OKEECHOBEE — An Okeechobee teen was excited to receive a letter from President Donald Trump recently.

Anaiah Silvas wrote to the president last year congratulating him on winning the election and asking about the White House, his wife and his plans for his presidency.

In reply, the White House sent her a letter on behalf of the president, explaining the president’s goals for the rest of his term. He promised to “keep America the land of freedom and opportunity, where you can grow, learn, and pursue your dreams.”  He went on to say he wanted every child to have the “American Dream,” but stressed that it should be through hard work on the part of that individual.

Next, he described the White House and said the Red Room, Blue Room and Green Rooms really are painted those colors. He said he spends most of his time working in the Oval Office and travels the world on Air Force One.

This was not Anaiah’s first letter to a public official. She wrote to Mayor Dowling Watford several years ago asking him why there was no star on the city’s Christmas tree. At the time, only 8 years old, Anaiah noticed the lack of a star every time the family drove past the tree. She would ask her dad why there was no star. Finally, he suggested she write the mayor. “So, that’s what I did,” said Anaiah.

Anaiah and her family were doubtful that there would be a response, but were surprised one day to see a star being installed on top of the tree. That year and every year since, Anaiah and her family have attended the tree-lighting ceremony in the park, and a few years ago, Anaiah was invited up on the stage with the mayor and city council, where she was able to help light the tree.

Anaiah’s mother said Anaiah plans to write to Governor Ron Desantis soon and will share the result of that letter if and when it comes.