ISY&LR Open House Fun Day

By Judy Weeks

IMMOKALEE — The Immokalee Seminole Youth and Livestock Ranch (ISY&LR) opened its doors to the public on Sept. 3 for an Open House Fun Day. The all day event began at 8 a.m. with a warm up session.

Youth Ranch Director Benny Motlow and his crew were kept busy monitoring various ball games and races throughout the day. Prizes included gift cards to Walmart, Footlocker, and Wendy’s, as well as ribbons and cash. In addition, each participant received a food certificate to McDonalds.

A small free carnival included a roller coaster, giant slide, bounce house, swings, a water slide and tilt-a-whirl. Game booths awarded prizes of stuffed animals and children could be seen wandering everywhere with face paint which had been skillfully applied by the clown.

Long lines waited at the dunk tank for their opportunity to throw the ball. Then each of the winners found themselves on the board awaiting a lucky shot that would make them the next person to drop into the water. Snow cones and cotton candy were consumed in abundance.

Adults flocked with their youngsters to the artist who provided them with keepsake likenesses of their children. The very talented clown quickly transformed a blank sheet of paper into a beautiful portrait for the happy parents.

Two hayride wagons drawn by draft horses and mules transported the party goers around the youth ranch property throughout the day. Ranch employees walked for miles as they led children around on horseback.

A steady stream of people visited the concession area where Elaine Aguilar demonstrated the making of the very popular Indian fry bread while Jennie Martinez kept a watchful eye on the cooking kettle. The crowd snacked on warm fry bread dripping with honey all day long.

Adam and April Sanchez set up the grill and served barbecue chicken, hamburgers and hot dogs with many side dishes throughout the afternoon. Although soda was available, water and sport drinks were consumed by the case.

A goat roping demonstration by Cody and Chad Motlow drew quite a large group of spectators. The youngsters were then divided into age groups and were given an opportunity to participate in the goat scramble for prizes.

By far the favorite attraction for both young and old was Nocona, the long horn steer. Weighing in at more than a ton, this gentle giant carried children and adults around in his saddle and provided a marvelous picture opportunity.

Nocona’s owner, Dennis Deveaugh hails from Davie, Fla., where he operates Livestock for Reel and Little Critter’s Corral. Almost immediately, the children recognized Nocona from the Discovery channel and the many commercials he has done on national television.

Mr. Dennis had a captive audience as he told the children about the magazine ads in which his animals had appeared and the numerous creatures that live at his ranch. They were ecstatic when they learned that the current MacArthur Dairy advertisement with Jason Taylor of the Miami Dolphins was filmed on his property.

In addition, Mr. Dennis has an extensive background in rodeo where he held state and regional championship positions for several years and was an IFR qualifier in Bulldogging or Steer Wrestling numerous times.

Detective Kris Kuhl of the Collier County Sheriff’s Department brought his family to participate and was very complementary of the Seminole Tribe’s generosity. The 22 year veteran of law enforcement is currently attached to SHOCAP, or Serious Habitual Offenders Comprehensive Action Plan.

“Events like this one today, can really make a difference in the community and help to shape the future of Immokalee’s younger generation. Whenever we help a child, we help ourselves. We can’t save them all, but there is nothing to stop us from trying. I am delighted to see the participation here today and know that many will take home happy memories. This Youth Ranch is a wonderful addition to the Immokalee community,” Kuhl said.

The men and women who make up the Youth Ranch staff, under the direction of Benny Motlow, worked very hard for several days to put this production together and make it a success. They are Jamie Yzaguirre, Gabriel Acosta, Greg Betancourt, Carl Presley, Carlos Alvarado, Mike Sanders and Larry Motlow. Seminole Broadcasting’s Angie Arreguin and Cody Bert documented the event.