Tuesday, October 30, 2018

Jennifer Davis New Hendry Administrator

LABELLE, FL. -- Jennifer Davis, Hendry County Interim County Administrator, was named County Administrator by the Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, October 23.

The Board voted unanimously to promote Mrs. Davis to the County Administrator position effective immediately.

“The Board is excited to see what the future holds for Hendry County with Mrs. Davis as County Administrator,” stated Chairman, Mitchell Wills.”I have worked alongside her for many years and have seen the dedication she has for her work and our County. Her knowledge of our area will serve as a tremendous asset to the entire community.”

Davis has served Hendry County for over 19 years in various roles including Chief Financial Officer and Budget Director for the Clerk of Court, Office of Management of Budget Director and Deputy County Administrator for the Board of County Commissioners.

“I am honored to have this opportunity to continue serving Hendry County in my newest role as County Administrator,” stated Davis. “I have lived and worked in Hendry County for most of my life and will continue to work hard to preserve our County as a great place to live and work.”

Mrs. Davis is a life-long resident of Hendry County and currently resides in Felda with her husband Cliff Davis and their 3 children.

Hazel Darlene Kellogg Dies At 55

Hazel Darlene Kellogg, 55 of Douglas, GA passed away October 24, 2018 in Waycross, GA.
She was born Dec. 17, 1962 in Avon Park, FL, to the late Ralph Allen and Hazel Mae (Plummer) Green.
Survivors include her husband: Orie Douglas Kellogg,
one son: Christopher Allen Kellogg
two daughters: Priscilla Rose Kellogg and Dallas Cheyenne Wells,
two brothers: Ralph Allen Green and Randy Allan Green,
one sister: Addie Bennett
15 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren
The family will receive friends on Tuesday October 30 from 5 to 7 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home Clewiston Chapel.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 31, 2018 at 1:00 pm at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, Clewiston with Pastor Charley Watts officiating.
Interment will be in Ortona Cemetery, Moore Haven, FL.

Monday, October 29, 2018

One Week To Go - Have You Voted? (Advertisement)


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Norma Iris Torres Dies After Struck By Car

Jose Alexander Romero, 22 of Clewiston was westbound on Davidson Road approaching the intersection of Hooker Point Road Sunday at 7:55 p.m. as Norma Iris Torres, 66 of Clewiston was afoot, crossing Davidson Road from south to north.

Torres entered the westbound lane directly into the path of the 2013 Toyota Corolla. Torres was struck with the front left of the car. She suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene.

Sunday, October 28, 2018

Two Impersonate Police Officers - Steal Victim's Car

NAPLES, FL. -- Florida Highway Patrol Troopers responded to an impersonating law enforcement officer incident on I75 (Alligator Alley) at mile marker 56 at 10:22 am on October 27, 2018. 

Reportedly, two Hispanic males, wearing camouflage jackets, were driving a white pickup truck equipped with flashing red and blue light. 

The occupants of the white truck flashed red / blue lights and used a loud speaker to instruct the driver of a 2017 Hyundai Elantra to pull over. The Hyundai, traveling south on I75 near mile marker 56, pulled over to a stop. 

The male Hyundai driver and female passenger were instructed to exit their vehicle, provide their driver license and lay down on the grass shoulder. One of the Hispanic males proceeded to steal the Hyundai, fleeing southbound on I75 toward Broward County, while the other male drove away in the pickup truck. 

The two victims were left stranded alongside I75, uninjured. If anyone has any information regarding this incident, please contact the Florida Highway Patrol or Crimestoppers. The incident remains under investigation.

Birding Trip Saturday November 3

LABELLE, FL. -- Would you like to go on a free escorted birding “driving” trip to STA 5/6 (Stormwater Treatment Area 5/6)? On Saturday November 3rd area residents will have a special opportunity to participate in a trip.

Meet at the Clewiston McDonalds at 7am to carpool to the STA 5/6 gate at the “new entrance” about 21 miles south of Clewiston the south end of Blumberg Road or meet at 8:15 am at the Blumberg Road STA 5/6 gate.

There are directional signs on CR 835. This scheduled event led by Hendry-Glades Audubon volunteers will drive on levee roads around 3 cells to observe or photograph the 40 to 60 bird species normally found at the site in November.

To reserve your spot text Margaret England 863-517-0202 or register online for Saturday’s or upcoming driving trips link at www.hendrygladesaudubon.org (STA 5/6 Info.) The caravan around the levees will be limited to 8 cars.

A limited number of binoculars and walkie talkies will be available. Walking and bicycle access is available year round on Friday, Saturday and Monday during daylight hours in designated areas of STA 5/6.

Wednesday, October 24, 2018

Eye Centers Paying $525,000 For Falsifying Records

Fort Myers, FL – United States Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez announces today that Eye Centers of Florida has agreed to pay the United States $525,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly falsifying medical records in order to bill for cataract surgeries on patients that would not have otherwise qualified for the surgery. 
Founded in 1971, Eye Centers of Florida is an ophthalmology practice owned by David C. Brown, M.D. Eye Centers of Florida currently has 11 office locations throughout southwest Florida, with the main clinic located in Fort Myers. 
The term “visual acuity” refers to the sharpness or clarity of vision. An individual’s visual acuity is generally measured using vision-testing charts to determine the person’s ability to distinguish letters or other images of various sizes at a fixed distance. “Normal” vision is 20/20. Generally, Medicare will consider a cataract surgery medically necessary and reasonable if, among other things, a patient has a visual acuity worse than 20/40 with impairment of ability to carry out needed or desired activities. 
According to the settlement agreement it was the United States contention that, from January 1, 2012, through March 1, 2014, employees of Eye Centers of Florida knowingly falsified the medical records of certain Medicare Advantica patients that were referred to Dr. Brown for a cataract surgery evaluation in order to make it appear that the patients had a worse visual acuity score than they had actually received. The United States contended that as a result of these practices, Eye Centers of Florida was able to bill for cataract surgeries for patients that would not have otherwise qualified under Medicare guidelines.
The settlement concludes a lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida by two former employees of Eye Centers of Florida, Patti Nilsson and Joann Smith. Nilsson and Smith sued under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act permitting a private citizen to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in the recovery. The Act also allows the United States to intervene and prosecute the action. Nilsson and Smith will receive $115,500 of the proceeds from the settlement with Eye Centers of Florida.
This settlement resulted from an investigation coordinated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle S. Cohen and David Sullivan, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the FBI.
Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The case is captioned U.S. ex. rel. Nilsson and Smith v. Eye Centers of Florida, Docket Number 2:13-cv-842-FtM-38CM. The settlement resolves the United States’ claims in that case. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

Free Medicare Counseling November 6

LABELLE, FL. -- Did you know that Medicare health insurance and drug plans can make changes each year—revising things like cost, coverage, the prescriptions they include, and their list of in-network providers and pharmacies? Fortunately, just like the insurance providers, beneficiaries can also make changes to their Medicare coverage each year.  The Medicare Open Enrollment Period is the time to make adjustments to your plan to ensure that you have the best coverage to complement your health needs for 2019.

Medicare can be a daunting subject for most people, and the Open Enrollment Period only runs from Oct. 15, 2018, through Dec. 7, 2018. Fortunately, experts from the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) are available to provide free, unbiased, one-one-one counseling.  Medicare beneficiaries can lean on these valuable local experts for advice.

SHINE is a program of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and is operated locally through the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL). Specially-trained SHINE counselors help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to understand their health care options so they can make the best decisions for their individual needs.

SHINE will offer drop-in Medicare counseling in LaBelle during the open enrollment period.  Drop-in counseling will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis at Hope Connections (475 E. Cowboy Way) on Tuesday, Nov. 6. Counselors will be on site at all locations from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Beneficiaries are asked to bring their Medicare card and a list of prescription drugs with dosage.

The SHINE mission is to provide free and unbiased information about Medicare and Medicaid for beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers. SHINE also educates beneficiaries to protect, detect, and report potential errors, fraud, and abuse with their Medicare coverage.


SHINE strongly encourages beneficiaries to be on the lookout for their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which they should have received from their plans prior to the end of September. Reviewing their benefits and evaluating their health care options each year is vitally important for beneficiaries. Acting quickly can assure a smooth transition into the 2019 benefit year.

SHINE counseling is also available by appointment year-round in Hendry County. To receive help from SHINE, individuals may call to schedule appointments at designated SHINE counseling sites, attend enrollment events in their local communities, or arrange to speak with a trained SHINE counselor at 1-866-413-5337 (866-41-ELDER) For a listing of SHINE counseling sites and enrollment events, please visitwww.floridashine.org.

Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Monday, October 22, 2018

The Covered Wagon At Heritage Museum Meeting Nov 7



Meeting for LaBelle Heritage Museum November 7th Program at Dallas B. Townsend Agricultural Center.

Joe Cofield At LaBelle Kiwanis

LABELLE, FL. -- Joseph Cofield from the Northside Naples Kiwanis Club spoke at LaBelle Kiwanis about his goal - Getting the United States Constitution Booklets to every 5th grader, 220,000, in the entire 67 counties and 7th grade students (where requested and can be sponsored). 

Superintendent Paul Puletti and Superintendent Scott Bass are two of many school officials who felt the booklets helped improved the scores on the Civics Exam for the 7th grade students. For Hendry and Glades Counties, the booklets are already in the hands of the 5th graders, thanks to Representative Cary Pigman, Wayne Simmons, Southern Heritage Real Estate & Investments and 1st Bank. 

The Rotary Club of LaBelle will be putting them in the 7th grade in Hendry County and the Kiwanis Club of LaBelle will be delivering them to the 7th graders in Glades County.

Photo: Nikki Yeager, Joseph Cofield and Carol Schroeder, LaBelle Kiwanis President

Greg Gunter Named To United Way Staff



LABELLE, FL. -- United Way of Hendry and Glades announced today the addition of Greg Gunter to the staff. He will serve as staff support to the Hendry Glades Unmet Needs Coalition.  The mission of the coalition is to support individuals and families impacted by Hurricane Irma to recover and rebuild.
Greg Gunter has been a resident of the area for over 20 years, and has a BS in Marketing.  Previously, he was an owner of LaBelle’s Badcock Home Furnishing Store.  Gunter has one son and a grand-daughter.
Gunter will be working with survivors of Hurricane Irma by connecting them to resources to assist them to get back to a more normal life.  The Hendry Glades Unmet Needs Coalition partners with community-based organizations, businesses, social service and government agencies and faith-based organizations to address emotional, physical and spiritual needs of the individuals and families affected by natural and man-made disasters in the counties.

News From Lori Ward - Glades Property Appraiser

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- Lori Ward, CFA has notified Glades residents of the upcoming tax roll certification and of the Amendments on the Ballot this year affecting Homestead and Non-Homestead Property Exemptions.


TAX ROLL CERTIFICATION

The 2018 Glades County Tax Rolls have been certified to Gail Jones, Tax Collector, and she has asked that I let you know that your tax bills will be mailed on October 31st.

UNDERSTANDING AMENDMENTS 1 & 2

As your property appraiser, I want to be sure that you are informed of any legislation that could impact you and your property taxes. Amendments 1 and 2 will be on your November 6th, 2018 ballot. Below are some facts on both amendments.

AMENDMENT 1: Homestead Exemption Increase
Amendment 1 would provide for a homestead exemption on the portion of home values between $100,000 and $125,000, meaning the $25,000 between $100,000 and $125,000 of a home’s value would be exempt from property taxes other than school district taxes. As of 2018, Section 6(a) of Article VII of the Florida Constitution provides for a homestead exemption on the portion of home values between a) $0 and $25,000 and b) $50,000 and $75,000.

* A “yes” vote supports exempting the portion of home values between $100,000 and $125,000 from property taxes other than school taxes, bringing the maximum homestead exemption up to $75,000.
* A “no” vote opposes exempting the portion of home values between $100,000 and $125,000 from property taxes other than school taxes, keeping the maximum homestead exemption at $50,000.


AMENDMENT 2: Permanent Cap on Non-homestead Property Assessment Increases
Amendment 2 would make permanent the cap of 10 percent on annual non-homestead property assessment increases set to expire on January 1, 2019. The cap does not apply to school district taxes. Voters approved the cap in 2008, when 64% voted to pass Amendment 1.
Properties considered to be non-homestead are non-homestead residential property, such as second homes and rental apartments, and non-residential property, such as commercial property and vacant land.

* A “yes” vote supports this amendment to make permanent the cap of 10 percent on annual non-homestead property assessment increases set to expire on January 1, 2019.
* A “no” vote opposes this amendment to make permanent the cap of 10 percent on annual non-homestead property assessment increases set to expire on January 1, 2019.

Hikers Meeting October 25

LABELLE, FL. -- Do you enjoy hiking, kayaking, or bicycling? Families, youth and adults invited to the Fisheating Creek Florida Trail Association Sub-Chapter monthly meeting. 

A list of upcoming activities will be available at the meeting. Thursday October 25th at 7pm at Carlson Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 310 Campbell St. LaBelle.

 For information Contact: Deanna Filkins 863-234-8181 dkfilkins@aol.com

Sunday, October 21, 2018

Obituaries - Washam, Gallagher, Beavers, Totterdale

Ronald A. Totterdale, 75, of Alva, FL. passed away on October 15, 2018. Ron was born on December 22, 1942 in Martins Ferry, OH. He married the love of his life Sue Riley and they have celebrated 48 years of marriage. 
Ron is preceded in death by his mother Ruth Taylor and father Charles Totterdale, brother Tom Totterdale, his niece Cheryl Lynn Totterdale and great-nephew Brian Totterdale. He is survived by his beloved wife Sue; his two daughters Suzette (Eric) Cooksey and Julie (Tom) Anderson. and six grandchildren: Chase, Cole, Madeline, Calla, Camden and Haley. He is also survived by his brother's family Alice, Matthew (Jenny), Bruce (Ralene). Steve (Liz) Totterdale and their children Amanda (David), Keith, Brittany, Sarah, and Allison; in-laws Jim (Heidi) Riley and Patricia Kerr. Ron leaves behind many close friends and extended family.
Ron worked as an airline mechanic for United Airlines for over 40 years. He was always there to lend a hand to all in need from a family member to a stranger; his kindness and generosity were unmatched. Ron loved "treasure hunting" and visiting his second home in Bramwell, West Virginia. He was an avid sports fan - especially boxing, but his favorite sports to watch were those that his grandchildren were playing with technology allowing him to watch their games from Florida. 
He was fiercely protective of his girls and spent his life making sure that they were taken care of and knew how to take care of themselves. He had a magnetic personality and meeting him for the first time felt like you were just catching up with an old friend. He was loved by everyone he met and will be dearly missed by all who knew him. 
He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his unmistakable "Totterdale" laugh, and his profound generosity. It has been a true blessing to have Ron as a husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend and look forward to the day that we will meet again.
Funeral services will be held Sunday October 21, 2018, at 2p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in Fort Myers. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at the Alva Cemetery at a later date.
Betty Louise Wayne Letson Withnell passed away at age 95 on October 15, 2018 at Oakbrook Health & Rehab Center LaBelle, FL. Born in Beaver County, PA on August 11, 1923 to Andrew Leon Wayne and Ada M. Hillier Wayne. She was preceeded in death by husbands Arthur Letson and E. Donald Withnell. She is survived by nieces: Nancy Scully Lorenzen. Judy Kelley Black, Patricia Kelley Butler, Valerie Kelley-Hall, and Mary Kelley Kitchens.
Betty worked in PA as an airplane propeller welder at the beginning of WWII then moved to Ft. Lauderdale, FL to live with her sister Helen Scully where she worked as a civilian driver of military buses. Post-war she worked as an upholsterer. 
During the 1960's she owned and managed a western tack store located at Sunrise Blvd. & NE 9th Ave. Ft. Lauderdale. During the 1970's she and Don Withnell raced their thoroughbred horse in the East Coast Racing Circuit from Ohio to Florida. In the 1990's she ran an orange juice evaporator at the Berry juice Plant in LaBelle.
Betty donated her remains to the University of Miami (FL) School of Medicine. At her request no services are planned.
Arrangements are being handled by the Akin-Davis Funeral Home- LaBelle Chapel.
Esther Hill Beavers, age 93, of LaBelle, went to be with the Lord on October 16, 2018. She was born in LaBelle June 8, 1925 to Grover A. Hill and Sylvia Aiken Hill.
Esther attended LaBelle Schools and graduated from Florida State University. After graduation she was employed by Burdines in Miami as a buyer for 14 years.
During her 31 years in Miami she met and married John H. Beavers. In 1979 with her family, she moved back to LaBelle.
As a homemaker she enjoyed her oil paintings. Esther was a member of Carlson Memorial United Methodist Church.
Survivors include her son: John Hill (Linda) Beavers of Riverview, FL
sister: Mildred Lewis of Ft. Myers
grandchildren: Daniel and Jessica of Riverview, FL
also many nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her husband John, son Robert James, and sister Dorothy Risher.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday October 25, 2018 at Carlson Memorial United Methodist Church at 11 AM with interment to follow at Fort. Denaud Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Carlson United Methodist Church at 310 Campbell St. LaBelle, FL 33935.
Arrangements are being handled by the Akin-Davis Funeral Home-LaBelle Chapel.
Michael A Gallagher, 70, of Clewiston, passed away October 15, 2018 in Clewiston.
He was born Oct. 9, 1948 in Liverpool, England to the late Ludwig and Lily (Cuthberson) Kopecky.
He was a retired School Teacher.
Survivors include his husband: Arthur M Gallagher
one brother: Peter Kopecky
one sister: Jackie Dean
He was predeceased by his brother Robin Kopecky
Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Roy Washam, 91, of Clewiston, passed away October 17, 2018 in Clewiston.
He was born Nov. 17, 1926 in Luce, KY, to the late Proctor and Mally (Ludington) Washam.
He was a veteran of WWII.
Survivors include one son: Proctor (Ashley) Washam
two daughters: Linda (Chris), and Shirley (Freedman)
10 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife Virginia (Kiser),
a son Ronald (Tammy) Kiser
and a brother Virgil Washam.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Saturday, October 20, 2018

Nikki Fried Visits Clewiston On Campaign Stop

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Nikki Fried, candidate for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture made a campaign stop in Clewiston on Tuesday, October 16. The visit began with a morning tour of area farms after which she joined a gathering of Hendry County and Glades County residents at Sonny’s BBQ. Hosting the luncheon was former Hendry County Commissioner Janet Taylor who welcomed Ms. Fried and introduced area leaders wanting to ask questions and offer their perspectives on key issues.

Clewiston Mayor Mail Chamber said rural Floridians are proud of their communities and cannot unilaterally bear the burden of solving Florida’s shared water challenges. Glades County Commissioner Weston Pryor echoed the Mayor’s statements. Ms. Fried responded saying she shared the concerns of farming towns and that rural counties must continue to offer agricultural employment while at the same time contributing to the solutions to Florida’s water quality challenges.

Dr. John Capece, Vice Chair of Glades County Democrats, stressed to the candidate the need to
dramatically expand state investments in advanced technologies and education throughout agricultural industries as a way of addressing both environmental and production challenges.

Fried emphasized her commitment to research, technology and education. She underscored the need
to expand farm revenues through other innovations, such as the successful Farm-To-School programs
saying, “I will lobby the Florida Legislature to bring more funding to this critical program. It must be our priority to make sure that every meal served in our schools is fresh, nutritious and healthy. This will guarantee that our students get the nutrients they need to excel in the classroom. It’s also a fantastic way for kids to learn about the incredible agriculture community in Florida and to help boost the industry by buying directly from local producers.”

Gun safety was a concern expressed by several attending the lunch, to which Fried responded, “Administering concealed weapons permits is one of the most critically important duties of the
Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The Commissioner has a public safety obligation to ensure that a thorough background check is completed on every person who applies for a permit.”

Friday, October 19, 2018

Municipal Airport Gets New Terminal Building



LABELLE, FL. -- The new terminal building at the LaBelle Municipal Airport is expected to open by the end of 2018.

The terminal building will feature a pilot’s lounge and conference room as well as an eventual restaurant which will be open to the public.

The design of this project commenced in September 2015 and was funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). The construction of this project, which consists of the terminal building and associated utilities, parking lot, landscaping and security fencing, was funded by the FDOT.

The FAA and FDOT also funded the design and construction of the asphalt apron, which is adjacent to the new terminal, to provide additional aircraft parking. Design of the terminal apron project commenced in May 2013 followed by construction in November 2014.

The funding from FDOT which was used to design and construct the terminal apron and the terminal building is specifically designated for aviation transportation projects and cannot be utilized for any other purposes.

No County funds were utilized to design or construct these projects. Construction of the new terminal project began on October 30, 2017. The contractor, Owen-Ames-Kimball Company, Inc., is currently finalizing punch list items associated with the building.

A ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony will be announced once construction is complete.

Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Spaghetti/Meatball Dinners Continue Second Fridays

PORT LABELLE, FL. -- Eat in or take home for family supper Mary's famous meatballs with Barb's sauce, fresh salad, Ice Tea, desert on Friday, November 9, 2018, Serving 5 PM till 7 PM or until sold out.

The Good Shepherd Episcopal Church Spaghetti and Meatball dinners have received so much praise the church members are continuing once a month on the Second Friday each month November thru April.

Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 1098 Collingswood Pkwy just south of SR 80 in Port LaBelle. Call 863-675-4311 for tickets, $10.00 each.

Glades Supplies Hurricane Victims With Tarps And More


IMG_5951

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- It has been over a year since Hurricane Irma hit SW Florida including rural Glades County. Rural counties have less employees and equipment, but always pull together and do what is necessary often leaving their own homes for their families to take care of their community.  

During Irma, Glades County experienced rural county employees and other agencies pulling together to help Glades County citizens, and doing what was needed to get the job done.  

Hurricane Michael has hit our rural North Florida communities very hard, and this time it is our fellow colleagues in the rural North Florida agriculture dependent areas that need help.  

South Florida UF/IFAS County Extension Offices were asked to help in the effort.  Glades County Extension 4-H Agent Tycee Prevatt contacted Angie Colegrove, Glades County Emergency Management Director, & Bob Jones, Glades County Public Safety Director, to see what we could do for our North Florida friends.  

Photo left to right:  Clay Sapp, Bob Jones, David Springman, Angie Colegrove, Tycee Prevatt & Bobby Sarazen

The three worked together on the supply list that could be shipped, Bob worked with Chief Deputy Duanne Pottorff & Detective Mike Pepitone for transportation of the supplies and an officer for transporting the goods, and Tycee worked on the logistics for the shipment of the supplies.  

Detective David Springman will be transporting the tarps, hand sanitizer & bug spray to a neighboring UF/IFAS Extension Office who will be taking the supplies the last leg of their journey, to be distributed to our fellow Floridians in North Florida who are working day in and day out to help others in their rural communities.

Sumitted by: Tycee Prevatt & Angie Colegrove

Low Income Floridians Pay 5X More In Taxes

LAKE MARY, FL - A new study released today by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy and Florida Policy Institute finds that the lowest-income Floridians — those earning less than $18,700 — pay five and a half times as much in taxes as a share of their household income than the state’s wealthiest residents, or those earning upwards of $548,700.
 
The study, Who Pays? A Distributional Analysis of the Tax Systems in All 50 States, evaluates all major state and local taxes, including personal and corporate income taxes, property taxes and sales and other excise taxes.
 
ITEP points out that states like Florida with “low tax” reputations are, in fact, high tax states for low-income residents. Florida ranks 48th in the nation for state and local tax fairness, according to the analysis. The state has multiple regressive tax code features, including lack of a personal income tax — which helps to mitigate inequality — and a comparatively high reliance on sales taxes. 

Florida derives more than half of its tax revenue from sales and excise taxes, according to ITEP, which far exceeds the national average of 35 percent. These taxes cost the most for lower-income families, as these households spend a greater share of their incomes on purchasing the items and goods they need. As incomes increase, the share spent on everyday expenses decreases.
 
Florida’s upside-down tax system would be made worse, according to FPI, under Amendment 5. The measure would require a two-thirds vote of the state Legislature to raise state revenue, taxes and fees or eliminate tax breaks and loopholes, which would lock in current inequities.

Florida already ranks 50th for investments in public services.

Tuesday, October 16, 2018

Help For Hurricane Victims From Glades County

Glades County & JJ Taylor Distributing Helping Their Fellow Floridians
                   

Glades County Public Safety in coordination with JJ Taylor Distributing out of Ft. Myers sent tarps, cases of hand sanitizer and bug spray to Panama City for Hurricane Michael survivors.   The Glades County Road Department helped Bobby Edwards of JJ Taylor Distributing load a tractor trailer full of tarps and the other supplies were loaded by the Glades County Fire Department & EMS October 15, 2018.    Mike Mitchem with JJ Taylor Distributing will be delivering the supplies to Panama City October 16, 2018.  Both Glades County and JJ Taylor were glad to be able to help our neighbors in the Panhandle.

                                
      Jack Bayless & Jimmy Summeralls                      Bobby Edwards, Bobby Sarazen, James Williams


                            

Efrian Herra, Clay Sapp & Bobby Sarazen                                         Bobby Edwards, JJ Taylor

Vote Early, Vote On November 6


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Obituary - Jesse Carl Arroyave

Jesse Carl Arroyave fell asleep in death on October 11, 2018. He was born on October 7, 1991 right here in his home town of LaBelle, Florida.
He has completed his education and graduated High School in 2010. He was a dedicated Husband and hard worker. A beloved son who will be missed deeply.
Jesse held a position that he was very proud of with Service Works a full service roofing contractor in Ft. Myers.
He is survived by his wife Mayra Valadez, his parents Augusto and Carla Arroyave, his brother Augusto Jr. and his wife Tabitha and their 2 boys Gabriel and Sabastian, his brother Pedro Jose and his wife Ashley, their children Jeremiah, Selena, Francheska, Mia and Pedro.
As well as beloved aunts, uncles and cousins; Alberto & Esther Betancort, Alberto Jr & Kerem Betancort, Amado & Mirna, their daughter Ruth and husband Johannon Casanova, Ruben & Irma Arroyave and Jael & Justin Yancey. Also a great family of friends who loved him very much and touched his life.
In a very warm way we as his parents know our son Jesse has touched the lives of many.
He was an outgoing person who had a strong love of family. He loved to BBQ at every opportunity, he enjoyed music. his cool cars, his Suzuki motorcycle and his snake Medusa.
The family will receive friends on Friday October 19th from 5 to 7 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home 560 E. Hickpochee Ave. Labelle. Funeral service will be at 7 PM with Brother Daniel Barker officiating.

Monday, October 15, 2018

SNAP Participants May Buy Hot Food Through October 31

In the aftermath of Hurricane Michael, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved a temporary waiver that will allow participants in the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Florida to buy hot foods with their benefits through October 31, 2018.

Acting Deputy Under Secretary Brandon Lipps emphasized the importance of the waiver, noting that many Florida residents evacuated to shelters cannot store food and are lacking access to cooking facilities as a result.

“In times of disaster, it’s critical for USDA to make it as easy as possible for people in need to make use of their benefits, so no one affected by this disaster goes hungry,” Lipps said. “Hurricane Michael caused historic damage and displaced thousands of Floridians. This waiver provides them with immediate help.”

Under normal circumstances, Lipps explained, hot foods cannot be purchased using SNAP benefits. Hot foods include items sold at authorized SNAP retailers that are hot at the point of sale. The waiver addresses the inability of those SNAP participants affected by the disaster to prepare food at home. SNAP authorized retailers may need 24-36 hours to be ready to accept SNAP benefits for hot foods due to programming changes that may be required at their stores.

Agencies Meet October 19

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Hendry/Glades Unmet Needs Coalition invites all faith-based organizations, volunteer and social agencies, governmental agencies, community-based organizations, business and individual volunteers who seek to address the spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of the individuals and families still struggling to recover from Hurricane Irma to meet Friday, October 19th 2 pm.

This meeting will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 331 W. Osceola Avenue, Clewiston, Florida 33440. For information contact: Hendry/Glades Unmet Needs Coalition: 239-433-7560, hgunc@unitedwaylee.org, 133 N. Bridge Street LaBelle, FL 33935

Boeing Boeing At Theatre October 26

The Firehouse Community Theatre Presents Boeing Boeing
It’s the 1960’s and bachelor Bernard, has a flat in Paris and is engaged to three flight attendants from three different countries! Bernard’s perfect life gets bumpy when his friend Robert comes to stay and the girls’ schedules get changed! Fasten your seat belts as Bernard, his grumbling maid Berta, and his friend Robert struggle to keep the ladies from learning the truth! 

Will they be able to keep up this charade, or will a disaster occur? 

See Boeing Boeing, a fast-paced hilarious play, at the Firehouse Community Theatre in LaBelle! The play is being directed by Michael Shough and will be presented on October 26, 27, 28 and November 2, 3, 4. (Friday and Saturday shows are at 7pm, Sunday shows are at 2pm)

Friday, October 12, 2018

Jesse Arroyave Dead In Crash

FORT MYERS, FL. -- Joshua Ryan Picard, 28 of Lehigh Acres was traveling east on State Road 80 (Palm Beach Boulevard) approximately one mile west of County Road 884 (Joel Boulevard) at 6:20 p.m. Thursday as his 2008 Chevy Impala ran off the roadway to the right before colliding with a culvert, overturning, and coming to final rest on its roof, facing south.

The driver was transported to Lee Memorial Hospital with serious injuries and the passenger Jesse Carl Arroyave, 27 of LaBelle was pronounced deceased at the scene. Neither person was wearing a seat belt said the FHP.

Anybody having information about this crash is asked to contact the Florida Highway Patrol 239-344-1730 or Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS, to remain anonymous.

Thursday, October 11, 2018

Register To Vote, Vote By Mail, But Always Vote!


Advertisement Approved and Paid for by Hendry County Democratic Party

Free Medicare Counseling In Moore Haven Oct 24

Moore Haven, FL (October 10, 2018) – Did you know that Medicare health insurance and drug plans can make changes each year—revising things like cost, coverage, the prescriptions they include, and their list of in-network providers and pharmacies? Fortunately, just like the insurance providers, beneficiaries can also make changes to their Medicare coverage each year.  The Medicare Open Enrollment Period is the time to make adjustments to your plan to ensure that you have the best coverage to complement your health needs for 2019.

Medicare can be a daunting subject for most people, and the Open Enrollment Period only runs from Oct. 15, 2018, through Dec. 7, 2018. Fortunately, experts from the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) are available to provide free, unbiased, one-one-one counseling.  Medicare beneficiaries can lean on these valuable local experts for advice.

SHINE is a program of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and is operated locally through the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL). Specially-trained SHINE counselors help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to understand their health care options so they can make the best decisions for their individual needs.

SHINE will offer drop-in Medicare counseling in Moore Haven during the open enrollment period.  Drop-in counseling will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis on Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the Hope Connections Moore Haven United Way House (200 Second St.). Counselors will be on site from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Beneficiaries are asked to bring their Medicare card and a list of prescription drugs with dosage.

The SHINE mission is to provide free and unbiased information about Medicare and Medicaid for beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers. SHINE also educates beneficiaries to protect, detect, and report potential errors, fraud, and abuse with their Medicare coverage.

SHINE strongly encourages beneficiaries to be on the lookout for their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which they should have received from their plans before the end of September.  Reviewing their benefits and evaluating their health care options each year is vitally important for beneficiaries. Acting quickly can assure a smooth transition into the 2019 benefit year.

SHINE counseling is also available by appointment year-round. To receive help from SHINE, individuals may call to schedule appointments at designated SHINE counseling sites, attend enrollment events in their local communities, or arrange to speak with a trained SHINE counselor at 1-866-413-5337 (866-41-ELDER) For a listing of SHINE counseling sites and enrollment events, please visit www.floridashine.org.

Jennifer Davis New County Manager

LABELLE, FL. -- On Tuesday, October 9, the Hendry County Board of County Commissioners selected Deputy County Administrator, Jennifer Davis, to fill the role of Interim County Administrator effective immediately.

The Board’s decision comes after the resignation of Hendry County Administrator, Charles Chapman, who has accepted the position for City Manager of the City of Naples, Florida.

Davis has served Hendry County for over 19 years in various roles including Chief Financial Officer and Budget Director for the Clerk of Court, Office of Management of Budget Director and Deputy County Administrator for the Board of County Commissioners.

The Board directed Davis to work with Chair Mitchell Wills to negotiate an employment contract which will be presented to the Board at the October 23 meeting.

Charles Chapman will remain available as an advisor to Hendry County until December 3, 2018.

Wednesday, October 10, 2018

Meet And Greet Candidates Saturday October 13







































CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

HENDRY COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY is hosting a Meet & Support Your Democratic Candidates Rally & Fundraiser on Saturday, October 13, on the Caloosahatchee at 4473 County Road 78, Fort Denaud, Florida 33935.

All Democratic Candidates appearing on our HENDRY COUNTY BALLOT have been invited.  

TICKETS are $30 each -- the proceeds will be used to cover event expenses and local GET OUT THE VOTE programs.  [This is not a donation for Income Tax purposes]


Approved and Paid by HENDRY COUNTY DEMOCRATIC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE