Community Guide And Business Directory
Inaugural Issue
2014
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
Like us, follow us, pin us!
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
Content 25
2014
Community Guide And Business Directory
48
37
Chamber
9 Welcome 10 Board of Directors 13 Chamber Benefits 15 Rebirth of the Chamber
Community Guide
16 Welcome to Okeechobee 18 Map 20 Okeechobee County 21 City of Okeechobee 22 Important Phone Numbers
Economic Developement 44 Economic Council, Main Street and Chamber
Education
48 Indian River State College
Dining Guide
53 Chamber Restaurant Members
Community Events
60 Events and Festivals
History
Recreation
Lifestyle
Business Listing
25 The History of Okeechobee 29 Okeechobee Real Estate 35 Places of Worship
65
65 Lake Okeechobee Area
81 Chamber Members COMMUNITY GUIDE AND BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Heathcare
37 Raulerson Hospital 4
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Cover Photo by Sharon Cannon Lake Okeechobee
Inaugural Issue
2014
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Community Guide And Business Directory
Serving You For 57 Years.
2014
Furniture - Appliances - Electronics
55 S Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 467-6246 www.okeechobeebusiness.com The 2014 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide has been published by Okeechobee The Magazine
www.badcock.com 512 W. North Park Street Okeechobee, Florida
863-763-3823
Publisher Susan E Giddings Art Director Bridgette Waldau Editor Rachel Buxton Photographers Sharon Cannon Sandra Pearce
Writers Audra Clemons Raye Deusinger Angie Francalancia Lori Mixon Advertising/Production Staff Patti Berglund Trish Grygo Debi Large
The 2014 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. Š 2014 Okeechobee The Magazine LLC
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
ANTIQUES - HOME DECOR - GIFTS Adding a Little Charm to Okeechobee...
Rustic Now Furniture & Emporium presents
BORACHO’S RED NECK WINE
Ask Us About Our
505 NE Park St. - Okeechobee, FL
Our Priorities are Simple.... They’re Yours!
Niki Salmon 1306 SW 2nd Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974
Lic. Realtor
863-532-9096 Office: 863-763-6000
NSalmon@MixionGroup.com
www.MixonGroup.com Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Okeechobee Florida's Oldest Locally Owned Business. For over 85 years we have been an integral part of Okeechobee It is your loyalty to our business and our dedication to our customers that has allowed Domer’s to provide reliable agricultural, residential, commercial and municipal products and services.
Our services include our retail store, machine shop and outside services. Agricultural Driveline Assembly and Repairs Assembly of custom Suction and Discharge Hoses Custom Steel Fabrication | Drive Shaft Repairs Fabrication of custom Branding Irons | Hydraulic Cylinder Repairs Hydraulic Hoses | Installation of Hitches | Irrigation Repair Job Shop | Machine Shop Applications Pump Installation and Service | Solar Pumps and Repairs Water Treatment Installation and Service Water Treatment Maintenance Welding Repairs on Aluminum, Stainless Steel, and Steel Well Drilling - 4” to 24” | Windmill Installation and Repairs
Industrial Parts in Stock!
Jacob, Ray, Cindi, and Justin Domer
Domer's Inc. has been owned and operated by three generations of the Domer family in Okeechobee, Florida.
Have a question? We’re happy to help...
863-763-3417 8
email: info@DomersInc.com 2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
www.DomersInc.com
204 SE 10th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 We are located one block behind the post office on 70 E.
Welcome
Chamber
Welcome to the inaugural issue of our 2014 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 present to the community our 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. This book is only one-step in the Chamber’s commitment to our community and its businesses. 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. Our Chamber is strong and proactive, providing educational programs, events and training for our members, community residents and visitors. The Board of Directors recognizes the most crucial relationship the Chamber fosters is with you, our members and investors. 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 will be 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 growing 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. n Thank you and God bless you!
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Board of Directors (L-R) John W. Gurney, Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez, Bill Dover, Donna Gaiser, Terry W. Burroughs, Tabitha Trent, Robert Lee, Susan Giddings, Russ Brown and Jeff Jones. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Chamber
BOARD Terry W. Burroughs 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
Bill Dover
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.
Donna Gaiser Donna Gaiser, a graduate of the Rotary Leadership Institute, is currently the president of the Rotary Club of Okeechobee and a board member of the Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers. She has a master’s degree in public administration and worked as an officer, supervisor and auditor for the Florida Department of Corrections for 15 years in probation and parole. She previously was the assistant supervisor at Gucci on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach and was the owner of The Canvas Shop, LLC in Okeechobee. Gaiser was also an adjunct professor for Indian River State College for 10 years. She is a proud wife, mother and grandmother.
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Robert Lee
Jeff Jones 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.
Susan Giddings Susan Giddings is the associate publisher of Okeechobee The Magazine. She holds degrees in business administration and accounting. Although new to the Okeechobee community, she is very community minded. Formerly an executive board member and chair of economic development for the Palms West Chamber, she is already involved locally in volunteering for various local civic and charity organizations. She is married to husband, Ray, and has two adult daughters.
John W. Gurney
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 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.
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. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Toni's
Chic Boutique “Where Fun & Fashion Meet”
SALES - SERVICE PARTS - RENTALS
NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE!
New Fashions in all sizes, evening wear and accessories.
Ag Commercial Equine Residential Governmental Construction
Everglades Farm Equipment has been in the equipment and farming business since 1963. We have the right equipment, the right parts, and the right team to help you get the job done. Put us to the test.
863-763-1921
A large variety of beautiful new and vintage JEWELRY.
We also carry a limited amount of Pristine Consignment
Unique Gifts for any occasion. All gift items, new clothes and greeting cards are made in the U.S.A.
863-357-8664
820 US Hwy. 98, North Okeechobee, FL. 34972 www.EvergladesFarmEquipment.com 4.8125X4.75. OK CHAMBER 2013.indd 1
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
Boutique Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10am – 6pm Fri. 10am – 7pm | Sat. 9am - 3pm Toni Bennett Doyle, Owner Notary Public Services Available tonischicboutique@comcast.net
123 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 12
10/22/2013 1:59:11 PM
Visit Our Candy Shoppe Mix and match your favorites.
203 S.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 (Across from Flagler Park)
www.okeedrug.com
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
863.763.5100 FAX: 863.763.7550 follow us on
@okeediscdrugs
Chamber
Chamber Benefits
W
orking together to help your business succeed.
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 | 2014
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Chamber
Rebirth
OF THE CHAMBER
By Raye Deusinger
After a brief hiatus, the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County reassembled and reestablished itself in January 2011. The core goal of the Chamber remained positive: to service businesses in the community, reach out to new businesses and encourage business growth throughout the county of Okeechobee. The Chamber’s intention remained founded in strengthening and building upon the agricultural history of its community, while encouraging new industries that create high wage job opportunities. And, so far, so good!
place where ideas can be shared and future leadership skills enhanced. It is a place where members are encouraged to learn by participating in community networking luncheons, after-hours meetings, training sessions, and seminar classes created to strengthen the lifeblood of Okeechobee County.
With a prime location in the heart of Okeechobee, the Chamber’s office building is accessible to all. Within its walls resides the area office of Florida’s House District 55 Representative, Cary Pigman, as well as an impressive conference room for conducting and facilitating business meetings. Assistance programs, leadership programs, and classes that help foster a positive environment for the community and future leaders of Okeechobee, can also be found there. One of the premiere classes offered by the Chamber is an eight-month Leadership Program, which is aimed to sharpen leadership skills and the climate of service within the community. Educational offerings, specific and important to the community of Okeechobee, such as Safe Driver Programs, concealed weapons classes, Medicare/Medicaid seminars, and Financial Business Management, are also provided at the Chamber.
The livelihood of Okeechobee consists of a diverse population with many different ethnicities. The Chamber is invested in Okeechobee’s overall progress by facilitating information to all of the different communities throughout Okeechobee County.
More than just a brick and mortar business that offers resourceful classes to its members, the Chamber is a
Chamber President, Terry Burroughs said, “We are committed to making Okeechobee a better place to live, where people want to stay and work in a vital and growing economic climate.”
There are many facets and functions of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County, however, the main objective is to invest in the future of Okeechobee through innovation, dedication, and cooperation between the businesses and their community. After all, knowledge is power. 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 membership offerings, please visit the website, www. OkeechobeeBusiness.com or call 863-467-6246 and speak with Executive Director, Antoinette Rodriguez. n
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Community Welcome to
GUIDE
Okeechobee
A growing community with a small-town feel. By Raye Deusinger
Those of us that live in Okeechobee know just how special the community is. There’s a rich culture and history that is centered around an ever-growing community. Okeechobee is a family that welcomes all to come and experience everything it has to offer.
Welcome to Okeechobee, a progressive commu-
nity which proudly retains its links to the past. This is a county that welcomes diversity with year-round activities, quality education, cutting-edge medicine and open space for relaxation without the pressures of intense urban living. Okeechobee has the second largest freshwater lake in the United States. The lake itself is a nationally known
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tourist attraction that 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. The lake is bisected by the Okeechobee Waterway, which runs from Fort Myers on the west coast of Florida, up the Caloosahatchee River, through the lake and eastward through the St. Lucie Canal to Stuart on Florida’s east coast.
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Located at the heart of the Sunshine 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 nights. With an average rainfall of only 53 inches, outdoor activities continue throughout the year. The lake is encircled by an excellent road system with many scenic viewpoints. Campgrounds, RV parks, restaurants and recreational facilities are easily accessible to travelers. C. Scott Driver Park, located on Hwy 78 W at the Kissimmee River, provides facilities for hikers, boaters and fishermen. The crossroads in the center of town provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban settings but 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 is only 70 miles from West Palm Beach, 115 from Tampa, 105 from Orlando and 135 from Miami. Immediately across the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78 is Glades County and the community of Buckhead Ridge, whose residents work, attend school and otherwise participate in the life of Okeechobee. Further south on Hwy 78 W is 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 boasts a state-of-the-art rodeo arena, a casino complex and modern centers for education and sports. The reservation charter school, Pemayetv Emahakv, expands the normal curriculum with the teaching of the history
and language of the Seminole Tribe. The reservation is open to the public. The Seminole Tribe and residents of the Brighton Reservation play a very active role in Okeechobee’s community. Okeechobee takes great pride it its culture and is always looking for new ways to expand upon it. The city’s active cultural environment includes a mural program depicting local historical times and events, an annual arts festival held in the four-block long park in the center of town, a community theater program that has entertained residents for 34 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 are activities and events sponsored by many civic associations and service clubs such as, the National Day of the American Cowboy, the Adam Bryant Minimal Regatta, where homemade boats support a local cause, a community blood drive, a Labor Day parade, festivals in the park, yearround rodeos and an annual re-enactment of the battle of the second Seminole War. There are also monthly mixers that bring business and community together. Okeechobee continues to grow and build on its rich history. With a variety of activities to partake in and historical sites to see, Okeechobee is a perfect home for many and a wonderful attraction for all. As you read through the Community Guide you will discover the many diverse offerings of our community.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
n
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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.
Orlaando 110 Miles
•
Tampa 130 Miles
•
•
Cape Canaveral 119 Miles
Port St. Lucie
Ft. Myers 95 Miles
• 33 Miles Palm • WestBeach
•
Naples 130 Miles
63 Miles
•
•
•
Fort Lauderdale 105 Miles
Miami 125 Miles
Lake Okeechobee
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Community
GUIDE
Welcome from the
Okeechobee County Commissioners
If you are looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city, you will feel right at home here in Okeechobee County. As our Okeechobee Main Street logo states, we have “old values and new visions.� Okeechobee has a population of 39,000+ full-time residents with a significant increase when our winter visitors come to town during the months of November to April to enjoy our mild and relatively dry winter weather. And because of our location on the North shore of Lake Okeechobee we are a destination for bass fishermen from around the state and across the country. Okeechobee County is centrally located in South Central Florida and offers easy access to the Atlantic Ocean which is one hour east and the Gulf of Mexico which is two hours west. And with the Kissimmee River on our western boundary, we have access to miles of river channels and wetland habitat which provides unlimited opportunities for water sports, fishing and wildlife viewing. Sunny Florida is a destination for many visitors and Okeechobee should be on your list of places to visit and enjoy! Come and discover what makes Okeechobee so special and enjoy our beautiful subtropical weather and friendly people. Okeechobee County is the County with a small town environment that creates a desirable place to live, work and play.
Okeechobee County Board of Commissioners (L-R) Margaret Garrard Helton, Bryant H. Culpepper, Chairman Frank Irby, Joey Hoover and Ray Domer.
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Welcome from the
Okeechobee City Council Get ready for a big dose of true southern hospitality that’s special only to South Central Florida. We can talk about all the amenities our small town has to offer such as our atypically large commercial corridor or economic development ventures in our industrial park, but what brings people to Okeechobee is the uniqueness of our friendly community. Okeechobee is a community that comes together when one is in need, no matter how big or small the need may be. And no matter whom you may be. Wherever you may stop off in town you are guaranteed to be greeted with a southern welcome or wave. As soon as you enter into Okeechobee you become part of one big family. Okeechobee is conveniently located to both coasts where you can easily enjoy the culture of large metropolitan areas but then at the end of the day return home to a quiet rural environment where one can truly understand the meaning of being surrounded by friends and family. Our small town may be growing but our old-fashioned values have remained the same. We hope you have an opportunity to visit our community and find out for yourself what makes Okeechobee so special and unique!
City Council Members (L-R) Dowling Watford, Clayton Williams, Mayor James E. Kirk, Mike O’Connor and Devin Maxwell. Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Community
GUIDE
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Aid and Emergency Phone Numbers Okeechobee County Area Code, 863 All Emergencies 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 FL Marine Patrol (561) 624-6935 FL Fish & Wildlife Commission 462-5190 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 HOSPITAL Raulerson Hospital 763-2151 Citizen Services Abuse, Elder & Child (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 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 Pregnancy Center 467-8748
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Public Safety 763-3212 Senior Services 462-5180 Shared Services Network 462-5000 ext. 257 US/IFAS Extension Services 763-6469 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 Health Department 462-5819 Insurance (Fla. Dept. of Financial Services) (800) 693-5236 | myfloridacfo.com Indian River State College (Okeechobee campus) 824-6000 Indian River State College (Main Campus-Ft. Pierce) (866) 792-4772 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
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
State’s Attorney 763-5557 Supervisor of Elections 763-4014 Tax Collector 763-3084
Quilters Tantie 357-0868 Retired Senior Volunteer Program 450-9402 Retired Teachers Association 763-5755 Rotary Club 763-4224 Shrine Club 763-3378 Stitchin’ Group 467-2231 VFW Post #4423 763-0818 VFW Post #10539 763-2308 VFW Post #9528 467-2882 Waldau’s Junior Golf 467-7300
Utilities Florida Power & Light (800) 226-3545 CenturyLink (800) 201-4099 Florida Public Utilities 763-2115 Okeechobee Utility Auth. (water) 763-9460 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 763-1371 Hope Hospice (Glades Co.) 467-3604 Hospice of Okeechobee 467-2321 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
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 Seventh Day Adventist 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
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
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OKEECHOBEE
History By Raye Deusinger
The History of Okeechobee The story behind the city small in size, but large in spirit and history. With a history dating centuries back with U.S. iconic figures such as Col. Zachary Taylor and Henry Flagler, Okeechobee has continued to evolve. From battles to floods this small town has persevered to become a beloved home to many. Okeechobee 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. Until the late 1830s, the dense untamed landscape of Central Florida deterred exploration.
ary 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 State Park, commemorating the event, is located on U.S. Hwy 441 SE, just a few miles southeast of the city. 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.
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.”
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.
On Dec. 25, 1837 the Battle of Okeechobee was fought between the Seminole Indians and Col. Zach-
Soon after the excavation began people started to take notice of the beautiful land and lake. In October 1896 ➢
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History 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. 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,
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
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. 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.
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 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
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Lifestyle
Okeechobee Real Estate
Okeechobee County offers an array of lifestyle communities.
Okeechobee living goes far beyond ranch and cattle living. Whether you want land, water or to be close to the city, Okeechobee has a real estate community for you. Big or small, Okeechobee’s lifestyles can accommodate your wants and needs.
By Lori Mixon
Licensed Real Estate Broker
Though only a dot on the map, Okeechobee offers a variety of interests, lifestyles and opportunities to live life just as you desire. From the quaint park in the center of town that reminds one of the communities of long ago, to an environment that welcomes tomorrow’s progress, there is an endless variety of home styles to suit everyone in Okeechobee. A luxury of being situated right on the lake, Okeechobee has plenty of waterfront living on the rim canal of Lake Okeechobee, Taylor Creek and the Kissimmee River. In River Oak Acres, a homes-only community, you can enjoy fishing and water sports right off your own private dock. The community also has its own airstrip, a little added gem for aviation enthusiasts. Along with River Oak Acres, River Acres and Sunset Strip Airpark also offer private airstrips. Each development is within 15 minutes of town, with home parcels averaging one to five acres. If you desire to live on the rim canal of Lake Okeechobee in a beautiful area of custom-built homes on one-half to one-acre of land, then Flying G Estates or Lorodo Shores may be just the place to call home. And for those who want to be close to town but still desire waterfront property there is the lovely planned, gated community Palm Creek Estates with lake access from Taylor Creek. Okeechobee is known for their cowboys and 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. R Bar Estates, a community very close to town, offers one-and-a-half to four-acre home sites. Or if you don’t mind being located a little further from town you might like Lazy 7 Ranches or Country Hills, two other rural-acreage developments. If it’s an upscale, private community you’re looking for then the truly beautiful 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 in the area is Indian Hammock Horse Riding Club, which also has a private skeet and trap range, airfield and hunting preserve spread over 3,600 acres. ➢
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Lifestyle Hunting and fishing isn’t for everyone, so for the golfers 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 Golf & Country Club north of the city and Blue Cypress southeast of the city near the lake.
Florida’s weather continues to draw more and more seasonal residents. And being centrally located, Okeechobee is the perfect place to call home. 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
Peggy Carpenter-Brady
VP & Commercial Account Specialist
3960 SE 18th Terrace - Okeechobee, FL 34974
Philip Y. Berger
Licensed Real Estate Broker
863-763-5335 pberger@bergerrealestate.com Lori Berger, Broker Cell: 863-634-8437 lori@bergerrealestate.com
(Cell) 863-697-6209 (Office) 863-824-0885 peggy@miltoncarpenterins.com
Gracie Morton, Realtor (Cell) 863-634-5283 graciemorton06@gmail.com
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. For anyone moving to Okeechobee seeking room to roam with acreage to enjoy the outdoors, they will find many areas from which to choose. Crooked Creek on the east side, Quail Acres on the north or 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. ➢
Jim Jones, Realtor (Cell) 863-634-9706 jrj1009@aol.com
BERGER REAL ESTATE 425 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
www.cbbergerrealestate.com
Thinking of buying or sell? Call the Professional at Coldwell Banker Berger Real Estate. 30
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Lifestyle With numerous growing families, Okeechobee has many family-friendly 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. Many of Okeechobee’s truly lovely communities with beautiful custom homes are on the water or tucked in gorgeous 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 mature, much-loved community of Oak Lake Estates. If you are looking to downsize or just prefer condo living, Okeechobee has several condominium communities to choose from as well. There’s 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. For those desiring a planned ranchette community to build their dream home on a 10-plus acre parcel should consider Shermanwood Ranches, Bridlewood Ranches and Suncreek Ranches. All are newer, gated communities. With so many real estate options, Okeechobee has a neighborhood to please everyone. We welcome you to our community to view our vast variety of homes and lifestyles. We guarantee you’ll be glad you did. n
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Rebecca "Becky" Barber Broker 863-697-9786 863-623-5097 (FAX)
Leighia Vaughan Office Manager 863-991-1222 Sheryl Tanner Admin. Assistant 863-801-8696
Ana Jones Realtor 561-718-1212 Lynne Price Realtor 863-634-4250 John Woloski Realtor 863-634-7267
517 SW Park Street - Okeechobee, FL 34972 Email: preferredpropertiresofokee@gmail.com
www. preferredpropertiesofokeechobee.org
ELVIE POSEY REALTOR®
(863) 634-4399 Cell (863) 763-5335 Office (863) 763-7390 Fax elvieposey@aol.com
BERGER REAL ESTATE 425 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974
Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated
www.cbbergerrealestate.com
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
Max Ayala
Licensed Realtor
561-722-0518
maxayala1@hotmail.com Se Habla Espanol
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 VisitChamber Our Website: www.AndersonRealtyCo.com of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014 33
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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 First Baptist Church of Okeechobee 401 SW 4th St. 763-2171 First Baptist Church of Basinger 19836 Hwy 98N. 763-0437 First Missionary Baptist Church 906 NW 9th Ave. 763-0716 New Testament Baptist Church 535 NE 28th Ave. 763-6682 Northside Baptist Church 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
Lifestyle Nondenominational Believers Fellowship 300 SW 6th Ave. 763-6848 Calvary Chapel 1963 NW 38th Ave. 467-0863 Dunklin Memorial Church 3342 SW Hosanah Ln. 772-597-5060 Faith Alive Fellowship 3075 SW 3rd Terr. 623-4233 Faith Farm Ministries 7595 NE 128th Ave. 763-4224 Ft. Drum Community Church 32415 Hwy 441N 467-1733 Fountain of Life 1302 SW 32nd St. 763-8945 Freedom Ranch / 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 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 Church 412 NW 6th St. 763-0655
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Healthcare
By Raye Deusinger
HOSPITAL HEALTHCARE The Top Performing Hospital right in your backyard.
When seconds count, Okeechobee County residents can count on Raulerson Hospital, an award-winning facility. It’s a hospital that provides quality service with a personal touch.
R
aulerson Hospital is not your typical hospital. It is a 100-bed acute-care facility and part of Hospital Corporation of America (HCA). As the sole community provider in Okeechobee County, their 24/7 Emergency Department averages about 24,000 ER visits per year. In addition, Raulerson Hospital employs more than 400 staff members, making them the largest private employer in the county. “Although we are in a rural county and are a smaller hospital, the technologies we utilize in our facility are as good, if not better, than many other facilities,” CEO Robert Lee said. “Being part of the HCA network of hospitals, including 13 facilities from Okeechobee to Miami, allows Raulerson Hospital to continually benefit from the development of new and innovative services and processes, enhancing patient care.” Raulerson Hospital is one of only 244 hospitals nationwide to receive the award of Top Performer on Key Quality Measures from The Joint Commission in both 2011 and 2012. This accrediting body, for more than 3,300 hospitals and nursing homes across the country, grades top hospitals on 45 accountability measures of evidence-based care processes closely linked to positive patient outcomes.
One of the cornerstones to determining many diagnoses is the Imaging Department. Raulerson Hospital’s Radiology Department was one of the first in the state to be fully accredited in all five imaging modalities— Radiology, Computer Assisted Tomography (CT Scan), Nuclear Medicine, Ultrasound and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). In addition to these accreditations, one of the resources that enhance the imaging
services and patient care at Raulerson Hospital is the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). PACS is a technology that greatly decreases the need for film. Images taken at the hospital can be transmitted remotely worldwide or put on a disc so that a patient can bring his/her studies to their physician to view. PACS helps doctors in other locations have immediate access to a patient’s images, potentially speeding up diagnosis and treatment. The resources available to HCA facilities, like Raulerson Hospital, are also a huge benefit to patients. One example is Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) which is currently being implemented and should be fully operational by April 2014. CPOE is a computer system that promotes patient safety and minimizes errors, as it relates to doctors’ orders and allows staff to see the orders in ‘real time’. “Handwriting is not always legible,” Lee said, “it can be misinterpreted.” CPOE allows the use of high-tech devices, whether it be through computers, tablets or smart phones, to directly enter patient orders electronically and even remotely. This greatly minimizes risks for misinterpretations of written abbreviations and it integrates all clinical services. The system will require all physicians to order tests, view results and store reports through the use of CPOE. Raulerson Hospital’s implementation of CPOE is in line with the national goals for healthcare providers to become completely electronic, in terms of patient charts and records. However, there will always be redundant ➢
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Healthcare systems and paper-based back-ups, in the event of power or computer failure. Though mandated by the Federal Government, patient safety and hospital efficiency will benefit when physicians, medical staff and hospital staff are all utilizing CPOE.
staffer responded, helping the hospital improve service.
Raulerson Hospital also has an advanced Call Bell System for patient requests. Each bed in the hospital is equipped with a color-coded ‘call button’. When pressed, this modern Call Bell System can alert the staff to the specific need of the patient, including requests regarding pain, medication, restroom use, etc. This technology not only assists in efficient answering of the call button by the appropriate caretaker, it also allows for monitoring of the response time. The Call Bell System can generate reports on how quickly the call was answered and which
Throughout Raulerson Hospital you will find the latest technology being utilized. The Endoscopy Suites in the Surgical Services Department are equipped with hi-definition scopes used in upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) procedures. Another advancement is the installation of the newest Telemetry System for patients with chest pain or cardiac issues. Telemetry monitors are now available for all of Raulerson Hospital’s patient beds.
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“We are excited about this system and how it contributes to efficient and prompt responses to our patients’ needs,” Lee said.
Access to technology is beneficial, but to truly be efficient and
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
successful hospitals must have the right professionals in place to take care of the patients. And Raulerson Hospital does just that through the use of their hospitalists. Hospitalists are hospital-based physicians who strictly treat hospital patients. Hospitalists care for Emergency Room patients who may need to be admitted to the hospital for further treatment but do not have their own primary care physician. Staffed seven days a week, they provide continuity of medical care and even aid physicians who are in private practice by overseeing their patients, so that physicians can continue to maintain their office hours. Perhaps one of Raulerson Hospital’s most unique service lines is Company Care. Company Care was originally established to take care of Raulerson Hospital employees who ➢
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Earning Trust, One Patient at a Time.
Retina Fellowship Trained Macular Degeneration Diabetic Eye Care•Glaucoma
Stephen M. Tate, MD
Paul L. Winslow, III, MD
Board Certified
Board Certified
Custom Cataract Surgery Laser Cataract Surgery Near Vision Lenses General Ophthalmology Glaucoma
Dedicated to Providing Customized, Personal Eye Care.
Retina Fellowship Trained Surgical Retina Macular Degeneration Diabetic Eye Care
David J. O’Brien, MD Board Certified
Fellowship Trained Refractive Surgeon General Ophthalmology Glaucoma•Eyelid Surgery•Aesthetics
We Accept Medicare & Most Insurance Plans 1055 37th Place, Vero Beach, FL 32960 • 772-257-8700 • 1-877-MINOTTY • www.minottyeye.com
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Healthcare were injured on the job. However, it has since grown to handle occupational health concerns for many businesses in the county. Through contracts with these businesses, large and small, Company Care manages everything from pre-employment testing to workers’ compensation injuries. Company Care is one of the only entities to be certified by the Federal Department of Transportation for drug, alcohol and hearing testing. They test and treat workers within a 50 to 75-mile radius, getting employees back to work quickly. “Beyond all of the leading edge technology, accreditations, and awards, the most important thing to me, and the staff at Raulerson Hospital, is taking great care of our patients in a safe and friendly manner,” Lee said.
Raulerson Hospital’s interest in patient satisfaction does not just end when a patient is discharged. It continues long after the patient returns home. Their Patient Advisory Council, which meets quarterly, invites discharged patients and their family members to come back for a dinner and discussion about their experiences during their stay at the
Samaritan Community Outreach Center
hospital. “We are always listening to our patients and their loved ones,” Lee said. “Hearing this feedback helps us deliver outstanding customer service to all of our patients every single day, 24 hours a day. Delivering this level of service to our patients is one of my primary missions.” n
Samaritan Community Outreach Center, Inc. (SCOC) is a multi-purpose
Online Services non-profit facility situated in the Douglas Brown Community of Okeechobee, FL. We are an Equal Opportunity Provider. Thrift Store There are currently no other facility like this one anywhere in the county. Free SCOC provide several necessary programs to the community HIV/AIDS Testing Center Hours Free 1465 NE 14th Ave. Tues: 9 am - 4 pm Food Pantry (HIV/AIDS Testing, Thrift Store, Online Access) Okeechobee, FL 34972
(863) 467-1500
samaritancommoc@aol.com
Weds: 9 am - 4 pm & Thurs: 9 am - 2 pm (HIV/AIDS Testing, Thrift Store, Food Pantry, Online Access)
Doctors Clinic Family Health Center, LLC Stanley Sweda, MD | Marta Eule, ARNP
Primary Care For The Entire Family
863-763-1107 - 204 SE Park Street
Most Insurances Accepted Occupational Medicine
www.DoctorsClinicHealth.com Proud Supporters of “Heroes 4 Hope”
Walk-Ins Welcome Now Taking Appointments
Wellness Center, LLC
Counseling Solutions for Children and Adults
Dr. Ellisa Scott, PHd, LMHC Psychologist
We Care...We Listen...Let’s Talk!
863-261-8900
www.ctcentercares.com
203 SE 2nd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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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.
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
Skin cancer may show up in unexpected places. Don’t Guess. Be Sure. Sanders Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center
1713 US Hwy 441 N., Ste G Okeechobee, FL 34972
1155 35th Lane, Ste 202 Vero Beach, FL 32960
www.SandersDermatology.com 1
Jonathan Sanders, MD, JD
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American Academy of Dermatology. Skin cancer: Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome. http://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
CALL TODAY Okeechobee Office
863-467-9555 Vero Beach Office
772-778-7782
We are your local store for health! Since Early 1980s
Vitamins - Herbs - Tinctures - Teas - Cooking Oils Seeds - Grains and Flours - Soaps and Lotions Essential Oils - Organic Sugars and Natural Sweeteners Raw Honey - Apple Cider Vinegar - Organic Cleanses Sports Nutrition - Organic Smoothies
Our organic smoothie is the best in town!
Shop for Clean Healthy Products!
417 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL
863-467-1243
Monday - Friday 9:30 am - 5 pm and Saturday 9:30 - 2 pm
www.facebook.com/naturespantryokeechobee
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Economic
DEVELOPMENT
For 23 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 purpose then and still today is to act as an intermediary between private business and the government entities – to give business a voice regarding the decisions that are made at the municipal and county levels,” President Jon Geitner said.
is to gather and disseminate information to the members. She attends numerous government meetings each month, including the Board of County Commissioners, City Commission, Planning and Zoning, Code Enforcement, Utilities and School Board. “We just really try to serve as a catalyst to improve life between the public and private sector,” Rowley said. And through careful consideration, the Economic Council provides a voice that has the ear of local, county and state governments.
The Economic Council was founded on the simple belief that if you speak with one voice, you’re more likely to be heard. The Economic Council operates under the leadership of a 12-member volunteer board and an executive director. Executive Director Tara Rowley has headed the organization’s staff since 2008. As executive director, Rowley’s role
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Historical Resources and accredited by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. It is self-supporting. Long-time president, Maureen Burroughs is the first to admit that often its initiatives become multi-year quests. But she believes they’re definitely worthwhile. “We’re persistent. We don’t give up,” Burroughs said. “I guess the key to it is perseverance. You just don’t give up.” Given Okeechobee’s intriguing and proud history, Main Street works fiercely to preserve what few historic buildings remain. Membership isn’t limited only to those living in Okeechobee’s downtown. However, a thriving downtown is beneficial to the entire community, said Executive Director Sharie Turgeon.
Early leaders included the owners of Williamson Cattle Co., Gilbert Chevrolet and Walpole Trucking. Facing drastic changes to the farming industry, especially cattle ranching, as more than a quarter of the community’s farms were being bought out, Okeechobee County knew it needed a voice before elected leaders whose decisions would affect their lives.
By Angie Francalancia
While Okeechobee Main Street might be best known for its festivals, the organization that has become known as the heart of Okeechobee’s historic perseveration works to promote culture through some much 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 at the top of the Lake. The organization was set up under guidelines of the state Division of
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Turgeon, who took on the position in mid-2013, has made it her mission to bring knowledge of Okeechobee Main Street to more residents. “The growth of the program is dependent upon the voice of the community,” Turgeon said.
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. A host of new
initiatives introduced in 2013 have helped to enhance the focus of the Chamber of Commerce. A focus that’s set on growing its membership and helping its members grow their businesses. 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. While the Chamber of Commerce has a long history, it has reinvented itself in the past couple years. Its primary focus is no longer on events but on creating growth for the business community. New Chamber Executive Director Antoinette Rodriguez is making sure that includes the entire business community. 2013 was a banner year for another Chamber first – Leadership Okeechobee. The first class of participants attended seven monthly day-long sessions that exposed them to critical issues facing the Okeechobee area. Those who graduated from the program are now better prepared to take on leadership roles to help move the community forward. To Chamber President Terry Burroughs, who worked hard to refocus the Chamber, the efforts show the world that Okeechobee is ready for 21st century business. “One of the things that’s really near and dear to me,” Burroughs said, “is making this a better place for peoples’ children who want to come back here and have better jobs.” n
St. Lic. #CMCO54668
Refrigeration ~ AC ~ Ice Machines Okeechobee 863-763-2114 804 N. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Clewiston 863-983-8111 311 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL 33440
LaBelle 866-942-7280 We also service LaBelle, FL
Serving the Glades since 1929 Carrier Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Education
Indian River State College
Higher education prepares the youth for the workforce of tomorrow. With a growing local state college, Okeechobee offers quality and affordable higher education. Beginning in high school, students can earn credits and real-life experience through numerous programs offered by Indian River State College ranging from the medical field to automotive technology.
Indian River State College (IRSC) has earned a national reputation for quality and affordability. For the last three years the report on the quality of education by U.S. News and World Report ranked IRSC in the top 12 Public Regional Colleges in the South. 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 U.S. Department of Education’s Affordability and Transparency Report ranked IRSC as the fourth most affordable college in the country, with bachelor’s degrees achievable for $10,000 or less. This is done with a student-faculty ratio of 22-to-1, which enables students to benefit from personal attention from their professors.
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By Raye Deusinger
Though the college is in its 53rd year, IRSC established an Okeechobee presence in 1975 in a storefront downtown. In 1986 IRSC opened its Dixon-Hendry Campus. Since then it has grown from a school delivering primarily vocational education to one which awarded in the 2012-2013 school year 22 bachelor’s degrees and 130 associate’s degrees. Since the time IRSC changed from a community college to a state college in 2008, enrollment has grown to serve approximately 1,000 students per semester. Growth is also measured by course and degree offerings. Today, at the Dixon-Hendry Campus, IRSC offers 20 bachelor’s degree programs, 40 career training programs and 90 associate’s degree programs in addition to more than 200 Virtual Campus online degree programs, including several online complete-degree programs, which are time flexible. A successful, proven program is dual enrollment (DE), which allows high school 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 teachers who must
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
have a master’s degree,” said IRSC Provost Russ Brown. For some classes students are transported from the high school to the college where they get the opportunity to be on campus and experience the college atmosphere. “Students are encouraged to participate in dual enrollment if they meet the parameters of grade point average, academic history and rating on college placement tests,” said Brown. Many DE students complete their first year of college while still in high school and some even receive their associate’s degree at the same time as their high school diploma. The first DE program enrolled 40 students. In 2012, 140 students completed DE. New courses are made available each year. Dual Enrollment may also be done online or, if the school principal approves, through nighttime enrollment. Currently, IRSC is only utilizing 10 of its available 37 acres. “Our campus has a lot of room for growth which will benefit the community at large,” said Brown. “We are located in an education corridor with elementary, middle and high schools, as well as the hospital, nearby. “All of the Dixon-Hendry campus buildings were built with local community monies met with matching dollars from the state. The goal for the newest building, the Williamson Center, was reached in just six weeks, which shows the tremendous support our community provides.” The Williamson Center has been used by Florida Gov. Rick Scott for Florida’s first-ever rural economic
➢
“Families unite to care for the dead, and serve the living.” 400 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Florida 34972 (863) 763-1994
Paul M. Buxton, Marilyn A. Buxton, Matthew P. Buxton, Paul Mitchell, Lavon Bass, Tom Conway Jr., and Tom Conway
The Buxton and Bass families have served the community for over 34 years. Together as the only family-owned and operated funeral home in Okeechobee we are committed to providing families with affordable, meaningful and personalized funeral services. • Phones Monitored By Family 24/7 • Burial, Cremation, Transfers Out-of-State • On-Site Crematory • Custom Monuments & Memorials • Public Or Private Gatherings
• Guaranteed Pre-Arranged Pricing • Full Casket & Cremation Showrooms • Military Funeral Honors • Grief Support Programs • Personalized Memorial Tributes
“Honoring Life’s Memories”
The Buxton family no longer has any affiliation with Buxton-Seawinds Funeral Home.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Education development “boot camp” held to build on existing economic development efforts of rural communities around the state. Many local businesses have also used the facility for training and informational events. In 2012 the college held more than 60 events that served 5,500 people of the community. From January to June of 2013, 43 such events were held at the Williamson Center, serving 3,100 people. Though it only seats 175 in the conference room, a verandah area can expand the event by 50 or more. Events can further be expanded with visual and audio contact through intra-building communication technology, connecting many rooms as one. Aiding IRSC’s outstanding nursing program, the college has an up-todate virtual hospital room at the
Williamson Center. It’s complete with a human patient simulator, which can replicate different diseases and traumas. “He can go from healthy to heart attack in an instant,” said Brown. The RN program is offered on campus every other year and students gain real-world experience through clinical internships at Raulerson Hospital. The Fire/EMT program works with the local fire department to train and certify students. On its main web page, the college features a monthly recognition of recent graduates. “While the main campus of IRSC in Fort Pierce, Fla. has a job place-
ment department, our goal is to have such placement activity here once a month,” said Brown. “A local career fair is held annually but calls from the community come in regularly to fill local openings.” As the college grew, vocational training gave way to academia. Today, to fill community need, the Dixon-Hendry Campus once again offers vocational training in many fields, including air conditioning/ refrigeration, automotive technology, office administration and construction and building trades. Vocational training receives certification and licensing to degrees. It also helps locals re-enter the work force through refresher courses on quick job training. “It is flexible and adaptable and
Indian River State College Dixon Hendry Campus
Quality | Convenience | Affordability
With a personal touch, the staff at the Dixon Hendry Campus is committed to creating conditions that lead to student success.
• 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
Dixon Hendry Campus • 2229 N.W. 9th Avenue • Okeechobee, Florida 34972 863-824-6000 • www.irsc.edu • Financial Aid available to all who qualify
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
can start any time of the year,” said Brown in regards to vocational training. “We offer specific administrative skills for office jobs. People can re-train from job to office in as little as six to 12 weeks. “We want to make sure there are no local needs unmet and to serve different industries locally by providing a work force for them while preparing our students for life. The staff at Dixon-Hendry Campus of IRSC is committed to creating conditions that lead to student success.”
Computer Sales & Service Serving Lake Area Since 1990
Networking Cabling Authorized Business Accessories Telephone Systems COMPUTERS Audio Visual Wireless “Featuring ICS Elite Series desktops powered Managed Services by the new Intel i-Series Processors” 403 S. PARROTT AVE. OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA
863-467-9090
Email: sales@icsflorida.com
www.icsflorida.com
“We Meet
By Accident”
AUTO BODY
The Dixon-Hendry Campus is located at 2229 NW 9th Ave. For more information visit www.irsc.edu or call 863-824-6000. n
SERVICE CENTER Go to page 23 for a listing of all Okeechobee’s public and private schools. CSB-OkeechobeeHalfPgHChamberAd111313:Layout
In Business Since 1968
1
863-467-1691 11/13/13 4:20 PM Page 1
265 Hwy. 98 North Okeechobee, FL 34972
Fax: 863-467-7674
At CenterState Bank we believe in investing in the communities we serve and in the lives of others!
Jamie Brammeier
Faveola Carrillo
Shannon Conrad
Kristy Crawford
Kerri Davis
Sherri Enfinger
Customer Service Specialist
Sr. Personal Banker
Sr. Customer Service Specialist
Commercial Loan Officer/VP
Personal Banker
Consumer Loan Officer
Heather Hancock
Jennifer Lafferty
Cecilia Rodriguez
Tabitha Trent
John Williams
Executive Assistant
Residential Lender/AVP
Sr. Personal Banker
Branch Manager/VP
Community President/SVP
Local Market Driven
C E N T E R S TAT E B A N K ’ S C O R E VA L U E S : |
A Long Term Horizon
|
World Class Service
|
Relationship Banking
|
Faith and Family
863.763.5573
2100 South Parrott Ave. • Okeechobee, Florida 34974 w w w. c e n t e r s t a t e b a n k . c o m
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Thank You For Helping Us Grow! The Gilbert Family has been serving the automotive needs of Okeechobee for over 80 years, With the dedication, training, and loyalty of our valued team members we are able to offer you quality service at a fair price. It’s just what you expect from the Gilbert Family.
(863) 763-2121 • 3175 Highway 441 South · Okeechobee
View on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet!
Gilbert-Ford.com SALES: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM-7:00 PM • Sat. 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
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SERVICE & PARTS: Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-5:30 PM • Sat. 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Dining
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. Chamber Member Listing - Pages 53-58
2nd Street Pizza
202 NE 2nd St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-5000
Brown Cow Sweetery 103 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.browncowsweetery.com (863) 357-3357
Dunkin Donuts
4993 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.dukindonuts.com (863) 357-0015
Applebee’s
1210 Highway 70 E Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.applebees.com (863) 357-0141
Chico’s Burrito Shack
Beef O’ Brady’s
608 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.beefobradys.com (863) 763-7300
Dairy Queen
309 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 623-4345
1212 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.dairyqueen.com (863) 763-6675
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
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Chamber Member Listing Continued
Your Hometown Cafe Breakfast - Lunch Daily Specials Dine -In Take-Out Available
863-763-9613
Southern Breakfast Cold and Hot Sandwiches Appetizers - Salads Steak - Chicken Kids Menu Open Monday - Friday 7 am - 2 pm Saturday 7 am - 12 noon
112 SE Park Street - Okeechobee, FL
Big Burritos Soft Tacos Quesadillas Burrito Bowls Salad Bowls Churros & Cookies Call For Take Out
We Make It The Way You Want It!
309 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
863-623-4345
Open Monday - Thursday, 11am to 8pm Friday & Saturday, 11am - 9pm
Lunkers Sports Grill 4825 US Highway 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-1900
Papa Johns
414A NE Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.papajohns.com (863) 467-7272
Parrott Island Grill 1001 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 (863) 824-0576
Chocolate...it’s what for dessert!
863-357-3357
Sandwiches Salads Coffee - Espresso Lattes - Frozen Blends Chocolate Ice Cream Monday - Thursday 7am - 7pm Friday 7am-8pm Saturday 8am - 8pm
free WiFi
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103 S PARK ST OKEECHOBEE
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Bringing Fun and the Tropics to Okeechobee! Tropical Menu - Fresh Seafood - Steaks Entertainment - Outside Tiki Bar Dine-In and Take Out
863-824-0576 1001 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974
Open for Lunch and Dinner
Dining
Chamber Member Listing Continued
Pueblo Viejo VI
3415 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.puebloviejofl.com (863) 357-9641
Roper’s Cafe
112 SE Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.roperscafe.com (863) 763-9613
We’ve Got Breakfast All Wrapped Up! Dairy Queen of Okeechobee serves breakfast every day from 6 am -12 pm!
Come in and check out our Breakfast Menu!
We also offer our Full Food and Ice Cream menu for Breakfast, Yes, you can get an Oreo Blizzard at 7am ... Wow!
(863) 763-6675
1212 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee FL.
Drive thru open at 6 am - Lobby open at 7 am
Serving Lunch & Dinner Full Liquor Bar Indoor and Outdoor Dining
4825 US 441 S. - Okeechobee 56
Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10 am -12 am Sunday 12 noon - 12 am
Take Out Available
863-763-1900
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Tin Fish Restaurant
301 N Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.thetinfishrestaurants.com (863) 357-0447
CONNECTING with Our COMMUNITY WWW.DOHERTYINC.COM
Host a fundraising event with us: WWW.FLAPJACKFUNDS.COM
1/2 Price Appetizers*
AFTER 9PM
* Excludes Appetizer Sampler, Trios, and 20/30 count wings. Dine-in only.
1210 Highway 70 East Okeechobee, FL 34972 • 863.357.0141
Dining
Bienvenidos!
Stop by today & taste our Authentic Mexican Food that will keep you coming back for more!
Chamber Member Listing Continued
Serving Great Mexican Food in Florida and the Treasure Coast Since 1999
Full Liquor Bar! Happy Hour 7 Days A Week 11 am - 6 pm Draft Beer 2 for 1 Margaritas 2 for 1
Tropical Smoothie Café
863.357.9641 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)
www.puebloviejoFl.com
TIN FISH LOVES OKEECHOBEE We are proud to be a part of this historic lifestyle community!
863-357-0722
HEALTHY EATING with TIN FISH GRILLED or BAKED MENU Fresh Fish ~ Good Food Beer & Wine Great Kids Menu Boat Loads of Platters to Go Plan Your Next Party... here at TIN FISH or at your location. LET TIN FISH help you FUNDRAISE!
301 N. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 Hours of Operation Sun. - Thurs. 11am - 8 + | Fri. & Sat. 11am -9 +
www.tinfishokeechobee.com 58
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
1825 SE Elrose St. Port St. Lucie, Fl 34952 www.tropicalsmoothie.com
Wendy’s
502 NE Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.wendys.com (863) 763-8181
Zippy’s
301 SW Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 (863) 763-1399
Family Friendly Sports Bar and Restaurant.
863-763-1399
Modern, Trendy or Traditional We do it all. Large Beautiful Showroom Stop in to see our new specialty cupcake designs! “We deliver smiles.�
863-763-5051 800-260-2592
207 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
www.flowerpetalsokeechobee.com
Buffalo Wings - Zippers - Salads Po Boy Sandwiches Best Burgers Around and More! Serving Beer and Wine TV for Sport Fans & Juke Box Located in Downtown Okeechobee!
301 SW Park Street Family Owned & Operated
Zippy's was founded 30 years ago specializing in Buffalo Wings
The 8th wonder of the world! A never-ending cascade of rich chocolate is yours for the dipping!
863-763-0444 Steaks, Buffet & Bakery
700 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Community
EVENTS
Fun-filled events for all interests.
Rodeos, parades, festivals, unique historical and charitable events, Okeechobee has them all. You can take your pick from a variety of events that Okeechobee offers yearlong. And no matter what you partake in, 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.
The National Day of the American Cowboy Begun in 2004 as a Wyoming magazine project, the National Day of the American Cowboy is a day set aside to celebrate the contribution of the cowboy and cowgirl to America’s culture and heritage. In the words of former President George W. Bush, “We celebrate the Cowboy as a symbol of the grand history of the American West. The Cowboy’s love of the land and love of country are examples for all Americans.” In 2008, the National Day of the American Cowboy resolution was passed in the Senate and the House concurrently, naming Saturday, July 26, 2008 as the 4th Annual National Day of the American Cowboy. Okeechobee’s two-day celebration of this event each July begins with a ranch rodeo, a competition between local ranches featuring events routinely performed in ranching. The next day, you can see a real cattle drive through the center of town to the Agri-Civic Center on Hwy 70 E. Western garb is the norm as everyone shows up for the fun of watching western activities and skills, Seminole Indian culture and a second-day ranch rodeo.
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Rodeo Celebrations Rodeos, a part of Okeechobee’s history, are also main events celebrated during both our
Speckled Perch Festival in March and the Labor Day Festival in September. Sited at the Cattlemen’s Arena on Hwy 441 N, these Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) rodeos, which draw competitors from around the country, are most noted for 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. A highlight of each rodeo is the “mutton bustin” event where young future cowboys and cowgirls ride sheep, holding onto the wool as reins. Many of the rodeo participants began their future careers this way.
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, photography, art and craft competitions along with all the other trappings that make a county fair a don’t-miss event. For more information and dates go to www.OkeechobeeCountyFair.com.
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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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 the 145-acre park. The annual battle reenactment helps raise money for further work on this State Park. For more information call 863-610-2333 or go to 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, three pieces of lumber, a box of screws and one roll of duct tape—no caulk or glue permitted. Growing in entrants and attendance each year, the 2013 competition saw more than 80 boats compete (or sink) before a crowd of almost 3,000. 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 more information and dates go to www.MinimalRegatta.com.
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Top of the Lake Art Fest and Chalk Walk Held each Feb-
ruary, the art fest brings out the talents of both local and area-wide artists. Highlighting the artwork by youth of all ages, as well as professional and amateur artists, it gives the community the opportunity to see great artwork presented through a juried art show. Held at Flagler Park in the center of downtown Okeechobee, the Top of the Lake Art Fest has grown to be a time for art in all forms — fine art paintings, sculptures, jewelry, artisan crafts and the Chalk Walk (street art, created as you watch.) Along with the celebration of the arts, the art fest is also host to a battle of the bands, “Paws in the Park” pet contest, children’s art activities, entertainment and food. Top of the Lake Art Fest is an Okeechobee Main Street event, presented by the arts and culture committee. For more information and dates on this event and other Main Street events, call 863-357-6246 or go to 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 | 2014
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863-763-2248 5286 SW 16 Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide 5% Discount To All Who Mention This Ad (Excuding Live Bait)
Recreation Lake Okeechobee | Recreation
Endless activities on and around the lake!
By Raye Deusinger
From fishing, to hunting, to camping, to golfing and even motocross, Okeechobee’s recreation is never ending. There’s something for everyone. Even if you’ve lived here your whole life there’s bound to be an activity that Okeechobee offers that you haven’t tried or don’t even know about.
Lake Okeechobee Known as the Bass Fishing Capital of the World, Lake Okeechobee is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and the second largest freshwater lake within the contiguous U.S. It covers 730 square miles and is 110 miles in circumference with an average depth of nine feet. At its widest points it is approximately 40x40 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. When full, the lake can hold five trillion gallons of water. The South Florida Water Management District ➢ Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Recreation
and the Corps of Engineers jointly maintain the lake so the water is deep enough for good fishing but not too high that it pours over its banks to the south. The Herbert Hoover Dike, that stands 30 feet high, was built following the 1928 hurricane that resulted in 2,500 deaths when the lake flooded its perimeter. The dike was completed March 23, 1937. Today the lake includes channels, locks and levees making a passageway from the west coast of Florida
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
On-Site meeting space available. Boat Hook-ups and Parking
Recreation
at Ft Myers, up the Caloosahatchee River, across the lake through the St. Lucie Waterway into Stuart. This is known as the Okeechobee Waterway.
The Meaning Behind the Name The lake has been known by many names over the past several centuries. In the 16th century it was called Mayami after an Indian tribe of the same name. It was then renamed in the 18th century to Laguna del Espiritu Santo, meaning Lake of the Holy Spirit. And then renamed once again in the 19th century to Lake Mayaca after yet another Indian tribe that came from the St. Johns River area. It wasn’t until after the Seminole Indians lured Col. Zachary Taylor’s troops along the shores of the lake in December of 1837 during what became known as the Battle of Okeechobee that the lake ➢
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Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Clean Rooms ● Large Pool Tanning Deck ● Located on the Water Live Entertainment ● Pet Friendly
got its final name. The Seminoles referred to the lake as oki chubi meaning big water in their native language. Today many people just call it The Big O.
Wildlife and Ecological Health
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
The lake is home to largemouth bass, crappie, bluegills and some pickerel. It also has a large turtle and alligator population. Manatees, snook and pelicans, as well as migrating and nesting waterfowl abound in and around the lake also. Lake Okeechobee is critical to the health of the wildlife it supports as well as the Everglades, especially to the Everglade Snail Kite that once used the lake as refuge. This federally endangered species frequents freshwater wetlands where its primary food source, the apple snail, is abundant. The health of Lake Okeechobee had declined so far that in 2005 kites did not nest successfully anywhere on the lake. However, today the Snail Kite forms roosts around the lake and can be found year-round in Central and South Florida. Their population fluctuates from year to year depending on suitable water levels and food supply. Don Fox, Biological Administrator for the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and an employee for more than 30 years said, “Lake Okeechobee is in the best condition of the last twenty years. Bass fisheries are the best they have ever been; there is a huge recovery of black crappie and the Everglades Snail Kite, which had been in decline for years, is surging back. The highest nesting numbers in the state are right here on Lake Okeechobee.” The ecology of the lake is phenoenal right now with migratory wad-
ing birds and waterfowl, manatees, pelicans and snook at the highest counts in years. There are new management practices that keep agencies in touch with one another weekly concerning the ecological health of the lake.
Recreation
Lake Okeechobee took a huge hit during the hurricanes of 2004 and 2005. Nearly 50,000 acres of aquatic vegetation was destroyed. It has since been restored and additional acreages have been added. “We are moving in the right direction for the sustained ecological health of Okeechobee,” Fox said.
Recreation on the Lake With the ecological health of Okeechobee growing, so are the endless recreational activities the small town has to offer, starting right on the lake. Much of the life and activities of the city and county revolve around the lake. It is known for both recreational and commercial fishing, with people from all over the country visiting Okeechobee to try their luck at catching the big one. All around the lake you can find bait and tackle stores and fish camps. Okeechobee has many experienced captains who can take you on their boats to perfect fishing spots. Or if you prefer to fish solo, some of the camps around the lake will rent you a boat so you can venture out on your own. For the competitive fishermen, there are fishing tournaments held throughout the year on Lake Okeechobee with hundreds all vying for the largest bass. The lake has much more to offer than just an enjoyable day out on the water fishing. If wildlife is your hobby then Okeechobee will not disappoint. A great place to start is ➢ Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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the fishing pier at Lock 7 located at the end of Hwy 441 S. There you can get an overview of the lake, feed the seagulls or search for a gator, a great blue heron, a white heron or turtles in the grasses. Or you can go down to Nubbin Slough on Hwy 441 SE and watch gators congregate.
XMX
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(863) 357-0535 Fax (863) 357-0575
70
108 SE Park St. Okeechobee, FL
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Okeechobee is infamous for airboat rides. You can either enjoy a thrillride out on the water or take a leisurely ride taking in the beauty the lake has to offer. 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 active type, try taking a tour of one of the many scenic trails along Lake Okeechobee. The top of the Herbert Hoover Dike, in most areas, is 100 feet wide, providing hiking, cycling and sightseeing op-
Recreation
portunities. In 1993 it became part of the 1,400-mile Florida Scenic Trail, which is a part of the National Scenic Trail. It is the scene of an annual bike ride each March. On the trail you can see the lake and also the rim canal that was dredged to provide the fill for the dike. Wildlife of all kinds line the rim. There is no charge to use the trail that has access points approximately every seven miles around the lake.
Explore Wildlife Off the Lake Wildlife in Okeechobee can be found off of the lake as well. Just on the outskirts of town you can 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 ➢
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Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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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
well as many animals not so native to Florida including a South American porcupine, lemurs and even a walleroo. At AWRC you will also find nature trails and a butterfly garden. If you head 25 miles north of downtown Okeechobee you will run into 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, 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 camp-
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Private studio teaching you how to paint step-by-step in a relaxed and fun setting. It's the perfect place to get together, unwind and enjoy time painting with friends while sipping your favorite beverage. Okeechobee’s Original Paint and Sip Studio Give the gift of Art - Gift Certificates Available Call or go online for more information and to sign up. Private Group Sessions Also Available. New sessions posted on facebook.
Located in The Art Cottage with Fawn’s Studio and Fine Framing by Debra Flowers! www.facebook.com/BridgetteStudio
www.bridgette-art.com 863-467-7300 72
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
The Little Yellow Cottage on the Corner
111 NE 2nd Street - Suite A
ing then you can take advantage of an overnight stay at one of the two full-facility campgrounds.
Recreation
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, roseate spoonbills, black-necked stilts and white and glossy ibises. Wild turkeys, deer and alligators are also occasionally seen on the trail. ➢
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
www.okeechobeervpark.com Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Recreation
“Old Florida” Recreation To experience “old Florida” look no further than two miles east of Okeechobee City. Situated on 7.5 acres of beautiful oak and cabbage hammocks is a horse farm open to the public. The farm is home to an array of animals. There you can get a real feeling of what life on a farm is like by petting and feeding the 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. And where there’s cattle, there’s rodeo. Okeechobee hosts many rodeos during the year including the Cattlemen’s PRCA Rodeo held each March during the Speckled Perch Festival and the Labor Day Rodeo that brightens the fall calendar. A cattle drive through town highlights Okeechobee’s celebration of the National Day of the American Cowboy each July followed by a rodeo where cowboys and cowgirls compete in events such as bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing.
Sporting Activities and Facilities
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Okeechobee has a large sports complex near the Indian River State College that offers fun for the whole family. It has an Olympic-size pool, four youth baseball fields, a football 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. The complex is free and open to the public. For those who find relaxation and
fun in a round of golf there are three public golf courses in Okeechobee. North of town and right in 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. If bodybuilding or simple exercise is your form of recreation Okeechobee has that too in its four fully equipped gyms. The gyms are spread out across town making it 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.
Camping, Hunting and Weaponry With so much open land, hunting and shooting is a popular recreational activity in Okeechobee. Tucked away in the NE section of town is a state-of-the-art hunting and shooting lodge where Florida land still exists as nature intended it to be. It has two 14-station sporting clay courses, wobble traps and a comfortable, covered 5-stand. Depending on the season you can take part in hog, quail, turkey and pheasant hunting as well as fishing. Hunting packages are available along with year-round 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 full-sized refrigerators and microwave ovens. If pistol and rifle shooting is your type of weaponry activity then you will enjoy a day at the premier
Okeechobee
Claws & Paws Pet Boarding & Daycare
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
1527 US HWY 441 SE Okeechobee, Florida 34974 (Next to the Bowling Alley)
All rooms with Stove, Full Refrigerator and Microwave Pet Friendly Rooms Free Boat Parking with Plug-Ins
863-824-3431
www.travelodge.com/okeechobee
Fully Stocked Humidors
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CIGARS • LIGHTERS • PIPES • ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES • ROLL-YOUR-OWN TOBACCO, TUBES & ROLLING MACHINES • SMOKE ODOR CANDLES
TOBACCO PLACE
Complete Line of Tobacco Products & Accessories
101 S.W. 2nd Avenue - Downtown Okeechobee
(863) 357-6653
➢ Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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• Party Supplies • Water Slides • Bounce Houses • Concessions We Offer Payment Plans
863-824-0856 Family Owned & Operated
www.SlideOnByPartySupply.com
Shop Goodwill Stores and Donation Centers Okeechobee City 3278 US Highway 441, 34972 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
outdoor shooting and recreational facility situated on 280 acres located 10 miles north of downtown Okeechobee. 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. Also located on the 280 acres is 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 proshop 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.
Recreational Racing
ONE STOP EXPRESS Across From Lake Okeechobee
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4994 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 76
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
If planes, cars or dirt bikes are your hobby Okeechobee won’t leave you empty handed. For aviation lovers, Okeechobee has a model airplane club located on a very small portion of a very large dairy farm east of the city off Hwy 70. You can visit the flying field and watch members fly radio control aircraft of all types. And if radio control cars are your interest you can participate in Okeechobee’s club for R/C cars, trucks and boats. The club 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 nice peewee track for beginners or youngsters.
Recreation
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 porta-lets this track is available for over- ➢
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Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Put Your Boat In Good Hands! "OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE"
863-763-4080 Serving Okeechobee Since 1993
The Hometown Marine Dealer Offering Sales and Service (New & Used) On: JOHNSON • EVINRUDE • YAMAHA MERCRUISER I/O • POWER POLES MINNKOTA TROLLING MOTORS KEY WEST BOATS • LANDAU PONTOONS MAGIC TILT TRAILERS Stormy, DJ, Stevie, Steve and Pate
Don’t Forget! BOAT STORAGE WINTERIZE - SUMMERIZE INSURANCE REPAIRS ELECTRONIC SALES & INSTALLATION FIBERGLASS REPAIRS BOAT HAUL OUT / TRANSPORT
Chad Thomas, Pat Brantley and Roger Douglass Not Pictured: Bryan Baggett
1365 US Hwy 441 SE - Okeechobee, FL 34974 (Next to the bowling alley)
Recreation night stays during extreme practices or competitions.
For all your party needs... We are your 1 Stop Shop Largest Party & Balloon supply store in Okeechobee
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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
Treatments
Let's get the job done together!
For more information on recreational sites and activities please contact the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County at 863-4676246. n
863-467-4900
Custom Window
&
Recreation can mean different things to different people. To some it is simply sitting and watching the sunset. To others it is a great day of fishing. And to others it is horseback riding or any other unique, personalized activity. The sun for comfort, the water for fishing, open land for sightseeing, a laid-back lifestyle for relaxing and year-round activities, festivals and events make living in Okeechobee the best of all worlds. Whatever your recreational pleasure may be Okeechobee is for sure to satisfy your needs and wants.
Blinds
Fabric & Trim Decorative Rods Draperies Valances ~ Bedding Cornices ~ Blinds Shutters ~Verticals All Window Coverings Custom Sewing
Over 25 years Experience! Call Val Douglas
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www.cwtblinds.com
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Celebrating 84 years serving the Glades
Make it Your Home! www.royalsinc.com
863-763-6293
Paint Store Group Sam Moody Manager
863-824-6101 Fax: 863-824-6103
Five Convenient Showrooms: Okeechobee, Belle Glade, Clewiston, Immokalee & Sebring In store Financing Available
820 E. North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972
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804 E. North Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 Bryan Royal is Fourth Generation working in the company. He and his wife Allie manage the Okeechobee Royal’s Furniture Store.
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Business A/C & Heating Contractor Echols Plumbing & Air Conditioning, LLC 2233 HWY 98 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 karla@echolsplumbing.com www.echolsplumbingandairconditioning.com (863) 763-6461 | Karla Zrioka 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 Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 budneese@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 CPA, PLLC Laura K. Sims, CPA 203 SE 2nd Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 Laura@SimsMunsonCPA.com www.simsmunson.com (863) 467-3000 | Laura Sims
Advertising | Publications Television | Radio Comcast Spotlight (PSL) 1850 Fountainview Blvd Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 kathleen_koury@cable.comcast.com www.comcastspotlight.com (772) 323-0412 | Kathleen Koury Independent Newspapers, Inc. 107 SW 17th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 Okeecopydesk@newszap.com www.newszap.com/OkeechobeeNews (863) 763-3134 | Diana Whitehall Lake Okeechobee Real Estate Guide 21442 E State Road 78, BHR Okeechobee, FL 34974 vic_anderson@earthlink.net (863) 634-4106 | Vicki Anderson
Okeechobee The Magazine 316 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 susan@okeechobeethemagazine.com www.okeechobeethemagazine.com (863) 467-0054 | Susan Giddings
Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd 212 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 sandy@hosklaw.com www.hoskinsturco.com (863) 357-5800
Okeechobee Pennysaver 316 NW 5nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.okeechobeepennysaver.com (863) 763-7283
James P. Covey, P.A. 915 17th Street Suite 106 Vero Beach, FL 32960 jim@jcoveylaw.com (772) 770-6160 | James Covey
WOKC Radio & Radio Fiesta 210 West N Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 wayne@gladesmedia.com www.wokc.com (863) 467-1570 | Wayne Cunningham
Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre 1910 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 gerald@accidentattorneyoffice.com www.accidentattorneyoffice.com (863) 763-3333 | Gerald Lefebvre
Aquaculture Dark Hammock Turtles LLC 12615 NE 124 Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 darkhammockturtles@gmail.com www.darkhammockturtles.com (863) 763-5242 | Shawn & Natasha Heater
Architectural Design & Building Cobble Systems, LLC 100 W. Livingston St 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
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
Glenn J. Sneider, LC 200 SW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 glennjsneider@gmail.com www.sneiderlaw.com (863) 467-6570 | Marlene Wade
Auto & RV Parts Service | Accessories
Banks | Credit Unions CenterState Bank 1611 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 ttrent@centerstatebank.com www.centerstatebank.com (863) 763-5573 | Tabitha Trent Harbor Community Bank 2550 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 joemullins@harborcb.com www.harborcb.com (863) 357-6880 | Joe Mullins MIDFLORIDA Credit Union 3261 U.S. Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 lisaa@midflorida.com www.midflorida.com (863) 467-0188 | Lisa Thomas PNC Bank 2801 Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 claudia.gomez@pnc.com www.pnc.com (863) 763-1924 | Claudia Gomez
Lehman Auto Body Shop 265 Hwy 98 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 lehmanautobody@yahoo.com www.lehmanautobody.com (863) 467-1691 | Beth Lehman
Seacoast National Bank 1409 S. Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 jon.geitner@seacoastnational.com www.seacoastnational.com (863) 467-4663 | Jon Geitner
Total Roadside Services, LLC 3176 Hwy 710 Okeechobee, FL 34974 totalroadsideservice@hotmail.com www.totalroadsideservices.com (863) 357-8772 | Jeremy Larue
TD Bank 1605 S Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 diane.davies@yesbank.com www.tdbank.com (863) 824-6700 | Diane Davies
Automobile Dealerships
Artists | Graphic Art Art Galleries
Attorneys
Maxwell & Maxwell P.A. 405 NW 3rd St Okeechobee, FL 34972 dmaxwell@maxwellandmaxwell.net www.maxwellandmaxwell.net (863) 763-1119 | Devin Maxwell
Directory
Beauty Salons | Spas Cosmetics
Gilbert Chevrolet Co. 3550 Highway 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 kevin@gilbertchevrolet.com www.gilbertchevrolet.com (863) 763-3154 | Kevin Hatfield
Bella Rose Day Spa & Salon 311 NE 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 darlajrose@gmail.com www.mysalononline.com/bellarose (863) 357-3333 | Bill Rose
Gilbert Ford 3175 US Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 bert@gilbertford.com www.gilbert-ford.com (863) 763-2121 | Bert Culbreth
Evie’s More Than Hair 204 NE 7th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 rackleyallen@yahoo.com (863) 763-4433 | Evie Sorce
Okeechobee Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram 4224 U S Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 jimr@ja-ag.com www.okeechobeedcj.com (863) 357-0500 | Jim Rider
Mary Kay Cosmetics 1630 SW 28th Ave. 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 Beauty Salons | Spas | Cosmetics continue page 82.
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Directory Beauty Salons | Spas | Cosmetics Cont. Staffords 3936 SE 18th Terrace Okeechobee, FL 34974 agriffi1969@earthlink.net (863) 763-3933 | Angie Griffin
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
Computer Service/Sales
Business Oasis Outsourcing 1001 Yamato Road Suite 4C Okeechobee, FL 34974 agarcia@oasisadvantage.com www.oasisadvantage.com (863) 763-2225 (888) 328-2463 | Andrea Garcia Workforce Solutions 209 SE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 www.yourworkforcesolutions.com (772) 335-3030
Contractors B&B Site Development, Inc. 1505 C South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, Fl. 34974 skullhillsteel@yahoo.com (863) 763-6053 | Philip Baughman Close Construction 301 N.W. 4th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 chrisclose@closeconstructioninc.com www.closeconstructioninc.com (863) 467-0831 | Chris Close Home Front Electric, Security & Sound 15916 NW 203 Ave Okeechobee, FL 34972 jrayelectric@gmail.com (863) 801-6617 | Johnnie Ray
ICS Computers 403 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 rick@icsflorida.com www.icsflorida.com (863) 467-9090 | Rick Chartier
Luviano Roofing 11055 Highway 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 osiel@luvianogroup.com www.luvianoroofing.com (863) 357-3838 | Osiel Luviano
Consultants
Counseling
Batton Consulting Services, LLC PO Box 477 Okeechobee, FL 34973 embatton@hotmail.com (863) 634-7460 | Elbert Batton C & B Background Fingerprinting & Service 401 SW 2nd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 Johnc@candblivescan.com www.candblivescan.com (863) 763-2300 | John Creasman Labor Finders 102 SW 3rd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 biglakelabor@embarqmail.com www.laborfinders.com (863) 467-9193 | Robyn Pries Mote, Inc. 119 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 maureen7139@gmail.com (863) 763-5055 | Terry Burroughs
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Caleb Center for Counseling Okeechobee, FL 34974 calebcenter@yahoo.com (863) 634-4200 | Darlene Mayers
Dental | Orthodontics Everglades Pediatric Dentistry 2029 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 okeemel@aol.com www.evergladesdentist4kids.com (863) 357-7338 | Melissa Kindell
Culpepper & Terpening, Inc. 2980 South 25th Street Fort Pierce, FL 34981 bterpening@ct-eng.com www.ct-eng.com (772) 464-3537 | Butch Terpening
Wemmer Family Orthodontics 2025 Highway 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 drwemmer@gmail.com www.wemmerorthodontics.com (863) 467-2332 | David Wemmer
Steven L. Dobbs Engineering LLC. 1062 Jakes Way Okeechobee, FL 34974 sdobbs@stevedobbsengineering.com www.stevendobbsengineering.com (863) 824-7644 | Steven Dobbs
Education
Dolly Hand Cultural Arts Center Palm Beach State College 1977 College Drive Belle Glade, FL 33430 woodhaml@palmbeachstate.edu (561) 993-1160 | Leigh Woodham
Indian River State College 2229 NE 54 Way Okeechobee, FL 34972 rbrown@irsc.edu www.irsc.edu (863) 824-6000 | Russ Brown
Okeechobee Community Theatre 610 SW 2nd Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@okeechobeecommunitytheartre.com www.okeechobeecommunitytheatre.com (863) 763-1307 | Ron Hayes
Okeechobee Christian Academy 701 South Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 oca.nreynolds@gmail.com www.okeechobeechristianacademy.net (863) 763-3072 | Nick Reynolds
Okeechobee County Fair Association, Inc. PO Box 1306 Okeechobee, FL 34973 info@okeechobeecountyfair.com www.okeechobeecountyfair.com (863) 467-1690 |Terry Burroughs
Rock Solid Christian Academy 401 SW 4th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 rocksolidca@embarqmail.com www.rscasoldiers.com (863) 763-1847 | Joy Yates
Elected Officials Congressman Thomas J. Rooney 4507 George Blvd. Sebring, FL 33875 sherry.mccorkle@mail.house.gov www.rooney.house.gov (863) 402-9082 | Sherry McCorkle
Martha’s House Inc. 4134 Hwy 441 N Okeechobee, FL 34972 jbean@marthashouse.org www.marthashouse.org (863) 763-2893 | Jonathan Bean
Senator Denise Grimsley 150 N Commerce Ave., Suite 2 Sebring, FL 33870 andrea@denisegrimsley.com www.denisegrimsley.com (863) 835-0232 | Andrea Jahna
Leslie’s Dance Studio 2827 SW 3rd Terr. Okeechobee, FL 34974 lgs.studio2827@gmail.com (863) 634-3831 | Leslie Stokes
Entertainment
Alpha Ministries, Inc. 11655 US Highway 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 office@alphaministries.org www.churchinthewoodsokeechobee.org (863) 763-9800 | John Glenn
Changing Tree Wellness Center, LLC. 203 SE 2nd Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 drscott@ctcentercares.com www.ctcentercares.com (863) 261-8900 | Dr. Ellisa Scott
Dance
Engineering
State Representative Cary Pigman 205 S Commerce Ave., Suite B Sebring, FL 33870 bryan.mielke@myfloridahouse.gov www.myfloridahouse.com/Sections/ Representatives (863) 386-6000 | Bryan Mielke
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Farm Equipment Everglades Farm Equipment Company, Inc. 820 US Highway 98N Okeechobee, FL 34972 blundy@evergladesfarmequipment.com www.evergladesfarmequipment.com (863) 763-1921 | Brad Lundy
Feed Supply Jones Supply, A.I. Sales & Service 801 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 Ste 140 Atlanta, GA 30350 george.d.fritts@ampf.com (770) 609-6322 | David Fritts Atlantic Wealth Management Group at UBS 712 SE Ocean Blvd. 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 Highway, Suite 300 Stuart , FL 34994 steven.swann@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/stevenswann (772) 223-3250 | Steven Swann Northwestern Mutual 2101 W Commercial Blvd. Ste 5100 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309 susan.g.korthals@nmfn.com www.susangkorthals.nmfn.com (954) 735-9000 | Susan Korthals Primerica 1627 S Hwy 1 Suite 215 Sebastian, FL 32958 shepherdtp@hotmail.com www.primerica.com/patshepherd (772) 589-3171 | Patrick Shepherd
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 Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 mike@halofishing.com www.fishokeechobee.com (863) 763-2248 | Mike Cornell
Florists Flower Petals 207 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 myflowerpetals@yahoo.com www.flowerpetalsokeechobee.com (863) 763-5051 | Lisa Fralix
Pat’s Floral Design 300 N Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 patsfloraldesign@gmail.com www.patsfloraldesignonline.com (863) 763-9232 | Colleen Thomas
Health Care
Funeral & Cremation Services Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home 400 N Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 weldit@earthlink.net www.buxtonfuneralhome.com (863) 763-1994 | Matthew Buxton
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 Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 famhealthwell@gmail.com www.fhwellness.net (863) 623-5086 | Amanda Williams Florida Community Health Center 2015 Highway 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 tjones@fchcinc.org www.fchc.org (863) 763-1951 | Tom Jones
Gasoline Station Okeechobee Texaco 4993 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 masdistributor@gmail.com (954) 205-0313 | Mohammad Hasan
Hospice of Okeechobee 411 SE 4th Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 director@hospiceofokeechobee.org www.hospiceofokeechobee.org (863) 467-2321 | Frank Irby
Government City of Okeechobee 55 SE 3rd Avenue Room 100 Okeechobee, FL 34974 bwhitehall@cityofokeechobee.com www.cityofokeechobee.com (863) 763-3372 | Brian Whitehall
Lake Okeechobee Digestive Disease Center 225 NE 19th Drive Okeechobee, FL 34972 nbravo123@yahoo.com (863) 357-8222 | Nancy Fernandez-Bravo
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
Lakeshore Medical Center 1100 N. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34972 tfulford@fchcinc.org www.fchcinc.org (863) 763-7481 | Tim Fulford
Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office 504 NW 4th St Okeechobee, FL 34972 sheriff@okeesheriff.org www.okeesheriff.org (863) 763-3117 | Paul May
Okeechobee Discount Drugs 203 S.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 stacey@okeedrug.com www.okeedrug.com (863) 763-5100 | Steven Nelson
Guns | Ammo Archery & Bow Mike’s Okeechobee Guns 105 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972 mikesokeechobeeguns@gmail.com (863) 763-0122 | Mike O’Connor XMX Guns 108 SE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 marshall.norman@hotmail.com (863) 357-0535 | Marshall Norman Yetti Outfitters 719 Hwy 98 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 yettioutfittersinc@gmail.com www.yettioutfittersinc.com (863) 763-1040 David Sweatt
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 Sanders Dermatology 1713 Hwy 441 N. Okeechobee, FL 34974 bbowman@sandderm.com www.sandersdermatology.com (863) 467-9555
Directory
Trindad E. Garcia, MD 306 NE 19th Drive Okeechobee, FL 34974 smmbh@bellsouth.net www.wellness.com (863) 763-6427 | Trinidad Garcia VNA of Florida - Grand Oaks 203 SE 2nd St Okeechobee, FL 34974 dan.crow@vnaflorida.org www.grandoaks.org (824) 824-6770 | Don Crow
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 Ave. 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/bestwestern-lake-okeechobee (863) 357-7100 | Darlene Kurutz Hampton Inn 1200 State Road 70 East Okeechobee, FL 34972 jenniferlineberry@hilton.com www.hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels (863) 824-0003 | Jenn Lineberry Holiday Inn Express & Suites 3101 US Highway 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 dawn.stephenson@berryfieldhotels.com (863) 623-4704 | Stephen Hartsfield Travelodge 1527 US Highway 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 tlsokeechobee@gmail.com www.travelodge.com/okeechobee (863) 824-3431 | Varun Patel
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Directory
Business
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
Hunting | Shooting Sports & Clubs OK Corral Gun Club 9449 NE 48th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 cmercer@okcorralgunclub.com www.okcorralgunclub.com (863) 357-2226 | Chris Mercer Okeechobee Outfitters 5260 Bluff Hammock Rd Lorida, FL 33857 okeechobeeoutfitter@yahoo.com www.guided-hunting.com (863) 655-2454 | Danny Santangelo Okeechobee Shooting Sports 7055 NE 48th St 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 R & J Osceola Adventures 1126 SW 134th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 shannonfallman@gmail.com (863) 801-1708 | Shannon Fallman
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 lori@bergerinsurance.com www.insuranceokeechobeefl.com (863) 467-1265 | Lori Berger Colonial Life 2751 Orange Blvd West Palm Beach, FL 33412 keith.jordano@coloniallife.com www.jordanogroup.com (561) 333-6228 | Keith Jordano
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Gretchen Robertson Insurance Agency, Inc. 309 NE 2nd St Okeechobee, FL 34974 maurisa@gretchenrobertson.com www.gretchenrobertson.com (863) 763-5561 | Maurisa Tremain Lake Okeechobee Title Insurance 608 NW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 watfordinc@embarqmail.com (863) 763-3749 | Johne Burdeshaw Marcum & Associates 1120 S. Parrott 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 St. 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 Ave., Suite A Okeechobee, FL 34974 joyeriaduran@embarqmail.com (863) 824-0011 | Olivia Granados
Lawn | Landscaping Maintenance Charlie’s Lawn & Landscape 10310 NE 120th St Okeechobee, FL 34972 charlieslawn1@gmail.com (863) 763-5069 | Tom McCoin
Manufacturing & Productions Garick LLC 10800 NE 128th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 ray.stamper@garick.com www.garick.com (863) 824-4077 | Ray Stamper Praxair Distribution SE 2534 NW 16th Blvd Okeechobee, FL 34972 Dave_Christensen@praxair.com www.praxair.com (863) 763-0007 | David Christensen
Sunny Fresh Packing LLC 10753 N 441 Okeechobee, FL 34972 phishthisone@yahoo.com (772) 216-1670 | RJ Hamilton
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 St Okeechobee, FL 34972 wklesper@co.okeechobee.fl.us (863) 450-9402 | Wanda Klesper Castle 1835A Highway 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 rgonzalez@castletc.org www.castletc.org (863) 467-7771 | Rossana Gonzalez 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 1110 SE Federal Highway Stuart, Fl 34994 shutcheson@hpsfl.org www.hpsfl.org (772) 320-0180 |Suzanne Hutcheson Honorable Enterprises 1738 NW 5th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 betperez31@gmail.com www.honorableenterprises.org (863) 801-1699 | Elizabeth Olivieri Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee okeechobeekiwanis@gmail.com www.kiwanisclubofokeechobee.com (863) 634-1778 | J.D. Mixon Okeechobee Main Street, Inc. 55 S. Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 okms@okeechobeemainstreet.net www.mainstreetokeechobee.com (863) 357-6246 | Sharie Turgeon Philippine-American Foundation 5154 SW 16th Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 sidestrada@hotmail.com www.philamculturalfoundation.org (863) 763-6057 | Sid Estrada
2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
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 Rotary Club of Okeechobee Okeechobee, FL 34974 okeechobeerotary@live.com www.okeechobeerotary.org (863) 610-9416 | Donna Gaiser Samaritan Community Outreach 1465 NE 14th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 samaritancommoc@aol.com (863) 467-1500 | Kenneth Williams Son Rise Cafe 301 NE 4th Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 sonrisecafe@okeechobeecog.com www.okeechobeeCOG.com (863) 763-4127 | Mark Smith Treasure Coast Builders Association 6560 S. Federal Highway Port St. Lucie, FL 34952 maddie@treasurecoastba.com www.treasurecoastba.com (863) 467-2007 | Maddie Williams
Nursery | Garden Tree Locators 16162 Hwy 441 North Okeechobee, FL 34972 treelocators@aol.com www.treelocators.com (863) 763-7736 | Tara Boshell
Optical Services Big Lake Eye Care 606 N. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34972 melissa@biglakeeyecare.com www.biglakeeyecare.com (863)763-3937 | Melissa Jansen Brennan Eyecare 710 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 jbrennan6980@hotmail.com www.brennaneyecare.com (863) 467-0595 | Pat Brennan
Pool Services Gator Pools 1400 SW 83rd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 mbarcingp@yahoo.com www.gatorpools.net (863) 634-7883 | Michael Barcia
Business 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 (772) 461-1201 | 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
Real Estate Services Anderson Realty Co. 21442 E. SR 78, BHR Okeechobee, FL 34974 vic_anderson@earthlink.net www.andersonrealtyco.com (863) 634-4106 | Vicki Anderson Beck Real Estate 14296 East SR 78 Okeechobee, FL 34974 jeriwilson@jeriwilson.com (863) 634-6056 | Jeri Wilson Berger Real Estate 425 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972 lori@bergerinsurance.com www.cbbergerrealestate.com (863) 763-5335 | Phil Berger B.H. Tucker Real Estate 104 NW 7th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 btucker1450@earthlink.net www.bhtuckerrealestate.com (863) 763-4010 | Bobby Tucker Century 21 Hazellief & Prevatt Realty, Inc. 1200 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 century21okeechobee@earthlink.net www.century21okeechobee.com (863) 763-2104 | David Hazellief
Directory
Okeechobee Waterfront Rentals PO Box 1982 Okeechobee, FL 34973 unique.antiques1@gmail.com (772) 215-1680 | Debbie Davies
Lunkers Sports Grill 4825 US Highway 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 lunkerssportsgrille@gmail.com (863) 763-1900 | Red Altman
Nature’s Pantry 417 West South Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 npantry@gmail.com (863) 467-1243 | Harry Elliott
Preferred Properties of Okeechobee 517 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 preferredpropertiesofokee@gmail.com www.preferredpropertiesofokeechobee.org (863) 623-5096 | Becky Barber
Papa Johns 414A NE Park St. Okeechobee, FL 34972 papajohnsokeechobee@gmail.com www.papajohns.com (863) 467-7272 | Sumit Patel
Royal’s Furniture, Appliances & Bedding 804 E North Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 broyal@royalsinc.com www.royalsinc.com (863) 763-6293 | Bryan Royal
Restaurants| Catering 2nd Street Pizza 202 NE 2nd St Okeechobee, FL 34974 (863) 763-5000 | Ralph Collins Applebee’s 1210 Highway 70 E Okeechobee, FL 34974 store4326@gatorapple.info www.applebees.com (863) 357-0141 | Dave Sherill Beef O’ Brady’s 608 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 okeebeefs@gmail.com www.beefobradys.com (863) 763-7300 | Nikki Brewster Brown Cow Sweetery 103 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34974 paulette@browncowsweetery.com www.browncowsweetery.com (863) 357-3357 | Paulette Bragel
Parrott Island Grill 1001 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34972 aw13080@gmail.com (863) 824-0576 | Adam White Pueblo Viejo VI 3415 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974 puebloviejo6@yahoo.com www.puebloviejofl.com (863) 357-9641 | Pueblo Viejo VI Roper’s Cafe 112 SE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 angelckb@yahoo.com www.roperscafe.com (863) 763-9613 | Bobbi Jo Tin Fish Restaurant 301 N Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.thetinfishrestaurants.com (863) 357-0447 | Joe Melluzo Tropical Smoothie Café 1825 SE Elrose St Port St. Lucie, Fl 34952 jameskthompson@att.net www.tropicalsmoothie.com
Chico’s Burrito Shack 309 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 chico_b2@yahoo.com (863) 623-4345 | Abel Banda
Wendy’s 502 NE Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 dchapman@jaateam.com www.wendys.com (863) 763-8181 | David Chapman
Dairy Queen 1212 S. Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 rwesch@msn.com www.dairyqueen.com (863) 763-6675 | Robert Wesch
Zippy’s 301 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 zippys04@yahoo.com (863) 763-1399 | Tommy Shorter
D & A Properties, Inc. 701 NE 3rd St Okeechobee, FL 34972 nunezd@earthlink.net (863) 467-0611 | Anita Nunez
Dunkin Donuts 4993 Hwy 441 S Okeechobee, FL 34974 alzakhary@yahoo.com www.dukindonuts.com (863) 357-0015 | Albert Zakhary
Elvie Posey Coldwell Banker Berger Real Estate 425 SW Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 elvieposey@aol.com www.cbbergerrealestate.com/agents (863) 763-5335 | Elvie Posey
Golden Corral 700 S Parrott Ave Okeechobee, FL 34974 goldenlionmidfl@aol.com www.goldencorral.com (863) 763-0444 | Charlie Hukriede
Mixon Real Estate Group, LLC 1306 SW 2nd Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 LMixon@MixonGroup.com www.MixonGroup.com (863) 763-6000 | Lori Mixon
Jersey Mike’s 611 SW Park St Okeechobee, FL 34974 krissydail@hotmail.com www.jerseymikes.com (863) 467-8100 | Krissy Dail
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 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
Rustic Style & Cabins 505 NE Park St Okeechobee, FL 34972 rustic.now@gmail.com www.rusticstyleandcabins.com (863) 532-9096 | Nita Salmon Slide On By Party Supply 100 SE 8th Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@slideonbypartysupply.com www.slideonbypartysupply (863) 824-0856 | Veronica Gabor Teez2Pleez 620 S Parrott Ave. 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 St Okeechobee, FL 34974 tonischicboutique@comcast.net (863) 357-8664 | Toni Doyle
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 Highway 441 SE Okeechobee, FL 34974 arrington.betty@gmail.com www.biglakelodge.org (863) 763-4638 | Betty Arrington Okeechobee KOA 4276 US Highway 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
Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide | 2014
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Directory 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
Sanitation Services Henderson’s Sani Service Systems, Inc. 257 SE Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd Belle Glade, FL 33430 kay4167@aol.com www.hendersonsgarbageandtoilets.com (561) 996-2298 | Kay Hickson Waste Management - Okeechobee Landfill, Inc. 10800 NE 128th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 tchandler@wm.com www.wm.com (863) 357-0824 | Teresa Chandler
Business Domer’s 204 Southeast 10th Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34974 info@DomersInc.com www.DomersInc.com (863) 763-3417 | Justin Domer
Veterinary Pet Boarding
Utilities Florida Public Utilities 802 North Parrott Avenue Okeechobee, FL 34972 EnergyForLife@fpuc.com www.fpuc.com (866) 763-2115 | Crystal Campbell
Mims Veterinary Hospital 275 SW 32rd Street Okeechobee, FL 34974 mimsr2ranch@embarqmail.com www.mimsveterinaryhospital.com (863) 763-9200 | Randall Mims
FPL 1401 SE Montery Road Stuart, FL N.L.Nick.Blount@fpl.com www.fpl.com (772) 781-3118 | Nick Blount
Okeechobee Claws & Paws 2949 Hwy 70 West Okeechobee, FL 34972 www.okeechobeeclaws&paws@gmail.com (863) 357-6700 | Lisa Turner
Glades Electric Cooperative 1190 US Hwy 27 East P.O. Box 519 Moore Haven, FL 33471 pmcgehee@gladesec.com www.gladesec.com (800) 226-4024 | Paul McGehee
Wholesale Sam’s Club 1750 SW Gatlin Blvd Port St Lucie, Fl 34953 oemason.s04972.us@samsclub.com www.samsclub.com (772) 878-4931 | Ozell Mason
Well Drilling Serv ices
Friends of the Chamber Donna Gaiser Gary Kirsch John Gurney
American Drilling Services 405 SW 2nd St Okeechobee, FL 34974 decarlof18@gmail.com www.americandrillingflorida.com (863) 763-3221 | Frank DeCarlo
Security Cameras Alarm Systems
Mary Beth Cooper Willard D. Dover
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Alarm Company of Okeechobee, Inc. 919 N.W. Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 thealarmco@embarqmail.com www.thealarmco.org (863) 357-2004 | Carl Shumate
Tattoos & Piercings Ink Well Tattoos & Piercings 909 S Parrott Ave. Okeechobee, FL 34974 evile414@gmail.com (863) 357-4465 | Ink Well
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Telecommunications CEECO 519 W. South Park Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 info@ceeco.net www.ceeco.net (863) 357-0798 | Penny McCreary
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CenturyLink 2820 Cargo St. Ft Myers, FL 33916 brian.d.hamman@centurylink.com www.centurylink.com (239) 335-8330 | Brian Hamman
Walpole, Inc. 269 NW 9th Street Okeechobee, FL 34972 kwalpole@walpoleinc.com www.walpoleinc.com (863) 763-5593 | Keith Walpole
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2014 | Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Guide
Buddy Mills Teacher
TO A BANK YOU CAN COUNT ON TODAY, AND TOMORROW Since 1926, we’ve been living, working and investing in communities like yours all over Florida. As neighbors, we’ve always relied on each other for a helping hand – and we’d like to say thank you by offering all the banking products and services you need, and the friendly service you’d expect from the region’s most-trusted community bank. In an ever-shifting world, Seacoast National Bank’s support and earnest dedication to you and your neighbors is one thing that you will always be able to count on.
SeacoastNational.com/SwitchToday
TO A MORE HUMAN WAY TO BANK North Parrott 500 N. Parrott Ave. 863.467.5330
South Parrott 1409 S. Parrott Ave. 863.467.4663
You have a Top Performing Hospital in your backyard. 24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICES ™
Surgical Services » In & Outpatient Services » Minimally Invasive » Board Certified Surgeons Radiology » Accredited by the American College of Radiology in all 5 imaging modalities: · CT Scan · Digital Mammography · MRI · Nuclear Medicine · Ultrasound Laboratory Services
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FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 863-763-9228.
1796 Highway 441 N • Okeechobee, FL 34972 • 863-763-2151 • RaulersonHospital.com