Greetings!
Welcome to the October Edition of my "Real Estate Resource" Newsletter.
Please check out my website
waltbethel.com
to view my listings, search for property, or to enjoy one of my archived newsletters.
As always, I welcome your feedback and suggestions.
Walt
|
|
 |
2nd Annual FREE
Cops & Goblins
Trick or Treating Event Hosted By Charlotte County Sheriff's Office at Charlotte Sports Park
Halloween October 31st
6pm-8pm
____________
Trick or Ice Cream?
If you’ve been in or near Gilchrist Park in Punta Gorda on Halloween you might have seen trick-or-treaters walking around eating ice cream. Maybe you thought that was a little unusual.
It started with a guy named Albert Waller Gilchrist, a civil engineer, who came to the town of Trabue back in 1885 as a surveyor and engineer for the Charlotte Harbor Division of the Florida Southern Railroad.
Over the years he considered Punta Gorda his home, visiting often. He was known for his charitable contributions including donations of land to many organizations. He never married but was very fond of children. When he walked down Marion Avenue he would frequently give kids Indian head nickels he kept in his pocket to buy ice cream and candy from the local store. He had a tradition of treating them to ice cream on Halloween.
He died on May 15, 1926, and was buried in Indian Springs Cemetery. He was an active brother of the Mason Fraternity since 1890 and left the following provision in his will:Ice Cream Cone
“It has been my custom, when in Punta Gorda on Halloween night, to set up to all the boys and girls at one of the drug stores generally ice cream cones; I want the Lodge (Masons) to continue this custom, using a part of the interest (of the $5000 principal left the Lodge). It costs little and affords much happiness.”
The Masons have continued this tradition since his death, providing ice cream to the children of Punta Gorda in the park named after him.
|
|
|
|
This Haunted Road Trip Will Lead You To The Scariest Places in Florida
|
Fall is here, and Halloween is right around the corner. If you’re looking for a fun way to spend Halloween, why not try a haunted road trip? We’ve got several of Florida’s most haunted spots mapped out for you, so gas up the car and get ready for some ghost hunting.
St. Augustine Lighthouse
Let's start our journey in the nation's oldest city, which is also one of its most haunted. Since the lighthouse was constructed in 1874, several people have passed away in or near the lighthouse. The most famous story is that of the Pettee girls. Their father was hired to work on the lighthouse, and the girls, one 13 and one 15, got in the construction cart and it rolled into the Bay. No one could reach them quickly enough, and they drowned. Children's laughter and footsteps on the stairs, among many other occurrences, are often reported here.
Cassadaga
Our next stop is a little town that has long drawn visitors who were fascinated with the paranormal. This town is called the "Psychic Capital of the World," because it has a large number of resident psychics and spiritualists. There are several places in Cassadaga that are rumored to be haunted, from the Cassadaga Hotel to the Devil's Chair in the Lake Helen-Cassadaga cemetery.
Launch Complex 34
The third stop on our trip was the site of a tragedy in space exploration. Complex 34 was envisioned as a major launch pad for NASA, until tragically, three astronauts died in a cabin fire here in 1967. The launch pad was shut down and stands as a memorial to the fallen astronauts. Paranormal activity has been reported here, from mysterious screaming to a sudden overwhelming sense of dread. It can be visited as part of a special tour offered through the Kennedy Space Center.
Ashley's Of Rockledge
You're probably hungry after all of that ghost hunting, so luckily, our next stop doubles as a pub.The main spirit here is tied to a story that is truly gruesome. It has been verified by local reports from the time. A young woman, Ethel Allen, was last seen at the restaurant (then Jack's Tavern) before her body was found near the Indian River. Workers and visitors have reported being tapped or pushed, seeing objects move on their own, and a woman in period clothing.
The Biltmore Hotel, Miami
This road trip probably takes several days, so it's a good thing we have a couple of hotels on our route. The most famous legend at this historic hotel is of a mobster killed in a gambling dispute, who is said to remain here in spirit. Visitors and employees have seen lights turn on and off by themselves and the elevator repeatedly going to the wrong floor. This resident spirit has also been known to hold doors open for servers in the hotel's restaurant.
The Opera House, Arcadia
Next, we'll head to this tiny town to check out this historic Opera House. This 1905 theater is currently occupied by an antique store and museum. The theater has been rumored to be haunted by a little girl who some say jumped out the second story window. Phantom footsteps and laughter have also been heard here.
Tampa Theatre
Then we'll head to Tampa to visit this beautiful 1926 theater that is still in use today. Many employees have experienced paranormal events when alone in the theater. It's supposedly haunted by the longtime projectionist who worked in the theater from 1930 to 1965 and died of a heart attack in the projection booth.
May-Stringer House (Hernando Historical Museum Association), Brooksville
Last but not least, we'll head to the Victorian house that is often called Florida's most haunted. It's rumored to be occupied by past residents who passed away on the property. The historic house is now a museum displaying antiques and artifacts of the Victorian era. At night, it hosts adult-only haunted tours and groups of paranormal researchers.
So what do you think? Are you up for this road trip? Let us know your thoughts!
|
|
|
|
|
|
1/2 Acre+ Commercial Lot on Kings Hwy
12687 Co Rd 769 Arcadia, FL 34269
Just over a Half Acre commercial lot located in Old Florida Village on Kings Hwy. Relocate or start your own business adjacent to established professional office buildings that include a law firm, accounting offices, and wellness center. Located less than 1.5 miles to Interstate 75, just across the Charlotte County line. This property offers a 250 feet waterfront view of Allegiant Air’s recently purchased Kingsway Golf Course.
MLS:
C7406153
Total Acres: .54
Listing price: $75,000
|
|
1,612 +/- Acre Ranch-Manatee County
26005 Harrison Rd. Myakka City, FL 34251
|
Located only 20 minutes from Sarasota and I-75 sits this spotless ranch property. With just over 1,600 acres, the beautiful “old Florida” landscape provides endless opportunities for the hunter, rancher, farmer or a recreational get away. It's one of a kind lodge boasts 5 bedrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and a beautifully updated kitchen. The entire property is abundant with deer, turkey, and other wildlife. Barns and guest houses round off this complete package. Call today to schedule a private showing!
Click here for a Gallery of Images
MLS: C7405242
Total Acres: 1,612
Listing price: $8,463,000
|
|
JUST REDUCED!
Quick Charlotte Harbor Access Punta Gorda Isles Pool Home
1133 Treasure Cay Ct. Punta Gorda, FL 33950
|
QUICK ACCESS TO CHARLOTTE HARBOR WITH 95 FEET OF CONCRETE SEAWALL, CONCRETE DOCK AND 10,000LB BOAT LIFT!Located in Punta Gorda Isles which is the premier community of Punta Gorda, offering a true downtown with the top restaurants, shopping at Fisherman's village, beautiful parks on the Harbor, walking trails, golf and easy access to airports and beaches. With over 2,400 sq ft, this 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home is your piece of Florida paradise. Open concept with bright natural light fills home. Living room has large sliders overlooking the patio. Kitchen is large with breakfast bar and new stainless steel refrigerator.
Laying in your master suite you can wake up to the views of the tropical foliage and your heated pool or take a dip in the hot tub. Bedrooms 2 and 3 are spacious and are ready for guests or to be used as office with built-ins already in place. Covered lanai seating with a walk up bar to the kitchen will be great for entertaining all year long. Stroll down your path and fish for snook right off your dock or jump on your boat and be on the Charlotte Harbor in moments. Don't let this one pass you by!
MLS: C7400828
Heated Square Feet: 2,448
Listing price: $524,000
|
|
191+/- Acre Recreational Hunting Tract
4022 Aurin Grade Arcadia, FL 34266
|
191 +/- Acres situated in the highly sought after Kings Hwy area in DeSoto County. Two parcels combine to form this ideal recreational property with a newly built 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom Cabin and pole barn. The property is fenced, gated, and is encompassed by beautiful sloughs an old Florida Oak hammock’s. Saw Palmettos And Pine Trees finish off this beautiful Old Florida landscape.Deer & other wildlife are abundant and the solitude is serene. This property is the perfect spot for your weekend getaway. The entrance is right off Kings Highway (State Road 769) with convenient access to Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Interstate 75, or to the downtown Arcadia area.
MLS: C7404561
Total Acres: 191
Listing price: $1,250,000
|
|
Large Warehouse on 8.5+/- Acres with Prime Hwy 17 Frontage
2692 Nat Ave. Arcadia, FL 34266
|
Large Warehouse with 8.5 Acres Zoned Industrial Light located off of prime Hwy 17 in Arcadia, Florida.
This Gated property offers two buildings, offices, ample parking and outside storage. The Manufacturing building encompasses over 38,000 total square feet with up to 26' high ceilings. Ideal for manufacturing and assembly line operations or distribution. Currently operating as a Machine Shop and manufacturing facility for commercial mowers and fertilizer spreaders.
The Business, inventory, and adjacent 4.69 acres of commercial real estate may be purchased separately. Call today for an appointment.
MLS: C7249402
Total Square Feet: 39,449
Listing price: $1,295,000
|
|
5 Acre Tracts Kings Hwy
*JUST REDUCED*
Can be Combined!
SW Albritton St. Arcadia, FL 34266
|
Highly Desired Property off Kings Hwy!! **FINANCING AVAILABLE**
Offering a quiet and private setting this is the ideal building site for your dream home with plenty of space for a barn, pond, or animals.
Located right off Kings Highway (State Road 769) with quick access to Port Charlotte, Interstate 75, or to the downtown Arcadia area. Sarasota and Gulf Beaches within close proximity.
Total Acres: 5 Acres
Listing price: $69,500 per 5 Acre Tract
|
|
|
Walt Bethel is a fifth generation Floridian, born and raised in Arcadia, with a vast knowledge of all areas of Florida Real Estate and an ardent appreciation for Florida history.
The purchase and development of his first orange grove when he was just sixteen years old fueled Walt's passion for real estate.
Since then, he has bought, owned, and sold a wide variety of properties throughout a successful business career. His investments have included acreage, agricultural properties, residential homes, condos, and commercial properties.
Walt's marketing and sales experience was cultivated over time at his family's business, Bethel Farms, where he marketed, managed, and sold products to "Big Box" retailers across the Southeastern and Midwestern United States.
From an early age, Walt's dad instilled in him the values to work hard and always have a goal, to look for a better way of doing things, and to constantly improve on them.
The daily implementation of these principles, coupled with his enjoyment of networking with new people and his experience in business, sales, and marketing, have contributed to Walt's success as a Realtor.
Walt has served on various boards and committees throughout the years. He has coached and actively supports local youth athletic programs and leagues.
He and his wife Jill, also a fourth generation Floridian, reside in Punta Gorda. They have two children, a daughter Peyton and a son Truman.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
