Apology, infighting at hospital meeting - UFDC Image Array 2

23 Pages·2014·15.11 MB·English

“Serving DeSoto County since 1887”
A STEPPING UP TO THE PLATE
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Thursday, September 4, 2014 - 24 pages / 50 cents Community members PAGE 17
come together to celebrate
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A section of the Sun
Apology, infighting at hospital meeting
By STEVE BAUER improving the hospital. The meeting was a very bad decision on my part.
NEXT MEETING
ArcAdiAn AssistAnt Editor was marred by insults and personal “I need to publicly apologize to the
attacks, with many of the hospital’s board for failing to use my skills and
The DMH board meets again at 5:30 p.m. on
What started as an apology to phy- doctors accused of referring patients to experience in a manner that would Thursday, Sept. 25 in the hospital’s McSwain room.
sicians at DeSoto Memorial Hospital outside facilities and performing exams have served the best interests of the
from CEO Vince Sica morphed into a and tests themselves instead of using hospital. I need to publicly apologize react allowed misinformation about
war of words between a DMH board the hospital’s facilities. to all of our physicians and our entire the hospital’s physicians to spread in
member and a handful of the hospital’s “I made the conscious decision not medical staff. Not only did I fail to the community. “I feel responsible for
doctors. to initiate or facilitate the discussions,” facilitate a creative exchange of ideas, I allowing things to be said that were
Sica begin his CEO report by apol- Sica said. “At that time I thought it failed to acknowledge the contributions inaccurate and hurtful for those who
ogizing to the hospital’s physicians would be better if it came from the of the physicians who have earned my truly support the hospital, and I have
for not stepping in during a May 8 board and the medical staff, and respect and have a vested interest in an obligation to set the record straight,”
meeting between board members and believed it would be more productive the success of the hospital.”
doctors aimed at generating ideas for without my input. In retrospect, that Sica continued that his failure to HOSPITAL | 2
Fighting fires out west challenges local Forest Rangers
By SUSAN E. HOFFMAN
1. 1 1 7 "k
ArcAdiAn Editor *4
Three area Forest Rangers were
among many firefighters from across
the nation who were called on recently
to help battle massive blazes out west.
From the Myakka River District which
A 2.
serves DeSoto County, Glen Mayfield,
Mike Porter and Cameron Durham
each spent a month fighting fires in
Washington and Oregon. They sat down
with The Arcadian recently to talk about
their experiences.
It’s no easy task just to qualify to
fight big fires managed by the federal
government. Porter explained, “You
have to pass the ‘pack test.’ That means
you have to be able to carry a 45-pound
pack, walking, a distance of three miles
in 45 minutes.
“It’s not easy.”
Firefighters also must demonstrate
they have the proper kind of training
and experience.
But once they arrive at the site of a big ARCADIAN PHOTO BY SUSAN E. HOFFMAN
blaze, they are working with firefighters
Local Forest Rangers, from left, Mike Porter, Glen Mayfield, and at far right, Cameron Durham, with Wildfire Mitigation Specialist Patrick Mahoney,
from all over the country. All the fire-
pose at the Arcadia Forest Service station. They shared their experiences fighting massive fires out west.
fighters manage to work well together
because they have all had the same kind
of training. “And we made air drops with ptero- 26 feet,” he said. “How they manage fires instance, Mayfield was working at the
“We all do about the same thing,” dactyls,” Porter said. and personnel is different. Wind-driven Kitten Complex, named after the Kitten
Durham said. “Yeah, and he was 6-foot-5 when fires act a lot different, too.” In addition, Canyon where it started.
Mayfield added, “Everyone in the he started!” added Wildfire Mitigation fires can move upslope or downslope “Vendors sometimes draw up souve-
country is trained in the same tactics.” Specialist Patrick Mahoney. and the terrain is much different from nir T-shirts and sell them.” He showed
They were each there a month. For Durham’s first trip, he had to fly what Florida rangers are used to. Tall a photo of the Kitten Complex T-shirt,
Mayfield battled the Buzzard Complex out on his wedding anniversary. “We’ve trees can create “chimneys” to spread depicting an angry, fire-breathing kitten
and Kitten Complex fires in Oregon, and only been married three years,” he said. the fire rapidly. throwing flames.
the Little Bridge in Washington, while “It was hard, but we had to change Humidity, too, can be as low as 9 The fires drove out a lot of wildlife.
Porter and Durham were at Wenatchee plans. I wanted to get the experience.” percent, they said. Mayfield said, “We had a ‘pet’ deer there,
in Washington. But he enjoyed meeting different It’s a challenge just laying hose with a with twins. We were pulling a hose line
Mayfield and Porter had been to sev- people from across the country, and fire like that. Porter said they were laying and we found a fawn, with burned feet.
eral fires out west over the years, while hopes he can go again next year. He hose miles long, in 100-foot sections. And a deer we named ‘Deborah’ walked
this was Durham’s first time battling called the experience “a good diet plan.” “We had to lay hose up and down right into one of our meetings one
blazes across the country. Mayfield, a mountains, with Y (connectors) and time.”
firefighter for more than 25 years, said West vs. East lateral lines.” The overall experience was much
he has been going out west for five A fire complex can include several different from fighting fires in Florida.
years. Porter’s first trip out west was 30 “Forest fires out west are lot different smaller fires, all managed by one team. Porter said they would move from one
years ago. “Yeah, they were still using than here,” Durham said. “For one The fires are typically named after
horses back then,” Durham joked. thing, they have elevations higher than some prominent feature in the area. For RANGERS | 12
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Arcadian | Page 2 www.sunnewspapers.net The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014
Council reviews Ministerial Association
holds monthly luncheon
personal conduct policy
On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the about the urgent plight of the hospital,
Ministerial Association of DeSoto and the need for “keeping state-of-the-
By STEVE BAUER a civility proclamation,” he said. “At first
County will hold its first luncheon art medical care when and where you
ArcAdiAn AssistAnt Editor we’re all behind it, and before you know it
meeting, from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. need it” in DeSoto County. The meeting
everything goes awry.”
The Arcadia City Council discussed City Attorney T.J. Wohl said although he in the conference room at Arcadia is primarily for church and religious
formally adopting an ordinance first agrees with the substance of the docu- Housing Authority, 7 Booker T. leaders. County residents and com-
introduced in 2012 that would provide ment, it would require rewording and a Washington Rd. There will be a time munity leaders should encourage their
rules of conduct for the council to follow. change from an ordinance to a resolution. of fellowship and a free light lunch, pastors and religious leaders to attend
Councilman Bob Heine wondered if “The language needs to be toned then Vince Sica and Kristen Spahr from and become a part of the Ministerial
the council had ever formally voted to ap- down so it doesn’t limit council members DeSoto Memorial Hospital will speak Association.
prove the ordinance. Mayor Alice Frierson to what they can or cannot say,” Wohl
and Deputy Mayor Joe Fink recalled that said. “What may be appropriate for one
although the council agreed to use it as councilman would be inappropriate to Reserve soon for 1926 Arcadia film showing
a guideline, it was never formally voted another. It shouldn’t be an ordinance,
on. Councilman Keith Keene said in the because as much as we may want to, we
By CAROL MAHLER available at 5:30 p.m. for $10 and in-
two years since the ordinance was first can’t tell people how to act. “A resolution
presented, it’s become clear a code of is a desire, an ordinance is an order.” dEsoto county HistoricAl sociEty cludes baked chicken, mashed potatoes,
vegetable, salad, dessert, and beverage.
conduct is necessary. Keene mentioned he was surprised
A short movie of Arcadia filmed in 1926 Tickets are on sale until Sept. 7 at Mary
“I’ve always believed that as adults we the council had never formally adopted
should be able to act as such,” Keene said, Robert’s Rules of Order, and Fink sug- will be shown at an evening meeting of Margaret’s Tea and Biscuit, 10 S. Polk
“but since this was first introduced in gested Wohl research if language can be the DeSoto County Historical Society Ave.; at the Society’s Howard and Melton
2012 I’ve had a change of heart and agree placed in the city’s code making Robert’s at 6 p.m. on Sept. 11, at Trinity United Historical Research Library, 120 W.
we do need a code of conduct.” Rules the council’s de facto guidelines. Methodist Fellowship Hall, 304 W. Oak St. Whidden St., from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m today;
Keene did add a word of caution about The council then voted unanimously to Pastor Jim Wade will offer an invoca- or call 863-494-6607.
adopting the document. “I personally have Wohl come back at a future meeting tion in memory of those who died on It is free to attend the film only,
find it troubling whenever we consider with a revised version of the document. that date in the 2001 tragedy. Dinner is without the meal.
HOSPITAL support for the doctors. He added, expense of the hospital. I was especially meeting. Presilla responded that he was
however, it shouldn’t have taken four harrowed that after all the accusations verbally attacked at the meeting. “You
months for it to happen. that happened that meeting, that Board people insulted me last time,” Presilla
FROM PAGE 1 “At that May meeting, we were called Member Dan Presilla doesn’t even said.
a lot of things, but in short we were know who I am.” “I didn’t insult you at all,” said Dr.
he said. “At this point in the history of labeled as crooks,” DeRay said. “It took Presilla then addressed DeRay direct- Maria Galimidi, who was at the May
the hospital we need everybody — the approximately four months for the ly. “Since you called me by name, I have meeting.
board, the physicians, the staff and our board and administration to formally absolutely no idea what you’re talking “Sure you did, I didn’t know who
entire community — to be focused on apologize for what was said, which in about,” he said. the hell you were,” Presilla responded.
one goal, which should be the success my opinion should have happened “I was not here then, but I overheard “Now I know who the hell you are.”
of the hospital. Since that May 8 on the spot during the May meeting. that was the case,” DeRay responded. “The bottom line is, we’re sick and
meeting, I’ve really agonized over how I Whatever happened that day was “Well you overheard nothing. The tired of the way the board either does
could have done a better job, and how I not only hurtful and insulting, but posse attacked happily, and it was fun, not support the doctors or behavior
can create an atmosphere that focuses we expected some level of support we had a good time, but I have no idea like this is allowed,” Galimidi said.
on the good things we’re doing and from someone from the hospital’s in what context you were brought up,” When Board Chairman Janie Watson
acknowledge the contributions of the administration.” Presilla said. attempted to move on to other busi-
physicians.” DeRay said he was recruited to DMH “Just tell me, did you know who I ness, Galimidi interjected, “Yeah,
Sica then mentioned the contri- by Dr. Wael Alokeh, who was one of the was?” DeRay asked. everything needs to move forward,
butions of one of DMH’s newest doctors targeted in the May meeting, “How am I going to know who you right? Let’s just push everything aside
physicians, Dr. Dipesh DeRay, who and said if it wasn’t for Alokeh’s per- are? Have you ever come over to me and ignore it.”
helped the hospital improve its medical suasion, he would not be practicing and said ‘Dan, how are you?’ Why don’t Board member Jerry Waters said
records system. medicine in DeSoto County. you come shake my hand, doctor?” he contacted three doctors who were
“He was instrumental in the hospital “Dr. Alokeh has an undying support “Do you think I have time? That’s my at May 8 meeting within days of the
receiving $1.2 million for development for this county, and he recruited me point, I am not sitting around,” said event, and said his discussions were
of phase two,” Sica said. “I don’t think out of Michigan. I could have gone DeRay. positive. “I let them know I wasn’t
anybody knew that until tonight, and anywhere, but Dr. Alokeh sold DeSoto “And I am sitting around? You are a speaking on behalf of the board, but
I think that’s probably another thing I Memorial to me,” he said. “And that’s very interesting young man, do you I was just contacting them out of
need to apologize to Dr. DeRay for not the only reason I came here in the first know that?” concern,” he said. “I met personally
letting you guys know he contributed a place, and within 10 months I was As the argument between Presilla with Dr. Alokeh. It’s not that there was
great deal for us acquiring that money.” criminalized. and DeRay grew louder, Sica attempted no support; perhaps Dr. Alokeh didn’t
Sica ended his apology by encourag- “Somebody made these accusations to deescalate the situation by telling share it with the other doctors, and I
ing board members to reach out to the up and in my opinion it was a staged Presilla several times, “Dan, let’s have haven’t shared it because I didn’t feel
hospital’s physicians and initiate more ambush. It was extremely hurtful and lunch.” it was appropriate to do so. I was over
one-on-one conversations. unfair, and it will take awhile for us to Presilla’s response was direct. “No, I there as quickly as I could arrange to
get over it. Trust me, for every dollar don’t want to have lunch. What is this see him.”
Presilla, doctors spar that physicians like Dr. Nathan and BS, that I’ve got to sit here and listen to Board member Rose Polston also
Alokeh make, the hospital makes $10 this crap?” said she supports the physicians, and
During the public comments portion more. We need to see some public DeRay then left the meeting, and claimed she was caught off guard by
of the meeting DeRay, who was not at effort by the board and administration several doctors in attendance spoke the May meeting as well. “I was just as
the May 8 meeting, thanked Sica for to support the physicians, and not up in his defense, calling Presilla’s shocked and appalled as you were,”
the apology and for voicing his public label us as crooks making money at the comments out of line and verifying he she said. “But I can tell you it wasn’t an
did not know who DeRay was when his ambush, and this board fully supports
name was mentioned during the May the hospital’s physicians.”
Kathryn J Hill Tax Collector C.F.C. DeSoto County
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The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014 www.sunnewspapers.net Page 3 | Arcadian
Hines agrees to administrator contract
By STEVE BAUER Commissioner Bob Miller said. services in a significant way,” she said. to the board to decide the length of
ArcAdiAn AssistAnt Editor She also mentioned skyrocketing utility payments. “I don’t really have a problem
Health Department hurting costs at its Baldwin Street location, with with anyone paying us back gradually,
The Board of County Commissioners 2013’s numbers at more than $92,000. but I think it needs to be more up to the
unanimously approved a contract mak- DeSoto County Health Department Several commissioners said they customer to decide how long they want
ing Mandy Hines permanent County Director Mary Kay Burns provided a would look into ways to help the Health to take to pay it back,” Commissioner
Administrator. financial update for her department, Department receive the necessary Elton Langford said.
County attorney Don Conn said he’d and said the possible loss of a sig- funding to continue current levels of The board also questioned if Miller’s
reached an agreement with Hines, nificant grant could force the Health services, as well as having a crew inspect departmental budget could carry the
noting it will remain in effect until she Department to cut hours and reduce the Baldwin facility’s air conditioning upfront costs of providing labor and
resigns, is terminated or reassigned. services. system and insulation. equipment without receiving immediate
Her annual salary is set at $100,000, Burns said a $375,000 emergency payment.
and per her request she will not have a room diversion grant from the state Utility hookup “That’s a great question, but I’ve had
county vehicle or car allowance. Hines runs out in June 2015, and although charges on hold discussions with Mandy (Hines) about
did negotiate an option that allows they have applied for a new grant, there this and I don’t anticipate it being a
her to resume her previous position of is no guarantee it will be approved. Utilities Director Eddie Miller promis- problem for this year,” he said.
County Coordinator for a three-year “We had 23,991 patients last year, and sory note language and several payback Commissioner Buddy Mansfield
period if the board votes to reassign or as you know 60 percent of them are no options for new utility customers questioned why customers won’t
terminate her. pay,” Burns said. “If we don’t receive wanting to connect to county water and be required to pay a higher deposit
Other details of the contract include this grant, we will have to cut our hours sewer lines, but who can’t afford the when first connecting to the county’s
20 weeks of severance pay if she is to five days a week from the current upfront cost. utilities. The current deposit fee is
terminated by the board not due to six, and we would only stay open eight Miller suggested three payback only $125. “Someone has to have some
crime or misconduct; 30-day written hours (the Department currently is open options, with monthly payments added skin in the game besides us,” he said.
notice in the case of a resignation; and 12 hours per day).” to a customer’s utility bill for either one, “I agree with financing new custom-
standard vacation/sick leave at the Burns added that the grant loss would two or three years. “I think allowing a ers, but I’d like to see them put more
administrator rate. place additional pressure on DeSoto little flexibility on our part to allow a money down up front so Eddie’s not
“I was hopeful Mr. Conn would be Memorial Hospital’s ER, where most of gradual payback will be helpful with footing the whole bill.”
able to negotiate a contract that meets the Health Department’s patients would economic development,” Miller said. After further discussion, the issue was
the board’s needs and gives Mandy likely go if services were not available Although the commissioners were tabled to allow Miller to work with Conn
some protection, and I’m delighted elsewhere. “I need you to know that this in favor of the payment plan, some on specifics regarding language in the
that we’ve been able to achieve that,” loss of funding is going to impact our questioned whether it should be up promissory note.
County tables Sonoma Preserve plans for now
By SUSAN E. HOFFMAN Association, maintaining emergency Gabriel Quave wanted to table Commissioners voted unanimously
ArcAdiAn Editor access, lighting, and turning lanes off the proposal. “We need to get this to table further action pending reissu-
Kings Highway. The development will completely right — dot every ‘i’ and ance of public notice.
The DeSoto Board of County be required to tie into DeSoto County’s cross every ‘t’ — we’ve learned what
Commissioners Thursday night tabled water and sewer systems. can happen if you don’t do everything
PLANS | 13
review of plans for a 999-unit resi- But when commissioners asked exactly.”
dential development called Sonoma Cookingham about how public notice
Preserve in the Lake Suzy area over was given, questions were raised. The
concerns that notice to nearby land- meeting had originally been scheduled
. _ x
owners could be challenged. for Aug. 26, and Cookingham said t -Y +51, F
DeSoto County’s Planning Manager, notice had been published in the pa-
Thomas Cookingham, presented the per, mailed to nearby landowners and
project to the commissioners. The de- posted at the property, as required.
velopers want the 515-acre property re- But the BOCC meeting had to be
zoned from Agriculture-10 to Planned rescheduled because election returns
Unit Development. The project, were to be tallied in the commission-
t.: W
located in Lake Suzy north of Courtly ers’ meeting room on Aug. 26, so the
Manor Drive and east of S.W. Kings hearing was reset to Aug. 28.
1t i . J
Row, would include mixed residential “Was the change properly noticed I ( II
single- and multi-family units, with in the correct time?” Chairman Elton JJJ .J JJ.:iJ Ji i i .J
more than 200 acres of open space and Langford asked. Cookingham said
preserve. it had been. But on further probing,
Cookingham said the property, Cookingham admitted notice of the
which abuts the Charlotte County line revised meeting date had not been Land Clearing Tree Removal - Tree Burning
on its southern border, had been zoned sent out to the nearby property owners
Citrus Planting - Irrigation Maintenance - Pruning
with a PUD overlay back in 2004, but in (even though the new date was posted
2011 it was rezoned to A-10. Now the on the property and published in the
developers want to rezone it to make newspaper).
way for construction. The Planning “I don’t feel comfortable with this,” Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Commission recommended approval Langford said. “I don’t want us to end cgammad@a?cisnerosharvesting.com
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| THE WASHINGTON POST
NEWS1 50A '. F-CAT Q15-r/&6
l"tE i > Gets 5c foo.E ° We LcbmE To Tac LETS HOPE T4&T
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think, just panic TD W (PE YOUR FEET
PAUL WALDMAN
Special To The WaShingTon poST
There’s a new message coalesc-
ing around events in the Middle
East, coming from Republicans,
the media and even a few Democrats:
It’s time to panic. Forget about under-
standing the complexities of an intri-
cate situation, forget about unintended
consequences, forget about the disas-
ters of the past that grew from exactly
this mind-set. We have to panic, and we
have to panic now. 7ATFR
The centerpiece of every Sunday
news show was a sentence that
President Obama spoke in a news
conference Thursday. He answered
a question about “going into Syria”
by saying that we shouldn’t “put the
tAD(AAI
cart before the horse. We don’t have
a strategy yet.” Republicans leaped
to argue that Obama wasn’t actually
talking about military action in Syria, | LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
but about dealing with the Islamic
State more generally, and who knows
what else. Many in the media took
Applause for duper managers like diligent Don and the Tampa zoo. He’s too young for
the same line. The first rule of a
Waters and colorful Carrie Taylor New College. And a nudist colony?
“gaffe” is that it should be taken out Arcadia International Golf
have improved the course itself, the So he’s eager to play on Myakka’s
of context. Editor: putting green and driving range. They exceptional course ... in Arcadia. Why
So on “Meet the Press,” Andrea Why don’t Arcadians support your also expanded the golf shop in terms don’t y’all join us?
Mitchell asked Sen. Dianne Feinstein glorious golf course more than outsid- of refreshments and special events. Mack Goode
(D-Calif.), “Is the president wrong to ers? What if your course closed? Would Now, methodical Mike Kotzker is Myakka City
signal indecision by saying that we your citizens see what this outstanding spearheading added innovations and
still don’t have a strategy against ISIS?” recreational opportunity means is even more ready to welcome year-
[More letters received in support of
When that didn’t elicit a sufficiently economically? round residents.
DeSoto Memorial Hospital. There are
strong condemnation, Mitchell pressed How would Arcadians replace this Since we Myakkaites benefit from all
still additional letters not yet published
on: “Doesn’t that project weakness from treasure? Unlikely that your awe- these improvements, we help sponsor
which will appear at a future date.]
the White House?” Obviously, there’s some course would be succeeded by golf outings and charity events. Again,
nothing worse than “signaling inde- an Orlando-like amusement park. we ask that Arcadia’s groups and
We need emergency room care,
cision” or “projecting weakness.” Not Improbable that your city would es- organizations enjoy and employ their
couldn’t make it to another hospital
even, say, invading a country without tablish a college campus like Sarasota’s own international attraction.
if suffering from allergic reaction,
having a plan for what to do after the New College. Or even replace your golf What’s strange is that several
Our community would fold, people
bombs stop falling. attraction with a Tampa-like zoo. Nor Arcadians view a golf course in an-
wouldn’t move here if no hospital was
Let’s not forget that the Obama do any of these options seem more other town as their home course. This
available.
administration is already taking mil- plausible than the once-proposed is stranger still when you realize that
Carmel Harrington
itary action against the Islamic State nudist colony. Arcadia International is well designed,
by bombing its positions in Iraq. And Recognizing your powerful golfing price competitive, and open to the Arcadia
the military is conducting surveillance magnet, Myakka Cityites enjoy calling entire public.
flights over Syria in preparation for mili- your appealing course their home Up North, my GrandSUN(sp.) has
tary action there. But to the war caucus, facility. Over the past decade, super started golfing. He’s gone to Disney LETTERS | 21
whose advice has proven so calamitous
in the past, it’s not big enough and it’s | GRITS & PIECES
not fast enough.
We should be able to agree on at
least one thing: Anyone proposing Laboring over some working memories
large-scale military action in Iraq or
Syria, or both, ought to be required to
explain how and why it will achieve the
Labor Day weeks seems like a Grits remember charging a whopping four
goal of destroying the Islamic State and
perfectly good time to talk about dollars for some yards, and my largest
exactly why the unintended conse-
laboring. No, not the baby-hav- & check for a yard was an astronomical
quences that result from some kind
ing kind, but the laboring known as $14. On the side I repaired eight-track
of invasion won’t be worse than those Pieces
work and jobs, and stuff of that nature. tapes for 50 cents each, but that wasn’t
that would grow from a more carefully
If you’re not familiar with the concept, making me rich, either.
planned course of action. “Just start
you should be. And with hands-on So I did what many other boys my
bombing already!” doesn’t qualify as an Luke Wilson
experience. age have done for generations — I
explanation. \)
If the war advocates ever get around My earliest memories involving la- [email protected] bagged groceries. First it was with
bor revolve around my allowance. My Woods Supermarket in Nocatee,
to thinking about those consequences,
chores were few and simple. I made weekly; very weakly, you might say. owned by the fastest-talking Georgia
they may come up with a compelling
my bed, cleaned my room, took the Besides gathering soft drink bottles man I ever knew — Henry Wood. He
case for why proceeding carefully is a
trash out to the burn pile, and helped in roadside ditches to clean and could rattle off a hundred items and
mistake, and why the dangers of acting
babysit siblings. Fed the chickens and redeem for two cents each, I labored prices in his radio blurbs, it seemed,
methodically are greater than the
cows sometimes too. And for all this at mowing yards once I was big
dangers of acting with maximal force as GRITS & PIECES | 9
labor, I received 75 cents. I was paid enough to wrestle the push mower. I
soon as possible. They could be right. I
think most Americans would be willing | LETTER SUBMISSION POLICY
to listen. But they haven’t even tried
to make that case. Instead, what we’re
Letters are welcome on virtually any subject, but we do have some rules. Please keep them to less than 250 words. Letters will be edited to length as well as grammar and spelling. All letters must be signed
hearing is a lot like what we heard in
with full name - not initials. An address and telephone number must be included; they are not for publication, but must be provided so we may verify authorship if necessary. Due to the number of letters
2003: The clock is ticking, the danger is
received, we reserve the right to run only one letter per person per month. The Letters to the Editor section is intended as a public forum for community discourse and the opinions and statements made in
rising, if we stop to think then we’re all
letters are solely those of the individual writers. The Arcadian takes no responsibility for the content of these letters. Please send or bring correspondence to the Arcadian, 108 S. Polk Ave., Arcadia FL 34266, or
gonna die. fax to 863-494-3533. Readers with access to the internet may e-mail Letters to the Editor at [email protected].
The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014 www.sunnewspapers.net Page 5 | Arcadian
Precious Pearls seeks female mentors
By SUSAN E. HOFFMAN self-confidence and aim for success. their mentors. friend, apart from their family, some-
ArcAdiAn Editor Holliman is seeking women who can After that, the mentors would be one to talk to, to talk over problems
help mentor the girls in The Precious expected to talk to their mentees on the and get advice,” Holliman said.
Precious Pearls is looking for women Pearls Project. “We want about 20 phone twice a month, and then have a Anyone interested in volunteering to
who can be mentors for middle-school- mentors, as we expect to have about 20 once-a-month personal outing with the mentor a girl should call Holliman at
age girls. girls in the group,” she said. girl. That could be a hike together in the 863-244-8482.
The group founded by Shameka The mentors would agree to a park, going out to lunch, or just finding She also mentioned the group is
Holliman was created to empower background check, and would attend a quiet place to talk. “They don’[t have going to start a book club. Her concept
DeSoto County girls in grades 6 through a one-time orientation for a couple of to spend any money,” Holliman said, is that mother and daughter will both
8. Its goals are to help young girls hours on a Saturday. Parents will bring “just spend a little time with the girls. read the same book, then talk about it
understand their own value, develop their daughters to the session to meet “We want the girls to have an adult as a way to start a conversation.
Have library card, take a free river cruise
By Carol Mahler for students. Children and teens can To sign up for a library card, you
use the library to check out books, must show proof of residency in
Celebrate National Library Card Sign- music, and DVDs, but they can also DeSoto County, and minors must be
up Month at the DeSoto County Library! play literacy games, watch the Saturday accompanied by a parent. The DeSoto
When you sign up for a new library matinée, and attend the Lego Club, County Library is located at 125 N.
card during the month of September, story time, Book Buddies, or Art for Hillsborough Avenue in Arcadia. For
you’ll receive a gift certificate for a free Kids. We have so many programs at information, call 863-993-4851 or
sunset cruise from King Fisher Fleet. the DeSoto County Library — just last check online at www.myhlc.org/des.
These hour-long cruises are available week, we had a presentation about the The King Fisher Fleet offers sight-
at Fishermen’s Village Marina in Punta history of quilts. The best part for both seeing cruises to the outer islands,
Gorda. kids and parents is that it’s all free with eco-tours, full and half day cruises,
A library card offers access to books a library card.” sunset cruises and harbor tours as
and magazines — plus an amazing The American Library Association re- well as deep sea charter fishing in the
wealth of resources for both adults ports, “Studies show that children who Gulf of Mexico or back bay fishing
and children, such as computers with are read to in the home and who use in the Charlotte Harbor Aquatic
Internet access, wi-fi, e-books, audio many others. the library perform better in school and Preserve. For information, call 941-
books, online classes, and databases Linda Waters, director of the library, are more likely to continue to use the 639-0969 or check online at www.
of information for genealogists and said, “A library card is so important library as a source of lifetime learning.” kingfisherfleet.com.
Need that hard-to-find item? Find it in the Classifieds.
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Arcadian | Page 6 www.sunnewspapers.net The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014
• Friday Night Live — the City Takers for Christ presents 1528 N.E. Turner Ave. All are welcome.
„ SPECIAL
“Friday Night Live” with Rev. Troy Rowe, every Friday. Come • A women-only G.I.R.L.S. AA meeting is held at St.
• Veterans — Free rides are available to area VA
and experience what God is doing in this season through His Edmund’s Episcopal Church at 6 p.m. on Monday at 327 W.
clinics. (Some restrictions apply.) For details, call
word and praise and worship. 37 W. Magnolia St. (across from Hickory St.
993-9670.
SunTrust drive-through). For information call 244-4341. • Alcoholics Anonymous Second Tradition meets at St.
• The Center for the Needy, at the corner of W.
• Faith Mission provides free lunches for anyone in need, Edmunds Episcopal Church at 8 p.m. Monday at 327 W.
Pine St. and S. Orange Ave., is desperately in need of
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 1109 S.E. 9th St., Arcadia. Donations Hickory St.
food, clothing, household goods (such as blankets,
gratefully accepted. • Al-anon, offering help for families of alcoholics, meets at
towels, cooking and eating utensils etc.), supplies —
• Sabbath service begins at 7:30 p.m. at Temple Beth El, 7:30 p.m. on Mondays at Fort Ogden Methodist Church, 6923
anything a person in need might require. The center is
3840 S. Biscayne Dr., North Port. Oneg Shabbat follows. S.W. River St. in Fort Ogden. Alcoholics Anonymous meets
dangerously low on food, its shelves are almost bare,
NOTE: All phone numbers are in Area Code 863 unless at the same time. For information call 941-426-7655 or visit
stated otherwise. „ SATURDAY www.district13soflal-anon.org. and they need to replenish supplies. The cupboards
have become almost bare now that the snowbirds have
• The DeSoto branch of the NAACP is hosting a Youth and • The DeSoto County Homeless Coalition Community
„ TODAY Young Adult Empowering Symposium from 9 a.m. to noon on Resource Center is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through gone. Any donations are gratefully accepted, including
cash, to help those in real need in our community. For
• DeSoto County 4-H will hold Open House from 5-7 p.m. on Sept. 6 at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 319 S. Lee Friday at 1425 Martin Luther King St. The center provides
more information, call 444-0499.
Sept. 4. For more information, call Kristie at 993-4846. Ave. The program will address such topics as education, GPA, referrals for mainstream resources, elderly food stamps (by
• Your clutter may be someone else’s treasure, so
• The All Faiths Food Bank will deliver free food to those in HS diploma and higher learning, careers, job search and more. appointment) and computer service. Salvation Army has office
please donate your gently used items to the DeSoto
need at the DeSoto Homeless Center, 1425 MLK Jr. St., from 10 Parent or guardian must accompany participant. For details space on Wed. by appointment. For more information, call
County Historical Society for their annual Yard Sale
a.m. to noon on Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6 and Dec. 4. call Minister Wendell Campbell at 244-3425, Linda Howell at 491-5683.
from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, at the
• The DeSoto Arts and Humanities Council Board of directors 558-2919 or Deborah Clifton at 494-5707. • Prescription Assistance is at the DeSoto County Health
Fairgrounds Exhibition Building, 124 Heard St., Arcadia.
meets on the first Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m., at The • Boaters Get-Together meets at 1 p.m. on the first Saturday Department Clinic Location: 1031 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Call to
Drop off your donations on Thursdays before 1 p.m.
Arcadian, 108 S. Polk. of every month at Nav-A-Gator Grill, 9700 S.W. Riverview make an appointment or for more information, call 491-7580
at the Howard and Velma Melton Historical Research
• DeSoto Cares, a community group dedicated to searching Circle (off Kings Hwy/C.R. 769). For more information, call ext. 256.
Library in the Ingraham Seed House, 120 W. Whidden
out homelessness needs and solutions, meets on the first 941-627-3474.
and third Thursday at 5:15 p.m. at the Housing Authority • DeSoto County Library story time is at 10:30 a.m. at 125 N. „ TUESDAY Street, or call 863-494-6607. All proceeds will benefit
the Society’s efforts to preserve and promote the
Conference Room. For details, call Rev. Ted Hanus at 993-3435. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. The first Saturday of every month • The All Faiths Food Bank will deliver free food to those in
history of DeSoto County for future generations.
• Chamber of Commerce Early Bird Breakfast is at 8 a.m. is Book Buddies, when children read to dogs. Children must be need at Nocatee Elementary School, 4846 S.W. Shores Ave.,
the first Thursday monthly. Each month’s location will be accompanied by an adult. Call 993-4851 for more information. Nocatee, from 4:30-6 p.m. (not open to the public before 4:15
announced. • The Palace Promenaders meet for square and round dance p.m.) on Sept. 9 and 23, Oct. 14 and 28, Nov. 11 and 25, and • “Art for Kids” is at 3 p.m. every Wednesday in the DeSoto
• The 4-H Stitch in Time sewing club meets every first from 7-9 p.m. every Saturday at the Palace Square Dance Hall, Dec. 9. County Library’s children’s wing. This program, sponsored
Thursday at 5 p.m. 1627 N.E. Floridian Circle. Art Miller, caller, and Jennie Martin, • DeSoto County Commission Board meets at 9 a.m. at the by the DeSoto County Arts and Humanities Council, is for
• DeSoto County Historical Society Research Library is open cueing. Call Jennie at 494-2749 or Mary at 941-380-5336 for County Administration building, Room 103, 201 E. Oak St., elementary school-aged children.
in the Ingraham Seed House, 120 W. Whidden Street: 9 a.m. information. Arcadia. • Prescription Assistance is at the DeSoto County Health
to 1 p.m. on Thursdays (except for the second Thursday of the • Sabbath service begins at 9:30 a.m. at Temple Beth El, • DeSoto County School Board meets at 4 p.m. for a School Department Clinic Location: 1031 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Call to make
month), and by appointment. 3840 S. Biscayne Dr., North Port. Kiddush will follow. Board Workshop, at the School Board meeting room of the an appointment or for more information, call 491-7580 ext. 256.
• The John Morgan Ingraham House is open from 9 a.m. to DeSoto County School District, 530 La Solona Ave., Arcadia.
1 p.m. on Thursdays, except the second Thursday, and from 9 „ SUNDAY It will be followed by a Special Budget Meeting at 5:01 p.m., „ THURSDAY
a.m. to 1 p.m. on the second Saturday of the month. • Telephone Reassurance and Friendly Visitors available which will be followed by the regular School Board Meeting at • The Annual Title 1 Parent Involvement Meeting for High
• Relaxation Yoga Class every Thursday, 5 p.m.6 p.m.Sign-in to those over 55 and homebound. Phone Senior Friendship 5:30 p.m., followed by an Executive Session at the conclusion School and Middle School families only will be held Thursday,
4:50 p.m. Enjoy an hour of serenity focused on breathing, Centers at 863-494-5965 to sign up for these free services, of the regular meeting. Sept. 11, at 5:30 p.m. in the DeSoto Middle School cafeteria.
gentle yoga poses, peaceful stretching and quiet relaxation. staffed by trained volunteers who have had background • Freedom Fellowship Christian Ministries Support Group Families are invited to attend for refreshments and giveaways.
Held in the Health Dept. conference room, 34 S. Baldwin Ave. screenings. Phone also if interested in becoming a volunteer for meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday at 1528 N.E. Turner Ave. For more information contact your respective schools
Drop-in $7/class, 8-class package $40 ($5 per class). Bring your either program. • Every Tuesday night, line dance class at the Palace Dance • On Sept.11, the DeSoto County Historical Society will have
own mat. For more information, call Christine at 244-1925. • Alcoholics Anonymous Serenity Group meets at Grace Hall (17N). Beginners welcome. $3 donation. For more info, an evening dinner meeting at Trinity United Methodist Church.
• DeSoto County Library story time is at 3 p.m. at 125 Lutheran Church, W. Oak St. (State Road 70) at 8 p.m. Sunday. call Jennie Martin at 494-2749. The meeting will feature a silent film about Arcadia filmed in
N. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. Call 993-4851 for more • Weight Watchers meets every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Calvary 1926. The meal will start at 5:30 with the meeting and movie
information. „ MONDAY Baptist Church, 1509 E. Oak St. For details visit www. weight- to follow at 6 p.m. Buy tickets by Sept. 7 at the August meeting,
• Temple Beth El – North Port Jewish Center, 33840 South • DeSoto County Veterans Honor Guard practices at 6 p.m. watchers.com and “find a meeting” or call 800-651-6000. Mary Margaret’s Tea & Biscuits or at the Ingraham Seed House, or
Biscayne Drive, North Port,hosts an American Contract Bridge second Mondays monthly at the American Legion Post. • Faith Mission provides free lunches for anyone in need, by calling Bebe Bradbury at 494-6607. Dinner is chicken breast,
League every Thursday, at 1 p.m. at the temple. The cost is • The American Legion Post K-11 will meet at 7 p.m. on the at 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1109 S.E. 9th St. Donations gratefully mashed potato and gravy, vegetables, salad and dessert. For
$6 per session. We will be participating in “The Common second Monday, 2124 N.W. American Legion Drive. For more accepted. more information, call 494-6607. (It is free to attend the film
Game.”For reservations call Shelli Wetherson at 941-497-7184. information, call Roger Bumgarner at 993-0129. • DeSoto County Library holds story time at 3 p.m. Tuesdays only, without the meal.)
• Cocaine Anonymous meetings are held every Thursday • The GFWC Arcadia Woman’s Club meets on the second at 125 N. Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. Call 993-4851 for more • The All Faiths Food Bank will deliver free food to those in
from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church. Monday of every month Sept. through May at the clubhouse in information. need at Elizabeth Baptist Church, 101 S. Orange Ave., from 5-7
For information, call Curtis Clark at 244-2884 or Sandra Elmore Veterans Memorial Park, 2288 N.W. American Legion Way, with • The Peace River Woodcarvers meet from 9 a.m. to noon p.m. on Sept. 11, Oct. 9, Nov. 13 and Dec. 11.
at 352-476-8520. a pot luck lunch at 11:30 a.m. followed by a meeting. Members every Tuesday, starting Nov. 12, at the Speer Center, U.S. • The DeSoto County Veterans Council meets the second
• Faith Mission provides free lunches for anyone in need, 11 are encouraged to bring guests. For more information call Highway 17 North, Arcadia. For information, contact Bill or Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at Arcadia Elks Lodge. For
a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1109 S.E. 9th St., Arcadia. Donations gratefully 494-2966. Mary Morse at 207-418-4687. details, call Tom Damron at 491-1404.
accepted. • The Amvets Ladies Auxiliary meets at 7 p.m. on the second • ACCESS office is open from 9 a.m. to noon today at • TEAM Arcadia meets on the second Thursday of the month
• Alcoholics Anonymous Second Tradition meets at 7 p.m. at Monday each month. Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 319 S. Lee Ave., at 4:30 p.m. in the conference room of the Margaret Way
St. Edmund’s Episcopal Church, 327 W. Hickory St. • The AA Second Tradition Business Meeting is held every Arcadia. Call for appointments at 494-0320. Building, 23 N Polk Avenue. The purpose of TEAM Arcadia is to
• Prescription Assistance is at the DeSoto County Health second Monday at 7:15 p.m. at St. Edmund’s Episcopal Church, • Alcoholics Anonymous Second Tradition meets at 8 p.m. unite community organizations and coordinate community
Department Clinic Location: 1031 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Call to 327 W. Hickory St. at St. Edmund’s Episcopal Church, 327 W. Hickory St. improvement efforts.
make an appointment or for more information, call 491-7580 • Arcadia/DeSoto County Beautification Committee meets • Prescription Assistance is at the DeSoto County Health • DeSoto County Historical Society meets at noon every second
ext. 256. at 5:30 p.m. today at the DeSoto County extension office, 2150 Department Clinic Location: 1031 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Call to Thursday monthly at the Family Service Center annex, 310 W.
N.E. Roan St., Arcadia. make an appointment or for more information, call 491-7580 Whidden St., Arcadia. Lunch is available for $6 at 11:30 a.m.
„ FRIDAY • The American Merchant Marines Veterans, Robert J. ext. 256. • Arcadia-DeSoto County Habitat for Humanity meets at 6
• Arcadia Quilt Club meets from 9-11:30 a.m. Fridays at the MacAlvanah Chapter (Suncoast Chapter), meets at noon • Suncoast Community Blood Bank is open from noon to 6 p.m. second Thursdays monthly at the Habitat ReStore, 111 N.
Palace Dance Hall, 1627 N.E. Floridian Circle, Arcadia. every second Monday at The Family Table Restaurant, 14132 p.m. today at 710 N. Brevard Ave. (U.S. 17 North), Arcadia. For Polk Ave. Call 494-4118 or [email protected] for
• Square Dancing classes are held at the Palace Square S. Tamiami Trail, North Port. All Merchant Mariners and their more information, call 993-9366. more information.
Dance Hall, 1627 N.E. Floridian Circle, from 7-9 p.m. every spouses are welcome. For information, call 941-625-3234. • American Red Cross Youth Corps of DeSoto County meets
Friday. Robert at 813-601-1834 or Mary at 941-380-5336 • Women of Worship “WOW” Women’s ministry meets at „ WEDNESDAY second Thursdays monthly from 3:30-5 p.m. at DeSoto County
494-2749 for information. 6:15 p.m. Monday at Freedom Fellowship Christian Ministries, • The DeSoto County Ministerial Association will hold its High School. For more information, call at 494-2348.
first luncheon meeting 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 10, in • Gastric bypass support group meets at 6:30 p.m. second and
the conference room at Arcadia Housing Authority, 7 Booker T. fourth Thursdays monthly at Mardis Citrus on U.S. 17 S. For more
Washington Rd. We will offer a time of fellowship and a free information, call 990-0082 or 494-5700.
light lunch, then Vince Sica and Kristen Spahr from DeSoto • Relaxation Yoga Class every Thursday, 5 p.m. Sign-in 4:50
Memorial Hospital will speak about the urgent plight of the p.m. Enjoy an hour of serenity focused on breathing, gentle
hospital, and the need for keeping DMH in thecounty. The yoga poses, peaceful stretching and quiet relaxation. Held in the
meeting is primarily for church and religious leaders, who are Health Dept. conference room, 34 S. Baldwin Ave. Drop-in $7/
encouraged to attend and become a part of the Ministerial class, 8-class package $40 ($5 per class). Bring your own mat. For
Assn. more information, call Christine at 244-1925.
BB,?ooo6aaDrr7ddl CCCOeePrr4tt8ii4ff6ii®eecddI mPPbhh®yyBss®iiccBiimaaonnoess &aa nnomdd @SSuumrrmggeeeooownn®ss • The Central Florida Regional Planning Council will meet • DeSoto County Library story time is at 3 p.m. at 125 N.
at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 10 at the Bartow Public Library, Second Hillsborough Ave., Arcadia. Call 993-4851 for more information.
Floor Conference Room, 2150 South Broadway Ave., Bartow. • Temple Beth El – North Port Jewish Center, 33840 South
MMiicchhaaeell DDeerrhhooddggee OO..DD.. TThhoommaass QQuuiigglleeyy MM..DD..
The Agenda Packet will be posted to the Council’s website at Biscayne Drive, North Port,hosts an American Contract Bridge
3 3 3300 HNN... MBBrreevvaarrdd AAAwvveen (cid:127)(cid:127)- Q((8806665331))D99599933Y.---222000 222000 www.cfrpc.org . For more information email Patricia M. Steed, League every Thursday, at 1 p.m. at the temple. The cost is $6
RTVW(E Executive Director at [email protected] or call 863-534-7130 per session. We will be participating in “The Common Game.”For
NN cee xx 4tt ttt oo IFFFaawrrmmm gCCrrrs eea dd iiLtt ibbIuuiillldd iitnnmgg ext.130. reservations call Shelli Wetherson at 941-497-7184.
• Narcotics Anonymous meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at • Cocaine Anonymous meetings are held every Thursday

the Arcadia Oaks Multipurpose Room at 1013 E. Gibson St., from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.
Arcadia. Open to the public. For information, call Curtis Clark at 244-2884 or Sandra Elmore
F R E E Complete medical exam with one of our
board certified eye doctors includes • Hour of Power Prayer time is held at noon at Freedom at 352-476-8520.
prescription for eyeglasses, and test Fellowship Christian Ministries, 1528 N.E. Turner Ave. • Faith Mission provides free lunches for anyone in need, 11
for cataracts, glaucoma and other eye • AA “Brown Bagger” meetings are offered every a.m.-12:30 p.m. 1109 S.E. 9th St., Arcadia. Donations gratefully
E Y E E X A M
diseases. Offer applies to US Citizens Wednesday at 11 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 304 accepted.
FOR NEW PATIENTS 59 years and older. W. Oak St. • Alcoholics Anonymous Second Tradition meets at 7 p.m. at
Coupon Expires 10/31/14
• Alcoholics Anonymous Serenity-Big Book meets at 8 p.m. St. Edmund’s Episcopal Church, 327 W. Hickory St.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Code: AR00
at Grace Lutheran Church, W. Oak St. (State Road 70). • Prescription Assistance is at the DeSoto County Health
No Hidden Charges: It is our policy that the patient and or any other person responsible for payment or be reimburse by payment or any other service., examination or treatment • Alcoholics Anonymous open discussion at Trinity Department Clinic Location: 1031 E. Oak St., Arcadia. Call to make
which is performed as a result of reimburse with 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment. Offer
does not apply to Avantica managed insurance plans including Freedom, Optimum and some Universal. Methodist Church, 304 Oak Street. an appointment or for more information, call 491-7580 ext. 256.
50471156
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Arcadian | Page 8 www.sunnewspapers.net The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014
Report: woman charged in labor camp burglaries
The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office as stolen, in a Among the locations were labor camps truck as he entered the buildings and
arrested Amanda Lynn Simes, 26, of the bedroom. The near the high school, McCaskill Street returned with money, electronics,
7000 block of S.W. Fugate St., Fort Ogden, room was so clut- and Limestone Heights. She denied phones and other items.
on seven counts of burglary, plus charges tered they could being involved in burglaries of migrant Simes was arrested on charges of
of grand and petty theft. not walk around camps at Hull Road or Owens Street. seven counts of unarmed burglary of
According to the arrest report, a man without stepping She reportedly helped deputies iden- an unoccupied structure, three counts
first reported a burglary at his residence on some of the tify stolen property including sets of of grand theft between $100-$300, and
at a migrant camp in February, noting property. They china, shoes, jackets, CDs and stereo two counts of petty theft. Bond was
a window screen had been cut. A set of found luggage, equipment. set at $55,740 but she was released on
speakers and $50 of loose change had tool boxes, piles The report notes several labor camps recognizance.
been taken. of clothing, plastic were reported to have been burglarized Hall was previously arrested in
In following up on the investigation in tubs and several in the months of January and February. February on 17 counts of unarmed
February, deputies questioned Jonathan Mexican pass- Most of the burglaries were conducted burglary of an unoccupied dwelling,
Simes
Heath Hall. The report stated Amanda ports which were during daytime hours while residents 16 counts of grand theft, 1 count of
Simes was his girlfriend. Deputies reported stolen. were at work. Simes denied being petty theft, giving a false ID to an
secured a warrant to search where They questioned Simes, who report- directly involved in the burglaries, but officer, and an outstanding warrant
Hall and Simes lived, and reportedly edly said she accompanied Hall when reportedly admitted in some cases from Manatee County.
found several items, recently reported he burglarized several residences. she would drop Hall off or wait in the
Report: man threatened victim with baseball bat
The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Floridian Circle when he heard a the victim ran to his landlord’s Wright admitted going to the
Office arrested Kevin Edward knock on his door. According to house to call 911. He reported the victim’s house armed with the bat.
Wright, 41, of the 1500 block of S.E. the witness, Wright then kicked his tag of the truck in which Wright Wright was charged with two
State Road 31, Arcadia, on charges front door in and, armed with a drove away. counts of aggravated assault with
of aggravated assault with a deadly baseball bat, yelled “Where is your Deputies located Wright, and a deadly weapon without intent
weapon and armed burglary of a brother?” while chasing the victim brought the victim to his location to kill, burglary of a structure or
dwelling. around in the house. where he identified Wright as the dwelling with assault or battery,
According to the arrest report, The victim feared Wright was go- man who threatened him with the criminal mischief and armed bur-
on the evening of July 5, a man was ing to hit him with the bat. Wright bat. Wright claimed the victim had glary of a dwelling or conveyance.
Wright sleeping inside his home on N.E. chased him out the back door, and threatened to shoot Wright’s house. Bond was set at $300,000.
Report: DeSoto school bus involved in hit-and-run
ARCADIA — A DeSoto County school |POLICE BEAT Arcadia. Charges: DUI with BAC .15 or Gorda. Charges: possession or use of
bus was involved in a hit-and-run higher or with person under 18, and drug equipment and driving while
early Thursday, according to a Florida The information for Police Beat is gathered from police, sheriff’s driving without a valid license. Bond: license is more than 4 months expired.
Highway Patrol report. $1,620. Bond: $240.
office, Florida Highway Patrol, jail and fire records. Not every arrest
The bus, which had five students on • Elfego Nolasco Mejia, 25, Lake Worth,
leads to a conviction and guilt or innocence is determined by the
board, was traveling south on U.S. 17 at Fla. Charge: driving without a valid The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office
court system.
7 a.m. As the bus driver tried to turn left license. Bond: $120. reported the following arrests:
onto Southwest Senate Street, a vehicle The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office • Marta DeJesus Romero, 40, • Amanda Brittany Jones, 23, 100 block
attempted to turn onto U.S. 17 behind reported the following arrests: Indianapolis. Charge: driving without a of Asbury St., Arcadia. Charge: DUI with
the bus, striking the back corner of the • James Lesley Allen, 48, 1200 block of valid license. Bond: $120. alcohol or drugs. Bond: $2,000.
bus, the report shows. Harlem Circle, Arcadia. Charge: out-of- • Patrick Corey Royce, 28, 1600 S.E. • R.L. Griffin, 57, 10300 block of S.W.
The bus driver — Deborah Webb, 58, county warrant. Bond: $2,500. West Ave., Arcadia. Charge: DUI with Grape St., Arcadia. Charge: DUI fourth
of Arcadia — and the students were • Rodney Lee Dakin, 47, Duette, Fla. alcohol or drugs. Bond: $500. or subsequent offense, and failure to
uninjured. It’s not clear what grades the Charge: violation of probation. Bond: • Amanda Lynn Silman, 28, 1200 block submit to testing. Bond: $9,000.
students were in. The bus was a 2015 none. of S.E. 1st Ave., Arcadia. Charges: felony • James Leslie Allen, 48, 100 block of
model. • John Keith Davis, 33, 6600 block of battery and burglary with assault or N.E. Oak St., Arcadia. Charge: violation
The other vehicle involved in the crash Pine Hurst Drive, Arcadia. Charges: two battery. Bond: $3.250. of probation or community control.
fled the scene. As of Thursday afternoon, counts of failure to support spouse or • Rogerio Garcia, 19, 1000 block of S.E. Bond: none.
the FHP did not have any information child. Purge: $400. Mills Ave., Arcadia. Charge: violation of • Heath Lynn Fuhlman, 44, 2700
about that vehicle or its driver. • William Franklin Driggers, 40, 5800 probation. Bond: none. block of N.W. Eucalyptus Ave., Arcadia.
Anyone with information is asked to block of N.E. Co. Rd. 660, Arcadia. • Raymond Wayne Lanier, 48, 3800 Charges: petty theft and resisting an
call the local FHP office at 239-938-1800. Charges: producing schedule III or IV block of S.E. County Road 760A, Arcadia. officer or merchant in retail theft. Bond:
drug and possession or use of drug Charge: failure to appear and failure to none.
4-wheeler fatality reported equipment. Released on recognizance. support spouse or child. Bond: $1,320. — Compiled by Susan E. Hoffman.
• Don Shane Frazier, 33, 7000 block • Tammy Lorraine Martin, 51, Punta Adam Kreger contributed to this report.
Maj. James Vitali of the DeSoto County of N.E. Cubitis Ave., Arcadia. Charge:
Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a fatality battery. Bond: none. | ROADWATCH
occurred over the Labor Day weekend as • Hubert Lyons, 34, Mt. Gilead, Ohio.
a result of a single 4-wheeler accident at Charge: out-of-state fugitive. Bond: none.
the Peace River Campground in Arcadia. • Robert Allen, 38, 1400 block of N.E. Provided by FdoT Avenue, North Dade Avenue and North
Manatee Avenue are closed at S.R. 70
No further details are available as of Gibson St., Arcadia. Charge: battery.
U.S. Highway 17 between Flanders (West Hickory Street). Use West Walnut
press time. Bond: $5,000.
Street and Joshua Creek — Crews are Street as a detour. The closure is neces-
• Alberto Cordero, 43, Winifred St.,
working on driveways along the roadway. sary while crews install a new water main.
No lane closures are anticipated but mo- Motorists should use caution and watch
We want to hear from you
torists should be aware of trucks entering for changes in the traffic pattern. This
and exiting the highway. project includes installing underground
Please join the City’s police and community development East Oak Street from Brevard Avenue utilities beneath the roadway, remov-
i- team in a public open house-style workshop to discuss and (US 17) to Volusia Avenue and Volusia ing and replacing asphalt and curbs,
hear ideas towards improving special event planning for Avenue from East Oak Street to East replacing driveway entrances, repairing
7 Arcadia’s historic downtown. Our public and private Magnolia Street (State Route 70 east- sidewalk and adding detectable warning
partnerships play an important role in the City successfully bound) — Crews have closed the surfaces at the side streets. Estimated
LORtO hosting numerous special events including the antique fairs, on-street parking on the south side of completion is end of 2014. The contractor
farmers market, car shows and holiday festivals.
East Oak Street and the west side of is Bun Construction Company.
Volusia Avenue up to the Chamber of U.S. Highway 17 from south of SW
Arcadia Downtown Special Event Planning Series
Commerce. The closures are necessary as Collins Street in Fort Ogden to County
Public Meeting Schedule crews continue installing a new drainage Road 760A south of Nocatee — Work is
system. This project includes resurfacing, under way to expand US 17 to four lanes.
Thursday, September 11, at 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. reconstructing curb at the intersection Work includes clearing land for two new
of Volusia Avenue and Magnolia Street, travel lanes to the east of the existing US
repairing sidewalk and making them 17 travel lanes and drainage activities.
Arcadia’s Historic Downtown ADA compliant. Estimated completion Expect intermittent northbound and
Make your voice heard is end of 2014. The contractor is Bun southbound lane closures on US 17
Construction Company. between SW Wood Road and CR 760A
and help us improve
State Route 70 Westbound (West while crews are working. Motorists should
Arcadia’s downtown Hickory Street) from North Lee Avenue to be aware of work vehicles entering and
North Orange Avenue — State Route 70 exiting the roadway during the week.
special event planning
TI. I (West Hickory Street) has been reduced Motorists should also observe the posted
and programs … Bridging our Past and our fwroemstb towuon wd elastnbeo buentdw leaenne Ns toor tohn Me anatee sEpxepeedc tleimd pitr aonjedc dt criovme wpliethti ocnau isti eonnd. of
Avenue and North Lee Avenue. North Lee 2015. The contractor is Ajax Paving.
50471177
The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014 www.sunnewspapers.net Page 9 | Arcadian
| OBITUARIES
D DeeSSoottoo
Almeta Cade crafts, and getting into “mischief” with
her “Partner in crime,” Peggy Carter.
Almeta Cade, 71, of Arcadia, Fla., Wendy also spent her time lovingly
passed away Friday, Aug. 22, 2014. caring for everyone she could, relative C Chhuurrcchh
Arrangements are by Ponger-Kays- or otherwise. She truly loved all, and
Grady Funeral Home, Arcadia. will be missed by those she touched. 07-
Visitation was conducted Monday,
Mariann Conant Sept. 1, 2014, at the Chapel of Ponger- D Diirreeccttoorryy
Kays-Grady Funeral Home, Arcadia.
Mariann “Mary” Conant, 75, of Funeral services were held Tuesday,
Arcadia, Fla., passed away Thursday, Sept. 2, 2014, at the Funeral Home
Aug. 28, 2014. Arrangements are by Chapel, with Pastor Doug King of
Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home, Temple Baptist Church officiating.
Arcadia. Burial followed at Joshua Creek ... And Make Your Choice from
Cemetery. Online condolences may be
Linda J. Davis made at www.pongerkaysgrady.com. our Church Directory
Arrangements are by Ponger-Kays-
Linda J. “Wendy” Davis, 67, of
Grady Funeral Home and Cremation
Arcadia, Fla., loving daughter, sister, Services, Arcadia. First Baptist First Christian
wife, mother, grandmother, aunt Church
Church of Arcadia
and friend, peacefully passed away Daniel L. Parkyn
34 El Verano Ave.
Thursday, Aug. 28, 2014. 1006 N. Brevard Ave.
She was born May 7, 1947, to Daniel L. Parkyn, a long-time resident Celebrative Worship Loving God, Connecting with [phone]
Challenging Bible Study
Harrison Roosevelt Parker and Jesse of DeSoto County, born Oct. 28, 1938, Connection With People People, Expanding His Kingdom Sunday School 9:30am
James Parker. died Sept. 1, 2014 in Chattanooga,
Traditional Praise 9:30 - Sunday School Morning Worship 10:00am
Wendy was the fifth of six children. Tenn. 8:30 -9:30 AM
She spent her early life in Gastonia, 10:45 - Morning Worship Evening Worship 6:00pm
Sunday School/Life Groups
6:00 - Evening Worship
N.C. She gave birth to her daughter, OBITUARY POLICY 9:45 AM - 10:45 AM Wednesday Prayer Mtg.
Wednesdays 6:00
Debbie Davis Jones, in 1965. Wendy Contemporary Praise 6:00pm
AWANA & YOUTH
married her beloved husband, Roy L. Obituaries are accepted from funeral homes only. 11:00 AM - Noon Where the
Davis, in 1970, and lived happily with There’s no charge for publishing an abbreviated death 863-494-4345 863-494-3622 Bible is preached
him until his passing in 2010, enjoying notice. Full obituaries and repeat death notices will
www.cbcarcadia.org www.firstbaptistarcadia.com & Christ is King!
a 40-year marriage of love and admi- be subject to an advertising charge.
ration. During that time, she raised Obituaries must be submitted to the Charlotte FIRST See Your
her daughter and two grandchildren, Sun; call 941-206-1000 for details. Please send Fort Ogden
William Lee “Will” Davis and Brandon e-mails to [email protected]. The American PRESBYTERIAN Church in this
Michael “Mikey” Davis. She loved gar- flag accompanying and obituary indicates a veteran CHURCH United Methodist Church spot
dening, caring for her animals, arts and of the U.S. Armed Forces. 6923 SW River St.
209 W est Hickory Street For Only
| NEWS BRIEF Mission: 863.494.3881 $ $77..5500
Sunday School 9:00am
“Take Jesus with you a week!
Synagogue Council building and meet some of our mem- wherever you go” Sunday - Worship 10:00am
Open House bers. If you cannot attend the open Call Tami at
(Nursery Children’s Church Provided)
house but are interested in purchasing Worship: 4 49944--77660000
Mondays - A.A. & Al-Anon 7:30pm
On Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014, Temple tickets, call the temple’s office at 941- 9:45am Sunday School
Beth El - North Port Jewish Center, 423-0300 to make arrangements. 11:00am Traditional Worship Wednesday - K-12 Ministry 5:30pm for more

a Conservative Temple, will be par- Temple Beth El is affiliated with The Casual, Family Oriented & Bible Study - 6:30pm details.
ticipating in the Community Wide United Synagogue of Conservative
Synagogue Council of Sarasota- Judaism and the Sarasota-Manatee Mt. Ephraim
Grace Lutheran See Your
Manatee Open House. Anyone wishing Synagogue Council. We are a liberal,
Baptist Church
to purchase High Holy Day tickets at egalitarian Conservative synagogue.
Church Church in this
a cost of $125 per person should plan For further information, call 941-423- 2865 SW Co. Rd 661
on coming to the Open House between 0300 or visit www.templebethel- 1004 W. Oak Street spot 863-993-5568
1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Come tour our np.org.
Rev. Mark Steinke Sunday Prayer Time 9:20am
For Only
Sunday School/Bible Study 9:45am
Interim Pastor
GRITS & PIECES of a summer as a salesman in the Morning Worship 11:00am
automotive/household department Adult Sunday School $$77..5500 a week! Evening Worship 6:00pm
e / o ®
at Grant City (sometimes called W.T. 8:45 AM Wed. Fellowship Meal 5:45pm
FROM PAGE 4 Grants) in Port Charlotte. Who besides Sunday Worship 10:00 AM Call T ami at Prayer Meeting 6:30pm
me remembers that place? It later 449944--77660000 West on SR 70, left on SR 72,
and never take a breath. Then I went became what some remember as the
All Welcome! left on CR 661, 3.5 miles on right
to Tinsley’s IGA for a brief time, until old K-Mart, and was torn down years for more details.
Office Phone: [phone]
I got fired for being a smarty-britches ago and a Publix is near where it stood,
to my supervisor. My early attempts at along Highway 41. Nocatee North
sharing humor just weren’t appreciated, That lasted a few weeks, and then I
I feel. started laboring at our local state facil- United Hillsborough
From there I labored for John ity, G. Pierce Wood Memorial Hospital,
Methodist Baptist Church Arcadia, Florida
Reynolds, hoeing orange trees, mixing where I spent nearly 30 years before it
soil, and potting palm trees. By then, was closed down in 2002. I performed Church (253 N. Hillsborough Ave.) 5104 NW Oak Hill Ave.
minimum wage had skyrocketed to various forms of labor there and got Pastor Ellis Cross 863-494-6224
a buck and a half an hour and I was laid off when they pulled the plug. Spanish - English 863-494-3455
rolling in the dough. I mean, I was Three months later I was hired back at Class Pastor Dr. Howell Upchurch
rolling in change, trying to stay alive. Of that location, which had been taken Tuesday - Friday Sunday School 9:30 am
course, gas was cheap then and I could over by the Department of Juvenile Worship 11:00 AM Sunday Worship 10:45 am
7am- Noon
fill up my tank for less than a fin (that’s Justice, and I worked another six years Evening Worship 6:00pm and 6:00 pm
May 7th - June 5th
a five-dollar bill to you young whipper- before retiring. Wednesday 6:30 pm
snappers). John was a great boss, and Somewhere along the way, over 30 info Wednesday 6:30pm for Prayer Group,
he is my friend to this day, and I owe years ago, I started laboring at writing 863-494-3881 Thursday Youth Group 6pm Youth & Children
him a lot. Had to move on, though, as it newspaper columns and drawing
PINE LEVEL
didn’t take too long to figure out that I cartoons. And I think it might be my St. Edmund’s Trinity United
didn’t want to spend the rest of my days favorite kind of labor — kicking back UNITED METHODIST Methodist Church
hanging onto a hoe handle. in my pajamas at home, drinking CHRIST CENTERED, CHRIST LED. Episcopal Church
My life’s ambition? It was to be a coffee, and trying to come up with “To know Christ and
Coast Guardsman ever since I could stuff like what you’re reading right now. 9596 Pine Level St., Arcadia 327 W. Hickory St. to make Him know n”
863- 494-0044 304 W. Oak Street (cid:127) 494-2543
walk and talk, since my father spent 24 Somebody once said that we should try
9am Children Church (70 W at Manatee) Sunday Morning Worship
years with them and sometimes took to figure out what we love doing best
Starting at 9:30 am
me to work with him. My big surprise and figure out a way to make money at 9am Contemporary Service 863-494-0485
Sunday School 10:45 am
came after graduation when I found it, and we’d never have to work a day in 10am Sunday School
www.EpiscopalArcadiaFL.com Sun. 4:30 p.m. UMYF
out they wouldn’t take me. our life. 11am Contemporary Service Wed. 6:30 pm Bible Study
I had no plan B, so I worked part All I can say is, life is good in PJville! Wednesday Adult, Youth & HOLY EUCHARIST Nursery Available
Sunday 8 & 10 am Pastor Jim Wade
Children’s Programs 7 PM
View Service at:
=== Don't forget to recycle Nursery Always Available Misa en espanol Dom 6pm trinityarcadia.com
www.pinelevelumc.com
May the Lord fill
-= your newspapers! (I
your heart with love.
471134
Arcadian | Page 10 www.sunnewspapers.net The Sun / Thursday, September 4, 2014
The danger of too much entertainment
The late A.W. Tozer, whose many Can this be happening to us? Think We live in an age of entertaining
books are now considered about it. gadgets that can be either pleasant
Christian classics, once wrote a What often monopolizes our con- antidotes to boredom and fatigue or
magazine article titled “The Great God versations when we’re with friends dangerous influences that move us to
Entertainment” in which he described or family? Probably famous athletes, violence, immorality and despair.
people who are so addicted to the entertainers or entertainment. What we think, we are! And to
need of constantly being entertained This is not to say that all entertain- imagine that anyone, young or old,
Roger Campbell
that what had been intended to enable ment is destructive or immoral. We can continually be exposed to nega-
them to relax in idle times had now need periodic breaks from the routines tive input and not be affected by it is
become idolatry. of life; time out from the daily grind. ridiculous.
An interesting thought! And if you became more and more brutal; the Jesus told His disciples to “come The greatest danger in too much
think it’s too far out, consider that building of gigantic armaments, when apart and rest awhile” (Mark 6:31), entertainment is the squandering of
many call their favorite actors, actress- the real enemy was within; and the prompting someone to wisely observe time. We’re all given this precious gift
es or athletes their idols. decay of religious faith, which faded that if we don’t come apart, we’ll come at birth with a fresh supply each day.
In 1787, Edward Gibbon completed into formalism and became impotent. apart. Laughter was prescribed by wise To make the best use of time, we must
his book, “The Decline and Fall of the In short, Gibbon concluded that Solomon for good health: “A merry invest it wisely, worshiping and serving
Roman Empire,” giving the following satisfying the desires of the people for heart does good like a medicine,” he God, finding His will for our lives and
reasons for its destruction: the rapid comforts and entertainment became wrote (Proverbs 17:22), adding there is living for the good of others. We don’t
increase of divorce with the resultant more important than their relationship “a time to laugh” (Ecclesiastes 3:4). But have time to entertain our lives away.
undermining of the home; higher with God. Like another civilization be- if this laughter comes at the expense of — Roger Campbell is an author, a
and higher taxes and the spending of fore them described in the Bible, they compromising high moral standards broadcaster and columnist who was a
public money for free circuses for the “worshiped and served the creature intended to keep us on the right road, it pastor for 22 years. He can be reached at
people; the mad craze for sports, which more than the creator” (Romans 1:25). isn’t healthy at all. [email protected].
DeSoto Christian
FFaammiillyy AAllbbuumm
School starts new year
,
fib
All
FAMILY ALBUM PHOTOS
Send us a photo to celebrate a birth, birthday, engagement, wedding, anniversary, etc. The Arcadian will run it free. We
must have it no later than noon on Monday. Bring your photo to the office or e-mail to [email protected]
Congratulations Happy birthday
t- e
PHOTOS PROVIDED
S
i
DeSoto Christian School began its 15th year of operation on Aug. 25. The school is located at 27
N. Polk Ave. in downtown Arcadia. It is a private Christian school operated by Heritage Baptist
Church, offering kindergarten through grade 12 using the A Beka curriculum. With enrollment
currently at 21 students, some of whom are pictured here, and a monthly tuition of $50, DCS is
growing. For more information, call Pastor David Bedell at 863-244-1247,
PHOTO PROVIDED
Happy 70th Birthday to John Habeck on
September 10. DeSoto Christian
School is begin-
From your family and friends. ning its 15th year
of operation,
offering private
i Last Saturday afternoon, Bridgette Ervin, Christian educa-
t `- business teacher at DeSoto County High School, tion for kinder-
garten though
and Richard Koonce, also a teacher and football,
12th grade.
basketball and weightlifting coach at DCHS, were
married. They were surrounded by family and
friends as they began their new lives together. It
was a beautiful ceremony, with outstanding food l . < jai A y ;ri
ARCADIAN PHOTO BY STEVE KNAPP, and music as everyone danced the night away. 7
[email protected]
Fly-in/camp-out center under construction at airport
By GEORGE CHASE Arcadia Airport, Inc. have joined forces
Friends oF ArcAdiA Airport to develop a plan, proposed by Friends,
which will help make Arcadia Municipal
An area of the
The City of Arcadia and DeSoto a “destination airport.”
Arcadia Airport
County have both been working on The plan calls for Friends to develop a
is being cleared
Strategic Plans to promote business in never-used section of the airport into a
so that pilots can
our community. They each have their “Fly-In/Camp-Out Center.” The wooded
I I fly-in and camp
own plans but success will require them area is being cleaned up by Friends vol-
at the airport in
to work together in many areas. unteers. The site will offer a pilot shelter
order to enjoy
One such effort involves our local with picnic tables, a large brick paver
weekend activi-
City-owned airport that happens to be fire pit, tent sites and a horse shoe pit.
ties in town.
located outside the city limits within Once finished the facility components
DeSoto County. will be donated to the City Airport by
The city, county and Friends of Friends.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GEORGE CHASE