Canadair Regional Jet Crashes With Military Helicopter During Landing

Washington D.C. -- A Wednesday night flight from Witchita Eisenhower Airport in Kansas to Washington D.C. leaves passengers and crew of a PSA Airlines Bombardier Canadair Regional Jet CRJ-700 dead as well as the crew of a military Blackhawk helicopter. 

The aircraft apparently collided at about 350 feet above ground as the jet was on final approach to Reagan National Airport. (see flight path link below)

The airspace in the area is very congested and under special flight rules and restrictions. VFR Pilots must pass an 80-page course to fly in the Washington D.C. Special Flight Rules Area. (SFRA). The commercial and military pilots involved in the crash would not have been subject to this rule, but are subject to extensive flight rules in the area. (see FAA restrictions link below)

Coordination with Air Traffic Control can sometimes be an issue with rapid-fire instructions from the tower to aircraft in the area and sometimes communications are garbled or weak between aircraft and ATC. "Bluestreak 5342" is the aircraft that crashed and can be heard at the beginning of the recording below as it's instructed to and on runway 33. "Pat 25" was the callsign for the Army helicopter piloted by an Army Captain.

The callsign for aircraft "Bluestreak 5347" which is heard as it prepared to land on runway 33 but is instructed to "go around," to abort the landing, starting about 1:10 into the recorded audio. The airport is then closed and aircraft are sent to other airports to land. (see Reagan Tower recorded radio with aircraft at the time of crash - link below)

PSA Airlines is an American regional airline headquartered at Dayton International Airport in Dayton, Ohio. The airline is a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Airlines Group

The Reagan National airport was closed and is scheduled to reopen at 11 am Thursday.

-LiveATC.net audio: https://forums.liveatc.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=18169.0;attach=13000

-Flight Aware: https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/AAL5342/history/20250129/2328Z/KICT/KDCA

-FAA Flight Restrictions: https://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_4_9433.html  

UPDATE: President Trump has called the crash a result of diversity hiring (DEI) and said he came to that conclusion by "common sense." He also later indicated people should be hired based on "brain power." A female Army Captain was in training in the crashed helicopter, and we speculate Trump was inferring a correlation upon making his unsupported statements.

CRJ-700 File Photo from Wikipedia (not actual aircraft): By ZLEA - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=115492987

Helms Road Paving Work This Week

Notice of Paving Work on Helms Road and SW Eucalyptus Blvd

LABELLE, FL. -- (January 29, 2025) – Please be advised that beginning on Thursday, January 30, 2025, Hendry County’s contractor, Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, LLC, will be conducting paving work on Helms Road from just west of Collingswood Parkway to Birchwood Parkway and a culvert replacement section on SW Eucalyptus Blvd in LaBelle, FL.

The work is expected to have a completion time of approximately two (2) days.

Work will occur on the following dates:
· Thursday: 1/30/2025
· Friday: 1/31/2025

Flagmen and traffic control signage will be in place to direct and guide traffic. The speed limit will be reduced through the project area.

Motorists should expect lane closures and possible delays throughout the duration of the project and allow extra time for their commute.

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

Please note that this schedule is tentative and subject to change. The Hendry County Engineering Department will notify of any changes.

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

Water - Will You Be My Valentine?

Love is in the air, with Valentine’s Day just around the corner. According to Drive Research, Valentine’s Day spending in 2024 hit a record $14.2 billion, spread among the 59% of consumers across the globe who celebrate the beloved holiday. From roses to chocolates to dinner and diamonds, we show our affection to the ones we love.

While you aren’t likely to see an “I love you, Water!” Valentine’s card or “I love my Water!” car window sticker, it’s a fact that none of these gifts would be possible without this critical ingredient. Water is prominent in our physical beings, the beverages we consume and the world in which we live. It is both the subject of quotes by well-known artists, and a major influencer of human preferences and behavior today.

It takes a lot to make a little

According to the nonprofit news organization Circle of Blue, it takes 32 gallons of water to grow a dozen roses and 449 gallons to grow the cocoa plants used to make a 100 gram chocolate bar. The market research group, Frost and Sullivan, says the mined diamond industry uses 126 gallons of water per carat. Powerhouse Dynamics, which works to eliminate waste in the food service industry, says a typical sit-down restaurant uses an average of 5,800 gallons of water per day.

Each of us is, literally, a walking body of water. By weight, an adult male is about 60% water, while an adult female is 55%. There’s an even greater concentration at the very top: According to most scientific estimates, about 73-75% of the brain is composed of water. That’s why the human body can typically survive only a few days without water, depending on age and health factors. According to the US Geological Survey, 71% of the Earth’s surface is covered by water, with 96.5% of that contained in our oceans. And even our cup of morning joe is full of the stuff, with coffee comprised of 98% H2O.

Over the years, the significance and importance of water in our lives has been signaled by such famous individuals as renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci, who said, “The water you touch in a river is the last of that which has passed, and the first of that which is coming. Thus it is with time present. Life, if well spent, is long.” TEDx speaker, author and executive trainer Sam Horn’s love for the water inspired her to set off on a Year by the Water. “As I travel around the country and visit oceans, bays, waterways, streams, rivers and waterfalls…I am thrilled with their endless capacity to fill me with wonder, appreciation and awe,” she says.

The price and pleasure of paradise

Despite the threat of hurricanes in Florida and landslides in California, the allure of living and vacationing near the water is as strong as ever. We pay a premium for waterfront real estate and swimming pools, higher rates for hotel rooms with waterfront views and, especially in the Sunshine State, enjoy all manner of water-based recreational activities year-round.

On Valentine’s Day and throughout the year, when it comes to water, what’s not to love?

Submitted by The Florida Governmental Utility Authority. The organization owns and operates almost 100 water and wastewater utility systems in 14 Florida counties, providing service to more than 120,000 customer connections. Counties served by FGUA include Citrus, Hillsborough, Lake, Marion, Orange, Pasco, Polk, Seminole, Hardee, Lee, Alachua, Flagler, Putnam and Volusia.

Phone Apps For Hearing Health - 25% of Adults Experience Hearing Loss

With 25% of adults with some hearing loss and 12% of children with some loss, all mostly due to loud noise experiences, Rachael Cook, Doctor of Audiology at Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix, Arizona, reviews four phone apps, three are free, if you have hearing loss or want to prevent it.

The first recommended app is a sound level app measuring just how loud sounds are, and what danger level they may be to your hearing.

Other apps allow transcriptions of voices live, what restaurants, and other venues have dangerously high noise or safe sound levels in the "SoundPrint" app, and an app for practicing hearing in different environments.

 

William Smith Arrested For Drugs And Weapons Charges

WILLIAM TYRONE SMITH ARRESTED ON DRUG AND WEAPONS CHARGES

LABELLE, FL -- On January 10, 2025, Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit and K-9 Unit arrested 48-year-old William Tyrone Smith on multiple drug and firearm charges.

Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Investigator received information that Smith was selling narcotics from his small 2 bedroom residence at 972 Fordson Ave. in LaBelle.

On January 10, 2025, HCSO Narcotics Unit and K9 Officers set up surveillance and observed several vehicles, pedestrians and individuals on bicycles stop at Smith’s residence for short periods of time. Over a two-hour period of time, Smith was seen on a number of occasions entering and exiting vehicles on his property and his residence returning to the individuals and making hand to hand exchanges.

As K9 officers approached Smith, who was sitting in his vehicle, they could smell a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car. Smith was taken into custody, and a search of the vehicle revealed several large bundles of cash and a container containing what later tested positive for crack cocaine. At this time Smith was placed under arrest and a search was conducted of all vehicles on Smith’s property. Deputies located several firearms, narcotics, and drug paraphernalia.

Smith was taken into custody on Trafficking Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, Three Counts Possession of a Firearm by Florida Convicted Felon, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Sell 1000” of a Park, Possession of Ammunition by a Florida Convicted Felon, Possession with Intent to Sell Synthetic Cannabis and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Smith is currently being held in the Hendry County Jail on $405,000.00 bond.

Telecommunications Equipment Available To Deaf-Blind

The FCC's National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), also known as iCanConnect, provides equipment needed to make telecommunications, advanced communications, and the Internet accessible to low-income individuals who are deaf-blind or have both significant vision loss and significant hearing loss. 

The program serves eligible residents of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition to equipment, assessments of specific accessibility needs, equipment installation, training, and other technical support are also available.

iCanConnect provides free equipment and training for people with both significant hearing and vision loss who meet the program’s disability and income eligibility guidelines. 

iCanConnect is a national program with local contacts that helps people stay connected to friends, family and the world. 

To learn more, visit www.iCanConnect.org.

Two Die In Glades County Crash

MOORE HAVEN, FL.- A 35 year old female from Apopka and a 61 year old male from Knoxville, TN were killed in a crash at 1 p.m. January 21.

From the FHP report:

 Vehicle 1, a sedan and Vehicle 3, a van were traveling east on State Road 78, approximately 6 miles west of US Highway 27. Both drivers were killed as a result of the crash.

Vehicle 2 a truck driven by a 45 year old male from Miami was traveling west on State Road 78.

Vehicle 1 traveled onto the westbound travel lane, directly into the path of Vehicle 2.

The front of Vehicle 1 collided with the front of Vehicle 2.

Post initial collision, Vehicle 2 then entered the path of Vehicle 3.

The front of Vehicle 3 collided with the side of Vehicle 2.

Driver 1 and Driver 3 were pronounced deceased on scene.

The crash remains under investigation.

Hendry County Adding Parking Area To Helms Road Extension

Notice of Construction of a Pathway Parking Area on Helms Road Extension

(January 21, 2025) – Please be advised that beginning on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, Hendry County’s contractor, Ridgdill & Son, Inc., will be commencing construction of a pathway parking area on Helms Road Extension in LaBelle, FL.

The work is expected to have a completion time of approximately two hundred forty (240) days.

Traffic control signage will be in place to alert motorists and guide traffic.

Motorists should expect lane closures and possible delays throughout the duration of the project and allow extra time for their commute.

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

Please note that this schedule is tentative and subject to change. The Hendry County Engineering Department will notify of any changes.

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

James The Young Brown Pelican by Bob Kranich

James The Young Brown Pelican
by Bob Kranich

(Excerpt 2)

This is a new story. We are first introduced to James the young Brown pelican, and a young fellow who is sketching him on the docks of Key West. James is now going to do some soaring.

There’s only one way. He jumped up from the piling and flapped his wings a couple of times. This put him right over the young person. He looked down at the flat in the person’s hand and was pleasantly surprised.

“Wow, I look pretty good!” he said with a squawk.

James then dipped his left wing, and did an up and down push with his right. His whole body did a quick 180 degrees and he headed out and away from the Key West Mallory city docks.

He was headed south. On his left was the U. S. Navy yard with its submarines and large supply ships. He pumped his long and broad wings, rose up, and then soared and glided. He loved to do this. His wings had not fully developed to their maximum of six feet total wing span. When that happens he thought, I will really be able to move!

He glided into a left turn so he could parallel the beach along Key West’s southernmost point. He looked down at a beautiful structure with a prominent tower and pointed roof. It was the Southern most house.

As he coasted lazily at about 100 feet high and 100 yards off-shore, he was suddenly aware of some pelicans who had come up on either side of him.

“ Hey James, what you do’n?” the one on his left said.

The one on the right piped in, “We were looking for you. Have you been trying to attain the altitude record again?”

“Yessiree!” the one on the left said, and then they both laughed with a lot of squawking.

“Or maybe you have been down at the docks again, observing just how to be human!” one who had just joined the group from behind said sarcastically.

James knew these pesky pelicans. They were all his age and from his original breeding colony which had been located on a small deserted key north of Key West.

“Hey James,” the leader of the group on his left said, “We’re going down to skim some waves and fill our pouches with fish. Want to come along?”

“All you guys think of is eating,” James said.

“Yeah man!” they all said in unison.

James glided as all three dropped down, down, down. He could see them line up single file as they skimmed the foaming top of a long breaking wave. Then, as one, they all hit the water with their beaks, dipping their pouches in the wave top. They must have come upon a school of small fish pushed to the top by the wave action. He looked back, and he could see them floating there as a couple of gallons of water drained from each of their pouches. Once the water was out, they then could swallow the small fish whole!

They all were floating with hardly any of their bodies below the surface of the water. This was because of the air sacs under their skin and breast and the air pockets in their bones.

James just did not want to be part of their follow-the-leader game.

From the Author:

“James the Young Brown Pelican” is a fictional story of a young Brown pelican. He is dissatisfied with the pelican’s normal way of life, just looking for fish and eating. He wants to so something else with his life. He is excited about flying high and a speedy dive. This is a Christian book about faith and you will learn more about the life of pelicans. Since the Brown pelican is found along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, you will also learn about the pelican’s life in the Florida Keys and Key West itself.

The book is illustrated by watercolors, sketches, and photos, to include many photos by the great nature photographer, Ron Reznick.  

Florida Cold Weather Tips For Residents And Visitors

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Division of Emergency Management reminds residents and visitors of cold weather safety, as a strong cold fronts cross Florida in the next weeks, and one is expected to bring the lowest temperatures of this winter season across North Florida late this weekend into next week.

Cold temperatures in the 20s and 30s are expected across North Florida from Sunday through mid-to-late next week, with wind chills in the teens and 20s. Strong to severe thunderstorms may impact North and Central Florida on Saturday ahead of the cold front, while some areas in the Florida Panhandle could experience wind chill temperatures near single digits. Residents should take precautions throughout the week and ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts.

Floridians are encouraged to remember the “Five P’s” of cold weather safety: Protect People, Protect Plants, Protect Pets, Protect Exposed Pipes and Practice Fire Safety. To stay cozy and safe during cold weather, keep these tips in mind:

Stay indoors and use safe heating sources.

When outdoors, stay dry and wear multiple layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing.

Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. Using extension cords may cause circuit overload and result in a fire.

Keep space heaters away from drapery, furniture and other flammable materials. Do not leave them unattended.

Do not use a stove or oven as a heat source They are ineffective and dangerous.

Never use grills as an indoor heating source. Charcoal and propane emit deadly carbon monoxide gas and are not suitable for indoor use.

Never leave lit candles unattended. Candles are unsafe and ineffective as a heat source.

When using a fireplace, ensure it is properly vented, and the chimney is cleaned periodically to avoid flash fires.

Do not burn anything in the fireplace other than firewood and do not leave a fire burning when going to sleep.

Install smoke detectors and regularly check that they work. If you have gas appliances, install a carbon monoxide detector.

To learn more about severe weather in Florida and to Make a Plan, visit FloridaDisaster.org, and follow FDEM on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) @FLSERT, and on Facebook @FDEM.

Property Tax Exemptions And Military Tax Benefits

NEWS FROM THE GLADES COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- If you had a property tax exemption or agricultural land classification in 2024, 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 there are property tax benefits available to members of the Armed Forces?

When a person serving in the Armed Forces owns and uses property as a homestead, the service member may rent out the homestead property without abandoning the claim to the homestead exemption. (Florida Statute 196.061)

A service member’s next of kin or any other person who has written authorization may file a homestead exemption on behalf of a service member who cannot file in person because of a service obligation. (Florida Statute 196.071)

A member or former member may receive an exemption if they were deployed the previous calendar year outside the continental United States, Alaska and Hawaii in support of a designated operation. (Florida Statute 196.173)Thanks for allowing me and my team to serve you! We are here to help.

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

Army Corps Of Engineers Areas Free January 20

CLEWISTON, FL. -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers today announced that it will waive day use fees at its more than 2,800 USACE-operated recreation areas nationwide in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 20.

The waiver covers fees for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities (group picnic shelters) and events. Other agencies that manage recreation areas on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver in the areas that they manage.

Visitors are encouraged to contact USACE lake and river projects before visiting to ensure recreation areas are open. More information can be found at www.corpslakes.us.

The MLK Day fee waiver began in 2023 to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, a national leader of the 1950s-1960s Civil Rights movement who continues to inspire the pursuit of civil rights today. MLK Day is the only federal holiday designated as a day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.

USACE also offers other fee-free days throughout the year to mark days of celebration and commemoration, including the USACE birthday; Juneteenth National Independence Day; Veterans Day; and National Public Lands Day.

USACE is one of the leading federal providers of outdoor and water-based recreation, hosting millions of visits annually to its more than 400 lake and river projects. It’s estimated that 90 percent of the USACE-operated recreation areas are within 50 miles of metropolitan areas, offering diverse outdoor activities for all ages close to home.

To discover a USACE recreation site nearest you, please visit the USACE website at https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/visitors.cfm or visit www.recreation.gov.

New Seminole Hotel And Casino Opens February 6

BRIGHTON RESERVATION – The new Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino in northeastern Glades County will officially open its doors at noon on Thursday, February 6, following a grand opening celebration for invited guests at 10 a.m.

The renowned rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd will perform on Thursday, February 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets will go on sale to the public on Friday, January 17 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster.com. Doors will open at 7 p.m.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino is one of six casinos owned and operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida. It is located just west of Lake Okeechobee on the Brighton Seminole Reservation.

The new resort, which will replace the existing Seminole Casino Brighton (first opened in 1980), will include a casino with a total of nearly 38,000 square feet, including space for 640 slot machines and 18 tables for blackjack, craps, roulette, and other house-banked card games. Included is a smoke-free gaming space with 104 slot machines and a high-limit gaming area with 42 slot machines and four table games.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino will include the first hotel to open on the Brighton Seminole Reservation. It will feature 100 guest rooms on four floors, totaling 72,000 square feet. Guest rooms will include a mix of rooms with either one king bed or two queen beds, plus three suites, a fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool.

The complex will also feature an indoor event space with 400 seats for banquet events or bingo games, or 900 seats set up as a performance hall, as well as a 10-lane bowling alley (Brighton Bay Bowling) of 7,044 square feet, a first for any Seminole Casino.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino will be home to four eateries, offering a wide range of dining options plus a place to relax and socialize with a favorite cocktail.

Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino has become one of the Lake Okeechobee region’s largest employers, with more than 500 team members at the new casino and hotel complex.

Linda Elaine Cochran Dies At 69

Linda Elaine Cochran, age 69 of LaBelle, Florida passed away on January 12, 2025 in LaBelle.

Linda was born on March 18, 1955 in Lake Waukegan, Illinois to Frank and the late Elaine Frances Roedell Deluca. 

Elaine married Robert W. “Wayne” Cochran, he survives Linda. 

Linda was a faithful member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church in LaBelle for many years. She enjoyed swimming, going to Disney World, traveling with her husband, being outdoors, and loved going to Church. 

Linda was a administrative assistant for Florida Power and Light for 20 years, retiring in 2005. Linda was a loving wife, daughter, sister and friend who will dearly be missed by everyone who knew and loved her.

Linda leaves fond memories with her husband; Robert “Wayne” Cochran of LaBelle, Florida, her father' Frank Deluca of Illinois, her brothers and sister; Jim and Frank Deluca and Lorie Deluca.

A memorial service will be held at a later date for Linda.

Reckless Driver Gets 10 Years

Fort Myers (January 14, 2025) – Today Bijaun Wayne Edwards was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of probation, for a case involving reckless driving to avoid capture by law enforcement, that resulted in a crash involving children.

Assistant State Attorney Stephanie Russell, Lee County Circuit Court Chief, prosecuted the case.

Edwards was adjudicated guilty of:

• Aggravated Fleeing or Eluding
• Flee Elude Law Enforcement Officer at High Speed or Wanton Disregard
• Possession of Firearm, Ammunition, or Concealed Weapon by a Convicted Felon
• Leaving the Scene of a Crash (Attended Property)
• Reckless Driving – Damage Person/Property (2 counts)
• Burglary of an Occupied Conveyance
• Resisting/Obstructing an Officer without Violence
• Tampering with a Witness, Victim, or Informant (2 counts)
• Trafficking in Illegal Drugs – 7 grams or more
• Possession of Cannabis with Intent

On March 31, 2024, the defendant was driving a BMW on Lake Trafford Road in Collier County, when a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Trooper attempted to pull him over due to very dark tint on the vehicle.

Instead of stopping his car, the defendant sped up, driving erratically through the streets. FHP followed the defendant trying to get him to stop, but he ignored the lights and sirens. The defendant reached speeds of more than 140 miles per hour as he sped away crossing county lines into Hendry County and then Lee County. As he fled, he hit two other cars causing extensive damage.

He eventually drove into a convenience store parking lot in Lehigh Acres and crashed into a pick-up truck that was parked, with two children in the backseat. He then got out of his car and into the truck.

He told the victims in the truck to not say anything to troopers and act like they know him, and then threw cash onto the console. The children in the vehicle had been waiting for a family member who
had just gone into the store.

Troopers pulled into the parking lot a short time later and witnesses showed them where the defendant was and he was taken into custody. Inside the BMW, FHP Troopers found more than 4 pounds of marijuana, 100 Oxycodone pills, a Glock firearm, and $10,495 in cash.

LaBelle Program Helps Customers Save On Electric January 15

FPL Hosts Power to Save Event in LaBelle to Help Customers Save Energy and Lower Bills

WHAT: Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) team of energy experts, customer care and external affairs will host a Power to Save event at Hope Connections in LaBelle on Wednesday, January 15.

Through this program, FPL provides free energy efficiency products and services including LED lightbulbs, weather-stripping/caulking, limited ductwork repair, water heater pipe-wrapping, water faucet aerator and low-flow shower head, A/C unit inspection and more. Customers living in qualified zip codes can schedule an appointment for the Power to Save team to come to their home to install energy efficiency items and provide energy savings information at no charge.

FPL is partnering with Hope Connections, a care facility for at-risk seniors, as part of the company’s efforts to educate customers on ways they can save energy. During the event, FPL energy experts will make appointments to install energy-saving items and give tips on how customers can keep their bills as low as possible. In addition, local assistance agencies including the United Way and Area Agency on Aging will be there to assist customers. Customers are encouraged to review guidelines for assistance.

A free dinner will be provided for attendees while supplies last.

WHY: At FPL, we work together with the communities we serve to help make Florida an even better place to live and raise a family. We are pleased to bring the Power to Save program to LaBelle to help our customers learn how to save energy and money.

WHEN: Wednesday, January 15, 4 - 6 p.m.

WHERE: Hope Connections, 475 E Cowboy Way, LaBelle, Fla.

Customers can RSVP and learn more at FPL.com/PowertoSave.

Rural Post Office Closed In Glades County

PALMDALE, FL — Effective January 8, operations at the Palmdale Post Office located at 1134 Broadway Street NW, Palmdale, FL 33944, are temporarily suspended due to safety concerns.

Retail and Post Office Box services are available at the following alternate location:

Labelle Post Office
35 W. Washington Ave
Labelle, FL 33944

Retail Hours of Operations:
Mon-Fri 9:00am – 5:00pm
Sat Closed
Sun Closed

P.O. Box customers are reminded to bring proper photo identification for mail and package pickups.

The safety and well-being of our customers and our employees is a priority to the U.S. Postal Service. We appreciate their patience as we address and resolve this safety concern. Updates will be provided as soon as additional information becomes available.

The Postal Service notes that The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to 169 million addresses six and often seven days a week. 

Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America’s most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Clewiston Hospital Certified For Acute Heart Attack And Strokes

Clewiston (January 10, 2025) – Hendry Regional Medical Center announced that it has earned its second disease-specific certification for Acute Heart Attack Ready (AHAR), making it the only hospital in the local area to hold both this certification and the Stroke Ready certification. 

Cardiovascular disease is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality in the region, and the hospital’s proactive pursuit of this certification demonstrates a deep commitment to improving health outcomes. 

"We are incredibly proud of our team’s hard work and determination to achieve this milestone," said Sandra Carrion-Colon BSN, RN, Acute Heart Attack Ready Coordinator. "Being the only small hospital in the area with both the Stroke Ready and Acute Heart Attack Ready certifications says a lot about our dedication to the health and well-being of our community. It’s a testament to the level of care we provide, and it underscores our continued efforts to ensure that residents have access to the best possible care."

By earning this distinction, Hendry Regional joins a select group of healthcare providers who have demonstrated their ability to manage and treat patients experiencing heart attacks with the highest standards of care. This certification further enhances the hospital’s capability to respond to critical heart attack situations, ultimately improving survival rates and long-term health outcomes for the community.

For more information about Hendry Regional Medical Center and its services, please visit www.hrmc.us.

DECKEE Boating App From Florida Fish And Wildlife Commission

FWC enhances boater safety with interactive waterway app campaign

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has announced a new initiative in collaboration with the National Safe Boating Council to pilot interactive safety content through a free mobile app called DECKEE. The app is designed to keep boaters safe and informed.

Over 1 million boat owners in Florida now have access to the following benefits and safety features in the free DECKEE app,

Plan your next adventure on the water with detailed maps, facility information, official warnings, aids to navigation and community insights. Access personalized equipment checklists, boating forecasts, regulations and resources from the FWC to ensure you are always ready for the ideal weather window.
Automatically log your activities while on the water and share your live location to give friends and family peace of mind.

The pilot program will introduce a personalized boating forecast targeted to the user’s watercraft and plans, which will give meaning to the information and help users make sense of it.

Florida boaters are encouraged to explore the new safety capabilities in the free DECKEE app, available from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store or Deckee.com/download.

For more information about FWC boating safety initiatives, visit MyFWC.com/boating.

James The Young Brown Pelican by Bob Kranich

James the Young Brown Pelican is a fictional story of a young Brown pelican. He is dissatisfied with the pelican’s normal way of life, just looking for fish and eating. He wants to so something else with his life. He is excited about flying high and a speedy dive.

James The Young Brown Pelican by Bob Kranich

(Excerpt 1)

This is a new story. We are first introduced to James the young Brown pelican, and a young fellow who is sketching him on the docks of Key West.

Perched on a dock piling, resting yet irritated, was James. This young brown pelican had ‘had enough’ to put it in layman’s terms. James had become very tired and bored early this morning flying in a straight line with a number of other young pelicans. After all, they were his peers, 3 year olds, just another year from being full-fledged adults. It seemed though that that was all they wanted to do. Their days were filled with flying along the tops of the waves looking for fish-food. It was very dull and he was not interested in the least!

When he got hungry, he liked to go out a little farther into the Atlantic Ocean away from the Key West shore. Then he would catch the thermals of the ocean and soar. Since he was just three years old, his breast muscles and wings needed a little more time to develop and strengthen. He naturally couldn’t soar to the record-breaking heights of 10,000 feet like some pelicans he heard had done. Nevertheless, that was one of his desires.

He was satisfied with a couple of thousand feet altitude, and at that height he could soar and glide to his heart’s content. He would then come down, fly very low, and skim over the water very fast, exerting very little energy. He could do this because as the air that flowed between the water and his wings compressed, it created lift. This was called “ground effect” and saved him a lot of work as he flew right above the waves. It was exhilarating!

This piling next to the Key West city docks was Jacob’s favorite. He liked to perch there and look at the strange two-legged human beings. They had no wings. He felt sorry for them. Humans had to use objects with two or four round things to move in a hurry. They couldn’t go in a straight line like he could and couldn’t even go over anything, only around. Yes, he surely felt sorry for them.

Today he was enjoying the sun and a faint breeze here on his piling. What was that? Here came a human on a two-round thing. It appeared to be a young male. He was stopping...I had better keep an eye on him, James thought. Occasionally, very small people had thrown rocks at him, even though pelicans are a protected bird.

The human parked his two-rounder. He took something flat out of the front basket, turned a couple of pages and then sat down. The person kept looking up at James and then down to the white paper in his hands. He would move something around which made marks. Maybe he is capturing my image...Jacob surmised. If that is what he’s doing, James thought, I will straighten up and look very “Pelican”! James had never sat for an artist. But he had seen artists before looking at buildings and sunsets.

The human got up and went over to the two-round thing. James figured that the person was finished and leaving.

“I sure would like to see my image,” he said to himself.

 From the Author:

 This is a Christian book about faith and you will learn more about the life of pelicans. Since the Brown pelican is found along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, you will also learn about the pelican’s life in the Florida Keys and Key West itself.

The book is illustrated by watercolors, sketches, and photos, to include many photos by the great nature photographer, Ron Reznick.

Obituaries - Dorothy Bussey, 94; Kathryn Ann Witte, 74

We are sadden to announce that our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Dorothy D. Bussey age 94 has passed away on January 1, 2025 while being a resident of LaBelle Health and Rehabilitation Center.

Dorothy was born on September 2, 1930 in LaBelle, Florida to the late James W. and the late Susie Tyler Hodges. She married Lewis Bussey and he preceded her in death. Dorothy worked for several years at Plant World In LaBelle then she also worked as a custodian for Hendry County Schools. She was of the Christian Faith. Dorothy was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother who will be dearly missed.

Dorothy leaves fond memories with her children; Tommy Daniels (Pam), Joe Daniels, Jimmy Daniels, Ronnie Daniels (Lisa), Jeff Daniels (Vivian), her brother; Wayne Hodges (Peggy) along with many grandchildren and many great grandchildren, and many extended family members and family friends.

Celebration of Dorothy's life will held at 10:00 a.m. January 7, 2025 at Fort Denaud Cemetery where Pastor L.W. Howard will officiate. Dorothy will be laid to rest next to her husband Lewis Bussey.

Dorothy was also preceded in death by her brothers; Charles Hodges, Henry Hodges, Kenneth Hodges, Jimmy Hodges, Harry Hodges, Robert Hodges, and sisters Florence Pool, Mary Christine Peacock.

Dorothy's arrangements were entrusted with Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

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It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, wife, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Kathryn (Kathy) Ann Witte. Born on October 11, 1945, in Lebanon, Indiana, Kathy lived a remarkable life filled with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family. She departed this world on December 28, 2024, leaving a legacy that will forever be cherished.

Kathy was proceeded in death by her loving husband James R. Witte and her wonderful daughter Donna Kay Knox, and her sister Kay Montgomery. 

She is survived by James (Barbara) Witte and David (Tina) Witte; grandchildren, Heather (Andrew) Hart, Alyke Monroe, Joshua (Merisa) Witte, Keagan Witte, Zachary Witte, Anna Witte, and Nathan Witte; and her great-grandchildren, William Hart, Aiden Monroe, Hadley Hart, Cuyler Monroe, Jax Witte, August Coffee, and Gage Witte; Her siblings Russel (Sherry) Scher and Karen Shockley. 

A celebration of life will be held at the Community Center at 900 Aqua Isles Blvd in La Belle, FL on February 8, 2025 from 1 PM - 4 PM EST and then again at a location TBD in Indiana on March 8.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will carry forward the values and love she imparted. Rest in peace Kathy (mom/mam-maw). You will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Jorge Alfonso Arrested After Claiming To Be CIA Agent

NAPLES, FL. -- On January 1, 2025, at approximately 3:15 pm, Florida Highway Patrol State Troopers observed a 2018 Ford Pickup Truck (registered to right front passenger), with flashing red and blue emergency lights, traveling north on Interstate 75, at the 101-mile marker, Collier County. 

Once stopped, the right front passenger, identified as Jorge Alberto Alfonso, age 63, of Cape Coral, identified himself as being with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Upon further investigation, State Troopers discovered numerous firearms, passports, fake federal agent badges (CIA and others), bulletproof vest etc…

State Troopers booked Alfonso into the Collier County Jail for false personation of officials and drug possession (pills) without a prescription, and the truck was towed to the Florida Highway Patrol Evidence Impound Lot.

The incident remains under investigation.

Hendry County Deputies Arrest Two Dozen During Holiday Weeks

12/23/2024 – 12/29/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Ruben Carcia Cavazos, 61, LaBelle was arrested on December 23, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H Ramirez Garcia on charges of DUI

Jose Alberto Vasquez Landavberde, 23, LaBelle was arrested on December 25, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H Ramirez Garcia on charges of Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill

16-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on December 25, 2024, by Cpl. D. Reeves on charges of Robbery

Marshall A. Simpson, 66, LaBelle was arrested on December 25, 2024, by Sgt. Z. Scelfo on charges of DUI

Apolinan Enrique Monjaraz, 32, LaBelle was arrested on December 27, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff J. Keith on charges of DUI

Markeem Ty’Keith Wilcher, 25, Jacksonville was arrested on December 27, 2024, by Cpl. L. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Equipment, Resisting Arrest, Possession of Cocaine and Fraud

Secilia Maria Martinez, 34, Clewiston was arrested on December 27, 2024, by Cpl. L. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Drug Equipment and Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Purchase

Senen Varona Perez, 28, Clewiston was arrested on December 28, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription

Jorge Perez Hernandez, 24, LaBelle was arrested on December 29, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of DUI, two counts of DUI Property/Personal Injury and Operating Motor Vehicle without Valid DL

ARREST BLOTTER

12/16/2024 – 12/23/2024

Felony / DUI Arrests

Juan Gonzalez, 26, Clewiston was arrested on December 16, 2024, by Sgt. C. Geraci on charges of Felony Flee/Eluding Law Enforcement and Operatizing a Motor Vehicle without Valid DL

Michael Lee Morris, 46, LaBelle was arrested on December 16, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff M. Huapilla on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Eric Alexander Whitlock, 36, Orlando was arrested on December 17, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – Habitual Offender

Veronica Rivera, 42, LaBelle was arrested on December 17, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff M. Huapilla on charges of Grand Theft and Fraud

Jesus Santillana, 34, LaBelle was arrested on December 18, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff H. Ramirez Garcia on charges of Battery, Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon without Intent to Kill, Felony Criminal Mischief and Grand Theft

Lefonza McCoy, 25, Clewiston was arrested on December 18, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff M. Frazier on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Darinel Lopez-Diaz, 61, LaBelle was arrested on December 18,2024, by Cpl. L. Drew on charges of DUI

Alieski Ramos Leon, 28, Loxahatchee was arrested on December 19, 2024, by Cpl. D. Coronilla on charges of Armed Trespassing

Yobanis Rodriguez-Ramirez, 48, At Large, was arrested on December 19, 2024, by Cpl. D. Coronilla on charges of Felony Trespassing – Commercial Ag. Property

Asiel Marcelo Garcia Vizcaino, 32, Lake Worth, was arrested on December 19, by Cpl. D. Coronilla on charges of Armed Trespassing

Carlos Samuel Latorre-Lopez, 33, LaBelle was arrested on December 19, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Dibernardino on charges of Driving While DL Suspended/Revoked – Habitual Offender

Cecil Otis Johnson, 68, Felda was arrested on December 19, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff C. Link on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Thomas Joseph Kern, 46, Ft. Myers, was arrested on December 20, 2024, by Cpl. L. Rodriguez on charges of DUI

Daniel Brandon Kellogg, 39, Clewiston was arrested on December 20, 224 by Deputy Sheriff R. Morales on charges of Felony Contempt of Court

Luis Pascual Moreno, 79, Lake Worth was arrested on December 20, 2024, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of DUI