OKEECHOBEE — A Kids Day of Fishing, a Back to School Bash, and the Evan Neal Football Camp received approval for free use of county facilities at the June 19 meeting of the Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners.

Big O Teen Anglers requested the use of the Okeechobee County Agri-Civic Center Campground Fishing Pond and surrounding area to host a Kids Day of Fishing on Saturday, July 19, 2025.  The event will be free and open to area children.

Kizzy Boswell requested the use of the Douglas Brown Community Center on Aug. 9 for a Back to School Bash. Boswell said organizers have collected more than 500 backpacks which will be distributed to children who might otherwise not have supplies for the new school year. In addition, barbers will cut hair for free at the event and some young ladies have volunteered to braid hair. Health screenings will be available for those who need them to go back to school.

Chaka Smith requested the use of the Douglas Brown Center on July 5 to host the Third Annual Evan Neal Football Camp and Family & Friends Day. Organizers expect approximately 300 youth participants and adult volunteers for the football camp from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Following the camp, they expect approximately 250 community residents join in the Family & Friends Day from 12:30 to 5 p.m. The event will have bounce houses, vendors, food and music.