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Hello Walt,
Welcome to the March edition of my newsletter! In this issue, we dive into the fascinating Easter symbols found in pine trees and explore the rich, multigenerational history of orange cultivation in Old Florida.
I value your feedback and invite you to share your thoughts by responding directly.
Additionally, I'm excited to announce the launch of my new website at waltbethel.com, which I encourage you to visit and explore.
Walt
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Have you ever noticed a cross atop a pine tree? I'm not referring to one made of wood. Around the Easter season, certain pine tree species in particular areas begin to sprout shoots that take on a familiar form. This phenomenon has sparked a beloved tale suggesting that pine trees are somehow aware of Easter's arrival.
The blog A Lighthouse shares, "If you observe the pine trees two weeks prior to Easter, you'll spot the yellow shoots. As Easter Sunday approaches, the highest shoot will split and shape into a cross. By Easter Sunday, it becomes apparent that many pine trees bear small yellow crosses on their tallest shoots." While these "crosses" do emerge in late March or early April across most of the country, the heartwarming association with the Christian festival is, to some, merely coincidental.
Amy Enfield, Ph.D., a consumer horticulturist at ScottsMiracle-Gro, explains:
"The yellowish upright shoots, termed candles, emerge initially, followed by the side buds that eventually branch out, creating a cross-like figure. The timing of this growth pattern around Easter in some U.S. regions is happenstance—in the warmer parts of the U.S., this new growth commences well ahead of the Easter holiday. The visibility of these crosses varies among pine species, with notable visibility in loblolly pines (common in the Southern U.S.) and the ponderosa pine (found in the West)."
Nevertheless, as someone of faith, I find joy in observing these shoots each season, seeing them as heralds of the upcoming religious festivities.
Source: Country Living
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Rooted in Tradition
The Resilient Spirit of Florida's Citrus Growers
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For a third-generation citrus grower living in the heart of "Old Florida," the citrus groves are a sanctuary of peace and quiet, a place of solace amidst the bustling world. As the head of a family-run, 97-year-old packing house in Winter Haven, this grower takes pride in a legacy that started with a strategic partnership in the 1920s. The Sea Board Coastline Railroad, seeking new freight opportunities with the decline of the logging industry, found a promising avenue in the nascent citrus sector, offering to build packing houses for the growers. This move significantly boosted the citrus industry, propelling the Florida economy to new heights through the creation of jobs, wealth, and generational experiences deeply rooted in the state's culture.
Another grower, representing the fifth generation of her family's involvement in the citrus industry, carries on the tradition with a deep sense of pride and responsibility. Having aspired to be an orange grower since the second grade, she embodies the spirit of Florida's citrus legacy. For her, the citrus groves are not just land and trees but a living history of "Old Florida," symbolized by the orange and blossom on every state license plate. Despite facing the challenges of citrus greening, a disease that has significantly impacted the industry in recent decades, she remains hopeful. Both growers believe in the future of Florida's citrus industry, emphasizing the need for innovation and adaptation to overcome obstacles. Their optimism and dedication to the land highlight the enduring significance of citrus to Florida's identity and economy.
Source: Fox News 13
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Bert's Arcadia Bike Fest 2024
Saturday, April 6th
10AM-5PM
Historic Downtown Arcadia
Click here for more info!
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"Sarah Lanier"
Sarah and James Lanier purchased 30.8 acres in what is now Punta Gorda around 1880 from the Florida Internal Improvement Fund. There they established what is considered to be Punta Gorda’s first house. Upon arriving from Fort Ogden, they found a man named Lockhart occupying a shed on the land they bought. After Lockhart left, Sarah and James replaced the shed with a small shack built near where the Banyon Tree on Retta Esplanade now stands. Life was not easy for Sarah living in a wilderness and raising what is believed to be one of Punta Gorda’s.
Learn more the Lanier Family
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JUST LISTED!!
Versatile Blueberry Farm
5692 NE Mcintyre St. Arcadia, FL 34266
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Versatile blueberry farm on 37+ acres boasting a 6,800+ sqft building, ideally equipped with multiple loading docks to serve a variety of agricultural needs. This structure is primed for fruit packing operations with 3-phase electric system and previously refrigerated walk-in coolers. Accompanying this central facility is a 4,100+ sqft barn, further enhancing the farm's utility and storage capabilities. 13 acres of the land are dedicated to blueberries with Macadamia trees also planted on the property. Equipped with two 4-inch irrigation wells with large pump, this farm has great irrigation infrastructure in place. This farm is not just a business opportunity; it's a ready-to-operate haven for agricultural enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike!
Total Acres: 38.57
List Price: $975,000
Click here for more info
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PENDING!
97+ Acres Riverfront
SW Kissimmee Rd. Arcadia, FL 34269
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Nestled in the unspoiled beauty of "Old Florida," this private estate or recreational retreat is situated along 97 acres of riverfront property. Abundant with oak hammocks, cabbage palms, and pine trees, the land offers a tranquil escape with approximately 1,970 feet of frontage on the Peace River via the serene Lettuce Lake inlet. A county-maintained public boat ramp is conveniently located just around the corner, and the property, enclosed by fencing, includes a 1,800-square-foot steel building and artesian well. With less than a 15-minute drive to I-75 and a mere 45 minutes from Sarasota or Ft. Myers, this rare find provides navigable waters leading to Charlotte Harbor.
Total Acres: 97.84
List Price: $1,499,000
Click here for more info
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92+ Acres Unique Opportunity
SW Co Rd 761. Arcadia, FL 34269
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92 acre parcel offering unique opportunity along the serene Peace River in DeSoto County. This property showcases a picturesque blend of natural Florida beauty with meandering riverbanks, lush vegetation, and diverse ecosystems.
Total Acres: 92
List Price: $1,371,000
Click here for more info
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586+ Acres
2260 County Rd 731 Venus, FL 33960
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Spanning 586 acres in Venus, Florida, this adaptable land presents a variety of opportunities. Whether you wish to farm, embark on a new agricultural project or use for recreation, the property is well-equipped with several wells to support your vision. Located just south of Lake Placid, it offers a convenient retreat accessible from both the east and west coasts of Florida. Additionally, there is an opportunity to expand your holdings, as an adjacent 57 acres of hunting-recreational land is also available
Total Acres: 586
List Price: $4,400,000
Click here for more info
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21,000+ sqft Building
5673 Hwy 31 #G, Arcadia, FL
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**SELLER WILL OFFER FINANCING WITH 20 % DOWN**21,000+ SqFt space located in South DeSoto County directly off Hwy 31. This was formerly used as a gymnasium for the state owned juvenile justice center, but could be a warehouse/shop conversion. Building includes office space and shop area. 5 minutes to Arcadia and only 35 minutes to Ft. Myers, Punta Gorda/Port Charlotte and I-75. If you desire more buildings, adjacent property for sale separately.
List Price: $850,000
Click here to learn more
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SOLD!
293 Acres: Prime for Development DeSoto County
SE Co Rd 763 Arcadia, FL 34266
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Introducing an extraordinary opportunity in DeSoto County, Florida—a sprawling 293-acre parcel of land that is perfectly suited for transitional agricultural use and holds immense potential for future development. Located just 5 minutes South of Arcadia this land benefits from a strategic location on the corner of Co Rd 760A and 763 seamlessly blending serene countryside living with convenient access to amenities and services.
MLS: C7477909
Total Acres: 292.77
Sold Price: $2,433,584
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SOLD!
40 Acres
SW Kissimmee Rd Arcadia, FL 34269
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Embrace the natural allure of Florida on 40 acres in Lettuce Lake. Zoned A-5, this pristine parcel of land offers a canvas for your recreational wonderland or the ideal setting to build your dream home. Surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Old Florida landscape, the property boasts a harmonious blend of native flora. With its lush greenery and tranquil ambiance, it provides an inviting retreat for those seeking a connection with nature. Whether you aspire to craft a serene haven for outdoor activities or wish to design a custom home in harmony with the natural surroundings, this 40-acre gem presents a unique opportunity to embrace the unspoiled beauty near the Peace River. Property is located with easy access to Arcadia or Port Charlotte via Kings Hwy and within 45 minutes to Sarasota or Ft. Myers via I-75. 97 acres sit adjacently and is also being sold MLS:C7484844, combine for over 137 contiguous acres.
Total Acres: 40
MLS: C7484843
Sold Price: $490,000
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SOLD!
275 Acres
28100 45th Ave E Myakka City, FL 34251
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 |  | Welcome to this stunning 275-acres boasting old Florida landscape and an income-producing orange grove. As you explore the grounds, you'll come across a large barn that houses a cozy bunkhouse, providing a comfortable retreat for guests or farm workers. Adjacent to this structure lies another large pole barn, perfect for storing equipment or hosting outdoor gatherings. One of the highlights of this Valencia grove is its state-of-the-art irrigation system. The farm is equipped with fully automated irrigation systems with deep water wells, ensuring that the orange grove receives optimal hydration for healthy fruit production. The irrigation system features both John Deere and Cat diesel engines. Beyond the orange grove, the land offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Incredible oak trees create a perfect landscape for recreational activities such as hunting or riding your ATVs. Whether you enjoy tracking game or simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, this property provides ample opportunities to indulge in your outdoor passions while earning an income. Conveniently located within 20 minutes to I-75, this property offers easy access to nearby amenities, shopping centers, and entertainment options. It strikes the perfect balance between seclusion and convenience, allowing you to enjoy the peace and privacy of a rural retreat while still being within reach of urban amenities. Tampa / St Petersburg and Sarasota / Bradenton are an easy drive away. Don't miss your chance to own this exquisite piece of land in Manatee County.
MLS: C7477614
Total Acres: 275.66
Sold Price: $4,050,000
Click here for more info
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SOLD!
106+ Acres Transitional Land
1872 CO RD 731 Venus, FL 33960
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106+ Acres in Venus, Florida of transitional land. A mobile home, barn, and one permitted 12” well are already in place.
Total Acres: 106.03
Sold Price: $922,451
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As a fifth-generation Floridian from Arcadia, I possess extensive knowledge of Florida real estate and a deep passion for its history. At the age of sixteen, my first venture into owning an orange grove ignited my enthusiasm for the real estate industry. Since then, I've engaged in a successful career purchasing, managing, and selling diverse properties such as acreage, agricultural lands, residential homes, and commercial spaces.
Growing up in a family-owned business, Bethel Farms, I honed my marketing and sales skills by handling products for major retailers across the Southeastern and Midwestern United States. My father instilled core values in me—to work diligently, strive for continuous improvement, and seek innovative approaches in all endeavors.
Implementing these principles daily, coupled with my enjoyment of networking and my extensive experience in business, sales, and marketing, have been pivotal to my accomplishments as a REALTOR®
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