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Celebrating Community: Highlights from Our Okeechobee Customer Appreciation Dinner

December 17, 2025

Last Wednesday, December 10, our team brought together more than 100 customers and partners for a wonderful evening at Lightsey’s Seafood Restaurant & Fish Co. in Okeechobee. The restaurant’s famous seafood buffet set the tone for a night filled with great food, laughter, and Farm Credit style connection.

The room was full and lively as guests arrived, reflecting our strong connections in the Okeechobee region. Chuck Cruse opened the evening with a warm welcome, followed by brief remarks from John Gregory, who expressed appreciation for our customers’ partnership and the important role they play in the community. After a thoughtful invocation delivered by Bob Lines, who serves on our Board of Directors, everyone gathered around the tables to enjoy dinner and fellowship.

A collage of photos taken at a festive indoor gathering. The main image shows a large group of people seated at tables decorated with floral centerpieces, while others stand near a wall with a chalkboard menu and multiple TV screens displaying colorful graphics. Red ornaments hang from the ceiling, and string lights create a warm, cozy atmosphere. Smaller images include a speaker addressing attendees, a family posing together under the lights, and two individuals in cowboy hats shaking hands at a table. The setting appears lively and social, with rustic décor and holiday-themed accents.Provide your feedback on BizChat

One of the night’s most exciting moments came during the raffle, where several prizes were awarded, including a Blackstone grill that one lucky customer proudly took home. As guests departed, each received a custom-designed t-shirt featuring Lake Okeechobee and local commodities, a keepsake representing the region we serve and celebrate together.

Events like this remind us why our mission matters. They allow us to show genuine gratitude, deepen relationships, and stay closely tied to the communities that make our work meaningful. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped plan and joined us for this special evening.

A collage of photos from a casual social event at a restaurant with outdoor seating. The top-left photo shows three people standing near a table, shaking hands under string lights, with a sign reading “Lightsey's” partially visible in the background. The top-right photo captures a group of attendees seated at a long table decorated with red floral centerpieces and drinks, while someone stands addressing the group. The middle photo features three individuals holding up matching gray shirts with a decorative design. The bottom-left photo shows three people standing together in front of a window with illuminated trees visible outside. The bottom-right photo depicts a family seated at a table with a festive centerpiece, with glowing trees visible through the window behind them. The setting is warm and inviting, with holiday-themed décor and evening lighting.

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