Judy Green, President & CEO of Signature Sotheby's International Realty & Premier Sotheby's International Realty
Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC today announced that Premier Properties of Southwest Florida, Inc., in Naples, Fla., has joined its luxury real estate network and now will do business as Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. Premier Sotheby’s International Realty will continue to be a wholly owned subsidiary of The Lutgert Companies, with Scott F. Lutgert as chairman.
“It has been our long-held objective to bring the Sotheby’s International Realty brand’s services to Naples,” said Michael R. Good, chief executive officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. “Our goal was to find the ideal company to represent us in this critically important luxury real estate market, and I believe we have done that. Our worldwide network of affiliates now can benefit from this additional valuable source of referrals, and consumers in this market now will have access to our global reach.”
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and its team of 225 professionals join the Sotheby’s International Realty network’s more than 11,000 sales associates located in approximately 500 offices in 42 countries and territories worldwide.
“This is a long-term strategic move and will serve to solidify our corporate footprint and reach,” said Lutgert. “We’re extremely proud of the reputation for excellence that we’ve created, and we look forward to our new affiliation with the Sotheby’s International Realty brand. In addition to extending our immediate geographic reach, this affiliation will enhance our ability to serve our luxury clients and is a major milestone for The Lutgert Companies.”
In a related transaction, Premier Properties of Southwest Florida also has entered into an agreement to acquire a majority interest in Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, effective Nov. 15. The firm will continue to operate as Signature Sotheby’s International Realty in Sarasota and Manatee Counties under the leadership of Judy Green, its current president and chief executive officer, who will now serve in a dual role as president and chief executive officer for Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.
According to Green, the Signature Sotheby’s International Realty team looks forward to joining forces with the Premier Properties organization and the Lutgert family. “This is a story of two luxury real estate leaders bringing together their complementary strengths,” said Green. “The result, we believe, will be a new energy within our company and an increasing competitive advantage in the Naples and Sarasota markets combined as we look to the future. In our new organizational structure, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty will enjoy the No. 1 market share position for transactions more than $1 million in southwest Florida from Longboat Key to Marco Island.”
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and Signature Sotheby’s International Realty listings will be marketed on the www.sothebysrealty.com global website. In addition to the referral opportunities and widened exposure generated from this source, the firms’ brokers and clients will benefit from an association with the Sotheby’s auction house and worldwide Sotheby’s International Realty marketing programs.
About Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC
Founded in 1976 to provide independent brokerages with a powerful marketing and referral program for luxury listings, the Sotheby’s International Realty network was designed to connect the finest independent real estate companies to the most prestigious clientele in the world. In February 2004, Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate and relocation services, entered into a long-term strategic alliance with Sotheby’s, the operator of the auction house. The agreement provided for the licensing of the Sotheby’s International Realty name and the development of a full franchise system by Realogy’s subsidiary, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. Affiliations in the system are granted only to brokerages and individuals meeting strict qualifications. Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC supports its affiliates with a host of operational, marketing, recruiting, educational and business development resources. Franchise affiliates also benefit from an association with the venerable Sotheby’s auction house, established in 1744. For more information, visit www.sothebysrealty.com.
Experience the spirit of the holidays at the Village on Venetian Bay for the annual holiday event, Grand Illuminations, on Thursday, December 2 from 6-9pm.
Join us for a joyous evening with tree lighting, Victorian carolers, holiday music, caricaturists, face painting and complimentary photos taken with jolly Santa.
Live musical entertainment for the event includes, Greg and Claudia, a pop and dance duo, and multifaceted Stacey Knights.
With over a decade of performances, Greg and Claudia are one of the most popular ensembles in Southwest Florida. The group’s collection of songs including top hits from musical genres of jazz, pop, country, rock, salsa and swing will get the crowd on its feet.
Stacey Knights has delighted audiences around Southwest Florida as a vocalist, songwriter, saxophonist and flutist. Ms. Knights has produced three CDs, mostly comprised of original music, and was named the 2006 best emerging artist by American Idol Magazine. The pop/jazz musician says her musical influences include Sheryl Crow, Bonnie Raitt, David Sanborn, Don Henley, Carole King and James Taylor.
As it is the season of giving, please help the less fortunate children of Immokalee by bringing a new, unwrapped toy to benefit The Guadalupe Center of Immokalee Holiday Gift Shop.
The Holiday Gift Shop strives to give families a happy Christmas for children, complete with gifts, as many of the families in Immokalee do not have the financial means to purchase items for their children or family members. To help put a smile on those little faces during the Christmas holiday, toys will be collected and delivered to the gift shop. Volunteers at the shop will assist parents select gifts for their children. Volunteers wrap and tag gifts for parents to present to children.
The beautiful waterfront setting, colorful Mediterranean architecture, art sculptures, boutique shops and established restaurants, make the Village on Venetian Bay one of the most notable landmarks and attractions in Naples for more than twenty years. Discover apparel for the whole family from name brand merchandise to sophisticated private label collections. There are art galleries, gifts for the home, exquisite timepieces, and dazzling jewelry to define your style. Need a bite to eat? The Village has a range of restaurants with indoor and outdoor waterfront settings that range from fine dining to casual Pub-grub—the perfect way to satisfy your appetite and take in the sights over Venetian Bay.
Follow us on Facebook; find us on Twitter. Call 239.403.2204 or visit venetianvillage.com for additional information and a complete listing of shops and restaurants. Created by The Lutgert Companies, The Village is located at 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., just off Park Shore Drive. Parking is free, or take the Naples Trolley, which makes stops at the Village. For a trolley schedule: naplestrolleytours.com.
Longtime Naples residents Frank and Laura Rubinelli have opened Stilista, an upscale beauty salon specializing in hair care, manicures, pedicures and facial waxing.
Laura Rubinelli, a professional stylist, stepped out of the business for a period to raise their young children. When she was ready to go back to work, she and husband Frank decided to set up their own salon, the first of its kind.
“Frank is a general contractor, so he helps from the building and layout aspect,” says Laura. “We both love Mercato, and feel this is the place to be. Our shop is intimate with six stations for hair styling, two nail techs stations and two for pedicures. We hand-selected the stylists for their expertise and clientele.”
The hair stylists work as independent contractors and are allowed to bring their client base from their previous work place.
“Top stylists develop a loyal following,” continues Laura. “So, we want those professionals here, bringing their clientele to our shop.”
Stilista carries the exclusive line of Kerastase and Unite, luxury hair products.
“Only upscale salons carry these beauty products,” said Laura. “We are very proud to be one of the few in the area to do so. Our shop is very chic with dark wood flooring and white comfortable chairs. We want to give our clients the best experience with top service and products in a pleasing environment.”
Stilista is located at 9128 Strada Place, Suite 10112. Call 239-431-5171 to make an appointment. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday. For more information: 239.254.1702, mercatoshops.com, or e-mail us at stilistainc@comcast.net.
For Commercial leasing information, contact Dougall McCorkle, Senior Vice President of Commercial Real Estate for The Lutgert Companies; 239-261-6100 or e-mail Dougall@Lutgert.com.
Located on 52-acres at the intersection of U.S. 41 North and Vanderbilt Beach Road, Mercato is a premier lifestyle community offering the finest in condominium living together with the best in shopping, dining and entertainment, all in one location. Models are open daily at The Strada residences at Mercato, created by The Lutgert Companies.
The Rocky Patel Premium Cigar Company announced today the grand opening of Rocky Patel’s first cigar bar – Burn, an evolution in lounges. Several private events are currently scheduled, but the official Grand Opening of Burn for the public is Friday, November 19th.
“The concept of Burn has been in the works for several years,” said Rocky Patel, President and CEO of Rocky Patel Premium Cigars. “Featuring a design that draws on an exotic mix of Mediterranean, Asian and Cuban cultures, Burn is a sanctuary for those that enjoy fine cigars and premium spirits.”
Burn will feature the complete line of Rocky Patel cigars, set in a magnificent mixture of comfort and beauty. The Burn wine list is extensive, featuring wines from different regions around the world. The wine list is very “cigar-friendly,” showcasing wines that elegantly complement each cigar blend. Burn will also showcase a unique selection of single malt scotches, bourbons and other spirits.
“I wanted to make sure that when we were ready for the public to join us, the Burn experience was complete perfection. I have hand-selected every cigar, each bottle of wine, and even each piece of furniture, to create the perfect luxury-lounge experience,” added Mr. Patel. “What I’ve done with Burn is take all the things I really enjoy in a lounge environment, and created a place that reflects how I enjoy life. Burn is a sanctuary, with a level of detail never before seen in a lounge experience.” Designed to offer perfection in service, Burn by Rocky Patel is the perfect place to enjoy life’s pleasures.
Burn is located in Naples, Florida, in the Mercato at 9110 Strada Place. Burn will be open 7 days a week from 11:00AM to 2:00AM.
Located in Bonita Springs, Florida, the Rocky Patel Premium Cigar Company began producing high quality premium cigars in 1995, based on Rocky’s passion for cigars, and his desire to share his unique cigar blends with cigar connoisseurs around the world. Rocky is also very active in raising money for underprivileged children in Honduras, with his RP Foundation. Current Rocky Patel cigar brands include: Patel Bros, 1961, Decade, 15th Anniversary and the Vintage Series. For more information visit their Website at www.RockyPatel.com .
Golf Inc. magazine named Bobby Weed’s work at Linville Ridge GC, in Linville, NC, its Renovation of the Year for projects with a construction budget between $1.6 and $4 million. The multi-phase facelift took place during the winter months over several years, so as not to inconvenience members.
The course occupies an enviable and dramatic parcel of golfing ground, set at one of the highest elevations east of the Mississippi. From this mountaintop perch, a raucous and rugged golfing experience emerges, with 760 feet of elevation change and staggering vistas that can extend up to 70 miles. The course serves as the flagship amenity for the surrounding residential community, but by 2006, it was approaching 30 years old and was dated in its aesthetics, strategy and conditioning.
Bunkers received the most attention. The existing bunkers were shallow, similarly sized, lacked distinction and were often monotonously located both front left and front right in the approach of each green. The new bunkers were styled to have considerable character and a rugged aesthetic in keeping with the windswept, mountaintop location. They were built with a deliberately wide variety of sizes, depths and placement, with each serving a distinctive
strategic function.
Additional short-cut areas now wrap each putting surface, placing a new premium on shortgame play and enhancing the impact of the topography on approaches into each green. Tees were shifted, enlarged and added to increase the overall length of the course, capture important vistas, and bring significant slopes back into play in those places where modern equipment had negated their effect.
The rugged, mountain aesthetic of the bunkering was enhanced through additional rock wall work around tees and creek restoration work that was in keeping with the course’s setting. A number of trees were removed to open up dramatic viewsheds that had closed off over time. Cart paths were shifted out of sight to maintain the pristine views along the golf hole.
The award is the fourth time Bobby Weed Golf Design’s work was recognized by the magazine. White Manor CC in Mavern, PA was also named Renovation of the Year in 2004, while The Deltona Club, in Deltona, FL, was first runner-up in 2008. Spanish Oaks GC was named Development of the Year in 2003.
Around Southwest Florida, she’s known as Kristin Cartwright. But in the late 1990s, she was recognized throughout the world as “Buster Lutgert,” one of the first women professional wakeboarders.
“I had a lot of fun with wakeboarding,” Ms. Cartwright, age 35, recalls. “I traveled all over the world, sponsored by all sorts of companies.”
After five years in the sport, she and husband Dayle settled down and began a family that includes daughter Ella, 6, who attends Community School of Naples, and son Noah, 5. But the water is never far away. The Cartwrights, along with partner Nick Demasi, own Revolution Cable Park in North Fort Myers, where riders can wakeboard, kneeboard, waterski or wakeskate.
Ms. Cartwright also uses her degree — a bachelor of arts in business administration from the University of Florida — as director of shopping center marketing for the Lutgert Companies, the family business. She also oversees marketing for three of the company’s real estate projects: The Highrises at Bonita Bay, Estuary at Grey Oaks and The Strada at Mercato).
“I like that it’s always changing, with many events going on” she shares of her work promoting the Village on Venetian Bay, Promenade at Bonita Bay, and Mercato.
If work and family aren’t enough, Ms. Cartwright carries on the family legacy of volunteerism and philanthropy. Grandfather Ray Lutgert was a major supporter of various community projects, including Naples Community Hospital, and father Scott Lutgert is a founder of the Naples Winter Wine Festival. The Lutgert family also gave Florida Gulf Coast University $5 million for its business school.
Having young children helps Ms. Cartwright focus her volunteer activities on providing opportunities for the youth in Collier County. She is active with the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, two years a ago co-chairing the Yabba Island Pirate Ball that raised more than $ 4 400,000. She also helped run the Great Venetian Duck Race at The Village to benefit C’MON, has served on the board of the Education Found Foundation of Collier County and is involved with the foundation’s “If the Shoe Fits” fundraiser. She helps out at Community School as well.
She grew up in Naples, moving to Ocala in fifth grade but returning to graduate from Barron Collier High School in 1993. She considers the Lutgert family name and legacy an opportunity more than a pressure.
“I’m very proud of what my family established here in this community,” she says. “I see a lot of people giving back so generously to this community, and I hope that my generation will continue to do that and see the value it brings.”
Click here for more on 2010 Power Women in Collier
Bonita Bay Club is like a new club.
The club is now owned by its members. There are new operating and employee policies, new committees, new staff, new programs – and most noticeably there is a new look.
In March, members purchased their club from Bonita Bay Group for $11.5 million in cash, waiving most of the developer’s liability for the deposits they put down when they first joined years ago.
By June, the club had a new manager, Daniel Miles, who has more than 25 years of experience in private club management. He came from the exclusive Medinah Country Club in Chicago, host to the 2012 Ryder Cup.
When members bought the club, they agreed to pay capital assessments for sorely needed improvements, on top of the transfer fees that went toward the actual purchase. One-time assessments ranged from $1,200 for golf members to $360 for social members.
Over the summer, the new board approved $3.5 million in capital improvements, partly funded by the assessments. The club has nearly 2,000 members.
“There hadn’t been anything done in a couple of years,” Miles said.
Financially strapped Bonita Bay Group had cut staff and services at the club. Maintenance projects had been deferred and the club and its courses needed some special attention.
“We were kind of in a catch-up mode. We have taken a big step this year to get caught up and invest where we need to invest,” said Gary Ingersoll, club president.
“We’ve got some more to do,” he said. “We will continue to make capital improvements in the future.”
Inside the gated community off U.S. 41, north of Bonita Beach Road, the entry road to the golf club has been reconfigured. The median has new tropical landscaping and two new fountains, which are more than 6 feet tall.
Click here for more on the Bonita Bay Club
