Welcome to
Okeechobee
2011 Official Guide
To Our Community Compliments of Okeechobee Pennysaver
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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Welcome To Okeechobee
keechobee lies on the northernmost point of the second-largest freshwater lake in the United States, a perfect place for a relaxing and enjoyable winter vacation or a perfect place to call home. It has warm, sunny and gentle winter weather, wonderful fishing and a growing cultural environment. Its central location in the state allows easy access for exploring other parts of Florida. Okeechobee is just 70 miles from West Palm Beach, 105 miles from Orlando, 115 miles from Tampa and 135 miles from Miami. This location allows day trips to many Florida sites. Okeechobee is a vibrant growing community, rich in history while offering many community events, attractions and points of interest. This guide will help you navigate the “who, what, where and when” of our community. It will give you information on Okeechobee, from its early history to present day. If you are looking for a restaurant or hotel accommodations you will find them here. From arts and enrichment to recreation and sports, you will find what you need within the pages of this guide. Read about our community boosters, the Chambers of Commerce, Okeechobee Main Street and the Tourist Development Council on pages 18 and 19 and search for that special event on Publisher Maureen Budjinski Editor/Writer Raye Deusinger Art Director Bridgette Waldau Graphic Artist Rafael Pacheco Cover Photo Rafael Pacheco Office Manager Phyllis Dwyer Bookkeeper Rose Brennan Account Executives Tamra Cunningham Gail Lockwood Distribution Larry Sterling, Manager Jessica Smith
pages 22 and 23. If you are a serious fisherman or a beginner, you will enjoy reading Capt. Michael Shellen’s article about fishing on Lake Okeechobee. Important telephone numbers you need to know are in this guide for your convenience. You will find emergency numbers on page 31, clubs and organization on page 37 and places of worship on page 38. We are proud of our community. If you live here, please enjoy this publication and share it with friends and family. The Welcome Guide is published annually by Direct Hit Marketing & Design, LLC, which also publishes the Okeechobee Pennysaver. We hope you will find this guide informative and urge you to keep it on hand as a reference. We welcome all visitors and newcomers to our community and hope your stay is memorable. We thank the many advertisers who make this free publication possible. Published by: Direct Hit Marketing and Design, 111 NE 2nd St., Okeechobee, FL 34972, phone (863) 763-7283, fax (863) 763-1674, e-mail okeeads@ gmail.com.
Accommodations......................14 Advertisers Index........................45 Aid and Emergency.....................31 Airports......................................10 Animal Control.............................17 Arts/Enrichment.........................15 Attractions...............................26 Cable TV......................................10 Calendar of Events.......................22 Chambers of Commerce .............18 Churches....................................38 City Officials................................29 City/County/State Offices..........32 Civic/Clubs/Organizations..........37 Climate..........................................8 County Officials...........................29 Emergency Management.............28 Emergency Shelters....................28 Fishing on Lake Okeechobee.......20
Florida Facts.................................9 Highways....................................10 History..........................................6 Hospice Care ..............................16 Media .........................................13 Okeechobee County Library......15 Okeechobee Historical Society...16 Okeechobee Main Street............19 Points of Interest........................27 Public Schools.............................34 Railroads....................................10 Raulerson Hospital......................42 Recreation..............................16 Restaurants................................40 State/Federal Officials................29 Tourist Development Council......18 Utilities........................................10 Waste Collection ......................10
Neither the advertiser nor the publisher are responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc. herein contained. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, or by any means, without written permission from the publisher.
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History of Okeechobee Past to Present Okee Chobee, Miccosukee for “big water”, has a long history involving differing peoples, ideas and economics. The lake has gone by different names throughout the years. The original name was Laguna del Esperitu Santo (“Lake of the Holy Spirit”). Having been considered myth and legend for almost 300 years, it has also gone by the names Mayaimi (an early Indian tribe), Lake Mayacco, Lake Mayoco and finally Lake Okeechobee. Until the late 1830s, the lake was considered a myth due to the wild untamed landscape to its north, which kept exploration at bay. During the Seminole wars, the Indians had only one avenue of escape — to the south. A group of Seminoles were pursued by the U.S. Army to the shoreline of Lake Okeechobee in an event that would later be referred to as “Col. Zachary Taylor’s Christmas Party.” On Dec. 25, 1837, the Battle of Okeechobee was fought, pitting the Seminole Indians, led by Chief Osceola, against Col. Zachary Taylor and the U.S. Army. A memorial commemorating the battle can be found on U.S. Hwy 441 SE just a few miles south of the city. Following the victory of the Indians, the dense, marshy region on the lake’s northern coasts remained unexplored until the 1880s, when Hamilton Driston brought dredges and began work on the Kissimmee River in an attempt to open the land for development. At that time, only wild game, birds and Native Americans occupied the region. The land was populated with water oak, cypress, rubber and palmetto trees. Driston began work on a route he planned from the City of Kissimmee south to Lake Okeechobee. Page 6
Southland Hotel was located on the corner of Parrott Avenue and Park Street. c.1948
Soon after the dredging began, people took notice of the land along the top of the lake. In October 1896, Peter and Louisiana (Chandler) Raulerson made their way toward Taylor Creek, a few miles north of the lake. During the 1890s, Raulerson stretched 30 miles of fence from Taylor Creek to the Kissimmee River, enclosing the river’s bend. Shortly after the Raulersons came, other settlers began to find their way to the area. 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 Raulersons, wanting their children to receive an education, built the first school house at the river’s bend. Needing six children to start a school, the Yates children were “borrowed” from Fort Drum to the north. The first teacher was Dr. George M. Hubbard, a Connecticut Yankee the children nicknamed “Mother Hubbard.” The government sent Henry Hudson Hancock and his brother James to survey the lake. He became the second school teacher at the Bend. The third teacher of the school was Tantie Huckabee, a well-educated lady from South
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Carolina from whom the school took its name. Her name was also given to the first post office, and the town began to be known as Tantie. More and more settlers began making their homes in Tantie due to a thriving economy. Numerous industries such as hunting, citrus and farming were already growing, but none as much as the catfish industry. In 1906, the steamer Success carried 6,000 pounds of fish from the lake on its first haul. In 1912, Robert Upthegrove settled Upthegrove Beach, which became a large fishing site, on what is now Hwy 441 SE. In 1911 the St. Lucie County Tribune announced that work would soon start on a branch line of the Florida East Coast Railway to run from Maytown (north of Titusville on the east coast) to the north of Lake Okeechobee. Because of the new developments in and around the town, on Oct. 4, 1911 the name Tantie was deemed inappropriate and was changed to Okeechobee. Later that year, P.L. Jenkins enlisted a civil engineer to lay out and survey the new city. Many of the street names would come from the area’s Indian heritage: Okeechobee, Seminole, Osceola, Hicpochee, Miami, Kissimmee, Parrott, Tallahassee, Cherokee, Hiwasee, Micanopee, Meridith and Oklosnokee. Those names would remain until the 1970s, when streets and avenues were given new names or numbers. Continuing the now-entrenched tradition of change, South Florida Railroad Company owner Henry Morrison Flagler initiated a re-design of the city to include wide streets, a central park and many wooden buildings, some of which still exist. He envisioned it becoming the “Chicago of the South.” The boundaries of Okeechobee County and the incorporation of the city were formalized on June 4, 1915. In 1919 the name was changed slightly, from Okeechobee City to the City of Okeechobee. The county was created from portions of Osceola, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties in 1917. 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. The first police chief (city marshal) was Benjamin F. Hall. He was succeeded by J.W. Raulerson and William E. “Pogey Bill” Collins. Today Okeechobee is a crossroads town linking the east and west coasts of Florida. The county comprises 771 square miles with a population of approximately 42,000 — 5,500 of whom live in the City of Okeechobee. It is known for its dairy and beef cattle, and fishing and tourism industries. The industrial park located next to the county airport is a growing area that provides excellent advantages to manufacturers. The lake itself is a nationally known tourist attraction. It covers roughly 730 square miles with an average diameter of 45 miles and an average depth of 14 feet; the deepest point being 22 feet. The lake is bisected by the Okeechobee 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. The lake is surrounded by the Hoover Dike, begun in 1929 after the devastating hurricanes of 1926 and 1928. The dike protects areas around the lake from flood damage during hurricane season. Lake Okeechobee is the water lifeline for u
The Bank of Okeechobee, 1926, located on Park Street.
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South Florida because it stores and supplies water to many cities and agricultural communities to its south. Locks, located approximately every seven miles, provide fishing and boating access to the lake. The lake is encircled by an excellent road system with many scenic-view points. Campgrounds, RV parks, restaurants and recreational facilities are easily accessible to travelers. Okee Tantie State Park and Scott Driver Park, located across from each other on Hwy 78W, provide facilities for hikers, boaters, campers and fishermen. Immediately across the Kissimmee River lies 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 78W, is the Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation, which encompasses 35,000 acres of rich land that is farmed, fished and hunted by the Seminole. The reservation boasts
Downtown Park Street today.
a state-of-the-art rodeo arena, a casino complex and modern centers for education and sports. The reservation school, Pemayetv Emahakv, expands the normal curriculum with the teaching of the history and language of the Seminole. The reservation is open to the public.
Climate Okeechobee has a moderate climate, with summer temperatures ranging from 72 to 93 with occasional afternoon thunder showers from June through September. Winters are mild with bright, warm, sunny days and cool nights. Midwinter temperatures average from 49 to 73. The hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. Annual rainfall averages 53 inches per year. Outdoor activities are part of daily life due to the moderate climate; year-round gardening is a welcome benefit. Also because of the mild climate, thousands of tourists visit Okeechobee during the winter and spring seasons. Page 8
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Florida Facts State Motto State Tree State Flower State Stone State Gem State Shell State Nickname State Song State Mammal State Bird State Animal State Reptile State Fish State Insect
“In God We Trust” Palmetto Palm Orange Blossom Agatized Coral Moonstone Horse Conch or Giant Band Shell Sunshine State “Suwannee River” Florida Panther (land) Manatee (freshwater) Porpoise (saltwater) Mockingbird Florida Panther Alligator Largemouth Bass (freshwater) Atlantic Sailfish(saltwater) Zebra Longwing Butterfly
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Airports
Utilities
The Okeechobee County Airport, a former U.S. Air Force base, is located on Hwy 98, one mile north of Hwy 70. It has 4,000- and 5,000-foot lighted concrete runways that can accommodate most private and many commercial aircraft. Radio communication is available 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Two electric companies service Okeechobee: Florida Power & Light serves most of the county, with Glades Electric serving the western section north of Basswood to the Viking Properties and several western communities. For information, call FPL at (800) 226-3545 or Glades Electric at (863) 467-5111.
The Okeechobee County Airport provides complete general aviation services, local information and a restaurant open to the public. For more information, contact Interim Airport Manager Kathy Scott at (863) 467-5505, the Okeechobee Jet Center at (863) 4675888 or the Landing Strip CafĂŠ at (863) 467-6828.
Water service is available through the Okeechobee Utility Authority, 100 SW 5th Ave., (863) 7639460. Gas is provided by three companies for commercial, residential, agricultural or industrial service: Central Gas Co., 119 NW 8th St., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-3915; Ferrellgas, 204 SW 7th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974, (863) 763-7557; and Glades Gas Co., 804 N Parrott Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-2114.
Railroads Amtrak stops in Okeechobee with south- and northbound trains. For times and schedules, call Amtrak at (800) 872-7245. The station is located just west of Hwy 441N at 8th St.
Historic Train Station
Highways Okeechobee is served by state and federal highways, many having four lanes within the city limits. U.S. 441 (N-S) and State Road 70 (E-W) each pass through the heart of the county, forming a crossroads that enables travelers easy access to any attraction around the state. State Road 70 eastbound, Hwy 441 northbound and State Road 710 southbound all lead to Florida’s Turnpike, I-95 and US Hwy 1.
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Waste Collection For weekly garbage removal and information regarding pickup of ground debris or dumpster needs, contact Waste Management Inc., 10080 NE 128th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (863) 763-4818. Okeechobee Landfill Inc. is a Class 1 disposal facility located at 10800 NE 128th Ave. Waste disposal rates are based on tonnage. The minimum fee is $5 via check, credit or debit card; cash is not accepted. For more information call (863) 357-0111 or visit http://www.wmdisposal.com/static/files/fact_ sheets/okeechobee_landfill.pdf
Cable Television Cable is provided by Comcast Digital Cable, 107 NW 7th Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34972, (800) 266-2278, www.comcast.com.
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United Country MidFlorida Realty Okeechobee’s Hometown Realtor
3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974
863-763-3566
United Country MidFlorida Realty is conveniently at located at 3126 Hwy 441 South Okeechobee, FL 34974. Julie Turner is an Okeechobee native who has raised her family here because she loves Okeechobee. She is familiar with the community, its history, and uniqueness – qualities which enables her to help current or prospective residents find the perfect home and neighborhood for their needs. Julie has a B.S. from Florida State University and has been a Realtor since 2003. Julie is currently the President of the Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR). United Country MidFlorida Realty’s goal is to get you the best possible price in the shortest amount of time with the least amount of inconvenience to you. By remaining focused on this goal, it is our desire to obtain exceptional, individual results utilizing skills, honesty and integrity to create a lasting relationship one client at a time. UNITED COUNTRY is America’s rural real estate company. Your best source for locating real estate for sale throughout the small towns and cities of rural America – residential, farms, ranches, recreational and business! Through a network of over 600 offices – nationwide, United Country has been uniting buyers and sellers of country real estate for over eighty years. MidFlorida Realty’s years of local experience and reputation, provides sellers and buyers with a unique insight into the local marketplace. You can count on United Country - MidFlorida Realty to provide you with quality, professional service.
Cristie Schmidt receives the 2010 Top Producer award from Julie Turner.
View all of our properties at
www.MidFloridaRealty.net Virtual Tours, Multiple Photos & Detailed Descriptions on All Our Properties and the Entire Okeechobee MLS available on our Website.
United Country MidFlorida Team Pictured (L-R): Garry Smith, 2010 President of Okeechobee County Board of Realtors (OCBR) Julie Turner, Lynne Price, 2010 OCBR New Comer Award Wendy Bostwick, 2010 OCBR Treasuer Betsy Sheffield and 2011 OCBR director /2010 Top Producer Cristie Schmidt.
863-763-3566 - 3126 Hwy 441 South - Okeechobee, FL 34974
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2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Media Print - Locally Owned Okeechobee Pennysaver, Okeechobee Welcome Guide Hurricane Guide
Direct Hit Marketing & Design, LLC. 111 NE 2nd Street (863) 763-7283 okeeads@gmail.com
Okeechobee The Magazine
111 NE 2nd Street (863) 467-0054 okeechobeethemagazine@embarqmail.com www.okeechobeethemagazine.com
Okeechobee News
107 SW 17th Street (863) 763-3134 okeenews@newszap.com
Radio
100.9 FM, 1570 AM, WOKC Radio, 99.5, WAFC, 590AM, WAFC,
(Spanish) Radio Fiesta (Glades Media Group) 210 WN Park St., Suite 102 Okeechobee, FL 34972 (863) 763-1570 or (863) 467-1009
91.7 FM, WWFR, Family Radio (863) 763-0281
www.familyradio.com
WYFR – Short Wave
10040 NW 240th St. (863) 763-0281
90.5 FM, WREH, Reach FM (863) 467-8080, reachfm.org
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Accommodations Hotels and Motels (area code 863)
DOWNTOWN Budget Inn
201 S Parrott Ave., 763-3185
Economy Inn
WEST AROUND THE LAKE Angler’s Waterfront Motel
507 N Parrott Ave., 763-1148
1010 6th St., (Buckhead Ridge) Okeechobee, 763-4031
Hampton Inn
Lakeport Lodge Motel & Restaurant,
Travelers Inn
EAST AROUND THE LAKE
1200 State Road 70 East, 824-0003, www.okeechobeelakeokeechobee.hamptoninn.com 601 N Parrott Ave., 763-3146
CLOSEST TO THE LAKE Best Western
3975 Hwy 441S, 357-7100 www.bestwestern.com
11700 Hwy 78W, 946-2020
Pier II Motel
2200 Hwy 441 SE, 763-8003 www.pier2resort.com
Rimcanal Motel & RV Park 1422 Hwy 441 SE, 467-2737
Scottish Inns
Flamingo Motel
3190 Hwy 441S, 763-3293
Holiday Inn Express
1527 Hwy 441 SE, 824-3431 www.travelodge.com
4101 Hwy 441S, 763-6100 www.motelflamingo.net 3101 Hwy 441S, 357-3529 www.hiexpress.com
Travelodge Suites
Lakeview Inn & Suites
3225 Hwy 441 SE, 763-1020
Assisted Living Facilities Grand Oaks, a VNA Community 203 SE 2 St., 824-6770 www.grandoaks.org
The Heritage Assisted Living, Elder Care 608 NE 2 Ave., 763-1700
Okeechobee Health Care Facility 1646 Hwy 441N, 763-2226.
Fishing Pier located at Lock 7 at the end of 441S.
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Arts and Enrichment The Okeechobee Community Theater is in its 32nd year of productions ranging from dramas to musicals, comedies to mysteries. Cast and production crews are all local volunteer talent. Plays are presented each March and November during the first two weekends of the month at the Freshman Campus Auditorium, 610 SW 2nd Ave. The quality shows draw attendance from surrounding counties and even the east coast of Florida. Ron and Jacque Hayes produce and direct the shows. For more information, call (863) 763-1307.
Committee is dedicated to bringing fine arts to the community. The annual Top of the Lake Art and Music Fest showcases local fine artists as well as others from around the county and performances from renowned and award-winning musicians. Future projects include an art league, art museum and a summer concert series. For more information, call (863) 357-MAIN (6246).
The Okeechobee High School Drama Department has been an increasing favorite with its topquality productions put on several times during the year. For more information, call Deborah Raulerson at (863) 462-5025. The high school is located at 2800 Hwy 441N. Okeechobee Main Street’s Art and Cultural
Third mural of Okeechobee Main Street’s mural program.
Okeechobee County Library The Okeechobee County Library system has been in operation since 1977. The modern library at 206 SW 16th St. contains more than 50,000 hardback books, 10,000 paperbacks and a variety of offerings of interest to children and adults alike. There are newspapers from around the lake region, a representative magazine (subscription) collection and audio and visual materials including DVDs. Research can be done online through library computers at no charge for Okeechobee residents.
Florida Humanities Council grant. Library Director Kresta King can be reached at (863) 763-3536. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The library is closed Sunday and Monday. There are two outside drop boxes for use when the library is closed.
The library is part of the Heartland Library Cooperative, encompassing Okeechobee, Glades, Hardee, Highlands and Desoto counties, expanding the availability of requested material. Each year the library presents three to four Florida Culture and History presentations through a 2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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Okeechobee Historical Society Founded in 1973, the Okeechobee County Historical Society is dedicated to preserving the history of Okeechobee County and the lower Kissimmee River Valley. It meets the third Monday of each month at noon in the Museum Display Building at the County Historical Park, 1850 Hwy 98N. Visitors are welcome; membership is $5 annually for individuals or $8 for couples. The museum is located in the old schoolhouse on two acres of county-owned property. It is open each Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or by appointment by calling President Betty Williamson at (863) 763-4344.
Recreation and Sports Complex
Historic Tantie School House, now home of the Okeechobee Historical Society Museum.
Hospice Care Big Lake Hospice
The sports complex, located at 580 NW 27th Lane, features an Olympic-size pool, four youth baseball fields, a football/soccer field, six shuffleboard courts, two basketball courts, eight tennis courts, four racquetball courts, a picnic/restroom pavilion and a “wooden jungle� for children. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (863) 763-6950 for information about the sports complex and (863) 467-7667 for information about the pool.
1203 N. Parrott Ave., 763-0707, www.biglakehospice.org. We provide you and your loved ones with comfort, support, and care by a team of physicians, nurses, aides, counselors, and chaplains so you may continue to enjoy the months and weeks ahead to the fullest extent possible.
Hospice of Okeechobee
411 SE 4th St., 467-2321, www.hospiceofokeechobee.org. At this location since 1994, providing respite, routine care for an extended period and inpatient care 24/7 in our well equipped and comfortable Hamrick Home.
Hope Hospice/Hope Connections
30082 Hwy 78W, 763-2404, www.hopehospice.org, serves Buckhead Ridge in Glades County with senior care (hot meals), activities and Hospice referral.
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Animal Control Services Waters Edge is just minutes from downtown shopping, restaurants, golf, polo, the casino, movies and the rodeo at the fairgrounds. It is only a short distant to 1-95 and the East Coast of Florida with major mall, some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, sport fishing, restaurants and theme parks.
Rescued animals, Frank the Cat and Bon Jovi.
Okeechobee County Animal Control Services is located at 1480 NW 25th Dr. in the Airport Industrial Park (3050 NW 120th Trail), (863) 3573225. Supervisor Gary Barber said the agency will respond to complaints of missing or aggressive animals, animal bites, livestock loose on county roads, animal cruelty and other animal-related situations. Animals available for adoption are evaluated for temperament and health to reduce the number of animals euthanized; the agency adopts-out or sends animals to reputable rescue groups. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. An officer is on emergency call 24 hours a day.
Please contact us for additional information for bookings:
Bill Fitzsimmons - Director of Sales & Marketing
Phone: (863) 357-5757 Email: sales@wemcr.com 12766 Hwy 441 SE Okeechobee, Florida 34974
For Info:
WEMCR.com or
The Humane Society Pet Rescue, a non-profit facility located at 1203 Hwy 98N (PO Box 233, Okeechobee, FL 34973), (863) 357-1104, is a no-kill shelter that cares for animals until adoption. Its goal is the “ending of needless euthanizing of healthy animals,” Director Belinda Forlier said. The facility accepts volunteer help as well as donated items for the comfort of the animals. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and 1 to 3 p.m. Wednesday. It is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information, visit www.animalrescueokeechobee.org.
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Community Boosters Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County Business members of the Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County are committed to fulfilling its mission to “engage business and community leaders to improve the business climate, economy and quality of life in Okeechobee.� The Chamber provides information L-R: Directors Carl Shumate and Greg Thorgersen, President on the community to residents, visi- Pictured Terry Burroughs, Director Charlie Hukriede, Secretary Robert Lee, Directors and businesses seeking to estab- tor J.D. Mixon, Executive Director Brian Cartland and Treasurer Mike lish a presence in Okeechobee. The Costopolous. Not Pictured: Vice-President Christa Luna and Director Vic Lancaster. Chamber also works with Okeechobee Main Street to host annual events including number of issues critical to the business comthe Speckled Perch Festival, the Labor Day Fes- munity. The Chamber also provides business assistival, and the Top of the Lake Christmas Festival tance, business relocation, and export assistance and Parade. services. For more information please call 863-467-6246 or visit www.OkeechobeeBusiA variety of networking opportunities are avail- ness.com. able, and Chamber committees are tackling a
Okeechobee Area Chamber of Commerce The Okeechobee Area Chamber of Commerce was incorporated in 2010 to serve all areas in and around Okeechobee County from St. Cloud south through this area. They will provide
information about local businesses, attractions and events. For more information, call (863) 447-1114 or visit www.okeechobeeareachamberofcommerce.org.
Tourist Development Council The Okeechobee Tourist Development Council promotes Okeechobee County as a desirable tourist destination through marketing and advertising campaigns and local events. The nine-member council consists of a chairman, two elected municipal officials and six members involved in the tourist industry. The TDC office is located in the Page 18
Okeechobee County Airport Terminal Building, (863) 763-3959, and has full information on its web site at www.okeechobee-tdc.com.
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Okeechobee Main Street In 1982, the Main Street program was begun under the direction of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, as a way to help local cities and towns preserve and revitalize their past. Okeechobee joined the program in 2005 and became accredited in 2007. Its work includes the preservation of local history and beautifying the downtown area by enlisting cooperation of businesses and city maintenance. The program is responsible for the Welcome to Okeechobee signs as well as directional signs throughout the downtown area. It has a mural project that currently displays three murals on buildings within the downtown district. Okeechobee Main Street plans many events designed not only to entertain the public, but to draw business, events and commercial endeavors to town. Among other events, Okeechobee Main Street is the sponsor of the Top of the Lake BBQ Affair, Top of the Lake Art and Music Fest, National Day of the American Cowboy, Halloween Night at the Agri-Civic Center and the Okeechobee County Fair. It also
partners with other area organizations to further promote Okeechobee. A highly successful program has been the Main Street Mixer. Each month a different business hosts a gathering of not only local business people, but members of the public as well, who gather to mingle, learn about the host business and exchange ideas. Business owners and residents who would not otherwise have time to meet each other get to do so in a social environment. The nine-member board is led by Okeechobee Main Street President Maureen Burroughs and Executive Director Toni Doyle. The office is located at 111 NE 2nd St. For more information, call (863) 357 MAIN (6246) or visit www.mainstreetokeechobee.com. You can also follow them on Facebook.
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Fishing on Lake Okeechobee Shell crackers or red ears attract anglers from all over the U.S. every spring when the spawning run starts in the shallow water of the “Big O.” This past year anglers located bedding fish several miles offshore, and reports claim that some anglers caught many large shell crackers. With the water level back up, the marsh areas, behind the grass lines, are the place to look for shell crackers, which will bed in huge numbers and the spawning areas can be seen in the clear water quite easily.
Captain Michael Shellen Shellen Guide Service
www.okeechobeebassfishing.co
O
(863) 357-0892.
keechobee is home to some the best fishing in the United States. Thanks to a very wet 2009 summer, the water level has returned to normal; anglers have been catching many bass, blue gill and crappie. Lake Okeechobee has long been known for producing more big bass than any other lake in the U.S., and this year is no different. Year after year, hardcore fishermen from all over the world journey to Lake Okeechobee in pursuit of the bass of a lifetime. The lake covers 771 square miles and produces more seven- to 10-pound bass than any other lake in the U.S.
Okeechobee offers great blue-gill fishing for those anglers that choose to use a fly rod, or they can be caught using a cane pole just as easily. When the big bluegill get into the shallow water and start to spawn they are not only fun to catch, but are the best eating fish the lake has to offer. Hand-sized fish are the norm, and when fried up freshly caught from the lake they are hard to beat.
The preferred way to catch a big Okeechobee bass is with a live wild golden shiner, a bait fish that is prevalent in the lake as well as a main food source for bass. Every year, giant bass are caught from Okeechobee. Lake Okeechobee has long had the reputation of being the speckled perch capital of the world. Specks, or “crappie,” as they are referred to in the north, are caught in huge numbers in the Kissimmee River and other deep-water areas as well. There are several ways to catch specks. A minnow dangled under a bobber in deep water or a jig slowly trolled behind the boat both account for large numbers of these tasty panfish. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission put a 10-inch size limit on specks last year, and many over that size have been caught.
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Calendar of Events Area code 863 unless otherwise noted. For details and information on listed or planned events, contact Main Street (MS) at www.mainstreetokeechobee. com or 357-6246, the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee (CC) at 467-6246, the Agri-Civic Center (ACC) at 763-1666 or Tourist Development Council (TDC) at 763-3959. Entrance to all Agri-Civic Center events is from State Road 710.
January
Feb. 17-20 – 73rd Annual Brighton Field Day Festival and PRCA Rodeo at Brighton Seminole Reservation. Seminole culture, costumes, crafts, booths. 467-6039
Jan. 8 – Cattlewomen’s Fun Shoot, Quail Creek Plantation, 634-7712
Feb. 19, 20 – Florida Bass Federation 1st Qualifier at C. Scott Driver Park, 763-3959
Jan. 5-8 – FLW American Fishing League Bass Fishing Tournament, C. Scott Driver Park, 763-3959. Jan. 11 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by the Law Offices of Philip DeBerard, 1120 S Parrott Ave., 3576246. Jan. 13-23 – American Legion Free Fair 501 SE 2nd St., 763-2950. Carnival rides, indoor exhibits, concessions.
Feb 19-27 – Florida Cracker Trail – a six-day, 120 mile horseback ride and cattle drive from Bradenton on Florida’s West Coast to Ft. Pierce on the East Coast, passing through northern Okeechobee. Commemorates Florida cattle heritage, www.crackertrail.org/ride.html
Jan. 21, 22 – Okeechobee Main Street Top of the Lake BBQ Affair, Agri Civic Center, 357-6246
Feb. 24 – Children’s Services Council explains grant application process, 4 p.m., 700 SW 2nd Ave.
Jan. 21 - The IRSC Murder Mystery Theatre Tour 2011 presents “Fan Fare to Murder” at the Freshman Campus Auditorium from 7 to 9 p.m. Sponsored by the Okeechobee Educational Foundation, tickets are $20.00 per person and will include specialty desserts served during intermission. Contact any of the Board of Directors for tickets or call 863-462-5000 ext. 257.
Feb. 26-27 Okeechobee Main Street Top of the Lake Art & Music Fest, Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Juried fine art show, art activities, live music both days with a Sunday afternoon concert, food. Flagler Parks 3, 4, Hwy 70W.
Jan 24 – United Way presentation of checks to non-profit agency applicants, 8 a.m. 462-5000 x 255. Jan. 24 – KOA Concert Series, 7 p.m.– The Hub Caps, 763-0231 Jan. 29 – 9th Annual Big Lake Bass Fishing Tournament, Pier II Resort, Hwy 441SE. Information at Seacoast Bank, 467-4663. Jan. 29 – Winterfest Catfish Festival, sponsored by the Buckhead Ridge Volunteer Fire Dept. Booths, games, crafts. Just west of the Kissimmee River on Hwy 78. 467-8220. Jan. 29 – Okeechobee Health & Safety Expo, Agri-Civic Center, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Businesses, health organizations, hospital, nursing services, fire and police departments. Safety literature, demonstrations, blood donor bus. 763-1666.
February
Feb. 5, 6 – Battle of Okeechobee. A costumed re-enactment of the last battle of the Second Seminole War between the US Army and the Seminole Indians at the Battlefield Historical Site on Hwy 441SE about three miles southeast of Okeechobee. For information: Dowling Watford, 763-2121 or okeechobeebattlefield.com.
Feb. 26 – Baby sitters training course, for ages 11 – 15, for Red Cross certification. 763-2488
March
Mar. 4, 5 and 11, 12-- Community Theatre production of “The Dixie Swim Club”, 8 p.m., 610 SW 2nd Ave. Information 763-1307. Mar. 5 – Hospice of Okeechobee Sporting Clays Competition at Quail Creek Plantation, 467-2321. Mar. 6 – KOA Concert Series, 7 p.m. – Atlantic City Boys, 763-0231 Mar. 12 – March of Dimes “March for Babies”, 467-4663, marchofdimes.com. Mar. 11-20 -- Okeechobee County Fair at Agri-Civic Center. Animals, crafts, rides, food judging, booths, 4H show and judging. Tickets available at 763-1666 or at the gate. Mar. 12-13 – Speckled Perch Festival & Parade. Okeechobee is known as the “Speckled Perch Capital of the World” so it is only fitting that we hold an annual event in honor of this title. Food and crafts in the Park on Hwy 70. 357-6246. Mar. 12-13 -- The Okeechobee Cattlemen’s Spring PRCA Rodeo at the Agri-Civic Center. 634-7137.
Feb. 10 – Angio Screening & Ultrasound of wrist and ankle & carotid check, Raulerson Hospital, 697-1970.
Mar. 12 -- Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration and party, all day, Sacred Heart Catholic Church (863) 763-3727.
Feb. 11 – KOA Concert Series, 7 p.m. – Patrick & Matilda & The Marlins, 763-0231.
May 13-14 – Come Kamp & Kare With Us Weekend, KOA, 763-0231.
Feb. 17 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by PNC Bank, 2801 Hwy 441S, 357-6246 Feb. 12 – 2nd Annual Red is for Love Gala to benefit the Okeechobee chapter of the American Red Cross, KOA Convention Center, 4276 Hwy 441S. Information at 357-6246 or 697-1970. Feb. 12 – Bass Federation League Fishing Tournament, C. Scott Driver Park, 763-3959 Feb. 16-20 – Seminole Cup Sporting Clays Tournament at Quail Creek Plantation, 763-3959
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Mar. 14-19 – Okeechobee County Livestock Show and Sale, Agri-Civic Center, 763-1666. Mar. 22 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, public welcome, 5 to 7 p.m., hosted by the American Red Cross, 323 N Parrott Ave., 357-6246 Mar. 25-26 – American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life for information call Event Chair Angie Griffin at 697-1105. Mar. 26 – 7th Annual Okeechobee Rotary Club “LOST” Bike Ride (Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail) atop the Herbert Hoover Dike, 763-3101.
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Mar. 26 – Heroes Golf Tournament benefits American Red Cross. 7632488. May 30 – KOA – Good Habits/Old Spirits Annual Care Camp Putt Putt Fundraiser
April
Apr. 1 – Month long “Heroes” campaign to benefit the local American Red Cross. Business and public participation. 763-2488. Apr. 14 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Hoskins & Turco, 212 S Parrott Ave., 357-6246. Apr. 24 – Community-wide Easter Sunrise Service over the lake at Lock 7. Information at First United Methodist Church, 763-4021. Apr. 24 – Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast following Sunrise Service. Freshman Campus Auditorium, behind Golden Corral. Apr. 29-30 – Relay for Life, Okeechobee High School, 6 p.m., 467-4663
May
May 10 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m. public welcome, hosted by Office Bar & Grill, 6315 Hwy 441SE, 357-6246. May 21 – 4th Annual American Business Women’s Assn. (ABWA) “Oldies” Dinner Dance, KOA, 4276 Hwy 441S, 697-1807 or 467-4663. May 30 – Memorial Day Service, Celebration and Ceremony, 10 a.m., Veteran’s Park, sponsored by American Legion. 763-2950.
June
Date TBA – Red Cross-hosted Hurricane Preparedness Seminar with speakers from safety, health, financial planning, weather reporting and other ways of preparing for a storm. Venue to be announced. 763-2488. June 7 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Company Care, 1926 N Parrott Ave., 467-6246. June 11 – Arnold’s Wildlife Center Open House, 10 - 4, Animals, nature trails, butterfly haven, food and fun activities for the children. 14895 NW 30 Terr., 763-4630.
July
July 14 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, at Seacoast Bank, 1409 S. Parrott Ave., 357-6246. July 23 – National Day of the American Cowboy features cattle drive through downtown to Agri-Civic Center. Ranch Rodeo competition, midway, food, entertainment, activities including story tellers, whip poppers, western artists and writers along with vendors displaying and selling western goods and foods. 357-6246.
August Aug. 9 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Flower Petals, 202 NE 2nd St., 357-6246. Aug. 26 – Tween Summit for parents whose children will be transitioning between elementary and middle school. Information 462-5000 x 257. Please call to confirm date. Date TBA – Okeechobee County Junior Golf Championship, sponsored by Waldau’s Junior Golf at the Okeechobee Golf & Country Club.
September Sept. 3 & 4 – Labor Day Parade and Festival in the Park with Cattleman’s Rodeo competition (paid admission) at the Agri-Civic Center each day., 467-6246. Sept. 8 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m. public welcome, hosted by Hampton Inn, 1200 NE Park St., 357-6246.
October
Date TBA – Women’s Health Luncheon with Drs. Villareal, Bradfield, Timoco and Ortho Surgeon, Dr. Flood. 697-1970. Oct. 8 – Annual United Way Golf Tournament at the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. Marnie Lauter, 824-2702. Oct. 11 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Florida’s Blood Centers, location TBA., at 357-6246. Date TBA – Boots and Pearls Dinner Dance, KOA, 6 – 11 p.m., www.hospiceofokeechobee.org. Oct. 22 – Big Brothers, Big Sisters Shoot at Quail Creek Plantation. 462-5000 x 257 Oct.31 – Halloween Celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Agri-Civic Center. Free event sponsored by Main Street, Board of County Commissioners, Okeechobee Sheriff’s Dept., City of Okeechobee and Okeechobee City Council. Businesses, government and individuals welcome all children to booths for treats, entertainment, costume competition, activities, haunted house. 357-6246
November
Nov. 4, 5 and 11, 12 – Okeechobee Community Theatre Production. 763-1307. Nov. 5 – Arnold’s Wildlife Center Open House, 10 - 4, Animals, nature trails, butterfly haven, food and fun activities for the children. 14895 NW 30th Terr., 763-4630. Nov. 8 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m. public welcome, hosted by Maxwell & Maxwell, 405 NW 3rd St., 357-6246. Nov. 5 – Waldau Junior Golf 20th Annual Golf Tournament to benefit junior golf at the Okeechobee Golf and Country Club. For information call Bridgette Waldau, 467-7300 or go to www.floridajuniorgolf.org. Nov. 19-20 – 6th Annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup. Community-wide two-day blood-donor event supported by area businesses and volunteers. Goal is 600 or more donations in two days. Entertainment, prizes, gifts. 610-2176. Nov. 26 – Kid’s Fishing Tournament sponsored by Taylor Creek Bass Club, 634-5826. Nov. 28 – Hospice of Okeechobee Annual Festival of Trees and Christmas Store, 411 SE 4 St., 467-2321.
December
Date TBA Tree Lighting in City Hall Park, Hwy 70 E. Children’s concert with representation from area’s elementary schools. Dec. 10 – Christmas Celebration and Craft Show in Flagler Park, climaxed by a lighted evening Christmas Parade by Okeechobee businesses, schools and clubs. 357-6246. Dec. 15 – Okeechobee Main Street Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m., public welcome, hosted by Raulerson Hospital, 1796 Hwy 441N., 357-6246.
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Attractions Arnold’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Center and Butterfly Garden Education-based wildlife care facility 14895 NW 30 Terr. 763-4630 or (800) 871-4403, or visit www.arnoldswildlife.org. Blue Heron Public Golf Course 1925 SE 9th Ave., 467-1651 Brahman Theatre Matinees and evening movies 1500 S. Parrott Ave., 763-7202 Brighton Seminole Indian Reservation and Casino Bingo, Poker, Slots Hwy 78W to Hwy 721N or take Hwy 70W to 721S Reservation is located in Glades County approximately 25 miles southwest of Okeechobee. Eagle Bay Airboat Rides and Tours 900 Hwy 78W (863) 824-0500 www.okeechobeeairboat.com. Open Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ft. Drum Crystal Mines 6655 NE 304 St. (863) 634-4579, www.gamineral.org Golf at KOA Resort
4276 Hwy 441S, 763-0231 okeechobeekoa.com
Okeechobee County Fishing Pier, Lock 7/ Jaycee Park Junction of Hwy 441S and Hwy 78 Page 26
Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (LOST) 110-mile camping, hiking, biking trail on Herbert Hoover Dike encircling Lake Okeechobee (863) 983-8101 www.sal.usace.army.mil/sfoo/rec/trails. htm Kissimmee Prarie Preserve State Park 25 miles north of downtown Okeechobee. See website for directions or call (863) 462-5360, www.floridastateparks.org kissimmeeprarie/default.cfm. Birding, stargazing, hiking, biking and horse trails. Okeechobee Golf & Country Club 405 NE 131 St. (863) 763-6228 Quail Creek Plantation Hunting, Sporting Clays Events and Lodging 2399 NE 224th St. (863) 763-2529 quailcreekplantation.com. Open Wednesday thru Sunday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Veterans War Memorial Flagler Park, junction of highways 70 and 441 (863) 763-3959 Wagon Wheel Horse Farm “Old Florida” setting for trail and hay rides, petting zoo, pony rides. 634-6397 www.wagonwheelhorsefarm.com.
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Points of Interest Murals Depicting History of Okeechobee Seminole/Cracker History 200 SW 6th St. Railroad comes to Okeechobee S. Parrott Ave. and 1st St. (west side) First Telephone Exchange S. Parrott Ave. and 1st St. (east side) Historic Williams’ Cattle Drive N. Parrott Ave., 2nd St.
Okeechobee County Historical Society Museum & Schoolhouse Built in 1907 and used until 1916. 1850 Hwy 98N (863) 763-4344 Tours by appointment only
Okeechobee County Courthouse Built in 1926, modified and altered during the years and returned to its original state in 2010. The new courthouse just north of it was completed in 2007. 304 NW 2nd Ave. (863) 763-6441
Peter Raulerson Home
Built in 1923 by early merchant Abraham Freedman and now used as an office building. 600 S. Parrott Ave.
Okeechobee Livestock Market Florida’s largest livestock market. 1055 Hwy 98N (863) 763-3127
Historic Train Station 801 N. Parrott Ave. (863) 763-3959
Okeechobee City Hall Built in 1926 55 SE 3rd Ave. (863) 763-3372
Jaycee Park/Lock 7
Park features a fishing pier, boat launch and opportunity to view the expansiveness of Lake Okeechobee. A wonderful place to bring the children to feed the pigeons which congregate there. Located at the southern terminus of Hwy 441, at the “top of the lake.” 2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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Emergency Management The Office of Emergency Management is an Okeechobee County and Florida State Level 3 emergency operations center (EOC). Under the direction of David McCain, it is located at 707 NW 6th St., Okeechobee, FL, 34972. For more information, call (863) 763-3212, fax (863) 763-1569 or visit www. okeechobeeeoc.com.
The EOC coordinates with all local police and fire departments as well as schools and communication venues. Emergency information will be broadcast on local radio and television stations WOKC-AM (1570), WOKC-FM (100.7), WQCS-FM, Fort Pierce and WAFC-FM, Clewiston.
Should a disaster strike Okeechobee County, the emergency operations center must be prepared for events caused by nature or humans. This could be an expected hurricane, an industrial accident that would require immediate evacuation of the whole county or a particular area within the county or any other emergency involving the safety of the county.
Emergency Shelters Osceola Middle School
Freshman Center Auditorium
South Elementary School
New Endeavor High School
Okeechobee High School
American Legion Post #64
Yearling Middle School
First Baptist Church
North Elementary School
Ft. Drum Community Church
Everglades Elementary School
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Seminole Elementary School
Okeechobee County Health Dept.
825 SW 28th St. (650)
2468 SW 7th Ave. (500) 2800 Hwy 441N (2,000)
925 NW 23rd Lane (700)
3000 NW 10th Ave. (500) 3725 SE 8th St. (700)
2690 NW 42nd Ave. (700)
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610 SW 2nd Ave. (660) 575 SW 29th St. (500) 501 SE 2nd St. (200) 401 SW 4th St. (65)
32415 Hwy 441N (80) 701 SW 6th St. (500)
1728 NW 9th Ave. (50)
(a medical needs shelter)
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
State and Federal Officials Governor
United States Senate
Rick Scott
(R) Marco Rubio (D) Bill Nelson
Lt. Governor
U.S. House of Representatives Tom Rooney (R-District 16)
Florida State Senate
17th District (R). J. D. Alexander 28th District (R) Joe Negron
Jennifer Carroll
State House of Representatives 77th District (R) Denise Grimsley 78th District (D) Steven M. Perman 79th District (R) Mike Horner
County Officials Okeechobee County (863) 763-6441
Chairman Ray Domer Commissioner Joey Hoover Commissioner Bryant Culpepper Commissioner Clif Betts Commissioner Margaret Garrard Helton County Attorney John Cassels, Jr. Sheriff Paul C. May County Judge Jerald Bryant Clerk of Circuit Court Sharon Robertson
Lyndon L. Bonner – County Administrator (through Feb. 28, 2011) Robbie L. Chartier – Deputy County Administrator (Interim March 1, 2011) Jim Threewits – Deputy County Administrator Planning & Development Bill Royce Property Appraiser William Sherman Supervisor of Elections Gwen Chandler Tax Collector Celeste Watford
City Officials City of Okeechobee (863) 763-3372
Mayor Jim Kirk Councilman Mike O’Connor Councilman Clayton Williams Councilman Devin Maxwell Councilman Dowling Watford
City Administrator Brian Whitehall City Attorney John R. Cook Chief of Police Denny Davis Fire Chief Herb Smith City Clerk Lane Gamiotea
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Aid and Emergency Phone Numbers Okeechobee County Area Code 863
All Emergencies 911
Hope Hospice (Buckhead Ridge) 467-3604
Al-Anon, Alateen, N.A., Adult Children of Alcoholics & AA 763-1006
Hospital Raulerson Hospital 763-2151
American Red Cross 763-2488
Meals on Wheels 462-5183
Coast Guard Marine & Air Emergency Fort Pierce (772) 464-6100
Mental Health Services New Horizons 462-0040
Consumer Affairs Complaint (800) 435-7352 Missing Children Information Clearinghouse (800) 342-0821 Driver’s Licenses 462-5225 Emergency Management 763-3212 www.okeechobeeeoc.com Extension Service 763-6469 FBI (772) 461-6142 Fire Emergency 911 City Fire, business 467-1586
Okeechobee Senior Services 462-5180 Poison Information Center (800) 222-1222 Pregnancy Center 467-8748 Police Emergency 911 City Police, business 763-5521
Sheriff Emergency 911 County Fire, business 763-5544 County Sheriff, business 763-3117 TDD 763-0077 Fish & Wildlife Enforcement (561) 357-4202 Project 1511 763-1511 Fishing License 763-3421 FL Marine Patrol (561) 624-6935 Forest Fire Reporting 462-5160 Game & Fish Commission 462-5190 Highway Patrol (800) 701-3212 Hospice of Okeechobee 467-2321 Big Lake Hospice 763-0707
Toxic Chemical & Oil Spills (Voice/TDD) (800) 424-8802
U.S.Post Office 1000 Hwy 70E 763-3616 3603 Hwy 441S (contract postal unit) U.S. Secret Service, West Palm Beach (561) 659-0184
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City, County and State Offices Phone Numbers Okeechobee County Area Code 863
Abuse, Elder & Child (800) 962-2873
Okeechobee Landfill 357-0111
Animal Control 357-3225
Okeechobee Sports Complex-Pool,
Better Business Bureau (772) 878-2010
City Planning & Zoning 763-3372, ext. 218
Okeechobee Utility Authority
City Hall 763-3372
City Street Dept. 763-3926
OUA After-hours emergency 357-0490
County Clerk, Courthouse 763-2131
Parks & Recreation Dept. 763-6950
County Commission Office 763-6441
Physician’s Referral Service
County Finance Office 763-6553
County Judge’s Office 763-3193
Property Appraiser 763-4422
County Planning & Development 763-5548
Public Defender 763-7977
Dept. of Children & Families 462-5700
Public Library 763-3536
Division of Forestry 462-5160
Rehabilitation Facility 763-6226
Emergency Management 763-3212
School Superintendent 462-5000
Health Department 462-5819
Senior Services 462-5180
Insurance: Dept. of Financial Services
Social Security 800-772-1213
467-7667; Complex 763-6950 763-9460 or 763-3793
(24 hour) 763-9228
TDD 800-325-0778
(800) 342-2762 myfloridacfo.com
Indian River State College (IRSC)
State Attorney 763-5557
Supervisor of Elections 763-4014
(Okeechobee) 824-6000
IRSC (Main Campus) (866) 866-4722
Tax Collector 763-3084
Mental Health Center 462-0040
Veterans Service Office 763-8124
Wage and Hour Board (772) 464-6600
After hours (888) 468-5600
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Public Schools The Okeechobee County School Board serves approximately 6,530 students at 10 public schools with 435 full-time teachers (a total instructional staff of 500.5) and a total of 945 employees. Okeechobee County has a comprehensive high school education program that offers both academic and vocational courses, and dual enrollment with Indian River State College, which has an Okeechobee Campus at 2229
NW 9th Ave., 824-6000, http://okeechobee.k12. fl.us. The district also provides exceptional student education, alternative education, Title I basic education and adult education classes. Board officials are Chair Kelly Owens, Vice Chair David Williams, Board members Joe Arnold, Gay Carlton and India Riedel.
Okeechobee County Schools Elementary (Pre-K through grade 5)
Registration
Central Elementary School
Public instruction is offered from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Kindergarten is compulsory in Florida, and children entering kindergarten must be five years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. To enroll a new student in a public school, you must provide the following:
610 SW 5th Ave., 462-5077
South Elementary
2468 SW 7th Ave., 462-5087
Seminole Elementary
2690 NW 42 Ave., 462-5116
North Elementary
3000 NW 10th Ter., 462-5100
Everglades Elementary
3725 SE 8th St., 462-5108
Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)
Yearling Middle
925 NW 23rd Ln., 462-5056
Osceola Middle
825 SW 28th St., 462-5070
Grade 9
Freshman Campus
610 SW 2nd Ave., 462-5288
High Schools
Okeechobee High
• A previous school record, such as a report card, indicating grade-level assignment, unless the child has never attended school. • A physical examination form from the student’s previous Florida school or, if entering for the first time, a form completed and signed by a physician within the past 12 months. • Proof of residence within the school’s attendance zone, such as a lease, utility bill or voter’s registration. • Proof of immunization against rubella, rubeola (measles), mumps, polio, tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough • A birth certificate.
For more information on new-student enrollment and school assignments, contact the Okeechobee County School Board, 700 SW 2nd Ave., Okeechobee, FL 34974, (863) 462-5000.
Private Schools
2800 Hwy 441 N, 462-5025
Okeechobee Christian Academy
New Endeavor High
701 South Parrott Ave., (863) 763-3072
575 SW 28th St., 462-5125 Page 34
Grades K4 through the eighth grade.
www.okeechobeechristianacademy.net
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Civic Clubs and Organizations There are numerous clubs and organizations in Okeechobee that offer opportunities for locals and guests to become involved in community activities. All phone numbers have the area code 863 unless otherwise noted.
Alcoholics Anonymous, 763-1006 American Business Women’s Association, 763-3131 American Cancer Society, 467-2376 American Legion #64, 763-2950 American Legion Auxiliary, 763-4953 American Red Cross, 763-2488 Big Lake Hospice, 763-0707 Boys Scouts of America, 634-3342 Business Women’s Referral Network, 610-2176 Chamber of Commerce (Okeechobee), 467-6246 Chamber of Commerce (Area), 447-1114 East Coast Migrant Head Start, 467-0702 Economic Council, Okeechobee County, 467-0200 Elks Lodge, 261-8019 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, 772-223-2414
Lions Club, 763-2111 Loyal Order of the Moose #2417 (South), 763-2250 Masonic Lodge #237, 357-0427 and 763-1610 Ministerial Association, 447-2715 Moose Lodge #1753 (North), 763-4954 Okeechobee Battlefield Friends, 763-2121 Okeechobee County Board of Realtors, 467-0004 Okeechobee County Education Assn., 467-1564 Okeechobee Golf Associations (Men’s & Ladies), 763-6228 Okeechobee Historical Society Museum, 763-4344 Okeechobee Main Street, 357-MAIN (6246) Okeechobee County Recreational Assoc., 763-6950 Overeater’s Anonymous, 763-7165 or 763-5324 Retired Teachers Assoc., 763-5755 Rotary Club, 484-0110 Shrine Club, 763-3378 Toastmasters Club of Okeechobee, 532-8289 Treasure Coast Builders Assn., Okeechobee Branch, 467-2007 VFW Post #4423, 763-0818 VFW Post #10539, 763-2308 VFW Post #9528, 467-2882 Waldau’s Junior Golf, 467-7300
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Churches All phone numbers have the area code 863 unless otherwise noted.
African Methodist Episcopal
Okeechobee Church of Christ, 1401 S Parrott Ave., 763-4477
Assembly of God
Church of God, 301 NE 4th Ave., 763-4127 North Okeechobee Church of God, 15949 NW 30th Ter., 467-1066
New St. Stephens AME, 1050 NE 16th Ave., 763-5018 Abundant Blessings Assembly of God, 4550 Hwy 441N, 763-3736 Bethel Assembly of God, 1109 SE 7th St., 467-0060
Baptist
Brethren
Grace Brethren Church, 701 S Parrott Ave., 763-3218
Buddhist
Sasanakhun Buddhist Temple, 13301 Hwy 441SE, 763-2233
Catholic
Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 701 SW 6th St., 763-3727 St. Teresa of the Child Jesus, 1027 Chobee Loop, BHR, 467-8930
Christian
Buckhead Ridge Christian Church, 21300 Linda Rd., 357-6500 Westside Christian, 8082 Hwy 70W, 467-2278
Christian Independent
Faith Farm Ministries, 7595 NE 128th Ave., 763-4224 Okeechobee Christian Church, 3055 SE 18th Terr., 467-7858 Big Lake Church of Christ, 1115 SW 3rd Ave., 467-6758 Central Church of Christ 506 NE 6th Ave., 763-2513
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Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 310 SW 6th St., 467-2425
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, 51 NW 98th St, 763-3584 Oakview Baptist Church, 677 SW 32nd St., 763-1699 Okeechobee Missionary Baptist Church, 4212 Hwy 441N, 763-7743 Primera Iglesia Bautista Hispana, 5051 NW 30th St., 357-1300 Seminole Bible Baptist Church, 200 SW CR721, 824-6785 Treasure Island Baptist Church, 4209 Hwy 441SE, 763-0550 Trinity Freewill Baptist Church, 1840 NE 39th Blvd., 763-4962 Victory Baptist Church, 500 SW 9th St., 763-0669
Church of Christ
Church of God
Church of the Nazarene
Church of the Nazarene, 425 SW 28th St., 763-3519
Episcopal
Church of Our Savior, 200 NW 3rd St., 763-4843
Jehovah’s Witnesses
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 8250 Hwy 70W, 763-9229
Lutheran
Peace Lutheran Church, 750 NW 23rd Ln., 763-5042
Methodist
First United Methodist Church, 200 NW 2nd St., 763-4021
Nondenominational
Believers Fellowship, 300 SW 6th Ave., 763-6848 Calvary Chapel, 1963 NW 38th Ave., 467-0863 Dunklin Memorial Church, 3342 SW Hosanah Ln., 772-597-5060 Ft. Drum Community Church, 32415 Hwy 441N, 467-1733 Fountain of Life, 1302 SW 32nd St., 763-8945 Freedom Ranch, 11655 Hwy 441SE, 763-9800 The Gathering, 1735 SW 24th Ave., 357-4418 Gideon’s – Okeechobee, PO Box 2205, 610-6863 More 2 Life Ministries, 605 SW Park St., Suite 214, 467-0796 Resurrection Life Church, 1803 SW 3rd Ave., 763-7770
Pentecostal
Haven of Rest, 2945 SW 3rd Terr., 357-3053 Living Word of Faith of Okeechobee, 1902 S Parrott Ave., 763-6869 United Pentecostal Church, 405 SW 10th Ave., 763-53000
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
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Restaurants All phone numbers have the area code 863 unless otherwise noted. Alice’s Restaurant 17410 Reservation Road NE, 467-2226 Arby’s 417 S Parrott Ave., 763-0581 Barracudas Sports Grill 10017 Hwy 441N, 357-6883 Beef O’Brady’s 608 S Parrott Ave., 763-7300 Big Mike’s Sports Grille 12642 Hwy 441SE, 357-3777 Blimpie Subs & Salads 3609 Hwy 441SE, 763-7629 Brahma Bull 2405 Hwy 441SE, 467-0050 Brewski’s 3495 Hwy 441SE, 763-1028 Burger King 604 EN Park St., 763-5900 Chen Chinese Restaurant 605 N Park St., 467-2688 Clock Restaurant 1111 S Parrott Ave., 467-2224 Cowboy’s Steak & BBQ 102 SW 14th St., 467-0321 Crossroads Restaurant 5050 NE 128th Avenue, 763-8333 Dairy Queen 1212 S. Parrott Ave., 763-6675 Ding-A-Ling Deli 2197 Hwy 441SE, 357-DELI (3354) Domino’s Pizza 1700 S Parrott Ave., 763-5565 Five Guys Burgers 301 N Parrott Ave., 357-8732 Gladys’ Restaurant 511 WS Park St., 763-9985 Golden Corral Restaurant 700 S Parrott Ave., 357-0444 Hammerhead’s Billards, Bar & Grill 202 NE 7th Ave., 357-4745
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Hungry Howie’s Pizza 3248 Hwy 441S, 467-2222 Jersey Mike’s Subs 611 WS Park St., 467-8100 Joey’s Pizza and Subs 107 WS Park St., 763-8383 Kahootz Drafthouse 702 WN Park St., 357-6101 Kentucky Fried Chicken 3387 Hwy 441S, 763-2239 King House Chinese Restaurant 3399 Hwy 441S, 357-7777 Landing Strip Cafe 2800 NW 29th Trail, 467-6828 Las Fajitas Restaurant 151 NW 36th St., 467-6655 Lightsey’s Seafood Restaurant 10430 Hwy 78W, 763-4276 LosCocos Mexican Restaurant 107 NW 7th Ave., 467-0922 Lunker’s Sports Grill 4825 Hwy 441S, 763-1900 Marci’s Landing 2199 Hunter Rd, BHR Marina 763-0375 Maria’s Cuban Café 3235 Hwy 441SE, 467-2600 McDonald’s 401 N Park St., 763-5826 McDonald’s 4151 Hwy 441S, 763-5856 Mom’s Kitchen 909 S Parrott Ave., 763-7553 Office Bar & Grill 6315 Hwy 441SE, 467-8232 Okeechobee Country Club 405 NE 131st Ln., 357-1880 Pat’s Country Kitchen 32601 Hwy 441N, 763-8900
Pizza Heaven 208 S Parrott Ave., 763-9299 Pizza Hut 2777 S Parrott Ave., 763-0642 Pogey’s Restaurant 1759 S Parrott Ave., 763-7222 Popeye’s Chicken & Biscuits 822 NE Park St., 467-8891 Pueblo Viejo Mexican Restaurant 3415 Hwy 441S, 357-9641 Roper’s Paradise Cafe 112 SE Park St., 763-9613 Shenanigans 2232 NW 32nd Dr., 357-6100 SkipJack’s Fishhouse 104 SE 6th St., 467-0711 Speckled Perch Steakhouse 105 Hwy 98N, 763-9983 Spring Garden Chinese Restaurant 3238 Hwy 441S, 763-2673 Subway 422 NE Park St., 467-6966 Subway in Wal-Mart 2101 S Parrott Ave., 467-7827 Subway South 8605 Hwy. 441 SE, 467-8512 Taco Bell 3498 Hwy 441S, 467- 4444 Top of the Lake Restaurant 3651 Hwy 441SE, 467- 0803 Uncle Larry’s Rim Ditch Cafe 2117 Hwy. 441SE, 763-5794 Village Square Restaurant 301 WS Park St., 467-0067 Wendy’s 502 NE Park St., 763-8181 Zippy’s Zesty Wings 117 SE 8th Ave., 763-1399
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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Raulerson Hospital A Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) facility
R
aulerson Hospital, a Hospital Corporation of America (HCA) facility located at 1796 Hwy 441N, has been serving Okeechobee for 32 years. This100-bed acute-care facility provides a full range of medical and surgical services performed by caring, compassionate physicians and staff available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Raulerson’s primary focus is on the patient care experience with new emphases on processes and best practices to ensure more efficient and effective patient care. Using “Core Measures”, a program which compares the quality of care that hospitals give, Raulerson maintains a 100 percent score. Core Measures establishes national standards of care in five categories and is based on scientific evidence, which health care experts and researchers evaluate, to assure the measures and guidelines are current. They have also maintained top grades for the HCA East Florida Division in HCAHPS, which is the first national, standardized, publicly-reported benchmark of hospital patients’ perspectives of their care. To implement this goal, in 2010 they made extensive hospital renovations in services and patient/visitor comfort. Raulerson continues to recruit new physicians, services and technologies to provide a full spectrum of medical and surgical services and to implement their team approach for better medical coverage. In 2010 Raulerson welcomed Family Medicine Drs.Yubelkis Tinoco and Jose Villarreal to Raulerson Primary Care and Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Stephen Flood. For physician referral or health care questions they offer Consult-A-Nurse, a 24/7 toll free service through 1-800-449-8642. Whether for a routine exam or a surgical procedure, Raulerson Hospital provides extensive services such as Inpatient/Outpatient care, General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Laparoscopic Surgery, Gynecology, Vascular Surgery, Urology, Wound Care, Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, a Sleep Disorders Lab, Respiratory Therapy, General Medicine, Podiatry and Physical/Occupational and Speech Therapy. Their state of the art Radiology Services offer Digital Mammography/with ICAD, Stereotactic Breast Biopsy, Osteoporosis Screening, XRays, Ultrasound, CT Scan, and Full Body MRI with CadStream. The radiology and imaging department is one of the only facilities in Florida to be accredited by the American college of Radiology in all five modali-
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ties—MRI, ultrasound, CT, nuclear medicine and mammography. Raulerson Company Care is an occupational health and worker’s compensation health solution program tailored to meet the unique needs of business and industry, which helps employers ensure a healthy workforce by providing occupational health services and support. Company Care offers employers one-stop shopping for injury prevention, emergency care, pre-employment testing, and worker’s compensation treatment in Okeechobee and the Treasure Coast Market. Company Care works with employers, with regard to OSHA and Florida law, to keep them informed and current with relevant legal and employee-health issues. Company Care also performs Department of Transportation (DOT) certified physicals, alcohol, and drug-screen testing. Raulerson offers frequent seminars which inform the public of new technologies and medical advances. They sponsor health-related endeavors such as regular blood drives for hospital employees and the community and participate in the annual Okeechobee Blood Roundup, the Health and Safety Fair, health screenings and sponsorships of local charities. They lead Treasure Coast HCA Hospitals in the Florida’s Blood Centers challenge for most blood donated in the past 3 years. They have received many awards and recognitions acknowledging not only outstanding patient care and services, but also the outreach effort that supports the numerous civic, governmental and community groups in Okeechobee County and the surrounding areas. Pursuing a goal to excel, patients and their families are recognized as valued members of a health care team who have important perspectives, feedback and solutions to share. This new program invites past patients or family members who have experienced care at Raulerson to join a Patient and Family Advisory Council. Those would partner with other patients and family members, health care providers and staff to raise issues, communicate patient and family concerns and help with problem solving, with the goal of improving their services. View Raulerson services and their health information library at www.Raulersonhospital.com. They welcome questions, suggestions or comments.
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
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2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide
Advertiser’s Index 5th St. Pharmacy .........................................8 A Barber’s Barber Shop .............................43 Attorney Philip DeBerard............................20 Badcock & More.........................................13 Big Mike’s Sports Grille...............................36 Blue Heron Golf Course..............................44 Brennan Eye Care.......................................19 Buyer Brokerage Co...................................21 Chappy’s Country Store.............................33 Diamond R Fertilizer...................................33 Farm Bureau Insurance Co. .......................35 Ferrellgas...................................................31 Fitness Factory ..........................................43 Gateway Medical Group.................................2 Gilbert Golf Cars ........................................11 Hampton Inn .............................................21 Hi Tek Auto................................................33 Hospice of Okeechobee ............................ 44 Indian River State College...........................47 James E. Bradfield, MD ................................46 John’s RV & Auto Mobile Service................45 K & N Welding...............................................9 KOA Resort.................................................37 Law Office of Gerald Lefebvre.....................37 Lawn Tamer Equipment..............................36 Lehman Auto Body ....................................21
Mobile Home Depot.....................................45 Murray Insurance Services..........................11 Okeechobee Discount Drugs......................4 Okeechobee Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep...........39 Okeechobee Lake RV Park..........................9 Open MRI of Okeechobee...........................41 Perfect Kuts ...............................................19 Quik N’ Easy Self Storage............................35 Raulerson Hospital.........................Back Cover Rita’s Furniture...........................................41 River Bluff RV & Fishing Resort...................44 Rustic Styles and Cabins.............................35 Silver Palms RV Village..................................3 Skull Hill Steel...........................................44 Solid Waste Authority...........................24,25 St. Lucie Battery & Tire..............................13 Sue’s Place ................................................11 Superior Water Works................................43 The Shoe Box...............................................9 The UPS Store.............................................36 Tree Locators.............................................30 United Country MidFlorida Realty...............12 Waste Management ...................................45 Water’s Edge Motor Coach Resort..............17 Zachary Taylor Resort.................................39
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2011 Okeechobee Welcome and Tourist Guide