Monday, August 29, 2022

Felony Arrests This Week In Hendry County

LABELLE FL. -- HCSO Felony Arrests August 22 to August 28 including 3 drug possession, 4 probation violations, 4 battery, and 2 failure to appear.

Jacob Samuel Woodard, Jr., 31 from Alva, was arrested on August 22, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and was charged with Failure to Appear, Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Equipment.

Jonathan Noe Mendoza, 28 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 22, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and was charged with 4 Counts of Probation Violation.

Jose Luis Vargas, III, 21 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 23, 2022 by Deputy Afonso and was charged with Probation Violation, Flee/Elude LEO with Lights and Siren Activated and Driving with License Suspended/Revoked.

Melissa Jane Scopa, 37 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 23, 2022 by Deputy Aguirre and was charged with Probation Violation and Possession of Methamphetamine.

Ar’tayvious Deyointa’ Freeman, 26 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 23, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and wash charged with Burglary and Battery.

Dayton Derrell Irving, 35 from at large, was arrested on August 23, 2022 by Deputy Aguirre and was charged with Probation Violation.

Jose Luis Villalobos, 45 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 24, 2022 by Deputy Movalli-Vary and was charge Battery.

Felipe Rivas, 41 of LaBelle, was arrested on August 25, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Trafficking in Methamphetamine 14 Grams or More and Driving with License Suspended.

Guillermo Martinez, 30 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 26, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with Battery.

Angel Reyesavendano, 27 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 27, 2022 by Deputy Eldridge and was charged with Battery, Cruelty Toward a Child and Resisting LEO without Violence.

Alexandro Vazquez, 30 from Clewiston, was arrested n August 28, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with Two Counts of Failure to Appear.

Joe Marlin Hilliard Dies At 78

Joe Marlin Hilliard

January 18, 1943 – August 26, 2022

Pioneer rancher, businessman, and South Florida agricultural icon Joe Marlin Hilliard, 79, passed away surrounded by family and friends on August 26, 2022 in Naples, Florida. He was born in Ft Myers, Florida at Lee Memorial Hospital on January 18, 1943 to Joe Alexander Hilliard and Wilmuth Gabriele "Tippy" Yarbrough.

Born into a distinguished ranching family, Joe Marlin grew up on the famed Hilliard Ranch in Hendry County. Following graduation from Clewiston High School in 1961, he began his career working on Hilliard Brothers Cattle Ranch, which was founded by his grandfather in 1906 and later owned by his father and uncle in the 1920s. As he took over management, Joe Marlin would greatly expand upon the family business, enhancing the cattle operation with large investments in sugarcane, citrus, and vegetable production.

Joe Marlin Hilliard’s leadership skills over the years provided major advances for South Florida’s cattle, citrus and sugarcane industries. In 2017, Joe Marlin Hilliard was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame—recognizing his life-long achievements and enduring efforts to secure the success of the farming and ranching industries that he loved.

His successful farming legacy will continue to build on its great heritage as Hilliard Brothers of Florida remains a family operation with Joe Marlin Hilliard's two sons' Joe Marlin II, Bryan, and his daughter Mary Elizabeth; all directly involved in different aspects of the business.

Along with his loving wife Barbara Jean, whom he married in 1985, Joe Marlin Hilliard was also an active member of the local community and his generous philanthropic efforts provided funding to numerous local and state organizations. A strong believer in education, he has funded the Joe Marlin Hilliard Endowed Scholarship at the King Ranch Institute of Ranch Management at Texas A&M, Kingsville and the Joe Marlin and Barbara Hilliard Scholarship at Florida Gulf Coast University and many others.

More importantly, he was a devoted Christian and family man who greatly valued family and friends. An avid outdoorsman throughout his life, Joe Marlin Hilliard graciously shared his love of hunting and fishing with friends and colleagues, extending invitations to join him on these adventures.

Joe Marlin lived on the Hilliard Ranch outside Clewiston for most of his life and raised his family there. He also had a retirement home in Naples, Florida.

He was predeceased by parents Joe A. and “Tippy” Hilliard.

Joe Marlin Hilliard is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Barbara, his children, Joe Marlin Hilliard, II (Chelsa), Mary E Hilliard Carroll, and Bryan Reed Hilliard, stepson Richard Parker and stepdaughter Alicia Snyder, and grandchildren Rana Hilliard, Joe A. “Jack” Hilliard, II, Madeline Carroll, Lily Carroll, Isabelle Hilliard, Bryan Reed Hilliard II, Isla Hilliard and Jessica Snyder.

Visitation will be held at Hodges Funeral Home in Naples on Friday, September 2, from 1 - 2 pm. Services will directly follow. Internment will take place after the service at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hodgesfhatnaplesmg.com for the Hilliard family.

Saturday, August 27, 2022

Rose Marie Nesbitt Dies At 96

Rose Marie Nesbitt age 96 of Clewiston, Florida passed away on August 23, 2022 at Orchid Cove at LaBelle.

Rose was born on June 22, 1926 in Fort Pierce, Florida to the late Steven and the late Mel Linney Whidden Rudd. She was a homemaker for most of her adult life, raising her children and being a loving wife to her husband. She married James L. Nesbitt and he preceded her in death on Arpil 16, 1979. Rose enjoyed fishing and spending time with her family. 

Rose leaves behind fond memories with her children -  daughter; Sherry M. Davis of Moore Haven, daughter; Connie Lee of Okeechobee, son; Charles Nesbitt and his wife Anne of Clewiston, son; Floyd "Danny" Nesbitt and his wife Karen of Bokeelia, thirteen grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, eight great-great grandchildren and many extended family and friends. 

Rose was also preceded in death by her son James "Ken" Nesbitt. 

Arrangements are by Akin-Davis Funeral Home -Clewiston. 

Hendry Commissioner, School, Hospital Boards Won By Overwhelming Majorities

 LABELLE, FL. -- Official Primary results from Hendry County this week shows the County Commission race was overwhelming won by Emory "Rowdy" Howard and likewise District 3 School Board by Amanda Nelson, District 4 by Stephanie Busin, District 5 by Jon Basquin, and Hospital Board District 4 by Elaine Wood.

Supervisor of Elections Brenda Hoots reports: 

Hendry Registered Voters:
19,020
Ballots Counted:
4,036
Voter Turnout:
21.22%

Results Page at https://enr.electionsfl.org/HEN/Summary/3146/

Commissioner Long Keeps Her Seat In Glades County

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- On August 26, 2022 the Glades County Canvassing Board held a machine and manual recount of the County Commissioner District 2 race between Jeff Barnes and Donna Storter Long. 

Aletris Farnam, Supervisor of Elections announced, "One undervote was determined to be a vote for Jeff Barnes, therefore the recount results are Jeff Barnes 982 votes and Donna Storter Long 985 votes."

During the primary election, it was reported:

Total Glades Registered Voters:
6,891
Ballots Counted:
2,011
Voter Turnout:
29%

Friday, August 26, 2022

Pay Less For Internet Or Even Get It Free

Internet access is necessary for work, school, healthcare, and more. Unfortunately, high speed internet remains unaffordable for too many households. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) runs a program, the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), that reduces the cost of getting online for people with limited income. Many internet providers offer fully covered internet plans – meaning you may even get high-speed internet for free.

If your household income is 200% or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines or someone in your household participates in certain government assistance programs, you may be eligible for the benefits the ACP provides. Visit the ACP website to see if you qualify. 

You can take advantage of the discounts with confidence knowing that receiving ACP assistance does not affect your Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits.

What discounts are available?

$30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. Some companies offer internet service for $30, making internet service free.
$75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
Eligible households also can receive a one-time discount of up to $100 toward purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.

How do you get the discounts?

You can apply online with the FCC, directly contacting your current internet service provider, or by mail.

Learn More and Apply

You can also call 1-877-384-2575 to find out how to apply.

See the list of the internet companies offering service for $30.

Healthcare Rating System Affecting Hendry's Hospital

Clewiston, FL  – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the nation’s hospitals work collaboratively to publicly report hospital quality performance information on the CMS Care Compare website. Changes made by CMS are affecting small healthcare systems’ star ratings like Hendry Regional Medical Center (HRMC).

“We place a strong emphasis on quality data measurements and reporting. It is how we hold ourselves accountable to the community and public in providing not just quality healthcare but excellent healthcare,” stated Dakota Redd, Chief Nursing Officer, HRM

While Hendry Regional does participate in outpatient and inpatient quality data reporting with CMS, with the new changes there are now too few measures/measure groups reported or cases/patients are too few to calculate a star rating.

What does this mean? HRMC previously held a 3-star rating, higher than many other local hospitals, however a star rating is no longer available (N/A) on the CMS Care Compare website.

“It is important to note that while CMS no longer recognizes HRMC with a star rating, we would have maintained a 3-star rating if those changes had not gone into effect based on the data we continue to submit,” stated Redd. “We are proud of the excellent healthcare we provide and that is witnessed by all our patients who receive care at HRMC regardless of a star rating.”

In reviewing HRMC’s quality data, they score well above the national and state average in most areas. Striving to ensure that the care provide is safe, effective, patient-centered, timely, efficient, and equitable. In a continued effort of transparency HRMC will be making even more data available in the coming months. To view HRMC quality data or to learn more visit www.hrmc.us.


Ratings of area hospitals: Click Here (Lee county and Arcadia show highest star ratings)

Thursday, August 25, 2022

COVID High Community Levels In Half Of Florida


LABELLE, FL. -- More than half of Florida counties are now on the CDC's list of "high community level" for COVID-19, and mask wearing indoors in public is recommended by the CDC in those counties. 

Hendry and Lee county in Southwest Florida are at "high" levels according to the CDC's latest maps as of Thursday afternoon, Glades has "medium" levels.

Hendry County is now at HIGH levels for the seventh week, and mask wearing indoors is recommended in public places. Positivity rates were 23% in Hendry last week from 264 tests performed. Click for Hendry County data from CDC.
Counties in states surrounding Florida are generally a scattered mixture of low to high community levels.

The CDC recommends for counties with "high" levels the following:

Wear a mask indoors in public
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
Get tested if you have symptoms
Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness

Community Transmission At High Levels Almost Everywhere

In contrast, what the CDC calls the "Community Transmission" levels are rated "high" for 100% of Florida counties, and 91% of the U.S. is at "high" levels. High Transmission Level is defined as new cases per 100,000 persons in the past 7 days of 100 or more OR Percentage of positive NAATs tests during the past 7 day at 10% or more. 
 
To see "Community Transmission" levels click The community transmission map  

Check your county map and mask recommendations here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

#YourTaskWearAMask

Editor's note: The links above are for reader convenience, as the CDC website is not easy to search for information. The CDC pages are extremely slow loading and complicated, with many links to click to find information. 

Wednesday, August 24, 2022

Obituaries - Paul Smith, Nellie Matraw, Margaret Dunn, James Hester

Paul Richard Smith 86 of Alva, FL passed away Sunday August 21, 2022. He was born in Charleston, WV to the late Milo and Cleta (Bonnett) Smith.

He retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years, He was a Vietnam Veteran. He also retired after 20 years as a Supervisor for Yoder Brothers.

He was a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Fleet Reserve Association.

He is survived by his wife Diane
sons Ricky, Scott, and Darin
daughters Lisa, Michi, and Julie
sister Patty
7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

A Visitation will be held on Monday August 29, 2022 from 5 to 7 PM at the Akin-Davis Funeral Home 13932 Palm Beach Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL.

Service will be held on Tuesday August 30, 2022 at 1030 AM at Sarasota National Cemetery with Navy Honors

Nellie Matraw, age 100 passed away on August 20, 2022 in Lehigh Acres.

Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Fort Myers.

Margaret Gayle Dunn age 70 of Clewiston, Florida passed away on August 19, 2022 in Atlantis, Florida.

Gayle was born in Versailles, Kentucky on June 26, 1952 to the late Charles and the late Christine Halsey Kirkland. She married Bradley J. Dunn; he survives. Gayle worked for many years as a sales clerk for the the Twin Lakes Convenience Store. Gayle was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and sister who will be dearly missed by her entire family.

Gayle leaves fond memories with her loving husband; Bradley J.. Dunn, children; Bradley J. Dunn of Belle Glade, Florida, Chuck Adams of Nicholasville, Kentucky, Tina Dunn of Frankfort, Kentucky, her loving grandchildren; Thomas Adams, Elizabeth Adams, Addison Adams, Tyler Dasimone, Kali Dunn, Bradley J. Dunn, III, and Hope Dunn along with five great grandchildren, one sister also survives; Sue McCarty of Lexington, Kentucky along with many nieces and nephews.

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

James Robert Hester, Sr age 80 of Moore Haven, Florida passed away in Clewiston, Florida on August 18, 2022 after a brief illness.

James was born in Belle Glade, Florida on November 24, 1941 to the late Marlin C. and the late Irene Carter Hester. He was a life long painter. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle who will be greatly missed by everyone who loved and who knew him.

James is survived by his son; James Robert Hester, Jr of Moore Haven, sister; Connie Weaver of Clewiston, Florida and many extended family members and friends.

Cremation arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston.

Monday, August 22, 2022

One Dead In Hendry County Crash

 LABELLE, FL. -- Passenger dies in crash at SR80 in Hendry County at 3:12 pm Monday.

Vehicle 1, driven by 62 year old female from Clewison was traveling north on Hendry Isles Boulevard at SR80, approaching a stop sign at the intersection. Vehicle 2 was traveling east on State Road 80.

Vehicle 1 failed to yield for Vehicle 2. The front portion of Vehicle 2 collided with the side of Vehicle 1.

Vehicle 1 rotated and came to rest on the south shoulder of State Road 80. Vehicle 2 came to rest on the median.

Vehicle 1 passenger 1, 53 of Naples was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver has serious injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

Obituaries - Karen Mattice, Shelby Edward

Karen Sue Mattice was born August 26, 1954 in Ft. Myers, FL and passed away August 16, 2022 at her home in LaBelle, FL. She was 67.

Karen is survived by her sisters, Carol Winn and Kathy Mattice, Nephews Charles (Amanda) Winn and Matthew (Dianna) Winn, Great Nephews Michael, Shannon, and Connor. Great Nieces Jayden, Mackenzie, Delilah, Peyton, and Kennedy. Paternal uncle Robert (Wanita) Mattice, Maternal Aunt Ruth Brandt, cousins and friends.

Those passing through the veil before her; parents Charles and Doris Mattice, brother-in-law Mike Winn, grandparents Henry and Lorena Mattice, Helen and Jens Johnson and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Services and interment at Ft. Denaud Cemetery are pending

Shelby Wilder Edward
was born on Monday, April 4, 2022 at 10:03 p.m. to parents Shelby and Kelsey Edward at HealthPark Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida. He weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces and was 21 inches long. On Monday morning, August 8, 2022, God called baby Shelby home to heaven during his sleep at his home.

He grew so fast in the short 126 days, and the imprint he left on all of his loved one's lives from the moment he was conceived was so profound. He was smiling constantly and trying to babble in sentences. He loved stroller rides, with his cheeks jiggling, breastfeeding, meeting daddy in the driveway after work, going to the beach, playing with his toys on his playmat, singing songs, and hanging out under the tree in the front yard. He was so smart, curious, attentive, active, sweet and loving. Baby Shelby will be forever missed.

He is survived and forever loved by his parents, Shelby Edward and Kelsey Edward (Bemis), his grandparents, his great-grandparents, his aunts and uncles, and many other loving relatives. Shelby will always remain his parents’ precious baby boy, and they will hold him in their arms again in heaven one day.

He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents Veikko and Tyyne Kuronen, paternal great-grandparents Bill and Doris Walinski, and paternal grandfather Todd Edward.

Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 8th, 2022 at 11 a.m. at Bob Mason Park in Labelle, Florida. The family welcomes any and all who would like to attend to show their love for and share memories of baby Shelby.

Private family ceremony and burial were held on Tuesaday August 16, 2022 at FT. Denaud Cemetery.

South Florida Still At High COVID Levels

         

LABELLE, FL. -- Nearly all Florida's counties are now on the CDC's list of "high community level" for COVID-19, and mask wearing indoors in public is recommended by the CDC in those counties. 

All counties in South Florida are at "high" levels according to the CDC's latest maps as of Thursday afternoon, except Monroe which has "medium" levels.

Hendry County is now at HIGH levels for the sixth week, and mask wearing indoors is recommended in public places. Positivity rates were 22% in Hendry last week from 236 tests performed. Click for Hendry County data from CDC.
Counties in states surrounding Florida are generally a scattered mixture of low to high community levels.

The CDC recommends for counties with "high" levels the following:

Wear a mask indoors in public
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
Get tested if you have symptoms
Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness

Community Transmission At High Levels Almost Everywhere

In contrast, what the CDC calls the "Community Transmission" levels are rated "high" for 100% of Florida counties, and 92% of the U.S. is at "high" levels. High Transmission Level is defined as new cases per 100,000 persons in the past 7 days of 100 or more OR Percentage of positive NAATs tests during the past 7 day at 10% or more. 
 
To see "Community Transmission" levels click The community transmission map  

Check your county map and mask recommendations here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

#YourTaskWearAMask

Editor's note: The links above are for reader convenience, as the CDC website is not easy to search for information. The CDC pages are extremely slow loading and complicated, with many links to click to find information. 

Arrests In Hendry County - Probation Violation Tops List

LABELLE, FL. -- Arrests for felony charges last week as reported by the Hendry Sheriff's office including seven probation violations, four for no license, four for possession, one grand theft, three for battery:

Jrell Jerome Pope, 22 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 15, 2022 by Sgt McNeil and was charged with Possession of Synthetic Narcotics, Possession of a Controlled Substance Without Prescription, Operating Motor Vehicle without Valid License, Possession of Marijuana and Flee/Elude LEO.

Yasser Garcia Diaz, 25 from Naples, was arrested on August 15, 2022 by Det Geraci and was charged with Grand Theft 10K Less Than 20K and Contractor Payment 1K Less Than 20K Dollars Violation Permit Work.

A 14 year old white female from Clewiston was arrested on August 16, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Aggravated Battery on Pregnant Victim.

Donnie Ray Keller, Sr., 56 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 16, 2022 by Deputy Earl and was charged with two counts of Probation Violation.

Ivan Ulises Meza, 53 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 16, 2022 by Cpl Movalli-Vary and was charged with Driving with Permanently Revoked Drivers License.

Cairo Frank Dalama Otero, 38 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 16, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Possession of Cocaine and Introduction of Controlled Substance into a Correctional Facility.

Yasser Garcia Diaz, 25 from Naples, was arrested on August 16, 2022 by Sgt Hernandez and was charged with Probation Violation.

David Anthony Love, 44 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 17, 2022 by Deputy Aguirre and was charged with Probation Violation.

Elisha James Robinson, 39 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 17, 2022 by Deputy Barrientos and was charged with Battery, Kidnap-False Imprisonment and Assault.

Prince LaVona’Chek Ray, 24 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 18,2022 by Deputy Castro and was charged with Probation Violation and Failure to Appear.

Kiara Latifah Salter, 30 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 20, 2022 by Deputy Aguirre and was charged with Larceny.

Dewayne Arthur Phillips, 31 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 20, 2022 by Deputy Escobedo and was charged with Battery and Cruelty Toward Child.

Kailey Jo Foster, 26 from Lehigh Acres, was arrested on August 20, 2022 by Deputy Forman and was charged with DUI and Refusing to Submit to DUI test after License Suspended.

Jonathan Noe Mendoza, 28 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 21, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Probation Violation and Driving with License Suspended/Revoked.

Dayton Derrell Irving, 35 from at large, was arrested on August 21, 2022 by Cpl Lopez and was charged with Probation Violation.

Drequan Rashard Horace, 32 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 21, 2022 by Deputy Rivera and was charged with Probation Violation and Contempt of Court.

Thursday, August 18, 2022

Obituaries - Teijo Smith, Fidencio Izaguirre

Teijo Caden Ray Smith, age 19 passed away on August 13, 2022 in Rural Clewiston.

Teijo was born in Hollywood, Florida on September 5, 2002 to Nuno Rodriguez and Maryann M. Doctor.

Teijo is survived by his parents, sisters; Maleah Smith, Caidence Smith, Nettie Smith, Michael Doctor, Jr, Damienlee Fish, Vitie Buster, niece; Jaaliyah Doctor, sister-in-laws; Nena Perez and Brianna Rodden, aunt; Leslie Fish, grandparents; Virgil Doctor, Colleen Osceola, Chuck Osceola, Alcario Rodriguez, Elva Rodriguez, great grandmother; JoAnne Henry. 

Teijo was preceded in death byhis Aunts; Tiffany T-Bone Doctor, Paige Paige-O Osceola, Pamela Rebecca-Jean Doctor, Uncle; Michael Doctor, Sr, great grandmother; Minnie Doctor.

Celebration of his life will be celebrated on August 16, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Clewiston. Burial will take place in Big Cypress Cemetery on Big Cypress Reservation.

Fidencio Izaguirre age 63 of Clewiston, Florida passed away at Palms West Hospital after a brief illness.

Fidencio was born in Mexico on October 11, 1958 to the late Rumaldo Izaguirre and Marina Lozoya Izaguirre. He marred Elida Escobar. He worked as a mechanic helper for many years in the agriculture field. He was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather and brother who will be dearly missed by his entire family.

Fidencio leaves behind fond memories with his mother; Marina Lozoya Izaguirre, wife; Elida Escobar Izaguirre, children; Monica Izaguirre, Sanjuanita Izaguirre, John David Izaguirre and Carla Maria Izaguirre, nine grandchildren, and his siblings also survive; Wenseslada Benavidez, Graciela Vega, Nora Hilda Ramirez, Benita Cruz, Victoriana Izaguirre, Angelino Izaguirre, Sr and Santos Vega along with many extended family members and family friends.

Celebration of his life will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 17, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at Akin-Davis Funeral Home in Clewiston.

Monday, August 15, 2022

15 Hendry Sheriff's Office Arrests This Week - Drugs and Guns Lead

LABELLE, FL. --  The Henry Sheriff's office reports felony arrests from August 8 to August 14 including 13 possession of drugs, guns or other illegal items, 2 driving w/suspended license, 3 batteries, 3 trespassing, and 2 probation violations.

Cynthia Lizette Vega, 18 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 8, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with DUI and Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription.

Rafael Trejo, 39 from Pompano Beach, was arrested on August 8, 2022 by Deputy Barrientos and was charged with Driving While License Suspended Habitual Offender.

Pedro Jose Bruno, 35 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 9, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with 10 counts of Possession of Obscene Material.

Dwight Billings, 33 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 9, 2022 by Detective Bustamante and was charged with Battery, Vehicle Theft and Kidnapping.

Bianca Whitley Pope, 32 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 10, 2022 by Deputy Barrientos and was charged with Battery and Child Neglect.

Henderson Almark Holligan, 30 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 11, 2022 by Deputy Rivera and was charged with Trespassing and Resisting Officer with Violence.

Richard Duane Robinson, Jr., 46 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Possession of Cocaine, two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance without Prescription and Possession of Methamphetamine.

Shanda Lavonne Morris, 31 from Alva, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Virginia Danielle Chajson, 37 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription and Possession of Methamphetamine.

Samuel Smith, 52 from Alva, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Possession of Cocaine.

Smiley Hendry, 56 from Moore Haven, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and was charged with Larceny, Burglary and Trespassing.

William Trey Arnold, III, 47 from Moore Haven, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and was charged with Larceny, Burglary and Trespassing.

Marco Antonio Colon, 36 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 12, 2022 by Deputy Morgan and was charged with Burglary.

Charlton Monquis Williams, 29 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 13, 2022 by Deputy Afonso and was charged with Flee/Elude LEO, Four Counts of Child Neglect, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Marijuana, Carrying Unlicensed Firearm and Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon.

Virginia Danielle Chajson, 37 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 13, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with Probation Violation.

Rene C Puente III, 18 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 14, 2022 by Deputy Afonso and was charged with Probation Violation.

A 17 year old girl from LaBelle, was arrested on August 14, 2022 by Deputy Castro and was charged with Aggravated Battery..

Big Cypress Former Museum Director Dies

Former Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum Director David Blackard Passes Away

BIG CYPRESS RESERVATION, Fl – As the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum approaches its 25th Anniversary, the Seminole Tribe of Florida is saddened to announce the recent passing of former museum director David Blackard.

Blackard was instrumental in planning and designing the museum’s exhibits in pre-construction as early as 1993 when he started working for the Seminole Tribe of Florida and served as the first Curator under Executive Director Billy L. Cypress (Scott, 2019).

Through Blackard’s passion for Seminole History and Culture, he traveled the United States to curate pieces for the museum as far away as San Francisco. Blackard brought Billy L. Cypress’s vision to life with various tribal exhibits from the 1880-90’s, including 50 mannequins dressed portraying Seminole life (Dudley, 1997).

In a published article by Blackard, he stated “Having lived in South Florida since 1953, I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t interested in the history and culture of the Florida Seminole. Thus, it was an honor to earlier serve the Seminole Tribe of Florida on the Tribe’s museum project working for the late Billy L. Cypress.”

These first class exhibits as well as other interpretative exhibits can still be seen today inside the galleries at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum. Blackard developed relationships with many of his colleagues in unforgettable ways, including Tina Marie Osceola, the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Director of Tribal Preservation Office.

“I have known David for most of my life and not once did I ever hear David call himself an expert in my people’s history or culture,” said Osceola. “He loved the Seminole and he deeply cared for the indigenous way of life in the United States. He always saw himself as a public servant to Tribes. I don’t know anyone else like him.”

Blackard’s other accolades include being the author of Patchwork and Palmettos: Seminole Miccosukee Folk Art Since 1820, published on June 1, 1990, and serving as the Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Library Program Supervisor since 2007.

Schools Looking For 110 Teachers And Staff

LABELLE, FL. -- All schools in Hendry and Glades county are still short of teachers and staff according to websites for the Hendry County School District and the Glades County Schools.

The Glades County School District is located on the western shores of Lake Okeechobee in Moore Haven with the District office in Moore Haven. The district is comprised of three schools which currently have 1,650 students. Needed are 18 teachers and staff. Click here for the available positions.

Hendry Schools have 11 schools or leaning centers in LaBelle and Clewiston.

Hendry County has 93 openings for staff and teaching positions including the following categories:


Click here for salary schedules. (Union Teacher Schedules not available)

It is not so easy to navigate the Hendry Schools website so here's the website map to find your way through. Site Map Click Here












Saturday, August 13, 2022

Teen Maserati Driver And Passenger Dead After Chase

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Vehicle 01 (2019 Maserati Sedan) was actively fleeing from the Hendry County Sheriff`s Office and traveling southbound on C.R. 835 at a high rate of speed at 2:04 am Saturday.

As Vehicle 01 approached the intersection of Roberts Road, the vehicle entered into a sharp right-hand curve. The 19 year old male driver from Clewiston of Vehicle 01 failed to negotiate the curve and continued straight. Vehicle 01 traversed the southern shoulder of C.R. 835 to the edge of a large canal that paralleled the roadway.

Vehicle 01 became airborne, crossed the canal, and struck the southern embankment of the canal with the front of Vehicle 01. Vehicle 01 then fell into the canal and came to rest upright and facing southwest along the southern shore of the canal.

Both occupants of Vehicle 01 were pronounced deceased on scene by the Hendry County Sheriff`s Office. The passenger was a 17 year old female from Hialeah.

The Florida Highway Patrol's Advanced Investigation & Reconstruction (FLAIR) Unit continues to investigate this crash.

Friday, August 12, 2022

COVID Positive Rates Still High In Hendry County

        

LABELLE, FL. -- Nearly all Florida's counties are now on the CDC's list of "high community level" for COVID-19, and mask wearing indoors in public is recommended by the CDC in those counties. 

All counties in Florida are at "high" levels according to the CDC's latest maps as of Thursday afternoon, exceptions being Glades, Taylor and Holmes which have "medium" levels.

Hendry County is now at HIGH levels for the fifth week, and mask wearing indoors is recommended in public places. Positivity rates were 26% in Hendry last week from 242 tests performed. Click for Hendry County data from CDC.
Counties in states surrounding Florida are generally a scattered mixture of low to high community levels.

The CDC recommends for counties with "high" levels the following:

Wear a mask indoors in public
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
Get tested if you have symptoms
Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness

Community Transmission At High Levels Almost Everywhere

In contrast, what the CDC calls the "Community Transmission" levels are rated "high" for 100% of Florida counties, and 94% of the U.S. is at "high" levels. High Transmission Level is defined as new cases per 100,000 persons in the past 7 days of 100 or more OR Percentage of positive NAATs tests during the past 7 day at 10% or more. 
 
To see "Community Transmission" levels click The community transmission map  

Check your county map and mask recommendations here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

#YourTaskWearAMask

Editor's note: The links above are for reader convenience, as the CDC website is not easy to search for information. The CDC pages are extremely slow loading and complicated, with many links to click to find information. 

Thursday, August 11, 2022

Francis Clark Howard Dies At 73

Francis Clark Howard, age 73, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 7, 2022. He was born in Fort Myers, Florida on December 26, 1948 to the late Woodrow Carl and Anna Lou Howard. 

After graduation from LaBelle High School he served in the United States Army where he completed a tour in Vietnam. Upon his return to the states he worked as a surveyor for several years before he obtained his Florida real estate brokers license and established Howard Realty. 

In 2008 he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Central Florida. He taught Drafting and Design at Sebring High School until he retired in 2010. After retirement he made his way home to LaBelle where he spent the remainder of his life with his family and friends.

Francis was a Florida native with deep roots in the town of LaBelle. He loved his family heritage and spent many hours working on his family genealogy. He inherited his mother’s green thumb and love for plants and flowers. He enjoyed his antique cars, trips to the mountains of North Carolina, cooking and eating. He was a member of Whispering Pines Baptist Church in Sebring, Florida. He was very close to his family and loved spending time with them. He was a jokester who loved to laugh and make those around him laugh. He never met a stranger and always had a smile and a kind word to share.

Francis leaves behind his loving wife of 55 years; Debbie Howard, his brother; Julian W. Howard (Vicki), two children and their spouses; Kelly (Danny) Jones, Clay (Victoria) Howard, his grandchildren; Ashley, Drew (Lauren), Ryan (Hydee), Mackenzie, Riley and Serenity, his great grandchildren; Emerson, Lily, Ben, William, Hayne and Ryatt and many extended family members and friends.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents: Woodrow and Anna Lou Howard and his sister: Emily J. Bauer.

Graveside service celebrating his life will be held at 9:00 a.m. Friday, August 19, 2022 at Fort Denaud Cemetery.

Monday, August 08, 2022

16 Felony Arrests In Hendry County - Aged 16 to 75

LABELLE, FL -- HCSO Arrests August 1 to August 7 including 11 possession of drugs or illegal items, four failure to appear, two driving with suspended license, four probation violations. The oldest arrestee was 75 year old Debra Friedman for probation violation. Youngest, two 16-year olds.

Joheam O Cruz-Padilla, 19 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 1, 2022 by Deputy Gulliford-Green and was charged with Crimes Against Person.

James E Stone, 22 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 1, 2022 by Deputy Foreman and was charged with Failure to Appear.

A 16 year old white male from LaBelle was arrested on August 2, 2022 by Deputy Earl and was charged with Possession of Liquor by Person under 21, Resisting LEO without Violence, Possession of Drug Equipment, Possession of Synthetic Cannabinoids, Out of County Warrent and Failure to Appear.

Sergio Antonio Alejandre, 34 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 3, 2022 by Sgt Scelfo and was charged with Driving with License Suspended Habitual Offender.

Rudy Angel Blanco, 36 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 3, 2022 by Sgt Olvera and was charged with Probation Violation.

Billie Sue Hurst, 60 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 4, 2022 by Deputy Aguirre and was charged with Probation Violation.

Sean David Szeman, 44 from Ft Myers, was arrested on August 4, 2022 by Deputy Afonso and was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance without a Prescription, Possession of Drug Equipment and DUI.

A 16 year old black male from Clewiston was arrested on August 5, 2022 by Cpl Movalli-Vary and was charged with Aggravated Assault and Criminal Mischief.

Israel Martinez, Jr, 42 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 5, 2022 by Deputy Earl and was charged with Driving with Suspended/Revoked License, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Equipment and Flee/Elude LEO with Lights and Sirens

Trenton Edward Pope, 24 from Cedar Town, GA, was arrested on August 5, 2022 by Deputy Foreman and was charged with Failure to Appear.

Debrah Anne Friedman, 75 from LaBelle, was arrested on August 5, 2022 by Sgt Hernandez and was charged with Probation Violation.

Ozbel Cantu, 29 from Lehigh Acres, was arrested on August 5, 2022 by Deputy Forman and was charged with DUI.

Kaylena Pearl Williams, 24 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 6, 2022 by Deputy Forman and was charged with Failure to Appear.

Jason Eugene Dugan, Jr., 21 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 6, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Carrying Unlicensed Firearm.

Dineshwar Sohit, 31 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 7, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Probation Violation and Possession of Weapon by Convicted Felon.

John Billie Lamb, 25 from Clewiston, was arrested on August 7, 2022 by Cpl Drew and was charged with Possession of Marijuana, Use of Paraphernalia to Transport Narcotics, Possession of Drug Equipment and Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Felony.

Sunday, August 07, 2022

68 Year Old Woman Dead In Montura Ranch Crash

CLEWISTON, FL. -- Nissan Maxima versus pedestrian crash on North Quebrada Avenue, Hendry County at 8:30 p.m. Saturday. Pedestrian was pronounced deceased on scene. 

If anyone witnessed this crash please contact the Florida Highway Patrol 239-938-1800. The crash remains under investigation

Vehicle 1 (Nissan Maxima) driven by 51 year old male from Clewiston was traveling on North Quebrada Avenue, south of Del Sur Avenue. 

Pedestrian 1, 68 year old female from Clewiston was in the area of North Quebrada Avenue.

Vehicle 1 collided with Pedestrian 1. Pedestrian 1 came to final rest on the west shoulder of North Quebrada Avenue.

Two Dead In Moore Haven Head-On Crash

MOORE HAVEN, FL -- Two vehicle crash on State Road 78, Glades County Saturday at 11:45 p.m. The Moore Haven driver, male, age 31 and passenger, male, age 36 of one vehicle were pronounced deceased on scene. 

The driver of the other vehicle, male, age 45 from Okeechobee was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

Vehicle 1 was traveling south on State Road 78, south of Access Road. Vehicle 2 was traveling north on State Road 78, south of Access Road.

Vehicle 1 entered the northbound lane State Road 78. The front of Vehicle 1 collided with the front of Vehicle 2.

Vehicle 1 rotated onto the grass shoulder and came to rest. Vehicle 2 came to rest on the State Road 78 travel lanes.

Driver 1 and passenger 1 were pronounced deceased on scene.

Friday, August 05, 2022

Hendry County Still At COVID High Levels

       

LABELLE, FL. -- Nearly all Florida's counties are now on the CDC's list of "high community level" for COVID-19, and mask wearing indoors in public is recommended by the CDC in those counties. 

All counties in Florida are at "high" levels according to the CDC's latest maps as of Thursday afternoon, exceptions being Glades and Washington which have "medium" levels.

Hendry County is now at HIGH levels for the fouth week, and mask wearing indoors is recommended in public places. Positivity rates were 24% in Hendry last week from 265 tests performed. Click for Hendry County data from CDC.

Counties in states surrounding Florida are generally a scattered mixture of low to high community levels.

The CDC recommends for counties with "high" levels the following:

Wear a mask indoors in public
Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines
Get tested if you have symptoms
Additional precautions may be needed for people at high risk for severe illness

Community Transmission At High Levels Almost Everywhere

In contrast, what the CDC calls the "Community Transmission" levels are rated "high" for 100% of Florida counties, and 94% of the U.S. is at "high" levels. High Transmission Level is defined as new cases per 100,000 persons in the past 7 days of 100 or more OR Percentage of positive NAATs tests during the past 7 day at 10% or more. 

President Joe Biden was testing positive last week, and negative today.
 
To see "Community Transmission" levels click The community transmission map  

Check your county map and mask recommendations here:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

#YourTaskWearAMask

Editor's note: The links above are for reader convenience, as the CDC website is not easy to search for information. The CDC pages are extremely slow loading and complicated, with many links to click to find information. 

Ora Mae Mason Dies At 88

Sister Ora Mae Mason, age 88 of Alva, Florida was called to home to be with her Lord and Savior on July 30, 2022 in Lehigh Acres, Florida.

Sister Ora was born in Vidalia, Goergia to the late James Curtis and Becky Padgett McCollough. She married Rev. F. T. Mason; he preceded her in death on January 24, 2017. 

Sister Ora was a pastor's wife for over 50 years, serving in various churches and going mission trips with her church. She especially enjoyed going to Israel and Brazil. She also enjoyed spending time with her loving husband and their children, along with making sourdough bread which she kept the starter going for over 25 years, when the bread was baked it was not sold to anyone, instead it was given to all of her family and friends, she also enjoyed sewing and making special gifts for family and friends. 

She was a long time member of the LaBelle Church of God. She was a God fearing woman who enjoyed sharing the word of the Lord to anyy and everyone. She will be dearly missed by her entire family and the many friends from around the world that she made through her mission work.

Sister Ora leaves behind fond memories with her children; Esther Walker of Alva, Florida, Missionary James Larry Mason of Alva, Florida, Thomas Mason and David Mason (Dawn), along with six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, also surviving Sister Ora are her two sisters; Betty Sammons of LaBelle, Florida and Margaret Avila of Deland, Florida along with many extended family members and friends.

Sister Ora was also preceded in death by her son; Samuel Mason and grandson; Chaston Mason.

Sister Ora's life will be celebrated on Saturday, August 6, 2022 at Fort Denaud Cemetery at 10:00 a.m., where her son; Missionary James "Larry" Mason and Pastor Cliff Gobble will officiate. She will be laid to rest next to her loving husband, Rev. F.T. Mason.

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

Cecil Akin Dies At 75

Cecil O. Akin (Papa Cecil), 75, passed away on July 21, 2022, at this home in LaBelle. 

His 43-year battle with MS, and more recently heart disease, came to an end. Even though the battle was long and rough he looked forward to taking morning walks around the neighborhood. Cecil was a native of Florida and Hendry County.
 
He was born in Clewiston to Paul R. and Isabelle A. Mills Akin. He graduated from Clewiston High School in 1965 and Miami-Dade College in 1977 with an AS in Funeral Services. 

Cecil was a former Scoutmaster in Clewiston and representative of BSA Gulfstream Council, past President of Clewiston Jaycees, charter member of Kiwanis of LaBelle, member of Clewiston Lions Club, past Master of F&AM Moore Haven, LaBelle and Clewiston and former Grandmaster of District 28 Valley of Scottish Rite, Commandery of Knights of Templar and Grand Marshall of Swamp Cabbage Festival in 1993. 

He also was former member and Chairman of Hendry County Board of County Commissioners, was a founding member of Independent Funeral Directors of Florida (IFDF) and served on the State Board of Funeral and Cemetery Services. 

He was former co-owner of Akin-Davis Funeral Homes. 

He was a member of First Baptist Church of LaBelle and former Deacon. 

He is survived by his wife, Ann, daughter: Kimberly, son: Daniel and his wife, Nan, grandsons: Greyson and Drayton, siblings: Barbara Akin, Jerry Akin (Donna), Patty Raulerson, Jimmy Akin (Nora) and many lifelong friends and fellow Masons, nieces, nephews & cousins and brother-in-law, Russell Kilpatrick. 

Cecil was proud to serve the people of Hendry County whenever possible, loved his wife and family, and was proud to be able to see Kimberly and Daniel grow into adults and step in to run the funeral homes when he had to step down from working. 

He enjoyed watching Greyson and Drayton grow up and loved it when they called him Papa Cecil. He believed everyone should make each day count. The race in life is not how fast you travel on your way but how you win by savoring each day and having Faith in God and following his plan for you.

Donations in Memory of Mr Akin can be made to the following: Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida PO Box 60691 Ft. Myers FL 33906 Florida Baptist Children's Home PO Box 8190 Lakeland, FL 33802 Barron Library 461 N. Main St LaBelle FL 33935 or to a charity of one's choice.

Tuesday, August 02, 2022

Auditions For Theatre August 11 In LaBelle

LABELLE, FL. -- The Firehouse Theatre will hold open auditions on Saturday, August 13th at 10 am.

Auditioners will have the opportunity to see the line up of plays for the 30th season and read lines for the ones that interest you.

Auditions will be held at the Firehouse Community Theatre in downtown LaBelle at 241 N. Bridge Street.

If you want to get involved with the theatre, or have questions, please call the theatre and leave a message. (863) 675-3066.

The theatre is asking for volunteers to help with directing, stage management, back stage help, building and painting props or sets, lighting & sound, ushering, concessions, etc.

The theatre has operated for the last 29 years with volunteers. The Firehouse Community Theatre, Inc. is a non-profit 501c3 corporation.

Monday, August 01, 2022

11 Felony Arrests In Hendry County

LABELE FL -- HCSO Felony Arrests from July 25 to July 31 including 3 burglary charges and 2 probation violations:

Jeffrey Scott Scheffler, 61 from LaBelle, was arrested on July 25, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Burglary, Tampering with or Fabricating Physical Evidence and Larceny.

Marlene Puente, 42 from Clewiston, was arrested on July 25, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with Probation Violation.

Yandriel Garcia Gonzalez, 46 from Clewiston, was arrested on July 25, 2022 by Deputy Barrientos and was charged with being an Out of State Fugitive

Ryan Budesh Ghansaram, 18 from Port St Lucie, was arrested on July 25, 2022 by Deputy Williams and was charged with Possession of Marijuana with Intent to sale, Possession of Drug Equipment and Carrying Concealed Weapon Unlicensed.

Jeffrey Scott Scheffler, 61 from LaBelle, was arrested on July 25, 2022 by Deputy Rosado and was charged with Probation Violation.

Shelly Lynn Stahl, 58 from LaBelle, was arrested on July 28, 2022 by Deputy Earl and was charged with Larceny

Shella Ann McQuaig, 32 from LaBelle, was arrested on July 28, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Failure to Appear.

Carlos Bermudez Jr., 43 from at large, was arrested on July 28, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Possession of Cocaine and Tampering with Evidence.

Edward Lee Ward, 36 from at large, was arrested on July 29, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Burglary.

Gina Lola Napier, 45 from LaBelle, was arrested on July 29, 2022 by Deputy Coronilla and was charged with Burglary.

Rogelio Sanchez, 32 from Clewiston, was arrested on July 31, 2022 by Deputy Barrientos and was charged with Aggravated Battery.