The Lutgert Companies is hosting a special Open House of The Strada residences at Mercato, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and from noon until 5:00 p.m. Sunday in conjunction with the Fourth of July weekend.
Several new designer furnished residences at The Strada at Mercato, in Naples, will be unveiled at this special weekend Open House. Up to $100,000s in exclusive buyer incentives are offered during the weekend celebration.
Modeled after the European approach to living with residential over retail, the upscale enclave of The Strada includes 92 residences in two distinctive buildings overlooking Strada Place, the main street of Mercato.
Select Strada residences come beautifully furnished in a range of designer motifs to make the move-in transition effortless. One, two or three bedroom-plans in an assortment of square footage floor plans, furnishings and decor providing a range of attractive styles will be available for viewing.
Guests will also be able to tour the extraordinary rooftop amenity level, exclusively for the use of Strada residents and their guests. A 52-foot heated pool with waterfall, gas grills, fire pit, spa, lounge chairs, and grassy area for pets are outdoors on the plaza. Inside, there is a separate fitness center with the latest in technical work out systems, and a clubhouse, complete with catering kitchen, showers, flat screen TVs, game room and comfortable sofas and chairs.
Two parking spaces per residence in a controlled-access parking garage are included.
Residents have the convenience of a Whole Foods grocer; Silverspot, a state-of-the-art movie theatre; boutique and national shopping; cuisine from around the world; and essential business including bank and investment, eye care, salon, and others.
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is the exclusive sales and marketing representative for The Strada at Mercato and the real estate division of The Lutgert Companies, developers of The Strada. www.mercatoshops.com or 239.594.9400.
Joshua Bahoff bought a three- bedroom luxury condominium in Naples, Florida, in December for $235,000, about one-third of the price that the seller paid near the height of the U.S. housing boom.
“It was a great deal,” said Bahoff, 59, a Philadelphia dentist who plans to spend one week a month every winter in the 2,700-square-foot (250-square-meter) property in Fiddler’s Creek, a residential and golf development south of the city’s downtown historic district on the Gulf of Mexico. “We can’t see this market going down any lower.”
While much of Florida’s real estate market remains depressed by foreclosures, buyers seeking a second home in the state’s affluent vacation enclaves are “finally getting off the fence,” Karen Van Arsdale, an agent at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty in Naples, said in a telephone interview.
Sales in the Naples area last year rose 10 percent, the first annual increase in at least five years, while the median price for homes listed at $300,000 or more gained 4 percent to $544,000, according to data compiled by the Naples Area Board of Realtors. About half of the properties in the market are second homes, and discounts from 2006 peak prices average about 25 percent, said Brenda Fioretti, president of the group.
“Wealth determines housing, and the good places pick up first,” Karl Case, 64, a professor emeritus in economics at Wellesley College in Massachusetts who has been visiting Naples since a family vacation took him there when he was 13, said in a telephone interview. “For people with deep pockets, it’s generally a flight to quality.”
Atlantic Coast
Resort towns on Florida’s Atlantic coast are starting to follow the lead of Naples, said Patricia Fitzgerald, president of the Florida Realtors. Sales in Boca Raton, Jupiter and West Palm Beach rose 32 percent for existing houses and 40 percent for condos in February from a year earlier, according to the group.
Rising stock prices and the decision by President Barack Obama and Congress not to increase tax rates in 2011 contributed to the surge in deals, according to Van Arsdale. Record cold temperatures in parts of the Midwest and Northeast this winter “nudged people” to make real estate purchases they’d been putting off, she said.
Home values in South Florida markets may show a “surprise upward” trend while U.S. prices remain flat this year, according to Lawrence Yun, chief economist in Washington for the National Association of Realtors.
“Given that they are historical vacation destinations for the wealthy, and the stock market having risen so much, it’s possible that they get a nice snap back even though I’m calling for no change nationwide,” Yun said.
International Buyers
The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, a benchmark for U.S. equities, has risen 91 percent since reaching a 12-year low in March 2009.
International buyers seeking to protect their wealth with U.S. hard assets may also buoy South Florida, according to a June 2010 report by the Chicago-based Realtors association. Florida properties accounted for 22 percent of all purchases made by buyers from outside the U.S. in the 12 months ended in April, the most of any state, according to the report.
The surge in Naples luxury prices contrasts with much of Florida’s housing market, where values are falling amid a glut of foreclosed properties. Loan servicers have been slow to resume home seizures as state attorneys general investigate mortgage-industry practices such as robo-signing, or using employees to sign affidavits and other documents, according to RealtyTrac Inc.
Foreclosure Ranking
Florida’s ranking of foreclosure filings per household fell to eighth among states last month from second in September, before the robo-signing controversy broke, the Irvine, California-based data seller said March 10. Florida ranked second in the number of filings sent to property owners with 18,760.
“The foreclosure market is completely dysfunctional,” said Michael Olenick, founder of LegalPrise Inc., a data seller based in Palm Beach that focuses on distressed properties. “People have given up finding a really cheap foreclosure.”
WCI Communities Inc., a Florida homebuilder that emerged from bankruptcy in September 2009, has “aggressively” reduced peak prices by as much as 40 percent at nine of its developments around the state, including three in Naples, Chief Executive Officer David Fry said in an interview.
The Bonita Springs-based builder, which cut its staff from 4,000 to 600, expects to sell 300 units this year and almost double that number in 2012, he said.
Land Prices
“The stock market has favorably affected confidence in recent months,” Fry said as he sat on the back patio of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Golf Resort in Naples, which WCI developed in 2002 as part of its Tiburon community. The hotel hosts the Naples Winter Wine Festival, a charity auction and social event that raised $12 million in January, 48 percent more than last year.
Land prices are rising as the real estate recovery takes hold, according to Steve Hagenbuckle, managing principal of real estate investment firm TerraCap Management Corp. in Cape Coral, Florida. Undeveloped land with zoning approvals in Estero, north of Naples, sold to a public builder he declined to name for $40,000 per quarter-acre lot. Eight months ago, Toll Brothers Inc. (TOL) bought similar land for $10,000, he said.
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty sold 41 Naples residences priced at $2 million or more this year through March 17, a gain of 14 percent over the same period in 2010, according to Lutgert Cos., a Naples property developer that owns the brokerage. There were 55 sales of homes priced between $1 million and $2 million, an increase of 17 percent, President Howard Gutman said in an e-mail.
Closing the Deal
“The buyers are value-conscious, but they’re making decisions,” said Van Arsdale, who brokered four transactions for a combined $27 million since Christmas. The properties sold for about 30 percent less than peak prices, she said.
Richard Azrael, 65, wanted to buy last year at WCI’s Marquesa subdivision next to the Ritz-Carlton until the company bankruptcy delayed his purchase. Last month, he closed on a three-bedroom, 3,000-square-foot condo and golf membership for $720,000, saving about $80,000 over the 2010 price, he said.
“We’ve been thinking of this for several years, and we felt that if we were going to do it, we should do it now,” said Azrael, a real estate developer from Columbia, Maryland. “We’ve been spending a lot of time in Florida on both coasts, and we happen to like the pace and environment in Naples.”
Interstate Access
Naples, with a bay like its namesake Italian city, was developed in the late 1880s by John S. Williams, a U.S. senator from Kentucky, and Walter Haldeman, publisher of the state’s Louisville Courier-Journal. They built homes, a pier and a 16- room hotel, according to the Naples Historical Society website.
The town, about 170 miles (270 kilometers) south of Tampa, remained “a small, lovely oasis along the Gulf of Mexico” until the 1950s, the website says.
After U.S. Interstate 75 was extended from Tampa to Naples and international service began at Southwest Florida Airport, Ritz-Carlton opened the first of its two hotels, a resort on Vanderbilt Beach near downtown, in 1985.
“That put Naples on the map,” Gutman said.
Midwest residents had always been the core vacation group, driving south on I-75, and now they were joined by air travelers and international visitors, Gutman said.
The office portion of the Mercato commercial development, a Lutgert joint venture with Barron Collier Cos. that opened in late 2008, is 83 percent leased with tenants including securities brokers Merrill Lynch & Co. and Wells Fargo Advisors, Gutman said.
Click here for more on Naples Housing Market. Via Bloomberg.com.
Get into the swing of the New Year at Mercato First Fridays on January 7 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. with live entertainment, wine tasting, and more.
Taking the main stage across from The Pub Naples is “Certified”, a four-piece band with high energy and attitude performing musical genres including rock, dance and blues.
The “Stacey Allison Duo” is a popular Southwest Florida husband and wife couple performing a wide range of music next to Swim ‘n Sport. Stacey, a singer/songwriter, ignites the crowd with her vivacious personality and amazing voice. A professional performer for nearly 20 years, Stacey has entertained audiences in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, Bermuda and others. She has been a lead vocalist for well-known groups such as The Untouchables, Powerhaus, PM, TKO and has performed with legends including Donna Summer, The Eagles, The Association, and Three Dog Night.
Enjoy live music and sample up to 25 different wines for a $10 donation at Whole Foods from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. From 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon) explores the world around us through hands-on activities. Get a sneak peek at some of the exciting exhibits when they open in 2011.
The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is committed to nurture bonds among families and all generations celebrating the natural curiosity of children. As Southwest Florida’s first learning environment dedicated to child’s play, the museum will offer an educationally dynamic space with thirteen exhibits that encourage exploration and discovery. Play is essential to the development as it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well being of children and youth.
For unique shopping all year long, browse the exceptional collection of shops and restaurants. From the latest fashions to furniture for the home and a full service computer shop, Mercato has it all in store! Merchants include Bobby Chan, Books-A-Million, Burn, Byte Shop/Style, Charming Charlie, Coldwater Creek, Gigi’s Children’s Boutique, Jos. A. Banks, Pandora, Signatures, Simply Natural, Spectacles, Sportalm, Stilista, Swim ‘n Sport, Sur La Table, Vogue Couture, and Z Gallerie. Diverse dining includes AZN Cuizine, Bravo! Cucina Italiana, McCormick & Schmick’s, Piola, Pure Urban Oasis, Stage 62 Deli, The Pub Naples, Whole Foods Market and Yogurbella. Silverspot Cinema brings the latest Hollywood films and independent shorts to its 11-screen theatre with leather seating and state-of-the-art sound. Blue Martini features over 25 superior martinis and a Tapas menu.
The Lutgert Companies is a partner with The Barron Collier Companies in the commercial development of Mercato, and The Estuary at Grey Oaks in Naples. The company’s portfolio of residential developments includes 17 luxury high-rise condominiums on Park Shore Beach in Naples; luxury high-rise condominiums in Bonita Bay; Linville Ridge, an exclusive mountaintop golf course community in North Carolina and The Strada at Mercato. Models are open daily at The Strada. Free covered parking. For more information, 239.403.2204 or mercatoshops.com. Find us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter.
Rounding out Mercato’s December events is the Holiday Stroll on the 18th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. A festive snow show, photos with Santa, face painting and more will be enjoyed by all. The Shy Wolf Sanctuary will be on site; for a nominal donation, have your photo taken with one of the wolves. Enjoy live musical entertainment by the band, “Mark Vee” and duo, “Jack Pot”.
Guitarist, Marc Vee, formed the band in 2000. Mark, a versatile musician, plays styles encompassing jazz, pop, funk, blue and rock and roll. Band members include lead vocals, Carolyn Bronson; bass and vocals, Stew Melcher; drums and vocals, Mark Siracusa, and keyboard player, Matt Baxley. Mark Vee has played professionally since the age of 14, and studied music at the University of Miami.
Jack Pot is a duo, formed in the 90s, performing extensively from Michigan to Florida. C. Sharp is the spokesperson, lead singer and percussionist, and Zip Schneider plays the keyboards and vocals. Schneider uses his experience in programming to make the duo sound like a full-size band.
Making a repeat performance, Dance City Productions will present three performances under the direction of owner and head instructor, Erika Dinesen. A talented group of dance students, from age three to adult, will perform a mixed repertoire including “Kinder” hip-hop, jazz, Zumba, tumbling, ballet and tap. A drawing will be held for a chance to win a stay at the studio’s summer performing arts camp.
For all your holiday shopping, browse the exceptional combination of shops and restaurants. Gift cards make a great stocking stuffer, so check out all the quality merchandise at Mercato shops and fine dining experiences. From the latest fashions to furniture for the home and a full service computer shop, Mercato has it all in store! Merchants include Bobby Chan, Books-A-Million, Burn, Byte Shop/Style, Charming Charlie, Coldwater Creek, Gigi’s Children’s Boutique, Jos. A. Banks, Pandora, Signatures, Simply Natural, Spectacles, Sportalm, Stilista, Swim ‘n Sport, Sur La Table, Vogue Couture, and Z Gallerie. Diverse dining includes AZN Cuizine, Bravo! Cucina Italiana, McCormick & Schmick’s, Piola, Pure Urban Oasis, Stage 62 Deli, The Pub, Whole Foods Market and Yogurbella. Silverspot Cinema brings the latest Hollywood films and independent shorts to its 11-screen theatre with leather seating and state-of-the-art sound. Blue Martini features over 25 superior martinis and a Tapas menu.
The Lutgert Companies is a partner with The Barron Collier Companies in the commercial development of Mercato, and The Estuary at Grey Oaks in Naples. The company’s portfolio of residential developments includes 17 luxury high-rise condominiums on Park Shore Beach in Naples; luxury high-rise condominiums in Bonita Bay; Linville Ridge, an exclusive mountaintop golf course community in North Carolina and The Strada at Mercato. Models are open daily at The Strada. Free covered parking. For more information, 239.403.2204 or mercatoshops.com. Find us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter.
The Holiday Stroll and Fashion Show on Saturday, December 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. bodes an evening of high fashion, glittering snow, pictures with Santa, strolling carolers and magician, and dance.
Melody makers for the evening include Kenny Grubbs, classic and modern rock tunes, and one of Southwest Florida’s finest DJs, Chris Ceron, who brings all genres of music from formal and elegant to casual and upbeat party style.
Dance City Productions will delight audience of all ages with a talented group of dance students performing styles including “Kinder” hip-hop, jazz, Zumba, ballet and tap. Owner and head instructor, Erika Dinesen has owned and operated the studio since 2000 and now instructs 200 students. “We offer recreational dance, just for fun and exercise, and also competitive dance. Our students range in age from three to adult,” said Ms. Dinesen. “We also offer gymnastics and recently added Karate to our program.”
Ms. Dinesen, a Naples native and a graduate of Gulf Coast High School, has been a professional dancer for 13 years, performing and teaching around the world. She began her career in dance with Carnival Cruise Lines. A drawing will be held for a chance to win a stay at the studio’s summer performing arts camp.
Starting at 5:00 pm, high fashions hit the Mercato runway with outfits provided by GiGi’s Children’s Boutique, Bobby Chan, Signatures, Sportalm, Simply Natural, Swim ‘n Sport and Vogue Couture. The first sixty people will receive a fabulous “goody bag” courtesy of participating Mercato retailers.
Every Friday and Saturday evening, until Christmas Eve, from 7 p.m. to 7:20 p.m. Mercato turns into a wintry wonderland with a dazzling snow show at the tree in front of BRAVO!
For all your holiday shopping, browse the exceptional combination of shops and restaurants. Gift cards make a great stocking stuffer, so check out all the quality merchandise at Mercato shops and fine dining experiences. From the latest fashions to furniture for the home and a full service computer shop, Mercato has it all in store! Merchants include Bobby Chan, Books-A-Million, Burn, Byte Shop/Style, Charming Charlie, Coldwater Creek, Gigi’s Children’s Boutique, Jos. A. Banks, Pandora, Signatures, Simply Natural, Spectacles, Sportalm, Stilista, Swim ‘n Sport, Sur La Table, Vogue Couture, and Z Gallerie. Diverse dining includes AZN Cuizine, Bravo! Cucina Italiana, McCormick & Schmick’s, Piola, Pure Urban Oasis, Stage 62 Deli, The Pub, Whole Foods Market and Yogurbella. Silverspot Cinema brings the latest Hollywood films and independent shorts to its 11-screen theatre with leather seating and state-of-the-art sound. Blue Martini features over 25 superior martinis and a Tapas menu.
The Lutgert Companies is a partner with The Barron Collier Companies in the commercial development of Mercato, and The Estuary at Grey Oaks in Naples. The company’s portfolio of residential developments includes 17 luxury high-rise condominiums on Park Shore Beach in Naples; luxury high-rise condominiums in Bonita Bay; Linville Ridge, an exclusive mountaintop golf course community in North Carolina and The Strada at Mercato. Models are open daily at The Strada. Free covered parking. For more information, 239.403.2204 or mercatoshops.com. Find us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter.
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 .
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
The Naples International Film Festival (NIFF) is proud to partner with the Mercato as part of the NIFF 2010 taking place at Silverspot Cinema. NIFF and Mercato will be featuring live music from 5 pm til 10 pm on both November 5th and 6th as part of the film festival in several areas of the Mercato, including the “Field of Dreams” (grassy area across from the Pub), near Bravo and in front of Whole Foods Market. All entertainment is free of charge.
Headliners for this event include the Jacob Jeffries Band on Friday November 5th (from 8 pm til 10 pm) and the Tim McGeary Band on Saturday November 6th (from 8 pm til 10 pm). Additional performers on Friday and Saturday night include Peacedog, Lepore, The Nathan Brooks Band, Native Music Rocks, DJ Ceron and Frank Smith. Sound and lighting for the shows will be handled by JC Gutierrez of JC Productions, a production sponsor and supporter of NIFF.
Back by popular demand after a stellar show at last year’s NIFF festival, Jacob Jeffries Band is once again headlining at NIFF 2010 on Friday night, November 5. Based in Ft. Lauderdale, the band has been cultivating their performances in the Southeast and performed showcases at the NAMM Conference for Baldwin Pianos in Anaheim, CA, at BMI’s Leaf Lounge during the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in Park City, UT, and at SXSW for BMI’s Acoustic Brunch and the Red Gorilla Festival in Austin, TX. They were named 2008’s Best Live Band & Best New Release by the Broward-Pam Beach and Miami New Times, and were selected to perform in, and won the Florida Grammy Showcase. Jacob Jeffries Band features Jacob Jeffries on lead vocals and keys, Jimmy Powers on guitar, Brian Lang on bass, and Josh “Papa Bear” Connolly on drums.
Tim McGeary also returns to perform at NIFF this year. Tim hails from Naples, Florida where he has lived for the past 20 years. Tim has been writing songs and performing since the ‘80s and was with the band “The Rescue” on AM Records and toured with Billy Idol, Roxy Music, Depeche Mode, The Cure and many more. His songs have been featured on TV shows
(Smallville, One Tree Hill, Glory Days) and movies including, Girl Got Moe (HBO). His recent band, Wonderful Johnson, opened for bands such as The Black Crowes, David Ball, Sherrie Austin, Confederate Railroad, Wet Willie, Rush Low and many more.. The Tim McGeary Band features Tim McGeary on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Doug Carman on lead guitar and vocals, Bill Bussing on bass guitar and Max Mosquito on drums and percussion.
“Music is an integral part of the most successful film festivals” says Rowan Samuel, Executive Director of NIFF. “We’re excited to build on what we accomplished last year at Mercato and provide quality, local entertainment for festival attendees.”
“We look forward to supporting the festival and its attendees with these entertainment evenings at Mercato. With our diverse selection of restaurants, shops and entertainment options this is a great fit for Mercato.” Says Kristin Cartwright, Director of Shopping Center Marketing for The Lutgert Companies.
During the Film Festival, scheduled for November 4-7, 2010, the NIFF targets and provides the theatre-going public a reasonable ticket price and amazing films to view and review. Come join the NIFF team and be part of the excitement as a member, a donor and party-goer by going to the website at www.naplesfilmfest.com
The mission of the NIFF is to nurture and support a diverse, artistic and cultural experience in Collier County through the operation of a creative, fun, and cutting edge boutique film festival. Established by a group of visionary individuals wishing to invoke excitement and involvement in the arts for those who reside in, and visit the Naples, Florida area, NIFF showcases some of the finest and most creative cinematic works in the world, while at the same time supporting, organizing and providing an outlet for local filmmakers and film lovers in Southwest Florida. NIFF will use this combination of nationally recognized and home-grown talent to present the best in independent films at Naples’ finest venues while retaining a friendly, fun, and unique movie-going experience.
A special Halloween Day is planned for kids at Mercato by Outside the Box- Studio and Mercato Merchants on Sunday, October 31. The fun starts at 1pm under a decorated art tent with face painting, mask creation, and two puppet shows. A DJ will play fun songs as bubbles machines fill up the air and pirates and a fairy provide amusement. Dress up in costume and join the costume parade for a chance to win gift certificates to Outside the Box –Studio—$10 gift certificates for the first 45 children participating and a $50 gift certificate to the winner of the costume contest. A surprise show is planned for families at 3:45 with poi spinning, performance art in which a ball or balls suspended from a length of flexible material are held in the hand and swung in circular patterns, and a special three-headed guest.
Merchants will be passing out candy to the kids from noon to 5pm. Bring your own sack to collect the sweet treats. Kids in costume get 10% off their purchase at Yogurbella.
Participating merchants dispensing confections include, Yogurbella, Sur la Table, Silverspot, Coldwater Creek, Simply Natural, Sportalm, Capital Grille, Swim ‘n Sport, McCormick & Schmick’s, Spectacles, The Pub, GiGi’s, AZN, and Bravo! Cucina Italiana. At Whole Foods, kids 15 and under are invited to dress in costume and receive a bag to trick or treat in the store’s different departments from 2-4pm. Outside Blue Martini, a costume-clad waitress will pass out candy starting at 4pm.
Outside the Box – Studio is a Naples-based multimedia and multicultural art studio that offers opportunities to partner with the community and non-profit organizations on unique programming for children, teens and adults. Outside the Box provides unique classes using art, drama, music, language, culture, and movement to educate, entertain, and heal.
Fronting U.S. 41, north of Vanderbilt Beach Road in North Naples, Mercato invites you to shop, dine and discover. For more information: mercatoshops.com. Join us on Facebook; follow us on Twitter.
Stores include Bobby Chan, Books-A-Million, Byte Shop/Style, Charming Charlie, Coldwater Creek, Gigi’s Children’s Boutique, Jos. A. Banks, Pandora, Signatures, Simply Natural, Spectacles, Sportalm, Swim ‘n Sport, Sur La Table, and Z Gallerie. Diverse eating includes AZN Cuizine, Bravo! Cucina Italiana, McCormick & Schmick’s, Piola, Pure Urban Oasis, Stage 62 Deli, The Pub, Vogue Couture, Whole Foods Market and Yogurbella. Silverspot Cinema brings the latest Hollywood films and independent shorts to its 11-screen theatre with leather seating and state-of-the-art sound. Blue Martini features over 25 superior martinis and a Tapas menu.
The Lutgert Companies is a partner with The Barron Collier Companies in the commercial development of Mercato, and The Estuary at Grey Oaks in Naples. The company’s portfolio of residential developments includes 17 luxury high-rise condominiums on Park Shore Beach in Naples; a total of eight luxury high-rise condominiums at completion, in Bonita Bay; Linville Ridge, an exclusive mountaintop golf course community in North Carolina and The Strada at Mercato.
