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Publisher’s Note
O
ctober is Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness Month. All throughout this issue you will see both us and our advertisers using pink and purple in various ways to promote awareness to these very serious topics.
Continuing with our 10-year celebration, our 10th anniversary look back feature this issue is on Quail Creek Plantation. Our readers first read about Quail Creek in our Winter 2008 issue. Since then, Quail Creek has doubled in capacity, expanded its pavilion, sport-shooting courses, and rebuilt its lodge, yet still offers the same Southern hospitality.
Volume 10, Number 5│September/October 2016
Publisher Susan Giddings Creative Director Lorraine Vogel Graphic Designer Valerie Wegener Editor Chris Felker Writers Rachel Buxton Raye Deusinger Jann Seal
CrossTalk Ministries, founded by Donna Burk and Kathy Arnold, is a ministry of women who help jailed drug abusers recover and bring hope for the hurting. They help the troubled women battle their struggles from within to take their lives back.
Cover/Feature Photographer Sandra Pearce
Meet certified-therapy dogs Lexi, Cody and Rory who, along with their “moms” Joyce Kleven and Shirley Froseth, bring Tail Waggin’ Tutors to kindergartners at Peace Lutheran School for three months each winter to help bring the children confidence and improve their reading skills.
Photographers Gary Burks Sharon Cannon Jane Kaufman
In our Behind the Business features, meet Corey Penrod owner of Penrod Construction and Mike Schriver and the team at Florida Outdoors RV. Be sure to go online to www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com and go behind the scenes to take a tour of their businesses. Okeechobee — are you ready to Shop Small? Small Business Saturday is November 26th and the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County is planning a big promotion. Read all about what they have in store for you and why it’s so important to shop locally. Remember, one small purchase can make a big difference in our local economy. It was a relatively quiet summer, but we still had some great events to cover and share with you, including the FOP 4th of July celebration, the NRA Banquet, Our Village Okeechobee Girls and Guys Night Out and more. Don’t forget to go online to www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com to see all the extra photos. As we continue to celebrate our 10th anniversary year with you, we are always grateful and mindful that without you none of this would be possible. Because after all, it is Okeechobee The Magazine — Your Magazine!
Susan Giddings 4 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Feature Photographer Brandi Watford
Contributors Maureen Burroughs Judge William L. Hendry Blake Marsocci Charles Murphy Account Executives Trish Grygo Jonathan Holt Office Manager Patti Berglund OTM Publications, Inc. DBA Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: (863) 467-0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com President Susan Giddings Founder Maureen Budjinski Okeechobee The Magazine, is published bi-monthly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2016, all rights reserved by OTM Publications, Inc. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.
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I
nside this issue
September/October 2016
24
50
74 Features:
56
Columns:
Quail Creek Plantation.....................24
OHS Sports...................................120 Let's Go Fishing.............................126
By Rachel Buxton
CrossTalk Ministries........................56 By Raye Deusinger
Tail Waggin' Tutors...........................74 By Raye Deusinger
Domestic Violence Awareness.........90 Small Business Saturday...............104 By Susan Giddings
Departments:
Looking Back..................................68 By Judge William L. Hendry
Behind the Business:
Penrod Construction.....................112 Florida Outdoors RV Country.........116
Community Events:
Cover by Sandra Pearce. Like Us on Facebook. Look for the video and camera icons, then visit www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com to view videos and additional photos!
8 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Fourth of July..............................14 Back to School Days.......................20 Leadership.......................................46 YMCA Art Sale.................................50 Gourmet Truck Expo........................94 Friends of NRA Banquet................100 Benefit for Justin Rhodes..............108
Around Okeechobee.....................128 Advertiser Index............................130
nual n A 11th
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a possible 13,386 lives saved! Freshman Campus Auditorium (Behind Golden Corral)
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Community Event
Raindrops Don’t Faze
Fo
J u f o l y h t r u Fu n-See ke rs
Early rain showers didn’t put a damper on the fun on Saturday, July 2, as the Okeechobee Fraternal Order of Police once again hosted the annual Independence Day Celebration at Okee-Tantie Park. This family-friendly event featured lots of vendors, food and fun competitions, including watermelon-eating and frozen T-shirt contests, plus a night sky filled with a fabulous fireworks display. For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.
14 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Photos by Susan Giddings
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 15
BLUE HERON MAJESTIC two story POOL Home on Golf Course! 4Bd/3.5 Ba/2+ Garage. 4359UA/ 5196 TLA. Graceful stairway, chandelier, 22’ ceiling in Fm Rm. Formal living, Dining, Den, office. Sparkling kitchen w/ SS appliances. 3 Marble Fireplaces. Guest wing, Palacious Master Suite- sitting room, wet bar, mirrored work out room. Screened pool. Oversized Lot. DREAM HOME! MLS# 209185 $359,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
TREASURE ISLAND 25TH St. Concrete block 2 Bd/ 1 Ba/ 2 Carport. Great Seawall. Spacious living room. 1248 SF under Air – 1752 TLA. NEW Septic and drain field in 2014 and NEW A/C in 2015. WATERFRONT DELIGHT! MLS#210440 $119,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
RIM CANAL LIVING Southeast. 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 Garage with carport for boat. Screened Lanai entry. Spacious Great Room with two French doors that open to party Lanai with fabulous water view. Bkfast bar seats five. 1620 Sf under air- 4215 TLA. Generac Generator, irrigation, Storm Shutters. SUPERB! MLS#210537 $237,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
STRIP CENTER ON HWY 441 SE 11 units at 1200 SF each. Current tenants include Laudromat, Barbershop, Ambulance Company, jewelry store, thrift shop, bait and tackle shop and restaurant. Building is in good condition. Plenty of parking. Great investment opportunity! Contact listing agent for more details. MLS#210202 $479,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
2016 CBS 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 Garage w/ touchpad opener. Fabulous modern kitchen, butcher block counters, SS appliances, large pantry. Beautiful fixtures and LED lighting. Spacious Master w/ walk in closet. Ceramic tile throughout. Covered Lanai. 1/3 acre. Metal roof. Every detail is designed with quality. 1785 Total Living area. Underground utilities. SUPERB! MLS#210395 $179,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
CONTEMPORARY Cottage Charm! 2008 CBS, 2 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 20x21 garage. Sparkling with beauty – 17 ceilings, French doors, country porch. Delightful kitchen w/ 10’ ceiling, bkfast bar, pantry. Split floor plan. Bright and cheery dining. 1222 Sf under air – 2023 TLA. Party deck. Grand oaks and palms on a beautiful half acre. Furniture negotiable. HOME Sweet HOME! MLS#210656 $149,000 Call Melody (863)697-1975
PRISTINE HOME ~10 ACRES Country Living. 2005 Hardyplank 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 Carport. 10’ ceilings, crown. Custom Island kitchen, farm house sink, granite, 3 pantrys. Majestic Master, sitting area, slipper tub, shower. Screened Lanai. 1300 SF Hardyboard Pole barn. Stone Fire Pit. Three board fencing, gracious paved drive to privacy plus! MLS#210457 $449,000 Call Melody (863) 697-1975
BLUE HERON ~ POOL HOME! Curb appeal PLUS! 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 garage with Gunite pool and domed screened enclosure. Lovely CBS home. Open concept, sparkling white kitchen, split plan, spacious master bath. Plant shelves and special surprises! Truly a home cherished with pride. Golf course and pond views. MLS#210274 $199,000 Call Lori (863) 634-1457
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Community Event
Many successful women of Okeechobee shared their stories with the girls.
Raylee Coleman shows her style in the fashion show.
Kim Speed donated her time to do hair for the fashion show.
Shirlean Graham leads a discussion on violence-free relationships.
Our Village Stages Expos, Giveaways, Discussions for
BACK-TO-SCHOOL DAYS For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.
Vicki Elkins leads a discussion on health and wellness.
Our Village Okeechobee Board of Directors and volunteers.
20 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Magi Cable.
Photos by Gary Burks and Sharon Cannon
On Saturday, July 30, Our Village Okeechobee held a Back to School Expo and Clothing Closet at Okeechobee High School. After traveling through the gymnasium visiting vendor booths from state and local agencies and filling out their “passports,” the participants were able to turn them in for backpacks, clothing, books and school supplies donated by many local sponsors to help them get ready for the start of the school year. Later that evening, both a Girls Night Out and a Guys Night Out were staged for high school students. Kamaria Laffrey spoke to both the girls and guys about living with HIV. Other speakers for the boys group included former NFL player and OHS graduate Lonnie Pryor and many local men who facilitated team-building activities plus a “barbershop discussion” about dealing with social pressures, drugs and alcohol, and dating. The girls had group breakout sessions to discuss health and wellness, dating and relationships, and managing their social life. As a final event, the girls participated in a fashion show to illustrate the dress code at Okeechobee High, as well as how to be fashionable on a budget. For more information on Our Village Okeechobee, visit the group’s Facebook page.
Barbershop discussion.
Guest speaker Lonnie Pryor.
Guest speaker Kamaria Laffrey.
Group photo of organizers, guest speakers and participants. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 21
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th
Anniversary LOOK BACK
Quail Builds Creek
Shooting-Sports Haven By Rachel Buxton Photos by Sandra Pearce and Courtesy of Quail Creek Plantation
24 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Quail Creek P lantation
The five-star has doubled in capacity, expanded its pavilion and sport-shooting courses, rebuilt its lodge and added a western furniture store, yet still offers the same famous Southern hospitality.
M
any make the trek to Okeechobee to escape the hustle and bustle of the metropolis way of life. And yes, Okeechobee does offer a reprieve from interstate traffic and concrete high-rise buildings, but if you truly want a rustic experience and a place where you’re sure to find some rest and relaxation while surrounding yourself with undisturbed nature, you need look no farther than just 20 miles north of town. Nestled deep among the woods and cypress trees sits 6,000 acres of what some would call a hunting and sports-shooting sanctuary. Quail Creek Plantation was originally featured in Okeechobee The Magazine in the Winter 2008 issue. Then, the plantation
was beginning to take off and make a name for itself around the country as the pure essence of serenity, and today, Quail Creek continues to bring in guests from all over, including other countries, offering five-star accommodations to anyone and everyone. “Our sign says public for a reason,” said General Manager Fred Fanizzi. “Everyone is welcome. That’s the projection we want.” Quail Creek was never supposed to have so-called “guests.” When owner Whit Hudson purchased the land in 1998, he had no intention of developing it into a public hunting lodge. It was merely supposed to be a personal place for him to escape
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 25
his busy life in Fort Lauderdale and come hunt and spend quality time with family and friends. “I had no idea it was going to build like it has,” Hudson said. After meeting Fanizzi while hunting in South Florida, Hudson soon made different plans for the vast cattle ranch he had acquired. In less than four years, a public, Southern-style hunting plantation was built, offering clay shooting, guided quail and turkey hunting, as well as pheasant tower shoots and big game hunting.
Managers Fred and Maria Fanizzi.
Together, Hudson, Fanizzi and his wife, Maria, have continued to grow Quail Creek into a hunting haven with outstanding Southern hospitality. “Even though guns are going off, it is relaxing,” Hudson said laughingly. “It is a totally different kind of place. Very laid-back.” In just a short eight years, Quail Creek has doubled its occupancy capacity, adding five additional private cabins to the plantation, for a total of 10 fully equipped one-bedroom cottages, eight private king-size suites and a two bedroom house. Quail Creek can comfortably accommodate up to 36 over night guests. 26 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
‘Our sign says public for a reason. Everyone is welcome. ’
~ Fred Fanizzi
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 27
The plantation’s pavilion’s capacity was also increased by a third of the size; the retail space was expanded to include a gathering area; and a third sporting clays course was added to continue to meet the demand. In 2009, Hudson and the Fanizzis took on the challenge of building a new lodge from the ground up for guests in less than six months. With a fundraising event scheduled, the race was on to build it in time. The old lodge consisted of a double-wide
28 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
modular home with limited space. The newly built lodge has developed into a 9,000-square-foot, rustic yet contemporary, Cracker-style lodge with more than enough room for guests to enjoy and kick back. It is complete with an open bar, pool tables, comfy couches and outdoor seating with fire pits. “It was a large cooperative effort between the building department and planning and zoning,” said Fanizzi. “We worked together for the good of the county.”
Photo: Courtesy of Tina DaSilva Photography
‘ I knew from the first time I had dinner there that this is where I had to marry my best friend. It was a dream come true! ’ ~ Amy Yee
Photo this side, bottom and top: Courtesy of Tina DaSilva Photography
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 29
Something you can always count on while visiting Quail Creek is a five-star dining experience. With three renowned gourmet chefs on staff, your palate will always be satisfied. Within the past three years, Quail Creek has begun offering an eight-course wild game dinner during the month of August, providing something a little more unique to its patrons. Because of the demand and constant comings and goings of guests, Quail Creek has increased its staff from 19 fulltime employees in 2008 to 35, which includes three full-time hunting guides and an onsite gunsmith. They’ve even increased their hunting dogs from six to an excess of 60 high-quality trained dogs. “We don’t have employees,” Fanizzi said, “we have coworkers. We all share the same passion and goal, which is customer satisfaction. They don’t work for a paycheck, they work for the people they serve.” 30 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
From left: Chef Rob Pociask, Chef Jeannie White, Maria and Fred Fanizzi, Chef Johnny Vernaglia.
‘Our three chefs are like three pieces to a pie. They complement each other and give you a complete culinary experience.’
~ Fred Fanizzi
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 31
From left: Rick Pittenger, Debra Hollingsworth, Maria and Fred Fanizzi and Mike Luongo.
32 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
On average, one or more competitive sporting clay tournaments or charity events is staged each week at the plantation. And to meet the needs of all guests during those times and during season, several part-time “coworkers” and guides are utilized.
‘Even though guns are going off, it is relaxing. It is a totally different kind of place. ’ ~ Quail Creek owner Whit Hudson
The Berger Clinic Adult Health Care Diagnosis and Management of Medical Conditions Preventive Health
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Dr. Berger and Staff have proudly served the Okeechobee area since 1985.
34 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Quail Creek has become a popular turnkey venue for hosting community events, weddings and tournaments, including the Women in the Outdoors annual event and their signature tournament, the Gator Cup, that brings over 600 shooters. Fanizzi and wife Maria always encourage participants to book accommodations in Okeechobee during ď ľ the various functions.
‘ We’re excited about the new avenues the land is going to provide for our big game hunting, turkey hunting and quail hunting.’ ~ Fred Fanizzi
“We feel it is a two-way street,” said the Fanizzis. “We want to help the local community as much as we can.” Along with helping Okeechobee’s tourism development thrive, Quail Creek also supports Okeechobee by donating and contributing to several local organizations, including the annual livestock show and local rodeos, as well as providing two scholarships to graduating seniors.
36 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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September/October 2016 | 37
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38 | September/October 2016
STOCK Sponsor
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
To further support the youth, Quail Creek started the Young Guns program, a nonprofit local chapter of the Scholastic Clay Target Program, which helps promote and teach scholastic clay target shooting to kids ages eight to 18. The program started with just three participants and has now prospered to over 100 young shooters who have gained national recognition for winning countless national championships in all different disciplines, including trap, skeet and sporting clays.
Making Dreams Come True for 30 years Mack “Hoot” Worley
A State Certified General Contractor St. Lic. CGC1507657
Hoot and Joy Worley
‘ We feel it is a two-way street. We want to help the community as much as we can.’
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863-467-2541
gmworleyinc@gmail.com • www.facebook.com/G.M.Worley, Inc.
~ Fred and Maria Fanizzi
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 39
Another new venture that sets Quail Creek apart is the addition of a highend western furniture store. Quail Creek Décor, also known as Santa Fe Ranch, is managed by owner Hudson’s wife, Gwen.
“Her store wasn’t big enough,” Hudson said, “and this gave her the opportunity to grow. It’s a very unique store. People drive for hours just to come. It’s more of a destination than a store.”
Gwen was the interior decorator who furnished and decorated Quail Creek from top to bottom. She previously had a storefront in West Palm Beach and met her husband, Whit, when he was developing Quail Creek.
With over 20 years experience, Gwen and Santa Fe Ranch have been featured in numerous magazines, including Better Homes & Gardens and Country Living. Gwen has also helped furnish and decorate houses all over the world.
Gwen and Whit Hudson.
“I had this tiny ad in the bargain trader,” Gwen said. “I remember him pulling up in a Hummer and walking outside and asking if he was from the government because I had never seen a vehicle like that before.”
Gwen, along with her store manager, is fluent in Spanish and is always happy and willing to spend as much time as needed meeting with customers to ensure their vision becomes a reality.
“I’m very hands-on,” she said. “I love greeting the customers and sitting down with them. What we sell online is different than in the store. We offer a lot of one-of-a-kind items.”
Over the years, the two became friends and eventually began dating, and then married in 2010. “I didn’t like him very much at first,” laughed Gwen. “He told me ‘no’ a lot when I would suggest something, but he’s the most amazing person I’ve ever met.” After they married, Gwen moved to Fort Lauderdale to be with Hudson, and the two quickly began developing a furniture superstore out at Quail Creek. 40 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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Dr. Randall Mims www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 41
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T Hudson and the Fanizzis are always looking for ways to make Quail Creek bigger and better for their guests. The past eight years have been full of growth and expansion, and the most recent acquisition of land, 2,000 acres to be exact, opens the doors for several new possibilities down the road, Hudson said. “We’re excited about the new avenues the land is going to provide for our big game hunting, turkey hunting and quail hunting,” said Fanizzi.
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February 17: Mutts Gone Nuts
November 14 : Craig Karges: Experience the Extraordinary
February 23: Benise: Spanish Nights
December 3 & 4: The Living Christmas Tree
February 25: Motown Magic
December 9: Acrobats of Cirquetacular’s Snowkus Pocus
March 3: Rhythm of the Dance March 14: William Close and the Earth Harp Collective
January 12: Olé! January 21: Gulliver’s Travels
March 17: The Magic of Bill Blagg Live
January 23: Beehive the 60’s Musical January 28: Free Concert: Across the Universe January 31: Artrageous! February 13: Anything Goes
What was started based on friendship and trust has turned into a 14-year joint effort that only continues to grow and gain national and international notoriety. “You can’t run it without good people,” said Hudson. “Fred and Maria have done a great job. They have really made Quail Creek what it is today.”
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Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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Community Event
J U L Y The leadership class with Mike Lyons at the Chamber luncheon.
DeAnne Martin slides down the pole as City Administrator Marcos Montes De Oca and firefighter Josh Sanders look on.
A U G U S T
County Administrator Robbie Chartier.
Mark Bragel, Jennifer Williamson and Dawn Hoover prepare barbecue lunches.
Brian Melear, CEO of Raulerson Hospital, speaks to the class.
46 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Jonathan Bean speaks about Martha's House.
Photos by Sharon Cannon
Hello from the Mira Realty Team! We are so excited to be in business with you!
Mark Mayers speaks to the group about Real Life Children‘s Ranch.
Leadership Candidates Learn About Government, Services
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The Chamber of Commerce conducted its sixth and seventh leadership classes July 13 and Aug. 17. The July session covered city and county government, and the August session was on health and human services. The leadership class also conducted a successful barbecue fundraising event in the park, proceeds from which will go toward their class project. The eight-month program is designed to cultivate leadership through education, exposure to the community and interaction among class members.
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Community Event
Photos by Sharon Cannon
Cathleen Blair and Christian Wheatley. The children show off their paintings.
YMCA Art Sale Helps Send Kids Off to Camp, Pool The fourth annual YMCA Art Auction, sponsored by the Children’s Services Council, Harbor Community Bank, the Okeechobee County School District and Waste Management, took place at the Everglades Elementary School pavilion and raised money to help send Okeechobee children to summer camp and swim lessons. For more information, visit www.ymcatreasurecoast.org.
Dowling Watford and Linden Wauchope.
50 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
District Executive Director Shawn Keil and Derrick Williams.
YMCA Treasure Coast PresidentCEO John Lass, Executive Director of Children's Services Council Cathleen Blair and District Executive Director Shawn Keil.
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Okeechobee Health Care Facility (OHCF), Okeechobee’s 5-Star Rehab, long-term care, Alzheimer’s/Dementia nursing facility, is proud to announce that its administrator, Andrew R. McKillop, was honored with the 2016 Nursing Home Administrator-of-the-Year Award from the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA).
From left: Administrator-in-Training Sandy Perry, Administrator Andy McKillop, Assistant Administrator Wayne Allen and Quality Assurance Nurse Donna Stiller.
Born in Illinois, Andy has worked as an administrator in a hospital or nursing home setting for over 55 years, serving the past 18 years at OHCF. For over half a century, he has demonstrated proven leadership and a commitment to performance excellence. Andy was previously honored nationally with an appointment to both the White House Conference on Aging and the President’s Commission on Employment of the Handicapped, and was also presented the FHCA Caring for Seniors Award and the prestigious Arthur H. Harris Government Services Award. As a longtime FHCA legislative committee member, Andy has a keen insight into current regulations which he has helped shape over the decades as a result of his hands-on advocacy. Andy has also served as district president, preceptor, instructor and adjunct professor for five health-care administration programs at the Master’s and Ph.D. levels. He is an advocate for quality care at the local and statewide level, and has been an active participant of FHCA’s annual Lobby Wednesday since its inception, giving him the opportunity to remind lawmakers and administrators alike of the true intent behind legislation that impacts state regulations. Andy often shares that, as a result of his faith, he operates under a higher calling than a paycheck. He walks the halls of OHCF, sharing stories and hugs with residents and their families. Andy’s quick wit, engaging smile and knowledge of the Bible are soon apparent upon making his acquaintance. He is asked to play old hymns on his harmonica frequently for the residents of OHCF and cherishes his role as deacon at Northside Baptist. Andy also delights in his annual portrayal of Santa Claus. A gifted writer of poetry, a talent he inherited from his father, Andy writes an annual scripturally-based Christmas and Easter poem for the Okeechobee Community Choir cantatas. Andy is sure to hear at the appropriate time, “Well done, faithful servant!”
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Ministry of women for women helps jailed drug abusers recover, then encourages them to join CrossTalk’s ranks and give back. By Raye Deusinger
Photos by Susan Giddings and Courtesy of CrossTalk
T
T
his is the story of a woman — no, hundreds of women, a church, a jail, addiction, recovery, God, hope, failure, faith — but most of all success.
There are two types of women in this story, both with addictions. One type, addicted to all manner of drugs; the other type, addicted to “loving her” out of that addiction. Both are grateful for each other, but more, both are grateful to God. Together, they are CrossTalk, a local ministry of women for women, founded by Donna Burk. In 2010, Donna was working with Breakthrough Recovery Services, which helps adults with drug or alcohol problems, anger management and other court-appointed services. Their help includes in-jail counseling. When seeing female clients, the counselor needed to have a woman with him and assigned Donna that position. “I sat week after week listening to their stories of addiction, worthlessness and lost hope. I felt God speaking to me, saying, ‘I want you to tell them I love them.’” Donna enlisted a friend, Kathy Arnold, who said, “I had been praying for years for the Lord to lead me to a ministry where I could serve Him.” Together they went to the Okeechobee County jail to learn how they could begin. The jail asked Donna the name of her organization, and she said, “CrossTalk, because we were going to talk about the Cross.”
Team members Bobbi Poole, Jamie Cooper, Dolly Young, Kathy Arnold, Donna Burk, Jackie Morales and Julie Reno. Not pictured: Mercedes Holland, Maureen Bradley, Traci Lee, Leah Lamb and Sonja Kelly. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 57
Today, after gathering a group of like-minded sisters, they go to the jail regularly to witness to these women who feel as though they have lost everything. They don't just speak platitudes, but reality. They visit, take paper for a journal, envelopes and books to the inmates. The jail has many rules for those who come to witness. Some of those include no click pens, no hardback books and no spiral-bound books. Through these rules, the “girls” learn that the visitors are under an authority also and must be respected. Donna has often told them, “You are in here; if you don't want to play the game, don't come in here again.” Savannah Beckman, a mom with five boys from ages eight to 14, learned these
lessons the hard way. She said: “I've been on and off of drugs since I was 13. I'd be clean for a while, then back again.” Savannah spent her affection on drugs, not on her boys, and lost them. She even heard her mother tell her she never wanted to talk to her again. She said, “The ladies came into the jail, and through them I have my faith back and am in a relationship with God.” July 19 marked a full year clean for her. “Today I have my mother and boys back in my life,” said Savannah. “I have a car, a job and even a Facebook post of my progress. I share that no matter what I have done, I am forgiven and I can live a successful life and be a productive member of society.”
Savannah Beckman.
‘Personal change starts from within … CrossTalk is a catalyst for that, and provides resources for those who want to make a positive change.’ 58 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
~ Sgt. Mark Garland, who runs the visitor program
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September/October 2016 | 59
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Okeechobee Sheriff Department Sgt. Mark Garland is in charge of the program under which CrossTalk visits prisoners. He said: “I'm a firm believer in self-improvement whether one is incarcerated or not. Personal change starts from within; otherwise, all the programs in the world won't work. CrossTalk is a catalyst for that, and provides resources for those who want to make a positive change.” He said that sometimes inmates come to the CrossTalk meetings as a way to be out of their cell for a while. “But even some of those people,” he said, “become some of the most committed ones. The visitors from CrossTalk seem like genuine, sincere people.” Donna said: “Our motto is ‘Hope for the Hurting.’ God says, ‘Speak the truth in love.’ We are not rude or disrespectful and find the jail's rules and the Lord's rules blend together. We have three women who were in there who now go back in and talk to the girls because
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Ashley Rippoll.
addicts listen to someone whose life has been transformed, and that gives them hope.” Okeechobee Undersheriff Noel Stephen said: “I have been undersheriff for 11 1/2 years. During that time, we have supported numerous programs to help work on recidivism and for inmates to develop a mind-set to make them successful when they get out of jail. CrossTalk is one of those programs. In my opinion, both personal and professional, it has been one of the most successful that has come through the jail. The ladies establish relationships with these individuals that extend beyond their time within the jail. They've been here long enough now that their group is comprised of several of their success stories.” • • • • • • •
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Traci Lee is now clean. A former addict, she now leads her own CrossTalk group every other Sunday. To do that, a girl must be out for a year, clean and approved and licensed by the jail to do so.
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“Successful” does not apply only to the program, but to the individual as well. Ashley Rippoll began drinking as a teen in high school, feeling something was missing in her life; drugs became her comfort. “When I was in too deep,” she said, “I'd cry out to God to take the pain away, to fill the void. He did. He sent me to jail. There, God sent CrossTalk, and I learned that I could find a way out through God. It worked for me for a while, but I'd fall back into the cycle again, spending about seven years in and out of jail.” Ashley finally faced charges, which resulted in an 18-month prison sentence. “Donna and Kathy kept coming in,” she said. “I knew I had to hear the Word, to stay in the Word.” Today, Ashley is a secretary, who, with her boss, has opened a nonprofit emergency response team to help out when natural disasters strike. She is mending her relationship with her 12-year-old daughter, who was only four when Ashley's life fell apart. She is doing online classes with hopes of becoming a drug addiction counselor. Two years clean, she said: “CrossTalk never gave up on me. Over the years, I found that every time they came, they had the specific word I needed at that moment.”
‘CrossTalk never gave up on me. Over the years, I found that every time they came, they had the specific word I needed at that moment.’ ~ Ashley Rippoll, who got help getting clean and went on to found a nonprofit
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Today, CrossTalk corresponds with 53 women in prison. Donna has six three-ring notebooks, two to three inches thick, packed with letters from prisoners filled with not only words of praise and hope but pictures they have drawn that show their souls. CrossTalk members personally answer every letter sent to them. You can access CrossTalkMinistries.org and see many of these letters. Donna knows the battle is always out there. In partnership with More 2 Life Ministries, the girls are welcomed at services. When she gets out of jail, More 2 Life Ministries gives each girl a huge bag with toiletries, a nail file, socks, body spray, things to make them feel “girly,” a journal, a pen and a Bible, and invite — not require — them to come.
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When they come through the door, the whole church welcomes them. Recently, 15 girls were invited to a special reception, and received from the congregation a standing ovation. They were loved and accepted. Pastor John Garner said: “These ladies of CrossTalk are reaching women for the Lord. There are many women in our congregation whose lives are completely different from what they were. This is a very positive ministry, and the women of CrossTalk continue with aftercare when the girls get out.” One of those girls is Joanna Kemp, who grew up with “amazing” parents. She had a child at a young age and quit going to church. Her world fell apart when her father died of cancer. Depression led her into alcohol, then pills, then jail. When invited, in jail, to meet the ladies of CrossTalk, she was afraid, but she went. “They gave me a Bible; they cared, prayed and gave me Scriptures of hope. They brought me back to the Father, who will never leave me.” Though they separated for a time, Joanna, her husband and son are now back together. She said the honest answers she gave her son have shown him that there are consequences for a person’s actions.
‘I was baptized in June and see God opening doors for me everywhere. I know now to always pray with trust.’ ~ Joanna Kemp, who found aid with CrossTalk
“I have been out for nine months and am serving three years probation. I am waitressing in a job I love. I was baptized in June and see God opening doors for me everywhere. I know now to always pray with trust.” CrossTalk is entering its seventh year of ministry with hopes and prayers of one day having a transition house where women can stay for a month while learning how to move into society. Here they will learn how to dress, apply for a job, write a resume, use makeup and give back to the community. The CrossTalk organizers tell them: “You've taken from the system long enough; society is not responsible for taking care of you. Do something to give back.”
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Looking Back By Judge William L. Hendry
Health ! Care in
T
he early pioneers in the area now called Okeechobee consisted mostly of scattered homesteads in southwestern Brevard County that lacked any county services. In 1896, Peter and Louisiana Raulerson moved their family to the area near Taylor Creek, which became known as “the Bend” and then “Tantie.” By 1898, they had established a school and employed George M. Hubbard, M.D., as the first teacher. Dr. Hubbard had received his medical degree from Long Island (N.Y.) Hospital College in 1877 and was licensed in Florida in 1898. Dr. Charles Roy Darrow and his wife, Dr. Anna Darrow, both graduates of the University of Chicago, came to Okeechobee in 1912 and served this area until 1922. Both were certified to practice pharmacy as well as medicine. The Darrows had their Park Pharmacy downstairs and their medical and operating rooms upstairs in their two story building on South Park Street. Both buildings are still in use 100 years later.
Okeechobee Through the Years
During these early years, settlers had to rely on home remedies as it was often difficult to get to a doctor, although Dr. Anna Darrow often made house calls in her Model T Ford. While several other boys and I were playing in a field near the home of Hiram and Annie Raulerson, their son, Raulie, got a bad cut on his foot from some rusty metal, and it was bleeding profusely. The Raulersons’ maid gathered some cobwebs and applied them to the cut to stop the bleeding. Raulie would go on to receive a medical degree and serve as a physician in Okeechobee. The HCA Raulerson Hospital is named for Raulie. Another early physician and surgeon was Dr. Francis E. Thomason, who received his medical degree in 1894. Dr. Thomason and Rufus P. Fletcher, a pharmacist, were owners of the Okeechobee Drug Co.
Darrow family, left to right: Dorothy Darrow, Dr. Roy Darrow and Dr. Anna Darrow.
Between 1920 and 1930, other doctors who served Okeechobee County were: Dr. Bloxam Edward Alsobrook (1920) with offices in the People’s Bank Building; Dr. Hady C. McDermid, physician and surgeon (1922); Dr. Charles A. O’Quinn (1925); Dr. Henry D. Smith (1926), with offices in the Bank of Okeechobee Building; Dr. C.L. Davis, surgeon specializing in diseases of women (1926); and Dr. Michael J. Lingo (1928). In 1938, Dr. Steve R. Johnston, physician and surgeon, came to Okeechobee and opened offices over the Park Pharmacy. He later moved back to Fort Pierce, but returned to Okeechobee in 1958 when the Louisiana Raulerson Hospital opened.
September Last meeting of Hospital Board before HCA assumed management. 1976 Left to right: Osee Jeffers, Bob Butler and Hospital Administrator John Ed Burdeshaw.
Between 1940 and 1945, there was a period of time that Okeechobee County was without a doctor, even though Dr. Edwin F. Dudley lived here (he had not been licensed in Florida). The State Defense Council gave Dr. Dudley a certificate to practice in Okeechobee for the duration of World War II.
Dentists
Dr. Carter Randolph Bibb and Dr. Wheeler Newberry Coon were the first dentists to serve the new City of Okeechobee in 1915. Dr. William Henry Clemons opened his dental office in 1916 in the Bank of Okeechobee Building. Dr. Mace Bean earned her dental degree from the University of Buffalo in 1904 and came to Okeechobee in 1918. She was the first woman dentist to serve this area. Dr. Thomas Theophilus Coleman served Okeechobee between 1930 and 1950. Dr. Bibb was an interesting man. He was born in Alabama in 1875 and became a dentist by 1900. In 1914, Dr. Bibb came to Okeechobee and became interested in politics, and for many years was one of the four or five registered Republicans in the area. In the ’20s he had a dental office in the Bank of Okeechobee Building, but later had his own small building on Osceola Street just south of the present OUA building. Dr. Bibb loved dogs and would leave his back door open so dogs could come in and drink water from the toilet, which he would flush now and then. He also had a large table in the back room for his poker club. Dr. Bibb lost his driver’s license in the early 1940s and would get high school boys to drive him to work and let them keep and use his car. I drove him for two or three months when I was a senior and got to keep his 1946 Mercury. When I would pick him up at his home on south Osceola Street (the house is still there) to take him to work, he wanted to stop whenever he saw a dog. He would let the dog in the back and take it to his office for feeding.
Nurses
In the early days of Tantie and Okeechobee, doctors did not often have the assistance of nurses, but Merida Drawdy Raulerson, who had moved to this area in 1903, was indispensable as a midwife. She was licensed in 1913, and during her many years of service she delivered over 500 babies. I was one of them. My mother, Hope Duncanson Hendry, became a registered nurse in 1918 and received her training in Stamford, Conn., and was a floor supervisor at Brooklyn Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Hospital in New York City
Dr. George Hubbard 1898 Certificate to practice medicine in Florida, filed in St. Lucie County 1913.
September 23, 1915 Okeechobee Call.
Below: East end of Bank of Okeechobee Building Left to right: John Duncanson, Hope Duncanson, RN, Nell Garlington, RN Anna Duncanson and Rosa Marsh.
1927 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 69
in 1925 when she came to Okeechobee to visit her parents, John and Anna Duncanson. John and his partner, George Rogers, were engaged in constructing the courthouse and the high school at that time. Nurses were needed, and my mother stayed and worked with Drs. McDermid and O’Quinn until 1928, when she married my father, W.J. Hendry, and they went into the fish and frog business. My mother skinned hundreds of pounds of frog legs during the next few years. Miss Nell Garlington was also a nurse here in 1927-1928 and was maid of honor at my mother’s wedding.
Early Hospitals
1946 Raulie Raulerson Age 15.
A two-story brick building on the corner of Eighth Street and Parrott Avenue was the home of Dr. Hady C. McDermid as well as a “hospital” where several rooms were set aside for patients. The hospital was operated by Drs. McDermid, C.L. Davis and O’Quinn during the 1920s. The building was destroyed by fire in 1933. Another two-story building that served as a hospital during the 1920s was known as the “Idel Ease Apartments” and later was a residence. The building has been demolished and the site is now part of a parking lot on the east side of First Baptist Church.
Louisiana Raulerson Hospital
In April 1946, the Okeechobee County Commission adopted a resolution to locate a “municipal hospital” in Okeechobee, and conveyed title to H.H. Raulerson, trustee for Okeechobee Memorial Hospital. An architect, W.W. Hatcher of Fort Pierce, was employed to prepare plans and specifications. The Commission requested Gov. Caldwell to appoint H.H. Raulerson, Alto Watford Sr., J.O. Pearce, E.M. Meserve and S.H. McDonald as hospital trustees.
Louisiana Raulerson Hospital.
1949
Raulerson Hospital. 70 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
F.W. Zander began construction of a 4,500-square-foot, 12-bed hospital in 1947 and completed it by the end of 1948. The delay was due to a shortage of materials following WWII. In January 1949 the name of the hospital was changed to “Louisiana Raulerson Hospital” in honor of the first settlers of Okeechobee. The 12-bed hospital reached a high of 23 admissions by 1959 and a new hospital was planned. Physicians during that time were Drs. H.C. McDermid Jr., Leon Eisenman, David L. Rowe and Clarence Rogero.
Okeechobee General Hospital
By February 1960, the county commission began to acquire four blocks of land as a site for the hospital and issued $250,000 worth of hospital bonds for construction. Plans for the 18,500-square-foot, 25-bed hospital were prepared. Final cost of building and equipment was $575,000 and the project was completed by the end of December 1961. When Okeechobee General Hospital opened in January 1962, the medical staff consisted of Drs. Bruce Mills, James A. Horton, David Bleach, Steve R. Johnston and H.H. Raulerson Jr., and eventually had a medical staff of 11. Betty Jane Whidden was the first registered nurse, and Jesse Cliff Simonds was the first of five administrators. An addition to this hospital was completed in 1967, making it a 51-bed facility. In August 1976, the county commission contracted with Hospital Corporation of America to take over management of Okeechobee General Hospital until HCA could build its own hospital. The Louisiana Raulerson Hospital and the Okeechobee General Hospital, both operating as county hospitals, continuously had severe debt problems, with collections rarely exceeding 40 percent of billings. The hospital administrators and the unpaid hospital trustees tried to keep these needed facilities out of debt. County taxpayers enjoyed substantial relief when HCA opened its hospital in January 1979.
And that’s the way it was! 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 1990-1993 and senior judge in the 10th and 19th circuits from 1996-2010.
Fall
1946
Coach Starling giving Raulie Raulerson some football advice.
February 22,
1963
Okeechobee News.
Hendry is married to Etta Merle Sullivan and has three children, five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Okeechobee General Hospital.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 71
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congratulates and thanks the following team members for their care, passion and commitment to our hospital and to the community of Okeechobee. 5 Years of Service
Back row: CFO Terry Brown, Deborah Benitez, Markeisha Youmans, Kathy Selby, Keith Bourgault, Holley Sutherlin, Deborah Brigner, Careem Searchwell, Jody Shanklin, Mary Principe, Cheryl Cardy Front row: Christine Sanchez, Jenny Pung, Janie Poland, Diane Kaufman, Carla Thorpe, John Logan, Jeanette Soltan, Melinda Hernandez, Lucy Lopez-Huaman, Phyllis Stone, Robin Arrieta, Benny Mathew, CEO Brian Melear (not pictured: Stephanie Carter, Adan Cortez, Jeremy Engler, Anthony Farrow, Cheryl Grogg, Debie Johnson, Maria Judilla, Ronald Lewis, Dina Ray, Roberto Reyez, April Robbins, Natasha Stuber, Kelsey Swenson, Mariah Wagoner, Virginia White)
10 years
Back row: Kathy Selby, Erica Whitehead, Cheryl Cardy Front row: CFO Terry Brown, Melanie Giles, Kelly Taylor, Rebecca Hendrix, Yvonne Arn, Audra Moody, Marion Barrett, Robin Arrieta, CEO Brian Melear (not pictured: Edwidge Bourdeau, Ashley Cale, Michael Carrozza, Laurie Garelick, Dr. Tashseen Izhar, Martha McDowell)
20 years
Back row: Alan Goode, Kathy Selby, Deborah Benitez, Cheryl Cardy, Front row: CFO Terry Brown, Tonya Jackson, Thelma Reyez, Wendi Miller, James Black, Linda Hale, Gerry Soriano (15 year), Andrea Mulligan, CEO Brian Melear (not pictured: Dr. Iqbal Ahmed, Dr. Leland Heller)
30 years
CEO Brian Melear, Deborah Benitez, CFO Terry Brown
15 years
CFO Terry Brown, Benny Mathew, Joseph Doyle, Robin Arrieta, Robert Groth, April Bacher, Melanie Giles, Judy Boswell, Cheryl Cardy, Mary Lawrence, Ron Corrado, CEO Brian Melear (not pictured: Alice Ferrell, Tricia Godwin, Jacqueline Parshall, Jay Saunders)
25 years
CFO Terry Brown, Cheryl Stoe, Melissa Mills, Becky McKee, Dorcas Hirst, CEO Brian Melear (not pictured June Lighty)
35 years
CFO Terry Brown, Cheryl Stoe, Deborah Krum, CEO Brian Melear
Tail Waggin’ Tutors serve as passive teachers to kindergartners at Peace Lutheran School, helping to relieve youngsters’ shyness.
Dogs’ New Trick: Playing Young Readers’
Lyrik Rhoden and Lexi.
Best Friend
By Raye Deusinger Photos by Brandi Watford, Susan Giddings and Courtesy of Joyce Kleven
74 | September/October 2016
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O
keechobee's Peace Lutheran Kindergarten usually has only 10 to a dozen five-year-old students each year, but it has four dedicated teachers, Letta Jordan and three known only by their first names — Cody, Rory and Lexi. Letta is certified in all subjects, but Cody, Rory and Lexi are certified in listening. Cody and Rory are Doberman pinschers, Lexi is an English setter; but all three are Tail Waggin' Tutors. These three tutors have been teaching their class with tremendous success, teaching children patience, confidence and joy in learning.
Deanna Amenold and Lexi.
ď ľ
Ty Elmore and Cody.
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 75
Lexi's “mom” is Joyce Kleven; Cody and Rory's “mom” is Shirley Froseth. These ladies, neighbors for 35 years in Bemidji, Minn., (home of the legendary Paul Bunyan) are also neighbors each winter in Okeechobee at the Old River Run RV Park. They teamed up when each got a new puppy and decided to walk them together. Joyce was a math teacher, Shirley a phys ed teacher. Joyce taught dog obedience classes; Shirley became interested in canine therapy.
Joyce Kleven with Lexi and Shirley Froseth with Cody and Rory.
Retired, Shirley and her husband, Jerry, had been wintering in Okeechobee since the 1990s; Joyce would visit her friend each season. When she retired in 2006, it seemed natural for Joyce to buy a home next door to Shirley. They loved the area, could walk their dogs each day on the dike and enjoy the laid-back Okeechobee lifestyle.
Joyce and Shirley, friends and neighbors for over 35 years, walk the dogs 2-4 miles every morning and afternoon together. They use that time to continue training and socializing the dogs.
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They had been taking their dogs to local nursing homes and hospitals in Minnesota. Joyce said: “Shirley was the first to read about dog therapy and thought we could perhaps try it with our dogs. She began therapy dog training in Palm City, tested and got certified there and told me about it when she came home. When I retired, I watched her and then joined her. We found we really enjoyed it and have been working together ever since.” Loving Okeechobee, they discussed teaching the program, but could find no school that was interested. Winter attendees at Peace Lutheran Church, in 2008 suggested the idea to Director Karen Smith, who was instantly receptive, and the Peace Lutheran School Tail Waggin’ Tutors program was born.
‘The dogs love working with the children as much as the children love them.’ ~ Shirley Froseth, who co-founded the program with fellow ex-teacher, dog ‘mom’ and longtime neighbor Joyce Kleven
Zavian Gomez and Lexi.
Brooke Phillips and Cody.
Christopher Lawrence with Cody and Rory. 78 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
‘We both get to watch them [the children] build confidence and skills.’ ~ Shirley Froseth
“With only 10 to 12 children,” said Shirley, “we both get to work with all of them for three months and watch them build confidence and skills. With larger schools up north, we couldn't do that.” The bond between child and dog is strong. Shirley said: “If one of our dogs met a child in town, he would remember them. The dogs love working with the children as much as the children love them.” The ladies agree that the size of the class, where the dogs and children get to know each other well, contributes to its success. When meeting with Joyce and Shirley for this story, the dogs laid calmly nearby in the carport. But when Joyce went into the house and came out carrying the bag that she takes to every therapy session, instantly the dogs got up, tails wagging and ready to go. These “canine kids” would love to go to school every day.
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They go to Peace Lutheran School each Friday, January through March. Two children are brought in at a time to spend time with the dogs. After the hellos, the children read books to them. Even those who begin somewhat shyly become avid readers.
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September/October 2016 | 79
Brooke Phillips with Cody and Rory.
Nathan Santiago and Lexi.
‘Most of the children improve every week ... they bloom in three months.’ ~ Director Karen Smith
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Joyce and Shirley start very slowly each year, as some children have never been around a dog, others are afraid of dogs, and some have never even petted one. Progress moves from suspicion to trust, from hesitancy to enthusiasm, from fear to love. Once a week is chapel. The pastor uses the dogs to illustrate various lessons. For example, he has taught that everyone makes mistakes, but God loves us anyway. The ladies explain that the dogs might chew up a leash, or take a toy from one another. These actions might be “bad,” they say, but the dogs are still loved.
Thank you Okeechobee for Your Support for Over 9 Years
118 South Parrott Avenue | Okeechobee, FL | 863-467-7989
‘The dogs make them want to read better.’ ~ Teacher Jennifer Elmore
Landon Marsocci and Lexi.
Director Smith said: “Most of the children improve every week. The dogs show love, and the children reciprocate; they bloom in three months. Even the very shy open up because the dogs don't judge but, by their cooperation, they encourage.” The handlers teach that because someone looks “different” doesn't mean the person can't be your friend. Lexi has long hair; Cody and Rory have short hair. Lexi is white and black; Cody and Rory are black
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 81
THINK CREMATION IS THE SAME WHEREVER YOU GO?
Think again.
Don’t fall for misleading claims! Buxton & Bass Funeral Home & Crematory is the only local funeral home with an onsite crematory.
Other funeral homes claim that they offer quality cremation services and return all the ashes. But how do they know? Many use a third party crematory, which means they are sending your loved one out of town.
You’ll always have peace of mind with Buxton & Bass. We are the ONLY funeral home in Okeechobee that owns and operates their own crematory. Your loved one never leaves our care. Put your trust in Buxton & Bass Funeral Home & Crematory and know where your loved one is at all times.
Teacher Letta Jordan and Director Karen Smith.
and rust. Lexi has hanging ears; Cody and Rory have pointed ears. By brushing the animals' teeth, they emphasize the N. Parrott Avenue |Family-Owned Okeechobee, Florida 34972 Okeechobee’s400 Only Full-Service, & Operated Funeral need Homefor the children's personal care. (863) 763-1994 | www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com Once, showing the brushing of Cody's teeth, one little boy put his hands over his mouth and said, “I forgot to brush my teeth this morning.” Lesson learned!
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1852 NW 9th Street Okeechobee FL 34972 Store 863.763.3447 Fax 863.763.5205 82 | September/October 2016
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Jennifer Elmore is a teacher at the school. Her son Tyler has gone through this program; son Tucker is in it now. She said: “The dogs make them want to read better so they can make the dogs happy. They think it is the coolest thing.” After each session, each child writes about his experience, which teaches the kids how to form letters and use words. These weekly papers are saved, and at the conclusion of each year's class, Ms. Jordan arranges the papers into a book with each chapter illustrating progress through the writings of all the children, who then decide to whom they want to dedicate the book. The 2015-16 hardback edition was dedicated to Tail Waggin' Tutors. “This was a remarkable experience for my granddaughter, Jayden Garcia,” said Gayle Molyneaux. “She liked dogs, but now loves them, and it fostered in her a
The children dedicated their book to Tail Waggin’ Tutors at a special event.
real interest in reading. Now, at six, she asks to go to both the school and public library, reads to her little brother and grandma and is currently reading ‘Little House on the Prairie.’” Training began early. They participated in dog obedience courses and a therapy dog class, after which they had to complete the American Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Certification, though they don't have to be AKC-registered to receive it. While Cody, Rory and Lexi are of www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 83
champion lineage, rescue dogs and even mutts can be trained as therapy dogs. The animals must be at least a year old to be certified through Therapy Dog International (TDI). On completion of TDI testing, the owner receives a TDI badge with a picture of the dog on it. The dog receives a TDI therapy dog tag and bandana. If the owner wishes to work in schools, he or she can then
take courses to become a certified Tail Waggin' Tutor. With certification, they receive therapy dog insurance and must send a wellness record to TDI each year. Tail Waggin' Tutors are trained not to move or adversely react if a child pulls their hair, lays on them or opens their mouth. They must tolerate a loud noise and not react if something falls near them and have a no-nip, no-bite instinct.
We Make House Sales and Searches Easy Lexi as a puppy.
Joyce and Shirley begin early conditioning of puppies by exposing them on walks to a variety of people to “socialize” them. For therapy-dog use, they must be taught to be around wheelchairs, walkers, loud talking, screaming, food thrown in front of them and even riding in elevators. Kindergarten teacher Letta Jordan, said: “We begin the year with the fundamental reading program of all county schools,
Left to right: Debbie Illes, Renee Box, Jim Jones, Ana Jones, Becky Barber, and Jody Carter
4251 Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
863-763-5253 Residential
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www.lakeore.com
Shirley walking Cody and Rory. 84 | September/October 2016
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“I try to give exceptional customer service at my restaurant and catering business. Gilbert gives me the kind of customer service and pricing that makes me know they care!" - Charlie Hukriede
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July/August 2016 | 85
1926
2016
Lyrik Rhoden with Lexi.
Proudly serving our community for 90 years!
863-763-3417 INFO@DOMERSINC.COM
204 SOUTHEAST 10TH AVENUE OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA 34974 We are located one block behind the post office on 70 E.
Please visit our newly redesigned website!
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Christian Bookstore & Vintage Home Accessories
Bibles • Books • Journals • Children’s Books Gifts • Jewelry • Antiques and Furniture! 217 S.W. Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34974
863.357.3010
86 | September/October 2016
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‘We see social change and a real calming effect.’ ~ Director Karen Smith
which is ‘the basic white cake.’ The Tail Waggin’ Tutors program, which begins in January, is the ‘icing’ on that cake. The ladies and the dogs make it all come together. Some people have asked why we use academic time to ‘read to dogs.’ Our answer is that results have shown it is too important, too valuable, to not do it. I have been in early childhood education for more than 30 years and recognize this as one of the most productive programs I've seen.”
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC 863.763.1107
Se habla español • Wir sprechen deutsch • Nous parlons français
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee
Armando A. Santelices, MD
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Most Insurances Accepted • DOT/CDL Physicals • Family Practice and Occupational Medicine • Lifestyle Weight & Wellness Accepting New Patients • Walk-ins & Appointments
We Specialize in You!
Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 863.357.8222 Se habla español
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee www.DrAlbertBravo.com
Albert F. Bravo, MD Gastroenterology/Hepatology
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Royal Consulting Services, Inc.
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We also carry marine hose and fittings, hydraulic hose and parker fittings, hydraulic oils, environmental spill kits, and related repair items. Hose sizes 1/4” up to 1 1/2” and 2,000 psi to 6,000 psi.
At both our shop and mobile unit, we can service and maintain: Loaders, Graders, Excavators, Bulldozers, Articulated Trucks, Power Units, etc.
All work performed by experienced and knowledgeable mechanics. 2310 South Parrott Avenue • Okeechobee, Florida 34974 (863) 763-8700 www.fear-us.com
Specializing in: Water Use Permitting Farm Design Irrigation Design Stormwater Reuse FDACS BMPs ERP/ERP Exemptions Environmental Monitoring Office Locations in Longwood Okeechobee West Palm Beach
(800) 466-1378 www.royalconsulting.com 88 | September/October 2016
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2308 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34974
w
ELECT BOBBY
KEEFE for COUNTY COMMISSIONER, District 3
Goals
Create Community Strategic Plan for Business and Economic Development
Improve the Parks & Recreations Department Enhance the County Veterans Services Office Hold Regular Town Hall meetings to give the Community a VOICE
About
Born and Raised in Okeechobee U. S. Marine Corps Veteran City Planning and Zoning Board Member her Let’s Work Togerte for the Futu of Okeechobee
LEADERSHIP
Ability to Devote 100% of my time to the Commission
Endorsed by the local Firefighters’ Union
HONOR COMMITMENT
Paid by Bobby Keefe, NPA for County Commissioner District 3
4
October is
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS
Month 4
Anyone can be a victim of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE. There is NO “typical victim.” Victims of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE come from all walks of life, varying age groups, all backgrounds, all communities, all education levels, all economic levels, all cultures, all ethnicities, all religions, all abilities, and all lifestyles. 90 | September/October 2016
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Do You Think You Are Being Abused?
.,
Look over the following questions. Think about how you are being treated and how you treat your partner. Remember, when one person scares, hurts, or continually puts down the other person, it is abuse.
Does your partner…
• Embarrass or make fun of you in front of your friends or family? Put down your accomplish- ments or goals? • Make you feel like you are unable to make decisions? Use intimidation or threats to gain compliance? • Tell you that you are nothing without them? • Treat you roughly-grab, push, pinch, shove or hit you? Threaten or abuse your pets? • Call you several times a night or show up to make sure you are where you said you would be? • Use drugs or alcohol as an excuse for saying hurtful things or abusing you? • Blame you for how they feel or act? • Pressure you sexually for things you aren't ready for? • Make you feel like there "is no way out'' of the relationship? • Prevent you from doing things you want — like spending time with your friends or family? • Try to keep you from leaving after a fight, or leave you somewhere after a fight to "teach you a lesson?"
All content reprinted courtesy of National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. http://www.ncadv.org
Do You...
• Sometimes feel scared of how your partner will act? • Constantly make excuses to other people for your partner's behavior? • Believe that you can help your partner change if only you changed something about yourself? • Try not to do anything that would cause conflict or make your partner angry? • Feel like no matter what you do, your partner is never happy with you? • Always do what your partner wants you to do instead of what you want? • Stay with your partner because you are afraid of what your partner would do if you broke up?
If any of these situations are happening in your relationship, talk to someone you trust or call the National Domestic
Violence Hotline available 24/7/365.
1.800.799.SAFE (7233) 1.800.787.3224 (TTY)
or OUR LOCAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE:
MARTHAS HOUSE: 863-763-0202
RECOGNIZE IT • REPORT IT • PREVENT IT END DOMESTIC VIOLENCE www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 91
Suites AVAILABLE. SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!
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For more reasons why you should choose us, please call 866-986-2151. www.GrandOaks.org
Your VOTE Counts on Nov. 8th!
SHARON
Progressive P LEADERSHI
WALLACE for
PROPERTY APPRAISER
TO THE CITIZENS OF OKEECHOBEE: You are about to elect the next Property Appraiser of Okeechobee, who is responsible for the fair and equitable valuation of all real property and for certifying the tax roll. Okeechobee County currently has GIS (Geographic Information System) in the Property Appraisers office that has never been utilized to its full potential. GIS provides a more accurate appraisal and performs precise analysis using location based technology called geo-spatial. The quality of the work performed by the Property Appraisers office directly impacts the financial security of a community. Property taxes are a major source of revenue that allows local governments to provide services such as fire and police protection, and the proper use of a GIS system ensures the equitable distribution of a community’s tax burden. Under my leadership, the Property Appraisers office will be able to utilize the GIS system to its full potential and identify those who have been paying more than their fair share. Vote for me and together we will make a positive difference. Bachelors Degree in Information Technology (IT) • GISP Certified (Geographic Information Systems Professional)
Go to www.esri.com/news/arcuser/1000/umberella12.html for more information about the value of GIS.
www.AdvanceOkeechobee.com PAID FOR BY SHARON WALLACE, NPA, FOR PROPERTY APPRAISER.
Community Event
Get Ready for
Friday Night Fun Every Month! Okeechobee Main Street hosted its first Friday Night Fun in the Park — Gourmet Truck Expo on Friday, Aug. 26, in Flagler Park. It is slated to be a monthly event on the fourth Friday of every month. Community members enjoyed sampling food from a variety of 15 gourmet food trucks. Future events will include music, a kids play area and more. For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.
Taylor Marie English and Ken Keller.
94 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Maureen Burroughs, Brittany Carner, Jochen Esser, Chad Ruggiere, Diane Shockley and Angie Griffin.
©2016 American Standard Heating & Air Conditioning. All rights reserved.
Photos by Susan Giddings
Dowling and Cheri Watford.
CONSISTENT COMFORT. ANYTHING ELSE IS UNBEARABLE. Whatever your perfect temperature, you’ll enjoy consistent comfort with the heating and cooling systems homeowners ranked number one in durability.* American Standard. A better way to chill.
The Home Projects®Visa® credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Financial National Bank, an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms for 36 months apply to qualifying purchases charged with approved credit at participating merchants. The special terms APR will continue to apply until all qualifying purchases are paid infull. The monthly payment for this purchase will be the amount that will pay for the purchase in full equal payments during the promotional (special terms) period. The APR for Purchases will apply to certain fees such as a late payment fee or if you use the card for other transactions. For new accounts, the APR for Purchases is 28.99%. If you are charged interest in any billing cycle, the minimum interest charge will be $1.00. If you use the card for cash advances, the cash advance fee is 5.00% of the amount of the cash advance, but not less than $10.00. This information is accurate as of 01/06/2016 and is subject to change. For current information, call us at 1-80-431-5921. Offer expires 11/31/2016.
The local fight against hunger in Okeechobee County surges on. Each week, thousands of local children, families, seniors, and yes, even many veterans must endure the indignity of not knowing where their next meal will come from. But progress has been made and the staff, board, and volunteers at Treasure Coast Food Bank will never surrender.
Alex Tijerina with Zander and Samuel Tijerina.
By partnering with businesses, local schools, the faith-based community, and others, we are increasing access to nutritious food when people need it most— and helping boost health outcomes and residents’ overall well-being.
Volunteer your time, organize a food drive, offer your monetary support, and advocate against poverty and hunger at stophunger.org.
Dr. Mark and Donna Tenniswood. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 95
SNEIDER LAW Glenn J. Sneider Attorney at Law
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863-467-6570 www.SneiderLaw.com
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96 | September/October 2016
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ELECT
y e k c i M
BANDI Working for you since 2002
FOR
PROPERTY APPRAISER
Experienced • Open Door Policy • Life Long Okeechobee Resident 863-634-1216 • mickeybandi@gmail.com PAID BY MICKEY BANDI, REPUBLICAN, FOR PROPERTY APPRAISER
Paying too much for insurance?
Our team will shop for you. Baby & Toddler Gifts & Clothing
HOME • LIFE • HEALTH • FLOOD • AUTO • COMMERCIAL BOAT • MOTORCYCLE • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
877-763-6625 Se Habla Español OKEECHOBEE
1802 S. Parrott, Okeechobee, FL 34974 Direct: 863-763-7711
MOORE HAVEN
691 US Hwy 27, Ste.2, Moore Haven, FL 33471 Direct: 863-946-9133
PORT ST. LUCIE
10791 SW Tradition Square, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Direct: 772-345-7700
NEW CONVENIENT LOCATION Raulerson Surgical Specialists & Dr. Alejo have moved to a brand new office.
Our goal is to make you feel fabulous...affordably!
You will find the same great
customer service and expert surgical skills, but in a new location.
VISIT US TODAY AT
1713 Hwy 441 North • Suite H • Okeechobee, FL 34972 (in the Okeechobee Medical Park building, located directly across from the hospital)
We have a new phone number too: Phone: 863-357-1510 • Fax: 863-357-1518
Florida Heritage apparel and Mud Pie gifts!
205 SW Park Street 863.634.1694
This practice participates in the Veterans’ Choice Program.
Monday thru Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 3pm
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Community Event
Krystal Sprousez, Matt Buxton, Jeremy and Tabitha LaRue.
Friends
of
Marcos Montes De Oca and Wayne Morgan.
NRA Banquet
Aids Education Programs
The Okeechobee Friends of the National Rifle Association Banquet fundraiser took place on Friday, Aug. 26, at the OK Corral Gun Club. Proceeds from the event help finance grants related to the future of shooting sports, such as firearms safety programs, law enforcement training programs and other educational events related to shooting. For more information, go to www.friendsofnra.org. For additional photos visit www.okeechobeethemagazine.com.
Jennifer Williamson, Gil Culbreth, Christa Luna and Paula Younger.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Suzanne Pearce checks out the auction.
Photos by Sharon Cannon
Gordy and Malissa Morgan.
Brigitte and Frank Irby.
Todd Everett
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Joey Hoover poses with Maryann Poparad.
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September/October 2016 | 101
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Community starts with neighbors who care. That’s what our town is made of. State Farm has a long heritage of helping out in the community. That’s why I’m proud to support Okeechobee. Get to a better State . ®
Raulerson Primary Care is now Treasure Coast Medical Specialists. Introducing Primary Care physician, Denise Ricketts, M.D. The same great care is now available in a brand new Primary Care facility, conveniently located directly across the highway from the hospital in the Okeechobee Medical Park.
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NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS • WALK-INS WELCOME 1713 Hwy 441 North • Suite C • Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: 863-467-2159 • Fax: 863-763-0681 This practice participates in the Veterans’ Choice Program.
VOTE
Kelly
OWENS for County Commission
g n i n e t s i I’m L ! U O Y to • • • •
Leadership Development Consultant B.A. Ed., Florida Atlantic University School Board Member (2004-2012) Florida Military Compact Council (2009 – Present)
Integrity
Experience
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Private business owner
Promote sustainable growth
Recognized community leader
Fiscally responsible and conservative
Ensure future economic development
Trustworthy
Experience with budgets, strategic planning
Stimulate expansion of career opportunities
Exceptional decision-making skills
Foster collaborative policy decisions
Fair and Equitable
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee • Okeechobee Educational Foundation • CenterState Bank Advisory Board • County Fair Charter Member PAID BY KELLY OWENS, REPUBLICAN, FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 5
Start
Gift Shopping Off Right by Boosting
Small Businesses By Susan Giddings
Spending locally keeps more of your hard-earned dollars helping the local economy — and your neighbors. 104 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Okeechobee — are you ready to SHOP SMALL on Saturday, Nov. 26?
W
h y “Shop Small”? Because shopping small not only helps our business owners, it helps our entire community. For every $100 you spend at a local business, roughly $68 stays in the local economy as opposed to just $43 at larger businesses. Local businesses generate 70 percent more local economic activity per square foot than big-box retail stores. Our small businesses drive both our local and national economy by creating jobs and giving back to the community. Their owners frequently serve on local charity boards and support numerous local causes. In 2010, American Express started Small Business Saturday to encourage shoppers to shop at their local, small businesses. Today, Small Business Saturday has been embraced as a holiday shopping tradition across the country, anchored firmly between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. According to the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey commissioned by American Express and the National Federation of Independent Business, 95 million people went out to shop at small businesses on Small Business Saturday 2015, an eight percent increase from 2014.
tique on Park Street. She said: “Last year was awesome, much better than I expected. You always want to help the local economy, so it’s important to keep local people shopping in their own community.” Another business owner who was thrilled with the exposure that the event brought was Donna Walpole, owner of The Hope Chest. “The Small Business Saturday event last year brought a lot of people into our store that had never been in before and had no idea what items we carried. We were able to sell a lot of products and increase our customer base,” Donna said. “This event helps us grow our small businesses and increase our inventory selection so that people don’t have to feel like they have to go out of town to find what they are looking for. We are very excited about what the Chamber is doing.” This year will be an even bigger promotion, which Executive Director Paulette Wise is very excited about. “I’m so looking forward to working with our businesses and helping them get prepared,” she said. “We want to help our small businesses get more customers the Saturday after Thanksgiving than they ever have before.”
Last year, the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County geared up for the first time to help make Small Business Saturday successful for our local businesses by helping them with a marketing campaign via social media and raising awareness around the community.
To accomplish that goal, not only will the Chamber be providing participating businesses with a social media marketing campaign again, and promoting the event on WOKC radio and in the Okeechobee News — the Chamber is setting up three “Welcome Stations” where businesses can set up a booth and make it easy for the community to come to them and shop. “This is a great opportunity for them to step out of their normal business site and meet as many potential customers as possible in a fantastic, one-day advertised occurrence,” Wise said.
One happy business owner was Lacy Rock, owner of Lilies and Lace Bou-
The south location will be in front of the Holiday Inn on U.S. 441, and the north
location will be in the Royal’s Furniture Plaza on State Road 70. The central location will be at the Chamber building. Participating Park Street businesses will remain in their storefronts — since it is easy for shoppers to park and take a stroll down through the Main Street area. No matter which location you decide to start your shopping, the south, north or central, a shopping bag filled with deals, discounts, coupons and a Passport/ Map with the location of all participating businesses will be available for you so you can shop ’til you drop! Food and drinks will also be available at each station. There will be raffles, and a grand prize drawing will be held for one lucky shopper who visits all the participating vendors. This promotion is just one example of the Chamber’s commitment to our business community and its mission to engage business and community leaders to improve the business climate, economy and quality of life in Okeechobee. And while Small Business Saturday is an important economic engine for small businesses, Wise wants to remind everyone that it is important to support your local small businesses all year long. So, Okeechobee business owners, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (863) 467-6246 today, get your marketing materials and learn what you can do to help make this your best shopping day of the year. And community members, mark your calendars for Saturday, Nov. 26. Help boost Okeechobee’s economy and support your community by shopping small and keeping your dollars here in Okeechobee. One SMALL purchase can make a BIG difference!
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 105
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WILLIAMSON CATTLE COMPANY Presents Photos of the Past
Peter Raulerson’s Sugar Cane Grinding Mill Gayle Molyneaux Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux 561-801-1336
ELECT WESTON
HARVEY for County Commissioner District 5
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The earliest permanent settlers, Peter and Louisiana (Chandler) Raulerson came into this area in 1896. They raised the majority of the food for their large family. This included beef and pork, vegetables, sugar cane for sweetening lemonade and spice cakes. The syrup was cooked down in a cast iron skillet and slowly stirred until it turned into brown sugar. Milk cows gave plenty of wholesome milk and by-products such as sour milk for biscuits and clabber. Clabber is much like our modern day yogurt. They also had an orange grove located north of town. On occasion, Peter would purchase some apples from the Basinger grocery store. Steam boats would bring in various items on the Kissimmee River for the county store to sell.
Submitted by Betty Chandler Williamson
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 107
Community Event
Benefit Aids
Motorcycle Crash Victim The community rallied together to attend a benefit put on for Justin Rhodes on Saturday, Aug. 20, at Good Spirits, organized by Michael Bast and Christopher Noel. The event included a silent auction, live music and barbecue dinners and raised $11,000. On July 17, Justin was hurt in a motorcycle accident that caused serious injuries to his body and brain. Without insurance and facing multiple surgeries and a very long recovery, Justin and his family are experiencing financial hardships. To help, please send your tax-deductible donation to Our Village Okeechobee, P.O. Box 1534, Okeechobee, FL 34973, with “Justin Rhodes� written in the memo section of the check.
Justin Rhodes.
Front row from left: Michael Bast, Evie Sanders, Katie McGuire, Tammy Bunting, Wade Rhodes, Laekyn Rhodes, Chris Noel. Back: Diane Moncrief, Buddy Moncrief, Amy McGuire, Linda McGuire, Billy McGuire, Thomas Shoemaker, Jessica Luiz.
Michael Bast speaks to the crowd.
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Five different bands performed.
Photos by Susan Giddings
WE DELIVER 11a.m.-10p.m. CLOSED SUNDAY
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Porcelain Esthetics “Begin your journey to healthier beautiful skin.”
Steve Cates cooked the barbecue, pictured with fiancée Shay Sulzer.
Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion Light therapies Therapeutic customized facials Acne treatment Resurfacing “My skin has never looked better.” ***** Cheri Nelson Featuring G.M. Collin and Skin Deep Pharmaceuticals Products
863.634.3615
221 NE Park St. • Okeechobee, FL Cheryl Daniels, Licensed Esthetician, Certified Skin Specialist License # FB9750329
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 109
QUALITY WHITETAIL BREEDING OPERATION
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Where can I recycle? Okeechobee County Facility 306 NW 9th Avenue. Hours: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. www.thinkgreen.com
Our mission starts with the communities we serve.
Waste Management Supports Youth Sports Programs
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 111
N D O I O T C R U N R PE CONST Humility, Reliability Build Corey Penrod A Solid Reputation
work in Vero Beach twice weekly in addition to raising the couple’s six children. She lends a hand with the company’s marketing and assists Corey, giving a living definition to the words “strong couple.” Penrod got his start working as a carpenter and as a member of the carpenters union in Palm Beach. “It was the best money for someone who had zero
experience,” explained Penrod. Before long, the Okeechobee boy returned home and found himself working on drywall, painting and learning other trades as he expanded his construction knowledge. “I got a job offer in Port St. Lucie to be a project supervisor. At first it was intimidating to run a project, but I picked it up fast.” And “fast” was Penrod’s objective, as he saw the jobs coming in under schedule. “That was during the building boom, with high production. We had 20 to 25 homes running at the same
By Jann Seal
The Penrod Construction sign planted in the ground is the first indication that something big is coming.
Corey Penrod is quiet, soft-spoken and very humble, which means he doesn’t like talking about himself or his accomplishments. “July 2008 was a big step for me … I got my general contractor’s license and all I can say is that I’m thankful to my wife, who pushed me to get it,” Penrod said. The work ethic runs strong in the Penrod family, with wife Desiree commuting to 112 | September/October 2016
The Penrod Family. Front row: Jaxon, Avery and Jayden. Back: Alexi, Shaun, Desiree, Emery and Corey.
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
time!” That’s where Penrod honed his residential skills. Returning to Okeechobee and picking up commercial construction jobs opened another door. “The break in the residential construction market led me to the commercial market, and that’s when getting the GC license made sense.” Today, Penrod Construction goes after residential, commercial and industrial projects, big and small, coupling effective construction techniques with environmental advances. “We have to keep up with new design and technology, including energy efficiency.” Winning the bid for McArthur Farms’ $4.3 million complex that was to house 1,000 cows, Penrod Construction was true to its claim of bringing a project in on time, in spite of daily deluges, swamps of mud and client changes. Remaining on budget is another Penrod Construction characteristic, as evidenced when they built a large facility for United Feed Co-Op. Penrod’s loyal team of employees and the knowledgeable subcontractors he brings in on a per-job basis keep prices in line, customers satisfied and build a strong work ethic between himself and his crew. “Most of the guys who work for me go to church with me,” said Penrod, referring to his membership at More 2 Life Ministries, a “Christ-centered community of caring and belonging.” Their ethic
of hard work, a clean environment, and loyalty to each other and the job they are doing is what Penrod Construction’s reputation is built upon. Building a home takes on a different aspect for a general contractor, one that is based on emotion. Creating a relationship of trust is forefront in Penrod’s mind, and he’ll go that extra mile to squeeze square footage and upgrades into an already overcrowded architectural plan. Listening to his customers is another guidepost recognized by Penrod, and the accolades roll in to him as a GC who cares. Penrod Construction’s A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau attracts clients from out of state who are considering building in Okeechobee or the area. With jobs ranging from commercial buildings to industrial facilities, funeral homes to private homes, from big homes that stretch over 5,000 square feet to a room renovation, Penrod Construction appreciates any and all chances to compete. “I spend a lot of my time negotiating
with clients so that we come to a mutually agreeable format, and because of our fairness, we get a shot at most everything that comes through town,” Penrod explained. “I keep my work force of five to 10 employees busy, depending on the market, and knowing how important it is to their families, I go after every job!” “Our neighbor in our building is Abney Building and Consulting, and while we’re two different entities, we work a lot together. That’s the value of the team. Abney does the plan designing, and I step in when the renderings are approved,” Penrod explained when asked about his office-sharing neighbor. As parents of six children, the Penrods are involved in Okeechobee’s Citizen Recreational Association (OCRA) and the Economic Council. And in his spare time? Corey Penrod keeps an eye open for investment properties that he and Desiree can rehab for sale or rent. Penrod Construction 210 N.E. Third Ave. (863) 634-0546 www.penrodconstructioncompany.com
Log on to OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com and click on the “Behind the Business” tab to learn more about Penrod Construction. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 113
Get Medicare Ready! Call your local licensed Humana sales agent for a free consultation. Diana Stark (863) 447-3651 (TTY: 711) Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.humana.com/dstark
Humana is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in a Humana plan depends on contract renewal. Reach Humana sales and customer service at 1-800-336-6801 (TTY: 711), 5 a.m. – 8 p.m., seven days a week. Y0040_GHHHXDDEN_16 Accepted
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114 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
863-357-5800 or visit HoskLaw.com
Located across from the Courthouse
Proven Experience in Okeechobee
V A R S D R I O R O O D FL OUT choice — he had to hire me. I guess it was my ex-Marine personality coming through!” Mike remembered.
Home On The Range, Compliments Of Florida Outdoors RV Country
John oversees the Stuart location, while Mike handles sales, finance, parts and service in Okeechobee. “When I started in Okeechobee in 2012, research showed that there were a lot of RVs registered in the area,” John remarked. “These owners needed a resource, and our goal was to provide it.”
With Mike running the store, additional employees were brought in who shared his “walk gently but carry a big stick” philosophy. “Getting the right people in the right place was our goal.” He goes on to say, “My employees are the company’s best asset!” Providing sales, service and parts for a wide variety of RVs keeps customers loyal and makes them repeat visitors. “We have people coming in and buying their second, third and even fourth RVs from us because they know we’re straight with
By Jann Seal
You’d never know he’s a former Marine,
although he speaks of raising his children and running his business as if they were all in the Corps. Mike Schriver, general manager of Florida Outdoors RV Country’s Okeechobee location speaks quietly, has a smile on his face, keeps an open door policy in the office, and his employees enjoy working under him. Since joining the company two and a half years ago, Mike, and the company’s owner, John McCluskey, have enjoyed a successful run. “When I interviewed with John, I told him he didn’t have a 116 | September/October 2016
Front, from left: Kristina Ripley, Elizabeth Major. Second row: John Maggio, Jeff Rusinko, Scott Macallister, Mike Schriver, David Garrett, Travis Moody. Back: Johnathan Campbell, Robert Garrick. Not Pictured: Verle Hennings, Vanessa Marrero, Eloy Ochoa.
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
BEHIND THE BUSINESS
Y R T N U CO them,” said Jeff Rusinko, a valued sales consultant who works closely with Mike. The RV market has changed in the past seven years. The traditional RV owner trades in his unit within two to five years. However, those who bought before the “crash” of 2007-2009 are still holding on to their units and must wait until their resale value comes up to the market before trading them in. These are the customers who depend on upgrades and service, which Florida Outdoor RV Country prides itself on. Younger customers, especially those with children, look for a travel trailer they can use on weekends for family outings. As the children grow, they upgrade to a larger traveler, one that gives the kids their own rooms, or “bunkhouse” as the industry refers to them. Another market are the seniors/retirees and a newer addition to the RV community, the “full-timers.” “Where else can you live for $600 a month?” Mike exclaimed! “You pay $300 for the campground and $300 for the monthly payment, and you’re also living in a very friendly environment with like-minded people.” “These people live where they want, travel where and when they want, and are the lucky ones!” John added. “Now entering the RV market are the traveling workers — those who travel for their job such as electrical, construction and nursing employees and those living
in hotels as they travel. The per diem they receive is rolled over into their RV payment and they come out ahead,” Mike explained further. “This younger generation buys primarily new vehicles with a lifespan of about 20 years. But they’ll trade them in within a few years.” The expansion of the RV market has led manufacturers to vary the products offered. Florida Outdoor RV Country carries five classes of trailers, which include travel trailers and toy haulers with storage for your toys such as motor bikes. Also included in the “towable” RV version is the fifth wheel. Moving to the self-propelled RVs, the Class A and Class C offer RV lifestyles that match all needs and levels of luxury. “We’re currently selling more travel trailers and fifth wheels,” Mike said, referring to families and those exploring the outdoor life. Forest River RV, a Berkshire-Hathaway company headquartered in Indiana, and Keystone RV Co., producing vehicles in Indiana and Oregon, are Florida Outdoors RV Country’s main providers of
recreational vehicles. Additional inventory comes through owners wishing to sell via the company’s consignment program and trade-ins. Florida Outdoors RV Country connects with the Okeechobee community by its involvement in CASTLE, the women's and children's charity, in which Jeff's wife Tiffany is involved, the Ag Center, Chamber of Commerce and Okeechobee Main Street. The company also prides itself on purchasing as much as possible within Okeechobee. They’re proactive, do the right thing, treat everyone with respect and are “good to all the cowboys,” as Mike proudly stated. With a stellar Better Business Bureau rating and positioned strategically adjacent to the KOA, Florida Outdoors RV Country is what you could call “in the right place, at the right time.” Florida Outdoors RV Country 4300 U.S. 441 S. (863) 623-4689 www.floridaoutdoorsrv.com
Log on to OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com and click on the “Behind the Business” tab to learn more about Florida Outdoors RV Country. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 117
Located on the Rim Canal of Lake Okeechobee, Water's Edge is just minutes from shopping and restaurants in the nearby community of Okeechobee. The Resort is only a short distance from the Seminole Casino, I-95 and the East Coast of Florida, with major malls and some of the most beautiful beaches of Florida.
(863) 357-5757
12766 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL watersedgerv@innisfree.com
www.okeechobeervpark.com 118 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Collegiate Items Fashion Purses • Fashion Jewelry Bible Covers • College Inflatable
Auto Accidents Truck Accidents Slip & Falls Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death
Your Hometown INJURY Attorney Phones Answered 24/7
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Law Offices of Lefebvre & Dixon
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512 W. North Park Street Okeechobee, Florida
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
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By Charles M. Murphy, WOKC’s Voice of the Brahmans
OHS Standout Fludd Eyes Senior Season, Leans Toward USM
O
keechobee High School’s Antawyn “Bubba” Fludd wants to follow in the footsteps of Brett Favre, Louis Lipps, Ray Guy and even Jimmy Buffett. Fludd announced in July that he would play college football next year at the University of Southern Mississippi. It was only a verbal commitment, and 13 universities have offered him a scholarship to play football for them.
Antawyn “Bubba” Fludd
Fludd is not only a tremendous football player, he is also a tremendous basketball player for the Brahmans. He has family in Mississippi and admitted that played a role in his decision.
Fludd was struck in the mouth during the spring game and had to undergo several procedures over the summer. He said he wouldn’t wish that experience on anyone.
“It was not too tough because my family was originally from there; I want to be where home is at. The place like that, next to Okeechobee, is southern Mississippi. It wasn’t an easy decision, it was tough.”
“This week is my last dental visit. There was so much pain and drilling and losing teeth; it wasn’t fun,” he added.
Fludd visited six colleges in the South over the summer. He said he felt like king of the day at USM. “That made me feel that USM wanted me and that is where I should go,” he noted. He will have to officially sign in February. Fludd could play wide receiver in the slot and kick returner for USM. Georgia Tech offered Fludd a chance to play quarterback. If Fludd were to receive an offer from them in mid-season, he intends to visit Atlanta again and perhaps consider them. “Their campus was a tremendous campus. I have never seen anything like that,” he said. Fludd was ranked in the top 11 in the Treasure Coast and is among the best recruits in the state. He said he believes he is as good as any player in the region. “I will work very hard to be the best prospect in the Class of 2017.” 120 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Fludd said part of his routine is to work out at home because he likes to stay active. He does cones and ladder drills at his home and also at the sports complex. Fludd predicted the Brahmans would be an exciting team in 2016. “I know football can go to the playoffs and go deep into the playoffs if we work. You can do a lot of things if you just work, and I really think we can be in the playoffs.” Fludd said he has high expectations this year. He said the team lost three tough district games, to Jensen Beach, Sebastian and Heritage, last year and the team wants payback. “Jensen was a tough loss in the last second. I got hurt against Heritage. Sebastian was just a hot day and a bad game for us. We will set the tone in the first week when we play Martin County. We will show everyone that we are who we say we are. We will show everyone that what is, is how it is.”
Save the Date
Our 38th Year! Meredith Willson’s
ual Ann 11th
FUNDRAISING EVENT HONORING LAW ENFORCEMENT KEYNOTE SPEAKER – Former Police Officer Larry Frederick. Recipient of 110 Units of Blood – Injured during a routine traffic stop.
Dinner, Live & Chinese Auctions Silver Palms RV Resort from 5:30pm – 10:00pm For more information contact Raye Deusinger
863-467-2557
Thursday, November 17th
Nov. 4, 5, 11 & 12 at 8pm Plus 2pm Matinee on Nov. 12 610 SW Second Avenue • Okeechobee ..................
Reserved Seat Tickets $12 ON SALE AT Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N W Fifth Street ..................
Visit our website @ www.okeechobeecommunitytheatre.com
863.763.1307 FIND US ON
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 121
What People Are Saying... We at Domer’s are honored to have been a part of Okeechobee The Magazine for many years and plan to continue this relationship for many more! This magazine has been a great addition to our town and has filled a marketing need for many local businesses and individuals. I personally love how each issue is like a celebration of our community; it truly brings us the best of Okeechobee. — Justin Domer “Okeechobee The Magazine is an asset to our community. I like that it features local happenings and keeps our community informed. The magazine is a true community partner. ”
STOP THE VIO
— Teresa Chandler-Bishop,
ENCE
Octob Domestic eVrioisle Awareness nce Month
— Corey Penrod,
Penrod Construction Company
Okeechobee The Magazine 316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 Phone: 863.467.0054 www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com 122 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
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September/October 2016 | 123
Why advertise with us? Rick Chartier (863) 467.9090 • Sales • Service • Audio Visual • Networking
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Cristie Schmidt 863.634.3604
Kari Berger 863.227.0339
OKEE-TANTIE TITLE COMPANY, INC.
316 N.W. Fifth Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
Phone: 863.467.0054
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com 124 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
GLADES COUNTY ABSTRACT
105 NW 6th Street | Okeechobee, FL 34972 863-763-2898 | Fax 863-763-0541 Stephen E. Burk, VP Suzie Burk, CEO okeepackage@earthlink.net | www.okee-tantie.com
A name you can trust.
New Residence
Anchor Dental
New Residence
Walpole Feed Store
Abney Building & Consulting, Inc. is Okeechobee’s hometown Design, Construction, & Consulting firm. We offer plan design to turn-key construction. With over 20+ years of experience, we can handle all your residential and commercial construction needs. Give us a call for a Free Consultation 863-623-4459 www.abneybuild.com 210 NE 3rd Ave., Okeechobee
Commercial & Residential | Design | Construction | Consulting | CBC058152
Office Space Available 500 - 3,500 SF Next to County Courthouse • 401 NW 3rd Street 863-467-0831 • rec@closeconstruction.us
NATIONALLY ACCREDITED Peace Lutheran School We accept VPK and Step Up for Students • Serving Children ages 2-K • Small Class Sizes Save the Date for Our Annual Gala "Kentucky Derby, Run for the Roses" February 25, 2017 at the KOA
Office: 863-763-7566 750 NW 23rd Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • peaceschoolinokeechobee@yahoo.com • FMI visit www.peacelutheranschool-okeechobee.org
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 125
“Fill Your Life with Experiences, Not Things.” By Captain Blake Marsocci
Shorter Autumn Days Bring Great Bass, Crappie Fishing
F
all is upon us and with it comes shorter days and longer nights as well as cooler temperatures. It’s like clockwork, every time we start to get cooler nights the lake temperature drops and the fish feed like crazy. This time of year, fishing for bass and crappie is getting better by the day. Fish are feeding heavily during this time to build up extra weight for the imminent spawning season. Large females have started to move back into the outside grass lines on Lake Okeechobee after a summer of being offshore and will feed on large schools of baitfish. Anglers will start to see more and more big fish, seven-plus pounds, show up over the next few months as these big females move in to feed. When targeting these bass, endless patterns will work. Top-water, flipping and wild shiner fishing all will produce trophy-size fish and great numbers. Try a River-2-Sea Whopper Plopper for top water, flipping a Gambler Lures creature bait in the “Slump Buster” color, or a wild shiner next to the outside grass line as the big fish move in. The two staple baits I recommend to every angler on Lake Okeechobee anytime of the year are Magnum Speed Worm (Junebug) and a Senko style bait in (Black/Blue). Tried and true, these baits always catch fish here on the Big “O.” Over the next few months, bass will begin to group up in large schools, staging before moving shallow to spawn. Spawning occurs as early as October and as late as April; however, the majority of bass spawn between December and February. These schools will be the biggest just days before both the new and full moon phases. 126 | September/October 2016
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Recent trips have seen fish up to eight pounds, and the average trip is catching 30 to 50 fish per day. The majority of bigger fish are being caught on wild shiners; however, the frog bite has been very strong. Productive areas have been King’s Bar, Tin House Cove and North Shore. Crappie fishing is just starting to get going with the onset of fall. I can only imagine the coming months will be the best crappie fishing we have seen in over 20 years, maybe even 30 years. Judging by the past four years, catches have increased in size, numbers and released fish, all of which have steady growth. Look for crappie to be moving into the Kissimmee grass lines and edges of deeper water. Target the mouth of the Kissimmee River, Government Cut and Buckhead. Fish will be caught on minnows and jigs; your best bet is to fish the first or last two hours of daylight. With the continued increase in the water level, a flooded Kissimmee River basin, high inflows (above 7,000 cfs), and little outflows (below 500 cfs) the Lake’s water level will continue to rise. As the high water stays up anglers should look into some old timer areas, such as moonshine bay, money box, and inside Tin House Cove. The lake is fishing huge right now allowing fisherman to fish places they haven’t fished in 10 to 20 years. What are you waiting for? Let’s Go Fishing! Fast Break Bait and Tackle Professional Fishing & Hunting Guide Service www.OkeechobeeBassFishingGuide.com (866) 824-3474 or (863) 824-2474
Improving Your Property One Cut At A Time FREE ESTIMATES SE HABLA ESPANOL
LICENSED AND INSURED, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL
GOLD 14k STORE Title Insurance • Real Estate Closings
IN HOUSE JEWELRY REPAIR STATE OF THE ART LASER WELDING Gift Certificates Available 411 W.S. Park Street • Okeechobee, FL 34972
Telephone: 863.824.6776 Fax: 863.824.6778 titleandlegal@ymail.com
863.763.8883
Rods • Reels Hard / Soft Baits
Terminal Tackle
Sunglasses• Apparel LIVE BAIT
Minnows, Crickets, Worms, Wild Shiners 1505 STATE ROAD 78 WEST, OKEECHOBEE FL
863.763.0973 Open 5 am – 9 pm 7 days
SAND • FILL • SHELL • ROCK
House Pads Land Clearing
Debris Removal Demolition
Professional Fishing & Hunting Guide Service
Culverts Driveways
DUMP TRUCKS...SITE WORK...HEAVY EQUIPMENT
OFFICE (863) 623-5274
LIC# CRC 1327160
www.OkeechobeeBassFishingGuide.com www.OkeechobeeHuntingGuide.com 866.824.3474 or 863.824.2474
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September/October 2016 | 127
Around Okeechobee
When only the best will do.
Brought to You By:
Chamber Ribbon-Cuttings
Serenity Coffee Shop Supervisor of Elections Diane Hagan.
Forum Airs Primary Candidates’ Stances
The first of two political forums was conducted on Thursday, Aug. 11, in the Osceola Middle School gymnasium. Jon Geitner moderated the event, which was coordinated by Sandy Perry and the Economic Council of Okeechobee along with a multitude of volunteers. Broadcast live by WOKC radio, the forum featured only the candidates who were in the primary election. A second political forum will be staged a few days before the general election, on Thursday, Oct. 20.
Zippy's
Chobee Darlings Win State Softball Title
From left: Addison Smith, Preslynn Baker, Alyssa Madrigal, Jessie Krall, Jayda Rochelle, Carley Bartels, Merlelaysia Billie, Lason Baker, Tiyanni Anderson, Lilly Larson, Jenessa Arana and Carli Avant. Not Pictured: Head coach Preston Baker, assistants Ramona Baker, Danyelle Larson and Malcolm Edenfield.
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OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
The 2016 Okeechobee “Chobee Darlings” softball team, comprised of girls ages seven and eight, made history by going undefeated and winning the state title at the Dixie Youth Florida State Softball Championship, also earning the sportsmanship trophy. The team advanced all the way to the championship game in the 2016 Dixie Youth World Series in Petal, Miss., and brought home a second-place win. Congratulations to the players and coaches!
Around Okeechobee
When only the best will do.
Brought to You By:
Main Street Mixers
Brahma Bull Restaurant
Silver Palms RV Resort
Community Treats First Responders to Lunch
A First Responder Appreciation Luncheon was hosted at the Kiwanis park in Okeechobee to honor our Okeechobee heroes. Troy Bays requested assistance to prepare a “Thank You” lunch with prizes to all first responders. BRAT Club President Teresa Bishop and Okeechobee County Undersheriff Noel Stephen lent a helping hand and guidance for Troy’s efforts. The event was attended by many; and all first responders, on and off duty, received lunch and a prize that was donated by local residents and businesses to show their support. Pictured are grand prize winners Justin White, Adam Crum, Septemberlyn Durham, Dustin Hendon, David Cortez and Robert Farmer, with Troy Bays, BRAT Club President Teresa Bishop, BRAT Club volunteer Morgan Buxton and Undersheriff Noel Stephen.
Women’s Health Night Series Continues
Raulerson Hospital hosted the second in its series of Women’s Health Nights on Wednesday, Aug. 24, at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College. Guests enjoyed wine and appetizers while listening to presentations from Dr. Vikram Tarugu, Dr. David Sigalow, Dr. Lenworth Anglin and Dr. James Bradfield Front row, from left: Cheryl Stoe, Stephanie Quesinberry, Dr. David Sigalow, Dr. Vikram Tarugu, Cheryl Cardy, regarding various women’s Deborah Benitez, Christine Sanchez. Back row: Dottie Collins, Dr. James Bradfield, Raulerson Hospital ER Medical health issues. Director Dr. Lenworth Anglin, Raulerson Hospital CEO Brian Melear, Raulerson Hospital CFO Terry Brown and Kathy Selby. www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
September/October 2016 | 129
List of Advertisers 14K Gold Store ................................127
What People Are Saying... “When we first came to Okeechobee from West Palm, we were a little bit worried how we were going to advertise our business. But as soon as I saw the stack of glossy magazines sitting on a table, I knew it was going to be just fine. Okeechobee The Magazine is definitely meant to be saved and not to be thrown away.
— Paulette Bragel, Brown Cow Sweetery
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Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: 130 | September/October 2016
A & G Pools.........................................37 Abney Building & Consulting, Inc.....125 American Drilling Services...............123 Anchor Dental...................................18 Anderson Realty.................................96 B & B Site Development.....................54 BDRL Whitetail Paradise Farm.........111 Badcock Furniture..............................34 Bass Electric.......................................38 Beautiful Mess Boutique..................123 Berger Clinic......................................34 Berger Real Estate............................124 Big Lake Eye Care.................................3 Bobby Keefe.......................................89 BRAT Club Rodeo................................38 Brown Cow Sweetery.......................123 Buxton & Bass Funeral Home............82 Carpenter Insurance.........................123 Clear Title & Legal Services...............127 Close Construction...........................125 Crossroads Restaurant........................48 Custom Sights and Sounds...............125 Custom Window Treatments...........122 D4 Powersports................................123 D&G Catering.....................................63 Doctors Clinic Family Health Center...87 Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center..........43 Domer’s.............................................86 Don's Appliances................................63
Harbor Community Bank....................72 Heartland Discount Pharmacy..............5 Highland Pest Control.....................118 Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd........... 114 Humana..........................................114 ICS Computers..................................124 Inkwell Tattoos................................118 Kelly Owens.....................................103 Lake O Real Estate..............................84 Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease.....87 Lakeside Grill......................................37 Law Office of Lefebvre and Dixon....119 Lawnwood Regional Medical Ctr........11 Lillies & Lace......................................99 Linda's Style and Trends.................. 119 Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant.........124 M&M Auto Brokers............................42 Marathon...........................................81 Mary Kay.........................................107 Michael Hazellief...............................83 Mickey Bandi......................................97 Mill Iron Metalworks, Inc....................64 Mims Veterinary................................41 Mira Realty, LLC.................................47 Mixon Real Estate Group...................16 Mohawk Construction, Inc...............127 Monica Clark for City Council..............42 Morgan's Furniture.............................36 Murray Insurance Services...............118 Noel Stephen...................................119
Echols Plumbing & A/C....................122 Edwards Jones.................................119 Eli's Western Wear..............................13 Entegra Roof Tile................................98 Enviro – Tech Systems, Inc.................88 Everglades Pediatric Dentistry...........49 Family Dentistry of Okeechobee.........23 Fast Break Bait and Tackle...............127 Florida Outdoors RV...........................61 Florida Equipment and Restoration....88 Flower Petals.....................................96 Gilbert Chevrolet............................131 Gilbert Ford.......................................85 Glades AC..........................................60 Glenn Sneider, Attorney....................96
Okeechobee Blood Roundup.....10, 121 OK Corral Gun Club............................44 Okee-Tantie Title Company, Inc........124 Okeechobee Air Conditioning............81 Okeechobee Community Theatre.... 121 Okeechobee Health Care Facility........51 Peace Lutheran School.....................125 Penrod Construction..........................65 Pizza Heaven......................................109 Platinum Performance Builders.........106 Plaza 300.............................................72 Porcelain Esthetics...........................109 Pritchards and Associates..................99 Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant.................79 Quail Creek Plantation.........................9 Quality Air Conditioning.............95, 102
OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE
Rabon's Country Feed........................82 Raulerson Hospital................... 2, 66-67 Raulerson Hospital................Back Cover Raulerson Service Awards..................73 Raulerson Surgical Specialists...........99 Remington Real Estate.......................80 Royal Consulting................................88 Royal's Furniture..............................101 Rustic Style and Cabins......................80 S. Cruz Lawn Service.........................127 Sandra Pearce Photography...............48 Schuler, Halvorson, Weisser, Zoeller & Overbeck.............................110 Seminole Casino Brighton..................17 Sharon Wallace..................................93 Shoe Box.........................................102 Skull Hill Steel....................................54 South Florida Lawn & Pavers..............19 Sprint.. ................................................6 St. Lucie Battery & Tire.......................45 Staffords Salon...................................62 State Farm.......................................102 Steve Cates...................................... 115 Superior Water Works.........................62 Syfrett Feed........................................22 Teez 2 Pleez.....................................114 Tenniswood Dental Associates...........55 The Hope Chest..................................86 The Lounge........................................79 Time To Escape.................................114 Tin Fish............................................127 Todd Everett Flooring.......................101 Total Roadside Services........................7 Treasure Coast Food Bank...................95 Treasure Coast Medical Specialists....102 Trinidad Garcia, M.D.........................123 Visiting Nurse Association..................92 Waste Management........................ 111 Water's Edge RV Resort..................118 Wemmer Family Orthodontics..........44 Weston Harvey................................107 Williamson Cattle Company............107 WOKC 100.9 FM...............................121 Women's Health Specialists................53 Worley Construction..........................39 Zippy's................................................12
2016 Chevrolet Colorado
Being part of a team means you always have someone you can count on. You can always trust us to bring you the best products, services, and advice when it comes to your vehicle.
Chevrolet Sales Team left to right: David James, Heather Thomas, Chris Wilson, Gary Rucks, Roger Rice, Mike Ford, Tom Palmer, Gary Clements, Kevin Hatfield, Rick Gold, Eddie Cruz, and Tom Bond. Not shown Susan Hendershot.
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Over
NEW and Pre-Owned Vehicles to Choose From!
www.GilbertChevrolet.com
Serving the Okeechobee Area for over 90 Years!
(863) 763-3154
3550 U.S. Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
Introducing our new CEO. We are proud to announce that Brian Melear has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Raulerson Hospital. Brian has been a Registered Nurse for 17 years and has led Raulerson Hospital in various roles, including Surgical Services Director and Chief Nursing Officer.
Emergency Care. Expert. Fast. Friendly.
We’re here when you need us. When facing an emergency, you want expert care that is fast — and friendly. Expert — Our staff is skilled in caring for emergencies: big or small. Fast — We’re here when you need us: 24/7/365. Friendly — We understand how challenging it can be to deal with an emergency. We are Raulerson, your friends and neighbors, so take comfort knowing you are in the hands of people who care.
Trust Raulerson Hospital for your emergency needs. Brian Melear, CEO
In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
RaulersonHospital.com