Thursday, July 27, 2023

Rosa Nieves Rosado Dies At 65

Rosa Elena Nieves (Rosado), age 65, of LaBelle, passed away July 25, 2023, at Hope Hospice in Lehigh Acres. 

She was born December 26, 1957, in New York, NY, to the late Joselin and Raquel (Santiago) Rosado. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Edwardo Nieves. 

She is survived by her children: Rachel Rosado (Christopher), Rosemarie DeLeon (David), Ruby Nieves (Juan), Edwardo Nieves, Jr. (Tiffanie), Nataile Burke (Kevin), and Inge Lindstrom twenty-five grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, two brothers and two sisters. 

The visitation will on Friday, July 28, 2023 from 2:30pm – 5:00pm at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, LaBelle, FL

Davis-Pratt Park Closed For Ant Control

LABELLE, FL. -- Davis-Pratt Park will be closed beginning at 5pm on Friday, July 28 until 6pm on Monday, July 31.

The closure is necessary while the park is treated for ant control.

Residents with questions or concerns are asked to call Hendry-LaBelle Recreation at 863-675-5347.




Balance Coaching Class For Seniors Begins August 29

Southwest, FL (07/27/2023)— Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is looking for volunteers to help provide this program.

A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls is conducted in 8 two-hour sessions and uses group discussion, problem-solving strategies, videos and gentle physical exercise. Older adults learn positive coping methods to reduce fear of falling and remain active and independent.

A Matter of Balance coaches help participants become more confident about managing falls by believing that they can increase their strength, find ways to reduce falls, and protect themselves if they do fall. In addition, participants report that they have increased the amount they exercise on a regular basis.

A Matter of Balance coaches need good communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, dependability and a willingness to lead small groups of older adults. Coaches also need to be able to lead low to moderate level exercise.

The A Matter of Balance Coach Training will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, and Wednesday, August 30, 2023, from 1pm to 5pm. Space is limited and advance registration is required. To participate, you must reside in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, or Sarasota County. To register, contact Clorivel Lappost, AAASWFL’s Health & Wellness Coordinator at Clorivel.Lappost@aaaswfl.org or by calling 239-652-6914.

School Supply Distribution Starts July 28 For Glades Communities

Clewiston, FL – This fall, thousands of Glades-area students will be heading back to school with new uniforms, backpacks and school supplies thanks to generous support from the people of U.S. Sugar. During these next few weeks, employees from the company will be on hand at community events to help distribute the materials to schoolchildren and their parents in Glades, Hendry, and Palm Beach Counties.

“There is perhaps no better investment in our communities that investing in our children to help them succeed in school,” said Community Relations Director Brannan Thomas. “This summer, U.S. Sugar is stepping up in a big way to provide local students with much-needed schools supplies such as school uniforms, backpacks, pencils, crayons, folders, and paper.”

As part of the company’s back to school efforts, the people of U.S. Sugar are partnering with local organizations and city governments: City of South Bay, Clewiston Library, Inspiration of God Church in South Bay, Education Foundation of Palm Beach County, Florida Community Health Center in Clewiston and the Glades County Library.

Schedule for the distribution of school supplies:

- July 28, 2023: Glades County Library distributing backpacks and school supplies
- July 29, 2023: City of South Bay distributing backpacks and school supplies
- July 29, 2023: Florida Community Health Center in Clewiston distributing backpacks and school supplies
- August 6, 2023: Inspiration Church of God in South Bay distributing school uniforms
- August 11, 2023: Education Foundation of Palm Beach County distributing backpacks and school supplies

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Monday, July 24, 2023

Hendry County Arrests This Week

LABELLE, FL.. -- ARREST BLOTTER FOR July 17 – July 23, 2023

Hendry County Arrests For Felony and DUI:

Armando Domian Romero Icezalaya, 46, at large was arrested on July 17, 2023, Deputy Sheriff H. Ramirez Garcia on charges of Felony Burglary and Petit Theft

Andre Previn Jones, 55, Clewiston was arrested n July 19, 2023, by Cpl. M> Afonso on charges of Felony Probation Violation and Misdemeanor Probation Violation

Jason Scott Huggard, 35, Custer, MI was arrested on July 19, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Jonteria Gloriane Johnson, 26, Clewiston was arrested on July 19, 2023, by Cpl. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Johnny Lee Willis, 41, at large, was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Cpl. K. Barrientos on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Rangel Hernandez, 25, Clewiston was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff M. Kinney on charges of Dealing in Stolen Property and Petit Theft

Tasha Michelle Davidson, 43, Clewiston was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Felony Probation

Abbey Miller-Waldron, 40, Naples was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges on Felony Probation Violation

Horace Lamon Washington, 22, Clewiston was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Justin Earle Edwards, 37, Clewiston was arrested on July 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo on charges of Lewd and Lascivious

Jerry Javier Hernandez, 35, Clewiston was arrested on July 21, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Goldberg on charges of DUI

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Margaret Eva Heal Dies At 82

Margaret "Peggy" Eva Heal, age 82, of Lehigh Acres, Florida passed away in Lehigh Acres peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 18, 2023.

Peggy was born on April 28, 1941, in Pennsylvania to the late Raymond and the late Pauline Jackson. She owned a service station with her first husband in Rome, Pennsylvania and after moving to Florida,she worked as a manager for Perkins Restaurants for many years before retiring. Margaret was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Peggy leaves fond memories with her surviving children; Paula Waybright (Mark),, Pamela Dennis (Brent) and Patti Burns (John), joins her two sons Michael Potter, Melvin Potter, along with six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Margaret also leaves fond memories with her siblings, Paul Jackson, Ray Jackson, and Sandy Patterson and joins Doris Fox and Danny Jackson.

Family will have a celebration of life to follow shortly.

Cremation rites will be accorded by Akin-Davis Funeral Home - LaBelle.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Donald "Gene" Hammond Dies At 87

Donald Eugene "Gene" Hammond, age 87 of LaBelle, Florida passed away at home on July 15, 2023. 

Gene was born in Gauley Bridge, West Virginia on October 25, 1935, to the late Stanley and Phala Legg Hammond. 

He was honorably discharged from the United States Army. He retired from Delta Airlines in 1988 after 30 years of service in Miami. 

He moved to LaBelle, Florida, to his home on the river where he tended to his orange grove. 

Gene is survived by his wife of 53 years, Janet, his children; Maxwell Scott and Barbara Lee. and his three grandchildren; Matthew, Mark, Dakotah. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; Stanley and Phala, and his two brothers; John and James. 

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

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Rural And Family Land Protections Grants Open

Florida Agriculure Commissioner Wilton Simpson has announced the opening of the 2023 application cycle for landowners to apply for the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. 

After Commissioner Simpson helped to secure $300 million in funding for the program over the last two years, landowners can now submit their online application to the department until July 27, 2023, at 5 p.m. EST.

The program is designed to meet three needs:

Protect valuable agricultural lands.

Create easement documents that work together with agricultural production to ensure sustainable agricultural practices and reasonable protection of the environment without interfering with agricultural operations in such a way that could put the continued economic viability of these operations at risk.

Protect natural resources, not as the primary purpose, but in conjunction with the economically viable agricultural operations.

To apply, visit the following link:

https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Protect-Our-Environment/Rural-and-Family-Lands-Protection-Program

Tuesday, July 18, 2023

Five Day Highway Speeding Operation In Four Southern States

LABELLE, FL -- The Hendry County Sheriff’s Office will be making speed enforcement a priority between July 17th -22nd, 2023 as we take part in Operation Southern Slow Down to protect lives.

The 2023 Operation Southern Slow Down is a traffic safety initiative designed to unify all of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama public safety agencies and partners, leveraging a longstanding tradition of collaboration. This initiative is aimed at reducing the high number of Speed Related fatality and serious injury crashes on Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama roadways by targeting speeding and aggressive drivers on our roadways.

Speeding can do damage that’s beyond repair. When you drive over the speed limit, even by a little bit, you put yourself and everyone on the road in danger. The result could be a serious injury or deadly crash. Know that speeding is illegal and affects everyone on the road.

Monday, July 17, 2023

Rural Florida Grants Available For Storm And Fire Damage

USDA Makes Grants Available to Help People in Rural Florida Repair Their Homes Damaged By Fires, Tropical Storms and Hurricanes in 2022

Gainesville, Fla. – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands State Director Lakeisha Hood today announced the availability of grants to help people repair their homes that were damaged by the Adkins Avenue and Chipola Complex Fires, as well as Tropical Storms Nicole and Ian and Hurricanes Nicole and Ian in 2022.

The homes must be located in presidentially declared disaster areas. Residents in all 67 Florida counties may be eligible for the funding:

The grants are being made available through supplemental disaster funding under the Rural Disaster Home Repair Grant Program. Through this program, people may apply to receive grants of up to $40,675 directly from USDA to repair their homes.

Funds will be available until expended. They may be used to:pay for home repair expenses that were a result of a Presidentially-declared disasters in calendar year 2022.



To be eligible:applicants must have household incomes that do not exceed the low-limits based on their household size and county.

homes must be located in an eligible rural area.
homes must be located in a Presidentially declared disaster areas 2022.

For more information, visit https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-programs/single-family-housing-rural-disaster-home-repair-grants#overview.

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Florida Keys' Watercolor Kapers by Bob Kranich

Florida Keys’ Watercolor Kapers
by Bob Kranich

The Cayman Turtle Schooner, (Part 10, Excerpt 75)

This is a story, titled The Cayman Turtle Schooner. This story will tell about the forming and history of the Cayman Islands, the green sea turtle’s habits and life style, the building of a dugout canoe, and then a schooner, and lastly about the historic two-masted turtle schooner, A. M. Adams. Parker has designed a boat he calls the Turtle Boat and they are going to build it. It will be made from boards and not a log like their dugout canoe.

The Cayman Turtle Schooner

“Yes, Grandpa, I was wondering when we we’re going to check on it.”

“Sonny, you know, first things first! Grandma had to have her house, and we needed our shed for our tools. We were fortunate it only took two weeks. Now let’s go see what we can see.”

The lagoon was as calm as usual. There were fallen trees, broken mangrove bushes, and lots of driftwood floating about.

“Look, Grandpa, the turtle crawl is gone!”

There were a few posts protruding at many different angles, and over in a mangrove was one of the gates.

“Do you think Sebastian is gone, Grandpa?”

“Well Sonny, it sure looks like it. You know you shouldn’t feel bad. Your turtle is in his environment. He is a sea turtle, and turtles love the sea and live in it. It’s their home. He is pretty big now and he doesn’t have many enemies. After all, what fish would like to eat a big turtle shell? You know he has that unusual marking, a cross on his shell. If we ever catch him, we’ll take care of him.”

“I know Grandpa, but I’m sad.”

“Let’s go check on our canoe. We tied it up about here. But the tree has been knocked over!”

“Look over there, Grandpa. It’s our sail!”

“It sure is. It’s on the other side of those mangroves.”
They went around and worked their way up to the sail. There it was. The sail had come loose from the mast and boom and was draped over the mangroves. Below it was their canoe.

“Oh look Grandpa, one side of our canoe is broken in!”

“I see it, Parker. We may be able to fix I, but we’ll need John and Dynamite to drag it out of here. We can trim out a path but we’ll need mule power to move it! Let’s head back to the house, and take a break. We’ll see if we can help Grandma and ‘morrow we’ll go down to John’s. First thought, I want to roll up the sail. We can patch it with the extra sail cloth John gave us. Look, we’re in luck, there’s our two oars!”

“That was a nice dinner, Grandma.”

“Thankee kindly, Parker.”

“Grandpa, I need some paper and a pen. I have an idea I want to draw, and I’ll show it to you when I get finished.”

“Sure, Parker, on that shelf over there.”

“Thanks, Grandpa.”

“Now just what do you think has gotten into that young’un, Sir?” Grandma asked.

“Don’t rightly know, Hon, but I guess we’ll see shortly.”

Later on that evening…

“Here it is Grandpa!”

“Let’s see what you have here. Why it appears to be a boat. But it’s not a dugout canoe. Parker, what a good drawing! Where did you get this idea? You’ve drawn it very well. What are we going to do with this?”

“Grandpa, I’ve been thinking about it for a long time. Ever since I saw that long boat on Captain James's sloop in Channel Bay. Grandpa, this boat will be lighter, faster, and maybe easier to build! I’m going to call it a Turtle boat.”

“Parker, I’m interested. First, we’ll need a scale model. We can carve it out of cedar, because it's softwood. Now for our scale model we’ll make it at a one to twelve scale. You know twelve inches on the real boat will equal one inch on the model. Since your boat is fourteen feet we’ll need a fourteen-inch wood block.”

Grandpa started carving, “How does this look Parker?”

“Good, Grandpa, just like my drawing. How did you know about a scale model, Grandpa?”

“Remember I sailed on a schooner when I was in my twenties. I was around when some were built here in the Caymans. Now see we can cut this model crossways to get the station curves.* We’re going to need some flat wood boards to build this boat.”

“How will we get those, Grandpa?”

“Parker, I think it’s about time we found some of those gold coins.”

John took the three gold coins in his hand, “You say that you found these on the beach? Must have washed up from the storm, or been uncovered by it. You say you need some mahogany planks...do you? You know just what we should do, go to Channel Bay, convert these three coins to some Cayman money, and then we’ll find you those planks.”

They went down to Channel Bay in John’s sail’n canoe, converted the coins, bought the planks, and transported them to Grandpa’s house.

Parker and Grandpa waved to John as he sailed off.

“Well, Parker, here we have our pile of planks. John was sure right, those three gold coins would buy us what we needed. He pointed to the pile of mahogany boards they had unloaded from John’s dugout canoe.

“We’ll move these planks up to the shed and stack them. Then tomorrow morning we have to go out to the swamp. We will need to find some naturally curved roots of the mahogany tree. Those roots will work for our front and rear wood timbers for the stem and stern. Of course we’ll have to carve them some to fit our needs.”

Next morning…

“Parker, prepare to get moist. We’ll have to dig around this root and then dam around it so we can chop it out. It looks like it will be perfect.”

“I see another one over there!” Parker exclaimed.

“Hold your excitement, Parker. Let’s get this one cut, and then we’ll get yours over there. These two curved mahogany roots will work real fine. Of course we will have to use the draw shave* to flatten them out and form them.”

On their way back to the house Grandpa continued planning. “We’ll use that thicker plank for the keel.* The planks we have are real wide. We’ll be able to cut out the ribs and then splice them together at the keel. We’re going to have twelve stations plus the stem and stern will equal fourteen feet.”

They carved down both front stem and rear stern posts to be flat with a smooth curve and slightly pointed on the outsides of the curves. Everything was spliced, fitted, glued with animal glue,* drilled out, and held together with tree nails.*

“Grandpa, now our boat looks like a skeleton.”

“Well, Parker, the next step is to bend these thinner planks around the ribs from stem to stern. It will take a lot of fitting but we will have it done in less than one fourth the time it took us to build the dugout canoe. You had a great idea.”

From the Author:

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

Friday, July 14, 2023

Daniel Jay Van Wagner Dies At 78

Daniel Jay Van Wagner of Labelle, FL, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023 at the age of 78, with his wife by his side.

Daniel was born on April 13, 1945 in Norwich NY to the parents of Jay Van Wagner and Alice Satterlee Van Wagner in Norwich, NY. 

Daniel leaves behind his loving wife, Rosalyn Charlotte Stringer whom he married on August 31, 1963. 

 Those that predeceased Danny are his parents and his brother Edward and nephew Teddy. 

 He has two surviving aunts – Sue Austin of Medford OR and Vivian Hull of Sherburne NY who doted on him over the years. 

 Daniel grew up on the family dairy farm in Sherburne, NY where he was the eldest of five siblings – Edward (deceased), Fred (Edith) Van Wagner of Sherburne NY, Alice (Danny) Scott of Gilbert AZ, and Lois Van Wagner of Norwich NY. This farming life instilled in him the importance of hard work and he worked hard his whole life as a dairy farmer, trapper, hunter, mechanic, well-driller, land clearer (he cleared all of EPCOT), and welder (he was pretty proud that his welded rock separator went to the moon). 

 In High School, he was a member of the FFA, and baked blackberry pies that were blue ribbon winners at the county fair. He also assisted with the production of Maple Syrup while on the farm. He loved hunting and trapping beaver, muskrat, pigs, and bobcats. He could descent a skunk and brought many of them home for kids to keep as pets. He skinned hundreds of deer over his years and provided meat for families through the winter. Many of times, he brought home abandoned baby coons, skunks, possums, deer, and pigs for his family to bottle raise. 

He loved berry picking and did that at every chance – on the NY farm, at River Ranch, or beside the road in Wyoming. 

 Danny moved his family from upstate NY to “go south” in 1975. The car broke down in SC where he found work welding and drilling wells, and eventually in 1980 made it to Florida where he cleared land for Agritiller (now Phillip & Jordan) and settled in LaBelle. 

 He cleared much of Port LaBelle, many acres for orange groves, cattle pastures, housing developments, and even theme parks across the state of Florida. He cleared land in Alabama, New Mexico, and Texas. He not only cleared the land, but once the machinery was uniquely designed and patented by his boss (John Edwards), he would build it, repair it, and model its ability at big equipment shows. 

 Daniel retired in 2005 and took two “once in a lifetime” trips to Yellowstone where he enjoyed every second. Old Faithful did not fail to amaze, along with the elk, bear, moose, and all the other wildlife and sights. 

Since retiring, Daniel has enjoyed receiving company, traveling to relatives houses out of state, tending the yard, and holding grandbabies and great grandbabies. He loved holding the babies. 

Daniel’s wish is to be cremated and put to rest in his grandmother’s coffee pot that has been painted with hunting scenery by a dear friend. He kept his wit and humor mixed with sarcasm right up to the day of passing. He was unapologetically real, and an authentic countryman. This earthly world has lost a true and rare character. A loving father, grandpa, and big brother who cherished his mom, grandma, and wife as he gifted them with flowers (gladiolas, lilies, and others), molasses, cane syrup, pecans and many other trinkets.

Daniel and Rosalyn have five children – Barbara (Wayne) Mundy, Tim (Beth) Van Wagner, Michael (Denise) Van Wagner, Peggy (Frank) Batson, and Scott (Delores) Van Wagner whom all reside in LaBelle. 

 They have 13 grandchildren: Necole (Luis) Marquez, Natasha (Arthur) Carnes, Matthew (Danielle) Mundy, Cory (Ashley) Mundy, Sandra Van Wagner, Tim (Rachael) Van Wagner, Leah (Cody) Alvarez, Jason (Shannon) Church, Bradley Church, Gary (Kristina) Church, Scott Van Wagner, Joshua Van Wagner, and Sindie (Chuck) Maxwell. 

 They have 30 great grandchildren – Bryon, Emily, Ashton, Gracie, Averi, Cecil, Matthew, Michael, Madelynn, Elias, Amelia, Hazel, Marlowe, Joey, Jesse, Jocelyn, Harper, Rosie, Timmy, Remy, Hayden, Aurelia, Atalie, Elliot, Serenity, Sean, Skyler, Whitnee, Aubrey, Kelsie, and soon Everly. He has many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family and friends that will miss him dearly.

A celebration of life and family get together will take place at a later date.

Sidewalks Coming To Harlem, Fl Next Week

CLEWISTON, FL. -- (July 14, 2023) – Please be advised that beginning Monday, July 17, 2023, Hendry County’s contractor, Manhattan Road & Bridge Company, will be conducting sidewalk construction on Carolina Avenue from 13th Street to 11th Street and Florida Avenue from 10th Street to 7th Street in Harlem, FL.

The project includes sidewalk construction, drainage improvements, and driveway repairs. The speed limit will be reduced through the project area.

Motorists and pedestrians 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.

The project is expected to have a completion time of approximately one hundred twenty (120) days to one hundred fifty (150) days.

· Construction Start: July 17, 2023
· Construction End: December 14, 2023

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

The project is 100% funded by the Florida Department of Transportation via the Local Agency Program federal grant in the amount of $899,000.00.

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

Thursday, July 13, 2023

LaBelle Boat Ramp Closed July 24

LABELLE, FL. -- (July 13, 2023) – Please be advised that the LaBelle Boat Ramp will be closed Monday, July 24 – Friday, July 28.

The closure is necessary in order for contractors to conduct repairs to the asphalt at the boat ramp.

Residents with questions or concerns are asked to call 863-675-5347.

Hendry County Sheriff's Felony/DUI Arrests Last Week

ARREST LOG July 3, 2023 – July 9, 2023
FELONY / DUI In Hendry County

LABELLE, FL -- Raul Gil, 33, LaBelle was arrested on July 3, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Phoenix Monroe Pattison-Hall, 28, Clewiston was arrested on July 3, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Jarren Jamell Beasley, 27, Clewiston on July 3, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Brittany Durae Barney, 37, Moore Haven was arrested on July 3, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff T. Williams on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine and Felony Probation Violation

Eduardo Jose Cardenas Guillen, 34, Clewiston was arrested on July 6, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Motor Vehicle Theft

Michelle Rene Herring, 36, LaBelle was arrested on July 4, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Escobedo was arrested on Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription, Possession of Drug Equipment and Petit Theft

Michael Aaron Rosas, 32, Lehigh Acres was arrested on July 4, 2023, by Deputy T. Williams on charges of Burglary Occupied Dwelling and Resisting Officer without Violence

Steve Wayne Pennington, 68, Delton was arrested on July 5, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Possession of Ammunition by a Florida Convicted Felo

Homero O. Olivarez, III, 38, LaBelle was arrested on July 5, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff A. Bell on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Tearria Joshara Flennory, 30, South Bay, was arrested on July 5, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff B. Barrira on charges of Grand Theft Motor Vehicle, Driving While Driver’s License Suspended/Revoked

16-year-old, Lehigh Acres was arrested on July 6, 2023, by Cpl. M. Afonso on charges of Felony Probation, Fleeing &b Eluding, Motor Vehicle Theft, Possession of Burglary Tools with Intent to Use and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked

15-year-old male, Lehigh Acres was arrested on July 6, 2023, by Cpl. M. Afonso on charges of Possession of Burglary Tools with Intent to Use

Ivalissa Leah Vagas, 35, Ft. Myers was arrested on July 9, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on Felony Probation Violation

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

Felony/DUI Arrests In Hendry County June 26-July 3

ARREST LOG June 26, 2023 – July, 3 2023
FELONY / DUI

LABELLE, FL. -- Eliseo Garcia Zunin, 30, LaBelle was arrested on June 26, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff M. Kinney on charges of Aggravated Battery

Jennifer Lynn St. Hilaire, 40, LaBelle, was arrested on June 26, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Castro for three (3) counts of Felony Probation Violation

Curtis Lee Rushing, 18, Clewiston was arrested on June 27, 2023, Cpl. S. Rivera on charges of Fleeing &b Eluding Law Enforcement

Felipe Rivas, 42, LaBelle was arrested on June 27, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff M. Aguirre on charges of Grand Theft

Brinton Artiviergonzalez Ingram, 38, Clewiston was arrested on June27, 2023, by Sgt. J. Nunemaker on charges of Burglary of Unoccupied Dwelling Petit Theft, Resist without Violence and Felony Probation Violation

Carmen Denice Carter, 22, Okeechobee was arrested on June 29, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff M. Kinney on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

Stanley Byron Daniels, 54, Clewiston was arrested on June 30, 2023, by Det. Sgt. E. Morgan on charges of Firing a Deadly Weapon into a Vehicle or Building, Firing a Weapon in Public, Improper Exhibition of a Firearm and Possession of a Weapon by a Florida Convicted Felon

Carranza Lopez, Frediz, 56, Miami, was arrested on July 1, 2023, by Sgt. D. McNeil on charges of DUI

Hendry Sheriff's Arrest Log For June

ARREST LOG June 19, 2023 – June 25, 2023
FELONY / DUI

LABELLE, FL. -- Luis Enrique Reyes, 44, Opa Locka, was arrested on June 19, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff H. Ramirez Garcia, on charges of Felony Driving While DL Suspended, Failure to Register Motor Vehicle and Resisting Arrest without Violence

17-year-old male, Immokalee, was arrested on June 20, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff V. Ramos on charges of Burglary, Use of 2-way Communications to commit a Felony, Armed Robbery, Grand Theft, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon

Carlos Diaz Morales, 29, LaBelle was arrested on June 20, 2023, by Det. Sgt. R. Krasinskas on charges of Grand Theft

Charles Reggie Cypress, 31 Clewiston was arrested on June 21, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff A. Bell with two (2) counts of Felony Probation Violation

Amy Lee Hernandez, 34, Immokalee was arrested on June 21, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Possession of Cocaine, Failure to Register Motor Vehicle, Drive Motorcycle Racing on Hwy

Pedro Munoz-Heras, 53, West Palm Beach, was arrested on 06/23/2023 by Cpl. K. Barrientos on charges of DUI and Failure to Register Motor Vehicle

Tavaris Desmond Holland, 31, Clewiston was arrested on June 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff J. Goldberg on charges of Child Neglect and Battery

Lee Edwards Odom, 35, Clewiston was arrested on June 23, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff L. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana under 20/grams, Resist Arrest without violence and Threat with Deadly Serious Bodily Injury

Raquel Pelaez, 62, Clewiston was arrested on June 24, 2023, by Deputy Sheriff B. Davis on charges of Battery and Aggravated Animal Cruelty


Tuesday, July 11, 2023

Obituaries - Jeremiah Ramirez, age 46; Raleigh Mathis, age 82

Jeremiah Martinez Ramirez, age 46, of Moore Haven, Florida passed away on July 5, 2023, in Moore Haven, Florida.

Jeremiah was born on June 8, 1977, in Manatee County, Florida to Ramiro and Isabel Martinez Ramirez. He worked most of his life as a carpenter. He married Patrica Chaires. Jeremiah was a loving husband, son, father, grandfather and brother who will be dearly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Jeremiah leaves fond memories with his loving wife; Patricia Ramirez, parents; Ramiro and Isabel Ramirez, his sons; Jeremiah Ramirez, Silas Joel Ramirez, grandson; Malachi Asher Ramirez, brothers; Ramiro Ramirez, Jr, Oscar Ramirez, Bonifacio Ramirez, sisters; Mona Rives, Irene Ramirez along with many extended family members and friends.

Celebration of Jeremiah's life will be on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Iglesia Camino A La Gloria located at 851 South Lopez Street Clewiston, Florida, where visitation will be one hour before the celebration. Burial will be at Ridgelawn Cemetery immediately following the celebration.

Akin-Davis Funeral Home of Clewiston is handling the celebration arrangements.

Raleigh "Gene" Eugene Mathis, age 82 a resident of Clewiston formerly of LaBelle, passed away on Thursday, July 6 2023. He was born on May 22 1941 in Venus. 

He worked for U.S. Sugar as a heavy equipement operator for 10 years retiring in 1990. He served God, he was a Minister of the Gospel, his passion, a pastor and evangelist until his death.. He spent his life sharing the gospel of Jesus to all he met there were no strangers only lost souls. 

He is survived by his loving family children; Kenneth E. (LeTrecia) Mathis, Donna L. (Tommy Lee) Marney, Darren K. Mathis and Kevin B. Mathis; sister Judy (Billy) Farnam and numerous neices and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn A. Mathis; parents Raleigh and Mae (Green) Mathis; siblings Billy Mathis, Charlotte Mercer, Ruth Summerall, David Mathis, Hilda and Mary. 

A visitation will be held at Akin-Davis Funeral Home, 560 Hickopochee Ave. LaBelle, Florida 33935 on Thursday, July 13, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at 5:00 PM in the funeral home. Interment will be held privately. 

In lieu of flowers memorial donations to his beloved church, Moore Haven Church of God would be appreciated.

94 Boaters Arrested For Drugs Or Alcohol

FWC removes nearly 100 impaired operators during Operation Dry Water and the Fourth of July holiday

In their 15th year participating in Operation Dry Water, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers spent their holiday weekend focused on the safety of people enjoying all that Florida’s waterways have to offer.

From July 1-3, FWC officers arrested 94 vessel operators for boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, preventing the possibility of life-altering events from occurring.

“Tragic accidents occur when irresponsibility is present,” said Col. Brian Smith, Director of FWC’s Division of Law Enforcement. “Operating a vessel while impaired puts the vessel operator, everyone on board and everyone around them in danger. I have no doubt that the hard work our officers and partner agencies put in over the holiday weekend saved lives.”

Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal on all bodies of water and can lead to serious injuries and consequences. In Florida, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher, the same as in a vehicle.

About Operation Dry Water

Operation Dry Water is a year-round Boating Under the Influence awareness campaign that facilitates a national weekend of BUI detection and enforcement aimed at reducing the number of alcohol- and drug-related boating incidents and fatalities. 

This year Operation Dry Water weekend took place July 1-3.

Monday, July 10, 2023

Obituaries - Hancock, Chance, Gauss, Abercrombie, Tiner

Willie J. Hancock, age 84 a resident of Clewiston, passed away on Friday July 7. 2023. He was born in Sebring on February 3, 1939. 

He was a heavy machine orperator retiring in 2001, a member of Clewiston Gospel Ministry. 

He is survived by his loving family; children Dennis Hancock of Lyons, Georgia, Laraine Kelly of Lyons, Georgia, Paula Hancock of Santa Claus, Georgia, Connie (Roger) Schultz of Clewiston, Florida and Dana (David) Freeman of Lyons, Georgia; 21 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Willie and Leslie Hancock; brothers Cleveland Hancock and Lee Hancock. 

A visitation will be held at Clewiston Gospel Ministry, 6800 Flaghole Road, Clewiston, Florida 33440 on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 from 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM, with a funeral service in the church at 6:00 PM

Keith Chance age 58 of LaBelle, Florida passed away on July 6, 2023 in Fort Myers, Florida.

Keith was born on December 16, 1964 to the late Charles E. and the late Patricia Burney Chance in Naples, Florida.

Keith leaves fond memories with his daughter, Heaven Chance, Step Mother; Shirley Chance, sister; Crystal Rodriguez, brothers Michael Chance, Rocky Chance, Paul Chance, James Chance, Charles Chance, Thomas Dotson, William Johnson, along with many nieces and nephews

Keith's life was celebrated Monday, July 10, 2023 at 10: 00 a.m. at Fort Denaud Cemetery in LaBelle.

Akin-Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle is handled the arrangements for the Keith Chance Family.

Richard "Rich" Edward Gauss, Jr. age 64 of Fort Pierce, Florida passed away in Brevard County, Florida on July 2, 2023.

Rich was born on February 6, 1959, in Bradenton, Florida to the late Richard Edward Gauss, Sr and Shirley M. Alderman. He was married to TerriLynn Atkinson. 

He was Director of Food and Safety for Egan Farms, One World Fruit, LLC. 

He graduated from LaBelle High School Class of 1977. Participated in the High School Band as Head Drummer, played drums in a Rock N Roll Band, loved riding motorcycles, racing boats and dogs.

Rich leaves fond memories with his wife; TerriLynn Marvin, mother; Shirley Dooley, daughter; Lacey Moon Gauss, sister; JoBee O'Hara and her husband Don O'Hara, brother; Thomas A. Gauss and his wife Melissa Gauss. He also leaves fond memories with many lifelong friends and extended family members.

Rich's life will be celebrated on July 21, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Carlson Methodist Church located at 310 Campbell Street in LaBelle, where a visitation will be 30 minutes before the celebration. Burial will take place in Fort Denaud Cemetery also in LaBelle.

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

Johnnie W. Abercrombie, age 74 a longtime resident of Clewiston, Florida, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2023, at Palm Beach Garden Medical Center in Palm Beach Garden, Florida. 

He is survived by his loving family; children Danny (Carmen) Abercrombie, Julie (Eddie) Garcia, Johnny (Judy) Abercrombie and Jackie (Jessica) Abercrombie; siblings Joey Abercrombie, Joan, Lisa Holcomb and Frankie Bordan; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Dorotha Abercrombie; parents Boone and Rubi Abercrombie; siblings Charles Abercrombie, Vera Abercrombie and Martha Harris. 

Johnnie was the pastor at Clewiston Pentecostal Holiness Church in Clewiston, Florida and a crane operator for Glades Sugar in Belle Glade. 

A memorial service for Johnnie will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Johnnie’s name to the Clewiston Pentecostal Holiness Church would be appreciated. 

Dewey Nathan Tiner, 41 of Fort Myers, Florida passed away June 29, 2023 in Fort Myers, Florida.

Dewey was born on November 24, 1981 in Fort Myers to Toby and Teresa Blum Tiner. Dewey was a loving son and brother. He never missed an opportunity to make someone laugh. He had a very generous spirit and would give you the shirt off his back. 

Dewey was dedicated to his men's Bible Study group, and his work out routine at Planet Fitness. His favorite show was Big Bang Theory and he was a fan of a good cup of coffee. He will be missed by all who love him.

Dewey leaves fond memories with his grandmother, Patricia Blum of Alva, Florida, parents, Toby and Teresa Tiner of Alva, Florida, Sister; Amanda (Mark) Busbee of Alva, Florida, brother, Dustin (Emily) Tiner of Coevr D'Alene, Idaho.

Services will be private for Dewey's family, In Lieu of flowers donations to Hope Clubhouse of Southwest Florida would be greatly appreciated.

Akin-Davis Funeral Home - Fort Myers is handling the arrangements for Dewey.

Seminole Casino Art Show And Sale July 29

IMMOKALEE, Fla. (July 10, 2023) - The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is presenting the “Seminole Artist Experience Art Sale” event on Saturday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee.

This will be the third event of the series. The first event kicked off at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum in Big Cypress, followed by an event at the museum’s satellite location in Hollywood, Florida at the Seminole Okalee Indian Village.

The “Seminole Artist Experience Art Sale” features fine art by Native American artists from the Seminole Tribe of Florida. View original works of art by Artists Elgin Jumper, Justine Osceola, Tyler Tigertail, and more.

This free event will showcase featured artists as they demonstrate live painting and exhibit original works, create, and showcase hand crafts such as Seminole sweetgrass basketmaking, and display other traditional native Florida Seminole artists’ works. Live musical soundscapes and oral traditions will channel the flow of the true creative experience.

Enjoy traditional favorite dishes from Seminole food vendors while experiencing the Seminole Immokalee community's talented authentic artisans, craft vendors, and more.

Seminole Casino Hotel is located at 506 S 1st St, Immokalee, FL 34142.

Thursday, July 06, 2023

Beat The Heat Tips To Stay Safe

Hendry and Glades Counties, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hendry and Glades Counties (DOH-Hendry/Glades) is urging residents to take necessary precautions and follow safety measures during the current heat advisory in the Southwest Florida region. With temperatures soaring and heat indexes reaching dangerous levels, it is important to prioritize the well-being of individuals and communities.

The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories which include Hendry and Glades Counties, forecasting high temperatures and humidity that pose health risks. DOH-Hendry/Glades recognizes the importance of raising awareness and promoting measures to ensure the safety of residents during extreme weather conditions.

During this heat advisory, DOH-Hendry/Glades recommends the following safety measures to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies:

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive consumption of caffeine or alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.

Stay cool. Avoid direct sunlight and long exposure to the sun. Spend time in air-conditioned environments. If you do not have access to air conditioning, consider visiting public buildings or public spaces with shade. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help your body regulate its temperature. Protect your head and face with a wide-brimmed hat and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Minimize outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in shaded areas and avoid strenuous physical exertion.

Check on vulnerable individuals. Keep an eye on elderly neighbors, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Ensure they have access to a cool environment and sufficient hydration.

Never leave children, vulnerable individuals, or pets unattended in vehicle. Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly, even with the windows slightly open, and can be life-threatening.

DOH-Hendry/Glades urges everyone to remain vigilant and look out for one another during this heat advisory. By following these safety measures, we can collectively reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and emergencies.

Stay informed about the heat advisory by following the National Weather Service, Emergency Management, or your local news.

Bertha Saumell Dies At 94

Bertha E. Saumell a resident of Clewiston, Fl. Since 1962, passed away on July 2, 2023. 

She was born in Camaguey, Cuba on November 22, 1928. She retired in 1999 from Okeelanta Sugar Corporation after working in the sugar industry since 1964. 

She was a member of St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in Clewiston. 

She is survived by her loving family; daughter Rita S. (Curt) Thompson of Clewiston; granddaughter Rita Jane (Joe) Foote of Clewiston; grandson Curtis A. Thompson IV. Of Clewiston; great granddaughters Allie, Joey and Nikki Foote of Clewiston; Niece Lilyan Martinez and a nephew Manuel Quintana of Key Biscayne. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Jorge Saumell, parents Manuel and Amparo Quintana and a brother Manuel Quintana. 

Christian Mass at St. Margarets Catholic Church in Clewiston on Friday, July 7, 2023, at 10:00 AM. 

Interment will follow to Caballero Rivero Woodlawn North Cemetery in Miami. 

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in Clewiston.

Wednesday, July 05, 2023

LaBelle Boat Ramp Closed July 19

LABELLE, FL. -- The LaBelle Boat Ramp will be closed Wednesday, July 19 – Friday, July 21 and Monday, July 24 – Friday, July 28.

The closures are necessary in order for contractors to conduct repairs to the asphalt at the boat ramp.

The boat ramp will be open to the public on Saturday, July 22 and Sunday, July 23.

Residents with questions or concerns are asked to call 863-675-5347.