COVID Testing Days - Hendry And Glades

LABELLE, FL. --The Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties will provide free COVID-19 Testing. Notices for available testing sites, days and times will be sent out on a weekly basis.

Hendry County Health Department in Clewiston: 1100 S. Olympia
Wednesday June 3 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Hendry County Health Department in LaBelle: 1140 Pratt Blvd
Friday, June 5 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Glades County Health Department in Moore Haven: 1021 Health Park Drive
Monday, June 1st from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Residents of Hendry and Glades Counties can secure an appointment for testing by calling the Hendry County Health Department Clewiston (863) 983-1408, LaBelle (863) 674-4041 or Moore Haven (863) 946-0707

There are no criteria for testing, however, appointments are required and individuals must be 18 years and older. Appointments will not be made more than one week in advance. No same-day appointments will be made. No "walk-ins" accepted. Additionally, anti-body testing will not be available.

This is a "drive-thru" service. All individuals must stay in their vehicles during the process (during registration and while being tested). Persons tested will be notified by phone of their results. Results may take 5 business days.

Other Testing Locations in Hendry County:

Forbes Family Medicine
Address: 500 W Sagamore Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440, Phone: (863) 983-3434

Hendry Regional Medical Center, Address: 524 W Sagamore Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440 Phone: (863) 902-3000

Hendry Convenient Care, Address: 450 S Main St #2, LaBelle, FL 33935, Phone: (863) 675-2356

Florida Community Health Centers, Address: 315 W C Owen Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440
Phone: (863) 983-7813

Steam Locomotive Back Home In Clewiston

CLEWISTON, FL.  – For the first time in more than 50 years, a steam locomotive hauled a train of harvested sugarcane from the field to U.S. Sugar’s mill. To mark the end of U.S. Sugar’s annual harvest and the completion of a multi-year restoration of its 100-year-old steam locomotive known as Engine No. 148, the company called upon the vintage locomotive to haul cane on the last day of the season. The 2019-20 harvest lasted 239 days, and despite drier than normal spring conditions and the global COVID-19 pandemic, was completed safely as scheduled.

Watch a test run of Engine 148 https://vimeo.com/416716272/e9cbbe0610

Watch the Locomotive hauling sugar https://vimeo.com/416716272/e9cbbe0610

Bob Larson commentary on the restored 1920 locomotive https://vimeo.com/416716272/e9cbbe0610

“Seeing No. 148 under steam and back on her home track is a heartwarming sight to see,’’ said Judy Sanchez, Senior Director of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs for U.S. Sugar.

Locomotive No. 148 was built in 1920 by the American Locomotive Company for use on the Florida East Coast Railway. In 1952, the locomotive was sold to U.S. Sugar to haul sugarcane trains from field-to-mill for processing raw sugar. As diesel locomotives became popular, Engine No. 148 was sold by U.S. Sugar into private ownership in the 1960s. The steam engine spent a few years hauling passenger excursions, then it was moved across the country, finally landing in Monte Vista, Colorado. Thanks to the vision of U.S. Sugar CEO Robert H. Buker, Jr., the locomotive was re-purchased by U.S. Sugar in 2016, kick starting this restoration. Railroad mechanical contractor FMW Solutions LLC, working alongside more than two dozen U.S. Sugar employees, completed the restoration of No. 148 in late April.

“U.S. Sugar’s restoration of Engine No. 148 has been a tremendous source of pride for our employees, who have worked tirelessly over the past 4 years to bring this steam engine back to life,” said Bob Lawson, general manager for U.S. Sugar Railroad Operations. “We look forward to the day when we can host members of the public on excursions to share our rich history with railroad enthusiasts, Florida residents and children alike.”

“The pride that U.S. Sugar has in its heritage, and this historic symbol in particular, is something truly exceptional in this day-and-age,” said Shane Meador, FMW Solutions Vice President. “We are honored to have worked with U.S. Sugar to complete the restoration of No. 148 and have been pleased with its performance during recent test runs and yesterday’s historic run.”

To coincide with this momentous occasion, and in support of the expanded mission of operating No. 148, U.S. Sugar is also pleased to announce that it will be operating the steam locomotive under the brand it has dubbed the “Sugar Express.” This new name is in reference both to the locomotive’s heritage at U.S. Sugar and its future role hauling “Express” trains across some of the hundreds of miles of mainline railroad maintained and operated by U.S. Sugar.

To learn more about the steam engine, and to stay up to date, visit SugarExpress.com and follow U.S. Sugar No. 148 on its updated Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SugarExpressFL

Mosquito Control Starts June 1 In Hendry

LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry County's mosquito control contractor, Clarke, will commence ground spraying operations for adult mosquitoes on June 1st utilizing trucks in the areas of Hendry County which are assessed for the Hendry County Mosquito Control Municipal Services Benefit Unit (MSBU). This truck spraying will continue weekly until further notice.

The treatments will be performed during evening hours, weather permitting. The insecticide to treat for adult mosquitoes is approved for application by the Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Florida.

The weekly spray schedule is as follows:

Monday - Everhigh Acres/LaDeca, Flaghole, and Montura Ranch Estates

Tuesday - Captain Hendry Area, Fort Denaud Acres, Ft. Denaud Road, Murray Road, Phillips Road, North LaBelle, and Pioneer Plantation.

Wednesday - Felda, LaBelle Acres (Case and Evans Roads), LaBelle Ranchettes (Alphabet Roads), South SR29, Hookers Point, US 27/CR720 (CR720 Vicinity), and the Port LaBelle Areas of Castleton Acres Subdivision, Country Village, Oak Haven, Tanglewood Oaks, and Vermack Subdivision (Sandalwood Drive).

Thursday - Double J Acres, South LaBelle, and Wheeler Estates.

Friday - will serve as a make-up day for treatments missed due to weather.

Residents who live in these areas, and are assessed for the Hendry County Mosquito Control MSBU services on their property tax bill, should call Clarke at 800-443-2034 between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday through Friday if they have any questions regarding mosquito control.

Residents not included or assessed for the Hendry County Mosquito Control MSBU should contact their respective government or homeowners associations with questions or concerns regarding mosquito control activities:

City of LaBelle (863) 675-2872

Port LaBelle Community Development District (863) 675-5770

Port LaBelle Unit 4 Homeowner’s Association (863) 675-4168

City of Clewiston (863) 983-14714

Residents in the Harlem Community with questions or concerns regarding mosquito control activities should contact the City of Clewiston.

Obituaries - Mary Smth, Mary Williams, Morris Sandefur

Mary Catherine Smith, age 97, of Clewiston, passed away May 27, 2020 in Clewiston. She was born June 6, 1922 in Waycross, GA, to the late Samuel and the late Jessie (Johnson) Palmer. She graduated from Waycross High School in Waycross, Georgia. 

She attended Calvary Baptist Church in Clewiston for many years. She worked as tour guide for United States Sugar Corporation for many years. She married Roy Bradley Smith on December 23, 1945. 

Survivors include one daughter: Trudie (Billy) Willis, granddaughter, Jennifer Whirls; Grandson, Casey Willis; many nieces and nephews. Mary Catherine was preceded in death by her husband; Roy B. Smith who passed on December 23, 2003; sisters and brothers; Paul and Joe Palmer, Doris Waldron and Mamie Solomon. 

Graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 29, 2020 – due to Covid-19 limitations, the service will be limited to 10 people in attendance at Ridgelawn Cemetery. Graveside arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home – Clewiston.

Mary Nadine Williams November 4, 1931 – May 22, 2020 Also know to many as Dean, Mrs. Dean and Mama Dean The doors of heaven were gloriously opened for Mary Nadine Williams of LaBelle on May 22, 2020. 

She was born on November 4, 1931, in Athens, AL, to the late Lucious York and the late Annie Pearl Robertson-York. She was preceded in death by her husband Jessie James Williams, her son Mark Williams, her two brothers Marshall and Nelson York, and her sister Annie Lou Ridgeway. She is survived by her two sons, Ricky Williams (Susan) and Gary Williams (Rose); her daughter-in-law, Diane Williams; her sister, Louise Hurn; her half-sister, Caralyn Rose; her half-brothers, Wayne and Dayle Ridgeway; her nine grandchildren: Angela Taylor, Doug Williams, Garrett Williams, Joy Williams-Barde, Jenna von Frantzius, Jinger Geisler, Crystal Corbitt, Lisa Chapman, and Brian Williams; and 25 great-grandchildren (with two more on the way). 

Mrs. Dean was a beautiful soul inside and out. She was an excellent seamstress, a true home cook, and a dedicated prayer warrior, but her passion was teaching children to read. She spent decades as a kindergarten teacher and principal (1985-2004) at the Community Christian School of Labelle. Her love of teaching went beyond academics as it was always her priority to instill a love for Lord and scripture in each of her students. 

One of her favorite Bible verses was Hebrews 11:6 which says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." In the classroom, Mrs. Dean exercised her faith and sought God as she patiently taught countless children to read. But more importantly, she shared the gospel message of salvation with every student that graced her classroom. 

Now that she is in heaven, the time has come for her diligence to be rewarded. Although she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on through all the lives she has touched. 

Due to COVID-19 guidelines, a private graveside service was held at Ortona Cemetery on Thursday, May 28, 2020 with Pastor James Hunt officiating. Interment followed in Ortona Cemetery, Moore Haven. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home – LaBelle.

Morris M Sandefur, Jr, age 76, of LaBelle, passed away May 20, 2020 in LaBelle. He was born Nov. 26, 1943 in Mishawaka, IN, to the late Morris M and Freeda Arbell Slater Sandefur Sr. 

He retired as a Technician in a Carpet Manufacturing Co. 

Survivors include his wife: Elizabeth (McDaniel) Sandefur two sons: David and Morris three daughters: Shirley, Martha and Barbara, four brothers: Carl, Glen, Cecil and Larry two sisters: Barbara and Janice 12 grandchildren & 6 great grandchildren, Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

337 Now Infected, 2,085 Tested, 12 COVID Deaths

LABELLE, FL. -- As of Tuesday May 26 there are 337 Hendry cases with 2,085 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 122 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

See UPDATES below.

Florida has 52,255 cases or 1 in every 402 people. 35 other states have higher rates of infection. Hendry county has higher rates of infection than 42 states.

The current number of Hendry County residents who have been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be isolated is 40.

Nursing home related cases, about 40% of total cases, had 15 patients at Clewiston Nursing, with 20 more transferred out, and 22 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 6 have the virus, 5 more transferred out, and 4 staff are afflicted. These include 6 deaths from Clewiston Nursing and 5 from Oakbrook in LaBelle.

In Glades county, cases increased to 24 with only 170 tested so far. 1 in 567 residents have the virus, at the current very low rate of testing. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 30 year old male resident from Crescent Acres, a 49 year old female from Moore Haven and 3 additional residents have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 24.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 159 prisoners, or 1 in 12 prisoners, have the virus and also 52 staff. 1,153 inmates are under medical quarantine.

Belle Glade, a hotspot in West Palm Beach county had an increase to 358 cases or 1 in 58 residents, and South Bay with 150 cases or 1 in 33 people.

The Immokalee area, in Collier county has 409 cases, or 1 in 76 residents.

UPDATE: As of Thursday, May 28 there are 354 Hendry cases with 2,133 people tested and 13 deaths. 1 in 116 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 1 in 354 residents on the LaBelle side of the county are infected with 1 in 63 on the Clewiston side.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 160 prisoners, or 1 in 12 prisoners, have the virus and also 53 staff. 1,152 inmates are under medical quarantine.

Belle Glade, a hotspot in West Palm Beach county had an increase to 362 cases or 1 in 57 residents, and South Bay with 182 cases or 1 in 27 people.

The Immokalee area, in Collier county has 472 cases, or 1 in 66 residents.

UPDATE: As of Friday, May 29 there are 387 Hendry cases with 2,261 people tested and 14 deaths. 1 in 106 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

In Glades county, cases increased to 27 and 1 death previously reported, with only 253 tested so far. 1 in 504 residents have the virus, at the current very low rate of testing. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 40 year old male resident from Moore Haven, a 62 year old female from Moore Haven and a 19 year old female from Moore Haven have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 27.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 161 prisoners, or 1 in 12 prisoners, have the virus and also 53 staff. 1,152 inmates are under medical quarantine.

Belle Glade, a hotspot in West Palm Beach county had an increase to 388 cases or 1 in 54 residents, and South Bay with 187 cases or 1 in 27 people.

The Immokalee area, in Collier county has 507 cases, or 1 in 61 residents.

UPDATE: As of Saturday, May 30 there are 405 Hendry cases with 2,399 people tested and 14 deaths. 1 in 102 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

1 in 354 residents on the LaBelle side of the county are infected with 1 in 60 on the Clewiston side.

In Glades county, cases increased to 29 and 1 death previously reported, with only 260 tested so far. 1 in 469 residents have the virus, at the current very low rate of testing. Glades County 

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 161 prisoners, or 1 in 12 prisoners, have the virus and also 53 staff. 1,152 inmates are under medical quarantine.

Belle Glade, a hotspot in West Palm Beach county had an increase to 389 cases or 1 in 53 residents, and South Bay with 195 cases or 1 in 26 people.

The Immokalee area, in Collier county has 550 cases, or 1 in 56 residents.

Florida Keys' Watercolor Kapers by Bob Kranich

The Stowaway, Part 3

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:

Captain Jack picked up a hand microphone and punched a side switch on the radio. “What’s your grandpa’s name, Robin?”

“Norman Kranich,” she said softly.

He spoke into the microphone, “Key West Central, this is Captain Jack’s deep sea fishing boat. Over.”

“We hear you Captain Jack, go ahead. Over.”

“That you Sam? Over.”

“ Yes Jack, what you need? Over.”

“Sam, I’m out on a fishing trip with a bunch of customers, and I’ve got a stowaway. There’s no problem, but can you patch me in to Key West telephone, a Norman Kranich? Over.”

“Sure can, Jack. Just a minute. Over.”

“Hello, Norman Kranich residence, Mrs. Kranich here.”

“Ma’am, this is Key West Central, Ship-to-Shore. Hold on please while I make a connection.”

“This is Key West Central, I have Mrs. Kranich on the line. Go ahead Jack. Over.”

“Mrs. Kranich?”

Yes, speaking.”

“Ma’m, This is Captain Jack of Captain Jack’s Deep Sea Fishing. I have your little granddaughter Robin on my boat. It seems that she stowawayed to go deep sea fishing.”

“Captain, what a shocker!” Robin’s grandmother exclaimed.
“Is she ok?”
"Yes ma'am. I can’t turn around right now. I’m about 3 miles into the Atlantic and working with customers. But we will see you this afternoon at 5:00 at the deep sea fishing docks, Garrison Bight, pier 7.

Captain Jack hollered to his mate, “John, you got the helm, keep trolling. This little girl and I are going to do some fishing.”

They went down the stairs and over to the fishing tackle hanging on the side of the cabin.

“Here Robin, take this rod and reel. Let’s go to the stern, and I’ll bait the hook for you.”

“Robin, this is how you bait the hook with one of these larger cigar minnows like this. There now, throw the line, bait, hook, and sinker in. Let it reel out like this.” He showed her how to let the line out and then flipped on the drag.

“Like this, Captain?” Robin asked enthusiastically.

“Yep, you’re doing good,” the captain said.

No sooner had the line and bait got out about 40 yards, when wham! A strike!

“What do I do?” Robin yelled.

“Hold steady and reel it in,” Jack exclaimed.

Just then a Sailfish broke the surface behind the boat dancing on it’s tail. He could see that it was a real pull for an 8-year-old kid. She was reeling hard.

“It sure is hard to turn,” Robin said. “I don’t think I can hold the rod any more. He is pulling hard!”

“Lay your rod down temporarily against the rail and keep reeling,” he advised. “When the fish stops pulling for a moment we will put the rod in this holder I just put around my waist.” As the fish paused, Captain Jack said, “Quick, Robin, put the rod in the holder. I’ll hold the rod, and you turn the reel.”

All of a sudden, there he was…not a winning trophy, but a good size sailfish. Chuck was right there with the gaff as he hooked the fish and maneuvered it over a net which was hooked to a winch lift. Up and out it came. Robin’s eyes were as big as saucers!

Captain Jack looked around at his admiring fishing customers. He asked, “Anyone not got any fish?”

“Chuck said, “They all got lots of fish! It’s been a successful trip.”

“Well then, it’s time to head in so we can get back by 5:00. Robin and I will take the bridge. John and Chuck, please help the customers with their fish.”

“Let’s go home!”

Grandpa Norman, Grandma Delores, and Sandy had just stepped out of their car. As they went on to the dock they saw Captain Jack’s Full Catch easing up to the pier. They couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw who was on the flying bridge sitting in the captain’s chair waving to them.

As Chuck and John were tying up, Robin yelled, “Grandma, Grandpa, Sandy, come see my sailfish!”

Captain Jack jumped off the boat, shook hands with Grandpa Norman and said, as he tipped his captain’s hat, “Ma'am” to grandma, “Could you stay around a little while, we have some advertising pictures to take.”

A Key West Herald newspaper car came up and a reporter and cameraman jumped out. “Where is that sailfish? Where is that little girl?”

The next morning they saw a banner headline in the Key West newspaper, Sports Section.

Eight-Year-Old Girl Catches 80 lb. Sailfish
With the help of Captain Jack of
“CAPTAIN JACK’S DEEP SEA FISHING”

New COVID Testing Days And Sites Announced

LABELLE, FL. --The Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties will provide free COVID-19 Testing. Notices for available testing sites, days and times will be sent out on a weekly basis.

Hendry County Health Department in Clewiston: 1100 S. Olympia
Wednesday May 27th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Hendry County Health Department in LaBelle: 1140 Pratt Blvd
Friday, May 29th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Glades County Health Department in Moore Haven: 1021 Health Park Drive
Monday, June 1st from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. (Weather permitting)

Residents of Hendry and Glades Counties can secure an appointment for testing by calling the Hendry County Health Department Clewiston (863) 983-1408, LaBelle (863) 674-4041 or Moore Haven (863) 946-0707

There are no criteria for testing, however, appointments are required and individuals must be 18 years and older. Appointments will not be made more than one week in advance. No same-day appointments will be made. No "walk-ins" accepted. Additionally, anti-body testing will not be available.

This is a "drive-thru" service. All individuals must stay in their vehicles during the process (during registration and while being tested). Persons tested will be notified by phone of their results. Results may take 5 business days.

Other Testing Locations in Hendry County:

Forbes Family Medicine
Address: 500 W Sagamore Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440, Phone: (863) 983-3434

Hendry Regional Medical Center, Address: 524 W Sagamore Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440 Phone: (863) 902-3000

Hendry Convenient Care, Address: 450 S Main St #2, LaBelle, FL 33935, Phone: (863) 675-2356

Florida Community Health Centers, Address: 315 W C Owen Ave, Clewiston, FL 33440
Phone: (863) 983-7813

Obituaries - Kessler, Moody, Doyon

Thelma Jean Kessler, age 73, of Moore Haven, passed away May 17, 2020 in Moore Haven. She was born Mar. 14, 1947 in Jasper, OH, to the late Richard and Edna (Clark) Derenburger. Survivors include one daughter: Tammy brother: Ronald Derenburger sister: Connie Sullivan She was predeceased by her son Michael Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Jacqueline A. Moody, age 68, of LaBelle, passed away May 16, 2020 in Lehigh Acres. She was born July 22, 1951 in Beverly, MA, to the late Robert James and Phyllis Ann (McNutt) Moody. 

She is survived by her loving companion Henry Maddox, two sons: Jason A. Kelly and Nicholas Maris Alksnitis, mother: Phyllis Ann (McNutt) Moody, four brothers: Richard James Moody, Lawrence Michael Moody, John Phillip Moody and Robert Paul Moody, three sisters: Doreen A. Martinez, Virginia A. Hughes and Evelyn A. Davis, four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 

Due to COVID-19 guidelines, visitation will be limited to 10 people at a time and the funeral service will be limited to 10 people. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 21, 2020 at 11:00 am at First Baptist Church of LaBelle, LaBelle with Rev. Frank Deerey Jr. officiating. Visitation will be Thursday one hour prior to service at First Baptist Church of LaBelle. In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Jacqueline may be made to the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation, MBC-Found, 12902 Magnolia Dr., Tampa, FL 33612 or moffitt.org/give. Cremation arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

John R Doyon, age 87, passed away at Clewiston hospital on Monday, May 11, 2020. John was born to Saint-Jean de la Lande of Province of Quebec, Canada.on January 10, 1933 to Joseph Doyon and Laura Fortier. 

John is survived by his daughter, Guylaine (Jacques), two grand children Carl (Julie Chartrand), Vincent (Julie Martin) and three great grand children Xavier, Victor & Edouard. He is survived by his brother and sisters, Simone (Benoit Quirion), Solange (Denis Morin), Soeur Louise (Soeur de la Charité St-Louis), Olivette (François Charron), Ghislaine (Leon Beaulieu), Jocelyn (Diane Boyer), and many nieces and nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Laura ),his son Marcel, his brothers and sisters Marie-Rose (Rene Rancourt) ,Henri-Paul (Reine-Ange Giguère), Rene (Louisette Breton), Gilles (Denise Sylvain), Gaetan. A 

Celebration of his life was held Tuesday, on May 19, 2020.

Clewiston COVID Testing Hours Change May 19

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Due to potential weather concerns, the Hendry County Health Department in Clewiston has decided to reschedule this afternoon’s appointments for COVID-19 testing. They will only test from 10am to Noon today. (by appointment only)

There will be NO testing today in Clewiston from 1pm to 3pm..

1,217 people have been tested so far in Hendry county or about 1 in every 34 county residents. 18% of those tested, or 222 people were found to be positive with the virus. 

Free testing is now available at drive-through sites at the Health Departments in Clewiston, LaBelle, and Moore Haven for anyone age 18 or above. Appointments must be made first with the Hendry/Glades Health Department.

Patricia Thomas Reeves Dies At 75

Patricia Thomas Reeves, 75, born Tampa, Florida, June 30, 1944, to Jesse Leo and Bernice (Green) Thomas and died in Lecanto, Florida May 17, 2020. 

Preceded by her parents, husband Robert L. Reeves, grandson Connor Benzon. Survived by her daughter, Dawna Reeves Davis of Dunnellon, FL; grandsons Matthew (Kimberly Givins) Graham of Spring Hill FL, Jacob Benzon of Tampa; great-grandchildren Kolbie and Finley Graham. 

Also survived by brother Michael L (Janet Brown) Thomas of Orlando and sister Jessica (Randy)Hines of Brandon FL, uncle, Dr. Wilbur A Thomas, niece Kimberly (Karl) Cepull of Atlanta GA. 

She will be missed by cousins, Terry Hamilton Wollin, Indian Rocks Beach, and her five Thomas cousins: Alan (Julie), Florence SC, Margie (Karl) Schnelle, Indianapolis IN; Carol (Doug) Dutton, Spartanburg SC;, Ken (Linda), and Susan (Dr. Angus Wilkinson) Thomas, both of Atlanta and best friend Anna Thompson Canterbury of Tampa. 

Pat graduated from H.B.Plant High School in 1962 . A fifth generation Floridian she descended from the John Hamilton Magill (Mary Elizabeth Pettus) and Lewis Norman (Mary Ellen Johnson) Thomas families, pioneer settlers of LaBelle, Florida, and the Elias E Johnson and Nancy Elizabeth Keen families, pioneer settlers of DeSoto County, FL. 

Memorial services will be held at a later date at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle FL. In lieu of flowers donations to Perpetual Care for Pets, P O Box 773548,, Ocala FL 34477, www.perpetualcare.org

Help For Florida Grasshopper Sparrows

In May 2020, the Florida grasshopper sparrow captive breeding and release program achieved an important milestone: researchers have detectedaptive-reared sparrows breeding in the wild and some of these birds have already successfully fledged young.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and partners released captive-reared sparrows into the wild in an effort to boost the existing population. In the past few years, the population of Florida grasshopper sparrows has declined sharply; without intervention, extinction is a real possibility. Surveys in 2019 indicated that only 30 breeding pairs remained in the wild. The multipartner recovery program’s captive breeding and release efforts are part of a broader strategy to avoid extinction of these birds.

Between 2019 and 2020, the FWC and the USFWS released 150 captive-reared Florida grasshopper sparrows, with more releases planned for this year. Field researchers have detected more than 25 captive-reared and released sparrows defending territories, indicating they survived and made the Florida dry prairie their new home. This is just the start of the breeding season but even at this early stage, the proportion of released sparrows that have survived exceeds that observed in many other captive release efforts of similar birds. In addition, researchers have found nests of eight captive-reared sparrows, and parents at two of these nests have successfully fledged young so far.

“The finding that captive-reared sparrows can breed in the wild is a game-changer,” said Juan Oteyza, lead sparrow research scientist at the FWC’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. “This indicates that individuals bred in captivity can supplement wild populations and therefore reduce the risk of extinction.”

"This initial success with captive reared Florida grasshopper sparrows breeding in the wild is a testament to and confirmation of all the hard work our partners and individual scientists have put into this ground-breaking recovery effort for more than a decade. But while this is a major, major milestone, now is not the time to pop the cork on Champagne. It's more so a signal that we must redouble our efforts to keep this momentum going," said Larry Williams, State Supervisor, Florida Ecological Services, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Since 2012 the USFWS, the FWC, and partners, including White Oak Conservation and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida, have dedicated significant financial resources and personnel to the recovery of the Florida grasshopper sparrow. The team developed a 5-year strategic vision to guide management actions, including habitat management, nest protection, research, monitoring, and captive breeding and release. The captive breeding project is funded in part by a grant from the nonprofit Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida via proceeds from the “Conserve Wildlife” license plate. Additional funding is needed to expand captive breeding and to support additional conservation research projects. Concerned citizens who would like to join the effort to save these birds can donate to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida’s sparrow fund at wildlifeflorida.org/funding-priorities.

COVID Over 200 In Hendry County - 12 Deaths

LABELLE, FL -- As of Thursday May 14 there are 176 Hendry cases with deaths rising to 11 with 1,097 people tested; 1 in 234 people in Hendry have the virus with the current testing, a higher rate in infection than all the counties surrounding Hendry.

(Photo: Testing site at LaBelle Health Department parking lot. On Friday morning there were no cars waiting in line for testing, but more should be expected next week.)

Glades county now has 9 testing positive with only 99 people tested so far.  A 55 year old female resident is the most recent to be identified. There has been 1 death among those tested.

UPDATE: As of Friday May 15 there are 180 Hendry cases with 1,060 people tested and 11 deaths. 1 in 229 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

Nursing home related cases, about 40% of total cases, increased to 18 patients at Clewiston Nursing, with 19 more transferred out, and 19 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 7 have the virus, 4 more transferred out, and 7 staff are afflicted. These include 3 deaths from Clewiston Nursing and 2 from Oakbrook in LaBelle, deaths reported a week ago.

Glades county now has 10 testing positive with only 101 people tested; an expected surge with free drive-through testing beginning next week. There has been 1 death among those tested. 

UPDATE: As of Saturday May 16 there are 205 Hendry cases with 1,060 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 201 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

Nursing home related cases, about 40% of total cases, increased to 18 patients at Clewiston Nursing, with 19 more transferred out, and 19 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 7 have the virus, 5 more transferred out, and 8 staff are afflicted. These include an increase to 6 deaths from Clewiston Nursing and increase to 4 from Oakbrook in LaBelle, deaths reported today.

Glades county now has 10 testing positive with only 101 people tested, expecting a surge with free drive-through testing beginning next week. There has been 1 death among those tested. 

UPDATE: As of Sunday May 16 there are 211 Hendry cases with 1,185 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 195 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 68 prisoners, or 1 in 29 prisoners, have the virus and also 50 staff.  883 inmates are under medical quarantine. The Belle Glade area has 269 cases or 1 in 77 residents.

UPDATE: As of Monday May 17 there are 222 Hendry cases with 1,217 people tested and 12 deaths. 183 or about 80% are in the Clewiston area. 1 in 185 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. The current number of Hendry County residents who have been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be isolated is 33.

UPDATE: As of Tuesday May 18 there are 224 Hendry cases with 1,252 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 184 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. The current number of Hendry County residents who have been cleared by the Florida Department of Health and are no longer required to be isolated is 38.

In Glades county the cases increased to 13 with only 117 tested so far. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 69 year old female resident from Buckhead Ridge, a 38 year old male from Crescent Acres, and a 44 year old male from Crescent Acres have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 13.

UPDATE: As of Wednesday May 19 there are 228 Hendry cases with 1,382 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 180 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 

In Glades county the cases increased to 16 with only 128 tested so far. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 49 year old male resident from Moore Haven, and two additional residents from Moore Haven have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 16.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 106 prisoners, or 1 in 18 prisoners, have the virus and also 50 staff.  890 inmates are under medical quarantine. The Belle Glade area has 296 cases or 1 in 70 residents.

UPDATE: As of Thursday May 21 there are 240 Hendry cases with 1,570 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 171 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 

In Glades county the cases increased to 19 with only 139 tested so far. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 33 year old male resident from Moore Haven, a 32 year old female and one additional resident from Moore Haven have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 19.

The Belle Glade hotspot area in West Palm Beach county has an increase to 317 cases or 1 in 66 residents.

UPDATE: As of Friday May 22 there are 240 Hendry cases with 1,631 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 165 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 

In Glades county the cases increased to 19 with only 150 tested so far. Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 33 year old male resident from Moore Haven, a 32 year old female and one additional resident from Moore Haven have tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 19.

Nursing home related cases, about 40% of total cases, had 18 patients at Clewiston Nursing, with 20 more transferred out, and 21 staff with the virus. At Oakbrook in LaBelle, 6 have the virus, 5 more transferred out, and 7 staff are afflicted. These include 6 deaths from Clewiston Nursing and increase to 5 from Oakbrook in LaBelle, as deaths reported today.

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 131 prisoners, or 1 in 15 prisoners, have the virus and also 50 staff.  1,033 inmates are under medical quarantine. The Belle Glade hotspot area in West Palm Beach county has an increase to 320 cases or 1 in 65 residents and South Bay with 150 cases or 1 in 33 people.

UPDATE: As of Sunday May 24 there are 281 Hendry cases with 1,759 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 146 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 

In Glades county the cases increased to 20 with only 154 tested so far. 

Hotspots in the area in nearby Palm Beach county include the South Bay Correctional Facility operated by the GEO Group, Inc. where 147 prisoners, or 1 in 13 prisoners, have the virus and also 51 staff. 

UPDATE: As of Monday May 25 there are 321 Hendry cases with 1,999 people tested and 12 deaths. 1 in 128 people in Hendry have the virus under the current testing. a higher rate of infection than any other county surrounding Hendry county. 

Florida 51,756 cases or 1 in every 406 people and has the highest rates of infection than 15 other states. Hendry county has higher rates of infection than 42 states.

In Glades county the cases increased to 20 with only 163 tested so far. 1 in 680 residents have the virus, at the current low rate of testing.

It may be expected that the numbers will rise dramatically as free "unrestricted" drive-through testing for anyone 18 or older continues in Moore Haven, LaBelle and Clewiston this week for anyone who makes an appointment by calling the county health department. The specimens are sent to a lab in Washington state and results are returned in a few days.

Free COVID Tests In Hendry/Glades With Appointment

MOORE HAVEN, FL.  – The Florida Department of Health in Glades County will provide free COVID-19 Testing in Moore Haven starting Wednesday, May 20, 2020 by appointment only.

Florida Department of Health in Hendry County (DOH-Hendry) will provide free COVID-19 Testing in Clewiston and LaBelle starting Thursday, May 14, 2020 by appointment only.

UPDATE Tuesday May 19: Due to potential weather concerns, the Hendry County Health Department in Clewiston has decided to reschedule the May 19 appointments for COVID-19 testing. Testing will be from 10am to Noon. (by appointment only). There will be NO testing in Clewiston from 1pm to 3pm.

Residents of Hendry County can secure an appointment for testing by calling the Hendry County Health Department Clewiston (863) 983-1408 or LaBelle (863) 674-4041.
Residents of Glades County can secure an appointment for testing by calling the Glades County Health Department (863) 946-0707.

There is no criteria for testing, however, appointments are required and individuals must be 18 years and older. Testing activities will continue as long as supplies last. Appointments will not be made more than one week in advance. Anti-body testing will not be available.

This is a "drive-thru" service. All individuals must stay in their vehicles during the process during registration and while being tested. At the time of testing, instructions will be given on how to receive test results. Results may take 3 to 5 business days.

(Photo: Drive through testing at LaBelle Department of Health parking lot)

Mobile Testing Dates, Times and Location: Reminder, you must have an official appointment to be tested.

Hendry County Health Department - Clewiston 1100 S. Olympia, Clewiston, FL
Tuesdays and Thursdays only from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm.

Hendry County Health Department - LaBelle 1140 Pratt Blvd, LaBelle, FL
Wednesdays and Fridays only from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm.
Glades County Health Department - 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, FL 33471 Starting May 20th - Wednesdays and Fridays only from 10am to noon and 1pm to 3pm.

Should I be tested for COVID-19? Before you decide to make an appointment to be tested for COVID-19, please consider the following:

· Are you ill, or caring for someone who is ill?
· In the two weeks before you felt sick, did you:

Have contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19?

· Do you have any of the following?

Fever or feeling feverish (chills, sweating)
Cough
Sore throat
Muscle aches or body aches
Vomiting or diarrhea
Change in smell or taste

· In the last two weeks have you spent time (visited, worked or volunteered) in a hospital, emergency room, clinic, medical office, long-term care facility or nursing home, ambulance service, first responder services, any health care setting or taken care of patients or someone who has been sick?

· Do you have any of the following conditions?

Chronic lung disease, moderate to severe asthma, or smoking
Serious heart conditions
Weakened immune system (cancer treatment, prolonged use of steroids, transplant or HIV/AIDS)
Severe obesity (Body Mass Index [BMI] greater than or equal to 40)
Underlying conditions (diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease)

Obituaries - Endicott, Clemons, Englebright, Walker

Karol E Endicott, age 65, of Clewiston, passed away May 10, 2020 in West Palm Beach. She was born Apr. 2, 1955 in Carmi, IL, to the late Delmon Leon "Shorty" and Helen Marjory (York) Endicott. 

Survivors include: mother Helen M (York) Endicott two sisters: Kathy Belcher and Karen Alkire She was preceded in death by her sister, Kristy Cochran 

Graveside service will be held Friday, May 15, 2020 at 10:00 am at Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clewiston with Pastor Jeff Smith officiating. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Charles R. Clemons, Sr., age 72, of Moore Haven, passed away May 10, 2020 in Moore Haven. He was born July 19, 1947 in Clewiston, FL, to the late Fred and the late Ruth Clemons. 

Mr. Clemons married Angelus Miller; she survives. Charles was a truck driver for most of his life. He served his country proudly his Country in the United States Army. He loved to fish and spend time with his family and close friends. 

He also leaves behind his children; Sheryl Thomas, Theresa Boring, Ted Ross, Charles R. Clemons, Jr, and Jason Long, thirteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. 

Following the Coronavirus guidelines, a visitation will be held on Monday, May 18, 202 from 4-6 p.m. limited to 10 people in the funeral home at a time, a graveside service will be at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at Fort Denaud Cemetery also limited to 10 people at the graveside. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Larry Ray Englebright, age 70, of LaBelle, passed away May 9, 2020 in LaBelle. He was born Sep. 29, 1949 in Miami, FL, to the late Raymond and Evelyn (Canada) Englebright. 

He was a Master Electrician working with Residential and Commercial Electric. 

Survivors include his wife: Pamela (Elliott) Englebright one son: Chad Raymond Englebright one daughter: Shelly Tigani two sisters: Linda Hooper and Nora Hall 6 grandchildren Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Byron Raybourne Walker, of South Bay, Florida, passed away on May 6, 2020, in Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation, LLC, Clewiston, Florida. Born November 29, 1936, in South Bay, Florida, to Horace Berline Walker and Merble Lucille (Herring) Walker. 

Graduated from Belle Glade High School. Lifelong farmer, cattleman, District Manager for PRIDE of Florida, Plant Planner for Boeing for the Apollo 11 Mission (first man on the moon), Avid Sports Fan. Member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 

Leaves behind children: Byron R. Walker, Jr. and wife, Kay, Plantation, FL. Russell B. Walker and wife, Bea, Lake Placid, FL. Paula W. Luce, and husband, Wayne, Satellite Beach, FL. Eight Grandchildren: Amanda Walker, Plantation, FL., Brandon Walker, Plantation, FL., Jared Walker and wife, Ashley Baxter Walker, Natchitoches, LA., Addison Walker, Lake Placid, FL., Salina Walker, Lake Placid, FL., Aleah Walker, Lake Placid, FL., Jacquelyn Luce Bundy, and husband, Clay, St. George, Utah; and Coley Luce and wife, Mikiele Steinmann Luce, Rexburg, Idaho. Six Great-Grandchildren: Jace Walker, Eli Walker, Roman Bundy, Archer Bundy, Hudson Bundy, Waylon Luce Surviving Siblings: Marsha Walker Trotter, Shady Grove, AL. Neil Berline Walker, Sacramento, CA; and Lisa Walker of Stockton, CA., and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A Graveside Memorial Service conducted by Akin-Davis Funeral Home will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at 11:00 am in Ridgelawn Cemetery, Clewiston, Florida. President Wayne Whitaker, LDS Church, officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope Hospice, 9470 Health Park Circle, Ft. Myers, FL 33908 or donate online at donate.HopeHCS.org

Hendry Health Dept. Warns Avoid Close Contacts

LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry County is currently experiencing a number of COVID-19 outbreak clusters that are a result of close contact environments. Information from the health department's contact tracing process has indicated that some of the cases may be originating from individuals who have traveled outside of Hendry County for work or personal reasons.

Additionally, recent cases are suspected to be originating from individuals who have not been following social distancing guidance given by the CDC and health department.

The Health Department said, "Please note that Hendry County is adjacent to counties that have some of the highest rates of cases in the state, so please take precautions if you must travel to these areas."

(Editor's Comment: Adjacent counties include Broward, Palm Beach, Lee, Collier and Glades county. All of those counties have lower virus cases per person than Hendry, although it is true there are total higher numbers of cases because of much higher populations in all but Glades and Hendry. Thus, it is true you should avoid large crowds or many contacts where populations are more crowded, but it is not true the the other counties have a higher infection rate than Hendry.

The rates of virus per person in those counties are: 1 in 343 (Broward), 1 in 407 (Palm Beach), 1 in 697 (Lee),  1 in 523 (Collier), 1 in 1,944 (Glades), and 1 in 309 persons in Hendry. 

The data suggests that you are most likely to be infected in Hendry county and least likely in Glades county among all those counties. So ironically, it would be more prudent for adjacent counties to avoid contact with Hendry county and not the other way around.)

The breakdown of the outbreak clusters is as follows according the Health Department:

· 69.17% of the cases are known to be linked to other cases
· 34.59% of the cases are within Long Term Care Facilities
· 15.79% of the cases are workplace and family related
· 9.02% of the cases are from association with an out-of-county facility.

(Editor's Comment: The above percentages add up to more than 100% so it is not clear and is confusing what the real percentages are for the four categories listed. It does seem to be true that large populations of people in a limited area are more likely to spread the virus, i.e. Nursing homes, jails and prisons, and crowded living and other work environments. 

The state's data does suggest about one-third of cases are from Nursing homes in Clewiston and LaBelle and it can be speculated that about nine percent are cases associated from the privately operated South Bay Correctional Facility. 

There are 63 prisoners with the virus and 48 staff in the 1,948 prisoner facility or about 1 in every 31 prisoners, making it a "hotspot" in the area. 806 prisoners are under quarantine there. (This paragraph updated as of Wednesday, May 13.)

Additionally, the city of Belle Glade in Palm Beach county is another nearby "hotspot" with about 1 in every 100 residents testing positive with the virus.)

The health departments in Hendry and Glades Counties have been working closely with these groups to stop the spread of COVID-19. Health department actions so far include:

· Epidemiological investigations and contact tracing
· Guidance for Isolation
· Infection control assessments and guidance
· Monitoring and continuous follow up with those affected
· Distribution of personal protective equipment (PPE)
· COVID-19 educational materials in multiple languages
· Industry specific guidance and best practices
· "Clearing" individuals who no longer require isolation

To stop the spread of COVID-19:

· Avoid travel to higher risk areas (areas known to have high numbers of cases) See Editor's Comment Above
· Follow social distancing, even when you are at home and especially if someone in your home is sick
· Stay at home if you are sick, or if you have been around someone who has been sick.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
· Cover your coughs and sneezes
· Clean and disinfect frequently used surfaces

Glades County COVID-19 Updates

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- As of the 11 am Friday, the Department of Health update, Glades County still has 6 confirmed positive cases, 3 of these cases have been cleared by the Department of Health. There has been 83 residents tested.

UPDATE: As of Friday afternoon, May 8 Glades County Public Safety has been notified that a 34 year old female resident from Moore Haven has tested positive for COVID-19. This brings the number of positive cases in Glades County to 7.

If you are in need of emergency services and have any symptoms or have traveled to high impacted areas please let the 911 dispatcher know.

COVID-19 testing is still available for any residents that have been symptomatic (fever 100.4, cough or shortness of breath), recently traveled to high impacted areas, age 65+ with chronic conditions or close contact with a lab confirmed case.

For more information please contact-
• Hendry/Glades Department of Health at 863-946-0707
• Florida Community Health Center in either Clewiston: 863-983-7813 or Okeechobee: 863-763-1951

There has been no changes to the closing of County buildings, all office lobbies are still closed to the public. Drop boxes are still available at the south entrance of the Court House for any business needs.

City Hall’s lobby is open to one customer at a time only. The City parks have reopened.

Please remember that the County has adopted a burn ban at this time. This means that there should be no burning of yard debris or household trash or the discharge of fireworks. The County is currently under a moderate drought and is more vulnerable to wildfires.

Obituaries - Norman Lancaster, Mollie Sampson

Norman F. Lancaster, age 75, of Felda, FL. passed away May 4, 2020 in Felda. He was born Jan. 12, 1945 in Fort Myers, FL, to the late Charles and Susan Addine (Stokes) Lancaster. 

He was a Veteran of the US Army. 

Survivors include two daughters: Louvella Yates and Michelle McNatt A son: Mike Cox one brother: Thomas Lancaster one sister: Virginia Dail 13 Grandchildren & 18 Great Grandchildren He was predeceased by his wife: Janice Lancaster; daughter Glenda Young; brother Bernard Lancaster; sisters Lois Dail and Joyce Shoults. 

Memorial Services are Pending. A full obituary will follow. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Mollie I Sampson, age 74, of Clewiston, passed away May 2, 2020 in Clewiston. She was born July 15, 1945 in Homestead, FL, to the late Lonnie and the late Hattie Mae (Barnes) Sampson. 

Survivors include one daughter: Desire Sampson one sister: Bertha Jackson Grandchild, Marley McGhie Brother Predeceased, Lonnie Sampson Jr Sister Predeceased, Lillie Mae Gainer 

Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Worker Killed In Crash In Glades County

MOORE HAVEN, FL -- On Monday at 12:45 p.m., a vehicle driver age 21 from Okeechobee was southbound on State Road 78. as a 54 year old man from Zephyrhills, working construction and operating a "ride on" equipment used to heat and apply roadway reflectors, was partially in the southbound lane of State Road 78.

The vehicle struck pedestrian and the "ride on" equipment he was working with, then struck the east guardrail and came to rest in the paved apron of State Road 78. Pedestrian was pronounced deceased on scene.

The crash remains under investigation. (Note: The FHP no longer provides names in order to protect a crime victim's identity.)

Country Lane - Photo of the Week

LABELLE, FL. -- Photo by B.A. Whelan; down a quiet country road a dog looks back.