Okeechobee The Magazine Fall 2011 by Okeechobee The Magazine

FALL 2011

THE MAGAZINE

YOU LUCKY DOG The Joy of Adopting a Rescued Pet

Plus

Bill Black National Day of the American Cowboy Allison Chandler Shopping with Donna Huth

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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t trust our baby blues with anyone but our Daddy!

You should trust him too!

Big Lake

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4 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

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Publisher’s Note volume

5, number 3 |Fall 2011

publisher/managing editor

Maureen Budjinski creative director

Bridgette Waldau copy editor

Jason Budjinski office manager

Phyllis Dwyer bookkeeping

Carol Lieberman account executive

Gail Lockwood senior photographer

Rafael Pacheco contributing photographers

Sharon Cannon Felicia Maxwell Sandra Pearce writers

Jason Budjinksi Ron Bukley Raye Deusinger Jan Fehrman contributors

Charles Murphy Joyce Murphy Kathy Scott Michael Shellen distribution

Miracle Hall Okeechobee The Magazine

111 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: (863) 467-0054

Welcome to the fall issue of Okeechobee The Magazine. I’m hoping you like the cover, as the story on adopting rescued pets is very near and dear to us here at the magazine, and I’m sure many of our readers feel the same way. Our pets have brought us so much joy that we wanted to share the joys of adoption with you. We hope you consider adopting a pet from one of the local rescue groups. You can do so much for them, but believe me, they will do so much more for you. As the school year begins we bid a fond farewell to Bill Black, career specialist at Okeechobee High School. Read about his career in education as he enters into a new life of retirement. Also in these pages we feature talented teenage volunteer Allison Chandler, who has inspired the young and young at heart with her many community outreach and volunteer activities. And she has only just begun. Follow this month’s Okeechobee Shopper Donna Huth as she visits Toni’s Chic Boutique, Morgan’s Furniture and Todd Everett Flooring. She finished her shopping excursion with lunch at Okeechobee’s newest restaurant, Lodge at the Lake. Everyone loves to take a tour inside the area’s more stylish homes, and Okeechobee The Magazine is eager to show them off. We are delighted to showcase the beautiful home of Bud and Ami Neese. Just in time for the fall issue their home is beautifully decorated to almost make you feel a chill in the air. Check out the fabulous summer events featured in this issue, including National Day of the American Cowboy, Fitness Factory’s Strongman Competition and the Texaco Country Showdown, to name a few. Also, Okeechobee was this year’s host of the Florida Airboat Association’s Airboater Unity Ride and Rally, which drew some 500 people to the weekend event. We hope to see them again next year. In closing, as always, I thank you and hope you enjoy the stories, columns and photos within these pages of Okeechobee The Magazine, your magazine.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com

Maureen Budjinski president

Sincerely,

Joshua I. Manning vice president

Barry S. Manning chairman & ceo Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2011, all rights reserved by Okeechobee The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Publisher

Michael Costopoulos, Donna Helton - Financial Advisers. Investment and insurance products distributed by Genworth Financial Securities Corporation, member FINRA/SIPC and a licensed insurance agency (dba Genworth Financial Securities and Insurance Services in CA); investment advisory services are offered through Genworth Financial Advisers Corporation, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Home office at 200 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173; phone 888.528.2987. Financial Planning and Portfolio Management Services offered solely through Costopoulos and Helton, P.A. a state of Florida Registered Investment Adviser which is not affiliated with Genworth Financial Securities Corporation or Genworth Financial Advisers Corporation. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 | 9

Contents Fall 2011

features 46

departments

26 You Lucky Dog

The Joy of Adopting a Rescued Pet BY Raye Deusinger

46 Bill Black

Longtime counselor Bill Black retires from OHS

12 Okeechobee Shopper

Donna Huth takes us on a shopping spree to Toni’s Chic Boutique, Morgan’s Furniture, Todd Everett Flooring and Lodge at the Lake, where she enjoyed lunch.

By Jan Fehrman

60 Allison Chandler Teen Leader - From the YMCA to UCLA BY Jason Budjinski

36 Okeechobee at Home

columns

BY Ron Bukley

COMMUNITY EVENTS

18 20 22 24 34 44 54

National Day of the American Cowboy Okeechobee Strongman Competition Florida Airboat Association Unity Rally Texaco Country Showdown Waldau’s Junior Golf Summer Clinic O.L. Raulerson Jr. Fourth of July Barbecue Arnold’s Wildlife Open House

TDC

Fishing on Lake Okeechobee

Richard Donegan

BY Kathy Scott

BY Capt. MICHAEL Shellen

BY CHARLES MURPHY

ON THE COVER FALL 2011

76 78

AROUND OKEECHOBEE advertisers index

THE MAGAZINE

YOU LUCKY DOG

You Lucky Dog The Joy of Adopting a Rescued Pet

The Joy of Adopting a Rescued Pet

PHOTO BY RAFAEL PACHECO Plus

Bill Black National Day of the American Cowboy Allison Chandler Shopping with Donna Huth

10 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Upcoming Shoots

Oct. 21 - South FL Boy Scouts Fundraiser Shoot Oct. 22 -Okeechobee FFA Alumni Shoot Nov. 5 -AGC Shoot Nov. 6 -NSCa Shoot Dec. 10 -Highlands County Citrus Shoot Dec. 11 -NSCA Shoot

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Okeechobee Shopper Featuring Donna Huth

STORY BY JOYCE MURPHY O PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARON CANNON

Each issue, Okeechobee The Magazine sends a local resident out into the community to visit local retailers on a $10,000 shopping spree. To help narrow the choices, each retailer selects three items for our shopper to consider. The shopping spree is imaginary; we don’t really fork over the cash. However, we do get a great look at what’s available at area stores.

Hampton Inn Director of Sales Donna Huth moved to Okeechobee in 2004 from Bradenton and found Okeechobee much like her native hometown of Lakeland. Being a native Floridian and loving the community, Huth quickly got involved in organizations such as the American Red Cross, Okeechobee Main Street, the Okeechobee Women’s Networking Group, Rotary Club of Okeechobee and most recently the new Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee. Huth currently serves on the Okeechobee Rotary Club Board of Directors and received the 2011 Rookie of the Year Award. She also serves on the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee Marketing Committee. Huth attended Hillsborough Community College and

Indian River State College for business management. She is the proud mother of two daughters and five grandchildren who live in Lakeland and she attends BHR Christian Church. Being a firm believer in giving back to her community, Huth feels very fortunate to work for a company that has the same values. Working hand in hand with the Hampton Inn, she has done fundraisers, bringing people together with wine and cheese tastings to benefit the American Red Cross and Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Huth loves working with people, whether it is for hotel or meeting room accommodation needs, or serving her community. Donna began her shopping experience at Toni’s Chic Boutique (863-357-8664), a new fashion boutique and select consignment store located at 123 SW Park Street. Owner Toni Doyle was eager to show Donna the wide selec-

(Left) A Ruby Rox dress catches Donna’s attention. (Above, L-R) Toni’s Chic Boutique owner Toni Doyle, Jackie Mathis and Donna Huth admire a Valentina purse and the great price.

(Above) At Morgan’s Furniture, Donna likes the Gator logo on this Hinkle rocking chair. (Left) While shopping at Toni’s Chic Boutique, Donna wants the Gator shirt, while Toni Doyle tries to persuade her with a Seminole shirt.

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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

tion of clothing and accessories that the shop carries. Toni helped Donna put together an outfit consisting of a Ruby Roxy sleeveless dress in burgundy and silver ($31.95) with a silver and crystal necklace ($29.95) and a pair of Mootsies Tootsies clear and silver open toed sandals ($24.95).

the iComfort sleep system by Serta ($1,299 for the basic bed). Featuring Cool Action Gel Memory Foam, the bed is designed to deliver superior pressure relief and support while sleeping cooler than other memory foam beds.

With free in-county delivery and 12 month same-as-cash “These heels are the perfect height,” Donna said of the one- financing, Donna chose the adjustable foundation with remote control massage (an additional $1,275). and-a-half-inch heels. Doyle, a huge college football fan, showed Donna a line of “This bed is really, really comfortable,” Donna told Morgan. Emerson Street Collection collegiate wear that will be on sale Donna also fell in love with a Hinkle Chair Company maple rocking chair ($159.99) that sported the Gators logo. throughout football season. Donna chose a cap sleeve tee ($34.95) in traditional University of Florida colors with the Gator head on the front. She also chose a black-and-brown, gold-accented Valentina purse ($79.95) for her casual look. Doyle encouraged Donna to stop by often as new shipments arrive daily.

Donna decided to purchase two wood tone base bass fish lamps ($99.99 each) for a friend. “That will take care of some Christmas shopping for me,” Donna said.

Donna could not leave Morgan’s without purchasing Yankee Candles. She chose a 22-oz. jar candle in Cottage Breeze Donna’s next stop was Morgan’s Furniture (863-467- ($23.99), and a matching blue-and-white plate ($8.99) and topper ($14.99) to finish out summer. 2072), located at 707 SW Park Street. Owner Wayne Morgan showed Donna With fall right around the corner, Donna added a 22-oz. jar a large selection of beds after Donna candle in Amberglow ($23.99) and chose a matching plate explained that she was interested in a ($8.99) and topper ($14.99) in tones of orange, teal, maroon new bed. and white.  As director of sales at Hampton Inn, Donna knows about comfort. Her choice in beds was 

(Below) Donna is debating which fragrant Yankee Candle to purchase as owner Wayne Morgan fills her shopping bag.

(Above) Todd Everett Flooring owners Todd and Wendy Everett go over the different flooring options available to Donna. (Below) Todd Everett suggests flooring by Fausfloor to Donna.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Summer 2011 |

Finishing Donna’s collection was Autumn Wreath fallinspired potpourri ($17.99). “This is a nice place with a good selection,” Donna said. Donna’s final stop before lunch was Todd Everett’s Flooring (863-763-3368) located at 222 S. Parrott Avenue. Owners Todd and Wendy Everett were happy to show Donna samples of the many floor coverings that they carry. Todd, a third-generation flooring installer, wanted Donna to get the flooring she wanted and stay within her budget. “Anything you do in wood or tile will add value to your house,” Todd said. “Plus, you want it installed properly so that it will last a long time.” Donna chose a Fausfloor in cottage look to go in two bathrooms and a kitchen ($4.50 per square foot installed over bare floor, totaling $1,200). The handcrafted green board with backing comes with a 25-year guarantee. For the rest of her house Donna had her heart set on bamboo flooring. She chose Wellmade solid bamboo ($10 per square foot installed over bare floor, totaling $8,000) in Carbonized Horizontal, a dark natural bamboo. Donna's blackened mahi mahi with rice pilaf was delicious.

(Right, L-R) Owners Robert Lambert and Harold DeLange with Donna. (Below) The delicious buffet bar offers breakfast and salad bar. (Below right) Patrick Anderson, also known as “Foxy the Fox,” poses with Donna.

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

For lunch, Donna was treated to Lodge at the Lake (863357-5634) at 1111 S. Parrott Avenue. The family restaurant is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Featuring a board room that is fully equipped with all audio-visual amenities and can accommodate up to 50 people and a full buffet, Lodge at the Lake makes it easy for Donna to coordinate guests at the Hampton Inn. Owner/proprietor Harold DeLange was still renovating the restaurant at press time. Striving to create an ambiance between Cracker Barrel restaurant and a private hunting lodge, Lodge at the Lake will have a massive stone fireplace, totally reupholstered furniture and reclaimed Pecky Cypress wainscoting and No. 2 Cypress walls throughout. After looking over a menu offering breakfast, lunch and dinner entrees such as boneless pork loin ($8.99) and prime rib (starting at $12.99), Donna chose the mahi mahi sandwich ($7.99) with rice pilaf and sliced tomatoes. “It was exceptional,” Donna said. “I like my mahi mahi with a little lemon and it was cooked just the way I like it — a very good lunch.” O

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United Country MidFlorida Realty Okeechobee’s Hometown Realtor

3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974

863-763-3566

United Country MidFlorida Realty is conveniently at located at 3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974. Julie Turner is an Okeechobee native who has raised her family here because she loves Okeechobee. She is familiar with the community, its history, and uniqueness – qualities which enables her to help current or prospective residents find the perfect home and neighborhood for their needs. Julie has a B.S. from Florida State University and has been a Realtor since 2003. Julie is currently the President of the Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR). United Country MidFlorida Realty’s goal is to get you the best possible price in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of inconvenience to you. By remaining focused on this goal, it is our desire to obtain exceptional, individual results utilizing skills, honesty and integrity to create a lasting relationship one client at a time. UNITED COUNTRY is America’s rural real estate company. Your best source for locating real estate for sale throughout the small towns and cities of rural America – residential, farms, ranches, recreational and business! Through a network of over 600 offices – nationwide, United Country has been uniting buyers and sellers of country real estate for over eighty years. MidFlorida Realty’s years of local experience and reputation, provides sellers and buyers with a unique insight into the local marketplace. You can count on United Country - MidFlorida Realty to provide you with quality, professional service.

Cristie Schmidt receives the 2010 Top Producer award from Julie Turner.

View all of our properties at

www.MidFloridaRealty.net Virtual Tours, Multiple Photos & Detailed Descriptions on All Our Properties and the Entire Okeechobee MLS available on our Website.

United Country MidFlorida Team Pictured (L-R): Garry Smith, 2010 President of Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR) Julie Turner, 1999-2002 OCBR Treasurer Lynne Price, 2010 OCBR New Comer Award Wendy Bostwick, 2010 OCBR Treasuer Betsy Sheffield and 2011 OCBR director /2010 Top Producer Cristie Schmidt.

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863-763-3566 - 3126 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 34974

Fall 20112011 Summer OKEECHOBEE OKEECHOBEE THETHE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

Macular Degeneration Is The Leading Cause Of Blindness! WILLIAMSON CATTLE COMPANY PRESENTS Photos of the Past

pot rst De e The Fi Okeechobe n i d Locate In 1911 the Florida East Coast Railroad began laying the rails from New Smyrna Beach to Okeechobee and finished in 1914. The first passenger train arrived in 1915.

If you suffer from Macular Degeneration, trust your eyes to a Retina Fellowship Trained Ophthalmologist. Thomas A. Baudo, M.D., is a Retina Fellowship trained ophthalmologist focused exclusively on diseases of the retina. Dr. Baudo is dedicated to helping patients with macular degeneration maintain their vision and quality of life though better treatment. “Central vision loss can occur quickly in some cases, so early detection is key to preventing serious vision loss. Everyone should get a complete eye exam, including eye dilation, every year.” says Dr. Baudo. Thomas A. Baudo, M.D.

Seaboa rd R Station ailroad 1926 The railroad station was designed and constructed during the “boom period” of the 1920’s. It is located on North Parrott Avenue near the railroad tracks. Main Street is currently trying to get permission from CSX to renovate this historic building. Photos provided by the Okeechobee Historical Society

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Community Event

Photos By Sharon Cannon

National Day OF THE

AMERICAN COWBOY

A two-day celebration was held for National Day of the American Cowboy Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23 at the Agri-Civic Center, presented by Okeechobee Cattlemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association and Okeechobee Main Street. A ranch rodeo was held both evenings, followed by a barn dance. Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s festivities began with the annual cattle drive through downtown Okeechobee and ending at the Agri-Civic Center. The crowd enjoyed the event, which also included a barbecue, live music and gun slingers presented by the OK Corral Gun Club as entertainment.

4 7

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6 8

Photo By Sandra pearce

The cattle drive heads toward the Agri-Civic Center.

9 1. The cows and cowboys get ready for the cattle drive. 2. Gun slingers fight with the good guys for pre-rodeo entertainment. 3. There was a lot of rodeo action. 4. Miss Okeechobee County Fair Queen Christina Close and Little Miss Hope Wisener are glad to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;freedâ&#x20AC;? from the gun slingers. 5. Brothers Zak and Max Abreau try their hand at lassoing. 6. Ronnie Panaro and his daughter Sorrel participate in the cattle drive. 7. (L-R) Danny Chandler and Cody Stephen share a laugh as he inquires about the barbecue dinners. 8. Miss Okeechobee County Queen Christina Close and Little Miss Hope Wisener ride. 9. Rodeo royalty Rabon Durrance. 10. Carson Davis is ready to ride. 11. Okeechobee cowboy Pete Clemons. 12. Ranch rodeo team winner KISSO Ranch: (L-R) Whitney Savoie, Cole Fulford, Cross Fulford, Billy Adams, Hayne Fulford, Bobby Jo Fulford, Cody Storey and Rabon Durrance.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Community Event Community Event

By Sharon Cannon

Fitness Factory Holds Inaugural Okeechobee Strongman Competition Benefits Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee The Strongman Competition was held July 2, beginning with a 5K run/walk at Taylor Creek Preserve and ending at Fitness Factory with physical events including tire flip, hand carry, truck pull, bench press and dead lifts. Fitness Factory owner and event coordinator Jay Creamer is passionate about health and fitness, and wanted to motivate the community to pursue a healthful lifestyle. For more information, call (863) 357-6900.

(Above) Jonathan Huff leg-presses 1,305 pounds of weights. (Left) The tire flip used 400-pound tires.

1. Kyle Reno participates in the truck pull with event volunteer Jon Schopp. 2. Fitness Factory, located at 306 NE Third Street, was the host venue. 3. Fitness Factory owner Jay Creamer with promoter Sam Vuleta. 4. Daniel Ciorrocco lifts 435 pounds. 5. Future competitor Koban Reno watches while his dad Kyle Reno competes.

3 4

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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Community Community Event

Event

By Sharon Cannon

Florida Airboat Association Unity Rally Held in Okeechobee The weather was perfect for the Florida Airboat Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Airboater Unity Ride and Rally held July 15-17 at Pier II Resort. The weekend started with a manufacturers summit, FAA quarterly meeting and the Florida Cracker Feast available to all airboaters. A large crowd assembled along the lake front Saturday, July 16 for the Airboat Poker Run and for family fun rides. The evening concluded with the FAA Airboater Appreciation banquet held at the Shriners Club. There were approximately 500 in attendance. For more info., visit www.floridaairboat.org.

(L-R) Scott Gates, John Shirah, Donette Todd, Harry Young, Julia Kelley, Kevin Kelley and Dave Markett at the Florida Cracker Feast.

(Top) Airboaters get ready to head out on the Poker Run. (Above) Airboaters enjoy the lake.

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(Above) Jacob Sims has a great time in the mud. (Right) Duke cools off in the water. (Below) Mike Ward takes off into the water.

Located at Lake Okeechobee Outpost Open Weds. - Sun. 11:30 am - Close 190 N. Lake Ave. Closed Mon. & Tues. Pahokee, FL 33476 Happy Hour Daily from 4 pm - 7 pm (Next to Pahokee State Park on SR 15)

www.LakeOkeechobeeOutpost.com 22 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

The Berger Clinic

Adult Health Care Diagnosis and Management of Medical Conditions Preventive Health

863-467-1117 Call For Appointment

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Dr. Berger and Staff have proudly served the Okeechobee area since 1985.

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6390 W. Indiantown Road Jupiter, Chasewood Plaza www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Community Event

By Sharon Cannon

Texaco Country Showdown The tenth annual Texaco Country Showdown was held July 16 at Good Spirits Lounge. WOKC 100.9 FM and 1570 AM Radio coordinated the event. A large crowd packed the lounge to show support for their favorite artists while enjoying the entertainment. Emily Brooke, an aspiring 12-year-old musician from Wellington, won the local contest, while Tiffany Elliott of Lake Placid and Alixandra Greene of Orlando tied for second. For more information, or to follow the next step in the competition for Emily Brooke, visit www.wokc. com or www.countryshowdown.com.

First-place winner Emily Brooke wows the crowd.

The contestants: (front row, L-R) Jennine Tilford, Rachel Pecaro, Becki Sharracok, Alixandra Greene, Alexandra Rodriguez, Emily Brooke, Tiffany Elliott, Brittany Hutchings and Katelyn Stuart; (back) Edward Flak, Charlotte Papassp and Manuel Gonzales.

Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner Mark Burke performs on stage.

(L-R) WOKC General Manager Wayne Cunningham, WOKC Program Director Billy Dean, Tiffany Elliott, Ken Keller, Emily Brooke, Alixandra Greene, Deb Daniel, Steve Daniel, Merrilee Berglund and WOKC News Director Charles Murphy.

Program Director Billy Dean serves as master of

(Above) Second-place finishers Tiffany Elliott (left) and Alixandra Greene (right) with first-place winner Emily Brooke. (Below) Okeechobeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Katelyn Stuart performs for the crowd.

24 | Fall 2011

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Buddy Mills teacher

TO A HAPPY CUSTOMER At Seacoast National Bank, we know our customers lead busy lives and have diverse needs. That’s because we actually get to know our customers. Like Buddy Mills, a local teacher, volunteer and loyal Seacoast National Bank customer. Buddy banks with us because we pay attention to his particular needs, with prompt and helpful service when he stops in to do his everyday banking, and easy-to-use technologies that work around his busy schedule. Buddy appreciates that we’re dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve, because he’s an enthusiastic volunteer himself. Stop in today to learn about the tailored services we’ve designed especially for you. And if you see Buddy, say hello.

TO A MORE HUMAN WAY TO BANK South Parrott 863.467.4663 1409 S. Parrott Ave.

North Parrott 863.467.5330 500 N. Parrott Ave.

SeacoastNational.com

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Louise Dowling with Gator and MooShoo.

26 |

Sharon Johnson with Clyde.

Spring 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Sandy and John Parrott with Bella Rose.

Lynn Hingson with Gabbie Girl.

You Lucky Dog The Joy of Adopting a Rescued Pet BY Raye Deusinger O PHOTOS BY RAFAEL PACHECO

h, the joy an animal brings into our lives. That jumping, yapping, slurping greeting when we enter our home. That deep-throated purr of pure contentment. That great exercise we gain when Fido forces us to go out and throw a Frisbee. That peace when he snuggles with us in bed. That security when those keen ears alert us to an intruder. Perhaps it’s time for those, who have missed this feeling or who have never experienced it, to adopt a pet. Okeechobee has two venues from which you can adopt — Okeechobee County Animal Control and the Okeechobee Humane Society Pet Rescue. As part of their programs, both facilities require all pets available for adoption be spayed or neutered. To adopt is to save. In a recent six-month period, Okeechobee Animal Control took in 1,000 animals, of which two-thirds — more than 650 — had to be euthanized. There are 68 million dogs and 73 million cats in the United States. Six to eight million enter shelters annually. Without control, a single cat and her offspring can produce 420,000 cats in seven years while a dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 dogs in six years. It was May, and only two weeks since John and Sandy Parrott had experienced the death of their miniature pinscher, and they were lost. “We had never been without a dog, and even going on our walks wasn’t the same,” Sandy said. The Parrotts began an online search for a small dog. They chanced upon a WPTV Channel 5 interview with Gary Barber of Okeechobee Animal Control, about shelters being overrun with abandoned animals. Barber explained that euthanasia awaits the majority of them.

They went to the shelter. “We approached cage No. 8, and there’s this gorgeous little thing wigglin’ all over,” Sandy recalled. “Wherever we walked there she was, watchin’ for us.” Not wanting to choose too quickly, the Parrotts made multiple trips to the shelter. On their fourth trip back they adopted an American bulldog, Bella Rose, her name meaning “beautiful.” Weighing only 29 pounds, she walked unsteadily and cowering as Barber brought her out on a leash. From her actions, they assumed she must have been mistreated. “Today she is 38 pounds, goes on our walks with us and loves freely,” Sandy said. “She has even opened up to people on our daily walk.” As with all pets at the shelter, she was spayed, received all her shots and was treated for fleas and worms. The Parrotts feel the fee of $105 was a bargain. According to Sandy, Barber said she and John saved Bella, but Sandy feels Bella saved them. “I’m glad to be able to tell people to go adopt,” Sandy said. “This makes Bella Rose famous. But of course, she’s already famous on Facebook.” 

“He was meant to be with me.” -Sharon Johnson

Adoption, spaying and neutering and responsible pet ownership is the answer.” - Gary Barber Okeechobee Animal Control responds to calls about animals hit by a vehicle, abandoned by their owners, those neglected or abused or who terrorize neighborhoods. According to state law, Animal Control must also investigate every bite report.

Louise and John Dowling are the proud owners of two dogs and a cat, and over the years have fostered many more. “Animals can’t talk for themselves,” Louise said, “and if they could they would ask everyone they meet to please adopt.” One of their pets is a Shih Tzu named MooShoo. At only nine months, he was found running on a highway in Mt. Zion, Ill., where the Dowlings lived at that time. A woman took him to the local animal control, which asked Louise to foster him until his owner could be found. He was dirty and had an injured leg. After 10 days of posters and ads in the paper, MooShoo’s owner called, came and took the dog. Two days

Gary Barber of Okeechobee Animal Control

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later he was found running loose again. This time the police were called. After meeting with MooShoo’s owner, the police told Louise she could keep MooShoo because the woman could not afford him. He has lived happily with the Dowlings for almost 11 years. Their other dog is Gator, a Maltese/ Yorkie mix (“Morkie”). Answering an ad, Louise found the site to be a puppy mill. She took the year-old Gator, covered with fleas and scabs, to the vet for a checkup, shots, worming and other care. Because he had been caged continuously, he could not stand. Tender, loving care and the friendship of MooShoo has made Gator into a perfect pet. Louise’s kitty, Pebbles, was picked up wandering, dirty, sick and flea-ridden. Her friends have called Louise the cat collector because over the years she has treated and fostered many until homes could be found. Pebbles found a perfect home. She has been with Louise and

John for 15 years. MooShoo, Gator and Pebbles have all found peace. The Humane Society Pet Rescue, which has no state or county funding, cares for abandoned pets or pets from families that can no longer care for them. The facility is owned, managed and staffed by volunteers. This is where Lynn Hingson found Gabbie Girl, a Catahoula hound, in August 2010. Hingson’s previous pet was killed by a car. This left an emptiness. She went to the Humane Society Pet Rescue looking for a new pet to love. She explained that at Pet Rescue, dogs are kept outside during the day, in covered runs. All sizes and breeds run together to become socialized. “As soon as I saw her, I wanted her,” Hingson said. Hingson believes, from Gabbie’s actions, that she may have been mistreated. But that only made her want Gabbie more. “She sleeps next to my bed,” Hingson said.

“We approached cage No. 8, and there’s this gorgeous little thing wigglin’ all over. Wherever we walked there she was, watchin’ for us.” - Sandy Parrott Hingson said the adoption price of $135 was a bargain. It included a checkup. Gabbie was spayed and wormed and received all her shots. Hingson wants everyone to know about the “wonderful people” at the Humane Society. “They love the animals and are only repaid by love and your donations,” she said.  www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

“They have love to give and need you to show it.” - Belinda Forlifer On walks, Gabbie is fiercely protective. “I have had a few minor problems,” Hingson said, “like having the chicken thighs which I laid out for dinner disappear, and then, finding my glasses removed from my purse and chewed up. But I don’t care. Our ‘children’ sometimes do these things. I wouldn’t trade her for the world.” Pet Rescue Director Belinda Forlifer wants everyone to experience what Hingson has. “Come out and visit our animals and find someone to love,” she said. “They have love to give and need you to show it.” Though not a cat person, Sharon Johnson told Okeechobee County Animal Control if they could save “that cat” she would adopt him. Her kitty, now named Clyde, was a 5-week-old kitten that sat in the middle of Highway 70, by CVS, as cars whizzed by and literally rolled over him. As Johnson watched, horrified, and turned to go to work, suddenly Clyde was gone.

Belinda Forlifer of the Humane Society Pet Rescue with her friend Champ.

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That evening, she stopped by the corner to see what might have happened to him and found him in the storm drain, terrified. A saga involving the police department, the fire department and Animal Control evolved the next day as the street was cordoned off and fire hoses helped flush him to the surface and salvation. Johnson soon learned about strays like Clyde and how their fate was frequently euthanasia or death in traffic. But one week later, she and her Chihuahua welcomed a spayed, vaccinated little tiger cat with white boots to their home. “God put me there at that time,” Johnson said. “I never thought twice and I got the cutest, funniest cat I’ve ever seen. He was meant to be with me.”

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Although things turned out all right for Johnson and Clyde, that is far from the norm. “This was a good ending,” Barber said, “but too many animals face death, not happiness. Adoption, spaying and neutering and responsible pet ownership is the answer.” Okeechobee County Animal Control is located at 1480 NW 25th Dr. For more information, call (863) 357-3225. Humane Society Pet Rescue is located at 1203 Highway 98 N. For more information, call (863) 357-1104.

“Animals can’t talk for themselves and if they could they would ask everyone they meet to please adopt.” -Louise Dowling

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The staff at Okeechobee The Magazine is passionate about pet rescue. Pictured on the cover and above are their rescued pets: (front row, L-R) Maureen Budjinski’s Nikki and Rafael Pacheco’s Frank the Cat; back) Raye Deusinger’s Mei Ling and Bridgette Waldau’s Bon Jovi.

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Community Event Community Event

By Bridgette Waldau

Waldauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior Golf Summer Clinic

Waldauâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Junior Golf held its ninth annual Junior Golf Clinic June 27 through July 1 at the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club. A total of 18 junior golfers participated in the week-long clinic, which ended with a tournament, luncheon and awards banquet on the last day. More photos and information can be found on the web at www.floridajuniorgolf.org and on Facebook.

(Left) Local junior golfers gather with instructors and volunteers on tournament day.

1 Clinic golf pro instructor Danny Lanman works with the juniors golfers.

Clinic instructor Bubba Mullins helps his son Kyle Mullins line up the putt.

1. Hope Wisener and Hunter Boswell watch Cameron White make her putt. 2. Arnold Preston chips up to the green. 3. Hannah Moore putts for the team. 4. High school junior golf volunteers (L-R) Cameron White, Jessica Wisener and Kutter Crawford. Not pictured: Kodi Stephen. 5. Kutter Crawford presents the top door prize, a certificate for a new set of golf clubs, to Tyler Underhill.

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Okeechobee

At Home

With Bud and Ami Neese BY Ron Bukley O PHOTOS BY Felicia Maxwell

Bud and Ami Neese’s dream home is only 10 years old, but the two-story, metal roof farmhouse fits right in on their 25 acres of historic land where one of the fiercest fights of the Second Seminole War — the Battle of Okeechobee — was fought. The 5,280-square-foot home also fits the needs of the family, which includes Bobby, 14, Savannah, 16, and Ami’s son and Bud’s stepson, Logan Coker, 21. Bud moved to Okeechobee in 1976 from Broward County, where he met Ami, originally from Moore Haven, in 1990.

They broke ground in late 2000 and moved in the following August. “We built it ourselves,” Bud said. “We were owner-builder; we did everything,” Ami said. “We had somebody

west runs the length of the house, overlooking a circular drive. More than a dozen 50-foot oak trees adorned with Spanish moss spread across a grassy lawn and large field where Bobby’s 20 head of cattle graze and one might imagine federal soldiers and Seminoles battled in the early 1800s. “We’re dead in the center of the area where they fought the Battle of Okeechobee,” Ami said.

Bobby and Savannah said they have found old coins and arrowheads on the property. Bud discovered the property when he came out on a service call (Above) The Neese family (L-R) Savanah, Bobby, Ami, Bud and Logan. Bud noted that the original (Right) The indoor kitchen, Ami’s favorite room. to the property owner’s douplans were actually for someble-wide trailer, which since one else’s home. As the owner and pres- frame it and finish it, and we did the has been removed. “He’s always loved ident of Quality Air Conditioning, he rest.” the oaks and the land,” Ami said. “We said it is not unusual for him to review always had a place and never thought of blueprints to install cooling systems. “In The second story, where the three chil- rebuilding or selling, and two years later my trade it’s normal to give an estimate dren’s bedrooms are located, looks she called and said, ‘OK, he said to call to a contractor for air conditioning, so down from a 20-foot stained-wood you,’ and she did.” one of our locals, Abney & Abney Con- balcony to a centrally located, 16- by struction, had asked me to give an esti- 20-foot sunken living room with a ceil- On one recent morning, Bud said a mate, and that’s where this print came ing that sweeps from about 10 feet high wild sow with eight or 10 pigs browsed from. I was just doing my normal work, on the east to about 25 feet on the west. into the yard. “That same afternoon a going through my routine and as I went It is complemented by a skylight above [turkey] hen with four little baby fryers through the processes, I started liking the stained-wood and cut-glass front came up,” he said. “It’s very rare, but what I was seeing. He never built the entry door that looks through the foyer I’ve seen deer on the property. We house he was supposed to be building.” into the living room. have a lot of hogs, though. Last year, it became a problem and we had to trap The floor plan was for a home in South Immediately inside the front door is a them. They just tear your yard up.” Carolina, Bud said. “We actually had to 12- by 20-foot foyer and a small office change the roof truss design to match area enclosed with paned glass doors. Ami has decorated the veranda and the Florida codes,” he said. Outside the front door, a veranda facing rest of the house for fall, with scare36 |

Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE



www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

(Above) Grand oak trees welcome guests to the front entrance of the Neese’s home. (Right) Rock waterfall made with stone from Ami’s father’s cane field in Clewiston. (Far right) Two French doors off the living room opens to spacious swimming pool and barbecue area.

(Left) The stone fireplace located on the north wall in the living room. (Above middle) A cozy corner of the living room. (Above right) An art display in the formal living room done by local artist Hobby Campbell.

(Above) One of the bedroom murals. (Far left)) The formal dining table is decorated for fall. (Left) A fall decoration on the second floor above the cut-glass front entry door.

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

crows and red, yellow and gold leaves. Ami said autumn is her favorite season, but she decorates for each season and holiday. Autumn-colored trees complement the living room, which has a stone fireplace on the north wall and open stairwell with a stained-wood railing that leads to the second floor. They “stretched” the floor plan to enlarge the living area, which opens through two sets of French doors to a swimming pool. “We just felt the living room was going to be too small, especially in proportion to the rest of the house,” Bud said. The Neeses added a back porch/patio area with a pool table under a covered area overlooking the swimming pool, which has a fountain built with rocks from Ami’s father’s sugarcane fields in Hendry County. The home has six bedrooms, all with large closets, and five baths. Ami also has three large closets hidden away for her seasonal decorations. The 20- by 25-foot master bedroom downstairs is furnished with a Medieval-style, king-size four-poster bed, armoire and dresser. The walls of the children’s bedrooms are painted with murals depicting the children’s interests rendered from photos. Bobby is riding a pony in the field with the cattle he tends on the farm. Logan is riding a bull at the Bronson Rodeo Grounds in Moore Haven, and Savannah’s walls depict beach and surfing scenes. “When I was going through that blueprint there was one thing that stuck out about this house: the floor plan allowed Savannah to have her own bathroom, and at the time this young lady was 5 years old, and I thought wouldn’t it be nice for her to have her own bathroom?” 

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Bud said. “That’s what caused me to go back through the blueprints and check again, because we didn’t have any idea. We had purchased the land and didn’t have any idea what blueprint we would use.” Bud said having the property opened the opportunity to them. “We had a perfectly fine house over on the east side of town, and we got the property and the house was the afterthought. We said, ‘What are we going to put in here?’ It was just in the course of me working, doing my job, that I stumbled on that print.” (Top) The medieval-style, king-size four-poster bed in the master suite bedroom. (Above) The luxury tub in the master suite bathroom.

Once they got going on construction they added other amenities on the out-

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side including a workout room with a large shed to cover farm equipment and their motor home. On the east side of the swimming pool they added a screened-in bar and outdoor kitchen. “It’s like one my grandmother had in Hollywood down in Broward County, and I thought I had to have it,” Bud said. Bud copied the functional hexagonal shape from his grandmother’s kitchen and put a metal roof over it to match the rest of the house. “I think we were on a roll when we were building, and we just kept going,” he said. The Neeses also put a lot of thought into the indoor kitchen, Ami’s favorite room, relocating it to the rear of the house where a den was to be. The kitchen is equipped with cabinets around three sides, with a bar separating it from the formal dining area, which originally was in the foyer area. They copied the kitchen from a local orthodontist’s home. “We admired it so much that we asked her if we could come over and take pictures and measurements, and she was thrilled about it,” Bud said. “The measurements were almost identical to this den that we felt that we didn’t need. Ami could have the same cabinets and windows, everything.” Ami said she enjoys entertaining and recently held a baby shower with 78 people attending. “I love doing that,” she said. “That’s my expertise.”

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Other amenities in the house include an upstairs game room they call the “bonus room,” upstairs and downstairs laundry rooms, and three hidden closets that hold seasonal decorations. “We built this house around fall,” Ami said. “We like Georgia- and Alabama-style homes, and my favorite time of the year is fall. I decorate for each holiday.” O

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Community Event

By Bridgette Waldau

2011 O.L. Raulerson Jr.

Fourth of July Barbecue Contest

The second annual O.L. Raulerson Jr. Scholarship Memorial Barbecue Competition was held July 4 at Okee-Tantie Campground. The event raises money for Police Academy scholarships. Raulerson, a former Okeechobee County sheriff, wanted to help those attending the academy. Personnel from the First-place overall winners Brent Wilson and Richard For- Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office competed and volunteered. lifer with presenter Undersheriff Noel Stephen.

Second-place overall winners Darrell Hampton and Rob Bryner with Undersheriff Noel Stephen.

The Beer ’n’ Bones team: Ronnie, Mike, Wesley, Brian and Ricky White.

1 2

3 1. Smokin’ Pink barbecue sauce. 2. Undersheriff Noel Stephen presents his wife Laurie the first-place award for the Anything Butt category. 3. OCSO Executive Assistant Juanita White and OCSO Finance Director Monica Raulerson record the official scores. 4. Investigator Marty Faulkner and his wife Janet enjoy the barbecue. 5. Keith Stripling serves the barbecue entries to the judges.

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Independent Sales Director www.marykay.com/Gaylemolyneaux 561-801-1336 44 | Fall 2011

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Dr. Charles W. Bartels Board Certified Optometric Physician

Big Lake Eye Care would like to welcome Dr. Carlo D. Fodor, a Board Certified Optometric Physician to our practice here in Okeechobee. Dr. Fodor graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Doctor of Optometry and is living in Sebastian with his family. He also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Vision Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a Minor in Biological Sciences.

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Dr. Carlo D. Fodor Board Certified Optometric Physician

rotations in Primary Care, Ocular Disease, Glaucoma, Contact Lenses, Pediatrics Binocular Vision, and Low Vision. He has also served two years working at the Visual Health & Surgical Center managing all types of post-operative patients. Dr. Fodor is well qualified and trained to identify subtle abnormalities in our eyes that may be able to be corrected. Dr. Fodor has been working in the field since 1994 in numerous commercial and private offices. His knowledge and well- rounded background will allow him to manage his patients where ever he decides to practice. He enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his family.

606 North Parrott Ave Okeechobee 863-763-3937 Visit : www.biglakeeyecare.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 | 45

Goodbye, Mr. Black Longtime Counselor Bill Black Retires From OHS BY Jan Fehrman O PHOTOS BY Sandra Pearce

uring his final days working as career specialist at Okeechobee High School, Bill Black fondly looked back on his 24-years at the school. Officially retiring on Aug. 31, Black was praised by his colleagues as a caring, efficient and valued educator who will be greatly missed by students and staff. Black’s dedication to the students of OHS will live on in their futures.

the summer time,” Black said. “It was very exciting as a kid to be able to ride a horse and be with your dad.” Black’s senior high school class had 41 students in it, and everyone knew everyone else. “School felt like family,” he said. Ora Skinner, one of the teachers who taught business, took him under her wing. “She’s the one who got me to go to college,” Black said. “She introduced me to the dean of students at Eastern

According to Jennie Godwin, who worked with Black for 21 years, Black helped design and build a work space in the guidance department that was encased in glass so that it was easily found and accessible ill to students. “His office was a lab “OHS w full of college and occupational indebted information,” she said.

While at Eastern Kentucky University, Black majored in business and minored in physical education, graduating in four years. Later he received a master’s in education administration with a minor in recreation from Xavier University in Cincinnati. When Black talked to students at OHS he remembered his teacher’s advice. He let them know how important furthering their education was. “I told them everyone should have some additional training after high school whether it is college, a trade school, technical training or the military,” he said. “Some form of additional education is important in finding your vocation.”

be k’s to Blac ing t in promo e k r o w hard pursu o t s t n e n.” our stud dary educatio on post-sec

OHS Guidance Department Chair Sharon Coker had been a colleague of Black since 1997. “As the career specialist, his role was so vital to our seniors,” she said. “He was instrumental in not only aiding students with career choices, but helping them to apply to colleges, teaching them how to access financial aid and scholarships, and meeting with local business owners who contribute funds each year to help our grads pay for college. Bill’s job was a big one and he had it down to a science.”

No stranger to rural communities, Black grew up in Corbin, Ky., a town of 7,744 in the southeastern part of the state. The son of E.W. and Phoebe Black, he enjoyed life in a small town. His father was a rural mail carrier who delivered mail by horseback. “I used to go with him in

Black worked hard on behalf of students to ensure not only further education but funding to go with it. “OHS will be - Toni Wiersma, OHS Principal indebted to Black’s hard work in promoting our students to pursue post-secondary education,” OHS Kentucky University in Richmond, Ky. Principal Toni Wiersma said. “Black That’s how I actually got into the uni- has not only coordinated our scholarversity. She also assisted me in getting ship program and been a liaison to our federal loans so that I would be able to community, but he has maintained our pay for college.” career center, where students can receive information about promising careers of Skinner was part of his inspiration for their future. We will miss him at OHS becoming an educator. When Black was and thank him for his dedication to the graduating from high school he didn’t youth of our community.” know what he wanted to do. Many went off to work in factories in De- Black began his career in education troit, Mich., Dayton, Ohio, or to the as a high school business teacher and steel mills in Gary, Ind. Because none coach at Glen Este High School in Mt. of those appealed to him, he listened to Carmel, a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio his teacher’s advice. Buoyed by her con- for four years. He moved from there to fidence in him he enrolled in college. Madison, Ind., where he taught business 

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

for 17 years, coaching everything from football and basketball to tennis and wrestling. While in southeast Indiana, he also coached football for ten years at Hanover College in Hanover. Growing up, Black liked to play basketball and football. Basketball was his favorite. “Sports have always been an integral part of my life,” he said. After 21 years, Black left the classroom to take the position of occupational specialist, now called a career specialist, in the guidance department at OHS in the 1987-88 school year.

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What actually brought him to the area was a matter of the heart. While on a fishing expedition with his cousin during the Christmas holiday he met a “young lady.” A year and a half later he married Sue Wood from Yee Haw Junction and moved to the area. Sue is employed at OHS as a curriculum aide and is described by the staff as “indispensable.” She will continue working for several more years. Black is very enthusiastic about the pupils at OHS. “I always tell people I had the best job in the school,” he said. “Students came to me because they wanted to learn about careers, colleges and funding. I never told them what they should or shouldn’t do as a profession, but I gave them a chance to explore different careers. It was really heartwarming to see their interest and know that I could be of some assistance.” His devotion to students is reflected in the praise of his co-workers. “I can attest to Bill Black’s concern for students,” said Gwen Chandler, who worked with Black in the OHS guidance department. “Black leaves the legacy of a job well done, marked with his desire to listen to students and assist them as they considered careers and work to transition to their post high school endeavors.” 

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Foot & Ankle Specialist Podiatrist

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1008 W. Sagamore

Mr. Black during his last week at OHS.

Black is very positive about teaching but said that he’d seen a change in the attitude toward discipline in his 45 years in education. “When they took discipline out of the classroom it changed how you taught and what you could do,” he said. “Kids are still the same.” Jennie Godwin was a ninth-grade teacher when she wrote Black’s letter of recommendation for OHS’s Teacher of the Year. “His professionalism is impeccable and his knowledge of his subject area extensive,” she said. “I always had complete confidence in his ability to handle the most complex school situation, sensitive parent conferences, and to do school-wide presentations.” Black said he loved his job and wasn’t one of those people who retired because he was unhappy with his profession. He felt he had spent a lot of years in education, and it was time for him to try something new. He is starting off with projects and outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting and kayaking. The Blacks enjoy fishing and kayaking on the Intracoastal waterway, Mosquito Lagoon near Titusville, as well as Fort Myers, the springs of northern Florida and other places around the state. The Blacks also like to travel and they plan to take more trips. His favorite destination so far is a trip to Alaska by ship and motor home where they were able



Sun Surgical Philip W. Moyer. M.D. General & Vascular Surgeon

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tell s y a “I alw that I people best job he t l. “ o d o a h h c s in the to see wildlife and terrains very different from Florida. The Blacks live in Indian Hammock where Bill is a past board member of their community association and a volunteer fire fighter. Black said when he decided to move to Central Florida he had a choice between high school positions in Lake Wales and Okeechobee but that he much preferred Okeechobee. Black likes the small-town atmosphere of Okeechobee and said people here are the friendliest he has ever known. He especially likes the people he worked with and the students at OHS. “I’ve heard teachers from other places who were negative about their students but the kids at OHS are great,” he said.

Keith Hickman & Bobby Hickman

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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

While he believes a small town can limit a student’s exposure to different careers, Black thinks the Internet has changed that. He does believe that a rural community like Okeechobee offers better family values on which to build a foundation for the future. Black has given the students of OHS his counsel and concern for 24 years and now moves forward to a new chapter in his life, knowing he made a big difference in young lives. “There really aren’t enough words to express how much Bill will be missed by the department because of the incredible work he has done for the students of Okeechobee County schools,” Coker said. “His contribution, in my opinion, is immeasurable.” O

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

Dr. Albert F. Bravo Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine

Over 15 years experience specializing the treatment of: Colonoscopy & Endoscopy  Capsule endoscopy Liver disease (Hepatitis & Cirrhosis) Colon Cancer Screening  Irritable Bowel Syndrome Gall Bladder Disease  Ulcerative Colitis Crohn’s Disease  Removal of Polyps Treatment of Ulcers  Diverticulitis Gastrointestinal Bleeding  GERD 225 N.E. 19th Drive Okeechobee, Fl 34972

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Albert F. Bravo, MD & Staff www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Community Event

By Joyce Murphy

Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Holds Open House Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center held an open house Saturday, June 25. The center is a nonprofit organization supported entirely by donations and staffed by volunteers. Owner Sue Arnold rehabilitates sick and injured wildlife and returns them to their natural habitat, if possible. Others that are too tame or unable to take care of themselves remain at the center. A new otter rehab with a custom pool was one of the highlights of the day. For more information on Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, visit www.arnoldswildlife.org. One of the beautiful peacocks shows off to the camera.

1. Within the wildlife center is Arnold’s Butterfly Haven, a unique free-roaming park featuring over 60 species of butterflies and more than 2,000 flowering plants. 2. The custom pool at the new otter rehab was donated by local businesses. 3. Sue Arnold shows the spectators Springer, a 6-month-old kangaroo that was the size of a lima bean at birth. 4. A tortoise found at Arnold’s Wildlife Rehab.

Bienvenidos!

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Serving Great Mexican Food in Florida and the Treasure Coast Since 1999

www.PuebloViejoRestaurants.com 4 54 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

ConnieLake Award OkeechobeeWinning Hotel The Newest Hotel in Okeechobee.

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self storage budget/quick n’ easy Serving Okeechobee Since 1982 Family Owned & Operated

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863-634-1725 Cell 863-763-3410 Ofc. 56 |

Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

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102 SW 14th Street - Okeechobee www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

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Nov 14 American Spirit Dec 3 & 4 The Living Christmas Tree Dec 15 Miracle on 34th Street Jan 12 Jay Johnson in “The Two and Only” Jan 26 Guy Penrod Feb 7 Brigadoon Feb 14 The Improvised Shakespeare Company Feb 23 The Bronx Wanderers March 2 Jim Witter in “The Piano Men” March 15 The Allan Harris Quartet March 23 Celtic Fire April 17 Larry Gatlin & Buffalo Rome May 5 Missoula Children’s Theatre May 11 Street Beat, Inc. *All programs, dates and artists are subject to change

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407 S. Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, FL 34974 58 |

Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

We Love To Care... Family owned and operated, Okeechobee Health Care Facility began providing Long-term and Rehab care to the citizens of Okeechobee and the surrounding communities in December of 1984. ring ra Riser rtduactivity n & Barba o Lacie Lotiftnoe interview & repparticipating the Valenrth ES 5th-graderastional program. with No onth intergener in the 9-m

Betty Mills modeling her Mardi Gras costume.

Sh & Sonirley Stephe , Noel, n, join for th ed by e Art S daug how C hter, D alend ebbie, ar Par ade.

Rehab Therapy, consisting of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Out-Patient Therapy, is available seven days a week in a loving, caring environment. Long-term care is available for loved ones who can no longer be cared for safely at home, in addition to a secured Dementia/Alzheimer's Memory-Care Unit.

Show er roo in m on A towelto a relaxin-Wing has warm g spa, been t e soft, srs, backgrocomplete wransformed oothin und m ith g colo usic a nd rs.

me spend ti verly Fixe under the e B & n Joh ther outsid the many toge ee in one of ts”. oak tr sit & visit spo “

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Herschel Haverlo therapy fro ck receiving out-patie while Pat LammmMaurice Cogle, RPT. - nt exercises with a smile"

Fre weigh d Hawkins beg Mauricet-bearing exercisinning & Regne r Dioqueins with sident ,RPT. t and Rne joying the n e id s e e R erbert,s time outsideNA Billie Jo H l e z a H , spend e with C ta, RN. te Advocawers and foliangd Kareen Mora flo an, left, a Freem

Eula Morgan, 96, with her painting that was selected as the cover for the annual Resident Art Calendar.

3rd andLorene Hancock 4th-gen ,8 eration tr5, with her ick-or-tr eate

rs!

Okeechobee Health Care Facility 1646 US Highway 441 North - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Teen Leader From the YMCA to UCLA,

Allison Chandler is leading the way BY Jason Budjinski O PHOTOS BY RAfael Pacheco

Complaining about a lack of things to do is a rite of passage for the American teenager. It’s part of a consumer culture that encourages young people to want everything served up on a silver platter. However, some teens aren’t content sitting around and waiting for things to happen. They’d rather do it themselves. This is the rare breed of teenager we call leaders. Allison Chandler is one such teenager. The 17-year-old Okeechobee resident has been active in the community since the eighth grade, making the most of her waking hours juggling between school, work and volunteering for various organizations and events. And now, as she begins her senior year of high school, enrolled in Florida Virtual School, Chandler has made more of an impact on the community than many adults twice her age. And it was because of this community involvement that Chandler was chosen to participate in the Economics for Leaders Conference, a weeklong conference in August hosted by the Foundation for Teaching Economics at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). “I was selected as leader of the class by my guidance counselor,” Chandler recalled, noting that she was a sophomore at Okeechobee High School at the time. “What we had to do was write an essay on leadership titled ‘How Do My Peers View Me As a Leader.’ It was for the entire sophomore class. This was spring 2010, and I was still sick with mono at the time, but I went to Palm Beach Atlantic University for a conference for leaders. I stayed only half the time because I was sick, but now I get invites to leadership conferences all over the world.” Chandler was one of only 50 students from across the country chosen by FTE to attend the conference. In her essay on leadership, Chandler wrote about her many accomplishments over the years, some of which included serving as vice president of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD); volunteering for the American Red Cross (since 2007), at the National Day of the American Cowboy and at a Kids Cancer Foundation event; and co-founding the Okeechobee Teen Dance program, which hosts events for local teens and raises money for local charities. Chandler also DJs at many events as well. Although her initial foray into community involvement was coaching a cheerleading team for the Okeechobee County Recreation Association, Chandler really made her mark after a class assignment got the attention of the Okeechobee County Commission. Chandler’s eighth-grade gifted teacher, Deanna Kielbasa, gave her class an assignment titled “What Does Our Community Need?” Chandler didn’t have to think twice about her answer: She wanted a YMCA in Okeechobee. To support her thesis, Chandler researched local pregnancy rates, drug problems and lack of activities for the area’s youth. She then presented her findings to the county commission and created an advisory board a few months later. Chandler further described her efforts in the essay she wrote for the FTE.

“I then helped lead a Family Fun Day and raised $40,000 to do a feasibility study and fund a YMCA summer camp,” she wrote. “This past summer we had our first Okeechobee YMCA summer camp and I was hired as a counselor at the camp.



I like change; I like excitement - to be spontaneous.â&#x20AC;?

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

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It was such a wonderful feeling to see my project in motion. We are planning another camp this summer and working to soon have a building to call home.” Though a bout with mononucleosis slowed down Chandler a bit during her sophomore year — requiring her to enroll in the school’s homebound program — it would lead to her realization that she could get more work done at home. “When I was in the tenth grade I got very sick with mono and had to go on homebound,” she recalled. “When I went on homebound, it opened my eyes.” However, when it was time to go back to school, Chandler realized taking classes at home better facilitated her needs, both academic and extracurricular. She was an assistant preschool teacher at the time and having that extra bit of time allowed her to get more done each day. “I will get my diploma through Florida Virtual School,” she said. “I will try to finish early, but it will be tricky. It’s harder than any class I took. It’s harder, but I think it’s a lot more college-ready.” Chandler plans to attend Flagler College in St. Augustine, where she will major in English and possibly minor in gifted education. Her goal is to teach English abroad to children from military fami-

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE



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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Okeechobee Motor Company Quality Ford Sales and Service for over 65 Years! We will gladly locate or special order the Ford car or truck you need. Low mileage, late model Pre-owned with factory warranties.

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To learn more about what your cooperative offers, please visit our website at www.gladesec.com. The site includes information on bill pay options, member service programs and energy saving tips. Okeechobee: 1-800-226-4023 64 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Moore Haven: 1-800-226-4024

Lake Placid: 1-800-226-4025

lies through a U.S. Department of Defense program. “I like change; I like excitement — to be spontaneous,” she said. “I figure with the Department of Defense you get contracted for one year. They have so many bases: London, Milan, Guam, Germany.” However, Chandler said she isn’t sure if this is something she wants to do immediately after college. Besides teaching English, Chandler said she would like to teach gifted classes at the middle school level. “I don’t know if teaching abroad is something I would do right out of college,” she said. “I’m also interested in teaching middle school. I volunteered for Mrs. Kielbasa and her middle school gifted class. I fit right in there. Those kids are on a different level. They have a different mindset.”

Regardless of which career path she ultimately chooses, Chandler’s basic guiding principle will be the same — using her mind to make a difference. For the final point of her essay to the FTE, Chandler encapsulated the qualities of a good leader: “To me being a leader isn’t just a title, or just the feeling of having followers,” she wrote. “It’s finding yourself and making a difference in the world.” O

Peace Lutheran School

Growing together with Jesus

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

750 Northwest 23rd Lane - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

THE CIRCLE OF F.R.I.E.N.D.S. OF SOUTH FLORIDA, INC. Friends are people who desire what is best for one another. The friendship that is formed is anchored on mutual understanding and compassion, sympathy and empathy, honesty and trust.

With the principle of positive reciprocity where there is equal give or take, The Circle of F.R.I.E.N.D.S was formed. Its acronym (Few Reliable Individuals Expecting Nothing for Doing Something) truly speaks of the commitment of membership where everyone “expects nothing for doing something” because reciprocity comes naturally and easily and best of all, wholeheartedly. The Circle of Friends is on a mission to give back to its community in every way possible. It also aims to promote appreciation for the cultural heritage of its members, encourage social awareness and involvement, when and where possible, and most of all, are there for each other in any manner or form.

The Circle of Friends

INNOVATIVE CREATIVE VERSATILE ENERGETIC FULL OF FUN TOTALLY UNSCRIPTED www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Live In Concert At Okeechobee Church of God

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Saturday October 29, 2011 7 pm - Tickets Meet & Greet Experience $20. General Admission: $10.

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301 NE 4th Avenue Okeechobee

Okeechobee Church of God Pastor Mark Smith Sunday Services: 8:30 am Traditional 10:45 am Contemporary Wednesday Service: 7:00 pm

okeechobecog.com

www.chrissligh.com 66 | Fall 2011

OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

ECHOLS

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6th Annual

8 Buses On Site!

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Blood Roundup Saturday Sunday NOV. 19, 2011 NOV. 20, 2011 9 am - 6 pm

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Freshman Campus Auditorium (Behind Golden Corral)

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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Perfect Kuts Full Service Salon Hair ∙ Nails ∙ Pedicures

Walk-ins Welcome Gift Certificates Available 7 Stylists Available for Your Convenience!

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3592 Hwy 441 S. Okeechobee, FL

Updated Web Sites Are The “Link” To Community Events By Kathy Scott, Tourism Coordinator, Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council

he Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council web site has a new look, updated information and will continue to offer new features for visitors and residents to enjoy. Visitors will find that “Okeechobee County is in the middle of it all on the north shore of Lake Okeechobee.” While discovering that they can escape the hustle and bustle to enjoy rich history, agriculture, events and endless outdoor sports, they will see that Okeechobee County is convenient to Florida’s other attractions and beaches within a short trip. Other features on www.okeechobee-tdc. com include accommodations, dining and an e-mail mailing list, feature articles on events and a fishing tournament schedule, along with updated links to local organizations and eco-tourism activities. O n e o f the b e s t l i n ks o n w w w . okeechobee-tdc.com is the event calendar. This Okeechobee community calendar — hosted by the new Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County web site, www.okeechobeebusiness. com — is a cooperative effort from local organizations to create a calendar where all events and important dates can be posted to provide visitors and residents

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Making a difference, one smile at a time. Creating beautiful smiles in Okeechobee and Vero Beach for over 24 years! 113 N.E. 19th Drive - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

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one place to find all the great opportunities in Okeechobee County. We invite you to visit both web sites and pass the word to your friends and associates to utilize this calendar. Don’t let others miss enjoying your event because it wasn’t posted to the Okeechobee event calendar. Enjoy the fall season with the annual Kids Fishing Tournament, a Halloween event, Christmas parade, and get ready for the winter season with the Okeechobee County Fair and Cattlemen’s Rodeo, Speckled Perch Festival, Okeechobee Battlefield Reenactment and numerous major fishing tournaments. And do you know how to find out more about these great events? Visit the Okeechobee event calendar at www.okeechobee-tdc.com or www. okeechobeebusiness.com.

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Many thanks to all the great volunteers for providing their time to help the many wonderful organizations that make these events possible in Okeechobee County. O

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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Fishing on By Capt. Michael Shellen

fter a very long and hot summer, we have all been looking forward to fall in Okeechobee. Cooler days and nights mean that the water in the lake will be cooling off, too. Late October, November and December can offer some of the best big-bass fishing that one can experience on Lake Okeechobee. In the fall, large schools of bass move into the shallow water around the edges of the lake to feed heavily on shiners, shad or whatever else they can catch to feed upon. The incredible number of year-class-size bass we have been catching the past few years are maturing, meaning more bass are reaching trophy size each year. The next couple of years hold great promise for bass fishing on Lake Okeechobee. Nothing works better for catching large bass than a wild shiner. The bass are basically in pre-spawn mode, feeding like crazy, storing up energy for the upcoming spawn. Fish in the seven- to 10-pound range are caught routinely during this fall run. Another factor that makes this time of year attractive is the low traffic. Most of our winter visitors have not arrived yet, so the lake is not crowded at all. Pan fishing for blue gill, specks and shell cracker also picks up as the water cools. Speck fishermen will dot the Kissimmee River at night trying to catch limits of specks, anchoring their boat and using a minnow under a tiny bobber. Another popular technique is trolling a jig, which enables anglers to cover more water. Both of these methods have merit and at times produce great catches of fish. Blue gill will be close to the banks in the local canals as well as along the weed lines that line the main lake. Grass

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

Lake Okeechobee Your Local Hardware Store For ALL Your Hardware Needs Capt. Michael Shellen

shrimp and crickets are the better baits fished under a bobber. Some anglers have great success fishing a red worm on the bottom in deep water in the Kissimmee River, catching good numbers of large shell crackers and blue gill, too. Okeechobee has long been regarded as one of the best bass fisheries in the world. Die-hard bass anglers from all over the globe make their way to the hallowed waters of Lake Okeechobee to try their hand at catching a trophy Florida bass. In reality, Okeechobee has much to offer year round. Though it is long known as a winter retreat, that perception is slowly changing. Okeechobee has first-class accommodations for any and all visitors. We offer many places to stay, ranging from fish camps to first class hotels. There are many places to eat in our great town with a variety that can satisfy even the most discerning palate. In a state rife with tourism locations, Okeechobee is climbing its way toward the top. Come to Okeechobee; the lake has more to offer than just wonderful fishing. The lake and its expansive marsh offer some of the most diverse bird watching available anywhere, where you will see birds in their natural habitat. There are miles of bike trails around the lake for those who love to bike and/or hike. The possibilities are endless. Whether you want to lie back and relax or explore what we have to offer, it’s up to you. O Capt. Michael Shellen Shellen Guide Service

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echobee the Oke be f o e r o g to sm There i ce just waitin d. Because n e e i y r jo e en lveexp red and munity invo zine e v o c s i m d e Maga ctive co of its a keechobee Th xperience to ment, O o bring that e y the t jo is able especially en w our e h W e r a o us. that sh hbors are s e l c i t r g i a and ne cenes to friends behind the s what it is. g workin r community u make o /PFS ton, CPA l e H . L d Donna /PFS an A P C , s poulo L. Costo Michael los & Helton u Costopo

n azine is a This mag eflection of our r uality excellent exemplifies the q it d city, an ers of our at memb of life th enjoy. ity commun xwell Devin Ma ilman c n u City Co

unity commf local y n a o th of ices, ship grow relation nity serv d places d n a e th mu to s an ess succ pends on ses, com activitie portant e h e T s h e m e d i t n e i u b y s s i l o o large rship, bu cilities, y e time it e. Okeech f leade tional fa t the sam d cultur ful job o ea r r a n e c a a t A u s e r . d a e ship r heritag one a m cts of ou , r o w e y of rve ou has d se asp raph . prese agazine ll of the ty photog vertising M ing a i d n l e a a a h i d Big u d T jinsk e light signe igh q high gh its h d well de reen Bud cation th i u u l n o a b a r u . M h p f t alism ns to ud o or a journ ratulatio g staff f very pro e n g i b Con utstand ity can ager her o commun Man l a e r e k n La i, Ge n anizz Plantatio F d e k e Fr e r lC Quai

What People Are Saying Okeecho b very eff ee The Magaz ective a ine has s the Ch amber set for the com proven to be a is investor munity seeking s all face . The professio new business when ts of th e maga nalism displa sense of zin y conside the type of com e gives the in ed in ring an v m u n ity they estor a magazin investm ar e opennes e brings out th nt into. The e s that is e w a rm for the potentia only realized th and if l new bu siness in you live here Terry B vestor. urroug hs Preside n Chamb t er of Co mmerc e of Oke echobee County

We are a blessed community rich in history. Okeechobee The Magazine, issue after issue, affords us the opportunity to learn about the past, now and what may be in store for our future through its in-depth research. Okeechobee The Magazine sets the standard for a high quality product in content and photography that we, visitors and potential business partners, after reading, would be proud to be, or become a part of our great community. The publisher and entire staff are to be commended for their professionalism. Jim Vensel Program Director Area Agency on Aging

Okeechobee The Magazine Office: 863-467-0054 111 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

Donegan Ready For Senior Year By Charles M. Murphy, WOKC’s Voice of the Brahmans

he most highly recruited Brahman athlete this year might end up being a golfer.

already encouraged his teammates to put in a little extra time with their golf game.

Richard Donegan has carefully perfected his craft in the past three years at Okeechobee High School. Not only is he among the best golfers on the Treasure Coast of any age; he is one of the best in the state.

The 17-year-old competed in the 94th annual Florida Amateur Tournament at the Doral Golf Resort & Spa, the Jack Nicklaus Junior Tournament in Palm Beach County and the Florida State Match play for Juniors Tournament at the Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club in Pasco County.

Donegan reached the state finals last year and finished near the top in Class 4A. He continued to work hard this off season as he hired a trainer to help his conditioning, and continued to compete in tournaments around the state and nation. Donegan will be counted on as a senior leader of this year’s Brahman golf team. He has embraced the role and has

“I have really worked out a lot. I hope to get into a lot better shape for golf and possibly baseball. I’ve also worked hard on my swing in the off season,” he noted. Donegan will not take anything for granted. He said he must take the season one match at a time and one swing at a

time. Donegan said he intends to compete for the state title and won’t back away from a challenge. “I have seen how close I am, and that just keeps me going,” he said. “I don’t want to lose and hard work should help.” Donegan also thanked his personal trainer, David Donatucci, for the workouts he has attended in the off season. He said the extra muscle hasn’t added yardage to his drives or fairway irons but has allowed him to cut down a bit on his swing, which minimizes major mistakes and misses. Donegan hopes to lead the Brahman boys golf team to the district title, the regional and state tournament this year. O 74 |

Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

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AROUND

Okeechobee Okeechobee Church of God Hosts So Long Summer Tour Held August 27

Okeechobee Main Street Mixers

Pictured with band members from the bands Caleb and Samestate are Pastor Mark Smith and his wife Madonna. For information on the fall concert to be held Oct. 29, call (863) 763-4127.

CenterState Bank Breaks Ground

The following Okeechobee Main Street members held mixers at their businesses: (top) Raulerson Hospital, (middle) Seacoast Bank and (bottom) Flower Petals.

Kiwanis Celebration A groundbreaking ceremony was held on June 17. The new 6,100 square-foot building is set for completion in January 2012.

Firefighters Collect School Supplies The Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee held its 40th anniversary celebration June 23 at the Williamson Center at IRSC with a special luncheon featuring a PowerPoint presentation of photos and accomplishments.

Maureen Burroughs Honored by OKMS

Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics of Okeechobee Local 2918 spent three days collecting back to school supplies. Supplies were donated to My Aunt’s House, organization, to distribute to needy children in Okeechobee. Pictured (L-R) Lt. Terry Parrish, Adam Durrance, Pete Sullivan, Matthew Vinson, Robert Walters and Chase Marsocci.

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Fall 2011 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

On July 7, during Okeechobee Main Street’s annual installation of officers held at the IRSC Business Center, newly elected president Kathleen Shatto (left) presented outgoing president Maureen Burroughs a gift for her many years of dedication and service to Okeechobee Main Street. Burroughs serves on the board as past president and continues to be active with the Okeechobee Main Street organization.

Rotary Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Prestigious Awards Given

ECO CARE AWARD GOES TO BIG LAKE EYE CARE

The Economic Council of Okeechobee developed this quarterly award to acknowledge and promote the beautification businesses have implemented to improve our special community, realizing that first impressions and aesthetics are important factors to visitors and potential investors.

The Rotary Club of Okeechobee gave its 2011 Carl T. Durrance Award for community service to Russ Papy. Additionally, Tom McCoin was given a Paul Harris Fellow award for his numerous contributions to the club. The awards were presented by 2010-2011 President Tabitha Trent.

SWAT APPRECIATION & AWARDS

(Top) Big Lake Eye Care, located at 600 North Parrott Ave. (Inset, L-R): ECO committee members Sonny Williamson, Chair Sandy Perry, Dr. Charles Bartels (receiving the CARE award) and ECO Executive Director Tara Rowley.

Okeechobee Main Street Welcomes Executive Director Cindy Birdashaw Cindy Birdashaw took over the position in July. She welcomes you to stop by and say hello at the Okeechobee Main Street office located at 111 NE Second Street.

Grand Opening at Total Roadside Services

The SWAT teens (Students Working Against Tobacco) were recognized on June 14. These volunteer students are a united movement of empowered youth working toward a tobacco-free future. Presenting the awards was Tobacco Prevention Program Manager Rosalind Brown. For more information, call Brown at (863) 462-5781. (Top) Joshua Lopez and Christopher Patrick. (Bottom) Ronayshia Stewart and Ashia Brown.

Approximately 250 people enjoyed the grand opening of Total Roadside Services on June 25. Located on Highway 710E, the new building incorporates solar technology to supplement the energy consumption and the shop and office can operate almost solely on the solar panels. For information, call Total Roadside Services at (863) 357-8772. Pictured left are owners/ operators Tabatha and Jeremy Larue.

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2011 |

List of Advertisers 14K Gold Store ........................................... 55 5th Street Pharmacy ................................ 23 A & G Concrete Pools ............................... Ag-Vantage Spreader Service .................... Alarm Company ....................................... Ameriprise Financial ................................ Appearance Implant Dentistry .................

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Committed To Quality & Service Experienced Designers Competitive Prices

68 56 30 34 23

Badcock Furniture .................................... 72 Bass Electric ............................................. 41 Bass Funeral Home .................................... 72 Berger Clinic ............................................. 23 Big Bertha’s Restaurant ............................. 22 Big Lake Eye Care ................................... 3, 45 Blue Heron Golf Club ................................ 72 Boots & Pearls ............................................. 24 Bridgette Waldau Graphic Design ............ 35 Buyer Brokerage Co. of Okeechobee ........ 62 C & B Background Check .......................... 62 CenterState Bank ..................................... 70 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County .. 32 Charlie’s Landscaping ................................ 50 Circle of Friends .......................................... 65 Costopoulos & Helton, P.A .................... 9 Cowboys Steak & BBQ Co............................. 57 Custom Window Treatments & Blinds ..... 39 Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ................. 58 DR Willson Land Co. ................................ 33

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Rafael Pacheco-Creations in Fotografia ...... 35 Raulerson’s Absolutely Art ......................... 75 Raulerson Hospital ..................................... 2 Raulerson Hospital ................................. 42, 43 Raulerson Hospital ....................... Back Cover Rustic Style & Cabins ............................... 55

ICS Computers ........................................... 63 Jiveh Dental ............................................... 49 Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center ... 53 Lakeshore Marine .................................... 75 Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre .................. 71 Law Office of Glenn J. Sneider ................ 72 Law Office of Philip DeBerard .................. 79 Leighton Security ..................................... 41 Lodge at the Lake ..................................... 29 Mary Kay .................................................... 44 Maxwell & Maxwell ................................... 48 MidFlorida Hardware ................................. 71 Mixon Real Estate Group ............................ 66 Morgan Stanley ........................................ 74 Morgan’s Furniture ................................... 40

Okeechobee Blood Roundup ...................... 67 Okeechobee Church of God ...................... 66 Okeechobee Claws & Paws ...................... 28 Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep ............... 7 Okeechobee Health Care .......................... 59 Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps ........ 66 Okeechobee Motor Company ................... 64 Okeechobee The Magazine ..................... 73 Pat’s Floral Design ...................................... 78

Sandra Pearce Photography ....................... 70 Seacoast National Bank ............................. 25 St. Lucie Tires ............................................. 56 Stafford’s Salon ......................................... 35 Sun Surgical ............................................... 51 Superior Water Works.............................. 46 Syble’s Flowers & Gifts .............................. 41 TD Bank .................................................... 69 Teez 2 Pleez ............................................... 62 Tobacco Free Partnership ........................ 35 Todd Everett Flooring ............................. 39 Toni’s Chic Boutique .................................. 55 Total Roadside Services ......................... 78 Treasure Coast Dermatology ...................... 5 Tri-Co Supply ............................................ 63 Trinidad Garcia, M.D. ................................. 6 United Mid-Country FL Real Estate ............ 16 UPS Store .................................................. 58 VNA/Grand Oaks .................................... 4 Waste Management ............................... 32 Wemmer Family Orthodontics.................. 69 Williamson Cattle Company ..................... 17 WOKC 1570 AM ........................................ 75 Worley Construction ................................ 63

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Hampton Inn ............................................. 55 Harbor Community Bank .......................... 33 Heartland Discount Pharmacy.................. 58 Highland Pest Control ............................... 52

Quail Creek Plantation .............................. 11 Quality Air Conditioning ......................... 48 Quick & Easy Storage ............................... 56

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Peace Lutheran School .............................. 65 Perfect Kuts ............................................. 68 Platinum Performance Builders ............... 15 Platt Chiropractic ..................................... 21 Pritchards & Associates ............................ 41 Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant ....................... 54

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