Citrus County is marking more than 40 years of honoring local business with its annual Business Appreciation Month this October, capping off the celebration with the Salute to Business Luncheon on Friday, Oct. 9, and the beloved annual BBQ at M&B Dairy on the McClellan property in Lecanto.
The tradition dates back to Florida Power Appreciation Week, when local leaders wanted to recognize Florida Power’s major contribution to the county’s economy. At the time, Citrus County’s population was less than half of what it is today. Lt. Gov. Wayne Mixson, who served alongside Gov. Bob Graham, attended the original celebration and was so impressed that he brought the concept back to Tallahassee, sparking a statewide Industry Appreciation Week. Each community was left to decide how to celebrate, and Citrus County set the gold standard.
Over the decades, the event has grown significantly. Florida Power became Progress Energy and then Duke Energy. One week expanded into a full month of activities, including a mixer, an agriculture tour, a luncheon, and the signature BBQ. The BBQ was originally held at the old Hollins Ranch north of Crystal River before moving to M&B Dairy in Lecanto about a decade ago. Between 800 and 1,000 people attend each year, drawn by mouthwatering BBQ prepared by Leon McClellan, Dixie Hollins’ famous fried green tomatoes, and Larry Rooks’ fried okra. Cold beverages are served by two generations of the Barco family, keeping the community spirit alive.
Organizers stress that the events are open to everyone, whether you are a business owner, an employee, or retired. Business Appreciation Month is designed not only to celebrate local commerce but also to educate residents about why supporting local businesses matters to the broader community. Citrus County, the first in Florida to launch this kind of celebration, continues to host what organizers call the biggest networking and celebration event of the year. For more information, visit the Citrus County Chronicle or the Citrus County Chamber of Commerce.
Originally reported by Citrus County Chronicle – Crystal River
