COMMUNITY GUIDE AND BUSINESS DIRECTORY
City of Okeechobee Celebrating Its Centennial Year
2015
Bringing theArts to Life! Music • Dance • Broadway Musicals • Family Shows and more! Plus,outdoor concerts, art exhibits and space for your event, too!
See our full schedule of performances here:
Box Office:
561-993-1160
1977 College Drive | Belle Glade campus
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Dr. Charles W. Bartels Board Certified Optometric Physician
(863) 763-3937 We Accept and Bill Most Major Insurance, Medicaid, Medicare & BlueCross Blue Shield Healthy Kids
606 North Parrott Ave Okeechobee 863-763-3937 Visit : www.biglakeeyecare.com
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COMMUNITY GUIDE AND BUSINESS DIRECTORY
55
45
Chamber
Economic Development
Community Guide
55 Indian River State College
History
25 The History of Okeechobee 29 City Celebrates 100 Years
Lifestyle
31 Okeechobee Real Estate 43 Places of Worship
Heathcare
45 Raulerson Hospital 2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
64
9 Welcome 10 Board of Directors 13 Chamber Benefits 15 Continued Growth of the Chamber
16 Welcome to Okeechobee 18 Map 20 Okeechobee County 21 City of Okeechobee 22 Important Phone Numbers
4
2015
52 Economic Council, Main Street, Chamber and TDC
Education
Dining Guide
58 Chamber Restaurant Members
Community Events
64 Events and Festivals
Recreation
69 Lake Okeechobee Area
Business Listing
81 Chamber Members
Advice, expertise and solutions for your entire financial life. We are committed to helping you pursue all of your financial goals with confidence—including those that go beyond investing. From helping you save for retirement to financing a purchase that enriches your life right now, we can deliver advice and solutions that address the full range of your financial goals—starting with the plan we create together. Connect with us today to understand why we believe this holistic approach to wealth management is essential to helping you realize everything that’s important to you. Advice you can trust starts with a conversation. Atlantic Wealth Management Group UBS Financial Services Inc. 712 SE Ocean Boulevard Stuart, FL 34994-2332 800-323-1139 ubs.com/team/atlantic Stephen L. Karr Sr Vice President--Wealth Mgmt Portfolio Manager Wealth Advisor 772-223-6602 stephen.karr@ubs.com
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Greg A. Thogersen Vice President--Wealth Mgmt 772-223-6605 greg.thogersen@ubs.com
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Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements. ©UBS 2014. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. D-UBS-A6F5DC53
COMMUNITY GUIDE AND BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Okeechobee's Only Full-Service, Family-Owned & Operated Funeral Home
2015
55 S Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 467-6246 www.okeechobeebusiness.com The 2015 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide has been published by Okeechobee The Magazine
• Phones Monitored By Family 24/7 • Burial, Cremation, Transfers Out-of-State • On-Site Crematory • Custom Monuments & Memorials • Public Or Private Gatherings
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400 N. Parrott Avenue - Okeechobee, Florida 34972 - (863) 763-1994
Publisher Susan E Giddings Art Director Bridgette Waldau Editor Rachel Buxton Photographers Sharon Cannon Sandra Pearce Writers Rachel Buxton Raye Deusinger Contributors Angie Francalancia Lori Mixon Aubrey Pearce Advertising/Production Staff Patti Berglund Trish Grygo The 2015 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Community Guide and Business Directory is published by Okeechobee The Magazine LLC located at 316 NW 5th Street, Okeechobee, FL. 34974, (863) 467-0054 for the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. The publisher and the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of Okeechobee The Magazine LLC. © 2015 Okeechobee The Magazine LLC
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
New year.
New Energy! Natural Gas is Now In The City of Okeechobee!
Florida Public Utilities (FPU) is delighted to announce that we are now officially serving commercial customers in the City of Okeechobee! Business owners, learn how you can get thousands of dollars in rebates (and conserve energy every month!) when you purchase qualifying natural gas equipment.
Take Your Business to the
Get natural gas rebates up to the following amounts: Commercial
Maximum
APPLIANCE
REBATE
Tank-sTyle WaTeR HeaTeR
$2,000
Tankless WaTeR HeaTeR
$2,500
Range
$1,500
FRyeR
$3,000
DRyeR
$1,500
next level and put the performance of natural gas to work for you!
ำน Save money and energy ำน Upgrade to high-performance
GET CASh REBATES
$
up to
50
per ton!
Also ask about eligible natural gas space conditioning units!
equipment that works smarter
ำน Enjoy a smaller carbon footprint and a larger bottom line
ำน Use domestic energy PROMO: CD14-244 103114 *Commercial rebate amounts for FPU-Indiantown Division customers may differ from what is displayed. Limit one rebate for each eligible appliance. Maximum rebate of up to $10,000 per account per year for appliances rebated under the New Construction and Retention (Gas to Gas) programs. Appliances will only be rebated under the Retention (Gas to Gas) program when the previous appliance has failed and is not repairable. Leased and used appliances are not eligible to be rebated under this program. Please contact FPU for more complete details regarding rebate categories, industry definitions and other factors that may influence rebate amounts and eligibility. PREQUALIFICATION IS REQUIRED.
Call FPU at 888.220.9356 or visit FPUC.com/CommercialRebates
Proudly Celebrating 90 years of Energy Excellence!
Florida has been home to seven generations of our family. The Heartland Area and Treasure Coast has helped us sustain our business for the last 88 years. We believe there is greatness in our state, our region and our Okeechobee community!
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Welcome
Chamber
Welcome to the 2015 Community Guide and Business Directory. In keeping with the mission statement of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County - to engage business and community leaders to improve the business climate, economy and quality of life in Okeechobee - the Board of Directors is proud to provide to the community a premier business reference and relocation tool. We welcome our members, community residents and visitors to have a look inside and see what Okeechobee has to offer. Our Chamber is strong and proactive, providing educational programs, events and training for all. Creating and supporting a business-friendly environment is an important part of our mission, alongside advocating issues and concerns important to our businesses and community members. The Board of Directors recognizes the most crucial relationship the Chamber fosters is not just with our members but also with you and investors. We encourage you to become a chamber member. As a chamber member you are seeking tools and resources to help your business prosper, and we have the tools to assist you in accomplishing your business goals. We work tirelessly on your behalf, because if your business is successful, the Chamber is successful. It is a symbiotic relationship. The Chamber continues to be the premier organization where you can network and develop professional business relationships within our community. As the Board of Directors looks forward to continuing to grow our membership in the coming year, as well as serving this community, we invite you to join us and assist in making Okeechobee a better place to raise a family, to work and to live. Thank you and God bless you.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Board of Directors (L-R) Wayne Cunningham, Robert Lee, Bill Dover, Terry W. Burroughs, Robert Keefe, Russ Brown and John W. Gurney. Seated: Susan Giddings, Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez and Tabitha Trent. Not pictured: Jeff Jones. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Chamber
BOARD
Terry W. Burroughs is a retired telecommunications executive, with over 32 years in the industry.
Upon retiring, he moved back to Okeechobee to manage the family business. Since his return, he has been involved with different organizations in the community. He currently is the president of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. He is the past president of the Okeechobee Rotary Club and serves on various boards in the community, including the City Planning Board, Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers, Raulerson Hospital Board of Trustees and the Agri-Civic Center Advisory Group. He is currently the Chairman of Florida’s Research Coast Economic Development Coalition. He is married to his wife, Maureen of 22 years, and has three children and six grandchildren.
Russ Brown proudly serves as
Indian River State College’s Provost for the Dixon-Hendry campus in Okeechobee. He has spent 18 years in the education arena, holding various positions for the Okeechobee County School Board grades K-12 and as Chief Executive Officer and Principal for Pemayetv Emahakv Charter School on the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation. Brown is very involved within the community participating in many organizations such as, board member of the Okeechobee Education Foundation, United Way of Okeechobee, Advisory Board for the FloridaLearns STEM Scholars, Okeechobee County Community Health Advisory Team, spokesperson for the Okeechobee March of Dimes, Executive Roundtable for the Shared Services Network of Okeechobee, IRSC’s School of Education Collaboration Team and takes part in the Economic Development Council of Okeechobee. He was born in Miami and is a graduate of Okeechobee High School. He is the proud father of Alexis, Ashtyn and Boyd.
Willard (Bill) Dover is a retired
lawyer with decades of practice in Fort Lauderdale after graduating from the University of Minnesota law school. He and his wife, Diane, live in Indian Hammock. Bill was a founding member of the South Florida Manufacturers Association, and a former chairman of the Broward Workshop, Florida Council on Economic Education and Florida Council of 100. His primary interest in Okeechobee is economic development to promote capital investment and employment for our county.
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Wayne Cunningham is the
general manager of Glades Media Radio stations WOKC 1570AM and 100.9FM along with WAFC 106.1FM Radio Fiesta, both located in Okeechobee. His broadcast career has covered more than four decades in radio and television. Before returning home to Okeechobee in 2003, Wayne was group marketing manager for the Meredith Television Group in Des Moines, IA and television research group manager for Sinclair Broadcasting. Wayne was the long-time promotions manager and research director at WPTV Channel 5, West Palm Beach. Locally, Wayne has served on the board of directors for the United Way, Ag-Venture and the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Okeechobee. He has also served on the Big Brothers Big Sisters Okeechobee Advisory Committee and the 2-1-1 Advisory Board. Wayne’s daughters and son have blessed him with seven grandchildren so far.
Susan Giddings is the publisher and owner of Okeechobee the Magazine. She holds degrees in business administration and accounting. She is very community minded and extremely involved locally in volunteering for various local, civic and charity organizations and currently sits on the board of Martha’s House as the treasurer. Married to husband, Ray, and has two adult daughters.
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
John W. Gurney has an extensive business background including as a newspaper editor, owner of an ad agency and manager of numerous businesses in publishing, Internet sales and a radio station. His economic development background began with the Council of 100 in Highlands County Florida in the late 1970s. He currently serves on the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce Board, Business Development Committee, Chairman of the Business Assistance Committee and Okeechobee Main Street Board. He worked as a business services consultant under the Regional Workforce Board for about nine years. These positions have enabled him to work with many governmental agencies from the federal, state and local levels, as well as cultivate valuable contacts and resources connected with economic development. Robert (Bobby) Keefe, a native of Okeechobee, served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 2001 to 2012. He held many leadership positions during his tenure as a logistics officer, including commanding troops in combat. After returning to his hometown, he and wife, Bianca, founded The Lounge at Sacred Sanctuary, LLC - a wellness center in downtown Okeechobee. Bobby is involved with various local charities and enjoys public speaking. As a Wounded Warrior himself, he is an advocate for Wounded Warriors of South Florida, a non-profit charity that provides immediate, temporary financial assistance to Wounded Warriors in need. He is also a Veteran-to-Veteran volunteer at Hospice of Okeechobee. Coming back to his hometown after a decade of military service, Bobby is dedicated to giving back to the community and getting involved with its growth and prosperity as a member of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Board of Directors. He earned his degree in psychology from the University of Maryland University College and his life coaching certification from Orange County Life Coaching Institute. Bobby is married to the former Bianca Padgett of Managua, Nicaragua. They have three children, Zane, Leah and Ricky.
Jeff Jones is the Chief Executive
Officer and General Manager of Jones Supply A. I. Sales & Service, Inc. the number one dealer in the South East U.S. for ADM Alliance Nutrition. Prior to moving to Okeechobee in 2006, he was serving in the U.S Army. He retired after 23 years of service with tours in the U. S., Europe and Southwest Asia. He has served on the House Committee VFW Post 10935, Board of Directors Okeechobee County Fair Association, and now on Board of Directors Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce. Jeff earned his degree in business administration and marketing from Columbia Southern University. He has been married to his wife, Alicia, for 26 years, they have four children and eight grandchildren. Robert Lee is the Chief Executive Officer of Raulerson Hospital. He began his career with Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) in 1992 working in different roles at various hospitals in the HCA East Florida Division. Robert’s dedication to the community of Okeechobee is not just in healthcare. He currently serves on the boards of the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce, Seacoast National Bank, the Okeechobee Economic Council and the Lake Okeechobee Rural Health Network. Robert attended college in New York City and has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration. Robert is married to Robbin and has one son, Tyler, who attends the University of Central Florida. Tabitha Trent, a native of Okeechobee, attended the University of Florida’s Florida School of Banking, and graduated with honors. She has been in banking for 27 years and is currently a retail market manager and vice president for CenterState Bank. Trent is very community minded and believes in giving back and paying it forward. She is part of several civic organizations including the Okeechobee Educational Foundation, Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee, Rotary Club of Okeechobee, YOUNIFIED and the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce. Trent is also a children’s church teacher for More 2 Life Ministries. She is married to her husband, Jay, and they have a son, Chase.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Chamber
Chamber Benefits
Our Values
Leading the way to foster business and community connections.
The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County serves the community and helps strengthen and build that rich history, while also helping to create business and career opportunities. Please read through this community guide and business directory to see what Okeechobee has to offer. Whether you are a resident, a business owner, thinking about relocating here or a visitor to Okeechobee, we are certain that Okeechobee has what you are looking for.
Benefits for Chamber Members Include: Value of Information
The Chamber brings you unique resources including immediate IRS Small Business Information and access to SCORE for free business counseling – all information that is timely and relevant to the success of your business operation. The Chamber also provides you with information through access to money-saving member-to-member discounts, informational seminars throughout the year, ribbon-cutting events and personal development programs such as Leadership Okeechobee.
Value of Influence
By advancing innovative solutions that create jobs, increase local investment and enhance our region, the Chamber is a catalyst for business prosperity. It fosters a vibrant and interconnected business community where collaboration increases capacity, education enhances ability and advocacy influences authority.
Value of Interaction
The Chamber provides opportunity. People want to do business with people they know, like and trust. Networking, member-to-member programs and partnerships foster relationships that encourage leads, referrals and more business for our members.
Value of Impact
The Chamber represents hundreds of employees – the strength of our membership and the direct results of our initiatives affect outcomes that benefit our members.
Value of Innovation
We value both innovation and tradition. As a proactive and forward-thinking organization, we create meaningful programs that add value to meet the needs of an ever-changing world. We embrace the possibilities of the future while preserving our community’s rich history.
Interested in becoming a member? Call us at 863-467-6246 or email Antoinette@okeechobeebusiness.com
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Chamber Chamber
The Continued Growth of the Chamber 2014 was an action-packed year for the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. The Chamber was more than successful in maintaining its core goal to service businesses in the community by reaching out to new businesses and encouraging business growth throughout the county of Okeechobee. In the past year the Chamber increased membership from 134 to over 250 members. The Chamber also held 19 grand openings for new businesses and two ribbon cuttings for existing businesses this past year. Along with a growing membership, the Chamber also improved networking events and services for its members and the community. Some of the events included powernetworking breakfasts, quarterly business exchange luncheons and Business After Hours, all giving members and community members an opportunity to network in a relaxed and fun setting. Thanks to the Business Assistance Program, the Chamber was able to assist over 63 businesses create business plans, help with budgeting, workman’s comp, taxes and much more. The Business Development Committee worked with more than 20 new and existing businesses on Enterprise Zone benefits that resulted in over $800,000 in sales tax relief along with assisting them through city and county processes. L a s t ye a r a l s o m a r k e d t h e first graduating class from the Leadership Program that was launched in September of 2013 to prepare future and potential leaders to meet the challenges ahead for Okeechobee.
2014 marked an exciting new venture for the Chamber with the Inaugural Business of the Year Awards. Three businesses were selected to receive the great honor of being named one of Okeechobee’s businesses of the year. The prestigious contest was broken down into three categories: Gross Income 1 Million or Less, Gross Income 1 Million or More and National Corporate Business. The three businesses that received the honors and titles were Brown Cow Sweetery, American Drilling Services, Inc. and Waste Management, Inc./Okeechobee Landfill, all within their respective categories. With much success and growth during 2014, the Chamber is looking forward to doing even more for Okeechobee’s local businesses and community in the upcoming year. The Chamber of Commerce is located at 55 S. Parrott Ave. in downtown Okeechobee, FL. For more information on how to become a member or for member offerings, please visit the website, www.okeechobeebusiness. com or call 863-467-6246 and speak with Executive Director, Antoinette Rodriguez. n
Business of the Year Winners 2014-2015
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Community
GUIDE
Welcome to
Okeechobee
A diverse community with a family atmosphere. Okeechobee is much more than a dot on the map. It’s a town rich in culture and history that continues to prosper. O ke e c h o b e e we l c o m e s everyone to come and see what makes this dot so very special.
W
elcome to Okeechobee, a growing community that prides itself on its rich past and history. This is a county that welcomes diversity but retains its smalltown family atmosphere. Okeechobee offers year-round activities, quality education, cutting-edge medicine and open space for relaxation, all without the pressures of intense urban living. Located conveniently right in the middle of the state, Okeechobee has a moderate climate with summer temperatures averaging from 72 to 93 and mild winters from 49 to 73, making for comfortable days and cool evenings. With comfortable year-round temperatures and an average rainfall of only 53 inches, outdoor activities continue throughout the entire year. Okeechobee has the second largest freshwater lake in the United States. The lake itself is a nationally known tourist attraction that draws people from all over the country. The lake combines outdoor living with sports, culture and community activities. It covers approximately 730 square miles, with an average diameter of 45 miles and an average depth of 14 feet, with the deepest point being 22 feet. With an excellent road system encircling the lake, travelers have several scenic viewpoints to visit, including several campgrounds, RV parks, restaurants and recreational facilities located along the lake’s perimeter. C. Scott Driver Park, located on Hwy 78 W at the Kissimmee River, provides facilities for hikers, boaters and fishermen. With Okeechobee only 70 miles from West Palm Beach, 115 from Tampa, 105 from Orlando and 135 from Miami, the crossroads in the center of town offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban settings but also
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
provides convenience to Florida attractions, beaches and amenities of larger cities within a short drive. The major interstates, railway, waterways, ports and airport provide unlimited access. Okeechobee life extends past county limits. On Hwy 78, immediately across the Kissimmee River, is Glades County that houses the community of Buckhead Ridge. Residents of Buckhead Ridge work, attend school and otherwise participate in the life of Okeechobee. If you continue south on Hwy 78 W you will arrive on the outskirts of the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation. It encompasses 35,000 acres of rich land that is farmed, fished and hunted by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. The reservation is a small community all in itself, boasting a state-of-the-art rodeo arena, a casino and modern centers for education and sports. The Brighton reservation even has their very own charter school, Pemayetv Emahakv, that was founded in 2007 and that expands the normal classroom curriculum with the teaching of the history and language of the Seminole Tribe. The reservation is open to the public with the Brighton community encouraging tourists to come learn about their culture and history. The Seminole Tribe of Florida and Okeechobee residents have a longstanding relationship. Brighton residents continue to play a very active role in Okeechobee’s community. Okeechobee is always looking for new ways to expand upon their culture and activities. A mural program depicting local historical times and events can be found on the side of what is now referred to as the Freshman Campus. The city’s active cultural environment includes an annual arts festival held in the center of town, a community theater program that has entertained residents for over 35 years, as well as drama and art activities for the youth.
Okeechobee’s history is on display at the museum and library, with downloadable material, Internet access and various cultural programs. Throughout the year there is never a lack of activities and events for residents to partake in. Many civic associations and service clubs help sponsor and put on events such as the Top of the Lake Day of the American Cowboy, the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, a community blood drive, a Labor Day parade, festivals in the park, year-round rodeos and an annual re-enactment of the battle of the second Seminole War called the Battle of Okeechobee. There are also monthly mixers that bring businesses and the community together. Okeechobee continues to grow and build on its rich history. With so much to offer in history and present day activities, Okeechobee is a perfect place to call home for many and a wonderful attraction for all. As you read through the Community Guide you will soon discover the many diverse offerings our community has to offer. n
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Community
GUIDE
Gateway To South Florida
Okeechobee County
Driving Distances to Major Cities from Okeechobee, Florida
Okeechobee Demographics The year-round population of Okeechobee County is 39,996 according to the 2010 census. From November to May, there are an estimated 30,000 additional seasonal residents. The population of the market area (30 mile radius of downtown Okeechobee) is 174, 528. Approximately 6 million visitors per year come to enjoy activities around Lake Okeechobee, and about 75% of the state’s population lives within 2 hours of Okeechobee.
Orlando 110 Miles
•
Tampa 130 Miles
•
•
Cape Canaveral 119 Miles
Port St. Lucie
Ft. Myers 95 Miles
• •
Naples 130 Miles
• 33 Miles Palm • WestBeach 63 Miles
• •
Fort Lauderdale 105 Miles
Miami 125 Miles
Lake Okeechobee
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Sandra Pearce Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015 19
Community
GUIDE
Welcome from the
Okeechobee County Commissioners
If you want to see the natural beauty of Florida and experience “a land remembered”, you have come to the right place. Visually beautiful prairies and expanses of grazing land for large cattle ranches and dairies; rivers, lakes and forests for hunting and fishing; trails for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing; a life style based on a pioneer spirit with an appreciation for the land. Okeechobee County, located at the north end of Lake Okeechobee, a lake that is known by bass fishermen throughout the United States, and ranked in the top ten bass fishing lakes by Bass Master Magazine, is an outdoorsman’s paradise. For those who enjoy shooting sports, our county has two highly acclaimed venues which offer sporting clay, trap and skeet courses and “Single Action Shooting Society” or ”Cowboy Action” shooting events. If quiet activities are more your preference, then the Kissimmee River State Park is the place for you: hiking, wildlife viewing and the darkest night skies which make it one of the only places in Florida where one can enjoy the stars and planets without the intrusion of artificial light. The park has applied for recognition as an international Dark Sky Park which would make it one of only 20 in the world. Or find the solitude and beauty of Lake Okeechobee, by hiking or biking the scenic trail atop the dike which surrounds the lake. This trail is celebrated each year by groups of intrepid hikers who spend 8 to 9 days hiking the 100 + miles around the lake. If golf is where you find your solitude, you can enjoy a round on one of several courses in Okeechobee. Okeechobee County, a desirable place to live, to work and to enjoy the natural beauty of “the other Florida.”
Okeechobee County Board of Commissioners (L-R) Bryant H. Culpepper, Chairman Frank Irby, Margaret Garrard Helton and Terry Burroughs.
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Welcome from the
Okeechobee City Council Welcome to our community! We invite you to join us in celebrating our City’s centennial this year!
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15 - 2015
Our Pion�ring Spirit Endures
One hundred years in the making, “Our Pioneering Spirit Endures.” That’s the slogan that the Centennial Committee assigned to our festivities and we think it’s fitting. Our diverse past has created a friendly atmosphere that is unique to only smaller towns. We pride ourselves on this characteristic and with one visit to Okeechobee you will understand what southern hospitality really is. Follow along with the centennial festivities at: www. facebook.com/OkeechobeeCentennial, https:// twitter.com/Okeechobee100, http://instagram. com/okeechobee100 and on the City’s website at www.cityofokeechobee.com. As we take the time to examine our heritage it’s noticeable that some of the pioneers that formed our quiet community left lasting impressions. The agri-business sector still thrives in spite of modern day adversities. The Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association treats us to rodeos and each year we celebrate the tradition of the Day of the Cowboy with a cattle drive right through the middle of town. Our successful commercial district is composed of a variety of services, retailers and restaurants that can handle our population’s needs, along with the huge influx of snowbirds. We have two industrial parks which serve as a source of employment and potential growth opportunity. Okeechobee is known as the Speckled Perch Capital of the World. Lake Okeechobee serves as a vast natural resource for the fishing industry, as well as a sportsman’s paradise, attracting several nationally sanctioned bass tournaments. Thanks for taking the opportunity to learn more about the Okeechobee area. Whether it’s for recreational purposes, shopping, festivals, employment or to consider moving to our fine community, we welcome you. City Council Members (L-R) Noel Chandler, Dowling Watford, Mayor James E. Kirk, Mike O’Connor and Gary Ritter. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Community
GUIDE
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Aid and Emergency Phone Numbers Okeechobee County Area Code, 863 All Emergencies 911 Police, Fire and Rescue 911 Poison Control Center (800) 222-1222 FIRE Fire Emergency 911 City Fire - Business 467-1586 County Fire - Business 763-5544 Forest Fire Reporting 462-5160 POLICE Police Emergency 911 City Police - Business 763-5521 County Sheriff - Business 763-3117 TDD 763-0077 Project 1511 763-1511 Coast Guard Marine & Air Emergency Fort Pierce (772) 464-6100 FBI (772) 461-6142 FL Marine Patrol (561) 624-6935 HOSPITAL Raulerson Hospital 763-2151 CITIZEN SERVICES Abuse, Elder & Child Hotline (800) 962-2873 Al-Anon, Alateen, N.A., Adult Children of Alcoholics & AA 763-1006 Children’s Services Council 462-5000 ext. 255 Consumer Affairs Complaints (800) 435-7352 Florida Abuse Hotline (800) 962-2873 Hospice of Okeechobee 467-2321 Hope Hospice (BHR) 763-2404 Hope Hospice (Glades Co.) 467-3604 Martha’s House Domestic Violence Shelter 763-0202 Mental Health Services New Horizons 462-0040 After hours (888) 468-5600 Missing Children Information FL 1-888-FL-MISSING (1-888-356-4774) Okeechobee Senior Services 462-5180 Physician’s Referral Service (24 hour) 763-9228
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Pregnancy Center 467-8748 Public Safety 763-3212 Senior Services 462-5180 Shared Services Network 462-5000 ext. 257 Veterans Service Office 763-8124 OKEECHOBEE COUNTY Animal Control 357-3225 Driver’s Licenses 462-5225 Emergency Management 763-3212 www.okeechobeeoc.com Tax Collector 763-3084 CITY, COUNTY AND STATE OFFICES Okeechobee County Area Code 863 Attorney General (FL) 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 and Development 763-5548 Dept. of Children & Families 462-5700 Division of Forestry 462-5160 Environmental Protection 462-5888 FL Fish & Wildlife Commission 462-5190 Health Department 462-5819 Insurance (Fla. Dept. of Financial Services) (800) 693-5236 | myfloridacfo.com Internal Revenue Service (IRS) (800) 829-1040 Okeechobee Landfill 357-0824 Okeechobee Sports Complex-Pool 467-7667 Okeechobee Utility Authority 763-9460 or 763-3793 After-hours emergency 357-0490 Parks & Recreation Dept. 763-6950 Post Office 763-3616 Property Appraiser 763-4422 Public Defender 763-7977 Public Library 763-3536 Rehabilitation Facility 763-6226 School Superintendent 462-5000 Social Security (800) 772-1213 TDD (800) 325-0778 Tourist Development Council 763-3959 State’s Attorney 763-5557 Supervisor of Elections 763-4014
GUIDE
Community
Tax Collector 763-3084 UTILITIES Florida Power & Light (800) 226-3545 CenturyLink (800) 201-4099 Comcast (800) 934-6489 Florida Public Utilities 763-2115 Okeechobee Utility Auth. (water) 763-9460
VFW Post #4423 763-0818 VFW Post #10539 763-2308 VFW Post #9528 467-2882
CIVIC CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS There 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.
American Business Women’s Association 763-3131 American Legion #64 763-2950 American Legion Auxiliary 763-4953 American Red Cross 763-2488 Business Women’s Referral Network 610-2176 Chamber of Commerce (Okeechobee) 467-6246 East Coast Migrant Head Start 467-0702 Economic Council Okeechobee County 467-0200 Elks Lodge 467-0550 or 634-1605 Fraternal Order of Eagles #4137 763-2552 Fraternal Order of Eagles #4509 467-1154 Friends of the Okeechobee Library 763-3536 Girl Scouts 763-4631 or 763-5102 Guardian ad Litem 697-1717 Habitat for Humanity 763-13714 Kiwanis Club 634-1778 Loyal Order of the Moose #2417 763-2250 Masonic Lodge #237 357-0427 and 763-1610 Ministerial Association 697-1308 Moose Lodge 763-4954 Okeechobee Battlefield Friend 763-6246 Okeechobee County Board of Realtors 467-0004 Okeechobee Co. Education Association 467-1564 Okeechobee Historical Society & Museum 763-4344 Okeechobee Golf Association (Mens & Ladies) 763-6228 Okeechobee Main Street 357-MAIN (6246) Okeechobee Co. Recreational Association 763-6950 Overeaters Anonymous 763-7165 or 763-5324 Quilters Tantie 357-0868 Retired Senior Volunteer Program 450-9402 Retired Teachers Association 763-5755 Rotary Club 763-4224 Shrine Club 763-3378
PUBLIC SCHOOLS Central Elementary 610 SW 5th Ave. K-4 462-5077 Everglades Elementary 725 SE 8th St. K-5 462-5108 North Elementary 3000 NW 10th Terr. K-5 462-5100 Seminole Elementary 2690 NW 42nd Ave. K-5 462-5119 South Elementary 2468 SW 7th Ave. K-4 462-5087 Osceola Middle 825 SW 28th St. 5-8 462-5070 Yearling Middle 925 NW 23rd Ln. 6-8 462-5056 Okeechobee Freshman Campus 610 SW 2nd Ave. grade 9 462-5288 Okeechobee High School 2800 Hwy. 441 N. 10-12 462-5025 Okeechobee Achievement Academy 1000 NW 34th St. 462-5125 PRIVATE SCHOOLS Okeechobee Adventist Christian School 412 NW 6th St. 763-0763 john.sufficool@floridaconference.com Okeechobee Christian Academy 701 S Parrott Ave. 763-3072 Grades K4 - 8 www.okeechobeechristianacademy.net Peace Lutheran School 750 NW 23rd Lane 763-7566 Lutheran VPK Program, 2 year to 5K ksmith-peaceokee@embarqmail.com Rock Solid Christian Academy 401 SW 4th St. 763-1847, Baptist rocksolidca@embarqmail.com COLLEGES Indian River State College (Okeechobee campus) 824-6000 Indian River State College (Main Campus-Ft. Pierce) (866) 792-4772
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OKEECHOBEE
History
The History of Okeechobee The events that helped make Okeechobee the wonderful place it is today. With a history that dates back for centuries and one made up of tragedy and perseverance, Okeechobee only continues to pay homage to their deep roots and history.
O
keechobee means “big water” in the Seminole Indian language, an appropriate name being that Lake Okeechobee is the second largest fresh water lake in the United States, second in size only to Lake Michigan. Over the years, Lake Okeechobee has had many names, the earliest of which being Mayaimi (an early Indian Tribe.) It has also gone by the names Laguna del Esperitu Santo, meaning Lake of the Holy Spirit, Lake Mayacco and Lake Mayoco before finally being named Lake Okeechobee.
State Park, commemorating the event, is located on U.S. Hwy 441 SE, just a few miles southeast of the city.
Until the late 1830s, the dense untamed landscape of Central Florida deterred exploration.
Driston began work on a route through land covered with water oak, cypress, rubber and palmetto trees, beginning in the City of Kissimmee and heading south to Lake Okeechobee.
Following efforts to relocate native tribes to the west, the Seminole Indians had only one avenue of escape, south. The U.S. Army pursued a band of Seminoles 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 between the Seminole Indians and Col. Zachary Taylor’s U.S. Army unit. What became the bloodiest battle of the Second Seminole War ended with many U.S. casualties and the Seminole Indians retreating deep into the swamp. Today the 145-acre Okeechobee Battlefield
Following the Seminole’s escape, the marshy region on the lake’s northern coast remained unexplored until the 1880s when Hamilton Driston brought dredges. Driston 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.
Soon after the excavation began people started to take notice of the beautiful land and lake. In October 1896 Peter and Louisiana (Chandler) Raulerson arrived at Taylor Creek, a few miles north of the lake. The Raulersons stretched 30 miles of fence from Taylor Creek to the Kissimmee River, enclosing the river’s bend. Shortly thereafter, other settlers began to arrive. W.A. “Buster” Ferrell built a home just west of Taylor Creek and Samuel L. Gray paddled his way down the Kissimmee River to Lake Okeechobee in 1899. ➢
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History
OKEECHOBEE A year earlier, the Raulerson family built the first schoolhouse at the river’s bend to provide an education for their children. At the time six children were required to start a school. To have enough children the Yates children were “borrowed” from Fort Drum, just to the north. Dr. George M. Hubbard, a Connecticut Yankee the children nicknamed, “Mother Hubbard” served as the first teacher. The U.S. government sent Henry Hudson Hancock and his brother James to survey an area of the lake. Henry decided to move his family to Taylor Creek and took over as the schoolteacher. Later, he became instrumental in establishing the area’s first voting precinct in 1903 with seven voters. As the population increased, Tantie Huckabee, a well-educated lady from South Carolina was brought down to teach. The community honored her energy and enthusiasm by naming the school after her. Her name was also given to the first post office, and the town began to be known as Tantie. A thriving economy drew even more settlers to Tantie. 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 established Upthegrove Beach, a tiny town on the north shore of Lake Okeechobee. In time, it 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 that would run from Maytown, north of Titusville on the east coast, to Tantie. Because of the new developments in and around the town, on Oct. 4, 1911 the name Tantie was deemed inappropriate 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 originated from the area’s Indian heritage: Okeechobee, Seminole, Osceola, Hicpochee, Miami, Kissimmee, Parrott, Tallahassee, Cherokee, Hiwasee, Micanopee, Meridith and Oklosnokee. Those names remained until the 1970s when streets and avenues were given new names and numbers.
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After a visit to the region, 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 today. 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. Florida Gov. Park Trammell (1913 to 1917) appointed municipal officers that included Mayor 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. Okeechobee’s first Chief of Police or City Marshal was Benjamin F. Hall, who was appointed July 14, 1915 and served until September 1915. He was succeeded by J.W. Raulerson and William E. “Pogey Bill” Collins. Okeechobee was finally 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.
lifeline for South Florida. It stores and supplies water to many cities and agricultural communities to its south. Locks located approximately every seven miles around the lake provide fishing and boating access. 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 reside in the City of Okeechobee. It is known for dairy and beef cattle, fishing and tourism industries. The industrial park located next to the county airport is a growing area that provides several advantages to manufacturers. Okeechobee may be considered small in size but its history is long and rich. The small-town community is largely cultured and diverse having gone through many changes over the past several centuries. Different names, different people, different buildings. But all the changes, big and small, have made Okeechobee what it is today, a place many our proud to call home. n
Over the years Okeechobee has endured many devastating storms and hurricanes. Two of the most deadly occurred within two years of each other. In 1926 a storm came rolling through with 125 mph winds. Lake Okeechobee flooded killing hundreds and injuring thousands. But the real blow came in 1928 when a second and even worse storm struck. As it moved throughout South Florida the floodwaters of Lake Okeechobee rose as high as 12 feet. The death toll went into the thousands. To prevent such devastation in the future, the Hoover Dike was created in 1929. The dike protects areas around the lake from flood damage during hurricane season. Lake Okeechobee is the water Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Paint Store Group Sam Moody Manager
863-824-6101 Fax: 863-824-6103
820 E. North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
Celebrating 84 Years Serving the Glades
Make it Your Home! www.RoyalsInc.com
Rick Chartier (863) 467.9090
Sales • Service Audio Visual Networking Phone Systems Cabling Accessories 403 S. PARROTT AVE. OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA
Email: sales@icsflorida.com
www.icsflorida.com 28
Five Convenient Showrooms: Okeechobee, Belle Glade, Clewiston, Immokalee and Sebring In Store Financing Available.
(863) 763.6293
804 E. North Park Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
OKEECHOBEE
History
Celebrating 100 Years This year is not just another year for the residents of Okeechobee. The City of Okeechobee is celebrating a very special birthday as 2015 marks the 100th anniversary of the City. Over the past 100 years, the City of Okeechobee has grown from just a dot on the map that was primarily known for its fish industry, to a prosperous and very diverse community that only continues to progress and grow. Throughout the previous year, members of the City of Okeechobee Centennial Committee worked zealously towards preparing for a year of celebration. Okeechobee’s Centennial Celebration will commemorate where we as a City have come from and where we are going. It will be a yearlong celebration filled with events and festivities that you won’t want to miss. The centennial year “kick-off” is scheduled for Jan. 9 and will be held nowhere other than the center of Okeechobee, Flagler Park. Along with a grand kick-off, other events planned to help us relish in our past and present, include a 100-day scavenger hunt, historic bus tours and a heritage festival. Multiple parties are also scheduled to take place during the year such as the Mayor’s Centennial Gala, the Centennial Frolic and of course, the City’s birthday party. To help document how far we have come as a city for yet another 100 years, the City will be preparing a time capsule, as well as creating a special commemorative brick walkway at City Hall. This year will be full of history, memories and surprises as we celebrate our 100th anniversary. It will most definitely be the celebration of the century.
Events Scheduled: Centennial Kick-Off, Jan. 9 Scavenger Hunt, Jan. 19 Historic Bus Tours, Multiple Dates Mayor’s Centennial Gala, April 18 City’s Birthday Party, June 13 Heritage Festival, Oct. 10 Centennial Frolic Dec. 11 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Lifestyle
Okeechobee Real Estate A house and community for every want and need. Okeechobee may appear small is size but it will definitely exceed anyone’s needs and expectations when looking for real estate. Whether it be for ranch and cattle living or water and city living, Okeechobee will satisfy.
O
keechobee may be small in size, but when it comes to real estate it has plenty to offer. With a variety of interests, lifestyles and opportunities this small town will allow you to live life just as you desire. If you want quaint but yet still welcome growth and development, Okeechobee is the place for you. A place where there is an endless variety of home styles to suit everyone and anyone’s needs.
If you’re coming to Okeechobee for the lake, where better to live than right on the lake itself? Imagine enjoying a morning cup of coffee as you watch the sun slowly begin to glisten on the water. In River Oak Acres you can. A homes-only community, River Oak Acres lets you enjoy fishing and water sports right off your own private dock. And a little added bonus, the community also has its own airstrip. ➢
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A name you can trust.
Abney Building & Consulting is Okeechobee’s hometown design, construction and consulting company. Known for delivering peace of mind and quality structures, we emphasize the need to consistently exceed our client’s expectations. This is our mission and our commitment to you. 32
Contact Wes Abney, President at 863.532.9074 or abneybuild@gmail.com 210 NE 3rd Ave., Okeechobee
Commercial Residential | DesignCounty | Construction | Consulting | CBC058152 2015 | Chamber of&Commerce of Okeechobee Guide
Lifestyle St. Lic. #CMCO54668
Refrigeration ~ AC ~ Ice Machines
If you desire to be closer to town but don’t want to sacrifice the waterfront property, Palm Creek Estates might just be the place you’re looking for. Palm Creek Estates is a gated community with lake access from Taylor Creek.
Okeechobee 863-763-2114 804 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Clewiston 863-983-8111 311 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL 33440
Along with River Oak Acres, River Acres and Sunset Strip Airpark also offer private airstrips. Home parcels average one to five acres and are just a quick 15 minutes from the center of town.
LaBelle 866-942-7280 We also service LaBelle, FL
If a waterfront, custom-built home on one-half to one-acre of land is what you desire then Flying G Estates or Lorodo Shores may be just the place to call home.
Serving the Glades since 1929 Carrier
Along with the lake, Okeechobee ➢
• Residentail • Agriculture • Commercial
Experience, Integrity and Hard Work Opening Doors is What We Do... David Hazellief, BROKER (863) 610-1553 Betty Hazellief (863) 610-0144 Sharon Prevatt (863) 634-7069 Lucy Olivarez (Ofc. Admin) (863) 763-2104 Carmen Guerrero Accounts (Payable/Receivable)
863-763-2104 Se Habla Español
1200 South Parrot Avenue Okeechobee, Florida
Email: century21okeechobee@earthlink.net
www.Century21Okeechobee.com Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Lifestyle
BERGER REAL ESTATE
Thinking of buying or selling? Call the Professionals at Coldwell Banker Berger Real Estate.
is known for their cowboys. And for cowboys, land is essential. With plenty of land on the outskirts of town, equestrian lovers will find a variety of areas that will allow them to raise their horses. There is R Bar Estates, a community very close to town or if you prefer rural-acreage developments you should check out Lazy 7 Ranches or Country Hills. If you want room to roam with acreage to enjoy the outdoors, you’re in luck, as you will find land to choose from conveniently located on all sides of Okeechobee. Crooked Creek on the east side, Quail Acres on the north and Quail Woods on the southeast side of the city all offer plenty of land and room. If the outdoors appeals to you then you might also like the rural areas of Fort Drum and the Viking Properties, just north on 441 and that encompasses 25 square miles of one-and-a-quarter acres or more home sites.
863-763-5335
www.cbbergerrealestate.com 425 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
Peggy Carpenter-Brady
VP & Commercial Account Specialist
3960 SE 18th Terrace - Okeechobee, FL 34974
If hunting and fishing are more your style the upscale private community Pine Creek Sporting Club is definitely worth taking a look at. North of town, with multi-acre lots, Pine Creek has much to offer, including skeet shooting, hunting and even a helicopter pad. Also north of town, is Indian Hammock Horse Riding Club with a private skeet and trap range, airfield and hunting preserve spread over 3,600 acres. For the golfing enthusiasts or those who just prefer the ambiance of being on a golf course, there are three communities built around courses in Okeechobee. There’s Blue Heron near the center of the city, Okeechobee ➢
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
(Cell) 863-697-6209 (Office) 863-824-0885 peggy@miltoncarpenterins.com
Rebecca "Becky" Barber Broker 863-697-9786
863-623-5097 (FAX)
Ana Jones John Woloski Realtor Realtor 561-718-1212 863-634-7267
Kaydee Yates Realtor 772-571-7950
517 SW Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972 Email: preferredpropertiresofokee@gmail.com
www. preferredpropertiesofokeechobee.org
Vicki Anderson (863) 634-4106
(863) 634-4107
21442 E. SR 78 -Buckhead Ridge Okeechobee, FL 34974 Vic_Anderson@earthlink.net
Eric Anderson
Shelly Doyle
Personal Assistant
863-801-3119
shellydoyle@ymail.com
Anderson Realty Co.
is seasoned at aiding new and experienced in all areas of real estate. Contact us if your needs include a real estate pro experienced at the business side of real estate.
For All Of Our Listings, Please Visit Our Website: www.AndersonRealtyCo.com
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Lifestyle Serving You For 58 Years.
Furniture - Appliances - Electronics
Golf and Country Club north of the city and Blue Cypress southeast of the city near the lake. Okeechobee is one big family, and with numerous families continuing to grow, this city has many familyfriendly neighborhoods in and around its nine school zones. These areas include Conner’s Gables, Lazy 7 Estates, Basswood, Okeechobee Estates and Buckhead Ridge just across the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78, an area with direct “lock” access to Lake Okeechobee.
www.badcock.com
512 W. North Park Street Linda Ballinger Okeechobee, Florida Owner
863-763-3823
Several of Okeechobee’s communities are known for their beautiful landscaping and oak hammocks. If that’s what you’re looking for you’ll enjoy the beauty of The Oaks of Blue Heron, Airi Acres, Edgewater Acres, Brentwood Estates, Eagle Point and the popular and beloved community of Oak Lake Estates. For those who want a lot of space – 10-plus acres – they should consider Shermanwood Ranches, Bridlewood ➢
Paying too much for insurance? Our team will shop for you. HOME • LIFE • HEALTH • FLOOD • AUTO • COMMERCIAL BOAT • MOTORCYCLE • RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
877-763-6625 Se Habla Español OKEECHOBEE
1802 S. Parrott, Okeechobee, FL 34974 Direct: 863-763-7711
MOORE HAVEN
691 US Hwy 27, Ste.2, Moore Haven, FL 33471 Direct: 863-946-9133
PORT ST. LUCIE
10791 SW Tradition Square, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987 Direct: 772-345-7700
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Gator Pools Monthly Pool Services - Pool Clean Up Pool Resurfacing - Liner Replacement Pool Equipment Repair & Replacement & Pool Decks
Ranches and Suncreek Ranches. All are newer, gated communities waiting for someone to build their ranchette dream home.
Serving Okeechobee Since 1997 Licensed & Insured Lic #RP006694
Enjoy Your Pool...Let us Do the Work!
For All Your Pool Needs Call
863-634-7883
Professional document preparation without the high cost of an attorney.
• Title Insurance • Real Estate Closings • Paralegal Services • Misc. Document Preparation
Telephone: 863.824.6776
Lifestyle
Don’t need space? Okeechobee can accommodate someone looking to downsize or just prefer condo living too. Okeechobee has several condominium communities to choose from including The Cottages at the Lake and Taylor Creek Condos, both of which front the rim canal. Or you might prefer Oak Lake Villas near the center of town offering easy access to everything Okeechobee has to offer. Florida’s year-round “summer” weather tends to draw many parttimers looking to enjoy a pleasant and
➢
Family. Friends. Community. Gretchen Robertson Ins Agy Inc. Gretchen Robertson, Agent 309 NE 2nd ST Okeechobee, FL 34972 Bus: 863-763-5561
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
We’re all in this together. State Farm® has a long tradition of being there. I’m looking forward to serving your needs for insurance and financial services. Get to a better State®.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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A Divison of Glades Gas
Full Service Dealer
Authorized Appliance Service Co. Service All Makes & Models Locally Owned & Operated by Kevin McCarthy and Monica Clark 863-467-1331
1-800-763-2114
804 N. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-983-8111 Clewston, Florida
Serving the Glades since 1929
Proudly Celebrating Our
40th Year of Fast & Friendly Service Family Owned and Operated
Since 1975!
P
CE RI
PR
MATC H
CH
863-763-6461
www.echolsplumbingandac.com
I C E M AT
Lic.#CFC022585 Lic. #CAC1817236
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Lifestyle mild winter. Being centrally located, Okeechobee is the perfect choice. Okeechobee has several RV/MH/Park Model communities for seasonal or year-round residents. Among those are the Big O RV Park, Blue Cypress Golf and RV Resort, Silver Palms RV Village and Ancient Oaks RV Resort. If this is the type of community you’re looking for then you’ll also want to take a look at Seminole Cove and Palm Village Ranch. All of these communities offer heated pools, clubhouses and planned activities. With so many real estate options, Okeechobee can please any house or land hunter. We welcome you to visit our quaint community and to view our vast variety of homes and lifestyles. We guarantee you’ll be glad you did and we’re certain you’ll find just what you’re looking for. n
Over 20 Years’ Experience Specializing in PVC Well Drilling
“Family Owned and Operated”
Commercial, Residential, Industrial and Agricultural Service, Installation and Repairs Solar Pumping Packages Windmills | Water Testing Water Treatment | Irrigation Pumps | Tanks Licensed & Insured
Frank DeCarlo, Owner
(863) 763-3221 Fax (863) 467-8485
Free Estimates Email: adswells@gmail.com
405 S.W. 2nd Street Okeechobee, Florida 34974 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
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Places of
Worship in Okeechobee
All area codes are 863 unless otherwise noted. African Methodist Episcopal New St. Stephens AME 1050 NE 16th Ave. 763-5018 Assembly of God Abundant Blessings Assembly of God 4550 Hwy 441N. 763-3736 Bethel Assembly of God 1109 SE 7th St. 467-0060 Impact of Grace Assembly of God 1109 SE 7th St. 484-3173 Baptist Bethel 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 Faith Alive Fellowship 3075 SW 3rd Terr. 623-4233 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 Mission Okeechobee 309 SW 14th St. 763-6573 New Testament Baptist Church 535 NE 28th Ave. 763-6682 Northside Baptist Church 1 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
Catholic Sacred Heart Catholic Church 701 SW 6th St. 763-3727 Saint Teresa Catholic Church 1027 Chobee Loop, BHR 946-0696 Christian Buckhead 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 Christ Big Lake Church of Christ 1115 SW 3rd Ave. 467-6758 Okeechobee Church of Christ 1401 S Parrott Ave. 763-4477 Church of God Church of God 301 NE 4 th Ave. 763-4127 Church of God of Prophecy 102 NW 10th St. 254-8304 Hope Ministry Center 1109 SE 7th St. 357-1319 North Okeechobee Church of God 15949 NW 30th Terr. 467-6066 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 310 SW 6th St. 467-2425 Church of the Nazarene Church of the Nazarene 425 SW 28th St. 763-3519 Episcopal Church of Our Saviour 200 NW 3rd St. 763-4843 Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 8250 Hwy 70W 763-9229 Lutheran Peace Lutheran Church 750 NW 23rd Ln. 763-5042 Methodist First United Methodist Church 200 NW 2nd St. 763-4021 Nondenominational Believers Fellowship 300 SW 6th Ave. 763-6848 Calvary Chapel 1963 NW 38th Ave. 467-0863
Lifestyle Christ Fellowship 701 S. Parrott Ave. (561) 799-7600 Dunklin Memorial Church 3342 SW Hosanah Ln. 772-597-5060 Faith Alive Fellowship 3075 SW 3rd Terr. 623-4233 Faith Farm Ministries 7595 NE 128th Ave. 763-4224 First Born Church of the Living God 525 SW 6th St. (561) 996-0150 Ft. Drum Community Church 32415 Hwy 441N 467-1733 Fountain of Life 1302 SW 32nd St. 763-8945 Freedom Ranch / Alpha Ministries 11655 Hwy 441SE 763-9800 The Gathering 1735 SW 24th Ave. 357-4418 Gideon’s – Okeechobee PO Box 59, Okee. 34973 634-4751 Haven of Rest 912 NW 2nd St. 357-3053 Jesus Holy Ghost Crusade 1401 NE Park St. 634-9194 Life Community Church 701 S Parrott Ave. 763-3218 Mission Okeechobee 309 SW 4th St. 763-6573 More 2 Life Ministries 605 SW Park St., Suite 214 467-0796 Resurrection Life Church 1803 SW 3rd Ave. 763-7770 Pentecostal Bible Church of God 3666 Hwy 70E 357-2264 Haven of Rest 912 NW 2nd St. 357-3053 Jesus Holy Ghost Crusade Church 1401 N 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 Presbyterian Okeechobee Presbyterian Church (USA) 312 N. Parrott Ave. 824-0013, okeechobeepresby.com Seventh Day Adventist Seventh Day Adventist Seventh Day Adventist Church 412 NW 6th St. 763-0655
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Healthcare
HOSPITAL | HEALTHCARE The Top Performing Hospital you can count on. Raulerson Hospital, an award-winning facility, provides quality service with a personal touch. With top physicians residing there, it’s the hometown hospital you know and trust. Experienced medical professionals and the latest equipment are only part of what makes Raulerson Hospital stand out as exceptional. Concern for the people of Okeechobee County, involvement in the community and dedication to service and education complete the picture. Raulerson Hospital is a 100-bed acute-care facility and part of Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), employing more than 400 staff members. For the past three years, it has earned the designation as a Top Performer on Key Quality Measures from The Joint Commission, an accrediting body for more than 3,300 hospitals and nursing homes across the country. The measure sets for this recognition include heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia and surgical care. This hospital takes pride not only in its accomplishments, but also in its relationship with Okeechobee city and county. Even with the hospital operating and caring for patients 24/7, 365 days a year, the staff makes time to connect with and support the community and provide health education through many events and opportunities throughout the year. Each January, Raulerson Hospital is not only a platinum sponsor of the annual Family Health & Safety Expo, it also has one of the most popular booths at the event where Raulerson nurses offer complimentary blood pressure screenings to attendees. This is an opportunity for the community to interact with staff, participate in free screenings and ask questions. This same healthcare opportunity and interaction is provided at the Speckled Perch Festival each March. The monthly Dine with the Doctor series is a seasonal program for attendees to enjoy a $5 dinner while hearing from a member of the Raulerson medical staff about various health topics. These ➢
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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(Above) Women’s Health Luncheon.
The Wellness Center for your Mind, Body & Spirit The Lounge provides higher quality, affordable wellness alternatives in a unique setting that instills a sense of peace and relaxation. • Massage • Life Coaching • Wellness Coaching • Reiki
• Private Parties and Events • Personal Wellness Programs • Memberships available • Gift Certificates
The
Lounge at Sacred Sanctuary
863-447-0380 207 SW 2nd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.The LoungeOkeechobee.com MM32859
events are a favorite of many and provide an excellent source for the public to meet the physicians in our community. Other health events take place throughout the year for the community to come together and learn. Some of these include the Heart Health
No Need To Go Out Of Town For Expert Health Care Services!
We Are Right Here In Okeechobee, Your Hometown! Over 18 years experience in the treatment of all digestive disorders. Colonoscopy & Endoscopy Capsule endoscopy Liver disease (Hepatitis & Cirrhosis) Colon Cancer Screening Irritable Bowel Syndrome Gallbladder Disease Ulcerative Colitis Crohn’s Disease Removal of Polyps Treatment of Ulcers Diverticulitis Gastrointestinal Bleeding GERD Most Insurance Accepted
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Dr. Albert F. Bravo Board Certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine
(863) 357-8222 www.DrAlbertFBravo.com
New Location: 204 SE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Se Habla Español
Lecture each February, “Sepsis is Serious!” in September, Diabetic Cooking with Chef Ron and Dietitian Pat Small during the summer and the Women’s Health Luncheon in October. Raulerson holds these various events across the community in efforts to help reach more people.
Healthcare
Raulerson Hospital supports other community partners in healthcare. During National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week in May, the hard working staff at all four of Okeechobee’s Fire Rescue Stations is recognized by the hospital. Hospital staff delivers lunches and treats to the men and women at the stations throughout the week to celebrate and show appreciation for the critical role EMS plays in patient care. Further supporting EMS, the hospital is involved annually in the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta. Entrants in this race must use a very limited amount of materials to construct a boat then race it competitively. The hospital’s boats may not always win, but the staff has fun making the boat and being part of the action associated with this great new community tradition which provides a scholarship for an EMS applicant. Raulerson Hospital also supports the annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup, a community blood drive, by providing food for the hundreds of blood donors. Along with helping the community as a whole, Raulerson Hospital also trains tomorrow’s health professionals. Specific groups of students use the facility for clinical education for healthcare careers, such as nursing, radiology, pharmacy, physical therapy and respiratory care. Indian River State College and Raulerson Hospital have partnered, allowing college students in specific healthcare fields to complete clinical rotations at
➢
Dine with the Doctor.
End Domestic Violence!
24 Hour Shelter | 24 Hour Hotline | Safety Planning | Advocacy Legal Advocacy | Support Groups | Outreach | Information | Referral Community Education | Training
All services provided in English and Spanish.
Martha's House, Inc. Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Victims' Services
Help is just a phone call away. Hotline 863-763-0202 | Outreach 863-763-2893 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Healthcare Raulerson and its sister Treasure Coast Healthcare facilities, Lawnwood Regional Medical Center & Heart Institute and St. Lucie Medical Center. Similarly, Okeechobee High School’s Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) also complete a clinical assignment at Raulerson Hospital each spring. Students shadow employees and have the opportunity to perform some of the skills learned in their courses. The students not only value this first-hand experience of working in a hospital setting but gather confidence in working directly with patients. The hospital’s support for students does not end there. In 2014, the hospital awarded more than $90,000 in scholarships to local students pursuing careers in the healthcare field. The holidays are another opportunity for Raulerson Hospital to be involved in community activities. At the beginning of the holiday season Raulerson uses its facilities to store and distribute food collected during the annual Okeechobee Food for Families drive. Later in the season, young artists from Yearling Middle School come and paint holiday window art in the facility adding a bit of warmth and enjoyment to be had by all. The students have fun expressing themselves artistically and socially as they offer holiday wishes to staff and patients who enjoy passing by as the students complete their creations
202 NW 5th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Other Locations: 1623 US Hwy 1, Suite B2, Sebastian, FL 32958 1717 20th Street, Suite 4, Vero Beach, FL 32960 2806 South US Hwy 1, Suite C6, Ft. Pierce, FL 34982
(863) 467-2300
breakthroughviki@gmail.com
Outpatient Substance Abuse/DUI/Drug Court Domestic Violence - Anger Management Aftercare Services
Toll Free Outside of Okeechobee Area (877) 930-7772
Serving Okeechobee since 1998
Hometown Pharmacy Serving the Community for over 30 years. We Accept Most Compounding 3rd Party Insurance Plans Free Children’s Vitamin Program Healthcare Quality Accredited Pharmacy Delivery Service Store Hours DME Equipment Mon. - Fri. 9:00 am - 6:30 pm Perfumes & Gifts Sat. 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Vitamins & Supplements
Visit Our Candy Shoppe Mix and match your favorites.
Even little ones help the hospital celebrate the holidays. Each December, four-year-old preschoolers come and sing carols to the staff and enjoy cookies and milk in the cafeteria. A more recent tradition is ➢
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203 S.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 (Across from Flagler Park)
www.okeedrug.com
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
863.763.5100 FAX: 863.763.7550 follow us on
@okeediscdrugs
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114 N. Parrott Avenue ♦ Okeechobee, FL 34972 851 West Indiantown Road ♦ Jupiter FL 33458 863.623.5346 │561.747.1232 W W W. A L L U R E P L A S T I C S U R G E R Y. C O M
© AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS
Dentistry from Infancy to Adolescence
Your child’s health is important and finding a positive relationship between kids and their dentist is a good way to build lifelong healthy habits. Melissa Kindell, DMD, makes every child who visits feel welcome and comfortable and is dedicated to educating and providing quality treatment to maintain your child's oral health.
Preventative Care - Restorative Dentistry In-Office Sedation - Interceptive Orthodonic Treatment Extractions - Emergency Dental Treatment - New Patient Exams Dental care for special needs and medically compromised patients.
n
Service with a Smile, for a Smile
863-357-7338
FAX: 863-357-7342 2029 Hwy 441 North - Okeechobee, FL 34972 Everglades Pediatric Dentistry, provides dental care for children in the Greater Lake Okeechobee area and surrounding counties. Most insurances are accepted and emergencies are welcome.
www.evergladespedodent.com
Find Us On FaceBook
Doctors Clinic Walk-Ins Always Welcome
Family Health Center, LLC
Most Insurances Accepted
Primary Care For The Entire Family Stanley H. Sweda, MD
Armando A. Santelices, MD Theresa Biemer, PA-C
863-763-1107
204 SE Park Street • Okeechobee
Multi-Lingual (English, Spanish and German) 50
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Proud Supporters of “Heroes 4 Hope”
WE NEED YOU!
the Pumpkin Patch event where the hospital cafeteria is transformed into a pumpkin patch party with more than 100 children in costumes, enjoying music while decorating their very own pumpkin, which they get to take home.
Join The
Okeechobee Be A Local Hero!
Healthcare
Join the Okeechobee Medical Reserve Corps Today!
We currently need medical and non-medical volunteers for Local Disaster Response, Emergency Preparedness, and Community Health Improvements.
Okeechobeans Taking Care of Okeechobee
For More Information or to Request an Application, Call 863.462.5819
Community news, health updates and hospital events are also shared with Okeechobee through Raulerson’s social media. Through Facebook, Twitter, the hospital website and blog page (RaulersonHospitalBlog.com), the public can stay up-to-date with Raulerson’s happenings, as well as with healthcare in general. The newest connection available for the community is through the free patient portal service where patients can access their hospital medical records electronically, placing it at their fingertips anywhere, anytime. They can access their medication list, print and share information with their primary care provider or reference a lab or radiology report. Another service available to the community is Consult-a-Nurse. The core service of Raulerson Hospital will always be healthcare and to maintain that priority the facility hosts a free 24/7 service for members of the community to call and speak to a registered nurse about healthcare questions, finding a physician in their area or registering for a hospitalsponsored class or event. The Consulta-Nurse phone number is 863-7639228.
Gayle Molyneaux Independent Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/gaylemolyneaux 561-801-1336
As it relates to health, the community, service and participation, Raulerson Hospital will always maintain its place as a vital, caring part of a growing city and county. n
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Economic
DEVELOPMENT
For 24 years the Economic Council of Okeechobee has served as a vital link between the business community and the area’s governments. Formed in 1990 by a group of concerned business leaders, the original organization began with roughly just 20 members. The Economic Council operates under the leadership of a 12-member volunteer board and an executive director. Executive Director Tara Minton Rowley helps gather and disseminate information to the members by attending numerous government meetings each month, including the Board of County Commissioners, City Council, Planning and Zoning, Code Enforcement, Utilities and School Board. And through careful consideration, the Economic Council provides a voice that has the ear of local, county and state governments.
The Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County works to make businesses stronger as well as to make a stronger climate for those businesses to thrive. While Okeechobee Main Street might be best known for its festivals, the organization that has become known as the heart of Okeechobee’s historic preservation, works to promote culture through more long-lasting accomplishments. Main Street focuses on historic preservation and beautification of Okeechobee in ways that also promote the prosperity and vitality of the community. The organization was set up under guidelines of the state Division of Historical Resources and accredited by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It is selfsupporting. Given Okeechobee’s intriguing and proud history, Main Street works fiercely to preserve what few historic buildings remain. Executive Director Shari Turgeon has made it her mission to bring knowledge of Okeechobee Main Street to more residents. Membership isn’t limited only to those living in Okeechobee’s downtown. Anyone with the shared goal to bring out the best of Okeechobee so that it is appealing to residents, visitors and guests is encouraged to apply for membership.
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Classes, business networking programs and a website that allows each member to have its own marketing space are all part of that focus. Classes cover a variety of topics – everything from business finances to concealed carry laws to the Affordable Care Act. The Chamber’s primary focus is on creating growth for the entire business community. Chamber Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez is making sure that includes the entire business community. One way the Chamber is helping strengthen business community leaders is through its Leadership Okeechobee program. Leadership Okeechobee is comprised of seven monthly day-long sessions that expose participants to critical issues facing the Okeechobee area. Last year the Chamber celebrated the first graduating class. The Chamber works passionately to help diversify the base of businesses in the community while encouraging the creation of additional high wage job opportunities. The Chamber functions as the primary economic development
organization in our community by partnering with Enterprise Florida and other organizations in attracting new industry to our community.
Okeechobee’s Tourist Development Council stays on top of what all Okeechobee has to offer. The Council is always working hard and finding new ways to help promote Okeechobee as a desirable destination for tourist. To do this, the Council funds marketing campaigns and local events that enhance Okeechobee’s economy while preserving natural
resources and the quality of life. The Council consists of nine members that serve staggered fouryear terms; this includes one elected County Commissioner along with two Okeechobee City Councilmen. The remaining six members must be individuals that are involved in the tourist industry. All members must be electors of the County. The Council serves as an advisory board to the Okeechobee County Tourist Development Coordinator, Kathy Scott. Together, Council members work together to invite tourist to escape the hustle and bustle and to enjoy the natural experiences found in the wonderful rural environment of Okeechobee County. n
Okeechobee’s ONLY Hometown Radio Stations The Staff
Front row (L-R): Viridiana Allen, Wayne Cunningham and Taylor Marie. Back row: Charles Murphy, Merrilee Berglund, Francisco “Paco” Sangabriel, Billy Dean and Ken Keller. 863-467-1570
Fax 888-875-1570
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Education
Indian River State College A vibrant, full-service college that serves over 2,000 students each year.
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions high school graduates have to make heading into adulthood. Indian River State College (IRSC) has made that decision easier for students for 53 years. With continued growth and honors, IRSC will remain a strong college option for future graduates to come.
B
enefiting hundreds of Okeechobee residents each year, Indian River State College (IRSC) has earned a national reputation for quality and affordability at the same time. The report on the Quality of Education by U.S. News & World Report, ranked IRSC as the ninth top public regional college in the Southern United States, moving up from the 12th position in the previous year. More than 1,300 colleges and universities were ranked based on 16 measures of quality including student-faculty ratio, class size, faculty credentials and retention and graduation rates. The Education Affordability and Transparency Report from the U.S. Department of Education named IRSC the fourth most affordable college in the country for the second year in a row. This has been accomplished by maintaining low administrative costs, careful financial planning and savings through energy efficiency. The IRSC District Board of Trustees has been able to approve college budgets with no tuition increase for two years in a row. Though the college is in its 53rd year, IRSC didn’t establish an Okeechobee presence until 1975 in a downtown storefront. Later it opened its Dixon-Hendry Campus in 1986. The campus has only continued to grow with 23 bachelor’s degrees and 130 associate degrees awarded
to Okeechobee students in the 2013-2014 school year. Since IRSC changed from a community college to a state college in 2008, enrollment has grown to approximately 1,000 students per semester in Okeechobee. Today, at the Dixon-Hendry Campus, IRSC offers courses related to bachelor’s degrees, associate of arts degrees for the first two years of college, associate of science degrees for in-demand careers and quick job training in many trades. Through the virtual campus hundreds of online courses are offered each semester, offering flexibility in several online degree programs. IRSC’s Dual Enrollment (DE) allows students to earn high school and college credits simultaneously at no cost to the parents for books or tuition. “The courses are taught by college certified teachers, who must have a minimum of a master’s degree,” said IRSC Provost Russ Brown. “Some DE classes are held at the college where students get the opportunity to learn in a college atmosphere.” “Students in 10th, 11th or 12th grades may participate in dual enrollment,” said Brown, “if they meet eligibility requirements which are based on academic history and the discretion of their principal.” ➢
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Custom Window Treatments & Blinds
From Concept to Completion. Val Douglas Owner
Over 20 years Experience!
863-357-6555
Fabric & Trim • Decorative Rods • Draperies “Customer Service One on One Valances • Bedding • Cornices • Blinds by Appointment.” Shutters • Roller Shades • Verticals All Window Covering • Custom Sewing www.cwtblinds.com
The first DE program enrolled 40 Okeechobee students, however, 199 local students completed DE in the fall of 2014. New DE courses are made available each year which can be taken through regular, on-line or nighttime enrollment. “The beautiful Dixon-Hendry Campus is currently on ten acres and as the needs of the community grow, so will the campus,” said Brown. “All of this campus’ buildings were built with local community monies met with matching dollars from the state. The goal for the Williamson Center was reached in just six weeks, which shows the tremendous support our community provides.” The Williamson Center seats 175 in the conference room and another 50 or more in a verandah that expands. The center can accommodate ever more while still allowing others to participate through visual and audio contact via intra-building communication technology. Year-round many local businesses and organizations use the Williamson Center for training and informational events. From July 2013 through June 2014, there were 110 events held, serving more than 7,000 people. Such events help sustain the partnership between the college and the community. In May 2014 the Okeechobee campus saw its first 18 graduates from the Registered Nursing (RN) program that is enhanced by an up-to-date virtual hospital room in the Williamson Center. Within the virtual hospital there is a human patient simulator that replicates different diseases and traumas. “He can go from healthy to heart attack in an instant,” said Brown.
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
The RN program is offered on campus every other year and students gain real-world experience through clinical internships at Raulerson Hospital. In addition to training and certifying Fire/EMT students, IRSC works closely with many local agencies and businesses for job placement. “Our goal is to have job placement events here once a month,” Brown said. “A local career fair is held annually and calls from the community come in regularly to fill local openings.” Through all the changes IRSC has maintained its commitment to workforce training. With a focus on job training in the trades, DixonHendry now offers programs in air conditioning/refrigeration, automotive technology, diesel/heavy equipment
mechanics, office administration and training. “It is flexible and adaptable construction and building trades. and can start any time of the year,” Brown said. “For example, we In March 2014,the District Board of offer open-entry administrative and Trustees approved $290,000 to create computer skills training for office a modern Multi-Functional Industrial jobs, with students job-ready in as Laboratory at the Dixon-Hendry little as six to 12 weeks.” Campus. Renovating part of an existing building, there is now a 2,700 “We want to make sure there are square-foot lab for training programs no local needs unmet. We provide in in-demand industrial certification two and four- year degree programs, fields. The new lab features flexible as well as serve different industries space that can be easily adapted for locally by providing a skilled work customized manufacturing training force while preparing our students for new industries and other options for life. The staff at the Dixon-Hendry to support workforce development Campus of IRSC is committed to in Okeechobee County. Responding creating conditions that lead to quickly to meet the input of the student success.” community, this lab hosted the first course in heating, air conditioning The campus is located at 2229 NW and refrigeration in September 2014. 9th Ave., 863-824-6000. n Vocational training also helps locals Go to page 23 for a listing of all Okeechobee’s re-enter the work force through public and private schools. refresher courses and quick-job
Indian River State College Dixon Hendry Campus
Quality | Convenience | Affordability
• • • •
Bachelor’s Degrees in high-growth careers Associate Degrees for university transfer High-tech training for in-demand jobs Online and specialized training for businesses
With a personal touch, the staff at the Dixon Hendry Campus is committed to creating conditions that lead to student success.
Dixon Hendry Campus • 2229 N.W. 9th Avenue • Okeechobee, Florida 34972 • 863-824-6000 • www.irsc.edu Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Dining
Chamber Member Listing
DINING IN OKEECHOBEE
With a wide variety of restaurants and cuisines Okeechobee is
sure to satisfy your taste buds. Whether you want a fast, on-the-go meal or a sit-down, night out dinner, Okeechobee can provide.
2nd Street Pizza
202 NE 2nd St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-5000
Applebee’s
1210 Highway 70 E Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.applebees.com (863) 357-0141
Brown Cow Sweetery Chico’s Burrito Shack 103 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.browncowsweetery.com (863) 357-3357
309 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 623-4345
Beef O’ Brady’s
608 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.beefobradys.com (863) 763-7300
Cowboys Bar-B-Que & Steak Co. 202 NE 7th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972
www.cowboysbarbqueandsteakco.com
(863) 467-1104 58
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Dining
Chamber Member Listing
Dunkin Donuts
4993 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.dukindonuts.com (863) 357-0015
Little Caesars Pizza 2105 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 467-0800
Golden Corral
Jersey Mike’s
700 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.goldencorral.com (863) 763-0444
611 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.jerseymikes.com (863) 467-8100
OK Corral Gun Club 9449 NE 48th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.okcorralgunclub.com (863) 357-2226
Tin Fish Restaurant
301 N Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.thetinfishrestaurants.com (863) 357-0447
Pueblo Viejo VI
3415 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.puebloviejofl.com (863) 357-9641
Wendy’s
502 NE Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.wendys.com (863) 763-8181
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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S R E Z I T E P P CI E A E
*
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S O L C ’ L I T M P 9
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y t i n u Comm
rships, o s n o p . ,S raising hertyInc.com d n u F ations, ”at www.Do n o D r o ity uests f mmun q o e r C “ r u g n yo y visiti ubmit b s n e o s i a t ec Ple h Conn t u o Y and
g n i t c e Conn
1210 Highway 70 East • Okeechobee, FL • 863.357.0141 Hours of Operation: Sun-Thurs: 11am-Midnight • Fri-Sat: 11am-2am
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*Dine-in only. Excludes Appetizer Sampler, 20/30 count wings and Trios. 2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Dining
Chocolate...it’s what for dessert!
863-357-3357
Monday - Thursday 7 am - 7 pm | Friday 7 am-8 pm Saturday 8am - 8 pm | Sunday 12 noon - 5 pm
103 S PARK STREET OKEECHOBEE
Sandwiches Quiche Salads Coffee - Espresso Lattes Frozen Blends Chocolate Ice Cream free WiFi
Rated #1 by Trip/Advisor and Facebook
Fresh Fish ~ Good Food Voted Best Fish Tacos, Award Winning Fish & Chips and Chowders!
HEALTHY EATING at TIN FISH with our GRILLED or BAKED MENU
863-357-0722
Beer & Wine Boat Loads of Platters Great Kids Menu Orders to Go for Lunch and Dinner. Catering Available
Now in our 2nd year! 301 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 Hours of Operation Sun. - Thurs. 11am - 8 + | Fri. & Sat. 11am -9 +
www.tinfishokeechobee.com Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Bienvenidos!
863.357.9641
Stop by today & taste our Authentic Mexican Food that will keep you coming back for more!
MEXICAN RESTAURANT
Open For Lunch, Early Bird & Dinner 7 Days a Week 11:00am To 10:00pm
3415 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, Florida (Located at the Publix Shopping Center)
Serving Great Mexican Food in Florida and the Treasure Coast Since 1999
Full Liquor Bar! Happy Hour 7 Days A Week All Day Long Draft Beer, House Margarita and House Sangria
www.puebloviejoFl.com
Daily Specials Fresh Baked Pizza & Flat Bread Kids Menu - Tuesday Kid’s Eat FREE Party Room for Special Events Full Bar Catering
S�
Sports Bar!
10-48” HD-TVs
! s f � B t you a Hours: Monday – Saturday 11 am – 11 pm Sunday 11 am – 10 pm
Newly Renovated!
863-763-7300
608 S. Parrott Ave. - Okeechobee, FL 34974
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
free WiFi
South Central Florida’s Premier Shooting Sports Facility
ITALIAN RESTAURANT New York Style Pizza & Italian Specialties Dine In • Take Out • Delivery • Catering
HIGH NOON CAFE
Upscale Casual Lunch Menu
202 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee
863-763-5000
Mon-Thurs 11am - 10pm Fri & Sat 11am - 11pm Sun 12pm - 9pm
Chamber of Commerce Members: Mention this Ad for 10% discount.
Served Daily from 11 am - 4 pm
CRYSTAL BALLROOM
New Dinner Menu!
Sunday Brunch Buffet
Now offering Smothered Enchiladas and Chicken or Steak Fajitas!
Served 10 am - 2 pm
Over 8 Outdoor Shooting Sports Venues Fundraisers • Private Parties • Weddings 10,000 sq. ft. of Event Space Cabins Coming Soon
Big Burritos - Soft Tacos Quesadillas - Burrito Bowls Salad Bowls Churros & Cookies
(863) 357-2226
9449 NE 48th Street Okeechobee, Fl 34972
Open 7 Days a Week • Open to the Public
www.okcorralgunclub.com
We Make It The Way You Want It!
309 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-623-4345 Call For Take Out
Open Monday - Thursday, 11am to 8pm Friday & Saturday, 11am - 9pm
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Community
EVENTS
Events and festivals to entertain all.
Take your pick: rodeos, parades, festivals, unique historical and charitable events, Okeechobee has them all. Okeechobee offers them all yearlong. And one thing is for certain, you won’t go home disappointed.
Okeechobee is a true melting pot where people of every cultural, ethnic, political and geographic background come together to work and play as one. It is an adaptable community where the festivals and annual events reflect a combined past where everyone feels welcome. Throughout each year there is always an event to please every resident and visitor. To list them all, big and small, would take pages, but as we give you a sampling of what makes Okeechobee unique, you’ll see the variety of things that draw us together. Though there are only 5,000 people in the city and 48,000 in the county, Okeechobee plays on a grand scale.
Top of the Lake Day of the American Cowboy An event that stemmed from the national event, the National Day of the American Cowboy held every July, the Top of the Lake Day of the Cowboy is Okeechobee’s new tradition that will hold its inaugural celebration this January. Just like the National Day of the American Cowboy it is a day set aside to celebrate the contribution of the cowboy and cowgirl to America’s culture and heritage. Okeechobee’s new local tradition of this event will begin with a cattle drive down the center of town and end at the festival venue, the Agri-Civic Center on Hwy 70 E. Vendors with western-themed items will be showcased as well as exhibitors demonstrating western activities. It will be a true celebration to help preserve our cowboy heritage, celebrate the contributions and share the lifestyle and labors of our cowboys and cowgirls, past and present. For further information contact Okeechobee Main Street at 863-357-6246 or www. okeechobeemainstreet.org.
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Rodeo Celebrations Rodeos, a part of Okeechobee’s history, are also main events to be celebrated both during
our Speckled Perch Festival each March and the Labor Day Festival each September. Sited at the Cattlemen’s Arena on Hwy 441 N, the Cowtown Rodeos produced by the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association are sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA), which draws competitors from around the country. The rodeos are most noted for their bull riding, with some of the bull riders going on to the national finals. Other events include saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, roping, bulldogging and team roping. The Cowtown Rodeos have become quite an Okeechobee must see. For further information visit www.okeechobeecattlemensassociation.com.
Okeechobee County Fair March also welcomes the fair, held at the Agri-Civic Center on Hwy 70 E. A massive
midway featuring rides for young and old, also showcases local vendors who display their unique products. There are fire and police agencies demonstrating life-saving techniques and equipment, local schools showing the accomplishments of their students, local competitions for queens and their courts, a petting zoo, barbecue contests, food judging, craft competitions and all the other trappings that make a county fair a don’tmiss event. For further information contact the Fair at 863-467-1690 or www.okeechobeecountyfair.com.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Community
EVENTS
Battle of Okeechobee History comes alive each February when the final battle of the Second Seminole War is
re-enacted on Hwy 441 SE. The battle pitted the Seminole Indians, who did not want to be relocated to western reservations, against U.S. troops led by Col. Zachary Taylor, on December 25,1837. Participants representing both sides, as well as those who come to view the battle, wear authentic costumes of the era. The National Trust for Historic Preservation placed the site on the list of “America’s Most Endangered Historic Places” in 2000. The state of Florida spent $3.2 million for a 145-acre park. The annual battle reenactment helps raise money for further work on this State Park. For further information contact 863-610-2333 or www.okeechobeebattlefield.com.
Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta Begun as a way to support a firefighter scholarship in 2011, this regatta is
now the wildest funfest around. Entrants must build a boat, any shape, any size, from only one sheet of lauan plywood, two pieces of lumber, a box of screws and duct tape—no caulk or glue permitted. Growing in entrants and attendance each year, the 2014 competition saw more than 100 boats compete (or sink) before a crowd of almost 4,000. Proceeds from the event are also being used to build a special-needs park in the community. In tribute to the cohesiveness of Okeechobee, the Regatta is named for Adam Bryant, who was a volunteer firefighter when he was injured in a camping accident in 2002 that left him paralyzed before passing away a few years later. The event is held each October at the C. Scott Driver Park on Hwy 78 W. For further information contact J.D. Mixon at 863-634-1778 or www.minimalregatta.com.
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2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Top of the Lake Art Fest and Chalk Walk featuring “The Taste of Okeechobee” Held each February,
this festival brings out the talents of both local and area-wide artists. Highlighting the artwork by fine artist, youth of all ages as well as amateur artists, it gives the community the opportunity to see great artwork presented through a juried show. Held at Flagler Park in the center of downtown Okeechobee, the Art Fest has grown to be a time for art in all forms—chalk artwork done as you watch and a showing of the artistic talents which include paintings, pottery, sculpture, jewelry, woodcarvings and more.
A new addition to the Art Fest in 2015 is “The Taste of Okeechobee.” This event takes place the first night of the Art Fest. The “taste” will be from 5-9 p.m. with the focus being our downtown Park St (Main St) area that will feature a variety of local shops and restaurants participating. For only $25.00 you will be able to enjoy an evening of shopping, strolling, music and enough tasty samplers from our local restaurants that you won’t know which one to visit first. Taste of Okeechobee passport will include a map, 10 tickets to any of our food vendors you choose, an entry form for prizes and ballot to vote for you favorite “taste.” The Taste of Okeechobee passport will be available for purchase at Okeechobee Main Street office 55 S. Parrott Ave. and other announced locations. For further information contact Okeechobee Main Street at 863-357-6246 or www.okeechobeemainstreet.org. This shows just a few of the many community events held each year. A detailed calendar of events, including the Fourth of July fireworks, the Health and Safety Expo, the Easter sunrise service, the Speckled Perch Festival, the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail bike ride, patriotic services in Flagler Park and special Christmas festivities is available on the Chamber website, www.okeechobeebusiness.com.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Recreation Lake Okeechobee | Recreation Anything and everything to do on and around the lake.
With something for everyone to partake in, Okeechobee offers endless events and activities from fishing, to camping, to hunting to golfing and even motocross. No one will be left with nothing to do in this small, but very active community.
Lake Okeechobee
Well known for its quantity and quality of bass, Lake Okeechobee is referred to as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World. Spanning 730 square miles, five counties border the lake: Okeechobee, Glades, Hendry, Martin and Palm Beach. The main water flow into Lake Okeechobee comes from Fisheating Creek on the west side, the Kissimmee River on the north and the St. Lucie Canal on the east. The South Florida Water Management District and the Corps of Engineers jointly maintain the water level of the lake. When full, the lake can hold five trillion gallons of water. The Herbert Hoover dike, that stands 30 feet high, was built after the 1928 hurricane that
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Aubrey Pearce
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Recreation
caused the lake to flood and cause extensive damage and even deaths. The dike was completed March 23, 1937. Today the lake includes channels, locks and levees making a passageway from the west coast of Florida at Ft Myers, up the Caloosahatchee River, across the lake through the St. Lucie Waterway into Stuart. This is known as the Okeechobee Waterway.
Recreation on the Lake
Much of the life and activities of the city and county revolve around the lake, therefore recreation in Okeechobee tends to begin right on the lake for most. Many residents and visitors populate the lake for both recreational and commercial fishing. People from all over the world visit Lake Okeechobee for its infamous bass fishing.
MMI Certified Harley Davidson Technician
SERVICING
Tire Purchase & Mounts Full Service Repairs - Minor to Major Customizing of Aftermarket Parts
Brandon Baughman Certified Technician, MMI Graduate
We’ve Got You Covered at Skull Hill Steel! Come By & Check Us Out!
Modifications and Repairs Poylmer Sales and Installation Repower and Customization Custom Bow Fishing Platforms
Purchase New and USED Bows & Accessories Serving includes but not limited to: Installation of Peep Site, D-Loop, Main String & Bus Cable Cut and Fleetch Arrows Complete Bow Service and Paper Tune Shooting Lessons Available
Just 1 mile South of the Hwy 70 & Hwy 441 Intersection on the East side of Hwy 441.
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All MAKES
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
www.skullhillsteel.com
Recreation
Fishing tournaments are held throughout the year with hundreds of competitive fishermen entering, all vying for the biggest catch. Bait and tackle stores, along with fish camps can be found along the lake’s perimeter. If you’re visiting or new to fishing and want to try it out, Okeechobee has many experienced captains who can take you on their boats and show you the ropes. There are some camps that even rent out boats so you can venture out on your own if you prefer fishing solo. Although fishing was and still is today, the core of Lake Okeechobee, there is much more to enjoy on the lake other than just a day on the water fishing. Wildlife on the lake is at abundance and will definitely not disappoint the wildlife enthusiast. The lake is home to largemouth bass, ➢
Set Your Sight on this premier Sporting Clays Facility and Hunting Perserve in South Florida! • Quail Hunts • Pheasant Hunts • Beautiful Lodging • Sporting Clays • Private Events • Corporate Groups
PLANTATION
Open to the Public Facilities Available For Special Events!
Quail Creek Plantation 12399 NE 224 Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
www.quailcreekplantation.com
(863) 763-2529
Email: reservations@quailcreekplantation.com
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Hotel & Suites
Okeechobee Florida
3101 US Highway 441 S.
863-357-3529
www.HiExpress.com
Hotel located 1 mile from Beautiful Lake Okeechobee. FREE Hot Breakfast and WiFi • Boat Hook-ups and Parking On-Site meeting space available • Close to Restaurants and Shopping.
3975 US Highway 441 S
863-357-7100
www.bestwestern.com
201 S. Parrott Avenue
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863-763-3185
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
www.budgetinn.com
crappie, bluegills and some pickerel. Manatees, snook and pelicans, as well as migrating and nesting waterfowl abound in and around the lake too. They are all at their highest counts in years thanks to the revived ecological condition of the lake.
Recreation
If you drive all the way to the end of Hwy 441 S you will reach the fishing pier at Lock 7. There you can get an overview of the lake, feed the seagulls, turtles or search for alligators. You can also find blue herons and white herons in the grass. If alligators pique your interest, down at Nubbin Slough on Hwy 441 SE you can watch gators congregate. Lake Okeechobee and airboat rides go hand-in-hand. You can enjoy a thrill-ride out on the water or take a leisurely ride taking in the beauty the lake has to offer. Airboats are perfect for taking deep out in the marsh and shallow places. Some airboat operators specialize in sightseeing and will guide you on a wildlife tour while explaining the history of the lake en route. If you’re the type that likes to keep your feet on dry land, you might enjoy one of the many scenic trails along Lake Okeechobee. At the top of the Herbert Hoover dike you can go hiking, cycling and sightseeing. In 1993 it became part of the 1,400-mile Florida Scenic Trail, which is a part ➢
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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It’s Performance That Counts Customer Tanks
Starter Grower | Whole Corn | Cracked Corn | Layer Pellets Heifer Feed |Sheep & Goat Pellets |All Purpose Pellet Dog Food & Cat Food Full Line of Safeguard Parasite Products
Customer Based | Custom Feed Mixed for Your Operation
DAIRY - BEEF - POULTRY - SWINE
SYFRETT FEED CO. INC. 3079 NW 8 St. - Okeechobee, FL
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863-763-5586 | 800-430-0117 Fax: 863-763-6169
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Recreation
of the National Scenic Trail. On the trail you can see wildlife of all kinds line the rim. There is no charge to use the trail and there are access points approximately every seven miles around the lake.
“Old Florida” Recreation
While in Okeechobee you definitely get that “old Florida” feeling and to experience it you need not look any further than just two miles east of the city. Situated on 7.5 acres of beautiful oak and cabbage hammocks is a horse farm open to the public. There you will find an array of animals you can interact with. You can pet and feed rabbits, chickens, turkeys, goats, calves and horses. The farm offers trail rides, pony rides and riding lessons. Cattle is a vital industry in Okeechobee where you’ll find Florida’s largest livestock market for both beef and dairy cattle. The Okeechobee Livestock Market is definitely a place worth checking out while visiting Okeechobee. The largest of the market’s sales begin in July and last through February. Sale days are Monday and Tuesday at noon. The Okeechobee Livestock Market also has a restaurant where you can get a good, country meal.
Sandra Pearce
Under New Ownership Newly Re-Decorated Rooms!
PIER II
Resort and Lounge
Where there’s cattle, there’s rodeos. Okeechobee hosts many rodeos during the year including rodeos put on by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Association who produces the CowTown Rodeo. During rodeos cowboys and cowgirls compete in events such as bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing.
Explore Wildlife Off the Lake
Wildlife isn’t just found on Lake Okeechobee, it can also be found in and around the outskirts of county limits. Just outside of town you can ➢
Pet Friendly!
Smoke Free
2200 SE Hwy 441 • Okeechobee, FL 34974 • 863.623.4704 www.pierIIresortflorida.com
“Okeechobee’s Resort on the Water” Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Weolcome t No RV? No Problem..we have lodging! Anytime is a special time for Floridians to get out and go camping!
LocALs INVITED to Join US!
9 Hole Golf Course Driving Range Shanty Lounge Weekend Entertainment Banquet Facilities RV & Lodging Accomodations Summer Pool Memberships Fitness Center
oKEEcHoBEE koa and Golf Course
4276 S. Hwy 441 - Okeechobee, FL 34974
863-763-0231
www.okeechobeekoa.com
visit Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (AWRC), a wildlife care facility that rescues, rehabilitates and returns recovered animals to their natural habitat. It houses many animals native to Florida such as panthers, bobcats, eagles and hawks, as well as many animals not so native to Florida including a South American porcupine, lemurs and even a walleroo. You can also enjoy nature trails and a butterfly garden while visiting AWRC. Twenty-five miles north of downtown Okeechobee is a 54,000-acre preserve that protects one of the largest remaining stretches of Florida dry prairie, home to an array of endangered plants and animals. There you can find the endangered Florida Grasshopper Sparrow, as well as the crested caracara and burrowing owl. More than 100 miles of dirt roads allows visitors to observe wildlife,
Waldau
Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting. It's the perfect place to get together and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage. Small class size promises personalized instruction and a lot of fun! You are invited to Paint, Unwind & Unplug! Treat yourself to time away from the stress of the outside world and take a painting home with you!
Okeechobee’s Original Paint & Sip Studio
Give the gift of Art Gift Certificates Available
All classes taught by professional artist Bridgette Waldau.
www.bridgette-art.com 863-467-7300 76
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner
111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A
Okeechobee
Claws & Paws Pet Boarding & Daycare
hike, horseback ride and bird watch. During November through March you can take a buggy tour to see remote areas of the preserve. The preserve is a great place for the entire family, including pets. If you enjoy camping then you can take advantage of an overnight stay at one of the two fullfacility campgrounds.
Room to Play! Private Suites Available!
Call us at
863-357-6700 Treating your pets like our family. Find Us On FaceBook
2949 Hwy 70 West - Okeechobee,FL
If you want to stay closer to town on Hwy 441 N you can take a walk, run or a bike ride along a winding path through 170 acres of trees and wetlands where Taylor Creek once flowed. Within the 170 acres there is a compacted shell-rock trail that is comfortable for both baby strollers and wheelchairs. On the trail you can see the remnants of cypress trees and other wetland tree species. The area attracts a variety of migratory and resident birds including sandhill cranes, crested caracara, wood storks, great blue and tricolored herons, ➢
Located on the Rim Canal of Lake Okeechobee, Water's Edge is just minutes from shopping and restaurants in the nearby community of Okeechobee. The Resort is only a short distance from the Seminole Casino, I-95 and the East Coast of Florida, with major malls and some of the most beautiful beaches of Florida.
(863) 357-5757
12766 US Hwy 441 SE | Okeechobee, Florida watersedgerv@innisfree.com
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roseate spoonbills, black-necked stilts and white and glossy ibises. Wild turkeys, deer and alligators are also occasionally seen on the trail.
Shop Goodwill Stores and Donation Centers Okeechobee City 3278 US Highway 441, 34974 Hours:
Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Free Furniture Pick-up 800-645-8164 for a list of our other Goodwill locations go to www.gulfstreamgoodwill.com/goodwill-retail-stores
For all your party needs... We are your 1 Stop Shop Largest Party & Balloon supply store in Okeechobee
Open Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 6 pm Saturday 9 am - 3 pm
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Party/Event Planning Catering Silk Floral Designs Invitations Birthday Themes Balloons
Rental Items:
Tents - Tables - Chairs Bounce Houses - Waterslides
We make cakes to fit any special occasion... You dream it we’ll bring it alive!
319 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL
863-467-4900
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Camping, Hunting and Weaponry
Hunting and shooting go hand-inhand with Okeechobee. Tucked away in the northeast section of town is a state-of-the-art hunting and shooting lodge where Florida land still exists. It has two 14-station sporting clay courses, wobble traps and a comfortable, covered 5-stand. Hog, quail, turkey and pheasant hunting as well as fishing are offered during their respective seasons. Hunting packages can be purchased along with yearround overnight accommodations. The lodge includes 10 cozy, fully equipped one-bedroom cottages and eight private suites. Cottages are dog friendly and equipped with wireless Internet, flat-screened televisions, full
bathrooms and kitchens with fullsized refrigerators and microwaves. Ten miles north of downtown Okeechobee you’ll find a premier, outdoor shooting and recreational facility situated on 280 acres. There you can enjoy a day of pistol and rifle shooting. The facility has 29 complete shooting stations, including two sporting clay courses, a covered 5-stand, a wobble deck, covered pistol and rifle ranges and a competition shooting park. On the grounds you’ll also find a ranch house, a livery stable, perfect for outdoor semi-covered parties and gatherings, a full pro-shop, an RV park, fishing ponds and picnic areas. Okeechobee is also home to a 100 acre outdoor facility rated five stars by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. It too, has standard rifle and pistol ranges, 5-stand, trap, skeet and shooting galleries. In addition, they have a full retail pro-shop with firearms, apparel and accessories, along with a full service gunsmith who has over 50 years experience in the industry. Competitions are held each month for advanced shooters. For starters or people looking to brush up on their skills, the facility offers several training courses.
Sporting Activities and Facilities
For those who find enjoyment in a round of golf there are three public golf courses in Okeechobee. North of town and just southeast of the center of town, golf enthusiasts can enjoy 18-hole courses. And if you’re looking for a quick nine-hole round or to hit the driving range there’s a course south on Hwy 441. Okeechobee has a large sports complex in the northeast section of town and it has a little something for everyone. With an Olympic-size pool, four youth baseball fields, a football
Recreation
and soccer field, six shuffleboard courts, two basketball courts, eight tennis courts, four racquetball courts, a picnic pavilion and a ‘wooden jungle’ playground for children, you are bound to find something to keep you busy. The complex is free and open to the public.
equipped gyms spread out across town making them convenient for all to visit. The gyms are equipped with machines, treadmills and free weights. Many offer classes such as CrossFit that you can join. Or if you prefer one-on-one you can receive the assistance from a personal trainer.
If staying in shape by exercise is your form of recreation Okeechobee can offer that with many of its fully
If racing is your hobby Okeechobee won’t leave you empty-handed. For ➢
Recreational Racing
SNEIDER LAW Glenn J. Sneider Attorney at Law
Helping good people facing tough problems. Divorce ■ Custody ■ Family Law ■ DUI ■ Criminal Law
200 SW 9th Street•Okeechobee, FL 34974
863-467-6570 www.SneiderLaw.com
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aviation lovers, Okeechobee has a model airplane club located east of the city off Hwy 70. You can visit the flying field and watch members fly radio control aircraft of all types. Okeechobee also has a club for radio control car enthusiasts. The club races R/C cars, trucks and boats and holds weekly rallies around town. On Hwy 70 E you’ll find a dirt bike track where you can turn up the speed. The track is available for motocross practice along with wooded trail practice. Memberships are available along with private training lessons. The track is 1.9 miles long with lap times over two minutes. Four lap races are over 10 minutes long for most classes. The track also has a peewee track for beginners or youngsters.
Fully Stocked Humidors
CIGARS • LIGHTERS • PIPES • ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES • ROLL-YOUR-OWN TOBACCO, TUBES & ROLLING MACHINES • SMOKE ODOR CANDLES • HOOKAH SUPPLIES
TOBACCO PLACE
101 S.W. 2nd Avenue - Downtown Okeechobee
(863) 357-6653
Premium Vaping Supplies & E-Liquid 80
Complete Line of Tobacco Products & Accessories
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
On SR 78 in Glades County a few miles past the Kissimmee River sits another dirt bike and ATV track, complete with a one-mile plus extreme, rider-friendly motocross track, 10 miles of ATV and dirt bike trails, a peewee motocross track, a figure eight track and a one mile flat track without jumps for training. But this location offers more than just tracks and trails. With 1,200 acres of open wilderness camping complete with showers and clean port-a-lets this track is available for overnight stays during extreme practices or competitions. For more information on recreational sites and activities please contact the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County at (863) 4676246. n
BUSINESS A/C & Heating Contractor Echols Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LLC 2233 Hwy 98 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 angel@echolsplumbingandac.com www.echolsplumbingandac.com (863) 763-6461 | Angel Stevens Glades Air Conditioning 804 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 monica@gladesgas.com www.gladesgas.com (863) 763-2114 | Monica Clark Quality A/C & Heating of Okeechobee 5351 SW 16th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 qualityac@embarqmail.com www.qualityacokee.com (863) 467-1545 | Bud Neese
Accountants CPA Tax Solutions, PLLC 500 NW 6th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 paula@cpataxsolutions.net www.cpataxsolutions.net (863) 357-1099 | Paula Younger Sims & Munson CPAs 203 SE 2nd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 Laura@SimsMunsonCPA.com www.simsmunsoncpa.com (863) 467-3000 | Laura Sims
Advertising | Promotions MDP Worldwide 301 Yamato Road, #1240 Boca Raton, FL 33431 jeffg@mdp.worldwide.com http://mdp.worldwide.com (561) 629-6212 | Jeff Gibson
Advertising | Publications Television | Radio The Breeze 93.7 525 NW Lake Whitney Place Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 http://thebreeze.fm mattmonks@mytcmedia.com (772) 249-4413 | Matt Monks Heartland LIVING Magazine 412 Rest Haven Road Zolfo Springs, FL 33890 Cindy@Heartland-Living.com www.HeartlandLivingMagazine.com (863) 781-0344 | Cindy Sebring Adams
Okeechobee News 107 SW 17th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 Okeecopydesk@newszap.com www.newszap.com/OkeechobeeNews (863) 763-3134 | Diana Whitehall Okeechobee The Magazine 316 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 susan@okeechobeethemagazine.com www.okeechobeethemagazine.com (863) 467-0054 | Susan Giddings WOKC Radio & Radio Fiesta 210 West N Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 wayne@gladesmedia.com www.wokc.com (863) 467-1570 | Wayne Cunningham
Attorneys
Aquaculture Dark Hammock Turtles LLC 12615 NE 124 Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 darkhammockturtles@gmail.com www.darkhammockturtles.com (863) 763-5242 | Shawn & Natasha Heater
Architectural Design & Building Cobble Systems, LLC 100 W. Livingston Street Orlando, FL 32801 cindy@cobblesystems.com www.cobblesystems.com (772) 370-4713 | Cindy Hall Enviro-Tech Systems, Inc. 2308 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34974 kuhnca@enviro-tech.cc www.enviro-tech.cc (863) 763-3143 | Courtney Kuhn
Artists | Graphic Art Art Galleries Affordable Art & Framing LLC 110 SW 14th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 affordableartframing@gmail.com (863) 357-3200 | Kathie Papasso Bridgette Waldau Studio of Art LLC 111 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 bridgette.art@gmail.com www.bridgette-art.com (863) 467-7300 | Bridgette Waldau Create & Decorate 609 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 bethw_04@yahoo.com (863) 634-8660 | Beth White
Glenn J. Sneider, LC 200 SW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 glennjsneider@gmail.com www.sneiderlaw.com (863) 467-6570 | Glenn Sneider Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd 212 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 sandy@hosklaw.com www.hoskinsturco.com (863) 357-5800 James P. Covey, P.A. 1575 Indian River Boulevard, Suite C120 Vero Beach, FL 32960 jim@jcoveylaw.com (772) 770-6160 | James Covey Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre 1910 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 gerald@accidentattorneyoffice.com www.accidentattorneyoffice.com (863) 763-3333 | Gerald Lefebvre
Auto & RV Parts Service | Accessories Lehman Auto Body Shop 265 Hwy 98 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 lehmanautobody@yahoo.com www.lehmanautobody.com (863) 467-1691 | Beth Lehman
Automobile Dealerships Gilbert Family of Companies 315 S Parrot Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 jd.mixon@gilberthasit.com www.Gilberthasit.com (863) 763-2121 | J.D. Mixon Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram 4224 US Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 jeff@okeechobeedcj.com www.okeechobeedcj.com (863) 357-0500 | Jeff Stewart
Banks | Credit Unions CenterState Bank 1611 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 ttrent@centerstatebank.com www.centerstatebank.com (863) 763-5573 | Tabitha Trent
Directory Harbor Community Bank 2550 S Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 SharonJohnson@harborcb.com www.harborcb.com (863) 357-6880 | Sharon Johnson MIDFLORIDA Credit Union 3261 U.S. Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 amyd@midflorida.com www.midflorida.com (863) 467-0188 | Amy Daniel Seacoast National Bank 1409 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 jon.geitner@seacoastnational.com www.seacoastnational.com (863) 467-4663 | Jon Geitner
Beauty Salons | Spas Cosmetics The Lounge at Sacred Sanctuary, LLC 207 SW 2nd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 SacredSanctuary@icloud.com www.TheLoungeOkeechobee.com Robert Keefe Mary Kay Cosmetics 1630 SW 28th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 gem7mh@yahoo.com www.marykay.com/gayle-molyneaux (561) 801-1336 | Gayle Molyneaux Mary Kay Cosmetics 1418 SE 9th Drive Okeechobee, FL 34974 (561) 310-3285 | Janice Pietro
Boat | Outboard Motor Sales & Service Lakeshore Marine 1365 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 steve@lakeshoremarineinc.com www.lakeshoremarineinc.com (863) 763-4080 | Steve Brantley
Childcare | Preschool A Child’s World Childcare and Preschool, Inc. 703 SW 6th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 achildsworld@embarqmail.com (863) 763-5453 | Malissa Morgan Early Learning Coalition 308 NW 5th St Okeechobee, FL 34972 lauclair@elcirmo.org www.elcirmo.org (863) 357-1133 | Loretta Toth Childcare | Preschool continue page 82.
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Directory Childcare | Preschool Cont. Peace Lutheran School 750 NW 23rd Lane Okeechobee, FL 34972 peaceschoolinokeechobee@yahoo.com http://peace-okee.org (863) 763-7566 | Karen Smith
Competitive Cheerleading CSC All Stars 810 N Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 jennifer_579@hotmail.com (863) 697-2085 | Jennifer Busbin
Computer Service | Sales ICS Computers 403 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 rick@icsflorida.com www.icsflorida.com (863) 467-9090 | Rick Chartier
Construction | Engineering Abney Building & Consulting, Inc. 210 NE 3rd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 abneybuild@gmail.com Wes Abney Native American Construction, LLC. 2971 SW 3rd Terrace Okeechobee, FL 34974 lynne@NativeAmericanConstructionLLC.com www.NativeAmericanConstructionLLC.com (863) 824-6727 | Lynne Rosa Penrod Construction Company 210 NE 3rd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 penrodconstruction@yahoo.com www.penrodconstructioncompany.com (863) 634-0546 | Corey Penrod
BUSINESS
B&B Site Development, Inc. 1505 C South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Fl. 34974 skullhillsteel@yahoo.com (863) 763-6053 | Philip Baughman Luviano Roofing 11055 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 osiel@luvianogroup.com www.luvianoroofing.com (863) 357-3838 | Osiel Luviano
Counseling Breakthrough Recovery Services, Inc. 202 NW 5th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 breakthroughviki@gmail.com (863) 467-2300 | Viki Lamberti Caleb Center for Counseling Okeechobee, FL 34974 calebcenter@yahoo.com (863) 634-4200 | Darlene Mayers Martha’s House Inc. 4134 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 jbean@marthashouse.org www.marthashouse.org (863) 763-2893 | Jonathan Bean
Dance Leslie’s Dance Studio 2827 SW 3rd Terrace Okeechobee, FL 34974 lgs.studio2827@gmail.com (863) 634-3831 | Leslie Stokes
Dental | Orthodontics
Everglades Pediatric Dentistry 2029 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeemel@aol.com www.evergladesdentist4kids.com Consultants (863) 357-7338 | Melissa Kindell Wemmer Family Orthodontics CareerSource Research Coast 2025 Hwy 441 N 584 NW University Boulevard, Suite 100 Port St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Lucie, FL 34986 drwemmer@gmail.com bdulemba@careersourcerc.com www.wemmerorthodontics.com www.careersourcerc.com (863) 467-2332 | David Wemmer (866) 482-4473, x-605 | Brian Dulemba Mote, Inc. 119 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 maureen7139@gmail.com (863) 763-5055 | Terry Burroughs
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Education
Contractors
Indian River State College 2229 NW 9th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 rbrown@irsc.edu www.irsc.edu (863) 824-6000 | Russ Brown Okeechobee Christian Academy 701 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 oca.nreynolds@gmail.com www.okeechobeechristianacademy.net (863) 763-3072 | Nick Reynolds Okeechobee High School 2800 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34974 Wiersmat@okee.k12.fl.us (863) 462-5025 | Toni Wiersma Seminole Elementary 2690 NW 42nd Avenue Okeechobee FL 34974 koffm@okee.k12.fl.us (863) 462-5116 | Matt Koff Yearling Middle School 925 NW 23rd Lane Okeechobee, FL 34974 http://okee.k12.fl.us brewera@okee.k12.fl.us (863) 801-6444 | Andy Brewer
Elected Officials Congressman Thomas J. Rooney 4507 George Boulevard Sebring, FL 33875 sherry.mccorkle@mail.house.gov www.rooney.house.gov (863) 402-9082 | Sherry McCorkle Senator Denise Grimsley 150 N Commerce Avenue, Suite 2 Sebring, FL 33870 andrea@denisegrimsley.com www.denisegrimsley.com (863) 835-0232 | Andrea Jahna State Representative Cary Pigman 205 S Commerce Avenue, Suite B Sebring, FL 33870 bryan.mielke@myfloridahouse.gov www.myfloridahouse.com/Sections/ Representatives (863) 386-6000 | Bryan Mielke
Engineering Culpepper & Terpening, Inc. 2980 South 25th Street Fort Pierce, FL 34981 bterpening@ct-eng.com www.ct-eng.com (772) 464-3537 | Butch Terpening
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Steven L. Dobbs Engineering LLC. 1062 Jakes Way Okeechobee, FL 34974 sdobbs@stevedobbsengineering.com www.stevendobbsengineering.com (863) 824-7644 | Steven Dobbs
Entertainment Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center Palm Beach State College 1977 College Drive Belle Glade, FL 33430 woodhaml@palmbeachstate.edu (561) 993-1160 | Leigh Woodham Okeechobee Community Theatre 1414 S Parrott Avenue, Box 177 Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@okeechobeecommunitytheartre.com www.okeechobeecommunitytheatre.com (863) 763-1307 | Ron Hayes Okeechobee County Fair Association, Inc. PO Box 1306 Okeechobee, FL 34973 info@okeechobeecountyfair.com www.okeechobeecountyfair.com (863) 467-1690 |Terry Burroughs Seminole Brighton Casino 17735 Reservation Road Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.seminolebrightoncasino.com shelley.hughes@stofgaming.com (863) 467-9998 | Shelly Hughes
Farm Equipment Everglades Farm Equipment Company, Inc. 820 US Hwy 98N Okeechobee, FL 34972 blundy@evergladesfarmequipment.com www.evergladesfarmequipment.com (863) 763-1921 | Brad Lundy
Feed Supply Jones Supply, A.I. Sales & Service J801 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 jonesy@jonessupply.biz www.jonessupply.biz (863) 467-0351 | Jeff Jones Okeechobee Feed Inc. 1579 Hwy 70 E Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeechobeefeed@yahoo.com www.okeechobeefeed.com (863) 763-2123 | James Hawk Syfrett Feed Co. 3079 NW 8th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 info@syfrettfeed.com www.syfrettfeed.com (863) 763-5586 | Chuck Syfrett
BUSINESS Financial & Investment Services Ameriprise Financial 8300 Dunwoody Place, Suite 140 Atlanta, GA 30350 george.d.fritts@ampf.com (770) 609-6322 | David Fritts Atlantic Wealth Management Group at UBS 712 SE Ocean Boulevard Stuart, FL 34994 greg.thogersen@ubs.com www.ubs.com/team/atlantic (772) 223-6618 | Greg Thogersen Edward Jones Investments 107 SW 17th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 ana.jones@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com (863) 357-4724 | Ana Jones Morgan Stanley 729 SW Federal Hwy, Suite 300 Stuart, FL 34994 steven.swann@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/stevenswann (772) 223-3250 | Steven Swann Wells Fargo Advisors peggy.thorlton@wellsfargoadvisors.com https://home.wellsfargoadvisors.com/ Peggy.Thorlton (863) 402-5020 or (866) 261-0294 Peggy Thorlton
Fishing & Fishing Guide Service Garrard’s Tackle Shop 4259 S. Hwy 441 Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@okeechobeebassguides.com www.okeechobeebassguides.com (863) 763-3416 | Margaret Helton Okeechobee Fishing Headquarters 5286 SW 16th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 mike@halofishing.com www.fishokeechobee.com (863) 763-2248 | Mike Cornell
Florists Countryside Florist 201 SW 5th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 jjjangus@gmail.com www.countrysideflstokeechobee.com (863) 763-3833 | Aaron Parriott Pat’s Floral Design 300 N Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 patsfloraldesign@gmail.com www.patsfloraldesignonline.com (863) 763-9232 | Colleen Thomas
Funeral & Cremation Services
Health Care
Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home 400 N Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 weldit@earthlink.net www.okeechobeefuneralhome.com (863) 763-1994 | Matthew Buxton
Government City of Okeechobee 55 SE 3rd Avenue, Room 100 Okeechobee, FL 34974 bwhitehall@cityofokeechobee.com www.cityofokeechobee.com (863) 763-3372 | Brian Whitehall Okeechobee Correctional Institution 3420 NE 168th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeechobeeci@mail.dc.state.fl.us www.dc.state.fl.us (863) 462-5432 | Powell Skipper Okeechobee County Okeechobee, FL 34974 rchartier@co.okeechobee.fl.us www.co.okeechobee.fl.us (863) 763-6441 | Robbie Chartier Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office 504 NW 4th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 sheriff@okeesheriff.org www.okeesheriff.org (863) 763-3117 | Paul May
Guns | Ammo Archery & Bow Mike’s Okeechobee Guns 105 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 mikesokeechobeeguns@gmail.com (863) 763-0122 | Mike O’Connor Yetti Outfitters 719 Hwy 98 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 yettioutfittersinc@gmail.com www.yettioutfittersinc.com (863) 763-1040 | David Sweatt Skull Hill Steel, Inc. 1505 C South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 skullhillsteel@yahoo.com (863) 634-2855 | Brandon Baughman
Dr. Fred Brown Children’s Health Center 2015 US Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.fchcinc.org tjones@fchcinc.org (863) 763-1951 | Tom Jones Doctor’s Clinic Family Health Center, LLC 204 Southeast Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 drsweda@yahoo.com www.doctorsclinichealth.com (863) 763-1107 | Rennee Sweda Family Health & Wellness 1008 N Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 famhealthwell@gmail.com www.fhwellness.net (863) 623-5086 | Amanda Williams Florida Community Health Center 2015 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 tjones@fchcinc.org www.fchc.org (863) 763-1951 | Tom Jones Hospice of Okeechobee 411 SE 4th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 director@hospiceofokeechobee.org www.hospiceofokeechobee.org (863) 467-2321 | Frank Irby Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 204 SE Park Sreet Okeechobee, FL 34972 nbravo123@yahoo.com (863) 357-8222 | Nancy Fernandez-Bravo Lakeshore Medical Center 1100 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 tfulford@fchcinc.org www.fchcinc.org (863) 763-7481 | Tim Fulford Okeechobee Discount Drugs 203 S.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 stacey@okeedrug.com www.okeedrug.com (863) 763-5100 | Steven Nelson Pregnancy Center of Okeechobee 808 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeepregcenter@yahoo.com www.okeepregcenter.com (863) 467-8748 | Lisa Lumpkin Raulerson Hospital 1796 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 jenny.pung@hcahealthcare.com www.raulersonhospital.com (863) 763-2151 | Robert Lee
Directory Trindad E. Garcia, MD 306 NE 19th Drive Okeechobee, FL 34974 smmbh@bellsouth.net www.wellness.com (863) 763-6427 | Trinidad Garcia
Home Interiors Flooring | Window | Paint Custom Window Treatments & Blinds 1409 Chobee Loop Okeechobee, FL 34974 cwtblinds@aol.com www.cwtblinds.com (863) 357-6555 | Val Douglas Jeanettes Interiors 818 S Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 jeanettesinteriors@yahoo.com jeanettesinteriors.com (863) 763-6554 | Jeanette Sherwin Williams 820 E North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 sw2573@sherwin.com (863) 824-6101 | Sam Moody
Hotels | Motels Best Western 3975 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 bwlakeokeechobee@gmail.com www.bestwesternflorida.com/hotels/ best-western-lake-okeechobee (863) 357-7100 | Mary Hayes Holiday Inn Express & Suites 3101 US Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 hieokeechobee@gmail.com www.hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/ okeechobee/okewr/hotel (863) 357-3529 | Jay Patel Pier II Resort & Lounge 2200 SE Hwy 441 Okeechobee, FL 34974 mikeroll@thecomfortgroup.com website www.pierIIresortflorida.com (863) 623-4704 | Mike Roll
Human Resource Services Tobacco Free Partnership of Okeechobee P O Box 1595 Okeechobee, FL 34973 cmoyett@quitdoc.com www.tfp-okeechobee.org (863) 801-8277 | Courtney Moyett
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Directory Hunting | Shooting Sports & Clubs OK Corral Gun Club 9449 NE 48th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 cboyd@okgunclub.com www.okcorralgunclub.com (863) 357-2226 | Channing Boyd Okeechobee Outfitters 5260 Bluff Hammock Road Lorida, FL 33857 okeechobeeoutfitter@yahoo.com www.guided-hunting.com (863) 655-2454 | Danny Santangelo Okeechobee Shooting Sports 7055 NE 48th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 jeff@okshooting.com www.okshooting.com (863) 357-3006 | Jeffrey Wait Quail Creek Plantation 12399 Northeast 224th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 fred@quailcreekplantation.com www.quailcreekplantation.com (863) 763-2529 | Fred Fanizzi
Insurance Amworld Insurance & Financial Planning Service Inc. 132 Newberry Lane Royal Palm Beach, FL 33414 jadams24@bellsouth.net www.amworldinc.com (561) 512-4449 | Jennifer Adams Berger Insurance Associates 800 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 peggy@bergerinsurance.com www.insuranceokeechobeefl.com (863) 763-6411 | Peggy Simmons Colonial Life 2751 Orange Boulevard West Palm Beach, FL 33412 keith.jordano@coloniallife.com www.jordanogroup.com (561) 333-6228 | Keith Jordano Florida Blue 1675 St. Lucie W Boulevard Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 Patricia.Beck@floridablue.com http://FloridaBlueCenters.com/ port-st-lucie (772) 621-8830 | Patricia Beck Gretchen Robertson Insurance Agency, Inc. 309 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 maurisa@gretchenrobertson.com www.gretchenrobertson.com (863) 763-5561 | Maurisa Tremain
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BUSINESS Lake Okeechobee Title Insurance 608 NW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 jburdeshaw@outlook.com (863) 763-3749 | John Burdeshaw Marcum & Associates 1120 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 admin@mymarcum.com www.mymarcum.com (863) 467-0331 | Billy Marcum Milton Carpenter Insurance 3960 SE 18th Terrace Okeechobee, FL 34974 peggy@miltoncarpenterins.com www.miltoncarpenterins.com (863) 697-6209 | Peggy Carpenter-Brady Murray Insurance Services PNC. 210 NW Park Street, Suite 103 Okeechobee, FL 34974 smurray@murrayinsuranceservices.com www.murrayinsuranceservices.com (863) 763-5551 | Shannon Murray Pritchards & Associates 1802 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 lpritchard@pritchardsinc.com www.pritchardsinc.com (863) 763-7711 | Lowell Pritchard
Jewelry Duran Jewelry 1700 S Parrott Avenue, Suite A Okeechobee, FL 34974 joyeriaduran@embarqmail.com (863) 824-0011 | Olivia Granados
Livestock Okeechobee Livestock Market PO Box 1288 Okeechobee, FL 34973 livestockmarket@centurylink.net www.okeechobeelivestockmarket.com (863) 763-3127 | Audra Clemons
Manufacturing & Productions Entegra Roof Tile LLC 1289 NE 9th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.entegra.com cwestbrook@rooftile.com (863) 824-1267 | Christy Westbrook Praxair Distribution SE 2534 NW 16th Boulevard Okeechobee, FL 34972 Dave_Christensen@praxair.com www.praxair.com (863) 763-0007 | David Christensen
Medical, Dental & Nursing Care Allure Institute for Plastic Surgery 851 W. Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33458 allureinstitute88@gmail.com http://allureplasticsurgery.com (561) 747-1232 | Aldo Lombardo
Non- Profit American Cancer Society 865 SE Monterey Commons Stuart, FL 34996 tracy.henkes@cancer.org www.cancer.org (772) 287-7467 | Tracy Henkes | Okeechobee Area Agency on Aging 110 NE 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 wklesper@co.okeechobee.fl.us (863) 450-9402 | Wanda Klesper Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Inc. 14895 NW 30th Terrace Okeechobee, FL 34974 suearnold@arnoldswildlife.org www.arnoldswildlife.org (863) 763-4630 | Sue Arnold Castle 1835A Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 rgonzalez@castletc.org www.castletc.org (863) 467-7771 | Rossana Gonzalez Devereux Community Based Care of Okeechobee 10570 South Federal Hwy, Suite 300 Port St. Lucie, FL 34952 christina.kaiser@devereuxcbc.org www.devereuxcbc.org (772) 873-7800 | Christina Kaiser Faith Farm Ministries 7595 NE 128th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 jbenton@faithfarm.org www.faithfarm.org (863) 763-4224 | Jim Benton Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #69 4351 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeechobeefop@gmail.com www.okeechobeefop.com (863) 634-5225 | Michael Hazellief Gulfstream Goodwill Industries 1715 Tiffany Drive East West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (561) 848-7200 Helping People Succeed 1100 SE Federal Hwy Stuart, Fl 34994 shutcheson@hpsfl.org www.hpsfl.org (772) 320-0777 |Suzanne Hutcheson
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Honorable Enterprises 1738 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 betperez31@gmail.com www.honorableenterprises.org (863) 801-1699 | Elizabeth Olivieri Humane Society Pet Rescue FL Inc. 1203 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34973 reunitepets@aol.com www.animalrescueokeechobee.org (772) 285-3010 | Mary Skinner Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee okeechobeekiwanis@gmail.com www.kiwanisclubofokeechobee.com (863) 634-1778 | Teresa Chandler Lighthouse Refuge PO Box 2573 Okeechobee, FL 34973 (863) 801-9201 | Donna Dean Okeechobee Main Street, Inc. 55 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 sharie@okeechobeemainstreet.org www.mainstreetokeechobee.com (863) 357-6246 | Sharie Turgeon Philippine-American Foundation 5154 SW 16th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 sidestrada@hotmail.com www.philamculturalfoundation.org (863) 763-6057 | Sid Estrada Real Life Children’s Ranch 7777 Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 darlene.mayers@rlcr.org www.rlcr.org (863) 763-4242 | Darlene Mayers Republican Party of Okeechobee Executive Committee 1126 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 debilynnlarge@yahoo.com (863) 532-9623 | Debi Large Rev. Nancy Vaughan 1st United Methodist Church 200 NW 2nd Street Okeechobee, Florida 34972 number1dce@aol.com (863) 763-4021 | Nancy Vaughan Rotary Club of Okeechobee Okeechobee, FL 34974 okeechobeerotary@live.com www.okeechobeerotary.org (863) 610-9416 | Donna Gaiser Treasure Coast Builders Association 6560 S. Federal Hwy Port St. Lucie, FL 34952 maddie@treasurecoastba.com www.treasurecoastba.com (863) 467-2007 | Maddie Williams United Way of Okeechobee Okeechobee, FL 34974 allison@unitedwaylee.org www.unitedwaylee.org (863) 484-3887 | Allison Chandler
BUSINESS Nursery | Garden Kimberly Bush 3057 NE 52nd Drive Okeechobee, Florida 34972 krtrees@embarqmail.com (863) 763-7075 | Kimberly Bush
Optical Services Big Lake Eye Care 606 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 melissa@biglakeeyecare.com www.biglakeeyecare.com (863)763-3937 | Melissa Jansen
Pest Control Highlands Pest Control 2771 Vista Parkway West Palm Beach, FL 33411 www.highlandpest.com michelle@highlandpest.com (561) 793-1198 | Michelle
Pool Services Gator Pools 1400 SW 83rd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 mbarcingp@yahoo.com www.gatorpools.net (863) 634-7883 | Michael Barcia
Printers and Office Machine Maintenance EGP Inc. ‘’ The Copier People ‘’ 4890 Okeechobee Road, Suite 101 Ft. Pierce, FL 34947 barryrokaw@egp.com www.egp.com (877) 427-7835 | Barry Rokaw
Physical Therapy Massage Physical Therapy Connection 414 NW 3rd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 contact@physicaltherapy-connection.com www.physicaltherapy-connection.com (863) 824-0499 | Fernananda Cuellar Anderson Realty Co. 21442 E. SR 78, BHR Okeechobee, FL 34974 vic_anderson@earthlink.net www.andersonrealtyco.com (863) 634-4106 | Vicki Anderson
Beef O’ Brady’s 608 S Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 okeebeefs@gmail.com Berger Real Estate www.beefobradys.com 425 SW Park Street (863) 763-7300 | Nikki Brewster Okeechobee, FL 34972 Brown Cow Sweetery lori@bergerinsurance.com 103 SW Park Street www.cbbergerrealestate.com Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-5335 | Phil Berger paulette@browncowsweetery.com B.H. Tucker Real Estate www.browncowsweetery.com 104 NW 7th Avenue (863) 357-3357 | Paulette Bragel Okeechobee, FL 34972 Chico’s Burrito Shack btucker1450@earthlink.net 309 SW Park Street www.bhtuckerrealestate.com Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-4010 | Bobby Tucker chico_b2@yahoo.com Century 21 Hazellief & Prevatt Realty, Inc. (863) 623-4345 | Abel Banda 1200 S. Parrott Avenue Cowboys BBQ & Steak Co. Okeechobee, FL 34974 420 SW 3rd Street century21okeechobee@earthlink.net Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.century21okeechobee.com jaimie.mccoin@yahoo.com (863) 763-2104 | David Hazellief www.cowboysbarbqueandsteakco.com Clear Title & Legal Services Inc. (863) 467-1104 | Jaimie McCoin 200 NW 5th Street Dunkin Donuts Okeechobee FL 34972 4993 Hwy 441 S titleandlegal@ymail.com Okeechobee, FL 34974 http://cleartitleandlegalservices.com alzakhary@yahoo.com (863) 824-6776 | Erin Fralix www.dukindonuts.com D & A Properties, Inc. (863) 357-0015 | Albert Zakhary 701 NE 3rd Street Golden Corral Okeechobee, FL 34972 700 S Parrott Avenue nunezd@earthlink.net Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 634-1289 | Anita Nunez goldenlionmidfl@aol.com Kelly M. Mammarelli Rentals www.goldencorral.com 104 NE 8th Avenue (863) 763-0444 | Charlie Hukriede Okeechobee, FL 34972 Jersey Mike’s kmamma14@gmail.com 611 SW Park Street (954) 213-1379 | Kelly Mammarelli Okeechobee, FL 34974 Mixon Real Estate Group, LLC krissydail@hotmail.com 1306 SW 2nd Avenue www.jerseymikes.com Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 467-8100 | Krissy Culbreth LMixon@MixonGroup.com Little Caesars Pizza www.MixonGroup.com 13612 Pinevilla Lane (863) 763-6000 | Lori Mixon Fort Myers, FL 33912 Preferred Properties of Okeechobee jim@jamapizza.com 517 SW Park Street (863) 467-0800 | Jim Addis Okeechobee, FL 34974 Pueblo Viejo VI preferredpropertiesofokee@gmail.com 3415 Hwy 441 South www.preferredpropertiesofokeechobee.org Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 623-5096 | Becky Barber puebloviejo6@yahoo.com www.puebloviejofl.com (863) 357-9641 | Pueblo Viejo VI Restaurants | Catering Tin Fish Restaurant 301 N Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.thetinfishrestaurants.com 2nd Street Pizza (863) 357-0447 | Joe Melluzo 202 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 Wendy’s 2ndstreetpizzarestaurant@gmail.com 502 NE Park Street (863) 763-5000 | Ralph Collins Okeechobee, FL 34972 dchapman@jaateam.com Applebee’s www.wendys.com 1210 Hwy 70 E (863) 763-8181 | David Chapman Okeechobee, FL 34974 store4326@gatorapple.info www.applebees.com (863) 357-0141 | Dave Sherill
Real Estate Services
Directory Retail | Specialty Shops 1 Stop Party Shop 319 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 okeeparty@hotmail.com www.1stoppartyshop.com (863) 467-4900 | Kim Hargraves 3 Bee’s Layne 28101 SW Warfield Boulevard Okeechobee, FL 34974 whit332@gmail.com (407) 572-3669 | Whitney Christian Badcock Home Furniture & More 512 W North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 lindak4@earthlink.net www.badcock.com (863) 763-3823 | Linda Ballinger Elliott’s Pawn Shop 419 W So Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 lesleywhat@yahoo.com (863) 763-5553 | Lesley Watford Nature’s Pantry 417 West South Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 npantry@gmail.com (863) 467-1243 | Becky Posey Rodeo and Juliet Boutique 19639 US Hwy 98 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 afewacres@aol.com http://rodeoandjulietboutique.com (239) 671-8366 | Debra Caine Royal’s Furniture, Appliances & Bedding 804 E North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 broyal@royalsinc.com www.royalsinc.com (863) 763-6293 | Bryan Royal Rustic Style & Cabins 505 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 rustic.now@gmail.com www.rusticstyleandcabins.com (863) 532-9096 | Nita Salmon Teez2Pleez 620 S Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 gingerad87@gmail.com (863) 467-0580 | Autumn DeCarlo Tobacco Place 101 SW 2nd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 kdehays@yahoo.com www.okeechobeetobaccoplace.com (863) 357-6653 | Karen DeHays Toni’s Chic Boutique 123 S. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 tonischicboutique@comcast.net (863) 357-8664 | Toni Doyle
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2015
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Directory RV Parks | Resorts Aruba RV Park 1073 Old Lakeport Road Moore Haven, FL 33471 info@okeedirect.com www.okeedirect.com (863) 946-1324 | Denise Allen Big Lake Lodge 8680 Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 arrington.betty@gmail.com www.biglakelodge.org (863) 763-4638 | Betty Arrington Silver Palms 4143 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 http://silverpalmsrv.com activities@silverpalmsrv.com (863) 467-5800 | Michelle Barron Okeechobee KOA 4276 US Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 wwoodman@koa.net www.koa.com/campgrounds/okeechobee (863) 763-0231 | Wendy Woodman Water’s Edge Motorcoach & RV Resort 12766 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 watersedgerv@innisfree.com www.okeechobeervpark.com (863) 357-5757 | Sue Baker
BUSINESS Telecommunications CEECO 519 W. South Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 info@ceeco.net www.ceeco.net (863) 357-0798 | Penny McCreary CenturyLink 2820 Cargo Street Ft Myers, FL 33916 shelly.chitwood@centurylink.com www.centurylink.com (239) 335-8330 | John McGowan Comcast 1850 Fountainview Blvd. Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 Kathleen_koury@cable.comcast.com www.comcastspotlight.com (772) 323-0412| Mike Anthony
Transportation Trucking Walpole, Inc. 269 NW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 kwalpole@walpoleinc.com www.walpoleinc.com (863) 763-5593 | Keith Walpole
Well Drilling Serv ices
Utilities
American Drilling Services 405 SW 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 decarlof18@gmail.com www.americandrillingflorida.com (863) 763-3221 | Frank DeCarlo Domer’s 204 Southeast 10th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@DomersInc.com www.DomersInc.com (863) 763-3417 | Justin Domer
Florida Public Utilities 802 North Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 Energryforlife@fpuc.com www.fpuc.com (866) 763-2115 | Crystal Campbell FPL 1401 SE Montery Road Stuart, FL 34994 max.macon@fpl.com www.fpl.com (772) 781-3118 | Max Macon
Friends of the Chamber
Veterinary Pet Boarding Mims Veterinary Hospital 275 SW 32rd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 mimsr2ranch@embarqmail.com www.mimsveterinaryhospital.com (863) 763-9200 | Randall Mims Northlake Veterinary Hospital 1107 US Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 jaystinsondvm@yahoo.com http://northlakeveterinaryhospital.biz (863) 467-1007 | Jay Stinson
Mary Beth Cooper Chamber Ambassador Judy Douglas Willard D. Dover Donna Gaiser Robert Goolsby John Gurney Gary Kirsch Elvie Posey Member content provided by the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County. Okeechobee The Magazine LLC is not responsible for any errors or omissions.
Okeechobee’s Premiere Community Magazine since 2007
RV Sales Florida Outdoors RV Country 4300 US Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 marilyn@floridaoutdoorsrv.com www.floridaoutdoorsrv.com (863) 623-4689 | Marilyn Driscoll
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Sanitation Services
Why
Waste Management – Okeechobee Landfill, Inc. 10800 NE 128th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 tchandler@wm.com www.wm.com (863) 824-4013 | Teresa Chandler
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Security Cameras Alarm Systems Alarm Company of Okeechobee, Inc. 919 N.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 thealarmco@embarqmail.com www.thealarmco.org (863) 357-2004 | Carl Shumate
Smart Marketers
To Reserve Advertising Space Call
863-467-0054
316 NW 5th Street | Okeechobee, Florida 34972
www.OkeechobeeTheMagazine.com
2015 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
PENROD
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
■ Commercial ■ Residential
863.634.0546 Corey Penrod (Owner) and Family
! n io ct fa is at S er om st u C d an ce n le el Committed to Quality, Exc Located at: 210 NE 3rd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 CGC1516178
! y a d o t l l Ca
PenrodConstructionCompany.com
Q UA L I T Y C A R E I S C LO S E TO H O M E . For more than 35 years, Raulerson Hospital has provided quality healthcare with a personal touch — right here in Okeechobee. We offer the excellence in healthcare that you desire, from the experts you trust. From our 24/7 ER treatment to surgical services, we’re here for you.
To find a physician or speak to a Registered Nurse, call Consult-A-Nurse® at 863.763.9228 or visit RaulersonHospital.com to learn more.
OU R ER TREATS KI DS T OO!