“Around the Lake” Lake” Edition Formerly Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, & The Sun

Vol. 111 No. 82 Wednesday, December 9, 2020 $1.00 plus tax DOH tracks area COVID-19 cases

By Katrina Elsken County residents are currently Lake Okeechobee News hospitalized related to COVID-19. (Glades County does not have a More than 1 million Florida hospital.) residents have tested positive for • Hendry County has 2,631 the COVID-19 virus, according Brahmans take positive cases to date, with 242 down Terriers to the Florida Department of 45 hospitalizations and 45 deaths. Health. The state has seen 56,607 According to AHCA, one Hendry hospitalizations related to the County resident is currently hos- virus, with 19,282 Florida resi- pitalized related to COVID-19. All dent deaths and 247 nonresident four of the ICU beds in Hendry deaths to date. County are available. According to the Florida • Palm Beach County has Department of Health (FDOH), 69,331 positive cases to date, as of Dec. 8, in the Lake with 4,585 residents and 58 non- Okeechobee area: residents hospitalized, and 1,731 • Okeechobee County has deaths. According to AHCA, 2,113 positive cases to date, with currently 275 COVID-19 positive 214 residents and six nonresi- Palm Beach County residents are dents hospitalized. To date the hospitalized. The county’s hospi- county has 44 deaths related tals have 118 adult ICU beds and Dog makes it home to COVID-19. According to the 2 for the holidays 14 pediatric ICU beds available. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Florida Agency for Health Care • Martin County has 6,555 Administration (AHCA), cur- positive cases, with 471 residents rently eight COVID-19 positive and three nonresidents hospital- Holiday campaign underway Lake Levels Okeechobee residents are hospi- ized and 180 deaths. According OKEECHOBEE — The Kiwanis Club of Okeechobee support- talized. All eight of the ICU beds to AHCA, 20 COVID-19 positive ed the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign by ringing the bell at 16.06 feet in the county are in use. Martin County residents are Publix and Walmart (main door) on Friday, Dec. 4. Due to the Last Year: 12.93 feet • Glades County has 699 hospitalized. Hospitals in Martin COVID-19 pandemic, the Salvation Army has been forced to positive cases to date, with 55 County have seven ICU beds reduced the number of days for the Kettle Campaign. If you hospitalizations and 10 deaths. would like to volunteer to ring the bell, please go to registerto- 6SRQVRUHG%\ According to AHCA, no Glades See COVID — Page 9 ring.com. For more news on holiday events, see Page 8.

3RJH\·V)DPLO\5HVWDXUDQW 63DUURWW$YH Okeechobee woman survives septic shock  Source: South Florida Water By Cathy Womble laugh. The only other medical issues she things around the house. She still felt Management District. Lake Okeechobee News had at the time were some skin prob- really tired, though, and asked her mom Depth given in feet above sea level lems, but this was not unusual for her, if she would bring her a gallon of milk OKEECHOBEE — After septic shock she explained. She was always at the the next day when she came home See Page 4 for information about almost killed her, Melissa Bryant agreed dermatologist for one thing or another. from church. She took a shower and how to contact this newspaper. to tell her story, hoping that it might She saw him on Friday and she told him went to bed. help others to recognize the warning she was having trouble with her toe- She has no recollection of Sunday signs before it is too late for someone nails. They were extremely painful and at all. This is where her mom, Virginia they love. the skin around them was blistered and “Ginny” Bryant, picks up the story. Melissa’s story began on Sept. 15, she had finally just pulled the toenails Ginny got to Melissa’s house around 3 2019. “I had no idea I was sick,” she completely off, which relieved the pain p.m. on Sunday, because she attended a said. “I was tired, verging on exhausted, tremendously. training after the church service. When but what mom isn’t exhausted at the On Saturday, Melissa felt pretty good. end of the day?” she said with a little She worked on two quilts and did some See SHOCK — Page 9 Melissa Bryant New Location ATTORNEYS Auto Accident? Slip & Fall? Steve Hoskins Call or stop in at our new Hoskins, Turco, Lloyd & Lloyd office. 1910 S. Parrott Ave. (Across from Walmart) Civil Trial & Jerry Lefebvre • OKEE’S DREAM TEAM 863-357-5800 HTLLfirm.com 2 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee Weather Forecast Thursday night: Mostly clear, with a mph. north wind becoming low around 47. East wind around 5 mph. Sunday night: Partly cloudy, with a low north-northwest 5 to 10 Friday: Mostly sunny, with a high near around 59. Calm wind. mph in the morning. 73. North wind around 5 mph becoming Monday: A 20% chance of showers. Tonight: Clear, with a calm in the morning. Mostly sunny, with a high near 71. North- low around 40. West wind Friday night: Partly cloudy, with a low west wind around 5 mph. around 5 mph becoming around 57. Calm wind. Monday night: Clear to partly cloudy calm. Saturday: Mostly sunny, with a high with a low near 56. West-northwest wind Today: Patchy frost before 8 am. Oth- Thursday: Sunny, with a high near near 78. Calm wind becoming east-south- around 7 mph. 71. Calm wind becoming west-northwest east around 5 mph. Tuesday: Mostly sunny with a thunder- erwise, sunny, with a high near .63. Light around 5 mph. Saturday night: A 20% chance of storm in spots; a 30% chance of showers. showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around A high near 74 and a west-northwest wind 61. Calm wind. around 7 mph. Copper makes it home Sunday: A 20% chance of showers. Tuesday night: Cloudy most of the Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. Calm time. A low near 54 and a west-northwest for the holidays wind becoming south-southwest around 5 wind around 6 mph.

By Danika J. Fornear Lake Okeechobee News CLEWISTON — A sweet, 10-year-old dog was found exhausted and laying in the middle of the road on Nov. 22. Although the dog appeared tired, Clewiston Animal Control (CAC) reported the canine to have seemed well taken care of and likely missed by his owners. Jim and Monica When CAC was contacted by a local res- McCarthy Clark ident regarding the retriever mix lying in the road, Animal Control Officer Jamie Wright Special to the Lake Okeechobee News went to find him. Wright hypothesized that CLEWISTON — An exhausted Copper Air Scrubber by the dog had become fatigued from wan- sits in the passenger seat of a Clew- dering, but was otherwise in good health. iston Animal Control officer’s vehicle, AERUS Back at the shelter, CAC officers scanned hoping to find his family. the dog and found a microchip. They were Air Cleaner for homes able to contact the owners, and also found process of getting him home began! With out his name was Copper. the assistance of a social media group com- & small offi ces Through a series of events in August, prised of good Samaritans who provide free Copper was temporarily placed with care- and voluntary resources for transporting givers, after the family experienced difficul- lost pets and potential adoptions, CAC and ties,” Clewiston Animal Control explained. these volunteer group members were able He found himself on a journey from his to assist Copper’s family with the many native state of South Carolina all the way miles of transit to a meeting point in Geor- to Clewiston, Florida, where he became gia, where his family was able to reunite Refrigeration • AC separated from his caregivers. with Copper and bring him back home to Ice Machines While CAC officials don’t know the South Carolina. exact details – Copper isn’t talking – Copper “We thank all the helpers graciously had clearly put in some miles. While he for working on this family reunion. Cop- Financing Available! was comfortable and secure at the shelter, per is all smiles now and so are we!” CAC CAC began to make arrangements to get posted on their Facebook page. “On our him home. worst days, it’s cases like Coopers make 800.763.2114 Copper’s family remained in close everything worth it. Thank you to everyone contact with CAC to ensure Copper didn’t involved in this amazing journey to getting become misplaced a second time, and the a family reunited for the holidays!”

Another day closer to Christmas. And each other. The one gift that won’t need wrapping this year is the time we spend with those we love. publix.com/christmas 25 Days of Togetherness December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 3 Controlled burns important to Everglades ecosystem health Salon Safari By Katrina Elsken Lake Okeechobee News THE EVERGLADES — Fire is a natural part of the South Florida ecosystem. In a Dec. 3 University of Florida Everglades Research and Education Zoom seminar, Ra- chel Taylor of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission explained how they use controlled burns to mimic the way Mother Nature managed the Everglades. “For thousands of years, fire has been part of the Everglades ecosystem,” she explained. “Both plants and animals have adapted to life with fire here.” The Everglades Complex of Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) covers 736,881 acres and includes Everglades and Francis Wig Sale S. Taylor WMS, Holey Land WMA and Rotenberger WMA. The WMAs are part of the “River of Grass” that once extended 1RZë URXJK-DQXDU\ from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay. Taylor explained the extensive levee and canal system that made it possible for Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ millions of people to live in South Florida al- National Park Service tered the hydrology of the Everglades. Lack THE EVERGLADES — A wildland fire- %\$SSRLQWPHQW2QO\ of cyclical natural fires in the Everglades can lead to catastrophic wildfires, she said. fighter on a prescribed burn is shown To mimic the way nature managed the in this photo by Michael Gue of the Na- Everglades, FWC burns about 8,000 acres a tional Park Service.  year with controlled burns. Taylor sawgrass is the dominate vegetation and main source of fuel that carries fire in the Everglades. It the burn. regenerates quickly after a fire. Within a burn area, FWC fire teams She said burns range from less than 500 leave scattered areas of unburned vegeta- acres to more than 3,000 acres. Special care tion to provide refuge cover for wildlife. is taken with the tree islands that dot the Each year, FWC creates a burn plan with landscape. Prescribed burning around tree proposed burn areas within the 414,678 islands decreases the buildup of vegetation acres of burnable land. They use natural around the tree islands. Left unburned, firebreaks such as sloughs or wet prairie as the vegetation around the islands could much as possible. They also use airboats to fuel wildfires that would endanger the islands themselves. The tree islands provide flatten areas of vegetation 40 to 50 feet wide habitat and refuge for many animals, stop to create firebreaks. Firebreaks maintain a over resting areas for migratory birds, and minimum of 4 inches of water. terrestrial refuge for upland wildlife during FWC works with the Florida Forest Ser- the rainy season and especially during high vice to predict the impact smoke from the water conditions. controlled burns will have in the area. After Hair 2 In addition to burning off the buildup of a preburn meeting, a test fire is intitiated dead vegetation, fire releases nutrients back within the burn unit to ensure burn condi- Ava Gabor Wear Hair-Do into the soil, Taylor explained. Fire help to tions are right. Was $185 Was $199 Was $119 control invasive vegetation. After a burn, an Most burns are ignited by people on the area can be replanted with native plants. ground or from airboats or with tracked ve- Fire can reduce parasite populations, she hicles, but they sometimes use helicopters 5HGXFHG $ 5HGXFHG$ 5HGXFHG $ said. It also improves access for wildlife on larger burns. FWC still provides ground WR 95 WR 99 WR 60 foraging. support from airboats during aerial burns. The hydroperiod is the main limiting fac- After the fire, the area is mopped up tor for the success and frequency of burns, to ensure there is no active combustion she said. Water levels in the Everglades can Hair-Do Raquel Welch vary widely. “Burns are conducted when- between 100 feet of firebreak. They also ever we can get the right conditions,” she thoroughly inspect the burn area and adja- Was $139 Was $315 explained. Most burning is done in winter cent areas. or early spring when water levels are usual- FWC’s fire management plan can be 5HGXFHG $ $ ly stable. challenging. “It’s a giant area and we have a 69 5HGXFHG Boundaries of and size of burn are in- relatively small staff,” said Taylor. “Working WR WR 158! fluenced by vegetation communities in that around high water events and recreation area, water levels and specific objectives of activities can be challenge.” 909 S. Parrott Ave. | Okeechobee, FL 34972 4 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

Pahokee’s crimes show corruption Letter to the editor Help truly appreciated To Mayor Keith Babb Jr.: Also, before the petitions were deliv- people of color. I wonder if you would also We are living in a time of historical ered to the supervisor of elections, it was label them as racists! Almost a year ago, my life partner events that I believe will ultimately result determined, for various reasons, that nearly On a final note, due to three IG (Palm experienced a life-threatening motorcy- in miracles of biblical proportions. On one-third of the signatures were invalid. I Beach County Office of the Inspector Gen- cle crash on Lofton Road. His injuries in- the national level, fraud and other crimes strongly suspect such a high percentage of eral) reports highlighting the city manager’s cluded a dislocated shoulder, a collapsed involving our election and the deep state invalidations. Those failed petitions should poor performance and dishonesty, several lung and extensive damage to his spinal are being revealed on a daily basis. I believe be evaluated by a third party, or returned to citizens have repeatedly called for him to vertebrae. He was lucky to not have been in the very near future, similar revelations the recall committee so that the petitions be fired. Allowing him to be involved with paralyzed and, had it not been for the involving the leadership of the City of Pa- can be checked for possible tampering by the recall ballots was like putting a fox in quick actions of our neighbor, Bryant hokee will also come to light. the city manager or anyone else who had charge of the henhouse. Culpepper, he probably would not have Mayor, as you know, a box containing improper and illegal access to them. The commission’s failure to fire the city survived. more than enough signed petitions to effect The recall committee now has the huge manager by a 3-2 vote is a primary reason Commissioner Culpepper has spent a recall election of you and two others from task of collecting more signatures. Having for the recall movement, and the city man- the better part of his life in public service the commission was recently presented to to do this during the Christmas season is ager knew that a new commission would — as a first responder in South Florida the city manager. Before he finally delivered a major challenge. I urge the community likely terminate him. I expect that another and now as a county commissioner here them to the supervisor of elections, how- to reach out to the committee by sending IG report will be forthcoming as a result of in Okeechobee. Whether a blessing ever, your brother and the vice mayor were them names of citizens who do wish to the irregularities involving this issue. I also or a curse, he seems to have a knack apparently contacting people who had sign. hope that the state attorney will soon take for showing up just in the nick of time. signed the petitions. I believe that would My thanks to the committee and other action, and bring resolution to the despica- He has intervened in almost a dozen legally be defined as intimidation and ha- helpers for the hundreds of hours they ble behavior of our city leaders. incidents where, had it not been for his rassment. How did they know who signed have given in this effort to reduce the level Thank you for your time, and may God quick and expert actions, several people the petitions? If it is not already, the State of of corruption in Pahokee. By the way, Mr. bring healing to our wonderful city! would have died. Florida needs to be investigating this serious Mayor, you might be interested to know Bobby Colvin I have the utmost respect and undying crime against the citizens of Pahokee. that a major portion of the signatories are Pahokee gratitude for his profound dedication to helping his community and what can only be described as heroism in emer- Speak Out Letter to the editor gency situations. Kimball Love Speak Out is a reader response column. weather has caused it all to go dormant. Glades youth multi-talented Comments may be posted on the newspa- Why don’t we see that on the television Healthier Glades was wishing success per’s website or Facebook pages, emailed news? They always want to say bad things for both the Glades Central and Pahokee ANSWERS TO PUZZLE to [email protected] or mailed about the lake and they never report football teams in their playoff games Dec. 4. to the newspaper office, 107 S.W. 17th St., anything positive. Meanwhile, their own Although we have talented athletes in our Suite D, Okeechobee, FL 34974. (coastal) estuaries are full of bacteria from area, we are more than just sports. In our Lake releases human waste and they hush that up.” — community, we have several principals who Anonymous are graduates from these two high schools • “You can’t have it both ways. If you (and two of them are my classmates). We want the lake to be down to 12 feet or even Lock your doors have a former Raider/FSU Seminole who is lower at the start of the wet season, then • “With the holiday season under way, the mayor of Mirimar. you have to allow releases east and west in We are rich in talent and must share it the dry season. There is nowhere else for everyone should remember to lock their with our youth so that it gives them hope the water to go, because millions of people car doors, lock your house and be aware that they can achieve greater heights and are living in areas that used be in part of a that the ‘porch pirates’ are out and about, give back. Healthier Glades will continue to swamp.” — S. Smith looking for packages to snag. Don’t give the “unlock our community strengths.” • “The fishing has been great lately on thieves a chance to steal from your family.” Annie Ifill, director the Big Lake. There is no algae because the — Bob Healthier Glades //

Lake Okeechobee News (USPS # 406- Our Purpose... accuracy, purposeful neutrality, fairness, 160) is published 1 time a week: Wednesday Lake Okeechobee News is published objectivity, fearlessness, and by Independent Newsmedia, Inc. by Independent NewsMedia Inc, USA. compassion 107 S.W. 17th Street, Suite D Independent is owned by a unique trust that • To use our opinion pages to facilitate Okeechobee, FL 34974 enables this newspaper to pursue a mission community debate, not to dominate it Periodicals Postage paid at Okeechobee, FL of journalistic service to the citizens of the with our own opinions 34974 and additional mailing offices. community. Since no dividends are paid, the • To disclose our own conflicts of interest POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: company is able to thrive on profit margins or potential conflicts to our readers To Reach Us To Place a Display Ad Lake Okeechobee News below industry standards. 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Opinion, calendar Fax: (877) 354-2424 Publisher/Editor: Katrina Elsken Advertising Sales Manager: Jaime Limoges • To help our community become a better items, story ideas, and photographs are Email: [email protected] place to live and work, through our welcome. Call (863) 763-3134 to reach our Circulation Sales Manager: Jerry Hayden dedication to conscientious journalism newsroom. Items may be mailed or emailed. Billing Department Creative Services Manager: Kris Schwartz • To provide the information citizens need Email: [email protected] Delivery Manager: Cynthia Eckert to make their own intelligent decisions Email: [email protected] about public issues • To report the news with honesty, December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 5 OBITUARIES City of Okeechobee will Obituaries should be submitted to the Lake Okeechobee News by emailing Pamela Lynn Jackson, 71 [email protected]. Customers may OKEECHOBEE — Pamela Lynn Jackson soon have closed captioning also request photos and links to online died November 14, 2020. She was born By Cathy Womble during the monthly meetings. He said he sees guestbooks. A link to the obituaries is May 21, 1949 in Wash- ington, D.C. to Earl Lake Okeechobee News people post thoughts online, and he wishes available at lakeokeechobeenews.com. and Anna (Coppage) they would come to the meetings and say OKEECHOBEE — Keeping up with the what they think, even they do not agree with Gates. A resident of times, the City of Okeechobee has approved Jack M. Fisher, 86 Okeechobee since him. He does not mind at all. He just wants an agreement for services with eSCRIBE them to come down and talk to the council. Jack M. Fisher passed away on December 2013, she was a mem- 1, 2020. He was born in Winchester, Ind., Software Ltd. for webcasting and automat- “Let’s start the new year off right,” he said. ber of the Eastern Star ed closed captioning. For many years, city Councilwoman Monica Clark commented November 29, 1934 and enjoyed quilting, residents were frustrated at being unable to to Gerald (Jody) and about the tree lighting and said it was the orchids, billiards, bin- view city council meetings online as they can council’s intention to follow CDC Guidelines Mary Alice (Addington) go, and going to the the county meetings, but the holdup has been Fisher. and she explained it was her idea to have city beach. the lack of closed captioning. They could not employees come and have a little background legally provide the service to the community Jack was preceded Mrs. Jackson is survived by her husband music, and the ONLY reason for that was in death by his parents unless it was provided to everyone, which because she thought it would make the live since 1994, Dave Jackson, of Okeechobee; includes those who cannot hear. This is per and his first wife Ann. daughters, Novella Pelzer (Rich), of South stream more special for the people watching the Americans with Disabilities Act. it if there were people there instead of can- He is survived by his Carolina, Maralyn Kublek (Johnny), of Can- For the last six months or so, while Florida wife of 27 years, Paula celing the whole event. She just felt it would ada, and Brenlynn Gilmore, of Okeechobee; was under a state of emergency, communities be a smaller, more controllable sized group. Ford Fisher; son, Gary four grandchildren; two great grandchildren; were permitted to utilize YouTube without “I personally thought the live stream would (Pam) Fisher of Board- brother, Skippy; and sisters, Joyce and Patti. having closed captioning, but now that the be more special to the citizens than canceling man, Ore.; grandson, Jack Daniel Fisher of No services will be held. state of emergency has been lifted, they can the whole event. I want to apologize if anyone Oregon; and nephew, Stephen Ford of Mas- no longer use the YouTube channel, unless felt slighted or excluded. I was just trying to sachusetts. Those wishing to leave a message of they provide closed captioning. make it a little more special on the live stream. condolence may sign the register book at, With this new agreement, the city will I really want to apologize to ANYBODY in Jack was an automotive design engineer at www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com Borg Warner in Muncie, Ind. for over 30 years. once again be able to record and publish its our community, not just city residents, but All arrangements are entrusted to the meetings online. Beginning in January or anybody in our community that felt that we A job he truly loved. Jack loved to fish and February, all meetings will be recorded and play golf. He was a wonderful husband and direction and care of the Buxton & Bass were trying to exclude them.” She went on to available on the city’s YouTube channel. explain how seriously she takes COVID and father who truly loved his family. Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- rott Avenue Okeechobee Florida 34972 In addition, City Clerk Lane Gamiotea said said, “This too will pass. Hopefully, next year’s No services are planned at this time. they are working on the microphones and Christmas will be better.” All arrangements are entrusted to the di- Marguerite Diane Zeller, 73 sound equipment, and viewers will soon see a Mayor Dowling Watford said, “The council rection and care of Seawinds Funeral Home, MONTAGUE — Marguerite Diane Zeller great improvement in that, most likely as soon had a serious decision to make and we had passed away Monday, November 16, 2020. as the next meeting. differences of opinion here. Whether you 3833 SW 18th Terrace, Okeechobee, FL 34974 In other business, Councilman Bob Jarriel agree with it or not, we have a responsibil- She was born June 29, 1947, in Minneapolis, said he considered it a privilege to serve on the ity for public safety or public health. Some Minnesota, the daughter of the late Jean and city council and he would love to hear from people on social media did not understand or Stephen Paul Kane, 67 Jean (Knapp) Zeller. OKEECHOBEE — Stephen Paul Kane died the public during the town hall meetings or agree with it. peacefully on Novem- Rita graduated in the first class of Mona ber 21, 2020 in Panama Shores High School, and furthered her educa- City Beach, Fla. tion at Grand Valley State University. She had been a teacher with Ravenna Schools and Born in Portland, Lake Okeechobee Schools, and later retired Maine on April 15, from the State of Michigan as a Case Worker 1953, Steve is survived with the Employment Securities Commission. by his loving fiancé and partner of ten years, Rita was a very independent woman. She al- Chelia Grinage, also of ways had a great sense of humor and would Okeechobee, Fla. greet everyone with a big smile. She enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was a phenomenal Steve was prede- artist. Rita was a loving mother, grandmother, ceased by his mother, Gertrude Rocchini and and friend to many. her husband, Ennio Rocchini, Delray, Fla.; and his father, Raymond Kane, Portland, Maine. Rita is survived by: her daughter, Staci (Todd) Linne; grandsons, Kyle Linne and Steve was a proud graduate of Cheverus Jared Linne; siblings, Scott (Karen) Zeller of High School, Portland, Maine (1971) and Michigan, Caron (Ron) White of Arizona, Lynn University, Boca Raton, Fla. (1975). He Craig Zeller of Arizona, and Bruce (Lori) Zeller remained fond of both schools throughout of Arizona; and many nieces and nephews. his life and credited much of his success in his real estate career to the education he received. A Celebration of Life will be held June 26, 2021, at Ross Park in Muskegon. Time to be Many considered Steve family, including determined. Chelia’s children and grandchildren, and his countless friends spanning from Maine Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White to Florida. His generous spirit, kindness and Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. fun-loving nature will be missed by many, www beaconfh com and meals will never be the same without See OBITS — Page 6 this travel-loving soul whose laugh could fill a cruise ship dining hall. Giveaways begin The family will receive friends 2 p.m. until Want news delivered to December 20th! services at 3 p.m. Friday, December 11, 2020 your inbox six days at Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home. Follow us on Facebook for updates! Those wishing to leave a message of a week? condolence may sign the register book at, www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com Sign up for our newsletter at All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass southcentral Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- floridalife.com/enewsletter rott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. 6 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Okeechobee Main Street Happenings Special to the Lake Okeechobee News • The Christmas parade and festival will on now through Jan. 8, 2021. Due to the • The Arts & Culture Alliance Committee • Main Street and the Arts & Culture be on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. to 8 COVID-19 virus and for everyone’s safety, announces that the Third Annual Photog- p.m. The festival will have arts and crafts, we will not hold an artist’s reception but we raphy Juried Show has been rescheduled. Alliance have a new location and new gifts, food and more. The Christmas parade hope you will stop by and see the exhibit at New deadline for submission is Jan. 8, opportunities for artists and art lovers! will begin at 6 p.m. The parade will feature the Okeechobee County Historical Court- 2021. The art showing will be in March Come see us at 111 N.E. Second St.). Due the Grinch and Santa Claus. COVID-19 house. 2021. Call to photographers for the “Picture: to COVID-19, office hours are limited, so safety measures will be practiced. • The 15th Annual Top of the Lake Art Okeechobee County” photography com- please call 863-357-6246 for hours and/or to • Okeechobee Main Street Arts & Cul- Fest will be held Saturday and Sunday, Feb petition. The theme for this competition is schedule an appointment. ture Alliance Artist Series exhibit is going 6 and 7. “People of Okeechobee.” OBITUARIES Obituaries should be submitted to the Lake Okeechobee News by emailing John Demory Godwin [email protected]. Customers may also request photos and links to online OKEECHOBEE — John Demory Godwin died December 1, 2020. guestbooks. A link to the obituaries is available at lakeokeechobeenews.com. He was born November 5, 1952 in the Okeechobee General Hospital. He was the only baby in the nursery, so the nurses took turns holding Donald ‘Paul’ Large, 71 g him which started a lifelong desire to be the center of attention in his OKEECHOBEE — Donald “Paul” Large died December 3, 2020. He family. was born October 4, 1949 in Ontario, Can-ada. At a young age he He was a lifelong resident of Okeechobee and a member of the traveled with his missionary parents to Peru, South America and was Okeechobee High School Class of 1970. integral in the missionary works. He fluently spoke two languages and He proudly served our country in the United States Army and was became indispensable to the people they met through the missionary stationed in Scharfenberg, work. Germany. He spent many years as a third-generation builder with He was proficient in all manner of mechan-ic work, and also his father, O.D. Godwin. He retired from the Okeechobee County owned Integrity Glass – exclusively a glass repair service. A resident School Transportation Department. of Okeechobee for 20 years, he attended First Baptist Church of Most recently, he became a licensed boat captain. He was a member of the Eagles Club, Okeechobee and Fort Drum Community Church. He sang with the VFW, and Moose Lodge. He loved fishing, hunting, playing Bingo with his friends at the Promise Keepers. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Flight Club Eagles and VFW, tinkering in his barn, and mowing his yard. and enjoyed boat-ing, fishing, flying, golfing, hunting, and fixing things. Mr. Godwin was preceded in death by his parents, O.D. and Patricia Godwin; sister, Donna Mr. Large is survived by his wife, Rena Schlener; sons, Josiah Large (Trudy), of Geor- Lee Cooper; and grandparents, Morise and Eunice Thomas and Oliver and Lottie Godwin. gia, Jeremy Large (Kathryn), of Gainesville, and Justin Large (Tiffany), of Texas; daugh- He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Jennie Zink Godwin; his dog, Maxine; brother, ters, Bailey Resendez Murcko, of Sebring, Mel-ody Van Kay (Doug), of Texas, and Jennifer Larry O. Godwin (Kathy); nephews and nieces, Stacey Godwin (Brenda), Stephanie Rowley, Castleberry (Terrance), of Jacksonville; nine grandchildren; and brothers, Andrew Large David Bell (Beth), Waco Cooper, Lossie Crane, Crystal Cooper, and Shanda Cooper; great (Diane), of Fort Lauderdale, and Stephen Large (Terri), of Pennsylvania. nephews, Blake Godwin (Tricia) and Alex Haidar; great nieces, Catie Rowley, Katy Bell, Memorial services will be held at a later date. and Sydney Crane; great, great nephew, Ryker Godwin; many cousins; and loving friends, Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at including a special friend, Nadene Hemmingway. www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com Graveside services were 10 a.m. Monday, December 7, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery. All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Okeechobee, PO Box 1548, Okeechobee, Funeral Home, 400 North Par-rott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. Florida 34973. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at Brandon Dirk Whitlock www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com OKEECHOBEE — Brandon Dirk Whitlock was born November 6, All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee 1954 and passed away on December 4, 2020. Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Ray and Marjorie Whitlock; maternal grandparents, Robert and Cleo Crouch; Steven Doyle Wieland, 63 and parents, Roland and Bobbie Jean Whitlock. OKEECHOBEE — Steven (Steve) Doyle Wieland passed away Dirk is survived by his wife of 30 years, Cheryl; children, Jeff December 2, 2020. Whitlock (Tiffany, Trevor, He was born March 31, 1957 in Eureka, California. Steve was taken Abby, Reed, Logan), Tonia Webb (Josh, Austin, Jarred, Ainsley), much too soon, losing his hard-fought battle with COVID-19. Matthew Davis (Christy, Cali, Hunter, LeeAnn), Desmond Grace A resident of Buckhead Ridge, Steve worked as an Agricultural (Amy), Billy Wester (Gretchen); sister, Joni (Tony) Ard; brother, Mark Supervisor with the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida. (Andrea) Whitlock; and numerous nieces and nephews; maternal Steve’s greatest love was sharing time with family. He enjoyed aunt, Margaret Ann Keely; and maternal uncle, Ray Crouch. barbequing, fishing, shooting guns, restoration projects and pranking Mr. Whitlock enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Dirk was fond of having his wife and all family members – exempting no one. Steve lived his dinner with his beloved sister, Joni and brother, Mark and their respective families. life simply as a proud American patriot (God, Family, Country). Hard He was a lifelong Florida gators fan and was extremely proud of his cousin, Gantt for working and generous, one of Steve’s greatest gifts was to recognize, being encourage, and guide others to achieve their ultimate life goals. a member of the Gators football team. Steve began his career as machinist for John Deere Tractor Works of Waterloo, Iowa. He loved to attend games with his uncle, Ray while watching Gantt play. He was a proud He earned his trade as Tool and Die Journeyman through The United States Department supporter of the Brahman football team and loved to watch his son Jeff coach on Thursday of Labor – Bureau of Apprenticeship under the sponsorship of Northeast Machine & and Friday nights. Dirk was proud of all his children and loved spending time with his Tool, Janesville, Iowa. Through his life journey within the Engineering field, Steve was grandchildren. instrumental to the ground floor startup and management of Northern Valve Company of Visitation will be 10 a.m. until services at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 12, 2020 at Buxton Niagara Falls, N.Y. and Atlantic Durant Technology of Anniston, Ala. & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home. Steve is survived by: his wife of 46 years, Debbie; three sons, Darrel (Karen) of Wellington, Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at Fla.; Tony (Shannon) of West Des Moines, Iowa; Cary (Kristina) of Cedar Falls, Iowa; six www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com grandchildren: Caleb, Kaelyn, Kendall, Will, Taliana and Ezra; brother-in-law, Al Wildebour All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee (Anne Shield) of Cape Coral, Fla.; sister-in-law, Benita Brown of Waterloo, Iowa; sister- Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. in-law, Sheri Grawe of Marion, Iowa; stepsister, Danelle and stepbrother, Ivan Wieland of Cedar Falls, Iowa. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship through a local trades college is being established in Steve’s name through Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative of Florida. View obituaries from the past month at http://www.legacy.com A memorial service will be held at a later date at Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence may sign the register book at www. OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com All arrangements are entrusted to the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 7 River channelization Dedicated to Quality & Service increased muck in lake

By Katrina Elsken suspected the project would have devastat- Lake Okeechobee News ing ecological consequences, the website narrative continues. While the project OKEECHOBEE — The channelization of delivered on the promise of flood protec- the Kissimmee River not only changed the tion, it also destroyed much of a flood- speed that water drains from the watershed plain-dependent ecosystem that nurtured ROOFING into the lake, it also increased the buildup threatened and endangered species, as of muck on the lake bottom, according to well as hundreds of other native fish and & REPAIRS “Restoration of Lake Okeechobee, Florida: wetland-dependent animals. Mission Impossible?” by Daniel E. Canfield Construction for the Kissimmee River Residential Commercial Jr., Roger W. Bachmann and Mark V. Hoyer. Restoration Project began in 1999 with The article was published in the November backfilling 8 miles of the C-38. edition of Lake and Reservoir Manag- For nearly two decades, those who live Licensed and Insured • St. Lic. CCC046939 ment. along the river have watched the restoration As those who live along the river have work and have reported periods when witnessed, sediment washed into the lake floodwaters would “blow out” portions of when the river was channelized to provide the fill, turning the river the color of choco- flood control from Orlando south, and late milk as soil washed downstream. again when the spoil on the riverbanks was According to, “Restoration of Lake Roofi ng with used to refill portions of the canal. The dike Okeechobee, Florida: Mission Impossible?,” around the lake prevents the sediment from studies “have shown the suspended parti- being washed out into the marshes as it did cles in Okeechobee’s lake water and mud historically. sediments, as well as canals and stormwa- the name you trust! According to the South Florida Water ter treatment areas south of the lake, con- Management District website, the Kissim- tain significant amounts of the magnesium mee Basin encompasses more than two silicate minerals seniolite and palygorskite. Our services include: dozen lakes in the Kissimmee Chain of These are very small, fibrous particles of Lakes, their tributary streams and associat- a low density that are easily resuspended ed marshes and the Kissimmee River and from the sediment surface and once in the • Re-Roofi ng floodplain. The basin forms the headwaters water column are very slow to settle back of Lake Okeechobee and the Everglades. In to the sediments, thus contributing to the • Roof Repairs the 1960s, the Central and Southern Florida lake’s turbidity.” Flood Control (C&SF) Project modified the Researchers have noted that “these min- • Roof Inspections native system extensively throughout South erals are very similar to those found in the Florida, including construction of canals geologic phosphate deposits found in the and water control structures to achieve Lake Okeechobee watershed and suggest- • Energy Effi cient Metal Roof Systems flood control in the Upper and Lower Kis- ed that the minerals in the mud sediments simmee basins. might have accumulated from the transport • Shingles The Kissimmee River once meandered of these minerals by water into the lake,” for 103 miles through Central Florida. The the authors continue. river floodplain, reaching up to 3 miles “Studies of sediment cores indicated that • Flat Roofs wide, was inundated for long periods by the mud sediments overlay a bed of marl heavy seasonal rains. Prolonged flooding in and sand and that most sediments have • Insulated Tapered Systems 1947 prompted a public outcry for federal accumulated in about the past 150 years,” assistance to reduce flood damage in South the authors explain. “It appears that the for Flat Roofs Florida, the SFWMD website explains. In rate of accumulation of the fine sediments 1948, the U.S. Congress authorized the U.S. increased after the late 1950s. Because the Army Corps of Engineers to construct the minerology of the particles indicates that Central and South Florida Project, which led the source comes from the Kissimmee to engineering changes to deepen, straight- River watershed, the major tributary to the 2XU)DPLOƯ6HUYLQŁ en and widen the waterway. Lake Okeechobee, the flood control project In the 1960s, the Kissimmee River was (Central and Southern Florida Project) channelized by cutting and dredging a that channelized the river and drained the

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News renovations were finished. BELLE GLADE — CareerSource Palm CareerSource has completed renova- Don’t Make a Mistake! Beach County’s newly remodeled West tions at the West Career Center to provide Career Center is reopening to the public at improved and expanded facilities and ser- Call Big Lake 1085 S. Main St. in Belle Glade beginning vices to clients in the Glades communities. Wednesday, Dec. 9. All services will be During the past five program years, available for clients including the use of CareerSource Palm Beach County assisted computers and printers for job searches, more than 71,500 residents find employ- 863-763-ROOF (7663) individual skills assessments and assistance with reemployment services. CareerSource ment ranging from entry level to executive staff and services were moved nearby to a suite, with salaries from these jobs creating biglakeroofi [email protected] temporary location in October while the $1.4 billion in annual wages. 8 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

Okeechobee County section on Dec. 20, and through the south- in the area by bringing in a new, un- 725 N.W. Fourth St., on Saturday, Dec. west section on Dec. 21. wrapped toy to the office, 107 S.W. 17th St., 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy a fam- Suite J, in Okeechobee. Please call ahead to ily-friendly event to celebrate the season Christmas parade is Dec. 12 Trot for Toys is Dec. 21 drop off something, at 863-357-4724, during with holiday crafts and refreshments while regular business hours beginning Nov. 30 supplies last. Bring your mittens to play in OKEECHOBEE – Okeechobee Main OKEECHOBEE — Trot for Toys, a Street will host a Christmas Festival on through Dec. 17. Monetary gifts cannot be a field of snow while supplies last. Refresh- trail-ride toy drive, is planned for Saturday, accepted. ment will be provided. Dec. 12 in Flagler Park. The annual lighted Dec. 21, at 9 a.m. at Kissimmee Prairie The following is a list of events: Christmas parade will start at dark (around Preserve State Park, 33104 N.W. 182nd Ave. Glades County • Young Singers of the Palm Beaches in 6 p.m.). For vendor booth applications and A two-hour trail ride will be followed by the Glades will perform at 10:15 a.m. parade entry applications, go online to lunch from Blue Moon BBQ. Cost is $10 per • The Maltz Jupiter Theatre Youth Tour- okeechobeemainstreet.org. rider. Riders are also asked to bring a new, Church plans events ing Company will perform at 11 a.m. unwrapped toy for the toy drive. The event LAKEPORT — Lakeport Christian • Photos with Santa will be held at Pick-up a free “Melting will also include hay and tack raffles and an Church, 10947 SR 78, invites the public noon. obstacle course. For more information call to attend their Christmas Eve Service on • Kids’ Music Circle will be held at 1:30 Snowman” craft kit 863-610-1943. Thursday, Dec. 24, at 5:30 p.m. and a p.m. Dec. 25 OKEECHOBEE — Pick-up a free “Melt- Christmas dinner on Friday, , at For information, call 561-996-3453. ing Snowman” craft kit at the Okeechobee Lighted boat parade Dec. 19 noon. Public Library, 206 S.W. 16th St., through OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee Yatchette Donate to needy for gift bags the month of December. This is a take- Club’s 36th Annual Christmas Boat Parade Toy drive planned PAHOKEE/BELLE GLADE — The Light home kit that will include some needed will be held Saturday, Dec. 19. Boaters MOORE HAVEN — Toys for Tots is House Cafe and Ella’s Closet is seeking materials and instructions (commom who wish to participated should decorate collecting toys in Glades County. New, materials like scissors and tape will not their boats with lights and meet on Taylor donations to make holiday hygiene gift unwrapped toys may be dropped off during bags. Reguested items: bath towel, wash be included). You can follow along on Creek by Burger King and the State Road 70 regular business hours at 1021 Health Park Okeechobee Library’s YouTube channel: bridge between 5 and 5:30 p.m. The parade cloth, socks, lotion, bath soap, toothpaste, Drive, Moore Haven, Monday, Tuesday toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant, shaving visit www.tinyurl.com/OKELIBRARY and starts at 6 p.m. The boaters will go south and Thursday between 3:30 and 5 p.m.; click on the craft tutorial for the Melting on Taylor Creek to the locks and then turn cream, comb, disposable razor, tissues and Wednesday between 4:30 and 6 p.m.; and, peppermints. If you prefer to make a mon- Snowman. left and go to VFW Post 10539. The post Friday between 2:30 and 4 p.m. Toys will be will give a prize for the best decorated boat. etary donation, please mail checks to: The distributed to those registered in advance. Light House Cafe, P.O. Box 220, Pahokee, For more information, call Arnie at 863-824- To request toys, go to www.toysfortots.org Toys for Tots needs help FL 33476. To schedule a pickup or delivery 0681 or Harry at 863-467-4782. or call Florida Community Health Center at OKEECHOBEE — Toys for Tots is in of the requested items, call 561-993-7020. 863-946-0405. need of volunteers to assist with organizing, Mission Outreach Toy Drive Donated items can be delivered to The setting up and bagging toys for Toys for Tots Light House Cafe, 400 S.W. Ave. B in Belle on Monday, Dec. 14, Tuesday, Dec. 15, OKEECHOBEE — Big Lake Missions Hendry County Glade (by appointment only). Outreach is sponsoring their 26th annual Wednesday, Dec. 16, and Thursday, Dec. Add your holiday event to this list! Email 17 Toy Drive for their clients, underprivileged FCT hosts singalong information to [email protected]. , from noon until 7 p.m. at the Agri-Civic children, in our county. Families will be Center off State Road 710. Volunteers will screened and the unwrapped gifts are to be LABELLE — The Firehouse Commu- be required to wear masks, bring their own wrapped by the parents and placed under nity Theater, 214 Bridge St., is pleased to hand sanitizer and practice social distanc- the tree for Christmas morning. Big Lake announce their sixth annual Christmas See the holiday lights ing. Please contact Malissa Morgan at 863- Missions Outreach is in need of gifts for singalong to benefit Toys for Tots. The singalong will be on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 7 NOTE: Each year we ask readers to 634-5852 or Kristi Morgan at 561-721-5023 children from 1 day to 17 years old. Gifts p.m. Admission is a $10 donation for Toys share information on where to see holiday for additional information. maybe in the form of gift, gift cards or a lights. To add an address to this list, email check made out to Big Lake Missions and for Tots or you can bring an unwrapped gift valued at $10 or more. If you cannot attend [email protected] or call they will shop for you. Pick-up and receipts 863-763-3134. Candy Cane Lake Drive-Thru available upon requests. Individuals or but would like to drop off a toy to benefit OKEEHOBEE — The Okeechobee Coun- groups may adopt-a-family (early requests Toys for Tots, or make a donation, please call the theater and leave a message at 863- ty Public Library, 206 S.W. 16th St., will host please). Last day to sign up to receive toys 675-3066. Someone will return your call. Okeechobee: Candy Cane Lake Drive-Thru in the library is Dec. 11. Dec. 10 parking lot on from 4:30 to 5:30 Join virtual Christmas party • The Lanier Light Show, in Dixie Ranch p.m. Stay safe and socially distanced while Toys for Tots event planned has a little over an acre of a light display you drive through a decorated parking lot OKEECHOBEE — Toys for Tots, host- HENDRY/GLADES — Ross Dining and with thousands of lights, lots of blow-ups, for snacks, crafts, giveaways and more — ed by the Marine Corps Toys for Tots of Prolific Learning presents A Virtual Christ- Dec. 12 hand-painted characters and displays, and while supplies last. This event is FREE and Okeechobee, will be at the Okeechobee mas Party on Saturday, , at 9 a.m. synchronized to Christmas music. The ad- Dec. The event will be broadcast live on the open to everyone. Agri-Civic Center, 4601 SR 710, on dress is 7944 N.W. 95th Court, Okeechobee, 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. Photo identifica- “Ross Dynasty” Facebook page. To register, 34972. The lights will be on every night please complete the link by Dec. 5, 11:59 tion along with an Okeechobee address from 6 to 10 p.m. Santa Claus coming to town p.m.: https://forms.gle/VFwvWBetLeom- serviced utility bill (OUA, FPL, cable) or • The neighborhood behind Big Lake 8fJi9 OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee Kiwanis driver’s license with Okeechobee address Eye Care off U.S. 441 North has a lot of Club will host Santa in the bandstand in are required for proof of Okeechobee resi- Open to Hendry or Glades Co. residents Dec. 21 23, only, limit one entry per household. For houses with Christmas lights; Flagler Park, , and from 6 to 8 dency. Children must be present. • The entire area by Everglades Elemen- p.m. more information or questions, please email [email protected]. tary school all the way back to the tracks; Drop off Toys for Tots • Edenfield’s on the corner of Southeast Santa to ride fire truck OKEECHOBEE — Sharon Covey and the Palm Beach County 12th Drive; OKEECHOBEE — The City of local Edward Jones financial advisor are • Big O campground on State Road 78; Okeechobee will once again host visits supporting the Okeechobee Toys for Tots • The Perrys’ house, Southwest 30th from Santa Claus, who will ride around program by using her office as a drop-off Library sets Family Fun Day Street; and inside the city limits on a fire truck. Santa location for this year’s toy drive. BELLE GLADE — Have a Festive Family • 4951 S.E. 128th Ave. is expected to ride through the southeast Local residents may help needy children Fun Day at the Belle Glade Branch Library, December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 9 been dead within an hour. They discovered mom on Earth doesn’t feel tired at the end of Both Melissa and Ginny feel it is important SHOCK she had pneumonia, which had lead to sepsis the day? How do we prepare for this? Because for everyone to recognize the signs of septic followed by septic shock. we want to make sure it doesn’t happen shock when they come upon it. Continued From Page 1 She was in a coma for 14 days and came again,” said Melissa. Sepsis is perilous and is a complication to close to death numerous times. She had a Melissa said she is still struggling with an existing infection. Most people believe it she arrived, she rang the doorbell, and no one blood clot in her lung and behind one knee. post-septic shock syndrome. It affects many occurs only in hospitals and nursing home- answered. She thought that was odd, because She was in the hospital for 35 days and sent different parts of her body. All the organs in type facilities, but as can be seen with Melis- she knew Melissa wasn’t feeling well. That’s home with toes that were gangrenous. They her body were damaged by the infection, and sa’s story, that is not always the case. why she asked her to bring the milk. She was had dry gangrene, and the hospital said the it takes time to recover. At one time, all the fin- Sepsis does not appear on its own. It going to leave the milk outside the door but best thing to do was to allow them to fall off gertips on one hand were black, but now they always comes after an infection of some type, decided to use her key and go inside to check on their own, but at all costs, they did not have regained their normal color. One of them usually pneumonia, a kidney infection, skin on her. want her to develop wet gangrene. She was still has no feeling in the end, though, she infections or infections of the digestive system. When she got inside, she was horrified instructed to call if she developed any fever said. It has affected every area of her life, men- Older adults are more likely to develop sepsis, to find the house ransacked. It looked like a at all. On Oct. 29, she had a temperature of tally and physically. She said it is difficult ad- but Melissa is not an older adult. It can hap- fight had taken place. She discovered Melissa, 99.1 and thought it was probably nothing but justing to a new normal and that sometimes, pen to anyone. nude, halfway under a chair, incoherent and called them anyway. They told her to come in people think she should be fine by now, but Sepsis has many symptoms, but these covered in bruises. Her toes were completely right away, and on Halloween, they amputat- she isn’t. It takes a long time to recover from are the most common and should be taken black. It appeared as though she had been at- ed all the toes on her left foot. Now, she has this and some things will never be the same. very seriously in anyone who already has an tacked. She was conscious, but all she would a prosthesis she is learning to use. She walks She has to rest a lot more. She gets tired very infection: say, in a deep, guttural growl, was what OK without it, but the toes are what gives you easily, and she has to just accept that, and • Sweaty skin, sounded like, “flexor,” over and over again. the liftoff when you walk, she explained. If make a new life for herself. • Disorientation, Ginny called 911, and Okeechobee City Po- you don’t have them, you can develop trouble Both women want to thank the com- • Shivering, lice Detective Bill Saum was the lead investiga- in your knees and hips later. munity for the help they were given while • High heart rate, tor. “He did an excellent job,” said Ginny. “He Ginny and Melissa have concluded that the Melissa was in the hospital and while she was • Extreme pain, and was awesome throughout the whole thing.” bruises on Melissa’s body and the damage in recovering. They said so many people were • Shortness of breath. After Melissa was taken to the hospital, her house was likely caused by Melissa herself praying, and it meant the world to them both. Septic shock is characterized by these blood work was done and they realized she while she was confused and feverish on Sun- “I truly believe she is alive today because of symptoms: had septic shock. She was flown to Lawn- day. They believe she was walking into walls the prayers of the community, and not just our • Low blood pressure, wood Medical Center, Fort Pierce, that day. and furniture before finally collapsing. community but other towns and friends and • Pale and cool arms and legs, When Melissa was arrived at Lawnwood, “What makes it more scary, more sinister, places,” said Ginny. Because Ginny is a wid- • Chills, Ginny was told that if she had not found her is how will I know the next time? What mom ow, she has a deacon, Tim Gillis, assigned to • Difficulty in breathing, when she did, Melissa would probably have goes around checking her temperature? What her by her church, and he asked her what he • Decreased urine output, could do to help her during that time. She told • Confusion, thoroughly; stay at least 6 feet away from him she could not mow her grass, and he and • Dizziness, and COVID those who are not part of your immediate a friend came and mowed her grass for her. • Bluish discoloration of the digits or lips household; wear cloth face coverings in One of Ginny’s dogs had an eye infection, (cyanosis). and Ginny was unable to take care of him If you or someone you love has these Continued From Page 1 areas where you cannot maintain 6 feet because she was back and forth taking care symptoms after an infection, seek medical of distance disinfect “high touch” surfaces of Melissa. Dr. Randall Mims took the dog in help immediately. available. such as door knobs and counters; stay and cared for him for over a month and never For more information about sepsis, visit FDOH continues to encourage Floridians home if you are sick; and, avoid mass charged her a dime. sepsis.org or call 619-232-0300 or email info@ and visitors to: wash hands frequently and gatherings. “People in this town are really good peo- sepsis.org. The Sepsis Alliance seeks to help ple,” said Melissa. survivors and their loved ones. IRS resources help small business owners NOTICE Special to the Lake Okeechobee News for Businesses and Self-Employed also TAX IMPACT OF VALUE ADJUSTMENT BOARD The IRS has a variety of resources to provides at-a-glance key tax dates for COUNTY OF OKEECHOBEE TAX YEAR 2020 help small business owners, including businesses. Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center: MEMBERS OF THE BOARD veterans, understand their tax responsibil- This a great resource for sole proprietors ities. Best of all, most of these resources Honorable Kelly Owens Honorable Melisa Jahner and others who are in business for them- Board of County Commissioners, District No. 5 School Board, District No. 3 are available online at IRS.gov. Here’s a selves. This site has many handy tips and few web pages with helpful information Honorable Bryant Culpepper Citizen Member Michael Sumner references to tax rules a self-employed Board of County Commissioners, District No. 2 Business Owner within the school district for small business owners: person may need to know. Self-employed * Small Business and Self-Employed Citizen Member Lasha Boree taxpayers will find info on a variety of Homestead Property Owner Tax Center: This page features links to topics. useful tools and common IRS forms with The Value Adjustment Board (VAB) meets each year to hear petitions and make decisions relating to Sharing Economy Tax Center: For tax- SURSHUW\WD[DVVHVVPHQWVH[HPSWLRQVFODVVL¿FDWLRQVDQGWD[GHIHUUDOV instructions. Taxpayers can find help on payers engaged in the sharing economy, topics such as starting or operating a this site provides answers to tax questions, business, record keeping, filing and paying links to forms and resources related to the taxes. A link to the IRS Tax Calendar sharing economy. Your Largest Fence Post Supplier in South Florida

The Works! Gaucho Alligator Fence Walpole Feed & Supply Co. All values should be county taxable values. School and other taxing authority values may differ. *Include transfer of assessment difference (portability) requests. 763-6905 If you have a question about these actions, contact the Chair or the Clerk of the Value Adjustment Board Hwy 98 N. Okeechobee All Sizes Posts Staples Kelly Owens - 863.763.6441 • Jeffrey Shain - 863.763.8426 10 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

Okeechobee County Amvets Post 200 holds events als needing accommodations under ADA Republicans to meet should contact the sender of this notice OKEECHOBEE — Amvets Post 200, 3651 at least 72 hours prior to the scheduled LABELLE — The Republican Party of Legion Post 64 hosts events S.E. U.S. 441, Bay 6, Quarter bingo will be function to request an accommodation by Hendry County will be meeting at LaBelle Dec. 4 City Hall, Commission Chambers, 481 W. held on Friday, from 2 to 4 p.m. calling 863-265-6055. OKEECHOBEE — American Legion Queen of Hearts will be held at 5 p.m. Five Hickpochee Ave., on Monday, Dec. 14, at Post #64, 501 S.E.Second St., will hold the Dec. 6 p.m. All registered Republican-mind- Dec. 9 card bingo will be held on Sunday, following events: On Wednesday, , 6 from 2 to 4 p.m. A birthday party will be Free COVID testing available ed Americans are invited to attend. The is a margaritas and tacos specials all day. held for Commander Jim, Dennis and Sue MOORE HAVEN — There will be free location permits for adequate spacing. For The grill will be open from 11 a.m. to 5:45 on Saturday, Dec. 12 at 5 p.m. There will COVID-19 testing at the Glades County further information please call 863-234- p.m. Music by Crystal Byrd from 3 to 6 p.m. be food, music by Saxman and lots of fun. Health Dept., 1021 Healthpark Drive, on 8397. Like the Facebook page, Republican Thirsty Thursday is Dec. 10. Sign up for Tickets available for the rifle auction for the Thursday, Dec. 17, 9 to 11 a.m. This is Party of Hendry County to stay informed. bar tab. Buckets of beer and screwdrivers Okeechobee Veteran’s Council. Toys for open testing, no appointments needed, for specials. Five-card binto from 4 to 6 p.m. local kids box. Please bring an unwrapped adults and children 5 years and older with Lunch served all day. On Friday, Dec. 11, is Free COVID testing available gift for a child. Open to members and parental consent. No criteria or restrictions the RED Shirt Challenge to register for free CLEWISTON — There will be free guests. Hour hours of operation are 9 a.m. for testing. dinner for two. Friday fish fry will be held. to 9 p.m. Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 COVID-19 testing at the Hendry County Health Dept., 1100 S. Olympia St., on Kitchen open from 5 to 8 p.m. Music by p.m. on Sundays. For information, call 863- Dec. 14 Jerry Allen, “Nashville Voice” from 6 to 9 532-5159. Donations sought for wreaths Monday, , 9 to 11 a.m. This is open testing, no appointments needed, for p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 12, is Sporting Sat- BUCKHEAD RIDGE — On Saturday, urday’s Happy Hour all day and buckets of Dec. 19 adults and children 5 years and older with Glades County , at 11:30 a.m. the Buckhead Ridge parental consent. No criteria or restrictions beer special. On Sunday, Dec. 13, is Sport- VFW Post 9528 will host the Glades County for testing. ing Weekend NFL games. Drafts and chick- BHR VFW to host events Wreaths across America placement of en wing specials. On Monday, Dec. 14, wreaths on 354 veterans’ graves at Ortona is five-card bingo from 1 to 3 p.m. Lunch BUCKHEAD RIDGE — VFW Post 9528, Cemetery, 8898 West S.R. 78. The Post is Palm Beach County Dec. 15 29012 S.R. 78 E., host the following events: starts at 11 a.m. On Tuesday, , is Dec. 9 asking for a donation of $15 each, and three Top Shelf special. Sign up for your choice of On Wednesday, , dauber bingo is wreaths for $30. Please contact John Den- Food distrubution dates set from 1 to 4 p.m. and the VFW will serve any bottle in stock drawn the first Tuesday ney at 301-367-8809 for more information Tammy’s lasagne with sides and dessert BELLE GLADE — Glades Initiative, of each month. There will be Bloody Mary’s or mail check payable to “Wreaths Across will be served at 5 p.m. On Thursday, Dec. 141 Avenue C, distributes food to those in and buckets of beer specials. Lunch served 10 America” or “WAA” to VFW Post 9528, need every Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 all day. Meeting at 6 p.m. For information , quarter card bingo is from 2 to 4 p.m. On Friday, Dec. 11, three-card bingo is 29012 East S.R. 78, Okeechobee, FL 34974. a.m. The next two dates are Wednesday, or take-out orders, call 863-763-5309. Dec. 9 Dec. 16 from noon to 2 p.m. The post will serve , and Wednesday, . Those dinner from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and music by Hendry County coming in cars are asked to line up beside VFW Post 4424 holds events Gerry Harmon from 6 to 10 p.m. The menu the office for drive-through pick-up. Both drivers and walkers will receive food bags OKEECHOBEE — VFW Post 4424, will include rib eye steak, grilled pork HTFP DFHE holds meeting tenderloin, fried fish and shrimp and much on a first-come first-serve basis. They ask 300 N.W. 34th St., will hold the following HENDRY COUNTY — The Hendry more. On Saturday, Dec. 12, the VFW Rid- that drivers and their passengers remain in events: Three-card bingo will be held on Tobacco Free Partnership/Drug Free Hendry their vehicles and practice social distancing Dec. 9 ers will serve a full breakfast from 8:30 to Wednesday, at 1 p.m. Dauber bingo County Coalition will hold a meeting on measures to keep everyone safe. Dec. 10 11 a.m. and dinner at 5 p.m. Music by Ka- is Thursday, at 1 p.m. Auxiliary Thursday, Dec. 10, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. meeting at 6:30 p.m. with a Christmas party raoke Kop is from 6 to 10 p.m. On Sunday, Dec. 13, the VFW will serve breakfast from In the abundance of caution in the midst of Auxiliary Market set Dec. 19 and gift exchange, $20 limit. Dauber bingo COVID-19, the partnership and the coalition is Friday, Dec. 11 at 1 p.m. Catfish dinner at 8:30 to 11 a.m. Five-card bingo is at 5 p.m. BELLE GLADE — The American Legion On Monday, Dec. 14, washers is at 1 p.m., will hold its meeting virtually via GoToMeet- 6 p.m. Karaoke with Lisa Riley Rexrode at 7 Auxiliary Market, 101 S.E. Ave. D, will be Wii Bowling at 4 p.m. and five-card cookie ing. Join the meeting from your computer, Dec. 19 p.m. Dauber bingo is Saturday, Dec. 12 at held on Saturday, , from 9 a.m. to 2 bingo at 6 p.m. followed by center-right- tablet or smartphone at: https://global. 1 p.m. Cold beverages served Sunday, Dec. p.m. There will be arts and crafts and more. left. On Tuesday, Dec. 15, Sons’ Sliders is gotomeeting.com/join/926080973 13. Three-card bingo is Monday, Dec. 14 You can also dial in using your phone. Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. and cornhole is at 6:30 p.m. at 1 p.m. Dauber bingo is Tuesday, On Wednesday, Dec. 16, dauber bingo is United States: +1-408-650-3123 Auxiliary Market set Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. from 1 to 4 p.m. The Sons of the AmVets One-touch: BELLE GLADE — The American Legion will serve country fried steak with sides and tel:+14086503123,,926080973# Auxiliary Market, 101 S.E. Ave. D, will be Elks serves potatoes and ham dessert at 5 p.m. until it’s gone. Proceeds Access Code: 926-080-973 held on Saturday, Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be arts and crafts and more. OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee Elks, from all events benefit veteran services. Call 131 N.W. 36th St., Join renowned artist 467-2882 for details. Kathie Papasso for an afternoon of fun AA meetings in Okeechobee County discovery on Thursday, Dec. 10 from 1 to TFP to hold virtual meeting Friday 3 p.m. To purchase supply kit, information GLADES COUNTY — Glades County OKEECHOBEE — Area churches host AA through . It also hosts a closed meeting and to sign-up, call Michelle at 863-634- residents are invited to attend the virtual meetings each week. at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays, a closed men’s 6397. Scallop potatoes and ham, vegetable, Glades County Tobacco-Free Partnership • Presbyterian Church, 312 N. Parrott Ave., meeting on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. and on bread and dessert prepared by Chef Cheryl (TFP) Quarterly Meeting on Wednesday, hosts a “Heard it through the grapevine” open Thursday Mondays Satur- s there is an open women’s group will be served on Friday, Dec. 11, from Dec. 16, at 3:30 p.m. For information on meeting on at 6:30 p.m. On days a closed “Keep it simple group” meeting at 6 p.m. and a closed Big Book Study at 8 4:30 to 7 p.m. Take out available. Open to how to register for the meeting, call 863- Fridays is held at 7:30 p.m. p.m. On there is an open speaker members, families and the guests. For infor- 265-6055. The Glades County Tobacco-Free Sundays mation, call Cheryl at 863-623-5738 (lodge) Partnership is “Committed To Making A • Church of our Savior, 200 N.W. Third meeting at 8 p.m. Then on there is Monday or 863-634-2863 (cell). Difference Where Lives Matter”! Individu- St., hosts open meetings at noon, an open Step Study at 7:30 p.m. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 11 Wreaths Across America finds way to honor vets in midst of COVID-19

By Richard Marion Lake Okeechobee News OKEECHOBEE — Due to COVID-19, the annual Wreaths Across America (WAA) Happy tradition will look a little different this year. Every year the Wreaths Across America Anniversary! organization coordinates wreath -laying ceremonies at veterans graves at more than 2,100 locations across the United States. This year the usual planned ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery in Okeechobee will Former Mayor James Kirk follow an alternative, limited format due to both health concerns from the virus has and wife Zella celebrated their well as the financial hit the local Wreaths Across America-Okeechobee organization Lake Okeechobee News/Richard Marion 60th wedding anniversary on as taken from the pandemic. Volunteers from the organization report Okeechobee Mayor Dowling Watford that the economic fallout from the virus lays a wreath at a family member’s December 3rd with their family. has led to an insurmountable shortfall grave during the 2019 Wreaths Across in meeting the fundraising goal this year. America ceremony in Okeechobee. In addition to those financial limitations, organizers also had to consider the age and fallen heroes, honoring them, and teaching health of many of the veterans who partici- the younger generations the true meaning pate in the event. of sacrifice.” “The vast majority of participants at Despite the hardships the pandemic has our National Wreaths Across America Day brought this year, WAA won a victory in the ceremony are veterans and their family United States Senate this month. members who fall within the demographic A resolution introduced by Sens. Susan which is most at-risk for COVID-19 compli- Collins and Angus King, both of Maine, cations,” read a statement on the ceremony to designate Dec. 19, 2020, as “Wreaths from Brad Phares and Jack Nash, volun- Across America Day” was passed unani- teers at the Okeechobee chapter of the mously in the U.S. Senate on Dec. 3. organization. “Placing our heroes in a posi- “Wreaths Across America is a powerful tion that could potentially cause increased demonstration of respect and appreciation health risks for them is the last thing our for our veterans — both those that we’ve local would want to result from our event.” lost and those still with us,” said Collins and Volunteers plan to place memorial King in a joint statement. “We are so proud wreath displays and banners representative that this heartfelt expression of gratitude of all veterans at key locations within ceme- originated in the great State of Maine and teries in and around Okeechobee as well as has become an enduring symbol of our at the Veteran Memorial in Flagler Park. nation’s gratitude for veterans’ valor and “While we deeply regret the cir- sacrifice. This resolution remembers and cumstances and will miss holding our honors America’s veterans this holiday official ceremonies,” concluded WAA- season, while also teaching generations to Okeechobee’s statement, “we firmly come of the sacrifices that have been made believe this course of action still holds true to secure our freedoms and to defend our to the WAA mission of remembering our liberty.”

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Complete a Citizen Board Application by December 18, 2020 and submit to 30 MINUTES WKH2I¿FHRIWKH&LW\&OHUNDW6(UG$9(2NHHFKREHH)/RUYLDHPDLO FROM OKEECHOBEE OJDPLRWHD#FLW\RIRNHHFKREHHFRP $SSOLFDWLRQV FDQ EH GRZQORDGHG IURP seminolebrightoncasino.com WKH ZHEVLWH FLW\RIRNHHFKREHHFRPYROXQWHHUKWPO )RU TXHVWLRQV FRQWDFW Must be 21 years old to play slots and table games. Must be a Seminole Wild Card Member to participate in casino promotions. If you or someone  you know has a gambling problem, please call 1.888.ADMIT.IT. %\&LW\&OHUN/DQH*DPLRWHD&0& 12 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Chamber of Commerce of Okeechobee County News By Paulette Wise Some of the items that are needed are tooth- Chamber of Commerce brushes, shampoo, soaps, hair brushes, de- odorant, diapers, wipes, feminine products, OKEECHOBEE — What a great day for a toilet paper and so much more. Just think Grand Opening, on Saturday, Dec. 12 from about some of the items that you use daily, 9 a.m. to noon. You’ll want to stop by and and these would be the same items that are meet Charissa and her team, Kayleigh and needed at Real Life Children’s Ranch. Lillian, and wish them all the best in the So, stop by Think Happy Nutrition, locat- opening of Think Happy Nutrition tea room. ed at 108 S.E. Park Street, right across from In that this is the official Grand Opening, the Chamber of Commerce, this Saturday, Charissa has started a great “Drink Competi- Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to noon and you’ll be tion” and it’s going full speed ahead. amazed at the number of drink items that The friendly competition is between the you’ll be able to choose from. Remember Okeechobee Police and Fire departments. that you can also bring any of the donated They each have their own custom drink items and drop them off that day. Hope to Special to the Lake Okeechobee News and with each drink purchased, Charissa is see you there. OKEECHOBEE — The Grand Opening of the Think Happy Nutrition tea room will donating $1 to Real Life Children’s Ranch. Support our small businesses and shop take place on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to noon. Other donations are gladly accepted as well. local. Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce News By Belle Glade Chamber In other chamber news: S.W. Avenue B, Belle Glade, by appoint- Produce; Comfort Air Conditioning; D.B.I. of Commerce • The Light House Cafe and Ella’s Closet ment only. Services; Dentist Robert McClary; Glades Special to the Lake Okeechobee News invite patrons to help make a difference • The PBC Office of Equal Business Op- Gas; Lomax Harrelle; Health Care District BELLE GLADE — During the Holiday this holiday season by helping to give portunity’s Small Business Quarterly Train- of Palm Beach County; Howell Oil; JTK Small Business & Craft Fair on Saturday, personal hygiene bags to those in need. ing Program’s last two sessions are coming Bike Shop; Literacy Coalition of Palm Beach Dec. 5, which took place on the chamber They are requesting full-size products to fill up. These events will be conducted virtually County; Pioneer Growers; Rexel; South building grounds and inside the newly these kits such as bath towels; washcloths; on Feb. 24 at 11 a.m., titled “Certified ... Florida Conservancy District; St. Peter’s Lu- reopened Lawrence E. Will Museum, we socks; toothpaste/toothbrushes; lotions; Now What?”; and April 28 at 11 a.m. titled theran Church; Student ACES; United States welcomed Papa John’s Pizza as a new bath soap; shampoo; deodorant; shaving “Doing Business in PBC.” Contact Antonia Sugar Corporation; and Leigh Woodham. member. cream, disposable razors; combs; tissues Smith, outreach and public information Anyone interested in contributing items They have opened recently in the Group and peppermints. Or you may make a mon- coordinator, at [email protected] or call for the newsletter may contact Melanie at 607 Plaza — across from the Chamber of etary donation by mailing a check to The her at 561-616-6840 to learn more. Grimes or Brenda Bunting at the chamber Commerce building. Chief Financial Officer Light House Cafe, P.O. Box 220, Pahokee, • Renewing members for November by the 15th of each month in order to get Kevin Lopez and his staff invites everyone FL 33476. To schedule a pick-up or delivery are: Atlantic Pacific Insurance; Attorney Do- items in the next newsletter: Call 561-996- to come by and order your pizza in person, of the requested items, call 561-993-7020; nia Adams Roberts; BGI Group; the Boys & 2745, or email info@bellegladechamber. online, or call them at 561-983-4543. or items may be delivered to the cafe at 400 Girls Club of Palm Beach County; Cee Bee com. Shop luxury and comfort for your holiday

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     14 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Veteran Owens repaired jet engines we were taking care of all the Air Force, Army bases around that had any kind of aircraft. We would rebuild the engines over there, because they didn’t have the facilities where they were.” About a month and a half later, once the base was complete, they were taken back to Tuy Hoa. To Owens’ knowledge, By Cathy Womble Tuy Hoa was the first base built by the Air Force. Normally, they were built by private Lake Okeechobee News contractors or Seabees, the Navy’s con- OKEECHOBEE — Veteran Bob Owens struction battalion, and they would be done was born in Pahokee but grew up in Palm ahead of time. Beach County. After high school, he con- The food on this base was a little differ- sidered joining the Marine Corps, but his ent, too, he said. “We had hotdogs for a mother was dead set against it, because she couple of months,” he laughed. “Breakfast, was sure he would be sent to Vietnam, and lunch and dinner. That’s the only thing we she did not want him to have to go there. could get, but we didn’t care. We were all “This was back when they had the draft, young and enjoying life and just hoping to of course,” he said. “They were drafting in make it back home again.” Special to the Lake Okeechobee News lots of 20. I got my draft notice that I was The 101st Airborne Division was very Veteran Bob Owens spent his time in the Air Force working on airplane engines. number 19 and the next lot to be drawn.” close to them. They ate a little better than the service at Robins Air Force base as a jet His mom was very upset. She did not want Owens’ group, but they had it a lot harder, mechanic working on B-52s and KC-135s. him to go in the Army, because she thought so no one begrudged them the food, he He was discharged in 1969. He was sup- he would definitely end up in Vietnam. He said. “They were out in the field and it was decided to join the Air Force in 1966. more dangerous, but we kept their planes posed to go to Spain, but was able to sign To his mother’s chagrin, he ended up in the air, and that was our main objective.” up for an early discharge program instead being sent to Vietnam anyway. He had Owens spent quite a while working in and got out eight and a half months ahead been trained as a jet mechanic and was the shop doing rebuilding but later moved of schedule. assigned to the 31st Tech Fighter Wing. out to testing the engines after they were When he first came home, he went to Because they were building a base for them repaired. “We ran them up and tested them work for Pratt Whitney as a jet mechanic. in Vietnam, they were being deployed a just like they were in the aircraft.” He considered going to work for one of few at a time beginning in June, and he He was in Vietnam for a year and six the major airlines where he could work was not sent immediately. He was stationed days. He was supposed to be home a week on the jet engines, but he would have had in Homestead while he waited to be sent earlier, but “the VIPs took our plane!” They to move, and he did not want to leave the to Vietnam. They had the old F-100 Fighter had to wait several more days for another area. Squadron and were kept back until the flight before they made it back to the States. Owens went to work for the Jupiter planes from Homestead began deploying His homecoming was not the grand wel- Fire Department and retired after 29 years, about 15 years ago, after a bout with can- to Tuy Hoa, Vietnam, around October come veterans of the past received. When Up on the hill are the “Guns of Tuy 1966. On Dec. 2, Owens was deployed to they landed at the Air Force base, there cer. “I think a lot of veterans have some- thing inside them that wants to protect Hoa,” used to defend both the base Vietnam with the rest of the mechanics and was no one there to disembark them. They and the nearby town. airmen. had to go through customs and everything. people and help them. That’s why they go into that type of thing,” said Owens when “We landed in Tuy Hoa two days later. They sat on the tarmac in a plane for about she lived until she passed away about six We got off the plane, and they told us to six hours waiting for someone to come asked about all the veterans who go into stay on the tarmac, because they didn’t take care of them. After they left there, they firefighting or law enforcement. Owens has years ago. have any facilities for us to stay in. We won- all already had tickets to their next destina- a grandson in the Okeechobee County Fire Owens lived in Jupiter and loved it dered where in the world we were going to tion, and they were all treated rudely and Rescue Service, a niece who will soon be there, but it was getting bigger and bigger. going into fire service, a nephew who is a stay!” no one wanted to help them. “It was quite After his first wife passed away and he met They ended up being flown to the Phil- a culture shock and a mental shock to us.” firefighter/medic in Palm Beach, a future ippines, where they stayed for the next sev- One man behind the counter finally heard niece-in-law who is a nurse and a brother- Kelly, they got married and bought land in eral weeks while they waited for their base what was going on and came forward to in-law who is a retired firefighter. “It’s kind Okeechobee, built their own home and to be completed. They were the support for help them. of in our blood, I guess,” he said. moved here permanently in 1994. all Southeast Asian jet engines, any aircraft He finally made it home after a long, Owens said he has always loved Now that Owens is retired, he spends engine, he said. It was their responsibility to arduous trip that took two and a half days Okeechobee. He originally had a weekend keep them in the air. “We worked any- after he reached the United States. place here with his late wife, and his moth- his time fishing and aggravating his wife, where from 12 to 18 hours a day, because He spent the remainder of his time in er bought a place next door to him, where he said.

Anita Peterson Send Us Your Photos! Merry Christmas to our beautiful bundle Baby’s First Christmas & Santa’s Little Helpers of joy! Love, Mommy We will publish a special Keepsake edition on & Daddy December 23 with all of the contributed photos!

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By Katrina Elsken places, maintain at least 6 feet of distance All County Medical Ambulance Service, resulted in deaths. “The suicide rate, do- Lake Okeechobee News from those not in your immediate house- encouraged commissioners to promote mestic violence, drug use ... went sky high,” OKEECHOBEE — Problems with labs hold, and wash your hands frequently and health precautions to slow the spread of the he explained. “Quarantine fatigue is real.” not reporting COVID-19 positive results to thoroughly. disease but argued against closing busi- He said hand washing is critical. “This the Florida Department of Health in a timely Collins advised, “Avoid the “three C’s”: nesses. thing lives three to five days on an elevator manner are making it more difficult for • Crowded areas with more than 10 “I am part of a giant blog of crtical care button.” FDOH to conduct contract tracing, accord- people; providers,” he said. “As doctors learn more When a vaccine is available, it will also ing to a report given by Tiffiany Collins of • Closed spaces with poor ventilation; about treating the virus, the death rate is be important to encourage everyone to be FDOH in Okeechobee County at the Dec. 3 and, going down because of the techniques vaccinated, Adelberg added. Even though meeting of the Okeechobee County Com- • Close contact with individuals outside developed by caregivers,” he added. the long-term phase of the vaccine trials mission. your household. “Shutting down the country didn’t work. has not been done “because we don’t have Collins said so far, 2,061 residents of Dr. J. Michael Adelberg, medical director It put hundreds of thousands of people out time,” he said, even if the vaccine is only Okeechobee County have tested positive for Okeechobee County Fire Rescue, of work. It ruined people’s lives.” 50% effective, it will help boost the herd for COVID-19 and 44 people have died — Okeechobee City Fire Department and the He said shutting down businesses also immunity. about 2% of all positive cases. There are some problems in reporting, she added. “We are looking at all of the death certificates coming in and the lab reports coming in,” she said. FDOH has reported some labs for not relaying results to FDOH in a timely manner. When a test is positive, that result is supposed to be reported to FDOH within 24 hours, she explained. She said they have seen some death certificates that indicate the patient was covid-positive, and no lab report to go with it. That means, “the lab did not report the COVID positive to us,” she said. She said about 7% of all cases in the county were related to long-term care facil- ities and 11% were related to correctional facilities. The positivity rate continues to rise, she said. In the past two weeks, the county has 158 new cases and 12.3% of those tested have been positive. This makes it very diffi- CALL TODAY: 772-463-2344 cult to do contract tracing to find out where the person may have been exposed to the TO SET UP A FREE CONSULTATION virus, she said. “At 10% we basically have community-wide transmission,” she said. To date, for the 13,565 total COVID-19 tests in Okeechobee, overall positivity 15.1%. Some individuals have been tested more than once, she added. Additional tests for the same person are added to the total until a person tests positive. Once a person tests positive, future tests for that individual are not added to the total. She said the county health department, 1728 N.W. Ninth Ave., offers tests Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for first responders and for those who have symp- toms. Those who believe they have symp- toms should contact their doctors and/or the health department, she explained. The health department phone number is 863- 462-5800. As of Dec. 3, she said nine Okeechobee County residents are hospitalized related to COVID-19. She said 61 of Raulerson Hos- pital’s 100 beds are in use, and six of the hospital’s eight ICU beds are in use. (As of Dec. 7, eight Okeechobee County residents were hospitalized, related to COVID-19.) She said those most at risk should they contract the virus are men over the age of 65 and those who are obese. Collins said they are working on the plans for distribution of the vaccine when it becomes available. “If you have not already gotten your flu shot, get it now,” she added. She also encouraged everyone to con- tinue to wear cloth face coverings in public 18 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

‘Flu shots’ help protect the public News from the Florida Department of is approved for use in people older than 6 Health months, including healthy people and peo- Influenza (flu) is a contagious respirato- ple with chronic medical conditions. ry illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause The regular seasonal flu shot is “intra- mild to severe illness, and sometimes can muscular,” which means it is injected into lead to death. The best way to prevent the muscle (usually in the upper arm). It has flu is to get a flu vaccine each fall. Children been used for decades and is approved for 6 to 23 months of age are considered to be use in people 6 months of age and older, in- at high risk for flu complications and should cluding healthy people, those with chronic be immunized. Consult your health care medical conditions and pregnant women. provider for more information regarding Regular flu shots make up the bulk of the childhood flu immunization recommenda- vaccine supply produced for the United tions. States. CDC recommends use of injectable About two weeks after vaccination, influenza vaccines (including inactivated antibodies that provide protection against influenza vaccines and recombinant influ- influenza virus infection develop in the enza vaccines). body. Flu vaccine is the best way to prevent The “flu shot”— an inactivated vaccine infection, but everyone must be re-vaccinat- (containing killed virus) that is given with ed each year because the flu viruses change a needle, usually in the arm. The flu shot each year.

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Raulerson Hospital Raulerson Hospital honors Garcia doctors OKEECHOBEE — As the closing approaches of the challenging year that 2020 has proven to be, the staff of Raulerson Hospital paused with Dr. Trini- dad Garcia to remember and honor the service and the character of the late Dr. Manny Garcia. The Garcias were truly instrumental to the very founda- tion of not only the medical staff, but to the entirety of Raulerson Hospital. CEO Brian Melear hosted Dr. Trinidad Garcia for a special luncheon to once again, formally, thank and recognize the Garcia family for the more than four decades of care, compassion and great memories Dr. Manny Garcia shared with colleagues and patients, as well as the community. This couple has truly made their mark on Okeechobee, and Raulerson Hospital will always remain thankful for the dedication of these two special physicians who have been part of it since before the doors opened in 1979. Although COVID-19 has in- hibited the ways Raulerson has been able to celebrate and honor Dr. Manny Garcia, they wanted to share this tribute to his life of service.

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Healthier Glades forum focuses on holiday safety

By Chris Felker criminal call. We respond to all calls. We at least two exits. if it’s a PlayStation 5: Nothing is as precious Lake Okeechobee News would like to get you the proper help.” • “Set a safe meeting place, some sort as your life! Always remember that your life Payne noted several other things to PAHOKEE — The Healthier Glades of landmark that is always there — so not a is priceless; that cannot be replaced, where remember: organization conducted an hourlong car or bicycle, but something stationary. a game system can be.” • “Please lock your vehicles and don’t online forum Wednesday • “If there is a fire, evacuate people He also talked about fire evacuation leave items openly on your seats ... (that is) afternoon, Dec. 2, to get first — and only then call 911. If anyone is safety and stated that according to national an enticement for someone to enter your information to people stuck or trapped, call 911 immediately. Do statistics, nearly half of holiday decoration vehicle by smashing the windows. Lock about how to ensure they not carry material possessions out of the fires happen because decor is placed too them away in a safe place. house — pitch them out of a window, even near a heat source. Keep a 3-foot distance. and their families have a • “Know your surroundings, what’s safe holiday season during ahead of you and what’s behind you, at all this COVID-19 pandemic. times. Representatives from • “Please remove any weapons from the Palm Beach County your vehicle and keep them inside your Fire Rescue Department Colin house. (PBCFR) and the county Walke • “If you are traveling, make sure you Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) leave your house locked up tight, and make joined HG Executive Director Annie Ifill it look like you’re still there.” and Colin Walke, director of the Bridges Capt. Payne also highlighted ways to stay of Pahokee and Belle Glade, for a “Glades safe from “criminal elements” by practicing Community Update,” a program the HG “parking lot and shopping safety.” He noted hosts regularly on its Facebook page. also that it’s important for parents consider- Wednesday’s forum was geared toward ing gifts of small vehicles for their children: all who will be celebrating the winter hol- “Four-wheel vehicles driven by kids are idays of whatever religion, such as Christ- meant to be driven only on private prop- mas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, that occur erty ... you can’t enjoy them on the public during December. roads; they are not authorized for use The panel discussion, on the roads, and it is a violation of state in which questions were statute.” The PBSO strictly enforces that law posed via Facebook Mes- when deputies observe this activity. senger, was moderated by Then Walke asked the fire-rescue spe- Walke, a former Pahokee cialist to speak. mayor. He introduced He stressed that celebrants must exer- their guests, including Ifill; cise caution about decorating Christmas Cylenthia Mann, director trees safely — especially the live ones that of Bridges at Pahokee; and Eric can dry out quickly and pose a high risk “a special guest today, our Payne for fire (check the water daily!) — and PBSO captain for the Belle how to ensure you don’t have a house fire Glade community, Captain Eric Payne of that originates from holiday cooking in the PBSO”; as well as a fire-rescue specialist presence of relatives or friends who can be from PBCFR. a distraction. He urged: Capt. Payne told listen- • “Keep kids out while cooking, or en- ers: “This holiday season force a 3-foot ‘kid free zone,’ to make sure will be like no other they’re safely away from hot dishes, open holiday season, because flames, et cetera. And always, a grown-up we have to deal with this should be attending to the cooking and horrible pandemic. We keeping an eye out for everyone’s safety. know that holidays can • “Do not leave dishes cooking with bring on stress and depres- handles pointed toward the front of the sion. I want to encourage stove or counter where you’re preparing everyone to practice social Fire-rescue food, because accidental spills or knock- distancing, everyone to specialist overs can easily turn into fires. No handles wear a face covering. You should be facing off the surface. Always are going to protect a lot of people by doing keep a flat, solid metal cookie sheet or those simple things. tight-fitting lid close by while cooking to “If you have any signs of loneliness extinguish any accidental blazes. and need someone to • “If something catches fire — cover the talk to, or you are dealing dish and turn off the burner,” in that order, with some type of men- immediately. tal stress,” he went on, • “Smoke alarms are essential. Make “please reach out to some- sure they’re installed in every level of your one, anybody — just reach home, in your bedroom and in your hall- out and let someone know ways, and that they have working batteries. what is happening, what • “Have a fire escape plan for household is going on or what you’re members and any visitors staying over; dealing with. We respond Cylenthia make sure they all are aware. to all calls, whether it’s a Mann • “Check doors and windows to make mental breakdown or a sure they all work; every room should have 20 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Okeechobee City Councilman-elect Cale resigns By Cathy Womble him to take that seat in January. Although city will have to conduct a special election could take place would probably be March Lake Okeechobee News the council expressed great sympathy for to fill the seat. 2021, she said. the family, they concluded they had no legal In January, they will start out with only Another complication might be finding OKEECHOBEE — Amidst controversy means to keep him from taking his seat, but four council members and continue that and gossip and before presiding over even some pledged to urge him to resign on his way until the special election. The election people willing to run. In the fall election, one meeting as an official Okeechobee City own. Just before noon on Monday, he did. will have to be coordinated through the there were only two people who ran for the Council member, Russ Cale has resigned his Russ Cale and Monica Clark ran for city supervisor of elections office, and will take two available seats. seat on the council as of Monday, Nov. 30. council unopposed and were therefore a minimum of 90 days once they begin the In order to qualify to run for city council, During the council’s meeting on Nov. 16, both elected. Clark will begin her second process. The matter is complicated by the you must be a city resident, must be a reg- a local citizen stood before the council and four-year term on Jan. 4, 2021, after her changeover in the supervisor of elections istered voter, must be at least 18 years old, told them his son had taken his own life investiture. office, she explained. That office may want and that he believed the councilman who Cale’s resignation was unconditionally to postpone it until the new supervisor is in must file papers and pay the qualifying fee would soon be taking office was respon- accepted at the council meeting on Dec. 1. office. Everything is up in the air, she con- of $159 by the end of the qualifying period, sible. He begged the council not to allow According to City Clerk Lane Gamiotea, the tinued. Either way, the very earliest a vote which has not yet been determined. Hendry County Legislative Delegation to meet Special to the Lake Okeechobee News • Hendry County Board of County Com- John Varady: vois, executive director; CLEWISTON — The Hendry County missioners; • Florida Gulf Coast University — Jenni- • Lions Free Eye Clinic, Inc — Valerie Legislative Delegation will meet on Friday, • Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Im- fer Goen, director of government relations; Bostic, interim executive director; Dec. 11, from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Clewiston provement District, Local Bill — Mike Cook • Florida SouthWestern College — Jef- • Florida Coalition for Spoken Language City Hall Commission Chambers, 115 W. and Dave Ramba; fery Allbritten, president; Options — Yadira Lorenzo, CEO, Children’s Ventura Ave., Clewiston. • Office of Criminal Conflict and Civil • Lee Health — Michael Nachef, director Garden of LaBelle; Presenters will include: Regional Counsel, Second District — Ita of government relations; • Children’s Network — Nadereh Salim, • City of Clewiston — Randy Martin, city Neymotin, CEO; • Central Florida Behavioral Network CEO; and manager; • Hendry County School District — Su- — Alan Davidson, chief clinical officer, and • Habitat for Humanity of Lee & Hendry • City Of LaBelle — Mayor Dave Lyons, perintendent Michael Swindle; Linda McKinnon; Counties — Paul Martin, Kolter Land Part- Finance Director Ron Zimmerly; • Heartland Education Consortium — • Healthy Start Coalition — Susan Beau- ners, LLC. Belle Glade advertising again for Gove site developers

By Chris Felker you all so much for your due diligence on RFP. • Hillsboro Street from West Canal Lake Okeechobee News that. To the audience, we heard you loud Road resurfacing project Street to Northwest Avenue L; BELLE GLADE — The Belle Glade City and clear. A lot of the things you shared • Northwest Avenue F from Northwest with us make a lot of sense,” Mayor Wilson The commissioners also adopted a commission acted in a special meeting resolution relating to Florida Department 14th Street to Northwest 16th Street; said. Monday, Nov. 30, to advertise a new op- of Transportation funding to repave various • Northwest Ave F Place from Northwest He was referring to a long discussion portunity for developers to propose how to roadways in the city. City Manager Harrelle during the commission’s Oct. 28 special 14th Street to Northwest 16th Street; redevelop the old Gove Elementary School presented the report prepared by Finance • Northwest Avenue G from Northwest property. The 10-acre property was given meeting, when they rejected the only pro- Director Larry Tibbs to commissioners. 14th Street to Northwest 16th Street; the city by the Palm Beach County School posal put forth by a developer the city had According to his report and the Board to be used for affordable housing. received but heard strong opinions from state-funded grant agreement submitted by • Northwest Ninth Street from West Mayor Steve Wilson opened the discus- residents nearby and from some developer Steven C. Braun, FDOT’s director of trans- Canal Street North to Hillsboro Street; sion, after the four commissioners attend- representatives who said the previous RFP portation development, these roads are to • Southwest Fifth Street from Dr. Martin ing (one by telephone) disposed of some was too restrictive. be resurfaced: Luther King Jr. Boulevard West to West He asked City Manager Lomax Harrelle routine budget-juggling amendments for • Northeast 18th Street from South Avenue A; both the recently closed fiscal year 2020 what was different in the revised Request Termini to Airport Road; • Southwest 15th Drive Southwest Ave- and the new fiscal year 2021, which began for Proposals No. 04-2020, which is the • Northeast 22nd Street; Oct. 1. (Commissioner Michael C. Martin re-bidding for the former Gove Elementary • Northeast 23rd Street from South nue H to North Termini; and was absent.) School property development project. Termini to Airport Road; • Southwest 0th Street from Southwest They also unanimously passed a reso- “Well, we changed the ranking” pro- • Northeast 26th Street; Avenue J to Southwest Avenue I. lution to enter into the Florida Department cedure, Harrelle said. “We’re encouraging • Northeast 28th Street; The estimated cost, the agreement says, of Transportation’s Small County Outreach the people that make a submittal that it be • Northeast 31st Street; is $720,720, and it calls for construction to a single-family and town home mix, with Program, or SCOP, which will provide for • Northeast 32nd Street from South be complete on these projects by Dec. 31, the resurfacing of 17 roadways within the ownership, not rental. It’ll be out for 45 Termini to Airport Road; 2022. “The Roadway Resurfacing Project city with FDOT financing. days this time instead of 30 days, and we • Northeast Avenue I from West Termini “All the commissioners had the opportu- hope to have more submissions for consid- to Northeast First Street; will consist of construction (resurfacing) nity to meet with the city manager to revisit eration this time than we did last time.” • Northeast Avenue G from West Termi- and construction engineering, and inspec- the RFP (request for proposals), and thank Commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the ni to Northeast First Street; tion (CEI) services for the 17 locations.” Okeechobee Airport to close runway 05/23 Dec. 7-11

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News between Dec. 7 and Dec. 11, 2020. County and the Airport Community with a to check before flying for any changes. OKEECHOBEE — In preparation for an This will allow geotechnical crews to safe new runway to serve for decades to For questions or concerns regarding upcoming runway rehabilitation project at gather data to rehabilitate the runway for come. this upcoming closure or the rehabilitation the Okeechobee County Airport, runway much needed improvement. This is one of Aviators: please observe all NOTAMs project, contact Airport Manager Andrew 05/23 will be closed during daylight hours many steps needed to provide Okeechobee issued in regards to this closure and be sure McBean at 863-467-5505. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 21 New UF/IFAS app to ID toxic plants Okeechobee Livestock Market Report

By Brad Buck UF/IFAS GAINESVILLE — Some livestock, pets and even children occasionally nibble on poisonous plants, presenting a potential pit- fall to the animals and youth. Now, a new, free app designed by UF/IFAS researchers and Extension faculty helps you identify toxic plants. Not only is this the first app to identify strictly Florida plants, it’s also the first to Special to the Lake Okeechobee News distinguish between toxic weeds. A new UF/IFAS app, similar to the one “This app focuses on the most com- shown here, helps users identify and mon and the most toxic plants in Florida, avoid toxic plants. considering the plants and weeds that people, pets and livestock are most likely to (RCREC), in Ona, Florida. “There are plenty encounter in landscapes and other places,” of print references on toxic plants for live- said Chris Marble, an assistant professor of stock, but this would be the first app that environmental horticulture at the UF/IFAS I’m aware of.” In addition to photos, the app supplies Mid-Florida Research and Education Center general toxicity levels of “low,” “medium,” in Apopka, Florida. “high” and “very high.” As a mobile web app, you view this For example, a plant such as oxalis can online, UF/IFAS researchers said. It can be be toxic if consumed in very large quan- used on computers and mobile devices to tities. Livestock might eat a lot of oxalis, compare the photos of the plants to the for example. But the plant wouldn’t cause plant in question. Click here to access the much harm otherwise, Marble said. By con- app. trast, something like the seed from a sago The app features 166 plant species and palm is extremely toxic to dogs. 455 photos, so each plant has more than “It is common for young animals – one photo. Not everyone knows plant spe- especially heifers – to graze on poisonous cies, so the images should come in handy plants,” Sellers said. “This is especially true for people who lack experience with flora, in cases when they are brought in from a Marble said. different area and put in pastures with toxic Additionally, he said, “Many plants plants.” change their appearance as they age, which But it’s also common for mature cows to is one of the reasons we included so many graze toxic plants when desirable forage is photos of each plant.” scarce, Sellers said. The app includes all sorts of plants -- In addition to Marble and Sellers, other including invasives and weeds -- such as UF/IFAS faculty who helped design the app those you’d find in landscapes, parks and are Sandra Wilson, a UF/IFAS professor of farms. environmental horticulture; Esen Momol, Numbers were big this week after being sales of beef can get back to normal. We “I think it’s important that this app director of the Florida Friendly Landscaping closed for Thanksgiving last week. There have two more weeks of regular sales and contains weeds because so many of the ™ program – along with her staff – and the were 3,500 head for the week. Demand for the slaughter cattle sale on Dec. 21. reference sources that are online only UF/IFAS Office of Information Technolo- feeder calves was strong, holding up right Bluefield Organic Farm, Okeechobee, cover toxic landscape or household plant gy, all of whom are based in Gainesville, to the very end. Calves were definitely high- topped the calf market with a high of species,” said Brent Sellers, an agronomy Florida. er. Lightweight calves $4-$6 higher. Heavier professor and director of the UF/IFAS Range To find out more, contact Marble at $2.45/200#, bought by Foy Reynolds. weight calves $2-$4 higher. Slaughter cows David Pro Rodeo, Pembroke Pines, Cattle Research and Education Center marblesc@ufl.edu. and bulls mostly steady. Beef demand is strong going into the Christmas holiday topped the slaughter cow market with a Affected by Tropical Storm Eta? season. Feed lots are fairly current and high of $.71/1160#, bought by Florida Beef. weekly slaughter numbers are large. There Upcoming Special Sales: is an optimistic feel to the cattle market Dec. 21, Slaughter Cattle Sale Disaster assistance may be available with hopes that the economy will get back The Okeechobee Livestock Market will into full swing once the COVID vaccine is be closed Dec. 22 through Jan. 3 for the Special to the Lake Okeechobee News to https://www.farmers.gov/recover/disas- readily accessible so restaurant and retail Christmas and New Year holidays. IMMOKALEE — After Tropical Storm ter-tool to fill it out and discover what your operation can receive. Eta’s significant flood and wind impacts to • OFFICE CALL + EXAM $12 After answering just five questions, Florida agricultural operations, the U.S. De- the tool will identify applicable programs, • LOW COST partment of Agriculture is making financial under which financial assistance may be VACCINATION EVERY DAY assistance available. available to growers able to show losses. • TOM CAT NEUTERS $25 Producers and landowners can use the For more information on all USDA disas- online Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool to ter assistance programs, visit farmers.gov/ • BOARDING $10 A DAY help find the financial assistance programs recover or contact your local USDA Farm In LaBelle that may be available to them. Go online Service Agency office. Mon Tue Wed Fri 8 to 5 Thur and Sat 8-12 In Clewiston Thur 3 p.m. • Sat 2 p.m By Appointment Only Okeechobee Livestock Market Emergency Service Available! Cattle Auction Monday & Tuesday Bath and Nail Trim - $20 Restaurant Open Monday - Wednesday Shewmakers Animal Hospital “Best Burgers in South Florida!” 1095 N. SR 29, LaBelle 863-675-2441 863.763.3127 22 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Santa Express making stops all the Okeechobee County Fair seeking creative way ’round Lake Okeechobee skill and craft contest By Richard Marion participants Lake Okeechobee News CLEWISTON — United States Sugar Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Corporation’s recently restored historic OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee steam locomotive, the Sugar Expres,s will County Fair Association is seeking adult become the Santa Express for a short time and youth contest participants for the this weekend. upcoming fair, March 16-21, 2021. On Dec. 12, the train will be used to The contests consist of quilting, donate gifts to Toys for Tots organizations sewing, leatherwork, painting, drawing, around Lake Okeechobee with assistance photography, horticulture, woodworking from members of the United States Marines and more. There will also be food compe- Corps and a little help from Santa Claus. titions such as home baking and canned The train will be making stops in Moore goods, as well as a vegetable competition Haven, Clewiston, Belle Glade and Martin featuring garden vegetables, fruit and veg- County. Parents can sign up to receive toys etables and largest vegetable categories. later in December directly from the pro- This year the fair will again have the gram at toysfortots.org. educational posters and educational While the purpose of the stops will display competitions. Individual youths mainly be to drop off toys for local repre- may enter the Educational Poster Con- sentatives from the Toys for Tots organiza- test, and 4-H clubs or FFA chapters may Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ tions, the public is welcome to come see FMW Solutions LLC enter the Educational Display Contest. the historic train and wave to Santa as well. Santa will be riding the Sugar Express around Lake Okeechobee on Dec. 12. The top three club/chapter displays will Santa will be along for the ride to wave 1:45 p.m. stop at Morning Star Farms Road, Coast Railway originally received delivery of win awards of $150, $100 and $75 for at children along the route from the train, Port Mayaca. The Santa Express will spend in June 1920, ran throughout their system, their programs. You may enter online and and at each of the four stops, children will about 30 minutes at each stop. including on the fabled Key West Exten- download the entry forms and rules at be able to drop off a letter for Santa and see In the interest of public safety, social dis- sion. The Florida East Coast Railway, the the Okeechobee County Fair Web site, him on his very own train car. tancing must be practiced at each stop and only rail system along the east coast of Flor- okeechobeecountyfair.com, or pick up The first stop will be at 8:30 a.m. at face coverings worn at all times to reduce ida, maintained the locomotive until 1952, copies of the 2021 Premium Book at the Park Avenue in Moore Haven. Next will be the risks of exposure to COVID-19. when it was acquired by U.S. Sugar. Okeechobee County Extension Office at a stop at 9:45 a.m. at W.C. Owen Avenue U.S. Sugar Corp. has been working to The restoration of the steam locomo- 458 U.S. 98 N. The deadline for entries in Clewiston, then an 11:15 a.m. stop at restore Engine No. 148 since 2016. The tive was completed just before U.S. Sugar is March 5. If you have questions, please Osceola Street, Belle Glade, and finally a steam locomotive, which the Florida East began its 90th harvest season this year. contact Kathy Scott at 863-634-8873.

“When I graduated with my A.A. in 2018, I looked at my kids KJ and Gianna and told them ‘This is for you. This is all for you.’ My children inspired me to go back to school beginning with my GED, and as I earn my Bachelor’s Degree and pursue my next chapter in law school, they motivate me every step of the way.” Sarah Freeman IRSC Class of 2020 START YOUR NEW CHAPTER THIS SPRING AT INDIAN RIVER STATE COLLEGE! Apply and register now− classes start January 6!

1-866-792-4772 | irsc.edu December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 23 Okeechobee Life Roundup Dorriety honored as Okeechobee County Friend of 4-H By Katrina Elsken Okeechobee County 4-H program. In years Lake Okeechobee News past, the honorees have been individuals, families, businesses and governmental OKEECHOBEE — Matt Dorriety, man- organizations that have gone above and be- ager of the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Center, yond to provide resources, time and exper- was recently presented with the Friend of tise to the 4-Hers of Okeechobee County. 4-H Award. The award is considered the Continuing in this established tradition, this highest honor that the Okeechobee County year’s honoree has proven time and time 4-H program bestows. again to be a very valuable member in the The award was first established in success of the 4-H program in Okeechobee 1989 and continues to honor persons or County. This year, the Okeechobee County organizations that have performed exem- 4-H program, along with its members and plary service to the Okeechobee County volunteers, has chosen Mr. Matt Dorriety 4-H program. In the past, honorees have and staff of the Okeechobee Agri-Civic Cen- been individuals, families, businesses and ter as the recipient of their greatest honor. governmental organizations that have gone “When members and volunteers were above and beyond to provide resourc- asked why they chose Mr. Dorriety and his es, time and expertise to the 4-Hers of staff as their Okeechobee County Friend Okeechobee County. Nominations for the of 4-H, the responses were profound! Mr. award come from 4-H leaders, volunteers Dorriety and his staff are ‘always kind and and club members. willing to help our kids with hosting clinics Due to concerns about the COVID-19 and shows.’ He is ‘always willing to do pandemic, Okeechobee County 4-H could anything needed for any type of livestock not host its traditional 4-H Awards Banquet event!’ Mr. Dorriety is ‘a hard-working, Special to the Lake Okeechobee News this year. A virtual ceremony was held behind-the-scenes person and needs to be in November and posted online at sites. OKEECHOBEE — Paula Daniel presents Matt Dorriety with the Okeechobee noticed.’ He does a ‘great job accommodat- County Friend of 4-H Award. google.com/ufl.edu/okeechobee-county- ing our needs for OYLS and other events.’ 4-h/home. “Mr. Dorriety and his whole team work In a separate ceremony, Okeechobee extremely hard. They maintain the venue County 4-H Extension Agent Paula Daniel by keeping it looking great and working presented Dorriety with a plaque proclaim- well for so many different types of events. ing him a Friend of 4-H. They prepare quickly and efficiently for the She also presented him with a framed widely varying events and serve the com- copy of the presentation speech: “It is with munity as a whole but still understand each great pleasure that we continue the highest and everyone’s needs and are able to cater honor that the Okeechobee County 4-H to each individual event.’ program gives each year. The Okeechobee “It is evident that Mr. Matt Dorriety and County Friend of 4-H Award was first estab- his staff are a true friend of 4-H. Thank you lished over 30 years ago in 1989. It contin- for always catering to 4-H, for always think- ues to honor persons or organizations that ing of the needs of 4-H and 4-H members have shown praiseworthy service to the and for always making the best better.” Adopt a Christmas ‘angel’

OKEECHOBEE — Pat’s Floral De- sign’s Angel Tree Special to the Lake Okeechobee News is up! The angels are waiting to be Historical Society has holiday ornament adopted, so please stop by to make a OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee Historical Society is pleased to an- child’s Christmas nounce they have their first historical Christmas ornament available now memorable. Your for purchase. Many of you have collected the previous historical ornaments donations with help that were sold by the Okeechobee Retired Educators or those during the a child from the local Centennial Celebrations. This new ornament will match those. The design is Okeechobee com- the log cabin of Peter and Louisiana Raulerson, Okeechobee’s first settlers. munity. The store, at The ornament may be purchased for $15 at a variety of places. The Histor- 210 N. Parrott Ave., ical Society will have a booth at the Main Street Christmas Festival on Sat- is open Monday to urday, Dec. 12, from 10 a.m. until 9 p.m. The ornament will also be available Friday 8:30 a.m.-5 at the Okeechobee Chamber of Commerce office during normal business p.m. and Saturday hours and at the Historical Society Museum on Thursdays when the Tantie 8:30 to 2. Quilters are present from 9:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Proceeds from the sale of Special to the Lake Okeechobee News the ornament will go toward scholarships and projects of the society. 24 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Glades County Life at a Glance

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/GCSO Glades County sheriff, captain receive awards FORT MYERS — “Glades County Sheriff David Hardin and Captain Mike Pe- pitone were both honored last night at the Back The Blue & Green Banquet in Fort Myers,” the sheriff’s office posted on its Facebook page Tuesday, Dec. 1. “These men were presented plaques for their dedication and appreciation of the program by Vincent Stephen. The program was designed to help end Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Gatorama suicides among our men in women in the military as well as first responders, to include law enforcement, fire rescue and EMS. We want to thank Vincent Deck the swamp? and the Back the Blue & Green family for their service to the military, law PALMDALE — Christmas decorating can be a challenge in South Florida, as enforcement, first responders and the community as a whole. Keep up the evidenced by this photo shared by Gatorama. great work.” If anyone wishes to learn more about this program, visit them on Facebook or at backtheblueandgreen.org.

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/MHES Students spread cheer MOORE HAVEN — To spread Christmas cheer, third grade students at Moore Haven Elementary School wrote Christmas cards to send to deployed soldiers for the 10,000 for the Troops campaign.

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Builders Club sells trees MUSE — The West Glades School Builders Club sold Christmas trees on Nov. 28. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 25 News from the Glades communities of Belle Glade, Pahokee, Life in theSun Canal Point and South Bay Belle Glade Chamber’s first holiday fair declared a triumph

By Chris Felker Lake Okeechobee News BELLE GLADE — Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber of Commerce of Belle Glade hosted its first ever Holiday Small Business and Craft Fair on Saturday, Dec. 5, inviting local resi- dents to sign up who had “a hidden talent for making things, or a small business ... to promote.” They ended up with over a dozen different local vendors, artisans and businesses joining in, hawking everything from “Scenstsy Gifts,” such as Young Living Essential Oils, to homemade, hand-crafted gifts of jewelry and knick- knacks and home decor items. There were plants and garden items, too. The Belle Glade Chamber hosted the gathering starting at 8 a.m. Saturday at the corner of Main Street and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. In conjunction with Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ the event, the reopened Lawrence E. Will Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce Museum was open for public browsing BELLE GLADE — Many children wrote all morning until the scheduled end time letters to Santa and put them in his mail- of 1 p.m. box, which he took back to the North There were children’s activities Pole. They also enjoyed making candy outdoors on the museum grounds — cane ornaments for their trees at home, Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce decorating fresh cookies, writing letters to as well as Christmas-themed picture BELLE GLADE — Santa sat for a quick photo-op with his elf friends at the Belle Santa and decorating a special Christmas frames for gifts. Glade Chamber of Commerce’s craft fair Dec. 5. ornament, just to name a few! A fire truck bearing Santa Claus arrived around 9:30 a.m. and, said the chamber’s Santa-elf-chief Melanie Grimes (executive director) and assistant-elf-chief Brenda Bunting, and that’s when the steady stream of parents with kids in tow began showing up. Grimes said Monday: “The event, I think — for our first one — went pretty well. We had about 15 vendors there, and it was steady. Everybody was socially distancing, so it was kind of spread out a lot, outside on the grounds. We did have quite a few members of the public come out.” In the late morning, it got busier, Bun- ting said. “We didn’t have big crowds but we had a steady flow of people coming through,” Grimes said. “I think if we’d have been closer together, it would have seemed like there were more people here, but everybody was so spread out, and we were distanc- ing everything to keep it outdoors, and then they opened everything. “We’ve learned a few things, like don’t start it at 8 a.m.!” The weather was nice enough on Saturday morning that activities were not forced inside, but people were encour- aged to go inside and tour the Lawrence E. Will Museum’s offerings as well. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Belle Glade Chamber of Commerce Grimes said they will plan things a BELLE GLADE — Santa arrived around 9:30 a.m., compliments of the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Department. He little differently for their next holiday craft wore a mask while listening to some children talk about what they wanted to find under their Christmas trees on the morn- fair in 2021, when everyone hopes social ing of Dec. 25. distancing may be a thing of the past. 26 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Sweet Life in Hendry County

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News GTGC learns Santa Paws is coming to town By Danika J. Fornear about orchids Lake Okeechobee News CLEWISTON — On Oct. 20, the CLEWISTON — Have your furbabies Green Thumb Garden Club (GTGC) been especially good this year? Now is of Clewiston met at the First United their chance to ask the big guy what they Methodist Church at 10 a.m. Margo want for Christmas! Clewiston Animal Fatzinger, president of the GTGC, participated in the Fall District Con- Control has invited Santa to the shelter for ference by way of Zoom and gave a a fun-raising event. Bring your four-legged report on the meeting. The scheduled friends and a donation to take a picture speaker, Brian Robinson, was unable with the bearded, jolly man himself. to attend, so Sandy Stitt (pictured at “Tell your fur babies they better watch left), member of the GTGC, gracious- out, they better not cry. They better not ly agreed to attend and talk about her pout; we’re telling you why: SANTA PAWS passion, orchids. Her talk was very is coming to town! Join us Saturday, Dec. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. for pictures with Santa informative and she even gave mem- CLEWISTON — Spock, one of the paws!” announced Clewiston Animal bers handouts! She passed around long-standing residents of Clewiston Control. photo albums of a lot of beautiful or- Animal Control, awaits his fur-ever chids that she has grown. Most of the A minimum donation is required. There home. members in the GTGC have seen the will be raffle prizes and goodies bags at the beautiful orchids in her garden. The event. Over the next few weeks Clewiston interested in donating a raffle item please GTGC were very grateful for her won- Animal Control will post raffle items on contact Clewiston Animal Control by Friday, derful presentation. Thank you, San- their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ Dec.11 at 4 p.m. by calling 863-983-1474. dy Stitt! The field trip to Burma Spice ClewistonAnimalControl/ The shelter is located at 410 W. Arroyo in Moore Haven for Nov. 17 was can- If you or any local businesses are Avenue. celed. (COVID-19 has affected a lot of businesses.) The GTGC was to Workforce Development offers begin decorating the public library with natural Christmas decorations on Tuesday, Dec. 1. HVAC and CNA Nursing programs By Danika J. Fornear Lake Okeechobee News HENDRY COUNTY — For those looking to improve their career options. Hendry County Workforce Development (HCWD) has new classes starting in January for HVAC & CNA Nursing. “The HVAC program provides rigorous content designed to build skills in heating, Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ air-conditioning, refrigeration and ventila- Danika J. Fornear tion. The program is designed to reinforce Students may apply to attend Hendry analytical and safety skills,” the website County Workforce Development pro- states. For three years, the HVAC program grams in person at 475 East Osceola instructor, Cecil Harris, who has 30 plus Avenue in Clewiston. years of experience in HVAC has taken pride in teaching this program. He worked in the Hendry County Schools Mainte- 18 years old. However, if you are under 18 nance Department for nine years, working you may apply for a waiver. The waiver primarily on HVAC related projects. Harris must be signed by the Superintendent. has also worked for the U.S. Army Corps of These programs have limited room avail- Clewiston High School Tigers’ Engineers and as a welder for United States able, classes fill up quickly. Tuition depends Sugar Corporation. on the particular program. In some cases “A certified nursing assistant’s (CNA) there is no tuition, or the tuition may be Holiday Spirit Week is coming main role is to provide basic care to covered by a grant or donor. By Danika J. Fornear Wednesday: Deck out in white, silver, and patients, as well as assist them in daily HCWD urges prospective students to check to see that the classes they are Lake Okeechobee News glitter! activities they might have trouble with on • Dec. 17, Holiday Character Thursday: their own, such as bathing. Because of the interested in are not already full, and that CLEWISTON — Students at Clewiston Come dressed as your favorite holiday personal nature of the job, a certified nurs- the class isn’t past the final signup date. If High School are encouraged to show character! ing assistant job description must include you have any questions please call 863-983- their school spirit by participating in Spirit • Dec. 18, ‘Twas the Night Before people skills and the ability to be compas- 1511. Week beginning Dec. 14 through Dec. 18. Break: Wear your favorite holiday pj’s sionate and enjoy helping others. In nursing You can apply on site at 475 E. Osceola • Dec. 14, Merry Monday: Deck out in “Tigers! The Holidays are on their way or long-term care facilities, a CNA is often Ave., Clewiston, or 300 W. Cowboy Way, in red, green, and white! and we can’t wait to see all your Spirit a patient’s main caregiver,” the HCWD LaBelle. You may also apply online here: • Dec. 15, Tacky Tuesday: Wear your Week outfits! Celebrate the Season with website states. This program’s instructor is https://www.hendryadultlearning. tackiest ugly holiday sweater! us Dec. 14-18!” CHS posted on their offi- to be announced. org/admissions?fbclid=IwAR0uHayb- • Dec. 16, Winter Wonderland cial Facebook page. To attend a program at, you must be a jFTLeYeM_2aq8stO5e3g5e_LR0KYW_ resident of Hendry County and be at least KCRC2yXbNMVxKi9U75AqM December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 27 O% FINANCING FOR 48 MONTHS

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For current information, call us at 1-800-431-5921. 28 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 LAW ENFORCEMENT & FIRE AND RESCUE Is proposed ‘looter’ legislation a good idea? By Cathy Womble or death caused if fleeing for safety from a • Government employment/benefits: Okeechobee County Sheriff Noel E. Lake Okeechobee News mob. Terminates state benefits and makes any- Stephen said he believed the legislation • Prohibition on Destroying or Toppling one ineligible for employment by state/local TALLAHASSEE — In September, Gov. would go through so many changes by the Monuments, making it a second degree government if convicted of participating in Ron Desantis announced the “Combating time it finally was voted on that it would be felony to destroy public property during a a violent or disorderly assembly. Violence, Disorder and Looting and Law unrecognizable. “I’m not going to spend violent or disorderly assembly. • Bail: No bond or bail until first appear- Enforcement Protection Act.” His press a lot of time worrying about it,” he said. • Prohibition on Harassment in Public ance in court if charged with a crime relat- release stated that his intention was to stop “I know the governor is trying to make it Accommodations, making it a first degree ed to participating in a violent or disorderly violent assemblies and protect law enforce- possible for people to assemble lawfully as misdemeanor for a participant in a violent assembly; rebuttable presumption against ment. This legislation would create new the constitution allows while differentiating or disorderly assembly to harass or intimi- bond or bail after first appearance. criminal offenses and increase penalties for unlawful assembly, and making it easier for date a person at a public accommodation, In addition, the governor proposed those who target law enforcement and who law enforcement to deal with the unlawful such as a restaurant. changes to the Stand your Ground Law. As participate in violent or disorderly assem- assembly.” • RICO Liability: RICO (Racketeer Influ- it stands now, a person can only use deadly blies. enced and Corrupt Organizations) liability force if they believe it is absolutely nec- Until the legislation actually comes out, “Our right to peacefully assemble is one attaches to anyone who organizes or funds essary to defend themselves or someone he is not going to second-guess it, he said. of our most cherished as Americans, but a violent or disorderly assembly. else from death or great bodily harm. The There will be quite some time before that throughout the country we’ve seen that changes he proposes would make it legal happens. “It’s just too early to tell.” right being taken advantage of by profes- Increased penalties to use lethal force for “looting; criminal Todd Addington, owner of Big Tasty sional agitators, bent on sowing disorder mischief that results in the interruption or Restaurant, said he agrees with the addi- and causing mayhem in our cities,” said De- • Mandatory minimum jail sentence: Striking a law enforcement officer (includ- impairment of a business operation; arson tion to the Stand Your Ground legislation. Santis. “I will not allow this kind of violence that results in the interruption or impair- “We work too hard for what we have to to occur here in Florida. The legislation ing with a projectile) during a violent or disorderly assembly will equal six months ment of a business operation; and any have somebody just come under their own announced today will not only combat ri- other felony.” spoils, the way of the world today and just oting and looting, but also protect the men mandatory minimum jail sentence. When asked what he thought about the take it from you. This is a free country, but and women in law enforcement that wake • Offense enhancements: Offense and/ or sentence enhancements for: (1) throw- proposed changes, Okeechobee City Police it’s not free to come in and take our stuff.” up every day to keep us safe. I look forward Chief Bob Peterson said he believed there to working with the Florida Legislature next ing an object during a violent or disorderly When asked where he would draw the line, assembly that strikes a civilian or law was no way a law would pass allowing he said it would be as soon as the person session to sign this proposal into law.” people to shoot someone for stealing a tele- The Combating Violence, Disorder and enforcement officer; (2) assault/battery of a came into his establishment in an aggres- law enforcement officer during a violent or vision. “I believe you should be able to use sive manner to do bodily harm or even to Looting and Law Enforcement Protection lethal force for one reason only, to protect Act will consist of three parts: disorderly assembly; and (3) participation take something aggressively. “Most looters in a violent or disorderly assembly by an your own life or the life of someone else, so are breaking windows and other things. If New criminal offenses to individual from another state. if a looter is putting a life in danger, then I you are doing that kind of thing, I would think you have an absolute right to defend have to say, that’s where we draw the line.” that life, but if we are talking about proper- combat rioting, looting and Citizen and taxpayer Marc Bragel, owner of Brown Cow ty, I’d have to really read that, and see what violence protection measures their line of thinking is. I’m not sure I’d Sweetery said he would have to think long • Prohibition on Violent or Disorderly • No “Defund the Police” permitted: agree with that. The general rule of thumb and hard about it, though. “That’s a tough Assemblies, making it a third degree felony Prohibits state grants or aid to any local has always been that you need to be in fear one. I have a gun. I believe in guns, but when seven or more persons are involved government that slashes the budget for law for your life before you use deadly force.” unless my life or someone else’s life was in an assembly and cause damage to prop- enforcement services. He went on to say if you were at your threatened... It would have to be a real erty or injury to other persons. • Victim compensation: Waives sover- business and a bunch of armed people good reason. We don’t want this to be the • Prohibition on Obstructing Roadways, eign immunity to allow a victim of a crime crashed through the window, they weren’t wild, wild West, either.” making it a third degree felony to obstruct related to a violent or disorderly assembly really just looters, they were armed, dan- As Sheriff Stephen said, “These types of traffic during an unpermitted protest, to sue local government for damages gerous people, who put you in fear for your bills get changed around, watered down demonstration or violent or disorderly where the local government is grossly negli- life. “That’s a horse of a different color, and and turned around. Who knows what they assembly; driver is NOT liable for injury gent in protecting persons and property. you have a right to defend yourself.” will end up with in the end?” Recently released St. Lucie County Jail inmate accused of stealing trailer By Cathy Womble easily. of the trailer reportedly observed a Hispan- as if to hit him, but changed course before Lake Okeechobee News He quickly retrieved his vehicle and ic male wave his hand out of the driver’s striking him. The driver reportedly yelled OKEECHOBEE — While working as a raced after the fleeing truck and trailer. side window. After a chase of several miles out of the open window that he was an un- surveyor on State Road 714 in Martin Coun- Because the vehicle was headed which included a spin through the Country dercover police officer and he better move ty on the morning of Dec. 3, a man was toward Okeechobee, the surveyor noti- Corner Drive Thru Store, the dually finally out of the way. surprised to look up and see his own trailer fied Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office pulled into the Big Water RV Park on U.S. Although he was shaken by the encoun- being towed behind a white Ford dually. dispatch of the stolen trailer and asked for 441 Southeast. Moments later, the dually ter, the owner of the trailer continued to While working, he normally chains his assistance. The vehicles turned right on exited from the rear of the park without the follow the dually until Okeechobee County trailer to a tree nearby and he recognized it State Road 710 Southeast, and the owner trailer and came toward the other vehicle Sheriff’s Deputy Matthew Huffman arrived. The driver of the dually was identified as Two arrested in Orlando, charged in Belle Glade killing Juan Jose Rodriguez, 38, of Port St. Lucie. The report notes a search of his vehicle By Chris Felker the suspects, Erick and Richard Singleton, west Fifth Street in Belle Glade. Upon arriv- located multiple documents pertaining to Lake Okeechobee News for this homicide. The victim’s name is not al, deputies located a male deceased from being released due to the invocation of his recent release from incarceration in the what appear(ed) to be gunshot wounds. BELLE GLADE — The Palm Beach Marsy’s Law.” Saint Lucie County Jail. County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) Media Re- Both suspects, Erick and Richard Single- Detectives from the Violent Crimes Division He was charged with resisting arrest lations Bureau announced Thursday after- ton, were located and arrested on first-de- responded to investigate this shooting as a without violence, fleeing with lights and noon, Dec. 3, that two suspects have been gree murder charges, in Orlando. homicide.” siren active, grand theft less than $5,000, arrested in the homicide of a Belle Glade According to the PBSO’s original report, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon Anyone who might have more informa- resident first reported on Nov. 15. filed at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 15: “Deputies without intent to kill and impersonation of “Further investigation by the PBSO Vi- responded to a shooting in front of the tion about this crime still is being urged to a law enforcement officer. Bond was set at olent Crimes Division led to the arrest of Phoenix Club ... in the 200 block of South- contact Crime Stoppers at 800-458-TIPS. $28,500. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 29 LAW ENFORCEMENT & FIRE AND RESCUE Florida man chases woman Okeechobee County Arrest Report The following individuals were arrested deadly weapon and battery. Bond was set through drive-thru with ice pick RQIHORQ\RUGULYLQJXQGHUWKHLQÀXHQFH at $10,500. '8, FKDUJHVE\WKH2NHHFKREHH&RXQW\ • Gage Platt, 21, Southeast 27th Street, By Cathy Womble before grabbing her keys, she reported. 6KHULৼ¶V2৽FH 2&62 WKH2NHHFKREHH was arrested Nov. 29 by OCSO and charged Lake Okeechobee News “I’m in fear for my life,” she said. “He will &LW\3ROLFH'HSDUWPHQW 23' WKH)ORULGD with grand theft auto. Bond was set at not leave me alone.” She reported he was +LJKZD\3DWURO )+3 WKH)ORULGD)LVKDQG $5,000. OKEECHOBEE — After spotting his :LOGOLIH&RQVHUYDWLRQ&RPPLVVLRQ ):&  • Edwin Lutjen, 35, Northwest Second ex-girlfriend in town on Nov. 30, Alphonso swinging the ice pick in a wild, aggressive manner. WKH'HSDUWPHQWRI&RUUHFWLRQV '2& RUWKH Street, was arrested Nov. 30 by OCSO and Morris Jr. reportedly chased her through 2NHHFKREHH1DUFRWLFV7DVN)RUFH 217)  Because he could not be located sooner, charged with battery, second or subsequent town and into the 441 Drive-thru, where • James Wiggs, 35, Lake Placid, was offense. Bond was set at $5,000. Morris was arrested Dec. 3 by Okeechobee she jumped out of the vehicle and ran for arrested Nov. 26 by OCSO and charged with • Kysell Richardson, 21, Northwest 17th her life. County Sheriff’s Office and charged with fleeing or eluding law enforcement with Avenue, was arrested Nov. 30 by OCSO and Morris reportedly followed right behind aggravated assault with a deadly weap- lights and siren active and driving without a charged with home invasion with a firearm her with an ice pick in his hand. He then on without intent to kill. Bond was set at license. Bond was set at $5,500. and use of a deadly weapon. Bond was set kicked her car window and slashed her tires $10,000. • Donna Ramsey, 47, Southeast 44th at $65,000. Street, was arrested Nov. 27 by OCSO and • Marie Dusen, 48, Northeast 13th charged with interfering with the custody Avenue, was arrested Dec. 2 by ONTF and of a child. She was released on her own charged with possession of a controlled Juvenile sentenced to 13 years in prison recognizance. substance without a prescription. Bond was • Mark Russelburg, 22, Northwest 46th set at $5,000. Avenue, was arrested Nov. 28 by OCSO and • Willard Leitner, 50, Northeast 103rd in shooting death of David Zavala charged with carrying a concealed firearm, Avenue, was arrested Dec. 2 by ONTF and two counts tampering with evidence, pos- charged with possession of methamphet- Special to the Caloosa Belle a program for juvenile offenders, was taken session with intent to sell, manufacture or amine and tampering with evidence. Bond LABELLE — On Dec. 4, 17 year into custody by Hernando Sheriff’s Office deliver, possession of marijuana resin and was set at $10,000. old Eliezer Escobar was sentenced personnel and transported back to possession of a controlled substance with- • Joshua Madrigal, 22, North Tucker for his role in the shooting death of Hendry County in March 2020. out a prescription. Bond was set at $75,000. Ridge Road, was arrested Dec. 2 by OCSO 19 year old David Zavala. The second individual also • Brian Bishop, 20, Reservation Road, and charged with felony battery by strangu- Zavala was shot on July 3, 2019 charged in this case, Nicholas Guer- was arrested Nov. 29 by OCSO and charged lation. Bond was set at $5,000. while attempting to purchase rero, now 16 years of age, is still with DUI and possession of alcohol by a 7KLVFROXPQOLVWVDUUHVWVDQGQRWFRQYLF- narcotics. awaiting trial for his participation in person under the age of 21. Bond was set WLRQVXQOHVVRWKHUZLVHVWDWHG$Q\RQHOLVWHG Major crimes investigators ob- this case. at $300. KHUHZKRLVODWHUIRXQGLQQRFHQWRUKDVKDG tained an arrest warrant for Escobar Escobar was sentenced to 13 • William Lindstrom, 55, Northwest 38th WKHFKDUJHVDJDLQVWWKHPGURSSHGLVZHOFRPH on charges of homicide and armed years in the Florida Department of Avenue, was arrested Nov. 29 by OCSO WRLQIRUPWKLVQHZVSDSHU7KHLQIRUPDWLRQ robbery. Escobar who was being Eliezer Corrections on charges of man- and charged with aggravated battery with a ZLOOEHFRQ¿UPHGDQGSULQWHG held in Hernando County at Youth Escobar slaughter an attempted armed Opportunity Brooksville Academy, robbery with a deadly weapon. Palm Beach County Arrest Report

OCSO Investigations The following individuals were arrested • James Brooks, 32, at large, Belle RQIHORQ\RUGULYLQJXQGHUWKHLQÀXHQFH Glade, was arrested on Dec. 6 by PBSO '8, FKDUJHVE\WKH3DOP%HDFK&RXQW\ and charged with burlary of an unoccupied The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office • 4600 block U.S. 441 Southeast 6KHULৼ¶V2৽FH 3%62 WKH)ORULGD+LJKZD\ dwelling unarmed and grand theft of a investigated reports of the following crimes • 2800 block Northwest 32nd Avenue 3DWURO )+3 WKH)ORULGD)LVKDQG:LOGOLIH Nov. 24 - Dec. 3: swelling. Bon set at $1,000. &RQVHUYDWLRQ&RPPLVVLRQ ):& RUWKH • Ketavious Walker, 26, Rev. Jesse Biggs FRAUD 'HSDUWPHQWRI&RUUHFWLRQV '2& LQ%HOOH ASSAULT • 3200 block U.S. 441 South Blvd., Pahokee, was arrested on Dec. 6 by *ODGH3DKRNHH6RXWK%D\RU&DQDO3RLQW PBSO and charged with possession of a • 500 Southwest 14th Court • Jail x3 • Wilman Lemene, 30, of Northwest controlled substance without a prescrip- • 5000 block Northwest 30th Street • 100 block Northwest 32nd Street Avenue F Place, Belle Glade, was arrested • 11500 block U.S. 441 Southeast • 2900 block Northwest 47th Avenue Dec. 3 by PBSO and charged with carrying tion, possession of drug equipment and • 100 block Northwest 23rd Lane • 2000 block U.S. 441 North concealed weapon - unlicensed firearm, petit tehft. Bond was set at $1,000. possession of controlled substance without 7KLVFROXPQOLVWVDUUHVWVDQGQRWFRQYLF- BURGLARY HIT & RUN prescription. Bond set at $2,000. WLRQVXQOHVVRWKHUZLVHVWDWHG$Q\RQHOLVWHG • 700 block Northwest 30th Lane State Road 78 West • Elijah Burns, 19, Calusa Drive, Belle KHUHZKRLVODWHUIRXQGLQQRFHQWRUKDVKDG • 3400 block Northwest 20th Avenue • 2700 block U.S. 441 South Glade, was arrrested on Dec. 5 by PBSO WKHFKDUJHVDJDLQVWWKHPGURSSHGLVZHOFRPH • 2800 block Southeast 20th Court • State Road 710 Southeast and charged with burglary of an unoccu- WRLQIRUPWKLVQHZVSDSHU7KHLQIRUPDWLRQ • 2600 block Northwest Fourth Street pied structure unarmed. Bond was set at ZLOOEHFRQ¿UPHGDQGSULQWHG,QIRUPDWLRQ • 1200 block Northwest 128th Avenue NARCOTICS USE $3,000. IRUWKLVFROXPQFDPHIURPSEVRRUJ • 4900 block Southeast 44th Street • Jail x2 • 2500 block Southeast 18th Terrace • Northeast 39th Boulevard • 2800 block Southeast 20th Court Crimestoppers • 3500 block Northwest Eighth Avenue OVERDOSE Crimestoppers seek Pahokee woman Alexander is wanted on • Jail • 1100 block Sixth Street BHR Special to the Lake Okeechobee News a warrant for child abuse. • 5700 block Southeast 86th Boulevard Anyone with informa- • 300 block Southwest Second Street THEFT PALM BEACH COUNTY — Crime Stop- tion is urged to contact • 5900 block Southeast 94th Trail • 3700 block U.S. 441 Southeast pers of Palm Beach County needs your help Crime Stoppers at 800-458- • 2200 block Northwest 42nd Avenue • 3900 block U.S. 441 Southeast in locating Tusharma Alexander, 29 years TIPS (8477), or remain • 9100 block State Road 78 West • 3300 block Northwest 35th Avenue old, black, female, 5 feet 3 inches tall, 130 anonymous by download- • 100 block Southwest 19th Avenue pounds, black hair, brown eyes, and she ing the new app “Connect CRIMINAL MISCHIEF • 4900 block U.S. 441 South has multiple tattoos. & Protect,” “See Something • 12300 block U.S. 441 Southeast • Jail Her last known address was on Padgett Say Something” for any Ap- Tusharma • 2400 block Southeast 32nd Street • 24000 block U.S. 441 North Circle in Pahokee. ple or Android smartphone. Alexander 30 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 LAW ENFORCEMENT & FIRE AND RESCUE Is there a registered sex offender living near you? By Danika J. Fornear regarding Florida’s Registered Sex Offender of a conviction for a sex-related crime. This who lives in Montura. Lake Okeechobee News database and how to stay informed and information is made available to interested “NOTE: This information is made avail- keep your family safe. The database can be citizens to help them educate themselves able to assist interested persons in forming CLEWISTON — Florida state law found here: https://offender.fdle.state.fl.us/ about the possible presence of such offend- their own risk assessments based on the prohibits those convicted of certain sex offender/sops/search.jsf ers in their local community,” explained the offender’s personal circumstances and con- crimes against a child under 16 years of age “According to Florida Statute, convict- CPD in a social media post. viction history. Under Chapter 119 of the from living within 1,000 feet of a school, ed sex offenders must register with their “I wasn’t aware of this database, but it Florida Statutes, any of the public records day care center, playground, park, or other local sheriff’s office. The State maintains certainly is important information,” said of the Department of Law Enforcement are place commonly frequented by children. a database of registered sex offenders. In one Clewiston parent. “I just looked and it available for review upon request and are However, many are unaware that there may the above link, you will find a searchable seems our neighborhood is clear. That’s a subject to statutorily-authorized editing of be registered sex offenders living legally in database of registered offenders that may relief.” exempt or confidential information. We en- their neighborhoods, or near places they reside in each community. This database “We check this site regularly, as I know courage citizens to remain apprised of this frequent. contains public record information on that keeping my kids safe means staying information and check back regularly to The Clewiston Police Department recent- offenders classified as sexual predators and vigilant and having a safety plan with my review updated information,” CPD further ly issued a public service announcement sexual offenders under Florida law because kids,” said Tracy Ruiz, mother of seven, explained. Pedestrian from Belle Glade, Okeechobee Fire Report Special to the Lake Okeechobee News fully involved on a vacant lot. The owner • Okeechobee City Fire Department told them he drove the vehicle onto the lot responded to 15 medical/EMS, two fire-re- and his wife noticed fire coming from the 40, fatally injured in crash lated, two motor vehicle, one public assist engine compartment. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News of the Ford collided with the left side of the and five dispatch and cancel calls between • On Nov. 27 at approximately 3 p.m., BELLE GLADE — A pedestrian died in a pedestrian. As a result of the collision, the Nov. 23 and Nov. 29. OCFR responded to a call regarding a build- collision with a vehicle on State Road 80 on pedestrian stuck the vehicle’s windshield. • Okeechobee County Fire Rescue ing fire in the 1400 block of Southwest 83rd Sunday night, according to the Palm Beach The pedestrian fell to the roadway and responded to 147 medical/EMS, seven Avenue. When they arrived, they made sure County Sheriff’s Office report. came to rest in the outside lane of State fire-related, six motor vehicle, eight aircraft all occupants were out of the home. Light At approximately 6:10 a.m. on Sunday, Road 80, east of the area of impact. standby, five dispatch and cancel and 13 smoke was showing on the north side of Dec. 6, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office The Ford was brought to a controlled miscellaneous calls last week. Out of 114 the structure. Power was turned off at the responded to call involving an accident. A rest on the eastbound shoulder of the possible transports, eight were refused. breaker box. Entry was made through the 2013 Ford Fusion operated by Maurice Col- roadway. • On Nov. 25 at approximately 11 p.m., front door, which was already opened by lier, 72, of Belle Glade, was eastbound on The pedestrian was pronounced dead at OCFR responded to a call regarding a fire in the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office. All State Road 80 in the inside lane. A pedes- the scene scene by Palm Beach County Fire a motor home in the 16500 block of 252nd hot spots were extinguished and the fire, of trian, 40-year-old Celafoi Charles of Belle Rescue. Street. When they arrived they found the RV an electrical cause, was ruled accidental. Glade, apparently walked into the path of The driver of the Ford was not injured, the oncoming vehicle. The passenger side according to the report. Missing Clewiston man was in vehicle found submerged in canal Special to the Lake Okeechobee News who has a Clewiston address, was traveling BELLE GLADE — A 76-year-old man northbound on U.S. 27 in the 13000 block, who had been reported missing in when for unknown reasons, the truck drove Opa-Locka on Dec. 2 was found dead in a off the right side of the roadway. The front canal in Palm Beach County on Dec. 4. of the truck impacted a guardrail, continued Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office past the guardrail and drove into a canal. (PBSO) responded to call at approximately Detectives from Opa Laka Police 12:26 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4, that a truck Department located the crash site within had gone into canal. A 2003 Chevrolet Sil- Palm Beach County. The PBSO Marine Unit verado truck operated by Ramon Gonzalez, located the vehicle and driver. Man charged with leaving accident scene Special to the Lake Okeechobee News E. State Road 80, in Clewiston, in an at- CLEWISTON — A 56-year-old Clewis- tempt to yield to an emergency vehicle that ton man was critically injured on Sunday was responding to an unrelated call. evening in an accident on State Road 80, The pickup traveled over the painted according to the Florida Highway Patrol fog line and collided with the pedestrian. report The vehicle came to a controlled stop in At approximately 9 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. the business parking lot and the driver o 6, a pickup truck, driven by a 30-year-old walked away from the scene. The driver LaBelle man, was traveling east on State was arrested and charged with DUI – Road 80, west of the Hendry Isles Boule- serious bodily injury, leaving the scene of vard turn lane. a crash involving serious injury and driving A pedestrian, a 56-year-old Clewiston while license suspended. man, was lying down on the shoulder of The traffic accident was investigate by he State Road 80, approximately 100 feet west Florida Highway Patrol Trooper G. Zimmer- of Hendry Isles Boulevard. ly. The pickup moved to the State Road 80 The pickup truck driver was booked into turn lane for the Shell Gas Station at 13979 the Hendry County Jail. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 31

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FloridaCrystalsCorp FloridaCrystalsCorp FLCrystalsCorp 32 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Lake flow to Caloosahatchee River cut by 25%

By Katrina Elsken Since Tropical Storm Eta, no water from Lake Okeechobee News the lake has gone south. There is still a lot JACKSONVILLE — The U.S. Army Corps of water from Eta that needs to move out of of Engineers started reducing the outflows the southern end of the system, said Kelly. from Lake Okeechobee to the coastal estu- “It will take several weeks before we can aries on Saturday, Dec. 5. start look at potential releases to the south.” Starting Dec. 5, releases to the Calo- “Flows south are unattainable given with oshatchee River were reduced by 25% the the water that’s in the southern end of the St. Lucie River started a five-day pause of system,” said Kelly. “In January, we may be lake releases. able to look at flow south again.” “Today the lake is just a little over 16 feet,” said Col. Andrew Kelly on Dec. 3. “It’s “All of the conservation areas in the still about 3 feet higher than it was this time south are above schedule,” said Kelly. “Ev- last year.” Kelly said the wet season appears erything in the south is just totally full.” to be over. “Our releases now are more “Some of the projections look like the geared toward a forward-looking dry-sea- lake could drop in a dry environment, son strategy which we will roll out in the getting down to 13 or 14 feet, comparing next couple weeks,” he explained. all of the previous La Niña years back into “We’ve got to get water off the lake — the 1970s,” he said. “We’re finding La Niña 16 feet is very high,” he said. does not always show up,” he added. Beginning Dec. 5, USACE began the transition to dry season operations on Lake “It looks like the lake is going to be Okeechobee by implementing a seven-day higher than we want it” when the 2021 wet release with a reduced average target flow season starts, he said. for the Caloosahatchee Estuary of 3,000 “We will continue to look at the system cubic feet per second (cfs) as measured at holistically and expect to be able to refine the Moore Haven Lock & Dam (S-77). At the dry season strategy for the South Florida the same time, the corps implemented a system around February,” said Kelly. “By multi-week release pattern for the St. Lucie Special to the Lake Okeechobee News then, we should have a much better feeling Estuary, starting with a five-day pause to al- OKEECHOBEE — Lake Okeechobee was at 16.02 feet above sea level on Dec. for the effects, if any, of the La Niña, and the low for recovery of estuary health, followed 3. The preferred lake schedule for the lake’s ecology ranges from a low of 12 results of our gradual transition plan. We’ll by a seven-day average release of 1,500 cfs or 12.5 feet to a high of 15.5 feet. as measured at St. Lucie Lock & Dam (S- be in a better position to evaluate the trends 80) near Stuart. feet,” said Kelly. He stated although all of is above 16 feet, the risk to the dike increas- and conditions in the lake, the Everglades Since Oct. 14, the target at Moore Haven the dam safety analyses with the lake this es, as does the environmental damage to and the estuaries, including water supply has been 4,000 cfs. The target at St. Lucie high have been very positive, when the lake the lake. and our ability to move water south.” Lock has been 1,800 cfs. Water from the lake enters the St. Lucie Canal at Port May- aca, so the flow at the St. Lucie is a mixture of lake water and local basin runoff. Holiday Deadlines Kelly said they hope to cut the releases to the Caloosahatchee River down to 2,000 cfs the following week, and continue releas- es to the St. Lucie on a cycle with five days of no releases followed by seven days of 1,500 cfs. will be closed “We will reduce the releases from Lake Okeechobee over the next month,” said Thursday, Dec. 24 & Friday, Dec. 25 Col. Andrew Kelly, commander of the Jack- Thursday, Dec. 31 & Friday, Jan. 1 sonville District. “The 2020-2021 dry season has begun, and we will manage the lake in tandem with the needs and concerns of the people and ecosystems of South Florida.” At Independent News Media, proprietors Additional runoff from rain in the local of Lake Okeechobee News, we seek to Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie basins could provide community websites and purposeful occasionally result in flows that exceed one newspapers that encourage and support Wednesday, or both targets. USACE lock operators will meaningful community involvement and make real-time adjustments to spillways elevate the level of citizenship in our Wednesday, Dec. 30 along the Caloosahatchee and the St. Lucie communities. Canal to maintain canal levels. Dec. 23 AD DEADLINE For the period Oct. 14 through Dec. We believe our dedication to conscientious 5 pm 3, based on the average flow data post- journalism and free speech with civility is the AD DEADLINE ed on the USACE website, about 28.742 best way to help each of our communities 5 pm Tuesday, Dec. 22 billion gallons of water flowed from the become a better place to live and work. lake into the St. Lucie at Port Mayaca — Friday, Dec. 18 which equals about 2.4 inches on Lake We salute area businesses who share our Okeechobee. Also since Oct. 14, about commitment to community: 102.87 billion gallons of water have flowed from the lake at Moore Haven into the Florida Crystals Wednesday, Caloosahatchee River — about 8.57 inches on Lake Okeechobee. If the corps had not In Good Company Jan. 6 conducted the releases, the lake would be Belle Glade Community Partner about 11 inches higher now than it was on Sponsor of 2,000 courtesy copies of AD DEADLINE Oct. 14. Lake Okeechobee News delivered to 5 pm Wednesday, Dec. 30 Without the lake releases, “where we the Belle Glade community. topped out would have been well over 17 December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 33 Real Estate Directory

Cheryl Eby Gutjahr Anabel Miranda Curt Thompson (863) 228-1562 (863) 228 6296 Español (863) 677-1064 (863) 983-8559 528 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL • See our other listings at rawlsrealestate.com CLEWISTON / MOORE HAVEN Sharon Prevatt, 863-634-7069 • David Hazellief, 863-610-1553 • 4/2 Mobile home 1159 Pine Ave Moore Haven REDUCED $96,000 • 3/2 MH 720 Allen Rd WATERFRONT, $129K PENDING 51 Ave J. COMMERCIAL / INVESTMENT PROPERTY • 622 Sugarland Hwy $419K Medical Offi ce $139,900 (Offi ce/Exec) 5085-M: - Fishing from the dock! 3BD/2BA. 2,431 TOTAL SQ ACREAGE, LAND & LOTS LAKE OKEECHOBEE ACCESS! RIGHT ON THE RIM CANAL • lndustrial Park 3013 C.R. 835 (Open FT/2,100 UNDER AIR. Boathouse and extra Boat Dock on a corner lot OVERSIZED Kitchen area with lots of cabinets. Large Dining • 439 Sun Lake Terrace $33K Sky Valley DUHD¿UHSODFH0DVWHUEDWK+,6+(5YDQLW\ZLWK*DUGHQ7XE$WWFDUSRUWFRQFUHWHVHDZDOO+DQGLFDSUDPSVDQG+XUULFDQH6KXWWHUV storage and Warehouse) Call for • 156 Ave, L. Moore Haven $15K PENDING %RQXV5RRPULJKWRII0DVWHU%HGURRPZLWKDVFUHHQHGURRPRYHUORRNLQJWKHZDWHU9LHZLVMXVW$0$=,1*$162,000 MLS OK219608 details • 3830 Hicpochee Blvd. Ind. Hills $25K • Medical offi ce 51 Ave. J, • 1.25 ac 260 N. Coral St. $25K SOLD Moore Haven $139,9K • 1.25 ac 140 N. Verda St. $25K • US 27 Frontage, South Bay, Lrg. OWNER FINANCING - LAND Warehouse with rail, newly $11,5K per acre $1,500,000 SOLD • 77 ac. , Venus remodeled. (great hunting) • 316 Bond St. Medical Offi ce • 10 ac. $12.5K per acre, Venus $224K or lease $1600 per month • 20 ac. 13301 E. SR 80 $20K per acre 1000-H: OAK PARK - Freshly remodeled 3BD/1BA CBS home. 1,260 total sq ft/1,152 under air. City HWY FRONTAGE water, roof 3 years old, new a/c, spacious bright kitchen with white cabinets, nice counter-tops and pantry. $16K per ac Master bedroom is spacious with two closets and ceiling fans throughout. Concrete driveway and shed. All • 28 ac. Hwy 27 Frontage Venus dimensions are approximate.. $149,900 MLS OK219656 • 13995 S.E. SR 80 $29K per acre. HWY FRONTAGE. RES/COMM. APPROVED FUTURE LAND USE 112± ACRES

2005-C: TAYLOR CREEK CONDOMINIUM - 1 BD/1 BA 2006-H: NICE LOCATION - SW section of town 3BD/2BA RQWKHJURXQGÀRRU:DONRXWVLGHWRWKHYLHZRIWKHZDWHU%RDW CBS split plan home 2,048 total sq ft.,/1,660 under air. GRFNVVHDZDOO¿VKFOHDQLQJDUHDERDWUDPSERDWWUDLOHUVWRUDJH Unique interior layout, walk-N-Closet, Master bath has area. Sidewalks, swimming pool, tennis courts and community double vanity, large open rear porch, detached 2 car garage/ Find your laundry area. Nestled among large oak trees. Appliances and all shop plus, carport and ample circular concrete driveway on furniture included. $110,000 MLS OK219405 a large beautiful yard. $275,000 MLS OK219569

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In addition to this weekly real estate directory, you can search online for your new home in the 7005-C: MOBILE HOME PARK with excellent income producing property featuring 6 mobile Lake Okeechobee homes. Conveniently close to everything in town! City Water and Septic Tanks. Each mobile Real Estate magazine home has its own separate meters for electric & water. Large vacant area in the back of the park. Motivated Seller! Call to schedule a showing. MLS OK218573 LakeOkeechobee $299,000 1200 S. Parrott Ave. • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL RealEstateMagazine.com Visit our website to view more listings | www.Century21okeechobee.com | [email protected]

Are you a local realtor Feature your best properties in this looking to maximize your weekly real estate directory. reach to potential clients? Contact 863.763.3134 today! 34 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 35 Real Estate Directory

MLS OK219674 - $184,500 - LAKE OKEECHOBEE ACCESS - You can see locks from Boathouse with new lift, great location, new A/C 2020 with complete duct work, Irrigation pump 2018, boat lift 2016, hot water heater 2015, boat ramp with roof, new flooring 2016, all electric has been checked by Bass Electric, complete irrigation system, beautiful home with a pergola, large shed, above ground pool, spectacular sunsets and no houses behind just a pasture of cows and wildlife. It is the perfect setting. It is on a cul-de-sac. SOUTHERN LIVING! Beautifully remodeled Plantation style two story home on 12 Acres. This Grand lady includes 3 BD/ 4 Ba, Office/4th bedroom, Game room with pool table and Double Garage plus carport. 3789 Sf under air -7000 TLA. Picturesque stairway, exquisite design and ornate lighting make this home come to life. The island kitchen is a chef’s delight with copper farmhouse sink, SS commercial Refrigerator, double oven, gas cooktop and prep sink. The upstairs master suite is uniquely one of a kind with a courting balcony outside and Juliet indoor balcony. 1400 SF patio deck with Ornate wrought iron railing is perfect for entertaining. New LifeProof flooring. New Copper colored metal roof. New impact windows and doors. Six paddocks with all new fences. Happy Horses Welcome! Palacious wrought Iron Gazebo stands center attention to the circle drive leading to this Majestic home. Look closely and you’ll see the Southern Belles! A TRULY RARE FIND! Call Natalie (863) 801-5239 MLS # OK 219688 $549,000

PALM CREEK ESTATES - Lovely gated community. CBS 2006. 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 CGar with MLS OK219675 - $115,000 - LAKEPORT - 1.05 acre, 2/2 SWMH, open concept, 2018 family room. Split floor plan, Open concept. new roof, 2016, new septic system, 2018 new skirting, new washer - dryer, double pane windows. Bkfast nook in kitchen, pantry. Tray ceiling in This is a nice piece of property. The property has a 25’ easement for Lot 1 to Lake. It has access to a master. Safe room/ walk-in closet. Generator. captive lake. The two parcels next door are for sale also. Located across from Community Pool. HOA. Wonderful PLACE TO CALL HOME! Call Lori Mixon (863) 634-1457 MLS # OK 219581 REDUCED

MLS OK219685 - $124,500 - Seminole Cove 55+ Community, 2/2 DWMH on the water, with seawall and across from the clubhouse, spacious home SEMINOLE COVE - Wonderful 2 Bd/ 2 Ba DWMH w/carport located on the lake near with open concept. It has a good size Florida Room, with an additional screen the clubhouse and community pool. Spacious living room overlooks the water. Family room facing the water. This is an active community that is very desirable. room has Wet bar for entertaining and opens to Island kitchen with cooktop, wall oven and breakfast bar. Master suite- separate tub and shower. 1450 SF under air - 2138 TLA. Storage, screen porch and New windows and flooring. Beautifully maintained. HOA 75/mo, 55+ Community. THIS ONE’S A HONEY! MLS # OK 219694 $137,000 Vicki Anderson, Call Melody (863)697-1975 or Lori (863)634-1457 Lic. RE Broker 863.634.4106 OASIS VILLAGE: Radiant Retirement Retreat! 2 BD/2 BA, fully furnished DWMH. 30046 E. SR 78, Okeechobee, FL 34974 12’x46’ carport perfect for a boat and trailer. Two air conditioned Florida rooms. Wide hallway. High ceilings. Spacious kitchen with breakfast nook. Master bedroom with walk-in closet. Feature your best properties in this weekly real Interior laundry room with storage. 8’x9’ storage shed. HOA $75 a month, Community pool and estate directory. clubhouse. 55+ community. Call Wayne @863-261-4138 Contact 863.763.3134 today! MLS# OK219695 $102,500 36 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Clewiston approves additional funding for bridge By Danika J. Fornear The commission also approved pur- Lake Okeechobee News chase of a used solid solid waste collection truck as the current 2001 Mack in use in CLEWISTON – The Clewiston City Com- the North side of U.S. 27, has broken down mission approved additional funding for the from suspension and transmission issues. C-21 Bridge Replacement project and the This had left them in a difficult situation re- VFW POST 10539 purchase of a solid waste collection truck at garding regular and reliable trash collection. their Dec. 7 special meeting. “We found a 2015 Cram Carrier auto- “The city embarked to create new mated side loader at a dealership in Dayto- We are now FULLY open to access facility across the C-21 Canal when na,” explained City Manager Martin. “Asking South Florida Water Management Dis- price $75,000, about a third of what a new VFW MEMBERS and their families. trict (SWFMD) announced that the S-169 automated side loader would cost today.” structure needed to be replaced. During He also mentioned that this would mean a the discussions with SFWMD, the decision new truck purchase, outlined in the 2022- Hours of operation: Sunday-Saturday 12pm-8pm to move the S-169 further west created 23 plan, would no longer be needed. This an opportunity for the city to improve the resolution was approved unanimously. economy by opening more boating access Regular commission meetings are farther west along the C-21 Canal than is held on the first and third Monday of each Annual Christmas Bazaar possible with S-169 at its current location. month, starting at 5:30 p.m. in the city hall The replacement structure, S-169, is under commission chambers, 115 W. Ventura construction now at the intersection of the Ave. Special meetings may be held at the th C-20 Canal and C-21 Canal. The original call of the mayor or by a majority of the Dec 12 •8-2 bridge construction cost was estimated at Ccmmission. about $2,000,000 without knowledge of If you have an issue you wish to discuss changes that were required during permit- at a city commission meeting, submit a Reserve your $10 booth by contacting the bartender ting and through the Florida Department written request to be included on the next of Transportation funding administration,” commission meeting’s agenda. Direct your Serving sausage, biscuit & gravy from 8-10am. explained Randy Martin, Clewiston city request to City Clerk Kathy Combass at MAnager. This resolution was approved Kathy.Combass@clewiston-fl.gov or tele- unanimously. phone 863-983-1484. Monday Tacos 5-7 pm Red Cross helps family Tuesday Pizza 5-7 pm affected by a mobile home fire Wednesday Philly Cheese Steak 5-7 pm Special to the Lake Okeechobee News officials say four people were impacted by • Art class with Kathie Papasso of Park Street Gallery. OKEECHOBEE — In the evening of Dec. the blaze, including two children. The Red Cross provided emergency fi- 7, local American Red Cross volunteers Paint & Party 5-7 pm $15 Every Wednesday thru Dec. nancial assistance, relief items like toiletries, from the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast health, and mental health services, one-on- Preregister with bartender. Class is Limited to 20. Chapter responded to a mobile home fire one support to connect people to available on 6500 U.S. 441 S.E., in Okeechobee. recovery assistance, and will continue to Local Red Cross volunteer members of provide additional support to the family to the Disaster Action Team helped coordi- meet their disaster-caused needs. Thursday Bingo 1-3 pm • Auxiliary Dinners nate emergency aid to those affected. Fire Friday Grilled Rib Eye & Fish Dinners 5-8pm CITY OF OKEECHOBEE PENSION BOARD VACANCY Sat/Sun Dockside Grill 1-4 pm • Music 1-5 pm The City of Okeechobee is seeking interested City residents to serve on Special Pulled Pork BBQ Plate the Pension Board of Trustees for the General Employees’ retirement fund. We are a Non smoking facility. Applications may be obtained from and submitted to the Office of the Smoking is allowed in the outside pavilion. City Clerk, 55 SE 3rd Avenue, Rm 100, Okeechobee, Florida, or downloaded from cityofokeechobee.com/volunteer.html. Curbside service available for Non-Members call to order 3912 Hwy 441 SE • Okeechobee, FL 34974 SUPPORT Call or email Lane Gamiotea at 863-763-9814 or YOUR POST [email protected]. 863-763-2308 December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 37 Okeechobee school district launches COVID-19 dashboard By Richard Marion that individual within six feet for 15 minutes mean someone must be contact traced or system in a day so far this year. On both Lake Okeechobee News or more. Those fitting that criteria are asked to self-isolate.” Nov. 13 and Nov. 16 three positive cases defined as a “close contact” and excluded According to the COVID-19 dashboard were confirmed. On Nov. 21 four positives OKEECHOBEE — In an effort to pro- from school for up to 14 days. Okeechobee High School has had the most vide the public with the most up to date were added to the list. At the beginning of the school year, positive cases with 11, which has led to 261 The three positives on Dec. 7 came from information on COVID-19 cases in public Superintendent Ken Kenworthy explained exclusions. Of those positive cases nine schools the Okeechobee County School students, two at Okeechobee High School the district’s process. were students and two were employees. and one at Yearling Middle School. The District has launched a COVID-19 dash- “If there is an exposure, we are going Osceola Middle School has had 10 positive three positives led to 85 exclusions. board that tracks positive cases among to isolate that individual and see who was cases which has led to 165 exclusions. Two students and staff as well as the number of around them within six feet for 15 minutes of those positives came from employees The dashboard shows a jump in positive exclusions. or more,” said Kenworthy. “Then we’re and eight from students. cases in the last month. Throughout the According to the dashboard going to identify those individuals as a close So far there have been 17 school em- first three months of the school year the Okeechobee schools have had 50 con- contact. If you are beyond that perimeter ployee that have tested positive for the virus district had 23 positive cases, but in the last firmed cases of the virus through the first and you’re still wearing your mask, you in the district. month alone they’ve added 27. semester which have led to 880 exclusions. should be safe. Simply being in the same There were three positive cases con- The Okeechobee County Schools Once a positive case is confirmed, classroom, building, or the same event as firmed in the district on Dec. 7, which is COVID-19 Dashboard can be found online administrators determine who was around a positive or symptomatic person does not tied for the second highest in the school at www.okee.k12.fl.us/covid-19-dashboard. Workforce Development offers HVAC and CNA Nursing programs

By Danika J. Fornear years of experience in HVAC has taken sionate and enjoy helping others. In nursing HCWD urges prospective students Special to the Lake Okeechobee News pride in teaching this program. He worked or long-term care facilities, a CNA is often to check to see that the classes they are in the Hendry County Schools Maintenance a patient’s main caregiver,” the HCWD interested in are not already full, and that CLEWISTON — For those looking to im- Department for nine years working primari- website states. This program’s instructor is prove their career options. Hendry County the class isn’t past the final signup date. If ly on HVAC related projects. Harris has also to be announced. you have any questions please call 863-983- Workforce Development (HCWD) has new worked for the Corps of Engineers and as a To attend a program at, you must be a classes starting in January for HVAC & CNA 1511. welder for U.S. Sugar. resident of Hendry County and be at least You can apply on site at 475 East Nursing. “A certified nursing assistant’s (CNA) 18 years old. However, if you are under 18 “The HVAC program provides rigorous main role is to provide basic care to you may apply for a waiver. The waiver Osceola Avenue, Clewiston, in FL or 300 content designed to build skills in heating, patients, as well as assist them in daily must be signed by the Superintendent. W. Cowboy Way, in LaBelle. You may also air-conditioning, refrigeration and ventila- activities they might have trouble with on These programs have limited room avail- apply online here: tion. The program is designed to reinforce their own, such as bathing. Because of the able, classes fill up quickly. Tuition depends https://www.hendryadultlearning. analytical and safety skills,” the website personal nature of the job, a certified nurs- on the particular program. In some cases org/admissions?fbclid=IwAR0uHayb- states. For three years, the HVAC program ing assistant job description must include there is no tuition, or the tuition may be jFTLeYeM_2aq8stO5e3g5e_LR0KYW_ instructor, Cecil Harris, who has 30 plus people skills and the ability to be compas- covered by a grant or donor. KCRC2yXbNMVxKi9U75AqM Gift Subscriptions Delivering around Lake Okeechobee... and the world!

Starting at $ 99/mo* 4 Plus Tax Serving South Florida Since 1929 0RQWKO\(=SD\PDLORUGHOLYHU\ $5.99/mo plus tax pre-pay cash or check. Residential ~ Commercial ~ Agricultural *LIWFHUWL¿FDWHVDYDLODEOHLQD variety of denominations Belle Glade, Pahokee, Clewiston, Okeechobee and Surrounding Communities

• LP Gas Services Tankless Water Heater • Natural Gas Services • Stand by Generator Connections Purchase by phone • 863.824.5933 Ice Machines

2I¿FH6:WK6W6XLWH'2NHHFKREHH)/ 561-996-3046 2SHQDPSP0RQ7KDP1RRQ)UL gladesgasac.com LIC# 01852 38 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

Employment - Employment - Employment - Employment - Employment - Employment - Lots - Sale Full Time Full Time Full Time Full Time Full Time Full Time BUILDABLE LOTS Hendry County BOCC is seeking applications 1.25+ ACRE for a Water or Wastewater Treatment Auctions Plant Operator. Applications will be re- OKEECHOBEE NOW HIRING FHLYHG XQWLO SRVLWLRQ LV ¿OOHG SOHDVH DSSO\ COUNTY, AG/RES. AUCTION NOW HIRING DW WKH +XPDQ 5HVRXUFHV 'HSDUWPHQW  GREAT Every Friday & CLASS A CDL DRIVERS CLASS A OR B CDL 6RXWK0DLQ6WUHHW/D%HOOH)/$FRP- INVESTMENT! Saturday nights at 5:30 Must have DOT plete job posting and application forms are 917 SW Park St. medical, drug free, available on the Hendry County website at OWNER FINANCING (Behind Eli’s clean driving history & DRIVERS ZZZKHQGU\ÀDQHW $160 MONTH Western Wear) tanker endorsement. Call M-S (813)956-5150 +HQGU\ &RXQW\ LV D 93((2$$ '):3 HP- NO CREDIT Quality Consignments for local deliveries. CHECKS Accepted. SOR\HUDQGSDUWLFLSDWHVLQ(9HULI\,QGLYLGXDOV Watford Auction needing assistance in the application process 866-820-6523 10% BP Must know the area, should contact the County Human Resources VIKING ESTATES 863-697-8906 GHSDUWPHQWDW AU1843 AB1583 have clean driving record

We Buy Estates Garage/ and pass a drug test. Antiques, Collectibles, Yard Sales Household, Tools, Jewelry and etc. MULTI-FAMILY YARD %HQH¿WVDYDLODEOH Call 863-697-8906 SALE - 2900 SE 18TH CT. Pets/Supplies Apartments IN TREASURE ISLAND, apply at: Business Need a few more bucks DEC. 11 & 12 8-3. FOL- Opportunities SWF Goodwill Housing, to purchase something LOW THE RED & WHITE Walpole Feed BEAUTIFUL PURE Inc. is now accepting deer? Pick up some SIGNS. LARGE VARIETY NOTICE BLACK CAT OLDER VERY 1 & 2 bedroom waitlist extra bucks when you OF ITEMS,INCLUDING HEALTHY BUT PHYS- applications for the sell your used items in WOMEN & CHILDREN & Supply Co. Independent Newspa- ICALLY CHALLENGED Sweetwater Place the classifeids. CLOTHING, TOYS, pers will never accept 1/2 BACK RIGHT LEG Apartments located HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, any advertisement MISSING. IMMEDIATLY in Clewiston for 2595 NW 8th St. NEEDS PERMANANT Services AND MUCH MORE. that is illegal or consid- low-income, disabled ALL CLEAN & MARKED. ered fraudulent. In all QUIET HOME. HOW HE applicants. Equal cases of questionable ACTS SHOWS HE CAME Housing Opportunity I BUY ANYTHING value, such as prom- FROM A GOOD FAMILY (863) 674-5779 Employment - ises of guaranteed BEFORE. NEEDS LOVING OF VALUE! PLACE TO RECOVER Boats, Automobiles, Full Time income from work-at- Houses - Rent Antiques, Firearms home programs - if it FROM BEING RESCUED sounds too good to ON THE STREET. and Property. 543 Ave H Moore LOCAL BUYER Employment - NOW HIRING be true, chances are LOTS OF LOVE TO GIVE Citrus Division that it is. If you have CALL 863-763-6465 Haven Florida Small CALL RICK Full Time Legal Secretary 2 bedroom 1 bath 561-262-1390 questions or doubts Experience Mechanics about any ad on these home for rent lo- Required. Duties: diagnosing, repairing and pages, we advise that cated at 543 Ave H OKEECHOBEE Badcock Home maintaining company vehicles, tractors, and Moore Haven Fla Furniture & More Please mail before responding or RC Cleaning Service Resume to: equipment. Experience in diesel & gasoline sending money ahead 550.00 per month Highly experienced engines, hydraulics, air conditioning and of time, you check plus deposit cleaning business that Now Hiring 200 NE 4th Ave automotive electrical. Welding and (239)671-4033 Salesperson Okeechobee, FL with the Better Busi- **OKEECHOBEE ** will help with all your fabrication experience preferred. ness Bureau at 772- household needs. 34972 Annual/Seasonal Grab a bargain from your Apply in Person 878-2010 for previous UNFURNISHED neighbor’s garage, attic, Excellent references, Apply online at www.lykes.com complaints. reliable transportation 512 NW Park Street Drug-Smoke Free Workplace/ RENTAL 2BD/1BA basement or closet in and reasonable prices Okeechobee, FL Equal Employment $750.00 PER MONTH, today’s classifieds. Some 800 and 900 1ST Month, Last Month CALL 585-733-0951 telephone numbers Shop here first! FRONT DESK CLERK & Security Deposit. Very The classified ads may require an extra Clean, well maintained Miscellaneous charge, as well as long and upgraded. 12 min. The City of Moore Haven is accepting applica- distance toll costs. Notices Help wanted: tions for a Front Desk Clerk at City Hall. Job outside of town off Hwy We will do our best 70 East. Great setting, Welder/fabricator/ description and application can be picked up to alert our reader of LOOKING FOR OLD RV mechanic. at City Hall, 299 Riverside Drive, Moore Haven lawn service, on-site Commercial these charges in the management, pest OR MOTOR HOME. Airboat knowledge Florida, 33471 Monday thru Friday between ads, but occasionally Property - Sale THAT YOU WOULD LIKE the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Contact control included, w/d a plus. Will train. we may not be aware hook-up. TO GIVE AWAY. Pay based on David Miller or Ashley Wills at 863-946-0711 of the charges. There- Okeechobee - For Sale CALL 863-623-6627 for more information. The City of Moore Ha- Sorry, NO PETS. experience. fore, if you call a num- Credit, background By Owner. RV Park, ven is an equal opportunity employer and a ber out of your area, 51 spaces plus 1 cottage. How fast can your car Please apply in drug free workplace. check. person at use caution. Call M-S 9am-6pm $850,000. go? It can go even (863)763-7164 or faster when you sell 1624 Hwy 78 W 813-956-5150 Find it faster. Sell it sooner Shop here first! Find it faster. Sell it sooner (863)763-9966 it in the classifieds. 9:00am till 5:00pm in the classifieds The classified ads in the classifieds after 5 PM December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 39

Business Business Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Opportunities Opportunities NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL 2021 NOTICE OF MEETINGS TIMS TOWING & RECOVERY CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien Case No. 2019CA120 EVERGLADES AGRICULTURAL AREA ENVIRONMENTAL Boats and intent to sell these vehicles PROTECTION DISTRICT on 12/23/2020, 10:00 am at 74 H.E. HILL FOUNDATION, INC. earn extra S INDUSTRIAL LOOP LABELLE, Plaintiff, YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the following is the Schedule of Regular FL 33935, pursuant to subsection vs. Meetings and Annual Landowners’ Meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the 2014 Bass Tracker 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. BETTY L. HICKS, et al, Everglades Agricultural Area Environmental Protection District for the Calendar Bass boat and TIMS TOWING & RECOVERY re- Defendants. Year 2021. The Annual Landowners’ Meeting will take place on Friday, July 9, serves the right to accept or reject 2021 at 9:00 a.m. All meetings will be held in person at 9:00 a.m. at the Uni- trailer, 115 HP any and/or all bids. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE versity of Florida - Everglades Research and Educational Center, 3200 E. Palm Mercury- approx Beach Road, Belle Glade, Florida 33430, unless notified otherwise. Meeting CASH 85 hours, Low- 1FAFP52U5WA165814 Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, KIMBERLEY BARRINEAU, AD dates and times are listed in the Schedule below. 1998 FORD INTERIM, Clerk of Circuit Court of Hendry County, Florida, will on the 20th day rance fish finder, 1FAHP53U02A123925 of January, 2021, at 11:00 A.M., in front of the office of the Clerk of the Circuit The purpose of the meetings is to transact any and all business that may come Minn Kota trolling 2002 FORD Court (being the second floor hallway of the Administration Building, Hendry before the Board. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the 445831 CN 12/9/2020 County Courthouse), corner of Highway 29 & 80, Hendry County, in the City of Board with respect to any matter considered at a meeting, he or she will need a motor, excellent LaBelle, Florida, offer for sale and sell at public outcry to the highest and best record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to en- bidder for cash, the following described property situated in Hendry County, sure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes shape. $12,000 the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. obo. Call or text Florida, to wit: Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person 561-598-0361. Lot 10, Block 23, Montura Ranch Estates, First Subdivision, according requiring special accommodations to participate in a meeting, because of a to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 3, Page 37, Public disability or physical impairment, should contact the District’s Attorney at (561) Records of Hendry County, Florida. TOGETHER WITH a 1972 Grat mobile 655-0620 at least five (5) calendar days prior to the Meeting. home ID#s LB4724C6N16453L and LB4724C6N16453R which is perma- Campers / RVs nently affixed thereto. MEETING DATES pursuant to the final decree of foreclosure entered in a case pending in said Friday, January 8, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. FOR SALE- 30FT Financial Court, the style of which is: H.E. HILL FOUNDATION, INC. vs. BETTY L. HICKS, 5TH WHEEL, 1BDRM and the docket number of which is Number 2019CA120. Friday, February 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, Friday, March 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. (POSSIBLE 2BDRM), 1BA, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS SKY LITES IN BDRM/ PRIVATE MONEY PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. Friday, April 9, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. to Lend on Mobile BATH/ L. RM., WOOD If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation Friday, May 14, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Home Parks, Ware- in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost CABINETS NOT PRESSED Friday, June 11, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Routes AvailableEarn Now! BOARD. NEWER A/C, BAY houses, Apartment to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Dawn Oliver, Court Operations Manager, whose office is located at Hendry Friday, July 9, 2021 -ANNUAL LANDOWNERS’ MEETING at 9:00 WINDOWS IN LIVING. Buildings, & Single County Courthouse, 25 E. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, FL 33935, a.m. followed by the BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING Earn $280-400 per IN A VERY QUIET WEKK Family Homes. and whose telephone number is (863) 675-5229, at least 7 days extra income before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon re- Friday, August 13, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. MAINTAINED RV PARK. ceiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance month $5,000 TOTAL, $3,000 12 mo’s temporary is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711. Friday, September 10, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Friday, October 8, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. delivering DOWN, $2,000 IN ¿QDQFLQJ WITNESS my hand and the official seal of said Court, this 19th day of No- MONTHLY PAYMENTS interest only. vember, 2020. Friday, November 12, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. KIMBERLEY BARRINEAU, Routes available in OF $400.00. CALL LEAVE AD INTERIM Friday, December 10, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. MESSAGE 561-572-1726 561-305-3331 Paul. Clerk of Circuit Court By: Charlee Robinson By: Charles F. Schoech, Esq. the following cities: SEE PICTURES ON Deputy Clerk Everglades Agricultural Area Environmental Protection District https://www.south 443506 ON 12/9,16/2020 Dated Thursday, the 3rd day of December, 2020 Okeechobee centralfloridalife.com 445731 ON 12/9/2020 one day a week! CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FL RV Space - Rent NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 20TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS IN AND FOR GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL DIVISION The City of Okeechobee, Florida (“City”) hereby provides notice, pursuant to Case No. 17-000065-CAMXAX RV SITE FOR Public Notice Section 197.3632(3)(a), Florida Statutes, of its intent to use the uniform method RENT- LOCATED of collecting non-ad valorem special assessment to be levied within the incor- U.S. Bank National Association, not in its individual capacity but porated area of the City, for the cost of providing any or all of the following solely as trustee for the RMAC Trust, Series 2016-CTT OFF KISSIMMEE services: drainage, road improvements, including but not limited to roadside Plaintiff CallCall Cynthia Today: at RIVER- 50’ BOAT LEGAL NOTICE ditches, swales, culverts, and sidewalks, street lighting, street resurfacing, ca- vs. A public auction will be held at nal or ditch cleaning and maintenance, fire protection services and facilities, THE ESTATE OF MARY CROZIER, A/K/A MARY R. CROZIER, MARY DOCK - ELECTRIC- TOTAL ROADSIDE SERVICES, storm water treatment and mosquito control, the abatement of nuisances as CROZIER, TRUSTEE OF THE CROZIER REVOKABLE TRUST and all 863.824.5933 WATER & LAWN located at 3176 Hwy 710 E, described in Chapter 30, Sections 30-31 to 30-46 of the City Code of Ordinances unknown parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named 863.763.3134. Okeechobee 34974-3532 at and Chapter 60, Florida Statutes, at certain properties, including but not limited Defendant who are unknown to be dead or alive whether said unknown Valid Driver’s License, dependable CARE INCLUDED . 9:00 a.m. On the date listed to, the cost of abating of nuisances as provided in the aforementioned sections are persons, heirs, devisees, grantees, or other claimants; VENICE WITT; AVAILABLE ON below Pursuant to Florida of the City Code and Florida Statute, as amended from time to time, com- UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF VENICE WITT; CYNTHIA MATTHEWS; transportation and insurance required. statute 713.78 for unpaid mencing for the fiscal year beginning on October 1, 2021. The City will consider TENANT I/UNKNOWN TENANT; TENANT II/UNKNOWN TENANT; A LONG OR SHORT towing and storage. Year, the adoption of a resolution electing to use the uniform method of collecting TENANT III/UNKNOWN TENANT and TENANT IV/UNKNOWN TERM LEASE make and model as follows: such assessments authorized by Section 197.3632, Florida Statues, at a Public TENANT, in possession of the subject real property, Hearing to be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at 6:00 P.M., or Defendants (863) 447-0742 as soon thereafter as possible, in the Council Chambers, at City Hall, 55 SE AUCTION 12/24/2020 3rd Avenue, Room 200, Okeechobee, Florida. Such resolution will state NOTICE OF SALE Lots - Sale Mobile Homes - 1999 TRANS-AIR the need for the levy and will contain a legal description of the boundaries of Notice is hereby given pursuant to the final judgment/order entered in the 1T930BF13X1074083 the real property subject to the levy. Copies of the proposed form of resolution, above noted case, that the Clerk of Court will sell the following property situated Sale which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy, in Glades County, Florida described as: FOR SALE Terms of sale are CASH ONLY, are on file at the Office of the City Clerk of Okeechobee, Florida. All interested LOT 107 OF EAST CHOBEE, A RESUBDIVSION OF LOTS 6, 7, 8, 9, MOBILE HOME LOT IN no checks will be accepted. persons are invited to attend. 10 AND A PORTION OF LOT 11, BUCKHEAD RIDGE ACRES, UNIT $450 Down, no interest. The seller reserves the right NO. 1, IN SECTION 35, TOWNSHIP 38 SOUTH, RANGE 34 EAST, FT. DRUM NE 304TH ST, Adult Park 55+. No RI¿QDOELG$OOVDOHVDUH¿QDO In the event any person decides to appeal any decision made by the City GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 3, OFF 304TH ST. $5,000. No refunds will be made. Said Council with respect to any matter relating to the consideration of the resolution PAGES 169-170, GLADES COUNTY PUBLIC RECORDS. (MEP/BS) children, no big dogs. automobile will be sold “as is” at the above-referenced public hearing, a record of the proceeding may be Including a mobile home situated thereon described as: $500 DOWN PAYMENT Cute 1/1. Great for one with no guarantees. needed and in such an event, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim VIN#: FLHMBT59438626A & B AND $100 MONTHLY Location:3176 Hwy 710 E record of the public hearing is made, which record includes the testimony and RP#: 626042 or two people. Nice 863-357-8772 evidence on which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans Title# 69015265 & 69015266 CALL ANTHONY quiet park. On water. 445925 ON 12/09/2020 with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in 917-836-8628 Background check $40. this proceeding should contact the City Clerk’s Office no later than seven days at public sale, to the highest and best bidder for cash, at the front steps of the prior to proceeding, 863-763-3372; IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL Glades County Courthouse located at 500 Avenue J., Moore Haven, FL 33471 Call 561-305-3331 1-800-955-8771; IF YOU ARE VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1-800-955-8770. at 11:000 AM on January 14, 2021. The highest bidder shall immediately BE ADVISED that should you intend to show any document, picture, video post with the Clerk, a deposit equal to five percent (5%) of the final bid. The FOR SALE MOBILE or items to the City Council in support or opposition of this matter, a copy of the deposit must be cash or cashier’s check payable to the Clerk of the Court. Final document, picture, video, or item MUST be provided at the proceeding to the payment must be made on or before 5:00 P.M. on the date of the sale by cash HOME AT LAKESIDE RV Whether City Clerk for the City’s records. or cashier’s check. RESORT. RENOVATED, IF YOU ARE A PERSON CLAIMING A RIGHT TO FUNDS REMAINING AFTER you’re 442799 ON 11/18,25,12/2,9/2020 THE SALE, YOU MUST FILE A CLAIM WITH THE CLERK NO LATER THAN THE WATER FRONT, BOAT DATE THAT THE CLERK REPORTS THE FUNDS AS UNCLAIMED. IF YOU FAIL Mobile Homes - WITH TRAILER, AND celebrating TO FILE A CLAIM, YOU WILL NOT BE ENTITLED TO ANY REMAINING FUNDS. CITY OF OKEECHOBEE AFTER THE FUNDS ARE REPORTED AS UNCLAIMED, ONLY THE OWNER OF Rent BOAT DOCK. RECORD AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MAY CLAIM THE SURPLUS. your fi rst PUBLIC NOTICE Dated December 31, 2019. CALL FOR MORE INFO PLANNING BOARD WORKSHOP 727-465-6373 SANDRA H. BROWN RENT TO OWN Christmas NOTICE: The City of Okeechobee Planning Board (PB) will conduct a Work- CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT HANDYMAN SPECIAL shop on Dec. 17, 2020, 6 PM, or as soon thereafter as possible, at City Hall, BY: Tami Simmons RV SITE FOR RENT with your 55 SE 3rd AVE, Rm 200, Okeechobee, FL. The purpose of the Workshop is to Deputy Clerk Large 2/1 with screened BIG O RV PARK LOT 7 review and discuss potential amendments to the Land Development Regula- 442944 LO 12/2,9/2020 in porch. Needs TLC. new baby or tions (LDRs) on the following topics and related: Subdivision Plans, Plats, Design 55+ COMMUNITY. Standards and Required Improvements (Code Chapter 86). Requirements for No big dogs. Adult YEAR ROUND $300/ have adorable Parking and Loading (Code Sections 90-482 to 90-485) and Off Street Parking CITY OF OKEECHOBEE Park. No Children. 55+. MO. ELECTRIC EXTRA. and Loading (Code Sections 90-511 to 90-513). Application Forms and Content PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE Background check $40. holiday- Required (Code Appendix A), and LDRs Fees and Charges (Code Appendix C) CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING SEASONAL $600/MO. related to Parking Reduction Requests. 1st $1500 takes it as is NOTICE: The City Council for the City of Okeechobee will conduct a regular 3 MONTHS MINIMUM, themed This meeting is open to the public and may be attended in person or through with park approval. Nice meeting on Tues., Dec. 15, 2020, 6 PM, or as soon thereafter as possible, at PLUS ELECTRIC live video broadcast via Zoom.com or telephone. Instructions are provided on City Hall, 55 SE 3rd Ave, Rm 200, Okeechobee, FL. park. Call Paul 561-305- HANDYMAN SPECIAL photos of the website at cityofokeechobee.com/agendas.html or call Robin Brock at 863- Large 2/1 with screened CALL 863-824-8735 OR 763-9812 BEFORE 4:30 PM the day of the meeting for assistance. This meeting is open to the public and may be attended in person or through 3331 863-484-0845 your child, we live video broadcast via Zoom.com or telephone. Instructions are provided on in porch. Needs TLC. BE ADVISED that should you intend to show any document, picture, video or the website at cityofokeechobee.com/agendas.html or call Robin Brock at 863- When doing those chores items to the PB in support or opposition to any item on the agenda, a copy of 763-9812 BEFORE 4:30 PM the day of the meeting for assistance. No big dogs. Adult want to see the document, picture, video, or item must be provided to the Board Secretary is doing you in, it’s time Park. No Children. 55+. for the City’s records. ANY PERSON DECIDING TO APPEAL any decision BE ADVISED that should you intend to show any document, picture, video to look for a helper in your photos! made by the PB with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will or items to the Council in support or opposition to any item on the agenda, a Background check $40. need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceeding is made and the record copy of the document, picture, video, or item must be provided to the City Clerk the classifieds. 1st $1500 takes it as is includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal will be based. In for the City’s records. ANY PERSON DECIDING TO APPEAL any decision with park approval. Call For more info, accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities made by the City Council with respect to any matter considered at this meet- needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact ing will need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceeding is made and the re- RENT TO OWN Paul 561-305-3331 visit the General Services Office in person or call 863-763-9824, Hearing Impaired: cord includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal will be based. $450 Down, no interest. Automobiles Florida Relay 7-1-1 no later than four business days prior to proceeding. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Adult Park 55+. No southcentral ONE OR MORE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE COUNCIL MEMBERS MAY the City Clerk’s Office in person or call 863-763-9814, Hearing Impaired: Florida children, no big dogs. 2007 Chrysler 300 - PS, BE IN ATTENDANCE AT THIS MEETING. THIS NOTICE IS POSTED Relay 7-1-1 no later than four business days prior to proceeding. fl oridalife.com/ TO MEET STATE PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENTS AND SUNSHINE Cute 1/1. Great for one Sunroof, Cold Air, Off- LAWS. By: Mayor Dowling R. Watford, Jr. or two people. Nice white color, runs good. baby By: Chairperson Dawn Hoover 445984 ON 12/9/2020 quiet park. On water. Fully Equipped. $4500 Background check $40. OBO. Call 260-333-2963 445995 ON 12/9/2020 Call 561-305-3331 (Okeechobee) 40 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

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2021 NOTICE OF MEETINGS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINETEENTH JUDICIAL IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA GLADEVIEW WATER CONTROL DISTRICT GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION Case No. 20000046CAAXMX CASE NO.: 2017 CA 218 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the following is the Schedule of Reg- CASE NO.: 17000569CAAXMX ular Meetings and Annual Landowners’ Meeting of the Board of Supervisors LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, CITY OF OKEECHOBEE, FLORIDA, NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING of the Gladeview Water Control District for the Year 2021. The Regular Board Plaintiff a Florida municipality, of Supervisors Meetings will be held on the 3rd Friday of each month (unless vs. Plaintiff, Plaintiff(s), date conflicts with a holiday or other scheduling). The Annual Landowners’ JORGE ARMANDO ROMERO; GISELLE MARIA BLANCO; LAUREL OAK vs. meeting will take place on Friday, June 18, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. All meetings are VILLAGE UNIT FIVE PROPERTY OWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC., et al. V. held in person at the Sugar Farms Co-op, Atlantic Sugar Mill Road, Belle Glade, Defendant(s). CRYSTAL I, LLC, a Florida corporation, MARY BEARDSLEY AKA MARY FRANCES FERGUSON AKA MARY S. Florida 33430, unless notified otherwise. Meeting dates and times are listed in Defendant. DE LAMERENS AKA MARY SAUER; PAUL DE LAMERENS AKA PAUL the Schedule below. NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE OF SALE A DE LAMERENS; MARIA C. WRIGHT; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure DEVISEES, BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS, CREDITORS, The purpose of the meetings is to transact any and all business that may come NOTICE IS HEREBY GNEN pursuant to a Default Final Judg- LIENORS, AND TRUSTEES OF JOSE ARTURO DE LAMERENS AKA before the Board. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the dated November 19, 2020, and entered in 20000046CAAXMX of the Circuit ment of Foreclosure dated November 17, 2020, entered in Civil Court of the TWENTIETH Judicial Circuit in and for HENDRY County, Flori- JOSE A. DE LAMERENS, DECEASED, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS Board with respect to any matter considered at a meeting, he or she will need a Case No. 47 2017 CA 000218, of the Circuit Court of the Nine- CLAIMING BY, THROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST THE NAMED record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to en- da, wherein LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC is the Plaintiff and JORGE teenth Judicial Circuit in and for Okeechobee County, Florida, ARMANDO ROMERO; GISELLE MARIA BLANCO; LAUREL OAK VILLAGE UNIT DEFENDANTS;THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, sure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes wherein City of Okeechobee, Florida is the Plaintiff, and Crys- ASSIGNEES, CREDITORS AND LIENORS OF ARTURO T. DE the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. FIVE PROPERTY OWNER’S ASSOCIATION, INC. are the Defendant(s). Barbara tal I, LLC is the Defendant. Butler as the Clerk of the Circuit Court will sell to the highest and best bidder LAMERENS, DECEASED; THE UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person for cash at 25 E Hickpochee 2nd Floor, Labelle, FL 33935, at 11:00 AM, on The Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller will sell to the Defendant(s). requiring special accommodations to participate in a meeting, because of a December 30, 2020, the following described property as set forth in said Final highest bidder for cash, at the Okeechobee County Judicial disability or physical impairment, should contact the District’s Attorney at (561) Judgment, to wit: Center, 312 NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, FL 34972, at NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 655-0620 at least five (5) calendar days prior to the Meeting. 11:00 o’clock a.m. on the 6th day of January, 2021, the NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT, pursuant to Plaintiffs Final Judgment LOT 25, BLOCK 2186, PORT LABELLE UNIT 5, A SUBDIVISION MEETING DATES following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, of Foreclosure entered on November 19, 2020 in the above-captioned action, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT to wit: the Clerk of Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at the Friday, January 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. BOOK 3, PAGE 104, PUBLIC RECORDS OF HENDRY COUNTY, Hendry County Courthouse, 25 East Hickpochee Avenue, Labelle, FL 33935 OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting FLORIDA. Lots 2&3 Block 247 FIRST ADDITION TO CITY OF in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 30th day of December, Friday, February 19, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. OKEECHOBEE, located at 1002 SW 6th Avenue, 2020 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Final Property Address: 4525 SPRINGVIEW CIR LABELLE, FL Judgment of Foreclosure or order, to wit: Friday, March 19, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. 33935 Okeechobee, Florida as recorded in the public re- OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting cords, Okeechobee, County, Florida. THE SOUTHWEST ONE-QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST ONE-QUAR- Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than TER OF THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST Friday, April 16, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens must file a claim in accor- Property Address: 1002 S.W. 6th Avenue, ONE-QUARTER, SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR ACCESS OF THE Friday May 21, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. dance with Florida Statutes, Section 45.031. Okeechobee, Florida EAST 30.00 FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION 33,TOWNSHIP 43 SOUTH, OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting RANGE 31 EAST, HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA. ALSO KNOWN AS TRACT Dated this 23rd day of November, 2020. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS 67 OF PIONEER PLANTATION, AN UNRECORDED SUBDIVISION Friday, June 18, 2021 - ANNUAL LANDOWNERS’ MEETING at 8:30 FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 11-33-43-31-A00-0051-0000 a.m. followed by the Board of Supervisors Meeting Kimberly Barrineau OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST Friday, July 16, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Clerk of the Circuit Court FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. AND THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST ONE OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting By: Charlee Robinson QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST ONE-QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST Deputy Clerk DATED this 30th day of November, 2020. ONE-QUARTER, SUBJECT TO AN EASEMENT FOR ACCESS OF THE Friday, August 20, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. SHARON ROBERTSON WEST 30.00 FEET THEREOF, IN SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 43 SOUTH, Friday, September 17, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. IMPORTANT Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller RANGE 31 EAST, HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA. ALSO KNOWN AS TRACT OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. If you are an individual with a disability By: Madalyn Pinon 78 OF PIONEER PLANTATION, AN UNRECORDED SUBDIVISION. who needs an accommodation in order to participate in a court proceeding or Deputy Clerk PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: 1-33-43-31-A00-0056-0000. Friday, October 15, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. other court service, program, or activity, you are entitled, at no cost to you, AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES NOTICE to the provision of certain assistance. Requests for accommodations may be Friday, November 19, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. If you are a person with a disability who needs any accom- Property address: 4850 Pioneer 17th Street, Clewston, FL 33440 presented on this form, in another written format, or orally. Please complete the modation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are OR, immediately following Shawano WCD Board of Supervisors Meeting attached form (see website) and return it to [email protected] as far in ad- entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assis- Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than Friday, December 17, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. vance as possible, but preferably at least seven (7) days before your scheduled tance. Please contact Lisa DiLucenteJaramillo, ADA Coordina- the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before court appearance or other court activity. Upon request by a qualified individual tor, Court Administration, 250 NW Country Club Drive, Suite the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. BY: Charles F. Schoech, Esq. 217, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986, (772) 807-4370 at least seven (7) with a disability, this document will be made available in an alternate format. If AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. If you are a person with a disability Gladeview Water Control District you need assistance in completing this form due to your disability, or to request days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately Dated Thursday, the 3rd day of December, 2021 XSRQUHFHLYLQJWKLVQRWL¿FDWLRQLIWKHWLPHEHIRUHWKHVFKHG- who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you this document in an alternate format, please contact Dawn Oliver, Court Opera- uled appearance is less than seven (7) days; if you are hearing are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please 445734 ON 12/9/2020 tions Manager, phone (863) 675-5374, e-mail [email protected] or voice impaired call 711. contact Dawn Oliver, Court Operations Manager, whose office is located at the 444297 ON 12/2,9/2020 Hendry County Courthouse, 25 E. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, Florida 33935, Attorney for Plaintiff: and whose telephone number is (863) 675- 5229, at least 7 days before your R. Gregory Hyden, Esq. - [email protected], Nason, scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 20th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Yeager, Gerson, Harris & Fumero, P.A. 750 Park of Commerce NOTICE OF MEETINGS the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA Blvd., Suite 210, Boca Raton, FL 33487 or voice impaired, call 711. GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION FISCAL YEAR 2020 – 2021 Crystal I, LLC, c/o Jonathan R. Politano, 18305 Biscayne CASE NO. 2019-00029-CA-01 Boulevard, Suite 400, Aventura, FL 33160 Kimberly Barrineau, CENTRAL COUNTY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT IN RE: 445161 ON 12/09, 16/2020 As Clerk of the Court BRUMIC CORP., PLEASE BE ADVISED THE REGULAR MONTHLY MEETINGS OF THE BOARD a Florida corporation, OF SUPERVISORS OF THE CENTRAL COUNTY WATER CONTROL DISTRICT (“THE DISTRICT”), HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA WILL BE HELD ON THE FOL- By: Charlee Robinson Plaintiff, Deputy Clerk vs. LOWING DATES AT 6:00 PM EST OR AS SOON THEREAFTER AS DEEMED 2021 NOTICE OF MEETINGS APPROPRIATE TO CONDUCT THE BUSINESS OF THE DISTRICT AT THE FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS 444228 CN 12/2,9/2020 M Phillips Trust LLC, a Florida limited DISTRICT OFFICE, 475 S. CABBAGE PALM STREET, CLEWISTON, FLORIDA SHAWANO WATER CONTROL DISTRICT 33470. liability company, and any YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the following is the Schedule of Regular and all other parties in possession, January 27, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Meetings and Annual Landowners’ Meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL Defendant. Shawano Water Control District for the Year 2021. Regular Board of Supervisors CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA February 24, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. NOTICE OF SALE Meetings will be held on the 3rd Friday of each month, (unless date conflicts CIRCUIT CIVIL DIVISION March 24, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. with a holiday or other scheduling). The Annual Landowners’ Meeting will take CASE NO.: 2017-CA-000536 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure place on Friday, June 18, 2021 at 10:30 a.m., OR, immediately following the sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2019-00029-CA-01 of the Cir- April 28, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. Gladeview Water Control District’s Annual Landowners and Board of Supervi- U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR cuit Court of the 20th Judicial Circuit in and for Hendry County, Florida, wherein sors Meetings. All meetings will be held in person at the Sugar Farms Co-op, MANUFACTURED HOUSING CONTRACT SENIOR/SUBORDINATE Brumic Corp, Plaintiff and M Phillips Trust, LLC, Defendant, the Hendry County May 26, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. - Budget Meeting Atlantic Sugar Mill Road, Belle Glade, Florida 33430, unless further notified. PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATE TRUST 2000-1 Clerk of Circuit Court will sell to the highest bidder for cash in/on 2nd Floor Adm. June 23, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. - Adoption of Tentative Budget Meeting dates and times are listed in the Schedule below. Plaintiff(s), Bldg, 25 E. Hickpoochee Avenue, Labelle, Florida 33975, Hendry County, Florida The purpose of the meetings is to transact any and all business that may come vs. at 11:00 A.M. on the 30th day of December, 2020, the following described July 28, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. – Budget Meeting before the Board. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the property as set forth in said Final Judgment of Foreclosure, to-wit: August 25, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. - Adoption of Final budget Board with respect to any matter considered at a meeting, he or she will need a GRACIETA ALVAREZ; CHAD LEBRENT HERRING; CHRISTOPHER Lot 7, Block 2155, Port Labelle Unit 4, according to the Plat ther- record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to en- LEE HERRING; CRISTEN LEANDRA HERRING; CARLOS erof, as recorded in Plat Book 3, at Page 86, of the Public Records of September 22, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. sure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes LENARD HERRING, JR.; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, Hendry County, Florida. the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. BENEFICIARIES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNS, CREDITORS, LIENORS, October 23, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. – Landowner, Organizational and Regular AND TRUSTEES OF CARLOS L. HERRING, DECEASED, AND ALL Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person a/k/a 4013 School Circle Labelle FL 33935 Meeting OTHER PERSONS CLAIMING BY, ROUGH, UNDER, AND AGAINST requiring special accommodations to participate in a meeting, because of a THE NAMED DEFENDANTS; UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF GRACIETA ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, November 17, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. disability or physical impairment, should contact the District’s Attorney at (561) ALVAREZ; GRACIETA ALVAREZ; MARY HARKER; STATE OF 655-0620 at least five (5) calendar days prior to the Meeting. IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS December 15, 2021 at 6:00 p.m FLORIDA, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; UNITED STATES OF PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. MEETING DATES AMERICA, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY INTERNAL REVENUE; THIS NOTICE FURTHER ADVISES THAT IF A PERSON DECIDES W S BADCOCK CORPORATION; Dated in Hendry County, Florida this 18th day of November, 2020. Friday, January 15, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE BOARD OF SUPER- Defendant(s). Kimberley Barrineau VISORS OF THE DISTRICT, WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATTER Friday, February 19, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Clerk of the Circuit Court CONSIDERED AT THESE MEETINGS, YOU WILL NEED A RECORD or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Hendry County, Florida OF THE MEETING, WHICH INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EV- Friday, March 19, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT, pursuant to Plaintiffs Final Judgment IDENCE UPON WHICH ANY APPEAL IS BASED. of Foreclosure entered on November 19, 2020 in the above-captioned action, By: Charlee Robinson Friday, April 16, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Deputy Clerk the Clerk of Court will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash at the THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MAY CONDUCT ANY OTHER or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting Hendry County Courthouse, 25 East Hickpochee Avenue, Labelle, FL 33935 SPECIAL MEETINGS OR WORKSHOPS AS REQUIRED. SPECIAL If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order Friday, May 21, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. in accordance with Chapter 45, Florida Statutes on the 30th day of December, MEETINGS OR WORKSHOPS WILL BE ADVERTISED SEVEN (7) 2020 at 11:00 AM on the following described property as set forth in said Final to participate in a court proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the DAYS PRIOR TO THE MEETINGS. provision of certain assistance. Please contact the Administrative Services Man- Friday, June 18, 2021 - ANNUAL LANDOWNERS’ MEETING at Judgment of Foreclosure or order, to wit: ager, whose office is located at Charlotte County Justice Center, 350 E. Marion 10:30 a.m. or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting ANY INTERESTED PARTY DESIRING TO APPEAR BEFORE THE followed by the BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING The Southeast One-Quarter of the Southeast One-Quarter of Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950 and whose telephone number is (941) 637-2281, BOARD MAY DO SO ON THE DATES AND PLACE LISTED ABOVE. the Southeast One-Quarter of the Northeast One-Quarter of within two (2) working days of receipt of this notice; if you are hearing or voice Friday, July 16, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. Section 24, Township 44 South, Range 32 East, Hendry Coun- impaired, call 1-800-955-8771. To file response please contact Hendry County SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMER- ty, Florida. Subject to an Easement for an Access Road on the Clerk of Court, 25 E. Hickpoochee Ave., SR 80, LaBelle, FL 33975, Tel: (863) Friday, August 20, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. ICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting South 40 Feet Thereof, Subject to an Easement for Access 675-5217. ASSISTANCE OR SERVICES, PLEASE CONTACT THE DISTRICT Road of the East 40 Feet Thereof, Also known as Lot 5319 and 443113 ON 12/2,9/2020 OFFICE AT (863) 983-5797 NO LESS THAN SEVEN (7) DAYS PRI- Friday, September 17, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. 5320 in Montura Ranch Estates Unrecorded. OR TO THE ABOVE STATED MEETINGS. Friday, October 15, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. Together with that certain Manufactured Home VIN #’s FLHM- or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting. 445929 HEND. 12/09/2020 L3B127320467A and FLHML3B127320467B. Notice Board Meeting Time Change Friday, November 19, 2021 at 8:30 a.m. Property address: 310 N Cabbage Palm Street, Clewiston, FL 33440 or immediately following the Gladeview Board meeting The time for the Hendry LaBelle Recreation Board regular meeting has been Any person claiming an interest in the surplus from the sale, if any, other than changed to the third Thursday of every month at 6:00 p.m. at the Hendry Legal Notice Friday, December 17, 2021 at 10:30 a.m. the property owner as of the date of the lis pendens, must file a claim before LaBelle Recreation Office, 310 Cowboy Way LaBelle, Florida. the clerk reports the surplus as unclaimed. A public auction of stored personal property from Okeechobee Store-N- BY: Charles F. Schoech, Esq. The meeting is open to the public. If a person decides to appeal any decision Lock to be conducted at the following locations in Okeechobee, FL: WEST Shawano Water Control District AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. If you are a person with a disability made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at such a meeting – 2701 Hwy 70 West; NORTH – 3050 SW 3rd Terrace. The auction Dated Thursday, the 3rd day of December, 2021 who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you or hearing, he or she will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for such will be held to pay unpaid storage fees (pursuant to the Florida statutes, Sec- 445754 ON 12/9/2020 are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceed- tion 83.806). Public Auction to be held on December 23, 2020 beginning at contact Dawn Oliver, Court Operations Manager, whose office is located at the ings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the 9:00AM at the WEST location and we will then proceed to the NORTH location. Hendry County Courthouse, 25 E. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, Florida 33935, appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may be discussed at a meeting All payments must be made in full, CASH ONLY, by the date/time of auction.. and whose telephone number is (863) 675- 5229, at least 7 days before your which are not on the prepared agenda for this meeting. scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if WEST Want news delivered to your the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation SHAKIRA MAYS, Unit # 7-50 or voice impaired, call 711. for your attendance at the meeting, please contact Ramiro Rodriguez, Hendry MICHELLE OUELLETTE, Unit # 7-57 LaBelle Recreation Board Director at 863-673-4404; Hearing Impaired: Florida inbox six days a week? Kimberly Barrineau, relay 7-1-1; or email [email protected] NORTH CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT As Clerk of the Court This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. JODY HARDEN, Unit # N0125 JASON MANUEL, Unit # N0041 Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable español para participar BARBARA MEARA, Unit # N0112 Sign up for our newsletter at By: Charlee Robinson en esta reunión, por favor póngase en contacto con Ramiro Rodriguez al 863- DONALD ARNOLD, Unit #’s N0140 & N0143 Deputy Clerk 673-4404. 444119 CN 12/2,9/2020 446337 ON 12/9,16/2020 southcentral 444694 LO 12/2,9 CB 12/3,10/2020 fl oridalife.com/enewsletter December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 41

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IN THE COUNTY COURT OF THE 19th JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE TO IMMOKALEE IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS WATER & SEWER DISTRICT CUSTOMERS PROFESSIONAL DESIGN/ENGINEER AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES CASE NO.: 2020-CC-00091 At Immokalee Water & Sewer District, we’re focused on the health and safety JUDGE: WILLIAM WALLACE FOR THE PROPOSED OKEECHOBEE COUNTY SPORTS COMPLEX SPLASH PAD of our employees, families and community. Throughout the month of Decem- COUNTY PROJECT# 2020-14 ber 2020, the lobby will remain closed. BE A MAN BUY LAND, LLC, a Florida The District offer a variety of contactless ways to pay your water bill: limited liability company Notice is hereby given that Okeechobee County, Florida, pursuant to Section 287.055, Florida Statutes, Plantiff, KHUHE\LVVXHVWKLVUHTXHVWIRUTXDOL¿FDWLRQVWRSURYLGHHQJLQHHULQJGHVLJQDQGFRQVWUXFWLRQVHUYLFHVIRU 1. The night drop box is available for payments at any time after normal V. the proposed Okeechobee County Sports Complex Splash Pad. business hours. The drop box is located in the drive-thru lane before UBER MARTIN ORTIZ VALLADARES, UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF the window. Your payment will be processed the next business day. UBER MARTIN ORTIZ VALLADARES AND UNKNOWN TENANT(S) Okeechobee County is proposing the addition of an interactive water splash pad water feature to be en- Please ensure your bill is included in your payment. IN POSSESSION, IF ANY, JLQHHUHGGHVLJQHGDQGFRQVWUQFWHGDWWKH2NHHFKREHH&RXQW\'DQHO(Q¿QJHU6SRUWV&RPSOH[ORFDWHG Defendants. at 580 NW 27th Lane Okeechobee, FL 34972. 2. You can set up Automated Clearing House (ACH) payments – the form Notice of Foreclosure Sale is available at https://www.iw-sd.com/forms NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment 4XDOL¿HGELGGHUVVKDOOKDYHQROHVVWKDQ\HDUV¶H[SHULHQFHH[FOXVLYHO\GHVLJQLQJHQJLQHHULQJ  3. Automated telephone payment (866) 658-3630 available any time of Foreclosure dated October 22, 2020, and entered in constructing splash pads from conception to completion. Services shall include, but not be limited to; 472020CC000091CCAXMX of the County Court of the Nineteenth (minimal fee) Judicial Circuit in and for Okeechobee County, Florida, wherein SURYLGLQJVHUYLFHVIRUDOOVWUXFWXUDOPHFKDQLFDOHOHFWULFDOSOXPELQJ ¿OWUDWLRQFLYLOHQJLQHHULQJGHVLJQ BE A MAN BUY LAND, LLC, a Florida limited liability company, GUDZLQJVSUHSDUDWLRQRISUHOLPLQDU\DQG¿QDOFRQVWUXFWLRQGUDZLQJVZLWKFRPSOHWHVSHFL¿FDWLRQVDV 4. Online payment (minimal fee) at https://www.iw-sd.com/customerser ZHOODVREWDLQLQJDOOUHTXLUHGSHUPLWVIRUFRQVWUXFWLRQ IURP)ORULGD'HSDUWPHQWRI+HDOWKDVZHOODV vice/page/online-bill-pay is the Plaintiff and UBER MARTIN ORTIZ VALLADARES, UN- contract documents suitable for solicitation of bids and pennit issuance for this project and Construction KNOWN SPOUSE OF UBER MARTIN ORTIZ VALLADARES Administration Services. All of these alternatives are available at any time (night or day) and do not n/k/a Shirley Valladares, AND UNKNOWN TENANT(S) IN require waiting in line to interact with a customer service member. POSSESSION are the Defendants. I, Sharon Robertson, Clerk Complete requirements, background and other information relating to this RFQ may be downloaded of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, will sell to the highest and If you choose to use the drive-thru lane, please bring your bill. For the following from the Okeechobee County website at: KWWSZZZFRRNHHFKREHHÀXV under Bids and Proposals best bidder for cash at the Okeechobee County Judicial tab. dates in December 2020, the drive-thru lane will open at 7 A.M. and tentatively Center, Jury Assembly Room, 2nd Floor, 312 Northwest close at 6 P.M. (depending on traffic volume) on: 3n1 Street, Okeechobee, Florida 34972 at 11:00 a.m., on Any questions pertainingWRWKHSURMHFWVSHFL¿FDWLRQVRUVFRSHRIZRUNZLOOEHDGGUHVVHGWR7LIIDQ\ December 14, 2020 December 21, 2020 December 28, 2020 December 30, 2020, the following described property as set Gould, in writing, to the physical or e-mail address noted below, no later than January 11th 2021 forth in the Final Judgment of Foreclosure, to wit: @ 12:00pm. (these dates coincide with high traffic days per billing cycle) Parcel ID: 1-23-34-33-0A00-00030-F000 2NHHFKREHH&RXQW\3DUNV 5HFUHDWLRQ'HSDUWPHQW The drive-thru lane opens daily at 8:15 AM and closes at 5:00 PM (except for LOT F OF TRACT 30 EAST ½ OF THE WEST ½ OF THE SOUTH the dates above). Currently, on a daily basis, the District considers the volume of ½ OF THE NORTH ½ OF TRACT 30, SECTION 23 AS TO THE 'HQLVH:KLWHKHDG'LUHFWRU 7LIIDQ\*RXOG3URMHFW&RRUGLQDWRU 1:WK$YH2NHHFKREHH)/   traffic and adjusts our closing time to accommodate customers. SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMPANY PLAT OF TOWNSHIP Email: 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT WJRXOG#FRRNHHFKREHHÀXV THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLU- If it becomes necessary to revise or amend any part of this RFO, an addendum will be issued SIVE, PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. AVISO PARA LOS CLIENTES DEL DISTRITO DE AGUA Y and will be posted on the Okeechobee County website at: http://www.co.okeechobee. ALCANTARILLA DE IMMOKALEE ÀXVXQGHU%LGVDQG3URSRVDOVWDE TOGETHER with all the tenements, hereditaments and appur- En Immokalee Water & Sewer District, estamos enfocados en la salud y se- tenances thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining. It is the sole responsibility of the bidders to check the website to ensure that all available guridad de nuestros empleados, familias y comunidad. Durante todo el mes de information has been received prior to submitting an RFO. Diciembre del 2020, el recibidor permanecerá cerrado. Parcel ID: 1-23-34-33-0A00-00030-H000 LOT H OF TRACT 30 EAST½ OF THE EAST ½ OF THE SOUTH Proposals to provide the services described herein shall include: a letter of transmittal requesting that El Distrito ofrece una variedad de formas sin contacto para pagar su factura Okeechobee’s ½ OF THE NORTH ½ OF TRACT 30, SECTION 23 AS TO THE de agua: SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMPANY PLAT OF TOWNSHIP WKH¿UPEHFHUWL¿HGDVTXDOL¿HGWRSURYLGHWKHUHTXLUHGSURIHVVLRQDOVHUYLFHVRUJDQL]DWLRQDOSUR¿OHDQG TXDOL¿FDWLRQVVFRSHRIVHUYLFHVSURSRVHGSXEOLFHQWLW\FULPHVDI¿GDYLWSF 330, projected time line and 1. El buzón nocturno está disponible para pagos en cualquier momento 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT related data as outlined in the RFQ and any state and federal or grant related requirements. News and THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLU- después del horario laboral normal. El buzón está ubicado en el carril SIVE, PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. de entrada antes de la ventana. Su pago se procesará el siguiente día ,QWHUHVWHG¿UPVVKDOOVXEPLWDQRULJLQDOSURSRVDODQGHLJKW  FRSLHVDQGDQHOHFWURQLFFRS\RQDWKXPE hábil. Asegúrese de que su factura esté incluida en su pago. Advertising drive and must be in a PDF A format and ADA compliant, thereof in a sealed enclosure bearing the TOGETHER with all the tenements, hereditaments and appur- name and address of the proposer and the words “Okeechobee County Sports Complex Splash tenances thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining. 2. Puede configurar los pagos de la Cámara de compensación automatiza- Pad Design Build Proiect No. 2020-14” by 4:00 p.m. local time on January 20TH 2021 at the da (ACH); el formulario está disponible en https://www.iw-sd.com/ Leader Proposals re- Parcel ID: 1-24-34-33-0A00-00027-G000 2NHHFKREHH&RXQW\&RXUWKRXVH1:QG6W5RRP2NHHFKREHH)/ forms FHLYHGDIWHUWKHWLPHDQGGDWHVSHFL¿HGZLOOQRWEHFRQVLGHUHG LOT G OF TRACT 27 WEST½ OF THE EAST½ OF THE 3. Pago telefónico automatizado (866) 658-3630 disponible en cualquier SOUTH½ OF THE NORTH ½ OF TRACT 27, SECTION 24 AS TO Okeechobee County accepts no responsibility for any expense related to preparation or delivery of momento (tarifa mínima) THE SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMP ANY PLAT OF TOWN- proposals, reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, to waive technical errors and informalities SHIP 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT not inconsistent with Florida Statutes, and to accept the proposal, which, in its sole judgment, best 4. Pago en línea (tarifa mínima) en https://www.iw-sd.com/customerser THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLU- serves the public interest. vice/page/online-bill-pay SIVE, PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. Todas estas alternativas están disponibles en cualquier momento (de día o Okeechobee County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. de noche) y no requieren esperar en la fila para interactuar con un miembro Print. TOGETHER with all the tenements, hereditaments and appur- tenances thereto belonging or in anywise appertaining. de servicio al cliente. 6KDURQ5REHUWVRQ&OHUN7HUU\%XUURXJKV&KDLU Board of County Commissioners Board of County Commissioners Si elige usar el carril para autoservicio, traiga su factura. Para las siguientes ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM Okeechobee County, Florida Okeechobee County, Florida fechas en Diciembre de 2020, el carril drive-thru se abrirá a las 7 a.m. y tentati- THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF 21 vamente cerrará a las 6 p.m. (dependiendo del volumen de tráfico) el: Web. THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. 14 de Diciembre de 2020 21 de Diciembre de 2020 Dated on November 2, 2020. 28 de Diciembre de 2020 SHARON ROBERTSON, NOTICE BY THE CITY OF CLEWISTON CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF INTENT TO USE (estas fechas coinciden con días de alto tráfico por ciclo de facturación) Social. COURT & COMPTROLLER THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTION OF A By: Madalyn Pinon El carril drive-thru abre todos los días a las 8:15 a.m. y cierra a las 5:00 p.m. NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENT FOR THE (Excepto en las fechas anteriores). Actualmente, a diario, el Distrito considera Deputy Clerk PROVISION OF FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES NOTICE el volumen de tráfico y ajusta nuestro horario de cierre para acomodar a los If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all owners of lands located within the boundaries clientes. Let us show in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost of the City of Clewiston, Florida that the Clewiston City Commission will conduct to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Lisa DiLucenteJaramillo, ADA Coordinator, Court Administration, 250 NW a PUBLIC HEARING on December 21, 2020 at 5:05 p.m., or as soon as practical Country Club Drive, Suite 217, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986, (772) 807- thereafter, in the City Hall Commission Chambers, 115 West Ventura Avenue, ANONS POU KLIYAN IMMOKALEE WATER & SEWER DISTRICT Clewiston, Florida. During the Public Hearing, the City Commission proposes to how we can 4370 at least seven (7) days before your scheduled court appearance, Nan Immokalee Water & Sewer District, nou ap konsantre sou sante ak RULPPHGLDWHO\XSRQUHFHLYLQJWKLVQRWL¿FDWLRQLIWKHWLPHEHIRUHWKH enact a resolution which shall clearly state its intent to use the uniform method scheduled appearance is less than seven (7) days; if you are hearing or of collecting an assessment as provided for in Section 197.3632, F.S. sekirite anplwaye nou yo, fanmi yo ak kominote a. Pandan tout mwa Desanm voice impaired call 711. 2020 la, sal datant la ap rete fèmen. The purpose of the public hearing is to consider the adoption of A RESOLUTION help grow Distri a ofri yon varyete fason san kontak pou peye bòdwo dlo ou: Submitted By: OF THE CITY OF CLEWISTON, FLORIDA, APPROVING A SPECIAL ASSESS- 5HQH6*ULI¿WK MENT FOR CITY FIRE PROTECTION SERVICES IN LIEU OF AD VALOREM 1. Bwat la gout lannwit ki disponib pou peman nan nenpòt ki lè apre lè Be A Man Buy Land, LLC TAXES AS THE FUNDING MECHANISM FOR PROVIDING THE CITY’S SHARE biznis nòmal. Bwat la gout sitiye nan liy lan kondwi-rive anvan fenèt la. Attorney for Plaintiff OF THE CLEWISTON FIRE DEPARTMENT BUDGET. Peman ou pral trete jou ouvrab kap vini an. Tanpri asire bòdwo ou enkli YOUR 4260 SE Federal Highway Give the gift The City is considering adopting a non-ad valorem assessment for fire protec- nan peman ou. Stuart, Florida 34997 tion services for the fiscal year beginning on October 1, 2021, and continuing (772) 546-4101 of a 2. Ou ka mete kanpe peman Otomatik Clearing House (ACH) - fòm lan each year thereafter until discontinued by the City. The resolution will state the disponib nan https://www.iw-sd.com/forms business 440537 ON 12/02, 09/2020 need for the levy and that the levy will apply within the entire boundary of the subscription city limits. This non-ad valorem assessment is levied for the first time. 3. Peman telefòn otomatik (866) 658-3630 disponib nenpòt ki lè (frè min- im) southcentral NOTICE CALLING FOR BIDS to your The meeting will be open to the public. Interested parties may appear at the public hearing to be heard regarding the use of the uniform method of collecting 4. Peman sou entènèt (frè minim) nan https://www.iw-sd.com/customer fl oridalife.com City of Moore Haven loved ones such non-ad valorem assessments. service/page/online-bill-pay @okeechobeenews Bid Deadline: 2:00 pm Friday, January 15, 2021 If any person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter Tout altènativ sa yo disponib nan nenpòt ki lè (lannwit oswa lajounen) epi yo pa and considered at this meeting or public hearing, such person may need to insure bezwen tann nan liy pou kominike avèk yon manm sèvis kliyan. Place of Bid Receipt City of Moore Haven City Hall P.O. Box 399 299 Riverside that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the lakeokeechobee Dr. Moore Haven, Fl. 3347 keep them testimony and any evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Si ou chwazi pou ou sèvi ak liy lan kondwi-a, tanpri pote bòdwo ou. Pou dat PROJECT: CITY OF MOORE HAVEN Northeast Street Paving Project ki annapre yo nan Desanm 2020, liy lan kondwi-a louvri nan 7 A.M. ak tan- City Hall is wheelchair accessible and accessible parking spaces are available. porèman fèmen nan 6 P.M. (depann sou volim trafik) sou: news.com informed on Accommodation requests or interpretive services must be made 48 hours prior /lake to the meeting. Please contact the City Clerk’s office at (863) 983-1484, ex- 14 Desanm 2020 21 Desanm 2020 28 Desanm 2020 okeechobee local news tension 105, or FAX (863) 983-4055 for information or assistance. The City of Scope of Services: To provide labor, materials, and equipment to mill and pave Clewiston is an equal opportunity provider and employer. (dat sa yo kowenside ak jou trafik segondè pou chak sik bòdwo) the following area’s. news and more! Liy kondwi a ouvri chak jou a 8:15 AM epi li fèmen a 5:00 PM (eksepte pou dat 1) Ave H from 2nd Street to 3th Street Mary K. Combass, City Clerk /okeechobeenews City of Clewiston, FL ki anwo yo). Kounye a, chak jou, Distri a konsidere volim trafik la epi li ajiste lè 2) 3rd Street Starting at Ave F and continuing through Florida Ave. nou fèmen pou akomode kliyan yo. 444098 ON 11/25,12/2,9,16/2020 3) 2nd Street between Ave I and Florida Ave. 446064 ON 12/9/2020 IB 12/10/2020 4) Palm Ave. from 2nd Street to 3rd Street To subscribe: NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING 863.763.3134 Please bid a Unit and Total Price for the following quantities Call HENDRY COUNTY RANKING COMMITTEE CITY OF OKEECHOBEE Call Maintenance of Traffic 1 LS PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE or A Hendry County ranking committee will hold a meeting on December 11, CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE Mill Existing Asphalt up to 1.5” Avg Depth 7800 SY 863.824.5933 2020, at 10:00 a.m., for the review and ranking of submittals for RFP #2021- 863.824.5933 1-1/2” S-3 asphalt Paving 7800 SY 04 Airglades Area Transportation Study in Hendry County. The meeting will be NOTICE: The City of Okeechobee’s Citizens Charter Review Advisory Com- okeeadsales or stop by our held at the Hendry County Administration Building, 640 South Main Street, La- mittee (CCRAC) will conduct its initial meeting on Tues., Dec. 15, 2020, 4:30 Belle Florida. The meeting is open to the public. PM, or as soon thereafter as possible, at City Hall, 55 SE 3rd Ave, Rm 200, @newszap. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Moore Haven in Glades County, offi ce at 107 Okeechobee, FL. This meeting is open to the public and will not be broadcast To advertise: Florida acting by and through its Governing Board, hereinafter referred to as If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter via Zoom.com. The agenda is posted to the website at cityofokeechobee.com/ com “CITY,” will receive up to, but not later than, the above-stated time, sealed bids SW 17th St., considered at this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and agendas.html. Email for the award of a contract for the above project. Bids shall be received in the that, for such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the place identified above. Those bids timely received shall be opened and publicly proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon BE ADVISED that should you intend to show any document, picture, video okeeadsales@ read aloud at the above-stated time and place. Okeechobee, FL which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may be discussed at or items to the CCRAC in support or opposition to any item on the agenda, a the meeting which are not on the prepared agenda for the meeting. copy of the document, picture, video, or item must be provided to the City Clerk To subscribe, 34974 for the City’s records. ANY PERSON DECIDING TO APPEAL any decision newszap.com Please contact David Miller (City Manager) 863-946-0711 for any questions If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation made by the CCRAC with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will email or concerns. for your participation in the meeting, please contact Hendry County Administra- need to ensure a verbatim record of the proceeding is made and the record tion at (863) 675-5220; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or e-mail tracy. includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal will be based. In Toreader place a The CITY reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any irregu- Gift cards [email protected]. accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities larities or informalities in any bids or in the bidding process. No bidder may needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. classifiservices ed ad: withdraw any bid for a period of _15___ (fifteen) calendar days after the date available the City Clerk’s Office in person or call 863-763-9814, Hearing Impaired: Florida set for the opening of bids. Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar Relay 7-1-1 no later than four business days prior to proceeding. Email@newszap. classads@ 446283 GLADES 12/09/2020 in various un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Myra Johnson al (863) By: Lane Gamiotea, CMC, City Clerk 675-5240. newszap.comcom 445993 ON 12/9/2020 demoninations 445934 ON 12/9 CB 12/10/2020 42 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020

Public Notice Public Notice Administration Administration Notice to Notice to Administration Administration of Estates of Estates Creditors Creditors of Estates of Estates PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINETEENTH PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PROBATE DIVISION FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE INFORMATION File No. 2020-CP-000066 COUNTY, FLORIDA File No. 47-2020-CP-000194-CP AX MX CASE NUMBER: 47-2020-CP-000255 IN RE: ESTATE OF IN RE: The Estate of Pursuant to Section 324 of the Emergency Planning and Community DANIEL THARP Division PROBATE Deceased. LARRY GENE HARRIS, Right-to-Know act of 1986 (EPCRA), the following information is available IN RE: ESTATE OF Deceased. to the public upon request during normal business hours by contacting MICHAEL WAYNE STEIN, the Central Florida Local Emergency Planning Committee (CFLEPC) for NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Deceased. Formal Administration Hazardous Materials. The administration of the estate of Daniel Tharp, deceased, whose date of NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the Estate of LARRY GENE HARRIS, Deceased, whose Hazardous Material Safety Data Sheets death was September 14, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Glades Coun- ty, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Avenue J, Moore Ha- The administration of the Estate of MICHAEL WAYNE STEIN, deceased, date of death was September 27, 2020, and whose social security number Facility Hazardous Chemical Inventory Forms ven, Florida 33471. The names and addresses of the personal representative whose date of death was June 10, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for is xxx-xx-2445, Case Number: 47-2020-CP-000255 is pending in the Cir- and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. OKEECHOBEE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 312 cuit Court for Okeechobee County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of Section 304 Chemical Release Follow-up Notifications All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands NW 3rd St, Okeechobee, FL 34972. The names and addresses of the personal which is Okeechobee County Judicial Center, 312 NW 3rd Street, Suite 125, against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. Okeechobee, Florida 34972. The names and addresses of the Personal Repre- Central Florida LEPC Hazardous Materials Emergency Plan must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS sentative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS All creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or demands AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS against Decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this notice is required to be The Central Florida LEPC serves residents of DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or de- served must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE (3) Okeechobee, and Polk Counties. mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. OR THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS EPCRA requires any business that regularly uses, handles, or stores cer- ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI- NOTICE ON THEM. tain hazardous chemicals register with State and local regulatory agen- DA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or de- cies. If you have never registered or wish to verify your requirement NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN All other creditors of the Decedent and other persons having claims or de- FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. mands against the decedent’s estate, must file their claims with this Court to register, contact the CFLEPC at the address or phone number listed WITHIN THREE (3) MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION below. If you have previously complied, be sure your notifications are IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is December 9, 2020. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLOR- OF THIS NOTICE. current – penalties for non-compliance are severe. IDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SEC- Attorney: R. Nadine David, Esq. Personal Representative: TION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. To obtain notification information or to learn more about EPCRA, please FBN: 89004 Kristi Laree Tharp NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM contact: Florida Probate Law Group 13246 County Road 2147D FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIOD SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM Central Florida LEPC PO Box 141135, Gainesville, FL 32614 Henderson, TX 75652 IS BARRED. FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH Phone: (352) 354-2654 IS BARRED. 555 East Church Street 7KHGDWHRI¿UVWSXEOLFDWLRQRIWKLVQRWLFHLV'HFHPEHU E-Mail: [email protected] The date of the first publication of this Notice is: December 9, 2020. P.O. Box 2089 445651 ON 12/9,16/2020 FRANK H. FEE, III, ESQUIRE AMY SUE ROGERS Bartow, Florida 33831 DONIA ADAMS ROBERTS, P.A. Personal Representative: DONIA A. ROBERTS, ESQUIRE TIMOTHY MARK STEIN Attorney for Personal Representative Personal Representative 863-534-7130 ext. 124 Florida Bar Number: 0829676 1800 NW Avenue D Florida Bar No: 118380 3263 Windemere Drive 446317 ON 12/09/2020 Notice to Notice to 257 SE Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Belle Glade, Florida 33430 400 NW 2nd Street Huntington, WV 25704 Belle Glade, FL 33430 Okeechobee, Florida 34972 Creditors Creditors Tel: (561) 993-0990 /Fax: (561) 993-9020 (863) 763-3131 E-Mail: [email protected] 1st e-mail: [email protected] 2021 NOTICE OF MEETINGS Attorney for Personal Representative 2nd e-mail: [email protected] FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS HIGHLAND GLADES WATER CONTROL DISTRICT IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR OKEECHOBEE 444753 ON 12/02, 09/2020 445494 ON 12/9,16/2020 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the following is the Schedule of Regular COUNTY, FLORIDA Meetings and Annual Landowners’ Meeting of the Board of Supervisors of the Highland Glades Water Control District for the Year 2021. The Regular Board PROBATE DIVISION IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA of Supervisors Meetings will be held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 2:00 File No: 2020-cp-239 Termination Termination PROBATE DIVISION p.m. (unless date conflicts with a holiday, or otherwise notified). The Annual CASE NO. 2020-CP-231 Landowners’ Meeting will take place on Monday, June 7, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. IN RE: ESTATE OF of Parental Rights of Parental Rights All meetings are held in person at the Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative, 1500 GWENDOLYNN VICKERS, IN RE: ESTATE OF W. Sugarhouse Road, (3rd Floor) Belle Glade, Florida 33430, unless notified Deceased. MARK STEVEN GOODLESS otherwise. a/k/a MARK GOODLESS, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL Deceased. The purpose of the meetings is to transact any and all business that may come NOTICE TO CREDITORS CIRCUIT IN AND FOR HENDRY COUNTY, STATE OF FLORIDA before the Board. If any person decides to appeal any decision made by the JUVENILE DIVISION CASE NO. 19-7-DP NOTICE TO CREDITORS Board with respect to any matter considered at a meeting, he or she will need a The administration of the estate of GWENDOLYNN VICKERS, The administration of the estate of MARK STEVEN GOODLESS, a/k/a MARK record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to en- deceased, whose date of death was October 26, 2020, is pending IN THE INTEREST OF: GOODLESS, deceased, whose date of death was July 9, 2020, and whose social sure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes in the Circuit Court for Okeechobee County, Florida, Probate Divi- CHAMAN QUIP, HEIDY LIZANDRA, DOB: 6/6/2009 security number is xxx-xx-1300, is pending in the Circuit Court for Okeechobee the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. sion, the address of which is 312 NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, FL CHAMAN QUIP, SILVERIO SANTIZ, DOB: 5/14/2017 County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 312 N.W. 3rd Street, Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person 34972. The names and addresses of the personal representative CHAMAN SEP, ALBERTO, DOB: 2/4/2019 Suite 101, Okeechobee, Florida 34972. The names and addresses of the per- requiring special accommodations to participate in a meeting, because of a and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. Minor Children sonal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth disability or physical impairment, should contact the District’s Attorney at (561) below. 655-0620 at least five (5) calendar days prior to the Meeting. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or THE STATE OF FLORIDA All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands demands against decedent’s estate, on whom a copy of this no- TO: Santiago Quip Tot, current whereabouts unknown against the decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to MEETING DATES WLFHLVUHTXLUHGWREHVHUYHGPXVW¿OHWKHLUFODLPVZLWKWKLVFRXUW be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF SUMMONS & NOTICE MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE Monday, June 7, 2021 - ANNUAL LANDOWNERS’ MEETING at 2:00 OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE p.m. followed by the BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MEETING THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims Monday, August 9, 2021 at 2:00 p.m.

Administration Administration Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds of Estates of Estates NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2020TD075 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA 2020TD114 2020TD117 PROBATE DIVISION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that FLORIDA TAX LIEN MANAGEMENT LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL File Number 2020000249CPAXMX the holder of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC to be issued thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the descrip- the holder of the following certificate has filed said the holder of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and IN RE: ESTATE OF tion of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: ROGER LEE GOSS, year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was Certificate No: 570 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 assessed are as follows: assessed are as follows: Deceased. Description of Property: LOT A OF TRACT 19 EAST 1/2 OF THE EAST Certificate No: 2049 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Certificate No: 2217 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 NOTICE TO CREDITORS 1/2 OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF TRACT 19, SECTION 22 AS TO THE SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMPANY PLAT OF Description of Property: TREASURE ISLAND UNIT NO. 6 (PLAT BOOK Description of Property: TAYLOR CREEK ISLES SECTION TWO (PLAT 3 PAGE 57) LOT 32. BOOK 3 PAGE 89) LOT 295. The administration of the estate of ROGER LEE GOSS, deceased, whose TOWNSHIP 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT date of death was 10/24/2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Okeechobee THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLUSIVE, 1-25-37-35-0070-00060-0320 1-35-37-35-0030-00000-2950 County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 312 NW 3rd Street, PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Okeechobee, FL 34972. The names and addresses of the personal representa- 1-22-34-33-0A00-00019-A000 tive and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. Name in which assessed: Name in which assessed: All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida RICHARD L CASH CHARLES G WILLIAMS against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served Name in which assessed: JANET L CASH GINA LAMB WILLIAMS must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS REBECCA V RUFF RICHARD L CASH DECEASED CHARLES GLEN WILLIAMS AKA CHARLES G WILLIAMS AKA AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS JANET L CASH DECEASED CHARLIE WILLIAMS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. VINCENT LIBERATORE WILLIAM L CASH All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or de- MELISSA CASH Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI- Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, DA STATUTE §733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, 2021 2021 Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd . NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM . Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH 2021. SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES IS BARRED. SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES The date of first publication of this Notice is December 9, 2020. SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Okeechobee County, Florida Okeechobee County, Florida DONNA R. MCMILLAN, Esq. SHIRLEY GOSS COOGAN, SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER /s/ Frances Conner /s/ Frances Conner Okeechobee County, Florida Deputy Clerk Attorney for Personal Representatives Personal Representative Deputy Clerk Florida Bar No. 105381 222 Patrick Farms Drive /s/ Frances Conner NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF McCARTHY, SUMMERS, WOOD, Pearl, MS 39208 NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF Deputy Clerk NORMAN, MELBY & SCHULTZ, P.A. 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should 2400 S.E. Federal Highway, 4th Floor needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should Stuart, Florida 34994 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, Telephone: (772) 286-1700 ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, Primary Email: [email protected] contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. Secondary Email: [email protected] 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. 445733 ON 12/9,16/2020 VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE 444742 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 444714 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TWENTIETH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT 444733 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 IN AND FOR GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED CASE NO.: 2020-CP-000068 2020TD121 2020TD116 Uniform Case No.: 222020CP000068CPAXMX NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN A G & G ENTERPRISES LLC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL , that the hold- 2020TD102 , that IN RE: the Estate of er of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said DAVID GERALD GROOMS, thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that JOSEPH EDWARD GAZZA the holder certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and Deceased, property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 200 Year of Issuance: June-01-2017 thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the NOTICE TO CREDITORS property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2215 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Description of Property: LOT J OF TRACT 14 WEST 1/2 OF THE EAST The administration of the estate of David Gerald Grooms, deceased, whose Certificate No: 1665 Year of Issuance: June-01-2016 date of death was September 4, 2020 is pending in the Circuit Court for Glades 1/2 OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF TRACT 14, SECTION Description of Property: TAYLOR CREEK ISLES SECTION TWO (PLAT County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Avenue “J”, Moore 12 AS TO THE SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMPANY PLAT OF Description of Property: CENTRAL BUSINESS SECTION BASSEN- BOOK 3 PAGE 89) LOT 282. TOWNSHIP 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT Haven, FL 33471; Post Office Box 10, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The names GER-FLORIDA (PLAT BOOK 2 PAGE 32) LOTS 22 & 23 LYING 1-35-37-35-0030-00000-2820 and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representa- THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLUSIVE, NORTH OF ROAD BLOCK 3 AND THE ABANDONED/VACATED tive’s attorney are set forth below. PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. SOUTH 7 1/2 FEET OF THE ALLEYWAY LYING ADJACENT TO LOTS Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands 1-12-34-33-0A00-00014-J000 22 AND 23 (ORB 694, PAGE 993) . Name in which assessed: against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida 1-34-35-33-0010-00030-0220 CHARLES G WILLIAMS served must file their claims in duplicate with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF GINA LAMB WILLIAMS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE Name in which assessed: Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida CHARLES GLEN WILLIAMS AKA CHARLES G WILLIAMS AKA OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE VALERIE P HOWELL Name in which assessed: CHARLIE WILLIAMS ON THEM . VIOLET HOWELL KENNETH R CHILDS All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or de- TIM HARRINGTON Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property HEIRS OF TIM HARRINGTON described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NO- described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd TICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the 2021. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM 2021. Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES IS BARRED. SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES 2021 The first publication date of this notice is December 2, 2020. . SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Okeechobee County, Florida Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative: Okeechobee County, Florida /s/ Frances Conner COLIN M. CAMERON, ESQ. ROSE WILDES /s/ Frances Conner SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER Deputy Clerk 200 N.E. 4th Avenue 622 SE 25th Drive Deputy Clerk Okeechobee County, Florida NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF Okeechobee, FL 34972 Okeechobee, FL 34974 NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF /s/ Frances Conner (863) 763-8600 Deputy Clerk 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons Florida Bar No. 270441 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should [email protected] needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- 444578 ON 12/2,9/2020 contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. PROBATE DIVISION 444738 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 File No. 2020000248CPAXMX 444755 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. IN RE: ESTATE OF MARY ROSETTA GUNSALUS 444716 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED DECEASED Hendry County Hendry County 2020TD110 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Legals Legals NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL The administration of the estate of MARY ROSETTA GUNSALUS, deceased, ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said whose date of death was November 5, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court 2020TD070 certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and for Okeechobee County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 312 NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that FLORIDA TAX LIEN MANAGEMENT year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, Florida 34972. The names and addresses of the LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed assessed are as follows: personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth HENDRY COUNTY RANKING COMMITTEE to be issued thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the descrip- Certificate No: 1799 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 below. tion of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands Notice is hereby given that a Hendry County ranking committee will hold a Description of Property: BASS SUBDIVISION (PLAT BOOK 2 PAGE 3) against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served meeting on December 16, 2020, at 9:00 AM, for the presentations, review and Certificate No: 670 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 LOTS 4 5 6 7 BLOCK 4. ranking of the submittals for RFQ #2021-01, Engineering Design and Permitting must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS Description of Property: LOT A OF TRACT 17 EAST 1/2 OF THE EAST 1-15-37-35-0080-00040-0040 AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS Services and Construction Engineering Inspection Services for Permanent Gen- 1/2 OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF THE NORTH 1/2 OF TRACT 17, SECTION AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. erators at the Hendry County Health Department Facilities in Hendry County, 24 AS TO THE SOUTHERN COLONIZATION COMPANY PLAT OF Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or de- Florida. The meeting will be held at the Hendry County Engineering Office, 99 E TOWNSHIP 34 SOUTH, RANGE 33 EAST, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT Cowboy Way, LaBelle, Florida. The meeting is open to the public. Name in which assessed: mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN THEREOF RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 4, PAGES 3-3E, INCLUSIVE, CHARLES GRANT 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter PUBLIC RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA. WILLIE GRANT ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SEC- considered at this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and 1-24-34-33-0A00-00017-A000 TION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. that, for such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may be discussed at Name in which assessed: Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd IS BARRED. the meeting which is not on the prepared agenda for the meeting. 10:00 A.M. 14th day of January, The first publication date of this notice is December 9, 2020. ELLISON WATTS LLC Street, Okeechobee, Florida , on the 2021. If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation for Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property ROGER N. MESSER, ESQ. NEIL MYRON GUNSALUS JR. your attendance at the meeting, please contact Hendry County Engineering De- SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Attorney for Personal Representative Personal Representative described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the partment at (863) 612-4726; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or e-mail Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd Florida Bar No. 0230571 11641 Kelly Road [email protected]. SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER MESSER & MESSER LAW OFFICES Leavenworth, Kansas 66048 Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, Okeechobee County, Florida 1555 St. Lucie West Blvd., NW, Suite 202 Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 2021. /s/ Frances Conner Port St. Lucie, FL 34986 SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Deputy Clerk Phone: 772-879-3000 Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar Fax: 772-879-3098 un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Jorge Hernandez al (863) SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF Email: [email protected] 612-4726. Okeechobee County, Florida 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons 445658 ON 12/9,16/2020 445749 ON 12/9 CB 12/10/2020 /s/ Frances Conner needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should Deputy Clerk contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, 444721 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 These business card sized Contact a Sales Representative today: 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE Earn some extra cash. It’s never too late to find ads are an affordable way VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. to advertise! 863.763.3134 | [email protected] Sell your used items the perfect gift. Look 444712 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 in the classifieds for it in the classifieds. 44 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds Tax Deeds

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2020TD107 2020TD119 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that LATANNIA CAREY the holder of the NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the property, and certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 1149 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Certificate No: 2576 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Description of Property: LOT E OF TRACT 30 W1/2 OF W1/2 OF S1/2 OF N1/2 OF TRACT 30 36 34S 33E . Description of Property: CITY OF OKEECHOBEE LOTS 9 & 10 BLOCK 10. 1-36-34-33-0A00-00030-E000 3-15-37-35-0010-00100-0090 Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Name in which assessed: Name in which assessed: RANDELL G GENTLES CAPITAL C INC MORELDA LLOYD GENTLES Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd 2021. Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, 2021. SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Okeechobee County, Florida SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER /s/ Frances Conner Okeechobee County, Florida Deputy Clerk /s/ Frances Conner NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF Deputy Clerk 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE 444750 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. 444717 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2020TD118 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 2473 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Description of Property: LAR-KEE LAKE FOR MOBILE HOMES (PLAT BOOK 3 PAGE 44) LOT 33 & WEST 1/2 OF LOT 32 BLOCK 2. 1-04-38-36-0030-00020-0330 Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Name in which assessed: DEBRA ANN HALES Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, 2021. SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Giveaways begin SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER Okeechobee County, Florida December 20th! /s/ Frances Conner Deputy Clerk NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF Follow us on Facebook 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons for updates! needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. 444747 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 FREE TRAFFIC INFO

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR TAX DEED 2020TD109 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that CAPITAL ONE NA AS COLLATERAL ASSIGNEE OF TLGF LLC the holder of the following certificate has filed said certificates for a tax deed to be issued thereon. The certificate number and year of issuance, the description of the property, and the names in which it was assessed are as follows: Certificate No: 1532 Year of Issuance: June-01-2018 Description of Property: BASSWOOD INCORPORATED UNIT NUMBER 2 (PLAT BOOK 3 PAGE 28) LOT 9 BLOCK 22. 1-05-37-35-0020-00220-0090 AIR CONDITIONING WANTED TO BUY Said property being in the County of Okeechobee, State of Florida Name in which assessed: BETTY J HAYES EMORY WALKER CO. INC. We Buy Scrap Gold, Unless said certificate shall be redeemed according to law the property Air Conditioning & Refrigeration described in such certificate shall be sold to the highest bidder at the Silver and Coins Okeechobee County Judicial Center, Jury Assembly Room, 312 NW 3rd 24/7 SERVICE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS Street, Okeechobee, Florida 10:00 A.M., on the 14th day of January, TH 2021. 208 SW 5 Ave. Okeechobee Elliott’s Pawn Shop SUBJECT TO CURRENT TAXES Serving the SHARON ROBERTSON, CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT & COMPTROLLER Lake Area for CAC042747 419 W.S. Park St. • 863.763-5553 Okeechobee County, Florida 50 Years! 863-763-6742 CAC057219 /s/ Frances Conner Deputy Clerk ADVERTISE HERE NOTICE REGARDING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990; In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act, persons DOOR-TO-DOOR DIRECTIONS • TRAVEL TIMES needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Court Administration no later that seven days prior to the pro- PERSONALIZED ALERTS • TRAFFIC CAMERA VIEWS ceeding at 250 NW Country Club Drive, Port St. Lucie, Florida 34986, Feature your business in this affordable business directory 1.772.807.4370 within two working days of your receipt of this notice. IF YOU ARE HEARING IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8771; IF YOU ARE VOICE IMPAIRED CALL 1.800.955.8770. 444719 ON 12/9,16,23,30/2020 Call 863.763.3134 or email Want news delivered to your inbox [email protected] six days a week?

A toll-free service of the Florida Department of Sign up for our newsletter at Transportation. Standard mobile phone minute, southcentralfl oridalife.com/enewsletter text message and data charges may apply. December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 45 Brahman basketball team Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis ACROSS 59 Friend’s 28 Cry after un gol 44 Type of energy or takes down Moore Haven 1 Bay Area force: pronoun 32 Carries the day reactor Abbr. 60 Like creamy 34 Bright star 45 Backyard 5 Leaves at the desserts 35 Ethylene __: barbecue staple By Richard Marion altar 61 “__ you sweet!” antifreeze 46 Considerate 10 News story 62 Nos. on an 36 “That’s big 47 One picking up Lake Okeechobee News opening airport board news!” the staff lunch OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee High 14 Words with bow 37 Optometrist’s order, perhaps School Brahman varsity basketball team or knot DOWN concern 48 Clapton classic opened its season with a win on Dec. 1, 15 Eye-boggling 1 Unmoving Calder 38 Completely 49 Wrestler’s goal work enjoyed 52 Feds under Ness beating the Moore Haven Terriers 60-45. work 16 Foreboding sign 2 Last round 42 Small sizes 53 Sing (out) loudly The Terriers dropped to 1-1 following 17 *The opportunity contestant 43 North America’s 55 Kinda the loss. Last week, Moore Haven won its to be successful 3 Scrutinize using, highest peak 56 Latin greeting season opener against Lake Placid. again as a microscope The Terriers managed to keep things 20 Defunct luxury 4 Became clear to, ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE: tight between the two teams in the first New York with “on” quarter. Okeechobee jumped out to an department store 5 Baby marsupial early lead, but fouls by the Brahmans gave 21 Chinese leader 6 Some beers: Moore Haven the opportunity to tie the who said, Abbr. 7 __ Vegas score 10-10 at the end of the first quarter. “Women hold up half the sky” 8 Quake Answers to today’s The Okeechobee defense forced mul- 22 Ruby, for one aftershock tiple turnovers in the first half, but missed 23 Admission of 9 Brown ermine shots on the ensuing fast breaks off those deceit 10 “OMG, funny!” Crossword Puzzle turnovers kept the Brahmans from pulling 24 *“I’d do the same 11 Asylum seeker away from the Terriers . At halftime, Moore Lake Okeechobee News/Richard Marion thing again” 12 Postpones can be found Haven trailed by only two points, 20-18. Okeechobee senior Jahsheem Daw- 26 Swedish soprano 13 Foe In the third quarter though, the Brah- son lines up for a foul shot. Jenny 18 Headed up on Page 4 27 Beast with tusks 19 Grabs a snack mans dominated. Okeechobee outscored 17 points during the game, while Rogers 24 When toddlers the Terriers 22-9. And although Moore 29 Color tones would put 10 on the board. 30 Natl. population, snooze Haven was able to tighten things back up in The Brahman defense had 17 takeaways e.g. 25 Cast out the fourth, the lead the Brahmans had built against the Panthers, and overall the team 31 Swiss high point 27 Data was too much to overcome. had 32 rebounds compared with West- 32 Director Craven transmission unit 05/05/20 Okeechobee followed that season-open- wood’s 24. 33 *“Stupid ing win with a dominating performance Okeechobee will be at home again superstition,” for against the Fort Pierce Westwood Panthers on Dec. 15 when they host the Clewiston one on Dec. 4, winning 72-28. Tigers in the first of the two games the two 39 Like some jokes Unlike their first game, the Brahmans Lake Okeechobee schools will play this 40 + or - particle got off to a fast start against the Panthers. season. They’re scheduled to meet again 41 “You betcha” OHS led 18-6 after the first quarter thanks 43 Jones of the on Jan. 23. Monkees to three 3-pointers by junior Daniel Phillips The Brahmans and Tigers tip off at 45 “Ultimate Driving and a few fast break scores by senior Keh- 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 17 at Okeechobee High Machine” kayah Rogers. Phillips would go on to score School. vehicles 46 Soccer immortal 47 *“Don’t be so oblivious” 49 Propose, as a theory 50 Musician Yoko 51 Stick in a boat 52 Capital of Georgia (the country) 54 Evening with the kids, or when the ends of the answers to starred clues might be played 57 New Haven collegians By Barbara Lin 05/05/20 58 Raze ©2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC Want news delivered to your inbox six days a week?

Lake Okeechobee News/Richard Marion Sign up for our newsletter at Moore Haven hung tough with the Brahmans throughout the first half, but a big southcentralfloridalife.com/enewsletter third-quarter performance by Okeechobee proved to the deciding factor in the game. South Central Florida Life is your News Source Between the Coasts! 863-467-1545 100% Customer Satisfaction is MillersCentralAir.com Our Mission! LIC NO. CAC058675 46 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun December 9, 2020 Raiders advance to state semifinals

By Richard Marion running back Jaheim Humphries burst Lake Okeechobee News through the Tornado defensive line and BELLE GLADE — The Glades Central ran for a 54-yard touchdown to put Glades Raiders hadn’t really been tested this Central up 16-13. season. They dominated every opponent Glades Central had nearly took the lead they’ve faced in 2020. earlier in the fourth quarter, when senior Throughout the regular season the Raid- Desmond Washington attempted to dive in ers won every game by nearly 40 points. the end zone from a yard out. But the ball But when the defending state champion came loose and was recovered in the end Booker T. Washington Tornadoes came to zone by the Tornadoes. That was one of town, you had the feeling it wouldn’t be five turnovers the Booker T. defense forced quite that easy. during the game. The Tornadoes lived up to their repu- Booker T. put themselves in a position to tation and gave the Raiders their first real win the game in the final minutes. Lined up taste of adversity this season, but Glades in the red zone, the Tornadoes’ quarterback Central prevailed and won 16-13. scrambled out left searching for a recov- “We knew we were playing the defend- erer in the end zone. But his pass attempt Feeding America ing state champions,” said Raiders coach was picked off near the goal line by Glades Rashad Jackson. “We knew it wasn’t going Central senior Keontey Fowler, securing the to be easy. The boys fought like champi- victory for the Raiders. ons. I’ve been telling them that you have to Awaiting Glades Central in the next act like a champion before you become a round of the playoff are the Dillard Pan- champion. That’s what they did. They beat thers. The Panthers are coming off a the defending state champions through a dominating 49-6 win over the Pahokee Blue lot of adversity.” Devils. Dillard is undefeated this year and The Raiders were trailing 13-9 with less will be another tough test for the Raiders. than four minutes remaining in the game. The Raiders travel to face the Panthers Then, on a fourth down and two, senior on Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. We are here for you! • Eye Exams • Glasses and Contacts • Retina Care • Dry Eye Treatment • Cataract Care • Glaucoma Treatment • Diabetic Eye Care

Specialty Vision Care has remained open during this pandemic to serve you. We have CDC protocols in place to protect our patients and staff. Call us for all of your eye care needs. We have specialists who provide care in the Belle Glade office so most of your needs can be met on site Our farmers work hard every without having to be referred out to a non-local specialist. day right here in the Sunshine State to feed America – it’s where we live and what we do. Heather B. Seith, MD • Nicole A Tyrrell, OD 1200 S. Main St, Suite 103 • Belle Glade, FL 33430 (561) 226-4922 December 9, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 47

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