Noel Stephen From Corrections Officer to Sheriff
Okeechobee Health Care Facility Receives the National Business Baldridge Silver Award for outstanding business practices and innovations
CEO Faye Haverlock and Administrator Wayne Allen hold the crystal National Business Baldridge Silver Award for outstanding business practices and innovations recently received at the nationwide American Healthcare Association conference in Las Vegas. Back Row left to right: Allen Patterson – Corporate Compliance/Special Projects, Patty Ebanks – Assistant Director of Nursing and Derek Ebanks – Safety Officer. Patty was also recognized as the national and Florida Rising Star nurse award recipient.
We LOVE to CARE! Okeechobee Health Care Facility
Rehab Care • Long-Term Care • Memory Care • Personal Nursing Care 24/7 5-Star Federal and State Rated • Governor’s Gold-Seal Recipient
1646 US Highway 441 North • Okeechobee, Florida 34972
★★★★★
863-763-2226 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
www.Okeechobeehealthcare.com
Publisher’s Note
H
appy New Year and welcome to 2018! We have a great year of stories lined up for you and look forward, again, to writing about and promoting our wonderful community and the people who make Okeechobee the amazing place that it is.
In 2017, after 12 years, Okeechobee elected a new sheriff following the retirement of Sheriff Paul May. We wanted to give our new sheriff time to get acclimated to his new position before we introduced him to the community — although it is hard to believe that there is anyone in this community that doesn’t know Noel Stephen. Sheriff Stephen worked his way up in the ranks for 29 years going from corrections officer to number one in charge, and he’s always there to help barbecue something for a local non-profit fundraiser and to give back to his community.
Volume 12, Number 1 │February 2018
Publisher Susan Giddings Creative Director Lorraine Vogel Graphic Designer Valerie Wegener Editor J.D. Vivian Writers Rachel Buxton Raye Deusinger Jann Seal
Did you know that we have a whitetail deer farm in Okeechobee? Meet local veterinarian Dr. Laurie Cook, who works part-time with Dr. Jay Stinson at Northlake Veterinary Hospital, and, with her husband Richard Spangenberg, started BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm. They turned their passion for deer hunting into a new career not only to raise high-quality typical-looking bucks but to also work on the science of improving the deer’s survivability.
Cover/Feature Photographer Sandra Pearce
And in our Behind the Business features, we introduce you to the Weir family of Don’s Appliances and Lacy Rock of Lillies and Lace Boutique.
Contributors Betty Chandler Williamson
As always, we were there to cover our community events, and as we move forward into this new year, we look forward to capturing even more for your viewing and reading enjoyment, because after all, it is Okeechobee The Magazine – Your Magazine!
Account Executive Trish Grygo
Photographers Gary Burks Jane Kaufman Judy Throop Patrick Van Tassell
Office Manager Patti Berglund
Susan Giddings OTM Publications, Inc. DBA Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: (863) 467-0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com President Susan Giddings Founder Maureen Budjinski Okeechobee The Magazine, is published bi-monthly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2018, all rights reserved by OTM Publications, Inc. 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.
4 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Caring Beyond Prescriptions
Heartland Discount Pharmacy Serving the Community Since 2010
OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE HEALTHCARE MORE AFFORDABLE Here is how we are different... Does your pharmacy accommodate Does your pharmacy have time your special needs? to find ways to save you money Does your pharmacy keep your on your prescriptions? prescriptions up to date with refills Does your pharmacy handle and stock status, etc.? SPECIALITY PRESCRIPTIONS and Does your pharmacy have spare time on demand COMPOUNDING? to discuss your health? We have ways to help Medicare patients not fall into coverage gaps or donut holes
Now...it’s time to think about changing your pharmacy!
Tired of Waiting
The Fastest, Most Convenient & Friendliest Service in the Area! Other Pharmacies
Heartland Discount Pharmacy
Thank you for choosing Heartland Discount Pharmacy We are personally committed to providing the service and value you deserve. Thank you for trusting us with your healthcare needs. — Family of Heartland Discount Pharmacy of Okeechobee
We Dispense Care
PHARMACY THE WAY IT’S SUPPOSE TO BE
• Best cash price in town • FREE same day home delivery • We match all Competitors Generic Prescription Drug Programs • We Accept All Insurances Including Medicaid, Medicard, Part-D and Worker’s Compensation • Flu and Pneumonia shots available • Now providing non-sterile RX Compounding
EXTENDED HOURS: Monday-Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 5pm
407 S. Parrot Ave. (Next to Arby’s on Hwy. 441) Okeechobee
863.763.7633
HeartlandDiscountPharmacy.com
LIVE BLACKJACK & TABLE GAMES
REAL GAMES. REAL DEALERS. REAL CARDS.
17735 Reservation Road Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 800.360.9875 • seminolebrightoncasino.com Must be 21 years old to play slots and table games. Must be 18 years old to play bingo. Must be a Seminole Wild Card Member to participate in casino promotions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1.888.ADMIT.IT.
Ma rin & In e Acc sta ess llat ori ion es
nal es o i ss rvic e f Pro de Se Gui
Apparel • Sunglasses • Souvenirs Live Bait • Tackle • Rods and Reels NEW OWNERS & MANAGEMENT
Back by Popular Demand
Mike Krause
OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 5:00AM - 6:00PM • SUNDAY 5:00AM – 4:00PM
863.763.2248 5286 SW 16th Ave. • Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.fishokeechobee.net
I
nside this issue
February 2018
44
20
74
12
Features:
Behind the Business:
Sheriff Noel Stephen.......................20 By Rachel Buxton
BDRL Whitetail Deer........................44 By Jann Seal
Departments:
Looking Back...................................66 By Betty Chandler Williamson
Table & Vine.....................................74 By Rachel Buxton
Lillies & Lace Boutique...................84 Don’s Appliances.............................88
Community Events:
OHS Homecoming.........................12
Columns:
80
Valentine’s Day................................90 Let’s Go Fishing..............................94 Around Okeechobee......................96 Advertiser Index.............................98
CrossFitters Against Cancer...........16 Touch-A-Truck.................................32 Veterans Day...................................36 Farm City Luncheon.......................40 Okeechobee Blood Roundup........60 Okeechobee County’s Centennial..64 Christmas Festival and Parade.......72 Ag-Venture.......................................80
Cover photo by Sandra Pearce.
Like Us on Facebook. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
8 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
60
• BEAUTIFUL LODGING • SPORTING CLAYS • • QUAIL, TURKEY AND PHEASANT HUNTING • • WEDDINGS • CORPORATE EVENTS • SPECIAL EVENTS •
Knotty Girl Breast Cancer Shoot February 24th, 2018 Quail Creek Plantation 12399 NE 224th St. • Okeechobee, FL 34972 863.763.2529 www.quailcreekplantation.com • Open to the public Wednesday thru Sunday, 8am-5pm
Our Services Include: State of the Art Digital X-Ray & Cone Beam Technology
Serving Our Community from the Heart Founded in 1971, Family Dentistry of Okeechobee is a full-service, state-of-the-art dental office with a compassionate and professional team to serve you. From preventative care, to full mouth restoration, we offer excellent dental care in a peaceful environment. Our many years in practice, along with the testimony of our patients, reflect our genuine desire to care for each patient that comes into our office.
Preventative and Deep Cleaning Botox Fillings Implants Crowns Root Canals Bridge Work TMJ Appliances Sleep Appliances Custom Fitted Dentures
Dr. Laskey, D.M.D. Dr. Davis, D.D.S.
863.763.2765
Cosmetic Bonding Veneers Wisdom Teeth Extractions Implant Crowns In-House Lab Nitrous Oxide Sedation Available
202 NE 3rd Street | Okeechobee, FL 34972 | www.fdofokeechobee.com
ENDLESS HOT WATER. EVER-FLOWING SAVINGS. Want a commercial water heater that works exclusively on demand, thereby eliminating unnecessary energy waste?
Commercial
UPGRADE TO A NATURAL GAS TANKLESS WATER HEATER.
APPLIANCE
REBATE
TANK-STYLE WATER HEATER
$2,000
TANKLESS WATER HEATER
$2,500
RANGE
$1,500
FRYER
$3,000
DRYER
$1,500
» Endless supply of hot water » Up to 50% in water heating
GET REBATES
energy savings
» 20-plus year appliance lifespan
$
Maximum
up to per ton!
50
Earn rebates up to $50 per ton when you install eligible natural gas space conditioning units!
» Extremely eco-friendly
Ask Gas
TM
PARTNER UP WITH FPU TODAY!
Ask4Gas.com/Biz 888.220.9356 STAY INFORME D:
OKEECHOBEE BUSINESS OWNERS! Save money every month with new natural gas equipment, and save right away with potential rebates! See if you qualify for up to a $2,500 rebate on a tankless water heater (among other incentives!) when you conserve energy with natural gas commercial equipment.
PROMO: MA16-152 110117 *Limit one rebate for each eligible appliance. Leased and used appliances not eligible for rebate. Appliances installed must be commercial grade in order to qualify. Maximum rebate of up to $10,000 per account per year for appliances rebated under the New Construction and Retention (Gas to Gas) programs. Appliances replaced under the Retention (Gas to Gas) program must meet age and condition requirements to qualify. Rebate payments will only be issued to qualifying FPUC customers or FPUC Energy Partners. Please contact FPUC or visit FPUC.com/CommercialRebates for more complete details regarding rebate categories, industry definitions and other factors that may influence rebate amounts and eligibility.
Community Event
Homecoming Queen Tyra Smith and King Miguel Raya.
Rudy Juarez, Shelby Kirton, Artha Jonassaint, Madysun Causier and Julia DuPree.
OHS Homecoming Friday night football.
2017
Despite recurring rain showers, OHS Homecoming festivities kicked off Oct. 12 with the annual parade, followed by a pep rally and the senior class bonfire. Homecoming royalty candidates made their way through the parade route as the OHS band entertained the crowd. The festivities came to an end Oct. 13 when the Okeechobee Brahmans won the football game by a score of 45-0, and Miguel Raya and Tyra Smith were crowned king and queen.
Seniors compete in the jello-eating contest.
12 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Gary Burks and Sandra Pearce
OHS band leads the parade.
Sophomore class of 2020. Principal Dylan Tedders and staff.
Kenli Whipple and Emory Sanchez.
Winners of the wood-hauling contest.
Senior float. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 13
"What stood out the most was their patience and knowledge. Gilbert took interest in our lifestyle, not the sale. They showed they wanted a customer for life." - Justin & Leslie Maynor
500
Over
NEW and Pre-Owned Vehicles to Choose From!
Serving Okeechobee for over 90 Years!
(863) 763-2121 3175 U.S. Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
www.Gilbert-Ford.com
Community Event
Photos by Judy Throop
Exercising With a Purpose
Courtney Holmes.
CrossFitters fight childhood cancer
The second annual CrossFitters Against Childhood Cancer event, presented by Ride for the Fight, took place on Oct. 28. Thirty competitors participated. Proceeds from this event will help cancer patients and their families in Okeechobee.
Nano Corona, Cory Shoppmeyer, Megan Nelson and Jared Prescott.
Ricky Barnes and Kyle Murphy.
Karen Drawdy and Kyle Reno.
16 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Participants and organizers.
WILLIAMSON CATTLE COMPANY Presents ‘Photos of the Past’
BURGESS PAINT SUPPLY STORE
CLOSES DOORS AFTER SEVEN DECADES Shown below is a picture of Burgess Paint Store
Valentine’s Special Get Your Loved One a Gift Certificate from
The Lounge at Sacred Sanctuary
Put Your
Mind, Body & Spirit in Our Hands
MASSAGE • FACIALS • ACUPUNCTURE • REIKI
License # MM32859 CE10006549 LIC. #MM32859
Burgess Paint Store closed after more than seven decades of business on 5th Avenue (Osceola) in downtown Okeechobee. It was founded and operated by R.A. “Red” Burgess, married to Nina Boromei, (her parents arrived in Okeechobee before it was a county). The Burgess’ had three children, Bobby, Richard and Pattie. After “Mr. Red” could no long operate the store, his son Bobby kept the business running, with the same good quality his father had possessed. Saddles and accessories for horses were also sold, our family purchased saddles for our three children at this store. The paint store continued to supply many homes with the same good service, whether a pint of or gallon of quality paint. In 1996, a mural was painted on the old gymnasium to celebrate “Founder’s Day Centennial”. Burgess donated paint to the Okeechobee Historical Society, who sponsored the 130’ by 16’ high pictorial mural.
Submitted by Betty Chandler Williamson
207 SW 2nd Ave. • Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 863.623.4136 • www.TheLoungeOkeechobee.com
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 17
S U N R I S E T H E AT R E
The Best Entertainment on the Treasure Coast • 2017/18 Season U P C O M I N G S H O W S
An Evening With
Gladys Knight Fri., Feb. 9 • 8pm
ABBA Mania
Sat., Feb. 10 • 8pm
Broadway & Beyond on 2nd Street Presents
The Beach Boys
Thurs., Feb. 15 • 7pm
Remember when Rock was Young The Elton John Tribute Thurs., Mar. 1 • 7pm
Jim Breuer
Thurs., Mar. 8 • 7pm
Rhythm of The Dance Sun., Feb. 18 • 7pm
In Concert Michael McDonald
Sat., Mar. 3 • 8pm
Co- Sponsored by Beachfront Inn @ The Inlet A Tribute to The Eagles
Hotel California Wed., Mar. 21 • 7pm
Co- Sponsored by Mike & Mimi Brown
Broadway & Beyond on 2nd Street Presents
Heart by Heart
Fri., Apr. 13 • 8pm
4 Stars from the Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys
ABBA Tribute Concert
A Chorus Line Tue., Apr. 17 • 7pm
For tickets, call 772.461.4775 or visit SunriseTheatre.com 117 South 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce
Brian Regan
Sun., Feb. 11 • 7pm
Legendary Performers with Frankie Valli, Carole King, Cat Stevens & More!
The Hit Men
Fri., Feb. 23 • 8pm
A Special Evening with the Original Jersey Boy Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Wed., Mar. 4 • 7pm
Lewis Black - The Jokes On US Tour Thurs., Mar. 22 • 7pm
The Midtown Men
Wed., Feb. 14 • 7pm
An evening with Neil Sedaka Sat., Feb. 24 • 8pm
National Touring Company Of
BUDDY: The Buddy Holly Story Wed., Mar. 7 • 7pm
An exciting blend of Ottawa Valley, tap and Irish Stepdancing
The StepCrew Fri., Mar. 23 • 8pm
An evening with
Chris Botti
Thurs., Apr. 19 • 7pm
One Night of Queen Sat., Apr. 21 • 8pm
**Additional shows and attractions will be added throughout the season. Visit sunrisetheatre.com to see the videos for these shows!
‘Being sheriff is very rewarding and gives me that breath and desire to continue to do just as good, if not better, in the years to come and to not let the folks down in Okeechobee.’ ~ Noel Stephen
From ‘Just a Job’ to
29-Year Career
Sheriff Noel Stephen works his way to the top
o
By Rachel Buxton
n Jan. 3, 2017, a new sheriff was sworn in. However, Okeechobee’s “new” sheriff is taking down the barriers and walls, opening up the doors and changing the perception of what makes a sheriff a sheriff. Sheriff Noel Stephen is not your stereotypical “sit behind the desk and give orders” kind of guy. “He is a hands-on sheriff with an open-door policy,” says Al Stone, Stephen’s first training officer. “He will not turn anyone away.” For 29 years, Stephen worked his way up the ranks within the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office. It was a career he never thought he would find himself in. “The good outweighed the bad,” Stephen recalls about going into law enforcement. “At that point, it was just a job. I needed something my son could be proud of me for.”
Photos by Sandra Pearce
Stephen is an Okeechobee High School graduate who, at 11, moved to Fort Drum with his family from Oregon. He and his twin sisters, Debbi and Vicki, were all pre-birth adoptions. Their parents, Oreon and Shirley, were retirees of the U.S. Navy and worked hard to instill good values in their children. “Mommy and Daddy raised me with good morals and to be polite,” Stephen explains. “They were strict and regimented but very loving and caring.” Those are all traits that Stephen continues to possess today and that he upholds in his position as sheriff. “You see Noel Stephen and that’s what you get,” says childhood friend Mark Hester. “He is straight and up-front, just a positive person.” Stephen’s road to becoming sheriff was a long journey — one
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 21
M
that began in the very agency he runs today. Straight out of high school in 1984, Stephen became a volunteer firefighter and a certified emergency medical technician (EMT) for Fort Drum. He took odd jobs working on local ranches, including McArthur and the Double Diamond. At 19, Stephen found himself married and with a son he needed to provide for. So, one day, he headed into town to find a full-time job with benefits. He was approached by then-Okeechobee Fire Chief Phil Roman, whose father-in-law was running the jail at the time. 1984 FL High School Rodeo Team. From left: Noel, Dawn Morris, Amy Branham, Keith Goodbread, Charlie Pearce and Mark Goodbread.
OHS graduation photo 1984.
Chief Roman told him the jail was looking for young men to employ. Stephen, however, couldn’t see himself working for the sheriff’s office. But after discussing it with his wife, he headed back into town the very next day. “I asked him if the offer still stands,” Stephen recalls. “I met with Captain Clifton Lightsey. He had a stack of applications a foot high and pushed them to the side, handed me a blank application and said I was hired.” Thus began Stephen’s career in law enforcement.
‘Noel is a hands-on sheriff with an open-door policy. He will not turn anyone away.’ ~ Al Stone, Noel’s first training officer at the prison
Circa 1989 as a corrections officer.
“It was a perfect fit for him,” jokes Hester. “It kept him out of trouble.”
Noel receiving Officer of the Year award at the Elks Lodge with Sheriff O.L. Raulerson and Tom Elmore.
22 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Stone, who was serving as training officer at the prison when Stephen started as a corrections officer, still remembers him driving to work on his motorcycle. “One day, he came to work
M
Noel, HR/Chief Deputy Assistant Ronda Butler, former Sheriff Paul May and Sheriff Executive Assistant Connie Curry. In the Sheriff’s Department lobby with all the photos of Okeechobee County sheriffs.
with dirt and mud all over him,” Stone recalls. “I said to him, ‘Is that how you come to work?’” Stephen had gotten run off the road; instead of making excuses or being late, he got back up and rode to work. “That’s the kind of guy Noel is,” says Stone. “He was very good. Good personality. Got along with everyone and hardly ever had any problems.”
Auxiliary and began to do his crossover training to become a certified law-enforcement officer, which he became in May 1990 when he joined the OCSO Road Patrol Division. Stephen continued to excel and make a name for himself as a hard and dedicated worker. His efforts earned him the promotion to detective in 1994 and, later, road patrol corporal, captain and eventually major.
In 1988, Stephen became a certified corrections officer — a position he says gave him great satisfaction. “As I started with the Sheriff’s Department working in the jail, I found myself dealing with the inmate population and really got satisfaction out of helping them trying to get on the right path … getting them to do better and to want better,” Stephen explains. Working in the jail as a corrections officer, Stephen quickly began to see a future for himself within law enforcement, and he started to set goals to work his way up the ranks. In 1989, he joined the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO)
Undersheriff Noel Stephen and Road Captain Bud Slay. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 23
M
And through a little bit of divine intervention and his career in law enforcement, at the age of 26, he got the opportunity to meet her. A suspect had been apprehended in Los Angeles and needed to be returned to Florida. The sheriff at the time, O.L. Raulerson, gave him an extra day while in California to meet his biological mother. That meeting turned into a 15-year relationship that also allowed his sons, Cory and Kodi, to meet their biological grandmother.
From left: Noel Stephen, retired Sheriff O.L. Raulerson, Sheriff Paul May and Jail Administrator Ronnie White.
It was during this time that Stephen’s career had a major impact on his personal life. When he started a family, Stephen became curious about his natural birth mother — not because he felt like he was doing without but simply from a hereditary standpoint.
“I had everything I could ever have, within reason,” Stephen says. “My mama and I were very close. I didn’t want to do anything to offend her.” With his adoptive mother’s blessing, Stephen tracked down his birth mother.
While climbing the ranks, Stephen served under three sheriffs: Raulerson, Edward Miller and Paul May. He says he was extremely fortunate to work with three great sheriffs who helped to instill a strong work ethic in him and to teach him the importance of giving back and helping the community that supports law enforcement. It was under those three men that Stephen began getting involved in nonprofits and local fundraisers and organizations. ‘It’s an emotional rollercoaster. You’re putting your whole life out there for people to evaluate and develop an opinion.’ ~ Noel Stephen on how difficult it was to run for sheriff
“I can’t tell you how many pieces of chicken I’ve cooked for this community,” he laughs. “But just to be able to donate a little bit of our time and effort to help someone else. I pride myself to keep that up.” In January 2005, Stephen earned the promotion that would set the stage for him to reach his ultimate goal: He was appointed as Sheriff May’s undersheriff, becoming second in line. May, who worked with and got to know
24 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Stephen while on patrol, recalls that he didn’t even consider anyone else for the job: “He was my first and only choice as undersheriff. Noel worked his way up, and that impressed me.” During Sheriff May’s term, an economic downturn created tough situations for all. As undersheriff, Stephen was responsible for preparing the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office’s budget.
Making Dreams Come True for 30 years Mack “Hoot” Worley
A State Certified General Contractor St. Lic. CGC1507657
Hoot and Joy Worley
110 NW 5th Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972 Gary Bell, Wiley Boswell and Noel getting ready to compete in the Law Enforcement Special Olympics circa 1995.
863-467-2541
gmworleyinc@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/G.M.Worley, Inc.
“I wasn’t sure if I was going to be successful without money,” Stephen says. “It was a hard situation for everyone.” But together, May and Stephen worked tirelessly and ran a successful agency for 12 years. When May announced his retirement in 2015, Stephen was prepared, and ready to announce his candidacy for sheriff — taking the next and final step to reach his goal. He had May’s support and backing. “Noel was the best prepared and most experienced of anyone who has ever run for that position,” May notes. “He’s not college-educated with a master’s degree in law enforcement. He has a master’s degree in common sense.” Stephen admits that running for sheriff was the most difficult thing he has ever
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 25
M
had to go through. “It’s an emotional rollercoaster,” he explains. “You’re putting your whole life out there for people to evaluate and develop an opinion.”
Retiring Sheriff Paul May congratulating our new Sheriff Noel Stephen at his swearing-in.
‘Noel was the best prepared and most experienced of anyone who has ever run for that position (sheriff). He’s not collegeeducated with a master’s degree in law enforcement. He has a master’s degree in common sense.’ ~ Former Sheriff Paul May
“It made it a little bit lengthy, but it wasn’t all about me,” he says. “It was about the men and women who help me, and it was important to me to recognize them.” Notes May: “He is not one looking for credit. He is very quick to give the credit to where it is due.”
Noel with sons Kodi and Cory.
New Sheriff Noel Stephen and his supervisory staff.
26 | February 2018
Centennial badge.
But Stephen ran a successful campaign and was sworn in as the 17th sheriff of Okeechobee County. During Stephen’s swearing-in, however — a day that should have been his — he shifted the spotlight and introduced the individuals on his team.
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
This simple act is something Stephen has initiated during his first year as sheriff. Each quarter, an individual from each department is recognized for his or her hard work. They receive a day off with
A CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON 2017-2018
Cirque Zuma Zuma February 1, 2018
Disco Inferno: a 70’s Celebration
Special Investigator John Rhoden and Noel.
February 8, 2018
pay, as well as a monetary bonus.
Live from Nashville Country Legends February 19, 2018
“My number-one asset is my staff,” Stephen says. “My priority is to take care of them so they can take care of the community. I strive to run this agency like a family.”
Comedian Ventriloquist Taylor Mason February 23, 2018
The Annie Moses Band March 1, 2018
Also during his first year, he has implemented employee evaluations, a tool he believes will help to make better officers. Another goal of Stephen’s as sheriff is working toward getting the county jail renovated to meet the demands of the inmate population.
Million Dollar Quartet March 14, 2018
The MACG Band March 16, 2018
On Golden Pond March 23, 2018
US Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors
There have been a lot of positives that have happened during Stephen’s first year as sheriff. But a lot has happened during that time to test Stephen in his new role. He has already made national news twice; something Sheriff May had to endure only once during his 12 years. “Sheriff May calls me an over-achiever,” Stephen quips. ‘I hope to be somebody that Paul May, O.L. Raulerson and Ed Miller can be proud of — the man that I am and the sheriff that I am today.’ ~ Noel Stephen
March 12, 2018
Million Dollar Quartet March 14, 2018
The MACG Band March 16, 2018
On Golden Pond March 23, 2018 All dates, artists and programs subject to change.
Box Office 561-993-1160 Buy tickets @ www.dollyhand.org 1977 College Drive, Belle Glade, FL 33430
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
February 2018 | 27
M
Kiss the Pig at the Livestock Show 2016.
First Responders Appreciation Day with the B.R.A.T. Club.
‘I can’t tell you how many pieces of chicken I’ve cooked for this community. To be able to donate a little bit of our time and effort to help someone else. I pride myself to keep that up.’ ~ Noel Stephen
Cooking for the Arnold’s Wildlife fundraiser.
Tug-of-war competition at the Ag Center.
The County Centennial Birthday Bash.
28 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The Battle at the Big O 2014.
May adds, “During his first year in office, he handled things only someone with that experience could have handled, and I think he handled them admirably. Noel is a very hard worker, and he takes a lot of pride in what he does and in providing for the community. He has a passion for it.” Along with being sheriff, Stephen remains extremely involved in various organizations within the community, including the Masonic Lodge, Shrine Club, Kiwanis, the B.R.A.T. Club (Building Relationships Among Teens) and many others.
Serving Great Mexican Food in Florida and the Treasure Coast Since 1999
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Bienvenidos!
Stop by today & taste our Authentic Mexican Food that will keep you coming back for more!
Open for Lunch & dinner
7 Days a Week • 11:00am to 10:00pm Full Liquor Bar! Happy Hour 7 Days a Week All Day Long Draft Beer, Margaritas and House Sangria
★ 2 for 1★
3415 US Hwy 441 South • Okeechobee, FL (Located at the Publix Shopping Center)
863.357.9641 • www.puebloviejofl.com
Now Offering Catering!
Cooking for the Law Enforcement Torch Run.
All this leaves him with very little time to just be Noel Stephen. “I go to the woods and run my hog traps and do competitive barbecue,” he says. “Those are the only two times I’m not sheriff.” But he does have another title that he holds dear to his heart. To two little girls, Brayleigh and Corleigh, Stephen is simply known as P-Pa. They are the daughters of his oldest son, Cory, and his wife Brandy. Family is something Stephen has always made a priority and something that has driven him to continuously succeed. His sons, Cory and Kodi, were what pushed him into what he thought was “just a job,” but that job turned into a blessing and a passion.
Our Family Serving Yours For Three Generations Phones Monitored By Family 24/7 • Burial, Cremation, Transfers Out-of-State On-Site Crematory • Custom Monuments & Memorials Public or Private Gatherings • Guaranteed Pre-Arranged Pricing Full Casket & Cremation Showrooms • Military Funeral Honors Grief Support Programs • Personalized Memorial Tributes
400 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972
863.763.1994
www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 29
M
Noel with his family. From left: son Cory, wife Brandy, grandchildren Corleigh and Brayleigh, Fallan Curren and son Kodi Stephen.
Cory, 31, shares a similar passion with his father and is a firefighter and paramedic for Okeechobee County. Kodi, 23, works at OK Corral.
A name you can trust. COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
“I’m very proud,” Stephen says about his sons. “They are fine young men.” And it is because of his granddaughters, today, and all the other children in the community that Stephen continues to work as hard as he does, trying to make Okeechobee a safe place for them to grow up in. “I sincerely care to help folks,” he explains. “It’s what makes me tick.”
Call us about our FREE or DISCOUNTED Engineered Plan Design Offer!
Over 20+ Years of Experience
Come See 863.623.4459 Please Us at Our New Location 207 NE 2nd Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972
www.AbneyBuild.com LIC #CBC058152
30 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
When asked if being sheriff is what he thought it would be like, Stephen is quick to answer: “Not until you assume that role and walk in those boots do you really know. Still today, people say ‘Hello, Sheriff,’ and I look behind me to see where he is. But being sheriff has been very rewarding.”
Noel with sons Cory and Kodi.
Our goal is to make you feel fabulous...affordably! ‘They have little Southern twangs and the more they hang on to “P-Pa,” the more they get.’ ~ Noel Stephen speaking about his granddaughters
863.623.5786
205 SW Park Street
Monday thru Friday 10am - 6pm & Saturday 10am - 3pm
Stop By a See Mitch & nd Kodiak! He’s a Sweeth and will work eart Guy with you!
Family Owned & Operated Since 2007
BUY HERE-P We have a veAY HERE hic every budge le for t!
3565 HWY 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 Noel with grandchildren Corleigh and Brayleigh.
863.763.0330
www.MandMAutoBrokersInc.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 31
Community Event
Touch-A-Truck organizers, standing from left: Alex Tijerina, Katie McFarland, Regina Mayernik, Amanda Reidel, Carrie Heineman. Sitting: Holly Mixon, Kristina and Mira Stas and Kim Syples.
Learning by Touching
f
Jr. Women’s Club event teaches kids about vehicles
32 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The fourth annual Touch-A-Truck event, hosted by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs’ Okeechobee Junior Women’s Club, was held Nov. 4 at the Okeechobee County Agri-Civic Center. This youth-centered event brings together kids of all ages to touch, investigate and explore all types of vehicles.
Photos by Patrick Van Tassell
BIBLES • BOOKS Journals Children’s Books
Gifts
Jewelry • Antiques
AND FURNITURE! 863.357.3010 • 513 SW Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.thehopechestokeechobee.com
Turning your vision into
Reality! Residential• Commercial• Remodel• Docks / Seawalls• Metal Buildings•
License #CGC048773
863.467.0831
www.closeconstruction.us
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 33
New Custom Homes Residential & Remodeling Experts, from Design to Completion, with Excellence and Integrity
Quality • Commitment • Design
863-467-1933 • 221 NE Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972
Call Us for All Your Cabinet and Home Inspection Needs ALL WOOD CABINETS AND VANITIES • COMPETITIVE PRICING STATE LICENSED & INSURED - Lic #CRC1331883
“Without Dr. Anglin and Raulerson Hospital’s ER, I would not have ever made it to Lawnwood, where they saved my life again!” Medical Director Dr. Lenworth Anglin, and Raulerson Hospital ER patient Susan Giddings
I
t was the day after Labor Day and Susan Giddings, publisher and owner of Okeechobee The Magazine, was in her office juggling the publication’s deadline and how it would be impacted with impending Hurricane Irma. She began experiencing a burning in her chest, a ‘weird’ heartbeat, and some difficulty breathing. Susan just chalked it up to stress from the magazine’s deadline, preparations for the approaching hurricane and exhaustion from working overtime on a new publication. Like many busy adults at work, Susan’s first instincts were to push through what she was feeling and keep working. She said, “I stopped what I was doing, closed my eyes and took some deep breaths.” Her symptoms eventually subsided. Her relief was only temporary, however. The symptoms soon returned, only stronger. She began to wonder if she was experiencing a panic attack. Susan repeated her calming steps and was able to reduce her symptoms again. Later that morning, her symptoms returned and intensified significantly. She felt the burning feeling spreading from her chest to her neck. She was in a lot of discomfort and found it much harder to breath. Relaxing was no longer helping. Susan realized she was having a heart attack and asked her coworker to dial 911.
P
aramedics rushed Susan to the Emergency Department at Raulerson Hospital where Medical Director Dr. Lenworth Anglin, Registered Nurse, Rebecca and other hospital team members quickly began to examine and treat her. An EKG confirmed that Susan was having a heart attack. Susan’s condition required an immediate heart catheterization but the weather ruled out flying to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center’s Heart Institute, so Susan was prepared for transport by ambulance. Dr. Anglin educated Susan about the need for the time-sensitive clot-busting medicine, as well as its possible side effects as a blood thinner. He strongly recommended she receive it, prior to being transferred. Susan recalls these events and conversations as somewhat surreal; she was alone in the hospital experiencing a medical emergency with a difficult decision to make. Susan, guided by Dr. Anglin’s advice, consented to receiving the clot-busting medicine. “Dr. Anglin did not just help explain and educate me about my situation. He comforted me on a personal level, with his calm and kind demeanor. Without Dr. Anglin and Raulerson Hospital’s ER, I would not have ever made it to Lawnwood, where they saved my life again!” Susan explained.
T
he heart catheterization performed immediately upon Susan’s arrival at Lawnwood showed that her left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) had stenosis (or narrowing) with 99% occlusion, or blockage. Susan was told the type of heart attack she was experiencing was referred to as ‘the widow-maker’. She said that the clinicians at Lawnwood remarked several times, how fortunate she was to have received the clot-busting medication so quickly. A temporary balloon was placed in Susan’s artery to assist with pumping blood to the heart. Two days later, on September 7th, Susan was finally stable enough to endure the triple bypass procedure needed to save her life.
A
s Susan began the long road of recovery following an open-heart surgery, Hurricane Irma churned closer to Florida, eventually making landfall on September 10th. Susan recalled Lawnwood being on lockdown and on generator power during Irma, but noted how unbelievably good the nurses were. “I never once worried about the fact that there was a hurricane hitting. The staff were that fabulous at keeping the focus on patient care.” On Monday, September 11th, Susan was discharged from Lawnwood and she has continued her recovery with the strength and resilience she’s known for.
S
usan, who does not have high blood pressure or cholesterol, said that doctors have explained that the blockage was likely caused by smoking and stress. Susan has not smoked since her heart attack. She said her bypass surgery gave her a head start in quitting because by the time she had healed enough to even consider smoking, four weeks had gone by and so had any desire to smoke! Another thing Susan has learned from this life-changing event is to take time for your family and for yourself. “Everyone says that and knows it, but it doesn’t mean the same thing until you’ve actually lived through something like this,” Susan explained. She plans to travel, not attend ‘every’ event, and take long weekends. “You don’t ever know when your time is up and I’m thankful to Dr. Anglin, Raulerson Hospital’s ER and Lawnwood Regional Medical Center that I’m still alive today!”
Share your story of caring by leaving a review on our facebook page.
Community Event
Photos by Patrick Van Tassell
JJJJJ Honoring
VETERANS Community remembers those who served, sacrificed
In observance of Veterans Day, Nov. 11, members of the community gathered at Veterans Park to honor and to thank those who have served — and sacrificed — so much for our freedom.
Vietnam Vet Ron Kelly and his service dog Gunny.
Dan Fennell of American Legion Post 63 and Father Jim Shevlin.
36 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Larry Saucier and Commander Larry Richardson unveiling the new monument.
Celebrating 86 Years Serving the Glades
Make it Your Home! www.RoyalsInc.com
609 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972
609 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972
Family owned business since 1929
Five Convenient Showrooms: Okeechobee, Belle Glade, Clewiston, Immokalee and Sebring
(863) 763.6293
(863) 824-8782
863.824.8782
thepurpleorchid.amtamembers.com/ MM37227
thepurpleorchid.amtamembers.com @thepurpleorchidbodywork
In Store Financing Available.
804 E. North Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972
MM37227
MASTECTOMY & BRACING
tions PersonsoanlaSl Polu roblems! for Per
• ARCH SUPPORTS & SHOES • MASTECTOMY BRAS AND PROSTHESES • OTC ANKLE, KNEE & WRIST BRACES • CUSTOM ORTHOTICS & CUSTOM SHOES
Family Owned & Operated Heating • Air Conditioning • Commercial Refrigeration • Mini-Split Systems • Ice Machines Sales • Service • New Installation • Warranty • Maintenance • Residential • Commercial
24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE • REPAIRS ON ALL MAKES AND MODELS
Duct Cleaning & Sanitizing • Indoor Air Quality 100% FINANCING AVAILABLE • FREE ESTIMATES
863.467.4733 / 863.634.2836 www.CRSOkee.com
CALL US FOR HONEST & DEPENDABLE SERVICE
MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED
HOME VISITS IN SEBRING AND LAKE PLACID 1138 SOUTH PARROTT AVE OKEECHOBEE, FL
863.763.4401 9-5 M-F
www.ShoeBoxandMore.com Shoeboxlady@hotmail.com
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 37
Community Event
Davie Dairy receives special-recognition award. From left: Mickey Bandi, Glynn Rutledge, Bill Berman and Alice Murphy.
Rebecka Mims, Kaitlyn Williams and Cody Deloney.
P ro m o t i n g
Hailey Callaway, Faith Comfort, Tyler Addington and Clayton Beckham.
Hailey Harden, Kelsey Rimes, Sierra Rowe, Taylor McCranie and Rance Pendrey.
40 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Agriculture Luncheon presents positive side of farming
From left: Aubrey Pearce, Dayton Buxton, Kristen Thomas, Laney Jarriel, Faith Vest, Patrick Lehman and Bailey Harden. Back: Victoria Beccera and Jo’dejah Sewell.
Photos by Gary Burks
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC 863.763.1107
Guest speaker Gary Ritter.
Se habla español • Wir sprechen deutsch • Nous parlons français
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee
The 24th annual Farm City Luncheon was held Nov. 16 at the KOA Convention Center. The focus of the luncheon is to provide an awareness of where our food originates and to present a positive side of agriculture to the public. This year’s guest speaker was Gary Ritter, assistant director of government and community affairs at the Florida Farm Bureau. Davie Dairy in Okeechobee received a special-recognition award.
Antoinette Battle Stanley H. Sweda M.D. Jane Powell ARNP-C ARNP-FNP-BC Most Insurances Accepted • DOT/CDL Physicals • Family Practice and Occupational Medicine • Lifestyle Weight & Wellness Accepting New Patients • Walk-ins & Appointments
We Specialize in You!
Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 863.357.8222
Se habla español
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee www.DrAlbertBravo.com Albert F. Bravo, MD Gastroenterology/Hepatology
Ben Butler, Charlene Dewey, Courtney Davis and Mickey Bandi. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 41
HOW MUCH DO WE LOVE FLORIDA? WE WERE HERE BEFORE A/C. Better by all accounts since 1926.
Visit your nearest branch at 1409 S Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974. SeacoastBank.com | 800 706 9991
Live Life with a Smile Comprehensive Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Thomas Cogsil, DDS | Donald Cooper, DDS | Sri Ghanta, DMD | Miranda Durrance, RDH
SERVICES INCLUDE General Dentistry Same Day Emergency Care Sedation Dentistry Wisdom Teeth Extractions Invisalign Laser Dentistry Implant Placements & Restorations CBCT Technology TMJ Treatment Zoom Whitening
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Most Major Insurance Accepted
Ready for a visit?
Please contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
863.532.3335
608 North Parrott Ave. | Okeechobee, FL 34972 ccagdental@comcast.net
Come Visit Us at AnchorDental.com and on Facebook!
Whitetails Are
‘DEER’
to Her Heart
Veterinarian Laurie Cook trades busy practice for raising trophy bucks By Jann Seal
M
Photos by Sandra Pearce
any were the times when Dr. Laurie Cook waved goodbye to her husband, Richard Spangenberg, as he set off with his bow and gun to experience another big whitetail-deer hunt. Her busy veterinary practice kept her on-call and close to her patients, while Richard’s landscaping business allowed him the freedom to pursue the things he enjoyed doing. Until that fateful day … Wanting to experience whitetail-deer adventures together, Richard started by buying Laurie a bow. That led to them attending a hunting expo in search of some new archery equipment, and where they also could expand their hunting knowledge. What they came away with was not just new equipment and knowledge, but an open door to new careers, a new focus and new passions. Laurie had sold her veterinary practice and was working as a relief veterinarian to other practices in surrounding counties. “After selling my practice, we both knew we wanted to farm, 44 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
and our sights were focused on raising cows,” Laurie explains. “But after meeting with whitetail-deer farmers and preserve owners at the outdoor expo, and doing research on the industry, we just thought to ourselves, ‘How cool would that be to raise trophy bucks in our back yard?!’” And thus the dream started … The couple had always had a love for whitetail deer, and so began Laurie’s in-depth research into breeding not just ordinary whitetails, but deer that exceeded the basic genetic requirements. The couple also wanted to expand into the pharmacology of disease resistance and into the whitetails’ tolerance of the Florida environment — all while maintaining the look and structure of prime whitetails. The whitetail project needed practical logistics — a plan that would allow the couple to earn a living at what they loved doing. Research revealed that the hunting industry in Florida was just starting to take off and that clients at most preserves
‘We both knew we wanted to farm. We thought to ourselves, “How cool would that be to raise trophy bucks in our back yard?!” ’ ~ Dr. Laurie Cook
were going after trophy bucks — that is, the males with a large set of antlers. Laurie and Richard were interested in the visual quality of their stock, so they added the integrity of their stock’s genetics and breeding lines to their list of “must-haves.” Keeping them disease-free — and producing quality large typical bucks — became their goal, and the BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm began evolving from a dream into a fledgling reality. “BDRL” represents the names of the four family members: sons Brandon and Dylan, Richard and Laurie. 46 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
In the Beginning
Research. Research. Research. That was the foundation of Laurie and Richard’s education as they plowed forward. Connections and conversations with other whitetail-deer breeders began a camaraderie that continues to this day. But as their commitment to the farm became more intense, it fell on Richard to take the reins while Laurie continued practicing relief veterinary medicine. “I loved my work and didn’t want to abandon it, while Richard was happy to leave landscaping behind and to move forward
Richard Spangenberg, Dr. Laurie Cook and son Brandon Spangenberg.
with our dream,” Laurie says. “Richard took on his new job as owner and operator of our showcase farm, and just three does formed the foundation of BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm.” Laurie’s passion for science morphed into a strong interest in whitetail-deer medicine and surgery. Today she is a leading consultant about whitetails in the state, and is one of the few veterinarians in Florida with the experience to treat these large animals. “There is no book on raising and treating problems in whitetail
deer. I taught myself, and talked to everyone I could about livestock management. When things didn’t make sense, I did more homework. I attended National Deer Association meetings and consulted with veterinarians and longtime deer breeders from all over the country and Canada, just to learn. A world of new questions and opportunity opened up to me, and the learning became fun.”
Then the Door Closes
Just as BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm was transitioning from concept to reality, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 47
‘The children and young adults who come for tours or work with us on internship programs not only get the exposure and the experience with the whitetail deer, they are taught the need to appreciate and respect these wild animals.’ ~ Dr. Laurie Cook
48 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Stop on by.
Commission voted to close Florida’s borders to the importation of whitetails from outside the state. “2013 was a tough year for us, as we tried to make sense out of a health scare that didn’t exist in our state,” Laurie recalls. “‘Chronic wasting disease’ had hit herds in other states, but Florida had remained clean. We looked at the ban as a political agenda to move against small breeding operations and as a way to increase the value of the large farms and their stock. It was a matter of supply and demand: When the supply diminishes, prices go up, and the large farmers benefit while the small farmers struggle to keep afloat. We needed a way to keep the industry and the small farms thriving, and creating more preserves seemed to be the answer.”
Get DIRECTV
Entertainment you want. The value you need.
from your local dealer.
Hardware and programming available separately. Conditions apply. Call for details.
Ask me how to Bundle and save. CALL TODAY!
Addington Satellite TV 307 SW Park St, Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-697-6047
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.
Another glitch in the logistics came with the closed borders. Since no new livestock could be imported, breeding became a question of importing semen and embryos from other states. “We get high-end desirable semen from other farms in the country, or breed with our own breeder bucks,” says Laurie. The farm routinely artificially inseminates about 50 percent of its does with highend semen from Texas. Hurricane Irma intruded on the breeding season this year, with BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm pulling from its own stock for breeding, according to Laurie. “Thankfully, we had some sharp-looking bucks on the farm this year to use as breeders!” www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 49
‘I have always loved small-animal medicine and surgery because I really enjoy the interaction with clients of companion animals; plus, I am a sucker for “dogs.” ’ ~ Dr. Laurie Cook
Dr. Laurie Cook checking out a patient.
Dr. Jay Stinson and Dr. Laurie Cook at Northlake Veterinary Hospital. 50 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Some farms breed for size. Others breed for genetics. Notes Laurie: “We breed for both. We want not only that desirable ‘typical-looking’ buck, but also want our stock to be able to withstand the elements found in the South and in our swamps. So for our purposes, it’s not all about the look, but about survivability as well.”
OKEE-TANTIE TITLE COMPANY, INC.
GLADES COUNTY ABSTRACT
105 NW 6th Street | Okeechobee, FL 34972 863-763-2898 | Fax 863-763-0541 Stephen E. Burk, VP Suzie Burk, CEO okeepackage@earthlink.net | www.okee-tantie.com
A Developing Science
One of the beneficiaries of Laurie’s research is the University of Florida’s Cervidae Health Research Initiative (CHeRI), developed as a depository of scientific information used to promote the health and production of whitetails, also known as “cervids.” “Serving on the CHeRI council, I’m one of the few vets who give the team field information. We meet yearly and review new diseases, and I’m pleased to say we have isolated some new virus that affects the whitetail population in our state. As a result, new vaccines are being created.”
From Simple to Sensational. We will design and build a custom pool that will make your backyard dream a reality. • New Construction
As the farm work started consuming most of Laurie’s free time, she broke away from her relief veterinary services in other practices in three surrounding counties to work locally with Dr. Jay Stinson at Northlake Veterinary Hospital in Okeechobee. This kept her hands, and mind, in the small-animal side of her profession, while keeping her close to home base and allowing her the time to expand her knowledge of whitetail deer.
• Remodeling • In-House Professional Pool Designers • Pool Packages starting in the $30s
Contact Us Today! www.angpools.com | 1.866.95.POOLS Lic. #CPC1457902 | #CPC057200
“As a vet, I’m into the science, the biology www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 51
South Campus 4664 Hwy. 441 SE Okeechobee 863.467.1400
North Campus 703 SW 6th Street Okeechobee 863.763.5453
Infants-Pre–K In K Before and After School Care VPK-ELCIRMO
Locally Owned and Operated
Malissa Morgan
Gold Seal Accredited
Sharon Poirier
‘A world of new questions and opportunity opened up to me, and the learning became fun.’ ~ Dr. Laurie Cook, in reference to her research on raising and treating whitetails
of our animals. We are continuously doing testing and research on whitetails, and what we get back are more pieces to the puzzle on how to improve the survivability of these animals and ways to keep our herds disease-free.”
In Her ‘Spare’ Time
BOUTIQUE
Ever busy with her practice and farm, Laurie does find time to serve as vice president of the Southeast Trophy Deer Association. The organization focuses on promoting deer breeding and on improving ranching and management techniques, coupled with ensuring ethical standards of conduct and husbandry within the industry. She also is on the board of the Martin County Farm Bureau where improving the quality of rural life is its mission.
Tic Tac and Gracie.
113 SW Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972
863.623.4267
Tues - Fri: 10am-6pm / Sat: 10am-3pm / CLOSED Sunday & Monday 52 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Whitetails are graceful, agile, elegant and majestic. Males sport racks (antlers) that contribute to their value as “trophy” deer.
•APPLIANCES• Sales / Service / Parts
Over 25 Family Owned and Operated for
HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8am-5:30pm
Curiously, the bucks shed their racks in early spring once the females in the herd have all been bred. So much for strutting their stuff …
317 SW Park Street • Okeechobee, FL •
Years
863-763-2220
The underside of their tails is snowy white, and is revealed when the deer find themselves in potential danger. Up it shoots, along with a grunt or snort as they warn the herd while fleeing. The whitetails at BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm live in a controlled environment, and reports are logged on each deer as they move through their stages of life. Such is the peacefulness and pleasure of working with the deer that the nearby Refuge Ranch, a residential alcohol and addiction treatment center, has found that caring for the whitetails is the therapy that keeps their residents grounded. “My husband Richard helped design their pens, and we started them out with six bred does,” Laurie explains. From those few pens, the Double R Whitetails farm evolved.
863 467-1545 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 53
Title Insurance • Real Estate Closings g
202 NW 5th Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 Telephone: 863.824.6776 Fax: 863.824.6778
Assisted Living BY THE VNA
Mitchell Dobrow, the director of Refuge Ranch (and Double R Whitetails) explains the layers of addiction recovery: “Addiction is self-directed. By caring for something else, focusing outwardly, the addicted personality learns to step out of themselves and to care for another.” The women at Refuge Ranch also learn sacrifice. They rise early to clean the pens, scoop the poop and keep daily logs on each animal. Mitchell explains, “The exciting time is fawning season, which is early summer. Does, which are skittish by nature, don’t want anyone around during the fawning process. We know when a doe is close to fawning, and we keep our eye on her. But we wait eight to 10 hours before entering her pen and introducing ourselves to her fawn.
203 SE 2nd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34974 (Located next to the fire station)
Resident health and safety are our top priorities:
Become a part of our Grand Oaks family!
• Licensed nurse available 24 hours a day • Visiting Physicians available for on-site appointments • Transportation and accompaniment to all scheduled medical visits • Respite services available for short term care AL#11944
For more information or to schedule a tour today, please call 866-986-2151. www.GrandOaks.org 54 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Rick Chartier (863) 467.9090 • Sales • Service • Audio Visual • Networking
COMPUTERS
• Phone Systems • Cabling • Accessories
403 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL email: sales@icsflorida.com www.icsflorida.com
Committed to Quality, Excellence and Customer Satisfaction! Lindsey from Refuge Ranch.
“Laurie is our mentor,” he adds. “She’s teaching the girls animal husbandry while, at the same time, the environment of the deer is the ‘tranquilizer’ needed to keep our patients focused. The therapeutic element the whitetails bring to our girls cannot be measured, it’s so great.” Fawns are already transitioning from Laurie’s farm to Refuge Ranch, integrating with the stock already there. Next year, Refuge Ranch will boast 16 of its own whitetails, and a new, thriving enterprise will evolve. In addition to Refuge Ranch, Laurie works with students who have an interest in agriculture and, of course, deer. As a board member of the Martin County Farm Bureau, she works closely with the local Young Farmers and Ranchers, as well as members of the 4H and Future Farmers of America clubs. She also offers an intern program for students in the pre-vet curriculum at their local high schools.
Penrod Construction Company takes pride in providing outstanding service to our clients. We pledge to provide you with the best construction at the best value, without compromising quality.
Commercial Residential Industrial Agricultural
210 NE 3rd Ave. • Okeechobee, FL 34972
863.634.0546 CGC1516178
PenrodConstructionCompany.com
PENROD CONSTRUCTION COMPANY www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 55
‘The therapeutic element the whitetails bring to our girls cannot be measured, it’s so great.’ ~ Mitchell Dobrow, director of Refuge Ranch, a residential addiction treatment center for women
Laurie says, “Presently, I have two girls coming out to the farm twice a week to help. They work in the deer pens, feed the deer, bottle-feed babies, learn how to read fecals, learn about how to administer medication, and they fill out medical logs and assist with minor surgeries.” Ryan Taylor, who attends South Fork High in Stuart, credits Laurie with enabling her to obtain scholarships at the prestigious Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia. “Dr. Cook helped me achieve all my hours needed to get a veterinary-assistant degree from South Fork. That, along with my many years working at and showing at the (Martin County) Fair, led to those scholarships.” Ryan eagerly jumps back into working with the whitetails when she’s on break from college, where feeding, fawning, and even helping with artificial insemination are part of her duties. “The fun
56 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
part is trying to tag the fawns. You’d think that the newborns would want to lay around and slowly get used to their environment. But the babies, even at 1 to 2 days old, are fast! We need to tag them when they’re born, or spend hours chasing after them!” Says Laurie, “I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with these students, and it has been such an exciting agenda — introducing them to deer farming as an agricultural industry. They have been a huge avenue of awareness and a positive influence to the community about what we do as farmers. These young adults are our future, and they supply a vital voice in keeping what we do positive, and alive!”
tyle on S r u o Y t e G d n a �s rd me into Staffo
Co
with
�
g in d a l b o c ir M d n a s n Eyelash Extensio
• Precision Hair Cut Designs • Balayage Hand Painting • Brazilian Blowout • Waxing • Manicures • Microblading • Nail Enhancements • Spa Pedicures • Waxing • Eyelash Extensions www.staffordssalon.com
(863) 763-3933
313 SW Park Street | Okeechobee Gift Certificates Available
Monday-Friday 9-5 | Saturday 9-3 AFTER HOURS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 57
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 etchen Robertson Ins Agy 309 Inc NE 2ND ST etchen Robertson, Agent Okeechobee, FL 34972 9 NE 2ND ST eechobee, FL 34972 Bus: 863-763-5561 s: 863-763-5561 State Farm Bloomington, IL
606039
16066039
State Farm Bloomington, IL
Rustic Style
TREASURES & 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 www.rusticnow.com • niki@rusticnow.com
58 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Broker-Realtor
Okeechobee and the Treasure Coast
NIKI SALMON
(863) 532-9096
Ready to buy or sell? Experience counts. Residential buyers ask about our Buyer’s Bonus Program niki@remingtonrealestate.com
REMINGTON REAL ESTATE
Business • Commercial • Residential STATE CERTIFIED: BK3268539 CBC1256085 PCC056704 DIRECTOR OKEECHOBEE BOARD OF REALTORS & OKEECHOBEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Community Event
Nurses Tunesia Green and Emma Benitez. Russ Cowell by the Big Red Bus.
Saving Lives by the Pint
Martiza Morales with platelet donor Robert Wright Sr.
Blood Roundup draws 303 donors
The 12th annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup was held Nov. 18-19 at the Freshman Campus, with 303 people turning out to donate enough blood to potentially save more than 900 lives. Over the 12 years of the Roundup, Okeechobee visitors and citizens have donated a total of 5,079 units and saved more than 15,000 lives.
Volunteers Anna McBee and Elwin Kessler.
2017 Blood Roundup volunteers, front from left: Raye Deusinger, Mike Hoover, Marilyn Hadley, Phil Cunningham and Judith Austin. Row 2: Terry Haynes, Millie Boyle-Young, Dixie Hallett, Barbara Eve, Ann Rodgerson, Sara Fuller, Agnes Burke and Linda Hazellief. Back row: Maria Guirado, Elwin Kessler, Lonnie Kirsch, Dorothy Schwartz, Carol Pace, Pat Shinn, JoAnn Kane and Anna McBee.
60 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Gary Burks
2014-2015 Chamber Business of the Year Award Winner
Brown Cow Sweetery Brown• Salads Cow• Quiche Sweetery SandwichesChocolate Ice Cream Coffee •Sandwiches Lattes • Frozen Blends Quiche Salads Chocolate • Ice Cream Coffee Lattes Frozen Blends
863.357.3357 863.357.3357 103 SW Park Street 103 SW Park Street Okeechobee Okeechobee Mon. - Thurs. 7am-7pm
Mon. – Thurs: 7am-7pm Fri. 7am-8pm • Sat. 8am-8pm Fri: 7am-8pm • Sat: 8am-8pm ₋ Sun: 12 Noon-5pm
Chocolate...it’s what’s for dessert!
Volunteer Marilyn Hadley.
Free WiFi
We now offer:
PAYROLL SERVICES A Service You Need from a Name You Already Know
Independent Insurance Agency Workers Comp, Bonds, Business Property & Casualty, Business Auto & Trucking OKEECHOBEE 1802 S. Parrott, Okeechobee, FL 34974 Direct: 863-763-7711
PORT ST. LUCIE 10791 SW Tradition Square, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Direct: 772-345-7700
Volunteer Dorothy Schwartz mans the raffle table. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 61
Community Event
Centennial Committee members from left: Mariah Anuez; Mayor Dowling Watford, vice chair; Corey Wheeler; Magi Cable, chair; Mary Beth Cooper; Shari Turgeon; Kay McCool; and Kathy Scott. Not pictured: Ed Thornton, Jonathan Holt, Katrina Elsken and Sharon Cannon.
Back: Jacob Eighner, Julie Williams, Jennifer Busbin, David and Colleen Hardin. Front: Pam and William Mobley.
Honoring Our Pioneers Event is last one celebrating county’s 100th birthday
Rounding out Okeechobee County’s Centennial year, the Settlers Celebration honored the forefathers of this community and recognized their descendants. Held Dec. 2 at the KOA Convention Center, the event was the last in a series of celebrations and educational experiences designed to recognize the county’s 100th birthday.
County employees from left, seated: Mariah Anuez and Jennifer Busbin. Standing: Shari Turgeon, TDC; Kathy Scott, airport manager; Robbie Chartier, county administrator; Russell Rowland, assistant to county administrator – special projects; Tracy Rowland, assistant to county administrator; Tom Leach, senior services; Kelly Rowland; Lauren Butler.
Shirley and Cliff Gill, Beth and Rocky Wise, Emily and Jake Streelman, Lauren and Will Butler.
Bobbi Poole.
Sandy Perry, Debby Huntley, Canda Patterson. Back: Seth and Bobby Huntly and Karyne Brass.
64 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Back row, from left: Earl Raulerson, Davy Raulerson, Doug McCoy and Pat Raulerson McCoy. Seated: Phoebe Raulerson, Emma Raulerson and Kelly Raulerson.
Photos by Jane Kaufman
Zelda Mixon (great-granddaughter of Peter Raulerson and vice president of the Okeechobee County Historical Society), Ed and Nancy Fletcher (as Tobias and Emma MacIvey).
Ron Fanaro, Esq.
Donna DeMarchi, Esq. Agnes Lambert, Esq.
Justin Lefko, Esq.
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 HTLLfirm.com
Emcee Jim Clark.
Mayor Dowling Watford, Magi Cable and Commissioner Terry Burroughs
Refrigeration ~ AC ~ Ice Machines Serving the Glades Since 1929 Jim and Monica McCarthy Clark
Okeechobee 863-763-2114 804 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Standing, from left: Mark Luna, Marie Culbreth, Chrissy and Bert Culbreth. Seated: Christa Luna and Gil Culbreth with granddaughter Madelyn.
Clewiston 863-983-8111 311 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL 33440
LaBelle 866-942-7280 vice We also service LaBelle,, FL
Carrier
St. Lic. #CMCO54668
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 65
Looking Back
Pilots That H ave Flown In to Okeecho County Airp bee ort in the Tw entieth Cen tury
sponsored by
First in a series
By Betty Chandler Williamson
Editors Fran
Author, Betty k Wesley “S
Chandler W
onny” Willia
Published 2
illiamson
mson, Jr. &
Excerpt from “Pilots That Have Flown Into Okeechobee County Airport in the Twentieth Century.”
Jim Hendrix
017
Pilots ! ! That Have Flown Into
Okeechobee County Airport in the Twentieth Century
FOREWARD BY: Wes Williamson
L
ong before the Wright Brothers flew at Kitty Hawk, humans dreamed of flying. “Pilots of the Past Century” illustrates the realized dreams of pilots in rural Okeechobee.
Being the second of three generations of pilots in my family, my first memories of flying were with Father in his Cessna 172. We would fly to Clearwater to visit my grandmother, sometimes with my two sisters and mother and, at times, just my dad and me. It would be four decades later that Betty Chandler Williamson, my mother, would compile this book depicting many of the pilots that used the Okeechobee County Airport. This compilation of pictures accurately linking pilots with their airplanes is a vast undertaking to say the least! Often, pictorial accounts of generational historic events are not documented before the knowledge of them is gone.
66 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The passion for flying and the comradeship felt amongst pilots is more evident at small-town airports. Having soloed and passed the written exam in 1980, I didn’t finish my flight instruction until 1995. Roger Boromei, a young, local enthusiastic instructor, helped me obtain my license, as he did many others in Okeechobee. On the day of my check-ride in Vero Beach, after a successful completion, I was a “licensed pilot.” However, I was worried about my return trip to Okeechobee because thunderstorms had set in, as they so often do in the summer. I was relieved to look up and see Roger, who, unannounced to me, had someone fly him to the airport in Vero. Roger congratulated me and said, “Now that you have your license, let me show you how to safely fly around thunderstorms.” It is this passion and caring, exemplified by many such as, Roger, Jim Hendrix, Buster Christopher and Russell Domer, just to name a few, that symbolizes the spirit of pilots of Okeechobee. This pictorial history depicts those pilots and their love of flying.
First airplane to land in Okeechobee, 1918.
ABNEY, John and sons, left, Wes, and right, Kyle, all pilots. John was an Okeechobee County commissioner. He and his sons were owners of Abney and Abney Construction, Inc. for many years. They are shown above standing in front of their Cessna aircraft.
Little is known about this event except the title hand printed on the photograph indicating the year, 1918, and the image itself. The identity of the aircraft is impossible since its detail is obscured by the crowd of people. The exact location of this landing is not known but it definitely was not a prepared airstrip; note the palmettos in the foreground. The landing was, assuredly, a rough one.
BLIESATH, Archie, exiting his Piper. He was a frequent flyer in and out of the Okeechobee County Airport.
BRAMLETT, Paul, a member of the Florida Highway Patrol, is shown standing by a 1986 photo next to an FHP Cessna 182. He also flew a Cessna 178 R/G (retractable gear). Roger with friend Jim Hendrix, also an instructor.
BOROMEI, Roger, the entrance road
to the airport is named after this respected pilot instructor who was killed in a tragic aircraft collision (not his fault) on September 11, 2000, in Vero Beach, Florida. He instructed many students to fly. The entrance road to the airport was named “Roger Boromei Memorial Road” to honor him. We have pleasant memories of him and his family.
BRELAND, Ardell R. flew a Cessna
172 in the 1960s and 1970s. On September 3, 1975, over the Gulf Stream headed for the Bahamas, his airplane’s oil pressure began dropping. He was able to successfully ditch the aircraft in the Atlantic. Passengers were: Herb Nix, Howard and Ruby Altrann, all four aboard survived and were rescued after four hours and 40 minutes in the water. The airplane remains in the ocean. Photo shows Ardell wearing his ‘wings’ pin on the lapel of his coat. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 67
BRELAND, Dennis, a pilot (son of Ardell and Anna Jane Breland), shown here in 1990 with his family: Rosanne, Jason, Sean and Kayla Breland.
BROWN, Janet, shown entering a World War II Trainer. She was an instructor in the 1950s at our local airport, and is sister to Leroy Brown.
BROWN, Leroy, was a flight instructor here from 1947-1958. He is shown with a 1929 Travel Air. He flew for Pan American National as a captain. Captain Leroy Brown has been inducted into the Florida Aviation Hall of Fame. BRYANT, G. E. (Skip) III, pictured flying
his gyro-copter. He loved flying and was co-owner of a Cessna 172. Skip died in a nighttime aircraft accident over Lake Okeechobee on a search and rescue mission, November 8, 1991. He and fellow deputy sheriff, Henry Hancock, were searching for two lost boaters when the crash occurred. Henry broke an arm in the accident and was saved by two members of the Okeechobee County Search and Rescue Auxiliary: Lieutenant Mike O’Conner and Sergeant Roy Land. Attempts were futile in saving Deputy Bryant’s life. The two, O’Conner and Land, were honored by Sheriff O. L. Raulerson in December 1991 for trying to save Skip’s life. Skip Bryant served in the U. S. Navy. He leaves a wife, Ginny, and three daughters and mother, Mary Ann, and sister Anne Marie. His father was former Okeechobee County Judge G. E. (Bo) Bryant, Jr.
68 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
CHRISTOPHER, Hildry Harmon (Buster), is shown with one of his crop-dusting airplanes. He was in the U. S. Air Force in World War II, serving in England. After the war, he started a crop-dusting service at the Okeechobee Airport in 1945 and did work all over Florida, including other Southeastern states. He was long-time fixed-base operator (FBO) of the airport and ran a crop-dusting service here for over 30 years. He died in an aircraft accident on December 6, 1977, on his way home from Clewiston after crop dusting in the Everglades Agricultural Area. Buster had thousands of hours in the air and was widely respected for his precise aerial application and for his gentle disposition and friendly smile. The Okeechobee Airport Terminal building is named for him, and a plaque inside the building honors “Buster.� The family picture shows Buster and wife, Barbara, with children: Sue, Darla, Jan, Kim, Steven and Michael.
COLLINS, Dave, of Lamb
CLEMONS, Pete with his Cessna Skylane II, photo
taken in 1990. He is a local rancher, well known all over Florida and the Southeast for his investment in the cattle business. He and sons, Jeff and Todd, are long-time owner/operators of the Okeechobee Livestock Market.
Island Road, Okeechobee, received his private, instrument, commercial and multiengine training from John Kronsnoble of Vero Beach, Florida. They are shown standing in front of a Piper Archer III. He went on to train as a flight engineer and airline transport pilot. This aviator flew for Amerijet International in Miami. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 69
Syfrett Feed Co. manufactures fresh Beef, Swine, Poultry, Sheep, Goat, Deer, Game feed and more! We have feed programs— from great starter/growers and finish/withdraws, to a special layer ration for poultry. Drive into The FeederyTM, buy your feed direct from the mill in any quantity. Bring your own container [any size], 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. Give us a try, experience superior nutrition, unsurpassed support and competitive pricing. Custom Blends Available 50 lb BAGS 17% Special Layer Pellets Medicated 18% Special Layer Pellets 22% Poultry Starter Full Line: Safeguard® De-worming Products 20% Syfrett Buck ConditionerTM Livestock Minerals • Soybean Meal 18% Swine Starter • 13% Swine Finisher Horse Feeds: grow/premium Dog Feeds: pups/adults
BULK 12% Bull Grower 14% Heifer Developer 20% Calf Pellets 16% Layer Pellets 20% Broiler Starter/Grower medicated 18% Broiler Finisher/Withdrawal 14% Sheep/Goat Grower 17% Swine Grower Medicated Whole & Cracked Corn
FRESH | LOCAL | 3RD GENERATION FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED OPEN | M-F 7:30 - 5:30 SAT 8 - 2 3079 NW 8th St | Okeechobee, FL 34972 • Office: 863.763.5586 Jose | 863.634.6547
70 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Your Top Realty Company In Okeechobee That Your Family Can Trust To Be There For You!
Serving ALL Your Real Estate Needs
(863) 634-4106
Vic_Anderson@earthlink.net
When only the best will do. 21442 E. SR 78 - Buckhead Ridge • Okeechobee, FL 34974
Lunch Buffet:
7 days a week 11 am to 1:30 pm
5050 NE 128th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 OPEN: Monday-Saturday 5:30 am to 2:30 pm Sunday: 7:00 am to 2:30 pm
863-763-8333
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 71
Community Event
The reason
for the season
Christmas Festival brings residents together to celebrate
Okeechobee Main Street held its annual Christmas Festival and Parade on Dec. 9. The community turned out at Flagler Park in full force to enjoy this highly anticipated event. The festival included food, gift ideas, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, music — and the lighted night parade.
72 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Sandra Pearce
To Your Health A Message from your local Medical Doctor with Acupuncture Training from Harvard Medical School A young woman comes in with second and third degree burns on her face after an emergency visit to a major hospital in Tampa. She was prescribed narcotics and told the healing would take months leaving scar tissue. She is in tears as we get to work on her with low level laser therapy. Pain is swept away within a minute. Near complete healing occurs with just 6, 10 minute sessions. Patient and husband celebrate on how quick her recovery is. This is what we do. Combining the best of traditional and evidence based Alternative healthcare solutions for a better outcome.
Curious on how we can help you or your loved one? Let’s carry on this conversation.
863.467.9500 ANYTIME - DAY OR NIGHT business.facebook.com/FLacupuntureMD/
Ramesh Kumar MD A Cancer Physician
Trained at Harvard Medical School in Medical Acupuncture
863.467.9500 OKEECHOBEE
772.206.0526 PORT ST. LUCIE
When does Medical Acupuncture help? www.medicalacpuncture.org
REVIVE
RESTORE
RENEW
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
ADVERTORIAL
February 2018 | 73
at Quail Creek Plantation
Made With Love Decadent recipes for the perfect Valentine’s Day By Rachel Buxton
Photos by Jane Kaufman
L
ove is in the air, and the perfect way to show your special someone what they mean to you is with a date-night dinner on Valentine’s Day. But don’t worry about calling restaurant after restaurant trying to get a last-minute reservation; we’ve got the perfect menu for you to impress your Love at home. Top it off with one of our recommended bottles of wine, and you are for sure to tantalize yours and your Valentine’s taste buds.
PODERE SAPAIO, BOLGHERI VOLPOLO, 2014
This 2014 Volpolo is a medium- to full-bodied red, polished with currant, berry and floral flavors. This impressive Italian blend is composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon along with Merlot and Petit Verdot. This vintage has been aged for 14 months in French oak barriques and another four months in bottle refinement. It instantly opens with the wonderful fruity aromas, woven together with tobacco, spices and crushed stones.
FRECCIAROSSA CARILLO PINOT NERO
Made of 100 percent Pinot Nero, or Pinot Noir, this medium-bodied wine exhibits intense fruits, is subtly sweet, and is delicate and long-lasting on the palate. This lively acidic and perfumed wine has mild-mannered tannins that give it enough structure and body to pair with a variety of dishes. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 75
at Quail Creek Plantation ROASTED RACK OF LAMB INGREDIENTS: ½ cup bread crumbs 2 tablespoons minced garlic 2 tablespoons rosemary 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 rack of lamb Salt Pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, garlic, rosemary, 1 teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Toss in 2 tablespoons of olive oil to moisten mixture, set aside. Season rack all over with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in large, heavy, oven-proof skillet. Sear rack on all sides. Brush rack with mustard, roll in bread crumb mixture and cover the ends of the bones with foil to prevent charring. Arrange rack bone-side down in skillet. Roast for 12 to 18 minutes depending on the degree of doneness you want. Let it rest for 5 to 7 minutes. Carve between the ribs.
TRUFFLED MASHED POTATOES INGREDIENTS: 4 lbs. russet potatoes 1 cup half and half cream ¼ lb. butter 2 oz. marscapone cream cheese 1 tablespoon white truffle oil Salt and pepper 1 teaspoon black truffle, shaved
DIRECTIONS:
Cook and mash potatoes. Add half and half, butter, cream cheese and truffle oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Top with shaved truffles.
HEARTS OF PALM SALAD INGREDIENTS:
6 hearts of palm Grapefruit and orange segments Mixed or micro greens Pomegranate seeds Citrus Vinaigrette (recipe follows)
DIRECTIONS:
Cut hearts of palm lengthwise. Lay flat-side down and place next to each other. Set fruit segments on top, then greens. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and dressing. 1 qt. Natalie’s Orange Juice 3 shallots diced
CITRUS VINAIGRETTE
4 sprigs of fresh thyme 6 oz. rice wine vinegar
18 oz. grapeseed oil Salt and pepper to taste
Reduce orange juice with thyme and shallots to 2/3. Cool the reduction and add rice vinegar and slowly drizzle grapeseed oil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
76 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
FLOURLESS CHOCOLATE CAKE INGREDIENTS: ½ cup water ¼ teaspoon salt ¾ cup white sugar 1 oz. bitter sweet chocolate 1 cup unsalted butter 6 eggs
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Grease 10-inch round cake pan and set aside. In a small sauce pan over medium heat, combine water, salt and sugar. Stir until completely dissolved and set aside. Melt chocolate and pour into mixing bowl. Cut butter into small pieces and beat the butter into the chocolate, one piece at a time. Add the hot sugar water. Slowly beat in the eggs one at a time. Pour batter in pan and place in a larger pan. Add boiling water to outside pan half way up. Bake cake in water bath at 300 degrees for 45 minutes. The center will still look wet. Chill cake overnight in pan. To unmold, dip the bottom of the cake pan for 10 seconds in hot water. Invert onto serving plate.
RASPBERRY COULIS INGREDIENTS:
½ cup sugar 3 tablespoons water
1 lb. fresh raspberries 1 teaspoon kirsch
DIRECTIONS:
Heat the sugar and water in a small sauce pan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Put the raspberries and sugar syrup in a blender and puree. Strain to remove seeds. Stir in kirsch.
!
!
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
February 2018 | 77
jor a M l l A ds &
B r a n cturers
TV A & e l c otorcy EPAIRS
Manuf
a
M SERVICE•RCESSORIES S& PART
AC
863.357.0334
1460 HWY 78 WEST • OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974
78 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Love Grows Here 743 SW 24th Ave Okeechobee FL 34974 863.801.6393
An everlasting gift for
Valentine’s Day Real roses preserved in their natural color, available trimmed in 24 carat gold. Mention this ad and receive $5 OFF your rose purchase.
GOLD 14k STORE 1008 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972
IN HOUSE JEWELRY REPAIR STATE OF THE ART LASER WELDING Gift Certificates Available 411 W.S. Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972
863.763.8883
NATIONALLY ACCREDITED
Peace Lutheran School
Now Enrolling for the 2018-2019 School Year
Save the Date for Our Annual Gala
“Havana Nights” February 10, 2018 at the KOA
Serving Children ages 2-K Small Class Sizes
Office: 863-763-7566
750 NW 23rd Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • peaceschoolinokeechobee@yahoo.com • FMI visit www.peacelutheranschool-okeechobee.org
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 79
Community Event
The seventh annual Ag-Venture took place at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center on Dec. 13.
Event teaches Learning about ‘Ag’ 4th-graders about The event — staged for the benefit of Okeechobee’s fourth-graders — features demonstrations of a variety of occupations. They include beekeeping, horticulture, soil science, as well as opportunities in the beef and dairy industries.
80 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
life on the farm
Photos by Susan Giddings
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
RABON’S COUNTRY FEED From Your Farm, to Your Family Pet - We Have it All
GOOD LUCK TO THE EXHIBITORS OF THE OKEECHOBEE YOUTH LIVESTOCK SHOW! BAGGED FEED • BULK FEED • MOLASSES • HAY • RANCHING & FENCE SUPPLIES • PET FOOD & SUPPLIES 1852 NW 9th Street • Okeechobee FL 34972 Store 863.763.3447 • Fax 863.763.5205 STORE HOURS M-F 7:30AM-6PM Sat 7:30AM-3PM www.countryfeedokee.com
WE DELIVER!
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 81
Gayle Molyneaux Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux 561-801-1336
82 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Wayne G. Moesching DDS, MAGD
Okeechobee Dental Care 175 SW 28TH STREET / OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974
ur—
—
this Valentine’s Day!
We look forward to seeing you! Call today!
863.824.7385 • 863.467.2241 www.OkeechobeeDentalCare.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 83
E C A L & E
S U E Q I I T L U L BO LI Lacy Rock Uses Social Media To Attract Customers, Track Trends
a very industrious mother, she needed something to do, so she “set out” on social media. Gathering some shirts, dresses, handbags and “a little bit of everything,” she began a mobile business in 2014, showing her wares on Facebook and Instagram, at beauty salons, home parties, festivals — even out of her car. Soon she was being pressed on Facebook to open a store. A friend, Katie Nelson,
By Raye Deusinger
One of the most successful retail stores
in Okeechobee is owned and run by a licensed radiation therapist. But Lacy Rock, born and raised in Okeechobee, is also a personal shopper, a wizard at social media, and a woman who knows the value of creative marketing. After working in retail at the Canoe Outpost and Kids Corner for six years, she moved to Palm Beach, where she worked at Loehmann’s for two years. Then she went to college and was ready to begin her career, but there were few openings in her field. The daughter of 84 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Lacy Rock and Shawna Borgstrom.
who had, and still has, a boutique called Beautiful Mess, joined Lacy in a partnership — with two businesses in one store. In less than a year, both stores flourished, and Lacy wanted a store of her own. Lillies & Lace opened a few months after the birth of Lacy’s daughter Emmy, and both grew together. A year later, she doubled her store size yet still finds herself, once again, needing more space. Lacy attributes much of her success to her use of social media. She says, “I have a lot of loyal out-of-town customers in
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Lake Placid, Sebring and even out in the Western states who order online as well as shop at the store. “Social media drives 75 percent of my sales. Through messaging on Facebook and Instagram, I post new arrivals. This generates ‘instant selling’ as people reply and ask me to hold that posted item for them. Many don’t even come in to the store to try on clothes but rely on what I post. I know, probably, 90 percent of my customers by name and size.” Recently, on a shelf behind the counter, more than 20 bags were lined up, filled with merchandise bought and paid for online and just waiting to be picked up. Lacy also has customers who ask her what the store has that would be appropriate for an upcoming occasion or event. Working as a personal shopper and filling that need has become one of the happiest things she does. She carries clothes for men, women, teens, children and infants, as well as picture frames, wedding gifts, shoes, jewelry, beauty products and candles. Name brands such as Simply Southern Tees, Florida Heritage hats for men and Pierre Dumas sandals are some of her most popular lines. Though she doesn’t carry formals, she does have cocktail and special-occasion dresses. Shopping in the store is a different experience; it is laid-back and comfortable, with a feeling of electricity. She always
has something new, innovative and original. “I love dealing with customers,” Lacy notes. “I love to make people know their business is appreciated, and I don’t want anyone to walk into this store without experiencing a great welcome.” Once, during an early morning delivery, a customer found the door open ahead of hours and came in. She was promptly welcomed to look around. Lacy says Okeechobee people are always kind and easy to please and rarely unhappy: “I’ve gained a lot of good friends through this store.” Her free time is spent with her daughter and doing research. Following the latest trends on social media, and going to one or two marketing shows every year, allows her to find new vendors and to discover the newest styles and trends. It is common for someone to come in looking for something they saw on TV and find that it’s already in stock. She says, “I shop seven days a week for
the store, but I love to go out shopping for myself, too. It is a thrill to be in a store and see someone wearing my clothes. I want to have the best ‘stuff ’ for my customers. It excites me that my business is growing, and I want to do everything I can to have that continue.” Her employee, Shawna Borgstrom, is as wrapped up in the business as Lacy is. She had been a customer since the store opened. Shawna explains, “I would come in here on my lunch break from my job, and one day decided I’d like to stay. I’ve been working here a year now and love it.” Lacy and Shawna invite you to check them out online, or to visit the store Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They will be glad to respond to direct-messaging on Facebook and Instagram. Lillies & Lace Boutique 205 S.W. Park Street 863-623-5786 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 85
What People Are Saying... “Okeechobee The Magazine is an asset to our community. I like that it features local happenings and keeps our community informed. The magazine is a true community partner. ”
From Installation to Repair, Choose Us for All Your Shutter & Gutter Needs!
FREE
Estimates!
— Teresa Chandler-Bishop, Waste Management
“Our community truly benefits from Okeechobee The Magazine with its wonderful articles and photographs that showcase our Okeechobee people and lifestyle. I enjoy reading every issue and I know our IRSC students enjoy it as well.” — Russell Brown,
(863) 342-4212
Se Habla Español Locally Owned & Operated by Saul Tijerina LICENSED & INSURED - OCSL274601 / OCSL274401
C A R PE N T E R I N S U R A N C E
Provost, IRSC Dixon Hendry Campus
Okeechobee The Magazine is a stellar publication and I appreciate that every issue is a collector's item. I am proud to be a part of it and this wonderful community."
• Quick completion times, one call that’s all! • Seamless Gutters • Large variety of gutter colors • Gutter cleaning • We install leaf guard • Various shutter styles available
Home For All Your Insurance Needs
Established 1935
• Home • Auto • Boat • Motorcycle • Motorhome • Workers Comp • Commercial • Health • Bonds • Life
Peggy Carpenter-Brady
VP & Commercial Account Specialist
3960 SE 18th Terrace, Taylor Creek Plaza • Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 863-824-0885
— Vicki Anderson,
Anderson Realty Co.
Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: 863.467.0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
86 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The best service, best prices…
Naturally…the BEST in RVs
4300 US Hwy. 441 S • Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 863.623.4689 • Fax 863.623.4695 2651 US Hwy. 27 S • Sebring, FL 33870 • 863.451.5338 www.floridaoutdoorsrv.com
“We deliver smiles”
207 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.flowerpetalsokeechobee.com
863.763.5051 800.260.2592
More than 27% of the children in Okeechobee County struggle with hunger. Sponsor a child’s meals at stophunger.org
..................................................
If you enjoyed “Steel Magnolias”, you’re sure to love this gentle comedy-drama! Six strong women pull together to bring their small congregation back from disaster.
March 9, 10, 16 & 17 8pm March 9, 10 & 16 PLUS 2pm March 10 & 17
610 SW Second Ave. • Okeechobee Reserved Seat Tickets $12 On Sale at Okeechobee The Magazine 316 NW Fifth Street
Mission: Our mission is to alleviate hunger by obtaining and distributing food and other essentials in Indian River, Martin, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee Counties. s t o p h u n g e r . o r g Treasure Coast Food Bank is a 501(c)(3) not for profit organization.
facebook.com/ tcfoodbank twitter.com/ tcfoodbank instagram.com/ tcfoodbank
................................................... 863.763.1307 Visit our webisit www.okeechobeecommunitytheatre.com FIND US ON www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 87
S E C S ’ N A N I L O P D AP
Furniture at its current location.
Weirs Follow ‘Family Plan’ To Success By Raye Deusinger
The foundation of Don’s Appliances is
family. Family drew them to Okeechobee, family played a part in establishing the business, and a second generation in the family now owns that business.
come back to see my daughter, get a haircut and get a job.” So he did. She was only 17; he was 21. That was in 1976. Now, 41 years later, they have two children, five grandchildren and a flourishing business. After Linda’s parents moved to Okeechobee, others in the family did the same. In July 1978, the Weirs arrived. Don found work driving a truck for Rockaway; Linda worked at Morgan’s Restaurant. Her brother Steve bought the old cannery and opened Morgan’s
Don began a trucking business that grew, thanks to his business and mechanical abilities. Soon, the Weirs bought a storefront near Morgan’s Furniture and opened Don’s Game Room, which became a great meeting place for Okeechobee youth. A few years later, when Linda got pregnant, they decided the long hours and the environment were not a good place to raise a family. So they sold the storefront back to her brother and sought a new venture. Linda’s brother Steve said that Okeechobee needed an appliance store, so in
Founders Don and Linda Weir met by chance in Pennsylvania. Linda Morgan was one of nine children. Her brother Steve had a job moving mobile homes. Needing assistance for a transport, he asked his friend, Don Weir, to help. Don, who didn’t have a job at the time, spent the night before at their house so they could leave early. The move happened, but a week later, Don showed up at the house again. Linda’s mom wondered why he was there, but her dad knew. He approached Don and said, “Young man, before you 88 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
From left: The Weir family – Don, Linda, Rebekah holding Grayson and Mark holding Landon – with employees Alysa Comfort and Freddy Love.
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
1991, they rented the same storefront and opened Don’s Appliances. They contacted Frigidaire, which sent a man to set them up with basic appliances, and they became the exclusive Frigidaire dealer in Okeechobee. The Weirs quickly got a credit line, stocked the store and welcomed customers. “First, it was three service calls a day,” Linda recalls. “Then it was six, then 10, and soon 20 calls a day. We were growing.” They soon expanded their product line. Linda managed the store, which became a playroom for their daughter LaDonna, while Don enrolled in Indian River State College (IRSC) to learn air conditioning and refrigeration. After years as a mechanic, that was easy. Don began to use his newfound knowledge when service calls began coming in. Linda says, “We found that if you treat your customers right, they will come back to you twice over. We’ve lived by that.” Don’s mechanical skills were evident when he helped the Frigidaire Corporation. Customers complained of a “squeak” in their washers on the left side. They called Frigidaire; the company said it knew about the problem but had no solution. Don to the rescue! He filed off a small part of the frame, sanded it, put a drop of oil in and, voila, no more squeak. A report of the success to Frigidaire led the company to create a repair kit for the product. (No, Don didn’t get a cut.) By now, the little storefront was not
enough. Across the avenue was a vacant lot that Okeechobee Hardware owned. Their family was growing, with the birth of their son Mark, so it was also time for the business to grow. In 1996, they bought that lot and planned a store on part of the property. But Linda’s dad stepped in and said, “Build it border to border, rent out both ends, and that will pay your mortgage.” Again, family had a part in shaping the Weirs’ lives.
LaDonna grew up working in the store, but her heart was with school-teaching — her current job. Her husband, Earl Wooten, works for the county fire department. Mark and his wife, Rebekah, took over ownership of the business in 2015, with Mark joining his dad as repairman while Rebekah handles the store. She also handles the newest addition to the family: their baby son, Grayson.
Daughter LaDonna became the “little saleslady,” as both she and her brother grew up in the store. Early customers might remember the baseball glove hung on the front of the service counter. Baseball-loving Mark would practice his pitching when no customers were in the way. Today his son, Landon, 3, has a toy bowling alley in the store and has learned to count by telling how many pins went down or how many are left. A drawer behind the counter was Mark’s toy box; it now is Landon’s toy box.
The store “family” also includes Alysa Comfort, who has been with Don’s Appliances for three years; and installer Freddy Love, Mark’s assistant. Together they live what they believe — treat the customer like family, and the business will take care of itself. And a “thankyou” to Jody Shanklin for all his years of service. Don’s Appliances 317 S.W. Park Street 863-763-2220 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 89
Valentine’s Day
The Secret History of Valentine’s Day By Susan Giddings
I
t began in grade school for most of us. We went with our parents to pick out cards for our classmates and pink heart candy that had sayings on it like “Be Mine.” It was an expression of friendship. As we grew to adulthood, the holiday began to take on a distinctly romantic meaning. So who knew that the origin of Valentine’s Day had nothing to do with love? It originated as an ancient Roman festival — the feast day of St. Valentine — to honor a martyr (some versions have it being two or three martyrs): a holy priest named Valentine who was executed on February 14 around the year 270 A.D. and later elevated to sainthood. The legend goes as follows: During the reign of Emperor Claudius II, Rome was involved in several unpopular and extremely bloody campaigns. It soon became difficult for Claudius to get soldiers. He believed the reason for that was because the men did not wish to leave their wives and families. He decided that single men made better soldiers and outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When his actions were discovered, Claudius had him put to death on February 14. There was no link with St. Valentine’s Day and love until the Middle Ages when, some scholars claim, that 14th century poet Geoffrey Chaucer — known for The Canterbury Tales — actually invented our current idea of Valentine’s Day in his poem The Parliament of Fowls, describing it as the day on which birds began to select their mates. This notion helped link Valentine’s Day with love and romance and, over time, St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. To mark the day, lovers began to exchange notes and simple gifts such as a flower. Valentine’s Day was scarcely celebrated in the United States until around the 1840s and 1850s when people began the exchange of handwritten love notes called Valentines. In the 19th century, the sending of handwritten notes was replaced by massproduced greeting cards that were now being given to teachers, parents and friends along with sweethearts. Today, this holiday is estimated to be the biggest card-sending occasion after Christmas and has created an economic engine that U.S. consumers in 2017 spent $18.2 billion on. So when you rush to the store this Valentine’s Day to pick out the perfect “I Love You” card and gift, remember how one man’s secret defiance helped establish this holiday tradition we’ve grown to love. 90 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
TOWING, INC
TOWING RECOVERY &
HEAVY TRANSPORT
863.763.2845 24/7 SERVICE 414 S PARROTT AVE. OKEECHOBEE, FL 34974 www.BMJTowing.com
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 91
Located on the Rim Canal of Lake Okeechobee, Water's Edge is just minutes from shopping and restaurants in the nearby community of Okeechobee. The Resort is only a short distance from the Seminole Casino, I-95 and the East Coast of Florida, with major malls and some of the most beautiful beaches of Florida.
(863) 357-5757
12766 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL watersedgerv@innisfree.com
www.okeechobeervpark.com
92 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Now Offering Septic Services
Plumbing ................... Air Conditioning
................... Septic ................... Drain Fields
Authorized Dealer of
Why advertise with us?
863.763.6461
echolsplumbingandac.com LICENCE #CFC022585, #CAC053793
Because if you're reading this...there's a good chance your customers are too.
316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
Phone: 863.467.0054
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 93
By Captain Chase Marsocci
Mild weather, spawning combine to create ‘tight lines’
T
Now Is the Time to Fish Lake O
he period from February through March is considered the best time to fish Lake Okeechobee. The mild winters of South Florida have most species thriving. Both bass and crappie will be in the pre-spawn, spawn and post-spawn stages this time of year. The best times to fish are three to four days before the full moon, and a few days before and after the new moon.
Cold fronts can cause fishing to slow down. If the water temperatures cool down too quickly, the fish will not feed aggressively. Try to fish before cold fronts and into the first day of the colder weather. Water temperatures cool down more slowly than the atmosphere’s, so the first day of the cold front can still produce good fishing. Crappie fishing is good inside the Kissimmee grass, during the day, using live minnows. Tie on a gold number 2 crappie hook, about 2 feet below a 2.5-inch cigar bobber, along with a number 5 split-shot about halfway between the bobber and hook. Crappie can also be caught by jigging in the grass. Try to use a 1/32-ounce or a 1/16-ounce jig head with a number 4 gold sickle hook. White, pink or green jigs seem to be the more popular jig colors to use on Lake Okeechobee in the winter. Areas to fish for crappie are in Little Grassy, Kings Bar, and from Buckhead to Indian Prairie. If you enjoy night fishing for crappie, then fish the mouth of the Kissimmee River, Government Cut or the Indian Prairie Canal. Night fishing can be done using bobbers, fishing 4-8 feet down; or by running a split-shot and hook with no bobber. 94 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Every year, people travel to South Florida with hopes of catching a giant largemouth bass. Largemouth bass spawn this time of year, which means the bigger fish move into areas of shallow water. The fishing is on fire during this time because the bass must feed before and after they spawn. The best method for catching trophy bass is to hire a local guide and use wild shiners. If you prefer a challenge, then try to use artificial bait with a local guide, or try it on your own. The large bass tend to spawn in open areas, out of the wind. The area between Kings Bar and Buckhead is called “The Pass,” and the bass tend to spawn there every year. Other areas include the middle of Little Grassy, as well as Kings Bar and Tin House Cove. Just days before the moon, try top-water baits like a swimming frog or a devil’s horse. Closer to the full moon, tie on a 1/32ounce bullet weight with a 3/0 worm hook, and use 6-inch lizards or senkos. Good colors to keep on you are junebug, candybug and black/blue. If you find yourself fishing between the full and the new moons, move closer to the outside grass lines and use ultra-vibe speed worms with a small bullet weight; or a 3/8-ounce swim jig in black/blue or green pumpkin colors. Always use a trailer bait with your swim jigs. Remember: Always be safe when boating, and get the children involved. Teach them to enjoy our beautiful resources and to take care of Lake Okeechobee. Good luck catching the trophy bass of a lifetime, or a mess of crappie to enjoy for dinner. Fast Break Bait and Tackle Professional Fishing & Hunting Guide Service www.OkeechobeeBassFishingGuide.com (866) 824-3474 or (863) 824-2474
Rods • Reels
Hard / Soft
Baits • Terminal Tackle
Sunglasses
•
Apparel
LIVE BAIT Minnows, Crickets, Worms, Wild Shiners
Darryl & Heather Allen
863.623.5919.
1505 STATE ROAD 78 WEST, OKEECHOBEE FL
863.763.0973 Open 5 am – 9 pm 7 days
Professional Fishing & Hunting Guide Service www.OkeechobeeBassFishingGuide.com www.OkeechobeeHuntingGuide.com 866.824.3474 or 863.824.2474
112 SE PARK ST.• OKEECHOBEE FL 34972
SAND • FILL • SHELL • ROCK House Pads Land Clearing Debris Removal
Demolition Culverts Driveways
OFFICE (863) 623-5274 DUMP TRUCKS...SITE WORK... HEAVY EQUIPMENT
Improving Your Property One Cut At A Time FREE ESTIMATES SE HABLA ESPANOL
LICENSED AND INSURED, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
LIC# CRC 1327160 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
February 2018 | 95
Around Okeechobee
Brought to You By:
When only the best will do.
Chamber Ribbon-Cuttings
Metro PCS Hobby Campbell
Main Street’s Artist Series Okeechobee Main Street’s Artist Series, on Nov. 13, held an artist’s reception at the historic Okeechobee County Courthouse featuring the art of Hobby Campbell. He is an award-winning, sixth-generation Southern Florida native who lives the epitome of a “Cracker” cowboy lifestyle. Natural elements of Hobby’s cowboy lifestyle, as well as his love for his chosen way of life and vocation, are evident in his acrylic artworks.
The Hope Chest
D.A.R. Hosts Marker Dedication The Historical Marker Dedication at the Okeechobee Battlefield State Park took place Saturday, Nov. 18, with the Okeechobee Daughters of the American Revolution serving as hostesses for the event. Su George, honorary regent of the Okeechobee D.A.R., was the driving force behind the marker’s installation.
From left: Park Ranger Mark Nelson of Jonathan Dickinson State Park, and formerly of Okeechobee Battlefield State Park; Su George; and Daniel Willis, park ranger in charge of Okeechobee Battlefield State Park and Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park.
96 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Okeechobee Battlefield is the site of a significant battle during the Second Seminole War. The Battle of Okeechobee, fought on Christmas Day 1837, pitted more than 1,000 U.S. military and volunteer soldiers against several hundred Seminole and Miccosukee warriors. The battle was a turning point in the war, since major attacks ended and the frequency of smaller skirmishes diminished after the fight.
Around Okeechobee
Brought to You By:
When only the best will do.
Main Street Mixers
Brown Cow Sweetery
Marilyn Buxton releases a lantern into the sky.
Evening of Remembrance
Raulerson Hospital
The family and staff of Buxton & Bass Funeral Home along with the staff of Hospice of Okeechobee held their 30th annual Evening of Remembrance Nov. 25. The evening was filled with uplifting messages and music to help attendees who have lost loved ones prepare for the holiday season. The night concluded with the annual roll call, where the Buxton family handed out custom ornaments in memory of those no longer with us, and the release of lanterns into the night sky.
The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee graduated its fourth Leadership Okeechobee class at Quail Creek Plantation on Nov. 8. The eight-month program is designed to cultivate leadership through education, exposure to the community and interaction among class members. From left: Stephanie Quesinberry, Donald Hagan, Maureen Thomas, Kristina Stas, Katie McFarland, Melisa Jahner, Jennifer Tewksbury, Melanie Giles, Brian Sell, Robert Coleman and Justin Burnst. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Photos by Judy Throop
Leadership Graduation
February 2018 | 97
List of Advertisers 14K Gold Store .................................79
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. — Justin Domer
Gilbert Chevrolet..............................99
Quail Creek Plantation.........................9
Gilbert Ford.......................................14
Quality Air Conditioning..............53, 91
A Child’s World...................................52
Glades AC..........................................65
A & G Pools........................................51
Glenn Sneider, Attorney.....................81
Rabon's Country Feed........................81
Abney Building & Consulting, Inc.......30
Golden Corral.....................................39
Raulerson Hospital............................35 Raulerson Specialists.........................63
Addington Satellite TV.......................49 American Drilling Services.................41
Heartland Discount Pharmacy..............5
Reminton Real Estate........................58
Anchor Dental...................................43
Highland Pest Control.......................92
Royal's Furniture................................37
Anderson Realty.................................71
Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd.............65
Rustic Style Gift Shoppe....................58
ICS Computers...................................55
S. Cruz Lawn Service..........................95
Inkwell Tattoos..................................83
Sandra Pearce Photography...............82
Andrea Noelle's Boutique..................52 BMJ Towing.......................................91
Schuler, Halvorson, Weisser,
Badcock Furniture.............................93 Bass Electric.......................................83
Lake O Real Estate.............................24
Zoeller & Overbeck...............................62
Berger Real Estate..............................86
Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease......41
Seacoast Bank...................................42
Big Lake Eye Care.................................3
Lawnwood Regional Medical Ctr......100
Seminole Brighton Casino...................6
Brown Cow Sweetery.........................61
Lillies & Lace......................................31
Shoe Box...........................................37
Buxton & Bass Funeral Home.............29
Lillie’s In Bloom Daycare....................79
Shutters & Gutters, Inc.......................86
Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant...........79
Staffords Salon...................................57 State Farm.........................................58
Carpenter Insurance...........................86
Receive 6 Issues of
mailed directly to your home or office.
CenterState Bank..............................49
M&M Auto Brokers...........................31
Sunrise Musical Theatre.....................19
Clear Title & Legal Services.................54
Mary Kay...........................................82
Superior Water Works.........................58
Close Construction, LLC......................33
Mixon Real Estate Group...................18
Syfrett Feed........................................70
Cooling Refrigeration Services...........37
Mohawk Construction, Inc.................95
Crossroads Restaurant........................71
Morgan's Furniture.............................17
Teez 2 Pleez.......................................87
Custom Sights and Sounds.................82
Murray Insurance Services.................57
Tenniswood Dental Associates...........38
Only $18.00 a Year!
Custom Window Treatments.............78
The Hope Chest..................................33 Off The Chart Nutrition & Fitness.......95
The Lounge........................................17
D4 Powersports..................................78
Okee-Tantie Title Company, Inc..........51
The Market Restaurant.......................91
Keep up with “Your Community!”
Doctor Ramesh Kumar.........................73
Okeechobee Community Theatre.......87
The Purple Orchid...............................37
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center.....41
Okeechobee Cowtown Rodeo............ 15
Tin Fish..............................................87
Enclose a check for $18.00 (made payable to Okeechobee The Magazine) and mail along with this completed form to:
Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center..........27
Okeechobee Dental Care....................83
Treasure Coast Food Bank...................87
Don's Appliances................................53
Okeechobee Fishing Headquarters......7
Trinidad Garcia, M.D..........................79
Continental U.S.A. Only!
ON BU XT MATTRena issance Man Modern
Okeechobee The Magazine
Okeechobee Health Care Facility..........2 Visiting Nurse Association..................54
316 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
Echols Plumbing & A/C......................93 Edwards Jones...................................79
Peace Lutheran School.......................79
Please Print Neatly
Everglades Pediatric Dentistry...........59
Penrod Construction..........................55
Water's Edge RV Resort......................92
Platinum Performance Builders...........34
Wemmer Family Orthodontics..........70
Family Dentistry of Okeechobee.........10
Plaza 300.............................................78
Williamson Cattle Company.............17
Fast Break Bait and Tackle.................95
Pritchards and Associates..................61
WOKC 100.9 FM.................................92
Florida Outdoors RV...........................86
Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant.................29
Worley Construction..........................25
Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone:
Florida Public Utilities........................11 Flower Petals.....................................87
98 | February 2018
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Customer service is always important. I emphasize its importance to my students and Gilbert does the same with their team. The staff is always friendly and positive. That is why I come back to Gilbert for sales and service. - Russ Brown
500
Over
NEW and Pre-Owned Vehicles to Choose From!
Serving the Okeechobee Area for over 90 Years!
(863) 763-3154 3550 U.S. Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
www.GilbertChevrolet.com