LABELLE, FL. -- The Florida Department of Health in Hendry County is now a COVID-19 collection/testing site. This gives private physicians (who don't provide testing) the opportunity to have their clients tested.
Only 536 tests have been given so far in Hendry county, or 1 in about 77 residents; those who first have been to a doctor and have qualified to get the test based on their symptoms. 1 in 496 people in Hendry have tested positive, now at 83 total cases. 26 of the cases are from Hendry's two nursing homes. The cases are divided approximately equally by Black, White, and Hispanic.
The CDC added 6 new symptoms for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus: •Fever •Cough •Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing •Chills •Repeated shaking with chills •Muscle pain •Headache •Sore throat •New loss of taste or smell.
Please see the process below to get tested at the Health Department:
· Contact your healthcare provider.
· Your healthcare provider will enter an order into their Quest Diagnostics account to create a "requisition" (Not a prescription).
· Your healthcare provider gives you a copy of the requisition.
· You then call the Health Department for an appointment to be tested.
· Appointments at the Clewiston Health Department are available on Tuesdays from 10am until noon. (1100 S. Olympia Ave, Clewiston. Phone (863) 983-1408.)
· Appointments at the LaBelle Health Department are available on Fridays from 10am until noon. (1140 Pratt Blvd, LaBelle. (863) 674-4041)
· The Health Department collects the sample confidentially at curbside. (You will remain in your vehicles during the sampling process)
· The Health Dept sends the sample to a Quest Diagnostics laboratory.
· Test results will be sent to your healthcare provider.
· You will be notified by your healthcare provider of your test results.
Thursday, April 30, 2020
Help For Florida Panthers
The disorder, termed feline leukomyelopathy (FLM), was first recognized in 2018 around Corkscrew Swamp in Collier County and has also been documented in Alachua, Charlotte and Pasco counties. As of April 2020, there have been eight confirmed cases (six bobcats, two Florida panthers) and 16 probable cases (11 panthers, five bobcats). Affected animals have difficulty coordinating their hind limbs; extreme cases have led to the animal’s death.
FWC is working to understand the cause of FLM; potential culprits are an infectious pathogen like a virus or bacteria, a nutritional issue or a toxin. The Foundation’s grant will allow FWC to collect data via trail cameras, analyze the video data and perform diagnostic tests. This condition has the potential to jeopardize the conservation successes achieved for the endangered Florida panther.
“We are committed to the conservation of Florida’s wildcats,” said Foundation President and CEO Andrew Walker, “and hope this significant grant helps FWC determine the cause of FLM and eliminate it before it does further harm to our wildlife.”
The grant was approved by the Foundation’s board of directors at its recent March meeting. Funds came from the Conserve Wildlife Florida license plate, which contains the image of a Florida black bear. Twenty-five dollars from each purchase of the “bear tag” supports the conservation of Florida’s rare species and other nongame wildlife. The Foundation is in the process of updating the license plate’s design.
FWC asks the public to continue to submit footage and pictures of wildlife that appear to have problems with their rear legs at MyFWC.com/PantherSightings and to report dead or injured panthers to FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC (3922). For updates on FLM, please visit MyFWC.com/Panther.
Things To Do At Home
Things you can do at home to support mental and emotional health:
• 32 National Parks you can explore from your couch, from the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone: (requires google earth)
o Article: https://www.insider.com/national-parks-america-virtual-tours-3d-visit-2020-3
• New York Public Library is offering more than 300,000 e-books and audiobooks available for free:
o Source: https://www.nypl.org/books-music-movies/ebookcentral
• Museums are offering free virtual tours:
o Article: https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
o Article: https://news.artnet.com/art-world/art-institute-chicago-offers-open-access-44000-images-1377739
Additional Resources
• Metropolitan Opera: Nightly Met Opera Streams: https://www.metopera.org/
oArticle explaining the program: https://www.metopera.org/about/press-releases/met-to-launch-nightly-met-opera-streams-a-free-series-of-encore-live-in-hd-presentations-streamed-on-the-company-website-during-the-coronavirus-closure/
• Zoos are bringing their animals online during COVID-19 closures:
o Article
https://www.inquirer.com/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid19-zoos-closed-philadelphia-elmwood-park-cape-may-animals-20200319.html
• NPR: NPR is compiling a list of live virtual concerts to watch.
o Article:
https://www.npr.org/2020/03/17/816504058/a-list-of-live-virtual-concerts-to-watch-during-the-coronavirus-shutdown
• NASA: NASA has put their entire collection of images, sounds, and videos of galaxies, planets, and space missions online, publicly accessible and copyright free for anyone to view or use.
o Source: https://www.nasa.gov/
3 Articles:
Reviewing the Effectiveness of Music Interventions in Treating Depression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5500733/
• “In particular, elderly participants showed impressive improvements when they listened to music or participated in music therapy projects.”
• “Dementia patients showed significant cognitive and emotional benefits when they sang, or listened to familiar songs”
• 32 National Parks you can explore from your couch, from the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone: (requires google earth)
o Article: https://www.insider.com/national-parks-america-virtual-tours-3d-visit-2020-3
• New York Public Library is offering more than 300,000 e-books and audiobooks available for free:
o Source: https://www.nypl.org/books-music-movies/ebookcentral
• Museums are offering free virtual tours:
o Article: https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours
o Article: https://news.artnet.com/art-world/art-institute-chicago-offers-open-access-44000-images-1377739
Additional Resources
• Metropolitan Opera: Nightly Met Opera Streams: https://www.metopera.org/
oArticle explaining the program: https://www.metopera.org/about/press-releases/met-to-launch-nightly-met-opera-streams-a-free-series-of-encore-live-in-hd-presentations-streamed-on-the-company-website-during-the-coronavirus-closure/
• Zoos are bringing their animals online during COVID-19 closures:
o Article
https://www.inquirer.com/health/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid19-zoos-closed-philadelphia-elmwood-park-cape-may-animals-20200319.html
• NPR: NPR is compiling a list of live virtual concerts to watch.
o Article:
https://www.npr.org/2020/03/17/816504058/a-list-of-live-virtual-concerts-to-watch-during-the-coronavirus-shutdown
• NASA: NASA has put their entire collection of images, sounds, and videos of galaxies, planets, and space missions online, publicly accessible and copyright free for anyone to view or use.
o Source: https://www.nasa.gov/
3 Articles:
Reviewing the Effectiveness of Music Interventions in Treating Depression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5500733/
• “In particular, elderly participants showed impressive improvements when they listened to music or participated in music therapy projects.”
• “Dementia patients showed significant cognitive and emotional benefits when they sang, or listened to familiar songs”
Obituaries - Miller, Gonzalez, Brookins, McGregor
Roscoe Nigel Miller, Jr, age 95, of Clewiston, passed away April 28, 2020 in Clewiston. He was born Aug. 3, 1924 in Alva, FL, to the late Roscoe Nigle and the late Lillian (Rogers) Miller.
He graduated from LaBelle High School. He served in the US Navy aboard the Destroyer USS Shea as a Sonar/Radar Technician during WWII, patrolling out of Guantanamo Bay. He Graduated from the University of Florida with a Civil Engineering Degree. He worked for the Corps of Engineers.
He was dedicated to his family, as well as the First Baptist Church of Clewiston where he served as a Deacon since 1954. He was a member of Rotary and the Gideons. He was an avid golfer, and at one time City Champion.
Survivors include his wife: Joan (Jones) Miller three sons: David (Debra A) Nigel Miller, Michael Jones and James (Marla) Jones five daughters: Jane (James Predeceased) Rudd, Marianne (Andy) Anderson, Bonnie Sue (Jeff) Krone, Sandra (John) Baker and Melinda (Lee) Jones, 17 Grandchildren & 13 Great Grandchildren He was predeceased by his brother: Roger Ellis Miller
A private service will be held due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and a public Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Isidro L Gonzalez, age 82, of Clewiston, passed away April 28, 2020 in West Palm Beach. He was born May 15, 1937 in Mexico , to the late Leopoldo Gonzalez Sanchez and Maria Lozano Quintanilla.
Isidro L Gonzalez, age 82, of Clewiston, passed away April 28, 2020 in West Palm Beach. He was born May 15, 1937 in Mexico , to the late Leopoldo Gonzalez Sanchez and Maria Lozano Quintanilla.
Survivors include five sons: Jose Alfredo Gonzalez Garcia, Isidro G Gonzalez, Sostenes Marino Gonzalez, Rene Gonzalez and Jose Gonzalez two daughters: Alma Diaz and Blanca Torres, 36 Grandchildren & Many Great-grandchildren 4 Brothers & 1 Sister, Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
James E. Brookins, Jr, age 64, of LaBelle, passed away April 27, 2020 in Fort Myers. He was born Aug. 31, 1955 in Panama City, FL, to the late James E and Tommie (Rushing) Brookins, Sr.
James E. Brookins, Jr, age 64, of LaBelle, passed away April 27, 2020 in Fort Myers. He was born Aug. 31, 1955 in Panama City, FL, to the late James E and Tommie (Rushing) Brookins, Sr.
Mr. Brookins married Denise E. Earnest; she survives. He was a parts supervisor for A. Duda and Sons before he retired.
He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and great grandfather who will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved him. James leaves behind his loving wife; Denise Brookins, mother; Tommie Brookins, daughters; Rebecca Cook and her husband Shawn, Lisa Brookins Williams and her husband Johnathan, and Linda Graham and her husband Adrian, brother; Robert Brookins and his wife; Sharon, sisters; Mary Brookins and Chris Pickles and her husband Keith; grandchildren; Brett, Jammer, Reece, and Cole, great granddaughter; Novalee and many extended family members and close friends.
Cremation arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
John George McGregor, age 87, of LaBelle, transitioned to Heaven to be with his heavenly father on April 27, 2020. He was born Sep. 25, 1932 in Jamaica to the late John Grant and the late Constance Louise (Marsh) McGregor.
John George McGregor, age 87, of LaBelle, transitioned to Heaven to be with his heavenly father on April 27, 2020. He was born Sep. 25, 1932 in Jamaica to the late John Grant and the late Constance Louise (Marsh) McGregor.
Mr. McGregor married Georgina M Andrade Ferreira. He was a member of LaBelle Church of God. He was a driver for many years for the State of Florida. He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.
He leaves fond memories his loving wife; Georgina Ferreira, step-children; Ralph Abdul, Rita Abdul, Uryasi Abdul, Daniel Cruz, Rodrigo Cruz, Carlos Cruz, Jr, and Karla Roldao, many step-grandchildren and step – great grandchildren, many extended family members and church friends.
Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
District Recreation Lands Reopen Today
LABELLE, FL. -- Today, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) announced that it will begin reopening several District-managed lands for active recreation only (hiking, biking, exercising, etc.) April 30, 2020 at 8 a.m.
In reopening these lands, the District will continue to follow the recommendations of Gov. Ron DeSantis' Re-Open Florida Task Force, the Florida Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to minimize activities that result in gathering of large groups of people.
The following District lands will reopen today at 8 a.m.:
A-1 Flow Equalization Basin
Blind Creek
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW)
DuPuis Management Area
Frog Pond
Harold A. Campbell Public Use Area
Loxahatchee River/Cypress Creek Management Area
Loxahatchee Slough Natural Area
Pal-Mar East/Nine Gems
Riverbend Park
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Southern Glades
Stormwater Treatment Area 1 East
Stormwater Treatment Area 1 West
Stormwater Treatment Area 2
Stormwater Treatment Area 3/4
Only active recreational activities are allowed on District lands to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. Active recreation includes hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking and boating. Passive recreational activities including camping, picnicking and gatherings of more than 10 people are not allowed at this time.
In reopening these lands, the District will continue to follow the recommendations of Gov. Ron DeSantis' Re-Open Florida Task Force, the Florida Department of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to minimize activities that result in gathering of large groups of people.
The following District lands will reopen today at 8 a.m.:
A-1 Flow Equalization Basin
Blind Creek
Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW)
DuPuis Management Area
Frog Pond
Harold A. Campbell Public Use Area
Loxahatchee River/Cypress Creek Management Area
Loxahatchee Slough Natural Area
Pal-Mar East/Nine Gems
Riverbend Park
Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve
Southern Glades
Stormwater Treatment Area 1 East
Stormwater Treatment Area 1 West
Stormwater Treatment Area 2
Stormwater Treatment Area 3/4
Only active recreational activities are allowed on District lands to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19. Active recreation includes hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, kayaking and boating. Passive recreational activities including camping, picnicking and gatherings of more than 10 people are not allowed at this time.
Sunday, April 26, 2020
Rudolph Sumner Dies At 96
Rudolph R Sumner, age 96, of LaBelle, passed away April 23, 2020 in Lehigh Acres.
He was born Feb. 14, 1924 in Tipton, GA. He served during World War II in the Navy. He worked as a Rancher and Farmer.
Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
Virus Cases Still Growing In Hendry/Glades County
LABELLE, FL. -- As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 26 there are 65 Hendry County COVID-19 cases, with 1 in 633 Hendry residents having the virus.
The latest confirmed case is a 37 year old female resident of Clewiston.
52 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 11 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
Only 454 tests have been performed, or 1 for every 91 persons in Hendry county.
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The latest confirmed cases are an 84 year old female, a 79 year old female and a 27 year old female; all are residents of Clewiston. 1 in 605 people in Hendry now have the virus. Only 475 tests have been performed in Hendry.
55 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 11 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
COVID-19 cases among staff and patients have been found at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation with 5 patients transferred out and 5 staff testing positive, and Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaBelle with 6 patients positive, 3 more transferred out, and 2 staff tested positive.
Hendry County officials strongly urge residents to continue following the guidance provided by the CDC and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) along with the Governor’s Safer-At-Home order to slow the spread of COVID-19:
UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 28 Four additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 72. 1 in 571 people in Hendry have the virus. Only 510 tests have been given or 1 out of 81 people in the county.
The latest confirmed cases are a 20 year old male resident of Clewiston, a 72 year old male resident of Clewiston, a 35 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 40 year old female resident of LaBelle.
56 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 14 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 29 there are now 80 cases in Hendry county and a total of 3 deaths. 527 tests have been given. 1 in 512 people in Hendry now have the virus. 61 tests have been given in Glades county with 6 positive and 1 death.
UPDATE: As of Thursday, April 30 there are now 83 cases in Hendry out of 536 tested so far. 1 in 496 has the virus in Hendry county. Most are in Clewiston, and about a third from nursing homes in Clewiston and LaBelle. 2 patients are at Clewiston Nursing, with 6 transferred out, and 7 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 6 have the virus, 3 more transferred out, and 2 staff are afflicted.
UPDATE: As of Friday, May 1 there are now 92 cases in Hendry out of 571 tested. 1 in 447 people in Hendry have the virus based on the current numbers tested so far. 1 in 605 Floridians have the virus while in New York it's 1 in 65.
UPDATE: As of Saturday, May 2 there are 96 Hendry cases with 4 deaths. 587 have been tested. 1 in 429 people in Hendry have the virus. Two-thirds are from Clewiston, one-third from LaBelle. 2 patients are at Clewiston Nursing, with 7 transferred out, and 13 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 8 have the virus, 3 more transferred out, and 5 staff are afflicted.
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One more case has been found in Glades county, bringing the total to 6, with 1 in 2,268 Glades residents with the virus. However, only 55 tests have been performed, or only 1 for each 247 people in the county. There are likely many more positive cases not yet tested in Glades.
For the U.S., 1 in 55 people have been tested on average, mostly in the states around New York City.
(Although the testing percentages are varying from place to place at present, 1 in 412 have the virus in Broward county, 1 in 666 for the state of Florida, and 1 in 349 persons in the U.S.)
Contact with a doctor or healthcare provider is still a necessary step to get permission for testing, and then go through a drive through line in Clewiston one morning a week, and similarly one morning in LaBelle.
Bookmark the following link for automatically updated daily statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida counties: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
(Although the testing percentages are varying from place to place at present, 1 in 412 have the virus in Broward county, 1 in 666 for the state of Florida, and 1 in 349 persons in the U.S.)
Contact with a doctor or healthcare provider is still a necessary step to get permission for testing, and then go through a drive through line in Clewiston one morning a week, and similarly one morning in LaBelle.
Bookmark the following link for automatically updated daily statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida counties: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
Saturday, April 25, 2020
Planet Of The Humans - Green Earth Movement Fails?
Released this week and available on YouTube, the full documentary film produced by Michael Moore, now with over 2,000,000 online views.
"Michael Moore presents Planet of the Humans, a documentary that dares to say what no one else will this Earth Day — that we are losing the battle to stop climate change on planet earth because we are following leaders who have taken us down the wrong road — selling out the green movement to wealthy interests and corporate America." - from Youtube
Friday, April 24, 2020
Teen Charged With Shooting Victim Over X-Box
CLEWISTON, FL -- On April 20, 2020, 17 year old Jasheed Daquone Stephens, of Clewiston, Florida was brought to the Hendry County Sheriff's Office by his mother and turned himself in on an outstanding warrant.
On April 5, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office was approached by the 17 year old victim who told deputies he had been stabbed in the face. While retrieving first aid equipment to attend to the victim’s injuries, the 17 year old drove himself to the hospital, where it was discovered that he had been shot in the face.
It was reported to Investigators that Stephens had been asking to purchase a play station or X-box Station; the victim said that he had one he could sell Stephens for $150.00. Both the victim and Stephens arranged to meet later to complete the transaction; it was at that time, that Stephens opened his backpack and removed a firearm shooting the victim in the head.
Monday evening, after turning himself in, Hendry County Deputies did place 17 year old Jasheed Daquone Stephens, of Clewiston, Florida under arrest on charges of Attempted Murder, Carrying Concealed Weapon, Display of Firearm during a Felony and Robbery with a Firearm. Stephens was transported to and is being held at the Department of Juvenile Justice.
On April 5, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office was approached by the 17 year old victim who told deputies he had been stabbed in the face. While retrieving first aid equipment to attend to the victim’s injuries, the 17 year old drove himself to the hospital, where it was discovered that he had been shot in the face.
It was reported to Investigators that Stephens had been asking to purchase a play station or X-box Station; the victim said that he had one he could sell Stephens for $150.00. Both the victim and Stephens arranged to meet later to complete the transaction; it was at that time, that Stephens opened his backpack and removed a firearm shooting the victim in the head.
Monday evening, after turning himself in, Hendry County Deputies did place 17 year old Jasheed Daquone Stephens, of Clewiston, Florida under arrest on charges of Attempted Murder, Carrying Concealed Weapon, Display of Firearm during a Felony and Robbery with a Firearm. Stephens was transported to and is being held at the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Redd Brothers Arrested On Narcotics Charges
CLEWISTON, FL. -- Both 35 year old Eddie Leon Redd, Jr. and 26 year old Darius JaMarcus Redd were taken into custody and transported to the Hendry County Jail where they are being held without bond.
Eddie Redd, Jr. and Darius Redd were out on bond at the time of their arrest.
Eddie Redd, Jr. and Darius Redd were out on bond at the time of their arrest.
On Wednesday, April 15, 2020, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office, Major Crimes Unit conducted a search warrant at the home of Eddie Leon Redd, Sr., 713 Arkansas Ave., in Clewiston, Florida. Once inside the residence, Investigators made contact with Eddie Redd, Jr. and Darius Redd.
Investigators located a large amount of illegal narcotics, packaging equipment, and narcotic paraphernalia along with a portion of narcotics that were already packaged for sale.
Based on information received as the result of the Search Warrant, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit, requested an arrest warrant for 54 year old, Eddie Leon Redd, Sr.
On April 23, 2020, at approximately 7:00pm, Major Crimes Investigators located Redd during a traffic stop. At this time Redd Was arrested on an outstanding warrant. During the search of the vehicle Deputies located ammunition and several cell phones. It was found that Eddie Leon Redd, Sr., is a convicted felon and not permitted to be in possession of ammunition.
Redd was taken into custody and arrested on Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon and a number of drug charges. Redd is currently being held in the Hendry County Jail of $220,000.00 bond.
Based on information received as the result of the Search Warrant, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit, requested an arrest warrant for 54 year old, Eddie Leon Redd, Sr.
On April 23, 2020, at approximately 7:00pm, Major Crimes Investigators located Redd during a traffic stop. At this time Redd Was arrested on an outstanding warrant. During the search of the vehicle Deputies located ammunition and several cell phones. It was found that Eddie Leon Redd, Sr., is a convicted felon and not permitted to be in possession of ammunition.
Redd was taken into custody and arrested on Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon and a number of drug charges. Redd is currently being held in the Hendry County Jail of $220,000.00 bond.
Thursday, April 23, 2020
Obituaries - Archie Morrison, Corinna Sanchez, Brandi Sanders, Frederick Paranta
Archie Morrison, age 77, of LaBelle, passed away April 20, 2020 in LaBelle. He was born Jan. 18, 1943 in Avon Park, FL. to the late Woodrow W and Evelyn (West) Morrison. He was the Owner of a Well Drilling Company. Survivors include one son: Scott (Carrie) Morrison three daughters: Paula Morrison Woods, Lori Ridley and Stephani Staton, one sister: Nellene Morrison Shelton and 12 Grandchildren. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
Corinna Frank-Sanchez, age 56, of Clewiston, passed away April 20, 2020 in Immokalee. A private graveside service will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Big Cypress Cemetery, Big Cypress Reservation. Interment will be in Big Cypress Cemetery. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Brandi N Sanders, age 35, of LaBelle, passed away April 19, 2020 in LaBelle. She was born May 30, 1984 in Fort Myers, FL, to the late William and Cynthia (Bass) Sanders. Survivors include one daughter: Jacey Martinez Mother: Cynthia (Bass) Sanders one brother: Brian (Shanna) Sanders one sister: Britany (Winston) Skinner half brother, Mark (Christina) Sanders Memorial services will be held a later date. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
Frederick S Parantha, 67, passed away at home April 18, 2020 in Clewiston, FL. He was born July 14, 1952 in Lithonia, GA to Charles H and Freddie (Autry) Parantha.
Corinna Frank-Sanchez, age 56, of Clewiston, passed away April 20, 2020 in Immokalee. A private graveside service will be held Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Big Cypress Cemetery, Big Cypress Reservation. Interment will be in Big Cypress Cemetery. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Brandi N Sanders, age 35, of LaBelle, passed away April 19, 2020 in LaBelle. She was born May 30, 1984 in Fort Myers, FL, to the late William and Cynthia (Bass) Sanders. Survivors include one daughter: Jacey Martinez Mother: Cynthia (Bass) Sanders one brother: Brian (Shanna) Sanders one sister: Britany (Winston) Skinner half brother, Mark (Christina) Sanders Memorial services will be held a later date. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
Frederick S Parantha, 67, passed away at home April 18, 2020 in Clewiston, FL. He was born July 14, 1952 in Lithonia, GA to Charles H and Freddie (Autry) Parantha.
Fred graduated from Deland High School and then received his bachelor's degree from Troy State University. Fred began his career as an elementary physical education teacher in Clewiston.
He left teaching and went to work for United States Sugar Corporation. He later returned to his first love, teaching and retired from Labelle Elementary School in 2017.
Fred loved fishing, Miami Hurricanes, and his family and friends. He will be remembered for his gentle nature, his sense of humor, and his kind spirit.
Fred was predeceased by a brother, Joe Parantha and a sister, Barbara Caldwell. He leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Vicki (Lilley) Parantha, sons Frederick "Reko" Parantha and wife Sherry of Labelle, FL and Matthew Parantha of Frederick, MD, 2 grandchildren; Abbey and Brandon, and 1 twin sister Marion Padgett of Deland, FL.
He will also be missed by his many nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends. Due to Covid 19, a memorial service will be held a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Fred's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society or The Humane Society. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Two New York Cats Test Positive For Virus
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories today announced the first confirmed cases of COVID-19)infection in two pet cats. These are the first pets in the United States to test positive for SARS-CoV-2.
The cats live in two separate areas of New York state. Both had mild respiratory illness and are expected to make a full recovery. SARS-CoV-2 infections have been reported in very few animals worldwide, mostly in those that had close contact with a person with COVID-19.
At this time, routine testing of animals is not recommended. Should other animals be confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the United States, USDA will post the findingsexternal icon. State animal health and public health officials will take the lead in making determinations about whether animals should be tested for SARS-CoV-2.
In the NY cases announced today, a veterinarian tested the first cat after it showed mild respiratory signs. No individuals in the household were confirmed to be ill with COVID-19. The virus may have been transmitted to this cat by mildly ill or asymptomatic household members or through contact with an infected person outside its home.
Samples from the second cat were taken after it showed signs of respiratory illness. The owner of the cat tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the cat showing signs. Another cat in the household has shown no signs of illness.
Both cats tested presumptive positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a private veterinary laboratory, which then reported the results to state and federal officials. The confirmatory testing was conducted at NVSL and included collection of additional samples. NVSL serves as an international reference laboratory and provides expertise and guidance on diagnostic techniques, as well as confirmatory testing for foreign and emerging animal diseases. Such testing is required for certain animal diseases in the U.S. in order to comply with national and international reporting procedures. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) considers SARS-CoV-2 an emerging disease, and therefore USDA must report confirmed U.S. animal infections to the OIE.
Until we know more, CDC recommends the following:
Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
The cats live in two separate areas of New York state. Both had mild respiratory illness and are expected to make a full recovery. SARS-CoV-2 infections have been reported in very few animals worldwide, mostly in those that had close contact with a person with COVID-19.
At this time, routine testing of animals is not recommended. Should other animals be confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the United States, USDA will post the findingsexternal icon. State animal health and public health officials will take the lead in making determinations about whether animals should be tested for SARS-CoV-2.
In the NY cases announced today, a veterinarian tested the first cat after it showed mild respiratory signs. No individuals in the household were confirmed to be ill with COVID-19. The virus may have been transmitted to this cat by mildly ill or asymptomatic household members or through contact with an infected person outside its home.
Samples from the second cat were taken after it showed signs of respiratory illness. The owner of the cat tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the cat showing signs. Another cat in the household has shown no signs of illness.
Both cats tested presumptive positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a private veterinary laboratory, which then reported the results to state and federal officials. The confirmatory testing was conducted at NVSL and included collection of additional samples. NVSL serves as an international reference laboratory and provides expertise and guidance on diagnostic techniques, as well as confirmatory testing for foreign and emerging animal diseases. Such testing is required for certain animal diseases in the U.S. in order to comply with national and international reporting procedures. The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) considers SARS-CoV-2 an emerging disease, and therefore USDA must report confirmed U.S. animal infections to the OIE.
Until we know more, CDC recommends the following:
Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
Tuesday, April 21, 2020
Census Returns - Important For Small County Funding
LABELLE, FL. -- So far the response from Hendry County residents to the 2020 Census Request has been a whopping 27%.
The U S Census is not Border Patrol, IRS, or Child Support Enforcement. However every person counted does bring in approximately $1500 in federal funds to Hendry County.
If we were one of the richer counties in Florida and the United States as we were at one time, we could possibly ignore a reduction in federal funds. Those days are history possibly never to return.
I replied to the request to submit this simple form which asks a lot less than previous Census questionnaires. It did not ask where my parents were born let alone where I was born, if I was a US Citizen, if I was a convicted felon, or a lot of information that people researching family trees love to glean from old Census records -- only available in their entirety for 70 years after the current Census.
Field operations have been delayed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic but will resume once there is a return to normal. Possibly you, a family member, neighbor, or friend might be interested in applying for a job that pays $17 - $24 an hour and 58 cents a mile.
Please share this information as it could make a difference in the lives of Hendry County residents over the next 10 years or longer.
Joe Thomas, President
LaBelle Heritage Museum.
I replied to the request to submit this simple form which asks a lot less than previous Census questionnaires. It did not ask where my parents were born let alone where I was born, if I was a US Citizen, if I was a convicted felon, or a lot of information that people researching family trees love to glean from old Census records -- only available in their entirety for 70 years after the current Census.
Field operations have been delayed due to the COVID-19 Pandemic but will resume once there is a return to normal. Possibly you, a family member, neighbor, or friend might be interested in applying for a job that pays $17 - $24 an hour and 58 cents a mile.
Please share this information as it could make a difference in the lives of Hendry County residents over the next 10 years or longer.
Joe Thomas, President
LaBelle Heritage Museum.
Monday, April 20, 2020
77 Year Old LaBelle Resident Dies Of COVID-19
LABELLE, FL -- The Florida Department of Health has notified Hendry County officials of the first death associated with COVID-19 in Hendry County.
The individual was a 77 year old male resident of LaBelle.
Three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 44. 1 in 95 residents of the county now have the virus. 319 people have been tested, 1 in 129 people in Hendry.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 35 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 82 year old male resident of Clewiston.
33 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
-----------------
UPDATE: There are now 46 cases in Hendry county as of 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 21 including 1 death. 1 in 894 people now have the virus in Hendry.
Two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 46.
The latest confirmed cases are a 42 year old male and a 67 year old male; both are residents of Clewiston.
35 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
------------------------
UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 22 at 6 p.m. eight additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 54.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 60 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 66 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 52 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 86 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 37 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 89 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 2 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 6 year old female resident of Clewiston
43 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 1 in 762 Hendry residents are now positive with the virus.
---------------------------
UPDATE: As of Thursday at 6 p.m., April 23, the Florida Department of Health has notified Hendry County officials of the second death associated with COVID-19 in Hendry County.
The individual was a 96 year old male resident of LaBelle.
Five additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 59. Now 1 in 697 Hendry residents have the virus. Only 379 people have been tested so far in Hendry county.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 54 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 31 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 53 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 42 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 63 year old male resident of Clewiston
47 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
-----------------
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Friday, April 24 there are 64 cases, with 1 in 643 Hendry residents having the virus. (1 in 425 have the virus in Broward county and 1 in 688 for the state of Florida on average.)
Five additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County since yesterday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 64. The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 75 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 67 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 55 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 16 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 45 year old male resident of Clewiston
51 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 11 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
-----------------
The individual was a 77 year old male resident of LaBelle.
Three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 44. 1 in 95 residents of the county now have the virus. 319 people have been tested, 1 in 129 people in Hendry.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 35 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 82 year old male resident of Clewiston.
33 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
-----------------
UPDATE: There are now 46 cases in Hendry county as of 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 21 including 1 death. 1 in 894 people now have the virus in Hendry.
Two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 46.
The latest confirmed cases are a 42 year old male and a 67 year old male; both are residents of Clewiston.
35 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
------------------------
UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 22 at 6 p.m. eight additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 54.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 60 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 66 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 52 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 86 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 37 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 89 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 2 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 6 year old female resident of Clewiston
43 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 1 in 762 Hendry residents are now positive with the virus.
---------------------------
UPDATE: As of Thursday at 6 p.m., April 23, the Florida Department of Health has notified Hendry County officials of the second death associated with COVID-19 in Hendry County.
The individual was a 96 year old male resident of LaBelle.
Five additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 59. Now 1 in 697 Hendry residents have the virus. Only 379 people have been tested so far in Hendry county.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 54 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 31 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 53 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 42 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 63 year old male resident of Clewiston
47 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
-----------------
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Friday, April 24 there are 64 cases, with 1 in 643 Hendry residents having the virus. (1 in 425 have the virus in Broward county and 1 in 688 for the state of Florida on average.)
Five additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County since yesterday, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 64. The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 75 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 67 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 55 year old female resident of LaBelle
· 16 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 45 year old male resident of Clewiston
51 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 11 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation. 2 individuals have died.
-----------------
Contact with a doctor or healthcare provider is still a necessary step to get permission for testing, and then go through a drive through line in Clewiston one morning a week, and similarly one morning in LaBelle.
COVID-19 cases among staff and patients have been found at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation and Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaBelle
Bookmark the following link for automatically updated daily statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida counties: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
Community Support At Blood Drive Saturday
LABELLE FL. -- The blood drive at the Firehouse Community Theatre on Saturday, April 18th had a great turnout with nine people showing up to donate much needed blood donations, reported Bev Rimmer, Account Representative for OneBlood.
"One Blood extends our sincere gratitude to the community," said Rimmer.
Hendry Commission Meets Online April 28
LABELLE, FL. -- The Hendry County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 5pm.
The meeting will be available for viewing via Facebook live stream at www.facebook.com/hendrycounty . Individuals do not need to have a Facebook account in order to view the live stream.
Additionally, interested persons may listen to the meeting over the telephone by calling 877-853-5257 and entering meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. Note, this call-in information is different from the last meeting.
Most of the Commissioners will not be present in the Commission Chambers and will instead participate in the meeting via telephone.
Interested persons may submit any comments regarding agenda items or provide general public comment on non-agenda items via one of the following methods:
· E-comment by filling out the form at the following website: www.hendryfla.net/public_information/bocc_meeting_ecomments.php. Comments will be provided to the Commissioners.
· Call into the meeting at 877-853-5257 and enter meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. The public will be invited to comment before each vote is taken.
Questions and comments via e-comment will be accepted until 12pm (noon) on Tuesday, April 28, 2020.
The agenda for the meeting can be viewed on the Hendry County website - www.hendryfla.net – later this week. The Board may consider items not on the printed meeting agenda.
Please check the Hendry County website – www.hendryfla.net – or contact the Hendry County Public Information Officer, Emily Hunter, via email emily.hunter@hendryfla.net or call 863-675-5304 prior to the meeting for information regarding any potential changes to the meeting.
The meeting will be available for viewing via Facebook live stream at www.facebook.com/hendrycounty . Individuals do not need to have a Facebook account in order to view the live stream.
Additionally, interested persons may listen to the meeting over the telephone by calling 877-853-5257 and entering meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. Note, this call-in information is different from the last meeting.
Most of the Commissioners will not be present in the Commission Chambers and will instead participate in the meeting via telephone.
Interested persons may submit any comments regarding agenda items or provide general public comment on non-agenda items via one of the following methods:
· E-comment by filling out the form at the following website: www.hendryfla.net/public_information/bocc_meeting_ecomments.php. Comments will be provided to the Commissioners.
· Call into the meeting at 877-853-5257 and enter meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. The public will be invited to comment before each vote is taken.
Questions and comments via e-comment will be accepted until 12pm (noon) on Tuesday, April 28, 2020.
The agenda for the meeting can be viewed on the Hendry County website - www.hendryfla.net – later this week. The Board may consider items not on the printed meeting agenda.
Please check the Hendry County website – www.hendryfla.net – or contact the Hendry County Public Information Officer, Emily Hunter, via email emily.hunter@hendryfla.net or call 863-675-5304 prior to the meeting for information regarding any potential changes to the meeting.
Sunday, April 19, 2020
Hendry Virus Cases Explode This Weekend
LABELLE, FL. -- Two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 41.
The latest confirmed cases are a 49 year old female and a 60 year old female; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
The latest confirmed cases are a 49 year old female and a 60 year old female; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
1 in 1000 Henry residents have been tested positive so far, with the likelihood of considerably more testing positive in the next week, even with the small numbers being tested. New York has experienced 1 in 83 residents with the virus and in New York City, 1 in 63.
309 Tests have been given in Hendry county. Contact with a doctor or healthcare provider is still a necessary step to get permission for testing, and then go through a drive through line in Clewiston one morning a week, and similarly one morning in LaBelle.
31 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
31 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 10 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
Hendry county, COVID-19 cases among staff and patients have been found at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation and Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaBelle
Bookmark the following link for automatically updated daily statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida counties: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
Testing, Testing - U.S. Failing On Virus Testing
LABELLE, FL. -- Nations around the world have been testing for the coronavirus now for several months, yet there's a clear discrepancy in the levels of testing among countries that seems to have little to do with the wealth of a nation but perhaps more dependent on politics and the healthcare systems of the various governments.
Testing for COVID-19 by number of tests per 1,000 people:
Iceland 120
United Arab Emirates 77
Malta 53
Luxembourg 53
Bahrain 50
Estonia 30
New York 30
Louisiana 30
Cyprus 27
Norway 26
Switzerland 26
Lithuania 24
Portugal 23
Qatar 22
Israel 22
Italy 22
Germany 21
Austria 20
Spain 20
Ireland 18
Hong Kong 18
New Zealand 18
Australia 17
Denmark 16
Canada 14
Russia 13
Florida 12
USA 11
Michigan 10
Netherlands 9
Sweden 7
France 7
United Kingdom 7
Hendry County, FL 7
Ohio 7
California 6
Texas 6
Glades County, FL 3
Cuba 2
Japan 0.8
Jamaica 0.5
Mexico 0.4
Haiti 0.04
Testing for COVID-19 by number of tests per 1,000 people:
Iceland 120
United Arab Emirates 77
Malta 53
Luxembourg 53
Bahrain 50
Estonia 30
New York 30
Louisiana 30
Cyprus 27
Norway 26
Switzerland 26
Lithuania 24
Portugal 23
Qatar 22
Israel 22
Italy 22
Germany 21
Austria 20
Spain 20
Ireland 18
Hong Kong 18
New Zealand 18
Australia 17
Denmark 16
Canada 14
Russia 13
Florida 12
USA 11
Michigan 10
Netherlands 9
Sweden 7
France 7
United Kingdom 7
Hendry County, FL 7
Ohio 7
California 6
Texas 6
Glades County, FL 3
Cuba 2
Japan 0.8
Jamaica 0.5
Mexico 0.4
Haiti 0.04
Saturday, April 18, 2020
How Iceland Dramatically Cut Down COVID-19 Deaths
LABELLE, FL. -- The country of Iceland with a populations of 135,000 has managed to keep the death toll from the coronavirus to an amazing low nine people.
"The response to the pandemic by Icelandic health authorities has focused on early detection and contact tracing and social distancing measures such as a ban on assemblies of more than 20 persons. As a member of the Schengen area, Iceland is restricting unnecessary travel by persons who are not citizens of the EU, the United Kingdom or the EFTA countries into the area but has not made other formal restrictions against international or domestic travel," reports the Wikipedia article on the country's response to the pandemic.
Health authorities have tested about 1 in every 8 people in the country, compared the the U.S. testing of about 1 in 87 people. As a result of extensive testing in Iceland, 1,760 were tested positive, or about 1 in 208 Icelandic residents having COVID-19, but of those, only three were classified serious or critical, and 1,291 have recovered, and only nine died or 1 in 38,461 people.
This compares to the death rate in the U.S. at 1 death for every 8,547 cases.
So what to be learned is: early detection though testing and tracing all contacts, combined with social distancing and bans on assemblies of groups are probably the best methods to reduce deaths and most likely reduce greatly serious and critical illness in the general public.
"The response to the pandemic by Icelandic health authorities has focused on early detection and contact tracing and social distancing measures such as a ban on assemblies of more than 20 persons. As a member of the Schengen area, Iceland is restricting unnecessary travel by persons who are not citizens of the EU, the United Kingdom or the EFTA countries into the area but has not made other formal restrictions against international or domestic travel," reports the Wikipedia article on the country's response to the pandemic.
Health authorities have tested about 1 in every 8 people in the country, compared the the U.S. testing of about 1 in 87 people. As a result of extensive testing in Iceland, 1,760 were tested positive, or about 1 in 208 Icelandic residents having COVID-19, but of those, only three were classified serious or critical, and 1,291 have recovered, and only nine died or 1 in 38,461 people.
This compares to the death rate in the U.S. at 1 death for every 8,547 cases.
So what to be learned is: early detection though testing and tracing all contacts, combined with social distancing and bans on assemblies of groups are probably the best methods to reduce deaths and most likely reduce greatly serious and critical illness in the general public.
Friday, April 17, 2020
Hendry Drive-Thru Testing Restricts Who Gets One
LABELLE, FL. -- The Florida Department of Health in Hendry County has partnered with Quest Diagnostics to be a collection site for COVID-19 testing. The testing through Quest in Hendry and Glades Counties begins Tuesday, April 21st.
UPDATE: A press release from the Health Department, Saturday, April 18 now says "There are no restrictions for being tested." Note the previous release says "If the resident meets the testing criteria," which indicates that there are at least those restrictions, whatever they may be, for getting tested. We are awaiting a response to if testing criteria must be met and what that criteria may be.
The process to get a test is still very restrictive in that residents must first meet testing criteria as judged by their doctor or healthcare provider. If they meet that criteria they then call the Health Department for an appointment for a drive-through test available only for two hours a week in Clewiston and two hours a week in LaBelle. Note that only 262 tests have been given so far in Hendry county or about 1 in 153 Hendry residents.
· Residents from Hendry and Glades Counties will contact their healthcare provider.
· If the resident meets the testing criteria, the provider will enter an order into their Quest Diagnostics account to create a "requisition" (Not a prescription).
· The requisition will be given to the client.
· The client must call the Health Department for an appointment to be tested.
· Appointments at the Clewiston Health Department will be available on Tuesdays from 10am until noon. (1100 S. Olympia Ave, Clewiston. Phone (863) 983-1408.)
· Appointments at the LaBelle Health Department will be available on Fridays from 10am until noon. (1140 Pratt Blvd, LaBelle. (863) 674-4041)
· Sample collections will be completed confidentially at curbside. (Clients will remain in their vehicles during the sampling process)
· The sample will be sent to a Quest Diagnostics laboratory.
· Test results will be sent to the client's healthcare provider.
· The client will be notified of their test results by the healthcare provider.
To help stop the spread of COVID-19, please remember:
· Stay at home while you wait for your test results
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces
UPDATE: A press release from the Health Department, Saturday, April 18 now says "There are no restrictions for being tested." Note the previous release says "If the resident meets the testing criteria," which indicates that there are at least those restrictions, whatever they may be, for getting tested. We are awaiting a response to if testing criteria must be met and what that criteria may be.
The process to get a test is still very restrictive in that residents must first meet testing criteria as judged by their doctor or healthcare provider. If they meet that criteria they then call the Health Department for an appointment for a drive-through test available only for two hours a week in Clewiston and two hours a week in LaBelle. Note that only 262 tests have been given so far in Hendry county or about 1 in 153 Hendry residents.
· Residents from Hendry and Glades Counties will contact their healthcare provider.
· If the resident meets the testing criteria, the provider will enter an order into their Quest Diagnostics account to create a "requisition" (Not a prescription).
· The requisition will be given to the client.
· The client must call the Health Department for an appointment to be tested.
· Appointments at the Clewiston Health Department will be available on Tuesdays from 10am until noon. (1100 S. Olympia Ave, Clewiston. Phone (863) 983-1408.)
· Appointments at the LaBelle Health Department will be available on Fridays from 10am until noon. (1140 Pratt Blvd, LaBelle. (863) 674-4041)
· Sample collections will be completed confidentially at curbside. (Clients will remain in their vehicles during the sampling process)
· The sample will be sent to a Quest Diagnostics laboratory.
· Test results will be sent to the client's healthcare provider.
· The client will be notified of their test results by the healthcare provider.
To help stop the spread of COVID-19, please remember:
· Stay at home while you wait for your test results
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces
Daily Updates On Florida's COVID-19 Cases
LABELLE, FL. -- Here are the updates from Wednesday though Saturday evening on Hendry county coronavirus cases.
Bookmark this daily link for automatically updated statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
UPDATE: Saturday, April 18, there are now a reported 39 positive cases in Hendry, 51% males and 49% females after 273 total test so far. 67% are black, 31% white, 3% no data aged 11 to 101. 1 in 1,055 people in the county now have the virus. (1 in 65 have the virus in New York City)
Eight additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 39.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 24 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 58 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 96 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 101 year old male resident of Labelle
· 53 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 45 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 38 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 37 year old male resident of Clewiston
32 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
The Health Department reports that in Hendry county, COVID-19 cases among staff and/or patients have been found at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation and Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaBelle
UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 15, three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 26. 22 are from Clewiston, 4 from LaBelle.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 47 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 38 year old female resident of Clewiston.
19 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,592 people in Hendry have the virus so far. 234 persons have been tested.
UPDATE: As of Thursday, April 16, the latest confirmed case, the 27th in Hendry, is a 48 year old male resident of Clewiston. 23 are now from Clewiston, and 4 from LaBelle.
20 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of Friday at 6 p.m. four additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 31. 262 people have been tested.
The latest confirmed cases are a 40 year old female, a 19 year old male, a 33 year old female and a 41 year old female; all individuals are residents of Clewiston.
24 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,327 Hendry county persons now have the virus. By comparison 1 in 69 residents of New York City have COVID-19, 1 in 848 Floridians, and 1 in 529 people in Broward county, Florida.
Bookmark this daily link for automatically updated statistics at noon for Hendry/Glades and Florida: https://swflorida.blogspot.com/2020/04/hendry-county-fl-cases-covid-19.html
UPDATE: Saturday, April 18, there are now a reported 39 positive cases in Hendry, 51% males and 49% females after 273 total test so far. 67% are black, 31% white, 3% no data aged 11 to 101. 1 in 1,055 people in the county now have the virus. (1 in 65 have the virus in New York City)
Eight additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 39.
The latest confirmed cases are as follows:
· 24 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 58 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 96 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 101 year old male resident of Labelle
· 53 year old male resident of LaBelle
· 45 year old male resident of Clewiston
· 38 year old female resident of Clewiston
· 37 year old male resident of Clewiston
32 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
The Health Department reports that in Hendry county, COVID-19 cases among staff and/or patients have been found at Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation and Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in LaBelle
UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 15, three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 26. 22 are from Clewiston, 4 from LaBelle.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 47 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 38 year old female resident of Clewiston.
19 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,592 people in Hendry have the virus so far. 234 persons have been tested.
UPDATE: As of Thursday, April 16, the latest confirmed case, the 27th in Hendry, is a 48 year old male resident of Clewiston. 23 are now from Clewiston, and 4 from LaBelle.
20 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of Friday at 6 p.m. four additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 31. 262 people have been tested.
The latest confirmed cases are a 40 year old female, a 19 year old male, a 33 year old female and a 41 year old female; all individuals are residents of Clewiston.
24 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,327 Hendry county persons now have the virus. By comparison 1 in 69 residents of New York City have COVID-19, 1 in 848 Floridians, and 1 in 529 people in Broward county, Florida.
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
Susan Irene Porter Dies At 58
Susan Irene Porter, 58, a resident of LaBelle, FL and a native of Newfield, NY passed away Saturday, March 28, 2020 at Hope Hospice in Lehigh Acres, FL with her fiancé, David Welstead by her side after a long battle with cancer.
Susan was born September 1, 1961 in Ithaca, NY to Richard and Ida (Jackson) Porter. Susan was a graduate of Newfield Central School and was well known by her classmates and friends for being crowned Miss Newfield in 1978.
She will be remembered by her beautiful long hair and contagious smile. Susan followed in her mother's footsteps and spent many years of her life taking care of others as a Certified Nursing Assistant in private home care and nursing homes.
She was a member of the First Baptist Church of West Danby, NY and began raising her family in Newfield, NY. The summer of 1995 she moved her family to Fort Myers, FL to be closer to her father. Susan had a beautiful voice and spent much of her time bringing joy to others singing in her church choir, at many family celebrations and local karaoke events.
Susan loved to bake and made the best apple pies each Thanksgiving.
She is survived by her fiancé of 9 years David Welstead, two loving daughters Kaleigh Rodden and Keonna Yorkey both of Fort Myers, FL. Four siblings David Porter, Ric Porter, Patricia Burke and Daniel Porter. She is also treasured by her two grandchildren Rosalie and Nolan Lawrence.
She was preceded in death by her mother Ida Jackson Haynes of Spencer, NY and her father Richard Porter of LaBelle, FL.
Due to the current environment in our country a Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a future time.
Burn Ban In Glades County
MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- The Glades County Board of County Commissioners determines that emergency conditions exist in Glades County, which warrants the banning of all outdoor burning as a result of extreme drought and other weather conditions.
The suspended/banned outdoor burning includes burning yard waste, the private use and discharge of fireworks and sparklers, and the use of any other outdoor ignition source.
This burn ban is in effect until cancelled by the Glades County Board of County Commissioners.
You are allowed to BBQ in a grill or container and have small recreational or camp fires if it is in a container as well. Please be aware of your surroundings and environmental factors (wind, dry ground, brush, etc…) and use caution at all times.
Note: This Ban does not affect fires authorized and permitted by the Florida Forest Service. The Florida Forest Service number for burn permits is 863-467-3221.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT BURNING OR WHAT YOU CAN BURN PLEASE CALL GLADES COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY AT 863-946-0566.
The suspended/banned outdoor burning includes burning yard waste, the private use and discharge of fireworks and sparklers, and the use of any other outdoor ignition source.
This burn ban is in effect until cancelled by the Glades County Board of County Commissioners.
You are allowed to BBQ in a grill or container and have small recreational or camp fires if it is in a container as well. Please be aware of your surroundings and environmental factors (wind, dry ground, brush, etc…) and use caution at all times.
Note: This Ban does not affect fires authorized and permitted by the Florida Forest Service. The Florida Forest Service number for burn permits is 863-467-3221.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT BURNING OR WHAT YOU CAN BURN PLEASE CALL GLADES COUNTY PUBLIC SAFETY AT 863-946-0566.
Telehealth Virtual Visits At Hendry Regional Medical
Clewiston, FL – Hendry Regional Medical Center’s clinics in LaBelle and Clewiston now offer telehealth virtual visits with primary care providers.
Patients now have the ease of accessing their healthcare provider from the comfort of their home via their phone or computer. The James D. Forbes Family Care Center in Clewiston and the Hendry Regional Convenient Care Center in LaBelle are accepting patients now for TeleVisits.
TeleVisit is a virtual visit with a physician through a secure site called healow. Patients can call either clinic to secure an appointment. The patient will then be provided with direction on how to access their TeleVisit.
TelevVsit virtual appointments are sent through an email and provide a direct link to the practice. The healow site is supported by all major internet browsers and a microphone and webcam are required for the visit when using a desktop or laptop computer. Individuals can also access their appointment by using their smartphone.
“Hendry Regional continues to incorporate modern technology to provide advanced medical services to our community. The addition of TeleVisits to our clinic locations makes getting in contact with your physician easier and faster,” stated R.D. Williams, CEO.
To schedule appointment at either location:
· Hendry Regional Convenient Care Center – 863-675-2356
· James D. Forbes Family Care Center – 863-983-3434
Patients now have the ease of accessing their healthcare provider from the comfort of their home via their phone or computer. The James D. Forbes Family Care Center in Clewiston and the Hendry Regional Convenient Care Center in LaBelle are accepting patients now for TeleVisits.
TeleVisit is a virtual visit with a physician through a secure site called healow. Patients can call either clinic to secure an appointment. The patient will then be provided with direction on how to access their TeleVisit.
TelevVsit virtual appointments are sent through an email and provide a direct link to the practice. The healow site is supported by all major internet browsers and a microphone and webcam are required for the visit when using a desktop or laptop computer. Individuals can also access their appointment by using their smartphone.
“Hendry Regional continues to incorporate modern technology to provide advanced medical services to our community. The addition of TeleVisits to our clinic locations makes getting in contact with your physician easier and faster,” stated R.D. Williams, CEO.
To schedule appointment at either location:
· Hendry Regional Convenient Care Center – 863-675-2356
· James D. Forbes Family Care Center – 863-983-3434
Tuesday, April 14, 2020
23rd COVID-19 Case In Hendry County, FL
LABELLE, FL. -- One additional case of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 23.
The latest confirmed case is a 77 year old male resident of LaBelle, now with 1 in every 1,789 persons in Hendry tested positive with the virus in a county population of 41,144. Only 225 people have been tested so far, about one test for every 183 persons.
20 cases have been from Clewiston and 3 from LaBelle.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 15, three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 26. 22 are from Clewiston, 4 from LaBelle.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 47 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 38 year old female resident of Clewiston.
19 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,592 people in Hendry have the virus so far. 234 persons have been tested.
UPDATE: As of Thursday, April 16, the latest confirmed case, the 27th in Hendry, is a 48 year old male resident of Clewiston. 23 are now from Clewiston, and 4 from LaBelle.
20 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of Friday at 6 p.m. four additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 31. 262 people have been tested.
The latest confirmed cases are a 40 year old female, a 19 year old male, a 33 year old female and a 41 year old female; all individuals are residents of Clewiston.
24 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,327 Hendry county persons now have the virus. By comparison 1 in 69 residents of New York City have COVID-19, 1 in 848 Floridians, and 1 in 529 people in Broward county, Florida.
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Hendry County officials strongly urge residents to continue following the guidance provided by the CDC and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) along with the Governor’s Safer-At-Home order to slow the spread of COVID-19:
· Remember you are safer at home
· Wash your hands often with soap and water
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces
· If you are sick or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call your medical provider, a local provider or local health department
· If you need to leave your home for essential activities, please wear a cloth mask
CDC guidance on how to make a cloth mask can be found at the following link - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
DOH has launched a survey to help inform and improve the state’s response to COVID-19. Residents are asked to take two minutes to answer the community action survey questions at www.strongerthanc19.com
The latest confirmed case is a 77 year old male resident of LaBelle, now with 1 in every 1,789 persons in Hendry tested positive with the virus in a county population of 41,144. Only 225 people have been tested so far, about one test for every 183 persons.
20 cases have been from Clewiston and 3 from LaBelle.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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UPDATE: As of Wednesday, April 15, three additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 26. 22 are from Clewiston, 4 from LaBelle.
The latest confirmed cases are a 61 year old female resident of LaBelle, a 47 year old female resident of Clewiston and a 38 year old female resident of Clewiston.
19 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,592 people in Hendry have the virus so far. 234 persons have been tested.
UPDATE: As of Thursday, April 16, the latest confirmed case, the 27th in Hendry, is a 48 year old male resident of Clewiston. 23 are now from Clewiston, and 4 from LaBelle.
20 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of Friday at 6 p.m. four additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 31. 262 people have been tested.
The latest confirmed cases are a 40 year old female, a 19 year old male, a 33 year old female and a 41 year old female; all individuals are residents of Clewiston.
24 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 7 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
1 in 1,327 Hendry county persons now have the virus. By comparison 1 in 69 residents of New York City have COVID-19, 1 in 848 Floridians, and 1 in 529 people in Broward county, Florida.
Hendry County officials strongly urge residents to continue following the guidance provided by the CDC and the Florida Department of Health (DOH) along with the Governor’s Safer-At-Home order to slow the spread of COVID-19:
· Remember you are safer at home
· Wash your hands often with soap and water
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces
· If you are sick or think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call your medical provider, a local provider or local health department
· If you need to leave your home for essential activities, please wear a cloth mask
CDC guidance on how to make a cloth mask can be found at the following link - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
DOH has launched a survey to help inform and improve the state’s response to COVID-19. Residents are asked to take two minutes to answer the community action survey questions at www.strongerthanc19.com
United Way Distributes Food To 246 Families In Moore Haven
MOORE HAVEN, FL -- United Way Hendry/Glades staff Greg Gunter and Lisa Sands assisted Harry Chapin Food Bank with a drive thru food distribution today in Glades County.
246 families received much needed shelf-stable food supplies along with frozen meat, fresh bananas and potatoes. This was the first drive thru distribution in Glades County since the COVID-19 pandemic started.
Glades County Public Safety (Angie Colegrove, Heidi White and Marisa Shivers), Glades County Sheriff’s Department (including Sheriff Hardin, Gary Johnson, Donnie Watts and Victor Alvarez), Glades County Road Department (Peggy Higginbotham and Patty Parson), Jamie Brown, Colleen Hardin and the other volunteers assisted in making this a safe, successful distribution to the community. The United Way will be serving the community again in two weeks.
Daily Update COVID-19 Stats For Florida Counties
LABELLE, FL. -- These numbers are updated automatically everyday at approximately noon. Bookmark or save this page to return to it any day to see the current day's numbers.
A statistical look at all the numbers of affected Hendry county COVID-19 cases, with dates of tests and comparison to Florida's overall coronavirus cases. To see even more details, click on any portion of the graphic charts to see more information including numbers for all counties on the Florida map.
A statistical look at all the numbers of affected Hendry county COVID-19 cases, with dates of tests and comparison to Florida's overall coronavirus cases. To see even more details, click on any portion of the graphic charts to see more information including numbers for all counties on the Florida map.
County Recommends Face Coverings In Public
LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry County officials strongly advise all residents to follow all CDC guidelines, including the latest guidance to wear cloth face coverings while in public, to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Residents are urged to continue to stay at home as much as possible.
If you must leave home for essential activities, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, please follow CDC guidance and stay at least 6 feet away from other people and wear a cloth mask using the guidelines below:
Cloth face coverings should—
fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
be secured with ties or ear loops
include multiple layers of fabric
allow for breathing without restriction
be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape; cloth face masks should be washed regularly
Please remember to wash your hands before putting the mask on AND before removing the mask.
According to the CDC, cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.
Residents are urged to continue to stay at home as much as possible.
If you must leave home for essential activities, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, please follow CDC guidance and stay at least 6 feet away from other people and wear a cloth mask using the guidelines below:
Cloth face coverings should—
fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
be secured with ties or ear loops
include multiple layers of fabric
allow for breathing without restriction
be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape; cloth face masks should be washed regularly
Please remember to wash your hands before putting the mask on AND before removing the mask.
According to the CDC, cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.
Glades County Schools Serving Meals - e-Learning Continues
MOORE HAVEN, FL – Moore Haven Elementary and West Glades School joined Moore Haven Middle and Senior High in serving hot meals to Glades County Students. Currently 2 meals per day are made available to all students in the district through delivery or pick-up. The District prepared and delivered 11,250 meals in March.
Additionally, GCSD has completed the 2nd week of e-Learning and is continuing to assist individual families with accessing the internet. Any parents who have issues with connecting to the internet or with using their Chrome books are encouraged to access the “IT Support” link on the District web page: Gladesedu.com.
Glades County School District Superintendent, Kim Jordan beams “I could not be more proud of our staff and entire Glades family for making the first week of E-Learning such a success! Parents and caregivers have stepped up and managed their new role with such grace and patience. For this, I am extremely thankful!”
Additionally, GCSD has completed the 2nd week of e-Learning and is continuing to assist individual families with accessing the internet. Any parents who have issues with connecting to the internet or with using their Chrome books are encouraged to access the “IT Support” link on the District web page: Gladesedu.com.
Glades County School District Superintendent, Kim Jordan beams “I could not be more proud of our staff and entire Glades family for making the first week of E-Learning such a success! Parents and caregivers have stepped up and managed their new role with such grace and patience. For this, I am extremely thankful!”
Saturday, April 11, 2020
Florida Keys' Watercolor by Bob Kranich
Florida Keys' Watercolor - Bob Kranich Stories
Excerpt from Bob Kranich's second full-length book, Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers. Composed of 336 pages and 12 stories running from 6 pages to as many as 72 pages, fully illustrated with 88 watercolors and sketches. The watercolors were made roaming around Key West after Kranich finished a 750 mile hike from Georgia to Key West.
As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys and the Caribbean. The stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich
Stowaway is a cute fictional story about a mischievous little girl who is not happy because her grandfather is called to work on Saturday and can’t take her fishing like he promised. She takes matters into her own hands:As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys and the Caribbean. The stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich
Just then a loud siren went off behind them in the street. A police car with lights flashing went by. When the captain looked down again Robin was nowhere to be seen. She was out on the deck next to the couple. It is possible that even though they were middle-aged they could have been newlyweds on a honeymoon. They did not seem to notice a little girl hanging around them.
This boat they were on was named Full Catch. It was pretty impressive! From front to rear a total of 57 feet, with dual 750 HP each Caterpillar diesel inboard engines, and a flying bridge topping the boat off.
Tall, large, and muscular, Captain Jack had lived in Key West all his life. His parents together with 10-year-old Jack were moved there in 1935 by the U S Navy. His dad, a captain in his own right, commanded many different types of ships to include one of the submarine tender support ships. He was efficient and had all the right connections, so that he served in Key West until after the War, then retired in Key West.
After graduation from high school, Jack worked on many local fishing boats. He was a very thrifty fella and saved up enough money for a down payment on his dream boat and business, Captain Jack’s Deep Sea Fishing. He had been at this the last 10 years and loved every minute of it. Another couple of years and he would own this boat and all the profit would then be his.
Captain Jack climbed up to the flying bridge. He caught one of his two mate’s eyes, nodded and commanded, “Cast off, John.”
Both John and the other helper, Chuck, unwound the ropes holding the boat to the pier and then coiled them back in place. Jack flipped the starters for both engines. Without hesitation they both blasted on with a tremendous roar!
You could hear that hollow echo from the pipes against the water. He carefully eased the boat away from its mooring, slowly turned it around, and gave the two engines a little throttle. Soon they were out of the Garrison Bight and into the channel. To keep in the center of the channel he had to keep the correct channel markers to his port and starboard (left and right).
The Full Catch had to swing out and around the western end of Key West. He had to keep a watch out for fishermen and an occasional Navy ship out from the submarine basin from the U S Naval Station.
Jack’s two crew members moved among their 12 customers showing them chairs to sit in, conversing and tending to the ship’s needs. From his perch high up on the flying bridge Jack could see that all his customers were getting settled.
Jack pushed both throttles forward. The bow of the ship came up and then, from the powerful surge of the two engines, it proceeded to come back down as the rear of the ship came up. The entire ship was leveled out. It was now planing,* moving at a fast clip and cutting the waves smoothly. Jack sure loved this action. He could feel the surge of power. He felt it through his entire body, from his fingers on the throttles to the vibration in the soles of his feet. He felt free...free as a bird, an albatross* to be exact.
With this action it was only about 45 minutes until they were past the Navy yard and on just the Atlantic side of Key West. Captain Jack pulled back on the throttles. The boat slowed and dropped in the water.
Jack came down the ladder, off the bridge.
He announced, “Now folks gather round. We’ve got more than enough fishing rigs for everyone. One per person. My mates, John and Chuck will help you get baited up. Then, we will ease out into the Gulf, and you will let your lines out, and we’ll troll. Try not to get tangled up with anyone. If the person next to you gets a strike, please ease slightly away from them with your rig. Remember every day we get something. It may be good eating such as Mahi-mahi or even a trophy! If you don’t get anything, I give you back half of your money. You will see that Captain Jack and his boys know where the fish are! Now, let the fun begin!”
Jack could see that all the customers were spread out on the sides and rear of the boat, lines out. There was one little problem. It looked like John was having a time outfitting a little girl with a rod and reel. Jack went over to them. Then he remembered...this was the little girl he had seen during loading!
“John, go up on the bridge, take the helm and start a slow troll, I’ll take over here.”
“Aye aye, Cap’n,” John snapped to...and headed for the bridge.
“Now little girl, what’s your name?”
“Robin, Sir,” she looking up at a towering giant.
“Robin, shouldn't you be over with your parents?”
“They're not my parents, Sir,” she said sheepishly, looking down.
“Well, then, just who are you with?” he demanded in a thundering voice.
“No one, Sir...Captain.”
“So we have a stowaway!”
“What’s a stowaway, Sir?”
“Leave the rod and reel here, and come with me.”
“But Sir, I need to fish! My grandpa said that he would take me fishing, but they called him in to the Navy Base to work!”
“Just come with me, we’ll talk about that later.”
They proceeded to climb up to the bridge.
“Just keep it going John, we’ve got a stowaway.”
Friday, April 10, 2020
COVID-19 Testing Expands In Florida
Today, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that, beginning Monday, April 13, three state-run COVID-19 testing sites will have increased capacity and expanded testing criteria.
The three state-supported testing centers that will have expanded capacity beginning Monday are:
Hard Rock Stadium in Miami
Orange County Convention Center
TIAA Bank Field Lot J in Jacksonville
Florida has so far tested more than 162,000 individuals for COVID-19 – or nearly one in every 140 Floridians — and is third in the nation for the total number of tests performed.
Sites will now support testing beyond the original federally mandated limit of 250 tests per day. Additionally, testing criteria will be expanded to include the following:
Anyone with symptoms, regardless of age.
All first responders and health care workers, including any staff members of long-term care facilities.
Anyone who believes they have been in close contact with an individual who has tested positive, even if they are not currently experiencing symptoms.
Under the original, federal criteria, testing at these sites was limited to individuals 65 and older with symptoms and health care workers and first responders.
All first responders and health care workers, including any staff members of long-term care facilities.
Anyone who believes they have been in close contact with an individual who has tested positive, even if they are not currently experiencing symptoms.
Under the original, federal criteria, testing at these sites was limited to individuals 65 and older with symptoms and health care workers and first responders.
The three state-supported testing centers that will have expanded capacity beginning Monday are:
Hard Rock Stadium in Miami
Orange County Convention Center
TIAA Bank Field Lot J in Jacksonville
Florida has so far tested more than 162,000 individuals for COVID-19 – or nearly one in every 140 Floridians — and is third in the nation for the total number of tests performed.
1 in 1,169 Floridians have tested positive for the virus. That is compared to New York City where 1 in 124 people have or have had the virus so far.
15th Coronavirus Case In Hendry County Today
CLEWISTON, FL. -- As of 6 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2020, a 15th case of COVID-19 has been announced in Hendry county now affecting 8 men and 7 women, median age 40. Five have been hospitalized.
The latest two confirmed cases are a 43 year old male and a 72 year old female; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
11 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 4 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Saturday, April 11, a 16th case has been reported, a 46 year old female in Clewiston. 194 people have been tested so far. 1 in 2,572 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus. (1 in 90 have tested positive for the virus in New York City for comparison)
UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 12, a 17th case has been reported in Hendry county. 202 people have been tested. 1 in 2,420 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Sunday, April 12, a 20th case has been reported in Hendry. 10 males and 10 females have tested positive so far, median age 44, in 205 persons tested. 1 in 2,057 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus. (1 in 86 people have tested positive in New York City by comparison and 1 in 662 in Broward County, Florida.
The latest confirmed cases are a 33 year old male resident of Clewiston, a 55 year old female resident of Clewiston, a 64 year old male resident of Clewiston and a 64 year old female resident of LaBelle.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 4 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Monday, April 13 a 21st case has been reported in Hendry, and 5th case in Glades county. And at 6 p.m. Monday, two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 22. 1 in 1,870 people in Hendry have tested positive for the virus.
The latest confirmed cases are an 11 year old male and a 29 year old female; both are residents of Clewiston.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 6 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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The latest two confirmed cases are a 43 year old male and a 72 year old female; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
11 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 4 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Saturday, April 11, a 16th case has been reported, a 46 year old female in Clewiston. 194 people have been tested so far. 1 in 2,572 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus. (1 in 90 have tested positive for the virus in New York City for comparison)
UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 12, a 17th case has been reported in Hendry county. 202 people have been tested. 1 in 2,420 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Sunday, April 12, a 20th case has been reported in Hendry. 10 males and 10 females have tested positive so far, median age 44, in 205 persons tested. 1 in 2,057 people in Hendry have been found positive for the virus. (1 in 86 people have tested positive in New York City by comparison and 1 in 662 in Broward County, Florida.
The latest confirmed cases are a 33 year old male resident of Clewiston, a 55 year old female resident of Clewiston, a 64 year old male resident of Clewiston and a 64 year old female resident of LaBelle.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 4 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Monday, April 13 a 21st case has been reported in Hendry, and 5th case in Glades county. And at 6 p.m. Monday, two additional cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Hendry County, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Hendry County to 22. 1 in 1,870 people in Hendry have tested positive for the virus.
The latest confirmed cases are an 11 year old male and a 29 year old female; both are residents of Clewiston.
16 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 6 individuals have recovered and been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be under isolation.
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Only 176 tests have been given in the county so far. 1 in 2,743 people have or have had the virus in Hendry.
In Glades county only 23 tests have been given with 4 people testing positive, including 3 men and 1 woman, median age 74. Three have been hospitalized including one who died previously. 1 in 3,402 have the virus in Glades.
HOW TO MAKE A FACEMASK: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
In Glades county only 23 tests have been given with 4 people testing positive, including 3 men and 1 woman, median age 74. Three have been hospitalized including one who died previously. 1 in 3,402 have the virus in Glades.
HOW TO MAKE A FACEMASK: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html
Wednesday, April 08, 2020
Obituaries - Nona Timmons, Tony Osceola, Francisca Estrada
Nona Catherine Timmons, age 62, of LaBelle, passed away April 2, 2020 in LaBelle. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
Tony Hank Osceola, age 85, of Clewiston, passed away March 28, 2020 in Weston. He was born July 27, 1934 in Immokalee, FL., to Robert Osceola and Lena Cypress Johns.
Tony Hank Osceola, age 85, of Clewiston, passed away March 28, 2020 in Weston. He was born July 27, 1934 in Immokalee, FL., to Robert Osceola and Lena Cypress Johns.
Survivors include one son: Harry Tommie and two daughters: Earlene Osceola and Mornin Osceola, brother: Billie C. Johns, six grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Private funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at First Baptist Church-Big Cypress, Clewiston with Rev. Salaw Hummingbird officiating. Interment will be in Big Cypress Cemetery, Big Cypress Reservation. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.
Francisca Estrada, age 66, of Clewiston, passed away March 24, 2020 in Weston. She was born June 1, 1953 in Mexico, to the late Palemon and Antolina (Gallegos) Estrada.
Francisca Estrada, age 66, of Clewiston, passed away March 24, 2020 in Weston. She was born June 1, 1953 in Mexico, to the late Palemon and Antolina (Gallegos) Estrada.
Survivors include three sons: Rafael Torres Estrada, Israel Torres Estrada and Juan Roel Torres Estrada, three daughters: Claudia Rocio Torres Estrada, Blanca Patricia Torres Estrada and Mati Juarez, one brother: Antonio Estrada, four sisters: Griselda Trevino Gallegos, Alma Delia Trevino, Ma Rocario Porras Trevino and Arcadio Trevino Gallegos, 22 grandchildren & 4 great grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held Thursday March 26, 2020 at Akin-Davis Funeral Home 438 East Sugarland Hwy Clewiston with Father Giobani Bautista officiating. Interment will be Thursday, March 26, 2020 in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clewiston.
Masks Required To Enter Hospital And Clinics
CLEWISTON, FL. -- Effective immediately Hendry Regional Medical Center (HRMC) is requiring all individuals who enter the hospital or the clinics to wear a cloth mask. In an effort to conserve all personal protection equipment (PPE) for our front line workers HRMC will NOT be able to provide individuals with masks for entry.
This change is in accordance with the CDC recommendation of using cloth face coverings in public to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing while in public remains important to slowing the spread of the virus.
The CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings can be fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.
This change is in accordance with the CDC recommendation of using cloth face coverings in public to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing while in public remains important to slowing the spread of the virus.
The CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings can be fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost.
The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders.
Monday, April 06, 2020
Jeffrey Conrad Dies at 56
Jeffrey A Conrad, age 56, of Clewiston, passed away March 31, 2020 in Clewiston. He was born Aug. 8, 1963 in Waukesha, WI, to the late Albert and Nancy (Kerr) Conrad.
He was a Fleet Mechanic for the City of Clewiston for many years.
Survivors include his wife: Mary (Voelker) Conrad three sons: Shane Conrad, Jamie Conrad and Joel Conrad, three brothers: Daniel, Michael and Brian one sister: Faith Anne 11 grandchildren & 1 great-grandchild
He was preceded in death by his daughter Rachael Memorial Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home.
Five Felons Arrested At County Line
HENDRY COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND PALM BEACH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE TAKE FIVE VIOLENT FELONS OFF THE STREETS
CLEWISTON, FL -- Between the dates of Tuesday, March 24 through Friday March 27, Detectives with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office have been investigating a string of armed robberies which occurred in the Clewiston area. Two victims were shot during theses robberies.
It was learned through the investigation into these robberies, that the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was also working a string of robberies during the time period; with similarities to the robberies occurring in Hendry County. HCSO Detectives were able to identify the same vehicle used in several of these robberies, and is registered to a subject who lives in the Clewiston area.
On Friday March 27, at approximately 8:45 pm, reports were received of an armed robbery that had occurred in the Pahokee area of Palm Beach County. The description of the suspect vehicle was provided and matched the description of our previous reports.
The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Unit, Criminal Investigations Division, K-9 Division, Road Patrol and HCSO Detectives along with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office took positions at the Hendry/Palm Beach County line covering all roads coming into Hendry County.
At approximately 9:50 pm Deputies observed the suspect vehicle entering Hendry County. Deputies quickly surrounded the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop, closing down both eastbound and westbound lanes of traffic on U.S. 27 for approximately thirty (30) minutes.
The stop resulted in the arrest of five (5) violent felons. HCSO Detectives with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office recovered three (3) firearms, Mac 10 handgun, a 40 cal. handgun, and a 9mm handgun along with a stolen cell phone from inside the vehicle.
The following five individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Hendry County Jail.
Three on the individuals - Darquan Dewhawn Balkcom, 19 yrs of age, of Clewiston, Florida, Javon Ja’tavious Jones, of Clewiston, Florida, 19 yrs of age and Jacobie Jones of Pahokee, Florida, 19 yrs of age, were all arrested on charges of Robbery with a Firearm, Attempted Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Firing Missile into a Conveyance, and Use or Display of a Firearm during a Felony and are being held with no bond.
Jacorris Javoris Foreman, of Pahokee, Florida, 16 yrs of age, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Palm Beach County on charges of Robbery with a Firearm and Aggravated Battery. Foreman was transported to DJJ.
Jajuan Hakeem Brown of Pahokee, Florida, 20 yrs of age, arrested on Outstanding Warrant from Palm Beach County for Robbery with a Firearm and Aggravated Battery, also being held with No Bond.
CLEWISTON, FL -- Between the dates of Tuesday, March 24 through Friday March 27, Detectives with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office have been investigating a string of armed robberies which occurred in the Clewiston area. Two victims were shot during theses robberies.
It was learned through the investigation into these robberies, that the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office was also working a string of robberies during the time period; with similarities to the robberies occurring in Hendry County. HCSO Detectives were able to identify the same vehicle used in several of these robberies, and is registered to a subject who lives in the Clewiston area.
On Friday March 27, at approximately 8:45 pm, reports were received of an armed robbery that had occurred in the Pahokee area of Palm Beach County. The description of the suspect vehicle was provided and matched the description of our previous reports.
The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Unit, Criminal Investigations Division, K-9 Division, Road Patrol and HCSO Detectives along with the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office took positions at the Hendry/Palm Beach County line covering all roads coming into Hendry County.
At approximately 9:50 pm Deputies observed the suspect vehicle entering Hendry County. Deputies quickly surrounded the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop, closing down both eastbound and westbound lanes of traffic on U.S. 27 for approximately thirty (30) minutes.
The stop resulted in the arrest of five (5) violent felons. HCSO Detectives with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office recovered three (3) firearms, Mac 10 handgun, a 40 cal. handgun, and a 9mm handgun along with a stolen cell phone from inside the vehicle.
The following five individuals were taken into custody and transported to the Hendry County Jail.
Three on the individuals - Darquan Dewhawn Balkcom, 19 yrs of age, of Clewiston, Florida, Javon Ja’tavious Jones, of Clewiston, Florida, 19 yrs of age and Jacobie Jones of Pahokee, Florida, 19 yrs of age, were all arrested on charges of Robbery with a Firearm, Attempted Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Firing Missile into a Conveyance, and Use or Display of a Firearm during a Felony and are being held with no bond.
Jacorris Javoris Foreman, of Pahokee, Florida, 16 yrs of age, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Palm Beach County on charges of Robbery with a Firearm and Aggravated Battery. Foreman was transported to DJJ.
Jajuan Hakeem Brown of Pahokee, Florida, 20 yrs of age, arrested on Outstanding Warrant from Palm Beach County for Robbery with a Firearm and Aggravated Battery, also being held with No Bond.
9th Hendry Resident Positive For COVID-19
LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry county now has nine people testing positive for Coronavirus, 4 men and 5 women, ages from 28 to 70. The latest two patients diagnosed Sunday, are females aged 40 and 58, both from Clewiston.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, there are now 10 Hendry county cases. Only 155 people have been tested in Hendry. 1 in 4,114 people in Hendry have COVID-19. 1 in 3,402 people in Glades county have COVID-19.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Wednesday April 8 there are now 11 Hendry county cases. 1 in 3,740 people in Hendry have COVID-19. The latest two confirmed cases are a 40 year old female and a 60 year old male; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
8 of the individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 3 individuals have recovered and are no longer required to be under isolation.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Thursday 13 cases have tested positive in Hendry. The latest confirmed cases are a 60 year old male and a 28 year old male; both individuals are residents of Clewiston. Now, 1 in 3,165 people in Hendry have COVID-19.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, there are now 10 Hendry county cases. Only 155 people have been tested in Hendry. 1 in 4,114 people in Hendry have COVID-19. 1 in 3,402 people in Glades county have COVID-19.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Wednesday April 8 there are now 11 Hendry county cases. 1 in 3,740 people in Hendry have COVID-19. The latest two confirmed cases are a 40 year old female and a 60 year old male; both individuals are residents of Clewiston.
UPDATE: As of 6 p.m. Thursday 13 cases have tested positive in Hendry. The latest confirmed cases are a 60 year old male and a 28 year old male; both individuals are residents of Clewiston. Now, 1 in 3,165 people in Hendry have COVID-19.
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Three Hendry residents are now hospitalized. Now, 1 in 4,572 people in Hendry county have the virus. But only 135 persons have been tested so far in Hendry county.
In Glades county only 16 tests have been performed, finding 4 positive. Based on it's population 1 in 3,402 people in Glades have the virus as of today's testing results.
A local TV stations reported today that the Glades county Sheriff is contemplating a curfew in Glades from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m.
Three Hendry residents are now hospitalized. Now, 1 in 4,572 people in Hendry county have the virus. But only 135 persons have been tested so far in Hendry county.
In Glades county only 16 tests have been performed, finding 4 positive. Based on it's population 1 in 3,402 people in Glades have the virus as of today's testing results.
A local TV stations reported today that the Glades county Sheriff is contemplating a curfew in Glades from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m.
Sunday, April 05, 2020
Quarantine Violation Arrests Subject To No Bond
LaBelle, Fla. – On Friday, April 3, 2020, the 20th Judicial Circuit issued a memo in response to COVID19.
The memo states that, “Any person arrested for violating any rule under Fla. Stat. 381.0035, any isolation, or quarantine, or any requirement adopted by the DOH shall be held in custody with a NO BOND HOLD pending First Appearance.”
In the event you are mandated to be quarantined and violate that order, you will be subject to the above mentioned direction.
It is critical to the health and safety of the community that all individuals strongly adhere to any and all guidance provided by the Governor’s Executive Orders.
To view the memo in its entirety, please see the following link: https://www.ca.cjis20.org/pdf/COVID-19_Memo5.pdf
The memo states that, “Any person arrested for violating any rule under Fla. Stat. 381.0035, any isolation, or quarantine, or any requirement adopted by the DOH shall be held in custody with a NO BOND HOLD pending First Appearance.”
In the event you are mandated to be quarantined and violate that order, you will be subject to the above mentioned direction.
It is critical to the health and safety of the community that all individuals strongly adhere to any and all guidance provided by the Governor’s Executive Orders.
To view the memo in its entirety, please see the following link: https://www.ca.cjis20.org/pdf/COVID-19_Memo5.pdf
Saturday, April 04, 2020
Only 111 Coronavirus Tests In Hendry, 13 In Glades
Today, the Florida Department of Health said the state’s most recent milestone in the fight to stop the spread of COVID-19 is the testing of more than 100,000 Floridians. Florida is now the state with the second-highest number of tested individuals, New York testing more individuals, being the epicenter now of the world's largest outbreak of COVID-19.
But, only 111 tests have been given in Hendry county with a population of 41,000, 99 tests in Okeechobee county, and only 13 in Glades county.
The Department has coordinated the establishment and continuing operations of eight state-supported COVID-19 testing sites, located in Florida’s largest communities in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Tampa, and Jacksonville:
The Department has coordinated the establishment and continuing operations of eight state-supported COVID-19 testing sites, located in Florida’s largest communities in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Tampa, and Jacksonville:
The Hard Rock Stadium in Miami
South Dade Government Center in Miami-Dade County
Marlins Stadium in Miami
The Orange County Convention Center
TIAA Bank Field Lot J in Jacksonville
CB Smith Park in Broward County
The FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in Palm Beach County
Raymond James Stadium in Tampa
These eight sites have conducted more than 24,000 tests.
Top Ten States for COVID-19 Testing
New York: 283,621
Florida: 102,108
California: 94,800
Washington: 82,599
New Jersey: 75,356
Pennsylvania: 70,030
Texas: 63,751
Massachusetts: 62,962
Louisiana: 58,498
Illinois: 48,048
South Dade Government Center in Miami-Dade County
Marlins Stadium in Miami
The Orange County Convention Center
TIAA Bank Field Lot J in Jacksonville
CB Smith Park in Broward County
The FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches in Palm Beach County
Raymond James Stadium in Tampa
These eight sites have conducted more than 24,000 tests.
Top Ten States for COVID-19 Testing
New York: 283,621
Florida: 102,108
California: 94,800
Washington: 82,599
New Jersey: 75,356
Pennsylvania: 70,030
Texas: 63,751
Massachusetts: 62,962
Louisiana: 58,498
Illinois: 48,048
Friday, April 03, 2020
SNAP Food Assistance Payment Increased
As directed by Governor Ron DeSantis on March 27, 2020, the Department of Children and Families submitted a federal waiver to temporarily increase all Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients’ benefit amounts to the maximum monthly benefit based on household size.
DCF is actively working to implement increasing benefits to the maximum monthly benefit based on household size for the months of March and April. Clients can expect to receive their additional March funds as early as April 3, 2020.
For April, if you are a client that receives your regular benefit between April 1-7, you can expect to receive your benefit on April 8. If you are a client that receives your regular benefit after April 7, you can expect your additional benefit to be included as a part of your regularly scheduled benefit. Additionally, any new households approved for food assistance will receive the benefits within a week of being approved for benefits. Please note, customers who are already receiving the maximum monthly benefit will not receive an increase. A chart illustrating maximum benefit for household size is provided below for your reference.
DCF is actively working to implement increasing benefits to the maximum monthly benefit based on household size for the months of March and April. Clients can expect to receive their additional March funds as early as April 3, 2020.
For April, if you are a client that receives your regular benefit between April 1-7, you can expect to receive your benefit on April 8. If you are a client that receives your regular benefit after April 7, you can expect your additional benefit to be included as a part of your regularly scheduled benefit. Additionally, any new households approved for food assistance will receive the benefits within a week of being approved for benefits. Please note, customers who are already receiving the maximum monthly benefit will not receive an increase. A chart illustrating maximum benefit for household size is provided below for your reference.
People in Household/Maximum Benefit Amount
1 $194
2 $355
2 $355
3 $509
4 $646
5 $768
6 $921
7 $1,018
8 $1,164
For Each Additional Person +$146
4 $646
5 $768
6 $921
7 $1,018
8 $1,164
For Each Additional Person +$146
5th Positive Hendry COVID-19 Patient
LABELLE, FL. -- A fifth resident of Hendry County has tested positive for COVID-19.
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UPDATE: On Saturday at 11 a.m. April 4, 2020 a sixth Hendry county resident has tested positive. 3 women and 3 men have now tested positive from 111 total persons tested in Hendry. In Okeechobee county, 1 man and 1 woman have tested positive out of 99 total tests. In Broward county 1,792 have tested positive from 15,802 tests and 31 deaths in Broward.
1 in 6,857 Hendry residents now have the virus, while 1 in 1,088 have tested positive in Broward. (1 in 134 people have the virus in New York City)
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UPDATE: At 6 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2020 a 4th person has tested positive in Glades County, Fl.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 5, 2020 a 7th Hendry county resident tested positive. 1 in 5,878 Hendry residents have the virus. The latest two confirmed cases are: the sixth case, a 30 year old male resident of Clewiston and the seventh case, a 34 year old female resident of LaBelle.
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The 5th case is confirmed to be a 38 year old male resident of Clewiston. All 5 individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 2 are hospitalized.
102 persons have been tested so far in Hendry with 2 hospitalized, and 12 have been tested in Glades where 3 are positive including 1 who has died. All were hospitalized.
Hendry County officials strongly urge residents to continue following the guidance provided by the CDC and DOH in order to slow the spread of COVID-19:
· Remember you are safer at home
· Wash your hands often with soap and water
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect surfaces often
· If you are sick, call your medical provider or local health department
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UPDATE: On Saturday at 11 a.m. April 4, 2020 a sixth Hendry county resident has tested positive. 3 women and 3 men have now tested positive from 111 total persons tested in Hendry. In Okeechobee county, 1 man and 1 woman have tested positive out of 99 total tests. In Broward county 1,792 have tested positive from 15,802 tests and 31 deaths in Broward.
1 in 6,857 Hendry residents now have the virus, while 1 in 1,088 have tested positive in Broward. (1 in 134 people have the virus in New York City)
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UPDATE: At 6 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2020 a 4th person has tested positive in Glades County, Fl.
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UPDATE: As of 11 a.m. Sunday, April 5, 2020 a 7th Hendry county resident tested positive. 1 in 5,878 Hendry residents have the virus. The latest two confirmed cases are: the sixth case, a 30 year old male resident of Clewiston and the seventh case, a 34 year old female resident of LaBelle.
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The 5th case is confirmed to be a 38 year old male resident of Clewiston. All 5 individuals who have tested positive in Hendry County are currently under isolation. 2 are hospitalized.
102 persons have been tested so far in Hendry with 2 hospitalized, and 12 have been tested in Glades where 3 are positive including 1 who has died. All were hospitalized.
Hendry County officials strongly urge residents to continue following the guidance provided by the CDC and DOH in order to slow the spread of COVID-19:
· Remember you are safer at home
· Wash your hands often with soap and water
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect surfaces often
· If you are sick, call your medical provider or local health department
Thursday, April 02, 2020
Governor Orders Stay At Home Rule
At the Florida Capitol in Tallahassee, Governor DeSantis announced additional efforts in the state’s response to COVID-19:
Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-91 requiring all persons in Florida to limit their movements and personal interactions outside of their home to only those necessary to obtain or provide essential services or conduct essential activities for 30 days.
This order was issued after consultation with federal officials and in accordance with the recent 30-day extension of national social distancing guidelines for curbing the spread of COVID-19. The order will go into effect midnight Friday, April 3, 2020.
Governor DeSantis directed the Florida Department of Transportation to accelerate transportation projects in Miami-Dade, Tampa, and Orlando areas by 4 to 6 weeks to assist Florida’s economy.
Wednesday, April 01, 2020
Susan Porter Dies At 58
Susan I Porter, age 58, of LaBelle, passed away March 28, 2020 in Lehigh Acres. She was born Sep. 1, 1961 in Ithaca, NY, to the late Richard E and the late Ida Irene (Jackson) Porter.
She worked as a certified nursing assistant for many years. She was a loving mother, fiancée, grandmother, sister who will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
She leaves behind fond memories with her fiancé; David Welstead, daughters; Kaleigh Rodden, Keonna Yorkey, grandchildren; Rosalie Lawrence and Nolan Lawrence, brothers; Daniel Porter, David Porter, Richard Porter, Jr, and sister; Patricia Burke and many extended family members and close family friends.
Cremation arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.
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