes a village” to keep such an organization running efficiently.
NATIONALLY ACCREDITED Peace Lutheran School We accept VPK and Step Up for Students • Serving Children ages 2-K • Small Class Sizes Save the Date for Our Annual Gala
Bowties & Bling
February 23rd, 2019 at the KOA
Office: 863-763-7566 750 NW 23rd Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • peaceschoolinokeechobee@yahoo.com • FMI visit www.peacelutheranschool-okeechobee.org
•APPLIANCES• Sales / Service / Parts
d joy of Christ. an e ac pe e th h it w es m ho your May this Christmas fill py New Year from our Family to yours. ap Merry Christmas and H
Stacy Pasquarella.
Through a grant given by the Florida Association of Free and Charitable Clinics, Open Hands is now able to employ three staff members part-time: an office manager and two nurses. All other duties are divided among Open Hands’ faithful volunteers. Stacy Pasquarella, who also serves as vice president of the board of directors, expresses her passion for the work done at Open Hands like this: “We are able
HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8am-5:30pm
317 SW Park Street • Okeechobee, FL •
863-763-2220
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December 2018 | 55
to show patients the love of Christ by addressing the entire patient, not just prescribing medication. Most people want to know how to make the right healthy choices, but they don’t always know how. We use a model to focus on seven points in a patient’s well-being, to empower them to take control of their own health. Those points include physical health, emotional health, nutrition, exercise, relationships, financial/work and spirituality.
Nicole Talley and Stacy Pasquarella.
‘We are able to show patients the love of Christ by addressing the entire patient, not just prescribing medication.’ ~ Stacy Pasquarella, VP of Open Hands’ board
“Ninety-five percent of the people we serve are dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction or other issues. Oftentimes, patients come in to Open Hands with a medical concern, and after using the model described above, the underlying root causes are identified and addressed with a comprehensive treatment plan. Being able to treat patients in this manner, and seeing the outcomes of their lives being transformed, is most amazing and rewarding. We base our success on the quality, not the quantity.” While numbers aren’t the primary focus at Open Hands, those associated with the center praise God that they have provided over 1,200 medical visits since opening in 2015. That number continues to increase, as their service time has grown from just one day each week to four days. The number of people in our community who need medical assistance also continues to grow, making the services that are provided by Open Hands increasingly important. In fact, in the 2018 County Health Findings Report (a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute), Okeechobee County ranks number 63 among the 67 Florida counties in health factors. Those factors include health behaviors; access to, and quality of, clinical care; social and economic factors; and physical environment.
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Open Hands Health Center Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, as determined by the Internal Revenue Service, so donations can be tax-deductible. But because Open Hands is Christ-centered, Nicole Talley explains, the number of public grant funding opportunities are limited; that is why private contributions are vital to its continued success. Open Hands, to continue to provide these vital services, needs continued support from churches, businesses and individuals. Volunteers in all capacities are also necessary for the operation of the health center. Days and hours for Open Hands Health Center, 309 NW Fifth Street, Okeechobee, are Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To learn more, call (863) 357-1257 or visit its Facebook page.
“A cheerful heart is good medicine.”
Ready to buy or sell? Experience counts.
Residential buyers ask about our Buyer’s Bonus Program
Broker-Realtor
Okeechobee and the Treasure Coast
NIKI SALMON
(863) 532-9096
niki@remingtonrealestate.com
REMINGTON REAL ESTATE Business • Commercial • Residential
DIRECTOR OF THE OKEECHOBEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & PAST DIRECTOR OKEECHOBEE BOARD OF REALTORS STATE CERTIFIED: BK3268539 CBC1256085 PCC056704
~ Proverbs 17:22
Nita Salmon-President 505 NE Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 863.532.9096
Rustic Style FURNITURE & GIFT SHOPPE Unique Home Decor • Log Homes
JEWELRY • PANDORA • PURSES • BORRACHO’S WINE AND STEMWARE
863.532.9096
505 NE Park Street • Okeechobee, FL
www.RusticNow.com • niki@rusticnow.com
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December 2018 | 57
ing rat rs! b e l a Ce Ye 7
Merry Christmas, Everyone!
Sandwiches • Salads • Quiche • Coffee Lattes • Frozen Blends • Chocolate • Ice Cream
863.357.3357
103 SW Park Street • Okeechobee
Mon. - Thurs. 7am-7pm • Fri. 7am-8pm • Sat. 8am-8pm
MEETING ROOM AVAILABLE
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Rick Chartier (863) 467.9090 • Sales • Service • Audio Visual • Networking
COMPUTERS
• Phone Systems • Cabling • Accessories
WILLIAMSON CATTLE COMPANY
403 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL email: sales@icsflorida.com www.icsflorida.com
Presents ‘Photos of the Past’
Shown below is a picture of:
Love Grows Here
MARKHAM BROTHERS CANNERY
743 SW 24th Ave Okeechobee FL 34974 863.801.6393
Our community was blessed when the Markham Brothers Cannery arrived in 1938. This business employed 55 local workers with two owners, Roscoe and Allen Markham. W.B. Veasey was the main supervisor for the new factory.
We’ll Get You Steamed !
When World War II began in 1941, a majority of the male employees were drafted. A plea was made for women to fill in their places. Patriotic females responded and homemakers began working outside their homes. They realized the canned goods (beans and tomatoes) were needed for our “Troops” and the home front.
Smok’n Hot Gas Service 24/7 Emergency Service All Work 100% Guaranteed
T
he
nd Frie
l y Gas Comp any
5 W. Avenue A Belle Glade, FL 33430
561.996.3046
www.gladesgasac.com LICENSE #01852
of Belle Glade SERVING THE GLADES SINCE 1929 TANKLESS WATER HEATERS
‘
This information is dedicated to Tommy Markham, who gave me this ‘Historical photograph.’ Submitted by Betty Chandler Williamson
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December 2018 | 59
Community Event
Okeechobee Ballet Company – Entrepreneurship
Photos Courtesy of Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County switched things up a bit for its fifth annual Business of the Year Awards luncheon, held Oct. 17. First, there was a change in venue, with the event moving to the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee ROC. Second, new categories were created to honor local businesses for their outstanding achievement and services, including the first annual MVP Award, which was voted on by luncheon attendees, presented to Hospice of Okeechobee for its dedication and care to members of the community.
Local Businesses Shine Chamber names the Best of 2018
WOKC/Glades Media – Community
Hospice of Okeechobee – MVP Raulerson Hospital – Leadership
Tin Fish – Business Development
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Brennan Eye Care – Leadership
Our
40th Year!
..................................................
Based on actual letters to and from soldiers on the battlefield, MAIL CALL Is often funny, sometimes touching, but always entertaining!
Advertise With Us in Print and On-Line Get Your Business Known Around the Lake
Great Rates — Great Service.
Mentor and Counselor
Shirlean Graham
December 7 & 8 8pm - plus 2pm Matinee Dec. 8 610 SW Second Ave. - Okeechobee Reserved Seat Tickets $12 On Sale at Okeechobee The Magazine (Now located downstairs)
314 NW Fifth Street • Okeechobee
863.763.1307
www.okeechobeecommunitytheatre.com Okeechobee County’s #1 Lifestyle Magazine
Email: info@okeechobeethemagazine.com 863-467-0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
FIND US ON ...................................................
COMING IN MARCH A new dark comedy
The Tin Woman
TOWING, INC
SNEIDER LAW Glenn J. Sneider Attorney at Law
Helping good people facing tough problems. Divorce
Custody
Paternity
DUI
Criminal Law
200 SW 9th Street•Okeechobee, FL 34974
863-467-6570 www.SneiderLaw.com
TOWING RECOVERY &
HEAVY TRANSPORT
863.763.2845 24/7 SERVICE 414 S PARROTT AVE. OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974 www.BMJTowing.com
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December 2018 | 61
Custom Home Building & Remodeling
863.467.1933 221 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
STATE LICENSED & INSURED - Lic #CRC1331883
62 | December 2018
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jor All Mnads &
B r a turers nufac
Ma
TV A & e l c otorcy EPAIRS
M SERVICE•RCESSORIES S PART
Ron Fanaro, Esq.
Donna DeMarchi, Esq. Agnes Lambert, Esq.
Justin Lefko, Esq.
& AC
Taylor Hoskins, Esq.
Your Okeechobee Law Firm Auto Accidents • Social Security Disability Bankruptcy • Veterans’ Disability • Workers’ Compensation Located on 3rd Street (across from the courthouse)
357-5800
863.357.0334
HTLLfirm.com
1460 HWY 78 WEST • OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974
rder We will o that G IN ANYTH kes Engel ma t o n if we do it e v ha in stock!
COOLERS below retail prices!
DRY BOXES • BACKPACK COOLERS • COOLERS • HD30 SOFT SIDED • TUMBLERS
863.763.3417
204 Southeast 10th Avenue Okeechobee FL 34974 www.DomersInc.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 63
at Quail Creek Plantation
A
Holiday Menu Made for Sharing By Rachel Buxton Photos by Jane Kaufman
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T
he holidays are a time for family and friends to get together, and what better way to spend the time with those closest to you than with a holiday feast to share? When you’re entertaining a group, family-style is the way to go — and it makes for a pretty presentation. We have the perfect menu for you — complete with fish and a roast — as well as a salad and veggies (and a mouth-watering dessert that’s sure to warm you up this winter). In addition, of course, we’ve paired two elegant wines to go with this menu, because no holiday is complete without a glass of wine to toast with.
VILLA BRUNESCA CHARDONNAY
Made with one of the most popular and versatile white-wine grapes, this Italian chardonnay has an intense yellow color with an elegant aroma of grapefruit, peach, apricot, lime flowers and bread crust. On the palate, this wine has an inviting flavor that offers a delicate taste with notes of green apple. This is the perfect white wine to pair with fish, or to enjoy by itself.
STAG’S LEAP WINE CELLARS, ARTEMIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON, 2014
This medium- to full-bodied Napa Valley red wine opens with intriguing plum, ripe fig and allspice aromas. It has a nice weight and a silky texture offering flavors of ripe blackberry, chocolatecovered cherry and hints of cedar. Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon, an elegant top-quality cabernet, is the least expensive red in the Stag’s Leap portfolio. With a soft lingering finish, this complex red pairs nicely with pork or beef ribs.
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December 2018 | 65
at Quail Creek Plantation
ROSEMARY PORK ROAST INGREDIENTS:
1 pork loin roast 4 green onions, chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary 1/4 teaspoon pepper
GRILLED CEDAR PLANK SALMON INGREDIENTS:
1 cedar plank 6 tablespoons Dijon mustard Parsley Salmon fillets Panko Shallots, minced Salt and pepper Whole mustard
DIRECTIONS:
Soak cedar plank in salt water for 2 hours, then drain. Remove skin from salmon fillets, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels. Generously season salmon with salt and pepper; lay fillets on cedar plank; cover with Dijon mustard. Then mix together panko, whole mustard, minced shallots and parsley. Cover the salmon. Set grill for indirect grilling and heat to medium-high. Place cedar plank in the center of the hot grate, away from the heat; cover; grill until cooked through, about 20 to 30 minutes.
1/4 cup red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 2-1/4 cups chicken broth 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 cup cold water
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Place first 7 ingredients and 1/4 cup broth in a large re-sealable plastic bag, seal bag and turn to coat, then refrigerate 4 to 8 hours, turning occasionally. Place roast in ungreased roasting pan, fat side up, reserving marinade in the bag. Add remaining broth to reserved marinade; pour over roast. Sprinkle with salt. Bake uncovered 1 to 1-1/4 hours. Remove roast from oven and let stand 10 minutes before slicing. Meanwhile, skim fat from pan juices, mix with cornstarch and water until smooth, and stir in juices. Bring to a boil; stir until thick, about 1 to 2 minutes; serve with roast.
PEAR SALAD WITH PORT WINE VINAIGRETTE INGREDIENTS:
1 ripe pear 4 oz. crumbled bleu cheese For Vinaigrette: 1 bottle port wine 2 shallots, coarsely chopped
2 oz. coarsely chopped walnuts 6 oz. fresh spinach, radicchio, frisĂŠe lettuce 2 sprigs fresh thyme 16 oz. grapeseed oil 6 oz. red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar Salt and coarse pepper
DIRECTIONS:
Place port wine, shallots, thyme, vinegar and sugar in a saucepan; reduce by one-half; let cool. Strain into a stainless-steel bowl. Slowly add oil and whisk until desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste, and chill. Cut the pear into thin slices. Place in bowl and add walnuts and greens. Ladle dressing over top and toss. Place on chilled plate and garnish with bleu cheese.
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GREEN BEANS AND ROASTED POTATOES INGREDIENTS:
1 lb. green beans, blanched 6 strips of thick bacon 1 shallot, diced 3 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb. tri-colored fingerling potatoes 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped 1 teaspoon minced garlic Salt and pepper
DIRECTIONS:
For the green beans: Heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil in pan. Render bacon until crispy, and then cut coarsely. Place diced shallot in sautĂŠ pan with bacon fat and heat until clear. Add beans and cook until warm. Sprinkle with bacon bits. For the potatoes: Preheat oven to 350. Slice potatoes lengthwise. Toss potatoes, rosemary, garlic, 1 tbsp. of olive oil, and salt and pepper (to taste) in a bowl until well-coated. Place potatoes on a sheet pan and roast until tender.
!
PEACH COBBLER, SKILLET-STYLE INGREDIENTS:
1 large 29-oz. can of peaches, drained 2 sticks of butter, melted 2 cups sugar 2 cups flour 2 cups of milk 2 teaspoons baking powder
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Pour drained peaches into skillet; pour melted butter over peaches; mix in sugar, flour, milk and baking powder together to form batter. Pour batter over peaches and butter. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until top is golden-brown and edges are crispy.
!
Chef Ray Gardner
Chef Ray Gardner is the executive chef at Quail Creek Plantation. He attended the Florida Institute of Technology and served an apprenticeship at the Sheraton Hotels. He served as chef at the opening of two platinum-rated country clubs in the Palm Beaches and Ritz Carlton Hotels Group. Chef Ray has been recognized as Chef of the Year and Culinarian of the Year for the Treasure Coast by the American Chef Federation. He is also accredited with gold, silver and bronze medals in national competitions by the federation. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 67
Marcum & Associates Same Values — Same Service with a Name You Can Trust
INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY Family Owned and Operated
James Marcum Principal Agent
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863.467.0331 www.mymarcum.com
1120 S. Parrott Ave. • Okeechobee, FL 34974
Besides Beef feed — Syfrett EP Cubestm, Bull Grower, Heifer Developer, Calf Pellets, Dairy and minerals, we carry Swine, Poultry, Sheep, Goat, Deer, Game feed and more! Check out ALL our programs—from great starter/growers and finish/withdraws, to a special layer ration for poultry. We’ll deliver direct to your operation—6 tons + minimum. We have established routes from Jacksonville thru Homestead and Coast to Coast. We deliver bulk, bagged pallets, or totes. Call Charles Syfrett: 863.634.7366/John Eubanks: 352.213.2671. For smaller quantities, drive into The Feederytm for fresh feed available in any quantity. Bring your own container, drive up and be well taken care. If you don’t have a container or need more, we carry barrels w/lids—up to 300 lbs, sacks—up to 100 lbs, or super sacks—up to 2000 lbs. Feed is also available in 50 lb. bags. We invite you to give us a try, experience superior nutrition, unsurpassed support and competitive pricing. OPEN | M-F 7:30 - 5:30 SAT 8 - 2 3079 NW 8th St | Okeechobee, FL 34972 Mill: 863.763.5586 | Jose: 863.634.6547 FRESH | LOCAL 3RD GENERATION FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
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December 2018 | 69
Community Event
Boots Pearls
Hosts sold-out event in support of Hospice
Hospice of Okeechobee hosted its 13th annual Boots & Pearls gala Oct. 26 at the Okeechobee KOA Convention Center. The must-attend community event of the year was completely sold out boasting over 600 attendees. The event featured silent and live auctions that included a variety of items donated by local businesses and individuals in efforts to help raise funds for Hospice of Okeechobee and the Hamrick Home. The top bidding item was an Uncle Henry rifle donated by The Gun Shop which raised over $6,000. Hospice of Okeechobee was recently awarded the first-ever MVP award at the Business of the Year Awards, hosted by the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce, for its outstanding and comprehensive, high-quality palliative care provided to individuals in Okeechobee County. For more information, visit www.hospiceofokeechobee.org. ď ľ
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Photos by Sandra Pearce
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Community Event
Boots Pearls
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K A E E L R K C B A T T S & FA IT BA
A Family Tradition By Robbi Sumner
Fast Break Bait & Tackle is a third-
generation Okeechobee business with a 25-year history. Frank Marsocci and his son Danny partnered in 1993 on what was then a 2,000-square-foot gas and convenience store called Fast Tracks. According to Danny’s son Chase, the store at that time carried about one aisle of tackle that focused on bass and panfish.
standard convenience-store food items. But Fast Break Bait & Tackle now also caters to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boating, fishing and hunting. “Our goal is to provide a one-stop shop for all recreation on the lake. We have fuel, bait, tackle, sunglasses and clothing,” says Chase. “You can even purchase fishing and hunting licenses at the shop.” The self-service ice machine and the fuel
pumps offer convenient 24-hour access. A drive-through option around the back of the store allows shiners to be loaded directly into customers’ boats. Fast Break’s wild shiners are caught locally and treated daily to maintain optimal health. Located just three miles east of Scott Driver Park on State Road 78, Fast Break Bait & Tackle is the logical place to gear up on your way to a day of fun and adventure on Lake Okeechobee! Running a business that is open seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. takes
Chase bought into the business in 2010 and added professional guide services for bass and crappie fishing as well as alligator, duck and hog hunts. Thanks to building expansions in 2012 and 2016, the Marsoccis have added 3,600 square feet of retail space under the Fast Break roof. Fast-forward to 2018, and the store is now owned and operated by Chase and his wife, Rebecca. They still offer a variety of fuels, from regular and diesel to recreational, aviation and propane, as well as 74 | December 2018
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Three generations — Danny, Chase, Landen and Hoyt Marsocci.
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
a great deal of knowledge and dedication. Fast Break employs 11 staff members, in addition to Chase and Rebecca, and including Store Manager Shelby Hancock, who has worked there for six years. Both Chase and Rebecca love the outdoors and grew up fishing and enjoying other sports in Okeechobee, so they are well-versed in the needs of others who do the same. Fast Break carries retail products from well-known and respected retailers including HUK Gear, Costa, Lew’s, AFTCO, Engel Coolers, B’n’M Poles, and the Shimano G Loomis Top Shelf line. They even carry Medlock Jigs, which are locally hand-crafted, for bass fishing; as well as a line of artificial baits that Chase helped to design, featuring custom colors that are sure to attract the big fish! Each winter, Fast Break holds a weekly in-store Crappie Contest. Customers are encouraged to bring in their catch to be weighed, and the angler with the biggest fish each week is awarded a $25 store gift card. Other prizes include a $50 gift card and a B’n’M rod for each month. The overall winner will be determined at the end of crappie season in March; that fisherman gets a $100 store gift card and a new rod. The contest is free to enter, so be sure to stop in and get your crappie catch weighed. While the company has sponsored a number of fishing tournaments throughout the years, Fast Break held its first $10,000 tournament in October of 2017. The numbers quickly grew from
the original 58 boats to a recent 88-boat tournament. “We guarantee the payout, regardless of the number of entries,” Chase and Rebecca explain. “We also hire a professional team to run the stage set-up, team meetings, and weigh-ins. This not only keeps things running smoothly but eliminates any concerns over possible favoritism being shown.” In addition to the overall winners, side pots are offered, allowing more opportunities for each two-man team to win. According to Rebecca, “Our vendors have been super-supportive, even giving prizes away to spectators at the weigh-ins. We are also planning to sponsor more youth tournaments, as kids are the future of our outdoor sports.” That future is more important than ever now that Chase and Rebecca are
raising two sons: Landen, 8; and Hoyt, 1. “Landen loves fishing and baseball – he basically loves the outdoors as much as we do,” Rebecca shares, “and Hoyt is destined to enjoy it all, too!” If you’re not already a regular Fast Break customer, stop by to say hello and check out the store, with its variety of Okeechobee souvenirs and gift items. You’re bound to find something for yourself or someone on your Christmas list. You can also check out Fast Break Bait & Tackle on Facebook. Or visit its website, https://www.okeechobeebassfishing guide.com, where you can even pick a guide and “hook” your next outdoor adventure. Fast Break Bait & Tackle 1505 State Road 78 West Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-0973 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 75
Have a Very Merry Christmas! St. Lic. #CMCO54668
Refrigeration ~ AC ~ Ice Machines Serving the Glades Since 1929 Jim and Monica McCarthy Clark
Okeechobee Clewiston LaBelle 863-763-2114 863-983-8111 866-942-7280 804 N. Parrott Ave. 311 E. Sugarland Hwy. We also service Okeechobee, FL 34972 Clewiston, FL 33440 LaBelle, FL
Carrier THINK CREMATION IS THE SAME WHEREVER YOU GO?
Think again.
TERVIS TUMBLER DEALER
Don’t fall for misleading claims! Buxton & Bass Funeral Home & Crematory is the only local funeral home with an onsite crematory.
Other funeral homes claim that they offer quality cremation services and return all the ashes. But how do they know? Many use a third party crematory, which means they are sending your loved one out of town.
You’ll always have peace of mind with Buxton & Bass. We are the ONLY funeral home in Okeechobee that owns and operates their own crematory. Your loved one never leaves our care. Put your trust in Buxton & Bass Funeral Home & Crematory and know where your loved one is at all times.
N. Parrott Avenue |Family-Owned Okeechobee, Florida 34972 Okeechobee’s400 Only Full-Service, & Operated Funeral Hom (863) 763-1994 | www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com
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Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC 863.763.1107
• Most insurances accepted
• Accepting New Patients
• DOT/CDL Physicals
• Walk-ins & appointments
Antoinette Battle, ARNP-C
Se habla español
Stanley H. Sweda, MD
Wir sprechen deutsch
Jane Powell, ARNP-FNP-BC
Nous parlons français
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee
From Ou Merry ChristmarsFamilies to Yours, & a Happy New Year!
A good neighbor has your back.
A good neighbor has your back.
Life’s a combination of good days and bad. I have your back for both. And who has my back? The company more people have trusted for 90 years. I’m here to help life go rightTM. CALL ME TODAY.
Life’s a combination of good days and bad. I have your back for both. And who has my back? The company more people have trusted for 90 years. I’m here to help life go right. CALL ME TODAY. TM
Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy Inc Gretchen Robertson, Agent Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy 309 Inc NE 2ND ST Gretchen Robertson, Agent Okeechobee, FL 34972 309 NE 2ND ST Okeechobee, FL 34972 Bus: 863-763-5561 Bus: 863-763-5561 State Farm Bloomington, IL 1606039
16066039
State Farm Bloomington, IL
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December 2018 | 77
E E I R I C T U & L Y R . ST ATTE B
By Raye Deusinger
more. Working the sales counter in the front of the store are three women: Ashley, Jackie and Kayla. Ashley has worked there for two years; Jackie for almost two years; and Kayla, the newcomer, for only two months, but she had been a counter-pro at another shop for years.
A n old adage reads “Great oaks from
Trained by CJ, these women have
Business Is Booming little acorns grow.” Joey Miller planted an acorn in Fort Pierce in the 1960s that sold only batteries and eggs — yes, eggs. Today Joey has an empire of 15 oak trees called St. Lucie Battery & Tire. His in Fort Pierce is still the largest, but the second largest is right here in Okeechobee, run by CJ Boone.
amazing tire knowledge and can answer any question, or find the answer in moments. They know their stock, such as batteries, straps, trailer hitches and other parts, chemicals, oils, chargers and solar panels for batteries. St. Lucie Battery & Tire even sells solar panels for the tops of motor homes that keep the batteries charged at all times. The Service Department is drive-through, so whether your semi, your 40-foot RV, your pickup, your car or even your
CJ has run his tree — OK, it is really a store — since 2009, when Joey recognized CJ’s knowledge and ability and hired him on the spot. CJ received his training, beginning at age 8, from his dad, who had a tire business in Chicago. CJ graduated from high school with a full scholarship to the University of Florida’s pharmacy program, but he chose to stay in the tire business helping his dad at his store in Stuart. The business name includes batteries and tires, but they sell and service so much 78 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
From top, left: Jackie Serano, Ashley Tagle and Kayla Lavigne; Adam Benitez. Bottom: Roman Yanez; Justin Doyle; and CJ Boone.
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
ATV needs work, they can handle it. An Okeechobee favorite, Justin Doyle, is in charge of the service counter and understands your needs quickly. Roman Yang is the expert tire manager. Completing a knowledgeable trio, Adam Benitez is a diesel expert capable of rebuilding an engine. Together they are an accomplished team that works to make each customer happy. CJ says, “We stock more tires than any others, and our pricing is competitive with retail pricing — and even better on agricultural needs. Our primary focus is on providing agriculture with honest, reliable service and available tires. We are the biggest distributor for ‘ag’ tires in the state of Florida. We began with one mechanic and one tire-road guy and now employ seven mechanics and four tire-road guys.” A “tire-road guy” is a tire expert who travels to those farm, dairy or ranch vehicles that cannot be brought to the shop. Many of these tracts consist of thousands of acres and have huge vehicles for animal transport, or for planting and maintaining crops. When a tire has a problem, it takes these experts to handle it. Some tires weigh more than 1,000 pounds. CJ’s shop also has three “boom trucks” with cranes capable of lifting eight-wheel tractors so that work can be done and tires fixed or changed efficiently. These trucks often go deep into the fields or the woods to service tractors where a truck could never get in. Sometimes
the directions might be to “turn at the third tree” to locate the downed vehicle. The tire-road guys often work a 50- to 70-hour week and are on call two weeks at a time, and then rotate. If one is on vacation, CJ must step in; he is not just the boss but also the relief worker. CJ explains, “We work in any weather except when there is lightning. We serve major companies like McArthur Dairy, FPL, Diamond R Fertilizer, Walpole Feed, the Okeechobee Livestock Market and Aaron Rents, and we are newly contracted with Okeechobee County. They all are with us because of our knowledge and service, and we are determined to make them happy.” He adds, “We deliver across South Florida from Orlando to Tampa and from Fort Myers to the Everglades. This service has grown because of our available stock of agriculture tires and the reliable know-
ledge, products and services of SLB&T. We provide service when it is needed, including recently going to Tampa to change tires on a crippled vehicle when quick, dependable service was needed to get that vehicle back to work.” A huge supporter of Okeechobee, St. Lucie Battery & Tire contributes to fundraisers, supports the Youth Livestock Sale at the Okeechobee County Fair, supports Okeechobee High School sports, sponsors baseball and soccer, and helps the Blood Roundup and more. St. Lucie Battery & Tire in Okeechobee has over 10 acres and is growing its space and wants everyone to watch for a new oak tree (yes, a building) next year so that they can continue to serve Okeechobee well. St. Lucie Battery & Tire 198 U.S. Highway 98 N. 863-357-2431 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 79
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Celebrating 86 Years Serving the Glades
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December 2018 | 81
Our Traditions
I
By David Jones
f I were younger, I might have told you that my favorite holiday tradition was the spiked drinks my Uncle Wanny would slip me when he thought no one was looking.
Those Christmases were always noisy affairs. We would gather early, stay late, and eat from a table overflowing with everything you’d expect from a family of Southern Baptists right down to the green bean casserole and the mystery Jell-O that alternated annually between lime with shreds of cheese (weird but acceptable) and lime with shreds of carrots (a nasty surprise). We would sit around the table and argue about politics, tell jokes, and, until he passed on, we would listen to Uncle Billy’s stories of hoboing around after he ran away from home as a teen. It was always tricky trying to figure out which of his stories were true and which were just a little too creative to be true. As for me, I liked believing. When the meal was done, the men would drift downstairs to smoke and drink and continue the conversation while the women made coffee and had their own time together. This is when Wanny would find a way to get a vodka and coke or a Bailey’s and coffee in my hands. He’d offer it with a wink and a smile, his gruff voice whispering loudly, “Don’t tell your dad.” I never told dad, but I’m pretty sure he always knew. He had a knack. The older I get, the more I realize the importance of the traditions that bring our communities and families together. It wasn’t just the sly drinks that came my way; that hardly mattered. What did matter was the ability to argue and still love and support each other; the sense that these people would be there for me no matter what I did or what I said. The best tradition of all was just in the coming together.
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Sadly passed, Swiss Miss unselfishly endured traditional Christmas costume humiliation.
The years passed and many of the folks who made those celebrations special passed away and others of us had moved on. Tragedy struck some of the cousins and time took the rest and soon there were no family Christmases, not in that same way. But in my mind, I can still look around that table and see Billy’s scowl and laugh, Wanny’s pride, grandma’s beautiful smile, and grandpa’s sense of contentment. I can see Trudy’s caring patience and Lori’s spark of rebellious enthusiasm, Ricky’s sly knowledge and Phyllis’s sour silence. I can feel my parents’ presence, too, and I can remember feeling deeply at peace. If I had one wish for every reader of this magazine, whether they celebrate Christmas or Hannukah or Diwali or something I’ve never experienced, it would be that sense of peace and the feeling of being loved. And maybe a nice Bailey’s and coffee.
Okeechobee The Magazine Contributors Share Their Traditions
M
y dad was a route man for Coca Cola when I was a kid in Detroit. Our big Christmas tradition was Dad taking Mom and us three kids to the Coke Christmas party for all workers. We always got a souvenir of a wooden Coke case, true to color, holding 24 bottles of Coke — shrunk down to about a 3 x 4 inch size. The bottles were even removable. Great toys, but I sure wish I had kept a few of them to show the succeeding generations. ~ Raye Deusinger, Writer
W hen I was growing up our family would get together
on Christmas Eve, open gifts. After supper, we would gather up and go out Christmas caroling to a few houses of people that we knew. It was a ton of fun with loads of laughs. Christmas morning after we got to see what Santa brought, we would go to my grandma’s house for dinner and then to my other grandma’s for supper. All of my cousins would be there, and we would just have a blast playing with our new Christmas toys and having a great time with family.
T
he holidays were always a hectic time growing up, but one thing that came before anything else was always the Okeechobee Christmas parade.
Boy, I sure do miss those days. ~ Patti Berglund, Office Manager
Now, I know what most of you are thinking — we’d go as a family and watch the floats decorated in lights and listen to the carols being sung waiting for Santa to make his grand appearance. That sounds nice, but that wasn’t my family. My family tradition was actually being Santa, Mrs. Claus and Santa’s helpers. Yep, my father was Santa, my mother was Mrs. Claus and my brothers and I were elves. At less than a week old I was wrapped up riding in my first parade as an elf. My brothers and I not only had to wear green tights and an elf outfit, but we were forced to complete the costume with plastic pointy ears. Following the parade, we’d make our way to the old assistedliving facility and visit with the residents and sing and dance, offering a night of real entertainment. At least in their eyes. I think back at how my brothers and I dreaded those nights in the parade, but, in all honesty, I enjoyed them and enjoy the memories of them even more. It gave my family an opportunity to be together and a chance to put a smile on someone else’s face.
A
bout 42 years ago, when there were only three grandchildren, my father-in-law wanted to make more memories with Christmas. At that time, the grandkids were about 2 to 4 years old. Everyone had to sing a Christmas carol to get their first gift. The grandkids started, each singing a song and one by one they got their gift. Then it was on to the adult children. Through the years, each child took this very seriously and got very creative in what they would do. Some sang, played instruments, and even wrote poems. The in-laws are gone now, but the tradition is still done today. The great-grandchildren are now keeping this alive. Wonderful memories and laughter. ~ Trish Grygo, Sales
Merry Christmas!
~ Rachel Buxton, Managing Editor
I
have many wonderful memories of Christmas traditions growing up in Western New York — from going with my father and siblings to a snow covered tree farm to pick out a tree while my mother fixed hot chocolate for us, to decorating her homemade cookies. (I’ve continued this tradition — my 26-year-old still looks forward to decorating cookies!) As a grown up with my own family, I created a new tradition. After opening presents Christmas morning with my husband, son and in-laws and enjoying a big breakfast, we open English ‘‘crackers.’’ Crackers, or poppers are festive cardboard tubes that are pulled apart sharply, making a loud popping sound. Inside is a paper crown, a small toy and a joke or riddle. It makes me smile every year that my family delights in this special (and rather crazy) tradition. And, of course, posing all three generations for a photo in the crowns by the Christmas tree is a must! ~ Lorraine Vogel, Creative Director www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 83
What People Are Saying... “Okeechobee The Magazine is definitely the best community magazine in the area. Through its content and excellent photography Okeechobee The Magazine captures the essence of Okeechobee.”
— Corey Penrod,
Merry Christmas
from our family to yours... And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” h Luke 2:10-11
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We at Domer’s are honored to have been a part of Okeechobee The Magazine for many years and plan to continue this relationship for many more! This magazine has been a great addition to our town and has filled a marketing need for many local businesses and individuals. I personally love how each issue is like a celebration of our community; it truly brings us the best of Okeechobee.
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Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: 863.467.0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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December 2018 | 85
Around Okeechobee
When only the best will do.
Brought to You By:
Chamber Ribbon-Cuttings
2nd Street Pizza – Bagels
Giddy Up To-Go Delivery
Diamond C Events
Okeechobee Army Surplus
Dr. Michael Schwartz, Gastroenterology
The Country Boutique
Okeechobee Educational Foundation Holds Annual Luncheon The Okeechobee Educational Foundation hosted its annual Achieving Excellence luncheon Sept. 26, at the First United Methodist Church. During the luncheon, $2,850 was raised to put toward scholarships and mini-grants to be given to graduating seniors. The foundation helps to manage the majority of scholarships provided by the community. 86 | December 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Lisa Ruiz, College Success coach at IRSC
Around Okeechobee
When only the best will do.
Brought to You By:
Main Street Mixers
Grand Oaks
Martha’s House Art Event
Kiwanis Incoming Officers Installed Kiwanis of Okeechobee went back in time with a 50s theme for their annual installation banquet held Sept. 27 at KOA. Kiwanis members and guests dressed the part with many looking as if they just left the set of the popular movie Grease. The incoming officers were installed along with several members awarded and recognized for their exemplary services throughout the year. From left: Ken Keller, Teresa Bishop, Sherri Enfinger, Heather Hancock, Dakota Marchiano and Jim Bush.
Masonic Lodge Offers Rare Look Into Its History The Okeechobee Masonic Lodge #237 opened up their Masonic center to the public Sept. 24 for their program titled “Celebrating Our History.” Mason and historian Judge William Hendry gave a brief history on freemasonry and the local Okeechobee lodge. The late Haynes Williams was also honored for his 69 years of service to the fraternity with his family presented with a tile that will hang on the wall. Hendry was also presented with a tile honoring him for his 60 years of service.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
December 2018 | 87
List of Advertisers A & G Pools.........................................22
Fire Rescue Safety Ball........................29
Quail Creek Plantation.........................7
A Child’s World...................................11
Florida Public Utilities.........................5
Quality Air Conditioning.....................18
Addington Satellite TV.......................37
Gilbert Chevrolet..............................89
Rabon's Country Feed........................81
All About You Caregivers, Inc..............39
Glades AC..........................................76
Raulerson Hospital.............................41
American Drilling Services.................61
Glades Gas of Belle Glade..................59
Remington Real Estate......................57
Anchor Dental....................................12
Glenn Sneider, Attorney.....................61
Royal's Furniture.................................81
Hair Gurl Salon..................................19
S.Cruz Lawn Service...........................84
BMJ Towing.......................................61
Heartland Discount Pharmacy..............3
Sandra Pearce Photography...............68
Badcock Furniture.............................62
Highland Pest Control.......................77
Seminole Brighton Casino...................9
Bass Electric.......................................11
Highway 55......................................20
Simpson Advanced Chiropractic
Berger Real Estate..............................48
Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd.............63
& Medical Center..................................8
Abney Building & Consulting, Inc.......21
“When we first came to Okeechobee from West Palm, we were a little bit worried how we were going to advertise our business. But as soon as I saw the stack of glossy magazines sitting on a table, I knew it was going to be just fine. Okeechobee The Magazine is definitely meant to be saved and not to be thrown away. — Paulette Bragel,
Anderson Realty.................................80
Big Lake Eye Care.................................1 Brown Cow Sweetery........................58
ICS Computers...................................59
Buxton & Bass Funeral Home.............76
Sunrise Theatre..................................13 Superior Water Works.........................58
Cams Mobile Marine.........................48
Lillies In Bloom Daycare....................59
Syfrett Feed.........................................69
Carpenter Insurance...........................47
Linda’s Style & Trends.........................81
CenterState Bank...............................25
Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant...........57
Clear Title & Legal Services.................23
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Enclose a check for $18.00 (made payable to Okeechobee The Magazine) and mail along with this completed form to:
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Cooling Refrigeration Services...........85
Marcum and Associates.....................68
The Hope Chest..................................38
Crossroads Restaurant........................80
Mixon Real Estate Group......................4
The Purple Orchid...............................23
Custom Sights and Sounds.................76
Morgan’s Furniture.............................47
Tin Fish..............................................48
Custom Window Treatments.............62
Murray Insurance Services.................40
Total Roadside Services.....................73 Treasure Coast Food Bank...................84
D4 Powersports..................................63
Oakview Baptist Church.....................39
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center.....77
Okee-Tantie Title Company, Inc..........39
Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center..........43
Okeechobee Community Theatre.......61
Domer’s, Inc.......................................63
Okeechobee Health Care Facility
Don's Appliances................................55
...........................................Inside cover
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Trinidad Garcia, M.D...........................22
Visiting Nurse Association..................37
WOKC 100.9 FM.................................69 Waste Management...........................48
Edward Jones.....................................77
Peace Lutheran School.......................55
Wemmer Family Orthodontics..........58
Everglades Pediatric Dentistry...........28
Penrod Construction..........................23
Williamson Cattle Company.............59
Platinum Performance Builders...........62
William “Bill” Wallace.........................85
Family Dentistry of Okeechobee.........24
Port Mayaka Polo Club..........................45
Worley Construction..........................35
Fast Break. Bait and Tackle.................85
Pritchards and Associates..................19 Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant.................38
88 | December 2018
Teez 2 Pleez.......................................76 Tenniswood Dental Associates...........44
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St. Lucie Battery & Tire.......................49
Lawnwood Regional Medical Ctr........91
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