Okeechobee Florida Welcome Guide 2013

Welcome toOkeechobee

2013Official Guide To Our Community

Compliments of Okeechobee Pennysaver

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2013 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide

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2013 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide Page 3

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OkeechobeeHealth Care Facility

We Love to Care!Okeechobee Health Care Facility Provides the Highest Quality

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(863) 763-2226 • okeechobeehealthcare.com1646 US Highway 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34974

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Welcome To Okeechobee

Okeechobee lies on the northernmost point of the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States, a perfect place for a relaxing

and enjoyable winter vacation or a wonderful place to call home. It has warm, sunny and gentle winter weather, wonderful fishing and a growing cultural environment. Its central location in the state al-lows easy access for exploring other parts of Florida. Okeechobee is just 70 miles from West Palm Beach, 105 miles from Orlando, 115 miles from Tampa and 135 miles from Miami. This location allows day trips to many Florida sites.

Okeechobee is a vibrant growing community, rich in history while offering many community events, at-tractions and points of interest. This guide will help you navigate the “who, what, where and when” of our community. It will give you information on Okeechobee, from its early history to present day. If you are looking for a restaurant or hotel accommoda-tions you will find them here. From arts and enrich-ment to recreation and sports, you will find what you need within the pages of this guide. Read about our community boosters, the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce, Okeechobee Main Street and the Tourist Development Council on pages 17-18 and search for that special event in the annual event calendar on pag-

es 20-21. Whether a serious fisherman or a beginner, you will enjoy reading Capt. Michael Shellen’s article about fishing on Lake Okeechobee.

Important telephone numbers you need to know are in this guide for your convenience. You will find emer-gency numbers on page 35, clubs and organization on page 31 and places of worship on page 37.

We are proud of our community. If you live here, please enjoy this publication and share it with friends and family. The Welcome Guide is published annually by Direct Hit Marketing & Design, LLC, which also publishes the Okeechobee Pennysaver. We hope you will find this guide informative and urge you to keep it on hand as a reference. We welcome all visitors and newcomers to our community and hope your stay is memorable.

We thank the many advertisers who make this free publication possible.

Published by: Direct Hit Marketing and Design, 111 NE 2nd St., Okeechobee, FL 34972, phone (863) 763-7283, fax (863) 763-1674, website www.okeechobeepennysaver.com.

Neither the advertiser nor the publisher are responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc. herein contained. All rights reserved.No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without written permission from the publisher.

Accommodations......................13Advertisers Index..........................41Aid and Emergency......................35Airports......................................10Animal Control..............................14Arts/Enrichment.........................15Attractions...............................22Cable TV........................................10Calendar of Events........................20Chambers of Commerce ................17Churches....................................37City, County, State Officials ..........28City, County, State Offices ...........32Civic Clubs/Organizations..............31Climate..........................................8Economic Council of Okeechobee ...17Emergency Management...............27Emergency Shelters.......................27Fishing on Lake Okeechobee.........19

Florida Facts....................................9Highways....................................10History..........................................6Hospice Care ................................16Media ............................................12Okeechobee County Library..........15Okeechobee Historical Society.....16Okeechobee Main Street...............18Points of Interest..........................23Schools Private.......................................31 Public........................................ 30Railroads....................................10Raulerson Hospital.........................40Sports Complex.............................16Restaurants................................38Tourist Development Council........18Utilities........................................10Waste Collection ...........................10

PublisherMaureen Budjinski

Editor/WriterRaye Deusinger

Art DirectorVictor Howard

Office ManagerPatti Berglund

BookkeeperRose Brennan

Account Executives

Trish Grygo Gail Lockwood

DistributionLarry Sterling, Manager

Jessica Smith

2013 Welcome Guide

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History of Okeechobee

Okee Chobee, Miccosukee for “big water,” has a long history involving differing peo-ples, ideas and economics.

The lake has gone by different names throughout the years. The original name was Laguna del Es-peritu Santo (“Lake of the Holy Spirit”). It has also gone by the names Mayaimi (an early Indian tribe), Lake Mayacco, Lake Mayoco and finally Lake Okeechobee.

Until the late 1830s, the lake was considered a myth or a legend due to the wild untamed landscape to its north, which kept exploration at bay. During the Seminole wars, the Indians had only one avenue of escape — to the south. A group of Seminoles were pursued by the U.S. Army to the shoreline of Lake Okeechobee in an event that would later be referred to as “Col. Zachary Taylor’s Christmas Party.” On Dec. 25, 1837, the Battle of Okeechobee was fought, pitting the Seminole Indians, led by Chief Osceola, against Col. Zachary Taylor and the U.S. Army. A memorial commemorating the battle can be found on U.S. Hwy 441 SE just a few miles south of the city.

Following the victory of the Indians, the dense, marshy region on the lake’s northern coasts re-mained unexplored until the 1880s, when Ham-ilton Driston brought dredges and began work on the Kissimmee River in an attempt to open the land for development. At that time, only wild game, birds and Native Americans occupied the region.

The land was populated with water oak, cypress, rubber and palmetto trees. Driston began work on a route he planned from the City of Kissim-mee south to Lake Okeechobee.

Soon after the dredging began, people began to take notice of the land along the top of the lake. In October 1896, Peter and Louisiana (Chan-dler) Raulerson made their way toward Taylor Creek, a few miles north of the lake. During the 1890s, Raulerson stretched 30 miles of fence from Taylor Creek to the Kissimmee River, en-closing the river’s bend.

Shortly after the Raulersons came, other set-tlers began to find their way to the area. W.A. “Buster” Ferrell built a home just west of Tay-lor Creek, and Samuel L. Gray paddled his way down the Kissimmee River to Lake Okeechobee in 1899.

A year earlier, the Raulersons, wanting their chil-dren to receive an education, built the first school house at the river’s bend. Needing six children to start a school, the Yates children were “bor-rowed” from Fort Drum to the north. The first teacher was Dr. George M. Hubbard, a Con-necticut Yankee the children nicknamed “Mother Hubbard.” The government sent Henry Hud-son Hancock and his brother James to survey the lake. He became the second school teacher at the Bend. The third teacher of the school was Tan-

Past to Present

Southland Hotel was located on the corner of Parrott Avenue and Park Street. circa 1948


tie Huckabee, a well-educated lady from South Carolina after whom the school took its name. Her name was also given to the first post office, and the town began to be known as Tantie.

More and more settlers began making their homes in Tantie due to a thriving economy. Numerous industries such as hunting, citrus and farming were already growing, but none as much as the catfish industry. In 1906, the steamer Success carried 6,000 pounds of fish from the lake on its first haul. In 1912, Robert Upthegrove settled Upthegrove Beach, which became a large fishing site, on what is now Hwy 441 SE.

In 1911 the St. Lucie County Tribune announced that work would soon start on a branch line of the Florida East Coast Railway to run from May-town (north of Titusville on the east coast) to the north of Lake Okeechobee. Because of the new developments in and around the town, on Oct. 4, 1911 the name Tantie was deemed inappropri-ate and was changed to Okeechobee. Later that year, P.L. Jenkins enlisted a civil engineer to lay out and survey the new city.

Many of the street names would come from the area’s Indian heritage: Okeechobee, Seminole, Osceola, Hicpochee, Miami, Kissimmee, Parrott, Tallahassee, Cherokee, Hiwasee, Micanopee, Meridith and Oklosnokee. Those names would remain until the 1970s, when streets and avenues were given new names or numbers.

Continuing the now-entrenched tradition of change, South Florida Railroad Company owner Henry Morrison Flagler initiated a re-design of the city to include wide streets, a central park and many wooden buildings, some of which still exist. He envisioned it becoming the “Chicago of the South.”

Created from portions of Osceola, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties, the boundaries of Okeechobee County and the incorporation of the city were formalized on June 4, 1915. It became officially recognized as a county on May 8, 1917. In 1919 the name of the city was changed from

Okeechobee City to the City of Okeechobee. Florida Gov. Park Trammell (1913 to 1917) ap-pointed municipal officers that included May-or Peter Raulerson, Clerk of Accessory Henry Chandler, and councilmen L.M. Raulerson, W.L. Coats, Dr. C.R. Darrow, S.J. Drawdy and C.L. Hatch. The first city council meeting was held on July 13, 1915. The first police chief (city mar-shal) was Benjamin F. Hall. He was succeeded by J.W. Raulerson and William E. “Pogey Bill” Collins.

Today Okeechobee is truly a crossroads linking the east and west coasts of Florida. The county comprises 771 square miles with a population of approximately 40,000 — 5,500 of whom live in the City of Okeechobee. It is known for its dairy and beef cattle, and fishing and tourism in-dustries. The industrial park located next to the county airport is a growing area that provides ex-cellent advantages to manufacturers.

The lake itself is a nationally known tourist at-traction. It covers roughly 730 square miles with an average diameter of 45 miles and an average depth of 14 feet; the deepest point being 22 feet. The lake is bisected by the Okeechobee Water-way, which runs from Fort Myers on the West Coast of Florida, up the Caloosahatchee River, through the lake and eastward through the St. Lucie Canal to Stuart on Florida’s East Coast.

The lake is surrounded by the Hoover Dike, be-gun in 1929 after the devastating hurricanes of 1926 and 1928. The dike protects areas around

The Bank of Okeechobee, 1926, located on Park Street.

u

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the lake from flood damage during hurricane sea-son. Lake Okeechobee is the water lifeline for South Florida because it stores and supplies water to many cities and agricultural communities to its south. Locks located approximately every seven miles, provide fishing and boating access to the lake.

The lake is encircled by an excellent road system with many scenic-view points. Campgrounds, RV parks, restaurants and recreational facilities are easily accessible to travelers. C. Scott Driver Park, located on Hwy 78W at the Kissimmee River, provides facilities for hikers, boaters, and fishermen.

Immediately across the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78, is Glades County and the community of Buck-head Ridge, whose residents work, attend school and otherwise participate in the life of Okeechobee.

Further south on Hwy 78W, is the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation, which encompasses

35,000 acres of rich land that is farmed, fished and hunted by the Seminole. The reservation boasts a state-of-the-art rodeo arena, a casino complex and modern centers for education and sports. The res-ervation school, Pemayetv Emahakv, expands the normal curriculum with the teaching of the history and language of the Seminole. The reservation is open to the public.

ClimateOkeechobee has a moderate climate, with sum-mer temperatures ranging from 72 to 93 with occasional afternoon thunder showers from June through September.

Winters are mild with bright, warm, sunny days and cool nights. Midwinter temperatures average from 49 to 73.

The hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Annual rainfall averages 53 inches.

Outdoor activities are part of daily life due to the moderate climate; year-round gardening is a welcome benefit.

The mild climate also draws thousands of tour-ists to Okeechobee during the winter and spring seasons, with many wintering here.

Downtown Park Street today.

Fertilizer CompanyFlorida’s Largest Full-Service Fertilizer Company

Its time to feed your hungry lawns and plants.

863-763-2158

• Lawns • Pastures

• Citrus trees • Gardens • Nurseries

We also carry • Hydrated lime • Dolomite limestone pellets • Crop protection products.

Excellent quality fertilizer for

COME to Diamond R Fertilizer For all your fertilizer and seed needs.

Hours ofOperation:Mon - Fri

7:00 - 12:00 1:00 - 5:00

Diamond R is locatedat 710 NE 5th Ave.

Fertilizer Has been our business since 1943We blend and bag our own fertilizer

Winter, Spring,Summer & Fall

Photo by Rafael Pacheco


State Motto “In God We Trust” State Tree Palmetto PalmState Flower Orange Blossom State Stone Agatized Coral State Gem Moonstone State Shell Horse Conch or Giant Band ShellState Nickname Sunshine State State Song “Suwannee River”State Mammal Florida Panther (land) Manatee (freshwater) Dolphin/Porpoise (saltwater)State Bird Mockingbird State Animal Florida Panther State Reptile Alligator State Fish Largemouth Bass (freshwater) Atlantic Sailfish(saltwater)State Insect Zebra Longwing Butterfly

Florida Facts

Yearly Rentals..................Weekly Rentals................Season Rentals................Off Season Rentals..........

$2,400.00$125.00$300.00 Mo$225.00 Mo

Full Hook Ups

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AirportsThe Okeechobee County Airport, a former U.S. Air Force base, is located on Hwy 98, one mile north of Hwy 70. It has two asphalt runways, one 4,000 feet and one 5,000-foot lighted, that can accommodate most private and smaller commercial aircraft. Termi-nal building and radio communication is available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.

The Okeechobee County Airport provides com-plete general aviation services, local information and a restaurant open to the public. For more informa-tion, contact Interim Airport Manager Kathy Scott at (863) 467-5505, the Okeechobee Jet Center at (863) 467-5888 or the Landing Strip restaurant at (863) 467-6828.

Railroads

HighwaysOkeechobee is served by state and federal high-ways, many having four lanes within the city limits. U.S. 441 (N-S) and State Road 70 (E-W) each pass through the heart of the county, forming a crossroads that provides travelers easy access to any attraction around the state. Hwy 441SE leads east around the lake and Hwy 78 leads west around the lake; both

UtilitiesTwo electric companies serve Okeechobee: Flori-da Power & Light serves most of the county, with Glades Electric serving the western section north of Basswood to the Viking Properties and several west-ern communities. For information, call FPL at (800) 226-3545 or Glades Electric at (863) 467-5111.

Water service is available through the Okeechobee Utility Authority, 100 SW 5th Ave., (863) 763-9460. Gas is provided by three companies for com-mercial, residential, agricultural or industrial service: Central Gas Co., 119 NW 8th St., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-3915; Ferrellgas, 204 SW 7th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974, (863) 763-7557; and Glades Gas Co., 804 N Parrott Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-2114.

Waste CollectionFor weekly garbage removal and information regard-ing pickup of ground debris or dumpster needs, con-tact Waste Management Inc., 10080 NE 128th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-4818.

Okeechobee Landfill Inc. is a Class 1 disposal facil-ity located at 10800 N.E. 128th Ave. Waste disposal rates are based on tonnage. The minimum fee is $5 via check, credit, debit card or cash. For more infor-mation call (863) 357-0824 or visit www.wm.com.

Cable TelevisionCable is provided by Comcast Digital Cable, 107 NW 7th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (800) 266-2278, www.comcast.com.

Amtrak stops in Okeechobee with south- and north-bound trains. For times and schedules, call Amtrak at (800) 872-7245. The station is located just west of Hwy 441N at 8th St.

begin where Hwy 441S ends at the Lake. State Road 70 eastbound, Hwy 441 northbound and State Road 710 southbound all lead to connections with Flori-da’s Turnpike, I-95 and US Hwy 1.


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

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MediaPrint - Locally Owned

Okeechobee PennysaverOkeechobee Welcome GuideThe Hurricane Guide Direct Hit Marketing & Design, LLC. 111 NE 2nd St. (863) 763-7283 [email protected]

Okeechobee The Magazine 111 NE 2nd St. (863) 467-0054 [email protected] www.okeechobeethemagazine.com

Okeechobee News 107 SW 17th St. (863) 763-3134 [email protected]

Radio(English) WOKC-FM 100.9 FM WOKC-AM 1570 AM, True Country(Spanish) WAFC-FM 106.1 Radio Fiesta 210 WN Park St., Suite 102 (863) 467-1570 or (863) 467-1009 www.wokc.com

91.7 FM, WWFR, Family Radio (863) 763-0281 www.familyradio.com

WYFR – Short Wave 10040 NW 240th St. (863) 763-0281

90.5 FM, WREH, Reach FM (863) 467-8080, www.reachfm.org

Hi-Tek AUTOMOTIVE

129 NW 13 StreetOkeechobee FL 34972

hi-tekautomotive.com(2 blocks south of the hospital)

“Dealer Quality Service at Affordable Prices”Your One Stop Shop ... We do it all!

Import and Domestic Specialist

(863) 357 - 1717

Providing our community since 1983 with comfort, guidance, and support for

any life-limiting illness.

To learn more, call us at863-467-2321

or visit HOSPICEOFOKEECHOBEE.ORG

Hospice Of Okeechobee411 SE 4th Street,

Okeechobee, FL 34974

A Florida non-pro�t and 501c(3) tax exempt corporation

of Okeechobee,Inc.


AccommodationsHotels and Motels

(area code 863)

DOWNTOWNBudget Inn

201 S Parrott Ave., 763-3185Economy Inn

507 N Parrott Ave., 763-1148Hampton Inn

1200 EN Park St., 824-0003, www.okeechobeelakeokeechobee.hamptoninn.com

Travelers Inn601 N Parrott Ave., 763-3146

CLOSEST TO THE LAKEBest Western

3975 Hwy 441S, 357-7100 www.bestwestern.comFlamingo Motel

4101 Hwy 441S, 763-6100www.motelflamingo.netHoliday Inn Express

3101 Hwy 441S, 357-3529www.hiexpress.com

Scottish Inns3190 Hwy 441S, 763-3293

EAST AROUND THE LAKERimCanal Motel & RV Park

1422 Hwy 441 SE, 467-2737www.RimCanalMotel/RVPark.com

Travelodge Suites1527 Hwy 441 SE, 824-3431

www.travelodge.comLakeview Inn & Suites

3225 Hwy 441 SE, 763-1020

WEST AROUND THE LAKEAngler’s Waterfront Motel1010 6th St., (Buckhead Ridge)

Okeechobee, 763-4031www.guideservices.com

Lakeport Lodge Motel & Restaurant,11700 Hwy 78W, 946-2020

AssistedLiving FacilitiesGrand Oaks, a VNA Community

203 SE 2 St., 824-6770www.grandoaks.org

The HeritageAssisted Living, Elder Care

608 NE 2 Ave., 763-1700

Okeechobee Health Care Facility1646 Hwy 441N, 763-2226

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Animal ControlServices

Okeechobee County Animal Control Services is located at 1480 NW 25th Dr. in the Airport In-dustrial Park (3050 NW 120th Trail), (863) 357-3225. Supervisor Gary Barber said the agency will respond to complaints of missing or aggressive animals, animal bites, livestock loose on county roads, animal cruelty and other animal-related sit-uations. Animals available for adoption are evalu-ated for temperament and health to reduce the number of animals euthanized; the agency adopts-out or sends animals to reputable rescue groups. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. An officer is on emergency call 24 hours a day.

The Humane Society Pet Rescue, a non-profit fa-cility located at 1203 Hwy 98N (PO Box 233, Okeechobee, FL 34973), (863) 357-1104, is a no-kill shelter that cares for animals until adoption. Its goal is the “ending of needless euthanizing of healthy animals,” Director Belinda Forlier said. The facility welcomes volunteer help as well as do-nated items for the comfort of the animals. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. It is closed Sunday, Mon-day and Wednesday. For more information, visit www.animalrescueokeechobee.org.

Rescued animals, Pima and Nikki.


Arts and Enrichment

Okeechobee County Library

The Okeechobee Community Theatre is in its 34th year of presenting high-quality Broadway-style musicals, comedies, dramas, and myster-ies. Performances are the first two weekends in March and November, with a third produc-tion usually scheduled for early December, at the Okeechobee Freshman Campus Auditorium, 702 SW Second Avenue, just west of Golden Corral Restaurant. Performers and production crew members are all local volunteer talent. For information on show schedules, audition dates, or volunteer opportunities, call Ron or Jacque Hayes at (863) 763-1307, or visit the theatre website, www.okeecommunitytheatre.com. The Okeechobee High School Drama Depart-ment has been an increasing favorite with its top-quality productions put on several times during the year. For more information, call Deborah Raulerson at (863) 462-5025. The high school is located at 2800 Hwy 441N.

Okeechobee Main Street’s Art and Cultural Com-mittee is dedicated to bringing fine arts to the com-munity. The annual Top of the Lake Art Fest & Chalk Walk showcases fine artists, children’s art activities, cultural presentations, performances by award-winning musicians and more. The committe also oversees a city mural project which displays his-torical aspects on buildings. Call (863) 357-6246.

The Okeechobee County Library system has been in operation since 1977. The modern library at 206 SW 16th St. contains more than 50,000 hardback books, 10,000 paperbacks and a vari-ety of offerings of interest to children and adults alike. There are newspapers from around the lake region, a representative magazine (subscription) collection and audio and visual materials includ-ing DVDs. Research can be done online through library computers at no charge for Okeechobee residents.

The library is part of the Heartland Library Co-operative, encompassing Okeechobee, Glades, Hardee, Highlands and Desoto counties, ex-panding the availability of requested material. Each year the library presents three to four Flor-ida Culture and History presentations through a

Florida Humanities Council grant.

Library Director Kresta King can be reached at (863) 763-3536. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed Sunday and Monday. There are three outside drop boxes for use when the library is closed.

Fourth mural of Okeechobee Main Street’s mural program.

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Okeechobee Historical SocietyFounded in 1973, the Okeechobee County His-torical Society is dedicated to preserving the his-tory of Okeechobee and the lower Kissimmee River Valley. It meets the third Monday of each month at noon in the Museum Display Building at the County Historical Park, 1850 Hwy 98N; visitors are welcome. Annual membership is $10.

Located next to the museum, on two acres of county-owned property, is the historic 104-year-old schoolhouse. The museum is also open each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. when the Tantie Quilters meet to ply an ancient craft. A special tour of the museum is available by appointment by call-ing President Betty Williamson at (863) 763-6226. It is closed July through August and on holidays.

The sports complex, open from dawn to dusk, is located at 580 NW 27th Lane. It features an Olympic-size pool, four youth baseball fields, a football/soccer field, six shuffleboard courts, two basketball courts, eight tennis courts, four rac-quetball courts, a picnic/restroom pavilion and a “wooden jungle” for children. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (863) 763-6950 for in-formation about the sports complex and (863) 467-7667 for information about the pool.

Constructed in 1909, the historic Tantie Schoolhouse is sited on the property of the Okeechobee Historical Society Museum.

Recreation and Sports Complex

Hospice CareBig Lake Hospice

1203 N Parrott Ave., 763-0707, www.biglake-hospice.org. We provide your loved ones with comfort, support, and care by a team of physi-cians, nurses, aides, counselors, and chaplains so you may continue to enjoy the months and weeks ahead to the fullest extent possible.

Hospice of Okeechobee411 SE 4th St., 467-2321, www.hospiceofo-keechobee.org. Serving Okeechobee since 1983, your “Hometown Hospice” staff provides skilled and compassionate care in your home or, when necessary, in our residence, The Hamrick Home, located on SE 4th St.

Hope Hospice/Hope Connections30082 Hwy 78W, 763-2404, www.hopehospice.org, serves Buckhead Ridge in Glades County with senior care (hot meals), activities, companionship and Hospice referral.


Community Boosters

Business members of the Chamber of Com-merce of Okeechobee County are commit-ted to fulfilling its mission to “engage busi-ness and community leaders to improve the business climate, economy and quality of life in Okeechobee.” The Chamber provides in-formation about the community to residents, visitors and businesses seeking to establish a presence in Okeechobee.

A variety of networking opportunities are available, and Chamber committees consider issues critical to the business community. The Chamber, 55 S Parrott Ave., also provides business, business relocation, and export assis-tance services. For information call 467-6246 or visit www.OkeechobeeBusiness.com.

Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Board of Directors(L-R) Robert Lee, Mike Costopoulos, Pres. Terry Burroughs, Tabitha Trent, John Gurney, Donna Gaiser, Maureen Budjinski and Jeff Jones. Not pictured: Bill Blazak

Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County

The Economic Council of Okeechobee is a not-for-profit, non-governmental, non-partisan organization which pro-motes the sound and judicious eco-nomic growth of Okeechobee county, Florida.

Its membership is composed of the top industry, business and professional leaders of the community.

It is involved with the social, economic and political processes of the county and is to act as a catalyst between the pub-lic and private sectors to foster dialogue, planning and action. For information, call 467-0200 or visit www.ecok.org.

Economic Council of Okeechobee

Past and present ECO board members at the council’s 20th anniversary on Jan. 16, 2010 at the Pine Creek Sporting Club.

Photo by Sandra Pearce

Photo by Felicia Maxwell

Page 18


In 1982 the Main Street program began under the di-rection of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, as a way of helping local cities preserve and revitalize their past. Okeechobee has been accedited since 2007. The Main Street mission is to promote the prosper-ity and vitality of Okeechobee through collaboration among property owners, private citizens, community and business leaders, town and government represen-tatives and civic organizations. Its work includes the preservation of local history and beautification projects in the downtown including city entrance signs, direc-tional signs and a median project. Main Street over-sees a city mural project that displays historical aspects on city buildings. Four murals have been completed with the fifth to be completed and dedicated in Feb-ruary, 2013, during our Top of the Lake Art Fest. Okeechobee Main Street recognizes local businesses and organizations for their successes by nominating them for state-wide awards through the Secretary of State. In 2012 OKMS awarded top honors in three divisions.

Okeechobee Main Street sponsors community festivals for national holidays and local celebrations including our own Speckled Perch, National Day of the Ameri-can Cowboy, Labor Day, Halloween and Christmas.

Main Street values its community partnerships to pro-mote the city, bring new business into the town and sustain our existing businesses. Its weekly clipboard serves to keep the community informed of local events and its monthly Main Street Mixer, hosted by member businesses with an open invitation to the public, keep the public involved.

The office is located with the Chamber of Commerce at 55 S Parrott Ave. For information call (863) 357-6246, visit our website at www.okeechobeemainstreet.com or follow us on Facebook.

Okeechobee Main Street

Tourist Development Council

The Okeechobee Tourist Development Coun-cil promotes Okeechobee County as a desirable tourist destination through marketing and ad-vertising campaigns and local events. The nine-member council consists of a chairman, two elected municipal officials and six members in-volved in the tourist industry. The TDC office, located in the County Airport Terminal Build-ing, (863) 763-3959, has full information on their web site at www.okeechobee-tdc.com.

As the sun rose, Anglers anxiously awaited take off at C. Scott Driver Park, at one of the many tournaments proud-ly hosted by the Okeechobee County Tourist Development Council.

OKMS Board Members: Front Row (L-R): Executive Director Cindy Birdashaw, Merrilee Berglund, Shelly Doyle, President Mau-reen Burroughs, Lisa Watts and Diane Davies. Back row: Bridgette Waldau, Courtney Moyett, Frank DeCarlo, Jeff Sheffield, John Creasman and Toni Doyle.



Fishing on Lake Okeechobee

Welcome to Okeechobee! Thanks to incred-ible spawns for the past few years, Lake Okeechobee is once again known as the

premier bass fishery in the United States. Due en-tirely to a very wet fall, the lake is at a perfect level. The water is high enough to allow access to those who love to fish deep in the marshy areas, and just low enough that many of the fish are still hanging out near the outside-edge vegetation of the lake.

Lake Okeechobee has once again returned to the fish factory that it once was, in fact, many anglers con-sider it to be better than it has ever been before. The lake has everything going for it right now. There are massive amounts of native vegetation growing in the water; eelgrass, peppergrass and Kissimmee grass abound on the north end of the lake. The vegetation grows profusely from J&S Fish Camp on the east side of the lake all the way to Observation Shoal on the far west shore.

During the fall and winter seasons, the best way to catch one of Okeechobee’s huge bass is to fish a live wild shiner under a small cork near some very heavy vegetation. The shiner does all of the work, swim-ming furiously, until the bass inhales it and then the

fight is on! Heavy tackle and good technique are re-quired and of course, a little luck, and soon you will have a true trophy bass in the boat, briefly to weigh, photograph and release to be caught again by another lucky angler.

In the springtime the bluegill and shellcracker fish-ing are second to none. Many different methods are used to catch the chunky panfish; my favorite is an old-school cane pole with a small bobber and a grass shrimp for bait. What great eating these fish are!

The town of Okeechobee has much to offer in the way of food and places to stay. We feel that if you come visit us once you will return again and again and when you do go home you will tell your friends and they will want to visit us too. It’s a great place to be when the ground is covered with snow up north, or even during the summertime for some extraordinary fishing.

Captain Michael ShellenShellen Guide Service

www.okeechobeebassfishing.comFor more information or to book a guide trip,

call (863) 357-0892

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Page 20


Calendar of Events

JanuaryJan. 10 – 19 – American Legion Free Fair, 501 SE 2nd St., 763-2950. Carnival rides, concessions.

Jan. 10 – 11 – FLW Everstart & Nat’l Guide College Fishing Tourna-ment, C. Scott Driver Park, Hwy 78W.

Jan. 12 – Miniature Equine Fun Day. Show, sell, classes. Benefit: Rylee’s Hope, Paddock Farms, 863-634-1440.

Jan. 13 – KOA Concert Series – “Kimika” in concert, musical comedy show, 6:15 p.m., 763-0231.

Jan. 19 – Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders at Gilbert Chevrolet, 11 to 1.

Jan. 19 – Waldau’s Junior Golf 21st Annual Golf Tournament to benefit junior golf, at the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. Information, Bridgette Waldau, 467-7300 , www.floridajuniorgolf.org.

Jan. 24 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Ban-danas and Bows; Okeechobee Claws and Paws, 2949 St Rd. 70W.

Jan. 26 – Winterfest Catfish Festival, sponsored by the Buckhead Ridge Volunteer Fire Dept., 10 – 2. Booths, games, crafts, catfish dinner. Just west of the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78. 467-8220.

Jan. 26 – Okeechobee Health & Safety Expo, Agri-Civic Center, 9 – 2. More than 100 booths by businesses, health organizations, hospital, nurs-ing services, fire and police departments. Safety literature, demonstra-tions, blood donor bus. 763-1666.

FebruaryFeb. 1, 2 – Seminole Wind Bluegrass Festival at Brighton Reservation. 467-6039.

Feb. 2 – A full evening of gospel singing in celebration of Okeechobee’s own Trust Quartet’s 19th anniversary. 6 p.m., $6 donation, 301 NE 4th Ave. 863-634-8793.

Feb. 2, 3 – Battle of Okeechobee. A costumed re-enactment of the last battle of the Second Seminole War between the US Army and the Seminole Indians at the Battlefield Historical Site on Hwy 441SE about three miles southeast of Okeechobee. For information: Dowling Watford, 763-2121 or okeechobeebattlefield.com.

Feb. 7 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Florida Outdoors RV Country, 4300 Hwy 441S.

Feb. 9 – Love, Laugh, Live Dinner and Show – Benefit Martha’s House. KOA, 7 – 11 p.m. $50 per couple. 763-2893.

Feb. 9, 10 -- 2013 Top of the Lake Art Fest & Chalk Walk in Flagler Park. Details at Okeechobee Main Street 357-6246 or www.okeechobeemainstreet.com.

Feb. 13 – KOA Concert Series, “Allynn Unhinged” Variety Show. 763-0231

Feb. 10 – 12 – 2nd Annual Seminole Wind Blue Grass Festival at Brighton Seminole Reservation, 467-6039.

Feb. 11 – Valentine’s Fund Raiser to help support newly-arrived wildlife at Arnold’s Wildlife Center. 14895 NW 30 Terr., 763-4630.

Feb. 14 - 17 – 75th Annual Brighton Field Day Festival and PRCA Rodeo & Extreme Buls at Fred Smith Rodeo Arena. Seminole culture, costumes, crafts, booths. 467-6039, www.rezrodeo.com.

Feb. 16 – Speckled Perch Queen’s Pageant, Main Street office for further information, 357-6246.

Area code 863 unless otherwise noted. For details and information on listed or planned events, contact Main Street at www.mainstreetokeechobee.com or 357-6246, the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County at 467-6246, the Agri-Civic Center at 763-1666 or Tourist Development Council at 763-3959. Entrance to all Agri-Civic Center events is from State Road 710.

Feb. 16 - 23 – Florida Cracker Trail – a 120 mile horseback ride and cattle drive from Bradenton on Florida’s West Coast to Ft. Pierce on the East Coast, passing through northern Okeechobee. Commemorates Florida cattle heritage, www.crackertrail.org/ride.html.

Feb. 20 – 24 – Seminole Cup Clay Shooting Championship at Quail Creek Plantation, 763-2529.

Feb 23 -- 11th Annual Big Lake Bass Contest and Expo to benefit the March of Dimes, sponsored by Seacoast Bank, at C. Scott Driver Park. Sign-in 6 a.m., hourly weigh-in.

MarchMar. 1 – Howard Livingston & The Mile Marker 24 Band, 7 – 10 p.m. Benefit for KOA Care Camps, 763-0231.

Mar. 1 – 3 – Big Cypress Shootout. 2nd Seminole War Reenactment. Historical and Cultural displays, vendors, traditional food. Battle reenact-ments daily. 1-800- 467-2327.

Mar. 8, 9 -- Community Theatre production of The Odd Couple, 8 p.m., 700 SW 2nd Ave. Information 763-1307.

Mar. 9, 10 -- Annual Speckled Perch Festival & Parade. Okeechobee is known as the “Speckled Perch Capital of the World” so it is only fitting that we hold an annual event in honor of this title. Food and crafts in the Park on Hwy 70. 357-6246.

Mar. 9 – O.Y.L.S. Small Animal Show, Agri Civic Center, 9 a.m., free. Information: 763-1666.

Mar. 9 – March of Dimes “March for Babies”, 8 a.m., 763-3131, www.marchofdimes.com\florida.

Mar. 10 – KOA Concert Series. “My Three Sons” champion barbershop quartet, 7 p.m. 763-0231.

Mar. 10 – 19 -- Okeechobee County Fair at Agri-Civic Center. Animals, crafts, rides, food judging, booths, 4H show and judging. Tickets available at 763-1666 or at the gate.

Mar. 10, 11 -- The Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Spring PRCA Rodeo at the Agri-Civic Center. 634-7137.

Mar. 12 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by ACA Relay for Life at Stafford’s Salon, 3936 SE 18th Terr.

Mar. 15, 16 -- Community Theatre production of The Odd Couple, 8 p.m., 700 SW 2nd Ave. Information 763-1307.

Mar. 16, 17 – Florida Bass Federation Qualifier, C. Scott Driver Park, 763-3959. www.okeechobee-tdc.com.

Mar. 17 – BBQ Contest to benefit Okeechobee High School baseball team, noon at high school baseball field. Information call Jeff, 772-359-6949.

March 31 -- Community-wide Easter Sunrise Service at the lake at Lock 7. Information at First United Methodist Church, 763-4021.

March 31 - Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast following Sunrise Service at both the Freshman Campus Auditorium, behind Golden Corral and at 1st United Methodist Church, 200 NW 2nd Ave..

AprilApr. 13, 14 – American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life at Agri-Civic Center, www.relayforlife.org/okeechobeefl, 772-287-7467.


Apr. 25 – Rotary Club Lake Okeechobee Fun Ride (Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail) Bike, Walk or Run event atop the Herbert Hoover Dike, Infor-mation: Kristi or Tabitha 763-5573, www.okeechobeerotary.org.

Apr. 25 – Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by KOA Kampgrounds, 4276 Hwy 441S.

Apr. 26, 27 – Women in the Outdoors Event, Quail Creek Plantation, Information: 772-475-1158, [email protected].

MayMay 9, 10 – AgVenture, a project helping 4th graders realize the need for agriculture, sponsored by TD Bank. More information at 824-6700.

May 18 – Bassmaster Weekend Series, C. Scott Driver Park, www.okeechobee-tdc.com.

May 21 – Awards Night at High School, Heather Gillis, 462-5025 x 3113.

May 23 – Scholarship Night, High School, Heather Gillis 462-5025 x 3113.

May 23 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Real Life Children’s Ranch, 7777 Hwy 441SE.

May 28 – American Legion’s Memorial Day Service, celebration and ceremony, 10 a.m., Veteran’s Park, 763-2950.

JuneJune 13 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, Brahma Bull Restaurant & Lounge, 2405 Hwy 441SE.

June 29 – Arnold’s Wildlife Center Open House, 10 - 4, Animals, nature trails, butterfly haven, food and fun activities for the children. 14895 NW 30 Terr., 634-6804.

July July/August – Back to School Supply Drive, 700 SW 2nd Ave., 462-5000, Ext. 257.

July 13-15 – Florida Airboat Assn. Unity Weekend, C. Scott Driver Park, www.okeechobee-tdc.com.

July 16 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Okeechobee Blood Roundup at Holiday Inn Express, 1200 NE St. Rd. 70. 357-6246.

July 27, 28 – National Day of the American Cowboy features cattle drive through downtown to Agri-Civic Center. Ranch Rodeo competition, midway, food, entertainment, activities including story tellers, whip pop-pers, western artists and writers, 357-6246.

AugustAug. 13 – Main Street Mixer,5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by PNC Bank, 2901 Hwy 441S.

Aug. 31 – Sept 2 – Labor Day Parade, Festival, Rodeo. See under September.

SeptemberAug. 31 – Sept. 2 – Labor Day Parade and Festival in Flagler Park with Cattleman’s Rodeo competition (paid admission) at the Agri-Civic Center

Sept. 2 & 3, 467-6246.

Sept. 26 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by TD Bank, 1506 S Parrott Ave. 357-6246.

Sept. TBA – Okeechobee Educational Foundation Achieving Excel-lence Luncheon, public invited.

OctoberOct. 5, 6 – 3rd Annual Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta to benefit firemen. Information, J.D. Mixon, 634-1778.

Oct. 8 – Annual United Way Golf Tournament at the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. Marnie Amiet, 697-1970.

Oct. 15 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Okeechobee Blood Roundup at Holiday Inn Express, 357-6246.

Oct. 11 – Boots and Pearls Dinner Dance, KOA, 6 – 11 p.m., information: www.hospiceofokeechobee.org.

Oct. 27 – Kid’s Day Event and Fishing Tournament, 10 - 4 at the Ag Center, sponsored by Taylor Creek Bass Club, 467-2255.

Oct. 31 – Halloween Celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Agri-Civic. Center. Free event sponsored by Main Street, BOCC, Sheriff’s Dept., City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee City Council. Businesses, government and individuals welcome all children to booths for treats, entertainment, costume competition, activities, haunted house. 357-6246.

NovemberNov. 2, 3 and 9, 10 – Okeechobee Community Theatre Production, 8 p.m., 700 SW 2nd Ave. Information 763-1307.

Nov. 2 – Arnold’s Wildlife Center Open House, 10 - 4, Animals, nature trails, butterfly haven, food and fun activities for the children. 14895 NW 30th Terr., 634-6804.

Nov. 9 – 7th Annual Craft Fair in the Woods, 9 – 4, swamp buggy rides, BBQ dinners, crafts at Freedom Ranch, 11655 Hwy 441SE, 763-9800.

Nov. 11 – Veteran’s Day Services, 11 a.m. in Park 1.

Nov. 14 – Main Street Mixer, 5 – 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Cassels and McCall, 400 NW 2nd St.

Nov. 16, 17 – 7th Annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup. Community-wide two-day blood-donor event supported by area businesses and volunteers. Goal is 600 or more donations in two days. Entertainment, prizes, gifts. 610-2176.

Nov. 21 – Farm City Day for 4H show and activities. Information: County Ext. Serv. 763-6469.

Nov. 24 – Kid’s Fishing Tournament sponsored by Taylor Creek Bass Club, 467-2255.

Nov. 26 – Dec. 1 – Hospice of Okeechobee Annual Festival of Trees and Christmas Store, 411 SE 4 St., 467-2321.

After Thanksgiving – Businesses, schools, churches and individuals cre-ate and display huge Christmas Cards in Park 5. These remain up through December.

Nov. - Dec. – Christmas for needy children drive. Bring items to 700 SW 2nd Ave.462-5000 ext. 257.

DecemberDec. 3 -- Tree Lighting in City Hall Park, Hwy 70 E. Children’s concert with representation from area’s elementary schools, 763-3372.

Dec. 7 – Top of the Lake Christmas Festival and Craft Show in Flagler Park, climaxed by a lighted evening Christmas Parade by Okeechobee businesses, schools and clubs. 357-6246.

Dec. 12 – Main Street Mixer, 5 - 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Rauler-son Hospital, 1796 Hwy 441N, 357-6246.

Dec. 17 (tentative) – Kiwanis sponsors pictures with Santa in the Park. 801-8277.

Calendar of Events

Page 22


AttractionsArnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

and Butterfly Garden Education-based wildlife-care facility

14895 NW 30 Terr. 763-4630 or (800) 871-4403, or

visit www.arnoldswildlife.org.

Brahman Theatre Matinee and evening movies

1500 S. Parrott Ave., 763-7202

Brighton Seminole IndianReservation and Casino

Bingo, Poker, SlotsHwy 78W to Hwy 721N or take

Hwy 70W to 721SReservation is located in Glades Countyapproximately 25 miles southwest of

Okeechobee.

Ft. Drum Crystal Mines6655 NE 304 St.

(863) 634-4579, www.gamineral.org

BOWLINGLucky Lanes

1465 Hwy 441SE, (863) 467-1800

GOLFBlue Heron Public Golf Course1925 SE 8th Ave., 467-1651

KOA Resort4276 Hwy 441S, 763-0231

okeechobeekoa.comOkeechobee Golf & Country Club

405 NE 131 St.(863) 763-6228

Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park25 miles north of downtown Okeechobee.

See website for directions or call (863) 462-5360,

www.floridastateparks.org kissimmeepra-rie/default.cfm.

Birding, stargazing, hiking, biking and horse trails.

Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) 110-mile camping, hiking, biking trail on

Herbert Hoover Dike encirclingLake Okeechobee(863) 983-8101

www.sal.usace.army.mil/sfoo/rec/trails.htm

Okeechobee County Fishing Pier, Lock 7/ Jaycee Park

Junction of Hwy 441S and Hwy 78

Quail Creek PlantationHunting, Sporting Clays Events

and Lodging12399 NE 224th St.

(863) 763-2529quailcreekplantation.com.

Open Wednesday thru Sunday8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Veterans War MemorialFlagler Park, junction of highways

70 and 441 (863) 763-3959

Wagon Wheel Horse Farm “Old Florida” setting for trail and

hay rides, petting zoo, pony rides. 634-6397

www.wagonwheelhorsefarm.com


Murals DepictingHistory of Okeechobee

Seminole Indian Cracker History 200 SW 6th St.

Railroad comes to OkeechobeeS. Parrott Ave. at S Park St.

(west side) First Telephone ExchangeS. Parrott Ave. at S Park St.

(east side)Historic Cattle Drive

206 N. Parrott Ave.Life as it Was in the old bank building,

NW 5th Ave. & Hwy. 70Okeechobee County Historical

Society Museum & SchoolhouseBuilt in 1903 and used until 1916.1850 Hwy 98N (863) 763-4344

Tours by appointment only

Historic Railroad StationBuilt in 1924

801 N. Parrott Ave.(863) 763-3959

Okeechobee City HallBuilt in 1926 at height of Fla. Real estate boom.

55 SE 3rd Ave. (863) 763-3372

Peter Raulerson HomeBuilt in 1923 by early merchant Abraham Freed-

man. National Register of Historic Places, now used as an office building.

600 S Parrott Ave.

Jaycee Park/Lock 7 Park features a fishing pier, boat launch and opportunity to view the expansive-ness of Lake Okeechobee. A wonderful place to bring the children to feed the

pigeons which congregate there.Located at the southern terminus of Hwy

441, at the “top of the lake.”

SIGHTSEEINGCrappy Jack’s boat rides, tours, fishing guide,

763-7753Eagle Bay Airboat Rides and Tours,

900 Hwy 78W, 824-0500.,www.okeechobeeairboat.com.

John’s Guide Service,Pontoon boat history and information

tours of Lake O, 532-1720Lake Okeechobee Fishing Trips and Eco Tours,

610-0440Okeechobee Bass Fishing with Capt.

Michael Shellen, 357-0892, www.okeechobeebassfishing.com

Okeechobee Livestock MarketFlorida’s largest livestock market.

1055 Hwy 98N (863) 763-3127

Points of InterestOkeechobee County CourthouseBuilt in 1926, modified and altered during the

years and returned to its original state in 2010.The new courthouse just north of it

was completed in 2007.304 NW 2nd Ave.(863) 763-6441

Page 24



Okeechobee CountyResidential Solid Waste Collection

Service Rules and ProceduresRules and Procedures are as follows for Residential Solid Waste Collection:

All Household Garbage must be placed in approved garbage can containers with secure lids, weighing no more than 40 pounds each and placed within 3 feet of the curb by 6 AM on your garbage collection day. (No plastic or metal drums) DO NOT mix yard trash, hazardous waste, furniture, appliances or construction and demolition debris such as fencing, floor tiles, lumber, concrete, eta. with household garbage. NO tires, propane tanks, automotive parts, boat parts, oil or batteries.

Household Garbage

Yard Trash All grass, leaves and small amounts of tree trimmings less than 4 feet in length and no more than 5 inches in diameter, and weighing no more than 40 pounds must be bagged or contained within waste cans, and placed within 3 feet of the curb by 6 AM on your yard trash collection day. Large amounts of Yard Trash that cannot be placed in cans must be cut in 4 feet lengths and neatly stacked within 3 feet of the curb. These items are considered a "Bulk Item," which requires special handling and collection by Waste Management, Inc. The customer must notify Waste Management, Inc. at (863) 357-0111 to schedule collection arrangements of these Bulk Items. DO NOT mix household garbage, hazardous waste, furniture, appliances or construction and demolition debris with yard trash. Any Yard Waste generated by Landscaping, Lawn Maintenance or Tree Trimming Contractors must be disposed of by the contractor at a sanitary landfill, as stated in the Okeechobee County Code of Ordinances. (Solid Waste Ordinance Code, Section 49-32.)

Construction and Demolition Debris

Litter Tip Truck drivers or construction workers in Okeechobee that carry supplies in their trucks or on trailers should always make sure any loose material or debris is completely covered or contained. Truck drivers are constantly losing trash out of the which causes a large amount of litter on our roadways and ditches. of their trucks and trailers, which causes a large amount of litter on our roadways and ditches.

Construction and Demolition Debris is considered a Special Item, which requires additional fees and special handling by Waste Management, Inc. Residential Customers must make arrangements with Waste Management, Inc. for payment for any additional fees and the type of collection/disposal service required for Construction and Demolition Debris. All Construction and Demolition Contractors, Companies or Handyman Services must contact Waste Management, Inc. for collection and disposal requirements pertaining to any Special Item, such as land clearing debris, construction and demolition debris or any Contractor-Generated Waste as state in the Okeechobee County Solid Waste Contract.

Appliances and Furniture Collection of appliances and furniture requires special handling and collection by Waste Management, Inc. The customer must notify Waste Management, Inc. at (863) 357-0111 to schedule collection of all unwanted appliances and furniture for disposal. The customer is required to remove all doors from refrigerators, freezers, ovens, ranges, washers, dryers and other similar appliances as required by Florida Statues Chapter 823.07, 823.08 and 823.09. Any person that abandons or discards any appliance without doors removed is in violation of Florida Statues Chapter 823.07, 823.08 and 823.09 and may be punished by fines and/or imprisonment as defined in Florida Statues Chapter 775.083. DO NOT mix household garbage, yard trash or construction and demolition debris with appliances and furniture. Contact a local facility such as Faith Farm, ARC or Okeechobee Hospice about donating any unwanted appliances or furniture.

Page 26


Raulerson Hospital: Providing our community quality healthcare services with a personal touch for more than 33 years.

• Emergency Services

• Diagnostic Imaging

• General Surgery

• Laparoscopic Surgery

• In & Outpatient Services

• Orthopaedics

• Rehabilitation (physical, occupational, speech)We Treat Kids Too!

The Best Medicine is Experience.

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

Raulerson Hospital is proud to welcome Board Certified

Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Benjamin Epstein

to our medical staff.


Public Safety ComplexThe Okeechobee Public Safety Complex is an Okeechobee County and Florida State Type 3 Emer-gency Operations Center (EOC). Under the direction of David McCain, it is located at 707 NW 6th St., Okeechobee, FL, 34972, (863) 763-3212, fax (863) 763-4565, www.okeechobeeeoc.com. The Complex is prepared for events caused by man or nature. This could be an expected hurricane, an industrial accident that would require immediate evacuation of the whole county or a particular area within the county or any other emergency involving the safety of the county. The Complex includes the Office of Emergency Man-agement, Director Mitch Smeykal, as well as 911 emer-gency operators and the fire rescue administration.

Emergency information would be broadcast on lo-cal radio stations WOKC-AM (1570), WOKC-FM (100.7), WQCS-FM (88.9), Fort Pierce and (Spanish) WAFC-FM (106.1), Clewiston.

Emergency Shelters and Capacities

Osceola Middle School825 SW 28th St. (650)

South Elementary School2468 SW 7th Ave. (500)

Okeechobee High School2800 Hwy 441N (2,000)Yearling Middle School925 NW 23rd Lane (700)

North Elementary School3000 NW 10th Ave. (500)

Everglades Elementary School3725 SE 8th St. (700)

Seminole Elementary School2690 NW 42nd Ave. (700)

Freshman Center Auditorium610 SW 2nd Ave. (660)

Okeechobee Achievement Academy1000 NW 34th St. (500)

American Legion Post #64501 SE 2nd St. (200)First Baptist Church401 SW 4th St. (65)

Ft. Drum Community Church32415 Hwy 441N (80)

Sacred Heart Catholic Church701 SW 6th St. (500)

Okeechobee County Health Dept.1728 NW 9th Ave. (50)

(a “medical needs” shelter, pre-registration necessary)

The “Osceola” and “South” shelters are primary shelters. The Office of Emergency Management will determine and announce further shelter openings as needed. 763-3212.

Page 28


State and Federal OfficialsUnited States Senate

(R) Marco Rubio (D) Bill Nelson

U.S. House of RepresentativesTom Rooney (R-District 16)

State House of Representatives55th District (R) Cary Pigman

Governor Rick Scott

Lt. GovernorJennifer Carroll

Florida State Senate21st District (R) Denise Grimsley

26th District (R) Bill Galvano

Mayor Jim KirkCouncilman Mike O’ConnorCouncilman Clayton WilliamsCouncilman Devin MaxwellCouncilman Dowling Watford

City Officials

County Officials

Chairman Frank IrbyCommissioner Joey Hoover Commissioner Bryant CulpepperCommissioner Ray DomerCommissioner Margaret Garrard Helton County Attorney John D. CasselsSheriff Paul C. MayCounty Judge Jerald Bryant

Okeechobee County (863) 763-6441County Administrator Robbie L. Chartier Deputy County Administrator Jim ThreewitsClerk of Circuit Court Sharon RobertsonPlanning & Development Bill RoyceProperty Appraiser William ShermanSupervisor of Elections Diane HaganTax Collector Celeste Watford

City of Okeechobee (863) 763-3372City Administrator Brian WhitehallCity Attorney John R. CookChief of Police Denny DavisFire Chief Herb SmithCity Clerk Lane Gamiotea


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Page 30


Okeechobee County Schools

Public SchoolsThe Okeechobee County School Board serves approx-imately 6,279 students at 10 public schools with total instructional staff of 466 and a total of 894 employ-ees. Okeechobee County has a comprehensive high school education program that offers both academic and vocational courses and dual enrollment with In-dian River State College, which has an Okeechobee Campus at 2229 NW 9th Ave., 824-6000. The dis-

trict also provides exceptional student education and alternative education programs.www.okee.k12.fl.us.

Board officials are Chair David Williams, Vice Chair India Riedel, members Joe Arnold, Gay Carlton and Malissa Morgan.

Elementary (Pre-K through grade 5)

Central Elementary School610 SW 5th Ave., 462-5077

South Elementary2468 SW 7th Ave., 462-5087

Seminole Elementary2690 NW 42 Ave., 462-5116

North Elementary3000 NW 10th Ter., 462-5100

Everglades Elementary3725 SE 8th St., 462-5108

Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)Yearling Middle

925 NW 23rd Ln., 462-5056

Osceola Middle825 SW 28th St., 462-5070

Grade 9Freshman Campus

610 SW 2nd Ave., 462-5288

High SchoolsOkeechobee High

2800 Hwy 441 N, 462-5025

Okeechobee AchievementAcademy

1000 NW 34th St., 462-5125

Registration

Public instruction is offered from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Kindergarten is com-pulsory in Florida, and children entering kin-dergarten must be five years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. To enroll a new student in a public school, you must provide the following:

• A previous school record, such as a report card, indicating grade-level assignment, and the name and address of previous school, un-less the child has never attended school

• A physical examination form from the stu-dent’s previous Florida school or, if enter-ing for the first time, a form completed and signed by a physician within the past 12 months

• Proof of residence within the school’s at-tendance zone, such as a lease, rent receipt or utility bill

• Proof of required immunizations. These vary depending on grade level. The child’s pediatrician (of Health Dept.) can assist with making sure they are up-to-date with grade-specific immunizations

• A birth certificate

For more information on new-student en-rollment and school assignments, contact the Okeechobee County School Board, 700 SW 2nd Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974, (863) 462-5000 x 260 – Student Services Office.


Civic Clubs and OrganizationsThere are numerous clubs and organizations in Okeechobee that offer opportunities for locals and guests to receive help or

become involved in community activities. (All phone numbers are area code 863 unless otherwise noted.)

Alcoholics Anonymous, 763-1006American Business Women’s Association, 763-3131American Cancer Society, 467-2376American Legion #64, 763-2950American Legion Auxiliary, 763-4953American Red Cross, 763-2488Big Lake Hospice, 763-0707Boys Scouts of America, 634-3342Business Women’s Referral Network, 610-2176Chamber of Commerce (Okeechobee), 467-6246East Coast Migrant Head Start, 467-0702Economic Council, Okeechobee County, 467-0200Elks Lodge #2871, 467-0550 or 467-2658(Red Hats), Foxy Divas, 763-5836Fraternal Order of Eagles #4137, 763-2552Fraternal Order of Eagles #4509, 467-1154Friends of the Okeechobee Library, 763-3536Girl Scouts, 763-4631 or 763-5102Guardian ad Litem, 697-1717Habitat for Humanity, 763-1371Hope Hospice (Glades Co.), 467-3604Hospice of Okeechobee, 467-2321Kiwanis Club, 634-1778Lions Club, 763-2111

Masonic Lodge #237, 357-0427 and 763-1610Ministerial Association, 697-1308Moose Lodge #2417 BHR, 763-2250Moose Lodge #1753 Okeechobee, 763-4954Okeechobee Battlefield Friends, 763-2121Okeechobee County Board of Realtors, 467-0004Okeechobee County Education Association, 467-1564Okeechobee Golf Associations (Men’s & Ladies), 763-6228Okeechobee Historical Society Museum, 763-4344Okeechobee Main Street, 357-MAIN (6246)Okeechobee County Recreational Association, 763-6950Overeater’s Anonymous, 763-7165 or 763-5324Quilters, Tantie, 357-0868Retired Senior Volunteer Program, 450-9402Retired Teachers Assoc., 763-5755Rotary Club, 763-4224Shrine Club, 763-3378Stitchin’ Group, 467-2231Toastmasters Club of Okeechobee, 532-8289Treasure Coast Builders Association, Okeechobee Branch, 467-2007VFW Post #4423, 763-0818VFW Post #10539, 763-2308VFW Post #9528, 467-2882

No Problem..we have lodging!No RV?

Anytime is a special time for Floridians to get out and go camping!

LOCALS INVITED TO JOIN US!

9-Hole Golf CourseDriving RangeShanty Lounge

Weekend EntertainmentBanquet Facilities

RV & Lodging AccommodationsSummer Pool Memberships

Fitness Center

OKEECHOBEE koa AND Golf Resort

863 763-02314276 US Hwy 441 So

Okeechobee, FL 34974

Okeechobee Adventist Christian412 NW 6th St., 763-0763

Seventh Day [email protected]

Okeechobee Christian Academy 701 S Parrott Ave., 763-3072

Grades K4 through the eighth gradewww.okeechobeechristianacademy.net

Peace Lutheran School750 NW 23rd Lane, 763-7566, Lutheran

[email protected]

Redemption Ministries3934 SE 29th Ct., 357-9083, Emotional

Behavioral, Disability, [email protected]

Rock Solid Christian Academy401 SW 4th St., 763-1847, Baptist

[email protected]

Private Schools

Page 32


Phone NumbersCity, County and State Offices

Abuse, Elder & Child (800) 962-2873

Animal Control 357-3225

Attorney General (Fla) Office 866-966-7226

City Planning & Zoning 763-3372, ext. 218

City Hall 763-3372

City Street Dept. 763-3926

County Clerk, Courthouse 763-2131

County Commission Office 763-6441

County Finance Office 763-6553

County Judge’s Office 763-3193

County Planning & Development 763-5548

Dept. of Children & Families (DCF) 462-5700

Division of Forestry 462-5160

Emergency Management 763-3212

Health Department 462-5819

Insurance: FL Dept. of Financial Services (877) 693-5236 or (850) 413-3089 myfloridacfo.com

Indian River State College (IRSC) (Okeechobee campus) 824-6000

IRSC (Main Campus - Ft. Pierce) (866) 792-4722

Mental Health Center 462-0040 After hours (888) 468-5600

Okeechobee Landfill 357-0824

Okeechobee Sports Complex-Pool 467-7667

Okeechobee Utility Authority 763-9460 or 763-3793

OUA After-hours emergency 357-0490

Parks & Recreation Dept. 763-6950

Physician’s Referral Service (24 hour) 763-9228

Post Office Hwy 70E 763-3616

Property Appraiser 763-4422

Public Defender 763-7977

Public Library 763-3536

Public Safety 763-3212

Rehabilitation Facility 763-6226

School Superintendent 462-5000

Senior Services 462-5180

Social Security 800-772-1213 TDD 800-325-0778

State Attorney 763-5557

Supervisor of Elections 763-4014

Tax Collector 763-3084

Veterans Service Office 763-8124

Okeechobee County Area Code 863


Florida’s Premier Discount Gun StoresOkeechobee’s Only NFDN Gun Dealer

BUY • SELL • TRADE- DISCOUNT PRICING -

All Major Credit Cards AcceptedOpen Mon-Fri. 10 am - 6 pm Sat 10 am - 5 pm

122 S.E. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 863-623-4471

We are the Leading Discount Gun Store on the Treasure Coast and Okeechobee.Check with us before you buy anywhere else - even the internet!

Shooter’s Choice has joined forces with NFDN, American’s largest online firearms shopping mall. There is over 300 million firearms & accessories when you buy online. Log on to www.ShootersChoiceGuns.Net 24/7 and receive your order at our store in as little as 72 hours with no shipping and no FFL transfer fees on firearms.

We will assist you in making your purchase online. Shooter’s Choice has a limited supply at the store at our regular discounted prices. We always sell lower than MSRP.

Page 34


“Helping You IsWhat We Do Best”

Tim Craig, Agency Managerand Celeste Hawk, Agent

Charlene DeweyFederation Clerk

Customer Service Representative

Lisa Marie MorganCustomer Service

Representative

Brandie AxtCustomer Service

Representative

Okeechobee Country Farm Bureauis now on Facebook. Become a fan. Okeechobee County

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:00pm

863-763-3101401 NW 4th Street

Okeechobee FL 34972

Mention This Ad Get 10% OFF Any Purchase

Mention This Ad Get 15% OF

Any Purchase


Phone Numbers

Aid and Emergency

Okeechobee County Area Code 863

Hope Hospice (Buckhead Ridge) 467-3604

Hospital Raulerson Hospital 763-2151

Meals on Wheels 462-5183

Mental Health Services New Horizons 462-0040

Missing Children Information Clearinghouse (800) 342-0821

Okeechobee Senior Services 462-5180

Poison Information Center (800) 222-1222

Pregnancy Center 467-8748

Police Emergency 911

City Police, business 763-5521 County Sheriff, business 763-3117 TDD 763-0077

Project 1511 763-1511

Toxic Chemical & Oil Spills (Voice/TDD) (800) 424-8802

U.S. Post Office, 1000 Hwy 70E 763-3616

U.S. Secret Service, West Palm Beach (561) 659-0184

All Emergencies 911

Al-Anon, Alateen, N.A., Adult Children of Alcoholics & AA 763-1006

American Red Cross 763-2488

Coast Guard Marine & Air Emergency Fort Pierce (772) 464-6100

Consumer Affairs Complaint (800) 435-7352

Driver’s Licenses 462-5225

Emergency Management 763-3212

Extension Service 763-6469

FBI (772) 461-6142

Fire Emergency 911

City Fire, business 467-1586

County Fire, business 763-5544

Fish & Wildlife Enforcement (561) 357-4202

Fishing License 763-3421

FL Marine Patrol (561) 624-6935

Forest Fire Reporting 462-5160

Game & Fish Commission 462-5190

Highway Patrol (800) 701-3212

Hospice of Okeechobee 467-2321

Big Lake Hospice 763-0707

Page 36


Heartland Discount PharmacyBetter Care...For a Better Community

Personal Attention Prescriptions Ready in Minutes FREE Same Day Home Delivery Rx Mail Available Free Antibiotics $3.99 Generic Program Best Cash Price in Town Low Cost OTC Medications Accept Most Insurance Including Medicaid, Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D Courteous, Professional & Friendly Sta� Compounding Meds (Non-Sterile) Take Time to Explain Your Prescription Medications Care with Dignity and Respect We Match Competitors Price

We Dispense Care

Extended HoursMonday - Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday 9am - 4pm

Full Service Retail Pharmacy

407 S. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee

863-763-7633

Consultant PharmacistHARRY PATEL, Rph

Your NeighborhoodPharmacy

Where CustomerService & Personal

Attentionis our #1 Priority!

(We will help you save money and stay healthy)

(Next to Arby's on Hwy 441)

Get to know your neighbor.

WE PROMISE TO PROVIDE QUALITYSERVICE AT LOWEST PRICES

PHARMACY THE WAY IT’SSUPPOSE TO BE

OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE HEALTHCARE MORE AFFORDABLE

Here is how we are di�erent...Does Your Pharmacy accommodateyour special needs?Does Your Pharmacy keep yourprescriptions up to date withre�lls and stock status etc.?Does Your Pharmacy have spare time to discuss yo health?

Does Your Pharmacy have timeto �nd ways to save you moneyon your prescriptions?

Does Your Pharmacy handleSPECIALTY PRESCRIPTIONS andOn Demand COMPOUNDING?

NOW... it’s time to think about changing pharmacy!

FREE Antibiotics & $3.99 Generics Home Delivery

FREE

FREE FREEMetformin 500. 850, 1000 mg (IR Only)

ER (Extended Relief Excluded)Lisinopril (All Strengths)(Combination Product Excluded)



We Dispense Care




863-763-7633
















FREE





We Dispense Care




863-763-7633
















FREE



Near the Lake

310 SW 2nd AvenueOkeechobee, Fl. 34974

Located Behind U-Save863.610.1001

AUTOMARINE

RECREATIONALVEHICLES


ChurchesAll phone numbers have the area code 863 unless otherwise noted.

African Methodist EpiscopalNew St. Stephens AME, 1050 NE 16th Ave., 763-5018

Assembly of GodAbundant Blessings Assembly of God, 4550 Hwy 441N, 763-3736

Bethel Assembly of God, 1109 SE 7th St., 467-0060

Impact of Grade Assembly of God, 1109 SE 7th St., 484-3173

BaptistBethel Baptist Church, 1258 NE 13th Ave., 763-6512

Brighton First Baptist Church, Brighton Reservation, 763-6626

Buckhead Ridge Baptist Church, 1043 Cypress St., 763-7532

Cornerstone Baptist Church, 18387 Hwy 441N, 763-3338,

First Baptist Church of Okeechobee, 401 SW 4th St., 763-2171

First Baptist Church of Basinger, 19836 Hwy 98N, 763-0437

First Missionary Baptist Church, 906 NW 9th Ave., 763-0716

New Testament Baptist Church, 535 NE 28th Ave., 763-6682

Northside Baptist Church, 51 NW 98th St, 763-3584

Oakview Baptist Church, 677 SW 32nd St., 763-1699

Okeechobee Missionary Baptist Church, 4212 Hwy 441N, 763-7743

Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana, 5051 NW 30th St., 357-1300

Seminole Bible Baptist Church, 200 SW CR721, 824-6785

Treasure Island Baptist Church, 4209 Hwy 441SE, 763-0550

Trinity Freewill Baptist Church, 1840 NE 39th Blvd., 763-4962

Victory Baptist Church, 500 SW 9th St., 763-0669

BuddhistSasanakhun Buddhist Temple, 13301 Hwy 441SE, 763-2233

CatholicSacred Heart Catholic Church, 701 SW 6th St., 763-3727

St. Teresa of the Child Jesus, 1027 Chobee Loop, BHR,

863-946-0696

ChristianBuckhead Ridge Christian Church, 1167 Linda Rd., 357-6500

Okeechobee Christian Church, 3055 SE 18th Terr., 467-7858

Westside Christian, 8082 Hwy 70W, 467-2278

Church of ChristBig Lake Church of Christ, 1115 SW 3rd Ave., 467-6758

Central Church of Christ 506 NE 6th Ave., 763-2513

Okeechobee Church of Christ, 1401 S Parrott Ave., 763-4477

Church of GodChurch of God, 301 NE 4th Ave., 763-4127

Church of God of Prophecy, Open Arms Ministry, 102 NW 10 St., 254-8304

North Okeechobee Church of God, 15949 NW 30th Ter., 467-1066

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day SaintsChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 310 SW 6th St., 467-2425

Church of the NazareneChurch of the Nazarene, 425 SW 28th St., 763-3519

EpiscopalChurch of Our Savior, 200 NW 3rd St., 763-4843

Jehovah’s WitnessesKingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 8250 Hwy 70W, 763-9229

LutheranPeace Lutheran Church, 750 NW 23rd Ln., 763-5042

MethodistFirst United Methodist Church, 200 NW 2nd St., 763-4021

NondenominationalBack Porch Church, 3121 SE 32 Ct., 763-4843

Believers Fellowship, 300 SW 6th Ave., 763-6848

Calvary Chapel, 1963 NW 38th Ave., 467-0863

Dunklin Memorial Church, 3342 SW Hosanah Ln., 772-597-5060

Faith Farm Ministries, 7595 NE 128th Ave., 763-4224

Ft. Drum Community Church, 32415 Hwy 441N, 467-1733

Fountain of Life, 1302 SW 32nd St., 763-8945

Freedom Ranch, 11655 Hwy 441SE, 763-9800

The Gathering, 1735 SW 24th Ave., 357-4418

Gideon’s – Okeechobee, PO Box 2205, 610-6863

Life Community Church, 701 S Parrott Ave., 763-3218

More 2 Life Ministries, 605 SW Park St., Suite 214, 467-0796

Resurrection Life Church, 1803 SW 3rd Ave., 763-7770

PentecostalBible Church of God, 3666 Hwy 70E, 357-2264

Haven of Rest, 2945 SW 3rd Terr., 357-3053

Jesus Holy Ghost Crusade Church, 1401 NE 14 Ave., 612-6395

Living Word of Faith of Okeechobee, 1902 S Parrott Ave., 763-6869

United Pentecostal Church, 405 SW 10th Ave., 763-5300

PresbyterianOkeechobee Presbyterian Church (USA), 312 N Parrott Ave.,

824-0013, okeechobeepresby.com

Seventh Day AdventistSeventh Day Adventist Church, 412 NW 6th St., 763-0655

Page 38


RestaurantsAll phone numbers have the area code 863 unless otherwise noted.

Alice’s Restaurant17410 Reservation Road NE, 467-2226

Arby’s417 S Parrott Ave., 763-0581

Azteca #3619 NE Park St., 467-8588

Backyard BBQ105 SE 6th St., 824-0880Barracudas Sports Grill

10017 Hwy 441N, 357-6883Beef O’Brady’s

608 S Parrott Ave., 763-7300Blimpie Subs & Salads

3609 Hwy 441SE, 763-7629Brahma Bull Restaurant & Lounge

2405 Hwy 441SE, 467-0050Brewski’s

3495 Hwy 441SE, 763-1028Brown Cow Sweetery

103 SW Park St., 357-3357Burger King

604 EN Park St., 763-5900Chen Chinese Restaurant605 N Park St., 467-2688Cowboy’s Steak & BBQ

202 NE 7th Ave., 467-1104 Crossroads Restaurant

5050 NE 128th Avenue, 763-8333Cowtown Café

3235 Hwy 441SE, Suite B, 824-0347Dairy Queen

1212 S. Parrott Ave., 763-6675Dee-Stefano’s, Indiantown

15510 SW Trail Dr., 772-597-5600Ding-A-Ling Deli

2197 Hwy 441SE, 357-DELI (3354)Domino’s Pizza

1700 S Parrott Ave., 763-5565Five Guys Burgers

301 N Parrott Ave., 357-8732Gladys’ Restaurant

511 WS Park St., 763-9985

Golden Corral Restaurant700 S Parrott Ave., 763-0444

Hungry Howie’s Pizza3248 Hwy 441S, 467-2222

Jersey Mike’s Subs611 WS Park St., 467-8100

Joey’s Pizza and Subs107 WS Park St., 763-8383

Josiah’sBrighton Indian Res. 467-9998

Kahootz Drafthouse702 WN Park St., 763-2239

Kandie’s Family RestaurantBuckhead Ridge Marina, Hwy 78, 824-3444

Kentucky Fried Chicken3387 Hwy 441S, 763-2239

King House Chinese Restaurant3399 Hwy 441S, 357-7777

Landing Strip Cafe 2800 NW 29th Trail, 467-6828

Lightsey’s Seafood Restaurant10430 Hwy 78W, 763-4276

Lodge at the Lake1111 S Parrott Ave., 357-5634

LosCocos Mexican Restaurant107 NW 7th Ave., 467-0922

Lunker’s Sports Grill4825 Hwy 441S, 763-1900

Mama Flego’s Italian Restaurant202 NE 2nd St., 763-6235

McDonald’s401 N Park St., 763-5826

McDonald’s4151 Hwy 441S, 763-5856

Mom’s Kitchen909 S Parrott Ave., 763-7553

Nutmeg Tea House/Restaurant116 SW 4th Ave., 763-2233

Office Bar & Grill6315 Hwy 441SE, 467-8232Okeechobee Country Club405 NE 131st Ln., 357-1880

Pat’s Country Kitchen32601 Hwy 441N, 763-8900

Pizza Heaven208 S Parrott Ave., 763-9299

Pizza Hut2777 S Parrott Ave., 763-1800

Pogey’s Restaurant 1759 S Parrott Ave., 763-7222Popeye’s Chicken & Biscuits

822 NE Park St., 467-8891Pueblo Viejo Mexican Restaurant

3415 Hwy 441S, 357-9641Rio Bravo Mexican Restaurant

151 NW 36 St., 467-6655Roper’s Paradise Cafe

112 SE Park St., 763-9613Shenanigans

2232 NW 32nd Dr., 357-6100Son Rise Café,

301 NE 4th Ave., 763-4127Speckled Perch Steakhouse

105 Hwy 98N, 763-9983Subway

422 NE Park St., 467-6966Subway in Wal-Mart

2101 S Parrott Ave., 467-7827Subway South

8605 Hwy. 441 SE, 467-8512Taco Bell

3498 Hwy 441S, 467- 4444Top of the Lake Sports Grill3651 Hwy 441SE, 467-4477

Uncle Larry’s Rim Ditch Café2117 Hwy. 441SE, 763-5794

Wendy’s 502 NE Park St., 763-8181

Zippy’s Zesty Wings301 WS Park St., 763-1399


www.PuebloViejoRestaurants.com

Bienvenidos!Stop by today & taste ourAuthentic Mexican Food

that will keep you comingback for more!

Serving Great Mexican Food in Floridaand the Treasure Coast Since 1999

Open For Lunch & Dinner

3415 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, Florida

7 Days a WeekFrom 11:00 am To 10:00 pm

863.357.9641

Happy Hour 7 Days A Week11 am - 6 pm

Draft Beer 2 for 1Margaritas 2 for 1

Full Liquor Bar!

Serving Wine, Beer,

Early Birds

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

OkeechobeeClaws & Paws

Come and See us for

Pet Boarding& Daycare

Treating your pets like our family.

Call us at863-357-6700

2949 Hwy 70 West - Okeechobee, FL

Go to facebook to check out our hotel suite’s

for your pets

Law Office OfGerald Lefebvre1910 S. Parrott AVe.

Okeechobee, FL

Se Habla Español

763-3333

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”Your Hometown Injury Attorney

JUST CALL ME

“JERRY”

accidentattorneyo�ce.comPhone Answerd 24/7

Page 40


Q. What resources can an Occupational Health Service Provider, like Company Care, offer employers who need assistance with an injured employee’s medical care andor workers’ compensation protocol?

an outpatient department of:

A. Company Care provides employers with a one-stop shop for quality care for injured workers. When an injured employee is sent to Company Care, they can receive a full range of occupational health services including treatment for their injury, a drug screening (if requested/required), x-rays, labs and more - all in one location.

Company Care also provides comprehensive case management services to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the medical care of the injured employee. Company Care communicates to employers and/or workers’ compensation insurers that the Medical Plan of Treatment is being adhered to so that employees can return to work as soon as possible .

Jennifer BurgessCompany Care

Nurse Practitioner

THERE ARE MANY REASONS WHY WOMEN REQUIRE A HYSTERECTOMY.Raulerson Hospital provides Women’s Services, including Laparoscopic Hysterectomy.

A Laparoscopic Hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that replaces traditional hysterectomy surgery. A Laparoscopic Hysterectomy reduces pain and scarring and allows for a quicker return to normalcy. Most patients only require one overnight stay following their procedure.

Regardless of the reason for your hysterectomy, consider a laparoscopic hysterectomy and regain your quality of life today. For a free physician referral call Consult-a-Nurse at 763-9228, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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


Advertiser’s IndexA All Over Bail Bonds.....................................2Badcock & More...........................................13Beltone.........................................................3Big Lake Eye Care.............................Cover, 11Buxton ........................................................36

Center State Bank......................................33Chamber of Commerce...............................29Diamond R Fertilizer.....................................8Echols Plumbing............................................4Elis Western Wear..........................................9Farm Bureau..................................................34Ferrellgas.......................................................29Gator Pools .................................................39Heartland Pharmacy.....................................36Hi Tek Auto...................................................12Hospice of Okeechobee ............................. 12Jeanetts Interiors.......................................34Jeff Arnold Upholstery................................36KOA Resort.................................................31Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre......................39

Mobile Home Depot.....................................34Murray Insurance Services............................33Okeechobee Claws and Paws......................39Okeechobee Health Care ............................4Okeechobee Lake RV Park.............................9Platinum Performance Builders...................43Pritchards .....................................................2Pueblo Viejo................................................39Quik N’ Easy Self Storage............................29Raulerson Hospital.................................26, 40Rustic Styles and Cabins.............................42Shooters Choice.........................................33Silver Spurs................................................29Solid Waste Authority...........................24,25State Farm Insurance..................................43St. Lucie Battery & Tire..............................19The Shoe Box.............................................9Tonis Chic Botique.......................................4Total Road Side..............................Back CoverWater’s Edge Motor Coach Resort..............14Zachary Taylor Resort.................................41

• 225 Full Hookup• Free Wi-Fi• Laundry• Activities

• Heated Pool• Boat Ramp• Leasing• Much More

Email: [email protected]

2995 US Hwy. 441 SEOkeechobee, FL 34974

888-282-6523

A serene location a littleoff the beaten path

Zachary TaylorRV Resort

Page 42


505 NE Park St. Okeechobee, FL

LOG HOMES

HOME DECOR - GIFTSANTIQUES

CUSTOM METALBLACK SMITHING


221 NE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972

Wind Mitigations & Home Inspections

STATE LICENSED & INSURED - #CRC058109

Blue Ribbon Winner Treasure Coast Parade of Homes

863-467-1933We now have a 2nd location at 1120 NW Park Street

Quality - Commitment - Design

Please stop by and say, “Hi!”I’m looking forward to serving your needs

for insurance and financial services.Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL ME TODAY.

Hello,neighbor!

Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy Inc.Gretchen Robertson, Agent

309 NE 2nd STOkeechobee, FL 34972

Bus: 863-763-5561

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

24HREMERGENCY

SERVICE!863-634-6859

863-357-8772Tires • Shocks Brakes • A/C Repairs Alignments Welding • Trailer Repair

Diesel & Gasoline Engine Repair Mobile Oil & Lube PM ServiceAnnual D.O.T. Inspections

OKEECHOBEE

LAY-A-WAY AVAILABLELittle Down - Little Each Month!

How Safe is Your Rubber?Tires, Wheels & All Types of Mechanical Repairs

www.totalroadsideservices.com

ALWAYS THE BEST PRICES ON TIRES & WHEELS3176 Hwy 710 East - Okeechobee

InsuredLicensed

$49.95 AlignmentCovers Light Duty Vehicles Only

In House Financing!Come In and apply for your

Total Roadside Card.6 Months/Same as Cash

SUMITOMO

Documents

Okeechobee Florida Welcome Guide 2013