Bringing You the Best of Okeechobee WINTER 2013
THE MAGAZINE
Okeechobee’s Boosters Three Organizations On A Mission To Shape The Area’s Future
Plus
Home Safe
Abuse Victims Find Shelter at Martha’s House
Sharon Vinson
Connects the Dots through the Shared Services Network
Looking Back
Commercial Fishing: The Way It Was
Dr. Charles W. Bartels Board Certified Optometric Physician
(863) 763-3937 We Accept and Bill Most Major Insurance, Medicaid, Medicare & BlueCross Blue Shield Healthy Kids
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Publisher’s Note As 2013 comes to a close, Okeechobee The Magazine concludes its seventh year of publication. We truly appreciate the support of the businesses that have made the magazine possible and enabled us to grow and serve this wonderful community of ours. It’s also the time of the year to recognize the people and organizations that work hard every day to better our community, and this issue’s cover story introduces you to the executive directors of three such organizations: Okeechobee Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County and the Economic Council of Okeechobee. You will also learn about Sharon Vinson and the many ways she helps the community through the Shared Services Network as well as another great organization, Martha’s House, which is dedicated to the protection of victims of domestic and sexual violence. And in our Looking Back feature, Judge William Hendry tells us about the history of commercial fishing on Lake Okeechobee.
volume
7, number 4 | Winter 2013 publisher
Maureen Budjinski Associate publisher Susan Giddings creative director
Bridgette Waldau editors
Jason Budjinski Chris Felker office assistants
Patti Berglund Rose Brennan bookkeeping
Carol Lieberman account executives
Our Behind the Business feature invites you to meet Megan Mattson, the creative mind behind the unique menu at nutmeg’s café, and brothers Keith and Scott Duffy, owners of Okeechobee Texaco.
Trish Grygo Debi Large Stephanie Larson
And there is no shortage of community events to show off to you in this issue, including the Labor Day parade, festival and rodeo, the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, homecoming at Okeechobee High School, Boots and Pearls, and so much more.
Sharon Cannon Vicky Nichols Sandra Pearce
I introduced Associate Publisher Susan Giddings in the last issue. Thank you for giving her such a warm welcome. Much like I did eight years ago, Susan has quickly fallen in love with Okeechobee. As you can see, this is our biggest issue ever. I get so much enjoyment showing off our community through the pages of Okeechobee The Magazine, your magazine.
photographers
writers
Raye Deusinger Chris Felker Angie Francalancia contributors
Maureen Burroughs Charles Murphy Michael Shellen Judge William Hendry distribution
Jackie Martin Ryan Martin
Associate Publisher’s Note
Six months ago I moved to Okeechobee to step in for my very dear friend Maureen so that she could devote her time and energy to caring for her son Jason, who is very ill. Those are some pretty big shoes to try to fill, and I knew no one here and practically nothing about Okeechobee when I arrived. Yet this remarkable and giving community welcomed me with open arms and helped me every step of the way, providing background, contacts and introductions, but most important of all: friendship. So to everyone in my adopted hometown, thank you so very much. May you all have a very Happy Holidays and a New Year filled with peace and prosperity.
Susan Giddings
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Okeechobee The Magazine
316 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: (863) 467-0054
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Maureen Budjinski president
Joshua I. Manning vice president
Barry S. Manning chairman & ceo Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2013, all rights reserved by Okeechobee The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.
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Contents
Winter 2013
features
22 Okeechobee’s Boosters
Three Organizations on a Mission to Shape the Area’s Future By Angie Francalancia
44 Home Safe
Abuse Victims Find Shelter at Martha’s House By Raye Deusinger
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58 Sharon Vinson
Connects the Dots through the Shared Services Network By Raye Deusinger
departments
32 Looking Back
By Judge William Hendry
Behind the Business 68 nutmeg’s café 70 Okeechobee Texaco
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columns
98 Fishing on Lake Okeechobee By Capt. Michael Shellen
102 Brian Guerrero By Charles Murphy
COMMUNITY EVENTS
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Labor Day Festival and Parade Labor Day Ranch Rodeo Okeechobee Main Street Wins State Awards Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Chamber of Commerce Leadership Okeechobee Okeechobee 600 Pre-Drive Competition Boots & Pearls Gala Inaugural Chocolate and Wine Celebration March of Desserts to Benefit March of Dimes Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl Fundraiser for Jaimie Angsuwan Hans Rockin’ Rod Car Show Okeechobee High School Homecoming Achieving Excellence Luncheon Craft Fair in the Woods Operation Pink Fire Hydrant
104 Around Okeechobee 106 Advertiser Index
Bringing You the Best of Okeechobee WINTER 2013
THE MAGAZINE
Okeechobee’s Boosters Three Organizations On A Mission To Shape The Area’s Future
Plus
Home Safe
Abuse Victims Find Shelter at Martha’s House
Sharon Vinson
Connects the Dots through the Shared Services Network
Looking Back
Commercial Fishing: The Way It Was
ON THE COVER Okeechobee’s Boosters Story on page 22 Photo by Sandra Pearce
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 9
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Jonathan Sanders, MD, JD
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American Academy of Dermatology. Skin cancer: Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. http://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments
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Winter 2013 | 11
Thank You For Helping Us Grow! The Gilbert Family has been serving the automotive needs of Okeechobee for over 80 years, With the dedication, training, and loyalty of our valued team members we are able to offer you quality service at a fair price. It’s just what you expect from the Gilbert Family.
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SALES: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-7:00 PM • Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM 12 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE SERVICE & PARTS:
Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-5:30 PM • Sat. 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
T hank you Okeechobee for seven great years! Here’s to many more! Maureen Budjinski and the Okeechobee The Magazine team.
Front (L-R): Jackie Martin, Maureen Burroughs, Bridgette Waldau, Susan Giddings, Patti Berglund and Raye Deusinger. Back: Sharon Cannon, Sandra Pearce, Ryan Martin, Debi Large, Trish Grygo and Vicky Nichols. Not pictured: Mike Shellen, Charles Murphy, Angie Francalancia, Jason Budjinski, Chris Felker, Carol Lieberman and Rose Brennan.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 13
Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon
Labor Day Festival and Parade The 2013 Labor Day Festival & Parade was held Aug. 31 through Sept. 2 in Flagler Park. The festival was organized by Okeechobee Main Street, and the parade was organized by the B.R.A.T. Club. Family members and friends lined the street to watch the parade, and there was something for everyone as the park was filled with arts and crafts, vendors, great food, and live entertainment. It was a fun-filled weekend for all who attended. (Above) The B.R.A.T. Club.
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1. Ronald McDonald rides in style in a 1959 Chevy Impala. 2. The Girl Scout “cookies.� 3. Cameron Hamblen. 4. Victoria and Bryan Salazar hold their puppies. 5. Chobee Steelers play steel drums for the crowd. 6. Destani Whaley, Debi Nelson-Avant Robertson, Krystal Avant and James Jamison. 7. Steve Lowe plays the guitar as part of the entertainment. 8. Derrick Matisya displays his hand-carved pieces.
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Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon and Sandra Pearce
Labor Day Ranch Rodeo The Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association staged its Labor Day Ranch Rodeo Saturday through Monday, Aug. 31 to Sept. 2, at the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Rodeo Arena. The three-day event was full of excitement. Spectators watched team roping, team tying, team sorting and bronc riding.
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1. Quite a lariat this cowboy is about to throw. 2. Sierra Coward, Miss Teen Rodeo Florida. 3. Team roping. 4. Bronc riding competition. 5. Fierce competition at the ranch rodeo. 6. Working as a team to rope the calf. 7. Hot on the trail of this calf.
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Community Event Okeechobee Main Street:
Winner of the Secretary of State’s 2013 Florida Main Street Awards Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner announced the recipients of the Secretary of State’s 2013 Florida Main Street Awards. These awards were presented on Sept. 19 at the Florida Main Street 2013 annual conference held in Vilano Beach. Two of the awards were presented to Okeechobee Main Street: the Honor Award for Outstanding Florida Main Street New Construction Project (for CenterState Bank) and the Merit Award for Outstanding Florida Main Street Special Event (for Top of the Lake Art Fest).
(Above) OKMS Executive Director Shari Turgeon and OKMS Arts and Cultural Chair Bridgette Waldau receive the Outstanding Special Event Award from Secretary of State Ken Detzner.
Okeechobee Main Street presents the award to CenterState Bank. (L-R) Maureen Jordan, Manager Tabitha Trent, President John Williams, Main Street President Maureen Burroughs, Jamie Brammeier, Kristy Crawford and Heather Hancock. (Left) OKMS Shari Turgeon receives the Honor Award for Outstanding Florida Main Street New Construction Project.
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Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting. It's the perfect place to get together, unwind and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage. Okeechobee’s Original Paint and Sip Studio Give the gift of Art - Gift Certificates Available Call or go online for more information and to sign up. Private Group Sessions Also Available. New sessions posted on facebook.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner
111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A
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Winter 2013 | 19
Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon and Vicky Nichols
Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta The Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee held its third annual Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Oct. 5 at the C. Scott Driver Park on the Kissimmee River. This year’s event was a huge success, with an estimated 3,000 people in attendance. More than 90 boats were entered, some from as far away as Gainesville, Orlando, and Stuart, among other cities, to parCameron Shirts and Johnny Cromwell, and Katicipate in the event. Proceeds will go to a scholarship fund in honor tie McFarland and Emily Fowler compete in the of Adam Bryant and to finance the construction of a playground for “Blindfold” Race. special-needs children in Okeechobee. The scholarship is to be awarded to a graduating Okeechobee High School senior who plans on a career as a firefighter/emergency medical technician. For more information on the Kiwanis Club, visit www.kiwanisclubofokeechobee.com
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Master of Ceremonies J.D. Mixon
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Payton Stokes – team Lakeshore Marine and Austin Berglund – team Okeechobee The Magazine race each other for position.
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4 1. Tori Trent and Ron Mixon of team Mixon Real Estate didn’t quite make it.
2. Tom Wojinski – team Okeechobee Paddle and Pedal with “turtle” Kyle Taylor and “gator” Justin Gregory 3. Brandon Bauchman – team Skull Hill Steel being chased by the DC Ranch/Staffords Salon shark boat. 4. Tim Shane Bowman – team Florida Falls shares the boat with skulls and bones. 5. The large crowd, lined up along the river, enjoys the races.
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1. Pirate Dale Nowlin with first mate Peanut. 2. Cameron Avant in the team Gilbert Ford boat. 3. Team Mixon Real Estate won three awards: best overall theme, best tent display and best boat design. 4. Bridgette Waldau did the event judging for boat, costume and tent design. 5. Rob Buster won best male adult costume. 6. Sarah Payne won best adult female costume. 7. Jeremy Larue and Brandon (Kyle) Hudson won the Fastest Kayak Award. 8. Frank DeCarlo and Jeff Sirrum in the “Old Salts� race finals.
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(Below left) James Frazier, Jesse Bryant, Troy Hughes, Heath Wipple and Howard Marquarot entertained the crowd at the pre-event party. (Below right) Boat Design awards: (L-R) team Mixon Realty won best design, team Florida Falls won craftsmanship, team VFW Post 10539 won best paint, and team Okeechobee The Magazine won best use of additional materials.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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Okeechobee’s Boosters
Three organizations on a mission to shape the area’s future. By Angie Francalancia O Photos by Sandra Pearce
Call them Okeechobee’s boosters. They’re the trio charged with bringing awareness, membership and energy to three organizations that all have a role to play in promoting Okeechobee — its business community, its beauty and its cultural heritage. The executive directors of Okeechobee Main Street, the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County and the Economic Council of Okeechobee all are committed to boosting the business community for the betterment of the entire community. Meet Sharie Turgeon, executive director of Main Street; Antoinette Rodriguez, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce; and Tara Rowley, executive director of the Economic Council. While two of them are new to their roles, they bring a long history of involvement in community activities. The three comprise Okeechobee’s core team of business champions, each with a unique role to play. And the newcomers may bring a fresh perspective to the organizations, drawing interest from people who didn’t previously see a role for themselves in promoting Okeechobee’s future.
Pictured on opposite page. Seated (L-R): Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County President Terry Burroughs, Okeechobee Main Street President Maureen Burroughs and Economic Council of Okeechobee President John Geitner. (Back row) Antoinette Rodriguez, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County, Sharie Turgeon, executive director of Okeechobee Main Street and Tara Rowley, executive director of the Economic Council of Okeechobee.
Working Together for Okeechobee www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 23
Sharie Turgeon Okeechobee Main Street Sharie Turgeon, who came on board at Main Street in June, said she was like a lot of residents — enjoying the festivals and beautification the organization brings to Okeechobee, but not knowing who was behind them. “I want to get Main Street to be a household name,” she said. “The murals, the restoration, the festivals… Most people attend those but don’t realize Main Street is behind them.” Turgeon moved to Okeechobee 12 years ago. During most of that time, she worked for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, so days were spent commuting to Martin County. “I came upon Main Street as what I call an accidental opportunity,” said Turgeon. “I was looking for a change, something I could be excited about. I happened to walk into the chamber office.” Turgeon noted that while there were no openings there, there was an opportunity at Main Street. “Funny thing is, I’ve lived here so long and I didn’t know anyone,” she said, admitting most of her friendships came through her daughters’ activities. The girls, now 18 and 20, grew up participating in 4-H. “That’s how I knew the people I did know,” Turgeon said. “Since coming to Main Street, it’s amazing the names I’ve met.” Longtime Main Street President Maureen Burroughs agrees that more Okeechobee residents need to know Main Street and its accomplishments. “New people bring new ideas and new focuses,” she said, adding that because Turgeon knows the nonprofit world, “she knows how to work with little money.” Turgeon explains Main Street everywhere she goes. “We’re an integral part of economic development and historic preservation,” she said. “We work closely with the chamber, but we’re very separate.” Anyone can be a member of Main Street, and she encourages individuals to become active as well. “Okeechobee’s a living history,” she said. Turgeon points to the mural program that has filled downtown Okeechobee with life-size images. “The mural program is one that everybody sees,” she said. “They just think, ‘Oh, that’s a cool drawing.’ 24 | Winter 2013
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But that’s not only beautification. It’s also our history, and the murals are how we’re going to show it to you.” Main Street also is working to promote Okeechobee’s history in 3-dimensional form. “Another important project set to begin soon is landscaping of the medians through town,” Turgeon said. “We received a grant for $100,000 from the state Department of Transportation. The completion date is June of next year, so that’s something we’ll be seeing very soon. It will be such an amazing transformation of these streets. We’re hoping that this will be just the start.” “It doesn’t really take more time or effort than what you’re putting into your kids’ involvement,” she said. “You can be as involved as you want to be. But the more involved you are, the more you’re a part of something.”
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Antoinette Rodriguez Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County As much as Main Street’s role will improve the physical environment, the chamber’s role will improve the business environment. Antoinette Rodriguez began as executive director of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County in mid-August, and hasn’t stopped running since she arrived. Rodriguez has a long history of involvement. Prior to moving to Okeechobee four years ago, she was active in the Hispanic Chamber of the Palm Beaches. Seeking a better environment for her son was what drew her to Okeechobee four years ago, she said. She has family in both Okeechobee and West Palm Beach. “My son was getting ready to go into eighth grade, and I wanted to move to a smaller community,” she said, noting that her son, Armando, started eighth grade at Osceola Middle School. Now Armando is a sophomore at Okeechobee High School, where he plays on the school baseball team. And Antoinette is drawing on the best of her experiences from charity work and the Hispanic Chamber to benefit the Okeechobee Chamber. “We’ve got some new networking events started. We did the first Business After Hours at Applebee’s, and we’ll do more there,” she said. “I’m also doing a power networking breakfast for those who can’t make it in the evenings.” The first one was held Oct. 10 at Brown Cow Sweetery. “I’ve also been working on trying to get the involvement of the multicultural businesses in our community,” she said. The focus is on increasing the membership by providing value-added services from a marketing and education standpoint, Chamber President Terry Burroughs said.
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“One of the hardest things in this community is getting businesses to understand they’ve got to market themselves,” Burroughs said. “Antoinette is doing a lot to create an environment for businesses to grow.” The programs are varied — everything from a concealed weapons class to financial seminars and tutorials on using the chamber’s web site for business promotion. Within the web site is a program called Chamber Master, through which each individual business can market itself. “They can upload pictures and logos. If they’d like to redirect it to their own website, they have that ability to do so,” Burroughs said. “That’s an opportunity that folks never had before.” He estimates that perhaps half of the 190-plus members are using it, and anticipates more will do so after working with Antoinette. There’s also a community calendar on the website as an added resource. Antoinette put together a class on the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”) and what it will mean for businesses. She also has put together tips for networking and marketing, which have been sent through the chamber newsletter to members. Also, for the first time the chamber will produce a community guide and business directory, and Okeechobee The Magazine has been hired to create it. The chamber is especially proud to launch the inaugural Leadership Okeechobee program. The participants will attend seven monthly day-long sessions that expose them to critical issues facing the Okeechobee area. “I’m looking forward to helping our businesses grow and prosper,” Rodriguez said. 28 | Winter 2013
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Tara Rowley Economic Council of Okeechobee When Tara Rowley interviewed five years ago for the position of Executive Director of the Economic Council, she brought the ideal background to the position – a lifetime spent around agribusiness and politics. Rowley is the eldest daughter of former State Rep. Rick Minton. Reared in Fort Pierce where the family owns cattle and citrus interests, she graduated from University of Florida with a degree in agribusiness. The Economic Council is an intermediary between private business and the governmental entities, said Economic Council President Jon Geitner. Bringing on Rowley five years ago elevated its position, he said. Rowley attends numerous government meetings each month, and then reports back to the board and membership to keep them informed. “We wanted someone who was really going to take the position to a much more progressive level,” Geitner said. “Everybody knows who she is and why she’s there. She’s very informed on the subject matter. Without her contribution, we wouldn’t be able to give anywhere near the quality to this whole program.” Rowley gives credit all around. “We just really try to serve as a catalyst between the public and private sector to improve life in Okeechobee,” she said. “We try to gather information and keep our members informed on current events.” Past accomplishments include encouraging Okeechobee County to move to an administrative form of government and supporting the implementation of impact fee programs, she said. Recently, the economic council was instrumental in encouraging the school board to implement its random student drug testing policy this school year. “Drug use among our youth has been a concern for some time,” she said. The economic council also works with the chamber and Main Street when issues involve the government. “The economic council also hosts an annual legislative reception for Okeechobee’s delegation. This year’s was held in early October with Sen. Denise Grimsley and Rep. Cary Pigman. “I believe our elected officials are pretty responsive to the needs of our rural community through the efforts of Tara,” Geitner said. O www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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Looking Back By Judge William Hendry Although commercial fishing began on Lake Okeechobee around the turn of the 20th century, it was not until the Florida East Coast Railway came to Okeechobee in 1915 that the big fish companies moved their headquarters here from Fort Lauderdale for shipping. T.A. Bass Fisheries Co. was the first to construct a fish packing house on the west bank of Taylor Creek in April 1915, followed by the Southern Fisheries Co. Other fish companies, including Booth Fisheries, Standard Fisheries, United Fish Co., Independent Fisheries and Everglades Fisheries, were soon to follow; however, there were about only four fish-packing houses in operation at any one time, and each was served by rail-side track. It may be of interest that the land on which the fish houses were located was owned by Okeechobee Company and the buildings owned by the fish companies. Standard Oil and Gulf Oil companies constructed bulk fuel plants on the west bank of Taylor Creek, near the fish houses. Coopers also located next to the fish houses to furnish barrels. Southern Utilities Company constructed an electric and ice plant adjacent to the fish houses. It was reported that T.A. Bass Fisheries alone used about 100 tons of ice each week. Three Boat Ways, for the repair and construction of boats, was also located on the creek near the fish houses. In October 1916 the FEC railroad began construction of a freight depot adjacent to Taylor Creek with ramps extending to the docks at the creek. It Ice & Power Plant and F.E.C.R.R. wa s a nticipa ted th a t ca r Freight Depot on Taylor Creek (1917) ď ľ
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Barrels of fish to be loaded on Express cars - late 1940s
Bill Hendry with catfish. (1928)
Fish biologist s study of s eining on La Okeechobee ke - late 1940s
Bill Hendry with bullfrogs at his fish house on Kissimmee River where Scott Driver Park is now located. (1929)
Fish houses on Taylor Creek (1917)
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Bill Hendry interviewed by Miami Herald at Osceola Fish Company on North Park Street at West city limits. (1950)
Jack Hendry's fish house near Lake Port. (1913)
Fish houses on Taylor Creek (1917)
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loads of fish as well as vegetables would use this facility. Prior to 1915 it was difficult for steam boats and commercial fishing boats to reach the Town of Okeechobee because of the narrow winding course of Taylor Creek and overhanging vegetation on each side. T.A. Bass brought in a dredge to clear the way to the freight docks. Run boats — most often named for women, i.e. Erma, Lorena, Eloise, Katie and Gladys, and each equipped with a large ice box — would bring the catch to the fish-packing house, where it was packed in barrels, with ice, for shipment by rail. One of the best catches of 1915 was by Captain Styers of the run boat B&L, with a catch of 6,000 pounds. It was not unusual for the fish houses to ship five or more carloads of fish each week, but by 1920 fishing had declined and the big fish companies began to leave. During the late 1920s and into the 1950s Roger Boromei and Sons became the only fishpacking house left on Taylor Creek. Mr. Boromei and family emigrated from Italy in 1914 and he was employed by Standard Fisheries before 1918. My grandfather, Jack Hendry, and his family moved from Venus to Lake Port in 1912, where my grandfather began commercial fishing. They fished with a shallow water seine pulled by a man at each end of the net. My father, Bill Hendry (known as “Big Boy,” the tallest of the crew at over 6-foot-4), worked the lead line to prevent snagging on the bottom. On one haul, while fishing near “big bare beach” between Elderberry and Lake Port, a 9-foot alligator tangled my father in the net and began to roll up, but my father killed the alligator with his pocket knife and freed himself from the net. My father served in the Army during World War I and returned to commercial fishing after the war. After my father
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and mother, Hope Duncanson, were married in 1928, they started a commercial fishing business known as Osceola Fisheries Co. and leased a fish house on the Kissimmee River, where Scott Driver Park is now located. In 1929 my father had several pairs of bullfrogs he kept in a pen when a newspaper wrote an article about Hendry’s Frog Farm. The article later appeared in a Chicago newspaper and soon a seafood buyer appeared to see the frog farm. From that time my parents were in the fish and frog leg business, and Chicago became the primary market for frog legs. Sometime around 1936 my parents moved the business to Okeechobee, where they had purchased an abandoned service station at the west city limits formerly known as West End Service Station. I worked in my parents’ fish house Osceola Fish Co. on Saturdays and after school. I skinned frog legs and turtle, chipped blocks of ice, packed fish, turtle and frog legs and made barrels from the late 1930s to 1948. I have also worked with a seine, pound net, wire traps and trot line. The sale of black bass was prohibited after 1936 and the sale of bream and speckled perch eventually became prohibited, leaving only catfish but with restrictions. Between 1935 and 1945 records indicate that about 2.25 million pounds of catfish, bream and speckled perch were removed annually from Lake Okeechobee. Commercial fishing was important to the economy of the communities around Lake Okeechobee, and the Okeechobee High School football team was named the “Catfish” from 1939 to 1952. Years of conflict between environmentalist and sport fishing groups on one side and the commercial fishing industry on the other resulted in Lake Okeechobee being closed, except for 36 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Williamson Conference and Education Center was added to the Dixon-Hendry Campus in 2008. This building serves many purposes It not only has class rooms, including the nursing and biology programs, but is also has a large meeting room for community functions. The Community College of Indian River also became Indian River State College in 2008. Acknowledgements: IRSC, Dixon-Hendry Campus, Frank (Sonny) and BettyC. Williamson.
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Winter 2013 | 37
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catfish. Several years of scientific studies favored commercial fishing as a method of maintaining and improving game fish populations, but was ignored by the fish and game department.
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My father served six terms in the Florida legislature, representing Okeechobee County, working diligently to keep the lake open for commercial fishing. He also served on the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission, of which he was chairman at the time of his death in 1955. Between 1915 and 1950 commercial fishing, including frog legs and softshell turtle, put more money into the economy of Okeechobee County than any other industry. A way of life that existed during the first half of the 20th century has all but disappeared.
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Judge William L. Hendry is a sixth-generation Floridian, born in Okeechobee in 1929. He was admitted to the Florida Bar in 1957 and was in private practice from then until 1980. That same year Hendry was elected county judge and served until his appointment as the first circuit judge from Okeechobee County before retiring in 1995. In addition, he was chief judge of the 19th Judicial Circuit 19901993 and senior judge in the 10th and 19th circuits from 1996-2010. Hendry has an extensive community service record and was honored when Indian River State College named its Okeechobee campus the “Dixon-Hendry Campus.” He was also honored by the naming of the “Judge William L. Hendry Court Room” at the Okeechobee County Courthouse. Hendry is married to Etta Merle Sullivan and has three children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. O
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Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon
Chamber of Commerce
LEADERSHIP OKEECHOBEE
The Chamber of Commerce recently conducted its first two leadership classes. The first, on Sept. 18 at Indian River State College’s Williamson Conference Center, featured presentations on local media, cultural arts and service organizations. The second class, on Oct. 16, featured a tour of the Okeechobee County Sheriff ’s Department and jail, the emergency operations center and the City Police and Fire Station. This eight-month program will prepare potential leaders of the community.
1
The members of Okeechobee Leadership Class: (L-R) front, Diana Whitehall, Sharie Turgeon, Donna Gaiser, Diane Davies, Tiffany Collins, Heather Hancock; back, D.R. Willison, Noel Stephens, Daniel Velez, Frank De Carlo, Pat Shepherd, Katherine Sebris, Russ Brown
2
3 4 1. Wayne Cunningham talks about the importance of radio broadcasting. 2. Okeechobee Main Street’s Arts and Culture Chair Bridgette Waldau spoke about the role of the arts in a community. 3. Magi Cable started off the classes with a presentation of the history of Okeechobee. 4. Sheriff Paul May addresses the class.
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Chamber President Terry Burroughs welcomes everyone to the class.
Indian River State College Dixon Hendry Campus
Quality | Convenience | Affordability
Okeechobee The Magazine publisher Maureen Budjinski makes a presentation on the importance of print publications.
EOC Director Mitch Smeykal explains the Emergency Operations Center’s role in the community.
Educating a skilled workforce to meet Okeechobee’s needs Business Nursing & Health Care EMT & Paramedic Technology & Office Skills Child Care Helping new & existing businesses • Customized training & on-site services at times most convenient for you • High tech meeting and conference facilities
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Winter 2013 | 41
“Familes unite to care for the dead, and serve the living.” 400 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34972 (863) 763-1994
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The Buxton and Bass families have served the community for over 34 years. Together as the only family-owned and operated funeral home in Okeechobee we are committed to providing families with affordable, meaningful and personalized funeral services. • Phones Monitored By Family 24/7 • Burial, Cremation, Transfers Out-of-State • On-Site Crematory • Custom Monuments & Memorials • Public Or Private Gatherings
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42 | Winter 2013
The Buxton no OKEECHOBEE THE family MAGAZINE
longer has any affiliation with Buxton-Seawinds Funeral Home.
Providing You Peace of Mind
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uxton and Bass Funeral Home and Crematory is not your average funeral home. As soon as you walk through the door you are greeted by family and treated like family.
every aspect of cremation,” said funeral director Matthew Buxton. “We personally prepare the loved one for cremation and can ensure that the crematory has been thoroughly cleaned after every cremation so families know they are only getting their loved one’s cremains.”
Buxton and Bass Funeral Home and Cremator y is family-owned and operated Buxton and Bass Funeral Home and Crematory dedicated to providing fuWhen selecting a funeral 400 N. Parrott Avenue | Okeechobee, Florida 34972 neral services to the residents home for cremation services 863.763.1994 of Okeechobee, Highlands, you should always seek out Glades and surrounding comlocations with licensed funermunities. They strive to put you at ease during one of the most al directors and a certified crematory operator. That assures you difficult times in your life. that policies and procedures are being followed. Buxton and Bass is a full-service funeral home offering burial and cremation options that are personalized to families’ individual needs.
The licensed and certified on-site crematory at Buxton and Bass allows them to provide you with the ultimate care and respect that your loved one deserves.
Due to economic costs, along with environmental issues more and more families are choosing cremation. And with cremation can come many stressful worries.
Being able to do everything on site cuts out any time delay making it easier for you to plan memorial services. Immediate arrangements can be made with a wide selection of cremation services.
So if you are considering cremation, it is important to know where your loved one is at all times. It is rare for funeral homes to have their own on-site crematory, forcing them to use outof-town facilities. Buxton and Bass is the only local funeral home in Okeechobee that owns and operates their own crematory facility located on the grounds of the funeral home. That gives you the peace of mind that your loved one remains in Buxton and Bass’ care at all times and is never transferred to out-of-area cremation providers. “We eliminate the unnecessary stress by being able to control
Choosing cremation doesn’t mean you are restricted to just selecting urns. Full services can be arranged, including a casket viewing prior to cremation. From that, you can then choose from a variety of ways to memorialize your loved one. Customized urns, jewelry and other keepsake merchandise can be made and prepared. Cremains can also be buried or scattered. There are no limitations when choosing cremation. That is why it is important to ask questions when planning for a cremation. Deciding on cremation or burial along with choosing a professional funeral home provider is an important decision. But it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. The death of a loved one is already emotional. Why add unnecessary stress? Let Buxton and Bass Funeral Home and Crematory provide you with peace of mind. And with cremation, that starts with an on-site crematory. Pictured are some of the customized jewelry, urns, and other keepsake merchandise. The keepsake jewelry shown is made in house by Matthew Buxton.
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Abuse Victims Find Shelter At Martha’s House By Raye Deusinger O Photos by Sandra Pearce
S
ometimes difficulties can bring about blessings. Such is the origin of the local nonprofit Martha’s House, which provides assistance to victims of domestic and sexual violence at its shelter in Okeechobee. The brainchild of Mary Thomas and her husband, Francis “Fran” Thomas, a paraplegic confined to a wheelchair, the organization offers help and hope for women and children living in abusive relationships. In the early 1980s, the Thomases founded a ministry after taking abused women into their home in Okeechobee and asking members of their church to do the same. So many came that the couple soon bought a trailer for their back yard, where others could stay, using their home for eating and bathing. When the Thomases outgrew that, they purchased an old chicken barn on Highway 441 North and converted it into a six-bedroom home, naming it Martha’s House after Martha, the friend of Jesus. To help with expenses, the Thomases ran a thrift shop out of a storefront on Park Street. Many fundraisers were held to support domestic violence victims, including a spectacular trip Fran took, by wheelchair, from Fort Pierce to Okeechobee, with
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
supporters cheering him all the way. In 2000, Martha’s House moved its secure shelter to a new, undisclosed location that today serves as a haven. The old building became an outreach facility that was used until it was destroyed following the 2005 hurricane season. Today, on the original site at 4134 Hwy. 441N, Executive Director Jonathan Bean leads a committed staff of 12, with the management team averaging 14 years of service. All staff members are certified advocates with legal privileges who have gone through extensive training. “Martha’s House has been organized and governed over the years by a volunteer board of dedicated local men and women,” Bean said, “without whose commitment to ending domestic violence the agency would not have survived. Their individual and collaborative dedication is guiding the future of the agency to meet the needs of our community into the future.” As a domestic violence survivor, 19-year employee Shirlean Graham said she understands the needs of Martha’s House clients. “Martha’s House, unlike
“Abuse is not a disease, it is not the result of emotion and passion; it is an individual behavior choice.� -Jonathan Bean
other shelters I’ve worked, provides an environment where confidentiality and respect for fellow workers and administration, allows us to help those in need,” she said. While explaining domestic abuse, Bean noted that although Florida is similar to other states in issues of domestic violence, “Okeechobee is statistically above average in the number of incidents per capita in the state, and it affects every demographic, rich or poor, all cultures and educational levels. In 2012 we served 454 Okeechobee residents face to face, which is too many for our wonderful community.”
Martha’s House staff (L-R): Julia Moore, Ruth Lightsey, Edna Malagon, Tequesta Brifil, Crystal Royal, Jonathan Bean, Shirlean Graham, Irene Luck, Maggie Sandoval, Gloria Aleman and Melvin Cordova
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Okeechobee Police Department responded to 404 domestic abuse calls that same year. Abusive behavior is not exclusive to men; 10 to 15 percent of abuses are perpetrated
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Winter 2013 | 47
by women. Regardless of gender, abuse is a severely underreported crime. “But,” Bean said, “there is no way we can change this picture until we understand what domestic abuse really is. It is a belief by one person that he has the right to control another in a relationship because his value as a person is greater, his needs more important and his choices more valid. It is a matter of one person having power and control over another.”
Martha’s House board of directors (L-R) : Tamara Kelly, Shirley Johnson, Jon Folbrecht, Jonathan Bean,Gayle Molyneaux,Erin Hess and Jim Boughman. Members not available at time of photo are Nancy Cruz, Shannon Conrad,Linda Utt and Jim Vensel.
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48 | Winter 2013
Bean noted that physical contact isn’t necessary to define domestic abuse. “Control can also be maintained by emotional and psychological means, which often endure longer than physical abuse and can lead to the dominated person doubting their self-worth until they are destroyed,” he said. Another form of control is threatening to take the children if the mother doesn’t submit, limiting financial and transportation resources, and isolating a partner from family and friends. Martha’s House regards children as secondary victims while addressing their safety needs. Legally, exposing children to domestic violence is child abuse. Bean emphasized that domestic violence is not the loss of self-control, but the establishing and maintaining of control. “Abuse is not a disease,” he said. “It is not the result of emotion and passion; it is an individual behavior choice.” In addition to helping those already in an abusive relationship through the shelter program, Martha’s House is proactive in Okeechobee through prevention programs on healthy relationships in middle and high school. “When the FBI teaches agents about counterfeiting, they don’t teach them to see what is wrong with a bill, they teach them what a perfect bill looks like so when they see one that is not perfect, they recognize it immediately,” Bean said. “That is how we want young people to view relation
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In all programs they teach that the foundation of a relationship is respect, which means to value highly, to hold in high esteem. “If we hold another in high esteem,” Bean said, “that person has value, and we don’t hurt what we value. If a person doesn’t choose to value you back, then you have a choice to make; find someone who will value you. It is best to understand this before you enter a serious relationship.” Bullying prevention programs are also presented in elementary grades. Bullying is when one person builds a sense of power and control by taking it away from another. “The younger we reach them, the more we can help,” Bean said.
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Emphasis in the school programs is on healthy relationships presented through prevention programs, printouts and videos. Martha’s House presenters are often asked questions following such lessons. “We want boys and girls to realize what a healthy relationship looks like and to value each other,” Bean said.
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A successful program of Martha’s House has been the Chobee Steelers, a steel drum band that plays at many local events. Staff person Shirlean Graham heads the program, which began with the enlistment of students who lacked opportunities in their backgrounds. “Joining the band, they learn how to focus on positive things, how to relate to others, develop leadership skills and demonstrate dependability,” Graham said. “Through this program, grades have gone up and truancy has gone down. Many have become peer leaders and gone on to college.” Martha’s House, out of 42 agencies in the state, recently was awarded a Department of Justice grant to work with the community on the Chobee Courage Project to build courage among young
men to influence peers and change the culture of violence in our dating culture today. There are many ways to help out at Martha’s House. Volunteers who work with clients are trained the same way as staff for safety and confidentiality reasons. Others help with fund-raising, administration and sorting donations, which are greatly appreciated. As an independent nonprofit, Martha’s House receives funds through grants from federal, state and private sources, but relies on the community to help fund the $60,000 to 80,000 a year the grants don’t cover. “It’s the last dollar that keeps our doors open,” Bean said. “We can’t just close on Sundays because we’re a bit short.”
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Martha’s House invites the community to its second annual “Laugh, Love, Live” event — an evening of comedy, dining, music and hope — on Feb. 8, 2014. “Domestic abuse is such a sad, depressing issue, sometimes we need to just break out for fun and let the community share in the knowledge that we are here to help,” Bean said. Bean said the way to stop abuse is to shine a light on it. “We must be willing to recognize that abuse is not an illness, not a mental condition. It is a choice,” he said. “We must be concerned enough to step up and say, ‘Your behavior is not acceptable in our family, in my school, in our community.’” Bean added that while domestic violence has always been presented as a women’s issue, it is equally a men’s issue because it is caused mostly by men. “I call to all men in Okeechobee to take a stand against relationship violence and make each of our homes the safe havens they should be.” Martha’s House is located at 4134 Hwy. 441 North, Okeechobee. For more information, call (863) 763-2893 or visit www.marthashouse.org. O
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Community Event
Photos By Susan Giddings
Okeechobee 600 Pre-Drive Competition
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A unique event opened the eighth annual Okeechobee 600 Blood Roundup when a pre-drive competition was held at Gilbert Chevrolet, Okeechobee Dodge and Gilbert Ford on Nov. 9. The roundup allowed those attending the final NASCAR event in Homestead to donate blood the week prior. The roundup continued the following weekend at the Freshman Campus, where hundreds came to break the old donation record of 542 units at the “largest volunteer blood drive� in Florida.
2
3 1. (L-R) Alex Mingorance, Brent Durrance, Jim Rider, Linda Hazellief, Marilyn Rinear, Raye Deusinger, Sal Farina, April Lineberry and Brian Monaco at Okeechobee Dodge. 2. Terry Haynes, Gary Clements, Eddie Cruz and Richard Haynes at Gilbert Chevrolet. 3. Phillip Edwardo, Mike Palomino Rich Williams and Eric Avant at Gilbert Ford.
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“It was so sudden.” In February, Steve Flanderka was working in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where he lives, when he began to feel uncomfortable due to severe aches and pains. By the next day he was extremely sore all over his body. He and his wife, Mary, had plans to travel to Okeechobee to visit family. Steve told his wife he would rather feel sick in Florida than in Wyoming. So they proceeded with their trip to Okeechobee.
1 7 9 6 H w y 4 4 1 N , O k e e c H O b e e , F L 3 4 9 7 2 • r a u L e r s O N H O s p i ta L .c O m • 8 6 3 . 7 6 3 . 2 1 5 1
Steve’s pain continued. Two days later Steve woke up hemorrhaging. “It was so sudden,” he said. He immediately came to Raulerson Hospital’s Emergency Department. Doctors and surgeons did multiple tests and procedures to diagnose and treat his symptoms. He was diagnosed with an actively bleeding gastric ulcer and an abdominal abscess from a hematoma. Surgery repaired the cause of Steve’s bleeding and drained the abscess, but that is not the end of Steve’s story. A CT scan taken at Raulerson Hospital allowed doctors to see a mass on one of Steve’s kidneys. Steve, like many people in the early stages of kidney cancer, had no idea or symptoms to indicate that anything was wrong with his kidney. Having stayed in Okeechobee for much longer than he and his wife had planned, Steve returned to his home in Wyoming to regain his strength before battling his kidney cancer. Steve says he is now retired and looking forward to returning to Okeechobee for a more traditional vacation. “I sincerely want to thank the ER staff, the ICU staff, the doctors and my nurses for their professionalism, care and knowledge. The bad kidney the staff at Raulerson Hospital discovered, while dealing with my initial injury, has been removed. Had they not discovered that, I could be in serious trouble now or in the near future. Thanks to Raulerson Hospital, I’m cancer-free, back home, and enjoying life. “In addition, I’d like to thank you for the care and compassion you afforded my wife, Mary, while she was at my bedside in Okeechobee. Your kindness and generous warmth will be forever remembered and we hope to pass that on to others in need.
Raulerson Hospital has been recognized as a Top Performer on Key Quality Measures, including Surgical Care, by The Joint Commission for three years in a row. Whether it is a planned procedure or emergency surgery, the surgeons on Raulerson Hospital’s medical staff provide their precision and expertise to patients needing surgical care. Surgical Services available at Raulerson Hospital include: • Colon/rectal surgery • Ear, nose and throat surgery • Gynecology (including laparoscopic hysterectomy) • General surgery • Laparoscopic (minimally invasive surgery) • Orthopaedic surgery • Pacemaker/defibrillator Implantation • Podiatry
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Community Event
Photos By Sandra Pearce
8th Annual Boots & Pearls Benefits Hospice of Okeechobee Hospice of Okeechobee had its eighth annual Boots & Pearls gala at the KOA Convention Center on Friday, Oct. 11. Six hundred people attended this signature event, which featured silent and live auctions along with plenty of music and dancing and netted more than $70,000 for Hospice. For more information, visit www. hospiceofokeechobee.org.
Above (L-R):Justin, Angela, David, Betty, Heather and Clint Hazellief.
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1. Sandra Pearce, Lynda Durrance, Pam Rucks, Tina Clemons and Brigitte Irby. 2. David and Anita Nunez family with Bobby Williams. 3. Karen and Blair Khulewind. 4. Rick and Robbi Chartier.
2
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3 4
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Winter 2013 | 57
Sharon Vinson
Connects the Dots through the Shared Services Network By Raye Deusinger O Photos by Sandra Pearce
Despair, fear, frustration, concern and hopelessness are emotions that, at one time or another, have disturbed our peace and interfered with our lives. Where can you turn? Who can help? How do you find that person? Little known by the general public, the Shared Services Network is dedicated to providing “comprehensive, integrated services for children and their families through coordinated leadership, planning and collaboration involving all segments of the community.” Its leadership benefits the entire Okeechobee population. These integrated services are coordinated by one person, facilitator Sharon Vinson. “On a daily basis, I don’t provide any direct services,” she said. “I simply act as an operator to connect the dots.” “Connecting the dots” is a phrase Vinson uses frequently as she relates stories of help needed and received. “One day I had a call from a school telling of a child who had surgery and was sent home in a cast from toes to hip,” she said. “He lived in a mobile home with some boarded-up windows, no air conditioning, and it was summer. The mother was heartbroken for her child. I began calling. One agency said they would cover the cost of the AC; a retailer gave us a good price; we bought that AC, took it to the home, plugged it in and left. Later I got a note from that mother but all I
did was connect the dots.” The network is people and agencies which work independently but come together to find a solution when there is a problem. For instance, a child at an elementary school broke her arm. In the emergency room, doctors immobilized the arm, handed the parents the X-ray and told them to take her to an orthopedist. The parents had no money, no insurance, no resources and no transportation. Vinson received a call from the guidance counselor at the school seeking help. After several calls, Vinson connected the family with the Shrine Club, which picked up the family in their van, took them to Tampa, got the child fixed up, then brought them back. “Story done. We connected the dots,” Vinson said. “We have so many hidden gems in our community so we network and share what’s out there. It is sort of a commercial for letting people know where they can find help. The key to a successful Shared Services Network is helping to link all inter-agency groups that already exist in a community.” Vinson said that when she encounters a problem, she engages the first level of help — the Executive Roundtable, formed of city and county agencies in
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Fawn’s Studio
Celebrating Creation
Original Paintings - Animal Portraits Landscapes - Religious Art Adult and Children Classes with State Certified Instructor Fawn McNeill Barr Custom Framing with Deborah Flowers
863-467-7770
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New Location - The Art Cottage 111 NE 2nd Avenue - Okeechobee, FL
Seventh Annual Okeechobee Family Health & Safety Expo Promoting Health & Safety
Saturday, January 25, 2014 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Agri-Civic Center
4601 Highway 710 East - Okeechobee
It’s a Family Fun-filled Educational Day!
All Free!
For More Information, Please Contact Sharon Vinson (863) 462-5000 ext. 257 or Donny Arnold (863) 634-6464
Sponsored in Part By:
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Okeechobee that meet regularly. “They have sources I may not know about, but their office may,” Vinson said. “They can make it happen. They open doors.” The next level is the Community Collaborative Council, headed by Vinson and attended each month by 30 to 50 individuals, representing churches, not-for-profits, community and faithbased groups, the school district, mental health providers and independent organizations. At each meeting two members speak. New programs are announced, new agencies explained, then those in attendance go back and share what they’ve learned with their agencies and Shared Services grows. “There are a lot of agencies here, such as March of Dimes and Guardian ad Litem, that don’t have a brick-and-mortar presence, so this gives them an opportunity to share with us the knowledge of what they provide,” Vinson said. “Through these meetings we learned that Big Brothers Big Sisters have a mentoring program in all five of our elementary schools. Through this program we can refer a child in need of that service.” Through the Collaborative Council, it was learned that Dr. Fred Brown’s Children’s Health Center has a Benefit Health Navigator Program through which anyone who needs assistance can get it. “You might go online and find something,” Vinson said, “but forms can be confusing; a mistake might be made. The program won’t make that mistake.” Through the Shared Services Network, insurance, food stamps or financial assistance can be found; agencies such as My Aunt’s House, Big Lake Missions or First Baptist Church Mission House can provide free clothes. The Retired Educators provide shoes when children have outgrown them and the parents don’t have money to buy new ones. “There again, it’s connecting the dots,” Vinson said. “When that phone rings and we’ve
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Okeechobee Main Street thanks our community for your support! Corporate Members 55 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee
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Main Street Salon Marcum & Associates Martha’s House Mary Kay Rep. Gayle Molyneaux Mary Kay Rep. Lynda Powers McAlpin, Cavalcanti & Lewis CPA Metlife Midflorida Mims Veterinary Hospital Mixon Real Estate Group Murray Insurance Services, Inc Nature's Pantry New American PT Newman Air Conditioning Nurse On Call Nutmeg’s Cafe Okeechobee Claws and Paws Okeechobee Correctional Institute Okeechobee County Board of Realtors Okeechobee KOA Okeechobee News Optical Gallery Papa John’s Pizza PennySaver Philip DeBerard Injury Attorney Photography By Bobbi PNC Bank Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee Primerica Pristine Properties Pritchard’s Insurance Quail Creek Plantation Quality Air Conditioning
Raulerson Hospital Real Life Childrens Ranch Regions Bank Rustic Style Cabin Sims & Younger CPA, PA Skull Hill Steel St Lucie Battery and Tire Stafford Salon State Farm Insurance Syble’s Flowers Taylor Rental Teez2Pleez The Heritage The Outpost/Kids Korner The Tucker Group Thirty - One Gifts and Accessories Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee Tobacco Place Toni's Chic Boutique Total Roadside Service Tradewinds Surveyors and Mappers Tree Locators UBS Financial Services Ver-Style Studio and Salon VFW Post 10539 VNA Grand Oaks VNA of Florida Waste Management Wicks, Brown and Williams WOKC Zippy’s
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“I’m a people person; I like connecting.”
got a situation of XY and Z, since I’ve worked with these agencies for 10 years, most of the time, I know who to call, to find out who to call, to know who to call to get the problem solved.”
-Sharon Vinson
Above the Executive Roundtable is the Four County Alliance, comprising Okeechobee, Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties, whose representatives meet several times each year to acquaint each other with new agencies and opportunities. “If we didn’t belong to the Alliance, I might miss something new which we didn’t yet have in Okeechobee,” Vinson said.
Vinson at a meeting with (L-R) Kellie Chapman and Amanda Blewett.
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Shared Services began in 1997 with a state grant for three years to establish an operation to prevent duplication of services, provide for children and make things happen through decision-makers. A 1977 graduate of Okeechobee High School, Vinson had worked in real estate, then with the school district, in various jobs for 10 years. When the school district posted the position, she applied for the job of Facilitator. “I’m a people person; I like connecting. It was a perfect fit,” Vinson said Today she sits on 12 other boards, councils and committees, “continuing to expand the connections I can use when I’m wearing my primary hat,” she said. Married to her husband, Rickey, they have a daughter, Katrina Cook, who has twin daughters and a son, Matt, who has one daughter. “My kids were the light of my life until I had grands,” Vinson said. Vinson said she also gets wonderful calls, particularly at holidays, with people asking how they can help, noting that they have toys or other items they’d like to donate. That’s when she connects really happy dots and urges the community to do so. Always open to ways to share, the network seeks community help, particularly at holidays. “No matter what you
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Give the Gift of Entertainment This Holiday Season!
The Nureyev State Ballet Presents:
An Evening With Sinbad December 7
The Nutcracker December 26
Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild December 29
Sponsored by Animal Emergency & Referral Center
An Evening With Neil Sedaka January 3 Sponsored by Humana
The Comedy Of Paula Poundstone January 12
The Utimate Beatles Tribute
National Touring Co. Of Godspell January 14
National Touring Co. Rock of Ages January 19
KC & The Sunshine Band January 25
The Fab Four January 29
The Spencers: Theatre of Illusion January 31
Late Night Catechism January 31 February 1 & 2
An Evening With Kenny Rogers February 7
Ronnie Milsap 40 - 40 Vision Tour March 1
An Evening With Vince Gill March 23
Country Legend Loretta Lynn March 27
Tickets are on Sale now! Call 772.461.4775 or visit SunriseTheatre.com 117 South 2nd Street in Historic Downtown Fort Pierce Presenting Sponsors:
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Winter 2013 | 63
Vinson with her family. Front row (L-R): Sorrel and Kinsley Vinson, Sharon Vinson, Amber and Katrina Cook. Back row: Matt Vinson, Rickey Vinson, Aubrey and Robert Cook.
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have to give, bring it; someone can use it. We won’t waste it,” Vinson said. Both My Aunt’s House (863-634-2306) and Big Lake Missions at (863-7635725), will accept checks as well as gift cards, clothing, toys and household needs. Another way to help is through Okeechobee’s scholarship program, which last year awarded more than 350 scholarships. A tax-deductible check to the Okeechobee Educational Foundation can be sent to 700 S.W. Second Ave. “By enlisting to help, you find joy,” Vinson said. “You help someone and then later find out how much it has blessed you; the return is amazing. When people ask me what I do, I don’t do anything, I just connect the dots. To make connections and find a way to resolve an issue is always satisfying.” Contact the Shared Services Network at (863) 462-5000, ext. 257 or email Sharon.vinson@okee.k12.fl.us. O
Food for Thought at the Dixon Hendry Campus!
NATURE AND PHOTOGRAPHY/OFF CAMPUS Saturday, January 18 and/or February 8 at 8 a.m. MANAGING YOUR DIGITAL PHOTOS Monday, February 24, March 3, 10, 17 from 1 - 3 p.m. AFFAIRS OF ESTATE Tuesday and Thursday, January 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 from 4 - 5 p.m. FLORIDA ARCHEOLOGY Tuesday, November 19, December 17, January 28, February 18, March 11, April 29 from 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. FOOD FOR THE WRITER’S SOUL Tuesday, March 4 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. BRIDGE FOR THE BEGINNER Tuesday, January 14, 28, February 11, 25, March 11 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. WOMEN ON WALL STREET Monday and Wednesday, February 24, 26, March 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19 from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Register now for offerings! Call 772-462-7880 or visit us online at www.irscfoundation.org Sharon Vinson with her husband, Rickey.
Fielden Institute offerings are designed for men and women age 50 and better. They are non-credit and do not apply to any IRSC degree program. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 65
Community Event
Photos By Susan Giddings
Inaugural Chocolate & Wine Celebration Presented by the Rotary Club of Okeechobee
The Rotary Club of Okeechobee celebrated the International Day of Chocolate with an event on Sept. 13 at Silver Palms RV Resort. This fun-filled event featured plenty of wine and chocolate, music and dancing. Left (L-R): Kristy Crawford, Debi Large, Trinidad Garcia, Jim Benton, Donna Gaiser, Sean Downing and Denise Whitehead.
(L-R) Judy and Jim Benton, Jeff and Debbie Clemons.
(L-R): Terry Burroughs, Judge Jerry Bryant and Ron Mixon.
The Nightlife Band entertained.
WE NEED YOU!
Join The
Okeechobee Be A Local Hero!
Join the Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps Today!
We currently need medical and non-medical volunteers for Local Disaster Response, Emergency Preparedness, and Community Health Improvements.
Okeechobeans Taking Care of Okeechobee
For More Information or to Request an Application, Call 863.462.5819 66 | Winter 2013
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(Above) Mike and Joyce Costopoulos. (Below) Gayle Molyneaux and Lori Mixon.
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Winter 2013 | 67
Behind the Business M nutmeg’s café By Chris Felker
egan Mattson, barely a teenager when she started as a hostess at local landmark Lightsey’s restaurant, has matured into a successful restauranteur and seems well on her way to creating another Okeechobee institution.
Her popular lunch spot, nutmeg’s café, is settling into a new space that’s triple the size of its former location in Okeechobee, barely a year after Mattson opened the homey eatery. The menu of mostly light breakfast and lunch dishes has lured a loyal crowd of downtown business people, as well
as travelers and residents. Since everything is made from scratch in the café’s kitchen, the enticing aromas tend to waft around town and draw a crowd. Plus, Megan’s experimentation has produced some mouthwatering, flavorful combinations that have made true converts among the skeptical. “People are a little bit leery of some of the items on the menu at first,” she said. “Some of the ones that people were the most leery about are now the most popular, like the Ham and Pear Crisp that has a spiced butter on the outside, also the Peanut Butter and Bacon (both paninis). That one sounds weird, but it’s really good. “A lot of these items, I have been working on for years. I think my first was the tuna melt. My family had to suffer through a lot of tastings,” Mattson laughed. And her soups? To die for, judging by the callers who start her phones ringing as early as 9:30 a.m. “I probably have about 25 to 30 different soups. Every two weeks, I’m making up a new soup,” she said. Megan selects from the freshest ingredients at the produce stand on every visit, and envisions her next dishes. But it took her a lot of learning to get to this point. Even while she was greeting customers at Lightsey’s as a girl, Megan was dreaming of the future. “I just knew I wanted to have my own business; I didn’t know exactly what it was going to be. I started as a hostess and worked my way up through every position,” Mattson said.
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She wanted to start small and go from there. Nutmeg’s opened in a compact space with room for only seven tables and 26 customers in October 2012. By December it was the top-rated restaurant of Okeechobee’s 33 eateries on TripAdvisor.
com. Among the ingredients of Megan’s success have been her family, her education – especially the one she got at Lightsey’s – and the loyalty of regular customers. “Definitely, something I learned at Lightsey’s is that food quality is the number one thing. If the food quality is good, your customers will come back even if there’s little mishaps in service.” And Mattson likes to be there for her patrons. “I’m here almost all the time. A lot of my customers that were regulars down there have been my big supporters here, so it’s kind of nice.” She credits the owner of Lightsey’s, Ray Arrants, for contributing to her success. The two aren’t rivals now, though; they’re quasi-partners. “He just taught me everything about running a restaurant. He’s been really supportive, helped me out any time I need-
HCB-226.2128-Oct2013_7.375x4.75_Okee_The_Magazine.indd 1
ed advice. Sometimes I need them to help me store stuff. We work together,” Mattson said. Her parents, Jim and Pam Hardy, and sisters Erica and Caitlin have helped from the start; dad as handyman/electrician, mom as painter/upholsterer, Erica and Caitlin as go-to gals. Supportive husband Landon has stayed in the background; it’s Megan’s show. “Nutmeg” is her nickname from childhood, and it spices many dishes, from chicken seasoning rub to the cupcakes. It also flavors the air downtown, in case you were wondering what that aroma was … only now it’s wafting from a bigger home. nutmeg’s café is located at 515 S.W. Park St. in downtown Okeechobee. The restaurant’s new hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. To place takeout orders, inquire about specials or get information and pricing on nutmeg’s specialty cakes, cupcakes and catering, call (863) 763-2233. O
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Behind the Business W Okeechobee Texaco By Chris Felker
hen Mohammad Hasan, an Israeli-American by way of Puerto Rico, came to the mainland to find better opportunities a few years ago, he didn’t have to look far to find one. It was literally right under his nose during a visit to Okeechobee. Hasan was staying in a hotel near the lake and says he began to frequent the Okeechobee Texaco station at U.S. 441 and State Road 78 in the mornings because the coffee smelled good.
“I fell in love with this gas station, because it’s so awesome. I knew the potential that this gas station had,” he said. He related that he was a businessman on the island, but had tired of Puerto Rico. So Hasan started hanging out more often at the store, which not too long before had been opened by Energis Petroleum, LLC. He eventually met the owners, brothers Keith and Scott Duffy of Boca Raton. “They were always coming at night, like at midnight, leaving at 4 or 5 in the morning, but they weren’t here business hours,” Hasan said. He would offer to help them unload supplies from their car, and then, says Energis managing member Keith Duffy, one day an employee quit and Hasan asked whether he could work there as a clerk. “We agreed, and that is how he started,” Duffy said. “We hired him as a clerk to try him out and then promoted him when the manager quit.” The brothers are happy with their decision, too. “Mohammad’s definitely been our best manager in Okeechobee,” said Keith Duffy. “He has made some excellent accomplishments. We appreciate his efforts, and he is doing a great job.” Keith said he and Scott agreed to make Hasan a part owner after they pay off their mortgage. They had bought the Okeechobee station in 2004 along with two others in Port St. Lucie under the Energis umbrella, and concentrated on those two at first. “We did not open the (Okeechobee) store for two years because we focused on our two stores in Port St. Lucie, which became the most successful in their market,” Keith Duffy said.
Scott Duffy, Mohammad Hasan and Keith Duffy.
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And it was a challenge when they did open. “We traveled one and a half hours each way from Boca Raton to Okeechobee almost ev-
ery day because we had a vision of a meticulously clean superstore, like our Port St. Lucie stores, with every possible variety of candy, beer, soda, cigarettes and grocery items imaginable. We worked sometimes 48 hours straight without rest,” he said.
several fundraisers for the Real Life Children’s Ranch, breast cancer patients at Raulerson Hospital and local needy families. This month, patrons will find a live band and a resident Santa Claus to drum up holiday spirit. Okeechobee Texaco has a well-stocked convenience store; sparkling clean restrooms; manual car wash bays; all three grades of gasoline plus diesel and pay-at-pump credit/debit card readers.
Duffy added that their Texaco “has become a leader among gas stations and convenience stores in that market during the entire time the store has been opened, reaching 310,000 gallons in one month at one time. We also brought in a Dunkin’ Donuts franchisee and renovated the store completely, with dramatic interior changes.”
“Scott and I are strong believers in Okeechobee and have invested a lot of money here,” Keith Duffy said. He also hinted that the pair have big plans to expand their activities in Okeechobee County.
The station’s considerable assets include proximity to the lake, the KOA campground and several local RV parks, the roomy location at a major highway junction plus Hasan’s determination to compete price-wise with gas stations nearby.
“Stay tuned,” he said. Okeechobee Texaco is located at 4993 U.S. 441 South, at St. Rd. 78, Okeechobee. For more information, call (863) 623-4939. O
The owners have reached out to the community and done
Employee Commitment, Dedication and Community Partner
Okeechobee Landfill, Inc. Garick LLC, Waste Management Announces Community Initiative Focusing On Organics Recycling Together, Garick and Faith Farm Ministries have invested into the new packaging facility on the Faith Farm Okeechobee campus. The Organic Valley® Brand will be available for sale in all Faith Farm thrift stores, as well as other retail stores focusing on organic products.
Waste Management Okeechobee Landfill, Inc.
863-357-0824 Fax: 863-357-0772
10800 N.E. 128th Ave. Okeechobee FL, 34972
www.wm.com www.thinkgreen.com
WM Okeechobee Hauling Co., achieved 1st Place in the 100 Days of Summer competition with no accidents and no injuries. Congratulations Okeechobee!
WM Supports the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Photo by Okeechobee County 4H Picture Perfect Photography Club
WM Supports the B.R.A.T. Labor Day Parade and Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association Photo by Tamara Kelly
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Community Event
Photos By Susan Giddings
Inaugural March of Desserts To Benefit March of Dimes March of Dimes hosted its inaugural March of Desserts Sunday, Sept. 22 in the Freshman Campus auditorium. The event boasted a large variety of dessert samplings from Okeechobee’s best bakers and a live cake auction. For more information, visit www. marchofdimes.com. (Left) Event organizers (front row, L-R) Ceceilia Elliott and Johanna Kenworthy; (back) John Rhoden, Sharon Johnson, Sharon Vinson, Ken Kenworthy, Magi Cable, Pat O’Connor and Laura McCall.
1. Lisa and Oliver Harwas enjoy the event. 2. Auctioneer Brian Trimble takes bids on an item. 3. These delicious cakes were up for auction. 4. Cortney Crews, Suzette Entry and Amanda Baker enjoy the desserts.
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2 3
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Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon
Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant held in Okeechobee The 2014 Miss Rodeo Florida Pageant took place at the Okeechobee AgriCenter Sept. 26-28. The contestants had several events to attend and were judged on their knowledge of horsemanship, public speaking and poise. A Stars and Stripes Fashion Show and dinner were given Friday evening and the Armed Services Luncheon was staged on Saturday, where they crowned the new queens. (Above left) Front row, (L-R): Taylor-Anne Roberts, Hailey Wall, Kassidy Cabot, Nicole Boulton, Erista Albritton, Kaylee Carroll, Brianna Carroll; back row, Sierra Rush, Amanda Virok, Kelly Steinruck, Carrie Ann Clements, Sierra Coward, Jenna Smeenk, Taylor Jay Roberts, McKenna Andris, Devon Firestone and Kathryn Wilson. Judges: (L-R) Kathy Boyd (Sarasota), Doug Toney (Jacksonville), Polly Hayes (Seminole Tribe of Florida, Okeechobee) and Jaye Cooke Bigler (Osceola County).
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www.mysalononline.com/bellarose 74 | Winter 2013
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facebook.com/bellarosespa 2014 Miss Rodeo Florida, Miss Devon Firestone.
www.midflorida.com
www.midflorida.com
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Peace Lutheran School Growing together with Jesus
“Save the Date” - February 22, 2014 A Night With the Stars - A Red Carpet Event Annual Dinner and Auction at the KOA Serving Children Ages 2 - Kindergarten | Small Class Size "We accept VPK and Step Up For Students" Christian Centered Program at an Affordable Price School Phone: 863-763-7566 Nationally Church Phone: 863-763-5042 Accredited School
750 Northwest 23rd Lane - Okeechobee, Florida 34972
“Family Owned and Operated” Modern, Trendy or Traditional We do it all. Large Beautiful Showroom Stop in to see our new specialty cupcake designs! “We deliver smiles.”
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www.flowerpetalsokeechobee.com 76 | Winter 2013
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Frank DeCarlo, Owner
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Community Event
Photos By Vicky Nichols
Second Annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl for Kids’ Sake Volunteers for Big Brothers Big Sisters held the second annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake Saturday, Oct. 19 at Lucky Lanes. Proceeds from the event will help support the BBBS programs for the children of Okeechobee County. For more information, call (863) 824-2227 or visit www.bbbs.org.
(Above) Nick Blount, Sharon Vinson, Pat O’Connor, Christina Paniagua, Wayne Cunningham, Rachel Heddings and Kelly Chicvara. (Left) Team for Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee County: Susan Kuipers, Sarah Jansen, Sammy Clarke, Summer Clarke and Miranda McClanahan.
(Above) Team Gilbert have some fun: McKala Hummel, Jake Hummel, Tina O’Dell and Mary Hunter. (Left) Kathy Sullivan and Debbie Esposito with Hair Cuttery at the raffle table. (Above) Team FP&L: Jim Albury, Nick Blount and Steve Pryor.
(Below) BBBS team: (front row, L-R) Elissa Casperson, Douglas Hawes, Haley Hawes and Cammryn Hawes; (back) “Miss Pam” Casperson and Elizabeth Hawes.
Clean Rooms ● Large Pool Tanning Deck ● Located on the Water Live Entertainment ● Pet Friendly
78 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
energy for life HOLMES
JACKSON
Natural Gas ESCAMBIA SANTAROSA
OKALOOSA
WALTON
Marianna
WASHINGTON
BAY
GADSDEN
LEON
CALHOUN
LIBERTY
JEFFERSON
F
FRANKLIN
AMELIA ISLAND
HAMILTON
MADISON
WAKULLA
is coming to the city of Okeechobee! GULF
FERNANDINA BEACH
NASSAU
SUWANNEE
DUVAL
BAKER COLUMBIA
TAYLOR
UNION
LAFAYETTE
CLAY ST JOHNS
BRADFORD GILCHRIST
ALACHUA
DIXIE
PUTNAM GrOwinG ServiCe territOrieS:
Newberry
FLAGLER ESCAMBIA SANTAROSA
JACKSON
HOLMES
OKALOOSA
LEVY
Marianna
WALTON
WASHINGTON
MARION
LEON
LIBERTY
AMELIA ISLAND
HAMILTON JEFFERSON
MADISON SUWANNEE
WAKULLA
DUVAL
BAKER COLUMBIA
TAYLOR
UNION LAFAYETTE
VOLUSIA GULF
FERNANDINA BEACH
NASSAU
GADSDEN CALHOUN
BAY
FRANKLIN
ST JOHNS
BRADFORD GILCHRIST
Inglis
CLAY
ALACHUA
DIXIE
PUTNAM
Newberry
FLAGLER
DeBary
LAKE
CITRUS
LEVY MARION VOLUSIA
Inglis
SEMINOLE
SUMTER
lorida Public Utilities (FPU) is delighted to announce that Propane it has acquired the propane operating assets of Glades PINELLAS Gas Company, and isGas now serving Glades, Okeechobee Natural and Hendry counties. FPU has also been granted a thirty-year Natural Gas & Electric non-exclusive franchise agreement with the City of Okeechobee allowing us to bring natural the area! Natural gas Gas to & Propane
CITRUS
SEMINOLE
SUMTER HERNANDO
Electric
HERNANDO
Electric
DeBary
LAKE
HILLSBOROUGH
OSCEOLA
Winter Haven
BREVARD
PINELLAS
Natural Gas
PASCO
ORANGE
PASCO
ORANGE Propane
POLK INDIAN RIVER
Natural Gas & Electric
HARDEE
MANATEE
OKEECHOBEE ST LUCIE
HIGHLANDS
Natural Gas & Propane
HILLSBOROUGH
SARASOTA
OSCEOLA Natural Gas, Propane & Electric
Winter Haven
MARTIN CHARLOTTE
GLADES
West Palm Beach Clewiston
Office Locations
LEE
BREVARD
BROWARD COLLIER
INDIAN RIVER ESCAMBIA SANTAROSA
HARDEE
OKALOOSA
OKEECHOBEE WALTON
In fact, with the universal demand and increased awareness of the Natural Gas, Propane & Electric benefits and applications of natural gas, FPU is in the initial stages Locations of expanding naturalOffice gas service to commercial customers in the City of Okeechobee. Natural Gas benefits include cleaner, more cost-effective operations and equipment efficiency. Natural gas is domestic, clean-burning, and supports our national interests by lessoning our dependence on foreign oil.
MIAMI-DADE MONROE
JACKSON
HOLMES
Marianna
ST LUCIE
WASHINGTON
HIGHLANDS SARASOTA
GADSDEN
Okeechobee
LEON
CALHOUN
BAY
DESOTO
LIBERTY
MARTIN CHARLOTTE
PALM BEACH
HENDRY
POLK
MANATEE
Okeechobee
DESOTO
GULF
GLADES
HAMILTON JEFFERSON
SUWANNEE
WAKULLA TAYLOR
LAFAYETTE
FRANKLIN
West Palm Beach
GIL DIXIE
Clewiston LEE
HENDRY
PALM BEACH
BROWARD COLLIER
Electric Propane MIAMI-DADE MONROE
Natural Gas Natural Gas & Electric Natural Gas & Propane
Natural Gas, Propane & Electric Office Locations
COntaCt FPU: Please call 888.220.9356 or visit FPUC.com/Okeechobee to learn more about the natural gas service coming to businesses within the City of Okeechobee. Or, call the appropriate number to the right to learn more about current propane service, as well as to reach Customer Service or 24-hour Emergency Response.
MADISON
FPUC.com/Okeechobee Clewiston: 863.983.8112 Okeechobee: 863.763.2115 PROMO: MA13-236 103113 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Fall 2013 |
79
WE ARE YOUR OKEECHOBEE DEALER
863-357-8772 How Safe is Your Rubber?
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80 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
ConnieLake Award OkeechobeeWinning Hotel The Newest Hotel in Okeechobee.
Merry Christmas from
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Serving You For 57 Years.
Furniture - Appliances - Electronics
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863-763-3823 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 81
Community Event
Photos By Susan Giddings
Fundraiser for Jaimie Angsuwan Hans held at KOA Crystal Mills, Stephanie Quesinberry, Antoinette Rodriguez and Crystal Waldrop organized a fundraising quarter auction for Jaimie Angsuwan Hans at the KOA campground on Friday, Oct. 26, to help pay for her medical expenses in her battle with breast cancer. More than 500 people attended, raising in excess of $15,000.
Jamie Angsuwan Hans and Chris Hans.
Back row (L-R): Sandy Spires, Nini Entri, Crystal Mills, Tammy Colburn, Taylor Mills, Kelley Margerum, Antoinette Rodriguez, Stephanie Quesinberry, Chrystal Waldrop; front, Alex Muller, Charleigh Heater, Kayla Waldrop and Lindsey Waldrop.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! man g i P e h T Family
Florida State Representative Cary Pigman - District 55 Political advertisement paid for and approved by Cary Pigman, Republican, for Florida House District 55.
82 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Quality - Commitment - Design
Wind Mitigations & Home Inspections STATE LICENSED & INSURED - #CRC058109
Blue Ribbon Winner Treasure Coast Parade of Homes
863-467-1933 221 NE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972 We now have a 2nd location at 1120 NW Park Street Winter 2013 | 83 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Toni's
Chic Boutique “Where Fun & Fashion Meet” New Fashions in all sizes, evening wear and accessories.
The Berger Clinic Adult Health Care Diagnosis and Management of Medical Conditions Preventive Health
863-467-1117 Call For Appointment
Jay S. Berger, MD Okeechobee Medical Park 1713 Hwy 441 N. Suite D Okeechobee, FL 34972 (Located across the street from the hospital.)
A large variety of beautiful new and vintage JEWELRY.
We also carry a limited amount of Pristine Consignment
Unique Gifts for any occasion. All gift items, new clothes and greeting cards are made in the U.S.A.
863-357-8664
Boutique Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10am – 6pm Fri. 10am – 7pm | Sat. 9am - 3pm Toni Bennett Doyle, Owner Notary Public Services Available tonischicboutique@comcast.net
123 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 84 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Dr. Berger and Staff have proudly served the Okeechobee area since 1985.
"Let's Go Places" ADDITIONAL
$750 OFF
FOR COLLEGE GRADUATES! (Within past 2 yrs.)
ADDITIONAL
$500 OFF
FOR ACTIVE MILITARY!
863-402-2638
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 85
Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon
Rockin’ Rod Car Show The Rockin’ Rod Car Show and Swap Meet took place Oct. 19 at the Philippine-American Cultural Foundation of South Florida’s Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens. The car show was a success, with many classic cars and street rods on display. The crowd enjoyed various food vendors and music while browsing the vehicles on display.
1 2
3
1. A crowd favorite, a 1939 Pontiac Silver Streak. 2. Mike Novak proudly shows his 1969 Chevy Nova. 3. (L-R) Mike Redfern, Terry Burroughs, Rennae Sweeda, Lory Edwards, Yvonne Morgan, and Frank DeCarlo.(Front) Casey Lawrence. 4. Beauty and the Beast. 5. 1929 Model A Ford.
Capt. Bob Stafford’s
OKEECHOBEE
CHARTERS Book Your Trip Today
561.719.9320
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Premier Lake Okeechobee GUIDE & GATOR HUNTING AUTHORITY • Bass Fishing • Pan Fishing • Gator Hunting • Duck Hunting • Airboat Tours
13441 Hwy 441 SE
www.OkeechobeeCharters.com 86 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
5
BUYER BROKER ONLY COMPANY OF FLORIDA Realtor Bill F. Steg’kemper, crs, gri BROKER, CRS, GRI, APPRAISER
Full Time Realtor Since 1974 Broker, Appraiser - BK129997
Longest Licensed Realtor In Okeechobee
CELL (863) 801-9497
607 NW 5th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974
always saving buyer$ money
DR. JOE WATER TREATMENT “ We Make Your Water Clean”
863-763-7630 Free Water Analysis
Joe Renta FREE Estimates
Big Burritos Soft Tacos Quesadillas Burrito Bowls Salad Bowls Churros & Cookies
Salt /Salt Delivery Chlorine Pumps & Filters Water Softners Aerators Sulfer Guard Wells Iron Filters
Call For Take Out
We Make It The Way You Want It!
309 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-623-4345
Open Monday - Thursday, 11am to 8pm Friday & Saturday, 11am - 9pm
1106 NW Park Street Okeechobee, Florida 34972
Pritchards AND ASSOCIATES
“ I nsu ra nce Assu ra nce”
Want True Customized Value?? Auto
Home Property
Foot Care Treatment Includes:
Diabetic Foot Care • Heel Pain • Ingrown Toe Nails • Fungus Nails Nerve Conditions • Joint Pain • Circulation • Fractures Custom Orthotic Devices and More! Accepting Most Insurances
863-467-6577 Office Hours By Appointment House Calls Available
Brian D. Finke, D.P.M.
Podiatry Associates of Okeechobee, Inc. Podiatric Physician and Surgeon Board Certified by A.P.M.S.B.
1124 S. Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, FL 34974
Health
Pritchards
Liability
Happy Feet are Healthy Feet
Life
TWORTHY TRUS
Boat
AND ASSOCIATES
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www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 87
Community Event
Photos By Vicky Nichols and Sandra Pearce
Okeechobee High School Homecoming The Brahman spirit was astounding as the homecoming festivities kicked off Thursday evening, Oct. 31, with the Homecoming Parade, followed by a pep rally with a Jell-O eating contest and bonfire at the high school. On Friday night, the football game was played and the homecoming king and queen were crowned. The three-day event finished up Saturday night with the Homecoming Dance. The students are very grateful to the community for supporting the parade and the long-standing pep rally with bonfire.
Homecoming Queen & King Eldrit Renteria and Delfino Garcia. Class of 2016 float.
Senior class float.
(Above left) Miss OHS Kaylen Fulford and Mr. OHS Cody Walker. (Above right) Jefferson Davis, Stormy Stokes, Meaghan Bleakley and Tuff Durrance
Kinsley Pena and Ragyn Mohner.
(L-R) Clair Hair, Francine Keezer, Fran McKee, Deborah Hooker and Sophia Graves.
(Left) Fantastic 14: Odon Anselmo, Chelsea Wharin, Danyelle Sheffield, McKenzie Richey, Meaghan Bleakley, Kalyn Fulford, Ana Caren Huerta, Tuff Durrance, Delfino Garcia, Brianna Nunez, James Marcum, Cody Walker, Kyle Nichols and Joey Lepere. 88 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Facials Waxings Lash and Brow Tinting Body Wrappings Microdermabrasion BioActive Peels
Targeted treatments to address top skin concerns for a quick fix. Galvanic and Microcurrent services for infusion of serums.
TAMMY PLATT
PHYSICAL THERAPY - CONNECTION The relation between you and wellness.
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.
M. Fernanda Cuellar Registered Physical Therapist
863-824-0499
(863) 357-5757
Email: contact@physicaltherapy-connection.com
www.physicaltherapy-connection.com
Refrigeration ~ AC ~ Ice Machines
12766 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL watersedgerv@innisfree.com
www.okeechobeervpark.com
St. Lic. #CMCO54668
Serving the Glades since 1929
Okeechobee 863-763-2114 804 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972
Clewiston 863-983-8111 311 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL 33440
LaBelle 866-942-7280 We also service LaBelle, FL
Carrier Full Service Dealer
Guy Harvey now has Military Charms & Double Marlin Pendants with Genuine Stones.
A Divison of Glades Gas
Authorized Appliance Service Co. Service All Makes & Models Locally Owned & Operated by Kevin McCarthy and Monica Clark 863-467-1331
1-800-763-2114
804 N. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee, FL 34972 Serving the Glades since 1929
Diamonds - 14K Gold Jewelry
Guy Harvey & Hersey Kiss Jewelry We Buy Scrap Gold
863-983-8111 Clewston, Florida
-Joe Dorsey www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 89
Community Event
Photos By Sharon Cannon
Okeechobee Educational Foundation Achieving Excellence Luncheon The Okeechobee Educational Foundation hosted its Achieving Excellence luncheon Sept. 25 at the First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. The foundation’s scholarships total more than $2 million and assist teachers and students annually in the local school system.
The board of directors: (L-R) front row, Celeste Watford, Linda Syfrett, Debbie Clements, Mary Hurley, Tabatha Trent, Kelly Owens, Gretchen Robertson, Pat Cooper; back row, Joseph Stanley, Dawn Hoover, Sharon Vinson, Ben Sims, Denise Whitehead, Mike Costopoulos. (Right) Linda Syfrett welcomed teachers and guest in her opening remarks.
2014 Top of the Lake Art Fest & Chalk Walk February 8th & 9th ~ 10 am - 4 pm
8th Annual
Top of the
Top of the
Lake
Lake
Art Fest
Chalk Walk
Street Painting
Admission is Free!
Juried Art Show in beautiful Flagler Park, the heart of Okeechobee and featuring Chalk Walk Street Painting!
This is your chance to purchase original Fine Art.
Fine Art - Artisan Crafts Art Gallery Tent featuring Local and Student Artists Entertainment Children’s Art Activities - Food and More!
Call to Artists!
If you are interested in showing or participating in the Chalk Walk contact Okeechobee Main Street.
90 | Winter 2013
Okeechobee Main Street Event For information contact Sharie at 863-357-6246
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Main Street Office: 55 South Parrott Ave.
www.okeechobeemainstreet.org
Also Sponsored By
Your sight. Our vision.
Forty to 45 percent of Diabetics in America have some form of retinopathy. Blood vessels damaged from diabetic retinopathy can cause vision loss without warning. The best and most effective way to diagnose diabetic retinopathy is with an annual dilated eye exam. *(National Institutes of Health)
Early detection can mean healthy sight for life. And that’s our vision.
FLORIDA EYE INSTITUTE Thomas A. Baudo, MD | Karen D. Todd, MD Val Zudans, MD | Wilson K. Wallace, MD Cynthia L. Kipp, O.D. 772.569.9500 • fleye.com 2750 Indian River Blvd., Vero Beach www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 91
Community Event
Photos By Vicky Nichols
Seventh Annual Craft Fair in the Woods The seventh annual Craft Fair in the Woods was held on November 9 at Freedom Ranch. There was a huge variety of arts and crafts on display as well as swamp buggy rides and a delicious barbeque dinner for all to enjoy.
1
2
3
4
5
Save
The
D
ate Febr Saturda uary y 22, 2 014 6
A Dinner, Dance and Auction for improvement and benefit of Peace Lutheran School. For more information please call Karen Smith at 863-763-7566 92 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
1. The event was well attended. 2. Shoppers admire the floral displays. 3. 2 Saucy Gals Jackie Kelly and Lory Edwards. 4. Coconut art by Judy Nowak and Patty George. 5. Judy Throop with her display of Heartfelt Memories. 6. Patrick Malone cooks on the grill.
Family Friendly Sports Bar and Restaurant. New Location in Downtown Okeechobee! New Menu! Buffalo Wings - Zippers - Salads - Po Boy Sandwiches Best Burgers Around and More! Serving Beer and Wine - TV for Sport Fans & Juke Box
301 SW Park Street
Family Owned & Operated
863-763-1399
Crocheted hats by Sarah Paddock.
(Above) Sarah Paddock. (Below) Kids work on their art at Plaster Play Time booth.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 93
PUT THE PIECES OF YOUR LIFE TOGETHER AT
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC ALCAT test for Food Allergies, Food Sensitivity and Food Tolerance Helps achieve balance for your body. Just one blood sample to evaluate up to 300 foods, chemicals and herbs which may contribute to many medical conditions such as skin, heart, joint and digestive disorders.
Wellness Center, LLC Ellisa Scott, PhD, LMHC
Clinical Psychologist Individual and Family Counseling
Office: 863-261-8900 Cell: 954-696-3747
Every Problem has a Solution... We Care... We Listen... Let’s Talk.
Restore your natural beauty.
LifeStyle Weight and Wellness Erin Chamberlin, MD Ashley Pontenberg, ARNP Rejuvenize, LLC, a mobile laser and aesthetic company, has partnered with the Doctors Clinic to bring the latest laser techniques and cosmetic injectable treatments to you.
A modification program to help improve your self-esteem, outlook on life and promote weight loss. Vitamin Therapy An easy and FREE way to complete your own personal medical assessment.
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC Stanley Sweda, MD | Marta Eule, ARNP
Primary Care For The Entire Family
863-763-1107 - 204 SE Park Street www.DoctorsClinicHealth.com
Most Insurances Accepted Occupational Medicine 94 | Winter 2013
Proud Supporters of “Heroes 4 Hope” OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Walk-Ins Welcome Now Taking Appointments
bring this ad for
$99 off
! n r u t y r e Fun…at ev
Fun. It’s in our nature. For some, the perfect journey is packed with adventure and excitement. For others, it’s about friendships and relaxation. Whatever road you choose, a warm, welcome destination awaits you at Silver Palms RV Resort. From planned activities to world-class amenities, our master-planned resort was thoughtfully designed with your desires in mind. Here, fun is a key ingredient in every day.
Call 888-323-4967 for reservations and ownership opportunities. Introducing Eco -Cottages in 2014. Enjoy the resort lifestyle without owning an RV! • 90-acre gated resort • Planned activities • 9,000 sq. ft. clubhouse and pool
• five-star dining • Class a, super C, and 5th wheels welcome • Expansive sites with full hook-ups
4143 Highway 441 South, Okeechobee, FL 34974
www.SilverPalmsRV.com
Terms and Conditions: Cannot be combined with any other offer. Does not apply to existing reservations.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 95
Community Event Operation Pink Fire Hydrant Every year in this country, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To aid in this fight, breast cancer survivor Sharon Wallace has teamed up with the Okeechobee Utility Authority, Okeechobee City Council, Okeechobee County Commission, Okeechobee city and county law enforcement and the city and county Fire-Rescue to help raise awareness for the residents of Okeechobee by launching Operation Pink Fire Hydrant. During October, all of the fire hydrants along the major thor-
oughfares of Okeechobee city were painted pink. All of the paint was donated by Home Depot. If you would like to sponsor the painting of a fire hydrant in your neighborhood, call (863) 763-2300. For a recommended donation of $100 to one of three charitable organizations, Okeechobee Hospice, Heroes for Hope and Martha’s House, Wallace will mobilize her volunteer crew to come out and paint a fire hydrant in the location of your choice.
Sharon Wallace with the first pink fire hydrant Front row (L-R): Pam Peppers, Yvonne Morgan, Rennae Sweda, Sharon Wallace, Bobbie Poole; back row, Jonathan Silva, Thomas Barber, Frank DeCarlo, Commissioner Bryant Culpepper and Donna Culpepper
Computer Sales & Service Serving Lake Area Since 1990
863-467-9090
Networking Cabling Accessories Audio Visual Wireless Managed Services
COMPUTERS ““Featuring ICS Elite Series desktops powered by the new Intel i-Series Processors”
Authorized Business Telephone Systems
403 S. PARROTT AVE. OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA 96 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Email: sales@icsflorida.com
www.icsflorida.com
Thomas Barber and Sharon Wallace.
Professional.Principled.Passionate
Serving the legal needs of the Okeechobee Community
Glenn J. Sneider Attorney at Law
Our entire staff is dedicated to helping clients with their legal matters.
Vicki Anderson
•Family Law •Criminal Law •Civil Litigation
863-634-4106
Eric Anderson 863-634-4107
863-467-6570 200 SW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
The REALTOR® in Okeechobee your family can trust to be there for you!
www.SneiderLaw.Com MMI Certified Harley Davidson Technician
SERVICING
Tire Purchase & Mounts Full Service Repairs - Minor to Major Customizing of Aftermarket Parts Brandon Baughman Certified Technician, MMI Graduate
All MAKES
ou Shoot... Y w o B A r o e A Bike You Rid Covered at Skull Hill Steel! a ’s it r e h t e h W We’ve Got You
Come By & Check Us Out!
21442 E. SR 78, BHR Okeechobee, FL 34974
Office: 863-634-4106 Fax: 863-467-7822
Purchase New and USED Bows & Accessories Serving includes but not limited to: Installation of Peep Site, D-Loop, Main String & Bus Cable Cut and Fleetch Arrows Complete Bow Service and Paper Tune Shooting Lessons Available Just 1 mile South of the Hwy 70 & Hwy 441 Intersection on the East side of Hwy 441.
Service Integrity Experience
Visit our Website for Additional Listings.
www.andersonrealtyco.com www.skullhillsteel.com
LICENSED BROKER www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 97
Fishing Fishing
Shellen onBy Capt. LakeMichael Okeechobee By Capt. Michael Shellen
Since 1935
Country Store - Packaged Fresh Fruit Offering Orange & Vanilla Soft Serve Ice Cream
Toll Free: 800-326-3938 Local: 863-453-3938
MV47426
18
Oil Change $ & Filter
.99 $22.99 Reg.
FREE TIRE ROTATION
21 Point Inspection. Frequent, vital engine maintenance includes refill of up to 5 qts. of 5W-30 Oil
Plus $1 Disposal Fee. Most Cars. Open Daily 8am-5:30pm Saturday 8am-2pm
(863) 763-3308
1815 S. Parrott Avenue (Next to Pogey’s Restaurant)
98 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
T
he cooler temperatures of fall trigger many different changes in Lake Okeechobee. After reaching into the mid- to upper 80s during the summer, the water temperatures have fallen into the high to mid-70s. These cooler water temps trigger longer feeding periods in general. For example, the large trophy-size female bass that make themselves scarce during the summer months suddenly appear on the outside grass lines, stalking the massive schools of baitfish that have hatched out during the summer. Along with the big females, all the bass in the lake are in a feeding frenzy as they eat to prepare for the long spawning season. There are numerous patterns that will work for catching fall bass. It’s a great time to catch bass on a top-water bait. With the many styles, colors and sizes of top-water plugs, it is difficult to pinpoint which really works best, but I will say my experience has been that the bait an angler casts and works with the most confidence is the most successful for that angler. One of my favorite lures is a Pop’r, which has a cupped face that throws water and imitates a fleeing shad. A bang-o-lure is a very old bait, but still performs quite well. It has props that throw a shower of water as you retrieve it. Then, too, there is a Zara Spook Jr. that features a walking-type action, which drives fish crazy at certain times. There are literally hundreds of different baits available, and they all will catch bass in the right situation, but knowing what color and action to use in certain situations is a skill that is acquired by
ONE STOP EXPRESS Across From Lake Okeechobee Open 24 Hours to Serve You!
Capt. Michael Shellen
tying a bait on and making enough casts that you become proficient with it. As fall progresses, the bass will form into large schools and move about the lake, either following the baitfish or responding to the moon phases. Okeechobee is blessed that our bass do not all spawn at the same time. Waves of bass will move in, feed up and then spawn from mid-October through the end of April. What this means is that at any one time, we have bass that are in pre-spawn mode, bass that are actively spawning at this time, and then there are those that have already spawned and are ravenous from its rigors. The long spawning “season” is the thing that separates Okeechobee from all other fisheries in the United States. I started a log of my fishing experiences over 30 years ago, and it tells me that nearly every year that I have fished Lake Okeechobee, the single largest bass of the year is caught between Nov. 1 and the first week of January. This fall has already started out with a bang, with four fish over 9 pounds caught in early October. Aside from the fishing, the town of Okeechobee offers great amenities for the anglers and their families. Great hotels, down-home cooking and friendly folks. Come see for yourself what Lake Okeechobee is all about. O Capt. Michael Shellen Shellen Guide Service
(863) 357- 0892
www.OkeechobeeBassFishing.com
•Souvenirs •Snacks •Beer •Ice •Fishing Tackle •Much More!
Brand New
! Inside & Drive Thru
EBT Accepted
4994 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 863-623-4939
Like us on Facebook@TexacoRunsOnDunkin
««« 1993- 2013
863-763-4080 Steve@LakeshoreMarineInc.com www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 99
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Call/Text
561-718-0536
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Winter 2013 | 101
OHS soccer star follows family tradition
O
By Charles M. Murphy, WOKC’s Voice of the Brahmans
B
rian Guerrero always has had high expectations when it comes to how he plays soccer. His two older brothers were star athletes at Okeechobee High School. Omar Guerrero played college soccer at Warner Southern in Lake Wales. Eddie Guerrero was a two-sport star in soccer and in cross country and track long distance races. Brian drew attention as a youngster, leading Yearling Middle School’s team to unbeaten seasons under Coach Erick Rios. He has done well at Okeechobee High School and won several awards. This year he expects to lead one of the most talented teams OHS has ever produced. “There is a lot of pressure on me. With my team surrounding me and the coaches cheering me on, I handle it pretty good.
Hopefully we’ll have a good season this year,” he said. Guerrero played a lot of soccer in his youth, and although school and a job take up some time, he still focuses a lot on his ball skills and his conditioning. He also loves to play with the younger stars on the team, including Wilson Barahona and a group that entered the ninth grade this year. He said Okeechobee Club Soccer has also improved the high school team as it exposes players to tough competition all year long. “I feel like I played in the off season enough. Wilson also played, and we are growing and getting better and better,” he added. Guerrero agrees that the Brahmans will have a special unit with potential this
Brian Guerrero
year. A key will be chemistry and attitude and leadership. He said he’s ready to take on the leadership role. “A lot of the younger players look up to the older guys. I know I’m just a regular player, but I feel I can show them how to be a leader.” Guerrero and Barahona combined to score nearly 30 goals last year. Brian said he is thrilled because several other players are also threats to score, and that should keep opponents off-balance. He also said that will allow him more scoring opportunities because teams can’t focus just on the two strikers. “I feel like we’re really good as a sport on this campus. I feel we need a little bit more fan support. We do a lot of hard work, and I’m pretty sure we’ll get some fans and try our best,” he added. Okeechobee has won two district soccer titles, and the Brahmans have reached the regional for five consecutive years – and that’s the best record of any boys sport at OHS. O 102 | Winter 2013
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Winter 2013 | 103
AROUND
Okeechobee 2013 Women’s Health Luncheon Presented by Raulerson Hospital
Okeechobee Main Street Mixers
The 2013 Women’s Health Luncheon was held on Oct. 9 at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College. Shown here are Raulerson Hospital CEO Robert Lee and speakers primary care physician Dr. Zynab Hassan, plastic surgeon Dr. Chris Cromwell and board certified gynecologist Dr. James Bradfield.
Karen Smith Presented Ben Eggers Administrator Award
Okeechobee Main Street members held mixers at their businesses: (top) Seacoast Bank (middle) TD Bank and (bottom) Blood Round-Up/VFW South Post.
Karen Smith with Florida/Georgia LCMS District School Executive Mark Brink.
Celebrate My Drive Held at Okeechobee High School Celebrate My Drive presented by State Farm Insurance was held the week of Oct. 18-26 at Okeechobee High School. Sponsored in Okeechobee by State Farm agent Gretchen Robertson’s office, daily events were held to help teens remember the value of keeping two hands on the wheel and two eyes on the road. High schools throughout the country participated for a chance to win a grant or a Kelly Clarkson concert. Shown here, students Chris Epps and Alex Garcia participate in one of the events. 104 | Winter 2013
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Peace Lutheran School Director Karen Smith was awarded the Ben Eggers Administrator of the Year Award at the 2013 Florida/Georgia Lutheran Educators Conference. Smith was recognized for her numerous and outstanding contributions to Christian Educations as a “lifting leader” and a compelling advocate for reaching out to the children in the community.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies
Economic Council of Okeechobee
CARE Award
The Economic Council of Okeechobee awarded the 3rd Quarter CARE Award (Community Award Recognizing Enhancement) to Harbor Community Bank for their beautiful new building located at 2550 Highway 441 South in Okeechobee. The Economic Council of Okeechobee developed this quarterly award to acknowledge and promote the beautification of businesses such as Harbor Community Bank implemented to improve our community, realizing that first impressions and aesthetics are important factors to visitors and potential investors.
Businesses from top to bottom: Family Health and Wellness Center and Milton Carpenter Insurance.
(L-R) Tara Minton Rowley, Paula Younger, Christa Luna, Sharon Johnson, Joe Mullins and G.M. ‘Hoot” Worley, Contractor.
IRSC President Receives Award Indian River State College President Dr. Ed Massey recently was awarded the 2013 Marie Y. Martin Chief Executive Officer Award by the national Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT). The award recognizes Massey for his exceptional leadership, outstanding vision and strong record of accomplishments.
NOPE Task Force Holds Candlelight Vigil at Civic Center NOPE – the Narcotics Overdose Prevention and Education Task Force – hosted a candlelight vigil sponsored by the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and Okeechobee Substance Abuse Coalition at the Okeechobee County Civic Center on Oct. 24 in memory of those lost to drug- and alcohol-related incidents. (Left) Candlelight Vigil www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
Winter 2013 | 105
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List of Advertisers 14K Gold Store ............................. 89 Golden Corral .................................. 25 Goodwill ....................................... 56 A & D Pool Supplies ......................... 101 A & G Concrete Pools ....................... 93 Hampton Inn .................................. 81 Affordable Art & Framing ............... 76 Harbor Community ....................... 69 Alan Jay Toyota ............................... 85 Heartland Discount Pharmacy......... 36 Alarm Company.............................. 101 Highland Pest Control ..................... 84 American Drilling Services............. 76 Anderson Realty ........................... 97 ICS Computers ............................... 96 Inkwell Tattoos ............................... 81 Badcock Furniture........................... 81 Indian River State College ............... 41 Bass Electric ..................................... 49 Indian River State Foundation ........ 65 Bella Rose Day Spa ......................... 74 Jeanette’s Interiors ......................... 51 Berger Clinic .................................... 84 Big Lake Eye Care ............................. 3 Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 38 Brennan Eye Care ............................. 53 Lakeshore Marine .......................... 99 Brian D. Finke, D.P.M. .................... 87 Lakeshore Medical .......................... 51 Bridgette Waldau Studio .............. 18 Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre ........... 25 Brown Cow Sweetery..................... 51 Law Office of Glenn J. Sneider ........... 97 Buxton & Bass Funeral Homes..... 42,43 Linda’s Styles & Trends ................... 106 Buyer Brokerage Co. of Okeechobee 87 Mary Kay ......................................... 76 Caldwell Banker/Berger Real Estate 50 Maxwell Groves ............................. 98 Cary Pigman ................................... 82 MidFlorida Credit Union .................. 75 Center for Laser Hair Removal ....... 37 Mims Veterinary............................... 77 CenterState Bank ............................ 17 Mixon Real Estate Group .................. 37 Chico’s Burrito Shack ...................... 87 Morgan’s Furniture ........................... 28 Morgan Stanley ............................... 67 D4 Powersports ................................ 49 Dairy Queen .................................... 26 New Vision Eye Center ...................... 77 Denise Grimsley ............................... 46 nutmeg’s café ................................. 28 Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ... 101 Doctor Joe Water Treatment ........... 87 Okeechobee Charters ...................... 86 Domer’s .......................................... 62 Okeechobee Claws & Paws ............... 41 Dr. Jennifer Cook ............................ 57 Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep ..... 6 Drs. Clinic Family Health Care......... 94 Okeechobee Health Care ................ 15 Duran Jewelry ............................... 101 Okeechobee Health & Safety Expo ... 60 Okeechobee Main Street ................. 61 Echols Plumbing ............................ 81 Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corp. 66 Everglades Farm Equipment .......... 5 Okeechobee Texaco ......................... 99 Everglades Pediatric Dentistry ........ 47 Evie’s More Than Hair ...................... 31 Parrott Island Grill ........................ 47 Pier II Resort ................................. 78 Family Health & Wellness ............... 30 Peace Lutheran School ................... 76 Fawn’s Studio ................................ 60 Peace Lutheran Dinner/Dance ....... 92 Florida Eye Institute ...................... 91 Physical Therapy Connection.......... 89 Florida Public Utilities ................... 79 Platinum Performance Builders ..... 83 Flower Petals ................................. 76 Pritchards & Assoc. ...................... 87 Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant .............. 64 Gilbert Chevrolet ............................ 107 Gilbert Ford ................................... 12 Quail Creek Plantation ................... 9 Glades AC ....................................... 89 Quality Air Conditioning ........... 52, 102
“Somehow, not only for Christmas, But all the long year through, The joy that you give to others, Is the joy that comes back to you. And the more you spend in blessing, The poor and lonely and sad, The more of your heart’s possessing, Returns to you glad.” ~ John Greenleaf Whittier
Quality Lawn Care ......................... 50 Raulerson Hospital ........................... 2 Raulerson Hospital ..................... 54, 55 Raulerson Hospital ............ Back Cover Raulerson Primary Care ................. 48 Rosato Plastic Surgery Center .......... 39 Royals Furniture ............................ 35 Rustic Now Furniture and Emporium 49 Sanders Dermatology ..................... 11 Sandra Pearce Photography ............ 87 Schueler, Havorson, Weisser & Zoeller 10 Seacoast National Bank .................. 7 Silver Palms RV ............................. 95 Skull Hill Steel ................................ 97 Slide On By Party Rental .................. 50 St. Lucie Battery & Tires .............. 47 Staffords Salon .............................. 51 State Farm Insurance ....................... 50 Sunrise Theatre ............................... 63 Syble’s Flowers & Gifts .................... 64 TD Bank ........................................... 57 Tammy Platt ................................... 89 Teez 2 Pleez ................................... 76 Tire Zone ........................................ 98 Thirty-One .................................... 101 Toni’s Chic Boutique ........................ 84 Top of the Lake Art Fest .................90 Total Roadside Services ...................80 Treasure Coast Food Bank ............... 49 Trinidad Garcia, M.D. ....................... 91 UBS Financial .................................. 19 USA Mobile Drug Testing ................ 31 Waste Management ..................... 71 Water’s Edge RV Resort ................... 89 Wemmer Family Orthodontics ........ 35 Williamson Cattle Company ........... 37 WOKC 100.9 FM ............................. 103 Wolfgang Jewelers ....................... 103 Women’s Health ............................ 100 Worley Construction ........................ 38 Yetti Outfitters, Inc. ....................... 73
Nikki wishes all the advertisers a happy and prosperous holiday season.
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SITUATION #24 HOLIDAY: TRIPPED AND HAD A LIGHTS MISHAP al the merry accidents or mishaps ste Don’t let grinches like unexpected liday. Should anything ho ur yo m fro g kin ma standby so t you, our ER is on and unwelcome affec with your holiday cheer ASAP the to ck ba t ge n ca you handle the the expected, let us family. While you enjoy ecedented response time, unpr unexpected. Faster spital is here pertise, Raulerson Ho ex d an re ca of ty ali qu the most. when you need them
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