Southwest Florida Online - Hendry and Glades County

Pahokee, Fl Woman Wins $2 Million From Florida Lottery But Takes Home $1.1 Million

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 13 May 2026 12:25:42 -0400

Today, the Florida Lottery announces that Lekisha Epps, 33, of Pahokee, claimed a $2 million top prize from the 100X THE CASH Scratch-Off game at Lottery Headquarters in Tallahassee on January 20.

Epps chose to receive her winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $1,111,700.00.

Epps purchased her winning ticket from Kwik Stop, located at 379 Bacom Point Road in Pahokee.

Spillway Gates Opening At Three Dams On River

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 13 May 2026 12:09:05 -0400

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District will begin opening spillway gates at the Julian Keen Jr. Lock & Dam (S-77), the W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam (S-78) and the Ortona Lock & Dam (S-79) along the Caloosahatchee River effective 13 May 2026. The Caloosahatchee River (C-43) is lower-than-normal channel depths between lock sites.

All boaters are requested to exercise caution while navigating lower-than-normal channel depths, which are expected between lock sites.

Please contact the local lock operators for updates. Note: There may be impacts to local docks and marinas.

For the current Lake Okeechobee water levels, please see: https://w3.saj.usace.army.mil/h2o/currentLL.shtml

For up-to-date Lock information, contact the shift operator 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at:

St Lucie Lock & Dam 772-287-2665 or 863-662-9148
Port Mayaca Lock & Dam 561-924-2858 or 863-662-9424
Julian Keen, Jr. Lock & Dam 863-946-0414 or 863-662-9533
Ortona Lock & Dam 863-675-0616 or 863- 662-9846
W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam 863-662-9908
Canaveral Lock 321-783-5421 or 863-662-0298 (6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)

Florida State Parks Free Admission Memorial Day Weekend

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 13 May 2026 11:59:35 -0400

Florida State Parks will offer free admission Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25, inviting visitors to enjoy the outdoors while honoring those who gave their lives in service to the United States as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

“As visitors enjoy the holiday weekend, Memorial Day is also a time to pause and reflect on those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country,” said Florida Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Alexis A. Lambert. “Florida State Parks offer meaningful places to connect with the history and natural beauty that define our state.”

Across Florida, state parks protect some of the nation’s most iconic natural and historic places, from crystal-clear springs and beaches to trails, rivers and historic landmarks that help tell Florida’s role in America’s story.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, camping and more in diverse natural settings statewide.

Florida State Parks also preserve a wide range of cultural and historical resources, including forts, battlefields, archaeological sites and historic landscapes that reflect chapters of Florida’s past.

Please note: Free admission applies to day-use only and excludes Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. All other fees, including overnight accommodations, special events, concessions and rentals from park vendors, will remain in effect.   

Find your park and plan your visit at FloridaStateParks.org. To learn more about Florida’s role in America’s 250th anniversary, visit America250FL.com.

Traveling outside Florida? Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee are states having free entry to state parks every day.

Hendry County Sheriff Arrests - Drugs, Probation Violations

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:45:00 -0400

ARREST BLOTTER

05/04/2026 – 05/10/2026

Felony/DUI Arrest

Alex James Pettway, 27, Greenacres was arrested on May 4, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff N. Velasquez Olvera on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription

Ignacio Cordova Quesada, 44, LaBelle was arrested on May 4, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Angelo on charges of Hindering Communication Information to Law Enforcement Officer, Battery and Resist Officer without Violence

Rudolph Atkins, 57, Belle Glade was arrested on May 5, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. Najjar on charges of DUI, DUI – Refusal to Submit, Driving While License Suspended/Revoked and Failure to Register Vehicle

Shilo Ann Marie Dickerson, 44, LaBelle was arrested on May 6, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Victor Manuel Bueno, 35, Clewiston was arrested on May 6, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff H. Ramirez-Garcia on four counts of Felony Probation Violation

Walfredo Jesus Masses, 59, Clewiston was arrested on May 6, 2026, by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Sexual Assault on victim under 12 years of age

Thomas Jacob Vantassel, 22, LaBelle was arrested on May 6, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Alfredo Perez-Lopez, 19, Immokalee was arrested on May 7, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff D. Givans on charges of Felony FTA

Chiniah Rose Martinez, 28, Clewiston was arrested on May 7, 2026, by Det. K. Rosado on charges of Child Neglect

Nicole Joy Alcantara Martinez, 44, Clewiston was arrested on May 7, 2026, by K9 Deputy M. Elsaid on charges of Felony Probation Violation, Misd. Probation Violation, Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription and Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription

Lena Dorine Lamb, 60, Moore Haven was arrested on May 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff J. Crawford on charges of Felony Probation Violation and Misd. Defraud Urine Test

Lester Lian Estrada-Espin, 25, Tampa, was arrested on May 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. Najjar on charges of Felony Failure to Appear

Jimmy Salgado, 42, Ft. Lauderdale, was arrested on May 8, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. Najjar on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Charles Russell Sikes, 55, Alva, was arrested on May 8, 2026, by Sgt. J. Newbern on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – 3rd of Subsequent

Lewis McKenzie, 72, Clewiston was arrested on May 9, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff H. Carranza on charges of Lewd & Lascivious Behavior on Victim under 12 years of age

Jimmy Roberts Sentenced To 5 Life Sentences In Double Fatality Crash

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Tue, 12 May 2026 10:50:00 -0400

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- On May 11, 2026, Jimmy Randall Roberts Jr. of Moore Haven, FL was sentenced to five life sentences following a jury trial for a double fatal traffic crash that occurred on State Road 82 and Sunshine Boulevard in Fort Myers, Lee County, FL on May 25, 2024, at 10:30 pm.

Roberts Jr. was sentenced to life in prison for each charge: two counts of Vehicular Homicide, two counts of Reckless Driving with Serious Bodily Injury, and one count of Driving While License Suspended – Habitual Traffic Offender.

The crash occurred when Roberts drove his SUV erratically westbound on State Road 82 at 114 miles per hour in a 55-mph zone. His SUV collided with an eastbound passenger car attempting to make a lawful left turn. The driver of the passenger car, an 18-year-old woman, lost her life in the crash. She had just graduated from high school a week prior.

Additionally, an adult female passenger in Roberts Jr.’s SUV, lost her life, and two male passengers in the SUV sustained serious bodily injuries.

F.S.S. 782.071 Vehicular Homicide: Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine

Teacher's Month At Seminole Museum

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:22:00 -0400

BIG CYPRESS RESERVATION, Fla. (May 11, 2026) – The Seminole Tribe of Florida’s Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is proud to once again celebrate Teacher Appreciation Month this July by offering complimentary admission to educators throughout the entire month.

Teachers will have the opportunity to explore dynamic exhibits showcasing historic and modern Seminole life, along with the museum’s expansive mile-long boardwalk through a scenic cypress dome in the heart of the Florida Everglades.

Educators may also bring up to four guests, who will receive 50% off the standard admission rate.

The program provides teachers with an opportunity to plan ahead while discovering engaging educational resources that can help infuse Seminole culture and Everglades flora and fauna into classroom lesson plans.

Located on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum serves as a vital educational resource, offering meaningful learning opportunities focused on Native American history and culture, as well as the unique ecosystems of the Florida Everglades.

Teachers are encouraged to utilize featured exhibits, cultural resources and environmental experiences to create memorable and enriching learning opportunities for their students. Information tied to applicable Next Generation Standards is also available upon request.

Visitors are encouraged to tour the boardwalk before heading indoors to explore the galleries due to the unpredictable nature of Florida’s summer weather patterns.

The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except July 4, when the museum will be closed in observance of Independence Day.

To sign up for the free visit, teachers should register at https://www.ahtahthiki.com/teachers/.

Teachers must present valid school credentials, such as a school ID or a note from the school, upon entry.

Franklin Lock Closed May 13 For Upgrades

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Mon, 11 May 2026 11:20:00 -0400

ALVA, FL. -- Attention all concerned boaters! W.P. Franklin Lock will be closed from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on May 13, 2026 for electrical system upgrades. Please plan accordingly and thank you for your patience.

For the current Lake Okeechobee water levels, please see: https://w3.saj.usace.army.mil/h2o/currentLL.shtml

For up-to-date Lock information, contact the shift operator 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at:

St Lucie Lock & Dam 772-287-2665 or 863-662-9148
Port Mayaca Lock & Dam 561-924-2858 or 863-662-9424
Julian Keen, Jr. Lock & Dam 863-946-0414 or 863-662-9533
Ortona Lock & Dam 863-675-0616 or 863- 662-9846
W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam 863-662-9908
Canaveral Lock 321-783-5421 or 863-662-0298 (6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.)

Berkley B. Bunzey Dies At 75

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:46:00 -0400

Berkley B. Bunzey passed away on May 1, 2026, at the age of 75.Born in Cobleskill, New York, Berkley later moved to the Florida Keys before settling in LaBelle, Florida, where he spent the past nine years.

Berkley was known for being honest, strong, organized, dedicated, loyal, generous, adventurous, joyful, truthful, and precise. He approached life with diligence and intention, both in thought and action. He was admired for his transparency, realism, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved.

He especially loved the outdoors and treasured the many adventures he shared with his beloved wife, Colleen. Whether fishing, camping, or simply enjoying nature together, Berkley found peace and happiness in the simple moments of life.

Berkley was an Army veteran. He dedicated 25 years of service to Selkirk True Value Hardware before later settling in the Florida Keys, where he continued building a life centered around family, hard work, and the outdoors.

He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Colleen; son Christopher and daughter-in-law Karen; daughter Jaime; sister Echo and Sister-In-Law Marcia; grandchildren Daniel, Emily, Bear, and Charlotte; and many beloved nieces and nephews, including Craig, Denice, and Lake.

He was preceded in death by his brother Grant Richard; father Grant Richard; mother Marcia Helene ; and nephew Henry Clayton.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

A Lodge Called Folkestone - The American Hiker Magazine

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Sat, 9 May 2026 16:00:00 -0400

A Lodge Called Folkestone

The Dream, The Challenge, The People
by Bob Kranich

(Excerpt 21)

“The Lodge Called Folkestone”. You may wonder why the first half of the book is about my many adventures throughout the USA. Well, this first part explains just why my interests changed from hot rodding cars to backpacking. How the idea of a lodge came about, and just how the lodge came to be in North Carolina and next to the Smoky Mountain National Park, Deep Campground to be exact.

“American Hiker” Magazine

I arrived back in Houston. A short time later, Irene and I got married. It was a small ceremony with a couple of friends attending. Then I got my next inspiration. It would dwarf my three-month western trip! I had been hiking, learning, and improvising my own methods for some time now. I realized that there was no hiking magazine that could be purchased. I looked around in the backpack stores, bookstores, and even newsstands. There was an interesting climbing magazine, Off Belay, but that was it. This country needed a backpacking magazine, and I was going to provide it!

Even today, I can remember both my good friend Jack Hay, and wife Irene, trying to persuade me not to do it. But, to no avail. I was determined. I guess they decided that if they couldn’t convince me not to do it, they would join me. Irene’s title was Associate Editor, and Jack’s was Graphics Consulting. In those days, if I knew you, look out! I may have you writing something for me, especially on the first issue. I found out that if you can get the first issue out, the supply of freelance articles coming in will be more than enough. You have to just encourage and direct people to write the topics you want.

What does it take to come out and publish a magazine? First, you have to design the magazine. Then, you need the different departments, and you need the stories, and the people to write them. You have to lay out all of the artworks. Back in 1972, we didn’t have computers like we have today. If we did, American Hiker might still be in business. I am doing all the layout and copy today on this book, even as I sit and work at my computer. Back then, it was an expensive undertaking. Each page had to be laid out, the photos shot and sized. The copy content rough-typed, and then it had to be retyped by a person with an expensive IBM Selectric typewriter with the different fonts that could be changed out. The sized photos and type had to be waxed and pasted down on a layout board. Lastly, a cameraman had to photograph the layout boards for printing press type masters.

I went black and white. I did not even consider color, because I couldn't afford it. Even so, the black and white looked good, and it was accepted by the readers. Talking about readers. You need both readers and advertisers. It is kind of a Catch-22. You need reader circulation to get the advertisers, and advertisers to help pay for its production, and make some profit. By the way, there was never any profit.

You ask, how did you put out the first issue? Let me tell you. A couple of the main articles were from hikers I had met on my western trip. I had retained their contact information. When I started the magazine, I called them, and asked if they would do an article for my hiking magazine. We wrote the national forest article. The poetry was by a hiker I had met on a trail. Three of the articles were from people I worked with. I just suggested to them what topics I needed. In one case, I gave the fellow the articles to read and write from. Our book reviewer was our good friend and editorial assistant. I gave her books to review because she was good in English, but she wasn’t a hiker. The For Girls Only department was done by Irene. I did one of the articles from a hike, again on my western trip. Lastly, Trail News was accomplished by making a lot of phone calls and research.

We were very environmentally conscious. This could be seen by the article topics and free ads for conservation organizations. We actually reserved the most prestigious or sought after ad spots, rear cover and/or when possible, inside covers, for these free conservation ads. Many times we made our own conservation ads.

I immediately got busy with my small typewriter and phone. I had to obtain articles, and complete the magazine layout. I would need retail outlets and backpack stores to sell the magazines. Remember, there were no computers or free long distance calls with smart phones like we have today. To build a list of backpacking retail stores, I went down to the Houston Public Library, which is huge. They had most of the large city yellow pages. By looking through them under backpacking and sporting goods, I made a very nice list for my retail promotions. I got on the phone, and in every case, they wanted at least ten copies to sell.

Now, I had all of my artworks ready for printing. I obtained some printing companies from the Houston yellow pages, and got them to quote a quantity of about 400. We learned the hard way, that the lowest price is not always the best. I took the artworks to the printer, and when he called me to pick them up, they were not acceptable. They were bad! I complained, and he said that he would redo them. That’s when I found out that he was not the printer, but a middleman...a jobber. He was farming them out to his lowest bidder. So, I had got the lowest of the lowest. I picked up the second printing, and they were at least acceptable. For the next issues, I was fortunate to find out that both the best price and quality was to be obtained from the biggest printer in town.

We got all of the orders filled and mailed out with the help of some friends. Then, we decided that Irene and I would go to Colorado, to the San Juan Mountains. There we would get information and photos to do an article. After that, we would look around to contact more hikers for stories. This time, we took a camera, and obtained some fantastic photos for our article to be in the second edition. We drove to Silverton, Colorado, and followed the same procedure I had done on my three-month, out west trip. We had already reserved our tickets for the Durango to Silverton train ride. So with full packs for a five-day hiking expedition, we loaded onto the train. They dropped us off at the Needleton Whistle Stop, and our adventure began.

From the Author:

This is a new book. It is about the Lodge I built in the Smoky Mountains, near Bryson City, and Deep Creek campground, North Carolina. Having been from Florida, I know that a lot of Floridians love to visit the Smoky Mountains National Park. Therefore hopefully you will enjoy my story of the building of “A Lodge Called Folkestone”.

USDA Plans Fall Change In SNAP Retailer Food Standards

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Thu, 7 May 2026 15:27:00 -0400

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the final rule regarding stocking standards for retailers participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), ensuring a broader variety of nutritious food is available to SNAP participants at authorized retailers across the country.

The Food and Nutrition Service has taken action on nearly 3,200 retailers regarding current stocking standards, either for failing to meet them upon application or failing to maintain them once authorized. The latter results in disqualification from accepting SNAP benefits.

“To turn the tide on our nation’s health crisis, we need to ensure our nutrition assistance programs emphasize real food first, and that’s exactly what these updates to SNAP retailer requirements will do,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “

Retailers authorized to accept SNAP benefits must now carry seven varieties of items across four categories of staple foods: protein, grains, dairy, and fruits and vegetables. This change more than doubles the requirement of available foods, emphasizes more whole foods, increases the perishable food requirements, and eliminates loopholes that for too long have allowed retailers to count certain snack foods toward their staple food requirements.

These changes will not only ensure families in need have more nutritious options wherever they shop but demand more accountability from retailers who not only have stocked the bare minimum, but have seen the most program violations, including benefit trafficking and other fraudulent behavior.

These updates go into effect Fall 2026, and the Department plans to issue additional guidance to retailers in the coming weeks.

Obituaries - Christopher Lee Pearson, Berkely B. Bunzey

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 1 May 2026 16:31:00 -0400

Christopher Lee Pearson, beloved son, longtime partner, brother, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

He will be remembered for his kindness, his strength, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who knew him.

Christopher is survived by his devoted longtime partner, Richard Garcia; his loving mother, Melisa Jaynes; his brothers, Dustin Pearson and James Jaynes; and his sister, Lisa Dodson.

He also leaves behind extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory always.

Christopher’s life was marked by the deep connections he formed and the care he showed to those around him. Whether through laughter, support, or simply being present, he made a difference in the lives of many.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.

Berkely B. Bunzey, age 75, of LaBelle, Florida passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026. Obituary is pending.

Opposition to Oil Campaign for Legal Immunity ACT of 2026

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 1 May 2026 16:28:00 -0400

Dear editor at Southwest Florida Online,

Every time a climate disaster hits we see the same story. Families lose homes, roads are washed out, and taxpayers foot the bill, all while oil and gas companies rake in profits. Fossil fuel corporations knew about the climate crisis for decades and continue to mislead the public. They're getting richer off our tax dollars. Now, oil and gas lobbyists are urging Congress to give them total legal immunity.

Republican lawmakers have introduced federal legislation, Stop Climate Shakedowns Act of 2026, that would shield oil and gas from any laws or lawsuits that aim to hold them accountable for their role in the climate crisis.

I've seen it firsthand. Across the country, communities like mine are struggling to rebuild after floods, wildfires, and extreme heat, all disasters made worse by fossil fuel pollution. Here in Southwest Florida our agricultural industry is struggling under unusual cycles of drought, flood and heat.

It doesn't have to be this way. Instead of taxpayers shouldering the cost, the companies that profited from creating this mess would help fund the rebuilding of roads, homes, schools, and critical infrastructure. We must demand Congress protect our right to hold powerful corporations accountable and say NO to immunity for Big Oil and Gas.

That’s why I'm calling on Congress to oppose the Stop Climate Shakedowns Act of 2026, Big Oil and Gas's campaign for legal immunity. If you make a mess, you should clean it up.

Sincerely,
Rhonda Roff
marshmaid@gmail.com, 30290 Josie Billie Hwy PMB 300, Clewiston, FL, US, 33440

100 mph Chase Through Clewiston - 2 Men Arrested

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 1 May 2026 07:55:00 -0400

TRAFFIC PURSUITS RESULTS IN ARRESTS

CLEWISTON, FL. -- During the nighttime hours of Wednesday, April 29, 2026, while on routine patrol, K9 Deputy Larry Rodriguez along with K9 Ranger attempted to conduct a traffic stop in the area of 9th Street and Florida Avenue in the Clewiston community of Harlem.

The driver failed to stop and continued through the Harlem Community fleeing law enforcement with speeds increasing and with no regard to public safety. Deputy Rodriguez witnessed the subject fail to stop at a number of stop signs and continue to evade law enforcement.

As the vehicle turned south on US 27, the driver continued at speeds of nearly 90 miles per hour through the City of Clewiston. Deputy Rodriguez continued to pursue the subject south on US 27 at speeds in excess of over 100 mph and at one point turning off the lights of his vehicle in an attempt to evade law enforcement. Deputies continued to pursue the vehicle until it came to a stop in the City of South Bay.

The driver of the 2016 Hyundai, later identified as 24-year-old Natarius Janard Harvey of Pahokee, Florida, was seen exiting the moving vehicle leading deputies on a foot pursuit. K9 Ranger was able to track Harvey to a fenced area where he was taken into custody by law enforcement.

At the same time deputies were able to apprehend a second subject identified as 23-year-old Chamorian D. Thicklin of Clewiston, who also fled from the vehicle. After a brief foot pursuit with deputies, Thicklin was apprehended.

Both subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Hendry County Jail for booking.

Chamorian Deneydrian Thicklin, 23, was charged with Resisting Arrest and Felony Probation Violation.

Natarius Janard Harvey, 24, was charged with Flee Eluding Law Enforcement, Resisting Arrest and Driving While License Suspended.

Both men are being held with No Bond.

Flora Gonzalez, Jose Perez, Maykel Calderon Arrested - Home Invasion Plot

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 1 May 2026 07:45:00 -0400

THREE ARRESTED FOR HOME INVASON ROBBERY

CLEWISTON, FL. -- On Monday night, April 27, 2026, Hendry County Deputies responded to a home on East State Road 80 after receiving a call reporting a robbery.

Upon their arrival, Deputies met with the 52-year-old victim. He reported he had been sitting outside when approached by two unknown male subjects wearing hooded sweatshirts and face coverings. It was reported the victim was forcefully pushed to the ground and beaten several times in the face with a handgun, while suspects demanded money. The suspects then tied and bound the victim’s hands and feet with what was described as zip ties.

The victim’s wife was inside the residence and witnessed the incident taking place. She witnessed the incident take place then ran outside to help her husband. Deputies on scene were told It was at this time a second subject approached her, placing a knife to her side. The wife was then taken back into the residence where she surrendered $18,000.00 in cash to the suspects.

Detectives continued to follow up on leads the found a number of inconsistencies in the wife’s story. Through questioning it was found that the victim’s wife, 64-year-old Flora Norys Gonzalez had known one of the suspects and did help orchestrate the attack of on husband. Gonzalez told Detectives that the plan had gone wrong, so she offered the suspect money to stop.

On April 29, 2026, Hendry County Detectives arrested 64-year-old Flora Norys Gonzalez on charges of Aggravated Battery Causing Bodily Harm, Armed Robbery, Armed Burglary and False Imprisonment. Gonzalez is currently being held in the Hendry County Jail.

Also arrested was Jose Enrique Calafet Perez, 48 years of age, charged with Aggravated Battery Causing Bodily Harm, Armed Robbery, Armed Burglary and False Imprisonment and Maykel Calafet Calderon, 42 years of age, charged with Aggravated Battery Causing Bodily Harm, Armed Robbery, Armed Burglary, False Imprisonment and Grand Theft.

All three subjects are being held with No Bond.

Obituaries - Cristobal Marroquin, Jessica Wingold

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 09:03:00 -0400

Cristobal Marroquin, a devoted family man and a dedicated member of his community, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, in Lehigh Acres, Florida. Born on May 28, 1961, in Okeechobee, Florida, Cristobal spent much of his life as a watermelon harvester, a humble profession through which he nurtured his family and remained deeply connected to the land he loved.

Cristobal was a cherished member of Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, where his faith was a cornerstone of his life. He found joy and strength in his spiritual community and in the moments he shared with loved ones. Above all, Cristobal treasured the time spent with his family, whose love and companionship were the essence of his heart.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sonia Marroquin, who stood by his side through all of life's seasons. His sons—Christopher, David, Anthony, and Adrian Marroquin—and his daughters, Cristian Marroquin and Magdli Delgado, carry forward his legacy of warmth and resilience. Cristobal also found great joy in the laughter of his two grandchildren, whose lives he touched with his gentle spirit.

Family connections were central to Cristobal’s life. He is survived by his brother Raymond Marroquin and his sisters Mary Perez and Juanita Marroquin Puente, each of whom shared in the bonds of enduring love and support. Though his earthly journey ended, the memories of his kindness and steadfast devotion remain vivid in the hearts of all who knew him.

Cristobal was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Antonio and Margaret Marroquin, and his brothers Antonio Marroquin Jr. and Frank Marroquin. Their memories live on and are honored by those who continue to cherish their family’s rich heritage.

The community and family will gather to remember Cristobal during a visitation on April 29, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Akin Davis Funeral Home in LaBelle, Florida. A Mass celebrating his life will be held on May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, followed by his burial at Fort Denaud Cemetery Road in Fort Denaud, beginning at 12:15 p.m.

Cristobal Marroquin’s life was a testament to the power of dedication—to family, faith, and hard work. His legacy endures in the love he gave so freely and the quiet strength he exemplified each day. Though he has departed, the imprint of his life continues to inspire those who were fortunate to know him. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

Jessica ("Jessie") Wingold, 62, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday, April 13, 2026. Jessica was born in Nicaragua, and in 1979, emigrated with family to the United States, settling in Miami, where she lived most of her life. Later, she relocated to Clewiston with her mother, the late Magdalena Isabel Moradel, where she devoted herself to caring for her mother, until her mother passed away. Finally, Jessica moved to the LaBelle area, staying with and caring for her dear friend Wayne.

She was at Wayne's place when she passed --- a place she described as "a little slice of Heaven; a place where she said she was "Happy and at Peace".

Jessica had a Generous Spirit --- her greatest Joy in life was giving and caring for those she loved. She loved to cook, and got great satisfaction from preparing and serving food for Family and Friends, (and so did we!). She was, by Nature, a Guardian and Protector, and was always being adopted by stray cats --- they seemed to sense her Goodness; she loved to laugh, and had a way of drawing those around her into the laughter; she loved music, and her "herbal tea", and spending time with her "significant other", her Best Friend and Companion for 18 years, Ian Spaziani.

Jessica could also be FEISTY! All of 5 foot 2", and she could " let you have it!", if she felt the need, (usually in defending herself or someone she loved.). It's just who she was.

Jessica was "One of a Kind", and had the Courage and Determination to be her Authentic Self ---(and damn anybody who didn't like it!) Her sense of self-possession did not depend on the approval or opinions of others. Never a " fake" or a "phony", she was The Real Thing.

Her family and friends will dearly miss her Love and Kindness, and her zest for Life...

Jessica is predeceased by her beloved mother, Magdalena ("Mama") Moradel; by her beautiful grandmother Bertilda Moradel; by her aunts Thelma Casanova, Teresa Santiago; by her uncle Mario Moradel; and her cousins.

Jessica is survived by her long-time partner, Ian Spaziani; her dear sister, Natalia Clifford; and numerous Aunts, Cousins, and extended Family.

US 41 Closed Between Markers 27 and 42

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:54:00 -0400

Naples, Fla- Florida Highway Patrol State Troopers are monitoring a wildfire along US 41 (Tamiami Trail) between Mile Markers 27 and 42 in Dade County. See below for US 41 road closure information.

COLLIER COUNTY:

US 41 east of State Road 29 is in the process of being CLOSED. Traffic traveling east on US 41, will be diverted onto northbound State Road 29, and may resume traveling east on Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley).

US 41 west of State Road 29 remains OPEN.

DADE COUNTY:

US 41 west of Krome Avenue (State Road 997) is in the process of being CLOSED. Traffic traveling west on US 41, will be diverted onto northbound Krome Avenue (State Road 997) , and may resume traveling west on Interstate 75 (Alligator Alley).

ALL Interstate 75 lanes remain OPEN and visibility is currently GOOD. Motorists traveling through the area are urged to use caution, reduce speed, and remain alert for any changing conditions. Updates will be provided as needed. Travel Safe!

LOW VISIBILITY DRIVING TIPS:

Visibility can change within seconds. Wildfires, smoke, fog and heavy rain can all lower visibility on the roads. It is important for motorist to drive as safely as possible in these conditions.

DRIVE WITH LIGHTS on low beam. High beams will only be reflected off the fog and impair visibility even more. Your lights help other drivers see your vehicle, so be sure they all work. Keep your windshield and headlights clean, to reduce the glare and increase visibility.

SLOW DOWN and watch your speedometer before you enter a patch of fog.

WATCH OUT for slow-moving or stopped vehicles. Open you window a little and listen for traffic you cannot see.

REDUCE THE DISTRACTIONS in your vehicle. Turn off the radio and keep your cell phone down. Your full attention is required.

USE WIPERS AND DEFROSTERS for maximum visibility. Sometimes it is difficult to determine if poor visibility is due to fog or moisture on the windshield.

USE THE RIGHT EDGE of the road or painted road markings as a guide.

BE PATIENT avoid passing and/or changing lanes.

SIGNAL TURNS well in advance and brake early as you approach a stop.

DO NOT STOP on an Interstate or heavily traveled road. You could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision. If you must pull off the road, signal, then carefully pull off as far as possible and turn your hazard lights on.

Motorist Alert - Fort Denaud Bridge Weight Limit

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:49:00 -0400

Fort Denaud Bridge Weight Limit

(April 28, 2026) – LaBelle, Fla. – With the anticipated work by the Florida Department of Transportation on the SR 29 drawbridge in LaBelle on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, motorists should be mindful of the Ft. Denaud Bridge weight limit.

The weight limit for vehicles crossing Ft. Denaud Bridge is 5 tons.

Vehicles exceeding the weight limit will not be allowed to cross the Ft. Denaud Bridge.

Hendry County Sheriff’s Office will have deputies present to assist in monitoring this activity.

Vehicles exceeding the 5 ton weight limit should use the SR 31 Bridge to the west in Lee County or US27 Bridge to the east in Moore Haven.

Please use caution and allow for additional time for your commute.

LaBelle Bridge Closing April 28 At 6:30pm

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:47:00 -0400

LABELLE, Fla. - The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will have a temporary closure tonight on State Road (S.R.) 29 on the LaBelle drawbridge due to bridge repairs.

Crews will begin work tonight after 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 28, 2026, to place a bridge component. The operation will require the temporary full closure of the bridge while crews access the underside of the structure.

Motorists are encouraged to add additional travel time, follow posted signage, and use caution while traveling through the area.

FDOT appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation as this repair work is performed.

For real-time traffic updates, visit the SWFL Roads website at https://www.swflroads.com.

Hendry County Sheriff Arrests - Drugs, Probation Violation, Weapons Charge

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:51:00 -0400

ARREST BLOTTER

04/20/2026 – 04/26/2026

Felony/DUI Arrest

Suyin Escobar Giron, 40, Clewiston was arrested on April 20, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on charges of Possession of Fentanyl

Evelyn Shenita Ross, 59, Clewiston was arrested on April 20, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff S. Farraj on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance within a Detention Facility

11-year-old male, LaBelle was arrested on April 20, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff M. Ramirez-Reyna on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance

Nery Denilson Mejia, 28, Greenacres was arrested on April 21, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff J. Hannam on charges of Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – Habitual Offender

Robert Christoper Saucier, 38, LaBelle was arrested on April 21, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff D. Blanco on charges of Possession of Cocaine

Kimberly Ann Raqueina, 42, LaBelle was arrested on April 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff S. Farraj on charges of Felony Probation Violation

Gabriela Ledezma, 33, LaBelle was arrested on Apil 22, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff G. Camacho on Outstanding Warrants for charges of Vehicle Homicide, Reckless Driving resulting in Property/Personal Damage, DUI – Damage to Property or Person and DUI – Cause Death to Human

Jayden Lund Swindle, 22, Clewiston on April 22, 2206, by Deputy Sheriff R. Conant on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Retail Theft

Laura Ann Warren, 55, LaBelle was arrested on April 23, 2026, by Sgt. J. Newbern on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription and Possession of Drug Parphernalia

Denirick Pope, 20, Clewiston was arrested on April 23, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff K. Rollins on charges of Felony Probation Violation and Contempt of Court

Edwin Yamiel Cruz, 43, Cape Coral was arrested on April 23, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff N. Garza on charges of Possession of Cocaine

Grace Cadence Robbins, 21, Immokalee was arrested on April 24, 2026, by K9 Deputy Sheriff L. Rodriguez on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription and Driving While License Suspended/Revoked – 2nd Subsequent Offense

Johnkevius Rivers, 19, Clewiston was arrested on April 24, 2026, by Det. J. Goldberg on charges of Possession of Short-Barreled Shotgun or Machine Gun

Curtis Roger Binns, 40, Alva was arrested on April 24, 2026, by Deputy G. Hull on charges of Possession of Controlled Substance without Prescription and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Brandon Thomas Barker Stevens, 25, Clewiston was arrested on April 25, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff R. Gosa on charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Felony Probation Violation

Omar Dijon Shaka Royes, 23, Belle Glade was arrested on April 26, 2026, by Det. D. Reaves on charges of Possession of Short Barreled Shotgun or Machine Gun

Israel Villa, 29, LaBelle was arrested on April 26, 2026, by Deputy Sheriff A. Najjar on charges of DUI, DUI – Refusal to Submit to Alcohol Test and Child Neglect without Great Bodily Harm

Obituary - Ricardo James Otero

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:52:00 -0400

Ricardo James "RJ" Otero passed away after a lengthy illness on April 21, 2026. RJ was born on October 17, 1999 in Fort Myers, Florida to Ricardo and Angela Stewart Otero. RJ loved talking to people, he never met a stranger.

He enjoyed playing with his Legos, Hotwheels, and playing video games with his sisters. RJ loved watching cooking shows with his mother, and keeping his dad informed on current events. RJ was loved by his entire family very much. RJ had several girlfriends even though they might be been married, but the husbands of these girlfriends knew to play along with RJ because that is how much he was loved by everyone who knew him.

His "Uncle Loren Bischel would buy him huge Lego sets at Christmas, Birthdays, and in between, just for the fact that he loved RJ him like a true nephew. His grandmothers, Sandy and Maria loved him with all of their hearts, like everyone did.

He was everyone's heart, soul and "little man". His sisters, Jamie and Kayla were not only sisters, but they were his other mama also, loved and spoiled him every chance they could. He was mama's and daddy's heart and soul and will be forever remembered and never forgotten by everyone.

RJ leaves fond memories with his parents, Ricardo and Angela Otero, his sisters; James and Kayla Otero, his grandmothers, Sandy McClenithen, Maria Maldonado, his loving aunts; Dora Senirch, Elena Lopez, Tracy Billings, and his loving uncles; Loren Bischel, Calvin Billings, Gerald White, Charles Bihori, Angelo Otero along with a host of cousins and other family members and his friends that he made throughout his young life.

RJ was greeted in Heaven by his great-grandparents; James and Glady Stenford, Uncle Joe Senirch, grandma, Sefrina Otero, Uncle Juan and Aunt Maria, Great grandparents; Joaquin and Caytana Garcia, and Grandpa Pete McClenithen.

RJ's life will be celebrated with a funeral service on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church of LaBelle, where a visitation will start at 10 a.m. Rev. W.T. "Bill" Maddox, Jr will officiate the funeral service. Cremation Rites will take place after the funeral service.

Everglades Restoration Projects Featured On YouTube Channel

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:31:00 -0400

CLEWISTON, FL. -- The Jacksonville District hosted Aaron Witt and the BuildWitt team for a look at our ongoing restoration work within the South Florida ecosystem on 13 February 2026.

Maj. Cory Bell took the team on a tour of the Central Everglades Planning Project (CEPP) and the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) A-2 Reservoir, which focus on restoring more natural water flows into and through the central and southern Everglades.

BuildWitt hosts a YouTube channel focused on the “DIRT WORLD!” Witt travels worldwide to explore the people and projects that keep our world moving—the Dirt World. “None of us could live even one day without food, water, power, and shelter; each is no accident!” said Witt.

The CEPP EAA A-2 Reservoir and associated Stormwater Treatment Areas are storage and treatment features that capture and store water before releasing it to the Everglades. In addition to improving the quantity, quality, and timing of water deliveries to the central and southern Everglades, stress on the northern estuaries is alleviated due to improved water flow during both the dry and wet seasons.

The BuildWitt episode was recently released, titled “Why is the US Army Building a $4B Reservoir to Save the Everglades?”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8zb4ZG9ZVc

Moore Haven Basketball Player Sa'Nyree Myers Selected All-American Team Player

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:28:00 -0400

MOORE HAVEN, FL. -- In a historic moment for Florida high school basketball, Moore Haven's Sa'Nyree Myers has been selected as a high school All-American 4th team player by maxpreps.

Throughout the season, Myers has consistently stood out as a top scorer, leading her team to numerous victories and earning recognition for her outstanding performance.

Coach Jeff Gonzales, the head varsity coach at Moore Haven, expressed his pride and excitement for Myers, highlighting her impact on the team and the Florida basketball community as a whole. This selection is a testament to Myers' skill and passion for the game, solidifying her place as one of the best high school players in the nation.

As the only Florida selection on the maxpreps high school All-American 4th team, Sa'Nyree Myers has brought honor and recognition to her school, her community, and the state of Florida. Her dedication to the sport and her commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes everywhere.

Support May Be Growing For Monkey Import Legislation

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:24:00 -0400

Washington — PETA today announces support for groundbreaking legislation introduced by U.S. Reps. Greg Steube (R-Fla.-17) and Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01) that would stop all monkey imports destined for U.S. laboratories or their suppliers, ending the suffering and death of more than 20,000 monkeys shipped into the U.S. every year from Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.

Hendry and Collier county in Florida are home to hundreds of imported monkeys raised for breeding and eventual animal experimentation. In February, a live monkey, just flown into the U.S. from Africa, was tossed in a biohazard dumpster in Southwest Florida and remained undiscovered for five days, posing a serious biosecurity risk. PETA reported it to state officials. The president of the monkey importation company, BC US, has been criminally charged.

The Preventing Risky Importation of Monkeys to Avoid Toxic Exposures (PRIMATE) Act (H.R. 8471) would protect monkeys, public health, and the integrity of U.S. science by reducing biosecurity risks and eliminating reliance on animals who generate unreliable, non-reproducible data.

Over the last five years, using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) records and internal laboratory reports, PETA has uncovered a sharp rise in monkeys imported into the U.S. carrying tuberculosis, shigella, malaria, Herpes B, and other dangerous pathogens. Human exposure to infectious diseases that are circulating in primate laboratories, as happened in a Michigan laboratory in 2023 and in the federally funded National Primate Research Centers, can lead to serious illness and create a real risk of spreading disease to family members and others outside the laboratory.

PETA scientists have shown that CDC requirements are dangerously outdated and ineffective. Monkeys continually enter and exit CDC-mandated quarantine infected with pathogens that can infect other monkeys in transit or in the destination laboratories. The CDC requires testing for only tuberculosis, and that test is done by method known to be inexact. When infections have been found post-quarantine, laboratories aren’t even required to inform the CDC.

Workers at a Cambodian monkey farm prepare to stuff an endangered long-tailed macaque into a crate to ship her for use in experiments. Image obtained by PETA.

“Every year, tens of thousands of monkeys are funneled into the United States through a global supply chain that is inherently unstable, opaque, and a public health risk,” says PETA Chief Science Advisor for Primate Experimentation Dr. Lisa Jones-Engel. “PETA applauds Reps. Steube and Titus for recognizing that state-of-the-art research doesn’t need this pipeline, and that it’s time to shut it down.”

The profit-driven monkey importation industry also threatens endangered species, destabilizes ecosystems, and rips culturally significant animals from the communities that have lived alongside them for generations. Those animals are then subjected to cruel and often deadly experiments. Decades of studies on monkeys have produced inconsistent, non-reproducible results that rarely translate into effective human vaccines and treatments.

Imported monkeys are bred on squalid farms or abducted from their forest homes, pushing long-tailed macaques toward extinction. Many die during capture or transport, and those who survive are ultimately killed in U.S. laboratories.

Note: PETA supports animal liberation, opposes all forms of animal exploitation, and educates the public on those issues. PETA does not directly or indirectly participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office or any political party.

Trump Trade Policy A Failure - House Committee Meets Today

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:22:00 -0400

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- April 22, 2026 -- U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer is testifying today before the House Ways and Means Committee on the Administration’s trade policy. The data shows it has been a costly mistake that has failed by even its own metrics of increasing manufacturing jobs and reducing the U.S. trade deficit.

Businesses in states represented by House Ways and Means Members paid $190 billion in extra tariffs between March 2025 and February 2026, including at least $113 billion in illegal IEEPA tariffs.

We Pay the Tariffs, a coalition of over 1,100 small businesses nationwide, is releasing this data as Ambassador Greer testifies before Congress and is calling on him to stop adding new tariffs while manufacturing jobs fall to decade-plus lows. In testimony before the committee today Ambassador Greer said that Administration trade policies are “bearing fruit for American workers.”

But says Dan Anthony, Executive Director of We Pay the Tariffs, “Any objective look at the data shows administration trade policies have resulted in the lose-lose scenario of higher costs and fewer manufacturing jobs.”

One Year of Tariffs: Businesses and Workers are Paying a Steep Price

The $190 billion in extra tariffs paid by companies in states represented by Ways and Means Members from March 2025 to February 2026 included an estimated:

$113 billion in now-illegal IEEPA tariffs
$30 billion in Section 232 tariffs related to steel and aluminum
$25 billion in Section 232 tariffs related to autos and parts
$21 billion in Section 301 tariffs related to China
$1.4 billion in other Section 232 tariffs

The figures include $2.4 billion in extra tariffs paid by companies in Chairman Jason Smith’s home state of Missouri and $2.9 billion in extra tariffs paid by companies in Ranking Member Richard Neal’s home state of Massachusetts.

States where imports faced the highest average tariff increase included Oklahoma (+27.1%), Missouri (+26.1%), Nevada (+25.7%), Iowa (+25.3%), and Texas (+24.2%).

Despite these high costs, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ State and Area Employment, Hours, and Earnings database shows they have not produced a manufacturing revival.

A Lodge Called Folkestone - Grand Canyon

donbrowne@gmail.com (Don Browne - LaBelle, Florida) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 12:21:00 -0400

A Lodge Called Folkestone

The Dream, The Challenge, The People

by Bob Kranich

(Excerpt 20)

“The Lodge Called Folkestone”. You may wonder why the first half of the book is about my many adventures throughout the USA. Well, this first part explains just why my interests changed from hot rodding cars to backpacking. How the idea of a lodge came about, and just how the lodge came to be in North Carolina and next to the Smoky Mountain National Park, Deep Campground to be exact.

Grand Canyon National Park: I arrived and looked around. The buildings were from an earlier era. They even had the old railroad passenger cars and terminal. It seemed like the old days when the railroad was the way to travel. I bought a good hiking map and a book about Mary Colter. She was the lady architect that designed six of the stone and log buildings for the Grand Canyon attractions in the early 1900’s. At that time, she worked for the Fred Harvey Hotels and Restaurants Company. I then found those buildings: the Lookout Studio, Bright Angel Lodge, and the Hopi House. Later, when I got to the bottom of the canyon, on the north side of the Colorado River, I saw the Phantom Ranch she had built.

I went to the camping area, and loaded my pack for another seven days. Six days of hiking and one backup. I figured that I could hike down into the canyon, and up to the North Rim in at least three days and two nights. After all, it was 24 miles. It was 9.6 miles down on the Bright Angel Trail to the river, across the bridge over the Colorado River, and then 14.3 miles through the Bright Angel Canyon up to the North Rim.

I started down, and as they say, you pass through time. Every minute was dynamic. There were even early Indian pictographs on some walls along the trail. I camped two nights, and then made the hard climb out of the canyon to the overlook on the North Rim. Then I had to do it all over, and hike down the North Rim trail, through the canyon, and back up the Bright Angel Trail.

I want to mention two special memories. The first one was that I took a short side trip, I think it was the Phantom Canyon. At one point, there was a grotto. Water was pouring over a smooth rock, and it had hollowed out the underneath. It was a beautiful sculpture! One worth praying at.
The second memory was the time I saw some deer walking along a trail, on the side of the Bright Angel Canyon. It was very steep, and they were acting just like mountain goats. I also saw them jump over cracks and broken parts of the trail they were on.
On my way to my next adventure, I was driving along from the Grand Canyon on this small, deserted two-lane road. Suddenly, the rear of my vehicle leaned to the right. I quickly came to a halt, and then pulled way over on the shoulder, and got out to take a look. My wheel, together with the rear axle, was halfway out of the housing. I jacked it up, took off the tire and rim, and figured out that my wheel bearing and retainer had failed.

It was late afternoon. I took a look at my map, and saw that the nearest town was twenty-three miles away. I decided that the next day, I would get my bike out, tie the heavy axle and bearing to the rear carrier, take some snacks and water, and ride my bike into town.

That night, I camped in my Ranchero right on the side of that road. The next day I made the trip into the small town, and again, the Good Lord blessed me. I found the only station in town that could press a new bearing with retainer onto my old axle. I rode back, put the assembly in, and before I knew it, I was on the road! Just a day’s delay.

Big Bend National Park: I was about to hike in an entirely different type of terrain. This was a hike where it seemed like every plant, bush, and piece of vegetation had some kind of sharp barb that wanted to stick into you. Also, you had to search and pray for water. It was the first time I had ever used my chlorine tablets. When I checked in with the ranger for my hiking and camping permit, he asked me, “What do you have to carry water?”

“I have two one-quart canteens,” I answered.

He cautioned, “You will need more. I am going to lend you my two-quart aluminum canteen. When you come back, please give me a report of the trails and the water you found.”

I took his advice, and was ever grateful for his extra water carrier.

I started off down the trail, and soon realized to not touch or brush against any of the plants. The ranger station is in the Chisos Basin, its elevation is 5,400 feet above sea level, and all the trails drop down to the semi-desert below. It was dry, hot, very different, but interesting.

The trail wound down from the South Rim and then, through a canyon. After that, it intersected with the outer mountain loop, the Dodson Trail. The first water I found was late in the first day. I came to a rundown clay brick shack, probably a herder’s shelter. There was a small seepage. It was kind of muddy. I did fill up one of my quart canteens and put in chlorine tablets.

When you camp, you have to make sure that you are not in an arroyo. That’s a dry riverbed. It is nice and level in these beds. But if it rains somewhere up in the hills, it can become a dangerous place. A wall of water may come plunging down upon you.

The next day, I was running out of water, and I lost the trail coming out of a dry riverbed. The trail had been marked by red flagging tied to bushes when there was a turn coming up. I was looking around, and saw some red on a nearby rise. I trudged up the hill, and when I got there, guess what? It was a red flower. I had to backtrack to the riverbed, and look around until I found the red ribbon that marked the trail.

When I came to a rise in the trail, I thought that I heard rushing water. As I came over the top, I looked down at a beautiful small stream. Now I know how someone that is hot and parched feels. I almost ran down to the stream, got on my knees, splashed water on my head, drank my fill, and then filled up all three of my canteens.

Sometime later, I came to a ranch house. It was deserted and locked, but you could look around. There was a small windmill there, and water. At one time, there must have been a cattle operation at this location. I hiked further, camped, and the next day climbed back up to the visitor center through a landmark that was called the Window. It was a low opening in the mountains surrounding the basin. It must have been a natural drainage for the basin.

I was finished with my three months western trip, and was ready to get back to Houston. I packed my hiking gear in the trusty old Ranchero, and drove the 500 plus miles back to Houston.

From the Author: