2020 DeSoto County Chamber Member & Visitor Guide by Fox Press

2020 Member & Visitor Guide 863.494.4033 • 16 South Volusia Ave. • Arcadia, FL 34266 www.desotocountychamber.com • chamber@desotochamberfl.com

Taking Care of Main Street, Not Wall Street. Here at First National Bank of Wauchula, we know the best investments yield a high return. That’s why we’re investing time and money into your community. We’re a part of this community as a neighbor, a friend, and as family. We can provide you the community banking you know and love with the new technology we now expect.

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With every generation, we get better at protecting our environment.

Ashlee, seen here with her father, Bud, is a second-generation employee. As a reclamation ecologist, she works to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, agriculture, restored streams, and moreâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

Welcome to the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce

On behalf of DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce, I would like to welcome you to our county. DeSoto County is a great place to live, work and grow

a business. Whether you’re visiting for a day, looking for a new place to call home, or you’re already a resident of our thriving community, DeSoto county has a big heart with plenty of opportunities. It is an exciting time to be a member of the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce. We are always creating new networking and promotional opportunities to help our member businesses succeed and grow, including space to advertise on the

Chamber’s weekly Eblast. We continue to partner with local government and other organizations to pursue improvements in the overall quality of life for our County, particularly in the areas of transportation, education, healthcare, tourism, economic development, community development and workforce development. Our success in achieving our mission and purpose is due to a collaborative effort from the Chamber Board of Directors

and Chamber members. To our current Chamber members, thank you for your continued support. For those of you considering relocating your business or opening a business in DeSoto County, you will find that becoming a Chamber member is of great value to you. DeSoto County is thriving, join us as we grow. Sincerely, Debbie Wertz Executive Director, DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Early Bird, Noontime Networking Schedule 2020 Early Bird Schedule – 8 am

JAN 9 FEB 6 MAR 5 APR 2 MAY 7 JUNE 4 JULY AUG 6 SEPT 3 OCT 1 NOV 5 DEC 3

Peace River Shopper * Bayfront Health * DeSoto Memorial Hospital Batter Up Bakery Mosaic Epiphany Health No Early Bird First National Bank of Wauchula * Crews Bank & Trust Farm Credit of Florida Wellpath Recovery Solutions * Persnickety *Indicates event to be held at Chamber Office

2020 Noontime Network FEB 13 APRIL 9 JUNE 11 AUG 13 OCT 8 DEC 10

FL Dept of Health – (Baldwin Ave) 12pm Premier Nationwide Lending 12pm South Florida State College 12pm Gator Wilderness Camp 12pm * Boys & Girls Club 12pm Joshua Citrus 12pm *Indicates event will be held at the Chamber

Antiques to boutiques, golfing to great dining, and fun for the whole family at rodeos, farm tours and exotic animal refuge. • Florida’s Best Small-Town Antiquing: Twenty indoor establishments, plus street vendors, spread over the heart of downtown for an antiquing experience second to none. • Historic Charm, Unforgettable Hospitality: More than 400 buildings and homes on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Florida’s Oldest Rodeo: Bull riding, barrel racing provide edge-of-your-seat excitement at Arcadia’s All-Florida Championship Rodeo, the state’s oldest and one of its most popular rodeo events. • Fossil Frenzy Dig into a bounty of archeological treasures so rich even the Travel Channel has taken notice. Discover fossilized shark teeth and more!

• Enjoying The Water Your Way: Relax on a comfy boat tour or hit the water in a canoe or • Farm Favorite: Savor the “sweet” life kayak. The Peace River is water fun just the of DeSoto’s citrus farming, spending the way you want it. day on one of the county’s many thriving agricultural operations. A special treat for families. Plan your trip with our interactive attractions map and events information calendar by visiting us on the web at:

www.visitdesoto.com Call for info: 863.491.7574 or 855.REAL.FLA adno=3735727-1

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

2020 Chamber Board of Directors

Weldon Campbell, President, Calvary Baptist Church

Justin Fussell Farm Credit of FL

Jaccarie Simons City of Arcadia

Kelli Werner, Vice President, MidFlorida Credit Union

Sarah Hipp DeSoto Memorial Hospital

Heather Smith FL Department of Health – DeSoto Co.

Luis Velasco, Secretary Hackney, Ames & Company

Heather Nedley Mosaic

Jessica Wilkes Arcadia Printing, LLC

Danyiell Tanner, Treasurer Innovative Healing Systems

Jim Potter DeSoto County Sheriﬀ

Advisors

Kelly Anderson Assisted Home Health

Tara Poulton DeSoto Co. Economic & Tourism Dev.

Jodie DeLoach QuitDoc Foundation

Cynthia Scott FL Department of Health – DeSoto Co.

Ashley DeLuca Crews Bank & Trust

Paul Seusy Attorney At Law

JC Deriso DeSoto BOCC

Asya Shine Drug Free DeSoto

Campbell

Werner

Nedley

Velasco

Potter

Tanner

Poulton

Katie Marks Office of Congressman Greg Steube Pam Vowels Vowels, Inc. Angie Wilson Persnickety

Anderson

Scott

Mary Kay Burns FL Department of Health – DeSoto Co.

DeLoach

Seusy

Shine

DeLuca

Deriso

Simons

Fussell

Smith

Hipp

Wilkes

WE HELP YOU RECRUIT, HIRE AND TRAIN THE BEST EMPLOYEES

Learn More About Our Business Services:

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Put Us to Work for Your Business

Optimize your recruiting efforts and let us help you find talented candidates for your business!

Post Job Openings On-Line Recruitment Applicant Screening Referral of Qualified Candidates Hiring Events Facilities for Recruiting/Interviewing Funding For Employee Training

We Have Solutions That Work For You

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We are an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. All voice telephone numbers may be reached by persons using TTY/TDD equipment via the Florida Relay Service at "711".

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

DeSoto County Visitors Guide Named for the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, the people of DeSoto County have preserved the natural beauty of the region, while nurturing the spirit that made our community so unique. DeSoto County is for people who want to get away from it all and enjoy Florida’s central heartland. Come for a week or a weekend. Whether you’re searching for a Tiffany lamp or a 10,000-year-old shark tooth, want to spend a day golfing at Arcadia Municipal, take a trip down the Peace River, or experience a rodeo — there’s something for everyone. The Peace River is more than 120 miles of beautiful water and scenic views. Named a Blueway Community by the Florida Paddling Trails Association, six boat ramps on the Peace River offer canoeing, airboating, pontoon boat tours, swamp buggy tours and even horseback riding along the river. You can also enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing for largemouth bass, bream, catfish, tarpon, snook and camping at Peace River

Campground, Lettuce Lake RV Resort and Riverside RV Resort and Campground. Fossil-hunters can have a field day with a bounty of archeological treasures that even the Travel Channel took notice. The county launched a mobile app in 2017 to help you find your adventure on the Peace River. It can be found in the Apple App Store or Google Play under Peace River Florida-Discover DeSoto. The city of Arcadia was named “Best Place for Antique Shopping” by Florida Monthly Magazine with dozens of indoor establishments and street vendors. Don’t miss the fourth Saturday Antiques Fair, bringing more than 100 dealers to the city, and the Tater Hill Show on second Saturdays. There’s also an online, mobile-friendly,

self-guided walking tour of historic downtown Arcadia. To access the tour, the DeSoto County Historical Society (www.historicdesoto. org), which also has a museum/research library and information on historic cemetery/home/church tours, provides a QR (Quick Response) Code that can be scanned by cell phone or other mobile devices. The QR Code is posted in windows throughout downtown. Every March, we host the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, the “Granddaddy of Em All” and the state’s oldest and largest rodeo offering family entertainment in Mosaic Arena. There are also youth rodeos and other exciting events scheduled throughout the year at the arena. Arcadia is rich in history and community spirit, where the fruits and vegetables are

right off the farm, the pies are baked fresh daily, and the smiles are as warm as the sun that filters through the Tree of Knowledge, the town’s massive oak tree in the downtown retail district. One of Florida’s leading cattle and citrus producers, we’re also home to farming operations in peaches, blueberries, watermelons and more. Savor the sweetness of life with our fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade crafts, honey, jams and more—even blueberry wine! DeSoto yields a bumper crop of activities, including family favorite farm tours (Joshua Citrus), farmer’s markets, food festivals and the popular Arcadia Bike Fest held in March and November.

Start planning your adventure at www.visitdesoto.com

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

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The DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce extends a special thank you to all of our COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Join the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce

PLATINUM SPONSOR

In 1926, a few concerned citizens determined that DeSoto County was in need of a Chamber of Commerce. This group of businessmen established the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce in an effort to assist the business community and encourage economic development. Since that time the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce has strived to maintain that same level of community commitment and, when possible, improve on the services it provides.

DIAMOND SPONSOR

Wellpath offers job opportunities in correctional environments, state psychiatric hospitals, forensic mental health facilities and other specialty care locations.

GOLD SPONSORS

Medical, dental, vision, 401K, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, college savings, health savings & flexible spending accounts.

You are cordially invited to join the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce. Comprised of over 300 citizens and businesses from around the DeSoto County and surrounding counties, this dynamic organization feels that by working together we can combine resources to improve the prosperity of our community. We would like to offer you the opportunity to develop and enhance your management skills, exposure to creative ideas, early awareness of emerging trends, and opportunities to network with fellow business leaders. We hope you will join the Home Team. We are confident that you will find the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce a worthwhile investment, and we look forward to working with you to promote your business and our unique and thriving community. Benefits of Joining Our Chamber • Free business referrals through the Chamber office • Free advertising space in the Chamber office for your brochures and business cards • Free listing for your business on the Chamber website • Free web link to your business website • Participate in the annual election of board members • Invitation to the annual Chamber membership banquet • Friendly help and assistance from the Chamber office staff • Free 1/4 page ad in the Peace River Shopper • Free 1/8 page full color ad in the DeSoto Sun Weekly • Many networking opportunities

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Invitation to Join

FLORIDA CIVIL COMMITMENT CENTER 13619 SE HWY 70 ARCADIA, FL 34266 (863) 491.4800 aVV U VGG

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Tater Hill

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Fun Shoot

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

The 10th Annual Tater Hill Fun Shoot presented by the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce was March 30, 2019. There were approximately 125 shooters that turned out for the event at Bermont Shooting Club. Teams had a chance to be recognized as the 2019 Top Team and a chance to go home with bragging rights as Top 2019 Male Shooter or Top 2019 Female Shooter.

you had to be able to shoot the pistol and hit the clay. If you were able to hit your target your name was placed in a drawing for the Judge!

Shooters also had a chance to win a Judge Pistol in a drawing with 19 other shooters. In order to have your name in the drawing

This fundraiser would not be possible without our Title Sponsors Mosaic, A+ Environmental Restoration and Fine Line Millwork.

The Tater Hill Fun Shoot is the DeSoto Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual fundraiser. The money raised goes to help with overall Chamber expenses. This allows the Chamber to provide more opportunities for our Chamber member businesses.

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

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We are so thankful for their made by Chamber Board support and the support of our staff. Please plan to bring teams that come out each year. your team out this year on We also want to mention March 28, 2020 to Bermont Shooting Club. You can that shooters received a call 863-494-4033 or email delicious meal. Pulled pork, chamber@desotochamberfl. made by Donnie Sargent, com for more information. Sr. and all the trimmings

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

CORNERSTONE Lifetime Achievement Recipients The Cornerstone Award

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Eugene H Turner Dr. & Mrs. Calvin Martin Dr. Roosevelt Johnson Dr. Kayum Mohammadbhoy First State Bank of Arcadia Sunbulb, Inc. Arcadia McDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Arcadia Rodeo Hackney, Ames & Co Fussell Meats, LLC

The Lifetime Achievement Award

is given to an individual who has worked and lived in DeSoto County for 25 plus years and has contributed to the community through their profession and service. The following are the recipients for this award: 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Judge James Parker Martha Jo Markey Pat Backer Michael Waller Eugene E. Waldron, Jr.

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is given to a business that represents the community in the following way: a founding block for growth, contributes to economic development and to the community. The following are the recipients for this award:

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

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Getting To Know The Mosaic Company leases and government infrastructure.

Locally Mosaic has been a key supporter of All Faiths Food Bank’s mobile food pantries and backpack program. These employees are shown volunteering at the new Food Resource Center.

The Evolution of Phosphate yields decrease. Operations in Florida Florida phosphate accounts In 1881, Captain J. Francis Lebaron discovered phosphate pebbles while surveying the Peace River. More than a century later these prehistoric sediments have become a major economic driver credited with helping sustain the livelihood for multiple generations of Floridians. The phosphorus derived from phosphate rock is a naturally occurring element which means it can’t be artificially reproduced. It’s an essential part of every living creature’s DNA; humans need it for healthy bones and to power our cell function and plants need it to perform photosynthesis so they grow strong and plentiful.

for nearly 65 percent of U.S. farmers’ supply of granular phosphate fertilizer and 12 percent of the global supply, to farmers in America and around the globe. And the global population is growing, expected to reach 9.8 billion by 2050. That makes phosphate a critical component of the global food picture, as well as the driving force behind Mosaic’s mission to help the world grow the food it needs.

Through partnerships and initiatives focused on educating customers and the community about modern growing practices, Mosaic is positioning itself to meet the challenges that lie ahead. In addition to advocating for responsible nutrient management, the When a grower harvests company champions the use a crop, soil nutrients like phosphorus get removed from of sustainable, innovative techniques to help teach the field along with that crop. Phosphorus is one of three vital farmers how to grow more food crop nutrients used by farmers on less land. The 4R Nutrient to grow more food. If these Stewardship program is just nutrients aren’t replaced, crop

To further illustrate the various uses for formerly mined land, Mosaic’s Land Management department now operates thousands of acres of citrus, blueberries, sod, commercial eucalyptus and pine plantations. There’s even a fish farm, which produces about 1.4 million pounds of restaurant grade tilapia every year.

But while Mosaic may seem like a massive global one way Mosaic shows farmers corporation, at its heart its that using the right source of generations of employees nutrients, at the right time, in the right place and at the right calling Florida and the phosphate industry home. rate can significantly improve These employees and their overall crop yields on the farm, and also help protect the families are the inspiration behind Mosaic community environment by minimizing investments, like improvements and even eliminating nutrient to McSwain Park or spending runoff. years working as part of a Mosaic’s commitment to the community team to make the safety of people as well as the new Mosaic Rodeo Arena a environment is a cornerstone reality or sending hundreds of its Phosphate Operations in of DeSoto students every year Florida. Mining today looks to see the Florida Aquarium much different than it did where Florida’s coastline comes 30 years ago when more than to life. 20 mining companies and a Mosaic supports and dozen manufacturing facilities celebrates the good work so operated here. Today only two many of our 3,000 Florida companies remain. Mosaic oversees the remaining three of employees do in their the original 12 manufacturing communities. They coach little league, help in their houses facilities and four mines in Central and Southwest Florida. of worship, feed the homeless and mentor youth. These Since 1975, the state folks are your neighbors, your began requiring the phosphate volunteers, your parishioners industry to reclaim every acre and they are Mosaic, helping of land it mines. Many of these the world grow the food it formerly mined areas have needs, the food WE count on been reclaimed for recreation, every day. wildlife habitat, parks, cattle

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

Looking for Qualified Job Candidates? Dukes, Business Operations Manager for CareerSource Heartland, with a DeSoto County location at 2160 NE Roan St. in Arcadia. “We help local businesses acquire talent, develop talent and retain talent at no financial cost to the business.” Are you a business that needs qualified individuals to fill your open positions? Or, are you looking for a career change? Retired but wanting to find a job to supplement your income? No experience but willing to learn a new skill? CareerSource Heartland (CSH) connects businesses and job seekers. “We’re the area’s bestkept secret,” said Colleen

Job seeker services include workshops such as basic computer training, acing the interview, building your resume. For employers, CSH can provide applicant pre-screening, hiring/ recruitment events, labor market information and financial grants to train new or existing employees. “We assess people and see what their skills are and

where they would be a good fit,” Dukes said. “We all know how hard it is to find qualified talent so that’s why we want to help businesses grow their own talent through our training programs.”

and improving their chances for advancement within a company.

On the Job Training: OJT is provided for eligible candidates who have been hired by the employer Training programs include: following an agreement with CareerSource Heartland that Work Experience: the employer will provide This program encourages an the occupational training. employer to give someone In exchange, the employer experiencing barriers to can recoup up to 50 percent employment a work-based of the wages paid to the opportunity that may not otherwise be available to them. OJT participant during the training period. Customized Training: “We have helped many This is for current employees local businesses pay for who need training to update their skills sets. This program skills upgrade training,” said Dukes. will help a current employee obtain the skills necessary For more information, to become more productive call 863.993.1008

Wellpath offers job opportunities in correctional environments, state psychiatric hospitals, forensic mental health facilities and other specialty care locations.

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Medical, dental, vision, 401K, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, college savings, health savings & flexible spending accounts.

FLORIDA CIVIL COMMITMENT CENTER 13619 SE HWY 70 ARCADIA, FL 34266 (863) 491.4800 aVV U VGG

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

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Leadership DeSoto County is a program through the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce. It seeks to educate, challenge, and develop a select group of leaders who live or work in DeSoto County. Participants are selected on the basis of ability, demonstrated interest in the community, and potential for effective leadership. The program begins in September and continues monthly through graduation in May. Class members attend monthly sessions focused on different community topics and have the opportunity

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LeadershiP desoto

to hear from leaders and businesses throughout the DeSoto County area. The class days are Ag Day, Community Service Day, Government Day, Criminal Justice Day, Economic Development and Tourism Day, Community History and Culture Day, Health Day and Education Day.

THROUGHOUT THE CLASS, YOU WILL: • View our community up close • Build your professional and social networks • Meet city and county officials and community leaders

Leadership DeSoto began in 2008 and since has graduated approximately 190 members from Classes 1-10.

LEADERSHIP DESOTO ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD This is an annual award recognizing an Alumni that has shown outstanding service and commitment to DeSoto County. This person is someone who has made selfless contributions to our community and exemplifies the qualities of a great leader.

The following are the recipients of this award: 2016 – Mary Kay Burns 2018 – Tim Vowels 2017 – Heather Nedley 2019 – Pam Vowels

Become part of the DeSoto County Chamber’s Leadership DeSoto Alumni network and join hundreds of other business professionals as a Leadership graduate. And much more! For an application contact the Chamber.

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

There’s so Much to do in DeSoto County Arcadia is the county seat for DeSoto County. Founded in 1886, Arcadia is well known for its antique district with more than 25 antique stores. On the fourth Saturday of each month, more than 100 vendors take over the streets for one of the largest antique fairs in Florida. Throughout the year, there are Rodeos, Bike and Orange Blossom Festivals, Beer Walks, Wine Walks and car shows.

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Culturally, Arcadia and DeSoto County display

elements of Midwestern “niceness” and old-fashioned Southern charm. Manners matter here with “sir” and “ma’am” often heard.

Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo

Home to Florida’s longest running and largest rodeo, featuring bull riding, barrel racing and steer wrestling. With events throughout the year, the March and October rodeos draws spectators and athletes from all over the country.

Historic District

Arcadia’s downtown has 374 buildings in the National Register of Historic Places,

including the Opera House and the restored Train Depot. Easy to find and fun to visit! Roughly bounded by Lee and Mills Avenues, Imogene, Cypress, Pine and Magnolia Streets, the area is a mix of Classic Revival and Late Victorian architecture.

John Morgan Ingraham House Museum

A prime example of an unaltered turn of the century “Cracker House” in Arcadia.

RV and Tent Camping There are plenty of options for camping throughout DeSoto County including full-facility campsites for tent campers and RVers along with water,

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020 electricity, grilling and picnicking areas and play areas for the kids.

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Lions, Tigers & Bears

Fun on the Peace River

Just north of Arcadia, the 40-acre wildlife sanctuary provides a “permanent, loving Arcadia Municipal home to unwanted exotic Golf Course pets, non-releasable wildlife Book tee times online, lessons and endangered species.” are available and members get Open to the public Thursday through Sunday between 10 unlimited play year-round. a.m. – 1 p.m. Closed during July and August.

With boat ramps and miles of walking paths, there’s a TON of fun to be found all around from fossil hunting, airboat and buggy tours & rides to kayaking and canoeing down the Peace River.

DeSoto County truly has something for everyone… Discover DeSoto. Plan your trip today, www.VisitDeSoto.com.

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brief history of desoto County business DeSoto County’s earliest settlement was Fort Ogden. During the Second Seminole War (1835-1842) — the longest, bloodiest, and most costly war of “Indian removal” — Camp Ogden was named for Capt. Edmund Ogden of the 8th U.S. Infantry. Seminole Chief Coacoochee visited there before the camp was

abandoned and it was not reactivated during the Third Seminole War (1855-1858). Settlers renamed the community Fort Ogden, and the post office, established in 1876, is the oldest in DeSoto County to be in continuous service. Fort Ogden was incorporated as a town in 1887 and as a city in

1913. The municipality was disbanded during the Great Depression. An article published in 1877 in the Savannah Morning News reported that, “Fort Ogden is a scattered village of about forty families, located within an area of four miles, with two churches, Baptist and Methodist, three stores,

and a post office. We have a mail from Manatee by Pine Level overland, one from Punta Rassa, embracing Fort Myers and Charlotte’s Harbor to this place. A new route is to begin from Fort Meade, on the east side of Pease creek, a distance of seventy-five miles to Fort Ogden.”

Since 1929, the heritage of livestock has been James Mitchell “Acrefoot” celebrated annually during Johnson serves as the the Arcadia All-Florida “mascot” for the DeSoto Championship Rodeo with County Historical Society’s the Mosaic Arena, completed annual Pioneer Day and in 2018. In 1939, the Arcadia BBQ, held annually on the State Livestock Market third Saturday in March at opened and continued Veterans Park. operation until 2005. In 1855, Manatee County had been formed, and in 1866, Pine Level — about 10 miles west of Arcadia’s present location — was established as the county seat until 1888 when voters chose Arcadia. In 2014, the original 40-acre Pine Level townsite was listed in the National Register of Historic Places as one of only seven Reconstruction-era sites in Florida. Established in 1887

Continued from Page 18

and named for the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, DeSoto County has 3,750 square miles, extending from Charlotte Harbor to Lake Okeechobee. The first sheriff, Owen Dishong, donated the land for the first school built in Owens — his namesake community. In 1881, Captain Francis LeBaron of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers identified pebble phosphate in the river, and six years later, T.S. Morehead founded Arcadia Phosphate Co. Joseph Blue Hull formed another mining company and gave his name to the Hull community. Mining the river ceased about 1910 as companies began stripmining land deposits in Polk County. In the 1850s, Peace River provided transportation

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to settlements along the river. One had been called variously Waldron’s Landing, Raulerson’s Landing and Tater Hill Bluff. However, in 1883, settlers chose the name “Arcadia” as suggested by the Rev. James Madison Hendry, who wanted to repay the kindness of 22-year-old Arcadia Albritton Coker. She had baked a birthday cake for him. The Florida Southern Railway‘s first train arrived in Arcadia in 1886. The Atlantic Coast Line Railway bought line in 1902 and built Arcadia’s brick depot in 1911. The ACL’s Tampa Southern Railroad built the Fort Ogden Extension in 1927 to connect Fort Ogden and Sarasota. Today, the Seminole Gulf Railway follows the tracks from north county to Fort

Ogden and continues to Punta Gorda. The county’s first citrus grove was planted by the John Bates family in the Bunker community, named for George Bunker who surveyed the area in 1885. Most citrus was sold fresh before the invention of juice concentrate, and packing houses operated in every community. From 1926 to the 1980s, the DeSoto Canning Company canned citrus fruit and juices. During World War I,

two aviation training camps were built, and Arcadia called itself the “Aviation City of Florida.” Training continued until 1922. Prior to the U.S. entry into World War II, the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Corp. re-activated both fields as primary training schools, and the British Royal Air Force sent pilots for training. Every Memorial Day, the Arcadia Rotary Club honors the 23 British cadets buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery. In 1921, DeSoto County was divided into the five present-day counties of

Charlotte, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee and Highlands. During the Great Depression, Arcadia built a municipal airport with Federal Emergency Relief Act (FERA) funds. FERA also funded a beef cannery at the Florida Baptist Children’s Home (located in Arcadia from 1903 to 1948). The Floridian Products Corp. was formed to can rattlesnake meat and sell other products from rattlesnakes. The company eventually relocated to Hillsborough County. In 1960, Hurricane Donna toppled the decorative arches and urns from the Plaza Hotel, the

only remaining 1920s-era hotel. A direct strike from Hurricane Charley in 2004 caused extensive damage and Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused disastrous flooding. In 1984, the Arcadia Historic District was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1985, Arcadia became a Main Street City.

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Meet Your Hometown Team

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

Thinking of Buying or Selling A Home?

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CHRIS WOPPMAN REALTOR®

SARAH WHIDDEN REALTOR®

KATIE BRYAN REALTOR®

CIARA MERCER REALTOR®

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Finding the right home can be difficult.

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“Anyone who has been here long enough knows DeSoto County has grown In DeSoto County, Town substantially in just the & Country Properties of past five years,” said Ronda Florida, Inc. can provide Woppman, a T&C broker. you with the resources you “We still, however, have need to simplify the home maintained our small-town buying and selling process. feel.” Their experienced Realtors You can use the marketing can provide information programs and the experience about the area, estimate your of the Realtors at Town & mortgage payments, provide area home values and listings, Country to help you sell your and other information to help home quickly and at the right price or find the perfect home you through the process. to fit your family’s needs.

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35 S. Monroe Ave. • Arcadia

863-494-5282 arcadiaprinting@hotmail.com Find us on

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020 “Integrity and honesty in everything we do is what, I think, sets us apart,” Woppman said. “We don’t just list and sell property, we form and build relationships. I stress that the most important part of our job is to engage with the customer and build a relationship. In some cases, as with first-time home buyers, purchasing a home will be one of the biggest events in their lives. Our customers need to know they can trust us and they’re more than just a transaction. Everyone in the office works so cohesively with one another and are quick to jump in and help each other.” For Woppman, selling real estate is the most rewarding career she could have chosen.

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“As a child in the early 1980s, I spent every summer at my grandparents house in Amarillo, Texas. They owned a mobile-home dealership — Town and Country Properties. I still recall the horse-and-carriage logo branded on everything from the big sign out front to the custom calendar on the wall.” In the late ‘90s, after marrying and starting a family, she was offered a clerical job at a real estate office. In 2005, she obtained her sales associate’s license and in 2011, after years of building her clientele, she decided to open her own brokerage. “I knew what I wanted to name it and, just like that, Town and Country Properties

Pg 23 was born, or rather reborn,” Woppman said. “In 2016, several agents asked about placing their license with my brokerage.” Having a small office meant they weren’t set up to have multiple agents. That’s when they started the hunt for a larger location and in 2017 purchased their new office building at 521 E. Hickory Street in Arcadia They now have a sales force of seven

full-time agents. “Town and Country Properties is not just the name of the brokerage for me, it represents my past,” Woppman said. “And upholding the character of the name and reputation my grandparents built on honesty and hard work means the world to me.” For more information Call 863.494.1739

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

RELOCATION RESOURCES

One of the first priorities of all new residents is to find out more about the area in which you will be living. The DeSoto Chamber of Commerce can help, providing information on the DeSoto County area as well as more specific data on registering a motor vehicle, obtaining a driver’s license, utilities, public school registration and more. If you’re looking to purchase goods and services, we encourage you to visit our Member Business Directory. This directory of DeSoto County Chamber Members provides you with a listing of businesses that have made an investment in our area. For more information on Arcadia please visit www.arcadia-fl. gov and for more information on DeSoto County please visit www.desotobocc.com Courthouse Downtown Arcadia

Turner Realty Company, Inc. "South West Florida’s County of Opportunity!” Specializing in Large Acreage, Residential & Commercial Sales

Eugene H. Turner Jr., Broker

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(863) 990-1557

www.TurnerRealty.com

105 S. Brevard Avenue Arcadia, FL 34266 • (863) 494-4777

DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

A LETTER FROM THE

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President

Thank you for taking a few minutes to learn more about our community and the amazing opportunities we have to offer. I am honored to serve alongside an outstanding group of dedicated individuals – individuals who desire to see DeSoto County thrive now and long into the future. As the DeSoto County Chamber of Commerce, our goal is to promote the health and growth of our local communities. The board of directors works in various ways to accomplish this goal. The Fundraiser Committee works tirelessly throughout the year to make sure we have the necessary funds to fulfill our goals. The main fundraiser each year is the Tater Hill Fun Shoot which usually occurs the last Saturday in March. In 2020, we will be celebrating the 11th year of this event. The Tater Hill Fun Shoot has grown throughout the years to become a highlyanticipated community event with support from DeSoto, Charlotte, Sarasota, Hardee, Highlands, Lee counties and beyond. As well as raising money, this is also a great opportunity for our members to network and connect with a wide array of individuals.

that we currently provide and are always looking to add more value wherever we can. We realize that the more we can do to elevate our local businesses and organizations, the healthier our communities will be.

an advocate for all of our members.

generation. Which is why we are pleased to present a scholarship each year to a Every December, the deserving graduate of DeSoto chamber is honored to host High School. We value the the Christmas Parade through relationship we have with historic downtown Arcadia our local school district and as well as Christmas Card believe that the Chamber has Lane in Veteran’s Park by a responsibility in supporting The Legislative the Peace River. The Parade the children and youth in our Committee works with and Card Lane committees communities. our elected officials and work hard to present high government agencies to quality events. As you drive There is much more that advocate on behalf of our through Veteran’s Park, you should be shared. As I stated members. While our chamber see the story of Christmas earlier, I am truly honored to operates in a nonpartisan come alive through the talent serve on the DeSoto County fashion, we realize that there of local individuals portrayed Chamber of Commerce are many legislative issues on life-sized cards. Every year Board of Directors with some that positively or negatively the Parade attracts thousands of the finest leaders in our affect our members. Our goal of residents to downtown community. We take seriously is to provide a voice to our Arcadia to witness floats of the opportunity we have to membership in these areas. all shapes and sizes glide make a positive impact on the This committee remains up down Main Street. Golf carts, future of DeSoto County. to date on relevant issues trucks, trailers, horses, tractor Another important and provides guidance trailers, marching bands, fire Thank you for your interest component of the Chamber is on how to proceed on trucks, police cars, tractor and please let us know how we our Membership Committee. sensitive topics. They also trailers, atv’s, tractors and so can better serve you. These individuals collaborate organize a yearly legislative much more, all decorated all year to advise on the wrap-up event where our in the spirit of Christmas, - Weldon Campbell benefits and value that we elected state representatives parade through the night to President, provide to our members. provide our members with the delight of all. DeSoto County As a board, our goal is to an update on issues that Chamber of Commerce constantly improve in these affect our communities. As The Chamber board also area. We are continually a board, we take seriously recognizes the importance improving on the services the responsibility of being of investing in the next

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DeSoto County Chamber Guide | 2020

DeSoto County Chamber Guide ABSTRACT Arcadia Abstract (863) 494-4300 (863) 993-3421 jheitman@arcadiaabstract.com 20 West Oak Street | Arcadia FL 34266

DeSoto Abstract & Title (863) 494-3656 dconerly@wauchulaabstract.com 11 N Polk Ave | Arcadia FL 34266

ADVERTISING Buffalo Graffix (941) 625-2833 18320 Paulson Dr Unit A | Pt. Charlotte FL 33954

DeSoto Sign Company (863) 494-2441 desotosign@yahoo.com 1072 W. Oak St. | Arcadia FL 34266

WFLN/ Fiorini Broadcasting (863) 993-1480 201 Asbury St. | Arcadia FL 34266

AGRICULTURE Brian Burns Citrus LLC (863) 494-1378 Brian@burnsbrian.com 3662 NW Co. Rd 661 | Arcadia FL 34266

DeSoto Co Extension Service-UF (863) 993-4846 2150NE Roan Ave. | Arcadia FL 34266

GreenByrd Farms (305) 310-0751 ingrid003@hotmail.com 11538 SE Shelfer Ave. | Arcadia FL 34266

Island Grove Ag Products (863) 494-0248 (863) 494-0878 jgross@islandgroveagproducts.com 4730 SE Sever Grade | Arcadia FL 34266

Johnson Ag Services (863) 263-6315 jjohnsonagservices@gmail.com 604 N Waldron St | Arcadia FL 34266

Joshua Citrus (863) 494-6166 info@joshuacitrus.com 4135 SE County Rd 760 | Arcadia FL 34266

Mabry Carlton Ranch 941-322-1135 9430 Sidell Rd | Sidell FL 34266