Friday, September 30, 2016

World Heart Day Brings Out Walkers And Runners


LABELLE, FL. -- The Department Of Health World Heart Day 5 K Run/Walk had 51 participants Thursday afternoon at the LYDA Park across the street from the Hendry Health Department.

Those participating in the 12 laps around the park were rewarded with Healthy Eating and Exercise information and a backpack loaded with emergency gear.

Mary Ruth Prouty and her staff at the Florida Department of Health, Hendry & Glades Counties would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the community partners, friends and family who came out to participate in the run/walk for World Heart Day 5K.  

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Kiwanis Aktion Club Charted In LaBelle


LABELLE, FL. -- The AKTION Club was newly Chartered at the Kiwanis Installation Dinner. The AKTION Club is the Kiwanis organization for Adults with special needs, 18 years and older, and there is no upper age limit. 

Many students attended the Kiwanis Installation of Officers for the upcoming year, 2016-'17. Pictured back row: Mary Pringle, Advisor, Tim Holland, LaBelle Kiwanis President, Stewart Ross, 2016-’17 Lt Governor. Middle Row: Josh Goulet, Jessica Browning, VP and Natalie Linares, Assistant Advisor. Front Row: Harley Pringle, Kaitlyn Pringle, Secretary, Steven Brettell, Treasurer, Champage Haughton, President, and Haley Mitchell. absent members; Alyssa Pringle and Jeremy Talbott. 

The club is planning local volunteer projects and appearing in local events. 

For more information http://www.aktionclub.org/discover/about.aspx or to visit or join the new local club, call or text Mary at 239-872-4778.

Obituaries - William Blankenship, Clinton Drake

William H. Blankenship, age 68, of Clewiston, passed away September 23, 2016 in West Palm Beach. He was born October 1, 1947 in Eglin Air Force Base, FL, to the late William H. and the late Frances Louise (Cochran) Blankenship. He served in the Army where he completed three tours in Vietnam and was a recipient of the Bronze Star for Valor. Bill was in the 525th MI Group.

After his service in the Army, Bill worked as a Correctional Officer for 25 years and as a PBA Representative during his retirement. He was an avid reader with hobbies including fishing, hunting, and telling his best stories, as he never met a stranger. He was a loving husband and PaPa and cherished his time with all of his family and friends.

Survivors include his loving wife Judy Ann (Senac) Blankenship of 34 years, son: Olan S. (Cathy) Loveless, Jr. daughter: Ruby (Jay) Tomlin, Grandchildren: Valarie (Tyler) Lamb, Kayce Loveless; Casey Kinard, Tatum Kinard, Jason Tomlin, Jessica (Randy) Welford, Great-Grandchildren: Brenley, Blake, Brooklyn , Kate, Hunter, Hadley and Jesse. He was preceded in death by his brother Tommy Blankenship.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 29th, 2016 at 7 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston with Pastor Jeff Smith Officiating. Interment will take place in Lafayette Memorial Park, Lafayette, LA. Visitation will be held for 1 hour prior to the funeral service at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston, FL.

Memorial donations can be made to West Palm Beach VA Fisher House, 7305 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach 33410 or St. Jude's Children's Hospital.

Clinton Travis Drake, age 24, of Clewiston, passed away September 16, 2016.

Clint was born July 15, 1992 in Fort Myers, FL, to William and Kelly (Patterson) Drake. He graduated from Clewiston High School. He enjoyed repairing tractors with his grandfather, playing video games, water skiing, hanging out with friends and spending time with family.

Clint leaves behind his caring parents, one brother; Brandon of Tifton, Georgia, one sister; Darla Drake of Clewiston, Florida; grandmothers; Emily Drake of Clewiston, Florida and Joyce Patterson of Tifton, Georgia, aunts and uncles; John and Diane Drake of Clewiston, Florida, Kevin Patterson of Tifton, Georgia, Bryan Patterson of LaBelle, Florida, Dana Reese of Clewiston, Florida, cousins; Kathleen Tuck, Dawn Drake, Angel Patterson, Lisa Patterson, Jamie Patterson, Justine Patterson, Eugene Rodriguez, and Jason Reese, and many extended family members and close friends.

Clint was preceded in death by both of his grandfathers.

Clint's life was celebrated on Saturday, September 24, 2016 at 2 p.m. in Turning Point Church of God in Clewiston, with Pastor Troy Ezell presiding.

Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home – Clewiston

Monday, September 26, 2016

Farce Of Nature At Firehouse Theatre In October


LABELLE, FL. -- The 24th Season at the Firehouse Theatre kicks off with “Farce of Nature" so get ready to laugh out loud and have a great time! 

In this side-splittingly funny southern-fried comedy, you’ll meet the Wilburn family of Mayhew, Arkansas, and spend an outrageously funny day at Reel 'Em Inn…the finest little fishing lodge in the Ozarks. 

Can the lodge be saved from gangsters, love-starved females, jealous husbands, ruthless corporate executives, a cranky senior citizen, a maid packing heat, a jittery man masquerading as a woman, and vicious varmints? 

This side-splittingly funny Jones Hope Wooten comedy is guaranteed to win you over—hook, line, and sinker! 

The play will be directed by Deb Speckin and Cindy Shough. The show will run: October 28, 29, 30 November 3, 4, 5, 6, 2016.

Pictured: Brenda Barnes and Bob Speckin

Dr. Barhoush Presented With Lifetime Achievement Award

BELLE GLADE, FL. -- Dr. Barhoush was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award at his medical clinic in Belle Glade as part of the 7th Annual Golden Baby Shoe Awards. “Without Dr. Barhoush, prenatal medical care would not be available in the Clewiston area. (Dr. Barhoush has partnered with the Florida Department of Health in Hendry & Glades Counties for years to provide prenatal care)

We are proud to recognize him for his longstanding dedication to serving families in the rural areas”, says Cathy Timuta, Executive Director for Healthy Start Southwest Florida.

Dr. Barhoush completed his medical degree at Cairo University in Cairo, Egypt in 1966 and residency in OB/GYN in New York and New Jersey from 1970-73 at St. Clare’s Hospital, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Jersey Medical School. He went on to train in GYN Oncology in 1974 at Margaret Hague Hospital in New Jersey. 

He then, established and currently runs a private practice in Belle Glade, Florida. Dr. Barhoush has served as Chief of Staff for 40+ years and serves as Chief of the OB/GYN Department at Lakeside Medical Center. He has been recognized and honored for his service with a Proclamation and 

Recognition from the Commission of the City of South Bay and the 2013 Community Pride Award by the Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce. This year the Palm Beach County Healthcare District honored Dr. Barhoush’s decades of service to the rural community by naming Lakeside Medical Center’s “The Ahmed H. Barhoush, M.D. Birthing Center”. 

Dr. Barhoush and his wife have raised 7 children in the Glades community and are proud grandparents of 10.

Friday, September 23, 2016

Kiwanis Installs New Officers


LABELLE, FL. -- The Kiwanis Club of LaBelle have installed their 2016-2017 officers at a recent dinner and installation of officers ceremony. 

Pictured are the new officers; Darlene Soud-Treasurer, Kim Holland-Secretary, Carole Schroeder-President Elect, Tim Holland-President, and Nikki Yeager, Immediate Past President.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Falls - Leading Cause Of Older Adult Injuries And Death

Every second of every day in the United States an older adult falls, making falls the number one cause of injuries and deaths from injury among older Americans.

In 2014 alone, older Americans experienced 29 million falls causing seven million injuries and costing an estimated $31 billion in annual Medicare costs, according to a new report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in this week’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR).

The new numbers are being released in conjunction with the 9th Falls Prevention Awareness Day, sponsored by the National Council on Aging (NCOA). The observance addresses the growing public health issue and promotes evidence-based prevention programs and strategies to reduce the more than 27,000 fall deaths in older adults each year.

“Older adult falls are increasing and, sadly, often herald the end of independence,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “Healthcare providers can make fall prevention a routine part of care in their practice, and older adults can take steps to protect themselves.”

With more than 10,000 older Americans turning 65 each day, the number of fall-related injuries and deaths is expected to surge, resulting in cost increases unless preventive measures are taken.

STEADI helps healthcare providers make fall prevention routine

To reduce older adult falls, CDC created the Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries (STEADI) initiative to help healthcare providers make fall prevention routine. STEADI is based on clinical guidelines and provides information and resources for patients, caregivers, and all members of the healthcare team. STEADI includes:
Information on how to screen for falls
Online training for providers
Videos on how to conduct functional assessments
Informational brochures for providers, patients and caregivers

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is working with healthcare providers to help keep older adults safe from falls. It all starts with three steps that healthcare providers can easily integrate into routine office visits.

At each visit, healthcare providers should:
Ask patients if they have fallen in the past year, feel unsteady, or worry about falling.
Review medications and stop, switch, or reduce the dose of medications that could increase the risk of falls.
Recommend vitamin D supplements.

“Falls threaten older Americans’ independence and safety and generate enormous economic and personal costs that affect everyone,” said Grant Baldwin, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of CDC’s Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention. “Together, everyone can reduce the risk of falling and prevent fall injuries.”

Reduced muscle strength, increased inactivity, more severe chronic health conditions, and increased use of prescription medications are risk factors for falls among older Americans. Fall injury rates are almost seven times higher for older adults with poor health than for those with excellent health.

How older adults can reduce their risk of falling

Older adults also can take simple steps to prevent a fall:
Talk to your healthcare provider about falls and fall prevention. Tell your provider if you’ve had a recent fall. Although one out of four older Americans falls each year, less than half tell their doctor.
Talk to your provider or pharmacist about medications that may make you more likely to fall.
Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor once a year. Update eyeglasses as needed.
Participate in evidence-based programs (like Tai Chi) that can improve your balance and strengthen your legs. Contact your local Council on Aging for information about what is available in your community.
Make your home safer by getting rid of fall hazards.

For more information on the NCOA, see https://www.ncoa.org/.

For more information on CDC’s STEADI initiative, see https://www.cdc.gov/steadi.

For more information about Administration on Community Living falls prevention programs, see www.aoa.acl.gov/AoA_Programs/HPW/Falls_Prevention/index.aspx

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Free Tai Chi Begins September 29

LABELLE, FL. -- The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida will offer 24 free classes on Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance at Hope Connections at 475 East Cowboy Way, LaBelle, FL 33935, starting September 29, 2016.

Participants must be 60 years or older and the classes are free. For more information or to register for the class, contact the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida helpline at 1-866- 413-5337.

The evidence based 24 session course endorsed by the Center For Disease Control And Prevention and Florida Health Department helps older adults improve their balance and reduce the risk of falling. 

Participants will feel stronger, have better balance, greater flexibility and feel more confident after completing this evidenced-based Tai Chi program.

Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance was developed by Fuzhong Li, Ph.D of the Oregon Research Institute and is offered free of charge through a grant for Disease Prevention & Health Promotion under the 2016 Older Americans Act Title IIID



The 12-week course, taught by certified instructor Don Browne, consists of one-hour classes held twice weekly and will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 am beginning Thursday,Sept. 29 and ending Dec. 22. To gain the benefits of this course, participants must plan on attending all 24 sessions. 

Composting, Amaryllis Bulbs At Garden Club Sept 26

LABELLE, FL. -- The LaBelle Garden Club will meet Monday, September 26th 2016, at 7 p.m. at the Dallas B. Townsend Agricultural Center in LaBelle at 1085 Pratt Blvd. Labelle. 

David Bogert will give a brief talk on compost heaps. Very special Amaryllis bulbs will be given out for free. Large Dutch Amaryllis bulbs sell for about $10 each so "free" is a real deal. And this is a really special variety.

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Ryan Christopher Wendler Dies In Crash

FORT MYERS, FL. -- Ryan Wendler died in a crash at 12:10 p.m. Tuesday in Lee county.

Donald Kottkamp 75 of Cape Coral  was traveling northbound on Michael B. Rippe Parkway in the center lane approaching the traffic light intersection of Briarcliff Road in a 2005 Mack truck.

Ryan Christopher Wendler, 20 of Gainesville in a 2009 Nissan was stopped within the northbound center lane of Michael B. Rippe Parkway for a red traffic signal at the intersection of Briarcliff Road.

The Nissan was ahead of the truck as the driver of the truck failed to stop, and as a result the front of truck struck the rear of the Nissan causing it to become partially lodged beneath the front of the truck.

The impact forced the Nissan to be pushed through the intersection into the north east grass shoulder embankment of northbound Michael G. Rippe Parkway. Once in the grass shoulder, the Nissan became dislodged from the truck and the truck's rear axles then traveled over the passenger compartment of the Nissan.

The Nissan came to rest within the same grass shoulder. The truck came to rest facing north from within the same grass shoulder to the north of the Nissan. The FHP said charges are pending further investigation.



Monday, September 19, 2016

Traffic Crash Reenactment Closing Road September 26

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Hendry County has advised that on Monday, September 26, 2016, from 8:00 PM until 12:00 AM, approximately two-miles of CR-846 will be closed for the re-enactment of a traffic accident in between the intersection of CR-846 and CR-858 and the intersection of CR-846 and CR-833.  

The segment of CR-846 that is being closed is located approximately 3-miles east to 5-miles east of the Collier/Hendry County Line.

Please contact Hendry County Engineering at (863)675-5222 if you have any questions.

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Obituary - Lainey Ryver Jim

Lainey Ryver Jim, age 2, of Clewiston, died September 13, 2016 in Orlando, FL. She was born November 6, 2013 in Fort Myers, FL, to Lenny Ray Jim and Tiffany Rachelle Taylor.

Lainey was our "Seminole Princess", she was a fighter and loved life. She loved her "HIPAD", Peppa and George and never went anywhere without her Paya (Paci). She impacted a lot of lives, if you met Lainey, either in person or on Facebook you loved her. She had to have a blanket with her all the time. She was a beautiful soul inside and out. We will all truly miss her infectious laugh, smiles, giggles and her sweet voice.

Lainey is survived by her parents Lenny Ray Jim and Tiffany Rachelle Taylor, three brothers: Leighton Jim, Bradin Jim and Zayden Taylor, sister: Avahny Jim, grandmother, Mabel Jim; grandmother, Shirley Gilkeson; grandfather, Gary Taylor (Gina); grandmother, Violet Jim; great grandmother, Phyllis Dupree; great grandmother, Peggy Taylor and many aunts, uncles, great aunts, great uncles and cousins.

Funeral services were held Saturday, September 17, 2016 at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of Immokalee with Pastor Timothy Pigg officiating and Pastor Salaw Hummingbird. Visitation was Saturday one hour prior to service at First Baptist Church of Immokalee. Interment was Saturday, September 17, 2016 in Big Cypress Cemetery, Big Cypress Reservation.

Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Friday, September 16, 2016

A Walk Across Florida - Bob Kranich

Excerpts from A Walk Across Florida by Bob Kranich

The Florida Trail

During my trip I came across the Florida Trail just twice. At that time it was very young. In fact this year they are celebrating their 50th anniversary!

I found the trail markers in Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park and again as you read during this episode in Ocala National Forest.

It was a long, but another very eventful day and I arrived at Juniper Springs late in the evening. The ranger shack was closed. I could see by the entrance sign that it was 50 cents to swim and $2 to camp. I hung my hammock on some fair sized palmetto trees in the area. In the morning….. I was rar’n to go so I got an early start and found the Florida Trail markers at the entrance to the Juniper Springs Recreation Area heading to the east.

The Florida Trail Association was formed in October of 1966, and the first orange blaze was marked in the Ocala National Forest at the Clearwater Lake Recreational Area. The original Ocala part was known as the “Ocala Trail” for many years. Today the Florida Trail is one of eleven National Scenic Trails in the United States and spans 1,400 miles from the Florida panhandle at Pensacola Beach south to the Big Cypress National Preserve.

This all started in 1966 with Jim Kern who decided that Florida needed hiking trails. He made a 160 mile hike in 12 days from the Tamiami Trail to Highlands Hammock State Park near Sebring. The publicity from this and his persistence with the Forest Service helped him to form the nucleus of the Florida Trail Association. Their original goal of 500 miles has now turned into a plan for 1,800 miles of hiking trails with various loops and spurs. I didn’t hike very much of the Florida Trail because I had never received the information I had requested from the Association before I started my cross state hike. I just didn’t know where the trail was!

I know today it is hard to imagine not to be able to get the information, but in 1969 there was no Internet. Occasionally I came into contact with the trail on this trip. They were just starting the trail as I was hiking it. In the years since, the Florida Trail Association has done a remarkable job. Today it has 18 statewide chapters. Each chapter has its maintenance activities website and meetings. It is a demanding job to keep up the trails because of the sub-tropical growth. The members are constantly doing whatever is necessary to keep the trails open.

As I was traveling through fields of new pines near two sink holes I came upon a grandfather of an old pine, at least three feet across at the base. Now that’s a good size! Suddenly I came upon what recently had been a logging operation. There was slash everywhere, and guess what, I lost the trail. It was no-where to be found, no orange blazes, no trail! I was sure that the markings were on the trees that had been cut down.

About the Author: After getting out of the Army Bob Kranich backpacked from the Georgia border to Key West in a 40 day adventure walk across Florida. His recently published book A Walk Across Florida is available from his website or Amazon.com

Thursday, September 15, 2016

Jim Hull, Kirby Williams Cow Hunter Tales At Museum Oct 6

LABELLE, FL. -- Lifetime friends as well as members of Southwest Florida pioneer families, Jim D. Hull and Kirby Lee Williams will relate their experiences hunting wild cows in the Big Cypress Swamp and in the Glades over half a century ago and remember wild cow hunting tales they were told by "Cracker Cowboys" from an earlier era at LaBelle Heritage Museum's October 6 Program Meeting set for 7 o'clock in the museum complex's William H. Poole Building at 360 North Bridge Street. 

The museum's seasonal program meetings held on the first Thursday of the month from September through May are open to the public. 

Parking at the museum itself is limited; however, Rene Curtis Pratt has graciously offered the Harold P. Curtis Honey House parking lot immediately across Bridge Street from the museum to those visiting the museum.

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Obituary - Chad Billy Motlow

Chad Billy Motlow, age 22, of Felda, passed away September 9, 2016. He was born Feb. 21, 1994 in Naples, FL, to Virgil Benny Motlow and Gladys (Colon) Guzman.

He is survived by his father: Virgil Benny Motlow (Andrea), mother: Gladys Guzman, seven brothers: Phillip Jimmie, Curtis Motlow, Cody Motlow, Benny Motlow, Virgil Motlow, Jake Gopher and Caven Guzman, five sisters: Miranda Motlow, Cortney Motlow, Kalgary Johns, Chelsey Motlow and Carrisa Colon, grandmother, Louise Motlow; grandmother, Peggy Cubis and grandfather, James E. Ketring.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, September 13, 2016 at 10:00 am at First Baptist Church-Big Cypress, Clewiston with Rev. Salaw Hummingbird officiating. Interment was Tuesday, September 13, 2016 in Big Cypress Cemetery, Big Cypress Reservation.

Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Drug Free Hendry Offers Evening Program At Schools

Drug Free Hendry County is hosting Bobby Petrocelli, a renowned motivational speaker to share his heartbreaking but hope filled story with Hendry and Glades Counties. Bobby will speak at LaBelle, Clewiston and Moore High Schools to tell his story and to encourage parents and all adults to talk with teens about their expectations for them and about sometimes difficult topics. 

Drug Free Hendry and Bobby’s mission is to ensure parents and adults understand their true impact on teens. Surveys completed by local teens consistently show that parents are the most influential people in their lives and their top believable source of information. 

Attendees will receive a copy of the “Parent Handbook” as well as other great information to help with talking points to start conversations about bullying, social media use, drugs, and many other issues teens face today. 

Organizations will give a brief overview of programs and services that are offered in Hendry and Glades Counties. At Clewiston High School Tuesday, September 20th at 5:30 pm; LaBelle High School Wednesday, September 21st at 6:00 pm or Moore Haven Junior Senior High School Thursday, September 22nd at 5:15 pm. 

For more information, call Drug Free Hendry County at 674-4041 ext. 6032.

Older Adult Falls Prevention Starts With Regular Exercise

LABELLE, FL. -- The Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties is promoting the importance of “fall prevention” among older adults for the 9th annual “Falls Prevention Awareness Day” which is celebrated on Sept. 22, 2016 (The first day of fall).

This year’s theme is focused on supporting ready, steady and balanced lifestyles for older adults.

“Experiencing a preventable injury such as a fall can be devastating both physically and financially” said Joe Pepe, Administrator/Health Officer for the Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties. “The local Health Department team is working to educate our partners to help protect our community from these avoidable tragic events.”

Unintentional falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among Florida residents ages 65 years and older. In 2014, 2,445 older adults were fatally injured in a fall and there were an additional 50,730 residents hospitalized for non-fatal injuries.

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), there are several measures that can reduce the risk of falls:

· Exercise regularly. NCOA cites several evidence-based programs that are proven to help older adults reduce their risk, including Tai Chi and the Otago program.
· Consult with a health care professional about a fall risk assessment.
· Have medications reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist.
· Get eyes and ears checked at least annually.
· Ensure the home environment is safe and hazard free.

For more information, please visit the department’s Injury Prevention Section website for Older Adults Falls Prevention.

Exercise For Seniors Begins September 29

LABELLE, FL. -- The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida will offer 24 free classes on Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance at Hope Connections at 475 East Cowboy Way, LaBelle, FL 33935, starting September 29, 2016.

The evidence based 24 session course endorsed by the Center For Disease Control And Prevention and Florida Health Department helps older adults improve their balance and reduce the risk of falling. 

Participants will feel stronger, have better balance, greater flexibility and feel more confident after completing this evidenced-based Tai Chi program.

Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance was developed by Fuzhong Li, Ph.D of the Oregon Research Institute and is offered free of charge through a grant for Disease Prevention & Health Promotion under the 2016 Older Americans Act Title IIID



The 12-week course, taught by certified instructor Don Browne, consists of one-hour classes held twice weekly and will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:00 am beginning Thursday,Sept. 29 and ending Dec. 22. To gain the benefits of this course, participants must plan on attending all 24 sessions.

Participants must be 60 years or older and the classes are free. For more information or to register for the class, contact the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida helpline at 1-866- 413-5337.

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, is the comprehensive resource for seniors and the disabled in southwest Florida.

Video: Tai Chi Class Participants At Hope Center

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

William Frederick Dies In Crash

PUNTA GORDA, FL. -- William Frederick 32 of Punta Gorda, in a Ford Mustang, was traveling north on Loveland Boulevard in Charlotte County on the single northbound lane, approaching Moses Court, in excess of the posted 35 mile per hour speed limit at 4:54 p.m. Tuesday.

There had been recent rainfall and the roadway was wet. The Mustang entered a patch of standing water covering the northbound lane.

The Mustang traveled toward the right causing the right side to exit the roadway and enter the grass shoulder where it began to rotate counterclockwise as it came back onto the roadway, crossed the center line and entered the path of the Waste Management truck driven by Paulino Ortega, 59 of Lehigh Acres that was traveling south on Loveland Boulevard on the single southbound lane.

Ortega took evasive action by braking and steering the truck toward the right. The right front corner and right side of the Mustang was leading as it traveled northwest. The left front of the truck collided with the right front of the Mustang which was redirected toward the southeast as it rotated counterclockwise and arrived at final rest facing northeast, blocking the northbound lane, immediately south of Moses Court.

The truck exited the roadway and crashed into a stand of trees on the west shoulder, arriving at final rest facing southwest.

Frederick was pronounced deceased at the scene. Ortega and his passenger Carlos Galvez, 45 of Punta Gorda reported only minor injuries. No criminal charges are pending.

The Florida Highway Patrol requests that anybody having information about this crash call 239-344-1730.

Obituaries - John Doub, Eva Smith Tanner

John "Johnny" Fletcher Doub passed away September 10th, 2016, at Oakbrook Nursing Home in LaBelle, Fl. at 88. He was born in north LaBelle on April 21st, 1928, to the late Harris Fletcher Doub and the late Maria Susana (Motino) Doub. Johnny attended LaBelle High School and enlisted in the U.S Army as soon as he was old enough. After discharge he worked for Alico briefly and then started a career with the Florida State Road Department in the Engineering Section which lasted 31 years. When he retired he remained a resident of LaBelle until his death, believing "LaBelle had everything, why would he ever leave".

After his retirement, his memories of state road work compelled him to point out the many projects of which he had an active role to visiting family and relatives. If you missed any on a visit, he'd make sure to point them out again on your next trip. A mandatory ride around of LaBelle would end with lunch at one of his favorite locations: Alva Dinner, Flora & Ella's, lately SalCal.

In earlier times Johnny's favorite recreation was to take family and friends swimming in Fish Eating Creek or barbecuing in Pollywog. He was convinced no place existed that compared to all LaBelle had to offer.

Johnny adored his sister-in-law Irene Doub. They were a constant pair, always attending LaBelle events with Irene leading Johnny to the front of many activities Although he felt no need to leave LaBelle, she could get him to travel, join a square dance troupe as her partner, and enjoy a robust social agenda that included Felda and Muse jam sessions with pot luck dinners.

He was an active member of the LaBelle AA group with a record of 18 years attendance and sobriety; LaBelle Heritage Museum; and the Greater LaBelle Garden Club.

Johnny was preceded in death by his sisters Laura Lockmiller of Belle Glade and Rosa Nash of Nashville, TN, his brothers William "Pete" Doub of Immokalee, Landon Alfred Doub of LaBelle, and Charlie Doub of LaBelle.

Survivors include: daughters Tracey C. Doub of Woodbridge, VA, Susan J. Miller (Robert) of Clewiston, Debra L. Strickland, of Woodbridge, VA; Sisters Carmella Mayton of Alamogordo, NM, and Julia Chappell of Jupiter, FL; Sister-In-Law Irene M. Doub of LaBelle; Grandchildren Christina and Kayla Spears, Ryan Miller and one great-granddaughter Janelle Howell. Nieces and nephews: Millicent Vilmerding of Murfreesboro, TN, Yvonne Lockmiller of Wellington, Melissa Musk of Belle Glade, Susan Sullivan of Jupiter, Nadia Roman of Lehigh Acres. Nephews: Curtis Doub of Lehigh Acres, Jim, Bill, Rodney Mayton of Alamogordo, NM, Jeffrey, Stuart and Bill Chappell of West Palm Beach. And many lifelong friends of LaBelle.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church with Father Chester Domaszewicz officiating at 11am on Thursday, September 15, 2016. A visitation will be held from 6-8pm at Akin-Davis Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 14, 2016. Interment will follow funeral service at Ortona Cemetery in Glades County.

Eva Lena Smith Tanner passed away peacefully the evening of September 11, 2016. She was 99 years old. Eva Lena was born in Clearsville, Pennsylvania March 26, 1917 to Emma Williams and Wesley Smith. Evalena married Manual Clant "Mutt" Tanner January 22, 1938.

She is survived by her children Dean Tanner, Gene Tanner, Wesley Tanner, Josie Emma Cooper, Eddie Lee Tanner, foster daughter Diane Weyer; 20 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and 15 great great grandchildren. Evalena was preceded in death by her loving husband Manual "Mutt" Tanner and her daughter Diane Johnson. Evalena will be remembered for her unconditional love, strength and dedication to the Lord. We would like to express our gratitude to Hope Hospice, Oakbrook Nursing Home and Dr. Chow.

Graveside service will be held at Fort Denaud Cemetery Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at 9:00 am.

Arrangements made by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle

LaBelle 5K Walk/Run September 29

LABELLE, FL. -- The Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties is hosting a Free Family 5K Walk/Run event on Thursday, September 29th, 2016.

Race events will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m. The walk/run will take place at LYDA Park which is across the street from the Health Department (Near the tennis courts off of Pratt Blvd)

All fitness levels are welcome. This free event is designed for the whole family to enjoy. Registration will occur between 5:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. A healthy instructional “warm-up/stretching” will occur from 5:30 p.m. to 5:40 p.m.

Participants will receive a small “disaster preparedness backpack” filled with emergency supplies.(While supplies last)

The purpose of the event is to raise awareness about Florida’s Healthiest Weight Initiative and the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity and how it helps keep our hearts healthy.

Additionally, September 29th is “World Heart Day” and educational materials will be provided to all participants.

For more information, please call the Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties at 863-674-4041 xt. 6065

Monday, September 12, 2016

Democrats Meet September 21 At Library

MOORE HAVEN, FL -- All registered Democrats and those interested in registering to vote as Democrats are invited to attend the Glades County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting at 6:00 pm on Wednesday, September 21 in the Glades County Public Library at 201 Riverside Drive, Moore Haven. 

Discussions will include organizing plans for the November 8 general election. 

Coffee and donuts will be provided. If you have questions about how to get involved in the Glades County DEC you can email info@GladesDemocrats.org or call Glades DEC Chair Ellen Hawk-Geake (239-290-9236) or Vice Chair John Capece (239-245-9954).

Free Music Jamming Fridays At Senior Center

LABELLE, FL. -- Join Marlin Yelton and Cor-Nan Coldiron Fridays from 12 to 2 p.m. for country music, singing and jamming at the L.J. Nobles Senior Center on Cowboy Way (The Hope Center next to the airport).

Bring yourself, friends, a musical instrument and join in for an informal music session every Friday featuring bluegrass, mountain, and country songs. Open to all for your playing or listening enjoyment.

Saturday, September 10, 2016

Chad Billy Motlow Dies In Crash

CLEWISTON, Fl. -- Chad Billy Motlow, 22 of Felda died in a Friday night crash in Hendry County. He was a passenger in a 2011 BMW along with Daylyn L.J. Hall, 23 of Clewiston. Hall had minor injuries in the crash.

Traffic crash investigation is under way to determine the driver of the BMW.

The BMW was northbound on County Road 835 approaching Etumakee Way at 9:55 p.m.. The rear right tire blew out causing the driver to lose control.

The vehicle traveled northwest and exited the paved portion of the roadway and entered a canal with approximately 4 feet of standing water. It overturned several times and collided with a barbed wire fence.

Both occupants were ejected from the vehicle.

The FHP is investigating if alcohol was a factor for the driver and passenger Motlow. The FHP reported alcohol was a factor for Hall. Neither passenger was wearing a seat belt.



Thursday, September 08, 2016

Allan Veale Dies At 66

Allan Richard Veale, age 66, of LaBelle, passed away September 1, 2016 in LaBelle. He was born Nov. 14, 1949 in Belle Glade, FL, to the late Ben McRae and Eunice Ruth (Esque) Veale.

Allan was a resident of Clewiston his entire life, until moving to LaBelle three years ago. He was with U.S. Sugar for many years and was quite involved with First Baptist Church of Clewiston. Allan loved talking with people, enjoying nature on his property, and spending time with family. He was a highly respected Vietnam Veteran.

He is survived by two daughters: Michele Lewis Wright (Marshall), Dawn Veale Gonzalez (Ernesto), honorary son: James Vickers, five brothers: Jack Veale (Fran), Ben Veale (Anjelica), George Veale (Keri), Gary Veale (Susan) and Robert Veale (Lavonne), two sisters: Sharon Wilcher and Sandy Fallis, grandchildren: Tyler, Thomas (Tiffany), Jordan, Nicholas, Jacob, Michael and Nathan, uncle: David Veale (Georgia). He was preceded in death by his wife: Kathy J. Veale, son: John Lewis, sisters: Eva Moxley and Linda McClenithan.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 9, 2016 at 10:00 am at Grace Baptist Church, 4200 N.E. Eucalyptus Cir., LaBelle, FL, with Pastor Jeffrey Zimmerman officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 8, 2016 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Akin-Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle. Interment will be in Fort Denaud Cemetery, LaBelle.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or Grace Baptist Church would be greatly appreciated.

Garden Club September 26 On Composting

LABELLE, FL. -- The LaBelle Garden Club will meet Monday, September 26th, 2016, at 7 p.m. at the Dallas B. Townsend Agricultural Center in LaBelle at 1085 Pratt Blvd. Labelle. 

David Bogert will give a talk on compost heaps. Very special Amaryllis bulbs will be given out for free. Refreshments served. 

For more information, call President Dave at 863-342-8233 or Nikki at 239-564-2005.

Saturday, September 03, 2016

Tomas Hernandez Funeral Sunday September 4

Tomas Gonzalez Hernandez, age 20, of Clewiston, passed away August 30, 2016 in LaBelle.

He was born Aug. 28, 1996 in Palm Beach County, FL, to Ofelia G Hernandez. He worked for Walmart. He graduated from Clewiston High School.

He is survived by his mother, siblings; Juan Almanza, Jr, Adalmarie Hernandez and Claudia Pereyra and many other family members and friends.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 4, 2016 at 1:00 pm at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston with Pastor Landy Pasadas officiating.

Interment will be in Ridgelawn Cemetery. Visitation was Saturday from 5:00-7 PM at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston, FL.





Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home

Friday, September 02, 2016

Arthur Paquin Dies At 66

Arthur Leopold Paquin, Sr., age 66, of LaBelle, passed away August 26, 2016 in Lehigh Acres.

He was born Nov. 6, 1949 in New York, NY, to the late Leo and the late Aurora Mary (St. Andre) Paquin. He worked for many years as a Construction Superintendent working out of Local # 845, he was a member of the DAV, American Legion Post 130, was a Jack Daniels Squire, a member of Riverside Yacht Club of Essington, PA.

Survivors include one son: Michael Paquin of Philadelphia, PA and one daughter: Michelle Lloyd of Glenolden, PA, one sister: Jacqueline Kittle of Fort Myers, FL, girlfriend, Patty Nixon of LaBelle, step children, George Bendel, James Bendel, and Shelley Granato; Twenty-three grandchildren; Many great grandchildren

Arthur was preceded in death by his son; Arthur L. Paquin, Jr.

A celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, September 6, 2016 at 7 p.m. in Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle where a visitation will be held one hour prior. Additional service will be held in Morton, PA.

Thursday, September 01, 2016

School Bus Driver Cited In Crash

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- Connie S. Hough, 39 of Moore Haven was cited for failure to yield right of way while driving a school bus Thursday afternoon in Glades county.

The Glades county school bus was southbound on Pine Avenue as a 2012 Volkswagon Passat driven by Kristin L. McClelland, 25 of Moore Haven was westbound on Leisure Boulevard.

Hough came to a stop at a stop sign at the intersection of southbound Pine Avenue and Leisure Boulevard and then proceeded to make a left turn (east) onto Leisure Boulevard.

As she attempted to complete the turn onto Leisure Boulevard, McClelland continued westbound on Leisure Avenue. As a result, the left front of the car made contact with the left side of the school bus in the westbound lane of Leisure Boulevard.

No injuries were reported during the crash said the FHP.

Rick Scott Closes Offices In 51 Florida Counties

Today, in preparation for Tropical Storm Hermine, Governor Rick Scott directed all state offices in 51 counties to close on Thursday, September 1st. at noon. Decisions regarding Friday, September 2nd will be made after further weather updates. All of these counties are under the Governor’s Executive Orders signed yesterday. To view Executive Order 16-206, click HERE and to view Executive Order 16-205, click HERE.

Governor Scott said, “Today, in preparation for Tropical Storm Hermine, I have ordered the closure of state offices and buildings in 51 counties at noon. Our employees work very hard and their safety is of the upmost importance. Our State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) and State Emergency Response Team (SERT) are in constant communication with local communities and stand ready to respond to any impacts. As we prepare for this storm to impact Florida, I will be at the SEOC in Tallahassee to closely monitor the storm’s development and will continue to provide regular updates on Tropical Storm Hermine and the state’s preparedness efforts.”

As of now, state offices will be closed in the following counties:

ALACHUA, BAKER, BAY, BRADFORD, BREVARD, CALHOUN, CITRUS, CLAY, COLUMBIA, DIXIE, DUVAL, ESCAMBIA, FLAGLER, FRANKLIN, GADSDEN, GILCHRIST, GULF, HAMILTON, HERNANDO, HILLSBOROUGH, HOLMES, JACKSON, JEFFERSON, LAFAYETTE, LAKE, LEON, LEVY, LIBERTY, MADISON, MANATEE, MARION, NASSAU, OKALOOSA, ORANGE, OSCEOLA, PASCO, PINELLAS, POLK, PUTNAM, SANTA ROSA, SARASOTA, SEMINOLE, ST. JOHNS, SUMTER, SUWANNEE, TAYLOR, UNION, VOLUSIA, WAKULLA, WALTON, AND WASHINGTON

Recreation Taxes Up 25% This Year

LABELLE, FL.-- The Hendry County Board of County Commissioners and the City of LaBelle have proposed to increase the special assessments for recreation on property tax bills for western Hendry county by 25%. If approved on September 8, the current $100 fee on tax bills will increase to $125.

The county and the city at the same time are proposing to change the language of the special assessment first imposed in 2011 to pay for the recreation complex on Forrey Drive behind the college to allow the money to be used for any purpose not just for the unfinished complex.

Public hearings on the changes will be at the city commission chamber at LaBelle City Hall, September 8 at 5:30 p.m.