AA Learn more about in-home care options for your loved ones

Given the choice, most of us want to stay in our homes. Sometimes, people need help to remain at home. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“There are so many nursing homes to choose from, with their guidance I was able to find the right facility for my mother, right away. I would highly recommend them to any family or friends in need of their services.”

Candace K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Steve and Claudia at Always Best Care Senior Services were just awesome in how they provided at home care for my mother Carmen. Starting with the initial consultation by Steve to learn about mom's personal care needs to the follow-up visit of a registered nurse to the eventual placement of a compassionate caregiver; every step of their service was well thought out and they truly delivered on providing a level of care for mom that exceeded our families (and mom's) expectations. It can be very nerve racking to find and leave your loved one with a caregiver but this company gets that and they were just fantastic. Thank you Always Best Care!”

Mark B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC has provided the essential care and support my dad needed after hospitalization and chemo treatments. I have peace of mind knowing they are supporting him.”

Michelle B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been utilizing Always Best Care Senior Services for 2 years to care 24/7 for my elderly parents. I am very pleased with their services. The Owners and Office Staff bend over backwards to make sure that there is always coverage, to alert my parents Caregiver Team of any requests that I make, to advise me when there is an issue with my parents or their dog. The Caregiver Team working with my parents are all compassionate and caring, knowledgeable and skilled. Sadly, my Father passed away in the fall of 2020. Each of their Caregivers, the Owners and the Office Staff expressed to me that they would like to attend his memorial service when we are able to have it. During the weeks he was slipping away, the Caregiver team not only took care of my parents, they looked after me, gently reminding me to eat, rest or take a break. They truly care not only for my parents, but for all our family. I can’t begin to express what a comfort it has been to have them caring for my parents, especially during the pandemic when visits are prohibited. They are my eyes and ears. Working intimately with my parents, the Caregivers are very tuned in to even subtle changes. If you are in the market and looking for a senior services/home health care company, I strongly urge you to reach out to Always Best Care Senior Services. You’ll be happy you did.”

Heidi R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If you want quality care for yourself or your loved ones, Steve and his time are the best, don’t waste your time looking elsewhere. As an estate planning attorney, I have recommended clients to Steve who have been very happy with his team. Steve and his team went above and beyond for one specific client of mine that had a very complex situation, and I am eternally grateful to them. I only hope I can continue to work together with him - Steve and his team are dedicated to making sure you are comfortable, happy and safe. My favorite part about Always Best Care is that all of their staff are TRAINED EMPLOYEES WITH CONTINUING EDUCATION - NOT INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS!”

Aldo C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care is a top notch senior services company. They go above and beyond with their clients and treat them as if they are family. If you are looking for a great family oriented team to help take care of your love one look no further. Give Always best care a call you will not be disappointed!!”

Forrest H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Highly recommended! All the staff is very professional and courteous”

Ryan N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Steve and his team were amazing. As my father’s Parkinson’s progress, we were in need of home health care desperately. Steve and his nurse came to our home, assess the situation, and set up a schedule to accommodate our needs. I would highly recommend them to any family or friends in need of their services.”

Claudine P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Steven and his team are superior in caring for aging friends and family. The most important thing is having people who you can trust with your family.”

Allison T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Steve and his team will take superior care of your loved ones.”

John D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Steve Snell and Staff of Always Best Care Senior Services have been amazingly responsive, helpful and worked diligently to make sure my clients needs were met! Can't praise them enough. The case was staffed immediately and overseen at all levels. Thank you for Always providing the Best Care!”

Karen G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked with, and explored working with, various agencies and registries in the Palm Beach County area. I am picky. Always Best Care is qualitatively a notch above every other organization I've encountered. Responsive. Amiable. Professional. The aide, Islande, who has worked with my mom is top-notch for our needs. And . . . I have no doubt Steve (the agency's owner) and his staff would strive to find someone else, if it hadn't been a fit. If you are looking for Nursing Care, I strongly recommend giving Always Best Care a chance. BTW: It is important to understand that working with an Nursing Agency (like Always Best Care), means the staff are employees, not independent contractors (as they are when working through a Nursing Registry). An Agency is vested in having good employees, and a good agency wants you to be happy. But even all Agencies are not created equal. I worked with one (Alternative Health Care) where aides did not always show up! That was painful and incredibly stressful, and the manager and other higher-up staff didn't give a hoot.”

Liz S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I wish there were more that five stars. I can not say enough about the experience we have had in working with Always Best Care Senior Services. Not only were they extremely receptive to our needs, available immediately to every call, text or email, compassionate and kind...every single employee was better than the next. My Dad's recent death and my mothers recent surgery (with complications) requiring extra care was a traumatic time for our family. The care she received was beyond skilled and professional. We knew she was in trusting, caring hands. She was happy. I have recommended ABC to others and they have had the same experience. Do not hesitate to reach out to them if you are in need. I highly recommend them. I know I will be reaching out to Steven and Claudia the next time I am in need. My family and I are extremely grateful.”

Donna H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Fabulous experience with Always Best Care. Treated my 90 year old Father in Law with dignity and respect. We actually had fun with his aides and they were helpful and kind.”

Alicia B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am very glad to have chosen ABC Senior Services to get us through a very difficult time when my parents finally reached the end of their independent lifestyles at age 96 and 97. Scheduling was difficult and sometimes changes were made last minute, but ABC came through as well as could be expected. Despite losing his wife of 37 years, my father is currently doing very well back north in an assisted living facility. Thank you ABC for the compassion you expressed throughout the 4 months you were there for us.”

Rob C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company who goes above and beyond for their clients. My mother fell at my brothers home in Connecticut and I called Steve Snell for some guidance. Even though Steve is in Florida he was able to get my family connected with a representative in Connecticut immediately. Thank you Steve!”

Mike B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC goes to great lengths to get to know their clients in order to provide the best possible match with ABC’s in home care providers. The aides blend into the home environment with professionalism, compassion and helpfulness. They are unobtrusive but available at all times. As a primary caregiver I wish I started with them years ago.”

cam2019
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TESTIMONIALS

“Extremely friendly and professional. I was very comfortable leaving my loved one in their care.”

happy C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great, helpful, supportive service! I tried others, but ANC is the beat!”

tas1111
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TESTIMONIALS

“Experiencing using ABC is the best you will find anywhere. The owners and employees are there for one reason and that is to make their clients happy with their caregivers. I have never seen such compassion from an agency. I am the client, so I know what to look for and the caregivers they recommend. Would be happy to talk to anyone with questions. Thanks”

Mimi B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care's caregivers and office staff are the best I have dealt with.”

Bruce M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can't say enough about how much ABC has helped both our parents and our family. Their name -- Always Best Care -- is clearly their guiding principle! From the highest level administration (Stephen and Beverly) to the amazing caregivers and schedulers -- the entire staff have been responsive and attentive from day one. They have been unfailingly respectful, caring, professional and competent. They were flexible and kind when my mother became terminally ill. And readily available and again responsive when we reinitiated services for my father. Their attentiveness and professionalism is reflected in the amazingly kind, competent and resourceful caregiving staff. Their exceptional caregivers have allowed us peace of mind, knowing that our Dad is getting great support from reliable providers who readily alert us of any matters that need attention. I highly recommend ABC!”

Carla R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been wonderful in many ways. Steve Snell, Owner and Area Representative, and Beverly Casper, RN were patient, kind and respectful while my Dad came to terms with the idea that he really did need help. They were flexible and open and that made all the difference. My Dad's aide Fabienne is responsible and caring and now more of a companion than aide. Steve and his scheduling team has been proactive about any changes that needed to occur and very good about communicating with me both by phone and email. Having them on board has lessened the worry I feel on a daily basis. My mother had a prolonged illness and through the years we dealt with many health care agencies. The attention and care we have received from Always Best Care is, by far, the best we ever have experienced and we are very grateful to have found them.”

Linda S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services if you have a loved one that needs personal care.”

Melanie T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dori, is such a wonderful person and makes such an impact on everyone she is involved with.”

Jamie W.
 In-Home Care Okeechobee, FL

How does In-home Senior Care in Okeechobee, FL work?

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it's especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age. When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one ages, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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 Senior Care Okeechobee, FL

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a unfamiliar assisted living community, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

Comfort
Comfort

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them? A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Okeechobee, FL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors. Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

Independence
Independence

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like an assisted living community. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care in Okeechobee, FL gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

Aid and Attendance benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.


Respite Care Okeechobee, FL

During your Care Plan consultation with Always Best Care, your Care Coordinator will speak with you about in-home care costs and what options there may be to help meet your budget needs.

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Okeechobee,FL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

 Caregivers Okeechobee, FL

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

An assessment of your senior loved one

01

An in-depth discussion of the needs of your senior loved one to remain in their own home

02

Reviewing a detailed Care Plan that will meet your senior loved one's needs

03

Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

Latest News in Okeechobee, FL

Proposed development in Okeechobee County met with uncertainty from residents who call it 'nerve-racking'

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. — Okeechobee County is known for its agriculture and rural landscape, but a new development is being planned on a parcel of land that includes the construction of 4,300 homes and much more.The project, called Davina Springs, is proposed for a 60-acre plot of land. In addition to the homes, the plans include the construction of a fire station, nine schools, places of worship, shopping, restaurants, a resort area, parks and trails and a highway expansion.The developer, Newlines Land Consultants, woul...

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. — Okeechobee County is known for its agriculture and rural landscape, but a new development is being planned on a parcel of land that includes the construction of 4,300 homes and much more.

The project, called Davina Springs, is proposed for a 60-acre plot of land. In addition to the homes, the plans include the construction of a fire station, nine schools, places of worship, shopping, restaurants, a resort area, parks and trails and a highway expansion.

The developer, Newlines Land Consultants, would pay for the project.

"It's a little nerve-racking being our neighbors," Sutton Rucks, a fourth-generation farmer in Okeechobee County, said. "Hopefully they understand we've been here for a long time."

Rucks isn't the only one nervous about the development. Okeechobee Mayor Dowling Watford only speaks for himself when he says he's worried.

"We're very fortunate to have a rural lifestyle here, agriculture and, this community would explode our population," Watford said.

County commission chairman David Hazellief agrees that Okeechobee would change if this project is built, but he voted in favor of re-zoning the land for the development.

"If someone wants to buy a piece of property and develop it, they have a right to do that. This is America," Hazellief said. "No, it won't be like Okeechobee was when I was young, but everything's changing."

Hazellief also said the tax revenue generated from the new community would boost the emergency medical service and public schools. The development company said it's their goal to keep Davina Springs close to the character of Okeechobee's roots.

"Due to the zoning in Okeechobee County and the wetlands, the restricted area, the land can never turn into Palm Beach County," Josh Schmuckler of Newlines Land Consultants said.

"Yes, it's a new development, but it's our job to make sure it's controlled development," Hazellief said.

So with uncertainty still churning, Sutton just hopes if they build it and the people come, he and his dairy company can at least milk the benefits.

"In a nutshell, yes, I'm nervous, and another thing it could be a blessing," Rucks said.

There are still several steps that still have to be approved before the developer can break ground on the project. If that happens, construction won't start for another two years at least.

Copyright 2023 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Aldi takeover of Winn-Dixie could mean trouble for areas like Okeechobee

OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — Concern is mounting for smaller, more rural areas across South Florida in wake of the Aldi supermarket chain's takeover of Winn-Dixie grocery stories.On Wednesday, ALDI announced it was buying 400 Winn-Dixies in an effort to expand across the Southeast, but in some communities, like Okeechobee and Belle Glade, the well-known red and white chain is one of few options, and a major employer.In Okeechobee, for example, there are four major grocery store chains to choose from, as opposed to the average 70 th...

OKEECHOBEE, Fla. — Concern is mounting for smaller, more rural areas across South Florida in wake of the Aldi supermarket chain's takeover of Winn-Dixie grocery stories.

On Wednesday, ALDI announced it was buying 400 Winn-Dixies in an effort to expand across the Southeast, but in some communities, like Okeechobee and Belle Glade, the well-known red and white chain is one of few options, and a major employer.

In Okeechobee, for example, there are four major grocery store chains to choose from, as opposed to the average 70 the U.S. Department of Agriculture said are often an option in more urban areas.

As of right now, Aldi is already an option for Okeechobee County residents. By creating two Aldis, Okeechobee Mayor Dowling Watford said the choices dwindle.

"If we lose Winn-Dixie, that's just one less choice we have," Watford said.

The bigger concern for him is employment. According to both companies' websites, ALDI typically employs about 8-10 people per store. It's part of the reason they are able to keep prices so affordable for families.

On the flip side, Winn-Dixie averages dozens more per store, prompting Watford to wonder: What happens to those extra employees if the store transitions to an Aldi?

“Fifty or 60 jobs in a community like Okeechobee is a huge deal where we fight to get companies to come in that have 10-12 jobs," Watford said.

Not everyone was opposed, however. Some residents, like James Grueber, were thrilled to have another ALDI coming in.

"I love Aldis!" Grueber said, citing low prices and fresh produce.

Anthony Infante, however, disagreed.

"I've been coming here since my parents came here," Infante said. [The store is] somebody I grew up with, actually, you know what I mean? It's where I've been shopping all my life."

Infante added he trusts Winn-Dixie, and fears the lack of options he'd have if it was replaced by an ALDI.

"I like this stuff, I know where this stuff comes from," said Infante.

"It's kind of like you're about to lose an old friend," Watford added.

WPTV reached out to Aldi and Southeast Grocers, the company that owns Winn-Dixie.

ALDI released this statement to us on behalf of its CEO, Jason Hart, reading in full,:

"ALDI will operate Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores with the same level of care and focus on quality and service, as we also evaluate which locations will convert to the ALDI format to better support the neighborhoods we’ll now have the privilege of serving. For those stores we do not convert, our intention is that these continue to operate as Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores.”

An ALDI spokesperson also released the following:

"This acquisition is an opportunity to continue the growth we already had planned for the region as part of our strategic and deliberate national expansion. ALDI has been committed to continued growth in Winn-Dixie’s headquarters state of Florida. With 209 ALDI stores and 8 more slated to open by the end of 2023 in Florida, we have invested more than $1.5B in the state and created more than 3,900 jobs to date. With food prices still on the rise and the need for access to affordable groceries more important than ever before, ALDI has a significant opportunity to help residents in the Southeast save up to 40% on their grocery bills."

Aldi did not, however, answer our questions regarding the employment of Winn-Dixie workers, despite us asking multiple times.

Meredith Hurley, senior director of communications and community at Southeastern Grocers, released this statement to us, reading in full:

"While we cannot comment or speculate on any forward-looking strategies or another company’s plans, we can confirm that nothing changes today. We understand that ALDI does not intend to convert all of our stores. ALDI’s current plan [prnewswire.com] is to continue operating Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores with the same level of care and focus on quality and service as they also evaluate which locations will convert to the ALDI format to better support the neighborhoods they will now serve."

"I hope we keep both," Watford said.

For more information on the history of Winn-Dixie, click here.

Copyright 2023 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Okeechobee County braces for Idalia: Essential updates and preparations underway

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — Okeechobee County is preparing for Tropical Storm Idalia's impact and wants to let residents know of any updates and preparations taking place."A slight change in the trajectory of the storm to the right, or to the south, puts it right in our own backyard," Okeechobee County ...

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — Okeechobee County is preparing for Tropical Storm Idalia's impact and wants to let residents know of any updates and preparations taking place.

"A slight change in the trajectory of the storm to the right, or to the south, puts it right in our own backyard," Okeechobee County Deputy Fire Chief & Public Safety Director Justin Hazellief told CBS12's Luli Ortiz reports. (WPEC)

As of Monday, the county provided these key updates:

Emergency officials say the county is not under any watches or warnings, and there is a low threat of Tropical Storm-force weather. However, an increase of rain and strong winds beginning around midnight Wednesday morning and early afternoon is expected.

"There is a potential for a major hurricane to make landfall very near our area. A slight change in the trajectory of the storm to the right, or to the south, puts it right in our own backyard," Okeechobee County Deputy Fire Chief & Public Safety Director Justin Hazellief told CBS12 News.

The Emergency Operations Center remains at a level 3 monitoring activation.

See also: Idalia to bring gusty winds to the area Wednesday, Franklin becomes a cat. 3 hurricane

A Community Information Message Call Line is also available at 863-824-6888.

Emergency officials remind residents during this time to review family and business disaster plans. Check your hurricane supply list items. Also, the county is asking residents to register for ALERT OKEECHOBEE.

Sandbags are also being distributed at the Public Works Department Compound at 804 NW 2nd Street in Okeechobee. The amount of bags are limited to 20 per vehicle and shovels will be available at the site at no charge beginning at 3 p.m. on Monday. Residents are required to fill their own bags. Special needs residents who require assistance are asked to call 863-763-3514 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.

"It's easy to say I don't need to prepare for this. Ian was a good example at how you had a good strong confident track, and then it changes last minute and can negatively affect people that weren't necessarily prepared for that," Deputy Fire Chief Hazellief said.

The county is not anticipating any school closures at this time.

The next briefing with county officials and the National Weather Service is set for Tuesday August 29, 2023 at 11:15 a.m.

Algae Bloom in Lake Okeechobee

Algae has covered about half of Lake Okeechobee—Florida’s largest freshwater lake—for much of June and early July 2023. The algae bloom led to the closure of parts of a marina and health warnings in neighboring counties.Swirls and tendrils of blue-green algae can be seen in this image, acquired on June 12, 2023, by the ...

Algae has covered about half of Lake Okeechobee—Florida’s largest freshwater lake—for much of June and early July 2023. The algae bloom led to the closure of parts of a marina and health warnings in neighboring counties.

Swirls and tendrils of blue-green algae can be seen in this image, acquired on June 12, 2023, by the Operational Land Imager-2 (OLI-2) on Landsat 9. Around this time, a NOAA analysis of Copernicus Sentinel-3 satellite data indicated that algae blooms covered about 380 square miles of the lake. That equates to more than half the area of the lake.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are single-celled organisms that rely on photosynthesis to turn sunlight into food. The bacteria grow swiftly when nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen are abundant in still water. The bloom pictured here may contain blue-green algae, as well as other types of phytoplankton; only a surface sample can confirm the exact composition of a bloom. Some cyanobacteria produce microcystin—a potent toxin that can irritate the skin and cause liver and kidney damage.

Microcystin was found in water samples taken from the lake on June 17 (five days after the image was acquired), including near the floodgate and canal used to release water into the St. Lucie Estuary on Florida’s southeastern coast. Excess lake water is typically released into the estuary and to farmlands to the south. But in mid-June, amid high lake levels, water managers prevented discharge because of the presence of harmful algae, according to the Miami Herald.

The Florida Department of Health in Lee, Martin, and Palm Beach counties issued public health warnings in late June and early July, cautioning residents not to swim or boat in the lake due to the presence of harmful algal toxins. The harmful bloom grew to cover 420 square miles on July 4, and spanned 440 square miles by July 11.

NASA Earth Observatory image by Wanmei Liang, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey. Story by Emily Cassidy.

Storm damage seen at businesses in Okeechobee County following severe weather

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — There's some storm damage left behind in Okeechobee County Friday morning after several severe thunderstorm warnings shook the area Thursday night.One of the hardest hit businesses is Home Depot and the Winn-Dixie not even two minutes down the road on US-441.CBS12's News Dani Travis reports on severe storm damage at an Okeechobee County Home Depot. Workers there said they were lucky more damage wasn't done to the inside of the store. (WPEC)At Home Depot, caution tape blocking off t...

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — There's some storm damage left behind in Okeechobee County Friday morning after several severe thunderstorm warnings shook the area Thursday night.

One of the hardest hit businesses is Home Depot and the Winn-Dixie not even two minutes down the road on US-441.

CBS12's News Dani Travis reports on severe storm damage at an Okeechobee County Home Depot. Workers there said they were lucky more damage wasn't done to the inside of the store. (WPEC)

At Home Depot, caution tape blocking off the Garden Center for damage. You could see a giant metal awning appeared to have been turned completely sideways, taking signs with it. You could also see the awning impaled by the wooden pavilion on display. But besides the entrance to the Garden Center, it didn’t appear there’s any other external damage.

At Winn Dixie, metal shutter doors signaling the store is closed. CBS12 viewer Michael Daniel sent a video to us of the damage inside the store. In that video, you can see pieces of the ceiling falling in and rainwater falling. Michael also sent us pictures that show more signs of the ceiling that fell to the floor. He says these were taken around 6:30 p.m. Thursday.

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Resident Cindy Maynard lives close by these two businesses and says the storm was scary.

“A lot of wind, I thought it was a tornado. Of course, we won’t know that for sure, but yes it was the lighting, and the wind was severe,” said Maynard. “You see it on the news, you see it in other areas happen and it does happen here sometimes, but this was one of probably the worst ones I’ve been in. It’s surreal for sure.”

CBS12 spoke with Home Depot employees earlier Friday morning, saying they’re lucky more damage wasn’t sustained on the inside and they re-opened at normal hours, which was 6 a.m.

Winn-Dixie officials at the store tell us they still must assess the damage inside and aren’t yet sure if the store will remain closed or re-open Friday.

The National Weather Service office in Melbourne will be working with emergency management to determine the cause of damage, meaning if this possibly could have been from a tornado or just strong winds.

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