The Okeechobee Post

08/07/2025

08/06/2025

08/06/2025

Fall Pool Schedule Update (Aug 4 – Nov 1)
As we transition into the fall season, please take note of our updated pool hours:

Fall Pool Hours: August 24 – November 1
Open to the public:
Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💵 Admission: $4 per person

08/06/2025

08/06/2025

Beautiful sunrise today! We’re open until 2 pm today for you. Come enjoy our courses or breakfast and lunch at the Hitching Post.

📸 Christina Straight

08/05/2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 4, 2025

Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office Recognized for Reaching $100,000 Milestone in Support of Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches

Okeechobee, FL – The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) has been recognized by the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches (FSYR) for reaching a landmark achievement of $100,000 in total donations raised through years of dedicated fundraising and community involvement. This milestone is a testament to the agency’s enduring commitment to Florida’s at-risk youth and the values of mentorship, opportunity, and service.
Founded in 1957 by Florida’s sheriffs, the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches was created to provide a secure, caring, and positive environment for children who need it most. With multiple residential campuses and programs across the state, FSYR has helped shape the lives of more than 165,000 boys and girls, teaching them responsibility, discipline, and leadership through guidance and love.
The majority of OCSO’s contributions have come through the agency’s signature annual fundraiser — the Hookin’ Specs Fishing Tournament — a joint venture between the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office and the Glades County Sheriff’s Office. This event has grown into a community tradition and beacon of support for the Youth Ranches. Beyond financial donations, members of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office have also given countless hours of their own time, volunteering at events and serving as ambassadors for the mission of FSYR.
“This recognition is a reflection of the heart and dedication of the men and women of the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Noel E. Stephen. “I couldn’t be more proud of our team — not only for raising over $100,000 for the Youth Ranches, but for consistently showing up with their time, their talents, and their compassion. This is about more than money. It’s about investing in the future of Florida’s youth and standing behind an organization that is changing lives.”
The Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches continues to thrive thanks to the ongoing support of law enforcement agencies, local businesses, and generous citizens across the state. OCSO remains committed to advancing the mission of FSYR and looks forward to continued partnership in the years to come.
For more information about the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, visit www.youthranches.org.

08/04/2025

Florida Department of Transportation to Begin Resurfacing Project on US 98 in Okeechobee County

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will begin resurfacing improvements on US 98 from SE 30th Terrace to the Martin County Line in August 2025. This major infrastructure project covers approximately 10 miles of roadway and aims to enhance safety and driving conditions for residents and visitors.

In addition to resurfacing, FDOT crews will conduct pavement grinding, upgrade pavement markings, and implement other improvements, including shoulder treatments along US 98. To facilitate work, lane closures and traffic pattern changes will be in effect throughout the project's duration. Motorists should expect both daytime and nighttime lane closures, with traffic reduced to one lane as needed. Drivers are urged to remain alert for changing traffic patterns, heavy equipment, and workers present in the construction zone.

Construction is scheduled for completion in early 2026. Okeechobee County and FDOT appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as these essential improvements are made.

08/04/2025

The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday is going on right now!

Through August 31, 2025, sales tax is not charged on qualified purchases of clothes, school supplies, computers, and computer-related accessories.

Visit https://shorturl.at/OFFbz to learn more!

08/04/2025

We understand the challenges veterans face, especially when it comes to back-to-school shopping. Crowded stores, extra expenses, and stress can make this time overwhelming for many families. That’s why we’re offering a free backpack full of school supplies to any veteran who needs one for their child. Thank You for Your Service will deliver it right to your door, so you don’t have to feel overwhelmed. We have 50 backpacks. Get one while supplies last. Call Gregg Maynard at (863) 484-0170 to reserve one and schedule delivery. Remember, we’ll See You at Red, White & Blue 2!

08/03/2025

Dust off your boots, tip your hat to the sky, and count your blessings.

08/02/2025

08/02/2025

Word around town is this is some GOOOOOD Smoked fish dip. 👏🏼 Straight out of Okeechobee!