Friday, March 18, 2011

Emerson International, Centerline Homes to Build Show Home for 2012 NAHB International Builders Show In Orlando

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. --- Emerson International and Centerline Homes have been chosen for the BUILDER Concept Home 2012, an annual idea home series built in conjunction with the International Builders Show (IBS) scheduled for Feb. 8-11 in Orlando.

Emerson and Centerline are partnering with BUILDER magazine, the leading media brand for the home building industry, to produce three distinct homes to reflect important demographic groups, specifically Gen Y, Gen X, and Baby Boomers (Gen B).

The homes will be built in the Eagle Creek community near Lake Nona. Open for free guided tours to IBS attendees during the annual convention, they will eventually serve as working models for the builder-developer team for a new section of homes; the Gen B home also will be rendered as a photo-realistic virtual tour online with 24/7 access.

“This is an honor. We are very pleased to get the opportunity to showcase our abilities during this prestigious event,” said Robert Hudson, president of Centerline Homes. “The International Builders Show is the nation’s largest event for professional home builders.”

Woodley Architectural Group, Inc., of Littleton, Colo., will design the Gen Y and Gen B homes, while Canin Associates of Orlando will design the Gen X home and provided the landscape plan for the project. Kay Green Design, Inc., also based in Orlando, will be responsible for the interior design and merchandising of all three homes.
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For more information contact: Eric J. Emerson, Vice President and General Manager Emerson International, Inc. 407-834-9560, ejemerson@emerson-us.com

Kissimmee Vice Mayor Art Otero Endorses Feature-Length Film “365 Decision Time” set for Production in Kissimmee this year

– Golden Brothers Studios, UCF Incubator Company produced the film -

KISSIMMEE, Fla.- Kissimmee Vice Mayor Art Otero recently endorsed 365 Decision Time, a feature-length film set to start production in the Kissimmee area later this year by Kissimmee-based Golden Brothers Studios.

“I am delighted to be a part of this project and to endorse a family-oriented film production in the Kissimmee area,” Otero said.

365 Decision Time, to be directed by Ariel Santiago, tells the story of a typical middle-class American family faced with divorce, abortion, adultery and a murder charge.

“They are buffeted by crises that threaten to destroy their unity, and the film focuses on the hard decisions they make and the way those decisions change all their lives,” Santiago said.
Giovanni Reyes, a producer of the film and a principal at Golden Brothers Studios, said the film examines how the family’s Christian values and indomitable spirit help them survive strife, misfortune and tragedy.

365 Decision Time is now auditioning, Reyes said. For further information, contact Golden Brothers Studios at 407-558-5783, visit www.365DecisionTime.com or email talent@goldenbrothersstudios.com.

Golden Brothers Studios is a member of the University of Central Florida Business Incubation Program located at 111 Monument Ave. in Kissimmee.
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For more information, contact: Giovanni Reyes, Ariel Santiago or Benjamin Guadalupe, Golden Brothers Studios, 407-558-5783 info@goldenbrothersstudios.com; Rafael Caamano, Site Manager Kissimmee UCF Business Incubation Program, 407-343-4300 Rafael.Caamano@ucf.edu

About Golden Brothers Studios: Golden Brothers Studios, based in Kissimmee, is an independent filmmaking company founded by three professionals with more than 50 years of combined experience in the audiovisual and multimedia medium. The mission of the company is production of feature films and television programs that convey a positive, uplifting message to a cultural society who frequently witnesses the disintegration of the family unit and lacks positive role models and spiritual foundation. It strives to produce films and programming with the latest technological advancements available to present relatable life issues, providing solutions that will positively change lives.

About the UCF Business Incubation Program: Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 160 assisted emerging companies (including nearly 100 current clients) create over $800 million in annual revenue and more than 1,600 new jobs with an average salary of $59,000. With eight – and soon nine – facilities opened across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development between the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Winter Springs, The City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and will be adding Volusia County. For more information, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu.

Celebration Golf Management Starts Construction of State-of-the-Art Teaching and Fitting Studio at Celebration Golf Club

CELEBRATION, FL. --- Celebration Golf Management, Inc., (CGM) which owns and operates six golf clubs in the Central Florida area, has started construction of a $500,000 teaching and custom club fitting facility at Celebration Golf Club in Celebration.

Kenny Nairn, executive vice president of golf for CGM and golf director at Celebration Golf Club, said the center will be featuring PING n-Flight fitting software, launch monitors and the latest in interchangeable fitting equipment. Nairn was part of the n-Flight software pilot program that has developed into an incredible consumer experience and comprehensive player tool, he said.

The 2,100 square foot facility is scheduled to open at Celebration Golf Club this summer.
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For more information about this press release contact: Kenny Nairn, Scottish PGA Golf Professional / EVP of Golf Celebration Golf Management, Inc. 407-566-9877; knairn@celebrationgolf.com; Gene Garrote, President, Celebration Golf Management, Inc. 407-566-1045

NAI Realvest Negotiates Seven Year Office Lease in La Vina Office at Lake Nona in East Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. --- NAI Realvest recently negotiated a seven-year lease agreement for office space in La Vina Office at Lake Nona at 9161 Narcoossee Rd. in East Orlando.

Mary Frances West, CCIM senior associate at NAI Realvest, negotiated the lease of suite B209 with 2,706 square feet of professional office space in the upscale facility representing the landlord Orlando-based Ripley’s International, LLC.

The new tenant is Van Dyke Gynecology who was represented by Richard Schauseil of Charles Rutenberg Realty.
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For more information, contact: Mary Frances West, CCIM, Senior Broker-Associate NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989, mwest@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989, pmahoney@realvest.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, covering all of central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.

Villages of Royal Palm in Port Orange to Enter New Cottage Series Model Home in Volusia County Parade of Homes

PORT ORANGE, Fla. --- The Villages of Royal Palm on Coconut Palm Circle in Port Orange will enter its popular new Cottage Series model home in the Volusia County Parade of Homes which opens March 19.

Winston Schwartz, president of Winston-James Development, Inc., the developers of the Villages of Royal Palm said the new Cottage Series model offers three bedrooms and two baths in 1,304 square feet of living space with a two car garage at prices starting at $169,900.
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For more information contact: Jamie Allen Adley, President, Villages of Royal Palm/Executive Vice President Winston-James Development, Inc. 386-760-2555; Winston Schwartz, President, Winston-James Development, Inc. 933 Beville Rd., South Daytona, Fla. 32119; 386-760-2555

UCF Business Incubator in St. Cloud to Host Discovery Tour Open House for Entrepreneurs March 30

ST. CLOUD, Fla. --- The UCF Business Incubator in St. Cloud will host a Discovery Tour Open House for entrepreneurs from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 30, in the Corporate Campus building at Stevens Plantation, 3201 Budinger Ave. in St. Cloud.

Jim Bowie, site manager at the UCF Business Incubator in St. Cloud, said the Discovery Tour event is open to established business owners and potential entrepreneurs who are considering new business startups.

Bowie said a formal presentation of how the Incubator can help grow your business will begin at 5:20 p.m.

“The Discovery Tour is a brief overview of the services and facilities offered at the UCF Business Incubator to see whether a new business startup is the right fit for our program,” Bowie explained.

Bowie said recent studies show that 87 percent of entrepreneurs who launch their business startups in an incubator facility are still in business after five years.

“The UCF Business Incubator offers facilities, a network of community partners dedicated to the support of emerging enterprises and business coaching,” Bowie said. “Our goal is to help promising startup enterprises accelerate their growth and flourish,” Bowie said.

No RSVP is required, Bowie said. For more information about the Discovery Tour Open House, contact the UCF Business Incubator in St. Cloud at 407-498-0432 or visit www.incubator.ucf.edu.
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For more information, contact: Jim Bowie, Site Manager UCF Business Incubator St. Cloud 407-498-0432, Jim.Bowie@ucf.edu; Gordon Hogan, Director of Operations, UCF Business Incubation Program, 407-882-1157; Gordon.Hogan@ucf.edu

About the UCF Business Incubation Program: Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 160 assisted emerging companies (including nearly 100 current clients) create over $800 million in annual revenue and more than 1,600 new jobs with an average salary of $59,000. With eight – and soon nine – facilities opened across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development between the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Winter Springs, The City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and will be adding Volusia County. For more information, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu.

Stirling Sotheby's International Realty Associate's Online Kudos Gaining New Clients, New Real Estate Sales

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Don’t tease Linnette Sanzalone about her online cred. Sanzalone, an International Luxury Home Specialist at Stirling Sotheby's International Realty, can count a half dozen new clients that came her way after reading 5-star reviews on the Zillow real estate web site.

Zillow solicits customer reviews of area realtors and real estate companies.

“I first started hearing the buzz about three months ago,” Sanzalone said. “A few of my friends---fellow Realtors---called to tell me they had read about me on the Internet. At first, I didn’t pay much attention,” she said.

“Then clients began reaching out to her asking for help selling their homes---buying homes,” said Roger Soderstrom, founder and owner at Stirling Sotheby's International Realty.

“Homebuyers and sellers are so much more sophisticated today than they were even 10 years ago.” Sanzalone said. “I can’t remember the last client I spoke with who wasn’t researching the Internet to buy or sell a home,” she said.

Soderstrom said, “Zillow.com ranks as one of the nation’s leading real estate portals, with listings of thousands of homes for sale. Zillow also offers online appraisals of individual homes, though such appraisals are only general estimates,” he said.

“Most of our clients visit Zillow and some of our clients use it as an absolute guide,” Sanzalone said.

Sanzalone’s past clients have been generous with their praise for her expert advice and quick response, Soderstrom said.

“So-called word-of-mouth is the best form of advertising you can have in any business, but it’s doubly important in real estate,” Sanzalone said. The Internet and web portals like Zillow have made it so much more productive, and I can say with certainty that clients take ‘customer reviews’ to heart when choosing a Realtor,” she said.

Visit http://standaloneluxuryhomes.com/meet_linnette/
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For more information, contact: Roger Soderstrom, Founder/Owner Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, 407-581-7890

About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty: Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, commercial, property management, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates three performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.

NAI Realvest Negotiates New Long-Term Restaurant Lease at Boardwalk Plaza in UCF area

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new five-year lease agreement for Suite 1018, an endcap space with drive-through in the Boardwalk Plaza located at 3100 Alafaya Trail in Oviedo.

NAI Realvest principals Matt Cichocki and Kevin O’Connor negotiated the transaction representing both the landlord, Boardwalk Plaza LLC of Gardena, Calif. and the new tenant AC/BA LLC of Oviedo.

The tenant plans to open a Mediterranean style café by the end of March serving coffees, fresh baked goods, sandwiches, Middle Eastern dishes and smoothies.

The 8,312 square foot Boardwalk Plaza is currently 83 percent leased.
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For more information, contact: Matt Cichocki and Kevin O’Connor, NAI Realvest 407-875-9989; mcichocki@realvest.com; koconnor@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.

Osceola Woman Newspaper to Host Contagious Confidence Conference for Women at Kissimmee Civic Center March 23

KISSIMMEE, Fla. --- Osceola Woman Newspaper will host a conference for women executives on March 23 at the Kissimmee Civic Center Ball Room, 201 E. Dakin Ave.

James Bowie, site manager of the UCF Business Incubator in Kissimmee, said the Contagious Confidence Conference will help executive women develop leadership and management skills to further their careers and improve their job performance.

“The conference will help women professionals, managers and entrepreneurs develop personal and professional management skills that will help them succeed,” Bowie said.

Featuring professional trainer and coach Monica Wofford, MBA. CSP, the Contagious Confidence Conference is sponsored by the St. Cloud Regional Medical Center, Kissimmee Parks and Recreation Department, Smooth 103.1 Radio, Girl Scouts of Citrus, Osceola Regional Medical Center, Silva Entertainment, the Kissimmee Utility Authority and the Kissimmee Civic Center.

Registration for the conference costs $149. For further information and registration, call 1-866-382-0121 or visit www.contagiousconferences.com.
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For more information contact: James Bowie, UCF Business Incubation Program 407 498-0432 jim.bowie@ucf.edu

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Del Webb Southshore Falls Homeowner Bruce Davis Vaulted to Gymnastics Fame, Now Trains Youngsters

APOLLO BEACH, Fla. --- Del Webb Southshore Falls homeowner Bruce Davis is a noted author, lecturer and gymnastics trainer whose life long passion got its start thanks to the guidance of his sister – three-time Olympian Muriel Grossfeld – in Indianapolis.

Now Davis and his wife Rita have owned and operated FlipFlops & Fitness at 328 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach for the past 11 years, and Davis is still paying back his famous sister.

Though he competed in college at South Connecticut State University in New Haven, Davis never made the Olympic team, the Holy Grail of gymnasts. But he’s done the next best thing---training Olympians and inspiring thousands more to excel in gymnastics.

Flip Flops & Fitness is located just five minutes from their Del Webb Southshore Falls home, one of the many advantages of the active adult neighborhood.

“We love our neighbors, I’d have to say that’s the biggest appeal at Del Webb Southshore Falls,” Davis said.

At FlipFlops & Fitness, the Davises offer children from preschool to teens training in gymnastics and tumbling geared for competition and cheerleading. He conducts 21 classes a week with 4-8 children in each class.

Davis, who earned his Bachelors Degree in Health and Physical Education from SCSU and a Masters Degree from Ohio University at the age of 21, taught and coached at Miami-Dade Community College North Campus for 33 years before retiring as Professor Emeritus in 1999.

While teaching in Miami, Davis opened Gymiami, a private gymnastics school, where he trained Olympian Kurt Thomas and national team member Cathy Shotwell. He took a one-year leave from Miami-Dade to pursue another passion as the managing editor for International Gymnastics magazine further wetting his appetite for gymnastics journalism

He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the World Acrobatics Society and is an internationally recognized authority on gymnastics.

The Davises were drawn to Del Webb Southshore Falls by the upscale features and barrel tile roofs and the fact that all homes are built to meet or exceed the tough Miami-Dade code.

“We enjoy our home at Del Webb Southshore Falls very much and appreciate the PulteGroup for putting it here,” Davis said.
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For more information, contact:
Lyndsey Clarke, Marketing Manager Del Webb Central Florida Division, 407-661-2150 ext 1416 2301 Lucien Way, Suite 400, Maitland, FL 32751; lyndsey.clarke@pultegroup.com; Sean C. Strickler, Vice President Sales & Marketing Del Webb-Central Florida, 407-661-1461 sean.strickler@pultegroup.com

Mattamy Homes to Open Honeyflower Model Home in Mid-March Priced from $211,990 at South Point in Belmont

CHARLOTTE, N.C. --- Mattamy Homes U.S. Group, the U.S. division of Canada’s largest home builder, plans to open its new Honeyflower model home in mid-March priced from $211,990 at South Point Village located on South Point Road (S.R. 273) next to High Point High School.

Bill Kiselick, division president for Mattamy Homes in the Charlotte region, said the Honeyflower model home offers three bedrooms with two-and-a-half baths in 2,425 square feet of living space with a two-car garage.

Ten distinctive three and four bedroom floor plans are available at South Point Village that range from 1,948 square feet of living space to 3,850 square feet.

South Point Village features Mattamy’s newest selection of “Dilworth” inspired homes with oversized windows, nine-foot ceilings and eight-foot doors.

For more information about South Point Village call Rick Epley at 704-825-6881.
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For more information about this press release, contact: Bill Kiselick, Division President Mattamy Homes US Group-Charlotte 704-375-9373 Bill.Kiselick@mattamyhomes.com; Marie Lorimer, Marketing, Mattamy Homes US Group-Charlotte 704-375-9373 Marie.Lorimer@mattamycorp.com

About Mattamy Homes U.S. Group: Mattamy Homes U.S. Group, www.mattamyhomes.com expanded into the U.S. in 2003 and is headquartered in Winter Park, Fla. with divisions in Charlotte, Jacksonville, Orlando, Minneapolis and Phoenix. The homebuilder, the largest and most active in Canada with annual revenues exceeding $1.3 billion was ranked among the highest of all homebuilders in the greater Toronto and Ottawa areas in a nationwide customer satisfaction survey conducted by J.D. Power Associates.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Sublease for 4,615 Square Feet of Class A Office Space at Lincoln Plaza in Downtown Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. - NAI Realvest recently negotiated a sublease agreement for 4,615 square feet of Class A office space at 300 S. Orange Ave. in downtown Orlando.

NAI Realvest associate Drew Saphos, CCIM, George Livingston, chairman emeritus and principal Christie Alexander negotiated the agreement representing the local subtenant, Wave Software who subleased suite 900 in the 16-story Lincoln Plaza building at the intersection of Orange Ave. and South Street.

Wave Software, a provider of software applications for the legal community, relocated its corporate headquarters to the downtown facility from Millenia Blvd. in south Orlando.

The Shutts & Bowen law firm is the sublandlord and was represented by CNL Commercial Real Estate in the transaction.
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For more information contact: Christie Alexander, Principal, NAI Realvest 407-949-0704 calexander@realvest.com; George Livingston, Chairman Emeritus, NAI Realvest 407-875-9989 glivingston@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.nairealvest.com.

Lennar starts sales of single family homes priced from the $150s at Preston Pointe at Wyndham Lakes

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Lennar has started sales of single family homes priced from the $150s at Preston Pointe at Wyndham Lakes located off Landstar and Town Center Blvds. in South Orlando.

David Parker, director of sales and marketing for Lennar in the Orlando region, said three, four and five bedroom single family homes at Preston Pointe at Wyndham Lakes range in size from 1,300 square feet of living space to 3,200 square feet with two-car garages.

Parker said Lennar is offering six distinctive floor plans at Preston Pointe, the homebuilder’s newest neighborhood in the Wyndham Lakes community.

Lennar is also building three and four bedroom single family homes at Somerset Landing at Wyndham Lakes, priced from $199,990 to $244,990, and two and three bedroom townhomes at Camden Landing at Wyndham Lakes priced from $141,990 to $158,990.

Wyndham Lakes boasts a resort-style swimming pool, 6,500 square foot community clubhouse and fitness center with aerobics and workout room, tennis and basketball courts and children’s playground.Discover Wyndham's Recreation Center - featuring a 6,500 sq. ft.

Visit http://www.lennar.com/New-Homes/Florida/Orlando/Orlando/Wyndham-Lakes/Preston-Pointe
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For more information contact: David Parker, Director of Sales & Marketing Lennar Central Florida-Orlando Region, or Jassy Friddle, Marketing Manager Lennar Central Florida-Orlando Region, 888-317-7489; Mark Metheny, Lennar Division President-Central Florida Division, 727-479-1700

Friday, March 4, 2011

Silent Auction at University Club of Orlando Raises $25,000 to Benefit Wounded Warriors Outdoors

ORLANDO, Fla. --- A silent auction at The University Club of Orlando raised more than $25,000 to benefit Wounded Warriors Outdoors, a not-for-profit group whose mission is to reward active duty wounded servicemen with the therapeutic trip of their lifetime: a small way of thanking them for their unselfish personal sacrifices in helping to preserve our freedom.

Cole Whitaker, who heads Hendricks & Partners’ Orlando regional office emceed the Cocktails for a Cause event, which was Wounded Warriors Outdoors first ever fundraiser.

More than 150 people attended, said Susan Greene, general manager of The University Club of Orlando.

The University Club of Orlando Cocktails for a Cause events have raised more than $100,000 over the past three years to benefit area civic, community and charitable organizations.
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For more information, contact:Susan Greene, General Manager, The University Club of Orlando 407-425-2514, gm@ucluborlando.com; Cole Whitaker, Southeast Partner, Hendricks & Partners 407-218-8880 cwhitaker@HPAPTS.com

Crossman & Company Names Former Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty Executive Vice President

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Crossman & Company, which is one of the largest retail leasing and management firms in the Southeast, recently appointed former Orange County Mayor Rich Crotty Executive Vice President in a move that will enhance the company’s leadership role in the industry and facilitate continued growth throughout the Southeast, said the company’s president.

John Crossman, President, said Mayor Crotty is one of the most recognizable and powerful people in the State of Florida, and will be able to offer some insight and leadership that will help propel the company into the future.

“We are a strong, growing company, and Mayor Crotty brings a level of experience, maturity and leadership that will substantially enhance our capacity to serve our clients throughout the Southeast,” said Crossman, a frequent speaker at regional and national retail conferences who is widely regarded as one of the industry’s leading experts.

Crossman said Mayor Crotty’s public service experience–14 years in the Florida legislature and 19 years in Orange County government, including two terms as Orange County Mayor– may open doors, but his strategic skills will prove more valuable.

“Mayor Crotty tends to look at the longer term and the bigger picture,” Crossman said. “He brings a perspective to this industry that is already facilitating opportunities to increase business, create jobs and help Florida recover from this recession.”
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For more information contact: John Crossman, CCIM, President, Crossman & Company, 407-581-6218, jcrossman@crossmanco.com

About Crossman & Company: Crossman & Company is one of the largest third-party retail leasing and management companies in the Southeast with over 16 million square feet under leasing and/or management. Founded in Orlando in 1990, Crossman & Company is a full service commercial real estate firm that advises its clients in leasing, management, development and investment sales of retail and office properties and serves clients including Publix.

Heritage Hills To Host Doo Wop Sock Hop March 19 With 50s Music, Burgers and Shakes, Classic Car Shows and Free Prizes

Clermont, Fla. --- Heritage Hills, the award-winning active adult community Lennar is developing in Clermont off Hartwood Marsh Road south of S.R. 50 and east of U.S. 27, will host a Doo Wop Sock Hop from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 19 with classic car show, burgers, fries, hot dogs and malted shakes, free gifts for visitors and 50s rock-n-roll by the six-piece Music Makers of Lakeland.

Mark Metheny, president of Lennar’s Central Florida Division, said admission to Doo Wop Sock Hop is free and the public is invited.

Metheny said the food will be plentiful, and the Central Florida Bow Tie Club promises a memorable car show. Dancing will be optional, Metheny said, and Heritage Hills is giving away Knee-Hi Funky Socks for ladies who want to kick up their heels, along with keepsake beach balls and classic cars while supplies last.

Lennar builds single-family homes and villa homes at Heritage Hills priced from the $130s. Metheny said Heritage Hills will be offering tours of its model homes and ready-to-move-in villa homes.

Heritage Hills features a huge community clubhouse with state-of-the-art fitness facility and rooms for cards, billiards, hobbies and crafts, a library, computer station and wireless access, aerobics and administration in addition to a catering kitchen, conference room, a ballroom with a stage, a heated resort style pool with lap lanes and water aerobics, a heated hot tub/spa, and a lighted sports court area with tennis, basketball, bocce ball, and shuffleboard.

“The clubhouse includes a state of the art golf simulator where residents can play 60 of the world's finest courses in air-conditioned comfort, and an outdoor professional putting green with sand trap for practicing your short game” Metheny said.

Visit www.Lennar.com.
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For more information contact: Sara K. Nakamine, Active Adult Marketing Lennar-Heritage Hills, 813-494-6391; David Parker, Director of Sales Lennar-Orlando Region, 888-317-7489; Mark Metheny, Lennar Division President-Central Florida, 727-479-1700

March Silent Auction and Cocktail Party to Benefit Volusia/Flagler Animal Rescue Group

ORMOND BEACH – The 3rd annual Spring Cocktail Party and Silent Auction, a benefit for the Rescued Hearts Animal Shelter, will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 19 at the Ormond Lakes Clubhouse on Ormond Lakes Boulevard.

The event will feature cocktails, savory appetizers and tempting desserts on the lake view deck. But, the highlight will be a silent auction of artwork, unique gifts and other items donated by local businesses and individuals, according to newly-elected president Julie Beard.

“We’re very excited to host this event again this year,” Beard said. “We have lots of interesting items that will be on display for those planning to bid on a great item while they help support animal welfare.”

Beard said the event is a large part of the group’s annual fundraising efforts to purchase land to build the Rescued Hearts Animal Shelter and Spay/Neuter Hospital.

The 501C(3) non-profit agency organized in 2007 to help find homes for animals in Volusia and Flagler counties and places dogs and cats in foster homes until they are adopted or until their “state-of-the-art-with-heart” shelter is built.

The agency’s short-term plan is to obtain land in Volusia County and construct a facility to help decrease local government’s cost to house or euthanize unwanted animals.

Other goals are to establish an aggressive spay/neuter program, help animals stay at home to prevent the need for housing, and provide superior care and quality of life for animals.

Tickets for the event are $25 per person and all proceeds will be designated for the group’s Property Acquisition Fund. Reservations can be made by calling Judy Thompson at 386-252-1050.

For details about Rescued Hearts, visit www.rescuedheartsanimalshelter.com.
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For more information about this release, please contact: Julie Beard, President, Rescued Hearts Animal Shelter, 386-626-3003, jbstables@gmail.com, or Judy Thompson, 386-252-1050; Charlene Hager-Van Dyke, Larry Vershel Communications, 386-532-8862 or chagervandyke@yahoo.com

UCF Incubator in Kissimmee to Host St. Patrick’s Day Networking Reception for Area Entrepreneurs

KISSIMMEE - The University of Central Florida Business Incubator in Kissimmee will host a networking reception for area entrepreneurs from 5 to7 p.m. on Thursday March 17.

Rafael Caamano, site manager at the UCF Business Incubator in Kissimmee, said the St. Patrick’s Day reception is a chance for entrepreneurs with startup businesses to meet and discuss issues in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

The event is free and open to all entrepreneurs, Caamano said.

The UCF Business Incubator in Kissimmee is located on the fourth floor of the Kissimmee City Centre, 111 Monument Ave. in Kissimmee
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For more information, contact: Rafael Caamano, Site Manager Kissimmee UCF Business Incubation Program, 407-343-4300 rcaamano@mail.ucf.edu

About the UCF Incubation Program: Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 160 emerging companies (including 100 current clients) create over $800 million in annual revenue and more than 1,600 new jobs with an average salary of $59,000. With eight – and soon nine – facilities opened across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development between the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Winter Springs, The City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and will be adding Volusia County. For more information, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu.

Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary in Sanford donates $200 to support Florida Police and Fire Games

SANFORD, Fla. --- Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary in Sanford recently contributed $200 to support the Florida Police and Fire Games.

Eunice I. Wilson, principal at Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary said Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary has supported the organization at various levels since 2000.

Florida Police and Fire Games allows police and fire officers from Volusia and Seminole Counties to “escape the everyday stress that comes with the job through athletic competition,” according to Wilson.

Wilson said Central Florida officers compete against other teams from Dade, Martin, Duval and Hillsborough counties.
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For more information about this press release, contact: Dr. Gail Choice, 407-688-0211, Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary; Eunice I. Wilson, Principal, 407-322-5212 Wilson-Eichelberger Mortuary; Larry Vershel or Beth Payan, Larry Vershel Communications 407-644-4142 Lvershelco@aol.com

Canaveral Port Authority Reappoints NAI Realvest Managing Partner Paul P. Partyka Real Estate Broker

MAITLAND, Fla. --- Paul P. Partyka, managing partner of NAI Realvest in Maitland, was recently reappointed by the Canaveral Port Authority as their Real Estate Broker.

Partyka was first appointed to the post in 2007.

The Canaveral Port Authority lists assets valued at more than $200 million and buildings valued at more than $14 million on 886 acres surrounding Port Canaveral.

“Port Canaveral ranks as one of the largest trade zones in North America,” Partyka said.
As their real estate broker, Partyka represents the Canaveral Port Authority for both leasing and sales.
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For more information, contact: Paul P. Partyka, Managing Partner, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989 ppartyka@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com; Larry Vershel or Beth Payan, Larry Vershel Communications, 407-644-4142 lversehlco@aol.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, covering all of central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.

Parent Company of Avalon Park Group Acquires Major Share of Swiss Beverage Producer Thurella A.G.

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Kahli A.G., the parent company of Avalon Park Group in East Orlando, recently acquired a 6.5 percent stake in Thurella A.G. (BRN:TRLN), a Swiss beverage producer that specializes in fruit and vegetable juices.

Beat Kahli, who heads Avalon Park Group, said the 6.5 percent stake makes Kahli A.G. one of the three largest shareholders in Thurella A.G., a traditional, 100-year-old company.
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For more information contact: Stephanie Hodson, Marketing Director, Avalon Park Group, 407-658-6565; Beat Kahli, Owner/Founder, Avalon Park Group, 407-658-6565; Larry Vershel or Beth Payan, Larry Vershel Communications, 407-644-4142

South Florida Ball Bearing Company Selected to Participate in State-Funded Economic Gardening Program

DELRAY BEACH – Boca Bearing, a Palm Beach County ball bearing company, has been selected to receive free assistance through the state-funded GrowFL program, part of the Florida Economic Gardening Institute.

Founded in 1987 by Owner/President Allen Baum, Boca Bearing imports and exports miniature bearings for a multitude of purposes, including robotics, prototyping, food and medical device manufacturing, radio-controlled hobbies and performance racing, according to Baum’s son Jason Flanzbaum, vice president of sales and marketing.

“We have been steadily growing every year even during the economic downturn,” Flanzbaum said. “As a result we have struggled with growing pains as well as succession-planning issues. Hopefully, GrowFL will help us through this transition period.”

Created in 2009 by the Florida Legislature, GrowFL is based at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. GrowFL will support Boca Bearings through a number of free services, including access to market research and technology, strategy analysis, CEO roundtables and forums, database research and website optimization.

When selecting businesses the institute looks for ones that have the potential to be successful, according to Dr. Tom O’Neal, executive director of the Florida Economic Gardening Institute.

“Companies like Boca Bearing are chosen for the program because of the potential they have shown and their efforts in becoming a second-stage company,” said O’Neal, who also serves as associate vice president for the University of Central Florida’s Office of Research and Commercialization.

Flanzbaum said his family’s Delray Beach company, which currently has 15 employees, is “working through the many hurdles” that they feel are preventing them from faster growth.

“We are looking to expand our product range, buy a new building, hire three to five employees and invest in new infrastructure this year,” he said. “We believe with the assistance from GrowFL we can accomplish all of those goals.”
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About Boca Bearing: As a specialist in ceramic bearing technology, the Boca Bearing Company has been a trusted name in after-market and upgrade bearing replacement for more than two decades. The company focuses on conserving energy while reducing rolling resistance for extreme applications. Boca Bearing solves challenging application problems for many industries, including robotics, prototyping, food and medical device manufacturing, radio-controlled hobbies and performance racing.

About the Florida Economic Gardening Institute: The Florida Economic Gardening Institute was created by the 2009 Florida Legislature as the Economic Gardening Technical Assistance Program to stimulate investment in Florida’s economy by providing technical assistance for expanding businesses in the state. Qualified companies must be engaged in the following sectors to receive no-cost technical assistance: Manufacturing; Finance & Insurance Services; Wholesale Trade; Information Industries; Professional, Scientific & Technical Services; Management Services; and, Administrative & Support Services. Additional information is available at www.GrowFL.com.

For more information about this release, please contact: Jason Flanzbaum, Boca Bearing, 561-998-0004, Jason@bocabearings.com; Linda Nelson, Outreach Services GrowFL, 407-882-0046, Linda@Growfl.com; Jane Teague, Enterprise Development Corp. of S. Fla. 561-620-8494, jteague@edc-tech.org; Charlene Hager-Van Dyke, Larry Vershel Communications, 407-644-4142, chagervandyke@yahoo.com or Lvershelco@aol.com

sdPhotonics Nears Completion of Second Phase of Contract to Develop High Power Laser for U.S. Air Force

ORLANDO, Fla. – sdPhotonics is nearing completion of the second phase of a research and development contract to develop a specialized high-powered laser for the U.S. Air Force.

Dr. Sabine Freisem, president of sdPhotonics, said she expects to complete the work in March.

Dr. Dennis Deppe, chief executive officer of the firm, said the contract is worth $850,000.

“The work we are doing represents a major breakthrough in laser technology,” Dr. Deppe said.

Researchers from UCF spin-off sdPhotonics, in collaboration with the College of Optics and Photonics/CREOL at the University of Central Florida, have now demonstrated what may become the most reliable laser diode technology ever developed. Recent laboratory measurements show that the new laser diodes pass unprecedented stress testing, and the new approach provides important insights into why other laser diodes fail. The new technology may ultimately produce the most reliable laser diodes ever developed, with failure times that could reach 10 M hours (1000 years) or more. The new technology could reduce testing and lower the cost for laser diodes.

The new laser diodes represent a sharp departure from past commercial devices in how they are made, especially that they can be made smaller while eliminating the need for non-semiconductor materials around their active light generating part. The most surprising aspect of the new technology is how it responds to high internal temperature and high current stress. The new devices show almost no change in operation under stress conditions that cause commercial devices to rapidly fail. Although the research team was expecting the new laser diodes to be more reliable, actually reaching high reliability can be a tedious process in laser development, requiring extensive optimization of numerous separate fabrication steps. The new laser diodes did not require these steps, and their unique characteristics are now shedding new insights into just why existing commercial laser diodes fail.

The team is currently perfecting other aspects of the new laser technology, including its efficiency and beam properties. They believe that one of the most important applications could be for laser diodes in space. These laser diodes will require very high reliability, and defects caused by space radiation can play a major role in their failure. By reducing the flow of point defects in the crystalline semiconductor of the new technology, these could prove the most resistant laser diode yet to space radiation, making them useful on earth and in space because of their high reliability.

High power laser diode technologies that sdPhotonics is developing provide improved power, efficiency, brightness and reliability, Dr. Deppe said.

Dr. Freisem, a native of Germany, is a graduate of Leiden University in the Netherlands and has more than six years of experience in laser technology. She is currently senior research scientist for the College of Optics and Photonics at the University of Central Florida.

Dr. Deppe, a graduate of University of Illinois has more than 20 years of experience focused on laser physics, semiconductor lasers and materials, nanostructures and quantum optics. He is currently endowed chair / professor of the College of Optics and Photonics at the University of Central Florida.

sdPhotonics is located at the University of Central Florida Business Incubator-Photonics in the Center for Research & Education in Optics & Lasers (CREOL) on the University’s main Campus in East Orlando.
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For more information contact: Sabine Freisem, President, sdPhotonics 407-929-6675, sfreisem@cfl.rr.com; Dennis Deppe, Chief Executive Officer, sdPhotonics, 407-823-6870. ddeppe@creol.ucf.edu; Gordon Hogan, Director of Operations, UCF Business Incubation Program, 407-882-1577, ghogan@mail.ucf.edu

About the UCF Business Incubation Program: Since its founding in 1999, the UCF Business Incubation Program has helped more than 160 emerging companies (including nearly 100 current clients) create over $800 million in annual revenue and more than 1,600 new jobs with an average salary of $59,000. With eight – and soon nine – facilities opened across the Greater Orlando community, the Business Incubation Program is a collaboration in economic development between the University of Central Florida, Orange County, the City of Orlando, Seminole County, the City of Winter Springs, The City of Sanford, Lake County, the City of Leesburg, Osceola County, the City of Kissimmee, City of St. Cloud, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council and will be adding Volusia County. For more information, please visit www.incubator.ucf.edu.

NAI Realvest Negotiates New Lease at South Park Business Center with Makeup and Special Effects Artistry Studio

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated a new industrial lease agreement for 1,830 square feet in Suite 102 at South Park Business Center, a flex, office and warehouse center at 8600 Commodity Circle in Orlando.

Tom Kelley CCIM, principal at NAI Realvest, brokered the transaction on behalf of Miami-based South Park, LLC, the landlord of the 58,000 square foot business center built in 2008.

The new tenant is Blue Whale Studios, Inc. a full service make up and special effects make up studio serving Central Florida.
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For more information, contact: Tom Kelley, CCIM, Principal, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989, tkelley@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest, 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest in Orlando, serving all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.

NAI Realvest negotiates sale of office condo for $574,425 at the Oaks Professional Center in The Villages

ORLANDO, Fla. – NAI Realvest recently negotiated the $574,425 sale price for a 2,551 square foot office condominium at The Oaks Professional Center, at 8575 138th Lane in The Villages in Lady Lake, Fla.

Jack W. Lynch, senior broker associate at NAI Realvest negotiated the transaction – the first condo sale in the upscale office building built in 2009 – representing the seller, 138th Place Properties, LLC of Windermere, Fla.

CPMP Enterprises of Central Florida, LLC from Bellview, Fla. purchased the property and was represented in the sale by Gary Inclan of South Central Real Estate, Inc.
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For more information please contact: Jack Lynch, Senior Broker Associate, NAI Realvest 407-875-9989 or jlynch@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com

About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, covering all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.

Golden Bear Golf Club in Windermere Promotes Dan Rabaja to First Assistant Pro

CELEBRATION, Fla. –Golden Bear Golf Club at Keene’s Point in Windermere has promoted Dan Rabaja to first assistant pro.

Matthew Allen, head golf pro at Golden Bear Golf Club, said Rabaja joined Golden Bear nine months ago as an associate in the pro shop. He has five years of experience in the golf industry.

Golden Bear Golf Club is owned and operated by Celebration Golf Management headed by Gene Garrote.
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For media information, contact: Gene Garrote, President, Celebration Golf Management, 407-566-1045; Matthew Allen, Head Golf Pro, Golden Bear Golf Club, 407-876-5775 ext 41

Stone Creek in Ocala Opens $4.2 Million Del Webb Model Home Center -- 10 Models Ready for Viewing

OCALA, Fla. --- Officials from the Ocala/Marion County Chamber of Commerce joined Del Webb executives and trade partners to cut the ribbon opening a new $4.2 million model home center at Stone Creek, Del Webb’s newest active adult golf course community located at 6320 S.W. 89th Court Rd. in Ocala.

More than 2,000 potential home buyers visited Del Webb’s grand opening of its model park at Stone Creek on Saturday, Feb. 19 with food, refreshments, live music and 10 new models for viewing.

Sean Strickler, vice president of sales and marketing of Del Webb in North Florida, said the response exceeded everyone’s expectations during the weekend event.

“What an awesome event,” Strickler said. “We were thrilled with the turnout and people were so gracious. All along we’ve felt Stone Creek will be one of our most successful active adult communities and our grand opening event certainly starts us off in that direction. The response further affirms that Del Webb is the leader in active adult communities.” Strickler said.

Del Webb’s single-family homes at Stone Creek are priced from the $130s to the $260s. Del Webb plans to build over 4,000 homes around the 18-hole championship golf course at Stone Creek.

New single-family homes at Stone Creek range in size from 1,392 square feet of living space to 2,611 square feet, Strickler said. TwinVilla homes, priced in the $160s to the $170s, range in size from 1,548 square feet to1,709 square feet.

Del Webb Stone Creek has already opened the Reflection Bay and Elan Spa community clubhouses on more than 29 acres with a grand ballroom, fitness center, movement studio, indoor spa, steam and sauna room, indoor pool and outdoor pool, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts and bocce ball courts.

The Stone Creek Grille has also opened and hosts a variety of activities for residents to enjoy, Strickler said.

For more information, visit delwebb.com/stonecreek or call 877-333-5932.
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For more information about this news release contact: Lyndsey Clarke, Director of Marketing PulteGroup North Florida Divisions, 407-661-2150 ext 1416 2301 Lucien Way, Suite 400, Maitland, FL 32751; lyndsey.clarke@pultegroup.com; Sean C. Strickler, Vice President Sales & Marketing PulteGroup/Florida, 407-661-1461 sean.strickler@pultegroup.com

About Del Webb: Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2010, award-winning Del Webb communities provide a vibrant, enriched lifestyle for those ages 55 and older, creating an unmatched experience for the next phase of life. Del Webb communities began with the original Sun City which opened outside Phoenix, Arizona in 1960 and have grown to include more than 50 communities currently open for new home sales in 21 states. Del Webb is the undisputed leader of active adult communities in America and draws on its 50 years of experience of providing residents an engaging life which fulfills their creative, physical, mental, and social needs. Together with Del Webb residents, the brand is redefining retirement. For more information on Del Webb, visit www.delwebb.com

Best Opportunity Ever For Luxury Vacation Homes, Retirement Homes on Florida’s East Coast – Prices Down 40-60 Percent

ORLANDO, Fla. --- Prices for luxury vacation homes, second homes and retirement homes in Brevard County near Orlando are down 40-60 percent from the market peak, offering some of the best opportunities in a lifetime, says Kim Tillett, International Luxury Home Specialist with Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty.

Tillett said choice oceanfront and riverfront properties are selling for record low prices. The hottest segment of the market is in the $200-400,000 price range, she added.

Homeowners in Brevard enjoy easy access to golf, boating and beaches. There is also the close proximity to Orlando, theme parks and international airport. Brevard County offers the Port at Cape Canaveral which includes restaurants, shopping and cruise ships that depart throughout the week. Kennedy Space Center is only a short drive away. Homes in Brevard are currently priced among the lowest in the state, Tillett said.

“We are seeing the bottom of the market in Brevard County and the pricing on waterfront and oceanfront residential properties are among the lowest we have ever seen,” Tillett said.
For more information, visit http://www.stirlingsir.com/index.php?action=view_user&user=618
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For more information contact: Kim Tillett, International Luxury Home Specialist, Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty, 321-446-9035; Roger Soderstrom, Founder/Owner Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty 407-581-7890

About Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty: Stirling Sotheby’s International Realty is affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, the largest luxury real estate brand in the world. Stirling Sotheby’s exclusive services include luxury residential, new homes, commercial, property management, in addition to supporting builders, developers, lenders, and asset managers. The company operates three performance zones which serve all of Central Florida. Visit www.StirlingSIR.com.

NAI Realvest Negotiates Sale of 12,897 Square Foot Office/Warehouse Building and 2.8 Acres at Prime Intersection in Orlando

ORLANDO, Fla. -- NAI Realvest recently negotiated the sale of the 12,897 square foot industrial facility located at 8120 and 8400 S. Orange Ave. at the corner of Sand Lake Rd. in Orlando.

Robert Blackwell, SIOR principal at NAI Realvest and associate Sean DuPree, CCIM negotiated the transaction representing the seller, Redmond, Wash.-based Univar USA, Inc.

PetroLiance Properties, LLC of Apex N.C. paid $875,000 for the property which includes 2,897 square feet of office space. Clemens Commercial Real Estate represented the buyer.
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About NAI Realvest: NAI Realvest, covering all of Central Florida, is a fully integrated commercial real estate operating company specializing in brokerage, development, investment, leasing and management, consulting and research services in the U.S. and worldwide. NAI Global is an international commercial real estate network with over 325 offices spanning the globe. Since 1978, clients have built businesses on the power of NAI Global’s expanding network. Extensive services include multi-site acquisitions and dispositions, sublease, tenant representation, lease administration and audit, investment services, due diligence and related consulting and advisory services. To learn more, visit www.NAIRealvest.com.

For more information contact:Robert Blackwell, SIOR or Sean Dupree, CCIM at NAI Realvest 407-875-9989; rblackwell@realvest.com, sdupree@realvest.com; Patrick Mahoney, President, NAI Realvest 407-875-9989 pmahoney@realvest.com