Glades Port LaBelle Water Boil Notice - Mission Lane

(January 31, 2024) – LaBelle, Fla. – A precautionary boil water notice is in effect for Port LaBelle Utility Service users on Mission Lane in Glades County.

The notice is necessary due to a shut off for water pipe repairs.

The precautionary boil water notice will be lifted when satisfactory bacteriological sampling results are obtained. The boil water notice is anticipated to be in effect for 4 days.

A boil water notice does not mean the water is contaminated. As a precaution, it is advised to boil the water for 1 minute before consumption.

Residents with questions or concerns are asked to call 863-675-5376.

3 Vehicle Crash In LaBelle On SR80

 

LABELLE, FL. -- A three vehicle crash in Port LaBelle on State Road 80 at Birchwood Parkway left westbound traffic tied up for hours while the FHP, LaBelle Fire Rescue, and Hendry Sheriff's deputies sorted out the vehicles.

All three vehicles were substantially damaged and tow trucks were on hand to get one crashed truck upright after it rested on it's roof and was lodged in by an SUV.

The FHP is investigating the crash. 

Traffic is back to near normal, with the exception of Birchwood Parkway southbound traffic stalled at the intersection.

Photos by Don Browne

Jared Dwayne Acuff Dies At 38

Obituary of Jared Dwayne Acuff

Jared, age 38, was born on May 1st, 1985, in Fort Myers, Florida and left to be with the Lord, January 22, 2024. Jared is survived by his son, Evan Acuff, his mother Melany (David) Goodwin, father, Dwayne (Debbie) Acuff, sister, Angela (Mike) Chason, Nephews, Justin and Bubba, grandparents,Jerry and JannieAcuff, many aunts, uncles, cousins,and many friends.

Jared loved to fish, play many sports, cook, tinker with motors, and hang with his family and friends. 

Friends and family are invited to celebrate the life of Jared at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024, at the Alva Community Center, 21471 North River Road, Alva, Florida 33920. You are welcome to join family and friends for dinner and fellowship afterwords.

Clewiston Health Fair February 10

Clewiston (January 30, 2024) – Hendry Regional Medical Center announces its upcoming FREE Health Fair, scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 10th, from 10 am to 2 pm at Hendry Regional in Clewiston. This community-focused event aims to provide vital health services and foster a sense of togetherness among the residents of Hendry and Glades counties.

At the heart of this initiative is a commitment to making essential health services accessible to all. The Health Fair will offer an array of complimentary health screenings, including diabetes testing, anemia testing, HIV screening, and blood pressure checks. The Memory Mobile will also be on-site, providing cognitive health assessments to address the diverse healthcare needs of our community.

In collaboration with the Harry Chapin Food Bank, the event will feature a dedicated area offering food assistance to those in need. R.D. Williams, CEO of Hendry Regional, emphasizes the importance of addressing both physical and nutritional well-being: "Our goal is to provide support to the residents of Hendry and Glades counties. By offering not only health services but also collaborating with organizations like the Harry Chapin Food Bank, we aim to address multiple facets of well-being."

The Health Fair goes beyond health services, aiming to create a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. Families can enjoy a variety of activities, including children's bounce houses and interactive programs designed for all age groups. Complimentary food and refreshments will be available throughout the day, enhancing the overall experience for participants.

Hendry Regional invites residents of Hendry and Glades counties to join in this community-wide initiative. The Health Fair not only provides an opportunity for health check-ups but also creates a space for community members to connect, share resources, and build a stronger, healthier community together.

Hendry County Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
01/22/2024 – 01/28/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Yasser Garcia Diaz, 26, Naples was arrested on January 24, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Latoya Latrese Carey, 37, Lehigh Acres was arrested on January 24, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Cieslinski for an Outstanding Felony Warrant

Yasbiel Cabrera, 14, Clewiston was arrested on January 24, 2024, by Det. Sgt. D. McNeil on charges of Intimidation – Sending a Written Threat to Conduct an Act of Terrorism and Use of Two-Way Communication Device to Facilitate a Felony

Martin Gonzalez, 43, LaBelle was arrested on January 25, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Coronilla on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams and Possession of Drug Equipment

John William Chezem, 38, LaBelle was arrested on January 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription, Driving While License Suspended – Habitual Offender, Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams, and Possession of Drug Equipment

Jessica Marie Schaeffer, 41, LaBelle was arrested on January 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Drug Equipment, Possession of Trafficking in Fentanyl, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Yoandry Jardine Chirino, 43, Clewiston was arrested on January 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans for Felony Violation of Probation

William Korliss Jumper, 28, Clewiston was arrested on January 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff R. Loui-Pierre on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

Juan Carlos Perez Montero, 53, Clewiston was arrested on January 26, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on Outstanding Felony Warrant

Sylvia Renee Perez, 37, Immokalee was arrested on January 27, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff R. Bellini on charges of Possession of Drug Equipment, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription, Use/Possession Manufactor Paraphernalia to Transport Drugs and Out of County Warrant

Jose Juan Jimenez Escobedo, 30, LaBelle was arrested on January 27, 2024, by Cpl. L. Drew on charges of DUI, Operating a Motor Vehicle without a Valid Drivers License and Possession of Marijuana under 20/grams

Shomori Keif Butler, 30, Clewiston was arrested on January 27, 2024, by Det. L. Whelpley on charges of Felony Probation Violation, Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill and Aggravated Battery – Causing Bodily Harm

Obituaries - Kitt Maynard, Andrea Celine Burford

Kitt Marie Maynard, age 73, a resident of Felda passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. 

She is survived by her loving family; daughter Pam (Grant) Steelman; son's AJ (Shalli) Maynard and Marc (Sara) Maynard; brother Paul (Tammy) Dorlag; grandchildren Katelyn Steelman, Dallen Steelman, Kitrina Maynard, Kayla (Jarren) Beck, Christina (Kyle) Willman and Christopher (Amber) Maynard; great grandchildren Abigail, Addison, Liam, Miles, Ben and Brycen. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Archie Maynard and a great grandchild Shae Dupree.

Andrea Celine (Mays) Burford

Andrea, age 39, was born on December 21, 1984 in Fort Myers, Florida and passed from this earth into the arms of Jesus on January 21, 2024.

Andrea is survived by her son, Landon Burford, daughter, Mia Burford, stepdaughter, Amber Burford, stepson, Frederick Jefferson Burford III, mother, Beverly (Billy) Cass, father, Donald (Loretta) Mays, grandmother, Thelma Mays, brother, Brandon Mays, sister, Courtney Mays, and aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Being a mother to her children, Landon and Mia, a sister, brother, daughter, and friend was more important than anything in her life. Andrea was the most selfless, giving person. To know her was to love her.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate the life of Andrea at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Alva, 2790 Joel Blvd, Alva, Florida and are welcomed to join friends and family for dinner and fellowship in the adjacent hall.

Fire Engulfs Yacht At River's Edge Motel In LaBelle

LABELLE, FL. --  The Hendry Sheriff's department along with several other Fire Departments, Coast Guard and other first responders were on scene of a boat fire that was reported Saturday night. 

The yacht anchored at the boat ramp located on CR 78, behind the River’s Edge Motel, was reported to be fully engulfed.

The Sheriff's department were "asking that boaters along with spectators stay clear of this area. It is reported there is fuel in the water and first responders are working to contain this area."

Obituaries - Jeffrey Kirk Congleton, Shelly Lynn DeHass Hooey

Jeffrey Kirk Congleton, age 58 years old of Clewiston, Florida passed away on January 23, 2024, in Atlantis, Florida. Kirk was born in Pahokee, Florida on May 22, 1965, to the late Hugh Dean and Sarah Joyce Mills Congleton. 

Kirk married Sharon Ann Wright in Belle Glade, Florida on July 15, 1985. Kirk managed the Clewiston oil well. 

Kirk loved spending time with his family, writing poems, watching Bonanza and Gunsmoke Westerns, Boxing, UFC Fights and Football on TV, riding dirt bikes, watching his sons play baseball, loved fishing with friends. Kirk was a loving caring man who will be dearly missed by his family and friends. 

Kirk leaves fond memories with his loving wife of 38 years, Sharon Congleton of Clewiston, Florida, his two sons: Jeffery Kirk Congleton, Jr. and his wife Lilisa of LaBelle, Florida, Aaron Wade Congleton and his wife Jenny of Moore Haven, Florida, three adorable grandchildren; Emmet, Emilia, and Warren. Kirk also leaves fond memories with his brothers; Jay Congleton and his wife Lori of Belle Glade, Florida, Cory Wilkinson and his wife Alisha of Midville, Georgia, his sister; Julie Congleton - Perez of Murphy, North Carolina, along with many extended family members and close friends. 

Kirk's life will be celebrated on Monday, January 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston, where is nephew Pastor Mitchell Congleton will officiate. A gathering for family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m. 

Cremation arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Shelly Lynn DeHass Hooey age 45 of High Springs, Florida passed away on January 21, 2024. Shelly was born on January 18, 1979, in Hollywood, Florida to the union of David D and Shelly L. Boger DeHass. 

Shelly was a stay-at-home mother raising her five children. She married Robert Hooey. She enjoyed boating, being out in the woods, and spending time with family and friends. Shelly leaves fond memories with her husband, Robert Hooey of High Springs, Florida, her children; Robert Hooey, Elijah Simmons, Joseph Simmons, Isaias Simmons and Lovia Simmons along with her three brothers and one sister. 

Shelly's life will be celebrated on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Big Cypress Indian Reservation Cemetery. 

Celebration arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

From The Glades Property Appraiser's Office

AUTOMATIC EXEMPTION RENEWAL CARDS HAVE BEEN SENT

If you had a property tax exemption or agricultural land classification in 2023, you will receive at least one of the four renewal cards listed below:

The WHITE card is for Homestead Exemption and other related exemptions such as widow, widower, disability, veteran, and senior citizen.

The GREEN card is for Agricultural Land Classification.

The YELLOW card is for property that is being used for tax exempt purposes.

The BLUE card is for Tangible Personal Property valued no more than $25,000.As long as the Tangible Personal Property remains at $25,000 or less, you are not required to file a Tangible Personal Property Return, form (DR405).

If your value exceeds $25,000, you will receive a Tangible Personal Property Tax Return that must be completed and returned.

If you are still eligible for the exemption, do not return the card.

New Property Owners Must Complete New Applications

Did You Know? Many Florida senior citizens are eligible to claim an additional exemption on Homesteaded property. This additional exemption -- which applies only to the County's portion of the taxes could save the average Glades County senior nearly $100 each year in taxes. 

In order to qualify for the Low-Income Senior's Additional Exemption for this year, an applicant must be 65 or older as of January 1 of this year AND have a combined HOUSEHOLD adjusted gross income for last year not exceeding $36,614 (note: this adjusted gross income limitation number is adjusted annually in January to reflect the percentage change in the average cost of living index).

-Lorie Ward, C.F.A.
Glades County Property Appraiser,

Hendry County Sheriff's Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
01/15/2024 – 01/21/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Dalton James Thomas Henderson, 24, North Ft. Myers was arrested on January 15, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of DUI

17-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on January 16, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff E. Vasquez on charges of Felony Battery

Brandhi Latrice Shaw, 38, Clewiston was arrested on January 17, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Coronilla on charges of Felony Fraud and Grand Theft

Bartolo Jimenez, 50, LaBelle was arrested on January 18, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans for Outstanding Felony Warrant

William Grace, IV, 37, Clewiston was arrested on January 18, 2024, by Cpl. S. Rivera on Felony Probation Violation

Rachael Lee Haines, 33, Ft. Myers, was arrested on January 19, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on two counts of Felony Violation of Probation

LeMorris Jacoby Davis, 36, Clewiston was arrested on January 20, 2024, by Cpl. L. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Drug Equipment, Obstruction without Violence, Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription and Tampering with Evidence

Bryan Alexander Laing, 39, Dallas, Texas, was arrested by Cpl. B. Davis on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Free CarFit Event At Civic Center January 24

 LABELLE, FL. -- Free community resource fair to be held at the LaBelle Civic Center tomorrow (January 24th) 9am to 1pm.

Inside the LaBelle Civic Center, community partners will have great information, some free giveaways and refreshments!

Outside, you can choose to have a quick safety check of your vehicle to maximize your safety before you get on the road. 

(CarFit is an educational program developed in collaboration with AAA, AARP and The American Occupational Therapy Association.)

Ronald Looker Guilty In Sexual Battery Case

LaBelle (January 22, 2024) – Ronald Looker was found guilty as charged of Familial or Custodial Sexual Battery. The jury returned the guilty verdict Friday, following a two-day trial in Hendry County.

In October 2020, the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a sex crime complaint in LaBelle and began an investigation. An adult contacted them after learning of past occurred sexual abuse that the defendant had committed on a child victim. The child also disclosed the abuse to school officials who also reported the crime.

The investigation determined a crime had been committed at a residence in LaBelle. The defendant was identified as the perpetrator and arrested.

Assistant State Attorney Evan Chaput prosecuted the case. Sentencing is scheduled for February 20, 2024.

Sailing The Intracoastal Waterway by Bob Kranich

Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers

 by Bob Kranich

This is a new story. Robert’s Best is a sail boat. Grandfather Roberts is going to sail it on the Intracoastal waterway from Texas to Key West, Florida. That will be an adventure. Then his grandchildren and their parents will come to Key West on a visit. There will be a lot of funny happenings until the criminals from a previous story get into action. A side note is that a 1935 antique Chris-Craft Model 557 Cabin Cruiser is going to play an important part in the rest of the story.

Roberts’ Best

The year is 1955. It is the evening meal at the Roberts’ family house-hold. The family lives in a small single-family bungalow just to the west of Houston, Texas. This house is in the town of Alief. It is your typical small Texas town, lots of pickup trucks, cowboys, and boots.

“Daddy, Daddy, can we please turn on the air conditioner? Please, Daddy?”

“Now Sonny, you are correct. It is a bit humid. Tell you what, right after supper we’ll drop all the windows, and turn it on. That will cool it down for sleeping.”

“Daddy, Daddy, can I please visit grandfather Roberts this weekend? I love to sail his boat on the lake. He is teaching me to be a sailor. Besides he always has his air conditioner on! I love it. It’s so cool.”

“Now Harold Junior, just be calm. If your mother says it’s ok, you can go over Saturday morning for the weekend. Let’s go and ask your mother.”

“I heard you two. Yes it will be ok. But Harold you will have to do your homework here or over there,” Mom stated.

“How come he always gets to do everything he wants? What can I do?” Harold’s sister Suzie complained.

“Now, Dear, you and I are going shopping,” her mom added.

I guess you could say that the Roberts’ family was a good old Texas country family. Harold Junior’s dad was a tall and muscular thirty-year-old man. He was clean shaven and had a trim and short haircut. He worked for a local drilling supply. Oil drilling, that is. Sometimes he clerked and took orders, and sometimes he drove a big straight-bed, ten-wheeler delivering pipe and supplies to drilling rigs.

The little lady, Harold Junior’s mom, was short and petite, very pretty, and had shoulder length brown hair. Mary was a couple of years younger than Harold Senior. Then there was Harold Junior’s older sister, Suzie, who Harold loved to tease and aggravate. However, he made sure he did it discreetly. Suzie was ten years old, not too tall, kind of like her mom. Since she was two years older than Harold Junior, she made sure he didn’t forget it. She was blessed with long brown hair, like her mom’s, a style of the times.

Now we come to our star of the story, Harold Junior. A very sharp young fella. Harold was going to take after his daddy. Already at eight, he was as tall as his sister. Even though he was tall, he was thin and scrawny. Harold Junior kept his dark brown hair kind of short, but not a crew cut. He had a little bit to comb, and that away he sometimes had some sticking up in the back.

Saturday morning came soon enough. At the breakfast table:

“Well, Daddy, are we going to go over to Grandpa Roberts? I’ve got my homework done...well almost. But all I've got is some reading, and I can do it on the drive over. Are we going to go?”

Harold Senior looked at Mary over the steaming cup of coffee he was holding in both hands.

She nodded her head yes and said to Harold Senior, “I already called him and he will be looking for you two. Harold Junior, get your reading book and the day-bag of clothes and toiletries I packed for you. Your dad will be going soon, and brush your teeth!”

“See you later, Hon.” Mary said.

The two Harolds went out of the house to Harold Senior’s pride and joy, a 1950 Ford F-150 pickup truck. It was Midnight Black and had reversed Mercury rims on the rear, sporting large tires. He was running Oldsmobile star flippers on the front wheels. The one hundred horsepower engine had been hot rodded up to at least one hundred and twenty-five horsepower. It had high compression Edelbrock aluminum heads, dual carbs, and a three-quarter cam. It would certainly move. Oh, did I mention, dual exhausts.

They drove a couple of miles from the Alief area and got up on the Beltway. Now let’s talk a bit about Houston, Texas, the fourth or fifth largest city in the US, booming because of oil refineries on the east side and a large shipping port there also. Probably also fourth or fifth in the USA for its port. This all made it big and growing.

They drove first north and then the Beltway turned due east. They passed and went over and under bridges everywhere. Houston, Texas also led the nation with its advanced freeways.

After they got to the far northeast corner of the city’s outskirts, they left the Beltway and went a few miles north. They were now in beautiful oak and tall pine wooded country. Then they took a turn into a lake-side development that sold large wooded lots. The more fortunate ones were on Lake Houston.

Now Lake Houston was built in 1953, as the primary water supply for Houston. It was built by damming up the San Jacinto River. Its dimensions are approximately three miles wide by twenty one miles long, running north and south. One branch runs an additional twelve miles due west.

They turned left, drove up a dirt lane, and broke out into a clearing. It was Grandfather Roberts’ lot. On it he had a two-bedroom woodland log cottage. There was a two-car garage right off to the side.

They pulled up and stopped. Harold Senior revved the engine once and then shut it down. As Harold Junior was getting out, he heard a yell coming from down by the water. There standing out on a pier waving was Grandfather Roberts. Harold Junior took off running with Harold Senior walking behind.

They could see that just a short distance off the pier Grandfather Roberts’ sailboat was anchored. The dingy was tied to a post at the dock.

“Hi! Harold Junior, Hi, Son,” Grandfather Roberts welcomed.

“Grandfather, are we going sailing?”

“Now hold your horses, Junior. First things first.”

“Thanks for bringing Junior out, Son. I will bring him back in time for supper tomorrow.”
“That will be great Dad. He’s said he had some schoolwork to do. It’s reading.”


Grandfather Roberts was a little above medium height, and well built for a man of fifty-five. He had an average haircut to his brown hair, not too long or short. He had a shadow of a mustache which was a little darker than the hair on his head. He, too, was into the oil business. An oil engineer at the age of twenty two, the company he worked for had wildcatted by drilling wells and struck it big. Roberts’ stock skyrocketed, and he had retired three years earlier to take care of his ill wife of thirty years, who went on to see the Lord a couple of years later. That is when he downsized by moving from interbeltway, Houston, buying this lot on the lake, and building the cottage. He and his wife had the sailboat docked at a marina at the end of the lake, so he just moved it over here.

“Well, what we plan to do,” said Grandfather Roberts as he put his arm around Harold Junior, “we’ll work some on the sail boat today, and after Sunday school and church tomorrow, we’ll take the boat for a sailing and fishing trip on the lake.”

“Oh, Grandfather, why can’t we go today?” Harold Junior questioned.

“Because we’ve got some work to do on the boat. We’ve got to get it fixed so we can sail. If we have time we’ll take the dingy and fish some around here.”

“Yes, that will be fun, grandfather. But why do we have to go to church and Sunday school?”

“Now Junior, we need to thank the Good Lord for all of our blessings. You know we always do that. Now let’s run along and go inside. Want to stay for some coffee, Son?”

“Just a short cup, Dad. As you know, it’s a fair trip over here, and I’ve got to get some things from the hardware store, and then put them on our house. You also know, the repairs never stop.”

“Tell me about It, Sonny,” Grandfather exclaimed.

From The Author:

My second full-length book , Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers is composed of 336 pages. There are 12 stories running from 6 pages to as many as 72 pages. It is fully illustrated with 88 watercolors and sketches. The watercolors I made roaming around Key West after I finished my 750 mile hike from Georgia to Key West. (See book or Don Browne’s SouthWest Florida Online News records, A Walk Across Florida.) As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys, and the Caribbean. These stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich

Hendry County Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
01/08/2024 – 01/14/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

David Reed Blumenfeld, 56, Clewiston was arrested on January 8, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of DUI

Caleb Billie, 20, LaBelle was arrested on January 8, 2024, by deputy Sheriff J. Goldbert on Felony Out of County Warrant and Felony Failure to Obey LEO orders

17-year-old female, Immokalee was arrested on January 9, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Busbin on out of County Warrant

Brandon Timorris Moorer, 20, Clewiston was arrested on January 8, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on Felony Out of County Warrant

Lazzaro Tyler Corton, 24, Clewiston was arrested on January 9, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Equipment/ Manufacture and Deliver, Possession of Drug Equipment

Cordell Alexander Washington, 36, Clewiston was arrested on January 9, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Busin on charges of Battery on Person Detained in Jail

Roderick Renard Talbert, 32, LaBelle was arrested on January 9, 2024, was arrested by Deputy Sheriff K. Busbin on charges of Aggravated Battery on Person Detain in Jail

Javier Maceda Balderas, 52, LaBelle was arrested on January 9, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff. E. Atkinson on charges of Possession of Burglary Tools with Intent to Use, Criminal Mischief and Trespassing

Ariel Alvarez, 49, Miami, was arrested on January 9, 2024, by Detective E. Morgan on charges of Grand Theft of Motor Vehicle

Alphonso Eugene Neal, 20, Ft. Myers, was arrested on January 10, 2024, by deputy Sheriff H. Ramirez Garcia on charges of Battery on Person Detained in Jail

Joseph Clement Barrow, Jr., 35, LaBelle was arrested on January 10, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Ramirez Garcia on charges of Battery on Person Detained in Jail

Christopher Mejias, 20, Clewiston was arrested on January 10, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rosado on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescriptiopn, Use/Possession/Manufacture Paraphernalia to Transport Drugs, Possession of Drug equipment and Possession of Marijuana under 20 grams

Dennis Austin Perkins, 36, LaBelle was arrested on January 10, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on outstanding warrant for 3 counts of Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill, Felony Warrant for Aggravated Stalking, Felony Warrants for 17 counts of Obstruction of Justice – Tampering in Non-Criminal Procedure, 19 counts of Contempt of Court – Violation of Injunction Procedure and Felony Warrant for Aggravated Stalking

Brandon Reginal Henry, 35, Clewiston was arrested on January 10, 2024, by Cpl. S. Rivera on Felony Violation Probation

Kevin Atkinson, 30, Lewiston was arrested on January 11, 2024, by K9 Deputy L. Dominguez on charges of Aggravated Assault on LEO, Flee & Eluding with Disregard for Safety of Others, Driving While License Suspended/Revoked and Obstruction without Violence

Brandon Reginal Hendry, 35 Clewiston was arrested on January 11, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Goldberg for Felony Violation of Probation

Jesus Alexis Vazquez,32, LaBelle was arrested on January 12, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff. M. Aguirre on charges of Felony out of County Warrant, Felony Probation Violation and Felony Property Damage

Immokalee Hotel Free Tribute Concert April 20

IMMOKALEE, Fla. (Jan. 18, 2024) – Get ready to rock and roll as Nice Guys Production and Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee present Fakefest, an electrifying outdoor tribute concert event featuring some of the best tribute bands in the nation, on Saturday, April 20 from at 2-10:30 p.m. Fakefest also will feature food trucks and craft vendors. Admission and parking are free.

Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band (Tribute to Kid Rock): Kid Kentucky and the American Badass Band embody the spirit and energy of Kid Rock's iconic performances. With a charismatic frontman and a powerhouse ensemble, they deliver a high-octane show that captures the essence of Kid Rock's rebellious rock and roll style.

Hardwired (Tribute to Metallica): Hardwired is a tribute band dedicated to the legendary metal pioneers, Metallica. With precision and passion, they recreate the thunderous sound and electrifying stage presence that Metallica is known for. Brace yourself for a headbanging experience that will transport you back to the golden era of metal.

Lovesong (The Cure Tribute): Lovesong takes you on a nostalgic journey through the haunting and melodic sounds of The Cure. With meticulous attention to detail, they recreate the post-punk and new wave vibes that define The Cure's unique musical landscape, ensuring an immersive experience for fans old and new.

Razors Edge (AC/DC Tribute): For those about to rock, Razors Edge delivers an authentic AC/DC experience that will leave you thunderstruck. With electrifying performances and the iconic riffs that define AC/DC's signature sound, Razors Edge pays tribute to one of the greatest rock bands in history.

The Linkin Park Tribute (Tribute to Linkin Park): The Linkin Park Tribute honors the genre-blending legacy of Linkin Park, seamlessly blending rock, hip-hop and electronic elements. Prepare for an emotional and powerful performance that pays tribute to the late Chester Bennington and the groundbreaking sound of Linkin Park.

Still Alive (Pearl Jam Tribute): Still Alive captures the essence of Pearl Jam's raw and emotional performances. With a dedication to authenticity, they bring to life the timeless grunge sound that defined an era. Get ready to be transported back to the '90s with Still Alive's homage to one of Seattle's most iconic bands.

Big Cypress Indigenous Art Festival February 2-3

BIG CYPRESS RESERVATION, Fla. (January 17, 2024) – “Honoring Our Youth” is the theme for the second annual Indigenous Arts and Music Festival (IAMF), set for February 2-3 on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation.

The event will take place at the Junior Cypress Entertainment Complex from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days.

IAMF will showcase engaging Indigenous speakers and performers from across the U.S. and Canada.

The two-day event will feature musical performances by One Way Sky (Gila River Indian Community and the Tohono O'odham Nation), Testify (Navajo), Chebon Tiger, Under Exile (Shiprock, NM), Supaman (Apsáalooke Nation), the Capybaras, Sage Cornelius, and more.

Daily Native Song and Dance performances will be by Ashaa Takook Bird Song and Dance Group, Youth Apache Crown Dancers, and the “Power of Dance” Dance and Song Troupe.

Choke Cherry Creek will host a fashion show on Saturday. Angela Howe-Parrish of Choke Cherry Creek is a beadwork artist, sewist, fashion designer and business owner. She is an enrolled member of the Apsáalooke (Crow) Nation and a descendant of the Pikuni (Blackfeet) Nation of Montana. By creating contemporary Indigenous fashion, her goal is to utilize the platform of fashion design to occupy spaces where there is a need for representation of Indigenous people.

Choke Cherry Creek’s mission is to inspire the world to see that Indigenous people are beautiful, resilient, rich in culture and are still carrying on their traditions today. Each piece is designed thoughtfully and can be worn by everyone.

Howe-Parrish has been invited to showcase her array of clothing in various places including RES 2022 Las Vegas, New York Fashion Week, the Runway Cultural Series in Denver, and Paris Indigenous Fashion Week.

A panel discussion on Friday will feature Sterlin Harjo (Seminole/Muscogee), an award winning filmmaker from Holdenville, Oklahoma. Now based in Tulsa, Harjo is the co-creator and showrunner of “Reservation Dogs” (FX Productions), a comedy series following four Indigenous teenage friends living on a reservation in Oklahoma. After its first season, “Reservation Dogs” won a 2022 Peabody award, 2022 Television Academy Honors award, 2022 Independent Spirit Award for Best Comedy Series, was an American Film Institute Awards Honoree, and won Best Breakthrough Series under 40 minutes at the 2021 Gotham Awards.

Admission to the event (located at 500 Rodeo Drive, Clewiston, Florida 33440) is free. Other offerings will include Native food, art, crafts, and a carnival.

For the event schedule and details, please visit: https://indigenousamf.com/.

Tony Allen Brooks Dies At 61

Tony Allen Brooks, age 61 of LaBelle, Florida passed away at home on January 13, 2024. Tony was born on April 3, 1962, in South Haven, Michigan to the late Alvie Roy and Mildred Frances Howe Brooks. 

He married Cheryll Ann Smith on April 4, 1987, in LaBelle, Florida. To this union there are two daughters and one stepdaughter. 

Tony worked for many years as a carpenter before becoming disabled and not being able to continue his profession. Tony enjoyed riding motorcycles, shopping for antiques, making jewelry and finding gemstones. He was a member of the American Legion Post 130 of LaBelle. 

Tony enjoyed spending time with his wife and his family, he will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. Tony leaves fond memories with his loving wife; Cheryll Ann Brooks of LaBelle, mother; Mildred Frances Brooks of South Haven, Michigan, Daughters; Danielle Brooks-Jones of Lehigh Acres, April Brooks of LaBelle and Teresa Lampp of Jacksonville. He also leaves behind ten grandchildren and three sisters, Edith Brooks, Tammy Viganski, and Judy Raymond. 

Tony’s life will be celebrated on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Central Church with Pastor Mitchell Wills officiating. Visitation will be one hour before the service also at the church. Tony will be laid to rest at Fort Denaud Cemetery – LaBelle. Celebration of life arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home –LaBelle.

Eric Edwards Promoted At U.S. Sugar

U.S. Sugar Announces Promotion

Clewiston, FL – U.S. Sugar announced today that Clewiston native Eric Edwards, current Vice President, State Governmental Affairs, has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Public Affairs. This promotion is effective immediately.

Edwards will lead all of the company’s governmental affairs efforts, incorporating all public affairs responsibilities in Florida and Washington DC. Additionally, as part of his promotion, Edwards was recently recognized by U.S. Sugar’s Board of Directors as a senior leader in corporate management and business strategy. He first started with U.S. Sugar in 2016.

Throughout his time at U.S. Sugar, Edwards has taken an active role in further establishing U.S. Sugar’s role in the public affairs arena as an industry leader in agriculture as well as land, water and air stewardship. He serves as an active member of the Florida Agriculture Coalition, Florida Land Council, and is an active member of many other statewide and regional business and agricultural organizations. Edwards is a Lifetime Member of Leadership Florida and graduate of the Leadership Florida Connect Class 9. In 2021, INFLUENCE Magazine named Edwards as the “Florida Agriculture Lobbyist of the Year”

Edwards, a seventh generation Floridian, resides in Tallahassee, Florida with his wife Jennifer and their two young children. Edwards is an avid outdoorsman, enjoys golf, and in his personal time, he and his wife spend their time finding ways to support their church and their children’s school in Tallahassee. He is a graduate of Florida State University. Prior to joining U.S. Sugar, he served as Chief Legislative Aide to Florida Senate President Don Gaetz.

Jose Rico Paz Dies At 60

Jose Rico Paz age 60, of Clewiston, Florida passed away at his home on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Jose was born on September 13, 1963 in Mexico to Eugenio and Felicitas Paz Rico Figueroa. 

He married Maria Figueroa. Jose worked for many years as a truck driver. He attended St Margaret Catholic Church along with his wife. 

Jose enjoyed spending time with his family, friends and will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved Jose. 

Jose leaves fond memories with his loving wife, Maria Figueroa of Clewiston, his children; Daniel Rico, Jose Rico, Jr, Ana Rico and Leticia Rico along with four loving grandchildren. 

Jose also leaves memories with his loving siblings; Rosendo Rico Paz, Jesus Rico Paz, Eufemio Rico Paz, Rafael Rico Paz, Alicia Rico Paz, Maria Elena Rico Paz and Ofelia Rico Paz. 

Mass of Christian Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 19, 2024 at St. Margaret Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, January 18, 2024 from 5-7 p.m., at Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston. 

Burial will be in Ridgelawn Cemetery. Mass of Christian Burial arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Meal Fundraiser For Sheriff's Explorer Post January 26

HENDRY COUNTY SHERIFF’S EXPLORER POST – CHICKEN ALFREDO MEAL

LABELLE, FL. -- Hendry County Sheriff’s Explorer Post is hosting a Fundraiser Dinner on January 26, 2024, for pickup only. Drive-thru pickup will be at the LaBelle Fire Department located at 280 S Main St, Labelle, on Friday, January 26, 2024; hours to pick up are between 5:00pm – 8:00pm, donations accepted.

Explorers are selling tickets for a Chicken Alfredo Pasta Meal, with a Side Salad, Garlic Bread and Brownie for $15.00. Please contact an HCSO Explorer or you may reach out to an advisor via email at Explorers@hendrysheriff.org. All proceeds go to the Explorer Post fund for training, competitions, and uniforms.

The Florida Sheriff’s Explorer Association (FSEA) provides a program for kids ages 14–20 offering hands-on training by law enforcement professionals and community advisors to instill values of citizenship and leadership. Young adults are able to learn and experience all aspects of law enforcement and corrections. The goals of FSEA are to educate, foster understanding of law enforcement, and nurture the relationships between youths and their communities.

The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post is funded strictly by donations.

The Florida Sheriffs Association and Florida’s Sheriffs are proud founders of the FSEA.

Earle Davies Wilson Dies At 78

Earle Davies Wilson, Jr age 78 of LaBelle, Florida passed away on January 6, 2024, in Fort Myers, Florida. Earle was born in LaGrange, Georgia on July 25, 1945, to the late Earle Davies and the late Hazel Jones Wilson. 

Earle proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from November 1965 to November 1971, obtaining the rank of Sergeant. He worked as a corrections officer for the state State of Florida for many years after the serving in the military, retiring in 2010. 

He married Nancy D. Minimi in Sunrise, Florida on July 10, 1982. Earle and Nancy were members of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in LaBelle. 

Earle enjoyed hunting, fishing and anything to do with the outdoors. Earle was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother who will be dearly missed by everyone who loved and knew him. 

Earle leaves fond memories with his loving wife; Nancy Wilson of LaBelle, Florida, his children; Alvie McAvoy and her husband Chris and Earle Davies Wilson, III and his wife Alexandra along with two adorable grandchildren; Molly and Emma, Earle also leaves fond memories with his sister Susan Williams and her husband Michael. 

He was pre-deceased by his brother Fredrick Wilson. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 am on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church with burial immediately following in Fort Denaud Cemetery where military rites will be conducted by the United States Marine Corps. 

Visitation will be Monday, January 15, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Mass of Christian Burial arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Hendry Sheriff Deputies' Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
01/01/2024 – 01/07/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Angel Rosales, 27, Lehigh Acres, was arrested on January 1, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Goldberg on charges of DUI and Refusal to Submit

Michael Lee Morris, 45, LaBelle was arrested on January 1, 2024, by Sgt. J. Olvera on charges of Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit Felony

Wykerra Denice Gilkes, 29, Clewiston, was arrested on January 1, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Trespassing

15-year-old, male, was arrested on January 1, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon and Battery

Joe Albert Morris, Jr., 31, LaBelle was arrested on January 3, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Florida Convicted Felony, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Equipment

Wesley William Gray, 35, Moore Haven, was arrested on January 3, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Andrew Lee Pouncy, 33, Clewiston was arrested on January 3, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony Probation Violation and Felony Failure to Appear

Jose Emilio Cristobal, 46, Clewiston was arrested on January 4, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Barrientos on charges of on charges of DUI and DUI with a person under 18 years of in vehicle

Dustin Patrick Moomau, 36, Olathe, KS was arrested on January 4, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff K. Busin on Out of State Fugitive charges

Harrison Bradley Cunningham, 26, LaBelle was arrested on January 4, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Rodriguez on charges of Felony Stalking

Jose Guadalupe Yanes, 21, Clewiston was arrested on January 5, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff E. Atkinson on two counts of Felony Probation Violation

Crystal Ramirez, 32, LaBelle, was arrested on January 6, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff I. Cadena on charges of Vehicle Theft, Leaving the Scene of an Accident, Failure to Register Motor Vehicle and Attached Tag not Assigned

Obituaries - Nerita Joye King, Patricia Helen Peeples

Nerita Joye King, age 80, of Felda, Florida passed away peacefully at home on January 3, 2024.

Nerita was born in Pompano Beach, Florida on May 28, 1943, to the late Richard and the late Ruby Ethel Smith Saxon. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister who will be cherished and remembered for her smile, her kind heart, her generous soul and loving spirit. Nerita enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Nerita leaves fond memories with her children; Arthur N. Ayers, Jr and his wife Annie, Adrian Ayers and his wife Julia, Andrea Ayers and her wife Jodi, Lynne Juarez and her husband Noe, along with seven grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren. Nerita also leaves fond memories with her sisters, Jackie Hunt and Carol Stone.

Nerita will be cremated, and a memorial service will take place at a later date. Cremation arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle

Patricia Helen Peeples

In Loving memory of Patricia Helen (Nana) Peeples. Pat was a fierce loving passionate woman. Who ran her own successful beauty shop for well over 15 years. 

Nana was very beloved by many but especially her 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She spent many years breeding and training dogs for competition dog shows. She enjoyed creating stained glass art. She was known for and sought after for her amazing sewing abilities.

 Nana went to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday the 6th of January surrounded by her loving family.

 She is survived by her children; Ronda Perry (Carl), Kimberly Browning (Clay) and Daniel Sands (Christina) and her 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. 

Graveside service celebrating her life will be held Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at the Pavilion in Ortona Cemetery at 10:00 a.m.

 Burial will be in Ortona Cemetery after the celebration of life service. Celebration arrangements are being handled by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Hendry Commission Meeting Cancelled

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Please be advised that this evening’s regular meeting of the Hendry County Board of County Commissioners scheduled for 6pm in Clewiston has been cancelled due to inclement weather conditions this afternoon and into this evening.

The next regular meeting of the BOCC with be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2024 at 6pm in LaBelle.

Two More Men Charged In January 6 Capitol Breach

NORTH PORT, FL -- Two Florida men are charged in an indictment unsealed today in federal court for the District of Columbia with multiple felonies and misdemeanors related to their conduct during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

In the 35 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,230 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 440 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony.

Tom Vournas, 62, of Bradenton, Florida, and Leonard Lobianco, 52, of North Port, Florida, are named in the indictment and were arrested on Jan. 4, 2024, in Florida by the FBI. The men will make their initial appearance in the Middle District of Florida.

Vournas is charged with felony offenses of civil disorder; obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or ground with a deadly or dangerous weapon and engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon. Vournas is also charged with misdemeanor offenses of disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, acts of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

Lobianco is charged with civil disorder, a felony, and misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

According to the indictment, on Jan. 6, 2021, the men committed and attempted to commit an act aimed at impeding law enforcement officers from performing their official duties during a civil disorder event. In addition, defendant Vournas is alleged to have used a chemical irritant to assault law enforcement officers on the Capitol grounds and allegedly brought the weapon inside the Capitol building.

This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division's Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida.

This case is being investigated by the FBI's Tampa and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Cayman Turtle Schooner By Bob Kranich

Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers
by Bob Kranich

We have one more story after this week's to go in the book, "Florida Keys' Watercolor Kapers".
It is called "Robert's Best". It is a long one, filled with history, education, and adventure.
This story will take you on a sail boat from Galveston, Texas, through the Intercostal Waterway to Key West, Florida. You will pass through New Orleans for a tour there.
Once there, you will learn about the island, experience its architecture, and even learn about a 1935 Chris-Craft cabin cruiser. There will be adventure and intrigue when the criminals from a previous story reappear.

The Cayman Turtle Schooner, (Part 17, Excerpt 85)

This is a story, titled The Cayman Turtle Schooner. This story will tell about the forming and history of the Cayman Islands, the green sea turtle’s habits and life style, the building of a dugout canoe, and then a schooner, and lastly about the historic two-masted turtle schooner, A. M. Adams. Leaving the Cuban shore, they are sighted by a Spanish gunboat. It stops them and takes over their ship. Today is the wrap up of the story.

Suddenly a dark green hump came up right next to Parker. In fact, it actually bumped into him! Instinctively Parker grabbed for it. He didn’t know at first what it was. Then he realized, it’s a green turtle!

Sebastian felt a bump as he surfaced. He was about to take a deep and fast breath when he looked back. It’s a human! How did he get here? Then he had a strange feeling, something in the deep dark confines of his mind. This human looked familiar. Sebastian wasn’t fearful. He just floated there, the human hanging on.

Parker didn’t know what to think, but he continued to hold onto his floating green turtle lifesaver. Then he saw it; on the top of the turtle’s shell was the unusual cross marking.

He said out loud, “It’s Sebastian! I can’t believe it. Thank you Lord.”

Just over the horizon, moving slowly towards this activity was an English Frigate, one of His Majesty’s fighting ships.

“What’s happening, John? Is the Spanish gunboat gone?” The first mate hollered to the man in the crow’s nest who was looking through a large telescope.

“Aye, sir, The gunboat is out of sight. She’s heading due east. That schooner with the Cayman flag was slow to start and still slow to go due west.”

“First Mate, let’s slip in behind the schooner. It looks like they took her as a prize, probably heading to Havana.” The captain commented.

“Aye aye, Sir.” It was a good thing, Sir that you had us drop the tops’ls. That way the Spanish gunboat didn't see us,” the First Mate said.
“We’re not ago’n to let them Spanish take one of our possession’s ships, even if they're breaking the law. Poor devils, probably poaching green turtles, or even worse, dropping off filibusters. Let’s get on with it!” The captain ordered.

“Aye aye, Sir!” the First Mate saluted the captain.

“Ok, men, up all sails. Get those tops’ls back up. Beat to quarters. Everyone on deck. Man your positions,” The First Mate commanded.

They swung around and started on a path to intercept the Cayman schooner. Her Majesty's frigate the Southerland, 24 guns was patrolling the international waters of the Caribbean. Their primary mission was to apprehend any slaving ships trying to get their cargo to a Spanish port. Most of the nations had signed a ‘No Slavery’ pact, but Spain had not. However, accordingly to popular belief, she would soon.

From the crow’s nest, “Sir, there’s something in the water off the starboard beam. It looks like a man next to a green turtle,”

“There he is, Sir, I’ve got him in my sights,” The First Mate said pointing.

“I see him, a man holding on to a large green turtle!” The captain answered. “Head for the man, First Mate. Launch a long boat!”

“Aye aye, Sir!”

Sebastian saw the large ship approaching. He wasn’t going to stay around and be caught. He took a deep breath and dived.

Parker was treading water as the long boat pulled alongside. Strong arms pulled him up into the boat.

On the British frigate, the captain said, “Captain Parker, I don’t want to know what you were up to, off the shore of Cuba. But we’ll have your schooner back shortly.”

Just then the First Mate said, “Captain, we’re ready for your word, Sir.”

“One across her bow, First Mate.”

“Aye aye, Sir. Fire one from the bow chaser across her bow!” The First Mate hollered.

Blam! The gun carriage leaped back from the recoil and was then engulfed in smoke.

The Saint Sebastian’s Spanish flag went down.

“First Mate, take Captain Parker and eight marines. Leave him, and bring those Spaniards back here. We’ll drop them off later. Now as for Captain Parker, I command you to get on your boat, head due south, and back to the Cayman Islands. I don’t want to see you around here again!”

“Yes Sir, and thank you, Sir!” Parker answered.

“You’re welcome. Now Captain Parker, get out of here.”

“Thomas, it’s sure good to be back on the Saint Sebastian, “Let’s head for home...again.” Parker said.

“Aye aye, Sir,” and Thomas said, “Men, full sails!”

As the sails took hold and filled, Parker said under his breath, “I don’t think I’ll go green turtle hunting any more. The Saint Sebastian will have to haul lumber or other goods.”

“What did you say, Sir?” Thomas asked.
“Oh nothing, Thomas. I’ll tell you later.”

From the Author: 

My second full-length book , Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers is composed of 336 pages. There are 12 stories running from 6 pages to as many as 72 pages. It is fully illustrated with 88 watercolors and sketches. The watercolors I made roaming around Key West after I finished my 750 mile hike from Georgia to Key West. (See book or Don Browne’s SouthWest Florida Online News records, A Walk Across Florida.) As you read these stories you will experience Key West, the Keys, and the Caribbean. These stories span the time of the early 1800’s to 1969. bkranich.wixsite.com/bobkranich

LaBelle State Road 29 Workshop January 31

LABELLE, FL. -- The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) invites you to a second Public Workshop for the SR 29 Improvements from County Road (CR) 80A (Cowboy Way) to north of CR 731 (Whidden Road) in Hendry and Glades Counties.

This re-evaluation will evaluate proposed improvements to address traffic operations, access and mobility along SR 29. The second public workshop is being conducted to present changes in design based on stakeholder comments. The workshop will present information about the updated alternatives and provide the opportunity for the public to express their views about the project.

You can participate live online or in-person. The same materials will be displayed at both the online and in-person events.

IN-PERSON OPTION:
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Anytime between 5 -7 p.m.
LaBelle Civic Center
481 Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle, FL 33935

This will include a looping video (no formal presentation) and the project team will be available for discussion.

LIVE ONLINE OPTION:

Register in advance: https://tinyurl.com/SR29PublicWorkshop2
Thursday, February 1, 2024
6 – 7 p.m.

This event will include a viewing of the project video and a live question-and-answer component with the project team. Please review the materials on the project webpage before attending the virtual event (https://www.swflroads.com/project/417878-8). Materials will be posted by January 24, 2024.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, comments can also be provided through the project webpage (https://www.swflroads.com/project/417878-8) or by email (David.Agacinski@dot.state.fl.us) or mail (FDOT District One, Southwest Area Office Attn: David Agacinski, 10041 Daniels Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33913). While comments about the project are accepted at any time, they must be received or postmarked by February 12, 2024, to be included in the formal workshop record. Questions can be answered by calling the FDOT project manager David Agacinski at (239) 225-1924.

A summary of the public workshop will be available on the webpage approximately 30 days following the close of the comment period.

FDOT is sending notices to property owners, business owners, interested persons and organizations within 300 feet of the project to provide the opportunity to give comments to FDOT regarding this project.

FDOT solicits public participation without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, or family status. People who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Cynthia Sykes, District One Title VI Coordinator, at (863) 519-2287, or email at Cynthia.Sykes@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the workshop.

The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried out by FDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. §327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated May 26, 2022 and executed by FHWA and FDOT.

Christopher Worrell Convicted Of U.S. Capitol Assault Charge

Defendant Became a Fugitive to Avoid Sentencing, Triggering a 6-Week Manhunt

FORT MYERS, FL.  – A Naples, Florida man who became a fugitive after he was convicted on felony assault charges for his actions at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, was sentenced today. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

Christopher Worrell, 52, of Naples, Fla., was sentenced to 120 months in prison on multiple felony counts that included assaulting a group of police officers with a deadly and dangerous weapon.

According to court documents, Worrell had been found guilty May 12, 2023, after a bench trial in the District of Columbia during which he perjured himself. On August 14, 2023, four days prior to his previously scheduled sentencing in U.S. District Court, Worrell cut off his GPS ankle monitor in a Walmart parking lot and became a fugitive.

Worrell’s disappearance triggered an FBI manhunt that culminated six weeks later in his arrest at his home in Naples. In addition to an unresponsive Worrell, the FBI also found night-vision goggles, a wallet with approximately $4,000 in cash, and a bag with new camping gear inside. Worrell later admitted that he had faked an opioid overdose upon arrest as a “delay tactic.”

In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth ordered 36 months of supervised release, restitution of $2,000, and a $610 special assessment.

According to the government’s evidence, Worrell plotted his trip to D.C. with other Proud Boys from the “Hurricane Coast” for weeks leading up to January 6, participating in conversations in which the police were called traitors and Proud Boys brainstormed ways to disrupt the certification. Consistent with this planning, on January 6, Worrell wore a tactical vest and carried Sabre Red Maximum Strength Pepper Gel and a large radio.

Intent on obstructing the certification, he did not wait for the former president to call his supporters to the Capitol. Instead, Worrell marched with a larger group of Proud Boys onto Capitol grounds, threatening U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) officers along the way to “honor their oaths” to avoid making the crowd “go against” the officers.

Worrell and other “Zone 5” members from the “Hurricane Coast” Proud Boys chapter breached the restricted perimeter and reached the West Plaza of the Capitol by approximately 1 p.m. Once on Capitol grounds, Worrell filmed himself calling the USCP officers “scum,” “piece[s] of “sh**,” and “commies,” among other expletives and insults.

At about 1:31 p.m., Worrell stepped forward and sprayed pepper gel at a line of police officers trying to defend the Capitol from the mob on the West Plaza. Worrell later bragged that he had “deployed a whole can” and was “f****** handing it to them.” A photojournalist present at the Capitol witnessed Worrell spraying toward the officers and took a photograph that captured the moment.

About 20 minutes later, Worrell’s fellow Zone 5 Proud Boy member and co-defendant, Daniel Scott, shoved two USCP officers who were defending a staircase leading to the Upper West Terrace of the Capitol. Scott’s assaults collapsed the police line, allowing a large group of rioters to make their way up the stairs to the Capitol building, where they became the first group of rioters to break into the building itself. Worrell and other members of Zone 5 celebrated Scott’s assault, with Worrell turning the camera on himself to say: “Yeah! Taking the Capitol!”

Shortly after January 6, Worrell posted to Facebook: “The violence was perpetrated on civil protestors. Not one person was causing harm or inciting violence on those steps!! The Capitol COMMIE Police fired tear gas and flash bangs into a PEACEFUL CROWD!!”

Worrell was arrested on March 12, 2021, in Naples, Florida.

Worrell was found guilty on May 12, 2023, on six felony counts and a misdemeanor that included assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers using a dangerous weapon, obstruction of an official proceeding of Congress, and obstructing, impeding, or interfering with officers during the commission of a civil disorder, entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds with a deadly or dangerous weapon, engaging in physical violence with a deadly or dangerous weapon all felonies, and an act of physical violence in the Capitol Grounds or Buildings, a misdemeanor.

The verdict followed a five-day bench trial before U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth, who commented in reading the verdict that Worrell’s claim that he had been pepper spraying other violent rioters instead of U.S. Capitol Police officers was “preposterous” and that the Worrell’s testimony presented an “unbelievable” and “false narrative” that was “undermined by the contradictions and post-January 6th false statements identified by the government during Mr. Worrell’s cross-examination and the government’s rebuttal case.”

The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.

The case was investigated by the FBI’s Tampa Field Office-Fort Myers Resident Agency and the Sarasota Resident Agency and the Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

In the 35 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,200 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 400 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Truck Crash With 40,000 Pounds Of Chicken

FORT MYERS, FL -- Single semi-truck crash on southbound Interstate 75, at mile marker 124, Lee County at 9:41 am Friday. Semi-truck driver experienced a medical episode, which led to the truck crashing into the wood line. Nearly 40,000 pounds of raw chicken was spilled onto the shoulder / wood line. Semi-truck Driver was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

From the FHP crash report:

Vehicle 1 (semi-truck) driven by 41 year old male from Chapin, SC was traveling south on Interstate 75 in the area of the 124 mile marker.

Driver 1 experienced a medical episode.

Vehicle 1 veered off the roadway, entered the grass shoulder and collided with several trees in the wood line.

Vehicle 1 was hauling nearly 40,000 pound of raw chicken, which spilled onto the shoulder / wood line.

Driver 1 was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

Road Work Next Five Months On Hendry CR78

LABELLE, FL. -- Please be advised that beginning on Monday, January 8, 2024, Hendry County contractor, EHC, Inc. will be commencing road work on County Road 78 from Ft. Denaud Bridge Way to Kirby Thompson Road.

The project will include repairs to the bridge over Jacks Branch.

Motorists should use extra caution when traveling through the work zone.

The project is expected to be complete within 150 days.

The project is being funded by the Florida Department of Transportation for design, construction and construction engineering and inspection (CEI) services associated with the project . CEI Services will be performed by Kisinger Campo & Associates.

Residents or motorists with any questions or concerns can contact the Hendry County Engineering Department at 863-675-5222.

Hendry Sheriff Deputy Arrests This Week

ARREST BLOTTER
12/17/2023 – 12/24/2023

Felony / DUI Arrests

Daniel Ray Crespo, 43, Clewiston was arrested on December 17, 2023, by Deputy O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription, Possession of Drug Equipment and two counts of Misd. Probation Violation

Steven Rodney Marshall, 58, Clewiston was arrested on December 17, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Larry Jenkins, 47, LaBelle was arrested on December 19, 2023, by Cpl. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

17-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 19, 2023, by Deputy Sherr K. Busbin on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Jose Angel Lopez, 27, LaBelle was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff D. Coronilla on charges of Burglary, five counts of Aggravated Battery, five counts of Aggravated Assault with a Weapon, Aggravated Stalking, Hit & Run and five counts of Kidnapping

Wesley William Gray, 35, Moore Haven was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff I. Cadena for Felony Probation Violation and Misdemeanor Failure to Appear

Salena Maria Perez, 28, Immokalee was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo for Felony Failure to Appear

Hector Ivan Rodriguez, 27, LaBelle was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Cpl. L. Drew on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment

14-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

16-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Natasha Dawn Tyree, 40, LaBelle was arrested on December 21, 2023, by HCSO Narcotics Unit on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Trafficking Narcotics and Possession of Drug Equipment

Rudolfo Martinez Zayas, 29, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by K9 Officer L. Dominguez on charges of Aggravated Assault on LEO and Felony Probation Violation

Joshua Lon Tyree, 38, LaBelle was arrested on December 22, 2023, by HCSO Narcotics Unit for Sale of Methamphetamine, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Sale of Cocaine, Possession of Vehicle known to contain Narcotics, Felony Sale of Marijuana, Possession of Stolen Firearm and Possession of Drug Equipment

Jeffery Dale Goodpaster, 66, LaBelle was arrested on December 22, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Equipment

Vanessa Victoria Acosta Proano, 40, Houston, Texas was arrested on December 23, 2023 Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment

Colton Brandon Campbell, 22, LaBelle, was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Cpl. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony DUI with Serious Bodily Injury to Another

Rosslyn Gizella Santana, 20, LaBelle was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Crawford on charges of Felony Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams

Christopher Douglas Flynn, 35, Clewiston was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff K. Busbin on charges of Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony and Felony Probation Violation

ARREST BLOTTER
12/15/2023 – 12/31/2023

Felony / DUI Arrests

Daniel Ray Crespo, 43, Clewiston was arrested on December 17, 2023, by Deputy O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription, Possession of Drug Equipment and two counts of Misd. Probation Violation

Steven Rodney Marshall, 58, Clewiston was arrested on December 17, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff O. Gonzalez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

Larry Jenkins, 47, LaBelle was arrested on December 19, 2023, by Cpl. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without a Prescription

17-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 19, 2023, by Deputy Sherr K. Busbin on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Jose Angel Lopez, 27, LaBelle was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff D. Coronilla on charges of Burglary, five counts of Aggravated Battery, five counts of Aggravated Assault with a Weapon, Aggravated Stalking, Hit & Run and five counts of Kidnapping

Wesley William Gray, 35, Moore Haven was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff I. Cadena for Felony Probation Violation and Misdemeanor Failure to Appear

Salena Maria Perez, 28, Immokalee was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo for Felony Failure to Appear

Hector Ivan Rodriguez, 27, LaBelle was arrested on December 20, 2023, by Cpl. L. Drew on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment

14-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

16-year-old male, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Natasha Dawn Tyree, 40, LaBelle was arrested on December 21, 2023, by HCSO Narcotics Unit on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Trafficking Narcotics and Possession of Drug Equipment

Rudolfo Martinez Zayas, 29, Clewiston was arrested on December 21, 2023, by K9 Officer L. Dominguez on charges of Aggravated Assault on LEO and Felony Probation Violation

Joshua Lon Tyree, 38, LaBelle was arrested on December 22, 2023, by HCSO Narcotics Unit for Sale of Methamphetamine, Trafficking in Methamphetamine, Sale of Cocaine, Possession of Vehicle known to contain Narcotics, Felony Sale of Marijuana, Possession of Stolen Firearm and Possession of Drug Equipment

Jeffery Dale Goodpaster, 66, LaBelle was arrested on December 22, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Equipment

Vanessa Victoria Acosta Proano, 40, Houston, Texas was arrested on December 23, 2023 Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment

Colton Brandon Campbell, 22, LaBelle, was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Cpl. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony DUI with Serious Bodily Injury to Another

Rosslyn Gizella Santana, 20, LaBelle was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Crawford on charges of Felony Possession of Marijuana over 20 grams

Christopher Douglas Flynn, 35, Clewiston was arrested on December 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff K. Busbin on charges of Aggravated Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony and Felony Probation Violation