Okeechobee Friends Honor Local Pediatrician

Press Release November 20, 2007

On November 1, more than 330 people filled the Recreation Center of the First Baptist Church of Okeechobee to honor Dr. Fred Brown. Brown is the beloved pediatrician, who has been caring for Okeechobee children for more than 27 years.

Mayor James Kirk served as master of ceremonies for the Tribute Dinner.  Representatives from the City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee County presented Brown with official documents proclaiming November 1 as Dr. Fred Brown Day.  During the evening, a handful of presenters spoke in admiration of Brown’s knowledge, his caring and compassion.  Speakers included:  Mayor Kirk, Russ Brown, Ed Brown, Dr. Chris Robshaw and John B. Romano.

As a special remembrance, Dr. Brown was presented with a framed drawing of the proposed Center for Children at New Horizons.  The crowd saluted Dr. Brown with a standing ovation when John Romano, CEO of New Horizons announced that a room in the Center will be named in honor of Dr. Brown. 

“We are grateful to the community for supporting our first Tribute Dinner”, said Chairwoman Connie Abney.  “Dr. Brown was very worthy of this honor and after years of caring for our kids, he understands the great need for the Children’s Crisis Center,” she said.   

The event was the first fundraiser sponsored by the Okeechobee Friends of New Horizons and raised more than $16,000.  “All proceeds from the event will go towards building the desperately needed Children’s Crisis Center at New Horizons,” said Abney.   

New Horizons is your community mental health center serving the people of Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee and St. Lucie counties since 1958.  For additional information call 772-468-4076 or go to the website.www.nhtcinc.org.