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

Vol. 111 No. 61 Wednesday, July 15, 2020 $1.00 plus tax What do COVID-19 numbers

Parents protest mean? 45 school reopening 8% of Floridians who tested positive to date have been hospitalized By Katrina Elsken Lake Okeechobee News OKEECHOBEE — While the COVID-19 positive numbers in Florida increase each day, the percentage of COVID-19 positives who required hospitalization has de- creased. The death rate has also declined. According to Florida’s Community Injured dog rescued, Coronavirus Dashboard (a private site 40 on way to recovery that uses public Florida Department of Health data), as of July 14, 8% of Floridians who tested COVID-19 positive have been Lake Levels hospitalized, and 1.5% had died. A week ago, data showed 9% hospitalized and 12.53 feet 1.9% died. Last Year: 11.43 feet Statewide, since COVID-19 testing start- ed in March, 18,881 Florida residents who Special to the Lake Okeechobee News tested positive have been hospitalized, 6SRQVRUHG%\ according to FDOH. As of July 14, 8,051 were hospitalized. To date, 4,409 Florida Chobee Dirtbags undefeated residents who tested positive have died. TAVARES — The Chobee Dirtbags dominated once again in a tournament in Tavares 3RJH\·V)DPLO\5HVWDXUDQW For the counties in South Central on July 12. The Dirtbags went undefeated, winning fi ve games in a row. Chobee beat 63DUURWW$YH Ocala Elite 17-8, Volusia Cudas 10-9, Ocala Elite 12-7, FLX 16-1 and WGPA 18-3. The  See ICU — Page 12 team also managed to hit 15 home runs during the tournament. Source: South Florida Water Management District. Depth given in feet above sea level

OYDC closure brings an end to troubled history See Page 4 for information about By Richard Marion Okeechobee. the facility would bring to the local economy. how to contact this newspaper. Lake Okeechobee News First opened in 1959 as a second campus According to a report in the Sept. 11 edition for the Florida School for Boys in Marianna, the of The Palm Beach Post that year, Doizer told OKEECHOBEE — The announcement Okeechobee location was initially welcomed Okeechobee Rotary Club members that the from the Florida Department of Juvenile Jus- as a new source of jobs in the small town of school would bring in an annual payroll of tice (DJJ) that the contract for the Okeechobee about 6,000. $300,000 plus an annual outlay of $450,000 for Youth Development Center expires in Decem- At a Rotary Club meeting in Okeechobee in supplies that would be bought locally. ber 2020 and will not be renewed brings an 1955, Florida School for Boys Superintendent end to the facility’s 60-year-long history in Arthur G. Doizer pitched locals on the benefi ts See BOYS SCHOOL — Page 46 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 July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee Weather Forecast cloudy, with a low around 75. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Saturday: Showers and thunder- storms likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. East wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. Saturday night: A 20% chance of Wednesday: A 50% showers and thunderstorms. Mostly chance of showers and cloudy, with a low around 75. East wind 5 thunderstorms. Mostly to 10 mph. sunny, with a high near 91. Heat index Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms values as high as 102. likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming East-southeast wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance east-northeast around 5 of precipitation is 70%. mph in the afternoon. Sunday night: A 30% chance of show- New rainfall amounts between a tenth and ers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, quarter of an inch, except higher amounts with a low around 75. East wind around 5 possible in thunderstorms. mph. Wednesday night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. East wind around 5 Monday: Showers and thunderstorms mph. likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Thursday: A 50% chance of showers East-southeast wind 5 and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a to 10 mph. Chance of high near 90. East-northeast wind 5 to 10 precipitation is 70%. mph. Monday night: Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Thursday night: A 20% chance of Partly cloudy, with a showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, low around 76. East Caladium Festival canceled with a low around 75. East-northeast wind LAKE PLACID — Due to the coronavirus, the official Lake Placid Caladium 5 to 10 mph. wind 5 to 13 mph. Tuesday: Times of Festival has been canceled this year. However, Happiness Farms, 704 Coun- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms ty Road 621 E., Lake Placid, will be open that weekend, July 24, 25 and 26, for clouds and sun with a shower or thunder- likely. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. those who wish to purchase caladium bulbs and visit the caladium fields. For East wind around 10 mph. Chance of storm possible; humid with a high near more information, call 866-892-0396 or go online to happinessfarms.com. precipitation is 60%. 92. East-south-east wind 8 to 23 mph. Friday night: A 30% chance of show- Tuesday night: Partly cloudy and hu- ers and thunder- mid, with a low around 76. East storms. “Always on Top wind 7 to 15 Mostly Hot Dogs mph. of the Job” Hot Dog Wagon Make America Great! 441 & 78 • Metal & Shingle Roofs At the Top of the Lake! • Flats & Leak Repair LUVIANO CO. ROOFING INC. FREE ESTIMATES Chili, Cheese & Kraut Hot Dogs Re-Roofing Smoked Sausage • Cold Drinks Specialists Snacks • Papa John’s Boiled Peanuts State Lic. #CCC 1327338 863-357-3838 July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 3 South Florida Fair Post #64 to offer food drive-thru 501 SE 2nd St, Special to the Lake Okeechobee News WEST PALM BEACH — The South Okeechobee Florida Fair hosted its first ever “Fair Eats Drive-Thru” event over the Fourth of July weekend and it was so successful that they 863-763-5309 have scheduled another weekend of fair food. The second event will be held from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 17; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, at the fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd. The drive-through only event gives guests the opportunity to enjoy some of their favorite fair foods six months before the annual fair happens. Guests will enter through Gate 8 and there will be a menu available with servers coming to their cars to take their orders. They will follow a vehicle queue line and get their orders filled. People must remain in their vehicles Special to the Lake Okeechobee News to maintain social distancing. WEST PALM BEACH — The Fair Eats Be safe The menu will include fried Oreos, Drive-Thru only event gives guests the fried Snickers, sausage, onions & peppers, opportunity to enjoy some of their fa- candy apples, cotton candy, three flavors of vorite fair foods. funnel cake, turkey legs, corn dogs, chicken the South Florida Fair & Palm Beach County tenders and fries, roasted corn elephant ears, and a bucket of fries (menu subject Expositions, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or- to change). Beverages will include bottled ganization. Located at 9067 Southern Blvd. drinks, iced tea and a lemonade shakeup. West Palm Beach, the 2021 South Florida during these Prices range from $2 to 11 with most items Fair will kick off with its Ride-A-Thon at 5 averaging around $6. p.m. on Jan. 14 and the full fair will be held For more information, go online to Jan. 15 – 31, 2021. For more information, southfloridafair.com. call 561-793-0333 or visit the website, south- The South Florida Fair is produced by floridafair.com. trying times She loves Doggie Day Care and the beach! and we'll return

Best I need to be rehomed to as soon Rottweiler my forever family. Ever! Call Bethany : 772.321.1413 #Safe&LovingHomeWithLotsofLandPlease as we can. #SheLovesKids 4 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

Savings Clause safeguards water supply for South Florida Guest Commentary until we can find another adequate to meet our keep our utilities running smoothly. Congress to support this legislation. state’s needs and in particular, those of the 7 Fortunately, a bipartisan group of representa- We know Florida has many water issues, but million people — among them 5 million Hispanics tives in Congress is supporting a proposal to defend none is bigger for all of us than keeping our supply By Julio Fuentes — in South Florida who rely on it. the Savings Clause in the upcoming Water Re- Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Yet a loud minority wants to break the deal and sources Development Act of 2020, and it’s backed of clean, safe drinking water intact. Julio Fuentes is president and CEO of the South Floridians need to pay attention to the ignore sound water management and science by by cities, business and conservation groups. We fight going on right now in Congress that could forcing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to change urge all South Floridians to tell their members of Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. have a dangerous effect on our drinking water the very systems the Savings Clause protects. This supply. threatens important Everglades conservation work There’s a misguided proposal to change and our water supply. The death of common sense the federal law that for 20 years has safeguard- We’re lucky June’s rains averted a drought, couldn’t defend yourself from a burglar in your ed South Florida’s water supply, known as the which would have been catastrophic because Editor’s note: Su George of Savings Clause. This risky change is exactly what COVID-19 has made water essential for not only own home and the burglar could sue you for Okeechobee shared this “obituary.” assault. Florida does not need right now while we rebuild everyday living but for life-saving hygiene. It’s also An Obituary printed in the London Common Sense finally gave up the will our economy as we emerge from the COVID-19 necessary for our businesses — one of four of Times ... to live, after a woman failed to realize that a pandemic. which in Florida is Hispanic-owned — to thrive, for Today we mourn the passing of a beloved steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a The Savings Clause protects our water supply our skilled union workers to have more jobs and to old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a Please mind your manners old he was, since his birth records were long huge settlement. ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be Common Sense was preceded in death, remembered as having cultivated such valuable – by his parents, Truth and Trust, Commentary It is no longer considered good manners to shake lessons as: – by his wife, Discretion, someone’s hand, hug them or heaven forbid, kiss – Knowing when to come in out of the rain; – by his daughter, Responsibility, them on the cheek when you see them. Not only – and, by his son, Reason. By Cathy Womble are we not to touch anyone, we are not supposed – Why the early bird gets the worm; Lake Okeechobee News – Life isn’t always fair; He is survived by his five stepbrothers; to get anywhere near them, which makes talking – I Know My Rights, OKEECHOBEE — When we were young, our to them difficult. It’s hard to have a meaningful – And maybe it was my fault. Common Sense lived by simple, sound – I Want It Now, parents taught us to mind our manners. We were conversation when you have to shout across a – Someone Else Is To Blame, taught to say “please” and “thank you.” You didn’t distance of 6 feet. financial policies (don’t spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not – I’m A Victim, and take the last of any food item on the table unless In the grocery store, you do not stop to chat, – Pay me for Doing Nothing. children, are in charge). you were sure no one else wanted it first. You because you have no idea if your friends are there Not many attended his funeral because so few always cleaned your plate. You pretended you liked or not. First, you have no idea who is under those His health began to deteriorate rapidly when realized he was gone. masks. Second, you are too busy looking at the what you were served. You thanked your hostess well-intentioned but overbearing regulations If you still remember him, pass this on. If not, floor to make sure you are going in the right direc- for the meal. were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy join the majority and do nothing. When you met someone, you shook their hand, tion to notice who is around you. Third, you are charged with sexual harassment for kissing a man or woman; it was the polite thing to do. You afraid if you look at anyone the virus will somehow classmate; teens suspended from school for were taught to go to church and hug everyone you jump from them to you, so you just scurry through using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher Crossword Puzzle Answer met. As you strolled through the aisles of the gro- the store quickly and get out. fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only cery stores, you smiled, nodded and often stopped It is very difficult for the former huggers of the worsened his condition. to chat. It was the polite thing to do. world to suddenly be told they cannot hug anyone. Common Sense lost ground when parents At church, the pastor tried to make sure he They have a lost look on their faces. You can see attacked teachers for doing the job that they them just itching to run at each friend as they see shook the hand of every parishioner, because if themselves had failed to do in disciplining their he didn’t, someone might think he liked them less them walk in the door and then the sadness as they than he liked the person whose hand he did shake. realize they can’t do that anymore. unruly children. It declined even further when In some churches, the members hugged each There are some people who are actually happy schools were required to get parental consent to other or even kissed each other on the cheek. about the social distancing. They never liked to be administer sun lotion or an aspirin to a student You were taught to keep your voices down and touched in the first place and consider themselves but could not inform parents when a student be- stand close enough to hear the other person but hermits, so for them, this is their time to shine. came pregnant and wanted to have an abortion. not so close that you intruded on their personal Most of us, though, will be glad when we can Common Sense lost the will to live as the space. hug our moms and dads and grandbabies and churches became businesses and criminals Because of COVID-19, we have had to totally friends again. But until that day, mind your man- received better treatment than their victims. rethink what minding our manners means today. ners, and please don’t shake anyone’s hand. Common Sense took a beating when you

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. All after-tax • To correct our errors and to give each Circulation Administration surpluses are reinvested in Independent’s correction the prominence it deserves. Address: 107 S.W. 17th Street, Suite D Phone: (863) 763-3134 110 Galaxy Road • Dover, DE 19901 mission of journalistic service, commitment • To provide a right to reply to those we Okeechobee, FL 34974 Email: [email protected] to the ideals of the First Amendment of write about. Website: lakeokeechobeenews.com Additional copies may be purchased for the U.S. Constitution, and support of the • To treat people with courtesy, respect, and compassion 7R3ODFHD&ODVVLÀHGV$G $1.00 each. community’s deliberation of public issues. To Submit News Call: (877) 353-2424 to place a classified ad- Lake Okeechobee News welcomes submis- vertisement from home Staff We Pledge... • To operate the newspaper as a public trust sions from its readers. 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, July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 5 City of Pahokee needs a change Guest Commentary in previous firings of the city manager. When Dedicated to Quality & Service was the last time this process was followed By David Ruiz in terminating a charter officer? “Section 3.03. – Removal: To remove a Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Charter officer, the city commission shall I listened in to the special meeting of adopt a preliminary resolution stating rea- the Pahokee City Commission on June 30 sons for the intended removal and shall offer regarding the OIG’s “Investigative Report the Charter officer an opportunity for public 2019-0005; City of Pahokee Inappropriate hearing before the commission on the mat- Purchasing Card Expenditures.” I was hoping ters raised by the resolution. This preliminary that a majority if not all around the dais resolution may also suspend the Charter ROOFING would support and vote to terminate the officer from duty immediately with pay. The city manager with cause. The purpose of the Charter officer must accept the offer of pub- meeting as described by the mayor was to lic hearing or file a written response within & REPAIRS make public that the commission was aware ten (10) days of the adoption of the prelim- Residential Commercial of the report and to let the community weigh inary resolution or the resolution becomes in during public comment. All but one of the final at the expiration of this ten-day period public comment submissions were in favor and the Charter officer is terminated on that of removing the manager. date. If the public hearing is requested it shall Licensed and Insured • St. Lic. CCC046939 My letter, which I sent to the commis- be held not earlier than twenty (20) days or sion the day before, was read but not in its later than thirty (30) days after the adoption entirety. I noted when I submitted it that if of the preliminary resolution. the full letter could not be read due to time “After such public hearing, or after consid- constraints, that the last two paragraphs be eration of any written response, the commis- Roofi ng with read into the record. This was not done. So, I sion shall adopt a final resolution of removal will include it here: or let the preliminary resolution lapse.” “My heart breaks for my city (where I My main issue with what Everett and Hill grew up) as I have been actively watching stated was that if you read the full 50-page the name you trust! and attending city government meetings report, there is no further evidence or proof since high school. I have witnessed the many needed because this is the third report managers that have led Pahokee since Ken questioning the city manager’s actions. If the Schenck. The track record of Pahokee’s mu- state attorney or ethics commission find he Our services include: nicipal managers has been inadequate. This did not violate specific law(s), or no criminal to me is what makes what Williamson has charges are brought, what happens then? In • Re-Roofi ng allegedly done more egregious. Knowing our my mind, there are no more findings needed. history with firing managers and past issues What the manager did was wrong, plain and • Roof Repairs with former administrations, this manager simple. This municipal leader has had three has once again placed the city under further IG investigative reports issued which publicly • Roof Inspections scrutiny. criticized him in May 2019, February and “The commission must take swift action now June 2020. How can this manager be ef- to avoid a tenuous relationship between the fective in his duties for Pahokee when he has community and their elected body. It is time broken the trust of local, county, state and • Energy Effi cient Metal Roof Systems for the Pahokee City Commission to termi- federal levels of government, to say nothing nate the city manager with cause. Pahokee of the public? • Shingles must seek a capable and untarnished munic- The manager through his actions has ipal manager to renew Pahokee’s future.” placed an inescapable cloud of suspicion • Flat Roofs I was disturbed by a few observations over not only himself but indeed the city. at the special meeting. Vice Mayor Clara The commission will fall prey to the same if • Insulated Tapered Systems Murvin had no comment. Commissioner decisive, unanimous action is not taken. This Benny L. Everett III wants to wait for the final manager has proven he deserves swift re- for Flat Roofs findings by the Palm Beach County Ethics moval. Pahokee cannot continue to be para- Commission and the State Attorney’s Office lyzed by the detrimental actions of one man. to make a final decision on the manager’s In the end, the individual charged with the fate. Commissioner Felisia Hill also stated she day-to-day operations of the city has failed wanted to wait to see what comes from the to carry out his duties in a proper manner. 2XU)DPLOƯ6HUYLQŁ State’s Attorney’s Office. Mayor Keith Babb Repeated actions turned into a pattern, and did not have a personal comment on the that pattern morphed into willful negligence. matter. The city attorney waited more than Shockingly, what was not said at the spe-

Taiyla M. Mozoul, 18 Navy SEAL Museum adds a Trident House retreat CLEWISTON — Taiyla M. Mozoul passed away June 24, 2020 in Atlantis, Fla. By Navy SEAL Museum we honor their heritage by taking care of hosting more than 350 families to date at their families moving into the future. the riverfront home. The new location — She was born Feb. 27, 2002 in Fort Myers, FORT PIERCE — The Navy SEAL Muse- Fla., to Holly (Goodman) Adams. This new house is able to comfortably replacing the former — remains on the um is pleased to announce the acquisition accommodate our guests who visit Fort Indian River with access to the water in Fort She worked as a Guest Services Clerk at Port of a new Trident House respite house. The LaBelle Inn. She loved all types of music and Pierce, and it is conveniently located a new location will continue to be used for Pierce. enjoyed playing both electrical and acous- Navy Special Operations and their families stone’s throw from our museum.” tic guitar. She played video games with her as a complimentary refuge. Donated to the museum in 2012, the for- Obituaries friends and spent many hours talking on the In addition to the preservation of history mer Trident House is located in Sebastian. phone with them. She loved her cat Khali. and the education of the public, the mu- The Trident House has fi lled a great need, Survivors include her mother, Holly (Good- Sharon A Rives, 72 man) Adams; two brothers, Austin Adams seum’s mission is to support the Special LAKE HARBOR — Sharon A Rives passed and Alysia Adams; and grandfather, Larry Operations community through its Trident Obituaries away July 9, 2020 in Lake Harbor. Goodman. House Charities Program. She was born June She was a beautiful soul, and even in death Comprised of four pillars, the Trident 13, 1948 in Lake she donated her organs to help save others. House Charities Program utilizes its respite Helen W. Rudin, 93 Worth, Fla., to Butch OKEECHOBEE — Helen W. Rudin died house to host Gold Star families, Special and Betty (Miller) Helt. Arrangements by Akin-Davis Funeral Home June 18, 2020. She Mrs. Rives married Wil- - LaBelle. Operations Forces families in need of time was born July 7, 1926 liam R. Rives, Sr.; he together, and active duty Special Operations in Vienna, Missouri to survives. Sharon was Merrial ‘Mike’ Malcolm individuals seeking sabbatical. the late John and Clara a loving wife, mother, “The Trident House is central to the Buschman. A resident Rhoden, 69 grandmother and sis- museum’s mission,” said Rick Kaiser, ex- of Okeechobee for over OKEECHOBEE — Mike Rhoden ran through ter who will be dearly 30 years, she was a the gates of Heaven on July 10, 2020 while ecutive director of the Navy SEAL Museum. missed by everyone member of the St. The- resting peacefully. Mike “We continue the legacy of our Frogmen by who knew and loved her. She was a mem- resa of The Child Jesus was a lifetime resident preserving their history at the museum, and ber of Lake Harbor Community Methodist Church. She enjoyed of Okeechobee and a Church for many years. spending time with her member of Church of Obituaries family, church family, gardening, fishing, and Sharon leaves behind her loving husband of God of Okeechobee. Obituaries should be submitted to helping her friends – old and young alike. 54 years, William R. Rives, Sr. of Lake Harbor, He loved everybody Florida; son, William R. Rives. III and his wife Mrs. Rudin was preceded in death by her and never met a strang- the Lake Okeechobee News by emailing Tracey; four grandchildren; brother, Tim Helt; parents; and her husband, Tony Rudin, Jr. er. [email protected]. Customers may sisters, Ellen Smith and her husband Jerry, also request photos and links to online She is survived by her son, Terry A. Rudin Mike was born Oc- and Nola Anderson and her husband Ricky, tober 7, 1950 in Fort guestbooks. A link to the obituaries is (Terry S.), of Okeechobee; sister-in-law, Kath- and her many close friends. ryn Watson; and several nieces and nephews. Pierce. He loved his available at lakeokeechobeenews.com. Celebration of her life was held at 12 noon, church, listening to Gospel music, and spend- Memorial Mass will be 4 p.m. Saturday, July Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Ridgelawn Cem- ing time with his family. He was a member Richard Dean Burns, 90 18, 2020 at St. Theresa of The Child Jesus, etery. Visitation was held from 9-11 a.m. of The Social Butterfly Group that got together OKEECHOBEE — Richard Dean Burns died 1027 Chobee Loop BHR, Okeechobee, Flor- Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Lake Harbor United to bowl, play bingo, watch movies, and fish. ida 34974. July 12, 2020. He was born December 9, 1929, Methodist Church. Burial took place at Rid- Mike was preceded in death by his parents, in Flora, Indiana to Paul Those wishing to leave a message of gelawn Cemetery Clewiston, Florida. Milton and Charlotte Rhoden; sister, Norma and Marie (Peterson) condolence may sign the register book at, Celebration arrangements by Akin-Davis Fu- “Sue” Kemp; sister-in-law, Mandy Rhoden; Burns. He proudly www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com neral Home - Clewiston. grandparents, John and Olivia Rhoden and served his country in All arrangements are entrusted to the Lewis and Clemmie Waldron; and special the U.S. Navy aboard direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Richard (Rick) Walker cousin, Betty Boney. the USS Escape ARS6 Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- for four years. He is survived by his sister, Mary Jane rott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida, 34972. King, 70 Schoonmaker (Gibby); brothers, John Rho- He and his wife Richard (Rick) Walker King passed peace- den (Jess) and Jimmie Kemp; nieces and Marlene opened their Vietta ‘Vi’ McClain, 81 fully into the arms of his Lord Monday eve- nephews, Kyle Schoonmaker (Jill), Leland home to 100 children OKEECHOBEE — Vietta McClain, known ning, July 6, 2020 in Okeechobee, Florida. He (Billie Jo) Schoonmaker, Chris Kemp (Am- within the foster care as Vi, passed away on was 70 years of age. ber) John Kemp (Cindy), Wesley Kemp program as well as their children and grand- July 8, 2020 at the age Rick was born April 23, 1950, in Edmonton, (Regina), Jimbo Kemp (Christina), John children. Richard was an avid traveler as he of 81. She was born Alberta, Canada to Jack and May King. At six Robert Rhoden (Ana), Crystal Carter (Jeff), visited the seven continents of the world. in Indiana on July 11, months of age his family relocated to Detroit, all of Okeechobee; a host of great nieces, Richard relocated to Okeechobee in 1995 and 1938 and moved to Michigan where they became US citizens. great nephews, and cousins; aunts, Wanda was a member of the Okeechobee Presbyte- Florida as a young girl. A graduate of Hazel Park High School, Rick Spradlin, of Mt. Dora, Johnny (Stanlo), Brigh- rian Church. She was a graduate ton, Dora Helen Iish (Frank), of St. Louis, Mo., of Lake Worth High displayed an exceptional aptitude for working He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 65 on anything with wheels and an engine. He Deloris Vickers, of Okeechobee. years, Marlene Burns; son, Larry Cravens of St. in 1956 and alumni of University of Florida. worked at a number of automobile dealer- Visitation was 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, July Peters, Mo.; daughters, Pamela (Tom) Riegle ships in the Detroit area establishing himself 13, 2020 at Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Fu- of Muncie, Ind., Michelle Burns (Kurt Kriese) Go Gators! Vi had a long career with Evans Property for more than as a truly gifted mechanic, certified in all sys- neral Home. Funeral services were 10 a.m. of Indianapolis, Ind., Barbara (Mark) Carter tems. Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Church of God of of Montpelier, Va.; nine grandchildren; nine 25 years, retiring at the age of 75 as a purchas- ing manager. Rick enjoyed raising horses and served as Okeechobee. Interment followed at Ever- great-grandchildren; and special friends, Jon green Cemetery. and Katie Stead and family. Vi was predeceased by her parents, Oscar president of the Michigan Hackney Pony So- and Janetta Crabill. She will be joining her fa- ciety. He was also talented as an artist. As Those wishing to leave a message of Visitation will be held Wednesday, July an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing, condolence may sign the register book at, 15, 2020, from 3 p.m. until service time of 4 ther and mother in Indiana as her final resting place. hunting, boating, cooking, and Boy Scouts. www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com p.m. at Buxton & Bass Okeechobee Funeral He relocated to Okeechobee, Florida in 2008 Home. Vi will be greatly missed by her many friends. All arrangements are entrusted to the where he became a popular singer at the direction and care of the Buxton & Bass Those wishing to leave a message of Those wishing to leave a message of Okeechobee American Legion post. Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- condolence may sign the register book at condolence may sign the register book at, He is survived by two daughters, Mariah rott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972. www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com www.OkeechobeeFuneralHome.com King and Jackie King of Michigan; his partner, All arrangements are entrusted to the All arrangements are entrusted to the Jackie Williams of Okeechobee; his younger direction and care of the Buxton & Bass direction and care of the Buxton & Bass sister, Deborah King Horner (David) of Cali- Search obituaries nationally at Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- Okeechobee Funeral Home, 400 North Par- fornia; and older brother, John King (Lola) of http://www.legacy.com rott Avenue, Okeechobee, FL 34972. rott Avenue, Okeechobee, Florida 34972. Indiana; plus five nieces and nephews. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 7 Be safe in summertime: Grill fires peak in July

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News 5 account for an average of 2,000 of those away from the grill area, and never leave of children and away from heat sources. OKEECHOBEE — The summer grilling contact-type burns. your grill unattended. Never add charcoal fluid or any other flam- season is here, and outdoor cooking and • July is the peak month for grill fires • Keep your grill clean. Remove grease mable liquids to the fire. socially distanced picnic gatherings are a (18%), including both structure, outdoor or or fat buildup from the grills and in trays • When you are finished grilling, let the welcome change for families eager to get unclassified fires, followed by June (15%), below the grill. Always make sure your gas coals cool completely before transferring out and enjoy the warm weather. As fami- May (13%) and August (12%). grill lid is open before lighting it. them to a metal container for disposal. “According to the NFPA, three out of five lies and friends prepare their next outdoor Propane grills “Even if no one is injured, a home fire feast, professionals from SERVPRO, local households own a gas grill — and gas grills can be devastating. It can destroy not just fire and disaster remediation specialists, are the chief culprit in home grilling fires,” • Check the gas tank hose for leaks property but priceless memories and create urge Okeechobee-area property owners Rick Isaacson, CEO of Servpro Industries before using it for the first time each year. chaos in the aftermath,” added Isaacson. LLC, said. “And while grill-related fires peak to keep some sobering “grilling fire facts” • If you smell gas while cooking, imme- “Cleaning up after a fire can feel over- between May and August, nearly half of diately get away from the grill and call the from the National Fire Protection Associa- whelming because it often involves smoke home grillers use their grill year-round.” fire department. Do not move the grill. tion (NFPA) in mind. and water damage beyond the damage SERVPRO shares the following advice from • If the flame goes out, turn the grill and • Gas grills, hibachis and barbeques are from the flames. While we hope that these involved in an average of 8,900 home fires the NFPA with Okeechobee-area home- gas off and wait at least five minutes before guidelines will help Okeechobee-area each year, including 3,900 structure fires owners to help ensure that the only smoke relighting it. homeowners have a safe, fire-free grilling and 4,900 outdoor fires. Charcoal or other coming from their outdoor feast is from solid-fueled grills contribute to another their grill, and not from a property fire. Charcoal grills season, accidents can happen. If you do 1,300 home fires per year • A charcoal chimney starter uses news- experience a structure fire, our SERV- • An average of 19,700 patients each All grills paper as a fuel to start the charcoal. If you PRO-trained professionals can help get you year visit emergency rooms because of in- • Use your propane or charcoal grill out- use a starter fluid instead, use only charcoal on the road to normal, managing cleanup juries involving grills. Nearly half (9,500, or doors only. Place your grill away from your starter fluid. If you choose an electric char- efforts and helping with insurance and 48%) of the injuries are thermal burns from home or deck railings and out from under coal starter, make sure to use an extension recovery. When disaster strikes, our goal, fire (about 4,300) and from contact with eaves and overhanging branches. cord for outdoor use. always, is to make it seem ‘like it never hot objects (about 5,200). Children under • Keep children and pets at least 3 feet • Keep charcoal fluid out of the reach even happened’.” Wreaths Across America has virtual concert

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News there will be appearances from local vol- part of a program where $5 of each $15 community efforts who need support.” COLUMBIA FALLS, Maine, and NASH- unteers across the country who are giving wreath sponsorship received goes back In accordance with the CDC’s rec- VILLE, Tenn. — National nonprofit Wreaths back in their own communities through to them to be used locally for programs in ommendation against large gatherings Across America (WAA) is proud to an- their participation in the WAA program. their own community. Through this nation- stemming from concerns surrounding the nounce that, this year, it is producing a free, Performers will include, but are not al program, WAA has given back more than COVID-19 pandemic, this will be a live vir- virtual “Giving in July” concert on Facebook limited to: Craig Morgan, Chris Roberts, $12 million in local contributions over the tual concert that will be given online using to replace its annual “Stem to Stone Rally Lindsay Lawler, Mark Wills, The Bellamy last 11 years. Vimeo Livestream, with the help of Black in the Valley” weekend event in Maine. This Brothers, The Don Campbell Band, Darryl “WAA recognizes Giving in July as Fly Media and The Nashville Music Loft on family-friendly, virtual concert event will Worley and Six-String Soldiers. opposed to the well-known Christmas in the WAA Official Facebook page on Sunday, air live, nationwide on the WAA Official The event will also feature WAA Spon- July because our program works with local July 19, starting at 7 p.m. ET. All donations sorship Groups — such as like-minded civic sponsorship groups in communities across Facebook Page on Sunday, July 19, at 7 received from this event will be used to and youth groups, veteran service orga- the country who are giving back, year- p.m. ET, featuring patriotic musical guests sponsor fresh, balsam veterans wreaths who are supportive and appreciative of our nizations and other nonprofits — around round,” said Karen Worcester, executive to be placed by volunteers on National country’s veterans and their families, and the country that partner with WAA to raise director of WAA. “The local programs that the organization’s mission to Remember, money and awareness in their own com- benefit from this fundraising are oftentimes Wreaths Across America Day, Saturday, Honor and Teach. munities about the mission to Remember, the bridge to keeping community-based Dec. 19, at more than 2,100 particiapting The event will include a special message Honor and Teach. veteran initiatives going in small towns. locations nationwide. from Operation Red Wing lone survivor, Throughout the live event, viewers will Through your support of WAA now, both “Now, more than ever, we are excited to United States Navy SEAL (Ret.) Marcus Lut- have the opportunity to support these local nationally and on the local level, you are host this important virtual event to highlight trell and his wife, Melanie, from their home groups and participating cemeteries in their not only placing a wreath for a hero in all the good that unites us in communities in Texas. Also, during this virtual concert hometowns. The sponsorship groups are December, but helping give back to these across the country,” concluded Worcester. Children’s Home Society of Florida launches Storytime with CHS

Community leaders join proficiency by the end of third grade. of COVID-19,” says Andry Sweet, president Miami Dolphins running back #32 Pat- To help combat these gaps, and to and CEO of Children’s Home Society of rick Laird as well as stories from Attorney CHS to create a virtual provide a safe, educational activity for kids Florida. “Storytime with CHS offers families General of Florida Ashley Moody, Commis- library of children’s books and families in the midst of social distanc- something fun to do together or, if needed, sioner of Education Richard Corcoran and ing, Children’s Home Society of Florida has it provides parents a short — often needed Florida’s Teacher of the Year Dr. Dakeyan launched “Storytime with CHS,” a virtual — break, knowing their kids are engaged Graham, Sen. Aaron Bean representing Special to the Lake Okeechobee News library with honorary readers — including in a safe, positive activity. We’ve been over- Senate District 4, Rep. Travis Cummings VERO BEACH — When the COVID-19 members of Florida’s Cabinet, elected offi- whelmed by the support of our ‘honorary representing House District 18, several crisis catapulted Florida students into cials, media personalities, a Miami Dolphin readers’ who share our passion for bringing mayors, school board members and district distance learning overnight, it led to an and more — reading aloud their favorite the love of reading to more kids.” representatives, media personalities and early start to the traditional “summer books. Statistics show that one-third of low-in- leaders and friends of Children’s Home slide,” particularly for students in low-in- Elizabeth Glynn, philanthropy director come children are read to daily, and one Society of Florida. Storytime with CHS features a “story of come families. One in three parents living for the United Way of Martin County, is an in three U.S. children begin kindergarten the week,” which also includes an activity below the poverty level reported that they honorary reader reading “A Visitor for Bear” without the language skills needed to learn for kids to complete and share. are “very concerned” about their children by Bonny Becker and Kady MacDonald to read. Storytime with CHS aims to help Children’s Home Society of Florida falling behind in learning, according to a Denton. provide additional reading time for children continues to build the virtual library and National Public Radio article that revealed “We know many families are struggling who may not otherwise have such oppor- invites members of the community to the remote learning gaps for low-income to find easy opportunities for their kids to tunities. become involved, too. Those interested in students. This parallels with research that engage in fun and educational activities With an online library accessible on learning how to be part of Storytime with indicates that 80% of children living below right now, especially with the many nec- Facebook and Vimeo, Storytime with CHS CHS can visit chsfl.org/Storytime for more the poverty level fail to develop reading essary precautions we’re all taking in light includes “Goodnight Miami,” read aloud by information. 8 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

Okeechobee County Elks serves breakfast July 19 City charter reviewed Hendry County OKEECHOBEE — The Lake OKEECHOBEE — The City of Businesswomen to meet Okeechobee Elks, 131 N.W. 36th St., will Okeechobee is seeking volunteers to Meeting location changes host a pancake breakfast on Sunday, serve on a Charter Review Advisory Com- OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee LABELLE — In order to follow the Businesswomen’s Referral Network will July 19, from 8 to 11 a.m. All you can mittee. This is an opportunity to make a guidance for proper social distancing resume meetings on Friday, July 17, at eat pancakes, two sausage links, coffee difference in your community. Applicants measures, Hendry County is relocating Lakeside Grill, 1111 S. Parrott Ave., at 11:30 and OJ for a donation of $6. Add two must be city residents or own property the code enforcement special magistrate a.m. There will be no gift exchange. Please eggs your way for $2. Eat in or to go. For in the city limits. Applications will be hearing scheduled for July 16, at 9 a.m. wear a mask. For questions, call Raye at information, call 863-623-5738. accepted through Aug. 19. Applications to the LaBelle Civic Center, 481 W. Hick- 863-467-2557. can be downloaded from the website at pochee Ave. Face masks will be required HLT hosts mask gala cityofokeechobee.com/volunteer. Submit along with the social distancing protocols. completed applications to the Office Shrine Club serves dinner SEBRING — Highlands Little Theatre, For information, call 863-612-4761 or email of the City Clerk, 55 S.E. Third Ave., ashley.curry@hendryfla.net. OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee 356 W Center Ave., will host a Mask- Okeechobee, 34974. For more informa- Shrine Club, 1855 S.W. 53rd St., will serve A-Rade Gala on Saturday, July 25, at 7 tion, call 863-763-9814. catfish, meatball subs, hamburgers and hot p.m. Come enjoy a night filled with mu- Back to School event planned dogs in the Oasis Lounge on Friday, July sic, fun masks, cocktails, wonderful peo- LABELLE — The Back School Event 17, from 6 to 9 p.m. Music by Cowboy. ple and plenty of opportunities to donate Support the Blue fundraiser Planning Team will offer a drive-thru pick- Cover charge $3 at the door and will be de- to a great cause. Masks can be decorated OKEECHOBEE — Ray’s Combat Kick- up for this year’s event. The planning team ducted off meals ordered. For information, masquerade ball style or be a decorated boxing and Blueline Barbeque will host would like your agency/organization to call 863-763-3378. medical mask. There will be opportuni- a fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 22, from please drop off any brochures, fliers, infor- ties to bid on silent auction items along 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the park in front of mation and any school supplies you can Walk-up COVID-19 testing site with a contest for the people’s choice Ray’s Combat Kickboxing Fight Center, offer at the LaBelle Department of Health, mask throughout the evening. Tickets 415 S.W. Park St. Show support for local 1140 Pratt Blvd. (planning for 500 back- OKEECHOBEE — The Florida Depart- are $25 and available online at highland- men and women in blue by making a do- packs), by Friday, July 24. The team can ment of Health in Okeechobee, 1728 N.W. slakesidetheatre.org, or through the box nation for them to receive better training pack your information into the backpacks Ninth Ave., will have a walk-up COVID-19 office at 863-382-2525 Monday through and equipment for serving the commu- prior to the distribution. For information, testing site on Saturday, July 18, from 8:30 Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. nity here in Okeechobee. All funds raised call 239-433-7559. a.m. to 4 p.m. or until 500 people have will be split between the county and city been tested. Parking and testing will be in police department for training. back of the health department building. CCC holds virtual meeting Libraries host virtual program HENDRY — The Barron and Clewiston OKEECHOBEE — The Community Glades County Moose Lodge hosts events Collaborative Council will hold a virtual Libraries invite you and your family to meeting on Tuesday, July 28, at 10 a.m. in participate in the 2020 Virtual Summer OKEECHOBEE — The Moose Lodge Church holds food pantry Program “Imagine Your Story!” It will fea- #1753, 136 N.W. 36th St., will host the Room 102 at 700 S.W. Second Ave. Join Zoom Meeting: us02web.zoom.us/ MOORE HAVEN — Moore Haven ture fairy tale, science, adventure, musical, following events: On Wednesday, July 15, fantasy, and pirate themes! There will still three-card bingo is at 4:30 p.m. and the j/87577049368?pwd=ZElNMlJyTTN6TGsxc- Church of God of Prophecy, 399 Ave. E. DlaNmIxSUh6Zz09 N.W., will hold a food pantry on Saturday, be great programs that you can attend and kitchen opens at 5 p.m. On Thursday, July activities you can do - all online! Virtual 16, moose legion bingo is at noon and Meeting ID: 875 7704 9368 July 18, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Password: CCCJuly Summer Program is at this Facebook group there will be lunch. On Friday, July 17, (facebook.com/groups/CLEWISTONand- the kitchen opens at 5 p.m. On Saturday, Join the meeting at meet.google.com/ Back to School event planned vrb-dthj-vme. BARRONLIBRARIES) and will continue July 18, there will be a pot roast dinner at through Aug. 14. Join by phone at +1-786-886-2148 (PIN: MOORE HAVEN — The Back School 5 p.m. with salad, rolls, and dessert with Event Planning Team will offer a drive-th- music by Kathy & Danny from 6 to 9 p.m. 961519511) ru pick-up for this year’s event. The On Sunday, July 19, breakfast is from 8 to Palm Beach County planning team would like your agency/ 9:45 a.m. and three-card bingo is at 3:30 Caregivers workshop set p.m. organization to please drop off any bro- COVID-19 Walk up testing The Area Agency on Aging will hold chures, fliers, information and any school an Area Agency Virtual Workshop titled supplies you can offer at the Florida SOUTH BAY — State Rep. Tina Polsky, VBS to be held July 27-30 Powerful Tools for Caregivers on Tuesdays, Community Health Centers, 1021 Health in conjunction with CDR Maguire, GENET- OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee July 21, 28 and Aug. 4 and 11, from 10 Park Drive (planning for 300 backpacks), WORx Lab and the City of South Bay, has organized a free COVID-19 walk-up testing Church of the Nazarene, 425 S.W. 28th St., to 11:30 a.m. by Friday, July 24. The team can pack site for residents over 18 years old. This will hold Vacation Bible School — for kids For information or to register, call Mau- your information into the backpacks 5 years old through fifth grade — begin- reen at 561-684-5885 ext. 59103. event will take place on Tuesday, July 21, prior to the distribution. For information, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (seniors only will be ning Monday, July 27, through Thursday, call 863-946-0405. July 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. Dinner will be seen from 9 to 11 a.m.) at the Old Fire- served each night. Family fun night will Living Healthy workshop set house Bay, South Bay City Hall, 335 S.W. be held on July 30 with a water slide and Join a free “Living Healthy!” online Thrift store having sale Second Ave. There is no pre-registration, bounce houses. To ensure smaller group workshop on Wednesdays, July 15, 22, MOORE HAVEN — A Bountiful Barn no appointment, and no physician referral sizes and follow social distancing guide- 29 and Aug. 5, 12, 19, from 1 to 3 p.m. Thrift Store, 442 U.S. 27, is holding a 75% necessary for testing. Masks must be worn line, there will be a limit of 50 children. For information, call Sherry at 239-652- storewide sale for the month of July. They at the site and social distancing guidelines Register by July 20 at vbsmate.com/ 6900 ext 58240 or 866-413-5337. Pre-reg- are open Tuesday through Saturday, from will be observed. There are a limited num- Okeechobeechurchofthenazarene or visit ister. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. ber of , and testing will be conducted on a Facebook at Okeechobee Church of the first-come,first-served basis. Nazarene. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 9 Lake Okeechobee area churches plan services Hendry County OKEECHOBEE — Trinity OKEECHOBEE — Alpha Church, 1302 S.W. 32nd St., holds Sunday Free Will Baptist Church, Ministries at Freedom Ranch, CLEWISTON — Faith Lutheran Church Service at 10:30 a.m. and Bible study is 1840 N.E. 39th Blvd. (Cemetery 11655 U.S. 441 S.E., will hold held on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Livestream in Clewiston, 810 Cedar St., and St. Peter’s Road), will hold church services Sunday services at 11 a.m. Chil- services via their Facebook page. Pastor Lutheran in Belle Glade hold live and online on Sunday from 10 a.m. to dren’s Church will not be held at services on Sunday, at 10:30 a.m. Live services noon and Wednesday Bible this time. Pastor John Glenn. For Dave Robertson. For information, call 863- will be held at the Clewiston location only. On- Study from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Pastor information, call 863-763-9800; 763-8945 or 863-801-1297; email fountainof- line services are on Faith Lutheran’s Facebook Thomas Dees. Face masks and alphaministries.org; churchinthe- [email protected]; or visit page. Those attending services are required social distancing are required. woodsokeechobee.org; offi ce@ to keep social distancing and wear masks. For folifechurch.net. For information, call 863-763- alphaministries.org; or visit their OKEECHOBEE — North Church of information, call Pastor Angel Ramos at 786- 4962. Facebook page. Social distancing 398-3604. OKEECHOBEE — Westside Christian is practiced at services. God, 15949 N.W. 30th Terrace, holds Sunday Glades County Church, 8082 SR 70 W., will host Sunday OKEECHOBEE — Brighton Baptist services at 11 a.m. and Wednesday evening services at 10 a.m. and Bible study on Wednes- Church, 24050, State Road 70 W., will hold services at 7 p.m. The pastor is Don Leon. For BUCKHEAD RIDGE — Buckhead Ridge days at 6:30 p.m. Both will be livestreamed. Sunday morning worship service at 11 a.m. information, call 863-634-0344. Baptist Church, 1731 Hunter Road, will hold Social distancing will be observed. The Sunday morning preaching service is now Sunday School at 9:45 a.m., and morning OKEECHOBEE — Treasure Island OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee on Facebook. The pastor is Calvin H. Fryar. Baptist Church, 4209 Hwy. 441 S.E., holds service 11 a.m. Social distancing will be in Missionary Baptist Church, 4212 U.S. 441, For information, call 863-763-3063 or 863-447- practice. will host Sunday Bible school at 9:45 a.m. and 0639. services on Sunday at 10:30 a.m. with Sunday BUCKHEAD RIDGE — St. Theresa of the worship at 10:45 a.m. The Baptist Training OKEECHOBEE — First Baptist Church school at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday and Sunday Child Jesus Catholic Church, off State Road Course will be on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and of Okeechobee (ROC), 401 S.W. Fourth St., evening services are held at 6:30 p.m. Pastor 78 at Chobee Loop, has reopened the church Sunday night worship is at 6:30 p.m. Social Douglas T. Ryan. For information, call 561-541- with Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. will hold Sunday services at 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m. distancing will be practiced. and 4 p.m. Senior pastor is Mark McCarter. For 7087 or visit treasureislandbaptistchurch.com. LAKEPORT — Lakeport Christian OKEECHOBEE — Northside Baptist information, call 863-763-2171, email mail@ Church, 10947 State Road 78, is open on Sun- Church, 51 N.W. 98th St., hosts Sunday OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee Church days at 10:30 a.m. for worship. Face masks are School at 10:30 a.m. followed by worship at 11 fbcokee.org, or visit fbcokee.org. of the Trinity, 1857 U.S. 441, holds services recommended and practice social distancing a.m. Wednesday evening bible study begins at OKEECHOBEE — Church of Our Sav- on Sunday at 10 a.m. and Bible study on for the safety of members and visitors. No 6:30 p.m. iour Episcopal, 200 N.W. Third St., holds Wednesday at 7 p.m. Youth services are held plates will be passed. Offerings may be placed OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee Presby- regular services on Sunday, at 8 a.m. and 10 during the week. in the plates made available. Communion is MUST terian Church, 312 N. Parrott Ave., is open a.m. If you plan to attend you call or OKEECHOBEE — Calvary Chapel distributed individually. You will be welcomed for worship on Sundays at 10 a.m. in the Fel- text Jeanie at 607-759-6560 and let her know but there will be no handshaking. of Okeechobee, 212 S. Parrott Ave. in lowship Hall. (Use the Fourth Street entrance.) which Mass you will be attending. Masks are LAKEPORT — Point of Light Fellowship Family groups may sit together, others will required Okeechobee, holds in-person services on Church, 15399 E. SR 78, is hosting Sunday and social distancing of 6 feet will be need to maintain social distancing. kept. The 10:30 a.m. Mass will be live recorded Sunday at 10 a.m. Bible student will be held services at 10:30 a.m. Social distancing will be BASINGER — Community Church of on Tuesday and Thursday at 7 p.m. Zoom practiced. Services are also on Facebook on and shown on Facebook (churchofoursaviou- Basinger, 19836 U.S. 98 N., will host Sunday meeting will be held. Pastor Carlos Amador. Sunday mornings at 10:45 a.m. and Tuesday morning services at 11 a.m. and live on Face- rokeechobee) and the drive-up communion CDC guildines will be followed including social nights at 6:30 p.m. at facebook.com/PointOfLi- book. No children’s church at this time. will continue from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ghtFellowship. OKEECHOBEE — Sacred Heart Catholic those not yet ready to attend in person. If you distancing seating and masks. Temperatures MOORE HAVEN — Moore Haven Church Church, 901 S.W. Sixth Street, Okeechobee, have underlying health conditions, it is advised will be taken at the door. For information, call of God of Prophecy, 399 Avenue E, is has reopened the church building to the that you do not attend the in-person services. 863 623-5283, email at pastorcarlos_calvary@ holding Sunday services at 10:30 a.m. Social public. Daily Mass, Monday through Friday, is OKEECHOBEE — Freedom Baptist aol.com, or visit calvaryokeechobee.org. distancing will be observed. Hand sanitizer will at 8:30 a.m. in English. Wednesday and Friday, Church, 1902 S. Parrott Ave. (next to Wolf- OKEECHOBEE — Oakview Baptist be available and some masks but the public is Mass is at 7:30 p.m. in Spanish. Saturday encouraged to bring their own. gang Jewelers), will hold Sunday morning Church, 677 S.W. 32 Street, is having Sunday Vigil Mass is 4:30 p.m. in English, 7:30 p.m. worship at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday evening MOORE HAVEN — First United Meth- in Spanish. Sunday Mass is 10 a.m. in English morning services at 10:30 a.m. service will be held via livestream at 7 p.m. on odist Church of Moore Haven continues and 12:45 p.m. in Spanish. Those who attend OKEECHOBEE — The Seventh Day their Facebook page. For information, call 863- online services at fumcmoorehaven.com/ services are asked to wear a face mask, and Christian Church, 912 N.W. Park St./S.R. 70 sermons. On June 14, the bishop will conduct 447-1805 Pastor Mike Worf. maintain social distancing by sitting only in W., invites the public to their Friday service the online services. Updates on changes to OKEECHOBEE — More 2 Life Ministries, spots designated by blue crosses (couples held at 7:30 p.m. and Sabbath School is held services may be announced at that time. may sit together). Bathrooms will not be open. Osceola Middle School Gym, holds Sunday MOORE HAVEN — St. Joseph the Work- Please do not congregate before of after Mass sehrvices at 10 a.m. You can watch services on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Social distancing of 6 er Catholic Church, on U.S. 27 in Moore inside or out of the church. Services are also live online at m2lministries.com. The pastor feet will be required. Haven, has reopened. Masses are Saturdays at Editor’s note: Add your church service still available via Facebook. is Cary McKee. For information, call 863-467- 7:30 p.m. (Spanish) and Sundays 8 a.m. OKEECHOBEE — Everglades Baptist 0796. updates to this list. Email information to okee- Okeechobee County Church is holding services on the church OKEECHOBEE — Fountain of Life [email protected] or call 863-763-3134. property across the street from the Everglades OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee Chris- tian Church, 3055 SE 18th Terrace, will Elementary School bus loop (faces Southeast host Sunday School at 10:30 a.m. (no chil- Sixth Street). Service are at 8:30 a.m. every Your Largest Fence Post dren’s service at this time) and Bible study Sunday indefi nitely. Bring your own chair. on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Social distancing is Social distancing will be observed. There are Supplier in South Florida practiced. no evening services until further notice. Okeechobee code enforcement magistrate hearing set The Works! OKEECHOBEE — An Okeechobee County code enforcement special magistrate Gaucho Alligator Fence hearing will take place July 21 at 2 p.m. in the Health Department Auditorium, 1728 N.W. Ninth Ave., Okeechobee, to hear cases involving code virolations on properties owned by: Gerald Acheson, Mattie Taylor, Linda Walls, Robert and Vera Kolovrat, Jamie Walpole Rubino, James Conroy, Rufus and Joelle Rhoden, Kyle Upham, Stephen Hall, Barney Feed & Supply Co. and Krista Stotz, Joe Ann Barton, Victor Sanchez, Marueen Sheets, Caroll Thomas Sr. and Patricia Thomas. Room seating capacity will be limited, screening will be con- ducted before entering the auditorium and all persons are required to wear masks. For 763-6905 more information, call 863-763-5548 ext 3077. Hwy 98 N. Okeechobee All Sizes Posts Staples 10 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 OCEA seeks answers from school district

By Richard Marion “There’s not going to be a substitute eat meals in traditional classroom space concrete plans set. The results of a recent Lake Okeechobee News for in-person instruction,” said Gov. or outdoors. survey conducted by the school district DeSantis at a June 11 press conference. OCEA met with the Okeechobee asking residents how they’d prefer the OKEECHOBEE — The Okeechobee “Getting back on our feet in the school School District on June 29 to discuss the upcoming school year to happen were County Education Association is look- year I think is going to be really important reopening of schools. The union present- brought up. According to Bortello, the ing for answers on how schools will be for the well-being of our kids. But I also ed two memorandum of agreements to survey showed that 50 percent of those reopening safely this coming August. think it is important for our parents who the district. The agreements included a responding said they wanted to have Last week the Florida Department of have had to juggle an awful lot over these list of things teachers and staff would like school return to face to face instruction, Education released an order which stated last couple months.” to see happen in the upcoming school with 30 percent saying they wanted to that upon reopening in August, all school At the press conference the state year such as the district providing face continue distance learning and 20 percent boards and charter school governing released recommendations to reduce the masks and clarifying who and how the preferring a live virtual class. boards must open brick and mortar risk to students and simplify contact trac- cleaning should be done. “There are all kinds of questions that schools at least five days per week for all ing if needed. Recommendations includ- “We would like to be able to offer vir- need to be asked before we can reopen students. ed practices such as keeping groups of tual positions for those teachers and staff these schools,” said Botello. “It’s not The order came a month after Gov. students together throughout the day to that are compromised by going into work just a simple matter of pouring Clorox Ron DeSantis called for schools to be minimize the number of people in close and being exposed to any carriers of the and wiping things down. It’s a matter of reopened at full capacity, signaling his contact with each person, converting coronavirus,” explained OCEA President how are going to handle this logistical desire to move away from the distance cafeterias, libraries, gymnasiums, audi- Jorje Bortello. nightmare with time ticking away and the learning model districts employed toriums, outdoor areas into classroom He described the June 29 meeting as union not being able to have a voice in throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. space and exploring allowing students to more of a brainstorming session with no this.” Dairies get much-needed PPP loans By Richard Marion the pandemic. Today’s data shows that of business. At the beginning of 2020, it what we are doing.” Lake Okeechobee News small businesses of all types and across all looked like the industry was just starting to Four dairy farms in Okeechobee were industries benefited from this unprecedent- climb out of the valley it had been in since able to be approved for the PPP loan, in- OKEECHOBEE — According to data re- ed program. The jobs numbers released 2015. After years of losing money, farms cluding Larson Dairy and Macarthur Farms. leased by the United States Treasury Depart- last week reinforced that PPP is working by started breaking even or becoming profit- The data website Quiver Quantitative ment and Small Business Administration keeping employees on payroll and sustain- able again. But the recovery lasted only a took the PPP loan information released and (SBA), local dairies in Okeechobee were ing millions of small businesses through few months before COVID-19 hit. mapped out each recipient geographically. able to receive some much needed relief this time.” “It’s a matter of how long can you go Information in that dataset included the from the Paycheck Protection Program The data released was for recipients of without paying your bills,” said dairy farmer name of the business, addresses, zip codes, (PPP). loans between $150,000 and $10 million. Ben Butler of the crash. “Banks are going business type, name of lender, and jobs Only July 6 SBA announced it was to do what they can to work with farmers, The dairy industry was particularly hard supported. releasing detailed loan-level data regarding but at some point the bank is going to say hit by the COVID-19 shutdowns, which Walpole Inc. and Okeechobee Health- the loans made under PPP designed to help they can’t do any more. I can tell you if we caused the price of milk to crash dramati- care Facility were the two recipients of the businesses survive the COVID-19 pandemic. start getting two and three months into cally. largest PPP loans in Okeechobee, with each “The PPP is an indisputable success for this, you start asking yourself where you’re The market crash put even more stress receiving between $2 to $5 million. small businesses, especially to the commu- gonna go. Any dairy farmer who tells you on over-leveraged dairy farms that have You can see the map of PPP loans nities in which these employers serve as the they haven’t thought about life after dairy been in survival mode for the past few farming isn’t telling you the truth. These last generated by Quiver Quantitative by visiting main job creators,” said SBA administrator years. In the last four to five years, farmers four years has caused all of us to question www.quiverquant.com/sources/sbaloans. Jovita Carranza. “In three months, this not only in Okeechobee but across the administration was able to act quickly to country have dealt with an oversupply get funding into the hands of those who problem and a tit-for-tat trade war that kept Free masks available in Okeechobee faced enormous obstacles as a result of prices stagnant and put many farms out Special to the Lake Okeechobee News • Okeechobee Extension Office, 458 U.S. 98; Staff member at NES tests OKEECHOBEE —The Okeechobee Health • Chamber of Commerce, 55 S. Parrott Ave.; Department has provided thousands of cloth • Welcome House, 242 U.S. 441; face masks to local business and organizations • Pat’s Floral Design, 210 N Parrott Ave.; positive for COVID-19 for distribution to the public. “The two most • Okeechobee County Historic Courthouse important things you can do to slow the spread lobby, 304 N.W. Second St.; By Richard Marion have potentially been exposed, the De- of COVID-19 in our community are use the face • My Aunt’s House, 111 N.E. Second St.; Lake Okeechobee News partment of Health will reach out to you covering and maintain 6 feet of social distanc- • OUA, 100 S.W. Fifth Ave.; • Suncoast Medical, 412 N.E. Park St.; as a part of the contact tracing efforts.” ing,” said Tiffany Collins. OKEECHOBEE– The Okeechobee Cloth face coverings distribution sites • Urgent Care, 305 N.E. Park St.; County School District reports that a staff Summer school activities are currently include: • East Coast Migrant Head Start, 305 N.E. member at North Elementary School has taking place at North Elementary. • Okeechobee Public Library, 206 S.W. 16th Park St.; tested positive for COVID-19. The confirmation of a positive St.; • Douglas Park Neal Store, 820 N.W. Park St.; In a statement published by Assistant COVID-19 case in the school system came • Okeechobee Parks & Recreation, 1718 • La Fiesta, 1774 State Road 70 Superintendent of Administrative Ser- just five days before the Okeechobee N.W. Ninth St.; • La Placita, 1002 N.W. Park St.; • El Bravo, 802 E. North; vices Dylan Tedders, the district said the County School Board’s scheduled meet- • Senior Services, 1690 N.W. Ninth Ave.; • Okeechobee City Hall, 55 S.E. Third Ave.; • La Azteca, 619 E. Park St.; individual has not been on campus since ing on July 14, their first of the 2020-21 their initial symptoms surfaced and that • Chobee Grocery, 805 N.E. 13th Ave.; • Radio Fiesta and WOKC, 3936 S.E. 18th school year. Terrace; efforts are underway for identification of • Okeechobee Clerk of Courts, 312 N.W. “We will provide more information • Brennan Eye Care, 710 S. Parrott Ave.; those who may have had direct contact Third St.; as it becomes available,” continued the • Our Village, 17-3 S.W. Second Ave.; • Okeechobee Discount Drugs, 203 Park with the staff member. • Morgan’s Furniture, 707 S.W. Park St.; Street; “We are working closely with the statement. “This is not the time to panic, but to be observant of symptoms that • Piper’s Screen Printing, 120 S.W Seventh • Big Lake Missions, 605 N.W. 16th St.; Department of Health for identification of Ave. • City of Okeechobee Police Department, 50 those in direct contact,” read the state- could develop within the next 14 days. • Okeechobee Health Department front S.E. Second Ave.; ment from Tedders. “We will assist in the You may want to seek advice on testing desk, 1728 N.W. Ninth Ave.; • Okeechobee Emergency Operations Cen- department’s efforts to provide informa- from a medical professional or immedi- • Okeechobee Clerk of Courts, 312 N.W. ter, 707 N.W. Sixth St.; tion in regards to contact tracing. If you ately if symptoms arise.” Third St.; • El Ranchito, 3901 U.S. 441 N. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 11 School Board faces challenges planning for reopening By Danika J. Fornear “Not only do we have teachers who will collectively gasped. He added, “We need in order to be able to run the school in the Lake Okeechobee News go the extended day but we have principals to pray that we don’t get hit by a storm, event of a catastrophic exposure to the that will go the extra mile, Puletti said. “Mrs. because we are going to have to open virus. LABELLE – Hendry County School Board Busin, we don’t even know the questions shelters simultaneously.” Explaining the Busin suggested there could be a plan members discussed the many challenges and problems we’re going to encounter extreme challenges faced with social dis- for local resident shelters and shelters for they face with the August reopening of when we reopen. We haven’t even antici- tancing with numerous people in a shelter non-locals, to which Puletti said was an schools for the 2020-21 school year, during pated them. We don’t know what we don’t situation, people arriving from outside the excellent idea. the regular meeting held virtually on July 7. know,” he added. district, taking temperatures and having to Busin also recommended that the Some of these have plans in the works and “I agree,” Busin responded, “They find ways to isolate anyone with a fever, board hold their next meeting in person, solutions on the horizon; some challenges always dig deep, and they always do what and even the challenges presented when as a show of leadership while asking for have yet to even be identified. they need to do. But you don’t want to burn people arrive at the shelter with their pets, students to return to school. The others An email from a concerned parent was them out.” Puletti said that he and some members of agreed. read aloud by Superintendent Paul Pulet- The action item regarding the bus routes emergency management would be touring The next regular Hendry County School ti, ”Hello. To whom it may concern, this and schedules was passed by a unanimous the schools to come up with a plan. He also Board Mmeeting is scheduled for July 21 email is regarding the opening of schools vote. pointed out that schools would each have at 5:30 p.m. in Clewiston. The plan for in the fall. I have two kids attending public Cautioning everyone that the pandemic an appointed “designated survivor,” a staff opening will be discussed, and finalized at schools in LaBelle, and I really think it was “forever going to change the delivery member who would avoid any exposure, that time. would be irresponsible to open schools for of education, not just in Hendry County but kids and ignore the increase in COVID-19 throughout Florida,” Puletti went on, “and cases in Florida. If the governor does not we need to be aware of that. We need to care for our kids’ health, we must step up be as cautious and prudent and judicial as ELECTION NOTICE and care for our children and protect them. possible.” In order to protect them, school should “We don’t have all the answers. Folks, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE stay closed. We saw what happened when this plan is not perfect,” Puletti said, also the governor opened beaches; the cases recognizing the spectrum of reactions PUBLIC TESTING FOR THE were up. I don’t want to see that happen parents. He acknowledged that many are with children who go back to school. I “hesitant and nervous about sending their August 18, 2020 hope you will consider my opinion as well kids back,” and there were also those who PRIMARY ELECTION as other parents who really care about our demanded schools reopen, out of necessity Testing will be conducted on July 29, 2020, beginning at 2:00 p.m. kids’ health. Sincerely, Irma Delgado from for child care as they return to work. One at the Supervisor of Elections Office, 25 E. Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle. LaBelle.” of the biggest challenges with the plan was The superintendent said he will contact that they were unsure of how many chil- CANVASSING BOARD MEETINGS Dr. Joe Pepe at the health department to dren would be returning to which schools, The Canvassing Board will convene at the Supervisor of Elections Office located at 25 E. discuss the safety concerns if they open but that there were a myriad of other Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle on: schools. concerns. “Like we said in March, it’s not August 13, at 5:00 p.m. “I truly feel for this parent for her August 14, at 5:00 p.m. August 15, at Noon just learning how to fly a plane, it’s learning August 17, at 5:00 p.m. August 18, at 5:00 p.m. concerns, and for all of our parents and how to fly a plane while you’re building the August 20, at 5:00 p.m. August 25, at 4:00 p.m. children who are concerned and worried plane,” he said. for the purpose of Canvassing Vote by Mail Ballots, Early Ballots, Provisional Ballots, about returning to school, and we just need Puletti explained that the plan would and the Votes cast in the August 18th Primary Election. to ensure that we do it as safely as possi- adhere to CDC guidelines as they relate to The Canvassing Board will also select the precinct for the Post Audit. ble,” said Puletti. COVID-19 as closely as possible, but many During a discussion about bus routes instances would not make that possible. THE PUBLIC TESTING, CANVASSING, CERTIFICATION and schedules, Board Chairwoman Steph- “For example, if we had to follow CDC AND POST ELECTION AUDIT ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC anie Busin brought up a concern about guidelines for bus transportation, we would POST AUDIT children arriving early to campus, when no need four times the amount of buses we The Canvassing Board will convene for the Post Audit on August 25, at 4:00 p.m. teachers would be present. She said that currently have.” according to the proposed schedule, 18 Students will have to wear masks on bus loads of children would arrive before buses, and will be screened upon arrival AVISO DE ELECCIONE a teacher would normally be scheduled to in a separate room, temperatures taken, ES POR ESTE MEDIO DADO QUE LA PRUEBA be on campus. This didn’t include any early before being allowed to attend school for PUBLICA DE LAS ELECCIÓN PRIMARIA drop-offs by personal vehicles, which was the day. DEL 18 DE AGOSTO DE 2020 another concern. She was also concerned He repeated that unless the Hendry La prueba se conducira el 29 de Julio 2020, comenzando a las 2:00 pm en la Oficina de about having staff work too many hours to Department of Health issued a statement Supervisor de Elecciones, 25 E. Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle. solve this issue. saying it would not be safe for the children Puletti said that they were well aware to return, schools in Hendry would reopen. REUNION DE LA JUNTA DE ESCRUTINIO of this problem, and were in the process The concern for a plan regarding La Junta de Escrutinio se reunirá en la Oficina de Supervisor de Elecciones of coming up with a plan. He explained hurricane shelters during all of the current en 25 E. Hickpochee Ave, LaBelle: that he wasn’t sure exactly what that plan turmoil was brought up by School Board 13 de Agosto a las 5:00 pm 14 de Agosto a las 5:00 pm 15 de Agosto a las Noon looked like yet, but that they would come member Jon Basquin, “We are in hurricane 17 de Agosto a las 5:00 pm 18 de Agosto a las 5:00 pm up with a method to alleviate any concerns season; any idea what that’s looking like for 20 de Agosto a las 5:00 pm 25 de Agosto a las 4:00 pm about children being on campus early and shelters?” con el propósito de solicitacion boletas ausentes del Escrutinio, y boletas de votar tempra- having adults there, either parents or staff, “Thank you for bringing that nightmare no, boletas provisionales, y los votos emitidos en la Elección Primaria del 18 de Agosto. La to supervise them. up!” replied Puletti, as the rest of the board Junta de Escrutinio también seleccionará el precinto para la auditoría posterior. LA PRUEBA PÚBLICA, ESCRUTINIO, CERTIFICACION Y Junior golf camp starts POST ELECTORALES ESTÁN ABIERTAS AL PÚBLICO CLEWISTON — Clewiston Golf Course is offering a junior golf program for chil- dren ages 6-11, designed to expose golf to juniors of all ability levels. These junior AUDITORIA POSTERIOR golf camps, featuring the PGA Sports Academy and The First Tee powered by United La Junta de Escrutinio se reunirá para la auditoría posterior el dia 25 de Agosto a las 4:00 pm. Healthcare curriculum, will help youths learn to play golf and have fun in the process. Brenda Hoots The camps will be offered by PGA professionals in a group environment from Monday, Supervisor of Elections Hendry County, Florida July 20, to Firday, July 24, for the affordable price of $150 for the five-day camp, from F.S. 101.68 8:30 a.m. to noon each day, or the daily option of $40 a day. This program is designed F.S. 101.5612 to teach juniors long-term athletic development to produce lifelong golfers. For more F.S. 101.591 information, please contact the Clewiston Golf Course at 863-983-1448. 46 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Glades County’s financials complicated by COVID-19

By Chris Felker lot of that came from savings on person- and financial results including, but not lim- Mainly that stems from a lack of written Lake Okeechobee News nel costs,” but he also noted that the big ited to, costs for emergency preparedness policy and procedure, he said, which MOORE HAVEN — The Glades County elephant in the room is the unknown and shortages of personnel. Management should include a checklist of require- Board of Commissioners received a mixed costs from “subsequent events related to believes the county is taking appropriate ments that is compiled by the SHIP office, financial report from its accounting firm the COVID-19 impact.” He said, “Nobody actions to mitigate the negative impact. checked through financial review processes CliftonLarsonAllen LLP during the regular knows what those impacts are going to be However, the full impact of COVID-19 is un- and then double-checked by the county meeting Tuesday, July 14. … nobody knows the number” for total known and cannot be reasonably estimated manager. Kessler told the commissioners, Firm Principal Christopher Kessler costs — or, as yet, for total grant funding as these events occurred subsequent to “We talked through this with manage- appeared to present the report and discuss or potential federal reimbursements. He year-end and are still developing.” ment, and the county has completed their its findings. said a great number of federal, state and The not-so-good part of the report corrective action plans.” All this led to SHIP This year there was good news and private grant programs are now becoming concerned documentation of expenses for Coordinator Cindy Ricker giving a some- not-so-good news. While Glades County’s available due to the COVID pandemic and the SHIP Program (State Housing Incen- what defensive response about how time “total net position” decreased by about $1.1 that meticulous documentation is going to tives Partnership), but “nothing we found crunches happen since SHIP funding must million over fiscal year 2019 (ending Sept. be critical for governments such as counties indicated mismanagement or anything like be expended in a certain time. But the ac- 30), “the net position of our business-type going forward. that,” Kessler said. Rather, he explained: counting firm representatives and commis- activities increased by approximately “Subsequent to year-end,” the 109- “We were unable to determine that the sioners hastened to assure her that no one $116,000 and net position of our govern- page financial report explains, “the World SHIP program was in compliance … It’s a was questioning or criticizing her work. mental activities decreased by approximate- Health Organization declared the spread of very complex program, not an easy state “Come up with a written standard ly $1.2 million.” At the end of the fiscal year, Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) a world- program to administer, with lots of rules operating procedure, create a written policy the unassigned fund balance for the general wide pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic is and regulations, lots of applications and including even a checklist,” he advised the fund was about $7.2 million, 36% of total having significant effects on global markets, processes.” He said the firm found what commissioners. “With all the new funding general fund expenditures. supply chains, businesses and communi- they termed “lack of documentation on sources, what’s most important is that you Kessler told the commissioners, “You’re ties. Specific to the county, COVID-19 may some issues such as income verification, keep as detailed records and documenta- in a positive position this year … and a impact various parts of its 2020 operations encumbered funding, etc.” tion as possible,” Kessler said.

Marvin also described the time Mr. Sult BOYS SCHOOL issued a frightening warning that stuck with him throughout his entire life. Continued From Page 1 “He said, ‘if you keep running your little black mouth you’ll end up like your friend,” Four years after that meeting the first 50 Marvin recounted. boys were transferred to the Okeechobee Marvin’s friend, a boy named Tony, had campus from Marianna along with 20 staff disappeared one day. Tony would run away members. because when he was whipped they would The Florida School for Boys in Marian- also hit him in the face. na already had a history of abuse by the “They last time they caught him, he time the newer satellite campus opened. was so messed up he couldn’t sit down,” When some staff members transferred to Marvin recalled. “He disappeared. They said Okeechobee from Marianna, it appeared he ran away. When they found him he was they brought the abusive practices with inside the sewer plant. He drowned in all them. that waste.” “They say Marianna was tough, but “But Tony could swim,” Marvin added, I think Okeechobee was tougher,” said his voice quieter. “He was a good swim- Marvin L. Mike in a 2009 interview with mer.” the Okeechobee News. Marvin spent 18 Others who were at the boys school in Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ Florida Memory months at the Okeechobee campus in the 60’s tell similar stories. This picture depicts the construction of a dormitory at the Florida School for 1961. Micheal Anderson was at the reform Boys in Okeechobee as it stood on Aug. 21, 1958. “They would make boys run away school from 1965 to 1967. He runs a web- just so they could beat them,” continued site at www.okeechobeereformschool.com left my soul that day,” Micheal concluded. human remains said to be at the former Marvin. “It would make you cry if you saw where he details what his time was like Records indicate that Florida Governor Florida School for Boys. Unlike a similar what went on.” in Okeechobee. In one particularly harsh Claude Kirk toured the facility in 1967 and search at the Marianna campus which Frank Zych, the former superintendent episode, Micheal describes being sent to labeled conditions there as “deplorable.” turned up 32 unmarked graves, none were and deputy superintendent of the Florida the infamous “Adjustment Unit” after staff According to the book “Private Prisons” found in Okeechobee. School for Boys in Okeechobee, would at the school found a lone cigarette under by Charles H. Logan, the state had sought In 2017 G4S Youth Services was re- administer corporal punishment himself. his pillow. to close the Florida School for Boys in named TrueCore Behavioral after being “When you walked in there was a desk, He was beat with a leather strap similar Okeechobee but found it could not afford bought by BHSB Holdings Inc. for $56.5 and chairs in front of the windows where to the one that was used on Marvin Mike. to do so. million. BHSB Holdings itself was acquired you sat and waited for the whipping,” “The pain was excruciating,” says “For years it allowed the facility to deteri- by the Minnesota-based investment group explained Marvin. “You look to the left and Micheal in a blog written about the pun- orate, with no money budgeted for physical Spell Capital Mezzanine only a month prior there was Mr. Zych’s office and to the right ishment. “At one point I was trembling improvements. Conditions were bad and in March 2017. was a small room. It was just big enough so violently that one of the men said ‘you led to a lawsuit filed by the ACLU and other Now after December TrueCore’s con- to get in there. In the room was a bed, like better stop that shaking boy or we gonna groups charging “cruel and abusive condi- tract for the facility will expire. And Florida an old bunk bed, with a pillow. There was have to start over.’ I stopped immediately. tions and confinement,” wrote Mr. Logan. DJJ spokesperson Amanda Slama says that blood, vomit and slobber on it. They didn’t My buttocks were burning so intensely that Instead of closing the school, state offi- state will not procure further services at the wash it, they would just wipe it off.” it felt like someone had poured gasoline on cials opted to privatize it. site. Marvin, who was 12 years old when he them and set them ablaze. I cannot remem- In 1982, the school was taken over by “I was released on a Thursday,” said was first sent to the school, said the leather ber if there was blood. I just remember the Eckerd Foundation and became known Micheal Anderson of his last day at the strap used by Mr. Zych was smooth and having a horrible back ache and trying to lie as the Eckerd Youth Development Center. Okeechobee school in 1967. “And while about 4-to 5-inches wide. But the strap used down on my back was impossible. I could Then in 2009 the non-profit Eckerd Founda- driving off campus, I reached for a cigarette, by the school superintendent W.M. Sult was not sit to eat. I had to stand up. I slept for tion lost the contract to operate the youth lit up and blew a bunch of smoke out of the the most damaging. many nights on my stomach and sleeping offender facility to G4S Youth Services, a car window as we slowly drove past one “Mr. Sult would use a strap that had on my side was out of the question. I stayed for-profit provider. of the swing blade crews. One of the guys holes in it,” he said. “When he beat you in lock-up for two more weeks for a total of In 2015 the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s looked up and began smiling broadly. I with that one he intended to tear your hide six weeks. I had lost more weight.” Office conducted a search of the property smiled back as we drove off campus, never up. It would pull the hide from you.” “All things precious, tender and lovely with six cadaver dogs for long rumored to return again.” July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 13 Lollis calls for Floridians to work together By Katrina Elsken Lollis began working in the Florida Cattlemen’s Magazine, Lollis sion and share our heritage with others who Lake Okeechobee News at Archbold’s Buck Island wrote, “In order to ‘Open Minds’ we must share a love of the land, the waters and the Ranch in 1993. On July WEST PALM BEACH — Gene Lollis, 10, Archbold Biological open ours, and be willing to show our pas- wildlife of ‘OUR’ Florida.” newly elected president of the Florida Station congratulated Cattlemen’s Association, was among those him on their Facebook who participated in the July 11 online meet- page: “From his first day, ing of the South Florida Water Management he understood the value District. of science to ensure the “We are going to stay on the same Gene Lollis future of the cattle industry course as we had last year with our past in Florida,” Over the past president Matt Pearce,” Lollis said. “We’d 27 years, Lollis worked like to continue our working relationship. alongside Archbold scientists to build an “As we move into the future, we just understanding of the ecology of a working hope we continue with a collaborative ap- cattle ranch. His experiential knowledge proach. As we all know, our water system and detailed tracking of operations is a is very complex. If you go all the way up critical part of our ecological and economic to the north to the northern Everglades to sustainability. Boggy Creek, all the way down the Kissim- “A genuine Florida cowboy with a gift for mee River all the way to the Everglades, it’s reading the land and relating to all people, a very complex system. Lollis was featured in two documentaries “I just hope that we continue to work last year including ‘Cowboys and Scientists’ together,” Lollis said. and ‘The Science of a Florida Ranch’ (links “We are pretty sustainable in our food below). With humility and gratitude, Lollis production and we’ve got to take that into just accepted his new honor on June 24th consideration,” he said. during the first-ever online meeting for the Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/SFWMD “Let’s not look five years, 10 years, 20 Florida Cattlemen’s Association. His vision years down the road and wonder where for the coming year follows in the steps of A different kind of ‘fire works’ our food is coming from. We have a very past presidents with his own guiding words POLK COUNTY — Only July 1, a South Florida Water Management District strong, viable agricultural presence here in of wisdom for this year’s presidency: ‘Open (SFWMD) fire team comprised of Field Operations and Land Resources Bu- Florida and we need to make sure we save Gates, Open Minds’. Lollis intends to perse- reau staff headed out to southeast Polk County to conduct an 853-acre pre- that for future generations. The only way I vere during these challenging times by forging scribed burn on the KICCO Wildlife Management Area. SFWMD uses “fire know we can achieve that is to come to an partnerships, learning from others with differ- works” to maintain a healthy ecological balance for Florida’s fire-dependent understanding that all systems are complex ing perspectives and exploring solutions that landscapes, removing dead vegetation and fuel for potential wildfires, while and the only way to solve the issues is to better not only the industry but also society. allowing for native vegetation to flourish. work together.” In his first monthly President’s Message ȖȺɂȷȻȽΎƜɷȯΎȾȯɀȯΎƪȳȵȷɁɂɀȯɀɁȳΎȽΎ ƤȯɁɂΎƜȯɇΎɂȽΎƪȳȵȷɁɂȳɀΎȽɀΎ ƠȯȱȳɀΎɃȼΎƛȯȻȰȷȽΎȲȳΎƨȯɀɂȷȲȽ˶ ƥȯȹȳΎȯΎƨȯɀɂɇΎƛȶȯȼȵȳ˶ Votación Early vote ȺɃȼȳɁ˴Ύ̱̯ΎȲȳΎȸɃȺȷȽ Anticipada ƥȽȼȲȯɇ˴ΎƢɃȺɇΎ̱̯ ƙɃȵɃɁɂΎ̲Ύ̓ΎƙɃȵɃɁɂΎ̴̰ ƝȺȳȱȱȷȽȼȳɁΎƨɀȷȻȯɀȷȯɁ ̲ΎȲȳΎȯȵȽɁɂȽΎ̓Ύ̴̰ΎȲȳΎȯȵȽɁɂȽ ƤɃȼȳɁΎȯΎɁɊȰȯȲȽɁ ƨɀȷȻȯɀɇΎƝȺȳȱɂȷȽȼ ƥȽȼȲȯɇΎɂȽΎƫȯɂɃɀȲȯɇΎ ̷̰ΎȲȳΎȯȵȽɁɂȽΎȲȳΎ̱̯̱̯ ̷˶̲̯ΎȯȻΎ̓Ύ̳˶̲̯ΎȾȻ ƙɃȵɃɁɂΎ̷̰˴Ύ̱̯̱̯ ̷˶̲̯ȯȻΎ˹Ύ̳˶̲̯ȾȻ Florida es un estado principesco cerrado. Un votante debe estar registrado con la misma Florida is a closed primary state. A voter must be registered with the same party affiliation of afiliación partidaria de los candidatos por los que desea votar. Los Distritos 1 y 5 de la the candidate(s) they wish to vote for. County Commission Districts 1 and 5 and Circuit Judge Comisión del Condado y el Juez de Circuito Grupo 11 estarán en todas las papeletas. Group 11 will be on all ballots. ˿ƝɁɂɊɁΎ̄ƤȷɁɂȽΎȾȯɀȯΎȺȯɁΎƝȺȳȱȱȷȽȼȳɁ̅ΎȲȳȺΎ̱̯̱̯˾ ƙɀȳΎɇȽɃΎ̄ƝȺȳȱɂȷȽȼΎƪȳȯȲɇ̅ΎȴȽɀΎ̱̯̱̯˾ ˿ƝɁɂɊΎɀȳȵȷɁɂɀȯȲȽΎȾȯɀȯΎ ƙɀȳΎƱȽɃɀΎƪȳȵȷɁɂȳɀȳȲΎɂȽΎ  ɄȽɂȯɀ˾  ƮȽɂȳ˾ ¡Coteje su ˿ƠȯΎȱȯȻȰȷȯȲȽΎɁɃΎȼȽȻȰɀȳΎ Check Your ƠȯɁΎƱȽɃɀΎƙȲȲɀȳɁɁΎȽɀΎ  ȽΎȲȷɀȳȱȱȷʑȼ˾  ƦȯȻȳΎƛȶȯȼȵȳȲ˾ Estátus de Votante! ˿ƩɃȷȳɀȳΎɀȳȱȷȰȷɀΎɁɃΎ  ƯȽɃȺȲΎƱȽɃΎƤȷȹȳΎɂȽΎƪȳȱȳȷɄȳΎ  ȾȯȾȳȺȳɂȯΎȾȽɀΎȱȽɀɀȳȽ˾ Voter Status!  ȯΎƚȯȺȺȽɂΎȰɇΎƥȯȷȺ˾ ƤȺȯȻȳΎȯΎȺȯΎƧ˛ȱȷȼȯΎȲȳΎƝȺȳȱȱȷȽȼȳɁΎ  ˿ƬȷȳȼȳΎȿɃȳΎȾȽȼȳɀΎɁɃΎ ƛȯȺȺΎɂȶȳΎƧȹȳȳȱȶȽȰȳȳΎƛȽɃȼɂɇΎ ƜȽΎɇȽɃΎȼȳȳȲΎɂȽΎɃȾȲȯɂȳΎ 9ȲȳȺΎƛȽȼȲȯȲȽΎȲȳΎƧȹȳȳȱȶȽȰȳȳΎȯȺΎ  ˛ɀȻȯΎȯȺΎȲɷȯ˾ 9ƝȺȳȱɂȷȽȼɁΎƧ˞ȱȳΎȯɂΎ̶̵̲˷̳̯̰̳  ɇȽɃɀΎɁȷȵȼȯɂɃɀȳ˾ ̶̵̲˹̳̯̰̳ΎȽΎɄȷɁȷɂȳ ˿ƩɃȷȳɀȳΎȾȽȼȯɀΎȯȺΎȲɷȯΎɁɃΎ ȽɀΎɄȷɁȷɂΎ ƯȽɃȺȲΎƱȽɃΎƤȷȹȳΎɂȽΎƭȾȲȯɂȳΎ ɅɅɅ˷ƮȽɂȳƧȹȳȳȱȶȽȰȳȳ˷ȱȽȻ  ȾȯɀɂȷΎȲȽΎȾȽȺɷɂȷȱȽ˾ ɅɅɅ˷ƮȽɂȳƧȹȳȳȱȶȽȰȳȳ˷ȱȽȻ  ƱȽɃɀΎƨȯɀɂɇΎƙ˞ȺȷȯɂȷȽȼ˾ 14 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Special Olympics athletes can’t wait to get back on the field son activities were canceled from March through June and, now, because of the recent increase in cases reported in Florida, they have decided not to set a start date for in-person programming at this time. Special Olympics is something many of the athletes look forward to all week. It is the time they get to see their friends. It is a time when they get to do something they enjoy, something they are good at, some- thing they are proud of. Many of them do not understand why they can’t see their friends. They do not comprehend what a virus is or germs or any of the things caregivers try to explain. They just know they are stuck in the house for months at a time, and they can’t go see their friends or do the things they always did. Over the next few weeks, the Lake Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Okeechobee News will showcase some of Alexis Mundell (left) is pictured with her best friend Carol Marker, who persuad- their stories. ed her to join Special Olympics. Alexis Mundell will be a senior when school starts this year and has been a Spe- By Cathy Womble to children and adults 8 years of age and cial Olympics athlete for one year. Her best Lake Okeechobee News older with intellectual and developmental friend Carol Marker talked her into joining. OKEECHOBEE — Special Olympics disabilities. So far, she has done bowling and cheer- began as a summer day camp in the back In Okeechobee, athletes compete in leading, but cheerleading was interrupted yard of Sargent and Eunice Shriver. Eunice athletics, basketball, bowling, cheerleading, by COVID-19, and the season ended early. Shriver was a member of the Kennedy fami- equestrian events and swimming. There are Even though it was her first year partici- ly, sister of John F. Kennedy, and her goal currently 58 athletes and 14 volunteers who pating in bowling, she won a gold medal was to change the way people with mental give their time to make Special Olympics in Area Games for bowling, said Bernard disabilities were treated in the world. Now, possible in Okeechobee. Marker, Special Olympics director. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Special Olympics is the largest program of Unfortunately, with the onset of When the schools closed and everyone Alexis Mundell participates in bowling its kind. COVID-19 came the cancellation of all was told they should stay home, Alexis and cheerleading as a Special Olym- Normally, Special Olympics provides Special Olympic activities. Based on rec- pics athlete. year-round sports training and competition ommendations from the CDC, all in-per- See ATHLETES — Page 15

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ATHLETES Most insurance including Tricare and Human Gold Plus Accepted Continued From Page 14 started spending a lot of time with her grandma. They go to the beach together. Alexis has one brother and one sister. She enjoys spending time with her friends, especially Carol, but she has not been able General, Cosmetic to see any of her friends much since the and Surgical Dermatology Brittany Gillespie, ARNP schools shut down. She did have a drive-by birthday party for Dr. Stanley Katz, MD, Jason Welch APRN/CEO Dermatology her 18th birthday, though. Some of the peo- Board Certifi ed Dermatologist Nitra Welch APRN/CFO Dermatology ple from the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s now accepting patients at Stanley Katz, MD Dermatology Office surprised her with a drive-by birthday Blue Ocean Dermatology Dudley Giles MD Plastic Surgeon celebration with sirens and everything, and the Marker family dropped off a cake. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Call 863-226-5466 • 1004 N. Parrott Ave Okeechobee • Monday - Friday 9 -5 Some of her favorite things to do are arts Omar Martinez’s mom, Lucy Aguilar, is and crafts and photography. She also enjoys his biggest cheerleader when it comes camping. to the Special Olympic games. Alexis is hoping school does start back as they go by his house. He enjoys trying to up soon. Ms. Coopers is her teacher, and get them to honk their horns. she really loves her. Although Omar misses his friends and Omar Martinez is 24 years old. He has Special Olympics, he is not too lonely been participating in Special Olympics for during the shutdown, because he has two several years, according to his mom. His dogs, and he loves to play with them. He favorite sport is basketball, but he also en- got one of them as a graduation gift five joys bowling. When he has trouble getting years ago when he graduated from high the ball where it is supposed to go, he said school. he knows he has to “Stop! Look at the ball, One of his favorite experiences in Spe- and then let it go.” Omar has done track cial Olympics was riding on the bus during and field, too. He likes to throw the ball, the Torch Run while all the officers ran in and thinks it is fun to see how far he can front of the bus. Then the sheriff made him throw it. “I can throw it high!” he said. They had bike races on field day, but he said a big barbecue lunch, he said. He can’t wait riding a bike is very hard, and he did not to do that again when they start Special do that, but he did try. He believes in trying Olympics up again. things even when they are hard. If you have a family member who would When Omar isn’t playing sports, he be interested in joining Special Olympics, enjoys playing with Hot Wheels cars and you can contact Bernard Marker at 863-801- playing in his dad’s truck, but his very favor- 3393. You can also find information about ite thing is to play YouTube videos. Another the organization on their website at specia- favorite pastime is to watch for semi trucks lolympicsflorida.org/okeechobee.

Serving the Lake Okeechobee Region since 1929 Jim and Monica McCarthy Clark

Refrigeration • AC Ice Machines Financing Available! 800.763.2114 Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Special Olympics athlete Omar Martinez enjoys spending time with his grand- father Blas Aguilar Jr. 16 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Okeechobee veteran Matt Mitchell was a tanker

By Cathy Womble when they had posts someone wearing a Lake Okeechobee News in Germany. “They shirt with a Confed- essentially kept the erate flag on it and OKEECHOBEE — Veteran Matt Mitchell same bases. The idea knowing I couldn’t is an Okeechobee native. He joined the behind that is main- just approach that Army during his senior year at Okeechobee taining a presence in person and strike up High School and went to basic training in the area.” a conversation. I nev- August 2002 immediately after graduation. When he first got er felt like I was get- He said he joined to see the world and, at to Germany, it was ting that side-eye look the time, he wanted to get as far away from a complete culture you get when people Okeechobee as he could possibly get. He shock, he said. It was his first time out of feel threatened by you, like they don’t want went to basic in Fort Knox, Ky., which is not the country, and really, he said, growing up you there or feel nervous around you or much different from Okeechobee, but he in Okeechobee, he had only left the state scared of you. Or the cliché of the women said he didn’t really see it anyway. “You are of Florida one time to go to Georgia for less who clutch their purses tighter as you walk pretty much under lock and key the entire than a day. Then, he had been on the eighth past. It felt different than growing up in time you are in basic training and don’t -grade trip to see Washington, D.C., but Okeechobee. It was an awesome expe- get to experience much of the town while other than that, he had never left the state. rience for me. All the stuff I had to worry you are there.” He did what is called OSUT “I had only understood and recognized the about there, I found myself doing when I (One Station Unit Training). It was a short- culture of Okeechobee,” he said, “in all of got to another culture, and they were like, ened version of basic training, and then AIT its glamorousness.” He did what a lot of ‘Why are you doing that? We think you are (Advanced Individual Training) is extended Americans do when they travel abroad, he great. We want you here.’ I really enjoyed and is at the same location. He trained to said. He talked very slowly, thinking every- my time there,” he said. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News be a tanker. one spoke German and would understand One of the most memorable things Veteran Matt Mitchell joined the Army His first assignment after basic training him better if he spoke slowly. He thought about Iraq, he said, was the heat. He was during his senior year at Okeechobee was in Germany. The war in Iraq had just it was a wonderful experience and was able to pick up a little bit of the language High School. started, he explained. In late March 2003, treated very well there. while he was there, and he got the im- he was in Kuwait getting ready to go to He found it interesting that Germany has pression that the local people were of to Columbus, Ga. He finished up his active Iraq. He said the Army’s strategy was to a history with Hitler and trying to create a two minds about the Americans being in duty there. He was in the National Guard have forces placed strategically throughout super race, but they did not seem to have their country, In some ways, they were a for about two years in Alabama. His favorite the world. It increases their deployability. the sort of racism he has experienced in the hindrance, but in some ways, they were a job was working as a recruiter, because he With them being in Germany when the United States. “In Germany, you were just help. The insurgents who had occupied the enjoyed debunking the myths everyone had war in Iraq began, it was logistically easier a good guy. There were no preconceived area were not friendly to the people, but the heard about the Army. and faster to get them to Iraq. It was also notions about it that we have in our culture. Americans were. They brought them things His original intention was to serve one a residual lesson from WWII, he said, Things like not worrying about seeing they needed and tried to help them. This helped forge some friendships between six-year term, but he ended up serving two them, and lots of times, this came in handy terms. After that, he wanted to go back to when they would get tips from the locals college, he explained. He is now working about someone with an IED. “That type of toward a business degree and hopes to information could prove to be life-or-death work as an insurance broker. in those situations.” When asked if he would recommend Mitchell worked his way up to tank joining the military to a young person today, commander fairly quickly, he said. He com- he said he would suggest they explore all manded his own tank and section. He went their options before making up their minds. on to become an intelligence analyst with “I laser focused in on joining the Army, so I a special forces group for a couple years didn’t even look into colleges or other ave- before deciding he wanted to give it up. nues of things to do.” He explained no one While conducting a routine patrol, in the family that raised him had completed Mitchell’s vehicle ran over an IED buried a four-year degree, so they did not know beneath the road in Iraq. There were about the avenues available for scholarships and 75 pounds of explosives. Mitchell received a things like that. They steered him toward Purple Heart for being wounded during that incident. the military because it was a stable job and Mitchell went to Germany in 2003, maybe a career to fall back on later. deployed to Iraq from 2003 to 2004. He was Mitchell has three children from a previ- stationed in Washington state and was de- ous marriage, who live in Dublin, Ireland, ployed to Iraq again in 2007 and 2008. Then with their mother. His daughter, Amaya, is Special to the Lake Okeechobee News he went to Delaware as a recruiter 2009 to 13 and sons, Marcus and Mason, are 11 and Matt Mitchell is pictured with his three older children, from left, Amaya (13), 2012. At the end of 2012 and through 2013, 9. He and his fiance, Sarah Bryant, wel- Mason (9) and Marcus (11). he was in South Korea. Then, he was sent comed their new baby boy, Juda, on July 9.

• Served 20 Years in  Elect  the U.S. Army • Okeechobee Native • OHS Boys’ Varsity Demetre Basketball Coach • An advocate for economic development RILES & business friendly initiatives For • Creator of Chobee Nation, a non-profit organization Okeechobee mentoring youth & County Commissioner providing academic assistance Paid for and approved by Demetre Riles, Democrat, District 3 for Okeechobee County Commissioner District 3 July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 17 Take care if you encounter an endangered species shot, wounded, killed, trapped, captured or collected (this includes collecting bones, feathers or other parts of a deceased endan- gered and/or threatened animal).” Doing any of these activities without a legal permit or agreement in place with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can result in some- thing called a “Take,” which carries legal consequences. If you encounter an ESA-listed species, allow the animal to move on without stressing it or pursuing it. Get a photo if you can (without following the animal to do so) and share your encounter with a wildlife bi- At Independent News Media, proprietors ologist. State officials are always interested of Lake Okeechobee News, we seek to in where protected species are showing up. provide community websites and purposeful The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservations newspapers that encourage and support meaningful community involvement and Commission (FWC) has set up a website elevate the level of citizenship in our for reporting sightings of some species, like communities. Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/SFWMD the rarely seen Florida panther. Florida panthers are among the endangered species found in South Florida. If you encounter a deceased animal that We believe our dedication to conscientious is listed under ESA, then photograph the journalism and free speech with civility is the Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Two iconic Florida species that benefited animal, leave the remains, and report it as best way to help each of our communities WEST PALM BEACH — The Endangered from the ESA are the American bald eagle soon as you can to the FWC’s hotline at become a better place to live and work. Species Act (ESA) was first established in and the American alligator; once listed 888-404-FWCC (3922). 1973 and was signed into law by President under the ESA, these species have since The ESA protects about 90 faunal We salute area businesses who share our commitment to community: Nixon. The law was designed to protect been delisted since their populations have species in Florida, with about one-third critically imperiled species from extinction rebounded (alligators remain on the list of those species found in South Florida. Florida Crystals as a “consequence of economic growth of federally threatened and endangered Some of the species you might see within and development, untempered by adequate species as a species of similar appearance the boundaries of the South Florida Water In Good Company concern and conservation.” This has been to American crocodiles, which are currently Management District would include: Florida Belle Glade Community Partner a critical tool for species conservation since a federally threatened species). panthers, Everglade snail kites, wood Sponsor of 2,000 courtesy copies of its establishment in 1973 for protecting a The species listed under the ESA are storks, eastern indigo snakes, American Lake Okeechobee News delivered to variety of species, from the Florida panther federally protected, meaning they cannot crocodiles, West Indian manatees, crested the Belle Glade community. to the Okeechobee gourd. be “harassed, harmed, pursued, hunted, caracaras and Florida scrub jays. VOTE TO KEEP JUDGE DARRELL HILL

“Let Experience Be Your Judge”

Judicial & Legal Experience: Commitment to Community: • Currently serving as your • Resident of Hendry County, Hendry County Judge LaBelle • Former General Magistrate for • LaBelle Rotary Club Member Hendry and Glades County • Sons of the American Legion • Florida Judicial College Post 130 • Member–Conference of • VFW Auxiliary LaBelle County Court Judges of Post 10100 Florida • Member of Hendry & Glades • Former Assistant State County Bar Association Attorney • 24 years of private practice– Attorney at Law

Education: • Cumberland School of Law • University of Florida, Edison Community College

www.JudgeDarrellHill.com Political advertisement paid for and approved by Darrell Hill, non-partisan for Hendry County Judge, Group 1 18 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Fisherman dies in accident Join the City of Okeechobee’s on Lake Okeechobee Citizens Charter Review Advisory Committee By Katrina Elsken “The victim is a commercial fisherman The City of Okeechobee is seeking volunteers to serve on the Citizens Charter Lake Okeechobee News who cast-nets tilapia on Lake Okeechobee,” FWC Investigator Wad Turner wrote in his Review Advisory Committee. The requirements are to be a City resident or LAKE OKEECHOBEE — A commer- property owner. This is YOUR opportunity to be involved in YOUR Community! cial fisherman died in an accident on report. “The victim was found in the water Lake Okeechobee near Bird Island on the by Good Samaritans with the cast net line morning of Wednesday, July 8, according to wrapped around his left wrist. A portion of Complete a Citizen Board Application and submit to the Offi ce of the City Clerk at a report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife the netting of the cast net was caught on 55 SE 3rd Avenue, Okeechobee, FL, or via email lgamiotea@cityofokeechobee. Conservation Commission (FWC). the port bow of the vessel.” com. Applications can be downloaded from the website cityofokeechobee.com/ Bird Island is in the Glades County According to the FWC report, Matthew volunteer.html. For questions, contact 863-763-9814. Thomas Schlayer, 33, of Polk City, was portion of Lake Okeechobee. The Glades located in the water approximately 10 feet County Sheriff’s Office assisted FWC in the in front of his Carolina Skiff. investigation. By: City Clerk Lane Gamiotea, CMC SFWMD navigational locks Okeechobee Outlet Store A kitchen and more store on Lake Okeechobee open A mixture of wholesale, retail Special to the Lake Okeechobee News and liquidated merchandise LAKE OKEECHOBEE — The South Flori- Specializing in housewares & da Water Management District (SFWMD) has announced all navigational home décor at great prices locks it maintains on the north shore of Thank you for your service! Lake Okeechobee opened on July 11. The open locks maintained by SFWMD 10% Military, Law Enforcement & the public can use to enter and exit Lake First Responder Discount Okeechobee include: Located at Trading Post Flea Market • Okeechobee County: S-193 boat lock, Air Conditioned Offi ce Building Taylor Creek; 3100 US 441 S, Okeechobee • Martin County: S-135 boat lock, J&S Store Hours: Saturday & Sunday 8:30am - 3pm Fish Camp; • Okeechobee County: G-36 boat lock, Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Henry Creek; LAKE OKEECHOBEE – The South • Glades County: S-127 boat lock, Buck- Florida Water Management District re- head Ridge and S-131 boat lock, Lakeport; opened the locks on the north shore Jamie and, of Lake Okeechobee on July 11. The • Hendry County: S-310 boat lock, locks had been closed due to the low Clewiston. lake level. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the locks leading from the lake To get the latest information on Lake to the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers. Okeechobee’s water volume, including dai- BROWN Anglers and boaters can also access Lake ly levels, visit SFWMD’s website at sfwmd. Okeechobee and the rim canal from several for gov/science-data/levels. access points around the lake through public boat ramps. Visit FWC’s Boat Ramp To get the latest information on nav- Finder (atoll.floridamarine.org/dle_gis/ igation through SFWMD structures and javascript/boat_ramp_status/) to find one waterways, visit sfwmd.gov/communi- SUPERINTENDENT near you. ty-residents/recreation/navigation. OF SCHOOLS HLT to host Mask-A-Rade Gala Special to the Lake Okeechobee News with live music to set the mood. There will be an eclectic musical review show, Looking forward to SEBRING — Highlands Lakeside Theatre meeting you at one of the is hosting a Mask-A-Rade Gala on July 25 featuring performances by some of your at 7 p.m. to raise COVID-19 relief funds favorite HLT singers in the Thakkar Pa- upcoming rallies: for the establishment. “Like all nonprofit vilion. All performers and patrons wear organizations, being closed for two months masks throughout the evening and unveil July 18th, 10:00am — and reopening to a reduced capacity has at the end of the second act. Masks can The Venue, been difficult financially,” said organizer be decorated masquerade ball-style or be Muse Jen Westergom. “So, we are going to do a decorated medical mask. There will be what we do best and allow our wonderful opportunities to bid on silent auction items patrons to give back and help HLT through August 6th, 7:00pm — along with a contest for the people’s choice this unprecedented time. The HLT Mask-A- Doyle Conner, Rade Gala will be a night filled with music, mask throughout the evening. Moore Haven fun masks, cocktails, wonderful people and Come celebrate Highlands Lakeside The- plenty of opportunities to donate to a great atre on July 25. Tickets are available online cause.” at highlandslakesidetheatre.org, or through Our Children, Our Community, Our Future Tasty cocktails will be served in Antho- the box office at 863-382-2525 Monday ny’s Lounge and on Frank’s Deck along through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Paid by Jamie Brown, NPA, for Superintendent of Schools July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 19

We’re hiring mechanics, drivers, welders and more.

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*R*ODGHVLVDSLORWSURJUDPDQGFRQWLQXHGVHUYLFHZLOOEHEDVHGRQDFWXDOXVH July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 21 UF/IFAS needs grower input to UF/IFAS scientists develop better train agricultural workers a pepper with better By Brad Buck “Agricultural workers are considered UF/IFAS essential workers during this crisis and LAKE ALFRED — The COVID-19 crisis have been on the job from day one,” said resistance to nematodes has hit Florida’s agricultural industry hard Christine Kelly-Begazo at UF/IFAS Exten- By Brad Buck fungi, are much less so against weeds, with new challenges on how to protect sion Indian River County. “The informa- UF/IFAS Communications are highly toxic and cumbersome to use,” tion learned from this survey will directly workers who are essential to keeping our Bell peppers make for a delicious snack. Rathinasabapathi said. “Farmers need nation’s food supply flowing. impact what the training we provide this specialized equipment to apply them in summer and fall.” Among additional choices, you can add The UF/IFAS Extension team that them to sandwiches and pizzas, as they’re soil. But if we use bell pepper varieties that Industry representatives can take a works with producers and food proces- tasty and full of vitamin C, making them a are resistant to the root-knot nematodes, quick, 10 question, online survey at ufl. sors is interested in understanding the popular vegetable. As a $235 million-a-year we can circumvent these parasitic worms, qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1IjYGU4fii- barriers that the industry is currently business in Florida, bell peppers are also an thereby improving pest management op- awUzH. All answers will be kept strictly facing with COVID-19 and the work force. important crop, especially in the southeast tions for the farmer.” confidential. Questions or comments may The team has created a survey asking and southwest parts of the state. As of 2019, Now that scientists found the genetic be directed to Christine Kelly-Begazo, UF those directly involved in food production the amount of bell peppers harvested in the resistance, what’s next in their research? and processing how they can assist with IFAS Indian River County Extension, 772- United States is equivalent to 38,300 acres, “We would like to transfer the resistance training needs during this crisis. 226-4316. with Florida accounting for 31%, or 11,800 gene into sweet bell pepper hybrids via acres, according to the U.S. Department of conventional breeding,” Rathinasabapthi Okeechobee Livestock Market Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics said. Service. Using grant funding from the U.S. Florida farmers grow far more sweet Department of Agriculture and the Florida bell peppers than the hot ones, said Bala Department of Agriculture and Consumer Rathinasabapathi, a UF/IFAS professor of Services, Rathinasabapathi conducted this horticultural sciences. But, as a rule, farm- study with Donald Dickson, a professor ers are not going to grow as many bell pep- emeritus of entomology and nematology, pers if root-knot nematodes are prevalent and Mary Ann Maquilan, a post-doctoral in the soil around them. Nematodes are research associate in entomology and microscopic worms that damage the roots, nematology — all with UF/IFAS. Another weaken the plants and reduce the yield. coauthor is Dominick Padilla, an under- And increasingly, farmers are looking graduate student in horticultural science at for non-chemical ways to control root-knot the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural and Life nematodes. Scientists know they can help Sciences. growers if they can find ways to make bell pepper varieties that are genetically resis- tant to root-knot nematodes. “The variety we developed, although a hot pepper, can be used as a rootstock for bell peppers by using grafting,” Rathi- nasabapathi said. “Root-knot nematodes do their damage in the plant’s root, and if one uses a rootstock that is resistant to the nematode, the plant will not be affected much by the nematode.” Rathinasabapathi led a recently published study in the journal HortScience in which he and his colleagues found a type of UF/IFAS-bred chile, or spe- cialty pepper, that shows resistance to the Okeechobee Livestock Market destructive root-knot nematode. Through Cattle Auction Monday & Tuesday greenhouse and laboratory tests at the Restaurant Open Monday - Wednesday main UF campus in Gainesville, Rathinasa- “Best Burgers in South Florida!” bapthi and his team screened a handful of 863.763.3127 bell pepper varieties. They found that one advanced bell pep- • OFFICE CALL + EXAM $12 per variety, named ‘RJ107(6)A3C,’ was the • LOW COST most resistant to three species of the most VACCINATION EVERY DAY common root-knot nematodes — southern, • TOM CAT NEUTERS $25 peanut and peach. UF/IFAS scientists devel- oped this pepper variety by cross breeding • BOARDING $10 A DAY a hot pepper line and a sweet pepper. Fruit In LaBelle OKEECHOBEE — We had a good run tone to the calf market. It’s going to take from ‘RJ107(6)A3C’ line is hot and makes Mon Tue Wed Fri of cattle this week after being off for July 4. the rest of the year to get through the back- for delicious pickles, Rathinasabapathi said. 8 to 5 Slaughter cows were a little lower, $2 to $3. log of fat cattle if plants continue to run at Florida vegetable production has three Thur and Sat 8-12 Meat prices are starting to come back down present capacity. major soil production limitations. One is In Clewiston with plenty of it out there. The cow market H.A. Smith, Kissimmee, topped the calf plant-parasitic nematodes, the others are Thur 3 p.m. • Sat 2 p.m may have peaked. Feeder calves are trading market with a high of $2.30/200#, bought weeds and soilborne fungi, he said. To By Appointment Only fairly well and holding their own in light by Enterprise. manage these problems, farmers use soil Emergency Service Available! of still extreme volatility. Those best five David Wilson, Graham Farms & Neillco fumigants (pesticides) to free the soil of Bath and Nail Trim - $20 weight range steer calves are bringing $1.30 Cattle, all topped the slaughter cow market these pests before they plant their crops. Shewmakers to $1.36. Runs are going to start picking up with a high of .67/1150#, 1410# and “These fumigants, though effective Animal Hospital this summer, and I would expect a softer 1215#, bought by Brown and FL Beef. against the root-knot nematodes and soil 1095 N. SR 29, LaBelle 863-675-2441 22 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 SFWMD analyzes ‘What’s stopping flow south?’ By Katrina Elsken “We want to make sure as we work with opened June 1, he said. explained. Lake Okeechobee News FWS that we are not altering the natural sheet- Governing Board Member Jacqui Thur- “Where it rains, how it rains and what quan- What’s blocking flow of freshwater south flow to Florida Bay,” said Bergeron. low-Lippisch grilled SFWMD staff about the tity it rains are all issues in moving water north to Florida Bay? That question was once again “We need to work with FWS but at the same impediments to sending more water south to to south,” he said. addressed at the July 9 meeting of the South time, shutting gates, directing water where it Florida Bay. If the WCAs are already full, they can’t move Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) naturally flows ... We cannot save the Everglades “The plug in the tub is the Tamiami Trail?” more lake water south. Governing Board. if we cannot manage the natural sheetflow to she asked. Mitnik said seepage issues along the east side “The proper name for this is the Central Florida Bay,” he said. “The Tamiami Trail is one of the plugs,” of the Everglades are also a concern. The East Everglades,” said Ron Bergeron. “I think there is “It’s important for us to deal with the Taim- Mitnik said. Coast Protection Levee separates the remaining confusion when we call the Central Everglades, iami dam, and that is what it is,” said SFWMD The L-67 levee that separates WCA 3A and Everglades from the area of the Everglades that nearly three quarters of a million acres of natural Governing Board Vice Chairman Scott Wagner WCA 3B is another impediment to natural was drained for urban development. habitat, ‘water management areas.’ I think — “these gates that can’t be opened and people sheetflow. “There are many constraints to sending we should call it what it really is, the Central are desperately requesting that the gates be “Is the sparrow an obstacle?” she asked. water south,” said Nyla Pipes of One Florida Everglades. open. “During certain times of the year, under Foundation, during the public comment period. He said there are still obstacles that could “It seems like we have arteries blocked,” he certain conditions, it is,” Mitnik agreed. “If we don’t do more north of the lake, if we stop the water flowing south. continued. “We have a system and our arteries “Do you consider the STAs (stormwater treat- don’t get at not only the quality issues north of Modified water delivery projects that started have been blocked for long periods of time and ment areas) an obstacle, even though it is above the lake and but also quantity issues north of the 20 years ago will soon be connected to make it it seems unnatural and it seems to be detrimen- that?” she continued. lake, we will never solve the problems south,” possible to send more water under the Tamiami tal to a variety of other species and systems. “I would characterize the STAs as a consider- she added. Trail, he continued. “We have to link up these systems so things ation to meet water quality standards going into “The experts at your own agency are telling “Taking the plug out of the bottom end of will flow in a natural manner,” he said. the Everglades,” he said. you the sparrow is a constraint to sending water this system, of this bathtub, will provide water During the water conditions report, John “Would you consider the EAA an obstacle?” south,” said Mike Elfenbein, director of the to Everglades National Park and Florida Bay — Mitnik said Water Conservation Area (WCA) 2-A she continued. Foundation for Balanced Environment Steward- natural, compatible water levels,” he said. remains above schedule due to rainfall. Mitnik said there are canals to flow water ship. “For 30 years what we have been doing for He suggested they schedule a public work- Water control structures S-12 A and S-12 B through the EAA south. the sparrow does not work and it has killed the shop with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) remain closed until July 15 to protect the nesting “Passing water through the EAA, that is what Glades. about the special protections given the Cape grounds of subpopulation A of the sparrow. those canals are designed to do,” Mr. Mitnik “What’s good for the sparrow has not been Sable seaside sparrow, which limit flow of water Flow under the trail through the S-12 structures said. “Right now there is capacity (in the canals) good for the Everglades,” he said. “The Ever- under the trail nine months of the year. is restricted from November through July. to move water from the lake down into the glades is not just south of the trail. Please take “We have 70 endangered species in the Water control structures S-12 C and S-12 Everglades.” Due to the obstructions south of this to the governor and have him take this to Everglades. D, which had been closed since Nov. 1, were the EAA, there is no capacity to take that water, the Council on Environmental Quality.” USFWS denies request to open water control structures early

By Katrina Elsken additional measures that can be taken to ERTP the S-12 A and B structures can be opened believe there are active nests in subpopulation Lake Okeechobee News alleviate high water conditions in WCA 3A. before July 15 if the headwater stage is greater A. There is still dry habitat in all subpopula- “One opportunity to alleviate high water than 11.0 feet NGVD, to pass enough water to tions, including A, and the percentage ranges WEST PALM BEACH — On June 18, South Florida Water Management District Executive conditions is to open the structures north of the prevent overtopping of gates. The corps will from 24 to 50 percent of the areas. For these Director Drew Bartlett sent a letter to the U.S. Cape Sable seaside sparrow’s (CSSS) subpop- assess upstream conditions and will close the reasons, we believe opening the S-12 A and B Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) asking to ulation A earlier than July 15th. This district gates when headwater levels drop below 10.75 structures now would likely flood active nests. open two water control structures early in order requests that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service feet NGVD. The current headwater stage for Further, there have been two large wildfires to address concerns about high water levels in review available information and the length of the S-12 A and B is 9.44 and 9.39 feet NGVD, (Guava, Moonfish) in subpopulation A since the Water Conservation Areas (WCAs) south of the breeding season against the likelihood of respectively. Therefore, the corps cannot open May 7. These fires burned some of the nesting Lake Okeechobee. impact to subpopulation A to determine if an the gates at this time according to ERTP. Just habitat, but not all of it. National Park Service Larry Williams, FWS state supervisor, denied early opening is possible.” for context, the corps has calculated the benefit staff believe that flooding the burned areas this request. The response, dated June 29, denies the of opening the S-12 A and B structures 30 days now will encourage the plant community In the June 22 letter, Bartlett wrote, “As the request to let the additional water flow south early and that action would lower the stage in to shift toward sawgrass and sedges, and non-federal sponsor of the Central & South- under the Tamiami Trail. WCA-3A by approximately 2 inches in 30 days. away from the Muhly grass community that ern Florida Project (C&SF), the South Florida Williams wrote: “The service appreciates all “In the past the corps requested a deviation sparrows need. Water Management District is keenly aware the South Florida Water Management District’s to open the structures early when water levels “Therefore, we have additional reasons to of the necessity to operate infrastructure in a efforts to manage water resources wisely and neared a High Water Action Line which is 10.72 discourage opening S-12 A and B at this time. In way that is both protective and beneficial to maintain healthy environments. We especially feet NGVD. As we understand, a deviation like addition, it’s worth noting National Park Service the environment. All three Water Conservation appreciate the district placing temporary pumps this must be approved by the South Atlantic staff believe opening S-12 A and B early will Areas (WCA) are already above their regulation at the S-151 to help lower water levels in WCA- Division commander of the corps. Since the also flood active alligator nests. While alligators schedules, resulting in the rapid inundation of 3A. As you know, we welcome the opportunity current stage of WCA-3A is 10.24 feet NGVD, we are not endangered, they are important to the WCA 3A. District meteorologists predict this wet to collaborate with the district and other partners understand there are no current plans to request ecosystem. season will be a wetter-than-average wet sea- on water management decisions. a deviation. “To summarize our assessment of the son. Given that we are just entering the 2020 wet “The district requested the service review “A goal of ERTP and the upcoming Com- current situation, the service believes sparrows season, it is in the best interest of the environ- available information concerning Cape Sable bined Operational Plan is to move water out are actively nesting in subpopulation A and ment to lower water levels now in the WCAs in seaside sparrows and their breeding season of WCA-3A and into Shark River Slough by opening the S-12 A and B structures will flood preparation for the remainder of the wet season. against the likelihood of impacting subpopula- increasing the L-29 Canal stage to 8.5 feet. The sparrow nests. It would also negatively impact “Water levels in WCA 3A are approaching tion A if water control structures were opened L-29 canal is currently at 7.8 feet, so there is the plant community which serves as sparrow the increment 2 action line within the regulation before the permitted date of July 15. The July 15 significant unused capacity there. We realize in habitat. Therefore, the service recommends the schedule. Bearing in mind that June is only date is the permitted date, per the service’s July recent weeks the S-333 could be operated only capacity of the L-29 be used to its maximum as the beginning of the wet season, it is critical to 22, 2016, Everglades Restoration Transition Plan at night because of construction at the S-333N. that will have no impact on sparrows and is the mitigate higher water levels to avoid harmful (ERTP) Biological Opinion, whereby the S-12 A However, as we understand, that construction proper route for water in a restored system. If and B structures can normally be opened. That will soon be done. Increasing the L-29 to 8.5 feet the corps seeks a deviation, because the service ecological impact to native vegetation, apple has allowed those before, we could potentially snail reproduction and the health of remaining date was included in the Biological Opinion as will move a bigger volume of water out of WCA- a way of protecting sparrow nests and habitat 3A than would opening S-12 A and B. Therefore, authorize another. tree islands in the area. Lowering water levels “If the stage in WCA-3A approaches 11.00, in the WCAs below their regulation schedule from being flooded. we recommend increasing the L-29 to 8.5 feet we will work with the corps and the district to would also allow Lake Okeechobee water de- “The service issued the ERTP Biological before opening S-12 A and B. identify actions, like opening S-343, S-344, and liveries if necessary to mitigate harmful estuary Opinion to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers “Due to COVID-19, biologists were unable possibly S-12 A and B, to relieve the high water discharges. because the corps is the action agency imple- to survey subpopulation A this year, therefore, while trying to minimize impacts to sparrows. “The district will begin to moderate menting ERTP. Therefore, authority to make any we have no information specific to subpopu- We believe opening S-12 A would be most ascension rates by installing temporary pumps changes to ERTP and structure opening dates lation A. However, biologists are monitoring impactful to sparrows because it delivers water at the S-151 structure to move water out of WCA lies with the corps. The service’s role is to advise other subpopulations. Nesting activity is still directly onto the higher elevation ground where 3A and into WCA 3B, and we are also exploring the corps in situations like this. According to occurring in subpopulations B and D, so we sparrows nest.” July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 23 SFWMD monitors algae Convenient & Contactless Home Delivery! Fill out the form below & return it to Lake Okeechobee News or click SUBSCRIBE at lakeokeechobeenews.com in Lake Okeechobee Send to: Lake Okeechobee News, 107 SW 17th St., Ste D, By Katrina Elsken development of toxins in cyanobacteria. Okeechobee, FL 34974 Lake Okeechobee News There is a theory that rains can disrupt the WEST PALM BEACH — Increases both in blooms, he said. A large bloom can also go Name: the number and frequency of water samplings through a nutrient load pretty quickly, he said, from Lake Okeechobee are helping the South and may die off when it runs out of avail- Delivery Address: Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) able nitrogen. (Some cyanobacteria can fix track and learn about “blooms” of algae and nitrogen from the air, but the June bloom was cyanobacteria (commonly called blue-green dominated by Microcystis aeruginosa, which City: algae) in Lake Okeechobee. is not a nitrogen fixer.) During the July 9 meeting of the SFWMD Glenn said since last year, SFWMD went State/Zip: Governing Board, Lawrence Glenn provided from six stations to 32 and went from sam- an ecological update for July. pling once a month to twice a month. Email: He said there is a little more algae potential “We’re getting a lot more data on condi- this year than in 2019. tions in the lake,” he said. Phone: He said water samples are now taken He said there are no blooms near the every two weeks. The sampling taken June 23 outlets to the Caloosahatchee River and the and 24 had 32 samples, and had four samples Please check your preferred delivery format & payment method below. with elevated levels of toxins. Two levels of St. Lucie Canal. concern were L004 (about 6 miles west of the Glenn said the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- Port Mayaca Lock) with 800 micrograms per neers had some constraints on flow in the liter and LZ40 (near the center of the lake) Kissimmee River last month in order to keep with 290 micrograms per liter. Levels under 8 the work area dry for the portion of the river Okeechobee/Buckhead Ridge/ Okeechobee/Buckhead Ridge/ Lakeport Carrier Delivery micrograms per liter are considered safe for that is being restored. Lakeport Carrier Delivery human recreational contact by the Environ- Lake Okeechobee has been hovering right CREDIT OR DEBIT CASH OR CHECK mental Protection Agency. around 12.2 to 12.3 feet above sea level, he Includes $3 fee for each “We sent crews out a week later,” Glenn said. The marshes around the edge of the CARD REQUIRED billed statement & payment continued. At L004, the June 30 sampling lake dried up when the lake fell below 12 feet Price includes tax processing. Price includes found toxin levels had dropped to 1.3 mi- earlier this year. Now that water is flowing tax crograms per liter. At LZ40, toxin levels had back into the marshes, “we are seeing good dropped to 99 micrograms per liter. response around the littoral fringe. There is still a lot to be learned about why If the lake continues to rise slowly, it will microcystin is produced by cyanobacteria and continue to refill the marshes, he said. when microcystin is released, he explained. Glenn said many factors may influence “From a lake ecology standpoint, we want reproduction of blue-green algae. that gradual ascension,” he explained. If the Spikes in the load of phosphorus and ni- water level rises faster than the submerged trogen to the lake may be what are providing aquatic vegetation (SAV) can grow, it can the nutrient source for these algae blooms to endanger the SAV. proliferate, he said. A survey of the SAV will be conducted He said Dr. Barry Rosen has found in August and September, he said. The SAV Receive the digital version nitrogen load is a critical factor for the provides the natural filter for the lake. of our print edition in your FWC seeks assistance e-mail inbox weekl! in developing lake management plans Special to the Lake Okeechobee News management goals and objectives. TALLAHASSEE — A new Florida Fish and The FWC is currently developing lake Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) management plans for the Harris Chain of Lake Management Plans webpage (myfwc. Lakes, the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and com/conservation/management-plans/lake/) Lake Okeechobee. If you would like to get is designed to strengthen communication involved in this planning effort, select the and encourage stakeholders to become more lake in which you’re interested, click the “Get involved with the management plan process. Involved” button and send us your informa- The FWC’s lake management plans focus tion. Check the webpages for information on on the management of a system’s fish, wildlife the progress of the plans and for completed and habitat. They are intended to guide the management plans. successful management of fish and wildlife on For general waterbody information, fishing these systems for their long-term well-being Note to Current Subscribers: forecasts, virtual tours, plant control opera- and the benefit of people. The FWC is commit- tion schedules and annual workplans, boat Please review our new rate options! ted to designing these plans using stakeholder To avoid the $3 statement fee, please input and feedback to help guide management ramp information and more, visit the “What’s Happening on My Lake” website at MyFWC. consider signing up for EZ-Pay for activities on individual lakes. Input from the automatic renewal or consider an annual com/Lake. 863.763.3134 public is vital to the success of these projects. subscription for best value! Please call The FWC is actively gathering input on each For more information about lake man- our offi ce at (863) 763-3134 with any [email protected] plan through multiple methods to ensure stake- agement plans, contact Laura Rambo at questions about your account! holders can be involved in the development of 850-488-0520. 24 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Is an interlocal fire services agreement legal? By Cathy Womble Watford. Lake Okeechobee News The mayor went on to say the county attorney said he felt confident he would prevail in defending OKEECHOBEE — The possibility of having an interlocal agreement in court, but it would entail the city provide its own EMS services was on the agenda at the city council meeting Tuesday night, a court proceeding. July 7, and City Administrator Marcos Montes de “The question the city and county need to Oca went over the details, saying he and Finance answer is, ‘Do we want to do it the interlocal way, Director India Riedel had gone over the figures so or do we want to propose a dual referendum?’” He many times they practically had them memorized. went on to say he was told they had until some- In the end, he explained, if the city were to provide time in August to put it on the November ballot. EMS services, city residents would no longer pay This would be a binding referendum, not a straw an EMS assessment to the county, and if they went poll. The council decided to go with the interlocal this route then revenue from transports is “basically agreement route. paying for the fire department and EMS, and its The county commission met Thursday, July 9, future rate would equal about what the citizen is at 9 a.m. paying currently with millage and assessment. Ev- In other business: ery dollar recouped, revenue-wise, during transport • Anyone who is interested in volunteering to would be savings to the city.” man the COVID-19 call center at the health depart- Councilman Bob Jarriel said he did not under- ment Monday through Friday, 8-5, should call to let stand why they were even discussing this when Special to the Lake Okeechobee News them know, because if they do not get volunteers, they did not have the figures from the county. Marvin Roberts (center) is presented with a certificate for 20 years of service to they will be dismantling their call line after this Council member Monica Clark said she specif- the city in the Public Works Department. Public Works Director David Allen (left) week, said Tiffany Collins, Okeechobee County ically asked to have the discussion on the agenda. and Mayor Dowling Watford Jr. (right) are pictured with him. Heath Department supervisor. She also mentioned She explained that every time they have a meeting, a new trend among young people. Much like hur- the fire department asks if they have looked at the whether they wanted to abide by those decisions a county via an intergovernmental agreement, “but ricane parties, they are holding COVID quarantine or send them back to the table to negotiate some numbers they provided, and she wanted to see the if you were to ask me to take a bulletproof belt and parties. “We just want to make sure everyone is not more. Some of the items discussed were pensions numbers again, and know what the possibilities suspenders approach, again, this is strictly from engaging in that kind of activity. That’s not smart,” of the employees and use of the city fire station a legal standpoint, not from public perception or are. she said. “Apparently, they are inviting who they Mayor Dowling Watford Jr. encouraged the building. political standpoint, strictly legal, belt and suspend- know to be positive to a party with the intention council members to schedule meetings with the At the very end of the meeting, City Attorney ers approach, it would be a dual referendum.” He of making themselves exposed to COVID.” If your administrator so they could discuss the subject John Fumero brought up one last item. Mayor went on to tell the council that if they directed him with him and ask questions to help them better Watford said he thought the discussion originated to do this through another means, he thought it business or agency would like to distribute free understand it. with the county attorney. Mr. Fumero said the dis- could be done. masks to the public, please call Tod Hardacre 863- The Okeechobee County Economic Develop- cussion was in reference to what needs to happen Mayor Watford said it’s almost like the Con- 462-5805. Okeechobee is now the sixth highest in ment Council continues to support the idea of a once all the details of the deal between the city and stitution says one thing and the state statute says the state of Florida for pediatric cases of COVID-19, merge/consolidation/interlocal agreement between county are ironed out. How do they transfer the another. He went on to say when they had the she said. the city and county fire departments, and once fire service to the county? There are constitutional task force meeting, the county attorney brought it • Marvin Roberts was presented a longevity again a letter from the economic council was read and statutory issues, he said. “The bottom line up, and mentioned it as a possible risk they were award for 20 years of service to the city in the during the meeting expressing this support. The is we both believe that there is some discretion taking. “Zero risk is referendum,” said Mr. Fumero, Public Works Department. letter voiced strong opposition to the proposed in terms of either effectuating the transfer of fire “from a legal standpoint.” • An ordinance was adopted allowing package implementation of EMS services by the city. services through a referendum, in this case a dual “If you were to do it by the interlocal, if nobody sales of alcoholic beverages on Sunday. Mayor Watford went over each point of the referendum, or effectuated through an interlocal challenges it, there’s no problem. The problem is if • Okeechobee Main Street will be installing two agreement the task force worked out during their agreement.” He said he knows of about half a doz- someone were to challenge that, then you would signs in park #5 illustrating the cattle drive sculp- meetings last month, and the council decided en instances where fire services were transferred to have a court case to go through,” said Mayor ture project, which is coming in the future. City and county closer to fire services agreement By Katrina Elsken to COVID-19. “COVID has messed up the whole routine,” staff, the city will pay for the additional costs Lake Okeechobee News Under the fire services agreement, the county explained Fire/Rescue Chief Ralph Franklin. “The until attrition provides positions for the extra city would add six new paramedic positions and one people who started paramedic school the first of employees. OKEECHOBEE — The COVID-19 pandemic fire inspector. These positions would be paid from the year are probably not going to be finished until “Anyone above and beyond the number for could delay plans for the county to take over fire the funding provided by the city. the first quarter of 2021. When they come on board Okeechobee County, the general consensus was protection services inside the Okeechobee city The administrator said because the city would with us, it will be a minimum of at least three that we will pay for the paramedic training and the limits. be funding the inspector, the inspection fees would months before they can function as a paramedic.” city will pay their salaries until the county positions At the July 9 meeting of the Okeechobee go to the city. Fire/rescue orientation is a minimum of three County Commission, Fire/Rescue Chief Ralph are opened through attrition,” he explained. “They could use the inspection fees to offset the months. The probationary period is one year, “With the concept of losing the extra people Franklin said six of the city firefighters are in para- costs,” Chartier explained. commented Burroughs. medic school. He said they could not be added to through attrition, we can find a place for them, She said the city has asked for a five-year “For us to provide the service while they’re third person on an engine, etc., but it doesn’t dilute Okeechobee County Fire/Rescue until they pass the agreement and a guarantee for response times. going through their initial training, we’re going to paramedic exam. Currently, they expect the exam the need for them to be paramedics,” said Franklin. The city will also pay for their employees to attend have costs associated with that. “If it is a paramedic that leaves, and it’s a firefighter/ to be given in May 2021. paramedic school. “In order to come over with us, they are going He said there will also be additional costs to the EMT who would be absorbed through attrition, In addition, at the start, the county would take to have to have passed their state test,” said the that move could not be made.” county while the new paramedics are completing all of the city fire service employees who wish to chief. Commissioner Kelly Owens said the county the required three-month period during which they transfer. If there are more than six paramedics and County Attorney Wade Vose said once the cannot work independently as paramedics. one inspector, the city would pay the additional city employees move over to the county, the city needs to know how many city employees want to County Administrator Robbie Chartier said salaries. As the department was right-sized through will stop providing fire protection service. He said be hired by the county and how many are para- for the first year, the city has agreed to pay the attrition, the cost to the city would go down. the county will be responsible for fire protection medics or in paramedic school. equivalent of what the county fire assessment County commissioners agreed they do not want services while the former city employees com- “Since we don’t know who is coming and what would bring in, were it charged in the city limits, to reopen negotiations with the union. plete their required three-month orientation as their level is, don’t know what our exposure will based on the current rates charged in the county “If county does not open the union contract, paramedics. be,” agreed Burroughs. per residence, per RV space and per square foot these people would come over and they would “It will cost the county overtime while they are The city also wants to know how long the of business structure. The assessment rate would be treated like a new employee from the county’s training,” said Commissioner David Hazellief. county wants to use space in the city’s building. generate about $725,000, she said. standpoint,” said Commission Chairman Terry “I don’t think the number of people is an “We will put an additional engine at station 1,” The county had already planned to have a new Burroughs. issue,” he said. “The city is talking about offering explained the chief. “The length of time we will rate study done. “The city has asked to be part of Chartier said allowing city employees to main- some of them an exit package. Not all of them be using city bays depends on when we can build the fire assessment rate study and has agreed to tain their current seniority and rank could create a want to come over.” more bays on station one. pay for their part of that study,” she explained. They problem because county lieutenants are experi- Okeechobee City Administrator Marcos Montes “Some of our reserve units have to be plugged originally planned to start that study this year. That enced paramedics while the city lieutenants are not de Oca said the city has agreed that if more than in continuously and not just pulled into a garage study has been pushed to the first of next year due paramedics. seven city employees want to move to the county and parked,” he explained. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 25 Okeechobee Roundup Baby Needs Drive-Thru helps local families

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News ic. However, this has not stopped the care OKEECHOBEE — On Saturday, July coordinators from seeing and assisting 11, Okeechobee’s Healthy Start Coalition families and enrolling new families to the collaborated with local agencies including program virtually and via porch drop-off. Our Village and Hibiscus Children’s Center Healthy Start is a free local home visiting to host A Baby Needs Drive-Thru. Due to program that provides prenatal and infant COVID-19 they could not host this event as education and care coordination to preg- originally planned in person, but wanted to still ensure local families were able to nant women and families of children under receive the education and items available the age of 3. safely, via this drive-thru event. The goal of the program is to lower The event allowed any pregnant woman risk factors associated with pre-term birth, or families in the community with children low birthweight, infant mortality and poor the ability to receive education on baby developmental outcomes. The coordinators care, safe sleep methods, baby nutrition help guide women and families during the and car seat safety. After completing their training, they were able to reserve their different stages of their pregnancies, labor choice of two free baby items from a car and delivery; then assist with the infant’s developmental tracking and growth. If you seat, crib, pack n’ play, diapers and/or Special to the Lake Okeechobee News formula. At the drive-thru event, more than are interested in receiving Healthy Start OKEECHOBEE — Healthy Start’s first Baby Needs Drive-Thru event was a suc- 200 local families were able to pick up services or any other services offered in their two reserved items, face masks and cess on Saturday, July 11. Healthy Start partnered with Our Village Okeechobee and Hibiscus Children’s Center to educate over 200 families and provide them the community, please contact the Healthy local resources without getting out of their with essential baby items. Start office at 863-824-0448. vehicles. Healthy Start wants to thank all of those Christ Fellowship, Helping People Succeed, The Healthy Start home visiting program If you were unable to attend this event, that helped make this community event Okeechobee City Police Department and has looked a little different over the last few please make sure to keep an eye on the possible. They are very thankful for all the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office that months as it has been unsafe to enter the Healthy Start Facebook page for the up- the volunteers and the time provided by allowed this event to be such a success. homes of our families due to this pandem- coming Educational Baby Shower in the fall. Owens appointed to Executive Committee of Small County Coalition

Special to the Lake Okeechobee perspective. The coalition supports News programs that improve the financial OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee viability and fiscal capacity of Flori- da’s local government. Region 5 is Commissioner Kelly Owens was the southern region of the coalition recently appointed to the Executive and consists of Charlotte, DeSoto, Committee of the Small County Glades, Hendry, Hardee, Highlands, Coalition representing Region 5 in Indian River, Okeechobee, Martin Special to the Lake Okeechobee News the State of Florida. Kelly Owens and Monroe counties. The Small County Coalition Owens said, “It’s an honor to First Communion Mass celebrated consists of 39 of the 67 counties in the State be chosen by my peers to be their voice OKEECHOBEE — Sacred Heart Catholic Church had its First Communion of Florida, and its mission is to address in Tallahassee and advocate for small and Mass on Saturday, July 11. legislative issues from a small county/rural rural counties.” Grants offered to small businesses impacted by COVID

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News of $7,500 to qualifying small businesses caused by required closures provided those accepting application on Friday, July 10 and OKEECHOBEE — Okeechobee County and $5,000 to Independent contractors/ costs are not paid by insurance. will be awarding grants until the money is sole proprietors to cover expenses such as has partnered with the Okeechobee County The grants will be awarded on a first exhausted. For more information interested employee wages, bills and rent. The emer- come first serve basis via fully completed businesses should call the OCEDC office at Economic Development Corporation gency relief is targeted specifically to help applications that will be submitted on line. 863-357-2334. (OCEDC) to provide business grants to local businesses cover immediate financial small businesses in who have suffered due needs. Grants are strictly limited to business- The guidelines and application can be Okeechobee County received funding to the required closures resulting from the es physically located within Okeechobee found on the Okeechobee County Econom- from the State of Florida through the Coro- COVID-19 public health emergency. County. Funds can only be used to reim- ic Development Corporations (OCEDC) navirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security The program will offer a one-time grant burse the costs of business interruption website (www.ocedcorp.com). They began (CARES) Act federal stimulus package. 26 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Hospital CEO encourages use of cloth masks, social distancing By Katrina Elsken He said he is in contact with physician the droplets that leave your mouth and nose. unless it is an end of life issue or other special Lake Okeechobee News representatives from all over the state and they These droplets are a primary way the virus is circumstances. He said hospital staff has are all concerned about the recent increase in spread, he explained. increased use of PPE including full face shields OKEECHOBEE — Raulerson Hospital CEO cases of COVID-19, and shortages in testing Masking helps prevent the spread of the for the first-line health care providers. Current- Brian Melear spoke at the July 9 meeting of the materials, tests, personal protection equipment virus in places where social distancing —– ly, all patients admitted to the hospital for any Okeechobee County Board of Commission- (PPE), staffing and even convalescent plasma. staying at least 6 feet away from others — is reason are tested for COVID-19. Testing of staff ers “in support of increased mask utilization “These shortages have been exacerbated not possible. has increased. in areas where social distancing cannot be by the substantial increase in COVID,” he said. Melear said Raulerson Hospital is currently “We are trying to stem the tide of the maintained.” Melear said masking creates a barrier to at Level 3 lockdown. No visitors are allowed increase in cases,” he explained. COVID testing for all, July 18 in Okeechobee By Katrina Elsken Lake Okeechobee News OKEECHOBEE — The Florida Department of Health in Okeechobee, 1728 N.W. Ninth Ave., will provide COVID-19 testing on Satur- day, July 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (or until 500 tests have been used.) This testing will be free; no insurance is needed. Testing is open to anyone who wishes to be tested, regardless of symptoms. Children can be tested with parental consent, but must be able to complete the test without restraint. Parking and walk-up testing will be in back of the health department building. Each individual will be asked to provide their name, date of birth, cellphone number and current address. This test is a nasopharyngeal swab. A soft swab will be inserted into your nose to get the necessary sample. This may be slightly uncomfortable, but the test is quick. The lab will text your results to the cell- phone number you provide. In addition, if the test is positive, the health department will contact you for contact investigation purposes. Those who come to this testing event are asked to wear masks and maintain 6 feet of distance from others. Cloth masks will be provided for those who need them. For more information, call 863-462-5800 and press 3. FCHC testing Florida Community Health Care in Okeechobee is another source for COVID-19 testing. “We are testing anyone who would like to be tested,” stated Karissa Grant, of the FCHC Corporate Office in West Palm Beach. “They will ask about any symptoms they may be having just to record that, but we welcome anyone.” FCHC is providing drive-thru/walk-up COVID-19 testing at the annex office in Okeechobee. If you are interested in getting a test, call 863-763-1951 to make an appoint- ment. Grant said results are taking as long as eight days at this point. “They used to take be- tween 24 and 72 hours, but with the increased levels, the labs are overloaded,” she explained. COVID-19 testing for those who have symptoms, are high risk or meet other testing criteria is also available through CVS pharma- cies. For information, go online to CVShealth. com. CVS testing requires no co-pay, but your health insurance may be billed. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 27 Glades County at a Glance Perez replaces Foster in MHMHS principal’s chair

By Chris Felker to be director of Excep- have really meant a lot to able to graduate with an A.A. (Associate of Lake Okeechobee News tional Student Education me, and I’m always going Arts) degree. MOORE HAVEN — There was a chang- and Student Services. Then to be available to them “Another of the things that I’m looking ing of the guard and the nameplate in the I came here to the high no matter where I am if forward to is bringing more of the Ad- main office at Moore Haven Middle-High school about three years I can help them,” Foster vanced Placement courses ... next year, finished, her voice shaking School last week. The school’s principal for ago.” when our kids take the PSAT, (we’ll be) with emotion. the past few years, Janice Foster, retired ef- “Yes, it’s been great,” looking at that data and then looking to see fective June 30, and Assistant Principal Rosa Perez has a similar which advanced placement courses, using Foster said. “It’d be very career story to Foster’s, as Perez took over Wednesday, July 1. hard to pick a favorite. I Janice Foster Rosa Perez the data from our students, that students There was occasion to catch them both they both began in Hendry will take and be successful. And I will be really loved everything that County. there at the same time one day in late June I’ve done in the district. And I’m really glad continuing what we’ve already started here while they prepared for baccalaureate and that I was able to get that much experi- Similar backgrounds at MHMHS, which is looking at the data on graduation exercises quite unlike they’d ence, to be able to see all these jobs in the how students are performing, continuing On June 30, she celebrated her 30th year ever planned — socially distanced as they county, from a teacher to a director to an classroom walk-throughs, meeting with in education. were, with masked participants wearing administrator … the only thing I haven’t teachers, again, just really focusing on caps and gowns sitting with their two done is superintendent, and I’m not going “I graduated as an education major from Palm Beach Atlantic College,” she said. “I the instruction that will help our kids be guests each in clusters of chairs on the to do that!” she added, drawing a chuckle successful, academically and as human football field. Those ceremonies will be as from Perez. (A new Glades County superin- went on to get a master’s degree in reading and then a specialist degree in education beings, whatever it is their choice to do — unforgettable for the Class of 2020 mem- tendent of schools is to be elected Nov. 3; leadership. I have been in roles from go into a work field, a technical school, a bers as they were for Principals Foster and she’s not a candidate.) elementary school teacher, reading coach, state college or university. We just want Perez. She has no special reason for retiring dean, to assistant principal and then princi- them to have the life skills that make them The two were intently focused that now, just that when it gets late in life you day on trying to make arrangements for pal, a migrant literacy specialist, and I came successful.” want to live a little. back to being assistant principal here. a public graduation ceremony under the “That’s basically it. I still love what I’m dark cloud of the COVID-19 threat, but they “For about 27 years I was in Hendry CTE programs to be expanded doing, I still love the kids and I’m really County … and the one thing that I found made time to reflect on their long careers, going to miss them, and working with them Perez is also looking forward to expan- share their thoughts and feelings about ... is, I miss the kids! And that’s why, when sion of Career and Technical Education pro- and watching them grow. Seeing them start this position became available here (AP at their transitions and discuss future plans. grams, whose fields will be widening due in sixth grade and then they’re soon gradu- MHMHS) I applied, because, you know, As retiring Principal Foster described ating, walking across the stage — I’m going sometimes being in the district office you’re to the coming development of Airglades her extremely varied educational career, it to miss all of that. The parents have been so not with kids all the time ... plus I really International Airport a few miles away in became clear she’d find it difficult to pick cooperative ... I’ve got a good rapport with miss just being around students,” Perez Hendry County. any favorite role. them, and I can’t say enough about the said. “Yes. I assure you that is already part “In 1981, 39-and-a-half years ago, I cooperation that I’ve had from our parents As for plans for the 2020-2021 school of the district, you know, just moving kids started out in Hendry County as a sixth- since I’ve been here,” Foster said. year, the district will be offering options to toward those career and technical endeav- grade teacher and then I eventually went As for immediate plans in retirement, parents that include continued distance ors, and exactly looking into what it is that to the high school in Clewiston, as the she said she’ll be around for the next sever- (online) learning mixed in with physical Airglades is going to offer and then starting high school English teacher and yearbook al years at least. Her husband is a sergeant classroom attendance — although the gov- sponsor. Then I was guidance counselor the process of what we need to do to be in the county sheriff’s department, so “he’s ernor’s order this past week that schools ready for that type of work, that field as at Clewiston High School, after I left the probably going to work a few more years, reopen next month hasn’t been officially well,” the new principal said. classroom. And then I transferred to LaBelle and then we’re going to travel a little bit. discussed or figured out yet. as LaBelle’s high school guidance coun- We’re wanting to build a house in Tennes- “You know, the CTE programs are In any case, Perez knows that dual always developing. In CTE right now, we selor, then I was assistant principal, and see because we have property up there, but enrollment’s demonstrated success at other do have ag, and we also have the business then I worked for Hendry County federal that’s probably going to be a couple more schools can be replicated in Glades County programs. years. and there are plans to expand it. part — kids are getting certified in Micro- “So ... I told Ms. Perez that I’m not going “We’ve always offered dual enrollment soft Office and things like that. CTE is, you ‘Loved everything I’ve done’ to desert her. If she needs my help I’m here classes. A lot of them have been online know, a work in progress, but we’re going “After that is when I came to Glades for her and I will volunteer and do whatever — but one of the things that we will be to have a new administrator also there in County, which was about 14 years ago, I need to do … this county has meant a lot offering is dual enrollment classes on our the district office and he is looking into all starting out as assistant principal of Moore to me, and now that I’m thinking about it, campus, starting with 11th graders. So the programs that we could offer here at Haven Elementary School, and then I went I’m about to cry. They (the school staff) hopefully we’ll get these 11th graders to be the high school.” Meet the EMT-P Lieutenant: Teresa Summeralls has served in Glades for 26 years

By Chris Felker mother, Margret Pullen. for caring for people that she days, she says. Lake Okeechobee News Summeralls, a native of Ohio, went on to paramedic school and In her off time, she said, “Yes, I am busy moved to Florida in 1972, came received her paramedic certification MOORE HAVEN — EMT/Paramedic Lt. with them. One of our favorite places to go to Ortona in 1975 and joined the in 1995. is the beach.” Teresa Summeralls was hired as an emer- Ortona Volunteer Fire Department “My mother and I went to EMT gency medical technician for Glades County Lt. Summeralls was GCPS employee of in around 1992. “Sandy Osceola and then paramedic school togeth- the year in 2016. while attending paramedic school at the was teaching first responders er,” Summeralls explained. former Edison College in Fort Myers (now when I started, and that’s how I got Teresa has been married to Jim- About her years of service and her col- Florida SouthWestern State College), way leagues at Glades County Public Safety, she involved,” she said. Teresa my Summeralls since 1983 and has back in 1994. said, “I have worked beside an awesome Summeralls received her EMT Summeralls two children, Andria and Justin, and Among her classmates then was Lt. Lisa certification in 1992 and responded four grandchildren she adores. Her team for all these years, we have had good Watson, a current Glades County Public to many calls as a first responder with great family has been her support to back her time and some sad ones as well, but it has Safety Department employee, and her late pride, she said. She had so much passion up and lift her spirits on those not-so-great been well worth it.” 28 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 More to Moore Haven action plan ready to review

By Jennifer Koukos future of the community and improve the as the intentional effort to shape a space, Alchemy Community Transformations Glades Electric Cooperative Inc. overall quality of life for everyone,” said from a neighborhood to an entire city or specializes in rural economic and social MOORE HAVEN — After eight months Clint Sloss of Alchemy Community Trans- region, around arts and culture. Placemak- development strategies through a collabo- of work and extensive conversations with formations. ing has seen successful efforts in large cities rative, community-driven process to create Visit the new moretomoorehaven.com across America, bringing together diverse stakeholders — both in-person and via simple-to-execute, realistic plans. They virtual conference calls — the action plan website for details on the action plan and crowds to witness cultural events and art to join the effort to bring More to Moore installations, rejuvenating local business are connectors who find the right people, for Moore Haven is live and ready for public the right resources and the right places, review at moretomoorehaven.com. Haven. economy and animating an area. Glades Electric Cooperative and the City About Creative Placemaking About Alchemy Community Trans- and bring them together to help transform of Moore Haven, along with a coalition of Creative Placemaking is broadly defined formations communities of all sizes. local businesses, teamed up with Alchemy Community Transformations to address local challenges and build a practical action plan for community development. Alche- my conducted their work using a process called Creative Placemaking, a people-cen- tered approach to building strong, vibrant communities. The goal of this planning process is to help Moore Haven achieve economic and population growth through the creation of catalytic projects. To begin the Creative Placemaking process, the Alchemy team led a handful of focus group meetings and a public vision- ing session in September 2019 to identify unique local assets and determine how they could be capitalized upon, provide insight on local challenges and give feed- back on the types of projects and amenities desired in town. The results of these conversations were five catalytic projects. Actions plans have been developed for each project with a two- to five-year timeline for implementa- tion, making the most of limited resources of time and funding. Projects to begin in year one include a new restaurant at the marina, new brand- ing for the city logo and way-finding for lo- cal amenities. In year two, an employer-as- sisted housing task force will be established to address local housing needs to grow housing stock and convert commuters to residents. Finally, in year three, an action plan to bring a grocery store to Moore Hav- en is scheduled to begin implementation. “While countless rural communities across the country face similar challenges, what sets Moore Haven apart is the local leadership’s eagerness to find innovative solutions and take action to shape the Complete the Census! Special to the Lake Okeechobee News MOORE HAVEN — Only 31% of Glades County residents have completed the 2020 Census as of July 12. You can complete your questionnaire online, by phone, or by mail. Go online to my2020census.gov or call 844-330- 2020. The 2020 Census counts everyone living in the United States and its five ter- ritories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands). One person should respond for each home. That person must be at least 15 years old. They should live in the home or place of residence themselves and know general information about each person living there. The State of Florida now has a 59.1% Census response. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 29 News from the Glades communities of Belle Glade, Pahokee, Life in theSun Canal Point and South Bay Babb courts tennis stars’ dad as potential investor

By Chris Felker “Thanks to Richard Williams for again Lake Okeechobee News taking time out of his busy schedule to travel to Pahokee today to speak with the mayor PAHOKEE — Mayor Keith W. Babb Jr. is and city manager about Pahokee’s vision and always looking to bring potential investors ways that he may be able to assist in revital- into the city to see the available opportunities izing downtown Pahokee. Special thanks to in town, he says, and, since he’s been busy Robert Love for accompanying Mr. Williams on that front lately, he’s been posting updates during his visit to Pahokee today,” Babb for constituents on his Facebook page. wrote. During 2020, he has welcomed to On July 1, he had put up a comment Pahokee Richard Williams, the 78-year-old about a visit that day from the O’Jays’ Levert father of famed tennis players Serena and Sr. but later took it down, prompting some Venus Williams; and Eddie Levert Sr., actor, Pahokee residents to wonder what hap- singer-songwriter and lead vocalist of the leg- pened. Mayor Babb had written that he was endary rhythm and blues group The O’Jays. expecting Levert to return Thursday. On June 30, he greeted Mr. Williams for “Thanks to R&B singer-songwriter and the third time in recent months. “Mr. Williams actor Eddie Lavert (sic) for taking time out of took a tour of Pahokee to look at various his busy schedule on two consecutive days to properties and sites for potential investment speak with the mayor about visiting Pahokee. opportunities in housing, businesses and He is best known as the lead vocalist of other economic development,” the mayor the legendary R&B group, The O’Jays, and posted later that day. He said Williams has has accepted the mayor’s invitation to visit been visiting “to discuss and explore with the Pahokee next week (Thursday) to discuss the mayor his vision and various business and possibility of performing a free concert and to economic interests.” explore other potential economic and busi- Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Keith Babb Williams returned this week for another ness development opportunities in Pahokee,” PAHOKEE — City Manager Chandler Williamson (left) listens to Richard Wil- visit, the mayor announced July 9. During Babb posted. liams as he talks about possibilities for properties in the city that they were this one, City Manager Chandler Williamson The mayor did not respond to a voice visiting on July 9. accompanied them. message left for him Friday afternoon. Jesus the King Bike Shop closed for 40 days Special to the Lake Okeechobee News burden to protect our JTK kids and their ty also created an increased risk to our kids time for the next 40 days to Withdraw to BELLE GLADE — Jesus The King (JTK) families,” explained Dawn Donaldson on and their families. We could not adequately the Lonely Places and Pray, Be Silent before Bike Shop announced July 11 the organiza- the organization’s Facebook page. implement and maintain disinfecting and The Lord, Exalt Our God and Receive His tion will be closed for 40 days. “The blessing was that there is a great safety protocols in an environment with so Peace. These are Biblical principles and “Due to the COVID-19 virus cases need for bikes and bike repair in our com- many kids having such a good time. So it is promises that we are focusing on in this increasing statewide, we felt a tremendous munity. However, that increase in populari- with great regret that we are taking some season. This, too, will pass.”

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Keith Babb Pahokee’s new gym taking shape PAHOKEE — “It’s exciting to see all the progress being made on our gym- nasium,” Mayor Keith Babb posted on his personal Facebook page July 2. “New paint, new parking lot, new ADA compliance ramps, new bleachers, new fl ooring, new goals, new restrooms,” he wrote. The handicapped-access Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/JTK Bike Shop ramps are being installed as required by the Americans With Disabilities Act, BELLE GLADE — Due to concerns for the safety of the children, JTK Bike Shop which Congress and President Bill Clinton enacted 30 years ago this month. will be closed for 40 days. 30 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Palm Beach County leans toward online classes By Chris Felker communication to Superintendent Fennoy. The RTF is comprised of high-ranking options while weighing input collected Lake Okeechobee News The HAC will continue to advise the district administrative and school-based from parents, guardians and employees superintendent throughout the 2020-2021 personnel who are responsible for pre- WEST PALM BEACH — Palm Beach through surveys and town hall events. school year, to ensure that appropriate de- senting considerations, implications and County School Board members came to a The school board is scheduled to vote to cisions are being made in real-time, using possibilities of reopening options for the meeting of the minds in a workshop July 7, approve any final plans during the July 15 all available data. Thus far, the HAC has 2020-21 school year. that at next week’s meeting they’ll seriously completed a preliminary survey to gather Over the past several weeks, the RTF regular School Board meeting. The public consider beginning the 2020-21 school year initial feedback from its members, and met has worked in collaboration with project is encouraged to watch the board meetings with distance (online) learning only. twice with the superintendent to present managers representing all divisions and live on palmbeachschools.org, on Comcast They met virtually for a workshop to their findings. departments to craft meaningful reopening channel 235, or AT&T U-verse channel 99. discuss Superintendent Dr. Donald Fennoy’s and the reopening task forces’ recommen- dations that they consider three alternatives, full-time classroom instruction as was the norm before the coronavirus pandemic, full-time online instruction as the schools have been doing since March, or a com- bination of both. The district conducted a survey of parents that indicated some sup- port for each approach, which may mean it needs to prepare for all three scenarios. A 32-page report compiled by staff was presented to the board, detailing each op- tion and the pros and cons of each. Fennoy told the board a health experts panel had recommended schools not be reopened fully until the increases in new COVID-19 cases and deaths in Palm Beach County have subsided. He added that the local district has a bit of leeway in implement- ing the state Department of Education’s order on Monday that all public schools be open five days a week at the start of the 2020-21 school year, which is set for Aug. 10, because it relies partly on community partners’ research and advice. The district will submit the board’s decision to be made July 15 to the FDOE for approval. According to its website, the PBCSD has two special committees set up to help the board make a decision. Its Health Advisory Committee (HAC) discussed the reopening of schools, and a Reopening Task Force (RTF) was instituted, tasked with surveying parents and staff to gather their opinions about reopening schools. The HAC maintains frequent contact with federal, state and local government and public health agencies for the most current information, including the latest guidelines and recommendations issued for K-12 schools. It consists of medical profes- sionals and district personnel who engage in daily planning and discussion to share important updates, review the district’s pan- demic protocols, and provide guidance and COVID-19 walk-up testing SOUTH BAY — State Rep. Tina Polsky, in conjunction with CDR Maguire, GENETWORx Lab and the City of South Bay, has organized a free COVID-19 walk-up testing site for resi- dents over 18 years old. This event will take place on Tuesday, July 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m (seniors only will be seen from 9 to 11 a.m.) at the Old Firehouse Bay, South Bay City Hall, 335 S.W. Sec- ond Ave. The There is no pre-registra- tion, no appointment, and no physician referral necessary for testing. Masks must be worn at the site and social distancing guidelines will be observed. There are a limited number of tests and testing will be conducted on a first-come, first served basis. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 31 Sweet Life in Hendry County Clewiston-born film student creates viral video

By Danika J. Fornear Lake Okeechobee News CLEWISTON — Keianna Summers is pas- sionate about using her voice to impact the community. She says finding your voice gives people so much empowerment. She recently produced a film, titled “Protect Our Women. Free Our Men. Love Our Skin.”, that has gone viral on social media. “I love showing others my journey, and how you can ultimately overcome any fear,” said Summers, a 21-year-old who studies media communications at Full Sail University. She was born and raised in Clewiston. “I like the communities in Hendry County the most,” said Summers. “Every community has its own environment, but being a small town we are able to connect our environ- ments together to have a good time.” Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Keianna Summers She went on to describe her family. “My CLEWISTON — Nellie Blanco, Cherica Marshall, Emily Shamsundar and Tony family has come a long way. I have a strong family who doesn’t give up easily. We are a Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/Keianna Perkins all appeared in the powerful new film about equality that has gone viral. Summers growing family. We have gone through tons be changed about the current situation of wanted to throw in the towel, but worshiping of struggles, separately and together, but we CLEWISTON — Twenty-one-year-old Jesus has helped me to feel peace, even have always persevered through it all and our nation, she replied: “Currently I would Full Sail University student and film- change what we are taught the education when I don’t see it. Playing worship music, never gave up.” maker Keianna Summers created a She said, “I am most proud of my mother. system. We need to teach the truth about singing, and dancing help me too. Also powerful viral video to promote unity racism, systemic racism and social injustice. talking to someone.” She went on to say, “My Not to sound cliché, but she has come a long and equality. way, too. My mother has paranoid schizo- We need more advocates for human rights most defining moment is when I gave my life phrenia and her story alone is so overwhelm- issues who can see both sides of an issue. to Christ. I was a ninth grader when my be- events, talk shows and much more. I just I also would change the way international loved great-grandpa Shirley passed away. We ing, yet powerful. She has overcome a lot of want to get my story out there,” Summers struggles and now she successfully runs an students are treated. I would grant them full spent an entire year living with him to help said. “I hope that it sparks the fire in those access to scholarships, job opportunities and care for him. Right before he died, he would entire food bank in town.” who are alone, to know that they are not As for her experience as a filmmaker, full education.” keep pointing at the TV in the hospital saying alone. I am all about using your voice and Currently, due to the pandemic, Summers ‘there. She will be there. People are going to and the creation of a video that has recently finding who you are. So, I hope this project gone viral on social media, she explained, describes the challenges of being isolated: know you all over. There. Right there, many continues to reach the platform of others in “My biggest challenges would be not being people will see her.’ My mom and aunts kept “I have never done this before at all. This order to give them the courage to know that is my very first personal project for a topic around others. Isolation can be pretty tough asking who and he says, ‘Keianna. Hallelu- so nationwide.” Inspired by the Black Lives their voice matters,” she said, when asked on mental health, but FaceTime has helped. jah.’ Shortly after, he passed away.” Matter movement, she said, “I wanted to start about her hopes for the future. Being someone in the entertainment industry, Summers said she holds the personal by showing that we can ALL stand together. What else is on the horizon for Summers? it is also a challenge creating from home.” philosophy, “If I die, I will die a legend,” close I wanted to show in a film that black and “I am currently working as a production She also offered this advice, “Wear your to her. brown people can be apart standing in unity.” manager for a film about black love with my mask! Wash your hands! Educate yourself She added, “I would like to give a shout- She added, “I actually filmed and directed amazing friend Viktoria Caroline. She wants on the ongoing pandemic and fact check out to my loving Pastor Landy Posadas and this short film on my own. It was definitely to show the love stories that happen in the everything. If you think you have COVID, Maritza Posadas. They have helped me grow an experience, but the cast who starred in black community, without all of the stereo- stay home and get tested if possible. Also, to become who I am today. They never failed the film helped so much! The open-minded types others assume — no violence, just love. find what makes you mentally sane! Being in to love me, without judgment but with pure ideas, positivity and passion helped to bring When she asked me to be on board, I gave isolation is heart, but do not lose hope! Better love and support! Iglesia Vida Nueva (New my vision to life. my yes immediately! I am also working only days will come!” Life Church) I love you!” “In the future, I aspire to be able to speak own magazine! So hold tight and stay tuned To push through hard times, Summers For a link to her video, see the Lake across all platforms that hold authority. For for updates on that!” said she turns to her faith, “The gospel,hon- Okeechobee News - Hendry County Face- example, having my voice heard at city hall When asked what she wished could estly. There have been many times where I’ve book page. Testing available in Hendry County by appointment Special to the Lake Okeechobee News appointment only, weather permitting). will not be made more than one week in Please remember: 6 feet of space CLEWISTON — The Florida Department This is a “drive-thru” service. All individuals advance. No same-day appointments will be and cover your face! of Health in Hendry County continues to must stay in their vehicles during the process made. No “walk-ins” accepted. The Florida Department of Health (DOH) (during registration and while being tested). Other testing Locations in Hendry County provide free COVID-19 testing. Notices for releases a report on COVID-19 cases in Persons tested will be given instructions on by appointment include: Florida once per day. There is also a report available testing sites, days and times will be how to receive their test results. Results may • Forbes Family Medicine: 500 W. sent out on a weekly basis. detailing surveillance data for every Florida take five business days. Sagamore Ave., Clewiston, 863-983-3434. county. The Florida Department of Health • Hendry County Health Department Residents of Hendry and Glades Counties • Hendry Regional Medical Center: 524 in Clewiston: 1100 S. Olympia, 863-983-1408 can secure an appointment for testing by W. Sagamore Ave., Clewiston, 863-902-3000. also releases a list of long-term care facilities on Wednesday July 15, from 8:30 to 11:30 calling the Hendry County Health Department • Hendry Convenient Care, 450 S. in Florida with active cases and number of a.m. (By appointment only, weather permit- Clewiston 863-983-1408, LaBelle 863-674- Main St. #2, LaBelle, 863-675-2356. deaths in each facility. ting). 4041 or Moore Haven 863-946-0707. • Florida Community Health Centers, The surveillance data, long term care data • Hendry County Health Department There are no criteria for testing, however, 315 W. C Owen Ave., Clewiston, 863-983-7813 and information on a case-by-case basis can in LaBelle: 1140 Pratt Blvd, 863-674-4041 on appointments are required and individuals and 1021 Health Park Drive, Moore Haven, be found at: floridahealthcovid19.gov/#lat- Friday, July 17 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. (By must be 18 years and older. Appointments 863-946-0405. est-stats. 32 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 UF releases new guide to raising backyard chickens By Samantha Murray eat, only to fertilize eggs to get baby chicks,” Many first-time chicken owners in they are a commitment, like any other pet or UF/IFAS said Jessica Ryals, a sustainable food systems Escambia County learned this fact only after livestock animal,” Ryals said. “Having fresh agent with UF/IFAS Extension Collier County purchasing chicks, leading to some disap- In the early days of the pandemic, as bare feed, proper housing and a clean home for and one of the book’s authors. pointment, Simmons said. them not only ensures their health and safety grocery store shelves prompted concerns An important note about chicks: If pur- The guide’s authors say raising backyard about the food supply, many became interest- but also your family’s.” chased when they are only a few weeks old, chickens requires planning, appropriate sup- The pandemic has certainly sparked more ed in producing more of their food at home. they will not start producing eggs right away. plies and consistent care. At the same time, Some flocked to local agricultural feed stores Hens usually start producing eggs when they backyard flocks can be very rewarding and interest in backyard chickens and other forms in search of baby chicks that would grow up are about five months old, said Nick Sim- lead some people to start small farms and of home food production, but this interest to produce eggs fresh from the back yard. mons, agriculture agent and director of UF/ other agricultural businesses. has been growing for some time, the authors The manager of one Pensacola store told IFAS Extension Escambia County. “Backyard chickens bring a lot of joy, but said. Aly Schortinghouse, 4-H agent for UF/IFAS Extension Escambia County, that weekly or- ders of 350 chicks sold out by the end of each week, four weeks in a row. Agents like Schortinghouse and many others across Florida are a resource to adult, youth and families interested in raising fowl at home. Now UF/IFAS has published a new guide to raising backyard chickens for eggs, available in hard copy from the UF/IFAS Ex- tension Bookstore, or as a free download. “This book is for any individual who is looking for a science-based introduction to keeping backyard chickens as egg layers,” said Alicia Halbritter, one of the book’s authors, and the agriculture and natural resources agent for UF/IFAS Extension Baker County. “This book should be used a resource for new and experienced chicken owners to make sure they are meeting all of their chickens’ needs.” Raising Backyard Chickens for Eggs covers everything from understanding your local ordinances, to building coops and selecting chicken breeds. Fun fact: different breeds of chicken produce different colored eggs and lay at different rates. The guide also debunks some common chicken myths. For example, some assume chickens will lay an egg a day, but that’s not always true, Halbritter said. “Chickens have very specific needs for egg laying and if those needs are not met, they simply will not lay an egg,” she said. Another common misconception is that roosters are needed for hens to lay eggs. Hens lay unfertilized eggs — the kind we eat — as a natural part of their reproductive cycle, even when roosters are not around. This is good news, as some local ordinances do not allow residents to keep roosters. “You don’t need a rooster to get eggs to

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ UF/ IFAS The pandemic has certainly sparked more interest in backyard chickens and other forms of home-based food production.

cok20200715_32.crop.pdf 1 14-Jul-20 06:25:49 July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 33 Palm Beach County to run sites for aid to homeless

Belle Glade, Pahokee Beach County Board on June 2, and later coronavirus emergency? or families with a referral will be brought to that month county staff and District 6 County Given that the coronavirus most easily Belle Glade facility for evaluation. “Walk-ups” facilities will operate in Commissioner Melissa McKinlay conducted a spreads from person-to-person in close will not be permitted, and this location will community town meeting and question/an- quarters, non-congregate sheltering has been not be used as a feeding site. Those in need tandem swer session for local officials and residents. the preferred option to care for those in need of isolation will be referred to the Pahokee Here are the county’s specific plans for the of isolation. facility and transported to the Pahokee facility By Chris Felker Glades communities’ sheltering of homeless How is Palm Beach County providing for if the person(s) does not have their own Lake Okeechobee News people, taken from its FAQs list distributed for NCS throughout its jurisdiction? transportation. the June 18 community meeting: The county secured six reservation/buyout The Pahokee facility will have a resident BELLE GLADE/PAHOKEE — This summer agreements that provided it access to over may be remembered for more than the “The NCS Strategy for the Western Com- manager onsite and provide for continuous munities proposes the renovation and use of 350 hotel rooms. Agreements were secured COVID-19 pandemic if the Palm Beach Board in all geographical regions of the county operation, including provision of daily security of County Commissioners’ plans for dealing two county-owned facilities to provide for a services. Isolation protocols call for those in multisite non-congregate sheltering operation with the west (Glades) region being the only with the homelessness problem — finally exception. isolation to stay inside their assigned quarters, including special help for the Glades region serving those in need of isolation due to the outside interaction being limited to medical coronavirus emergency. The facility located How will the multisite NCS operate? — are successfully fulfilled. Immediately upon opening and while staff. To ensure operational soundness and The BCC and county staff have taken in Belle Glade (formerly occupied by Jerome Golden Center Inc., at 341 N.W. 11th St.) will the need for COVID-related sheltering exists adherence to sheltering best practices, the great strides in the past decade in building an in the Western Communities, these facilities units at the Pahokee facility will be distributed infrastructure with assistance from commu- serve as the Intake and Assessment Center. A second facility located in Pahokee (1749 E. will provide for sheltering of those requiring to ensure that there is separation amongst the nity organizations to fashion a safety net for isolation due to COVID-19 related cases. different population groups being served. the county’s coastal homeless population. Main St.) will provide 42 one-bedroom/one- bath units for families, seniors, couples and At the Belle Glade facility families, singles, The county itself will operate and manage In 2012, they established the Senator Philip youth and seniors will receive a full assess- D. Lewis Homeless Resource Center on singles. The units will be used for emergency these projects. housing up to 90 days and supportive housing ment for services and will be entered into Also, county staff included this statement 45th Street in West Palm Beach as a clear- the coordinated entry system. If identified as inghouse for services to homeless people, up to 24 months; all the while receiving indi- about the costs: being at high risk of, or positive to, COVID-19 “Current estimates indicate that up to and just this month they opened a new vidually determined wrap-around services.” and have no other non-congregate housing Lewis Center Annex for housing at the South Here are some more of the questions staff $5 million in capital improvements will be option to achieve the isolation, the individual needed at the Pahokee facility and will be Florida Fairgrounds, in part as a response to answered: and/or families will be assigned an emergen- the COVID-19 crisis but also because of the cy shelter unit in Pahokee. funded with CARES Act monies as part of the continuing problems of homeless people tak- NCS Q&As from county The six individual sleeping rooms at the county’s response to the coronavirus emer- ing up residence in public use areas of John What is non-congregate sheltering (NCS)? Belle Glade facility will provide for housing gency. Combined annual operating costs are Prince Park in Lake Worth. Non-congregate sheltering means loca- while being evaluated for an emergency or estimated at $2.2 million and will be included tions where each individual or household has supportive housing placement. The Belle in the county’s budget, likely a combination Non-congregate sheltering living space that offers some level of privacy, Glade facility will be in continuous operation. of ad valorem and federal grant sources. In Their plan including the Lewis Center which is interpreted as its own room and Staff and security will be on site to ensure summary, the county will fund the entirety of Annex and a new Non-Congregate Sheltering sanitary facilities. smooth transition into the site and com- the capital and operating budgetary needs; (NCS) Strategy was approved by the Palm Why is NCS relevant in relation to the prehensive services. Only individuals and/ there is no ask to the cities.” McKinlay: Neighbors’ input valued on Glades homeless facilities By Chris Felker hosted the town hall,” she “There were concerns about who would Center and Supportive Housing when the Lake Okeechobee News explained. occupy these units and use services. Some COVID-19 emergency is over, and what And she believes it had of the anxiety was relieved when the public PALM BEACH COUNTY — County Com- services will be provided, contact county missioner Melissa McKinlay said Monday she results; a few changes was told the facility will ONLY be used for staff of the Community Services and Facilities thinks the county’s strategy for integrating a were made in response to Glades residents who need help,” McKinlay Development & Operations departments, non-congregate housing facility and homeless feedback from neighbors explained. who stand ready to answer your questions. services center in Pahokee and Belle Glade, and residents nearby the “Also, the COVID services are only for You can reach Community Services by phone respectively, depends on informing and two facilities. Glades residents. If someone has been ex- at 561-355-4772 or by email at WTippett@ involving Glades residents from the get-go. The “two major results” posed or tested positive and they cannot stay Melissa pbcgov.org. You can reach Facilities Develop- That’s why county officials persisted and she cited are: “We are in their home while quarantined, these units ment & Operations by phone at 561-233-0215 putting the ‘Glades residents McKinlay are available for them for respite purposes,” conducted their town hall on June 18 despite or by email at [email protected]. a few previous cancellations. only’ restrictions into our she said. paperwork and contracts to make it bind- The county will spend around $5 million The June 18 town meeting was recorded “I felt it was successful,” said Commission- and is available on the county’s website, er McKinlay, who represents District 6, which ing”; and, “We developed a Neighborhood to renovate the two buildings, located at 341 includes the county’s westernmost cities Advisory Group made up of local volunteers N.W. 11th St. in Belle Glade and 1749 E. Main discoverpbc.org. of Belle Glade, Canal Point, Lake Harbor, in Belle Glade and Pahokee (since we will St. in Pahokee, to make up the NCS Strategy Said McKinlay: “The transitional housing Pahokee and South Bay. “Because of rising have a facility in each) to coordinate commu- for the western communities. services are only for those seeking help. No COVID rates, we cannot meet in person. We nity concerns. Involving the neighbors is key For people with questions about how one will be forced to come here. And the had well over 100 people on the call. Previous to success. the twin facilities will operate as long as the units for homeless purposes may be used for attempts to hold a workshop with the city “The facilities will be open before the end COVID-19 emergency lasts, how they will be a maximum of two years. These are county were canceled by the city, so the county of the year,” she stated. used and operated as a Homeless Resource owned and funded facilities.” Red Cross volunteers responds to a home fire in South Bay Special to the Lake Okeechobee News to the family to meet their disaster-caused #EmergenciesDontStop. Hospital patients • Visit redcross.org/homefires to find out SOUTH BAY — Early this morning (July needs. still need lifesaving blood; neighbors still how to protect themselves and their homes 13) local American Red Cross volunteers Red Cross Volunteers have been trained need food, shelter and care after disasters; from fire. from the Palm Beach & Treasure Coast to follow proper safety procedures and and military families still need support. Your • Become a Red Cross volunteer by Chapter virtually responded to a home fire protocols to continue serving communities help is needed to fulfill the urgent needs of applying at redcross.org/sflvolunteer. on S.W. 10th Avenue in South Bay. impacted by local disasters, during the our mission today at redcross.org/South- • Download the Red Cross Emergency Red Cross volunteer members of the coronavirus outbreak. At this time, volun- Florida. App by visiting redcross.org/apps or texting Disaster Action Team helped coordinate teers are supporting individuals on a virtual What people can do: ‘GETEMERGENCY’ to 90999. This all-inclusive emergency aid to those affected. Fire offi- basis through phone and the use of video • Make a financial donation to their app combines more than 35 emergency alerts cials say six people were impacted by the conferencing technology. local Red Cross to help people affected by to help keep the user safe. And the Monster blaze, including two children. Families in our community, across the home fires and other disasters in the United Guard mobile app is specially designed for The Red Cross provided comfort kits, di- country and around the world turn to States and around the world. Visit redcross. kids, teaching them to prepare for emergen- rect client assistance and recovery planning the Red Cross every day for help because org/donate. cies at home by playing an engaging game. 34 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Suspects in Okeechobee carjacking arrested in DeSoto County By Cathy Womble Lake Okeechobee News OKEECHOBEE — A carjacking that began in Okeechobee early Monday morn- ing ended in arrests several hours later in Arcadia after an intervention by OnStar. According to Okeechobee Police Detective James Pickering, they got a call around 1:30 a.m. from a woman who told them she had just been carjacked. When they arrived, she told them she had been held at gunpoint by two black males in the 900 block of Northwest 11th Street, an area known as Dean’s Court. She told the officers she had been at a gas station earlier and saw a friend who asked for a ride. She gave the friend a ride, and decided to stop and visit another friend Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ Desoto Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ Desoto County Sheriff’s Office while she was in the area. When she got to County Sheriff’s Office DeSoto Correctional Institution (DCI) K-9 Unit responded, and with their assis- the friend’s house, she was told the friend The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office tance, Ty’Juan was located and taken into custody. would be out in a minute, but the friend Road Patrol and Investigative Divi- never came out, and she finally decided to sion responded to set up a perimeter. leave. As she was getting into her vehicle, Ty’Juan Lewis was captured. the two black men reportedly ran out of a fence, but did not cause much damage, nowhere and demanded her keys. She be- said Detective Pickering. “It basically rolled lieved they had a gun. They took her 2019 to the side of the road and hit the fence.” Chevy Camaro. She asked an unidentified female if she The suspects bailed out. The passenger, saw what happened, and she reportedly James Edison, 26, was captured immediate- replied, “I don’t know what you’re talking ly, and Ty’Juan Lewis, 18, was captured a about. I didn’t see anyone steal your car.” short time later. A joint effort between High- The woman did agree to give the victim a lands, Polk and DeSoto counties brought a ride home, where she was finally able to swift end to the search. call police. The Desoto County arrest report notes The victim was able to track her Edison has four prior felony convictions vehicle through OnStar, and they advised and was charged with grand theft motor it was westbound on State Road 70 West. vehicle, possession of a firearm by a con- Highlands County was able to pick it up in victed felon and possession of ammunition an unmarked vehicle and followed it until by a convicted felon. OnStar took matters into their own hands This investigation is ongoing, and this Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/ Desoto County Sheriff’s Office and shut the vehicle down. It crashed into story will be updated. This gun was found at the scene when Edison was arrested. Red Cross responds to an apartment fire in Belle Glade

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Families in our community, across the BELLE GLADE — On July 8, the local country and around the world turn to American Red Cross volunteers from the the Red Cross every day for help because Palm Beach & Treasure Coast Chapter #EmergenciesDontStop. Hospital patients virtually responded to an apartment fire on still need lifesaving blood; neighbors still Southwest 16th Street in Belle Glade. need food, shelter and care after disasters; Local Red Cross volunteer members of and military families still need support. Your the Disaster Action Team helped coordi- help is needed to fulfill the urgent needs of nate emergency aid to those affected. Fire our mission today at redcross.org/South- officials say three people were impacted by Florida. the blaze, including one child. What people can do: The Red Cross provided comfort kits, di- • Make a financial donation to their rect client assistance and recovery planning local Red Cross to help people affected by to the family to meet their disaster-caused home fires and other disasters in the United needs. States and around the world. Visit redcross. Red Cross volunteers have been trained org/donate. to follow proper safety procedures and • Visit redcross.org/homefires to find out protocols to continue serving communities how to protect themselves and their homes impacted by local disasters, during the from fire. coronavirus outbreak. At this time, volun- Become a Red Cross volunteer by apply- teers are supporting individuals on a virtual ing at redcross.org/sflvolunteer. basis through phone and the use of video Download the Red Cross Emergency conferencing technology. App by visiting redcross.org/apps or texting The Red Cross’s physical presence may “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999. This all-inclu- not be the same across the country, but the sive app combines more than 35 emergen- emergency help we provide will continue, cy alerts to help keep the user safe. And including financial assistance as well as oth- the Monster Guard mobile app is specially er resource like health and mental health designed for kids, teaching them to prepare Special to the Lake Okeechobee News services which may be provided over the for emergencies at home by playing an BELLE GLADE – An apartment building in the 500 block of Orange Avenue Cir- phone. engaging game. cle in Belle Glade was damaged by fire on Tuesday. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 35 OCSO Fire Report • Okeechobee City Fire Department box being burned. OCFR cleared the scene and returned to 70 West. When they arrived, they found a 3 responded to 19 medical/EMS, seven fire • On June 25 at approximately 6 p.m., the station. to 5 acre fire burning in a heavily wooded and nine miscellaneous calls last week. OCFR responded to a call regarding a • On June 29 at approximately 7 p.m., area with pine trees, palm trees and over • Okeechobee County Fire Rescue brush fire in the 32800 block of U.S. 441 OCFR responded to a call regarding a grown shrubs. The property owner said responded to 112 medical/EMS, eight North. The fire was started after a lightning structure fire in the 1400 block of U.S. 441 he believed the fire must have started from fire-related and 20 miscellaneous calls last strike and was extinguished by home- Southeast. When they arrived, they found a lightning strike. The forest service was week. Out of 79 possible transports, five owners in the area prior to the arrival of bystanders putting water on the structure requested in order to establish a plow line. were refused. firefighters. through windows. They were told all occu- Forest Service determined the fire to be • On June 21 at approximately 5:30 • On June 26 at approximately 9:15 pants were out of the structure, and they approximately 10 acres, and they dug a p.m., OCFR responded to a call regarding a p.m., OCFR responded to a call regarding made entry through the side of the struc- plow line around the entire thing. building fire in the 1800 block of Northwest a forest fire but upon arrival, there was no ture and began putting water on the fire. • On July 1 at approximately 10 a.m., Sixth Street. When they arrived, they found fire found in the area. The tenant told them he had been having OCFR responded to a call regarding a fire in a single residence with a fire outside in a • On June 28 at approximately 3:45 trouble with his electric air conditioning the 1000 block of U.S. 98 North. When they waste basket. Smoke was in the residence p.m., OCFR responded to a call regarding prior to the fire. He said his son told him arrived, they found a monitored burn pile. and burn marks appeared on an electrical a brush fire in the 1000 block of Northeast the room was smoking while he was cook- When they contacted the owner, he pro- box, both inside the electrical box and 80th Avenue. When they arrived, they ing, and they both got out of the building duced a burn permit from the Forest Service. outside. There was no fire extension from observed a large column of smoke at the and tried to extinguish the fire through the • On July 1 at approximately 5:15 p.m., the electrical box. The house was de- front of the neighborhood and found the window. The state fire marshal was called OCFR responded to a call regarding a brush smoked, and the residence had a primary fire at the rear of a home in the 1100 block and was sent pictures. He was OK with fire in the 12500 block of Northeast 91st Ave- and secondary assessment performed. of Northeast 44th Terrace. They gained cause and origin and said he would not be nue. When they arrived, they found approxi- Occupant refused EMS care. The fire was access through a fence. They requested the coming out to investigate. mately a half-acre of medium to heavy brush determined to have been caused by an Forest Service. Occupants told them they • On June 30 at approximately 8:15 involved in flame. They extinguished the fire electrical short. FPL arrived on the scene had been burning a small brush pile the p.m., OCFR responded to a call regarding a and returned to the station. and pulled the meter due to the electrical day before. When Forest Service arrived, brush fire in the 12500 block of State Road Arrest Report Crime Stoppers The following individuals were arrested on Avenue, was arrested June 27 by OCSO and Special to the Lake Okeechobee News in public and criminal IHORQ\RUGULYLQJXQGHUWKHLQÀXHQFH '8,  charged with battery on a law enforcement mischief. FKDUJHVE\WKH2NHHFKREHH&RXQW\6KHULৼ¶V officer and resisting an officer with violence. PALM BEACH COUNTY — Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County needs your Anyone with in- 2৽FH 2&62 WKH2NHHFKREHH&LW\3ROLFH Bond was set at $10,000. formation is urged to 'HSDUWPHQW 23' WKH)ORULGD+LJKZD\ • Harrison Hemmis, 23, Northwest 28th help in locating Terrell Peak, 25 years old, black, male, 6 feet 1 inch tall, 170 pounds, contact Crime Stoppers 3DWURO )+3 WKH)ORULGD)LVKDQG:LOGOLIH Avenue, was arrested June 27 by OCSO and at 800-458-TIPS (8477), - black hair, brown eyes, and he has multiple &RQVHUYDWLRQ&RPPLVVLRQ ):& WKH'HSDUW charged with criminal mischief $1,000 or or remain anonymous by PHQWRI&RUUHFWLRQV '2& RUWKH2NHHFKREHH more, battery touch or strike and escape. tattoos. 1DUFRWLFV7DVN)RUFH 217)  Bond to be set by the judge. He is at large. downloading the new app “Connect & Protect,” “See • Jayme Lee Casanova, 29, Southwest • Shannon Lucas, 44, Winter Haven, was Peak is wanted on a warrant for Terrell 18th Street, was arrested June 24 by a Something Say Something” arrested June 27 by OCSO and charged with aggravated assault, felon in possession of Peak member of the ONTF and charged with sale DUI and driving while license is suspended a firearm or ammo discharging a firearm for any Apple or Android of a controlled substance and possession of habitual offender. Bond was set at $3,000. smartphone. a controlled substance with the intent to sell. • James Sellers, 42, Northwest 87th Court, Bond was set at $150,000. was arrested June 29 by OCSO and charged • Angel Ponce, 23, Northwest 46th with aggravated assault with a deadly CITY OF LABELLE, FLORIDA Avenue, was arrested June 26 by OCSO and weapon without intent to kill. Bond was set charged with DUI. Bond was set at $500. at $20,000. PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD NOTICE • William Fulwider, 25, Northeast 26th • Tracy McKinney, 40, Northeast Second CITY OF LABELLE CDBG GENERAL PLANNING SUPPORT GRANT Avenue, was arrested June 26 by OCSO and Street, was arrested June 29 by OCSO and STORMWATER MASTER PLAN charged with possession of methamphet- charged with battery second or subsequent amine and possession of drug paraphernalia. offense. Bond was set at $2,500. The City of LaBelle is developing an Application for the Florida Department of Economic Opportu- Bond was set at $2,700. 7KLVFROXPQOLVWVDUUHVWVDQGQRWFRQYLF- nity Community Development Block Grant-Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) Rebuild Florida General Planning • Bradley Sheltra, 35, Southeast 20th WLRQVXQOHVVRWKHUZLVHVWDWHG$Q\RQHOLVWHG Support Program. The City is seeking input from potential stakeholders and the public on the grant Court, was arrested June 26 by OCSO and KHUHZKRLVODWHUIRXQGLQQRFHQWRUKDVKDGWKH application. The City’s population is over 50% LMI by census and is in a Rural Area of Opportunity charged with possession of methamphet- FKDUJHVDJDLQVWWKHPGURSSHGLVZHOFRPHWR (RAO). amine and possession of drug paraphernalia. LQIRUPWKLVQHZVSDSHU7KHLQIRUPDWLRQZLOOEH Bond was set at $2,700. FRQ¿UPHGDQGSULQWHG The City is applying for approximately $530,400.00 to mitigate the risks to the protected Com- • Lorna Gordon, 59, Northwest 28th munity Lifelines of Hazardous Materials, Food, Water, Shelter and Transportation, through the development of a Stormwater Master Plan. These funds must be used for the following purposes:

To support high-quality mitigation planning that will build a foundation for continuous coordination OCSO Investigations and data-driven outcomes in the state of Florida. Planning projects should be oriented towards The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office regional projects that mitigate high-impact hazards and integrate multiple programs and funding CRIMINAL MISCHIEF sources. The resulting plans should detail community hazards and present realistic solutions for investigated reports of the following crimes treatment of these hazards. The City’s proposed activities include Data Collection/Community last week: • 3200 block Northwest 38th Avenue • 5300 block U.S. 441 Southeast Involvement, Known Drainage Problems /Improvement Plan, Watershed Sub-Basin Planning and 0RGHOLQJ6XE%DVLQ6SHFL¿F6WRUPZDWHU3ODQV6XUYH\$QDO\]H)XWXUH$UHDVRI'HYHORSPHQW ASSAULT FRAUD and the development of a Stormwater Master Plan Report. • 7200 block U.S. 441 North x2 • 2500 block Northeast 11th Court • 3600 block U.S. 441 South A public announcement of these funds and the proposed project is posted on the City’s Website • 2300 block Southeast 27th Street and an advertisement is published in the local paper. The public is invited to provide comments BURGLARY • 3600 block U.S. 441 Southeast on the CDBG-MIT General Planning Support Program Project. A draft application has been devel- • 2200 block U.S. 441 North oped and the public is invited to review the draft application posted on the City’s web at https:// • 8600 block U.S. 441 Southeast • 2000 block Southwest First Way citylabelle.com/cdbg-grant-applications-for-review/ or to view a hard copy by contacting Ron Zim- merly, Finance Director at phone: 863-675-2872 or email: [email protected] . Written • 600 block Northeast 13th Avenue • Jail • 3000 block Northwest Second Street comments may be provided to Ron Zimmerly and MUST be received no later than July 29, 2020. For non-English speaking residents, Spanish and Haitian Creole versions of this Notice and the • 3600 block Northwest Fifth Street x2 NARCOTICS USE Application will be made available upon request. • 1600 block State Road 70 East • 4100 block Southeast 23rd Court • 1200 block Northwest Ninth Avenue THEFT City of LaBelle • 3900 block State Road 710 South East OVERDOSE 481 West Hickpochee Avenue • 6300 block Northeast Seventh Street LaBelle, FL 33935 • 1100 block Southwest 11th Drive • 800 block State Road 78 West Fair Housing/Disability Access Jurisdiction and Equal Opportunity Employer • 2800 block U.S. 441 South • 3300 block Southeast 33rd Terrace 36 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Local resident says ‘Banks should be dependable’

By Cathy Womble tell older people to stay home, because bank was considered the most reliable in is low foot traffic or there is not sufficient Lake Okeechobee News we are the most vulnerable to the corona- the area and chose one she felt would be staffing have all of the centers open.” He OKEECHOBEE — Imagine her surprise virus, and then I’m supposed to drive 40 the most dependable, so she would not said the Okeechobee site was opened when 77-year-old Joanne Linehan arrived at miles to another bank to get some money have to go through this again. earlier than the other sites because they Bank of America three weeks ago to with- to go to the store to buy bread?” she said. On Monday, July 6, Bank of America know there is not another one nearby, but draw some money from her account and “Young people don’t worry about it as closed more than 50 locations in Central he could not guarantee it would not close found a note on the door saying the branch much I guess because they bank online, Florida. All locations had similar notices on again tomorrow. “These are all fluid. These was temporarily closed. “I didn’t know but I don’t want to drive to another town to their doors stating the location was tempo- could happen every day,” he said. “I can’t what to think,” she said. “The note didn’t do my banking, and I don’t want to bank rarily closed and giving no information on speak to what could happen in the future, say when they would open again. I didn’t online,” she explained. “They didn’t even how long they will be closed. but if it does happen again, it would be know how I was supposed to get any mon- give us any warning at all. They just closed When contacted regarding the closing temporary.” ey out. I don’t have a debit card. Maybe I’m the doors and put a sign out front. What if I in Okeechobee, Senior Vice President for Their goal is to reopen the other loca- the only person left in the world who still had something in a safe deposit box? It isn’t External Communications of Southeast tions at some point, but he could not say uses checks,” she laughed. “Everyone else right to just walk off and leave your cus- U.S. Media Relations Matthew Daily said, when that would happen. is dead now. Oh wait. That’s not funny.” tomers like that with no advance warning. “Throughout this time, we have balanced Although other banks in the area have On June 22, the bank reopened, but Banks should be dependable.” the need to stay open to provide access made changes such as closing their lobbies at first was only open Monday through She opened an account at another finan- for our clients while prioritizing the health and doing some business out in the parking Wednesday and on Saturday morning. Now cial institution. Now she has to go through and safety of our employees and clients lots, none of them have had any unsched- they are offering six days a week again, but the hassle of transferring her Social Security with temporarily closing on occasion.” uled closures since the beginning of the Linehan has decided she no longer trusts check to the other bank. “I guess I will He went on to explain that they are taking pandemic. the bank to handle her money. She is afraid leave my phone plugged in while I sit on steps to support not only their customers According to the Bank of America web- she will get up next week and find out they hold for eight hours,” she sighed. She also but also their staff during the health crisis. site, 22 of the 50 locations within 59.7 miles are closed again. “I don’t want to drive all had to change all of the bills — electric, “This includes some temporary financial of Okeechobee are temporarily closed. If over creation just to get some money out of water, etc. which were paid out of her bank center closures. Those temporary closures you wish to access your safe deposit box, my account, and I shouldn’t have to. They account. She did her research to see which are happening in areas either where there you can email to make an appointment. Douglas Park neighborhood cleanup planned for July 25

By Katrina Elsken this will set an example for numerous social media. • Trash bags, Lake Okeechobee News neighborhoods that could use some Volunteers will meet at 8 a.m. July 25 • Rakes, OKEECHOBEE — A plan to have a cleanup.” at 582 N.E. 13th Ave. • Work gloves, neighborhood cleanup day in Douglas “I can bring a loader, a semi and a A barbecue lunch will be provided by • Pop-up shade tents, Park has “confirmed my faith in unity,” dump trailer,” volunteered Commissioner Men of Distinction and Chobee Nation. • Use of golf carts, and, Brad Goodbread. He said he saw the no- Residents can prepare in advance for Tamisha McQueen told the Okeechobee • Trash grabbers. tice Wednesday on social media. “We can the cleanup by bringing limbs, yard debris County Board of Commissioners at their Social distancing will be enforced. July 9 meeting. put whatever stuff in the dump trailer and and other waste items to the side of the Volunteers are encouraged to wear face “I hope you can come in solidarity I will haul it to the landfill. I’ll pay for it,” road before the cleanup. with us and get some work done,” she he added. He said he can bring a loader Those who cannot help in person can masks. said. with a grappler and bucket. support the effort by donating supplies of: For more information, contact Preston “I think it is absolutely wonderful,” Earlier this week, Demetre Riles shared • Water, at 863-484-3301 or Tamisha at 863-623- said Commissioner Kelly Owens. “I hope information about the cleanup event on • Coolers, 7194. Palm Beach County commission reviews COVID update Special to the Lake Okeechobee News said the department has been able to ty representative and Kenny Rampersad, Beach County’s ordinance currently WEST PALM BEACH — At the July 7, cover staffing shortages and will continue director of Finance and Administration, defines an employer as having 15 or more 2020, Board of County Commissioners to respond to all emergency calls from as alternate representative on the East employees vs. five or more employees in meeting, the board took the following the public. Central Regional Wastewater Treatment counties such as Broward, Miami-Dade, actions: • Budget — authorized staff to sub- Facilities Operation Board, effective July Pinellas, Orange and Leon. • COVID-19 — received an update mit proposed not-to-exceed millage rates 20, 2020. • Diversity — directed staff to from Dr. Alina Alonso, director of the for the FY 2021 budget to the Property • Public safety — adopted a reso- research creating an office of equity, di- Florida Department of Health-Palm Beach Appraiser’s Office. The proposed millage lution approving the 2020 Palm Beach versity and inclusion to ensure the needs County, and Fire Rescue Administra- rates for Countywide, Library and Fire County Comprehensive Emergency of the area’s diverse population are being tor Reginald Duren on local COVID-19 Rescue MSTU are at the current year mill- Management Plan (CEMP). The CEMP met in terms of race, gender, language mitigation efforts. Dr. Alonso said over age rate and above rollback. The millage outlines how the various departments barriers, disabilities and sexual orienta- rate for the Jupiter Fire MSTU is slightly and agencies, both public and private, 3,000 individuals under age 18 have tion. below the current year millage rate, but will discharge their responsibilities for been tested in Palm Beach County. Of • NACo Awards — announced that above rollback. The proposed millage providing direction and control during those, more than one-third (1,083) were three Palm Beach County departments positive. She noted that other regions rates may be lowered but not raised at any large-scale local disaster. Revisions won 2020 Achievement Awards from the of the state which had been well below two public hearings scheduled for Thurs- include a modification of the Executive National Association of Counties (NACo). Southeast Florida’s infection rate are now day, Sept. 3, at 6 p.m. and Tuesday, Sept. Policy Group to include the Unified Com- considered hot spots. “This is spreading 15, at 6 p.m. in the sixth floor commis- mand Group, updated lead and support Youth Services earned two awards for its quite rapidly throughout Florida,” she sion chambers of the Robert Weisman agencies, and enhancement of various Family Violence Intervention Program said. “This virus is going to be around a Governmental Center. processes such as damage assessment, and Summer Camp Scholarship Program. long time.” Chief Duren reported that 109 • Water utilities — approved the social media, training and re-entry. Information Systems Services was recog- firefighters — approximately 10 percent appointment of Ali Bayat, deputy director • Equal employment — directed nized for its Traffic Signals Condition and of Fire Rescue’s workforce — are in quar- of the Palm Beach County Water Utilities staff to review and update the county’s Power Assessment Application, and Palm antine. Of those, 24 have tested positive; Department, to replace Water Utilities Di- equal employment ordinance with regard Tran won for its Go Glades Deviated Flex- two firefighters are currently in ICU. He rector Jim Stiles as the Palm Beach Coun- to the definition of an employer. Palm Route Service. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 37

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Nine OHCF residents test positive for COVID-19

By Katrina Elsken Out of the 158 residents tested, one test was not receive a call, your family member is showed seven OHCF residents currently Lake Okeechobee News rejected and nine were positive for COVID-19. negative. COVID-19 positive, one resident who tested All positive residents are contained in our “Also in this past week, one staff member positive and was transferred to another facility OKEECHOBEE — Nine Okeechobee quarantine unit, and two of the nine have tested positive, taking our total number of Health Care Facility residents tested positive and 12 staff members who tested positive. since been discharged to hospital due to other positive staff to 12. All of these employees are The FDOH county report updated July 13 for COVID-19 last week, according to an issues, leaving seven positive cases housed off the schedule and following DOH and CDC email sent to the residents’ families. on the unit. The Department of Health is in guidelines. The second mandatory testing of indicates that since testing began in March, The email sent Friday, July 10, at 1:58 p.m. our facility today, retesting all residents on the all staff members is scheduled for this coming 31 COVID-19 positives have been related from OHCF to families of residents states: quarantine unit. Wednesday, July 15, 2020.” to long-term care facilities in Okeechobee “As you know, this past Monday a team “The families of positive residents have The Florida Department of Health Long- County. This number includes both residents arrived at our facility to test all residents. been notified via phone; therefore if you did term Care Facilities report, updated July 12, and staff. Upcoming blood drives for the month of July

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News pends on the generosity of volunteer blood • Monday, July 20 at Winn Dixie, from 1 • Friday, July 31 at Walmart, 1:30 to 6:30 OKEECHOBEE — When tragedy strikes, donors. If you are at least 17 years old and to 6 p.m. p.m. a safe and secure blood supply can make in good health, you can help save lives by • Tuesday, July 21 at Okeechobee Cor- Upcoming blood drives in Clewis- the difference between life and death. donating blood. rectional Institution, 1:30 to 7 p.m. ton include: When there is an accident or natural Upcoming blood drives in • Saturday, July 25 at Walmart, 11 a.m. • Friday, July 17, at Save-A-Lot, 900 W. disaster, there isn’t time to collect, test and Okeechobee include: to 4:30 p.m. Sugarland Highway, 1:30 to 6:30 p.m. process blood. Blood testing and process- • Friday, July 17 at Walmart, from 1:30 to • Sunday, July 26 at Walmart, 12:30 to Those who donate blood will receive a ing takes about 24 hours. That’s why it’s so 6:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m. free antibody test. One Blood is testing all important for those who are able to donate • Saturday, July 18 at Walmart, from 11 • Monday, July 27 at Winn Dixie, 1 to 6 donated blood for COVID-19 antibodies. to give blood regularly so it can be at the a.m. to 4:30 p.m. p.m. Plasma containing the antibodies may be hospitals and ready to use when needed. • Sunday, July 19 at Golden Corral, from • Tuesday, July 28 at Raulerson Hospital, used to help patients who are fighting the The safety of the nation’s blood supply de- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. noon to 5:30 p.m. virus. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 39

FoundCare Inc. expands women’s services in Palm Beach County

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Pavlescak, Ph.D., chief operating officer at from the Chamberlain Uni- diatric and adult primary WEST PALM BEACH — FoundCare, a FoundCare. “Women are often in charge versity College of Nursing care, new women’s health nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center, of maintaining their family’s health, which in Florida, with an empha- services, chronic disease will now offer expanded women’s health means they access the health care system sis on women’s health. management, behavioral more than men, for themselves and for This news comes services to meet the increasing demand for their children. We know firsthand just how ahead of an exciting new health services, dentistry, women’s health care. valuable these services will be to women in partnership with the Prom- pharmacy, laboratory Services now include OB/GYN care, our community.” ise Fund to bring extraor- services and X-rays. well-woman exams, preventative care and Dr. Rashmi Kar and Rose Philius, APRN, dinary opportunities for all FoundCare’s mission is to screenings, bone density testing, breast and joined the FoundCare team at the begin- women. fulfill unmet health care Rose Philius, cervical cancer screening, sexual health ning of 2020 to help lead the organiza- FoundCare Inc., cel- Dr. Rashmi Kar services, birth control, pap smear and HPV and social service needs of APRN tion’s response to increasing demand for ebrating 35 years in the individuals and families in testing, pregnancy services, and prenatal women’s health care. Dr. Kar is certified community, uses a sliding fee scale based and postpartum care. by the American Board of Obstetrics and on household size and income, and no one Palm Beach County. “This is a very exciting beginning for Gynecology and brings with her 16 years is turned away for inability to pay. With For more information about FoundCare FoundCare as we add the specialty of of experience in gynecology. Rose Philius, several locations throughout Palm Beach visit foundcare.org or call 561-HEALTHY obstetrics for our female patients,” said Rik APRN, holds an master’s degree in nursing County, FoundCare’s services include pe- (432-5849). Some racial, ethnic groups at higher risk for COVID-19 virus News from the CDC While everyone is at risk of getting tions. Addressing the needs of these popu- COVID-19 if you may have been exposed or Special to the Lake Okeechobee News COVID-19, some people may be more likely lations in emergencies includes improving are sick. to get COVID-19 or experience severe illness. day-to-day life and harnessing the strengths • Take steps to protect yourself, your com- ATLANTA — Long-standing systemic COVID-19 is a new disease, and the U.S. Cen- of these groups. Shared faith, family and munity and others from getting COVID-19, health and social inequities have put some ters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cultural institutions are common sources of including those at increased risk of severe members of racial and ethnic minority is learning more about it and how it affects social support. Everyone, regardless of race or illness. groups at increased risk of getting COVID-19 people every day. ethnicity, can: • Take precautions as you go about your or experiencing severe illness, regardless of History shows that severe illness and • Follow CDC’s guidance for seeking med- daily life and attend events. age. Among some racial and ethnic minority death rates tend to be higher for racial and ical care if you think you have been around • Learn to cope with stress and help the groups, including non-Hispanic black per- ethnic minority populations during public someone with COVID-19 or have symptoms. people you care about and your community sons, Hispanics and Latinos, and American health emergencies than for other popula- • Follow steps to prevent the spread of cope with stress to become stronger. Indians/Alaska Natives, evidence points to higher rates of hospitalization or death from COVID-19 than among non-Hispanic white persons. As of June 12, 2020, age-adjusted U.S. Surgeon General: ‘COVID stops with me’ hospitalization rates are highest among Special to the Lake Okeechobee News your chance of dying from it is significantly more about transmission of the virus. non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Everyone can help stop COVID-19, U.S. lower than what it was in February and “We’ve learned more about asymptomat- Native and non-Hispanic black persons, Surgeon General Jerome Adams explained in March. And that’s important for the American ic spread, up to 50 percent of people who can followed by Hispanic or Latino persons. people to know. spread this disease, spread it without having a July 12 interview on “Face the Nation.” “The disease course is about two weeks. symptoms. And that’s why the American peo- • Non-Hispanic American Indian or Alas- “There are two very important things that ka Native persons have a rate approximately So while we’re seeing cases rise, we ple need to know that science is about giving I just want the American people to know. can see cases go down just as quick- the best recommendations you can and five times that of non-Hispanic white persons. Number one, we are in a very different place ly if the American people will do the when you learn more, you change those rec- • Non-Hispanic black persons have a rate than what we were in February and March. things that we know slow the spread of ommendations. Our recommendations have approximately five times that of non-Hispanic We have an over 300 percent increase in this disease, including wearing a face changed.Now, people of America, important white persons. available PPE and that’s not to say mission covering. Critically important for people to to know you should wear a face covering. We • Hispanic or Latino persons have a rate accomplished, but we are in a better place. know, COVID stops with me. We have the follow the science and when we learn more, approximately four times that of non-Hispan- We have treatments from Remdesivir, steroids power to turn this thing around.” our recommendations change. But it’s hard ic white persons. and convalescent plasma. All which mean He said the official stand on wearing when people are continuing to talk about that if you actually get diagnosed with COVID, masks has changed because they learned things from three, four months ago,” he said. We Love to Care!

Family-Owned & Operated, OHCF has been Providing Rehab & Residential Care to Okeechobee & the Surrounding Communities Since 1984

 Okeechobee Five-Star Rated Health Care • Rehab, Physical, Occupational, Speech & Out-Patient Therapy Facility • Long-Term Nursing Care Available 24/7 • Secure Dementia and Alzheimer’s Memory-Care Wing 1646 U.S. Highway • Delicious Meals 441 North • Fun & Stimulating Activities 863-763-2226 40 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Injured dog, Tundra, rescued in Hendry County By Danika J. Fornear arrived on scene and immediately call CAC, Lake Okeechobee News to our fantastic volunteer Kathy Irey for CLEWISTON — Clewiston Animal Con- transporting her and making sure she was trol rescued an injured dog in the Montura comfortable at our facility, and another area of Hendry County on the evening of huge thank you to Gulf Coast Humane Saturday, July 11. Society for taking her in immediately.” “We can never stress enough the expres- “When I met her, honestly, I just wanted sion ‘See something, say something.’ This to weep ... not cry, but weep. This girl appears was the case for dear sweet Tundra. We to have been dumped, in horrific condition,” received a call last night around approxi- Kathy Irey explained. “She was lying in the mately 10 p.m. in regards to a injured/sick middle of the road, too tired to stand. I am so shepherd on County Road 832/CR 833 just grateful to the sheriff’s deputy who waited outside of Montura in an extremely rural until help arrived and extremely grateful to and secluded area. When help arrived, she Henry, a former student, and his friend for was so weak she barely stood,” Animal staying by her side and calling for help.” Control reported. Clewiston Animal Control went on to “We cannot begin to imagine what her report: “Poor Tundra is far from being in history is; regardless, it shatters our hearts the clear, but she’s off in the right direction. yet also drives our determination and If anyone recognizes this poor girl, please passion. We are very grateful to everyone contact us at 863-983-1474 and dial zero. All involved in her rescue — to the Good tips can remain anonymous. If you’d like to Special to the Lake Okeechobee News make a donation to her care and treatment, Samaritans who stopped to help her and CLEWISTON — Tundra, a husky mix, was found in poor condition and is sus- stayed by her side ’til help arrived, to the please contact Gulf Coast Humane Society in pected to have been abandoned in the Montura area. Hendry County Sheriff’s Office officer who Fort Myers.” Well drilling truck stolen in Hendry County By Danika J. Fornear when this happened.” The post went on, Moss also issued updates on the truck. The vehicle was taken from 650 S. Lake Okeechobee News “This is a piece of equipment that takes “The truck was seen on camera going Cabbage Palm Street in the Montura area, CLEWISTON — On Wednesday, July 8, a year to build and our company cannot through South Bay at 6:02 a.m., so it’s no of Clewiston. The Hendry County Sheriff’s Timothy Crumb, owner of Crumb’s Well operate without it. It’s the truck and piece longer in the Montura area.” She added, Office has asked anyone who has seen this Drilling, reported that his 2007 Ford F-550 of equipment shown in the picture. If you “Checked the ports today. We know it’s vehicle, or has any information regarding well drilling truck had been stolen. have any information at all, please call Greg in Miami. Hoping they take the truck and its whereabouts, to please contact them at The Hendry County Sheriff’s Officer de- at 863-228-3448.” dump the rig somewhere that we can find.” 863-674-5600. scribed the vehicle as a “white F-550 with a 30-foot well rig mounted on it. The vehicle has Crumb’s Well Drilling on both sides of the vehicle with a Florida license plate 746NWL or Z414NG.” Cameron Edwards Moss posted a public A Moment of Truth plea, about the theft, on Facebook, “My family, Crumbs Well Drilling’s, well rig was stolen from Montura Ranch in Clewiston on Saturday morning at 4:45 a.m. from “Whispering” Cabbage Palm Road. The neighbors had cameras, which is the only way we know Someone has said that people will believe anything if you just whisper. You are welcome to come visit The Bible speaks ill of whisperings. Paul says in: and enjoy the traditional worship 2Co_12:20 I fear when I come… there be… and music. backbitings, whisperings… When we envy, back- Come and share in bite, and whisper we lack the fruit of the spirit. the word of God Where is our love, gentleness, and goodness if we whisper and backbite? When we put on the fruit of ree Will Baptist C the spirit we are children of light. However, when we nity F hurc Tri h SUDFWLFHWKHZRUNVRIWKHÀHVKZHZDONLQGDUNQHVV Sunday Morning Service and are serving Satan. If we love God we are to keep 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. His commandments, all His commandments. We are Wednesday Bible Study FRPPDQGHGWRSXWDVLGHWKHZRUNVRIWKHÀHVKWKH 6 - 7:30 p.m. old man. Walking in the light does not permit us to practice such sins as whisperings and backbitings, Pastor: Thomas Dees ZKLFKDUHÀHVKO\ZRUNV Special to the Lake Okeechobee News The Crumb’s well drilling truck was 1840 NE 39th Blvd. (Cemetery Rd) stolen from Montura and remains Okeechobee, Florida 34972 Mike Hanlon, Minister missing. It is a white Ford F-550 with a Telephone: 863-763-4962 30-foot well rig mounted on it. Okeechobee Church of Christ • 401 S. Parrott Avenue July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 41 42 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Real Estate Directory

Sharon Prevatt, 863-634-7069 • David Hazellief, 863-610-1553

MLS OK219277 - $105,000 - LAKE OKEECHOBEE ACCESS - Close to locks and rim canal, all walls are insulated, new wiring 2005, roofover 2006, 2016 - tied down to code, front porch insulated, carport, boat house with lift, water softener, water purifier, fish cleaning station, sprinkler system, new insulated windows 2005, new plumbing.

5084-M: VIKING large remodeled 4BD/2BA Double-wide on 4.50± ACRES. 2,650 MLS OK219276 - $154,500 - LAKE OKEECHOBEE ACCESS - Total Sq Ft.,/2,280 under air. Huge entertainment room, new appliances. Master bedroom features walk in closet, Garden Tub/Shower, his & her sink. Beautiful front 2018 DWMH - JACOBSON HOME - 3/2 bath, double pane thermos windows, extra insulation, each room wired for fans, garden tub and shower in master, new wooden deck and fenced yard. Call for an easy showing. $178,000 porch, front door insulated, RV hookup, new screen room on back, and boat house (needs a little TLC).

5011-H: LOCATION & UNIQUE CONSTRUCTION MODEL! Right off 70 east. Commercial or Residential. Huge home on 4.66+/- ACRES. Garage & Circular driveway. 7KLVLV\RXURSSRUWXQLW\WR¿QLVKEXLOGLQJ\RXURZQKRPHWR\RXUOLNHV&RPHORRNDWLW Located next to TRIPLE E EQUIPMENT-All dimensions are approximate. $450,000 MLS OK219265

MLS OK0213229 - $205,000 - LAKE OKEECHOBEE ACCESS - BUCKHEAD RIDGE - LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION - REDUCED MAKE OFFER right off rim canal and close to locks. A one owner home. Metal Roof 2004, Metal roof garage 2005, 2011 new A/C, AC maintained yearly, good seawall put in 1981. This home is all steel frame, includes roof, no structural wood.Perfect home in a perfect location. Make an appointment today. 6023-L: FOUR SEASONS AREA Clean beautiful lot-a little under half an acre ready for a new home with lots of trees. Electricity, culvert, well & septic (functionality of all 5076-M: KISSIMMEE RIVER ESTATES~ XWLOLWLHV DUH QRW JXDUDQWHHG  1RW RQ D ÀRRG ]RQH SDYHG Vicki Anderson, Well taken care of- nice & tidy 3BD/1BA Single- road. Adjoining lot is also available for sale also with electric, wide Mobile home. Total Sq Ft., 1,023. Lots of culvert, well and septic. Both lots had a mobile home on Lic. RE Broker them in the past. Making them almost 1 ACRE if bought space and large garage/workshop. Workshop together. Great location for east coast commuters. KDVQHZHUURRI0RYHLQUHDG\&DOOIRUDQHDV\ $30,000HDFK0DNHRIIHU0RWLYDWHGVHOOHU 863.634.4106 showing. $34,000 MLS OK219266 MLS OK219256 & MLS OK219257 30046 E. SR 78, Okeechobee, FL 34974 1200 S. Parrott Ave. • SE HABLA ESPAÑOL Visit our website to view more listings | www.Century21okeechobee.com | [email protected]

Are you a local realtor Feature your best properties in this weekly real estate directory. looking to maximize your reach to potential clients? Contact 863.763.3134 today! July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 43 Real Estate Directory PRICE REDUCTION

PRESTIGIOUS OAK LAKE ESTATES - POOL HOME. Exquisitely remodeled and complete renovation. Effectively a 2017 home. 3 Bd/ 2 Ba/ 2 Car, 26x30’ deep garage. Open concept. Spacious dream kitchen, 105 Sf of granite, soft close drawers, pull out pantry, built in desk, bkfast bar, island seating for six. Waterproof vinyl plank fl oors. Panoramic view to 2018 screen enclosed, beach front, saltwater pool with heated spa, cabana bath. Party patio for en- tertaining. 1777 Sf under air - 3121 TLA. Privacy fencing. ALL new metal roof, energy effi cient windows. Look no further for your NEW home! CALL LORI (863) 634-1457 MLS # OK218705 $325,000

BLUE HERON LUXURY 2538 Sq Ft waterfront home 3 bed 2.5 bath with a private island vista. Lake Okeechobee access, boathouse and dock, beautiful palm-hedged, private back- yard and a relaxing pool oasis on a quiet cul de sac in the exclusive Blue Heron golf course community. 3 car garage, wood-burning fi replace, Chef’s kitchen and a large bonus room that can be used as a den, extra bedroom, offi ce, media room, or gym. New carpet & paint, new roof, furnace, landscaping with clean home inspection report. Move in ready! Find your Call Patrick (863) 634-3747 MLS # OK219082 $375,000

TREASURE ISLAND - Lake Okeechobee dream home! BASSINGER - 10 AC on NW 96th St. 4 access 3 bd 1.5 ba CBS & Frame home. Kitchen Bd/ 3 Ba CBS home. Open Concept. Double with eat-in area. Closet Pantry. Spacious bath- garage is now MB. Kitchen/Dining. Some room. Hardwood fl oors - New carpet in Master. remodeling was started and not completed. New AC & Hot Water Heater. Screened porch 2370 Sf under air. 960 SF out building w/ half overlooking canal. Fenced yard. Home conve- niently situated on a lot to provide plenty of yard bath. Horse barn and tack room. Fenced and In addition to this weekly Come home to Country! space. Separate one car garage and additional cross fenced. storage unit. Large lot with mature trees. Call Lori (863) 634-1457 Call Cindy (863) 634-7022 real estate directory, you can $285,000 MLS # OK 218653 $119,000 search online for your new home in the Lake Okeechobee Real Estate magazine

FOUR PLUS ACRES! BUCKHEAD RIDGE RETREAT! Lake “O” ac- Located in front of cess. 8th St. Lovely 2 Bd/ 2 Ba manufactured home. Kings Bay. 550 Ft of road frontage x 330 Ft Spacious open concept. Dining and eat-in-kitchen. deep. Great location! Seller can provide stor- LakeOkeechobee 12x30 Screened room w/windows. Open patio with age unit building plans and previous permits. tranquil water view. Well maintained and only used Highly populated area. Property backs up seasonally. 100x65 Lot. 2 storage sheds, fenced. to community captive lake which would be Seawall. Turn key, furnished. PERFECT Winter beautiful for condominiums or apartments. RealEstateMagazine.com Retreat! Priced to Sell! Call Lori Mixon (863) 634-1457 Call Lori (863) 634-1457 MLS # OK219284 $99,000 MLS # OK0212900 $249,000 44 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

WE DIDN’T INVENT AIR. WE JUST PERFECTED IT.

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Ice Machines CAC057219 Offer expires August 14, 2020. *Offer available July 6, 2020 to August 14, 2020. Offer based on a retail price of $10,000. Requires purchase of qualifying system. Financing available to well-qualified buyers on approved credit. No down payment required. No monthly payment required and no interest is accrued during the 6 month no interest no pay period. After the no payment period, the loan is rolled into 9.99% APR for 120 Months with equal monthly payments of $132 a month. Normal late charges apply. Can be combined with any eligible consumer rebate offer. Minimum loan amount $3,000. Maximum loan amount $100,000. You may prepay your account at any time without penalty. Financing is subject to credit requirements and 561-996-3046 satisfactory completion of finance documents. Any finance terms advertised are estimates only. See Truth in Lending disclosures available from lender for more information. **Rebate requires purchase of qualifying items between July 6, 2020 to August 14, 2020. Qualifying items must be installed by August 21, 2020. Rebate claims (with proof of purchase) must be submitted (with proof of purchase) to www.lennoxconsumerrebates.com no later than September 3, 2020. Rebate is paid in the form of a Lennox Visa® Prepaid card. Card is subject to terms and conditions found or referenced on card and expires 12 months after issuance. Conditions apply. See www.lennox.com/terms-and-conditions for complete terms and conditions. gladesgasac.com LIC# 01852 © 2020 Lennox Industries Inc. Lennox Dealers are independently owned and operated businesses. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 45 Parents protest state plan to reopen schools

By Danika J. Fornear no questions asked.” She also offered to Lake Okeechobee News create a separate communication for state LABELLE — Concerned parents and level offices. school staff have gathered to form the The list of concerns and questions group “Hendry Parents and Teachers Wingard had gathered read: for Safe and Healthy Schools,” with the 1. It’s been suggested that the order purpose of seeking and sharing infor- to “open in August” doesn’t give a specif- mation regarding the reopening of local public schools, while Florida continues to ic date. We can request the opening be experience record-breaking numbers of delayed by a number of weeks to allow COVID-19 cases. The collaborative effort additional time to prep. among these concerned citizens is also 2. Will there be an intent to return for focused on postponing the opening of teachers? schools, in an attempt to slow the spread of 3. Has the board considered looking the novel coronavirus. The discussion can be joined on Face- into how Palm Beach County came to their book, in their public group. The group’s decision to move all students to e-learning? description reads: “Superintendent Paul 4. How has the board been coordinating Puletti indicated that the Hendry Coun- with the DOH? ty Department is Health has the power 5. What are the plans for shortages of to sway the School Board’s decision on faculty and staff? opening Hendry County Schools on Aug. 6. Is there a plan in place to meet the Lake Okeechobee News/Danika Forlifer 10th. Please join us the week of July 13th LABELLE — Hendry County parents decorated their vehicles with protest signs through 17th for a drive-in demonstration.” mental health needs of returning students, faculty and staff? for the demonstration at the Hendry County Health Department on Monday. The group’s organizers expressed that They plan to protest every day this week from 1 to 2 p.m. they have seen a lot of questions and con- 7. Do you as a member of this commu- cerns coming from both parents and teach- nity feel that opening schools while positive ers. They have suggested that while officials cases continue to rise is what’s best for are debating what’s right or what’s wrong Hendry County? at the state level, those who are concerned can take responsibility to look out for each The group is planning to gather in the other locally. Health Department parking lot, located at “I sent an email to the local office asking 1140 Pratt Blvd. in LaBelle, daily through a few questions about the current situation July 17, from 1 to 2 p.m. in Hendry County in regards to COVID-19 Organizers are encouraging all con- and how the DOH is or will be involved,” cerned citizens to join and add their organizer Jennifer Wingard explained. thoughts and questions in the group, and Organizers reminded participants to be Cheryl Eby Gutjahr Anabel Miranda Curt Thompson to take action. The Hendry Parents and respectful of employees and visitors while (863) 228-1562 (863) 228 6296 Español (863) 677-1064 at the department, as well as not to impede Teachers for Safe and Health Schools page traffic flow while attending the drive-in can be found on Facebook. (863) 983-8559 demonstration. They also asked that partici- 528 E. Sugarland Hwy. Clewiston, FL pants stay in or at their vehicles and to wear See our other listings at rawlsrealestate.com masks during any social interaction. After Monday’s demonstration ended, CLEWISTON HOMES / CONDOS Wingard posted in the group, “We met • 4/3.5 106 Sugarland Circle with pool with Dr. Pepe, the director of our local $295K Department of Health, for about 30 minutes • 3/2 Mobile home 321 Avenida Del Sur this afternoon and the short version of the $94,900 conversation is as follows: It is not currently • 2/2 Bass-n-Sun Condo, fully safe to open Hendry County schools nor is furnished #223 $119,900 PENDING there any way to know if it will be safe by 3/2 mobile home • 2/2 215 S. Nogal, 1.25 ac $125K 321 Avenida Del Sur $94,900 January. We all need to do a little more to PENDING slow the spread and to take care of each • 3/1 809 Florida Ave. $80K other.” She went on to report, “That being ACREAGE, LAND & LOTS COMMERCIAL / INVESTMENT PROPERTY said, your local DOH is a state agency, not • 4 Buildable lots available in Sky a local agency. This means their directives • 622 Sugarland Hwy $419K Valley, Clewiston Starting at $25K come from higher-ups, officials who we (Office/Exec) • Indian Hills Lots $10K & up • lndustrial Park 3013 C.R. 835 (Open • Moore Haven Meyerchick Dr were told are currently pressuring the Buildable lots starting at $8,500 governor and the Department of Education storage and Warehouse) Call for • Moore Haven City Lots Starting at $7K to walk back the executive order requiring details • 5 ac Ladeca, 13456 Center Ave. $65K public schools to open in August. I think • Medical office 51 Ave. J, • 525 S. Jasmine St., 1.25 ac $20K those of us who met with Dr. Pepe got the Moore Haven $139,9K feeling he is between hopeful-to-expecting • US 27 Frontage, South Bay, Lrg. OWNER FINANCING - LAND that will happen but that it may be at the $11,5K per acre Lake Okeechobee News/Danika Forlifer Warehouse with rail, newly • 77 ac. , Venus absolute last minute.” remodeled. $1,500,000 (great hunting) She continued, “He has offered to meet LABELLE — A group organized as $12.5K per acre “Hendry Parents and Teachers for • 316 Bond St. Medical Office • 10 ac. , Venus with groups, even weekly if necessary.” • 20 ac. 13301 E. SR 80 $20K per acre $224K or lease $1600 per month Wingard made an offer for those who Safe and Healthy Schools” has orga- HWY FRONTAGE want to be included in the process, but nized protests against the state’s plan • 28 ac. Hwy 27 Frontage $16K per acre to reopen schools in August. On Mon- were hesitant: “I do know that many peo- Venus day, Becky Rhodes, one of the group’s ple are concerned about rocking the boat • 13995 S.E. SR 80 $29K per acre. HWY organizers, attended the first of five or getting themselves into trouble with their FRONTAGE. RES/COMM. APPROVED daily demonstrations to be held at the jobs if they speak up. So I’m going to make FUTURE LAND USE 112± ACRES Hendry County Health Department. it easy for you and email on your behalf, 12 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 COVID-19 cases reported in area nursing homes By Katrina Elsken before they are admitted to a facility. Okeechobee County has seven residents who tested Lake Okeechobee News As of the Florida Department of Health report updated positive, one resident who tested positive and was trans- TALLAHASSEE — The State of Florida continues to July 12, for the counties around Lake Okeechobee: ferred to another facility and 12 staff members who tested battle COVID-19 cases in long-term care facilities whose • Clewiston Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Hend- positive. residents are most vulnerable should they contract the ry County has 13 residents currently COVID-19 positive and • Glades Health Care Center in Pahokee, in Palm Beach virus. Earlier this month, the state mandated staff in these 11 staff members who tested positive. Twelve residents County, has six residents who tested positive and were facilities be tested every two weeks. The state provides the who tested positive have died. transferred to other facilities and seven staff members who testing kits and testing is done at the facilities. Any staff • Oakbrook Health and Rehabilitation Center in Hendry tested positive. Five residents who tested positive have members who test positive cannot return to work until County has four staff members who tested positive. Six died. they have tested negative twice. Residents are tested if they residents who tested positive have died. According to FDOH, the numbers on this report are have symptoms. New long-term care residents are tested • Okeechobee Health and Rehabilitation Center in current positives, not cumulative.

COVID-19; 188 are currently hospitalized. ICU Of those who tested positive, 94 have died. • Glades County does not have a hospi- Continued From Page 1 tal. Since March, 20 Glades County resi- dents have been hospitalized for COVID-19. Florida: No Glades County residents are currently • In Collier County, 8% of COVID-19 pos- hospitalized for COVID-19. One Glades itive cases have been admitted to a hospital County resident who tested positive has and 1.5% of total positive cases have died. died. (For more data on Glades County, see • In Glades County, 20% of COVID-19 Page 28.) positive cases have been admitted to a • Hendry County had zero ICU beds hospital and 0.5% of total positive cases available. Since March, 107 Hendry County have died. residents have been hospitalized for COVID. • In Hendry County, 9% of COVID-19 Currently, five Hendry County residents are positive cases have been admitted to a hospitalized for COVID-19. Of the Hendry hospital and 2.3% of total positive cases County residents who tested positive, 29 have died. have died. (For more data on Hendry Coun- • In Highlands County, 16% of COVID-19 ty, see Page 32.) positive cases have been admitted to a • Highlands County had two ICU beds hospital and 2.3% have died. available, about 7.7% of the ICU beds in • In Okeechobee County, 9% of the county. Since March, 85 Highlands COVID-19 positive cases have been admit- County residents have been hospitalized for ted to a hospital and 0.4% have died. COVID-19. Currently, 45 Highlands County • In Palm Beach County, 10% of residents are hospitalized for COVID-19. COVID-19 cases have been admitted to a Thirteen of those who tested positive have hospital and 1.9% of total positives have died. died. • Martin County had 27 ICU beds Special to the Lake Okeechobee News • In Martin County, 9% of COVID-19 pos- available, about 69.2% of all ICU beds MIAMI — Col. Andrew Kelly, commander of the Jacksonville District of the U.S. itive cases have been admitted to a hospital in the county. Since March, 235 Martin Army Corps of Engineers, hands the keys of the completed Alternate Care Fa- and 1.5% of total positives have died. County residents have been hospitalized cility the district built in the Miami Convention Center to Kevin Guthrie, deputy There are several theories as to why the for COVID-19. Currently 48 Martin County director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, on April 19. death rate has declined. Doctors now have residents are hospitalized for COVID-19. more experience treating the virus. The Forty-two COVID-19 positive Martin County patients who were not COVID-19 positive. The number of ICU beds available in more they learn about the virus, the more residents have died. This facility has not yet been used as a Florida hospitals varies from day to day. effectively they can help new patients. The • Okeechobee County had zero ICU hospital, and will likely not be used during FDOH data does not disclose how many increase in testing may mean more people beds available as of July 14. Since March, the hurricane season. of the ICU beds are occupied by COVID-19 who have no symptoms or only very mild 46 Okeechobee County residents have been According to the Florida State Emer- patients and how many are occupied by symptoms are being added to the positive gency Operations Center Joint Information hospitalized for COVID-19. Currently, 14 patients with other life-threatening ailments totals, while at the start of the pandem- Center on COVID-19: “The state currently Okeechobee County residents are hospital- such as accident injuries and heart attacks. ic, the testing was limited to those with ized for COVID-19. Two COVID-19 positive has a 450-bed field hospital staged at the As of July 7, there were 1,265 open ICU symptoms or had known contact with a Okeechobee County residents have died. Miami Beach Convention Center. A staged COVID-19 positive person. Another theory (For more data on Okeechobee County, see hospital means it is ready for use, but is not beds in Florida, according to Florida’s Com- is that the virus may be mutating. Page 26.) currently being used. It’s important to note munity Coronavirus Dashboard. Over the • Palm Beach County had 109 ICU beds field hospital facilities are designed to serve past week, that number went up and down ICU bed availability available, about 25.6% of all ICU beds in as overflow for area hospitals and are not with a low of less than 900 beds available Community leaders are keeping a the county. Since March, 2,057 Palm Beach intended to serve ICU or critical patients. and a high near 1,400. On July 14, there watchful eye on the number of available County residents have been hospitalized Over the past several months, the state has were 1,152 open ICU beds in the state. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds. The hospi- for COVID-19. Currently, 622 Palm Beach worked continuously with local officials to tals in some counties have run out of ICU County residents are hospitalized for monitor the need for resources to support bed space and sent patients to hospitals in COVID-19. Palm Beach County had 611 area hospitals. At this time, mobile field other counties. However, not all COVID-19 deaths of COVID-19 positive persons. (For hospitals consisting of tents may not be the patients require ICU beds, and some ICU more data on Palm Beach County, see Page best resource to deploy during hurricane beds are occupied by patients who are not 30.) season. Instead, our primary support strat- COVID-19 positive. In April, the state was so concerned egy, if needed, is to surge staff into existing As of July 14, the dashboard showed about a possible shortage of Intensive Care facilities — opening up additional capacity 1,152 available ICU beds in Florida — about Unit (ICU) beds, the governor asked the in those hospitals. Currently, the Miami 12% of all ICU beds in the state. Of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build an Beach Convention Center is being used as counties in the South Central Florida area, alternate care facility in the Miami Beach a COVID-19 state-supported testing site. on July 14: Convention Center, and the corps began The site offers antibody and PCR testing. • Collier County had 22 ICU beds transforming part of the 500,000-square- The site is open for COVID-19 testing 7 available, about 27.5% of the ICU beds foot facility into a 450-bed alternate care days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can test in that county. Since March, 452 Collier facility. The original plan for this facility was individuals ages 18 and older, regardless of County residents have been hospitalized for for it to serve as an overflow hospital for symptoms.” July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 47

New institute to address food NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO production and sustainability ADOPT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

By Samantha Murray accountability and impact from AMENDMENT RELATING TO UF/IFAS their investment.” THE HENDRY COUNTY GAINESVILLE — The University The Food Systems Institute will of Florida has announced the cre- build on UF/IFAS achievements FUTURE LAND USE MAP ation of the UF/IFAS Food Systems in the areas of food security and Institute, which will bring together sustainability, Adesogan said. the university’s top researchers to “The Food Systems Institute will Notice is hereby given that the Hendry County Board of County Commissioners proposes to adopt find solutions to feeding the world leverage the stellar accomplish- the following Ordinance. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held by the Hendry County ments, experience and systems Board of County Commissioners on July 28, 2020, at 5:05 p.m., at the Hendry County Court- in a way that is economically and Adegbola house, Commission Chambers, 25 E. Hickpochee Ave, LaBelle, Florida. environmentally sustainable. Adesogan strategy of the preeminent faculty “This institute brings together in ISFS and the excellent achieve- AN ORDINANCE OF HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA AMENDING THE HENDRY COUNTY COMPREHEN- global engagement with what we call ments, global reputation and SIVE PLAN, ORDINANCE 91-05, AS AMENDED, BY CHANGING THE FUTURE LAND USE MAP, MORE systems thinking — addressing world transdisciplinary approach of the Livestock SPECIFICALLY BY CHANGING APPROXIMATELY +/- 952 ACRES OF LAND DESIGNATED AS AG- hunger by researching how every part of Systems Innovation Lab faculty to develop RICULTURE TO MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS OF LAW; PROVIDING the field-to-fork process affects every other sustainable solutions to local to global food FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION, INCLUSION IN CODE, AND SCRIVENER’S part. It’s a search for how to deliver the system challenges,” Adesogan said. ERRORS; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. most abundant, nutritious and affordable Created in 2015, the Feed the Future food possible for the greatest number of Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems at people,” said Jack Payne, who retired on the University of Florida has developed July 12 as the UF senior vice president research, technologies and outreach initia- for agriculture and natural resources and tives to strengthen the livestock sector in leader of UF/IFAS. eight countries — Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Payne led UF/IFAS for 10 years, during Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda and which he established the Institute for Sus- Uganda — and increase the productivity tainable Food Systems (ISFS) and helped of their animals, with the ultimate goal of develop the USAID-funded Feed the Future improving the nutrition, health, incomes Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems. The and livelihoods of vulnerable people. new Food Systems Institute will combine Also established in 2015, the Institute for these two initiatives, including faculty and Sustainable Food Systems has brought to- projects associated with each. gether some of the world’s leading scholars In retirement, Payne plans to continue to in fields such as food safety, environmental participate in efforts to increase global food science, aquaculture, soil science, genetics security — a measure of the availability of and economics. This holistic approach to food and people’s access to it. our vast and complex food system seeks to “The complexity of the challenge has inform policy and decision making. In Jan- come home in a tangible way during the uary 2020, the ISFS held the first Future of pandemic, with the seemingly contradicto- Food Forum, convening scientific, industry ry phenomena of farmers plowing under and policy leaders from around the world. their crops for lack of markets while food “One additional advantage of the Food banks are overwhelmed by the hungry,” Systems Institute is that it combines the Payne said. The new Food Systems Institute will be livestock, public health and nutrition and social science expertise of Innovation Lab Interested parties may appear and be heard at the public hearing with respect to the petition. Due led by Adegbola Adesogan, professor of to the public health emergency presented by COVID-19 and pursuant to the authority granted ruminant nutrition in the department of faculty with the crops, fisheries and aqua- by Executive Order Numbers 20-69 and 20-112 issued by the Governor of the State of Florida, animal sciences and current director of the culture, soils and systems expertise of ISFS members of the public and the BCC may participate in the BCC meeting by telephone by calling Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Live- faculty,” Adesogan added. “These faculty 877-853-5257 and entering meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. stock Systems. have an excellent track record of acquiring “Adegbola Adesogan is a world leader in very large multimillion-dollar grants from Anyone wishing to submit public comment on this item should email PMRKQVRQ#KHQGU\ÀDQHW by 1:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. During the meeting prior to BCC voting on the matter the best land-grant tradition of discovery as various donors for addressing pressing is- sues affecting food systems and publishing interested persons will be permitted to make oral comments in person or over the dedicated a two-way enterprise between scientist and telephone line. citizen. He knows how to glean wisdom their findings in high-impact journals.” on real-world conditions from subsistence One goal of the institute is to continue Anyone requiring additional information about the meeting or wishing to submit written or other farmers while delivering innovation that to widen its expertise and scope, incorpo- physical evidence which he/she intends to offer into evidence during the proceeding should con- can change the course of their lives,” Payne rating faculty from across UF/IFAS and UF tact Myra Johnson by e-mail at PMRKQVRQ#KHQGU\ÀDQHW, by phone at (863) 675-5240, or by mail said. “He also skillfully leads teams of scien- generally, to address local to global issues, at P.O. Box 2340, LaBelle, FL 33975. tists from multiple disciplines, universities Adesogan said. and nations to produce outstanding collab- “The aim is to grow the institute into a A copy of the petition and ordinance are available for inspection at the Hendry County Planning orative research and outreach. In addition, campus-wide institute that will be a global and Zoning Department, 640 S. Main St., LaBelle, FL between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 he understands how to communicate leader in addressing food system challeng- SP0RQGD\WKURXJK)ULGD\DQGDWWKH&OHUNWRWKH%RDUGRI&RXQW\&RPPLVVLRQHUV¶RI¿FH E. Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle, FL between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through transparently with funders who demand es,” he said. Friday. Free testing for COVID-19 available in South Bay If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the board, agency, or commission with re- spect to any matter considered at such meeting or hearing, he or she will need a record of the Special to the Lake Okeechobee News proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need to ensure that a verbatim record SOUTH BAY — State Rep. Tina Polsky, in partnership with CDR Maguire, GENET- of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon which the WORx Lab and the City of South Bay, announce free COVID-19 walk-up testing on appeal is to be based. Tuesday, July 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for those age 18 and older. Seniors only hours will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Testing will be at the Old Firehouse Bay, South Bay City If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation for your attendance Hall, 335 S.W. Second Ave., South Bay. No preregistration or appointments are neces- at either meeting in person or via telephone, please contact Myra Johnson at (863) 675-5240; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or e-mail sary. No physician referrals will be required. Participants must have valid photo IDs and PMRKQVRQ#KHQGU\ÀDQHW wear masks. Viral testing will be the only form of testing available. Results will be back Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. in three to five days. For more information, contact Rep. Polsky’s office at 561-829- Si necesita la asistencia de un intérprete que hable español para participar en esta reunión, por 1459. favor póngase en contacto con Myra Johnson al (863) 675-5240. 48 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Rock Solid Christian Academy plans to reopen in August Special to the Lake Okeechobee News begins at 7:30 a.m. additional disinfection of high-traffic areas ments to pick the student up immediately. OKEECHOBEE – Rock Solid Christian Pick up will occur at the designated area throughout the day. Parents are encour- As always, students are encouraged to Academy, 401 S.W. Fourth St., shared plans only. Parents are asked to stay in their vehi- aged to wash backpacks, uniforms, and stay home with the sign of any illness and cles. Details regarding a staggered dismissal jackets on a regular basis. for the new school year in a letter sent to not return to campus until they have been plan will be provided at Open House. Unscheduled and unnecessary visitors parents of students last week. symptom free (without medication) for a Patience will be necessary for the first few to student occupied areas will be limited. minimum of 24 hours. Open house will be an informal event days as everyone gets back into the routine Lunches can be dropped off at the ROC August lunch ordering is open and can on Aug. 7 from 3 to 6 p.m. The school of dismissal. beginning at 10:30 a.m. Students will con- asks that only a legal guardian or parent ac- Masks are optional, and will not be tinue to eat in the cafeteria on most days be made up until Open House. company the enrolled student(s). A notary provided by the school. The school will and enjoy outside recess afterwards. There is an umbrella option for anyone will be on campus to complete necessary encourage social distancing and sanitary Temperatures may be checked upon interested in homeschooling through Rock forms. hygiene practices within age appropriate arrival and visual assessments will occur Solid. Please contact the office for details. School will begin on Aug. 12 with on expectations. Daily cleaning routines of throughout the day as needed. If a child is For more information, contact the campus instruction at 8 a.m. Drop off campus and classrooms will continue with sick, a parent will be expected to arrange- school at 863-763-0164. Hendry County schools make plans for the fall

By the Hendry County exhibit symptoms are not at school or in circumstances change during the year. grade, supported by a team of highly School Board the workplace This learning model provides families qualified teachers who offer office hours LABELLE — The Hendry County School bus safety: the flexibility to choose an instructional between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., Monday School District is offering three options – Expect students wear face coverings model to meet their needs during these through Friday. Enrollment requires a for returning to school. We believe there on the bus uncertain times, and reflects our district’s semester-long or year-long commitment. is an option to meet everyone’s needs. – Clean high-touch areas between runs commitment to providing a high-quality Because K-12 Virtual School is a public After you have familiarized yourself – Ensure hand sanitizer is available on instructional experience, no matter what school choice, students must participate each bus the setting. Devices and internet hotspots with the options below, please go to the in all required state assessments, and – Disinfect each bus thoroughly at the will be available to support students who Intent to Return Form located at the end may take part in extracurricular clubs and of this document to choose the option end of each day participate in this option. activities with K-12 Virtual School or their that best meets your student’s needs. The At the elementary school level, we are deadline is July 15. Your prompt reply creating a cohort isolation model, where What to expect from distance zoned school. K-12 Virtual School offers accredited will help us finalize our plans for the fall. students will spend time on campus learning online: Working together, we can ensure that with the group of students in their class, courses, access to academic advisement students start the 2020-2021 school year including in the classroom, the cafeteria, -– Instruction is provided remotely and and college planning, and opportunities ready for success. media center and the playground. Interac- students will have access to their teachers for advanced coursework (including dual tion with students from other classes will during the regular school day hours enrollment). Graduates earn a standard Your Three Options: be limited to the greatest extent possible. – Elementary students can expect daily high school diploma accepted by col- lessons with face to face connections If a student displays symptoms of illness, leges, universities and other postsecond- Option 1: Traditional on- it will likely impact their cohort class- – Secondary students can expect daily face to face connections for every period ary programs. mates, and not the entire school, in terms Students and parents may also partici- campus of quarantine or other interventions. – Attendance will be taken daily in pate in a virtual school choice. This model represents a return to the At the secondary level, each school each course school campus and the classroom where will have a customized plan to discourage Select an option: students will interact directly with their large gatherings of students in hallways Additional supports for When you have familiarized yourself teacher(s) and classmates. The school and common areas, using clear com- students and families: with the three options, select the option day will follow the standard bell times munication and signage to reinforce that best meets your student’s needs. If – Virtual office hours and small group and standard schedule that includes all the message. The number of students you have more than one student, please sessions to meet social and academic the core classes and other subject areas. allowed in the cafeteria, media center and submit one form for each student. The needs In short, it represents a return to the tradi- gymnasiums will be significantly reduced. deadline for making your selection is July – On demand access to a library of tu- tional school environment — with several Extracurricular activities will resume, and 15. Additional information and require- torials, troubleshooting and tech support significant changes involving enhanced will adhere to recommendations from – Tips and strategies to support stu- ments will be provided about each option health and safety precautions. CDC and the state. dents learning off campus once determinations are completed. Our goal is to create an environment Below are links to student intent to return that provides an opportunity for students – Support from case managers and Option 2: Distance learning forms: to return to the traditional school expe- academic intervention teachers to meet rience, while providing effective safe- online student needs during regular school English guards to protect the health and safety of This model is designed for families hours docs.google.com/docu- students and staff. who would like to maintain their connec- ment/d/1Y-qirQvQjOUZ2SwDSVba5E- Public health actions on every cam- tion to their enrolled school, but don’t yet Option 3: Virtual school 7te950zdayHj0qXapXIag/mobilebasic pus: feel comfortable sending their student(s) Hendry County has a good working Spanish – Practice safe social distancing to the back to school in August. Students will relationship with K-12 Virtual School, docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ greatest extent possible attend school remotely, following the which has successfully served thousands 1FAIpQLSctS-dqKr8HATX8U9HCS89HZ- – Post signage and provide lessons to standard school schedule and bell times. of full-time students learning online. 2D_SWGX6SME3dS55GK5xFtlA/viewform strongly encourage frequent hand wash- Based on feedback after our distance This full-time virtual school experience is Hendry County Superintendent Paul ing and hygiene practices learning experience during Quarter 4, this ideal for students who wish to have more Puletti announced that he would be – Ensure hand sanitizer is available learning model will incorporate many control over their learning path and pace, holding an online discussion on Thurs- of the features that parents and students and for whom a flexible daily schedule throughout the campus day, July 9, at 1:30 p.m. to discuss his – Increase cleaning protocols through- valued, such as regular virtual real-time is important. In this learning model, stu- reopening plans and protocols for Hendry out each campus, including replacing air interaction with teachers each day for dents often work on assignments during filters more frequently every class. Parents can rely on teachers non-traditional hours, and maintain County schools. This is a great opportuni- – Limit group gatherings to facilitate and guide student learning. contact with their teacher and classmates ty for students and families to learn more – Encourage face coverings on campus Students will have scheduled times, using web-based class sessions, email, details prior to submitting student intent – Expect symptom screening for all synchronous class meetings and digital text messages and phone calls. to return forms, which are due July 15. A staff and students resources and assignments that can K-12 Virtual School offers courses for link to access this online discussion can – Ensure any staff or students who be completed at home or at school, if students in kindergarten through 12th be found at www.hendry-schools.org. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 49

Employment - Employment - Employment - Employment - Business Business Full Time Full Time Part Time Part Time Opportunities Opportunities

Field Interviewer (Part-time) Auctions Westat seeks motivated, detail-oriented in- earn extra Business dividuals to work part-time on an important Opportunities AUCTION study, the Population Assessment of Tobacco Every Friday & SLP PT COOK/HOUSEKEEPER and Health (PATH). Interviewers will collect NOTICE Saturday nights at 5:30 information from respondents about tobacco 917 SW Park St. Lykes Bros. Inc. is in need of a cook/house- use and its effects on health. Interviewers CASH Independent Newspa- (Behind Eli’s keeper who will be primarily responsible for will show respondents how to collect urine pers will never accept Western Wear) maintaining food inventories, planning and samples using a self-collection kit and coor- any advertisement Quality Consignments preparing meals for lodge guests at the re- dinate appointments for a blood sample to be that is illegal or consid- Accepted. quest of the Silver Lake Preserve Manager. taken by a trained health professional. ered fraudulent. In all Watford Auction General housekeeping duties of the lodge as cases of questionable 10% BP scheduled. To apply, go to ZZZZHVWDWFRP¿HOGMREVM value, such as prom- 863-697-8906 and enter 15908BR in the space provided. ises of guaranteed AU1843 AB1583 Education/Experience Requirements: income from work-at- 1 year of line and/or prep cook experience WESTAT home programs - if it UHTXLUHG6DIH)RRG+DQGOLQJ&HUWL¿FDWH EOE, including disability/veterans sounds too good to (must obtain within 30 days of hire). be true, chances are Valid Driver’s License with insurability. that it is. If you have Okeechobee County School Board questions or doubts Please apply online at is hiring substitute teachers! about any ad on these www.lykesranch.comy under the careers tab. You must have a High School pages, we advise that Earn before responding or Drug-Smoke Free Workplace/ diploma or GED to apply. sending money ahead We Buy Estates Equal Employment Opportunity Employer Starting pay is $11.50 an hour of time, you check Antiques, Collectibles, and goes up to $13.50. extra income with the Better Busi- Household, Tools, To apply visit ness Bureau at 772- Jewelry and etc. Now Hiring DRIVERS 878-2010 for previous Call 863-697-8906 We want YOU to join our TEAM ZZZRNHHNÀXVDSSO\SS\. delivering complaints. Drive into a GREAT CAREER with MV! For more details contact Experienced and Entry Level! Some 800 and 900 Cemetery Lots NO CDL REQUIRED!! Amanda Liscomb at 863-462-5000 extension 1028. telephone numbers Palm Beach County including Belle Glade area may require an extra OKEECHOBEE - Part-time to full-time DRIVERS charge, as well as long FOR SALE 4 EVERGREEN (three (3) weeks paid full-time training distance toll costs. CEMETARY LOTS. required - competitive wages!!) one day a week! We will do our best NEW SECTION WALK IN APPLICANTS WELCOME: Employment - Part Time to alert our reader of $2,800.00 FOR ALL. Monday through Friday from 8 am-5pm these charges in the CALL 352-693-5123 OR ads, but occasionally 352-456-9349 Walk In Location Address: Grand Oaks Assisted we may not be aware Career Source: 1085 South Main Street, Employment - Living Community of the charges. There- Personals Belle Glade, FL 33430, 561.829.2040 Full Time P/T Caregiver & Cook Call Cynthia at fore, if you call a num- MV Transportation Inc : 3301 Electronic Way positions. ber out of your area, Attention Farmwork- Unit D, West Palm Beach, Florida 34407 Level 2 Background use caution. ers/seasonal workers: Questions? Please call: 561-370-7072 FT/Part time also, check & physical 863.763.3134. you are invited to Can’t stop by?? Automotive required. Valid Driver’s License, dependable READING A Caregiver position participate in a study Please apply online at careers.mvtransit.com Paint & Body transportation and insurance required. NEWSPAPER... about preventive health requires CPR & 1st Man needed in Aid leads you to the care (18 years or older). FEED MILL LABORER Okeechobee, A $20 gift card for Apply in person best products Full time, will train, located in CITY LIMITS. Hours 8am-3pm 9 am - 4 pm M-F and services. your time. Call Angie Approximately 50 hrs per week. 440-225-7130. (PhD Mon. thru Fri. 203 SE 2nd St. Reading a newspaper helps you HOURLY RATE BASED ON EXPERIENCE. Apply in person student) Health and Dental, VISION Ins, 2 weeks understand the world around you. vacation, Sick pay, 6 paid holidays. at 1851 NW 9th Miscellaneous Apply at United Feed Co-op. Inc. Street 34972 No wonder newspaper Notices 708 NW 2nd Ave. Okeechobee. Fl. 34972 561-762-3060 readers enjoy life more! TAKING BIDS for a lawn to be cut in Okeechobee. Call 989- 289-6448 View obituaries from Part Time Handyman needed the past month at at the Big “O” RV Park Please call http://www.legacy.com Vonda Dye at 863-467-5515 50 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

Lots - Sale Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice

BUILDABLE LOTS NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE: HENDRY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINETEENTH JUDICIAL INVITATION TO BID TIMS TOWING & RECOVERY CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA CURVE SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS ON CR835, gives Notice of Foreclosure of Lien NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING JUVENILE DIVISION HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA 1.25+ ACRE and intent to sell these vehicles CASE NO.: 472018DP000050 OKEECHOBEE on 07/31/2020, 10:00 am at 74 FINANCIAL PROJECT NO. 438372-1-58-01 S INDUSTRIAL LOOP LABELLE, The Board will hold a regular meeting on July 28, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., at IN THE INTEREST OF: Bid No. 2020-25 COUNTY, AG/RES. FL 33935, pursuant to subsection the Hendry County Courthouse, Commission Chambers, 25 E. Hickpochee G.R.L. DOB: 7/22/2011 713.78 of the Florida Statutes. Ave., LaBelle, Florida. OPENING DATE AND TIME: JULY 29, 2020 AT 2:00 P.M. GREAT TIMS TOWING & RECOVERY ree- Minor Child(ren) serves the right to accept or reject Members of the public may attend the meeting in person or are invited to Sealed Bids will be received by the Board of County Commissioners of Hendry INVESTMENT! any and/or all bids. watch a livestream of the meeting at https://www.facebook.com/hendryy- NOTICE OF ACTION - PUBLICATION County, Florida, for “Curve Safety Improvements on CR835, Hendry County, county and/or participate in the meeting by telephone by calling 877-853- Florida”. In order to be considered, bids must be received by the Board of Coun- OWNER FINANCING 1G2AS18H097157969 5257 and entering meeting identification number 955 2625 7584#. Mem- TO: Cheri Newton ty Commissioners, c/o the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Attn: Kimberley Barrineau, 2009 PONTIAC bers of the Board may participate in the meeting by telephone, as well. Ad Interim Clerk of Circuit Court, at the C.E. Hall Building, Room A-226, Hendry $160 MONTH 2HGES16514H501541 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT A PETITION UNDER OATH HAS BEEN County Courthouse Complex, 25 E. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, Florida 33935 2004 HONDA The meeting is open to the public. If a person decides to appeal any FILED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN THE ABOVE- by July 29, 2020 at 2:00 p.m., at which time all responses to this request will be NO CREDIT 419269 CN 7/15/2020 decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at STYLED COURT FOR THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS RELATIVE recorded in the presence of one or more witnesses. this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for TO THE ABOVE NAMED CHILD, G.R.L., WHO WAS BORN IN PALM BEACH A copy of the Instructions and Bid Documents can be obtained online at www. CHECKS such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the COUNTY, STATE OF FLORIDA, ON THE 22 DAY OF JULY 2011, YOU ARE COM- hendryfla.nety t under the Public Information tab, or from the Hendry County En- proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence MANDED TO BE AND APPEAR BEFORE THE CIRCUIT COURT IN THE ABOVE- gineering Department, located at 99 E Cowboy Way, LaBelle, Florida (for pick 866-820-6523 upon which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may STYLED COURT LOCATED AT 312 NORTHWEST 3RD STREET, OKEECHOBEE, up), or by calling (863) 675-5222. FL 34972, ON AUGUST 10, 2020 AT 01:15 P.M. FOR A HEARING AND TO VIKING ESTATES be discussed at the meeting which are not on the prepared agenda for Firms are required to attend the MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conferencee on the meeting. SHOW CAUSE WHY SAID PETITION SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED. FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THE ADVISORY HEARING CONSTITUTES CON- Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at 3:30 PM at the Dallas B. Townsend Agricul- If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommoda- SENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THE CHILD. IF YOU tural Center, located at 1085 Pratt Boulevard, LaBelle, FL 33935. tion for your participation in the meeting, please contact Hendry County FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU MAY LOSE ALL Bidders must be FDOT Prequalified in all of the following work classes: Electrical Administration at (863) 675-5220; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD NAMED IN THE PETITION ATT- Work, Flexible Paving, Grading, Grassing, Seeding and Sodding, Guardrail, Hot TACHED TO THIS NOTICE. Fifth Wheels or e-mail [email protected]. Plant-Mixed Bituminous Courses, Pavement Markings, and Roadway Signing. Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. BE ADVISED THAT YOU HA VE THE RIGHT TO HA VE AN ATTORNEY REPRE- The solicitation does not commit Hendry County to award any contracts, to SENT YOU IN THIS MATTER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD AN ATTORNEY, ONE pay any costs incurred in the preparation of a response to this solicitation, or to Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para particc- MAY BE APPOINTED FOR YOU. contract for any services. The County retains the right to cancel this solicitation 2006 SURVEYOR ipar un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Myra Johnson or reject any or all responses for any reason set forth in the County’s Procuree- 5TH WHEEL, al (863) 675-5240. WITNESS MY HAND AS THE CLERK OF SAID COURT AND THE SEAL THERE- ment Policy and may choose to re-procure at the discretion of the Board of Apartments VERY CLEAN, NEW 418921 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 OF THIS 7TH DAY OF JULY 2020. County Commissioners. Hendry County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. ITEMS INCLUDE AWNING Sharon Robertson, Clerk of Circuit Court and Comptroller Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar un Now Renting - FABRIC, QUEEN & TWIN NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING MATTRESS, BAR STOOLS, 418853 ON 7/15,22,29,8/5/2020 esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Veronica Gonzalez al (863) Sugar Country HENDRY COUNTY RANKING COMMITTEE 675-5324. Apartments TV IN LIVING AREA & 417298 LO 7/1,8,15,22 CB 7/2,9,16,23/2020 BEDROOM, 30 AMP IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINETEENTH JUDICIAL Notice is hereby given that a Hendry County ranking committee will hold a CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA EXTENSION CORD & JUVENILE DIVISION $99 MOVE IN meeting on July 16, 2020, at 9:00AM, for the presentations, review and rankk- INVITATION TO BID SPECIAL – SEWER HOSE. ing of the shortlisted submittals for RFQ #2020-21, Design and Permitting and CASE NO: 472017DP000117 NADA VALUE $9,600.00 Construction Engineering Inspection Services for roadway improvements to SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION ON OLD CR78, MOVE IN BY 7/31 Cowboy Way from SR80 to Bridge Street in Hendry County, Florida. The meett- IN THE INTEREST OF: HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA ASKING $8,555.00 O.B.O. ing will be held at the Hendry County Engineering Office, 99 E Cowboy Way, J.G.V, JR. DOB: 11/30/2017 LaBelle, Florida. The meeting is open to the public. FINANCIAL PROJECT NO. 435016-1-58-01 Available for CALL 863-484-3952 Minor Child(ren) Due to the public health emergency presented by COVID-19 and pursuant to Bid No. 2020-16 Immediate the authority granted by Executive Order Numbers 20-69 and 20-123 issued by NOTICE OF ACTION - PUBLICATION OPENING DATE AND TIME: JULY 29, 2020 AT 2:00 P.M. Occupancy the Governor of the State of Florida, members of the public and the selection committee may participate in the meeting by telephone by calling 877-853- TO: Juan Carlos Guerrero Sealed Bids will be received by the Board of County Commissioners of Hendry 626 West Avenue 5257 and entering meeting access code 881 8204 2202#. County, Florida, for “Sidewalk Construction on Old CR78, Hendry County, Florr- SW, Moore Haven YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT A PETITION UNDER OATH HAS BEEN ida”. In order to be considered, bids must be received by the Board of County If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter Commissioners, c/o the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Attn: Kimberley Barrineau, %HWKH¿UVWWR considered at this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and FILED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN THE ABOVE STYLED COURT FOR THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS RELATIVE Ad Interim Clerk of Circuit Court, at the C.E. Hall Building, Room A-226, Hendry that, for such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the County Courthouse Complex, 25 E. Hickpochee Avenue, LaBelle, Florida 33935 occupy new proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon TO THE ABOVE NAMED CHILD, J.G.V, JR., WHO WAS BORN IN SAINT LUCIE Construction COUNTY, STATE OF FLORIDA, ON THE 30th DAY OF NOVEMBER 2017, YOU by July 29, 2020 at 2:00 p.m., at which time all responses to this request will be affordable units, which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may be discussed at recorded in the presence of one or more witnesses. the meeting which is not on the prepared agenda for the meeting. ARE COMMANDED TO BE AND APPEAR BEFORE THE CIRCUIT COURT IN starting at $510 for THE ABOVE-STYLED COURT LOCATED AT 312 NORTHWEST 3RD STREET, A copy of the Instructions and Bid Documents can be obtained online at www. 1BR and $623 for STUART SURVEY If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation OKEECHOBEE, FL 34972, ON JULY 27, 2020 AT 01:15 P.M. FOR A HEARING hendryfla.nety t under the Public Information tab, or from the Hendry County En- 2BR apartments OFFICE - looking for for your attendance at the meeting, please contact Hendry County Engineerr- AND TO SHOW CAUSE WHY SAID PETITION SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED. gineering Department, located at 99 E Cowboy Way, LaBelle, Florida (for pick ing Department at (863) 612-4727; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or FAILURE TO PERSONALLY APPEAR AT THE ADVISORY HEARING CONSTII- up), or by calling (863) 675-5222. Income limits apply. experienced Instrument e-mail [email protected]. TUTES CONSENT TO THE TERMINATION OF PARENTAL RIGHTS OF THE Firms are required to attend the MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conference on Person to work on Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. CHILD. IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR ON THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED, YOU 2I¿FH+RXUV MAY LOSE ALL LEGAL RIGHTS AS A PARENT TO THE CHILD NAMED IN THE Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at 2:00 PM at the Dallas B. Townsend Agricul- ±0RQ)UL survey crew, Must have Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar un PETITION ATTACHED TO THIS NOTICE. tural Center, located at 1085 Pratt Boulevard, LaBelle, FL 33935. FL Drivers License and esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Veronica Gonzalez al (863) Bidders must be FDOT Prequalified in all of the following work classes: Drain- Phone 863-946- 675-5324. 6600 or email reliable vehicle to get to BE ADVISED THAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY REPRE- age, Grading, Grassing, Seeding and Sodding, and Sidewalks. 418762 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 SENT YOU IN THIS MATTER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD AN ATTORNEY, ONE Stuart. Send resume to MAY BE APPOINTED FOR YOU. The solicitation does not commit Hendry County to award any contracts, to sugarcountryapts@gyp@ pay any costs incurred in the preparation of a response to this solicitation, or to centurylink.nety [email protected] WITNESS MY HAND AS THE CLERK OF SAID COURT AND THE SEAL THERE- contract for any services. The County retains the right to cancel this solicitation for a rental DFWP (772) 286-5753 NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING OF, THIS 23rd DAY OF JUNE, 2020. or reject any or all responses for any reason set forth in the County’s Procuree- ment Policy and may choose to re-procure at the discretion of the Board of application. HENDRY COUNTY RANKING COMMITTEE Sharon Robertson, Clerk County Commissioners. Equal Housing of Circuit Court and Comptroller Hendry County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. 416208 ON 7/1,8,15,22/2020 Opportunity Notice is hereby given that a Hendry County ranking committee will hold a Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar un Provider meeting on July 21, 2020, at 9:00AM, for the review and ranking of the subb- esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Veronica Gonzalez al (863) mittals for RFQ #2020-24, Construction Engineering Inspection Services for the 675-5324. Fort Denaud Cemetery Expansion Project in Hendry County, Florida. The meett- NOTICE OF ABANDONMENT OF A PORTION OF A STREET ing will be held at the Hendry County Engineering Office, 99 E Cowboy Way, RIGHT-OF-WAY 416973 LO 7/1,8,15,22 CB 7/2,9,16,23/2020 LaBelle, Florida. The meeting is open to the public. IN GRANADA TERRACE SUBDIVISION Due to the public health emergency presented by COVID-19 and pursuant to NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at a regular meeting of the Board of County the authority granted by Executive Order Numbers 20-69 and 20-123 issued by Commissioners of Okeechobee County, Florida, on the 9th day of July, 2020, Important Information About Your Drinking Water the Governor of the State of Florida, members of the public and the selection a Resolution was adopted pursuant to Sections 336.09 and 336.10, Florida committee may participate in the meeting by telephone by calling 877-853- Statutes, whereby the County of Okeechobee vacated, closed, abandoned, Immokalee Water and Sewer District 5257 and entering meeting access code 881 8204 2202#. renounced and disclaimed all rights of the county and the public in a portion of Drinking Water Plants If a person decides to appeal any decision made with respect to any matter a street right-of-way in Granada Terrace subdivision, which is further described Public Notice as follows: SITUATION considered at this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and The Immokalee Water and Sewer District public drinking water systems ree- that, for such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the THAT PORTION OF THE UNIMPROVED 60 FOOT RIGHT-OF-WAY OF cently violated Rule 62-550.828, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), by failing proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence upon NE 19TH TERRACE (COLLINS STREET) LYING BETWEEN BLOCK 9 AND LEGAL NOTICE to collect triggered source water samples within 24 hours of notification of a which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may be discussed at BLOCK 10 OF GRANADA TERRACE, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF Total coliform-positive routine distribution sample that it collected on May 20, the meeting which is not on the prepared agenda for the meeting. AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 2, PAGE 63, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF 2020. Rule 62-550.828, F.A.C., required this water system to collect at least one A public auction will be held at BMJ If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DE- raw water sample from each of the wells that were running on May 20, 2020, Towing, Inc. Located at 414 South for your attendance at the meeting, please contact Hendry County Engineerr- SCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: by no later than May 22, 2020. Although this incident was not an emergency, Parrott Avenue, Okeechobee, Flori- ing Department at (863) 612-4727; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or BEGINNING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 9; THENCE as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did da 34974 from 9:00-10:00 A.M on e-mail [email protected]. NORTH 89°34’19” EAST, A DISTANCE OF 60.00 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST to correct the situation. the dates listed below. Pursuant to CORNER OF SAID BLOCK 10; THENCE SOUTH 00°18’48” WEST ALONG THE Florida statute 713.78 for unpaid Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. HEALTH EFFECTS Land - Sale WEST LINE OF SAID BLOCK 10, A DISTANCE OF 108.16 FEET TO A POINT We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants. The towing and storage. Year, Make, Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar un ON A NON-TANGENT CURVE LYING ON THE NORTH RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE Model & Vin’s as follows results of this monitoring are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Veronica Gonzalez al (863) OF STATE ROAD 70, SAID CURVE HAVING FOR ITS ELEMENTS, A CENTRAL meets health standards. We did not perform triggered source water monitorr- 675-5324. ANGLE OF 01°37’40” A RADIUS OF 2191.83 FEET, AND A CHORD BEARING ing in a timely manner following notification of a Total coliform-positive routine OKEECHOBEE- AUCTION 07/31/2020// SOUTH 74°11’25” WEST; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG THE ARC OF 2004 GMC ENVOY XL 418763 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 distribution sample collected on May 20, 2020, and therefore cannot be sure of LAND FOR SALE SAID CURVE, A DISTANCE OF 62.27 FEET TO THE INTERSECTION WITH the microbiological quality of these wells during that time. VIN#1GKES16S146214761 THE EAST LINE OF SAID BLOCK 9; THENCE NORTH 00°18’49: WEST ALONG BY OWNER THE EAST LINE OF SAID BLOCK 9, A DISTANCE OF 124.68 FEET TO THE WHAT SHOULD CUSTOMERS DO? 24.5 ACRES ON 1995 CHEVY C/K 1500 Okeechobee Countyyg School Board meetings for POINT OF BEGINNING. There is nothing you need to do. You do not need to boil your water or take VIN#1GCEC19K2SE172317 July,y, August g and September p 2020 other corrective actions. You may continue to drink the water. If a situation US HWY 441 SE Terry Burroughs, Chairman arises where the water is no longer safe to drink, you will be notified within Sharon Robertson, Clerk and Comptroller 24 hours. $499,000.00 AUCTION 08/07/2020// The Okeechobee County School Board will meet for a regular business meett- Board of County Commissioners CALL FOR MORE 2000 FORD MUSTANG ing on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at 6:00 p.m. The School Board will meet on Okeechobee County, Florida WHAT IS BEING DONE? VIN#1FAFP45X9YF234896 Thursday, July 23, 2020, at 6:00 p.m., to consider advertisement of proposed Petition B-2019-0081 Although triggered source water samples were not collected within 24 hours of INFORMATION millage rates and proposed budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year. Regular School learning of the Total coliform-positive distribution sample that was collected on 419265 ON 7/15/2020 863-561-3666 2008 BMW 7-SERIES Board business will also be conducted at this meeting. May 20, 2020, the water system did collect samples from all of its active wells on VIN#WBAHN83528DT78316 May 27, 2020. All wells indicated the absence of coliform bacteria. The School Board will meet on Monday, August 3, 2020, at 6:00 p.m., for a ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AUCTION 08/14/2020// public hearing to consider adoption of tentative millage rates and the tentative budget for 2020-21. Regular School Board business will also be conducted at For more information please contact James Jean-Louis at (239) 658-3630 or 2003 INFINITY G35 Fictitious Name Fictitious Name contact Patty Baron of the Department of Environmental Protection’s Potable VIN#JNKCV51E53M010038 this meeting. The previously scheduled meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, has been cancelled. Water compliance/enforcement Section at (239) 344 5615. 419262 ON 7/15/2020 1999 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE VIN#2B4GP44R3XR441080 As previously scheduled, the School Board will conduct its regular monthly meeting as well as a final public hearing for adoption of the 2020-21 millage Notice is hereby given that STE- Notice is hereby given that LAPP- 1994 HONDA CIVIC EX rates and district budget on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. FANIE D PRATT, owner, desiring RINA D LITTLES-HALL, owner, Mobile Homes - VIN#1HGEJ1224RL038075 to engage in business under the desiring to engage in business un- All meetings will be conducted in Room 303 of the School Board Administrative fictitious name of SUNSET SLUSH der the fictitious name of LITTLES Sale Office at 700 SW 2nd Avenue, Okeechobee, and are open to the public. OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA located LEARNING ACADEMY located View obituaries from Terms of sale are cash, and no at 1135 NOBLES RD, LABELLE, FL at 1017 MISSISSIPPI AVENUE, checks will be accepted. The seller 33935 intends to register the said CLEWISTON, FL 33440 intends to Newly updated double reserves the right of final bid. All 416565 OKEE 07/15, 7/22/2020 name in HENDRY county with register the said name in HEND- the past month at wide, 2/2 in 55+ com- sales are final. No refunds will be the Division of Corporations, Flori- RY county with the Division of Corr- made. Said automobiles will be Your new home could be When you want some- da Department of State, pursuant porations, Florida Department of munity. sold in “AS IS” with no guarantees. to section 865.09 of the Florida State, pursuant to section 865.09 in today’s paper. Have thing sold, advertise in Statutes. of the Florida Statutes. http://www.legacy.com Must sell, open to offers. 4189195 LO 7/15/2020 419077 LO 7/15/2020 863-532-5351 419647 ON 07/15/2020 you looked for it? the classifieds. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 51

Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice Public Notice

SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT AMENDED HENDRY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SECTION 00103 PUBLIC NOTICE OF WORK PLAN NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION INVITATION TO BID PUBLIC NOTICE OF AN ORDINANCE CONTINUING THE EXISTING SIX CENTS PER GALLON LOCAL OPTION FUEL TAX ON MOTOR FUEL Sealed BIDS will be received by the CITY OF MOORE HAVEN Okeechobee County Board of County Commission AND DIESEL FUEL (hereinafter referred to as Owner), 299 Riverside Drive, Moore Notice is hereby given that pursuant to “The Water Rights Compact Budget Workshops Among the Seminole Tribe of Florida, The State of Florida, and The Haven, FL 33471 until 2:00 PM on Julyy 29th 2020 at which Notice is hereby given that the Hendry County Board of County Commissioners time they will be publicly opened by the City Clerk or designee South Florida Water Management District”, the 2nd Amendment to NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Okeechobee County Board of County will hold a public hearing on July 28, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., in the Commission DQGUHDGDORXG$Q\%,'6UHFHLYHGDIWHUWKHWLPHVSHFL¿HGZLOO the 33rd Annual Work Plann of the Seminole Tribe of Florida has been Commissioners will convene a COVID-19 Briefing on July 16, 2020 at Chambers, Hendry County Courthouse, 25 East Hickpoochee Avenue, LaBelle, not be accepted. submitted to the South Florida Water Management District (District). 9:00 a.m., and immediately thereafter, hold a Budget Workshop in Florida, to consider an ordinance continuing the existing six cents per gallon the “Judge William L. Hendry Courtroom “ at the Historic Courthouse, 304 NW local option fuel tax on motor fuel and diesel fuel sold in Hendry County as The BIDS shall be based on providing all materials, equipment and 2nd Street, Okeechobee, Florida 34972. authorized by Section 336.025(1)(a), Florida Statutes. The Ordinance is to be labor for the construction of the City of Moore Haven Thatcher The Seminole Tribe of Florida (Tribe), 6073 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL entitled as follows: Boulevard Sanitary Sewer Improvements. The Contractor 33024, has submitted, on July 7, 2020, the 2nd Amendment to the Public comment for the workshop can be submitted two (2) ways, no later AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS shall be responsible for providing all materials, equipment and 33rd Annual Work Plan. The Work Plan describes existing and proo- than 1 :00 p.m. the day BEFORE the meeting and will be read into the record: OF HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE HENDRY COUN- labor necessary for the installation of one 4-foot diameter posed activities on Seminole land. The amendment proposed includes • Email at [email protected] TY CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 1-2, ARTICLE XV. FUEL TAX, sanitary sewer manhole and one dog house outside drop an update in irrigation usage in the Brighton Reservation: Brighton Ress- • Residents without Internet access can comment by phone at 863-467- SPECIFICALLY SECTION 1-2-272, EXTENSION OF EXISTING SIX- manhole and approximately 340 LF of 8-inch diameter PVC ervation - 1) The intent of this Work Plan Amendment is to update 7249 CENT LOCAL OPTION FUEL TAX; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; gravity sanitary sewer mains including the installation of the irrigation needs for the pre-existing 13,936 acres originally authorized PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS OF LAW; PROVIDING FOR CODIFI- ¿YHVDQLWDU\VHZHUODWHUDOVH[WHQGLQJIURPSURSRVHGVDQ- under the First Work Plan Amendment within the Brighton Reservation in Notice to Attendees: Room seating capacity will be limited due to social diss- CATION, INCLUSION IN CODE, AND SCRIVENER’S ERRORS; AND itary sewer mains to the right-of-way property line and all order to accurately reflect the Seminole Tribe’s actual, historic water uses tancing requirements, screening will be conducted before entering the BOCC PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. required appurtenances, as necessary to complete the project Room, and all persons are requiredq to wear maskss while in the building and meett- SHUWKHSODQVDQGVSHFL¿FDWLRQV and demands. Taking into consideration the increased amount of data ing room. We encourage all citizens to attend or watch through our website at: Due to the public health emergency presented by COVID-19 and pursuant to available, the modified Blaney-Criddle method was utilized in conjunction http://okeechobeecountyfl.igm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspxp// y g / / p the authority granted by Executive Order Number 20-69, as extended, issued 'UDZLQJV VSHFL¿FDWLRQV DQG RWKHU &RQWUDFW 'RFXPHQWV PD\ EH with updated localized datasets to establish a revised supplemental dee- by the Governor of the State of Florida, members of the public and the County H[DPLQHGDWWKHRI¿FHVRI'DYLG0LOOHU#0RRUH+DYHQ&LW\+DOO mand. The Brighton Reservation is located in Glades County, Township Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board of County Com- Commission may participate in the meeting by telephone by calling 877-853-  5LYHUVLGH 'ULYH 0RRUH +DYHQ )/     40 South, Range 32 East; Township 39 South, Range 32 East; Township missioners with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a 5257 and entering meeting access code 955 2625 7584#. Drawings, specs and other contract documents can be accessed for record of the proceedings, and that, for such purposes, he or she will need to 39 South, Range 33 East; Township 38 South, Range 33 East. Anyone wishing to submit written comments on this item should e-mail Emily GRZQORDGE\FRQWDFWLQJ&UDLJ$6PLWK $VVRFLDWHVDW   ensure that a verbatim record of such proceedings is made, which record shall H[WRU DFROH#FUDLJDVPLWKFRP#J . All technical questions include the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Hunter at [email protected] by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meett- ing. During the meeting prior to the County Commission voting on the matter shall be in writing at least 5 work days prior to the bid opening Interested persons may comment upon the Amendment or submit a DQGVKRXOGEHGLUHFWHGWR*UHJ*LDUUDWDQDYLDHPDLOJJLDUUDWDQD# In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities interested persons will be permitted to make oral comments in person or over written request for a copy of the Amendment by either of the following the dedicated telephone line. craigasmith.com. methods: 1) Submitting a written request to: Regulation Division, South needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Florida Water Management District, 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm the County Administrator’s Office no later than four (4) working days prior to the A copy of the proposed ordinance is available for inspection on weekdays %,''(56VKDOOFRQ¿QHWKHLU%,'6WRWKHSURMHFWLQLWVHQWLUHW\3DU Beach, FL 33406; or 2) Submitting an electronic request at permits@p@ proceeding at 304 N.W. 2nd Street, Room 123 Okeechobee, Florida 34972, or between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Office of the County tial BIDS will not be considered. Each BIDDER shall submit with sfwmd.gov.g Such comments or requests must be received within 30 days call 863. 763.6441. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call TDD 1-800-222- Attorney, 110 Broward Avenue, LaBelle, Florida. this BID evidence that he is licensed to perform the work and ser 3448 (voice) or 1-888-44 7-5620 (TTY). from the date of publication. If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect YLFHVRUTXDOL¿HGE\H[DPLQDWLRQWREHVROLFHQVHG Terry Burroughs, Chair to any matter considered at this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proo- ceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verba- Each BID shall be submitted in TRIPLICATE (ONE ORIGINAL No further public notice will be provided regarding this Amendment. A Board of County Commissioners & TWO COPIES) DQG DFFRPSDQLHG E\ D FHUWL¿HG FKHFN RU E\ Okeechobee County, Florida tim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and copy of the Staff Report must be requested in order to remain advised of evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. DQDFFHSWDEOH%,'%21'LQDQDPRXQWHTXDOWRDWOHDVW¿YH  further proceedings. Substantially affected persons are entitled to request SHUFHQWRIWKHDPRXQWRIWKH%,'SD\DEOHWR&LW\RI0RRUH+DYHQ Sharon Robertson, Clerk If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommodation as a guarantee that if the BID is accepted the BIDDER will execute an Administrative Hearing regarding the proposed agency action by subb- Board of County Commissioners for your participation in the meeting in person or via telephone, please contact WKH&2175$&7DQG¿OHDFFHSWDEOH3(5)250$1&($1'3$<0(17 mitting a written request therefore after reviewing the Staff Report. Okeechobee County, Florida Hendry County Administration at (863) 675-5220; Hearing Impaired: Florida 685(7<%21'6HTXDOWRRQHKXQGUHGSHUFHQW  RIWKHFRQ 419094 GCD 7/15/2020 Relay 7-1-1; or e-mail [email protected]. WUDFWSULFHZLWKLQWHQ  GD\VDIWHUZULWWHQQRWLFHRIWKH$:$5' 419219 ON 7/15/2020 2)&2175$&71RELGGHUPD\ZLWKGUDZKLV%,'IRUDSHULRGRI Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. QLQHW\  GD\VDIWHUGDWHVHWIRURSHQLQJRIWKH%,'6 NOTICE OF WORKSHOP – RESCHEDULED TO JULY 23,, 2020 Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para participar NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Myra Johnson al (863) The City of Moore Haven reserves the right to: waive infor There will be a Workshop Meeting of the Board of Commissioners for the Im- ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE 675-5240. malities in any BID, delete any portion of the project; extend the project within the limits of the work involved. The Owner has the mokalee Water & Sewer District, on Thursday, Julyy, 23, 20200 beginninggg at 419328 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 1:30 P. M . at the office of the Immokalee Water & Sewer District, located at NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of County Commissioners of right to accept or reject any or all bids. 1020 Sanitation Rd, Immokalee, FL 34142. Anyone attending the meeting is Glades County, Florida, will hold a public hearing at the regular meeting %,'6PXVWEHVHDOHGDQGWKHRXWVLGHRIWKHHQYHORSH0867EH expected to observe CDC guidelines including, but not limited to, wearing a on Monday, July 27, 2020, at 6:00 PM, or soon thereafter, in the Glades mask and maintaining at least six (6) feet of social distancing. SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT marked: “BID - City-ofy Moore Haven Thatcher Blvd. Sani- County Regional Training Center, 1030 Industrial Drive, Moore Haven, taryyp Sewer Improvements.. City Clerk Notice for Public Comment: Public comment will be allowed at the time Florida, 33471, for the adoption of the following Ordinance: PUBLIC NOTICE OF WORK PLAN &LW\RI0RRUH+DYHQ the agenda item is being considered. You will be allowed to speak for up to *ODGHV&RXQW\)ORULGD three minutes and only one time for each item, unless additional information is A copy of the proposed Ordinance is on file at the Glades County Clerk  requested, and additional time is granted by the Board Members. Be advised of Court’s Office, 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, Florida, 33471. Normal Notice is hereby given that pursuant to “The Water Rights Compact *&' that the Board may take action on items not listed on the agenda. If this occ- business hours are 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Among the Seminole Tribe of Florida, The State of Florida, and The South curs, public comment will be received at the time the item is considered for up Florida Water Management District”, the 3rd Amendment to the 33rd to three minutes provided that you raise your hand to indicate your desire to Annual Work Plan of the Seminole Tribe of Florida has been submitted HENDRY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS speak. Comment for non-agenda general discussion by members of the public GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA to the South Florida Water Management District (District). will be allowed under Public Concerns (item E, No. 2 Preliminaries) of the regular ORDINANCE NO. 2020-¬¬¬___ NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER agenda for up to one minute, unless additional information is requested, and additional time is granted by the Board Members. AN ORDINANCE IMPOSING AND EXTENDING A SIX CENT ($.06) The Seminole Tribe of Florida (Tribe), 6073 Stirling Road, Hollywood, FL ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO SALES TAX LOCAL OPTION FUEL TAX UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF SECTION BUDGET & EMPLOYEE 33024, has submitted, on July 7, 2020, the 3rd Amendment to the 336.025, FLORIDA STATUTES, UPON EVERY GALLON OF MOTOR FUEL 33rd Annual Work Plan. The Work Plan describes existing and proo- MANUAL WORKSHOP AND DIESEL FUEL SOLD IN GLADES COUNTY AND TAXED UNDER THE posed activities on Seminole land. The amendment proposed includes an Notice is hereby given that the Hendry County Board of County Com- AGENDA PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 206 OF THE FLORIDA STATUTES; PRO- update in the water supply needs in the Brighton Reservation: Brighton missioners will hold a public hearing on July 28, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., at 1. Call to Order VIDING THAT THE IMPOSITION SHALL BE EFFECTIVE FOR A PERIOD Reservation - 1) Based on the anticipated future needs, a total of 30,806 the Hendry County Courthouse, Commission Chambers, 25 E. Hickpochee 2. Preliminaries OF TEN (10) YEARS, BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2021; PROVIDING FOR irrigable acreage has been identified. This represents an increase of Ave., LaBelle, Florida, to consider an ordinance relating to the County sales A. Pledge of Allegiance DISTRIBUTION PURSUANT TO AN INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT BE- 16,870 acres not included in the First Annual Work Plan. This Work Plan tax entitled as follows: B. Roll Call TWEEN GLADES COUNTY AND THE CITY OF MOORE HAVEN LOCATED Amendment establishes a supplemental allocation for these additional AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMIS- C. Adoption of Agenda THEREIN REPRESENTING A MAJORITY OF THE INCORPORATED AREA 16,870 acres. Additionally, this Work Plan Amendment establishes a ree- SIONERS OF HENDRY COUNTY, FLORIDA, AMENDING THE 3. Review of Budget Assumptions and Proposed POPULATION WITHIN GLADES COUNTY; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICT; vised supplemental allocation for the original 13,936 acres identified in HENDRY COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES, CHAPTER 1-2, 4. Review of proposed changes to the Employee Manual PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; the First Annual Work Plan as a result of changing the land use/land covv- ARTICLE V, SALES TAX, SPECIFICALLY SECTION 1-2-74, USE 5. Public Comment PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. erage/crop types for these acres, to achieve consistency across the en- OF PROCEEDS; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING 6. Adjournment tire 30,806 acres. The Brighton Reservation is located in Glades County, FOR CONFLICTS OF LAW; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION, IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE Township 40 South, Range 32 East; Township 39 South, Range 32 East; INCLUSION IN CODE, AND SCRIVENER’S ERRORS; AND PRO- If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATT- Township 39 South, Range 33 East; Township 38 South, Range 33 East. VIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. to any matter Considered at such meeting or hearing, he or she will need a TER CONSIDERED AT THE HEARING, THAT PERSON WILL NEED A record of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he or she may need RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND HE/SHE MAY NEED TO ENSURE Interested parties may appear and be heard with respect to the proposed to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH Interested persons may comment upon the Amendment or submit a ordinance. Due to the public health emergency presented by COVID-19 includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH written request for a copy of the Amendment by either of the following and pursuant to the authority granted by Executive Order Number 20-69, (Section 286.0105, Florida Statute) THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IF AN INDIVIDUAL REQUIRES SPECIAL methods: 1) Submitting a written request to: Regulation Division, South as extended, issued by the Governor of the State of Florida, members of SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: If you require special aid or services as ad- AID OR SERVICES AS ADDRESSED IN THE AMERICANS WITH DISS- Florida Water Management District, 3301 Gun Club Road, West Palm the public and the County Commission may participate in the meeting dressed in the American Disabilities Act, please contact the District office at ABILITIES ACT (ADA), PLEASE CONTACT THE COUNTY MANAGER, Beach, FL 33406; or 2) Submitting an electronic request at permits@p@ by telephone by calling 877-853-5257 and entering meeting access code (239) 658-3630, no less than five (5) days prior to the above stated date. BOB JONES, AT (863) 946-6000. sfwmd.govg v. Such comments or requests must be received within 30 days 955 2625 7584#. 419433 ON 7/15/2020 from the date of publication. Anyone wishing to submit written comments on this item should e-mail ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND AND BE HEARD. Emily Hunter at [email protected]@yt by 12:00 p.m. on the day of 418955 LO 7/15,22/2020 No further public notice will be provided regarding this Amendment. A the meeting. During the meeting prior to the County Commission voting NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER copy of the Staff Report must be requested in order to remain advised of on the matter interested persons will be permitted to make oral comments ADOPTION OF COUNTY ORDINANCE further proceedings. Substantially affected persons are entitled to request in person or over the dedicated telephone line. PUBLIC NOTICE an Administrative Hearing regarding the proposed agency action by subb- A copy of the proposed ordinance is available for inspection on weekdays NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of County Commissioners of Okeechobee County Board of County Commission mitting a written request therefore after reviewing the Staff Report. Glades County, Florida, will hold a public hearing at the regular meeting Regular Scheduled Meeting between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at the Office of the County on Monday, July 27, 2020, at 6:00 PM, or soon thereafter, in the Glades 419105 GCD 7/15/2020 Attorney, 110 Broward Avenue, LaBelle, Florida. County Regional Training Center, 1030 Industrial Drive, Moore Haven, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Okeechobee County Board of County If a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with ree- Florida, 33471, for the adoption of the following Ordinance: Commissioners will hold a Regular Scheduled Meeting on July 23, 2020 at spect to any matter considered at this meeting, he/she will need a re- 8:00 a.m. at the “Judge William L. Hendry Courtroom” at the Historic Courtt- HENDRY COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS cord of the proceedings, and that, for such purpose, he/she may need to A copy of the proposed Ordinance is on file at the Glades County Clerk house, 304 NW 2nd Street, Okeechobee, Florida. NOTICE OF BUDGET WORKSHOP ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record of Court’s Office, 500 Avenue J, Moore Haven, Florida, 33471. Normal Public comment for the regular meeting can be submitted two (2) ways, no latt- includes the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. business hours are 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday. er than 1:00 p.m. the day beforee the meeting and will be read into the record: If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommo- • Email at [email protected]@ Notice is hereby given that the Hendry County Board of County Commiss- dation for your participation in the meeting in person or via telephone, GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA • Residents without internet across can comment by phone at 863-467- sioners will hold a workshop on July 28, 2020, at 3:00 p.m., at the Hendry please contact Hendry County Administration at (863) 675-5220; Hearing ORDINANCE NO. 2020-¬¬¬___ 7249 County Courthouse, Commission Chambers, 25 E. Hickpochee Ave., La- Belle, Florida to discuss the 2020-2021 County budgets and related issues. Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; or e-mail [email protected]@y. AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF Notice to Attendees: Room seating capacity will be limited due to social Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA LEVYING AND IMPOSING A DISCRETION- distancing requirements, screening will be conducted before entering the BOCC Members of the public may attend the meeting in person or are invited to ARY ONE PERCENT (ONE CENT) SALES SURTAX IN GLADES COUNTY, Room, and all persons are requiredq to wear maskss while in the building and watch a livestream of the meeting at https://www.facebook.com/hendryp// / y- Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para particc- FLORIDA PURSUANT TO SECTION 212.055(3), FLORIDA STATUTES; meeting room. We encourage all citizens to attend or watch live through our countyy and/or participate in the meeting by telephone by calling 877-853- ipar un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Myra Johnson website at: http://okeechobeecountyfl.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspx 5257 and entering meeting identification number 955 2625 7584#. Mem- al (863) 675-5240. PROVIDING THAT THE LEVY AND IMPOSITION SHALL BE IN EFFECT bers of the Board may participate in the meeting by telephone, as well. UNTIL RESCINDED BY A SUBSEQUENT ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board of County Com- 418919 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA UP TO missioners with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a The meeting is open to the public. If a person decides to appeal any ______YEARS; PROVIDING FOR SCRIVERNER’S ERRORS; PROVID- record of the proceedings, and that, for such purposes, he or she will need to decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at ING FOR CONFLICTS; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION; PROVIDING ensure that a verbatim record of such proceedings is made, which record shall this meeting, he/she will need a record of the proceedings, and that, for FOR SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. include the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. such purpose, he/she may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities upon which the appeal is to be based. Please note that matters may IF A PERSON DECIDES TO APPEAL ANY DECISION MADE BY THE needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact be discussed at the meeting which are not on the prepared agenda for BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WITH RESPECT TO ANY MATT- the County Administrator’s Office no later than four (4) working days prior to the the meeting. TER CONSIDERED AT THE HEARING, THAT PERSON WILL NEED A proceeding at 304 N.W. 2nd Street, Room 123 Okeechobee, Florida 34972, or call 863.763.6441. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call TDD 1-800-222- If you have a disability that will require special assistance or accommoda- RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS, AND HE/SHE MAY NEED TO ENSURE 3448 (voice) or 1-888-447-5620 (TTY). tion for your participation in the meeting, please contact Hendry County Sign guestbooks at THAT A VERBATIM RECORD OF THE PROCEEDINGS IS MADE, WHICH Administration at (863) 675-5220; Hearing Impaired: Florida Relay 7-1-1; RECORD INCLUDES THE TESTIMONY AND EVIDENCE UPON WHICH Terry W. Burroughs, Chair or e-mail [email protected]. THE APPEAL IS TO BE BASED. IF AN INDIVIDUAL REQUIRES SPECIAL Board of County Commissioners http://www.legacy.com AID OR SERVICES AS ADDRESSED IN THE AMERICANS WITH DISS- Okeechobee County, Florida Hendry County is an equal opportunity provider and employer. ABILITIES ACT (ADA), PLEASE CONTACT THE COUNTY MANAGER, BOB JONES, AT (863) 946-6000. Sharon Robertson, Clerk Si necesita la assistencia de un interprete que hable espanol para particc- Board of County Commissioners ipar un esta reunion, por favor pongase en contacto con Myra Johnson ALL INTERESTED PARTIES ARE INVITED TO ATTEND AND BE HEARD. Okeechobee County, Florida al (863) 675-5240. 419075 LO 7/15,22/2020 417474 ON 7/15/2020 418920 LO 7/15 CB 7/16/2020 52 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

Public Notice Public Notice Administration Administration Administration Administration Public Notice Fictitious Name of Estates of Estates of Estates of Estates FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE CALLING FOR BIDS PUBLIC AUCTION Notice Is Hereby Given that MHC 3 (Orlando FL) LLC, 2190 Fl-70, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE NINETEENTH JUDICIAL IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR GLADES COUNTY, FLORIDA Notice is hereby given that on Okeechobee, FL 34972, desiring to July 21st at 2pm , AAA Selfstorr- engage in business under the fictitious NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City/County Public Works Authority will CIRCUIT IN AND FOR OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION accept sealed bids up to 2:00 PM, August, 20, 2020 at the City Clerk’s Office, age whose address is 691 US name of CubeSmart 6184, with its prin- P.O. Box 399, City of Moore Haven City Hall, 299 Riverside Drive, Moore Haven, CASE NO: 47-2020-CP-000124 File No.: PC20-39 Hwy 27, Moore Haven Fl. will cipal place of business in the State of Florida 33471 for the following project: Various Sewer Hookups within the City sell by competitive bidding or Florida in the County of Okeechobee, of Moore Haven. IN RE: THE ESTATE OF otherwise dispose of the propp- will file an Application for Registration of WILLIAM CARY BAIZE, IN RE: ESTATE OF Fictitious Name with the Florida Depart- THOMAS DENNIS AKA DENNY MOORE erty heretofore stored with the Scope of Services: To provide all materials and labor to hookup residential (Deceased) undersigned by: ment of State. NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Deceased) 418849 LO 7/15/2020 sewer. Contractor is also responsible for securing all necessary permits and NOTICE TO CREDITORS inspection fees. Formal Administration Deondre Morrow #056 The administration of the Estate of WILLIAM CARY BAIZE, Deceased, The administration of the estate of THOMAS DENNIS MOORE A/K/A DENNY Find it faster. Sell it sooner Bid Opening: 2:00 PM, August 20, 2020, in the Council Chambers, City of Moore MOORE, deceased, whose date of death was May 7, 2020, is pending in the Cirr- 418516 GCD 07/08, 15/2020 Haven City Hall, 299 Riverside Drive, Moore Haven, Florida 33471. whose date of death was December 24,2019,and whose social security number in the classifieds is 1403,Case Number 47-2020-CP-000124 is pending in the Circuit Court for cuit Court for GLADES County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Okeechobee County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is Clerk of PO Box 10, Moore Haven, FL 33471. The names and addresses of the personal Notice is hereby given that the City/County Public Works Authority acting by representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. and through its Governing Board, hereinafter referred to as “City/County”, will the Circuit Court, Okeechobee County Judicial Center, 312 NW 3rd Street, Suite Administration Administration 125, Okeechobee, FL 34972. The name and address of the Personal Represen- All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands receive up to, but not later than, the above-stated time, sealed bids for the against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served award of a contract for the above project. Bids shall be received in the place tative and the Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below. of Estates of Estates If you have been served with a copy of this notice and you have any claim or must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS identified above. Those bids timely received shall be opened and publicly read AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS aloud at the above-stated time and place. demand against the decedent’s estate, even if that claim is unmatured, contin- gent or unliquidated, you must file your claim with the court ON OR BEFORE AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or dee- Plans and specifications and Project documents are on file at the City of Moore THE LATER OF A DATE THAT IS 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER YOU RE- mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN Haven, City Hall at no charge. They can be obtained by contacting Ashley Wills 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA at (863)946-0711. CEIVE A COPY OF THIS NOTICE. PROBATE DIVISION All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or dee- ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI- DA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. File No. 2020-CP-00113 The CITY/COUNTY reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any mands against the decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or un- Division Probate liquidated claims, must file their claims with the Courtt WITHIN 3 MONTHS NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM irregularities or informalities in any bids or in the bidding process without discloo- FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH sure of a reason. The failure to make such a disclosure shall not result in accrual AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. IN RE: ESTATE OF ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. IS BARRED. of any right, claim or cause of action by any unsuccessful bidder against the The date of first publication of this notice is July 8, 2020. IRVIN TAYLOR City/County Public Works Authority. EVEN IF A CLAIM IS NOT BARRED BY THE LIMITATIONS DE- Deceased. SCRIBED ABOVE, ALL CLAIMS WHICH HAVE NOT BEEN FILED Personal Representative: 419665 GCD 07/15, 22, 29; 8/05, 12/2020 WILL BE BARRED TWO YEARS AFTER DECEDENT’S DEATH. NOTICE TO CREDITORS The date of the first publication of this Notice is: July 8, 2020. MICHAEL A. RIDER 13 N. Oak Avenue The administration of the estate of Irvin Taylor, deceased, whose date of Lake Placid, Florida 33852 death was October 10, 2019, is pending in the Circuit Court for Okeechobee Personal Representative: County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 312 NW 3rd Street, PUBLIC NOTICE PATRICK TERRY BAIZE Attorney for Personal Representative: MICHAEL A. RIDER Okeechobee, Florida 34972. The names and addresses of the personal repree- 8486 Villa Circle sentative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The Okeechobee County Board of County Commissioners will convene “Bud- Sellersburg, IN 47172 Attorney get Workshops”” on July 20, 21 and 22, 2020 at 9:00 a.m., in the William Florida Bar Number: 0175661 All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands Attorney for Personal Representative: against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served L. Hendry Courtroom at the Historic Courthouse, 304 N.W. 2nd Street FRANK H. FEE, IV. Rider & Thompson, P.A. Okeechobee, Florida. 13 N Oak Ave must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS FEE, YATES & FEE, PLLC AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS Attorney for Personal Representative Lake Placid, FL 33852 Telephone: (863) 465-1111 Notice to Attendees: Room seating capacity will be limited due to social diss- Fax: (863) 465-8100 AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. FBN: 0576921 All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or dee- tancing requirements, screening will be conducted before entering the BOCC 400 NW 2nd Street E-Mail: [email protected] Room, and all persons are requiredq to wear maskss while in building and meett- 418165 LO 7/8,15/2020 mands against decedent’s estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN Okeechobee, FL 34972 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ing room. We encourage all citizens to attend or watch live through our website Telephone (863)763-3131 at http://okeechobeecounyfl.iqm2.com/Citizens/Default.aspxp// y q / / p ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN FLORI- Primary Email: [email protected] DA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. Secondary Email: [email protected] NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM Any person deciding to appeal any decision made by the Board of County Com- 418250 LO 7/8,15/2020 missioners with respect to any matter considered at this meeting will need a FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH record of the proceedings, and that, for such purposes, he or she will need to IS BARRED. ensure that a verbatim record of such proceedings is made, which record shall Search obituaries The date of first publication of this notice is July 8, 2020. include the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be based. Notice to Notice to Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities Creditors Creditors nationally at Wesley T. Dunaway Angelia Y. Taylor needing special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Email: [email protected] c/o Kovar Law Group the County Administrator’s Office not later than four (4) working days prior to Florida Bar No. 0098385 618 E. South Street, Suite 500 the proceeding at 304 N.W. 2nd Street, Room 123 Okeechobee, Florida 34972, http://www.legacy.com Kovar Law Group Orlando, FL 32801 or call 863.763.6441. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call TDD 1-800-222- IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR 618 E. South Street, Suite 500 3448 (voice) or 1-888-447-5620 (TTY). Orlando, Florida 32801 OKEECHOBEE COUNTY,FLORIDA 417579 ON 7/8,15/2020 Terry W. Burroughs, Chair PROBATE DIVISION Board of County Commissioners File No. 2020 CP 105 Division Probate Sharon Robertson, Clerk Board of County Commissioners Okeechobee County, Florida IN RE: ESTATE OF: 418222 ON 7/15/2020 AIMEE RENEE RUMBAUGH Deceased. NOTICE TO CREDITORS AIR CONDITIONING WANTED TO BUY NOTICE OF ABANDONMENT OF AN ALLEY RIGHT-OF-WAY The administration of the estate of Aimee Renee Rumbaugh, de- IN OKEECHOBEE PARK SUBDIVISION ceased, whose date of death was May 10, 2020, is pending in the NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at a regular meeting of the Board of County Circuit Court for Okeechobee County, Florida, Probate Division, EMORY WALKER CO. INC. We Buy Scrap Gold, Commissioners of Okeechobee County, Florida, on the 9th day of July, 2020, the address of which is 312 NW 3rd St., Okeechobee, FL 34972. a Resolution was adopted pursuant to Sections 336.09 and 336.10, Florida The name and address of the personal representative and the Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Statutes, whereby the County of Okeechobee vacated, closed, abandoned, personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. Silver and Coins renounced and disclaimed all rights of the county and the public in an alley right- 24/7 SERVICE FOR OUR CUSTOMERS of-way in Okeechobee Park subdivision, further described as follows: All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or TH demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this no- 208 SW 5 Ave. Okeechobee THE 15.00 FOOT ALLEY LYING BETWEEN LOTS 1, 2 & 3, OF BLOCK 61 AND WLFHLVUHTXLUHGWREHVHUYHGPXVW¿OHWKHLUFODLPVZLWKWKLVFRXUW Elliott’s Pawn Shop LOTS 22, 23 & 24 OF BLOCK 61, OKEECHOBEE PARK, ACCORDING TO THE ON OR BEFORE THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF Serving the PLAT THEREOF AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 1, PAGE 28, OF THE PUBLIC THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER Lake Area for CAC042747 419 W.S. Park St. • 863.763-5553 RECORDS OF OKEECHOBEE COUNTY, FLORIDA, AND BEING MORE PARTICC- THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 50 Years! 863-763-6742 CAC057219 ULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 1; THENCE SOUTH All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having ADVERTISE HERE 00° 15’23” EAST ALONG THE WEST RIGHT-OF-WAY OF NW 30TH AVENUE, FODLPV RU GHPDQGV DJDLQVW GHFHGHQW¶V HVWDWH PXVW ¿OH WKHLU A DISTANCE OF 15.00 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF 24; THENCE SOUTH 89°59’01” WEST, A DISTANCE OF 150.00 FEET TO THE THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 22; THENCE NORTH 00°15’23” WEST, A DISTANCE OF 15.00 FEET TO THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET 3; THENCE NORTH 89°59’01” EAST, A DISTANCE OF 150.00 FEET TO THE FORTH IN FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOR- POINT OF BEGINNING. EVER BARRED. Feature your business in this affordable business directory Terry Burroughs, Chairman NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, Sharon Robertson, Clerk and Comptroller ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECE- Board of County Commissioners DENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. Okeechobee County, Florida Call 863.763.3134 or email Petition B-2020-0085 7KHGDWHRI¿UVWSXEOLFDWLRQRIWKLVQRWLFHLVBJulyy, 15, 2020BB 419426 ON 7/15/2020 Attorney for Personal Representative: Personal Representative: [email protected] Pamela Stewart, Esq. Mark D. Rumbaugh Attorney 7285 S.W. 9th Street Okeechobee Countyy School Board Florida Bar Number: 021938 Okeechobee, FL 34974 Virtual Meetingg 649 5th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102 Thursday,y, July y 23, , 2020, , 6:00 pp.m. Telephone: (239)263-2613 The Okeechobee County School Board will meet on Thursday, July 23, 2020, at Fax: (239)919-1320 6:00 p.m., to consider advertisement of proposed millage rates and proposed E-Mail: [email protected] budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year. Due to COVID-19 and an abundance of caution, this is a Zoom meeting. To join the Zoom meeting go to: https://zoom. 419631 ON 7/15, 22/2020 us/j/95404346484?pwd=MkFkV2xLeWlhM1plZWFDZ1dNTytjQT09 Meeting ID: 954 0434 6484, Password: 4tqsx6 Zoom Accessibility Features: Closed Captioning, Automatic Transcripts, Keyy- Fictitious Name Fictitious Name board Accessibility, and Screen Reader Support. The virtual meeting will be conducted in Room 303 of the School Board Admin- istrative Office at 700 SW 2nd Avenue, Okeechobee. Due to COVID-19 there is FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE FICTITIOUS NAME NOTICE limited access to the building. The public is invited to attend the virtual meeting. Notice is hereby given that JAMES Notice is hereby given that For more information please call 863-462-5000 x 1026. ROBERT SORCE, owner, desiring SHAWN M JOHNSON and MALL- 419296 ON 7/15/2020 to engage in business under the COLM D JOHNSON, owners, dee- fictitious name of JAMES R. SORCE siring to engage in business under DBA SORCE ONE INVESTMENTS the fictitious name of SKEETER’S located at 11535 N.E. 84TH RV TRANSPORT located at 3755 AVE, OKEECHOBEE, FL 34972 in- N RIVER RD, FORT DENAUD, FL tends to register the said name in 33935 intends to register the said OKEECHOBEE county with the name in HENDRY county with the Division of Corporations, Florida Division of Corporations, Florida View obituaries from Department of State, pursuant Department of State, pursuant to section 865.09 of the Florida to section 865.09 of the Florida Statutes. Statutes. the past month at 419110 LO 7/15/2020 418918 LO 7/15/2020

http://www.legacy.com Buying a car? Look in Grab a bargain from your the classifieds. Selling neighbor’s garage, attic, a car? Look in the basement or closet in classifieds. today’s classifieds. July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 53 Few aquarium fish come from saltwater; with research, that’s changing By Brad Buck preciation of the ocean, particularly in the most commonly cultured marine ornamen- want the public to know about the Blue UF/IFAS past two decades, has led to an increase in tal fish — saltwater fish raised on Florida Tang success and about the wonders of demand for saltwater fish. More people are Tropical fish hobbyists are pretty serious aquaculture farms. Those families of fish aquarium fish in general. becoming aware of the wonderful array of about their pastime. So much so that it’s include dottiebacks, gobies, blennies, “We want to inform people about the fish available, and that has piqued interest. seahorses and tangs, including the famous a $40 million-a-year industry in the United I wouldn’t say people prefer freshwater benefits of aquariums as a hobby and as a States. Blue Tang. over saltwater. Traditionally, the entry level Yes, that’s the same Blue Tang as Dory in teaching tool for children,” DiMaggio said. Most of the fish in home tanks come aquarist would begin with a freshwater “We also want people to purchase more from freshwater. Only about 10% are raised the 2016 movie, “Finding Dory.” Research- tank, but that is changing as the hobby fish grown in Florida. That way, they would in saltwater, according a new UF/IFAS ers at TAL worked with other scientists to equipment becomes more efficient and, breed the first Pacific Blue Tang. TAL faculty be supporting local agriculture.” Extension document. However, the salt- again, desire on the part of the consumer to water sector of the industry has increased have saltwater critters.” substantially in recent years, UF/IFAS faculty Saltwater aquarium fish fetch higher Crossword Puzzle say. prices in the market, according to the new Freshwater fish outnumber saltwater fish UF/IFAS Extension document. Despite the Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis in aquariums, primarily because they can higher value of marine fish, far fewer farms ACROSS 2 Cake on a dish 35 Period spawned 49 Dick Grayson’s be easier to culture and maintain, UF/IFAS produce them nationwide than freshwater 1 Mind 3 EPA scientist by the Manhattan alter ego researchers say. In fact, through research at 5 Old lemon 4 Longbow wood Project 50 Does some ornamental fish. That’s because the indus- 10 What’s under a 5 Italian smoker 36 Baseball strategy fencing, maybe places like the UF/IFAS Tropical Aquacul- try lacks sufficient protocols to produce beret 6 Slack off for a contact hitter 51 Stadium toppers ture Laboratory (TAL), more saltwater fish most saltwater fish, Cassiano said. 14 Oxford tightener 7 Skyy shelfmate, 37 Little marchers 55 Terrible test are being raised for aquariums, as opposed Florida produces a large share of the 15 Pledge drive gifts familiarly 39 Maritime score to be captured in the wild. fish-farm-raised ornamental marine species 16 YouTube journal 8 __ sauce: sushi 40 Bridge feat 57 Ink cartridge color 17 Getting on in “TAL is changing industry trends in the nation. condiment 44 How china is sold 59 Corn serving through applied research and Extension years 9 Trippy ’60s 46 Fuzzy film coward 60 2020 NCAA FBS In fact, Florida leads the nation in 19 Lobed organ drug 47 Shooter’s setting champs activities dedicated to identifying desirable marine ornamental fish sales, with $6.5 20 Web pioneer 10 Cable network 48 Congo critter with 61 Touch-screen species and creating production protocols million. Hawaii is a distant second with 21 Polish place with classic striped legs touch for them,” said Eric Cassiano, a UF/IFAS as- $160,000 per year in sales. In 2018, the total 22 Couldn’t help it sitcoms sistant Extension scientist at TAL, in Ruskin. value of ornamental fish sold by farmers 23 Document feature 11 Get past ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE: with size options 12 Jay Silverheels Scientists are spending more time in the U.S. was estimated at $41.3 million, 25 Gets plastered researching saltwater fish, said Matt role according to 2019 figures from the U.S. 28 “See You on the 13 Prod DiMaggio, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of Department of Agriculture-National Agricul- Radio” essayist 18 “What have fisheries and aquatic sciences at TAL, which tural Statistics Service. Charles I gotten is part of the UF/IFAS School of Forest DiMaggio, Cassiano and Liz Groover 30 Dull sound myself __?” 31 Transplanting 22 __ cat Resources and Conservation. That might — who graduated in 2018 with a master’s need ANSWERS TO PUZZLE be one reason their availability has risen degree in fisheries and aquatics sciences, 24 Mardi Gras 32 Some allergy acronym symptoms CAN BE FOUND recently. part of the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural 26 Musical star 35 “So that’s what’s “It seems to be a matter of preference,” and Life Sciences — just published the new Merman going on here!” ON PAGE 4 Cassiano said. “I think an increased ap- UF/IFAS Extension paper. It focuses on the 27 Grammy winner 38 Owns part of 41 Well-suited Crow 42 With enthusiasm 28 Hazmat monitor 43 Ronnie in the Pro 29 Rot Football Hall of 33 Sambuca Fame flavoring 44 Rtes. often 34 Avg. 04/09/20 numbered 45 Pack animals 47 Classified item 52 “Let’s do it!” 53 European toast 54 Chucklehead 56 Atlanta-based health agcy. 58 Document settings 59 Holmes’ comment about the ends of the four other longest Across answers? 62 “Return to Mayberry” grown-up 63 Frost-resistant flower 64 Golfo contents 65 Ice cream buy 66 __-Japanese War 67 One of the Ivies

DOWN Special to the Lake Okeechobee News/UF/IFAS 1 “Quantum of Solace” actress Florida produces a large share of the fish-farm-raised ornamental marine spe- By Bruce Haight 04/09/20 cies in the nation. Kurylenko ©2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC 863-467-1545 100% Customer Satisfaction is Our MillersCentralAir.com LIC NO. CAC058675 Mission! 54 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020 Belle Glade woman accused of leaving toddler in hot car By Katrina Elsken 13, at 4:14 p.m., deputies responded to a removed the child from the vehicle. Palm inside Macy’s Department Store, the report Lake Okeechobee News 911 call about a toddler locked by herself Beach County Fire Rescue treated the girl continues. in a vehicle in the parking lot of the Mall WEST PALM BEACH — on the scene. Thamyres Ponce, 32, of Northwest at Wellington Green. Responding deputies The investigation determined the 2-year- 27th Street, Belle Glade, was arrested A Belle Glade woman has found a 2-year-old girl locked, by herself, in been charged with child old was left in the vehicle for nearly 25 and charged with child neglect. She was a white four-door Nissan. The car’s engine minutes while the mother was shopping released on a bond of $1,000. neglect after reportedly was not running. The child was in a car seat leaving a toddler locked in the middle of the back seat. “The toddler in a hot car for nearly 25 Thamyres was crying, sweating and appeared to be minutes while she was Ponce in distress,” states the PBSO report. “There shopping in a mall. was no sign of a caregiver.” According to the Palm Beach County Fearing for the child’s safety, a dep- Sheriff’s Offi ce report, on Monday, July uty broke the driver’s side window and Bernard to head COVID-19 committee

Special to the Lake Okeechobee News ru and walk-up, operating throughout the WEST PALM BEACH — Palm Beach county. County Commissioner Melissa McKinlay, The COVID-19 committee’s recom- president of the Florida Association of mendations on legislative policies will be Counties (FAC), has selected her policy presented to the full membership during committee leaders for 2020-21. Chairmen the association’s legislative conference in and vice chairmen were announced at the November. If approved, the recommenda- recent FAC annual business meeting. tions will become part of FAC’s legislative Among the appointees is fellow Palm platform. Beach County Commissioner Mack Commissioner Bernard also serves on Special to the Lake Okeechobee News Bernard, who will head the newly formed the FAC Federal and Finance, Tax & Admin- COVID-19 Ad Hoc Committee. Vice chair- istration policy committees. Other Palm Crash slows SR 70 traffi c man is Leon County Commissioner Rick Beach County commissioners appointed Minor. A total of 32 FAC members from to FAC policy committees are: Gregg Weiss OKEECHOBEE — A portion on State Road 70 at the Highlands/Okeechobee County line was down to one lane Monday afternoon, July 13. A dump truck around the state will serve on the COVID-19 – Community and Urban Affairs; Water carrying sand crashed in to the guardrail, leaking fuel. Highlands County Fire Ad Hoc Committee. Bernard has been and Environmental Sustainability; Robert Rescue Engine 41-1, Engine 24-1, Battalion 2 responded to this call along at the forefront of Palm Beach County’s Weinroth – Community and Urban Affairs; with the Highlands County Sheriff deputies. The Florida Highway Patrol and Mary Lou Berger – Health, Safety and COVID-19 testing efforts and has worked worked the crash. tirelessly to get more facilities, both drive-th- Justice.

William J. Webb Your Next Glades County Tax Collector William J. Webb has a Bachelor’s Degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. He also attended Law School at Capital Law School in Columbus the area of Finance, he has held a Series 6, 63, and 65 Investment Licenses having worked as a Financial Advisor fo Capital Management and Franklin Coronado Capital Management. He is also a Florida Licensed Realtor and has understanding of property appraisal and tax valuation. William plans to lower taxes and increase revenue by taking advantage of State and Federal grants to update the out of date systems, expand services and locations. Wil will expand services to include concealed carry licenses, drivers licenses and florida certified birth certificates.e H plans to open a new LaBelle location and expand the hours of the Buckhead Ridge location. These changes will increase revenue and lower taxes by keeping revenue in Glades County. He lives in Buckhead Ridge where he enjoys hunting and fishing Lake Okeechobee as his family has for generation The Primary Election will be held Aug. 18th. Early Voting Starts Aug. 8-15 www.webbforglades.com GLADES COUNTY 2020 Political advertisement paid for and approved by William J. Webb, Republican for Tax Collector July 15, 2020 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun 55

dƌĞĞdƌŝŵŵŝŶŐΘZĞŵŽǀĂůͻĞŵŽůŝƟŽŶ Time Zone Debris Removal & Hauling • Bobcat Services Ron’s Old Coins ^ƚƵŵƉ'ƌŝŶĚŝŶŐͻŽŵŵĞƌĐŝĂůΘZĞƐŝĚĞŶƟĂů Clock & Watch Gold & Silver Coins and Jewelry Buying & Selling • Estates Repair Dealer & Appraiser

[email protected]

(863) 261-4714 3100 S. Hwy 441, Bay #73 (863) 464-7572 Okeechobee, FL 34974 Locally Owned • METAL ROOFING EXPERTS & Operated • SHINGLES 20 Years Experience •FLAT ROOFS • REPAIRS • We Buy Old Clocks & Watches • We Make House Calls BRYANT for Grandfather Clocks Lic #OCSL 3234 863-675-7045 Buckhead Ridge | Okeechobee Danielle 863.634.9104 Email: SINCE 1982 Billy: 260-255-8811 | Mary: 260-456-9042 [email protected] ROOFINGbryantroofi[email protected] Lic#CCC1331770 LBW Home Repairs ALUMINUM JT Guttering Residential Hoss LLC Systems Inc. Chuck Worley CARPORTS, Aluminum Seamless Guttering Home Repairs/Remodeling Installations & Repair Buckhead Ridge • Okeechobee, FL SCREEN ROOMS & MORE! “Serving Okeechobee since 1999” Johnny Trent Office: (863) 763-7704 (518) 569-4621 (863)(863) 634-7442634-7442 1677 SW 8th Street Mobile: (863) 634-7125 (863) 357-0341 (home) Lic# OCSL 1583-01 INSURED Okeechobee, FL 34974 Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Est. 1986 Tim Sills CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY Great Branding & 3630 Consumer Street, Unit 110 Welding, Inc Image Building Riviera Beach, FL 33404 Residential and Commercial Mobile Welding, Opportunity! Hospital, Restaurant Booth, Beauty Salon Fabricating Auto, Truck, Furniture Now offering multiple size RV, Jet Ski, Motorcycle Seat & More! Patio Cushion, Headliner configurations! Contact us Large Selection of Fabric, Vinyl, Letters to today to take advantage of Choose From (863) this affordable way to From Cut to Order Soft to Extra Firm 447-6637 advertise your business! (Tim’s Cell) Call for Appointment Call 863.763.3134 or email Shop: 561.247.7520 [email protected] Fax: 561.247.7534 Cell: 561.708.2326

cok20200715_55.crop.pdf 1 15-Jul-20 06:16:16 56 Lake Okeechobee News – merger of Okeechobee News, Clewiston News, Glades County Democrat, and The Sun July 15, 2020

WE BUY CARS Lake Motors

Summer Days Hwy 441 Hwy 441 SE Hwy 78 Lake Okeechobee are Here *Plus Tax, Tag and Dealer Fees 2003 FORD F-150 2011 TOYOTA TACOMA 2004 TOYOTA TUNDRA CREW CAB 2002 FORD F-150 CREW CAB, AC, AUTO AUTO, A/C, 6 CYL, POWER AUTO, A/C, TRAILER TOW PKG – LOADED! LARIAT CREW CAB WINDOW, TONEAU COVER V-8, A/C, TRAILER TOW PKG

ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY $5,995 $8,995 $ $6,495 8,495 #U1119 #U1611 #U0524 #U2703 2008 MITSUBISHI RAIDER CREW CAB 2006 CHEVY 2009 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY 1 OWNER, 6 CY, AUTO, A/C, LOADED TRAILBLAZER 4.0, LOADED, AC, AUTO, LEATHER, STOW & GO SEATING, AUTO, A/C, PW, PL, LOADED 3RD ROW SEATING, POWER, BACKUP CAMERA LOW MANAGER MILES! SPECIAL

ONLY ONLY ONLY $7,495 $5,995 $7,495 #U0052 #U5198 #U7279 2007 HYUNDAI 2001 HONDA CRV 2002 JEEP LIBERTY 2008 CHEVY HHR 2008 TOYOTA TUCSON AUTO, A/C, LOADED 3.7 6CYL. LOADED, AUTO, A/C AUTO, A/C, LOADED NEW TIRES, AUTO, A/C GAS COROLLA AUTO, A/C, LOADED, 1 OWNER SAVER!

ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY $5,495 $3,995 $4,695 $5,995 $4,995 #U6981 #U0624 #U3319 #U3315 #U2714 2003 TOYOTA 2008 MITSUBISHI 2008 VW 2007 LEXUS ES 350 2007 TOYOTA CELICA GT ECLIPSE RABBIT AUTO, A/C, CAMRY 2 DR, AUTO, A/C GAS AUTO, A/C, CONVERTIBLE, LOADED AUTO, AC, LOADED, GAS SAVER NAVIGATION SYSTEM RIDE IN AUTO, A/C, LOADED, 1 OWNER GAS SAVER! STYLE! SAVER!

ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY ONLY $5,495 $5,495 $4,995 $6,495 $5,495 #U5194 #U5160 #U3911 #U1733 #U7347 147 Hwy 441 SE• Okeechobee• 863-467-5243