ALVA, Fla. (Feb. 2, 2015) – A long-time Southwest Florida family has purchased the former Ritchey’s Fresh Produce in Alva and reopened it as Rooster’s Farm Fresh Market.
Located at 15500 Palm Beach Boulevard, off State Road 80 in Alva, the market had been closed since 2012. Husband and wife, Denny and Jean Baer, purchased the property in July, and after refurbishing the market during last summer and fall, they have recently re-opened for business. The market is being managed by the Baer’s son, Tyler, an ecology and wildlife studies graduate of the University of Florida.
The market will be open Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rooster’s features a variety of Florida vegetables, produce and citrus as well as locally made honey, jams, jellies, soaps, hot sauces and more. The property includes a large greenhouse that is currently producing fresh herbs and plans to expand into micro greens.
Originally from Wisconsin, the Baer’s have lived in Southwest Florida since 1988 and own homes in Labelle and Sanibel.
“We grew up with a love of agriculture and are so excited that this once vibrant and popular market is open again,” said Jean Baer. “We are easily accessible for Southwest Florida residents, being just six miles east of Exit 141, off I-75 on Route 80, and we provide plenty of parking.”
According to the Baers, plans call for the market to serve as a food hub for local farmer’s to sell their products and wares. The family is also working with the UF/IFAS Extension office to host workshops including topics on composting, rain barrel making and gardening.
While it operated as Ritchey’s, the market was known for its elaborate miniature doghouses that were locally made and sold on the property. Two of the original houses are still present.
“We are very dog friendly,” Jean Baer added. “We offer locally made dog treats for our four-legged friends.”
The market will hold an open house on Saturday, Feb. 7 with live music from noon to 4 p.m.
“We can’t wait to welcome the community back to this market. Our tagline is ‘We’ve got somthin’ to crow about,’ and we certainly do,” said Jean Baer.
For more information, call 239-691-9249.
