Okeechobee The Magazine Winter 2012

THE MAGAZINE

WINTER 2012

Meet Raye Deusinger Woman Behind the Blood Roundup

Lisa Lumpkin and Debi Large The ‘Dynamic Duo’ Behind the Pregnancy Center

John Glenn of Freedom Ranch

Plus

1796 Highway 441N • Okeechobee, FL 34972• 863-763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.comCONSULT-A-NURSE ® • For Free Physician Referral & Health Care Questions call 763-9228

Happy Winter Friends and Neighbors,

After 33 years of service to our community, Raulerson Hospital remains dedicated to enhancing the healthcare coverage and services we provide. I am very excited to announce an important addition to our medical coverage in the field of Orthopaedics. In October, Raulerson Hospital welcomed Dr. Benjamin Espstein to our Medical Staff. Dr. Epstein is an orthopaedic surgeon with twenty years experience and he is Board Certified by the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics. The goal of our Raulerson Hospital Family is for our community to enjoy the convenience and access to excellent medical care - locally.

There are, admittedly, some select services not provided by Raulerson Hospital. When our patients or members of the community require such treatments, they can rely on our sister-facilities in the Treasure Coast: Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute , St. Lucie Medical Center and the ten other HCA facilities in our Eastern Florida Division to provide the precise care and treatment needed. Raulerson Hospital works together with our sister-facilities to provided patients with a seamless transition – all under the safety of medical professionals. Our patients benefit from our coordination of care and integrated services, which leads to successful outcomes and positive experiences.

I realize you and your loved ones may not spend a lot of time thinking about hospitals and I hope that you will never need to. But as the CEO of your community hospital, having services available and being prepared with the latest technology, the friendliest, most professional staff members is my passion. We at Raulerson Hospital spend every day thinking about our patients, their loved ones and the healthcare services our community needs.

Raulerson Hospital hosts many events, giving the pubic an opportunity to meet our medical staff members, learn about ours services and see our facility. We are proud to offer a new series of Open House Meet & Greet events, which feature various departments and their staff. We will have refreshments during our Meet & Greet events so when you see them advertised in the newspaper and on the radio, RSVP and join in the fun of learning new things.

My door is always open, so if you have any hospital related topic you’d like to discuss,

please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Robert Lee, Chief Executive Officer

122012_Raulerson OK Mag Inside Cover-Winter 2012.indd 1 11/19/12 3:10 PM

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

4 | Winter 2012 OKEECHOBEE THE MAGAZINE

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Okeechobee Main Street thanksour community for your support!

Business Members

Friends of Main Street

Corporate Members

www.okeechobeemainstreet.com

55 S. Parrott Ave - Okeechobee863-357-6246

14 Karat Gold Store

Accident Law O�ce of Philip DeBerardAdvance America, Cash Advance CenterAecom TechnologyA�ordable Art and Framing, LLCAmerican Cancer SocietyAmerican Red CrossAmerican Drilling, Inc.Ameriprise FinancialsAmerisweepsAnderson Realty Company

Backyard Bar-B-QBandanas and BowsBass Okeechobee Funeral HomeBella Rose Day Spa and SalonBerger Real Estate, Inc.Best WesternBowline Construction, Inc.Brahma Bull Restaurant and LoungeBrennan EyecareBridgette Waldau - Graphic DesignBrown Cow Sweetery, LLCBruce Homer Insurance CompanyBurgess Paint and SupplyBuxton Funeral Home

C&B Background FingerprintingCassels and McCallC.A.S.T.L.E.CEECOCenterState BankChamber of Commerce of Okeechobee CountyCharlie’s Lawn and LandscapeChiropractic Group, LLCClose ConstructionColin M. Cameron, Esq., P.A.Costopoulos & Helton, P.A.Cowboy’s BBQ and SteakCulpepper & TerpeningCurren ElectricCustom Window Treatments & Blinds

Dave’s Mattress OutletDirect Hit Marketing- The PennysaverDorothy C. Westby, artist

East Coast Signs and ShirtsEdward Jones InvestmentsEGP, Inc.Elliott’s Pawn Shop

Fawn’s StudioFitness and Aquatic CenterFlorida Outdoors RV CountryFlower PetalsFreedom Ranch

Garrard’s Tackle ShopGateway Medical Group - Garcia and Garcia, M.D., P.A.Golden Corral

Habitat for Humanity of OkeechobeeHair CutteryHampton InnHarbor Community BankHeartland Discount PharmacyHenderson’s Sani-Services, Inc.Holiday Inn ExpressHoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd, P.I.Hospice of OkeechobeeHumanaHumane Society Pet Rescue

ICS ComputersIndependent Newspapers

Jones Supply A-1 Sales and Service, Inc.

L. Berger Insurance Associates, LLCLabor Finders of OkeechobeeLake Okeechobee Digestive Disease CenterLake Okeechobee Insurance, Inc.Lake Okeechobee Real Estate GuideLehman Auto Body, Inc.Luviano Roo�ng Co., Inc.

Martha’s House

Mary Kay Cosmetics, Gayle MolyneauxMaxwell and Maxwell, P.AMcAlpin, Cavalcanti and Lewis, CPA’sMetLifeMidFlorida Credit UnionMims Veterinary HospitalMixon Real Estate Group, LLCMurray Insurance Services, Inc.

Neese Enterprises, Inc.New American Physical TherapyNewman Air ConditioningNorth Park Tire CenterNurse on CallNutmeg’s Café

Okeechobee Big Lake VFW Post 10539Okeechobee Claws and Paws Pet BoardingOkeechobee Correctional InstituteOkeechobee County Board of RealtorsOkeechobee Democratic PartyOkeechobee Golf and Country ClubOkeechobee KOAOkeechobee Land�ll -Waste ManagementOkeechobee Substance Abuse CoalitionOptical Gallery

Papa John’s PizzaPhotography by BobbiPhysician’s Weight Loss CenterPine Creek Sporting ClubPlatinum Performance BuildersPlatinum Performance RealtorsPNC BankPregnancy Center of OkeechobeePrimerica Financial Services -Pat ShepherdPrimerica Financial Services -Sharon Bennett

Quail Creek Plantation

Radio LOBO/BGI Broadcasting Corp.Rafael Pacheco PhotographyReal Life Children’s RanchRegions BankRenegades Country Bar and GrillRepublican Party of OkeechobeeRSVP OkeechobeeRustic Style and Cabins

Serenity Co�ee ShopSims and Younger, CPA, PLLCSkull Hill Steel, Inc.St. Lucie Battery and TireSta�ord’s SalonState Farm InsuranceStitchin’ PostSur�n’ the NetSyble’s Flowers and Gifts

Taylor RentalTeez 2 PleezThe Alarm Company of OkeechobeeThe Canvas Shop, LLCThe Frosty MugThe Heritage Assisted Living FacilityThe Tucker Group, LLCThirty One Gifts and AccessoriesTires Plus Total Car CareTobacco Place, LLCToni’s Chic BoutiqueTotal Roadside Service, Inc.TradewindsTree Locators

UBS Financial Services, Inc.

Villa Margaret RV ParkVisiting Nurses Association of Florida

Wicks, Brown, Williams and Co. CPA’sWillson Appraisal AssociatesWOKC/Glades Media

Acevedo, DaisyAltman, SandraAltobello, FrankArnold, Joe and MelissaBarber, RebeccaBirdashaw, Dan and CindyBoni, JonathanBranstetter, BobBurroughs, Terry and MaureenChandler, TeresaClemons, Pete and Susan

Cooper, George and Mary BethCracraft, DennisDeusinger, RayeDoyle, Justin and ShellyElliott, JosieEvans, KentFehrman, JanFerrara, JerryFerro, Mary Ann and O’Roke, EdFolbrecht, Jon and KaseyFritts, David and Lisa

George, SusanGillette, DebbieGurney, JohnGutierrez, MariluHadley, MarilynIrby, FrankKaye, DamienKirsch, LonnieKowal, Bruce and EdnaMcNierney, JaneNunez, Antonia

O’Connor, MikeParker, AnitaPierce, StephanieRenfranz, LisaReynolds, Mark and Billie JeanSevigny, Sr. ElenorShatto, AlanStepanovich, AmieTaylor, BettyeVaughan, NancyVensel, Jim and Sue

Wallace, SharonWalther, MariWatford, Dowling and CherieWatts, LisaWilliams, ElizabethWilliams, Haynes and SusanWilliams, Timothy and ElizabethWilliamson, JackWol�, JackWoloski, John and LInda

Okeechobee CountyBoard of County Commissioners

The City of Okeechobee

Special Thanks To

Bank of AmericaBig Lake Cancer CenterFlorida’s Blood Centers

Okeechobee the MagazineRaulerson Hospital

Seacoast National BankSyfrett Feed Company

TD Bank

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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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Treasure CoastParade of Homes

Quality - Commitment - Design

863-467-1933

Wind Mitigations& Home

Inspections

publisher/managing editor

Maureen Budjinski

creative director

Bridgette Waldau

copy editorJason Budjinski

office assistant

Rose Brennan

bookkeepingCarol Lieberman

account executiveTrish Grygo

Gail Lockwood

photographersSharon CannonFelicia Maxwell

Sandra Pearce

writersJason Budjinski

Ron BukleyRachel Buxton

Chris FelkerTonya Young

contributorsChauna Aguilar

Reneé MimsCharles MurphyMichael Shellen

distribution

Jackie Martin

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 4 | Winter 2012

As 2012 comes to an end, this issue marks the end of six years here at Okeechobee The Magazine. There’s nothing we value more than volunteerism, and when it comes to logging long hours for no pay — and making a huge difference in the community — Raye Deusinger has shown that she is committed to helping others. And as the driving force behind the Okeechobee Blood Roundup, Deusinger has her work cut out for her. But she’s not alone. Read about the roundup and its tre-mendous support from the Okeechobee community.

Over on U.S. Highway 441, south of town, you’ve likely driven by the Freedom Ranch and wondered what it’s all about. Well, we take you inside to meet John Glenn, a former Vietnam combat medic-turned-preacher/teacher/cowboy who runs a faith-based recov-ery-counseling training and retreat center at the ranch. Learn about the good work he is doing at the “Cracker cowboy” camp.

If you think the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee offers only pregnancy tests, then we suggest you read our feature on the center. Lisa Lumpkin and Debi Large explain how it’s so much more, with services including ultrasounds, parenting classes, life coach sessions, adoption information, education assistance and more. And most important, clients are treated like family.

In Okeechobee at Home, we visit the 2,500-square-foot home of Greg and Vicki Kennedy, who built and designed their home off Eagle Bay Drive with a vision for the future, intending to remain there for the rest of their lives. Events featured in this issue include Hospice of Okeechobee’s annual Boots & Pearls gala, the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee gala featuring former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee as the keynote speaker and many more.

In Behind the Business, we take you inside the mind of Okeechobee attorney Glenn Sneider, who after reconnecting with his Jewish roots has been on a mission to give back to the community in various ways. Also, meet Dr. Juan M. Teodoro and Dr. Glen T. Casto of Dental Sur-gery Specialists of Okeechobee. Learn about their backgrounds and the dental services they provide.

And because it’s the winter issue, fishing columnist Mike Shellen wel-comes back our northern friends. Of course, we join him in that senti-ment and wish everyone a great holiday season and happy new year. And we hope that as 2013 rolls around, you’ll 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



Art FestArt FestTop of the

Lake Top of theLakeChalk WalkStreet Painting

February 9th & 10thSaturday & Sunday -10 am - 4 pm

For information contactCindy at 863-357-6246

Okeechobee Main Street Event

2013 Top of the Lake Art Fest & Chalk Walk

New!7th Annual Inaugural

Fine Art - Artisan CraftsChalk Street Art

Art Gallery Tent featuring Local and Student Artists

Entertainment Okeechobee Main Street ‘s

5th Mural DedicationChildren’s Art Activities

www.okeechobeemainstreet.com

Main Street O�ce:55 South Parrott Ave.

Admission is Free!

Call to Artists!If you are interested in showing in the

Top of the Lake Art Festor participating in the Chalk Walk

contact Okeechobee Main Street now!

OKEECHOBEE MAIN STREETCORPORATE SPONSORS:

Bank of America - Big Lake Cancer CenterFlorida’s Blood Centers - Okeechobee the Magazine

Raulerson Hospital - Seacoast National BankSyfrett Feed Company - TD Bank

Also Sponsored By

In Beautiful Flagler Park

New! Chalk Walk Street Painting!Watch the artist create on the

treets in Flagler Park.

Family FriendlyTrue Juried Art Show with local and national artists.

features

departments

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

Around Okeechobee Advertiser Index

22

52

columnsFishing on Lake OkeechobeeBy Capt. Michael Shellen

Hunter PritchardBy Charles Murphy

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82

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64

Winter 2012

Raye DeusingerWoman Behind the Blood Roundup

By Jason Budjinski

Debi Large and Lisa LumpkinThe ‘Dynamic Duo’ Behind the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee

By Rachel Buxton

John GlennOf Freedom Ranch

By Chris Felker

Okeechobee at HomeBy Ron Bukley

Behind the Business Dental Surgery Specialists Attorney Glenn Sneider

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Upcoming ShootsDec. 8 -

Jan. 5 -

Jan. 18 -

Jan. 25 -Jan. 26 -

Feb. 1 -

Highlands County CitrusShoot

FL Cattlewomen Shoot

Master Custom BuildersShoot

St. Thomas Aquina Shoot

M.E. Team’s Shoot

Lake Wales YMCA Shoot

THE MAGAZINE

WINTER 2012

Meet Raye Deusinger Woman Behind the Blood Round-Up

Debi Large and Lisa Lumpkin The “Dynamic Duo” Behind the Pregnancy Center

John Glenn of Freedom Ranch

Plus

ON THE COVERRaye Deusinger

Story on page 22Photo by Sandra Pearce

52

64

Contents

Labor Day Festival and RodeoPregnancy Center GalaKids Fishing DayBoots & PearlsKiwanis Minimal RegattaFall Concert with Tom JacksonRylee’s Hope Chili CookoffHalloween FestRocking Rod Car ShowOkeechobee Blood RoundupFFA Fun ShootChamber Leadership Okeechobee KickoffBig Brothers/Big Sisters Bowl-athon

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Upcoming ShootsDec. 8 -

Jan. 5 -

Jan. 18 -

Jan. 25 -Jan. 26 -

Feb. 1 -

Highlands County CitrusShoot

FL Cattlewomen Shoot

Master Custom BuildersShoot

St. Thomas Aquina Shoot

M.E. Team’s Shoot

Lake Wales YMCA Shoot

Community Event

The 2012 Labor Day Festival, organized by Okeechobee Main Street, was held Sept. 1-3 in Flagler Park. The streets were lined with family and friends as the parade made its way down Park Street. The park was filled with something for everyone: arts and crafts, great food, vendors and live entertainment. It was a fun-filled day for all who attended. For information, visit www.okeechobeemainstreet.com.

Labor DayFestival & Parade


Clay Starling knocks down thecanisters as Bobby Steiert watches.Shriner Jack Townsend stops to say hello as David Pontoon looks on.Dahlia Grzech tries to catch the bubbles.Ronald McDonald with Okeechobee The Magazine photographer Sharon Cannon.Ronald McDonald poses with Aaron Gaucin, Elias Garcia, Jose Serrano Jr. and Elyssa Gaucin as Yonel Garcia takes a picture.Kaylee Whidden with her Flower Child Bowtique.The Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta pirate ship float was a crowd favorite.

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Dally Exposito proudly carries the flag.

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Labor DayRanch Rodeo 2012

Jeff Bell of West Palm Beach ad-mires Brad Phares’ paintings.Miss Rodeo Okeechobee Prin-cess McKenna Brooke Hickson (front) and Miss Teen Rodeo 2012 Sierra Megan Coward.Rooster Durrance of Flying L with his horse.Rocking U team roping.Keith Lewis of K.L. Bar ropes the calf.The calf scramble is a crowd pleaser.Reed Durrance’s horse patiently waits for him.

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The Okeechobee County Cattlemen’s Association held a La-bor Day Ranch Rodeo Saturday through Monday, Sept. 1-3 at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. There were 24 ranch rodeo teams, and the top five teams from Saturday and Sunday rode-oed for a short go on Monday. The three-day event was full of excitement as spectators watched team roping, team tying, team sorting, team branding and the traditional kids ribbon chase.

Photos By Sharon Cannon

Labor DayRanch Rodeo 2012

The opening ceremony begins with prayer.

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Community Event

The Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee held its third annual fundrais-ing gala Sept. 18. In attendance were many distinguished local guests and keynote speaker, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee. The event helped to raise funds to support the local center which serviced 766 clients this year. For information, visit www.okeepregcenter.com.

Pastor Mickey and Laura Maye Evans.Pregnancy Center President Cheri Watford and Dowl-ing Watford with Gov. Mike Huckabee.Pete Gawda with Pastor Jim Benton (as Drew Carey).Gov. Mike Huckabee is greeted by Mark Reynolds.Gov. Mike Huckabee speaks to the crowd on the im-portance of the pregnancy center’s work.

Photos By Felicia Maxwell

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Gov. Mike Huckabee KeynoteSpeaker at Pregnancy Center Gala

(Left) Pregnancy Center Executive Director Lisa Lumpkin,Gov. Mike Huckabee and Development Director Debbie Large.

The CenterState Bank table: Tabitha and Jay Trent (back), Kristy and Neal Crawford, Heather and Ty Hancock and Jennifer and Steve Laf-ferty.

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(Above) Merle and Scott Vidal withRaymond and Judy Jolly.

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Photos By Felcia MaxwellCommunity Event

Taylor Creek Bass Club held its annual Kids Day Oct. 28 at the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center. More than 200 children were in atten-dance, participating in casting contests and a fishing tournament. This year, a rod and reel was provided for each child thanks to a grant from Fish Florida. Prizes were awarded for first, second and third place in dif-ferent age groups. For more information on the Taylor Creek Bass Club, call Chan Garrett at (863) 357-0028.

Kids Fishing Day Fun

Waste ManagementOkeechobee Land�ll, Inc.

www.wm.com www.thinkgreen.com

863-357-0824Fax: 863-357-0772

Okeechobee Land�ll, Inc. Okeechobee Land�ll, Inc.

10800 N.E. 128th Ave.Okeechobee FL, 34972

Employee Commitment, Dedication and Community Partner

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All Florida Junior Team RodeoAmerican Cancer Society Relay For LifeAnnual Christmas ParadeAnnual Halloween FestivalAnnual Labor Day FestivalARC of OkeechobeeArnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation CenterBattle Of Okeechobee EventBig Brothers Big Sisters of OkeechobeeB.R.A.T. Club, Inc.B.R.A.T. Labor Day ParadeCASTLEEconomic Council of OkeechobeeFaith Farm of OkeechobeeFlorida Blood Centers Blood RoundupHabitat for HumanityJuvenile Diabetes Research FoundationKiwanis Club of OkeechobeeMarch of Dimes Walk

Tony Bishop, Sr. District Manager

Martha’s HouseMy Aunt's ClosetOkeechobee Cattlemen’s Association Okeechobee Chamber of CommerceOkeechobee County FairOkeechobee County School BoardOkeechobee Educational Foundation - Achieving Excellence CampaignOkeechobee Emergency Management Special Disaster TeamOkeechobee Health and Safety FairOkeechobee High School GRAD Night EventOkeechobee High School Marching BandOkeechobee High School SportsOkeechobee Main StreetOkeechobee Youth Lovestock Show and SalesReal Life Children’s RanchWaste Management local ScholarshipsWaste Management Take Stock in Children Scholarship

The crowd gathers around the lake while kids fish for catfish and small pan fish.

Lori Kelly with Okeechobee Sheriff’s Office representatives John Munger and Jermain Charpentier.

Troy Huffman gets instructions on casting from Big O teen angler Nathan Center.

Event organizers Bill Sietz, Terri Johnson, Vicky Brackin and Mike Zubricky.


Photos By Sandra PearceCommunity Event

Seventh Annual Boots & Pearls

Hospice of Okeechobee held its seventh annual Boots & Pearls gala at the KOA Convention Center on Friday, Oct. 12. This fun-filled signature event featured silent and live auctions with plenty of music and dancing. Funds raised will benefit Hospice of Okeechobee and the Hamrick Home. For more information, visit www.hospiceofokeechobee.org.

David and Betty Hazellief.Frank and Linda Pearce.Diane an Robert Prescott.Cindy and Ray Domer.Christa Luna, Gil and Marie Culbreth, KrissDail and Bert Culbreth.Sharon and Wayne Prevatte.Craig and Jeanette Miller, Gary and Maureen Budjinski, Donna Huth and Bill Fowler.

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Seventh Annual Boots & Pearls

$5 Appetizersafter 9pm in the Saloon

863-467-1104

Ladies Night

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Peace Lutheran School Presents

A Night in New Orleans

Jeans, Jewels and Jazz!

SAVE THE DATE

Saturday

February 16, 2013

at the KOA

A Dinner, Dance and Auctionfor improvement and

benefit of Peace Lutheran School.For more information please call Karen Smith at 863-763-7566

Photos By Sharon CannonCommunity Event

The Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee held its second annual Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Oct. 6 at C. Scott Driver Park on the Kis-simmee River. The event was a huge success with an estimated 2,500 people in attendance and more than 80 boats. Proceeds will go to a scholarship fund in memory of Adam Bryant. The scholar-ship is to be awarded to a graduating Okeechobee High School senior who plans on a career as a firefighter/EMT. Next year’s event is already being planned for Oct. 5, 2013. For more information on the Kiwanis Club, visit www.kiwanisclubofokeechobee.com.

And they’re off! Dickie Legassi of Butch’s Red-neck Yacht Club won the Old Salts Division.Titanic Award winner JoeyBunker (center) with J.D. Mixon and Teresa Chandler.“Popeye the Sailor Man” Brandon Baughman.Jeff Reno of Rock and Roll Racing won Best Boat.April Hartseil shows her team support with a pink feather hat.Budding photographer Blake McDonald.Mojito and Munk play in the wa-ter as their owner Edna Hofmann closely watches them.A huge crowd enjoyed the races.The Byrant family memorial sign for Adam.

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“She’s just a giving person, but also very dedicated.”

- FBC Donor Development Coordinator Russ Colwell

2007, when the Okeechobee Blood Roundup was in its second year, T-shirts were made displaying the names of peo-ple who donated at least $200, whether as money or as val-ue in goods and services, whether it be hotel stays, fishing trips or coupons. There were 12 names on that shirt. Five years later, there are more than four times that many names, as 61 people have made such donations for the 2012 roundup, held Nov. 17-18.

“We’re running out of room on the T-shirt,” joked Raye Deusinger, the drive chairperson and main force behind the roundup, which she started in 2006 with for-mer Okeechobee Times editor Joan Dyer.

A longtime blood do-nor, Deusinger has seen the roundup grow over the years, and she credits the generosity of the Okeechobee community for making it such a success. According to Deusinger, the origins of the roundup were a bit fortuitous.

By Jason Budjinski O Photos By Sandra Pearce

Behind Raye Deusinger’s Efforts To Roundup Lifesaving Blood.

“I retired in ’98, and when I did I couldn’t stand the thought of sitting at home and doing nothing, so I went over to the new newspaper starting at the time, the Okeechobee Times,”

Deusinger said. “I asked, ‘Would you allow me to write a column?’ because at that time, physically, my doctor said, ‘Stop donating so often.’ I thought, well, I’ve got to be able to help get blood, so maybe I can write a col-umn about it. I asked the Times, and they said yes, and so I began writing.”

For eight years, Deusinger wrote a weekly column about blood, from devel-opments to history, going all the way back to the gladiators, as well as the first transfusions. During Deusinger’s last year with the Times, Dyer told her she wanted to do some-thing to give back to the people of Okeechobee.

“Just as she was considering what to do, my column came in and she thought, aha! I’ll do a massive blood drive,’” Deus-inger said.

A Raye of Hope

In


An award “for her dedication to the Okeechobee Roundup and her Commitment to Saving Lives” was presented to Raye Deusinger in July. Shown here are FBC Vice President of Blood Systems Alicia Prichard, Deusinger, FBC Chief Technical Officer Mike Pratt, and District Donor Coordinator Russ Colwell.


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Dyer and Deusinger got together and came up with the idea for the roundup and launched the drive in 2006. How-ever, Dyer fell ill the following year, and Deusinger was on her own. But with help from dedicated volunteers and sup-port from the community, Deusinger managed to keep it going … and going … and going. That is no small feat, and it’s not what usually happens.

“On the fourth year, it dawned on [Flor-ida’s Blood Centers], hey, this is con-sistently building, which is against the pattern,” Deusinger said. “The pattern for blood drives is you can have a phe-nomenal first year and generally a pretty good second year, but by the third year it begins to go downhill in most loca-tions. Ours keeps building.”

In total, the Okeechobee Blood Round-up has collected 3,152 units of blood in seven years. This year’s roundup col-lected 471 units, with 526 people at-tending.

For her efforts, Deusinger was named an ambassador for Florida’s Blood Cen-ters. She is one of only two in the state.

Born in Detroit, Mich., Deusinger has lived in South Florida most of her life, having moved with her family to Miami in 1944. While enrolled at the Universi-ty of Miami, where she majored in jour-nalism and minored in religion, Deus-inger took a job at the Miami Herald, where she met her husband, Frank. They married three days after her graduation and remained together until Frank’s passing in 2004. Their two daughters,

She is a walkingblood drive

promotion machine.- FBC Executive Director of Public Relations Pat Michaels

“ ”


- FBC Executive Director of Public Relations Pat Michaels


Diana Damiano and Ann Rodgerson, are both married and employed in their own businesses.

The Deusingers began building a home in Buckhead Ridge as a “getaway” in the mid 1970s, and after Frank retired in 1983, the couple moved there perma-nently. Frank passed away Jan. 2, 2004, following complications from double bypass surgery, which resulted in severe blood loss.

“He went in for a double bypass, and not having anything whatsoever to do with that, he ended up with a mas-sive bleed,” Raye said. “They were just bringing him out of that when he ended up with another massive bleed, from an-other totally unrelated thing, and used 36 units of blood during that period.”

Although Raye is well-known in the area for her work with blood donation, she’s also involved with her church. Deusinger has taught Sunday school, mostly for teens and young adults, and currently teaches a senior women’s class at First United Methodist Church. She also serves as an usher and a member of the Community Life Committee, does work with Hands on Okeechobee and worked with Habitat for Humanity to help build the first five Habitat houses in Okeechobee. Raye is also involved with Okeechobee Community Theatre, having appeared in four plays and cur-rently serving as an usher at most of its productions. Additionally, Raye is the coordinator of the Okeechobee Business Women’s Referral Network.

All of this speaks to Raye’s giving nature, which is something those who know her will attest to. One person who has worked on the roundup with Raye from the beginning is Florida’s Blood Centers Donor Development Coordinator Russ Colwell. “She’s just a giving person, but also very dedicated. She’s very detailed,” he said. “Raye will go out of her way to take care of people any way she can. She

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talks the talk and walks the walk.”

Colwell stressed how crucial blood do-nation is to the community, and how one person can make a huge difference, noting that one unit of blood can be used for three people. “Say 500 people give blood; that’s 1,500 people you can save,” he said.

Marilyn Rinear, data recorder for the Okeechobee Blood Roundup, credits Raye’s personable character with help-ing grow the roundup each year. “Raye is the heart and soul of this thing,” Ri-near said. “Everybody knows her. When we go out and start canvassing every year, everybody recognizes that this is time for the blood roundup. People look forward to us coming out and ask-ing to help.”

Florida’s Blood Centers Executive Di-rector of Public Relations Pat Michaels calls Raye “the drive chairperson of the highest order.”

“She is a walking blood drive promo-tion machine,” Michaels said. “She gets people to give in kind, and that includes donor gifts, a place for the blood drive to be held, community involvement, and no one can tell Raye no.”

Michaels emphasized the importance of the roundup, and what it means locally for the people it benefits, from cancer patients to people needing emergency surgery. “Every unit of blood that’s do-nated goes to patients in local hospi-tals,” Michaels said. “This type of out-reach, this community event, is literally in most cases a lifesaving event.”

And that’s why it’s so important to ev-eryone involved, especially Raye. She not only rounds up blood; she rounds up community spirit, and that is key to creating something that will last long into the future — and save many more lives. To learn more about blood dona-tion, visit www.floridasbloodcenters.org.O


own bathroom, office/workout/storage room, and his-and-hers closets between the bedroom and bathroom. “Her closet is quite a bit bigger, but it’s nice to have my own,” Greg said.

The bathroom has extensive tile work,

with his-and-hers vanities and separate corner tub with faucets on the entry side and walk-in shower with a frame-less glass enclosure. “We picked the tiles and did some upgrades just getting the trim work added in,” Greg said. “The effect was quite nice.”

OGreg and Vicki Kennedy built and designed their Okeechobee home off Eagle Bay Drive with a vision for the future, intending to remain there for the rest of their lives.

The Kennedys had the 2,500-square-foot home built a little over five years ago by Platinum Performance Build-ers. “We went through two full sets of drawings,” Greg said. “We had two houses drawn up, engineered and ready, and kept finding things we wanted to change and actually looked at a home they had built. [We] liked the floor plan, but we expanded some things. We stretched it a little bit in the kitchen and dining room. We were able to pick all the colors, trim, doors, knobs.”

The home, which has a 10-foot ceil-ing and crown molding throughout, is built for both hospitality and livability, featuring a foyer and dining room on either side of the front entrance facing north, with accessibility to the dining room from the kitchen. The kitchen opens to the back with a counter to an informal dining area, which has a large window view to the covered patio and large back yard to the south on just over an acre. “We wanted a house that was open and inviting,” Greg said.

The bedrooms are on separate wings of the house with separate bedrooms on the east side for their two daughters, Kiersten, 8, Jillian, 11, and the master bedroom on the west, which has its

By Ron Bukley O Photos by Felicia Maxwell

OkeechobeeAT HOME

Greg and Vicki Kennedy

To soften the bathroom design they incorporated a 45-degree design in one corner of the bathroom, opposite a 45-degree entry to the toilet, which is separated with a door from the rest of the bathroom.

The Kennedys were able to use real marble for the countertops because syn-thetic marble was more expensive due to fuel prices at the time. Greg likes the underhung sinks because they are easier to keep clean. “I’m very oriented on ease of maintenance,” he said. “We take care of everything ourselves. We have no cleaning or lawn help, so we want every-thing as easy to maintain as we can get.” When the couple first started plan-ning the home, Greg’s brother gave him a book called Make Your House Do the Housework, which provided good advice, such as using light covers that are open on the bottom so insects don’t accumulate on the bottom.

The bathroom has a flat-screen televi-sion so they can get updated on current events while preparing for the day. “It’s a very livable space,” Greg said.

There is a larger flat-screen television in the main living room, as well as a smaller one in the kitchen, which is the focus of most activity. “We can watch some cartoons while the kids are eating breakfast,” Greg said. “We do home-work on the bar. We do breakfast and dinner every day. I try to cook the kids breakfast every morning, bacon and

(Above) The Kennedy family: Kiersten,Vicki, Greg and Jillian.

(Right) One of the daughter’s airybedroom, accented with a burst of color.


AT HOME

(Above) The master bedroom.(Left) Unique framed photographs hung at the head of both daughters’ bed.(Below) One of the closets with additional storage space above.

(Above) The Kenne-dys’ home off Eagle Bay Drive.

(Above right) This ballerina sculpture adorns a wall.

(Right) Welcoming decor in the foyer.

(Below) The formal dining room has a large window view to the porch.

(Below) A floral piece located in the living area.



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eggs before they go to school. We spend a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s kind of the center of everything.”

Many of the appliances, including a large kitchen stove, are gas-powered, which Greg said is economical and practical if the electricity goes out. “We ran gas for the hot-water heater, the clothes dryer and the stove, and actu-ally plumbed it out to the back porch for a future outdoor built-in kitchen,” he said. “We did that work when we built it, trying to plan ahead. We have a cutout out there that has hot and cold water, drain line and gas. We plan to spend the rest of our time here, so we wanted to do it right.”

The girls’ bathroom has two sinks and a door that opens to the back yard and possibly a pool one day, Greg said. “[Vicki’s] sister lives next door and has a beautiful pool,” he said.

The girls’ bedrooms both have clos-ets with additional storage overhead. “There’s three feet of clearance and it’s all decked in with heavy lumber so it’ll hold a lot of weight. We have all of their keepsakes and baby stuff and all the family papers, so it’s stored in air con-ditioning.”

The attic, which opens from the two-car garage, is also trussed out so there is an additional 16- by 24-foot space with a 7-foot head clearance for storage.

“I’m a bit of a pack rat; I hunt and fish and scuba dive,” Greg said, noting that when equipment is out of season, it goes up there.

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“We tried to make good selections on everything,” he said. “Until you build a house it’s hard to imagine how labori-ous it is to decide. I’m sure we visited over 100 homes in the course of five or six years to try and get ideas, and pick things from one place or another.”

The Kennedys also spent several years searching for the right property, first looking at waterfront lots but deciding to favor convenience. “We both wanted to be closer to town, running to cheer, running to dance,” Greg said, referring to his daughters’ involvement in cheer-leading and dancing. “Both of us com-mute less than a mile to our jobs. It’s phenomenal to have that.”

Greg works for the Department of Environmental Protection, and Vicki teaches first grade at Central Elemen-tary School. They both graduated from Okeechobee High School.

(Above and left) The kitchen.(Above left) The laundry room.(Below) Wine on display.

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Okeechobee Shooting Sports held its first-ever fall concert on Nov. 10. An evening of fun was had by friends and family with great food, music and kids activities. The featured artist was Tom Jackson, along with Coon Doggin Outlaws. For information on any future events at Okeechobee Shooting Sports, visit www.okshooting.com.

Okeechobee Shooting SportFall Concert

(Above) Coon Doggin Outlaws’ (L-R) Anton Lauter and Brett Huff.

(Right) Nashville recording Artist Tom Jackson.

(Far right) The crowd enjoyed the food, catered by Dee-Stefano’s of Indiantown.


Happy Holidays from Atlantic Wealth Management Group

The Atlantic Wealth Management Group proudly supports the

Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee’s Santa in the Park Saturday, December 8 and Monday, December 17 – Saturday, December 22 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.in the Flagler Park Gazebo in downtown Okeechobee.

The Club will be providing free photographs with Santa Claus and a treat for the kids.

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Sixth AnnualRylee’s Hope Cookoff

Rylee’s Hope Chili Cookoff was held Saturday, Oct. 20 at Flagler Park in downtown Okeechobee. Rylee’s Hope Inc. is a nonprofit ministry formed to help with the basic financial, emotional and spiritual needs of families that currently have or have had babies in the neonatal intensive care unit, and families that have experienced the unexpected birth or death of a baby. For more information, visit www.ryleeshope.org.

Shelby Busbin, Brandon Cole and Gavin Kendall enjoy the cookoff.(Front row, L-R) Roma Comfort and Marlee Jolicoeur; (back) Jack Griffin, Glenn McKinney, Tommy Comfort and Patti Comfort.Rylee’s Hope founders Shana and Lee Jolicoeur with theirdaughters, Brynlee and Marlee.Ray Domer, Ranell Conner and Maureen Thomas serve a bowl of chili to Tim Thompson of Naples.Brynlee Jolicoeur looks on.First-place winners Rock Solid Christian Academy: (front row, L-R) Emilee and Arrie Chandler; (back) Shawn Chandler, Stepha-nie Busbin, Colleen Larson, Rylee’s Hope founder Lee Jolicoeur, Amanda Lay, Joy Yates, Kallie Yates and Sue Ada Hicks.


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The 2013 Rylee’s Hope calendars are available.



The 2013 Rylee’s Hope calendars are available.

Behind the Business In case you haven’t noticed, the office at 113 NE 19th Drive has some new occupants. Dr. Juan M. Teodoro and Dr. Glen T. Casto opened Dental Surgery Specialists of Okeechobee in the location two months ago.

Teodoro and Casto offer the only dental specialty practice of its kind in Okeechobee. The practice specializes in endodon-tics, oral surgery (such as wisdom tooth extractions), peri-odontics (gum disease) and implants. Prior to Dental Surgery

New Dentists in Town - Dental Surgery SpecialistsBy Tonya Young O Photo by Felicia Maxwell

Specialists of Okeechobee, anyone seeking these services had to travel outside of Okeechobee.

If you are in need of a root canal, wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants or a simple extraction under IV sedation, Teodoro and Casto can help. They’ve brought to Okeechobee the latest in dental technology and surgical procedures: la-ser periodontal therapy, endodontal microscopy, computer-guided implant surgery and IV sedation.

Casto and Teodoro have known one another since doing their residencies in Pittsburgh, Pa.

“Since I have ties to this community, and there was no specialty practice of this kind in Okeechobee, it just made sense for us to bring this service to Okeechobee,” Teodoro said.

Teodoro is a board-certified periodon-tist. He holds both Diplomate status in the American Academy of Periodon-tology and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. Teodoro is an adjunct professor at the University Of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine as well as a clinical assistant profes-sor at the Naples Dental Residency Pro-gram for the University of Florida. He attended the University of Florida for his undergraduate degree and complet-ed his Doctor of Dental Medicine and specialty residency at the University of Pittsburgh.

Teodoro also served as a major in the United States Air Force, where he prac-ticed periodontics. Throughout his Air Force career he served as the chief of periodontics, director of the implant board and clinical instructor. He is one of the local leading authorities in laser periodontal therapy and in the Brane-

(L-R) Dr. Glen T. Casto andDr. Juan M. Teodoro.



mark method of implantology. He is one of the few perio-dontists in the state credentialed and trained to perform periodontal laser surgery with the PerioLase laser, for the treatment of periodontal disease.

Teodoro is a charismatic man, and his dental humor is just one attribute that makes him so likeable. He and his wife Erin have one daughter, Lauren, and a dog, Callie.

Casto completed his undergraduate degree at Wake Forrest University on a full Army ROTC scholarship, and graduated from West Virginia University in 1995. He later served in the U.S. Army Reserve. While completing his education, Casto participated in the multiple research projects that resulted in eight publications and a National Institutes of Health grant. He was also co-investigator in an FDA approval of the only prescription drug of the adjunct treatment of periodontal dis-ease.

Casto holds the prestigious position of being one of the few

dentists in Florida to have dual specialty training in periodon-tics and endodontics. He is a graduate of the Misch Implant Institute and has served as a clinical assistant professor in periodontics at West Virginia University School of Dentistry. Casto’s friendly smile will invite you through the door and make you feel completely at ease while under his care. His family comprises his wife Heidi, son Grant and identical twin sons Jackson and David.

The two doctors’ humble and warm personalities create a comfortable, homelike atmosphere at Dental Surgery Spe-cialists of Okeechobee. “We would like to thank the commu-nity for all their support,” Teodoro said. “We love this com-munity. It’s comfortable and straightforward, and that’s nice.”Dental Surgery Specialists of Okeechobee accepts most dental insurance plans. Financial plans are offered within the office. Its hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To contact Dental Surgery Specialists of Okeechobee, call (863) 261-8273 to talk to the friendly and knowledgeable staff. O

WILLIAMSON CATTLECOMPANY PRESENTS

Historical MuralThis historical mural was painted in 1996 to commemorate the one hundredth anniversary of the �rst permanent settler’s arrival to, what is now Okeechobee. They were Peter and wife Louisiana (Chandler) Raulerson and their seven children. The year was 1896 and the family is shown in the mural. Seminole Indians, which frequented this area, are also depicted in the painting.

This historic mural is 130’ wide and 16’tall and is located on the side of the old gymnasium at the school complex on 700 SW 2 Avenue.

Behind the Business

Glenn J. Sneider has been practicing law for more than 20 years. His faith-based practice has thrived in Okeechobee despite an economic downturn.

Sneider graduated from law school at Florida State University. He has been practicing law in South Florida since 1979 and practicing in Okeechobee since 1998, having moved his practice here from Broward County. Fourteen

years ago Sneider chose to leave the “drama” of big city law for a more “civ-il” place to practice law. This led him to Okeechobee.

The recent change in the economic cli-mate “sparked serious soul searching re-garding my business and personal life, and led me on a path of deeper connec-tion with my Jewish roots,” Sneider said.

Sneider said his first commitment was

to keep Sneider Law in business and ensure employment for his office staff. Even though many were downsizing or drastically cutting employee hours, Sneider pledged to make every payroll, even when that meant he himself went without a paycheck.

Even with a failing economy, Sneider chose to increase his charitable con-tributions, his tzedakah. Sneider Law joined the Florida Rural Legal Services, taking part in its “Ask a Lawyer” pro-gram. While most would consider this pro bono work, he saw it as his “moral obligation to give back.” Ask a Lawyer allows those who otherwise couldn’t af-ford legal counsel to gain information at no cost.

“Now more than ever,” Sneider said, “there is a need to give back to the com-munity, whether we do pro bono work or field questions to the public in con-junction with Florida Rural Legal Ser-vice. A lot of people are still hurting and need good legal information.”

In addition to his commitment to the Florida Rural Legal Services, Sneider also sponsors a $1,000 scholarship for the Okeechobee High School Scholar-ship Night.

While soul searching, Sneider found a deeper level of connection to his Jewish roots. He is proud to say he is now an observant Jew. “Being an observant Jew is much different from just recognizing that I’m a Jew,” Sneider said. “I keep kosher, and I close for Sabbath and all

Professional, Principled, PassionateGlenn J. Sneider, Attorney at Law

By Tonya Young


Glenn J. Sneider, Esq.


the Jewish holidays, which my employees love me for because there are a lot of holidays.”

Being an observant Jew has not only changed Sneider inwardly but outwardly as well. “I get a lot of questions about my outward appear-ance, my beard, my kippah and the fringes that hang from my shirt,” Sneider said.

A beard, a kippah and fringes all rep-resent Sneider’s belief in something higher than himself, yet he still manages to keep his country flair. “I’m sort of an anomaly because I’m this observant Jew, yet I wear cowboy boots,” Sneider said. “It’s about perspective and interactions. In Okeechobee, people are comfortable asking questions, and I love it. How are we going to find out about each other if we don’t ask?”

Sneider explained that his kippah, a small cap, reminds him constantly that there is someone greater above himself. He also said the fringes hanging from under his jacket are tzittzit. “They are kind of forget-me-knots, that remind me of the obligation to our creator,” Sneider said.

In relation to his combination of “church and state” Sneider said, “Reli-gion should be about ethics. For me it’s about consistently applying those ethics in my community, office and home. I strive to give back, to be honest and to give honest service in exchange for a cli-ent’s payment and trust.”

Sneider is proud to be a member of the Okeechobee community, both person-ally and in business. “I love my faith, and I love this community,” he said. “I’m

O

proud to be employing a small office staff of locals. I’m grateful to be accept-ed for who I am. I believe that I was led here to practice this kind of law and be a bridge of understanding between our different faiths. Helping people is just part of my mission. If someone wants to stop me at the courthouse or Walgreens

and ask a question, it’s fine with me.”

Though Sneider’s belief, ethics and appearance code may differ from the norm, he said, “I think you have to give people credit to know what’s important. If you offer a great service, people will seek you out for that and not worry about the rest. Besides, we share the same

core values here centering on hard work, family, community and a belief that there is something bigger than us all.”

Sneider Law is located at 200 SW Ninth St. in Okeechobee. For more informa-tion, call (863) 467-6570 or visit www.sneiderlaw.com.

The Glenn Sneider Team (L-R):Marlene Wade, Tammy Affron, Frank Hickox,

Glenn Sneider, Esq., Carmen Rile and Charity Arnold.

“The nurses were amazing; very responsive! They took great care of Sorrel and kept our family comfortable and informed.”Fay Faircloth, Mother of pediatric orthopaedic patient at Raulerson Hospital.

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

Pediatric OrthOPaedic carePatients like the Faircloths are sometimes surprised to learn that Raulerson Hospital:• was named one of the nation’s

top Performers on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America

• was recognized for its achievement on Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia, and Surgical Care measure sets

• is one of only 244 hospitals that achieved the top Performer distinction two years in a row

• offers pediatric orthopaedic care

Learning the facts about the qualifications of Raulerson Hos-pital and the physicians on the facility’s medical staff helped the Faircloths feel confident that Raulerson Hospital was the right choice for Sorrel’s ortho-paedic surgery. Dr. Benjamin

Epstein, who is the newest Orthopaedic Surgeon on the medical staff at Raulerson Hospital, performed the sur-gery. He is Board Certified by the American Osteopath-ic Academy of Orthopaedics and has twenty years of orthopaedic experience.

Dr. Epstein and the Registered Nurses from Raulerson’s Surgical Services Department placed a small titanium rod in Sorrel’s forearm to stabilize it. They also casted her arm. The rod will be removed four weeks after the surgery.

Staying two nights in the hospital was not easy for Sorrel, or any six-year old. Fay Faircloth and her family stayed right by her daughter’s side leading up to and after the little girl’s surgery.

Sorrel’s parents, Fay and Mac Alan Faircloth, comment “We are very pleased with the service and care we received at Raulerson Hospital. The nurses were amaz-ing; very responsive! They took great care of Sorrel and kept our family comfortable and informed.”

O u r pat i e n t s ’ o w n w o r d s

s p e a k V O l u m e s

For a Free Physician Referral & Healthcare Questions, call CONSULT-A-NURSE ® at 763-9228

Six year old Sorrel Faircloth is a very busy girl. She is a Kindergartener at South Elementary School, a cheerleader with the OCRA Storm Competitive Cheer Team, a member of the 4-H Club –Chobee Roundup, and a competitive Barrel Racer with the PRP and the Reality Ranch Association. So when friends and family members heard Sorrel had broken the bones in her arm, many assumed it was due to a riding accident with one of her horses: Dandy and Tivia. But Sorrel’s accident didn’t involve horses or even cheerleading; it was a simple trip and fall that could happen to anyone, even those less active.

Sorrel and her family were arriving at her 4-H Club meeting when Sorrel tripped and fell on the cement parking slab. They knew her left arm was hurt badly. Sorrel’s mother, Fay Faircloth, rushed her daughter to the Emergency Department at Raulerson Hospital. The results from an X-ray done at Raulerson Hospital showed that both the ulna and radius bones in Sorrel’s arm were fractured and a surgical procedure was necessary to stabilize the fracture. Sorrel’s parents were extremely concerned about receiving the proper treatment for their daughter’s injury, noting all the physical activities Sorrel is so passionate about. Desiring the best possible care for Sorrel, the Faircloths began checking out options for hospitals and surgeons for their daughter’s inevitable procedure.

introducing Board certified Orthopaedic Surgeon: dr. Benjamin epstein

Sorrel and her mother reconnect with Sorrel’s care team from Raulerson Hospital: RN Erica Lipfert, Certified

Surgical Technologist Crystal Waldrop, Fay Faircloth & Sorrel Faircloth, Dr. Epstein, and RN Becky McKee

“The nurses were amazing; very responsive! They took great care of Sorrel and kept our family comfortable and informed.”Fay Faircloth, Mother of pediatric orthopaedic patient at Raulerson Hospital.

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

Pediatric OrthOPaedic carePatients like the Faircloths are sometimes surprised to learn that Raulerson Hospital:• was named one of the nation’s

top Performers on Key Quality Measures by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of health care organizations in America

• was recognized for its achievement on Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia, and Surgical Care measure sets

• is one of only 244 hospitals that achieved the top Performer distinction two years in a row

• offers pediatric orthopaedic care

Learning the facts about the qualifications of Raulerson Hos-pital and the physicians on the facility’s medical staff helped the Faircloths feel confident that Raulerson Hospital was the right choice for Sorrel’s ortho-paedic surgery. Dr. Benjamin

Epstein, who is the newest Orthopaedic Surgeon on the medical staff at Raulerson Hospital, performed the sur-gery. He is Board Certified by the American Osteopath-ic Academy of Orthopaedics and has twenty years of orthopaedic experience.

Dr. Epstein and the Registered Nurses from Raulerson’s Surgical Services Department placed a small titanium rod in Sorrel’s forearm to stabilize it. They also casted her arm. The rod will be removed four weeks after the surgery.

Staying two nights in the hospital was not easy for Sorrel, or any six-year old. Fay Faircloth and her family stayed right by her daughter’s side leading up to and after the little girl’s surgery.

Sorrel’s parents, Fay and Mac Alan Faircloth, comment “We are very pleased with the service and care we received at Raulerson Hospital. The nurses were amaz-ing; very responsive! They took great care of Sorrel and kept our family comfortable and informed.”

O u r pat i e n t s ’ o w n w o r d s

s p e a k V O l u m e s

For a Free Physician Referral & Healthcare Questions, call CONSULT-A-NURSE ® at 763-9228

Six year old Sorrel Faircloth is a very busy girl. She is a Kindergartener at South Elementary School, a cheerleader with the OCRA Storm Competitive Cheer Team, a member of the 4-H Club –Chobee Roundup, and a competitive Barrel Racer with the PRP and the Reality Ranch Association. So when friends and family members heard Sorrel had broken the bones in her arm, many assumed it was due to a riding accident with one of her horses: Dandy and Tivia. But Sorrel’s accident didn’t involve horses or even cheerleading; it was a simple trip and fall that could happen to anyone, even those less active.

Sorrel and her family were arriving at her 4-H Club meeting when Sorrel tripped and fell on the cement parking slab. They knew her left arm was hurt badly. Sorrel’s mother, Fay Faircloth, rushed her daughter to the Emergency Department at Raulerson Hospital. The results from an X-ray done at Raulerson Hospital showed that both the ulna and radius bones in Sorrel’s arm were fractured and a surgical procedure was necessary to stabilize the fracture. Sorrel’s parents were extremely concerned about receiving the proper treatment for their daughter’s injury, noting all the physical activities Sorrel is so passionate about. Desiring the best possible care for Sorrel, the Faircloths began checking out options for hospitals and surgeons for their daughter’s inevitable procedure.

introducing Board certified Orthopaedic Surgeon: dr. Benjamin epstein

Sorrel and her mother reconnect with Sorrel’s care team from Raulerson Hospital: RN Erica Lipfert, Certified

Surgical Technologist Crystal Waldrop, Fay Faircloth & Sorrel Faircloth, Dr. Epstein, and RN Becky McKee


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Imelda Bustos painted a face on the pumpkin.Okeechobee Main Street Executive Director Cindy Birdashaw (right) with her daughter Amie Stepanovich.Jordan Valladares as “Gator Boy.”Michael Hazellief guides Meghan Mitchel as she shoots a target.Kayden Saunders as “Pinky Winky.”Kaylee Whidden made a beautiful fairy costume.Lego policeman Cole Verano.Araceli Ruiz, Gabriel Ruiz, Briseida Ruiz and Stephanie Delacruz dance at the Aaron’s booth.An overall view of the festival.

The eighth annual Halloween Fest was held Oct. 31 at the Agri-Civic Center. Spon-soring this year’s event were Okeechobee Main Street, the Children’s Services Coun-cil, Okeechobee Board of County Commissioners, Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Okeechobee Police Department. The event provided a safe and fun-filled alternative to traditional trick-or-treating throughout the county. Fes-tivities included a costume contest, pumpkin-carving contest as well as games, prizes and candy treats all donated by local businesses.

2012 Halloween FestHuge success

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Okeechobee FamilyHealth & Safety Expo

Saturday, January 26, 20139:00 am - 2:00 pm

Agri-Civic Center

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These advances that Big Lake Eye Care has brought to Okeechobee allows for early detection and moni-toring of several eye diseas-

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Health Vision Here at Big Lake Eye Care we believe in investing in the health of our patients. Dr. Bartels and his associates use state of the art equipment to diagnose and treat all diseases of the eyes including:

•Macular Degeneration •Dry Eye•Cataracts •Diabetic Retinopathy•Retinal Detachment •Glaucoma

Many times annoyingheadaches, general eyefatigue, and blurry vision can often be caused by the need for eye-glasses or changes in your prescription. We can diagnose vision problems for you such as:

Our main goal when you come in or call our office is to make you

feel comfortable. You can trust that your eye care is in the best of hands. Dr

Bartels and associates have specialized training and a combination of over 40 years experience in the optical field. Let us make your eye care experience the best it can be.

Many serious eye diseases often have no symp-toms. Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes vision loss with or without symptoms and is commonly known as the “sneak thief of sight.” Conditions such as macular degeneration or cataracts develop so gradually that you may not even realize your vi-sion has decreased. Diabetic retinopathy is a condi-tion that commonly affects diabetic patients. Early detection of these and other eye diseases is impor-tant for maintaining overall health and vision.

•Farsightedness • Astigmatism•Presbyopia • Nearsightedness •Computer Vision Syndrome

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Big Lake Eye Care uses advancedcomputerized solutions for youreye care. We employ the most tech-nologically advanced equipment tomeasure 100% of your visual system. High Defini-tion Digital Imagery and Scanning Lasers allow a comprehensive retinal and optic nerve assessment.

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There is nothing wrong with hav-ing a little fun. While your exam is crucial in great vision, so is your eyewear. Big Lake Eye Care of-fers eyewear that strives to keep up with the latest fashions and most of all quality. Lens-making technology continues to improve. If you haven’t updated your glasses in a while, you may be pleasantly surprised at the many options available to you today. Sunglasses have also be-come a fashion accessory...let our licensed optician and other associates help you when making your selection.

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Big LakeSince we opened our doors in August 2004,

Dr. Bartels and staff have strived to always have a friendly hometown atmosphere, while

having the latest technology of a state of the art practice.

Dr. Bartels and family are lifetime residents of Okeechobee. A graduate of Okeechobee High School and continued his premed studies at the University of Florida, then attended Nova South-eastern University where he studied Optometry.

Dr. Bartels passion has always been about serving the community he grew up in.

Dedicated to a Lifetime of Eye Care and

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Dr. Charles W. BartelsBoard Certified Optometric Physician

606 North Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972Office: 863-763-EYES (3937)

www.biglakeeyecare.comFind us on: facebook®

Big Lake

for your eye exam 763-3937


These advances that Big Lake Eye Care has brought to Okeechobee allows for early detection and moni-toring of several eye diseas-

es. The most rewarding point is you won’t have to wait for results; you will view them in real time in the exam room with the doctor.

ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT

REASONS

Sixwhy you should see us

GOOD

Health Vision Here at Big Lake Eye Care we believe in investing in the health of our patients. Dr. Bartels and his associates use state of the art equipment to diagnose and treat all diseases of the eyes including:

•Macular Degeneration •Dry Eye•Cataracts •Diabetic Retinopathy•Retinal Detachment •Glaucoma

Many times annoyingheadaches, general eyefatigue, and blurry vision can often be caused by the need for eye-glasses or changes in your prescription. We can diagnose vision problems for you such as:

Our main goal when you come in or call our office is to make you

feel comfortable. You can trust that your eye care is in the best of hands. Dr

Bartels and associates have specialized training and a combination of over 40 years experience in the optical field. Let us make your eye care experience the best it can be.

Many serious eye diseases often have no symp-toms. Glaucoma is an eye disease that causes vision loss with or without symptoms and is commonly known as the “sneak thief of sight.” Conditions such as macular degeneration or cataracts develop so gradually that you may not even realize your vi-sion has decreased. Diabetic retinopathy is a condi-tion that commonly affects diabetic patients. Early detection of these and other eye diseases is impor-tant for maintaining overall health and vision.

•Farsightedness • Astigmatism•Presbyopia • Nearsightedness •Computer Vision Syndrome

Quality of Care

Big Lake Eye Care uses advancedcomputerized solutions for youreye care. We employ the most tech-nologically advanced equipment tomeasure 100% of your visual system. High Defini-tion Digital Imagery and Scanning Lasers allow a comprehensive retinal and optic nerve assessment.

Technology

There is nothing wrong with hav-ing a little fun. While your exam is crucial in great vision, so is your eyewear. Big Lake Eye Care of-fers eyewear that strives to keep up with the latest fashions and most of all quality. Lens-making technology continues to improve. If you haven’t updated your glasses in a while, you may be pleasantly surprised at the many options available to you today. Sunglasses have also be-come a fashion accessory...let our licensed optician and other associates help you when making your selection.

Style

Medicare BCBSUHC CignaAARP Medicaid Healthy Kids

VSP VCP Eyemed Superior Spectera Davis Vision Optum Health

Vision Plans

We are a provider for many vision and health insurance companies and our friendly staff will be happy to help you with the billing process, as well as help determine your benefits under your plan. The following

is a partial list of some of the insurance companies we are in network with.

Insurance

Medical Plans

Big LakeSince we opened our doors in August 2004,

Dr. Bartels and staff have strived to always have a friendly hometown atmosphere, while

having the latest technology of a state of the art practice.

Dr. Bartels and family are lifetime residents of Okeechobee. A graduate of Okeechobee High School and continued his premed studies at the University of Florida, then attended Nova South-eastern University where he studied Optometry.

Dr. Bartels passion has always been about serving the community he grew up in.

Dedicated to a Lifetime of Eye Care and

Quality Eyewear

Big Lake763-3937

Dr. Charles W. BartelsBoard Certified Optometric Physician

606 North Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972Office: 863-763-EYES (3937)

www.biglakeeyecare.comFind us on: facebook®

Big Lake

for your eye exam 763-3937


Rockin’ Rod CarShow Benefits ARC


The Rockin’ Rod Car Show and Swap Meet was held Oct. 14 at the Philip-pine-American Cultural Foundation of South Florida’s Garden Complex. A benefit for Okeechobee Rehabilitation Facility Inc. — better known as ARC of Okeechobee — the car show was a huge success, with many clas-sic cars and street rods on display. The crowd enjoyed the various food vendors and music while checking out the vehicles on display. Plans are in the works for next year’s car show. For more information on ARC of Okeechobee, call (863) 763-2419.

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

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Serving You For 52 Years.

A 1933 red Ford Coupe.

A 1929 Black Ford Roadster.

Leticia Romero serves up tacos to (front) Alexis Hannans, Leila Hannans and Kim Pierre.

Anita Nunez and her daughters Apple and Airi Nunez enjoy the car show.

(Above) Cecilia Elliott, Lisa Jensen, Diane Davies and Andrea Cason at the TD Bank booth.(Below) Ryan Arnold, with his dad Donny Arnold, shows off his tattoo.


3550 Highway 441 South · Okeechobee

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let us show you how we stand apart


By Rachel Buxton O Photos by Sandra Pearce

hey are known as the “dynamic duo.” However, when they hear themselves called that they are very quick to dismiss the label — not because they don’t like it, but simply because, as Lisa Lumpkin said, “We don’t do any more than any-one else here.”

“Here” would be the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee, and the duo would be Lumpkin and Debi Large.

Lumpkin, the executive director of the center, and Large, the director of devel-opment, said they are only two people who make up the team that is the Preg-nancy Center of Okeechobee, which helps give young ladies and adults a sec-ond chance and, most of all, hope. “We take them from the fear and scared-to-death level to the hope level,” Large said. “We let them know not only will life go on, but it can be a great life.”

Many people who have l ived in Okeechobee for years are not even aware that the small town has a pregnancy center tucked away on a side street. And by no means is it the typical pregnancy center.

“You can go anywhere to get a preg-nancy test,” Lumpkin said. “But we are so much more. The pregnancy test just gets them in the door. The rest is about building a relationship.”

Pregnancy Center

The ‘Dynamic Duo’ behind the

It’s a relationship not just between staff and clients but also between clients and God. And it’s the relationship that is fostered between the young women and God that makes the center so much more.

“They helped me learn a lot about God and the Bible,” said Adela, a former cli-ent. “I never read the Bible until I start-ed to go to the center. There were people at the center that I got really close to, like family. They are like family to my baby, too.”

The pregnancy center was started in 1998 by former Okeechobee resi-dent Malinda Belleville. For several years the center opened and closed, struggling to survive in a small town. After sitting vacant for a while, a group of people from the community decided that Okeechobee had the need for such a center, and something had to be done.

That’s when Lumpkin was approached by Steve Burk, president of the board at the time, about taking over the minis-try. “People had the desire and passion, and they felt we were missing a great op-portunity to minister to young women,” Lumpkin said. “I never really thought it would be something I’d want to do.”

Lumpkin agreed, however, and vol-unteered to run the program for two

years. With a new name, new look, new board of directors and completely dif-ferent mission, the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee reopened and started com-pletely fresh in 2008.

Operating in a 400-square-foot build-ing, Lumpkin ran the center with the help of another volunteer four days a week. Two years came and went, but Lumpkin didn’t. She stayed right where she was.

“The longer I stayed, my compassion grew and grew for these girls,” she said. As time went on the center continued to grow, and there was a need to take the ministry to an even greater level. This time, it was relocated to a larger build-ing so it could offer more services to clients.

Services begin with a pregnancy test but also include ultrasounds, parent-ing classes, life coach sessions, adoption information, education assistance and anything else an expecting mother and/or father could need or ask for. And even though Large and Lumpkin are pro-life and pass no judgment on anyone who walks in the door, they offer abortion re-covery counseling for those dealing with that difficult decision.

“Out in the community, a lot of people have the misconception that we are an

Lisa Lumpkin and Debi Large

of Okeechobee

T


“You can go anywhere toget a pregnancy test,

but we are so much more.”

of Okeechobee

Debi Large (left) and Lisa Lumpkin


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abortion center,” Large said. “We are here to save lives. Nine out of 10 choose life. We don’t coerce in any way, shape or form. We provide accurate informa-tion.”

Lumpkin and Large said that the center is blessed with wonderful volunteers, in-cluding doctors and ultrasound techni-cians who come in to assist with medical issues. They said that by offering ultra-sounds, they are showing young women that there is a life inside of them, and no matter how scared or alone they may feel, that just by walking through the center’s doors, they inherited family and are not alone. “Just by giving a pregnancy test, we would be doing you a disservice,” Large said about the center offering more. “There are consequences to our choices, but you can get through those conse-quences. As life throws you curves, we want to help you handle them. We want to be the support system you may not have.”

All of the services offered by the center are free and made possible by support from local churches and donors. The center has upped its fundraising efforts by hosting annual galas, walks, baby showers and much more.

Lumpkin, who prefers to stay in the of-fice, sought out Large to bring on board to handle fundraising for the center. They knew one another from church, and Large even served on the pregnancy center’s board for a short time.

“I knew she would be key here,” Lump-kin said. “She’s very much a social bug, and I’m not. We got together and in-stantly hit it off.”

Large said it was an easy decision to make when offered the position. In April 2011 she stepped on as the full-time director of development, and said she’s loved every minute of it.


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“We could not do it without Debi,” said Cheri Watford, president of the center’s board of directors. “She just took it and ran, and keeps us happening. Between her and Lisa, who is the spiritual leader, they stay on top of everything and are able to help young girls.”

The fundraising has been so successful

“Between the two of them, we have good administration and

fundraising. They give the girls that fam-

ily, and the girls love it because they see a

glimmer of hope.”- Cheri Watford


Open Tuesday - SaturdayWalk-Ins Welcomed

2800 SW 3rd Terrace, Suite B - Okeechobee, FL

863.467.2762

that it allows the center to care for each individual differently. There is no set program. All help and services are geared toward the individual’s situation. Each person who walks in has a different story and has different needs. When a young woman walks in, she is greeted by a caring volun-teer and asked several questions so the center can provide her with the best care. Questions range from their intentions, spiritual beliefs, family situation and medical information.

“The more questions we ask, the more we know about them and where they are coming from,” Large said.

After filling out the necessary paper-work, the clients meet with Director of Client Services Robyn Garner and then visit with Nurse Manager Diane Davis.

“The clients love them both,” Large said. “Robyn and Diane are a perfect fit for working with the clients, and allow Lisa and I to do our jobs more efficiently.”

The staff and volunteers are trained at the center for whatever services they are rendering. Certifications and con-stant training are always ongoing fea-tures at the center for both staff and volunteers. The center even has its own board-certified medical director, Dr. Trinidad Garcia.

Many members on staff have been through very similar situations even including unplanned pregnancies so they are able to relate to the women and let them know they are there for them and not there to judge.

“We show the love of Christ,” Large said. “It’s not just about saying it; we show it. We try to help the client go above and beyond.”

The pregnancy center helps clients


6030 Seacoast_OKC Mag_outlines.indd 1 11/15/12 4:39 PM


Denistry from Infancy to Adolescence

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finish school, earn their GEDs, find housing, jobs, whatever they may need for success.

During parenting classes clients earn points for completing stages and tests and are able to use those points as cash in what the center calls their “Baby Boutique.” The Baby Boutique is full of all the necessary essentials for having a baby from clothes, diapers, toys and blankets.

“The Pregnancy Center has helped me to find out who I really was,” said Lo-rena, a former client. “They also helped me with all kinds of stuff like getting points to buy pampers, clothes and many different things for my baby.”

In the past year, the center served 766 clients, including individuals who came in for pregnancy tests, sonograms and ongoing education. It also helped save 144 babies.

However, Lumpkin doesn’t believe the numbers have to be great to equal suc-cess. “If we are able to help one person and save one life, then our work was worth it,” she said.

“It’s nothing to do with us,” Large said. “We just join in what God is doing, and getting to see and be a part of that is a


thrill and a privilege.”

Lumpkin, Large and the Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee are not slowing down. The center is continuing to grow and expand, and will be relocating again next spring. After working in a crowded 2,200-square-foot building, staff will have more than 5,000 square feet of room in the new building.

“As things change in society, we have to, too,” Lumpkin said. “We will be able to offer more programs and help more girls.”

Lumpkin and Large both said they could not do what they do if it wasn’t for the wonderful staff and volunteers they have. But the staff, volunteers, board of directors and even the clients themselves view Lumpkin and Large as critical to the center’s operation.

“Between the two of them, we have good administration and fundraising,” Watford said. “They give the girls that family, and the girls love it because they see a glimmer of hope.”

The Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee is located at 500 NW Sixth Street in Okeechobee. For more information, call (863) 467-8748 or visit www.okee-pregcenter.com.

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Okeechobee Blood Roundup


The seventh annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup was held Nov. 17 and 18 in the banquet hall at Hammerheads Billiards Bar & Grill. Event Chair Raye Deusinger and the volunteers for Florida’s Blood Centers worked for months coordinating the event. The community donated gifts and prizes valued in excess of $12,000. There were 526 people signed up, and 471 pints of life-saving blood were donated. For more information, or to volunteer for next year’s event, contact Raye Deusinger at (863) 610-2176 or visit www.fbcdonor.org.

Okeechobee Blood Roundup Committee: Russell Colwell, Joan Shults, Gina Thacker, Ben Adams, Nancy Murphy, Maureen Bradley, Raye Deusinger, Joan Roden, Marie Kirchhoff, Richard Haynes, Terry Haynes and JoAnn Kane.

1.2.3.4.

5.

6.

Shantae Woodward prescreens Susan Douden.Morna Haye screens Nick Kusber.Sherna Anderson and Jeff England share a laugh.Donor services specialist Becca Zivny checks onStacy Hickox.Florida’s Blood Center’s Russ Colwell is a familiarface around town.Raye Deusinger helps applicant Danny Rumbaugh.

1

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By Reneé MimsCommunity Event

The Okeechobee Future Farmers of America Alumni Association held its seventh annual Clay Shoot Oct. 20 at Quail Creek Plantation. Money raised by the Okeechobee FFA Alumni Association is used to support local FFA members. Scholarships to leadership conventions, district competitions, state competitions and college are funded utiliz-ing the money raised by the annual clay shoot. For more information about the Okeechobee FFA Alumni Association, call (863) 467-8696 or e-mail [email protected].

Okeechobee FFA AlumniAssociation Clay Shoot

The HeritageAssisted Living Facility

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County Commissioner Frank Irby competes at a clay shoot station.

Team Yuengling won first place: Aaron Moore, David Blenker and Larry Moore.

Dr. Randall Mims presents a prize to Ryan Frazer.

Dr. Randall Mims and Ray Anuez pres-ents youth first place to Seth Patterson.

Dr. Randall Mims and Ray Anuez pres-ents men’s first place to Frank Irby.

Dr. Randall Mims and Ray Anuez presents female first place to Lyn Cacella.


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“My dad was a country preacher, so we grew up around the whole ranchers and farmers community.”

By Chris Felker O Photos By Sandra Pearce

“Freedom Ranch.” The very name evokes wide open spaces — range land, productive land, the kind that could sustain an extended family and nurture an appreciation of the great outdoors among them and anyone who might visit.

It sounds like the kind of place where an American original might dwell as well. And in fact, a former Vietnam combat medic-turned-preacher/teacher/cowboy named John Glenn has established just such a place under that name in Okeechobee. His spread hosts a working cattle ranch with a vintage “Cracker cowboy” camp, a faith-based recovery-counseling training and retreat center and a gathering spot both for people seeking spiritual freedom and for trainers of counselors who seek to set people free from substance abuse.

Glenn and his wife, Sandi, teamed up with his ministry partner, George Sweatt, and his wife, Dorothy, in 2001 to purchase 138 brambly, rambling acres of “old Florida” along U.S. Highway 441 south of town, with Spanish moss-draped, great spreading live oaks mixed in with dense undergrowth of palmetto and pine scrub.

Together they started a ministry they would come to call the “Church in the Woods,” building a strong following of folks who wanted to join in on the idea of connecting with their higher power in a beautiful outdoor setting, in their own nondenomina-tional way, while promoting a community of fellowship and understanding. In 2002, they cleared a spot for their gatherings and began constructing a covered pavilion under a leafy canopy of trees.

But preserving the land and honoring the history of the Okeechobee area was also important to the Glenns and the Sweatts. After moving to Florida in the late 1980s from Colorado, Glenn had worked for cow/calf ranches in the area on weekdays, teaching at night (he has bachelor’s in psychology and master’s of Bible study de-grees), preaching on weekends.

Freedom Ranch’s Vietnam-Era CombatMedic-Turned-Preacher/Teacher/Cowboy

“My dad was a country preacher, so we grew up around the whole ranchers and farmers community.”



“So I got to know some of the ranch-ers around, and of course you get the old-timers’ stories about what it was like, and it really fascinated me to hear the history of this area,” Glenn said. “Okeechobee really has a rich history of outlaws and such down here in the old times. So when we got this place, we decided to keep the back part of it — the back hundred acres or so — all natural and try to keep that from being developed so we’d have some natural landscape of Florida.”

Eventually, in 2009, Glenn said, “we built a little ‘Cracker cowboy’ camp back there, an 1860s version of what it would have been like when they came here to gather the wild cattle and sell them to Cuba and various places, dur-ing the origins of the cattle industry here.”

“I did a lot of study about the back-ground and history of it, and met with Judge Nelson Bailey, who’s a local leg-end and quite a historian.”

The partners assembled artifacts from the era and built an authentic-looking lean-to like those used by early settlers who were moving in and turning Flor-ida into America’s oldest cattle-raising state, a chief cattle supplier to the Con-federacy for meat and leather.

Those old-time Florida cowboys became known as “Crackers” because of the sound made by the long, braided leather whips they used to herd cattle.

The Glenns and Sweatts began market-ing the “Okeechobee Cracker Cowboy Experience,” as a slick brochure termed it, featuring regularly scheduled hay-wagon tours of their ranch with com-mentary on the historical color of the area, a live cowboy demonstration and a taste of “Grandma’s” cooking, complete with sour orange pie.

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mother, Virginia, known by “Grandma” to all, who’s 83, lives at the ranch and still prepares lunch daily for visitors.

“We wanted to develop some agri-tours, where people could come out and take a tour of the cracker cow camp and get a little bit of history,” John explained. “We do it only by appointment now, but we’ve had home school groups come out, and various other groups who were interested in the history. A lot of seniors, too — we had a travel agency down in Miami that booked tours, and they brought busloads up here. We built a little tram ride for the tourists so we could give them a bit of history, then do an arena show for them and serve them lunch.

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(Above) The Freedom Ranch family: John, Angela, John, Sandi, “Grandma” Virginia,Leo and Elton.


Glenn said the idea grew out of his love for ranching and the cowboy lifestyle. “I grew up with it years ago in Colorado,” he said. “My dad was a country preach-er, so we grew up around the whole ranchers and farmers community.”

Given the rich history of the area, Glenn wants to ensure that it is preserved. “We had about 25 mama cows here, and we still have a herd, but my cows were get-ting so old, and my daughter and her husband live here now, so I turned the cattle operation over to them,” Glenn said.

That would be Angela and Elton Boney. “I sold all the old cows and gave him the best ones,” Glenn said. “We don’t have enough land here to do it as a living, but it’s a small cow/calf operation.”

“He’s a fifth-generation Cracker cow-boy, Elton is,” Sandi interjected. “He’s funny.”

He actually is the Cracker ranch hand in their calf-roping and cowboying shows, and strives to put on a good show in the ranch’s small arena corral. The Glenns had adopted Angela from Seoul, South Korea, in 1983, and she moved to the ranch with Elton.

“They’ve been married nine years now and have two sons, Leo and John Law-ton, who just turned a year old,” Glenn said. “His folks had come down and set-tled over by the bombing range by Avon Park. Elton’s dad continues to work cows even to this day. His name’s Lloyd Leo, known as ‘Boosty.’ So our grand-son Leo, who’s 4, is named after him.”

Tucked behind a huge and beautiful, sprawling live oak about a mile from the highway, the Glenns’ rambling ranch house is a haven with a huge central liv-ing area just made for little grandchil-dren who like to do lots of running and rolling around. Glenn dotes on them as most grandfathers do.

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WEMMER“Leo’s main deal is driving heavy equip-ment; he’s a tractor/backhoe man,” he said, gesturing toward the big “fun table” in the middle of the room with miniature vehicles and other toys scat-tered on top.

Glenn had also harnessed his education, experience and training beginning in 2004 to plan and create a program at Freedom Ranch, teaching counselors in faith-based ways to help drug addicts and alcoholics seek release from their demons.

In 2007, they built a large, rustic all-purpose building on the property to provide space for offices and classrooms, a kitchen and bathrooms. Armed with his background as a combat medic and training in psychology and Bible stud-ies, Glenn had already begun working as a training coordinator with Faith Farm Ministries and Dunklin Memorial Camp in the 1990s, and in 1994 started a company known as Alpha Ministries. For a while, it provided state-certified training under the Bush-era subsidy programs. Several books Glenn has writ-ten are available through its web site.

“My goal in the ministry at that point was to train guys, often veterans, com-ing out of addiction,” Glenn said. “I re-alized, I guess from my own experience, my own life, the only way these guys could survive was to give back, to do something constructive with their life.”

Glenn also intends sometime soon to use his spread as a retreat for those who counsel people suffering from post-trau-matic stress disorder who often are deal-ing with the effects of PTSD themselves — as he is, too.

That and the effects of Agent Orange exposure during the war are the reasons Glenn had to adopt a child and why he needed open-heart surgery earlier in 2012. He’s now finally undergoing counseling through the Veterans Affairs


medical center in Riviera Beach after many long years of denial.

“The way that I’ve been able to cope with PTSD naturally — well, actually supernaturally — was the fact that I ad-opted the same motto that we had for ‘Dustoff’ [his Huey helicopter mede-vac duty in Vietnam], for my ministry, which is ‘So that others may live.’ I just transferred it over — and it’s something I’ve just learned about lately — from physically going out and picking up wounded soldiers and bringing them to the hospital to trying to work with people whose lives are broken through counseling, trying to put their marriages back together, and their lives person-ally.”

That’s what John Glenn’s life is about now — helping to heal others even while he heals himself.

Freedom Ranch is located at 11655 U.S. Highway 441 Southeast, Okeechobee, Fla. 34974. For more information, e-mail Glenn at [email protected], or call the ranch at (863) 763-9800.

Growing together with Jesus

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

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“Save the Date” - February 16, 2013Jeans, Jewels and Jazz - An evening in New Orleans

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Photos by Sandra PearceCommunity Event

The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County held its quarterly investor lun-cheon Nov. 14 at the Williamson Conference Center at Indian River State College. The newest program of the chamber, Leadership Okeechobee, was presented. This eight-month program will prepare potential leaders of the community. For more information on Leadership Okeechobee or to become a member of the chamber, call (863) 467-6246 or visit www.okeechobeebusiness.com.

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(Above) Terry Burroughs (left) presents outgoing President J.D. Mixon with an award of appreciation for his service and dedica-tion.

(Right) Business Spotlight speaker Butch Terpening of Culpepper & Terpening, consulting engineers.

Chamber of Commerce Kicks OffLeadership Okeechobee Program

Board Member and Leadership Okeechobee Committee Chair Maureen Budjinski presents the chamber’s newest program, Leadership Okeechobee.


700 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL

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By Chauna AguilarCommunity Event

Volunteers for Big Brothers Big Sisters held the inau-gural Bowl for Kids’ Sake Saturday, Oct. 21 at Lucky Lanes in Okeechobee. Proceeds from this event will help support the BBBS programs for the children of Okeechobee County. For more information, call (863) 824-2227 or visit www.bbbs.org.

The 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

Bowl for Kids’ Sake to BenefitBig Brothers Big Sisters

The Gilbert Chevrolet team: Tina Lalla, Frank Lalla, Mary Hunter and Jake Hummel.

Sharon Vinson, Rachel Heddings, Judi Miller, Gay Carlton and Cristina Paniqgua.

The FPL team: Nancy Flickinger, Dee and Nick Blount, Jerry Sotelo, Vickie and Steve Pryor.

BBBS of Okeechobee County board member Sharon Vinson.

(Right) The Cook family has some family fun:(front) Aubrey and Amber; (back) Robert and Katrina.


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Tim Craig, Agency Manager and Celeste Hawk, AgentOkeechobee County

Brandie AxtCustomer Service Representative

Charlene DeweyFederation Clerk

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By Capt. Michael Shellen

As we approach another winter season in Okeechobee, the future looks bright. Through

the hard work of many people striving to build the reputation of our town, the reputation of Okeechobee as having the best bass fishing in the United States is circulating, drawing in visitors from all over the United States and worldwide.

Everyone has worked hard to attract major hotels and restaurants to mix in with our down-home South Flor-ida flavor. When you add this appeal-ing mixture together, it’s easy to see why more and more people are coming to Okeechobee earlier and more often each year.

I find myself wondering just how good the fishing is going to get on Lake Okeechobee before it levels off some-what. For several years now we have had nearly ideal conditions, clear water and prolific growth of the native vegeta-tion have triggered something very spe-cial that is happening in the lake. The spawns have been terrific, leading to an explosion in the fish growth in Lake Okeechobee, the likes of which have not been seen for many years, if ever. The lake level is nearly ideal, and every species of fish is biting.

There are many beautiful lakes in this world, and I am prejudiced, but the sheer size and beauty of our giant lake and its diverse ecosystems are a thing to behold. After thousands of fish-ing trips on the lake, I still find myself marveling at the sheer majesty of Lake Okeechobee.

The bass fishing gets most of the acclaim, but our speckled perch, shell cracker and blue gill fishing is second to none, too. During the winter, anglers

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take huge numbers of specks from the lake using jigs and or minnows for bait. The Kissimmee River gets most of the attention, but the lakeside vegetation holds more fish than the river ever has. Later on in the season, as we approach spring, the fishing for shell cracker and blue gill draws to the lake a crowd that is driven by the desire to catch and eat the tastiest pan fish that swim.

Whether you want to fish or just take in the sights, our great community has something for everyone. The best fishing guides on the lake make Okeechobee their home and will gladly share their boat with you for the fishing experience of a lifetime. Okeechobee is located on the very north end of the massive lake and is easily reached from anywhere in the state. Located just 35 miles from the east coast and 60 miles from the west coast, it is easily approachable from all directions. Come visit us, and then when you return home, tell your family and friends that you found the perfect spot to visit in Florida. Warm, friendly people, great fishing, down-home cook-ing and sunshine — it’s a combination that can’t be beat!

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World WideDelivery

300 N. Parrott Ave.Okeechobee, FL 34972

863-763-9232Colleen Thomas

Send flowers for any occasion.

We offer a large variety offresh flowers, plants and gifts.

Committed ToQuality & Service

Experienced Designers

Competitive Prices

We Buy Scrap Gold

Guy Harvey & Hersey Kiss JewelryDiamonds - 14K Gold Jewelry

SERVICING

All MAKES

www.skullhillsteel.com

We are an Amsoil, Tucker Rocky and V-Twin Dealer

Our shop can handle all your Motorcycle needs with our

Tire Purchase & MountsFull ServiceRepairs - Minor to MajorCustomizing of Aftermarket PartsCustomizing of Custom Built PartsPaint and Body WorkChrome and Powder Coat

Come By & Check Us Out!

Just 1 mile South of the Hwy 70 & Hwy 441Intersection on the East side of Hwy 441.

We also have a showroom full of parts, accessories,bike wear and other stu�

MMI Certi�ed Harley Davidson TechnicianMMI Certi�ed Harley Davidson Technician

1505 C S. Parrott Avenue 1505 C S. Parrott Avenue

Services Provided:

Brandon BaughmanCerti�ed Technician, MMI Graduate


OPritchard is expected to lead the team to another successful year this year and take young players under his wing, such as the talented Wilson Barahona and Brian Guerrero, the next wave of OHS stars.

“We have a lot of good, young players coming in,” Pritchard said. “I think we have a chance to get a third district title this year.”

Pritchard has played club soccer for Trea-sure Coast United in Palm City, South Florida Elite in Fort Lauderdale and also for Team Boca. His parents, Michelle and Brendan Pritchard, are teachers.

Pritchard also has had the thrill of trav-eling around the nation to play soccer. He has played in tournaments in Geor-gia, South Carolina and North Carolina. Pritchard also traveled to South America and played in matches in San Jose, Costa Rica and in Argentina.

Hunter Pritchard has quite the résumé when it comes to soccer. He has led Okeechobee

High School to two consecutive district titles and recently agreed to attend Flor-ida Atlantic University on a scholarship.

Pritchard started playing soccer at a young age, liked it, got into club ball and committed himself to the game. But while soccer is important to him, Pritchard has never lost sight of the big picture and the importance of getting a college education.

“Academics are a big deal, and it sets the foundation,” Pritchard said. “I want to go to college and do well and start

my life. A soccer scholarship is just one way to get to the next level, and it has improved me as a person.”

Pritchard intends to seek a career in accounting.

While he is a top scoring threat, Pritchard sets himself apart with excellent ball con-trol and passing, as well as his unself-ish attitude. He is one of those players who make those around him strive to be better.

Pritchard also praised the OHS coaching staff, led by Lonnie Sears, who have been able to attract good players to the team and have coached them well.

O

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

Hunter PritcHard OHS SOccer Star

BATTERY TIRE

Home of Honest, Reliable Service

Tires & BatteriesFor

“Everything”

198 Hwy 98 NorthOkeechobee, FL

Proud Supporter of Our Community!1991- 2012

8 Other Locations to Serve You.

Tires for Loaders - Tractors - Trucks - Cars -TrailersLawnmowers - ATV - Hand Trucks

Phone863-357-2431

Toll Free800-432-1064

Batteries for Autos - Trucks - Motorcycles - Boats Golf Carts - RV’s - Crane Loaders and More!

Our Staff is Trained to Help You Find WhatYou Need & Keep Your Vehicle in Great Shape!

OF OKEECHOBEE

24 HOUR ROAD SIDESERVICE AVAILABLE

Call C.J. at 772-201-1594

www.slbt.comwww.slbt.com

Hunter Pritchard on the field.


OHS SOccer Star

A Local Legend

863-467-1570 Fax 888-875-1570

10 years ago Billy Dean came to WOKC Radio and mornings have never been the same in Okeechobee. He keeps thousands of listeners entertained and informed each weekday from 7 - 11 am.

Billy not only represents WOKC and our 50 years of commitment to hometown radio, he has donated his time and energy to promote community events, help raise money for non-pro�t organizations and help people in need.

Behind his unforgettable laugh is a guy with a big heart and a love for this community.

Lawn & LandscapeLawn & Landscape

863-763-5069

A Complete Property Maintenance

Professional Lawn &Landscape Maintenance

Complete Turn-Key Landscape CompanyIrrigation Installation & Repair

Large Pasture Mowing

Professional Lawn &Landscape Maintenance

Complete Turn-Key Landscape CompanyIrrigation Installation & Repair

Large Pasture Mowing

863-763-5069

We Are Dedicated to Serving Our Community

Licensed - Insured - Worker's Comp.Family Owned & Operated

Tom McCoin, OwnerTom McCoin, OwnerFamily Owned & Operated

Home-Grown Since 1974Tom McCoin with son, Tim

Hunter Pritchard on the field.

AROUND Okeechobee

Okeechobee Main Street Mixers

Hunter BryantPlaces in

AQHA World Show

Businesses from top to bottom: Jersey Mike’s Subs, Kandie’s One the Lake, Papa John’s Pizza, Florida Outdoors and Flower Petals.

Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County and Okeechobee Main Street

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremonies

The Economic Council of Okeechobee’s quarterly Commu-nity Award Recognizing Enhancement (CARE) was presented to Hospice of Okeechobee and the Hamrick Home. Pictured above are Hoot Worley, Bob Riedel, Sandy Perry, Brigitte Irby, Frank Irby and Tara Rowley.

ECO CARE AWARD GOES TOHOSPICE OF OKEECHOBEE

Sierra dominated the compe-tition by winning the State Speech Award, Horsemanship and Most Photogenic.

Sierra i s the 15-year-o ld daughter of Michelle Harper of Okeechobee and Robert Coward of Bartow, Fla.

Okeechobee’sSierra Coward

wins State RodeoQueen Title

In November Hunter Bryant, 13, placed 8th out of 66 in Ranch Pleasure during the AQHA World Show in Oklahoma.

Pictured right: Hunter Bryant with11-year-old bay mare Chex With Me.



Okeechobee Main Street Mixers

The following Okeechobee Main Street members held mixers at their businesses: (top) UBS Financial with CASTLE, (middle) Buxton Funeral Home and (bot-tom) Okeechobee Golf & Country Club.

2012 OkeechobeeCounty Junior

Golf Champions

Okeechobee High School senior Brendon Jonassaint (center) with Pro Football Hall of Famer Bob Griese (left) and U.S. Army Sergeant Major Hershel Turner.

Sandra Pearce McAu-ley was recently name president of Florida Professional Photog-raphers for the 2012-13 year.

Jonassaint Honored As Finalist ForU.S. Army/Pro Football Hall of Fame

Award for Excellence

Congratulationsto Sandra

Pearce McAuley

Okeechobee’sSierra Coward

wins State RodeoQueen Title

On Sept. 29 Waldau’s Junior Golf Inc. and the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club held their sixth annual Okeechobee County Junior Golf Tourna-ment. Junior golfers ages 10 to 18 participated in the 18-hole tournament. Pictured right are the top three 2012 junior golf champions in the boys, girls and young junior divisions.

Kodi StephenBoys Division

Cameron WhiteGirls Division

Daniel FulledaYoung Junior Division


Nikki is always looking for attention. Please pay attention to our wonder-ful advertisers that make this maga-zine possible.

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Cowboys Steak & BBQ Co. ............... 19, 69Culpepper & Terpening ........................ 74Custom Window Treatments & Blinds .... 34

Dental Surgery Specialists ..................... 26Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center ............. 75DR Willson Land Co. ............................... 47

Echols Plumbing ................................... 68Edward Jones Investments ................... 72Everglades Pediatric Dentistry ................ 58

Farm Bureau ....................................... 76Florida Eye Institute ............................ 29Flower Petals .......................................... 63

Gilbert Chevrolet .................................... 51Golden Corral ..................................... 73

Hampton Inn ....................................... 79Heartland Discount Pharmacy.............. 54Highland Pest Control ........................... 86

ICS Computers ..................................... 69

Jeanette’s Interiors ............................... 58Jersey Mikes ........................................ 33

Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 36Lakeshore Marine ................................. 78Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre ................ 61Law Office of Glenn J. Sneider ............... 72Law Office of Philip DeBerard ............... 87Linda’s Styles & Trends ........................... 34Lodge at the Lake Restaurant .................17

Los Cocos Restaurant .............................59

Mama Flegos ......................................... 26Mary Kay ............................................... 58MidFlorida Credit Union ......................... 80Mixon Real Estate Group ......................... 78Morgan Furniture .................................. 66Murray Insurance .................................. 56

New Vision Eye Center ........................ 73

Okeechobee Claws & Paws ...................... 24Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep ........ 5Okeechobee Health Care ......................... 4Okeechobee Health & Safety.................. 47Okeechobee Main Street ....................... 6Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps .... 43Okeechobee Shooting Sport ................ 19

Pat’s Floral Design ................................. 81Peace Lutheran Gala ............................. 19Peace Lutheran School .......................... 71Platinum Performance Builders ............ 7Pritchards & Associates .......................... 75Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurant .................... 63

Quail Creek Plantation ....................... 11Quality Air Conditioning ....................... 35Quality Lawn Care ................................ 63

Raulerson’s Absolutely Art .................. 28Raulerson Hospital ................................. 2Raulerson Hospital ............................ 44, 45Raulerson Hospital ................ Back CoverRazer’s Edge ........................................... 56

14K Gold Store ...................................... 815th Street Pharmacy .............................. 76A & G Concrete Pools ........................... 71Alarm Company ..................................... 59

Badcock Furniture................................... 50Bass Electric ........................................... 79Bass and Buxton Funeral Homes .......... 61Bella Rose Day Spa .............................. 37Berger Clinic .......................................... 69Big Lake Eye Care ............................... 3, 48Bridgette Waldau Graphic Design ........ 24Brown Cow Sweetery... .......................... 61Buyer Brokerage Co. of Okeechobee..... 59

Center for Laser Hair Removal ............... 66CenterState Bank ................................... 39Charlie’s Landscaping ............................ 83Colonial Life ........................................... 59Coronation Sierra Coward ...................... 28

List of AdvertisersRosato Plastic Surgery Center ................ 55Rustic Style & Cabins ........................... 37

Sanders Dermatology .......................... 27Sandra Pearce Photography ................. 58Seacoast National Bank ........................ 57Skull Hill Steel ....................................... 81Shooters Choice ..................................... 61SonRise Cafe .......................................... 68St. Lucie Tires ....................................... 82Stafford’s Salon .................................... 68State Farm Insurance ............................ 68Syble’s Flowers & Gifts ......................... 35

TD Bank ............................................... 70Teez 2 Pleez .......................................... 63The Heritage ......................................... 62Toni’s Chic Boutique .............................. 47Top of the Lake Art Fest ....................... 9Total Roadside Services .......................... 21Treasure Coast Food Bank.................... 67Tree Locators ......................................... 33Trinidad Garcia, M.D. ............................. 25

UBS Financial ......................................... 37

Waste Management ............................. 16Wemmer Family Orthodontics .......... 70Williamson Cattle Company .................. 41WOKC 1570 AM ..................................... 83Women’s Health ................................... 15Worley Construction .............................. 35

Xplosion All Stars ................................. 81

Younified Event .................................... 77

Pre-Treat •Termite Inspection • Full Termite & Pest Control Services • Rodents • Lawns

Highland Pest Control is Family Owned and OperatedWe Can Provide You with Quality Service for All of Your Pest Control Needs.

We get Bugs out! No Pest Problem is Too Big.

Call for a Free Estimate 863-467-6707

Keith Hickman & Bobby Hickman


1-800-I AM HURT863-467-7100

Serving All Of South Florida

Call24/7

Tractor Trailer, Car & Motorcycle CrashesSlip & Fall Accidents & Wrongful Death

Se Habla EspañolFree Consultation

Member of follow us on

INJURY ATTORNEY

®

www.PhilWillHelp.com


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

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

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.

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. General Surgeons at Raulerson Hospital include Dr. Manuel Garcia and Dr. Gregory Sainnoval. These physicians, along with the RNs in the Surgical Services Department, are professionals and their precision and experience are a comfort to patients requiring a surgical procedure. Raulerson Hospital offers a wide variety of Inpatient and Outpatient General Surgery procedures, including:

General SurgeonDr. Manuel Garcia

General SurgeonDr. Gregory Sainnoval

• Laparoscopic Gall Bladder Removal• Laparoscopic Appendectomy

GENERAL SURGERY

• Servingboththepublic&privatesectors

• GuidingyouthroughthecomplexitiesinvolvedwithWorkers’CompensationServicesincludingStateandFederalworkforceregulations

• MeetingallFederalDepartmentofTransportation(DOT)requirementsforannualphysicals,andDrug&Alcoholtesting

• Strivingforthedesiredoutcomesthatallowforatimelyreturntowork

Whether you have 5 employees or 500, we can design a program to meet your company’s needs. For more about Company Care contact us at 863-763-2670

RaulersonHospital.com

• Lumpectomy / Mastectomy • Hernia Repair

• Colon Resection• Many other minimally

invasive surgeries

OK Mag Back Cover AdREV Nov 15.indd 1 11/16/12 8:38 AM

Documents

Okeechobee The Magazine Winter 2012