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Hello Walt,
Thanks for being a part of my February newsletter! This edition features the longstanding tradition of the Desoto County Fair, explores the age-old question of whether to wax oranges, and showcases some of my latest listings. Your input is important, so don't hesitate to share your thoughts by replying. Also, feel free to explore my recently launched website at waltbethel.com.
Walt
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70+ Year Tradition Continues | |
The inception of the County Fair dates back to a gathering of the DeSoto County Farm Bureau in 1953. During this meeting, the DeSoto County Fair Association was established and incorporated as a nonprofit organization. Leading the association were Abner G. Erickson as president, Gerald Tinsley as vice president, W. L. Woods as secretary, and William A. Channel as treasurer.
The inaugural DeSoto County Fair and Livestock Exposition took place from Jan. 11-16, 1954. Sponsored by the DeSoto County Farm Bureau, the event received support from various organizations, including the Bulldog Boosters and the Soft Ball Association. Charles Weaver chaired the "Schools Committee," and Prof. J. H. Webb oversaw the "Smith-Brown School Committee."
Acknowledging the contributions of the Arcadia City Council and the DeSoto County Board of Commissioners, the Fair Association expressed gratitude for their assistance in securing a permanent Fair Grounds and their full cooperation in its improvement.
The fair commenced on Jan. 11, 1954, with a speech by state representative S. Chesterfield Smith and the official opening of U.S. Highway 17. A motorcade at Fort Ogden marked the occasion, followed by a parade through downtown Arcadia at 11 a.m.
Over the years, the fair evolved, incorporating new elements such as a "Farm Equipment Show" from the second year onwards. Peggy Yarbrough Jaicks and Mary Dell Collier DeLoach were crowned DeSoto County Fair Queens in 1954 and 1955, respectively. The Junior Woman’s Club and SubDebs sponsored subsequent contests.
The Smith-Brown High School played a role in the fair, organizing the Smith-Brown DeSoto Fair Queen contest. The event integrated in 1968, with the "baby show" following suit in 1971.
From 1959 to 1962, the fair occurred twice a year, in January and November, with a hiatus in 1960 and 1962. "Frontier Days" and a "Western Horse Show" were featured in 1959, while the January 1961 fair celebrated the "Dixie Centennial Jubilee."
In 1964, the fair program honored George Marsden Wallis, recognizing his contributions to livestock shows and county fairs. The fair showcased a Horticulture Exhibit from 1967 to 1978 and, in 1984, incorporated "Peace River Valley Days."
Source: Ufl.edu
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Citrus Spotlight
Wax on-Wax Off
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Citrus Australia recently published an article on the importance of waxing citrus fruits, written by John Golding, a research horticulturist. The use of appropriate wax is crucial to maintain fruit quality and appearance. While waxing helps reduce water loss, improve freshness, and protect the fruit's surface, improper application or the use of the wrong wax can lead to undesirable off-flavors. Natural food-grade waxes, such as carnauba and shellac-based waxes, are commonly used, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Application should be even and at low pressure, with attention to avoiding dilution with water. The article emphasizes the significance of replacing the natural wax layer lost during handling to ensure the quality of fresh citrus throughout the supply chain. In some instances, the wax formulation may be used as a carrier of postharvest fungicides and inhibitors of senescence.
Source: Citrus Industry
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DeSoto County Fair
February 2nd-10th
Click here for more info!
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"Florida Cracker Trail"
In 1987, a group of energetic individuals, with a love and respect for history, came together to form the Florida Cracker Trail Association, to recreate a part of Florida’s past that has become a traditional event. The Annual Cross-State Ride serves to highlight and preserve the importance of Florida’s role in the introduction of horses and cattle into the New World as well as the birth and continuance of the cattle and horse industries by Florida’s future settlers and their descendants. Community developers are moving into the heartland of Florida, buying huge multi-thousand acre ranches and converting this wild land to tracts of housing. As a result, the area’s history is being threatened. Each year, the Crackers gathered west of Fort Pierce to drive their giant herd of scrub cattle west across the state toward Bradenton and then to Tampa, Punta Gorda, and Punta Rassa, to ship them to Cuba...
Learn more about this year's ride
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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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PENDING!
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. Additionally, its proximity to Highway 31 ensures easy commutes to Punta Gorda, Ft. Myers and Babcock Ranch. One of the standout features of this property is its extensive road frontage, boasting over 7,000 feet of access along its boundaries. This substantial frontage enhances accessibility and facilitates potential development and subdivision, making it an enticing prospect for investors, developers, or individuals looking to create their own unique estate properties. The property also features two deep agricultural wells if you are looking to start or expand your agricultural venture. This land is in close proximity to the DeSoto County water system. The potential connectivity to the county's water system ensures access to a well-established infrastructure, further enhancing the potential for development. With careful planning, appropriate zoning, and the possibility of platting, this property can be transformed into individual lots within the property further enhancing its appeal. Whether you envision a private estate, a farming enterprise, or a thoughtfully designed subdivision catering to the increasing demand for housing in the area, this transitional piece of land offers a blank canvas for your vision to become a reality.
MLS: C7477909
Total Acres: 292.77
List Price: $2,930,000
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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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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!
453 Acre Farm
13505 Sugarbowl Rd. Myakka City, FL 34251
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453 acre farm currently in Watercress production. This extremely well kept property could also be utilized for limitless produce production in addition to the watercress. This property features a combined 25,000 sqft+ of packing facilities, walk-in cooler, quality control area, warehouse, barns, and office space. There are 4 pump house stations with a central 12” well. This farm is located less than 2 miles to Hwy 70 in Manatee County with easy access to I-75. Call today to hear more about this lucrative opportunity.
Total Acres: 453
MLS: C7466071
Sold Price: $1,900,000
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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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12,000+ sqft Building
5673 Hwy 31 #G, Arcadia, FL
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**SELLER WILL OFFER FINANCING WITH 20 % DOWN**12,089 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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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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