Okeechobee The Magazine Summer 2012

SUMMER 2012

THE MAGAZINE

Richard Donegan

Sandy Perry

Bassmaster Elite Series Fishing Tournament

Plus

A Dream Coming TrueThe Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens

2 | Summer 2012 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

1796 Highway 441N • Okeechobee, FL 34972• 863-763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.com

Robert Lee, Chief Executive Officer

Dear Friends & Neighbors,

We are easing into the slower, summer season that the community of Okeechobee experiences

each year. Although many of our northern friends have departed for the warm season, illnesses

and emergencies do not have an off-season.

That is why, regardless of the time of day or season of the year, the doctors and nurses at

Raulerson Hospital are committed and prepared to treat the community’s healthcare needs.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, do not delay or take risks with your health. In a

medical emergency, being stabilized by nearby medical professionals is a crucial first step.

Our ER wait times are shorter than the national average. We make our current average ER

wait times available on our website , in our ER waiting room and by texting ER to 23000. If an

emergency happens, Raulerson Hospital is prepared to treat you and your family with the best

emergency care available. Our ER staff are highly skilled and qualified to treat all emergencies, adult as well as children. The

staff, who are trained in Pediatric Advanced Life Support, utilize pediatric specialty equipment and a 24/7 on-call Pediatrician.

Take comfort knowing that if a patient does require alternative, specialized treatment, we have a seamless transfer process

which occurs under the safety and provision of medical professionals. Our sister HCA facilities in the Treasure Coast:

Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute and St. Lucie Medical Center are trusted partners in the care of our

community.

Speaking of our physicians who are prepared to meet the community’s healthcare needs and exceed their expectations,

Raulerson Hospital is proud to welcome Dr. Gregory Sainnoval to Okeechobee. Dr. Sainnoval will be providing general surgery

services for Raulerson Hospital, in addition to operating his private medical practice here.

Raulerson Hospital is your community hospital. You can rely on our professional staff to provide you with the best clinical

care and kindest treatment without the hassle of leaving town. Some of the conveniences available for our patients and their

loved ones include:

• E-mailapatientfunctiononourwebsite

• Wi-FI

• WalgreensBedsidePrescriptionDeliveryforpatientsbeingdischarged

• Onlinepre-registrationfortests,proceduresandscreeningmammograms

If you would like to learn more about these or other services offered by Raulerson Hospital, please contact us at 763-2151 or

visit our website RaulersonHospital.com.

If you or a loved one have been to our facility recently, I truly welcome and encourage your feedback regarding your

experiences at Raulerson Hospital. It is the key to our goal of constant improvement. Patients and their families may call

our 24-hour Customer Service phone number 824-2345 and speak directly to our staff about any questions or concerns they

have during or after their stay. This phone number is posted in each patient room because we want you to know that we are

listening! If you have not been to our facility in a while, stop in for lunch or a tour. We are proud to show all the great things

that are happening at Raulerson Hospital!

Sincerely,

Take comfort knowing that if a patient does require alternative, specialized treatment, we have a seamless transfer process with our sister HCA facilities in the Treasure Coast: Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute and St. Lucie Medical Center.

CONSULT-A-NURSE ® • For Free Physician Referral & Health Care Questions call 763-9228

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221 NE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972We now have a 2nd location at 1120 NW Park Street

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Rose Brennan

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account executiveTrish Grygo

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writersRon Bukley

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contributorsCharles MurphyMichael Shellen

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ryan Martin

Okeechobee The Magazine, is published quarterly in Okeechobee, Florida. Copyright 2012, all rights reserved by Okeechobee The Magazine, LLC. Contents may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse advertising. The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisement errors beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error within the advertisement itself. The publisher accepts no responsibility for submitted materials. All submitted materials subject to editing.

volume 6, number 2 | Summer 2012

One of the first signs of summer in South Florida is a noticeable change in pace, with everything slowing down a bit. And in

Okeechobee, that’s just how we like it — nice and relaxing. Though we continue to be busy as we enter our sixth year of Okeechobee The Magazine, we want you to sit back and enjoy this issue.

Speaking of busy, we feature in this issue Sandy Perry, a woman of many hats. In addition to her job as vice president of the Okeechobee Health Care Facility, Perry also is director of the Okeechobee Com-munity Choir, secretary of the Okeechobee Ministerial Association, a member of the Economic Council and Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Posse, and she helps local churches with their music programs.

Another local busy body is Richard Donegan, a teenager who has his sights set on becoming a professional golfer. Does he have what it takes? As the only Okeechobee High School student in history to win a state golfing title, his prospects are looking good.

Also looking to the future, the Philippine American Cultural Foun-dation of South Florida has big plans for the Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens. Located on 20 acres in southwest Okeechobee, the complex will feature an art center, festival village and gardens built to showcase Filipino culture and traditions. Read about the details in our feature story.

This issue’s Okeechobee at Home features the ranch-style home of Darrell and Jeanne Enfinger, who used local contractors to update their house to accommodate large family gatherings. We continue our new series Behind the Business, this issue focusing Jeremy LaRue of Total Roadside Services and Cookie Smith of the 14k Gold Store.

The past few months have seen some of the year’s biggest events, includ-ing the Okeechobee County Fair, Okeechobee Rotary’s L.O.S.T. bike ride, Top of the Lake Art & Music Fest, Ag-Venture, Cinco de Mayo, Walk for Life, the Okeechobee Relay for Life and many more.

Again, we hope you have a relaxing summer and continue reading Okeechobee The Magazine — your magazine.

Sincerely,

Publisher

Publisher’s Note

Okeechobee The Magazine111 NE 2nd Street

Okeechobee, FL 34972Phone: (863) 467-0054

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com

Maureen Budjinskipresident

Joshua I. Manningvice president

Barry S. Manning chairman & ceo



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COMMUNITY EVENTS

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columnsFishing on Lake OkeechobeeBy Capt. Michael Shellen

Jack RadebaughBy Charles Murphy

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66

Summer 2012

A Dream Coming TrueThe Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens

By Jan Fehrman

Richard DoneganTaking a Swing at Professional Golf

By Raye Deusinger

Sandy PerryWearing Many Hats

By Raye Deusinger

Okeechobee at HomeBy Ron Bukley

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SUMMER 2012

THE MAGAZINE

Richard Donegan

Sandy Perry

Bassmaster Elite Series Fishing Tournament

Plus

A Dream Coming TrueThe Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens.

ON THE COVERPhilippine Heritage Enrichment Future Complex and Gardens

Story on page 22Photo by Sandra Pearce

52

66

Contents

Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Bass Fishing TournamentSpeckled Perch Festival and ParadeOkeechobee Cattlemen’s Assoc. Spring RodeoOkeechobee County Fair & Livestock ShowOkeechobee Rotary L.O.S.T. Bike RideOkeechobee Relay for LifeTop of the Lake Art & Music FestAg-Venture EventWilliamsons Celebrate 60th AnniversaryCinco De MayoPregnancy Center Walk for LifeOHS Band Goes to Washington, D.C.

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Upcoming ShootsJune 24

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July 2 thru July 10Closed

July 21NSCA Shoot

August 11NSCa Shoot


Community Event

The Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council pre-sented the Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Bass Fishing Tournament March 22-25 at C. Scott Driver Park. Okeechobee County Water Fest was also a part of the festivities for the weekend. Smokey the Bear, McGruff and the crash dummies made a special appear-ance.

Winner Ish Monroe proudly dis-plays his catch.The crowd watches theweigh-ins.Sheriff’s posse: Brent Phares and Tommy Sutton.Youngsters practice their casting as the anglers head out to com-pete.Anglers at daybreak.

Photos By Sharon Cannon

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Jack Fulce awaits an autograph from pro angler Terry Scroggins.

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This young fan gets thecrowd ready for the weigh-in.

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Photos By Sharon Cannon

Speckled Perch Festivaland Parade 2012

Community Event

The Speckled Perch Parade kicked off the festivities for the Speckled Perch Festival held the March 10 weekend at Flagler Park in downtown Okeechobee. Okeechobee Main Street coordinated the festivities for the weekend. In spite of dark clouds and the chance of rain, there was a great crowd and plenty of vendors offering arts and crafts, games for the chil-dren and food.

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Okeechobee Historical Society President Betty Williamson waves to the crowd.

Moosita was “dressed” and waiting for the parade to begin.

Caylee Bryant plants a kiss on a calf.

Judy Jones and Shule Jones look on as patrons browse through their Seminole goods.

Don Sloan orders a Polish sausage from Charnaise Knight of Knight Cater-ing of Atlanta.


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Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association

Photos By Sharon CannonCommunity Event

Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association Spring Rodeo was held March 10-11 at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. The two-day event offered bareback riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, saddle bronc riding, team roping, calf scramble, girls barrel racing and bull riding. The crowd enjoyed all events as well as the special entertainment.

Spring Rodeo

Barrel man Keith Isley.Ladies barrel racing.Chuck Schmidt and Prince Townsend.(L-R) Melissa Albert, Miss Silver Spurs 2012; Kelly Lee Harper, Miss Ro-deo Florida Sweetheart 2012; Kellie Munn, Miss Rodeo Okeechobee; McKenna Brooke Hickson, Miss Ro-deo Okeechobee Princess and Sierra Megan Coward, Miss Teen Rodeo 2012.Rodeo monkeys ride on their dogs.Calf roping division.

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Okeechobee County FairThe sixth annual Okeechobee County Fair was held March 13-18 at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. The fair opened with a wonderful fireworks display at dusk. There were a host of events throughout the week, including the Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show and Sale, the Okeechobee Idol contest, Lucky Bob Extreme Juggling and Magic, DJ Ken Keller of WOKC, monster truck rides and a talent show.

The carnival midway, games and food were family favorites as well as the free petting zoo. Local arts and crafts were also on display. For more info., visit www.okeechobeecoun-tyfair.com.

2012 Okeechobee Country FairMiss Teen Taylor Fulford and Little Miss Morgan Roberts.

Josue Hernandez, Alejandro Pacheco and Adelaida Vega feed the giraffe.Rylie Arnold’s cotton candy is bigger than her.Tabitha Smith wins a prize at the dart booth.Kelly, Alex and Charlie Hukriede win big.The rides at night.Okeechobee Idol winner Nikki St. Pierre with Tyler Fulford, Morgan Roberts and DJ Ken Keller of WOKC.The ferris wheel was a popular ride.

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Photos By Sandra Pearce

Okeechobee Youth Livestock Show and Sale at the

Okeechobee County Fair

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Grand Champion Steer: Shelby Kirton.Reserve Grand Champion Steer: Sarah Davis.Grand Champion Hog: Justin Ray.Grand Champion Lamb: Kaitlynn Lawrence.Reserve Grand Champion Lamb: Carolanne Lundy.Reserve Grand Champion Hog: Shyanne Prescott.Grand Champion Goat: Jessica Humphrey.Reserve Grand Champion Goat: Sarah Davis.

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Youth Livestock Top Show Winners



The ninth annual Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (L.O.S.T.) bike ride/run/walk was hosted by the Rotary Club of Okeechobee the morning of March 31. The 54-mile round-trip ride started at C. Scott Driver Park and took place along the Hoover Dike to Port Mayaca and back. More than 100 bikers and walkers enjoyed the scenic route overlooking Lake Okeechobee. For more info., visit www.okeechobeerotary.org.

Rotary Club of Okeechobee

The mother-daughter team of Melissa Mills and Mary Stinson enjoy the ride. The Rotary Club Committee and volunteers.Cyclists begin the 54-mile ride along Lake Okeechobee Scenic.Rotary President Lyle Fried with fellow Rotarians Colin Cameron and Bennett Yeilding.Tabitha Trent goes over the rules.Jill Pitts and Laura McCall get ready for the walk.Cyclists gather before the ride.Tom with his son Timothy Roscoe McCoinvolunteer to feed the riders after the event.

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Located in southwest Okeechobee, 20 acres of verdant meadow provide the setting for the Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens, a project of the Philippine American Cultural Founda-

tion of South Florida (PACFF). The site will host a cultural complex featuring an art center, festival village and gardens built to showcase Filipino culture and traditions.

“Our mission is to share the culture of Filipinos with other members of the community, and to educate Filipino-Americans about their Filipino heritage,” said Edwin Dominado of Palm Beach, president of the PACFF. “We also plan to share the facility with other nonprofits for their multicultural presentations.”

Drs. Trinidad and Manuel Garcia were early supporters of the complex. Trinidad is a PACFF board member who decided to become involved because the complex is in Okeechobee. “We arrived here in 1973 and have made many sincere friendships,” she said. “We want to give back to this lovely community.”

The Garcias are longtime physicians in Okeechobee. Dr. Trinidad Garcia specializes in obstetrics/gynecology, and Dr. Manuel Garcia is a surgeon at Raulerson Hospital.

Situated at the far western edge of the South Pacific, the Philippine archipelago is made up of a chain of 7,017 islands, speaking 170 different languages. Its lush flora and fauna flourish in the many different regions of this long chain of islands. With China to the north, Vietnam to the west and Indonesia to the south, it’s very strategically positioned. The Philippines was a Spanish colony for more than 300 years and had a long relationship with the United States from 1898 until it became independent in 1946. From 1935 to 1946, it was a commonwealth of the United States like Puerto Rico is today.

When the cultural complex and gardens are completed, they will transport visitors to a little bit of the Philippines. People will have the opportunity to learn more about its rich and varied heritage and to enjoy the country’s exotic flowers and trees, all without a 20-hour plane ride.

The PACFF believes Okeechobee is the ideal place for its Philippine complex and gardens. “Okeechobee is centrally located,” Dominado said.

He explained that there is a cultural complex on 10 acres in Tampa built by a Filipino-American organization, and it is booked with events for the entire year. The complex in Okeechobee will serve Florida and the entire United States. According to the 2010 U.S. Census, 122,691 people of Filipino heritage live in Florida, and it is the second-largest Asian group in the state.

PACFF leaders hope the complex will eventually attract many Filipino-Americans to Okeechobee. They also think Okeechobee is the perfect setting for the complex and gardens because of the natural beauty of the lake and its surrounding area. Okeechobee offers additional activities such as fishing, hunting, boating and hiking to complex visitors. Dominado plans to coordinate with the Tourism Development Council so that the complex and gardens will result in an economic plus for Okeechobee. He envi-sions many tourists being drawn to the site, which in turn will create more jobs, hotels and restaurants.

A Dream Coming True: The Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens

By Jan Fehrman O Photos By Sandra Pearce


A Dream Coming True: The Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens

Dr. Manual Garcia and PACFF Board members Dr. Trinidad Garcia, Sid Estrada and President Edwin Dominado.

“We want to giveback to this lovely

community.”


The complex will hold both outdoor and indoor functions such as concerts, fashion shows, dance presentations, dis-plays of arts and crafts, theater, quincea-ñeras and weddings. A rendering of the completed complex and gardens shows a wedding chapel in the center of a man-made lake, which will be created dur-ing the project. “At present there is an open pavilion there for a small party,” Dr. Trinidad Garcia said. “Two quincea-ñeras were held there recently.”

Between the buildings will be gardens divided into three areas named after

major parts of the Philippines: Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The climate in Okeechobee is like certain areas of the Philippines. “Some of the plants grown in the Philippines can be found here in Florida, and we will use them in the gardens,” Dominado said. “The Ylang-Ylang tree is now in place at the site. This type of tree produces a lot of flow-ers used by noted perfume companies all over the world.”

At present native vegetables such as the bitter melon are also being grown at the acreage.

Locally, the complex and gardens are in the very capable hands of PACFF Board Member Sid Estrada, who is project manager for the venture. Estrada has lived in Okeechobee since 1983, having worked for an insurance company until his retirement. He came to Okeechobee from Basilin City, Philippines, where he was an agriculturist and owned his own farm. Estrada’s background in busi-ness and agriculture serves him well as he oversees the building of the complex and gardens.

Estrada is very enthusiastic about the

Edwin Dominado of Palm Beach, president of the PACFF

“We also plan to share the facility withother nonprofits for their

multicultural presentations.”


Edwin Dominado of Palm Beach, president of the PACFF


endeavor and what it will mean to Okeechobee. “This $15 million project will have a domino effect,” he said. “It will give a big boost to the economy as tourists arrive needing hotels, restau-rants and additional recreation.”

Although major construction has not yet begun, the PACFF is making good use of its 20 acres. This past winter, the PACFF hosted its second annual PhilFiesta at the complex site. Visitors enjoyed a variety of Filipino food and observed Filipino arts and crafts. On the outdoor stage, dancers in colorful costumes performed folk dances to tra-ditional music, beauty queens of South Florida presented the Filipina Fashion Show, and martial arts were demon-strated.

As part of its mission, the PACFF offers use of the site to nonprofit community organizations that have a 50l (c)3 status. On May 5, it hosted Cinco de Mayo to benefit El Centro Santa Fe and the Okeechobee Non-Profit Housing Inc., of which Estrada is a board member.

The public had a festive day full of many activities for all ages. For example, one could sample homemade tamales and fresh fruit salad while listening to ma-riachis perform their traditional songs. This was an excellent chance for the whole community to enjoy the culture and cuisine of Mexico. “With almost 10,000 Hispanics living in Okeechobee County, the site offers a place for large groups like this to use,” Estrada said;

This open pavilion is now onthe property and it can be

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plans are also in the works for other local events with the Boy Scouts and ARC.

PACFF plans to continue to support local events. “The complex will ben-efit the entire community, whether you are of Philippine heritage or not,” Dr. Trinidad Garcia said. “It will be equally shared by all. The founders of the proj-ect want everyone to be able to use it.”

Funding will determine the time frame of the project. “Its completion depends on the flow of donations and contri-butions from different sources such as government funding, private individu-als, corporations and fundraising ac-tivities initiated by different organiza-tions,” Dominado said. “Donations to purchase the 20-acre site were a good beginning.”

The groundbreaking was celebrated in 2010. More major donations would mean an early finishing point for the complex

and gardens.

When completed, the Philippine Heri-tage Enrichment Complex and Gar-dens can be a significant addition to Okeechobee County. It shares other cultures with the community as well as being a venue for local groups. At the same time it offers a boost to the economy. Dominado sees the complex as an “ambassador” to every nationality in America.

“The complex will unite different na-tionalities for a better perception and appreciation of each other’s arts, music and culture,” he said.

The Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex and Gardens is located at 1554 SW 16th Ave. in Okeechobee. For more information, call Sid Estrada at (863) 610-0515.

(Left) PhilFiesta 2011, held on the future complex grounds in Okeechobee.


OWhen Darrell and Jeanne Enfinger retired last year, they decided to update their ranch house–style home just out-side Okeechobee to something more modern and appropriate for large family gatherings, now that their three sons are grown.

The Enfingers took out walls to open the central portion of their home, and filled in what was once a sunken living room to improve mobility and further enhance an open feeling they were striv-ing for. They felt it was important to use local contractors, some of whom they attended school with as far back as ele-mentary school, where the couple first met. “We wanted to use Okeechobee contractors because we’re really into supporting our community because they support this community,” Jeanne said. “They did a wonderful job.”

Before they retired, Jeanne was an edu-cator, and Darrell was Okeechobee County director of parks and recreation for 37 years.

Jeanne said her general contractor, Hoot Worley of G.M. Worley Inc. of Okeechobee, transformed her ideas into a mechanical drawing. “This house was built in 1983, and when we bought this house, I thought it was the most won-derful neighborhood in Okeechobee,” Jeanne said. “The house itself was very much a 1980s home. It had a sunken living room, separate kitchen, huge Chattahoochee stone fireplace, gigantic

hearth, rough-cut cedar on both sides of the fireplace. You can imagine it was very much a country home, very com-fortable in Okeechobee. It just wasn’t what I wanted.

The Enfingers bought the house in 1993. “All three of our sons graduated from Okeechobee High School from

this home, so we waited until we retired to remodel because we wanted to do quite a lot,” Jeanne said. “We wanted to bring it into a modern look, and we def-initely wanted a more traditional South-ern look.”

Darrell and Jeanne both moved to Okeechobee in 1958 when they were 10 years old. “We were in the same grade and had the same teacher,” Jeanne said. “His family moved in from Auburn-dale. I moved in from the Fort Lau-

By Ron Bukley O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

OkeechobeeAT HOME

Darrell and Jeanne Enfinger

derdale area, in the dairy business. We converged here because his family and mine were both involved in agricul-ture.”

The Enfingers grew up together, gradu-ated high school in 1967, went to col-lege, came back, married and raised their children.

They started the remodeling project in February and finished in mid-May. They did not have to move out during the project and were able to retreat to the bedrooms to live, which are vacant now that their sons had moved out.

With a split air-conditioning system, they turned off the front room unit and lived in the bedrooms since their sons had moved out. “There was just the two of us, so we took over the four bed-rooms,” Jeanne said. “It was comfort-able. We were fine.”

The new design is a better fit for their lifestyle and has a lighter look, Jeanne said. They replaced carpet in the living room, parquet in the formal dining and piano rooms, and vinyl in the kitchen, with light oak flooring that runs diago-nally throughout the house, except for a 3’x12’ inset at the entryway that runs straight back into the house between the piano and dining rooms.

“We like the oak because it adds some texture to the floor without making it really busy,” Jeanne said. “And we love

(Above) Darrell and Jeanne Enfingershare a toast.(Right) The open-air kitchen area.


AT HOME

(Above) The dining area interacts with the living area.

(Below) The piano room is inviting with the light oak flooring.

(Above) The kitchen now features astove island.

(Below) Musical accents in the piano room.



the diagonal. We love the way that it brings you in and takes you out to a nice vista.”

They removed a wall that once sepa-rated the kitchen from the living area and installed a combination bar coun-ter and stove island that both separates and joins the kitchen area to the living area, creating an openness for people in the kitchen and living area to interact, and for those in the kitchen to watch the 52-inch television above an antique-white, gas-powered fireplace at the end of the room that replaces the old fire-place.

They moved French doors that previ-ously opened from the fireplace to the kitchen, facing the front of the house, replacing what was once a window, which provides an additional vista to the back patio and swimming pool.

Custom-cut granite countertops run throughout the kitchen and the appli-ances are all stainless steel. “We love the kitchen,” Jeanne said. “The cabinets we got at Home Depot. We bought the cabinets, and they installed them for us.”

The Enfingers unveiled the remodel-ing project on Mother’s Day, when the entire family came home. “The boys had

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not seen it,” Jeanne said. “One by one they came in and said, ‘Oh my good-ness,’ and they love it, love it, love it, and then they’d say, ‘It’s not our house’ where we raised them. After they’d been here a few hours they had totally forgot-ten how the house used to be and said, ‘This is wonderful.’”

Jeanne said the remodeled home was exactly what she wanted to accommo-date large gatherings. “We had 15 or 17 people and they were watching tele-vision, and I was in here cooking and had all the ovens going, and we were all together,” she said. “The area flows so nicely. You can just open the French doors, and the party just goes right on out.”

Family reunions sometimes grow to 20 or 25 people, and they need adequate seating. An old friend the couple grew up with, Penny Homer of Rebecca Homer Design, did much of the con-sultation.

Homer believes in making use of fur-niture the owners have grown comfort-able with over the years. “Much of the furnishings in here Jeanne already had, but take on a whole new look according to where you place them,” she said.

Homer calls the technique “shop-ping your house.” One significant item she convinced Jeanne to keep was a wrought-iron and glass dinette table that had been in an informal dining area next to the kitchen.

They moved it to a portion of the newly raised living room, which was now on level with the kitchen.

Jeanne said she piled all her furnishings on the floor, including the pictures, paintings and lamps. “I kept saying, ‘I need all new furniture, Penny,’” Jeanne said, “and she would tell me, ‘No you don’t. We can make this work.’ She just pulls everything together.”


(Above) The formal dining room.(Below) Ready to serve guests tea.(Right) The beautiful fireplace in the living area.

(Below) French doors open out to the pool.


Jeanne did wind up buying counter-height barstools for the new kitchen island, which has an exhaust vent that pops up about 6 inches when in use that draws cooking fumes from the stove through a duct they installed under-neath the new raised living room floor before they filled it in. “We didn’t want the big hood up there,” Darrell said. “We took a 6-inch pipe and ran it over toward that window.”

Raising the formerly sunken living room was one of the more daunting parts of the remodeling, requiring about 10 square yards of fill and a new con-crete slab, Darrell said. “All the outlets and wall switches had to be raised,” he said. “That was one of my projects.”

Although the remodeling went quickly, Jeanne said they put a lot of consider-ation into the project beforehand. “I had a lot of expert help, but I really thought of little else since June of last year,” she said. “I spent six months thinking about what I wanted to do.

“Showroom Full Of Major Brands”

317 WS Park StreetOkeechobee, FL. 34974

863-763-2220

We Repair All BrandsSales Service Parts

Financing Available

Your Hometown Source For Quality Service.

Owners Don & Linda Weir with Mark Weir and LaDonna Wooten.

Located in Okeechobee For Over 16 Years!

A State CertifiedGeneral Contractor

St. Lic. CGC1507657

Mack “Hoot” WorleyPresident863-467-2541863-467-2541

We are here for your Equine needs.110 NW 5th Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972

A warm corner to relaxnext to the fireplace.


Custom Window &BlindsTreatments

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Fabric & Trim ~ Decorative RodsDraperies ~ Valances ~ Bedding

Cornices ~ Blinds ~ Shutters ~VerticalsAll Window Coverings ~ Custom Sewing

863-357-6555

Call Val Douglas

Let's get the job done together!

Over 20 years Experience!“Customer Service One on One

by Appointment.”

Brand NameNEW Fashions

863-357-8664Toni Doyle - Owner

123 SW Park StreetOkeechobee, FL

[email protected]

Toni's Chic Boutique“Where Fun & Fashion Meet”

& Consignment

Select PristineConsignment

Notary Public Services Available

Tired of Broken Buttons fromDry Cleaner Pressing?

At Toni's we iron by hand!

Jewelryand

Accessories

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Serving All Of Florida

Providing Quality Services at Affordable Prices

Landscaping Tree Service Lawn Care Sod Service Irrigation

Mulching Trimming Lighting Pavers Pressure Cleaning

PlantingTrees, Tropical Foliage, ShrubsNative Plants, Ground Covers (863) 634-1393

Commercial - Residential Licensed & InsuredFree Estimates

(863) 634-1393


A SHOPPING ADDICTION

Layaway Available! 863-357-1199Absolutely Art

Custom Framing and Matting401 SW Park Street

Okeechobee, FL 34972

Vera Bradley - Crabtree & Evelyn - Brighton Handbags - Bridal & Baby Registry Available

www.raulersonsart.com

Rau erson's Spring/SummerHot New Looks

and Colors

© 2012 Vera Bradley Designs, Inc.

Introducing thelatest styles, colors

and collections.

Dennis R. ConnerU.S. Navy, (Ret)

For County Commissioner,District 3

“It Just Takes Common Sense”

Paid by Dennis R. Conner, Republican, for County Commissioner, District 3

Mission is to pursue positiveand progressive business growth.

Okeechobee Resident since 1975.

Will focus on opportunitiesfor our youth.

Will serve withan open-door policy.

The following contractors participated in the project: G.M. Worley Inc., gen-eral contractor; Speed Square Fram-ing LLC, window, door and mantel; Seminole Inc., electrical and light-ing; Jeanette’s Interiors Inc., floor-ing in s t a l l a t i on ; Dav id Young Sheedy Construction, ceiling tex-ture; Home Depot, cabinets and installation; LAS & JB of Fort Pierce, granite countertops and installation; Glades Gas, gas cook top connec-tion; Don’s Appliances, kitchen appli-ances; and Rebecca Homer Design, décor consultation. O


3936 SE 18th TerraceOkeechobee, FL 34974

www.paulmitchell.comMonday- Friday 9-5 Tanning 9-7

Saturday 9-3

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Former location of Vanity Salon.New Location!

Relay for Life

Photos By Felicia MaxwellCommunity Event

Mid Florida Credit Union team: Sandra Adams, Nicole Adams, Amy Daniel, Ester Banuelos, Tammy and Chris Loschiavo.Cancer survivor Tony Bowers III.The survivor lap begins and sets the tone of the event.Event Chair Angie Griffin (right) withOperations Chair Missy Fipps.The Pit Crew team: Eve Ramond and Cindy Douglas.Luminaria bags surround the track in honor of loved ones who have survived cancer and in memory of those who lost their battle.Dr. Ramesh Kumar speaks to the crowd.

The American Cancer Society’s Okeechobee Relay for Life was held April 13 and 14 at the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Arena. This year’s schedule included the survivor and caregiver laps, a cornhole tournament, three-legged races, dodgeball game, and lots of food and fun for the entire family. For more info., visit www.cancer.org.

(Above) The Raulerson Hospital Mash Out Cancer team.

(Left) Okeechobee Police Chief Denny Davis (right) with Sgt. Russ Cale, Detective Bettye Taylor, Sgt. Tom Tarner, who passed away from cancer three weeks later.

North Elementary School team members Marlene Vega, Glenna Rucks, Pat Keebler and Carol Gable.

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Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy Inc.Gretchen Robertson, Agent

309 NE 2nd STOkeechobee, FL 34972Bus: 863-763-5561 Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Like a goodneighbor,

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Creating beautiful smiles in Okeechobeefor over 28 years!

2025 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972863-467-2332Vero Beach 772-562-5876 Sebastian 772-589-5959

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Now Open

Monday - Friday ~ Opens at 6:00 am Breakfast & Lunch

Where the SONis always shining!

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Sunday Church Services10:45 am - Contemporary

8:30 am - Traditional

Classes for all ages10:00am

Behind the Business

Jeremy LaRue of Total Roadside Services didn’t come to Okeechobee until he was 10, but he spent the next 25 years, both professionally and personally, becoming a true “native son.”

At the age of 14, LaRue took his first job at the old Pan Amer-ican Tire. After Pan American closed its doors, LaRue worked at Izzy’s Tire, learning the truck tire business. At LaRue’s next

Total Roadside ServicesRaye Deusinger O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

job, working at Goodyear, he met his wife Tabitha and fur-thered his education as a mechanic by attending Indian River State College and becoming a master ASE technician.

LaRue next worked for St. Lucie Battery and Tire while start-ing his own business with help from his childhood friend Nathan Baisley. In the evenings, LaRue and Baisley worked roadside, helping people by changing tires or repairing their

vehicles. LaRue then set up shop behind his house off Highway 70 and built the busi-

ness. Tabitha worked a day job and did the business bookkeeping in the eve-ning.

Each time Total Roadside Services bought another truck, another mechan-ic was hired to drive it. In 2011, after watching the business grow, the LaRues built their new facility on State Road 710 and moved to that location.

Wanting to “keep the dol lars in Okeechobee,” Jeremy hired local engi-neer Marcos Montes de Oca and local contractor David Sweat to build the site, which has six regular work bays and one bay with a 50-ton lift for semis and mo-tor homes. An ultra-modern shop, it is self-sustaining, powered by solar panels on the roof. Done for environmental as well as economic reasons, the efficient building is, as Jeremy said, “the way I can keep my prices down and give the customer such good prices.”

“Skilled and trained employees can han-dle anything from tires to mechanical,” Jeremy said.

Whether for a car, truck, motor home, tractor, loader or semi, Total Roadside Services carries a tire inventory of more


Tabitha and Jeremy LaRue


than $800,000 with a motto that asks, “How safe is your rubber?”

Total Roadside Services currently runs six vehicles, has 14 employees (including the LaRue’sdaughter, Deianira (Day) and maintains a reputation for reli-ability and integrity verified on Google and Angie’s List. Once employed by Izzy’s Tires, Angelo Izzo (Izzy) now works with Jeremy as the tire manager. His childhood friend, Nathan Baisley (Big Nate), is the store manager.

Hometown involvement has led Jeremy to work part time with the Okeechobee City Po-lice Department and for three years as a county volunteer firefighter. His full-service business supports the Okeechobee High School basketball, softball and rodeo teams; 4-H Club;

FFA (Future Farmers of America; OCRA (Okeechobee Citi-zens Recreation Association); the Skip Bryant Memorial Fund; the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta; the Okeechobee Blood Roundup; Boy Scouts; and the Okeechobee County

Fair, where Jeremy has also vol-unteered. He spends his earnings supporting Okeechobee County through local businesses and chari-ties, and is proud of his excellent relations with all other tire stores in town. Continuing to invest, Jeremy bought an additional half-acre behind his shop and opened a driveway so large vehicles can drive through instead of backing out.

Stop in for service, relax in the clean lounge area and see how TRS serves its neighbors. Total Roadside Services is located at 3176 Hwy 710 E. For more information, call (863) 357-8772 or visit www.totalroadsideservices.com. O

Post Office Box 1177 - Okeechobee, FL 34973863.763.5593

Fax 863.763.7874

We Proudly Support The CommunityWe Live And Work In.

Family owned and operated since 1951As an organization and member of the community,

we are dedicated to the safety of our drivingprofessionals, as well as the motoring public.

Terminals also inTampa - West Palm Beach - Birminghamwww.walpoleinc.com

Behind the Business

When you step in the door of the 14K Gold Store, you instantly feel as if you are coming home and want to “sit a spell.” Then out steps Cookie Smith, with her Southern gentility and welcoming

14K GoldBy Raye Deusinger O Photo by Felicia Maxwell

smile, and you know you’re home. Cookie has lived in Okeechobee since 1976 when she moved here with her husband Don, from Tennessee. But it wasn’t gold they sold way back then; it was hoagies.

Longtime Okeechobee folks will remem-ber the Hoagie Hut. It was the place

to go for sandwiches and even deliv-ered to most local businesses. The Smiths’ f r iendl iness and love of Okeechobee has kept them in busi-ness 36 years.

Cookie, born Etha Kaye, was one of seven kids. Though she met Don at only 16, things didn’t get seri-ous until Don began writing her while he was in the Navy. This led to marriage, three children and now 10 grandchi ldren. Don’s fami ly came to Okeechobee and opened the Hoagie Hut. Cookie and the kids followed a few months later. When his parents went back to Tennes-see, Don and Cookie took over the store.

Two years later, jewelers Doc and Louise Edlin came to town and wanted to open a store. With a wall dividing the front of the store in two, they leased half as a jewelry store while maintaining the Hoagie Hut on the other side. Their rela-tionship was a good balance of busi-ness and friendship; each would op-erate the other’s store when needed. It became a profitable venture, as customers could have a hoagie while shopping or waiting for jewelry re-pair, or they could look at jewelry


Cookie SmithCarol Brown and


when they came in for lunch.

Soon Don began schooling in jewelry repair to help Doc. He helped Louise keep the store open when Doc died in 1985. “They were such a joy to be around and taught us so much,” Cookie said.

When Louise wanted to sell, they bought her out and Don and Cookie became owners of two businesses. Two years later they closed the Hut and the 14K Gold Store grew into the successful business it is today.

Since Don died in 2006, Cookie has continued. Liv-ing out their faith was always important to them, and the sound of gospel music was common while Don worked repairs. It was not unusual for customers to stand around and sing along. Today people often stop in just to say hi, look at new pieces, choose a Daz-

zler Collectible or buy a beautiful rose which has been dipped in acrylic and edged with 14k gold.

W h i l e h e r m a i n i n t e r e s t i s h e r g r a n d c h i l d r e n , Cookie stays active in bookkeeping, pricing and sell-ing. She has wonderful assistance from Carol Brown, an experienced laser welder who makes repairs so skill-fully, the repair cannot even be detected. “She’s been such a blessing,” Cookie said.

The store also carries used jewelry and even buys scrap gold. The economy has made things hard, but Cookie plans to soldier on. “As long as God keeps us here, we’ll stay,” she said.

Cookie welcomes everyone to stop in the 14K Gold Store, located at 411 SW Park St. Store hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information, call (863) 763-8883. O


EXPERIENCE THE NETWORK OF PHY TO PROVIDING QUALITY HEALTH

SICIANS AND CLINICIANS DEDICATED CARE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH.

For a Free Physician Referral & Healthcare Questions, call CONSULT-A-NURSE ® at 1-800-449-8642

Raulerson Hospital is proud to announce a new investment in the patient-centered care provided at our facility. Beginning in June, Raulerson Hospital will employ a unique type of physician, whose primary focus is the general medical care of hospitalized patients. These doctors are known as Hospitalists. They do not have an office in the community for outpatient or office visits. They are 100% committed to the care of the patients who are admitted to the hospital.

There are two scenarios when you may be seen by one of our new Hospitalists.

• If you do not have a primary care physician to admit you to the hospital from the Emergency Room, the Hospitalist will assess and treat your medical condition and coordinate your hospital care. Then our Hospitalist and case managers will help to refer you to a primary care physician with whom you can follow up upon discharge.

• Your regular primary care physician may choose to coordinate your admission with our Hospitalist program. In this instance the Hospitalist Physicians will:

If you need a specialist while you are in the care of the Hospitalists physicians, they will coordinate your care with other specialists as needed.

General SurgeonDr. Manuel Garcia

Introducing General SurgeonDr. Gregory Sainnoval

GENERAL SURGERY is a crucial function for any hospital. Many times the outcomes of diagnostic tools such as tests and lab work leave physicians with no choice but to recommend a surgical procedure to correct a patient’s condition. Having a surgical procedure is a major event; often a once in a lifetime occurrence. Although experiencing a surgery may be considered a rare incident that only a portion of the population ever requires, the results are often life-changing. Just ask the patients who have had emergency surgery to treat their appendicitis, or the patient who received a total knee replacement or the patient whose cancerous tumor was removed. There is, however, a small portion of society for which experiencing a surgical procedure is not a once in a lifetime event. For operating room nurses and general surgeons, like Dr. Manuel Garcia and Dr. Gregory

Sainnoval, performing these and many other surgical procedures, is their day-job! They are professionals and their precision and experience are a comfort to patients requiring a surgical procedure at Raulerson Hospital.

Beyond the variety of general surgery and laparoscopic procedures performed by our talented general surgeons, Raulerson Hospital offers additional surgical services, performed by the specialist-physicians on our Medical Staff. Surgical Services available at Raulerson Hospital include:

1796 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 • (863) 763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.comEmergency Services - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

o assess and treat your medical conditiono coordinate your hospital careo establish a relationship with you and your family

o review your progress with your physician o transition your medical care back to your

primary care physician upon your discharge

introducing our hospitalist program

• Colon/ Rectal Surgery• Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery• Endoscopic Surgery• Gynecology• General Surgery• Laparoscopic Surgery

• Pacemaker/Defibrillator Implantation

• Podiatry• Orthopedics• Urology

RH_ Inside Spread OK Mag Ad.indd 1 5/29/12 3:16 PM


EXPERIENCE THE NETWORK OF PHY TO PROVIDING QUALITY HEALTH

SICIANS AND CLINICIANS DEDICATED CARE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH.

For a Free Physician Referral & Healthcare Questions, call CONSULT-A-NURSE ® at 1-800-449-8642

Raulerson Hospital is proud to announce a new investment in the patient-centered care provided at our facility. Beginning in June, Raulerson Hospital will employ a unique type of physician, whose primary focus is the general medical care of hospitalized patients. These doctors are known as Hospitalists. They do not have an office in the community for outpatient or office visits. They are 100% committed to the care of the patients who are admitted to the hospital.

There are two scenarios when you may be seen by one of our new Hospitalists.

• If you do not have a primary care physician to admit you to the hospital from the Emergency Room, the Hospitalist will assess and treat your medical condition and coordinate your hospital care. Then our Hospitalist and case managers will help to refer you to a primary care physician with whom you can follow up upon discharge.

• Your regular primary care physician may choose to coordinate your admission with our Hospitalist program. In this instance the Hospitalist Physicians will:

If you need a specialist while you are in the care of the Hospitalists physicians, they will coordinate your care with other specialists as needed.

General SurgeonDr. Manuel Garcia

Introducing General SurgeonDr. Gregory Sainnoval

GENERAL SURGERY is a crucial function for any hospital. Many times the outcomes of diagnostic tools such as tests and lab work leave physicians with no choice but to recommend a surgical procedure to correct a patient’s condition. Having a surgical procedure is a major event; often a once in a lifetime occurrence. Although experiencing a surgery may be considered a rare incident that only a portion of the population ever requires, the results are often life-changing. Just ask the patients who have had emergency surgery to treat their appendicitis, or the patient who received a total knee replacement or the patient whose cancerous tumor was removed. There is, however, a small portion of society for which experiencing a surgical procedure is not a once in a lifetime event. For operating room nurses and general surgeons, like Dr. Manuel Garcia and Dr. Gregory

Sainnoval, performing these and many other surgical procedures, is their day-job! They are professionals and their precision and experience are a comfort to patients requiring a surgical procedure at Raulerson Hospital.

Beyond the variety of general surgery and laparoscopic procedures performed by our talented general surgeons, Raulerson Hospital offers additional surgical services, performed by the specialist-physicians on our Medical Staff. Surgical Services available at Raulerson Hospital include:

1796 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 • (863) 763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.comEmergency Services - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

o assess and treat your medical conditiono coordinate your hospital careo establish a relationship with you and your family

o review your progress with your physician o transition your medical care back to your

primary care physician upon your discharge

introducing our hospitalist program

• Colon/ Rectal Surgery• Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery• Endoscopic Surgery• Gynecology• General Surgery• Laparoscopic Surgery

• Pacemaker/Defibrillator Implantation

• Podiatry• Orthopedics• Urology

RH_ Inside Spread OK Mag Ad.indd 1 5/29/12 3:16 PM


Top of the LakeArt & Music Fest


The sixth annual Top of the Lake Art and Music Fest, sponsored by Okeechobee Main Street, was held April 14 and 15 at Flagler Park in downtown Okeechobee. The two-day event featured fine art by local and national artists, as well as local student artists. A variety of contemporary and jazz music was performed both days in the park. The Okeechobee Main Street Arts & Cultural Committee’s mission is to bring the finer arts to the community. For more photos and information about this event, visit www.mainstreetokeechobee.com.

(Above) OKMS fourth mural project presentation displayed art panels from the mural installation. (L-R) Mural sponsors Marie and Gil Culbreth, artist Joseph Steiert, and Okeechobee City Councilman Dowling Watford.

Best of Show artist Brad Phares of Okeechobee.

Judge’s Choice artist Teri Meagher of Fort Myers.

2013 Poster Art Winner Highwayman artist Jimmy Stovall of Ft. Pierce.

(Above) The Okeechobee High School jazz band performs.

(Right) Leslie Dance Studio dancersperform to a large crowd in the street.

(Above) OKMS Arts and Culture committee (L-R): Rafael Pacheco, OKMS Executive Director Cindy Birdashaw, Jan Fehrman, Chair Bridgette Waldau, Jennifer Dodd and Kathleen Shatto.


Top of the LakeArt & Music Fest

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Presenting a better way to Present Your Business

Direct Mail for your business from your local The UPS Store.

Are you looking for a better way toconnect with your customers? Direct mail marketing is the answer.

We can help you get your businessgoing with direct mail services fromThe UPS Store. With our expertiseand range of services, we’ll get thejob done right.

Kids, young and old, enjoy the Kid-Zone, sponsored by Grand Oaks, new to the Top of the Lake Art & Music Fest.

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Ron Dawson delighted the children with his balloon creations; OKMS promo-tion director Frank DeCarlo shows off his balloons.Devin Maxwell reads to the children at the Story Time tree.The “Operation” game was popular to all the kids.

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Ag-Venture HoldS Inaugural Event


Ag-Venture held its inaugural event May 9-10 at the Trad-ing Post Flea Market. Sponsored by TD Bank, this event was held for Okeechobee’s fourth-graders from public and private schools, as well as home-schooled students. Stu-dents learned the essentials of farming through demonstra-tions at different stations. The topics covered were veg-etables, citrus, forestry, soil and water, dairy, beef and gator farming. The students, teachers and volunteers enjoyed lunch after the activities.

Dakota Spells, TylerMurphy, Wyatt Cannonand Treshawn Wiggins.Students from the Okeechobee Christian Academy.Lisa Jensen, Bonnie Wolff Pelaez, County Commis-sioner Joey Hoover and Diane Davies.Kayleigh Crum pets a gator with Parker Island Gator Farms Jeanie Tillman.TD Bank’s Diane Daviesaddresses the students. Chantavia Baul seems to be enjoying the day.Kay Duke demonstrates “gardening in a glove.” Addonai McLaren, Carisse Law, Cole Verano, Gabriel Hall, Nathan Smiley, Dustin Barnes and Grace Morgan of Cornerstone Christian Home Educators hold agator hide.

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Daniel Culbert, Extension Agent III - Horticulture, talked to the students about growing your own vegetables.


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Okeechobee Ag Venture Board Members (L-R) Mark Roberts, V.P. Audrey Driggers, Debbie Clements, Melissa Montes deOca, Kay Duke, Pres. Diane Davies, Sec/Tre-as. Cecilia Elliott and Wayne Cunningham (not pictured Mary Hurley, Bill Wallace and Val Lewis).

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Summer 2012 | 49863-763-3566 - 3126 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 34974

United Country MidFlorida Realty is conveniently at located at 3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974. Julie Turner is an Okeechobee native who has raised her family here because she loves Okeechobee. She is familiar with the community, its history, and uniqueness – qualities which enables her to help current or prospective residents find the perfect home and neighborhood for their needs. Julie has a B.S. from Florida State University and has been a Realtor since 2003. Julie is currently the President of the Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR). United Country MidFlorida Realty’s goal is to get you the best possible price in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of inconvenience to you. By remaining focused on this goal, it is our desire to obtain exceptional, individual results utilizing skills, honesty and integrity to create a lasting relationship one client at a time.

UNITED COUNTRY is America’s rural real estate company. Your best source for locating real estate for sale throughout the small towns and cities of rural America – residential, farms, ranches, recreational and business! Through a network of over 600 offices – nationwide, United Country has been uniting buyers and sellers of country real estate for over eighty years. MidFlorida Realty’s years of local experi-ence and reputation, provides sellers and buyers with a unique insight into the local marketplace. You can count on United Country - MidFlorida Realty to provide you with quality, professional service.

United Country MidFlorida Realty

3126 Hwy 441 SouthOkeechobee, FL 34974

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

Broker Julie Turner

863-763-3566

Okeechobee’s Hometown Realtor

View all of our properties at www.MidFloridaRealty.net

Virtual Tours, Multiple Photos& Detailed Descriptions

on All Our Properties and the Entire Okeechobee MLSavailable on our Website.


The Berger Clinic

863-467-1117Call For Appointment

Jay S. Berger, MD

Okeechobee Medical Park1713 Hwy 441 N. Suite D

Okeechobee, FL 34972(Located across the street

from the hospital.)

Dr. Berger and Staffhave proudly

served the Okeechobeearea since 1985.

Adult Health CareDiagnosis and Management of Medical Conditions

Preventive Health

Photos By Sandra PearceCommunity Event

Williamsons Celebrate

60thAnniversary

On April 21 friends and family shared the day with Sonny and Betty Williamson to cel-ebrate at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College in Okeechobee.

(Above left) Williamson family members.

(Left) All couples married for 50 years or more.

(Below) Betty and SonnyWilliamson enjoy the celebration.

Betty and Sonny with Mickey Evans, founder of Dunklin Memorial Camp.


Williamsons Celebrate

60thAnniversary

Big Lake Eye Care would like to welcome Dr. Carlo D. Fodor, a Board Certi�ed Optometric Physician to our practice here in Okeechobee.

Dr. Fodor graduated from Nova Southeastern University with a Doctor of Optometry and is living in Sebastian with his family. He also obtained a Bachelor of Science in Vision Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry with a Minor in Biological Sciences. These accomplishments have enabled Dr. Fodor to teach the natural sciences in the past as an associate professor at the Palm Beach Community College. He brings his teaching skills into the exam room because educating patients on their conditions is a crucial part of every exam.

Dr. Fodor has excellent communication skills in English, Spanish, and Italian. He has completed

rotations in Primary Care, Ocular Disease, Glaucoma, Contact Lenses, Pediatrics Binocular Vision, and Low Vision.

He has also served two years working at the Visual Health & Surgical Center managing all types of post-operative patients. Dr. Fodor is well quali�ed and trained to identify subtle abnormalities in our eyes that may be able to be corrected.

Dr. Fodor has been working in the �eld since 1994 in numerous commercial and private o�ces. His knowledge and well- rounded background will allow him to manage his patients where ever he decides to practice. He enjoys hunting, �shing and spending time with his family.

We Accept and Bill Most Major Insurance,Medicaid, Medicare &

BlueCross Blue Shield Healthy Kids

(863) 763-3937

606 North Parrott Ave Okeechobee 863-763-3937 Visit : www.biglakeeyecare.com

Dr. Charles W. BartelsBoard Certi�ed Optometric Physician

Dr. Carlo D. FodorBoard Certi�ed Optometric Physician

“You have to go after your dream; you’re going to miss a lot of growing up.”

Every little boy loves to bang things around, whether it’s blocks, bikes, balloons or balls. One of those little boys has grown into a young man who took that love and in-tends to make it his career.

Meet Richard Donegan, a teenager on his way to greatness. Donegan is the only Okeechobee High School student in history to win a state

golfing title, a title he won in the Florida High School Athletic Associa-tion (FHSSA) Class 2A Tournament held Nov. 2, 2011 at the Mission Inn

Resort & Club at Howey-in-the-Hills, Fla. Because of this, Donegan was named Scripps Treasure Coast Newspapers’ 2011 All-Area Boys Golfer of the

Year, an honor voted on by all the area golf coaches.

“The kid is smart, and the kid is talented,” said Jim Waldau, founder and president of Waldau’s Junior Golf. “He works harder than anybody I’ve ever seen, and he’s going

to get what he wants.”

What he wants is to become a pro golfer. Donegan, who graduated in June, recently turned 18, and the first thing he chose to do was try to qualify for the U.S. Open regionals. He is already

listed among the top 300 junior golfers by GolfWeek.com. He has been encouraged to follow his goal by his parents, Rick and Nancy, who have made many sacrifices in time and money. His father

travels with him to all tournaments, and “my mom has worked hard to provide what I needed to get where I am,” Donegan said. “They have always believed in me.”

He has also had the backing of Waldau’s Junior Golf and Okeechobee High School Athletic Director Ken-neth Buckner. Donegan started playing golf at age 3 and attended Waldau’s Junior Golf clinics each sum-mer from 2003 to 2007, and volunteered at the summer clinics from 2008 to 2010, where he mentored younger kids.

Donegan played many sports, including soccer, track and baseball, from 2007 onward and by 10th grade was on both the baseball and golf teams while supporting other school teams. He also participated in clubs such as SAAD and Beta, and was involved with his senior class where he finished in the top 10. “I’m a

Richard DoneganTaking a Swing at Professional Golf

By Raye Deusinger O Photos by Sandra Pearce



“We are very grateful for Richard’s participation and leadership throughout the years, and areconfident that his success will be an inspiration to many kids and adults as well, here in Okeechobee for years to come.”

- James R. Waldau, President of Waldau’s Junior Golf

Black and white archive photos provided by Waldau’s Junior Golf.

2003 Clinic

Young Jr. Golf Award

2003

1997

2005 Clinic

2007 Clinic

2010 Clinic

Volunteer

Okeechobee Jr.

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2011

student first and an athlete after that,” he said.

Knowing he must continue his educa-tion, Donegan earned more than 15 scholarships. Working the dual enroll-ment program with Indian River State College he already has 27 college cred-its, needing only 30 more to become a sophomore. His college preference came down to a choice between Stetson Uni-versity and Florida Atlantic University.

“I chose FAU because it is close to home and I’ll have more opportunities to play year-round,” Donegan said. “FAU’s golf program competes against the best schools, and I love to compete.”

He noted that an added incentive is the fact there are nine courses in the area and the Minor League Tour practices there. A determined young man, he begins his weekend each day at 7 a.m., when he travels to Port St. Lucie’s PGA Learning Center, hits the weight room, exercises and hits balls until about 3 p.m. Then it’s time to eat and back to more balls. He usually arrives home be-tween 9 and 10 p.m. each night. Each weekday he goes to the center as soon as school is out.

“Conditioning keeps you from falling apart,” Donegan said. “Your bag and clubs alone weight 30 to 40 pounds and you have to be in shape. It is a year-round job, just no pay.”

Though this has taken a lot of time and hard work, Donegan knows it’s worth the effort. “You have to go after your dream; you’re going to miss a lot of growing up,” he said. “Tim Tebow said, ‘Whoever practices more is the one who wins.’”

Buckner noted that in the state tourna-ment, Donegan ended the first day of competition in fourth place with a score of 75, seven strokes behind the leader. On day two Donegan needed to bring


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his best to win and that is what he did. He ended day two, three strokes ahead with a score of 69. Donegan’s final score for the tournament came to 144.

“He deserves everything he’s gotten be-cause he’s worked for it,” Buckner said. “He’s a typical teen with the exception he works like an adult. When it’s time to work, he does it.”

From 2003 to 2007, Donegan was awarded the annual Waldau’s Junior Golf Young Junior Award. From 2008 to 2010, he competed in the Okeechobee County Junior Championship and twice won the medallist award, and in 2010 and 2011 he competed in and won the Waldau’s Junior Golf Junior/Adult Championship, partnering both years with Waldau.

“We are very grateful for Richard’s par-ticipation and leadership throughout the years,” Waldau said, “and are con-fident that his success will be an inspi-ration to many kids and adults as well, here in Okeechobee for years to come.”

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Cinco De Mayo


The 2012 Cinco de Mayo Family Fiesta was held Saturday, May 5 at the Philippine Heritage Enrichment Complex in Okeechobee. The celebration benefited the El Centro Santa Fe and the Okeechobee Non-profit Housing Inc. The fami-ly-friendly festivities featured Mexican and American food, music, dancing, arts and crafts, exhibits, pony rides, games, a giant slide, and a clown and magician show.

The vendors.The kids enjoy a magic per-formance by Nick Garcia.The tin can flower booth.Kids have fun on the slide.Sister Elinor Sevigny, Cecilia Elliott and Sid Estrada. Natalie Ramirez purchases a snowcone.

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Offers valid as of April 10, 2012. Credit approval required. A minimum $5 savings account is required for membership with MIDFLORIDA and access to these offers. Offers are available for a limited time only and may be cancelled without notice. Existing MIDFLORIDA loans and credit cards do not qualify for the incentive or the special advertised Annual Percentage Rates (APR). Checking incentive is deposited to new checking account. Loan and credit card incentives will be applied to a MIDFLORIDA Visa Platinum credit card. Other rates and terms are available and are based on credit. Visit midflorida.com or see an associate for details. 1. Anyone who has held a checking account with MIDFLORIDA in the past year will not qualify for the $77 incentive. In addition to opening a new Free Checking account, you must accept and open online banking, online bill payment, eStatement, eNotice, direct deposit ($500 minimum which must post within 30 days of account opening) and a debit card. For RT4T Checking accounts, you must make 5 debit card transactions in the first 30 days in lieu of the direct deposit requirement. Freedom Banking accounts do not qualify for this incentive. Minimum to open Free checking is $50. 2. To qualify for the incentive, you must refinance a loan of $15,000 or more from another financial institution. Loans of $5,000 to $14,999 will receive a $100 credit. 3. Incentive is offered on new credit card accounts only. The introductory APR is available on non-MIDFLORIDA credit card balance transfers for the first 12 months on new accounts only. A 1% balance transfer fee will apply.

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• 7 am to 7 pm Drive-thru and Help Desk Hours • Saturday Hours • Free Debit Card with Rewards • Free Online Banking and Bill Payment ... and More!

Offers valid as of April 10, 2012. Credit approval required. A minimum $5 savings account is required for membership with MIDFLORIDA and access to these offers. Offers are available for a limited time only and may be cancelled without notice. Existing MIDFLORIDA loans and credit cards do not qualify for the incentive or the special advertised Annual Percentage Rates (APR). Checking incentive is deposited to new checking account. Loan and credit card incentives will be applied to a MIDFLORIDA Visa Platinum credit card. Other rates and terms are available and are based on credit. Visit midflorida.com or see an associate for details. 1. Anyone who has held a checking account with MIDFLORIDA in the past year will not qualify for the $77 incentive. In addition to opening a new Free Checking account, you must accept and open online banking, online bill payment, eStatement, eNotice, direct deposit ($500 minimum which must post within 30 days of account opening) and a debit card. For RT4T Checking accounts, you must make 5 debit card transactions in the first 30 days in lieu of the direct deposit requirement. Freedom Banking accounts do not qualify for this incentive. Minimum to open Free checking is $50. 2. To qualify for the incentive, you must refinance a loan of $15,000 or more from another financial institution. Loans of $5,000 to $14,999 will receive a $100 credit. 3. Incentive is offered on new credit card accounts only. The introductory APR is available on non-MIDFLORIDA credit card balance transfers for the first 12 months on new accounts only. A 1% balance transfer fee will apply.

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Pregnancy Center HostsWalk for Life


Runners take off.A great turnout for a first event.Pregnancy Center Executive Director Lisa Lumpkin addresses the crowd.Dowling Watford with his grand-son T L Gopher and wife, Cheri.

The Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee hosted its inaugural Walk for Life event May 5 in Flagler Park in Okeechobee.

The weather was perfect for the 3-mile walk that began at 8:45 a.m., with several teams registered. Prizes were award-ed for the largest team, coolest T-shirt and the most money raised by a particular team. It was a fun-filled event for the whole family to enjoy. For more information, visit www.okee-pregcenter.com.

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1977 College Drive, Belle Glade, FloridaAll dates, artists and programs subject to change.


Sandy Perry

“If you’re given a gift, it should be used in service to others.”

By Raye Deusinger O Photos By Sandra Pearce

The adage, “If you want something done, give it to a busy person,” truly reflects Sandy Perry. She has quite the full schedule, serving as vice president of the Okeechobee Health Care Facility, director of the Okeechobee Community Choir, secretary of the Okeechobee Ministerial Association, a member of the Economic Council and Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Posse, and helping local churches with their music programs.

Perry maintains a positive outlook in roles that would exhaust others. “I want to give my best for the Lord,” she said. “If you’re given a gift, it should be used in service to others.”

Born Sandra Lee Williamson, Perry grew up west of Indiantown on Williamson Cattle Ranch, her grandparents’ ranch, the oldest of three sisters at that time. “I learned to ride a horse before I learned to ride a bicycle,” she said. “Daddy didn’t have any boys, and there was a ranch to run, so [her sisters] Linda Faye, Becky and I worked cows, many a day from daylight to dark.”

Perry began taking piano lessons at age 5 from her mother and attended Warfield Elementary School through the eighth grade. Coming to the “big” town of Okeechobee, where her maternal grandparents Parker and Nora Abney lived, was a special treat. In 1966 her parents Faye and Jack Williamson moved their family to Okeechobee. Perry’s youngest sister, Jennifer, was born when Perry was 20. They attended Dunklin Memorial Baptist Church in Indiantown, then the First Baptist Church in Okeechobee, where Perry’s love of music continued to grow. Even today, she and her mother play an offertory duet every Sunday at Northside Baptist Church. “It was my mother who instilled a love of music in me,” Perry said. “I admire her wisdom and energy.”

In September 1999, Dr. Trini Garcia called on Perry, her children’s piano teacher, to present a Christmas program at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. At that time, Perry was the interim choir director at Church of Our Saviour Episcopal and substituted regularly on the piano for Seventh Day Adventist Church services. Singers were combined from all three churches, and the cantata, a religious story sung by a choir, was presented on Friday, Christmas Eve at Sacred Heart, Saturday at Seventh-Day Adventist and Sunday morning at the Episcopal church.

Cantatas are now presented the weekends before Christmas and Easter on Friday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday afternoons and typically include 55 choir members, ages 15 to 90, from 17 local churches. The largest presentation to date numbered 65 voices. In Perry’s opinion, First United Methodist Church, where 17 of the 26 cantatas have been presented, has superb acoustics. “Since the church’s recent remodeling, it is an inspiring venue in which to sing to the glory of God, especially when the sanctuary is so beautifully decorated at Christmas,” she said.

Sandy Perry

Wearing Many Hats



She also leads the community choir for the OMA Fifth Sunday inter-church services. It was for such service, in 2010, that Perry needed an accompanist. Rev. Loy Mershimer of Okeechobee Presby-terian said he had a “friend who played.” Enter Frank Carter, a composer, concert pianist and director of music and arts at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church in West Palm Beach.

“When he began to play, he was so im-pressive everyone stopped singing and just listened,” Perry said. “He has been with us ever since, even composing one Christmas and two Easter Cantatas for the community choir to premiere.”

Teaching music is one of Perry’s great-est joys. “The community choir is not a group of professionals,” she said. “While there are other choir directors and mem-bers with music degrees, there are also singers who don’t have the slightest idea what a quarter note is when they join.”For each cantata, Perry marks the score with teaching reminders and provides rehearsal CDs so everyone can do what they love — sing.

For the past three years, Perry has led the choir at the community Easter Sun-rise Service at Lock 7. She also drives to the home of Rev. Mickey and Laura Maye Evans on State Road 714 every other Thursday evening to accompany and help lead hymn and testimony time for those participating in the Dunklin recovery program.

“Mickey led me to the Lord when I was in fourth grade, and Laura Maye was my GA [Girls in Action] leader,” Perry said of the longtime family friends.

After graduating from Okeechobee High School, where she followed in her daddy’s footsteps as drum major(ette), Perry attended Florida State University to study music education. Her love of a music therapy course led her to switch her major. After graduation she was


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•Family Law•Criminal Law•Civil Litigation

Serving the legal needs ofthe Okeechobee Community


hired to teach music to all the self-con-tained St. Lucie County special educa-tion classes, from learning disabled to profoundly handicapped, and found music a true motivator for learning. She maintained a 4.0 GPA while teaching resource LD fulltime and obtaining her master’s degree in learning disabilities at Florida Atlantic University. After mov-ing to Sarasota, she received certification in supervision and administration from the University of South Florida while teaching music and study skills at Pin-eview School for the Gifted. After 12 years at schools in Fulton County, Ga., Perry ended her employment there as an assistant principal. Perry then returned to Okeechobee, where she joined her mother, Faye Haverlock, at OHCF, where music plays a major role with a weekly Friday musical service featuring residents, guests and employees.

Since 2009, Perry has served on the Okeechobee Economic Council and currently chairs the Quality of Life Committee, whose recent work is aimed at beautification of the 441 medians, and working with a coalition of busi-nesses and organizations focusing on drug abuse among Okeechobee’s youth.

“I never dreamed I’d be back in Okeechobee, doing

what I love every day.”

Heartland Discount PharmacyBetter Care...For a Better Community

v Free Same Day Deliveryv Free Antibiotic Programv $3.99 Generic Programv Prescriptions Ready in Minutesv Best Cash Price in Townv Check Drug-Drug Interaction of all Patient Medicationv Courteous, Professional & Friendly Sta�v Care with Dignity and Respect

We Dispense Care

Extended HoursMonday - Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 4pm

863-763-7633

Full Service Retail Pharmacy

407 S. Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, FL 34974407 S. Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, FL 34974

863-763-7633MEDICAID & MEDICARE PART- D

Consultant PharmacistHARRY PATEL, Rph

Your NeighborhoodPharmacy

Where Customer Service&Personal Attention

is our #1 Priority!

(We will help you save money and stay healthy)

(Next to Arby's on Hwy 441)

We will be closedJuly 1 to July 30 and

will reopen on July 31.


Community Goals To enhance and manage responsible growth. To develop and use our available resources wisely. To create fresh positive attitudes, ideas and outcomes.

I Chose to move to Okeechobee because it is a family friendlycommunity with great people, great potential and great values!

Master Degree in Special Education, FSU 1993 Former Special Education Teacher Married 18 Years, 2 daughters Current local agriculture business owner Actively involved in Okeechobee since 2000

Treasure Coast Builders Assoc. (TCBA) member since 2006 Okeechobee Chapter Chairperson for TCBA, 2009, 2010 Current TCBA Associate 2nd Vice President Future Builders of America, Okeechobee Chapter Advisor Current business owner, Tree Locators, Inc.

Personal Background Professional

Years ago, due to her community choir involvement, Perry was invited to at-tend an Okeechobee Ministerial As-sociation meeting. The secretary had resigned, so Perry was asked to take the minutes. At the next meeting, she was nominated as secretary, an office she has held ever since.

Along with her father, Jack, Perry serves on the sheriff’s posse, whose volunteers ride in parades and, when called day or night, work search-and-rescue opera-tions through rough terrain where mo-torized units are unable to travel.

In addition to playing the piano and di-recting the church choir at Northside, Perry accompanies for the Okeechobee Presbyterian Church choir rehearsals and Sunday morning services, and plays for the Seventh Day Adventist Church services on Friday nights.

With Perry, organization is a priority. “I


Complimentary “Hot Express Start Breakfast”

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Growing together with Jesus

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

Peace Lutheran School

750 Northwest 23rd Lane - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

NationallyAccredited School

Serving Children Ages 2 - KindergartenSmall Class Size

Christian Centered Program at an A�ordable Price

Enroll now for summer camp. Ages 2 - Fifth Grade. Scholarships available.Accepting enrollment for the 2012-13 school year.

Now accepting Step up for Students and McKay Scholarships for kindergarten.

We Buy Scrap Gold

“A Special Giftfor that Special

Someone”

Guy Harvey & Hersey Kiss Jewelry

Diamonds14K Gold Jewelry


BANK WITH THE AGRICULTURE EXPERTS.

• Treasury Management • Lines of Credit• Term Loans

TD Bank, N.A. | Some fees and restrictions may apply. Loans subject to credit approval. | Equal Opportunity Lender | TD Bank Group is a trade name for The Toronto-Dominion Bank. Used with permission. For detailed credit ratings for The Toronto-Dominion Bank and TD Bank, N.A.visit https://www.td.com/investor/credit.jsp. Credit Ratings are not recommendations to purchase, sell or hold a fi nancial obligation inasmuch as they do not comment on market price or suitability for a particular investor. Ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the rating organization. Insurance products are: not a deposit; not FDIC insured; not insured by any federal government agency; and, not guaranteed by TD Bank, N.A. or any of its affi liates. Insurance products are offered through TD Insurance, Inc. TD Insurance, Inc. represents the product provider in placing your travel insurance, and may provide services to you for that product provider. TD Insurance, Inc. will receive compensation from the product provider in connection with the placement of your travel insurance. TD Insurance is a service mark of The Toronto-Dominion Bank. Used with permission.

• Equipment Financing• Insurance Services• Foreign Exchange

TD Bank understands the critical role agriculture plays in our local economy. That’s why we have an experienced team who are dedicated to your unique needs. We offer a higher level of personal service and innovative solutions along with the security, stability and capital strength you need in a banking partner.

PUT THE POWER OF TD BANK TO WORK FOR YOU. Speak with Andy McGinnis, Regional Vice President, at 772-462-4182

or Farrah Kay, CCIM Relationship Manager, at 772-563-3427.

call it a blessing,” she said. “I wouldn’t be able to do all the activities I do if I weren’t organized.”

At OHCF, she oversees the dietary and activity departments and will complete the administrator-in-training program next September.

“My greatest happiness is my son, Lo-gan,” she said; he is at the University of Florida obtaining a degree in agricultural communication.

Skilled in roping, riding horses and train-ing cow dogs, Logan works as a pickup man at Gethsemane Christian Rodeos and takes part in rodeos throughout Flor-ida, alongside boss and champion roper D.R. Daniel. Perry recalled regularly finding a 3-year-old Logan straddling the back of the couch, dressed in jeans, chaps, long-sleeve shirt, boots, cowboy hat, rope and gloves, copying the moves of the Mesquite Rodeo cowboys on TV.

“ I never dreamed I ’d be back in Okeechobee, doing what I love every day,” Perry said. “I’m blessed with wonderful employees and residents at the nursing home to work with and serve, and have had the opportunity to establish reward-ing and unique friendships through my extracurricular activities, especially the community choir. We all share a love of living in Okeechobee.” O


We Love To Care...

Okeechobee Health Care Facility1646 US Highway 441 North - Okeechobee, Florida 34972

863-763-2226

Rehab Therapy, consisting of Physical Therapy,Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Out-Patient

Therapy, is available seven days a week in aloving, caring environment.

Long-term care is available for loved ones who canno longer be cared for safely at home, in addition

to a secured Dementia/Alzheimer's Memory-Care Unit.

Family owned and operated, Okeechobee Health Care Facility began providing

Long-term and Rehab careto the citizens of

Okeechobee and thesurrounding communities

in December of 1984. Betty Mills modeling her

Mardi Gras costume.

Fred Hawkins beginningweight-bearing exercises with

Maurice & Regner Dioquin,RPT.

Herschel Haverlock receiving out-patienttherapy from Maurice Cogle, RPT. - while Pat Lamm exercises with a smile"

Shirley Stephen, joined by daughter, Debbie,

& Son, Noel, for the Art Show Calendar Parade.

Eula Morgan, 96, with her paintingthat was selected as the cover for the

annual Resident Art Calendar.

Lorene Hancock,85, with her3rd and 4th-generation trick-or-treaters!

John & Beverly Fix spend time

together outside under the

oak tree in one of the many

“sit & visit spots”.

Hazel Herbert, Resident and Resident

Advocate, spends time outside enjoying the

�owers and foliage with CNA Billie Jo

Freeman, left, and Kareen Morata, RN.

Shower room on A-Wing has been transformed

into a relaxing spa, complete with

towel warmers, background music and

soft, soothing colors.

Dietitian-Developed Nutritious Meals & SnacksStimulating & Fun Daily Activities - Pastoral ServicesHome-Like Atmosphere - Dedicated Nurses and CNAs

Provide Personal Care 24 Hours Every Day.

Lacie Lofton & Barbara Riser during

the Valentine interview & report activity

with North ES 5th-graders participating

in the 9-month intergenerational program.

A special honor was given to the Okeechobee High School march-ing band. Nominated by Congressman Tom Rooney (R-District 16), the band performed in the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. The trip was paid for by a fundraising effort throughout the Okeechobee commu-nity.

Community Event

OHS BAND GOES TO WASHINGTON



www.PuebloViejoRestaurants.com

Bienvenidos!Stop by today & taste ourAuthentic Mexican Food

that will keep you comingback for more!

Serving Great Mexican Food in Floridaand the Treasure Coast Since 1999

Open For Lunch & Dinner

3415 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, Florida

7 Days a WeekFrom 11:00 am To 10:00 pm

863.357.9641

Happy Hour 7 Days A Week3 pm - 6 pm

Well Drinks and Draft Beer 2 for 1

Full Liquor Bar!

Serving Wine, Beer, Early Birds

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

512 W. North Park Street Okeechobee, Florida 863-763-3823

Furniture - Appliances - Electronics

www.badcock.com

Serving You For 52 Years.

Fast & Friendly ServiceDrive-Up Window

Pharmacist Accessibility forMedication Counseling

Phone Answered by Our Staffnot machines

105 NW 5th St.Okeechobee

We are a CompoundingPharmacy.

863-763-3222863-763-8247 FAX

Accept Most Insurances Medicaid, Medicare Part D

////////////////////////

N

Stat

e Roa

d 44

1

State Road 70

NW 5th Street

NAPA

NW 2n

d Ave

nue


By Capt. Michael Shellen

It’s summertime in Okeechobee: Our Northern friends have all returned to their homes, and you can once again drive from one side

of town to the other in 15 minutes. The boat ramps are nearly empty during the middle of the week, and yet the fishing is arguably some the best we see all year.

The water is warm and relatively low, and most of the bass are inhabiting the outside bands of vegetation that sur-round the big lake. The baitfish like shad, shiners and other small minnows are taking refuge in the grass line as well. With the close proximity of both preda-tor and prey, a feeding frenzy can ensue at any moment. During the very early pre-sunrise morning, bass can be seen and heard chasing and eating baitfish in and along the lake’s outside edge. This schooling action has no time limit; some days it lasts a couple hours, and other days it is over as soon as the sun hits the water. Many times, rough weather will keep the fish fired up for longer periods of time.

During this time of year we favor start-ing each morning with a top-water bait. Some days it’s possible to catch 15 to 20 bass in a short time. Other days, only a few fish will respond. There are many types and styles of top-water; a bait that mimics a fleeing shad is always a good choice. The rest of our day we alter-nate between baits that have worked well for us previously — spinner baits, swim baits, flipping jigs, senkos and any of the myriad of plastics that one can find at the local tackle shop. For those anglers who like to catch pan fish, now is the time.

Blue gill are some of the most fun to catch, and they are delicious when the

Fishing

Your Local Hardware Store ForALL Your Hardware Needs

Monday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pmSaturday 8 am - 4 pm

863-467-1010

Now Open!U.S. Postal Service Contract Postal Unit

Mid-Florida Hardware Postal Center

Postage for Domestic and International MailingsInsurance and Certi�ed Mail with No Surcharges

Operating hours are:Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

www.okeechobee.doitbest.com

3603 HWY 441 S. Okeechobee, Florida 34974

"We match local advertised prices."

“Helping You Is What We Do Best”

401 NW 4th StreetOkeechobee FL 34972

Hours:Monday - Friday8:30am - 5:00pm

Okeechobee County Farm Bureauis now on Facebook. Become a fan.

863-763-3101

Charlene DeweyFederation Clerk

Customer Service Representative

Lisa Marie MorganCustomer

Service Representative

Brandie Axt Customer

Service Representative

Tim Craig, Agency Manager and Celeste Hawk, Agent

Okeechobee County

on Lake Okeechobee


Capt. Michael ShellenShellen Guide Service(863) 357- 0892

www.OkeechobeeBassFishing.com

filets are prepared fresh off of the lake. Many anglers use a light spinning rod with 4- to 6-pound test; a small slip bobber is then affixed to the line, as is a small sinker and a small sharp hook. Grass shrimp are the bait of choice for many anglers but can be difficult to acquire. Red worms and crickets are nearly as good and are more readily available. Many highly skilled anglers prefer catching these tasty pan fish with a fly rod. A four-weight rod with float-ing line and a tiny river cricket or pop-ping bug presented over bedding pan fish will result in all of the hook-ups you desire.

Okeechobee was recently named the No. 2 bass-fishing lake in the United States. Having fished here for many years, I can tell you that it has never been better, and with the present health of our fishery, the future looks very bright. With all our city has done to promote our town, we are well on our way to being recognized as a top rate destination for those visiting Florida or just looking for a vacation spot. Come, visit, stay.

Capt. Michael Shellen

Quality Ford Sales and Service for over 66 Years!We will gladly locate or special order the

Ford car or truck you need.Low mileage, late model Pre-owned with factory warranties.

OkeechobeeMotor Company

www.okeechobeeford.com863-763-2121Never high pressure sales.

3175 Hwy 441 S

O

on Lake Okeechobee


The Tobacco-Free Partnership of Okeechobee County is a membership group of local adults and youth dedicated to limited tobacco use to children and creating a tobacco free environment.

Our MissionThe Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee

County is a community based coalition mobilized to impact policy and systems change, prevent

initiation and reduce the use of tobacco products.

Policy GoalsGoal 1. Prevent Initiation of Tobacco Use Among Youth and Young AdultsGoal 2. Eliminate Secondhand Smoke ExposureGoal 3. Promote Cessation from Tobacco use

Tobacco-Free Partnership of Okeechobeemeets the last Wednesday of the monthCall for more information: 863-462-5781

Okeechobee County Health Department1728 NW 9th Avenue

Okeechobee, FL 34972

Meeting Dates

For more information please contact:

Rosalind BrownProgram Manager863-462-5781

�OCH

D TOBACCO PREVENTION�

& EDU C AT I O N P R OGRAM

JOIN THE MOVEMENTKick Tobacco

in theButt!

The Tobacco Free Partnershipof Okeechobee

Quit Smoking Now ClassesCall 877-819-2357

Quit Smoking Now

FREE NRT available for those who are eligible(Patch, Gum, Lozenges while supplies last)

Driveways Patios Screen Enclosures Mobile Homes Houses

Ed Gassaway(863) 763-6175 Lic# 1672

919 NW Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972

Phone (863) 824-0641Fax (863) 357-4548

Private Mail Boxes NotaryServices

Park Street Parcel Service, Inc.

Authorized ShipCenter

Pack & Ship Services Packing Boxes Shipping Supplies

Printing/Copy Services Document Shredding FaxServices

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES

410 S.E. 2nd AvenueOkeechobee, FL 34974

O�ce: 863-763-0999Fax: 863-763-1945

D. Robert Willson, MAI,CCIMState-certi�ed general real estate appraiser

Licensed Real Estate Broker

Your Local Commercial Real Estate Expert

www.MyOkeechobee.com


Laundry Room - Game Room - Bath HouseBoat Ramp - Boat & Dock Rentals

Laundry Room - Game Room - Bath HouseBoat Ramp - Boat & Dock Rentals

Nicely Furnished One & Two Bedroom RentalsNitely - Weekly - Monthly

Nicely Furnished One & Two Bedroom RentalsNitely - Weekly - Monthly

RIVER BLUFFRIVER BLUFF Fishing Resort Fishing Resort

Located on Beautiful Kissimmee RiverLocated on Beautiful Kissimmee River

www.OkeechobeeFishingResort.com14725 NW 1st Parkway (863) 467-4371

1365 US Hwy 441 SE - Okeechobee, FL 34974(Next to the bowling alley)

863-763-4080

JOHNSON • EVINRUDE • YAMAHA • MERCRUISER I/OPOWER POLES • MINNKOTA TROLLING MOTORS

KEY WEST BOATS • LANDAU PONTOONS • MAGIC TILT TRAILERS

BOAT STORAGE - WINTERIZE - SUMMERIZEINSURANCE REPAIRS - ELECTRONIC SALES & INSTALLATION

FIBERGLASS REPAIRS - BOAT HAUL OUT / TRANSPORT

Serving Okeechobee Since 1993

CARLSHUMATE

For County Commission

A Vote For Me MeansYES to Common SenseLeadership

YES to Creating aBusiness Friendly County

YES to Smart EconomicDevelopment

PersonalMarried to Phyllis 33 years.

Dad to Jason (Jaime), Kevin & Layton.Grandpa to Chase & Levi

SFWMD 18 years, District Security Specialist,managed 1.2 Million Dollar Budget.

Owner of The Alarm Company of Okeechobee

Owner ofPark Street Parcel Service, Inc.

FedEx Ship Center

Business Experience

OK County Planning Board2007 - Present

OK County Agri-Civic CenterAdvisory Committee 2007 - Present

Appointed To

(863) 484-0707Phone

Paid by Carl Shumate, Republican for County Commission, District 1

www.facebook.com/CarlShumateforOkeechobee2012


OIn practice, Radebaugh is getting a crash course on basics from another quar-terback in Branham, who entered his second tenure as Brahman coach this winter. Branham attended West Vir-ginia State University and is using his knowledge of having played the posi-tion to help his young signal callers.

Radebaugh said he will not take the starting job for granted, and he wants to take advantage of all the opportuni-ties he’s given this year. “I like the pro offense because it’s more comfortable for me to be stationary in the pocket,” he said. “I feel I’ve gotten a lot better throwing the deep ball and putting touch on the ball.”

Radebaugh also has taken to the role of mentor to the younger players and has an interesting philosophy on that: “You never learn anything until you teach it.”

Okeechobee High School varsity foot-ball player Jack Radebaugh will enter his senior year among the OHS record-holders for games started at quarter-back. He hopes to save his best work for his final season as he learns a new system and a new coaching staff.

Radebaugh has started for three years, but he did miss a few games during his junior year due to a freak hand accident. He has 15 career touchdown passes and well over 1,600 yards passing during his career.

This year, Radebaugh decided to focus fully on football and didn’t play var-sity baseball as he had for the past two springs. He felt this would give him more time to work on football, and get him more prepared to do well in the fall.Radebaugh has attended numer-ous football camps, and has improved his physical strength and conditioning. He also has dived into the new I-forma-tion and offensive playbook of Brahman coach Chris Branham, and admits the new system is more catered to his skills as a stationary, classic in-the-pocket thrower.

“Spring practice has gone pretty well,”

Radebaugh said. “We are building good chemistry on the team and we’ve gotten a lot of reps with this new offense.”

Branham has implemented the new system slowly so the quar-terbacks can catch on quickly. If they know the play, they’ll learn more about the play over the summer and solve mistakes before they are made. Rade-baugh claims there isn’t a large difference between this offense and the one he ran for the past three years.

“Coach is keeping it simple so we can all figure it out,” Rade-baugh said. “It doesn’t seem that tough.”

Chemistry with linemen and receivers top the list of goals this spring. Rade-baugh continues to work hard and wants to learn the entire playbook and soak in all the information.

“I think we have a lot of old talent in players who have been here for a couple years, and it’s definitely helping,” Rade-baugh said.

O

By Charles M. Murphy, WOKC’s Voice of the Brahmans

RADEBAuGH

Jack Radebaugh fires a pass down field.

E N j O y S N E W B R A H m A N S T A R T

Re-Elect PAUL MAY SHERIFFProudly representing Okeechobee County

on the Board of Directors ofThe Florida Sheriff’s Association

andThe Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches.

“Experience You Can Talk To ~ Common Sense You Can Trust”

Political Advertisement Paid For and Approved By Paul May, Republican, For Sheri�

www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com Summer 2012 | 83O

A Local Legend

Sunrise at Nubbin Slough 2011 863-467-1570 Fax 888-875-1570

Let’s Celebrate 50 years!WOKC Radio has been on the airfor every Okeechobee sunrise sinceFebruary 6, 1962.

E N j O y S N E W B R A H m A N S T A R TThe Economic Future of Okeechobee County is in Good Hands

Culpepper & Terpening wishes to say Thank You to the Business Development Board of Okeechobee for their untiring work to bring responsible economic growth to Okeechobee.

The Business Development Board of Okeechobee is making a positive difference for the future of all of Okeechobee County.

The Business Development Board of Okeechobee is committed to diversifying the economy and increasing the number of high wage job opportunities for Okeechobee residents.

A special Thank You to the Board and its leaders!

(772) 464-3537 www.ct-eng.com

AROUND Okeechobee

Okeechobee Xplosion

SAMESTATE performed on May 4 at Osceola Middle School. (Above) Serenity Coffee owners Curtis and Jennie Tyson with the band.

Serenity Coffee Hosts ReceptionWith SAMESTATE Band

The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County held its quarterly investors luncheon on May 23 at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College. Congress-man Tom Rooney did the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pictured here are (third from the left) Chamber Vice Presi-dent Terry Burroughs with (L-R) business spotlight speaker William Bedwell of New Horizons of the Treasure Coast and guest speakers Cedric Gibson, Bob O’Brien and Spike Schultheis with Joe Gorham from IRSC.

Chamber Holds Quarterly Luncheon

This past March the Okeechobee Xplosion junior level 2 team represented Okeechobee in the highest standard at the Mardi Gras Spirit All Star Spirit event in Lakeland.


Okeechobee Main Street Mixers

The following Okeechobee Main Street members held mixers at their businesses: (top) TD Bank; (middle) Hospice of Okeechobee; and (bottom) Rustic Styles & Furniture.


(Above) A ribbon-cutting was held March 16 at CenterState Bank. After the official ribbon-cutting ceremony a barbecue lunch was served to hundreds of well-wishers in attendance. CenterState Bank is located at 2100 S. Parrott Avenue (across from WalMart). For information, visit www.centerstatebank.com or call (863) 763-5537.

WILLIAMSON CATTLECOMPANY PRESENTS

Photos of the Past

Peter and Louisiana (Chandler) Raulerson arrived in what is now known as Okeechobee in 1896. These Pioneers saw a need for a school; a cabbage palmetto shack was built in 1898 and served as the �rst one at the “Bend.” The building had a good �oor and slabs of timber, which were called puncheons, which were used for seats. The palmetto roof had to be replaced often, due to rain and wind.

In 1909, a one room building was constructed. This school was called “Tantie.” and located near the �rst log cabin home, built by the Raulerson family. It was used for this purpose until the �rst brick school was built in 1916.

A Palmetto Shack Was UsedFor The First School

In What Was Known As“The Bend”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Information from “History of Okeechobee County, ” by Kyle S. VanLandingham and Alma Hetherington. Also enjoyable talks with the Raulerson’s great-granddaughter, Zelda Johnson Mixon. Photos used with permission of: Thomas A Markham and Frank (Sonny) Williamson, Jr.

Chamber of Commerce of OkeechobeeCounty and Okeechobee Main Street

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies

(Left) Applebee’s Restaurant, located at 1210 SR 70 in Okeechobee held a ribbon cutting on March 17. For information, call (863) 357-0141.

(Right) The SonRise Café, located at 301 NE FourthAve. held a grand openingand ribbon cutting on May 21. For information, call(863) 763-4127.

(Left) A ribbon cutting was held April 27 at Syble’s Flowers & Gifts. Under the new owner-ship of Felicia Maxwell, Syble’s is located at 119 S. Parrott Ave. in Okeechobee. For information, call (863) 763-2225.

ECO CARE AWARD GOES TOLYNCH PAVING & CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

The Economic Council of Okeechobee quar-terly CARE (Community Award Recognizing Enhancement) award was presented to Lynch Paving and Construction Company located at 503 NW Ninth Street in Okeechobee.

Pictured (L-R) are ECO Executive Di-rector Tara Rowley, Quality of Life Commit-tee Chair Sandy Perry, Board Member Don-na Helton and Lunch Paving Vice President Robert Gent.

Okeechobee Main Street Mixers


Okeechobee The Magazine will be fun to read during the lazy days of summer.

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Okeechobee, Florida 34972

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Farm Bureau ........................................... 78Florida Eye Institute ................................. 21Flower Petals ............................................. 29

Gilbert Chevrolet ....................................... 7Golden Corral ............................................. 69

Hammerheads .......................................... 15Hampton Inn ............................................. 13Heartland Discount Pharmacy.................. 71Highland Pest Control ............................... 61Holiday Inn ............................................. 73Hoskins, Steve - Attorney .............................47

ICS Computers ........................................... 61Jon Folbrecht Campaign ............................. 61KOA ......................................................... 26

Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center .....70Lakeshore Marine .................................... 81Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre .................. 64Law Office of Glenn J. Sneider ................ 70Law Office of Philip DeBerard ............... 87Los Cocos Restaurant ................................. 71

Mama Flegos ............................................ 26Maxwell & Maxwell ................................... 16MidFlorida Credit Union .......................... 63MidFlorida Hardware ................................. 74MorganStanley SmithBarney .................... 79New Vision Eye Center ................................ 72

Okeechobee Claws & Paws ...................... 14Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep ............. 27Okeechobee Health Care .......................... 75Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps ........ 62Okeechobee Motor Company ................... 79

Park Street Parcel ....................................... 80Paul May Campaign .................................... 82Peace Lutheran School .............................. 73Platinum Performance Builders ............... 6Pritchards & Associates ............................ 65Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant ....................... 77

Quail Creek Plantation .............................. 11

Quality Air Conditioning ............................. 37Quality Lawn Care ..................................... 36

Raulerson’s Absolutely Art ......................... 37Raulerson Hospital ..................................... 2Raulerson Hospital .............................. 44, 45Raulerson Hospital ....................... Back CoverRay Domer Campaign ................................. 59River Bluff RV & Fishing Resort .................. 81Rustic Style & Cabins ................................ 61

Sandra Pearce Photography ....................... 80Seacoast National Bank ............................. 56Serenity Coffee Shop .................................. 74Sharon Wallace ......................................... 74SonRise Cafe ............................................... 39Southern Styles .......................................... 70St. Lucie Tires ............................................. 57Stafford’s Salon .......................................... 38State Farm Insurance ................................. 39Superior Water Works................................ 60Syble’s Flowers & Gifts ............................... 62

Tara Boshell Campaign ................................. 72 TD Bank ...................................................... 74Teez 2 Pleez ................................................ 39Tobacco Free Partnership .......................... 80Toni’s Chic Boutique ................................... 36Total Roadside Services ................................ 9Tree Locators ............................................. 33Tri-Co Supply .............................................. 33Trinidad Garcia, M.D. .................................... 5

United Mid-Country FL Real Estate ............ 49UPS Store .................................................. 47

VNA/Grand Oaks ......................................... 4

Walpole, Inc. .............................................. 41 Waste Management .................................. 69Wemmer Family Orthodontics ................ 39Williamson Cattle Company ...................... 85WOKC 1570 AM .......................................... 83Women’s Health ......................................... 58Worley Construction ................................... 35

Xplosion All Stars ....................................... 62

14K Gold Store ........................................... 735th Street Pharmacy ................................ 77

A & G Concrete Pools ............................... 73Audibel Hearing Center .......................... 68

Badcock Furniture .................................... 77Bass Electric ............................................. 57Bangkok O-Cha Restaurant .................... 25Berger Clinic ............................................. 50Bella Rose Day Spa .................................... 86Big Lake Eye Care ............................. 3, 17, 51Bridgette Waldau Graphic Design ............ 55Buyer Brokerage Co. of Okeechobee ........ 59Brown Cow Sweetery ................................ 86

Carl Shumate Campaign ........................... 81CenterState Bank ..................................... 28Charlie’s Landscaping ................................ 28Cowboys Steak & BBQ Co. ...................... 21, 59Culpepper & Terpening .......................... 83Custom Window Treatments & Blinds ..... 36

Dennis Connor Campaign ........................ 37 Dermatology Center of Florida............... 43Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ................. 65Don’s Appliance ......................................... 35 DR Willson Land Co. ................................ 80

Ed’s Pressure Washing ............................. 80 Edward Jones Investments ....................... 33

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Emergency Services - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (863) 763-2151 • 1796 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972

RaulersonHospital.comCONSULT-A-NURSE ® • For Free Physician Referral & Health Care Questions call 763-9228

• Providing a full range of Occupational Health Services, including Drug-and-Alcohol Testing and Worker’s Comp services to employees in both the private and public sectors.

• Meeting all FDOT requirements for annual physicals (including

hearing screenings) and Drug & Alcohol testing.

• Providing a comprehensive array of work related healthcare services with specialists in Occupational Medicine.

• Guiding you through the complexities involved with understanding worker’s compensation and the State and Federal rules that regulate the workforce.

• Striving for the desired outcomes that allow for a timely return to work and rapid treatment progression, which benefits both employers and employees.

Raulerson Company Care, a department of Raulerson Hospital, is part of a comprehensive network solution to local companies’ occupational health needs. Through efficient and cost effective methods, Company

Care is dedicated to helping you build a healthier business.

LAPAROSCOPIC HYSTERECTOMYRaulerson Hospital offers Laparoscopic Hysterectomy, performed by Dr. James Bradfield. Dr. Bradfield is a Board Certified Gynecologist with 30 years experience in the field. Find out if Laparoscopic Hysterectomy is right for you. For more information, call Raulerson Hospital at 763-2151.

Dr. James Bradfield, Board Certified Gynecologist

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Okeechobee The Magazine Summer 2012