Showing posts with label Bluegreen Resorts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bluegreen Resorts. Show all posts

Hundreds of Shenandoah Crossing Owners Given Foreclosure Notices

Hundreds of owners at Bluegreen Vacations' Shenandoah Crossing Resort were given foreclosure notices in March. The foreclosures are related to tenant-in-common ownership stakes in properties recorded in Louisa County, Virginia. The defaults date to January 1, 2012 according to the legal ad for the notices.

Attorney Comments

"There are clearly a lot of people who have not paid their timeshare assessments and probably an owners' association that would like to resell the timeshares to new owners that will pay future assessments," said John D. McPhaul, an attorney for Troutman Sanders, a Richmond law firm, specializing in commercial lending and foreclosures.  

McPhaul went on to say, "Legal advertising for the sale of timeshares tends to be done in bulk because it is more cost-efficient, as the sale of individual timeshares does not typically generate the same amount of proceeds that the sale of a single-family home or condominium unit would."  He added that he didn't know if the Shenandoah notices represent more than the usual number of owners in default for this particular timeshare project, and that the number of timeshares in any project can vary widely.

Timeshare Resort Offers 1000 Acres of Wilderness

Shenandoah Crossing is located near Gordonsville, Virginia and northeast of Charlottesville. It's owned by Florida company Bluegreen Corporation, which manages and markets the Bluegreen Vacation Club that includes Shenandoah Crossing. The resort opened in 1989. According to the website of the sales center, the resort offers 1000 acres of wilderness area, including a 60 acre lake for fishing, pastures, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Accommodations include yurts, round canvas tents with central air and heat, recreational vehicle pads, cabins and town homes.

Notice to owners in Richmond Times-Dispatch

According to an article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch, a notice to Shenandoah Crossing owners which ran Monday through Friday at the end of March stated, "You are in default on your assessment due to the association. Unless you take action to protect your property, it may be sold at a public sale. If you need an explanation of the nature of the proceedings against you, you should contact a lawyer."

The property owners were listed individually as having a 1/6,000th undivided interest as a tenant-in-common. The default amounts listed for each owner range from about $2,700 to more than $20,000. The estimated foreclosure cost for each property owner is $650. 

Investment Banker says "Not a Good Deal"

An investment banker at John B. Levy & Company in Richmond, commenting on the notice said "it looked like Bluegreen sells each home site for a separate week out of each year, which would allow them to sell 52 shares." He added that, "he couldn’t say anything else because the notice was hard to decipher, but that it looked like a deal to stay away from as a potential real estate investor."

Foreclosure Sale Draws Small Crowd

According to NBC.com, the foreclosure sale for the timeshares went ahead on March 30th and drew a small crowd. Prices ranged from $830 to $23,000. Staff at Shenandoah Crossing told NBC.com that 144 properties will foreclose and released a statement, "We are positive that this foreclosure process will allow for the sale of the delinquent inventory to new owners who will enjoy visiting the resort." The management company claims it tried to work with timeshare owners for many years on the issue, but wasn’t able to get the problems resolved.


No Word from Bluegreen Corp.


So far Bluegreen Corporation isn't talking. Calls to the company, from the Richmond Times-Dispatch were not returned.  Bluegreen Vacations is a wholly owned subsidiary of Bluegreen Corporation which manages and markets the Bluegreen Vacation Club. Its website says the vacation ownership program connects 195,000 owners with 60 Bluegreen resorts in more than 40 destinations across the U.S. and Canada.

Who are the Leaders in Timeshare Sales?

Vacation Ownership World (VOW) - a digital magazine that acts as a forum for the trends and issues of the vacation ownership industry - has come out with its latest review and forecast of the state of vacation ownership sales. According to VOW, vacation ownership sales, timeshare and fractional sales combined, expanded 7% in 2013 over 2012. Combined with a 10% rise in 2012 over 2011, it’s the largest back-to-back sales growth period since the economy began its decline in 2008. Timeshare sales rose 11%...the largest jump since 2006 and 2007.

Last Year’s Top Developers Remain in the Lead
Changes and adjustments (noted in VOW’s 2012 review), are still being used by the leading developers who remain successful in an economy that is improving but still struggling. Some of the ways developers maintained success are:
  • Having access to sufficient capital
  • Using only the sales and marketing programs that have proven to be most efficient
  • Sustaining a ratio of new owner sales to existing owner sales
  • Recognizing that consumers are purchasing in smaller transactions (samplers, junior suites, biennials, triennials, etc.) and using social media to make vital owner contacts and building relationships
  • Using timeshare as a cash generator…some developers collect over 50% of the value of a sales contract up front. Ownerships allow developers to access inventory as needed versus carrying the cost of excess inventory on their books.
  • Improving cash flow and increased profitability by using sophisticated models to predict a prospect’s ability to pay

The Leaders in Timeshare Sales

The developers who had $5 million or more in 2013 sales include:

1. Wyndham Vacation Ownership
Wyndham Vacation Ownership (WVO) topped the list of the 2013 Sales Leaders with $1.9 billion in sales. WVO is one of those companies that stuck to their plan. Experiencing a banner year in 2012, WVO president and CEO Franz Hanning said that 2013 was a replay of 2012, "Once again our numbers were excellent, once again sales, tours, VPG, net income, EBITDA (earnings before interest, depreciation taxes and amortization) and WAAM (fee-for-service business model) sales and commissions were all up." Top on WVO’s strategy list…generate cash flow.

2. Hilton Grand Vacations
Coming in at #2 on VOW’s list was Hilton Grand Vacations with a record $830 million in timeshare sales. Much of the success was attributed to an increase in club membership to more than 200,000 and moving capital efficient sales from 17% in 2012 to 45% in 2013. Commenting on this, Hilton’s president of global sales Mark Wang stated, "We did this by welcoming more visitors to our sales centers allowing us to continue our strategy of adding first time buyers to our club." Mr. Wang attributed another part of HGV’s success to the company’s adherence to hiring and retaining qualified and dedicated employees, and their commitment to making an engaging work environment.

Rounding out the Top 10 in Timeshare Sales (in millions)
3. Marriott World - $679
4. Diamond Resorts International and Bluegreen Resorts each with - $465
5. Starwood Vacation Ownership - $326
6. Silverleaf - $244
7. Holiday Inn Club Vacations - $229
8. Villa Group - $116
9. Club Melia - $109

10. Welk Resorts - $105

Bluegreen Corporation Joins Coca-Cola, Ford Motor Company in Ranking Among Nation’s Top Corporate Fundraising Teams for 2013

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading timeshare ownership resort company, was recently honored as the 15th of 20 Top Corporate Fundraising Teams in the U.S. by the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) for the 2013 Walk to Cure Diabetes.

Bluegreen was named among such national corporations as Ford Motor Company, Bloomingdale’s, Walgreen’s and Coca-Cola.

Lora Hazelwood, executive director of the Palm Beach County Chapter of JDRF explained that there are literally thousands of corporate teams when you factor in the over 100 Walk sites across the U.S.

 “I am very proud to have our chapter on this exclusive list,” said Hazelwood. Bluegreen Corporation has been involved with JDRF and the Walk to Cure Diabetes since 2002.

Bluegreen President and CEO John M. Maloney, Jr. has been the corporate chairman of the Palm Beach Chapter event annually since 2006.  The national Walk to Cure Diabetes event brings together millions of individuals in support of finding a cure.

In addition to serving as a corporate sponsor of the event, Bluegreen committed to and exceeded their $50,000 fund raising goal.

“We are proud if our associates in Boca Raton and throughout the country for the part they play in helping to raise these funds and awareness of T1D,” said Ellen Devine, Executive Assistant to the President and CEO of Bluegreen.

“Our relationship with JDRF is very special and we are happy and proud to continue to help them find a cure.” Devine said.

“To Bluegreen, I sincerely thank you all for your tremendous support of JDRF and our Greater Palm Beach Chapter,” said Carl Marks, JDRF’s Regional Director for the state of Florida.

“It is because of your generosity, tireless efforts, and faith in our mission that we will successfully treat, cure, and prevent T1D through our research. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your vote of confidence and congratulations for this wonderful and distinguished distinction in JDRF’s success,” said Marks.

Bluegreen Getaways and Elvis.com Winner Takes Family to Vegas

Bluegreen Getaways Partnered with Elvis.com to give away a vacation fit for a king. The winner just returned from his family trip to Las Vegas.

Pete S. of Beaumont, CA, won a trip to Las Vegas. His prize package included a 7-night stay at Bluegreen Club 36 Resort in a Presidential Suite- 2,500 square feet of elegance, including three lavish bedrooms, a kitchen and an entertaining media room. Pete also received $2,500 in cash.

Pete was casually surfing the Internet when he saw the contest fit for a king and decided to roll the dice on a Las Vegas getaway.

“I was really happy when I found out I won,” Pete said. “I called my wife right away to let her know.” Pete vacationed with his wife and two children.

He says the prize made for the ideal family trip, because Las Vegas happens to be only three hours from where he lives.

Bluegreen’s strategic partnership with Elvis.com was designed to bring more than just vacation packages to the site’s audience.

 “The sweepstakes was created specifically for Elvis Presley Enterprises to give fans a chance to win a great experience from Bluegreen Getaways,” said Marco Merida, Vice President of Marketing Alliances for Bluegreen.

“Elvis fans love Las Vegas. Offering the Presidential Suite from our Vegas Resort (Club 36) seemed like a great way to give the winner a vacation package that even Elvis would have enjoyed. We’re very excited to give this experience to Pete.”

“Elvis Presley Enterprises is proud to have partnered with Bluegreen on this sweepstakes to send Pete to one of Elvis’ favorite cities: Las Vegas, NV,” said Jane Mims, Marketing Account Manager for Elvis Presley Enterprises.

“Elvis Presley’s Graceland in Memphis, TN will celebrate his love for Vegas in 2013 & 2014 with a new ‘Elvis: Live from Vegas’ exhibit.”

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is a leading timeshare sales, marketing and resort management company. Bluegreen Resorts manages, markets and sells the Bluegreen Vacation Club, a flexible, points-based, deeded vacation ownership plan with more than 160,000 owners, over 60 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Bluegreen Vacations Partners With American Red Cross in Hurricane Sandy Storm Relief Efforts

Bluegreen Vacations, a leading provider of vacation experiences, will make a $5,000 corporate donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief to assist with care for those displaced by Hurricane Sandy, Bluegreen President and CEO John M. Maloney Jr. has announced.

In addition, the company will match personal donations by its associates made by November 30, 2012- dollar for dollar- up to $5,000.

A handful of resorts that are either owned by or affiliated with the vacation club experienced the wrath of Sandy first hand: The Soundings and The Breakers in Dennisport, MA, The Manhattan Club in New York City, Patrick Henry Square in Williamsburg, VA., Shenandoah Crossing in Gordonsville, VA., and Atlantic Palace in Atlantic City, NJ.

“Many Bluegreen associates in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast took great precautions before the storm to protect our resort owners and guests, even as they took steps to safeguard themselves and their loved ones,” Maloney said.

“They showed great care and compassion. Now it’s our opportunity—and responsibility—to show compassion.”

The American Red Cross has provided more than 23,000 overnight shelter stays since October 26, 2012, two days before Sandy made landfall. The storm has affected 60 million people across an area the Red Cross described as “about the size of Europe.”

Bluegreen Vacations hosts owners and guests at several resorts in the affected area, including Bluegreen at Atlantic Palace on the hard-hit Atlantic City, N.J., Boardwalk.

Contributions to the American National Red Cross are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Red Cross’ tax identification number is 53-0196605. For more information, visit the Red Cross web site. 

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is a leading timeshare sales, marketing and resort management company. Bluegreen Resorts manages, markets and sells the Bluegreen Vacation Club, a flexible, points-based, deeded vacation ownership plan with more than 160,000 owners, over 60 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Photo Credit: nj.com

Bluegreen Wilderness Club At Big Cedar Wins Branson Green Initiative Award

Bluegreen Vacations, a leading provider of Colorful Places to Play, has announced that its Missouri resort, Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar, was presented the City of Branson’s 2011 Green Initiative award for its eco-friendly practices. Bluegreen Corporation is honored and proud to receive the award.

While Bluegreen Wilderness Club is decidedly focused on rustic luxury, with 18 Concierge and Presidential villas, slate and hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, exquisite fireplaces, stainless steel appliances and soft, comfortable and inviting furniture and bedding; it is also diligent about remaining energy conscious and eco-friendly. While we continue to evolve our practices to become as energy efficient and eco-friendly as possible, we have already accomplished many great things.

At Bluegreen Wilderness Club, we are diligent about the following:

1. Landscaping practices to reduce use of water and fertilizer to guard against runoff into Table Rock Lake, and to recycle organic materials into the soil by composting and mulching

2. The living ‘green’ roof at Indian Creek Swimming pool Pump House and the emphasis on sustainability throughout the newly constructed Indian Creek Lodge

3. Recognition by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Certified Green Lodging Program

4. Participating Property, “Clean the World” Program to recycle soap products for distribution to needy, third-world countries to provide sanitizing cleansers to combat infection transmission and to reduce the impact of these cleaning products on our landfills and groundwater

5. Encouragement to all guests to participate in our resort-wide commitment to recycling by providing convenient containers for collecting recyclable materials

6. The resort’s recycling programs divert and transport an estimated 128.5 tons of recylcable material that would otherwise be sent to a landfill

7. Use of energy efficient and solar lighting fixtures where practicable

8. Use of water/energy conserving fixtures where practicable

“We are honored to receive this award, as we believe instilling a culture of environmental respect and sustainability is an important part of living and working in The Ozarks,” said Howard Kitchen, General Manager of Wilderness Club at Big Cedar. “As a Bluegreen Corporation resort, we are proud to represent the timeshare industry with a positive, environmentally friendly award.”

Timeshare rentals at Bluegreen’s Wilderness Club at Big Cedar start at just $60/night.

Bluegreen Wilderness Club At Big Cedar Wins Green Initiative Award

Bluegreen Vacations, a leading provider of “Colorful Places to Play,” has announced that its Missouri resort, Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar, was presented the City of Branson’s 2011 Green Initiative award for its eco-friendly practices. Bluegreen Corporation is honored and proud to receive the award.

While Bluegreen Wilderness Club is decidedly focused on rustic luxury, with 18 Concierge and Presidential villas, slate and hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, exquisite fireplaces, stainless steel appliances and soft, comfortable and inviting furniture and bedding; it is also diligent about remaining energy conscious and eco-friendly. While we continue to evolve our practices to become as energy efficient and eco-friendly as possible, we have already accomplished many great things.

“We are honored to receive this award, as we believe instilling a culture of environmental respect and sustainability is an important part of living and working in The Ozarks,” explained Howard Kitchen, General Manager of Wilderness Club at Big Cedar. “As a Bluegreen Corporation resort, we are proud to represent the timeshare industry with a positive, environmentally friendly award.”

Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar is diligent about the following:

1. Landscaping practices to reduce use of water and fertilizer to guard against runoff into Table Rock Lake, and to recycle organic materials into the soil by composting and mulching.

2. The living ‘green’ roof at Indian Creek Swimming pool Pump House and the emphasis on sustainability throughout the newly constructed Indian Creek Lodge.

3. Recognition by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Certified Green Lodging Program.

4. Participating Property, “Clean the World” Program to recycle soap products for distribution to needy, third-world countries to provide sanitizing cleansers to combat infection transmission and to reduce the impact of these cleaning products on our landfills and groundwater.

5. Encouragement to all guests to participate in our resort-wide commitment to recycling by providing convenient containers for collecting recyclable materials. The resort’s recycling programs divert and transport an estimated 128.5 tons of recylcable material that would otherwise be sent to a landfill.

6. Use of energy efficient and solar lighting fixtures where practicable.

7. Use of water/energy conserving fixtures where practicable.

“These aspects of our green culture were recognized by the City of Branson during the 2011 Green Initiative award ceremony,” stated Kitchen.

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is a leading timeshare sales, marketing and resort management company. Bluegreen Resorts manages, markets and sells the Bluegreen Vacation Club, a flexible, points-based, deeded vacation ownership plan with more than 160,000 owners, over 59 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Bluegreen Resorts Ready For Memorial Day Military Appreciation Days in Myrtle Beach

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading provider of "Colorful Places to Live and Play," as announced that the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will be on display Memorial Day weekend, during Military Appreciation Days near its Myrtle Beach timeshare resorts.

The half-size replica of the original Vietnam Veterans Memorial, called The Wall that Heals, will be set up on the former Myrtle Beach Pavilion Amusement Park site from May 24-27, 2011. Myrtle Beach Military Appreciation Days will take place May 28-29, 2011 with a parade set for May 28.

Rent a timeshare at these Bluegreen resorts - Shore Crest Vacation Villas, Harbour Lights, SeaGlass Tower, and Carolina Grande. All offer comfortable accommodations that are just minutes from the events taking place during Military Appreciation Days.

Todd Frazier, Regional General Manager at Bluegreen’s Shore Crest Vacation Villas states, “We all look forward to paying our respects during Myrtle Beach Military Appreciation Days. And now, to see the Vietnam Veterans Memorial right here in our hometown is an incredible honor that anyone coming to visit the resort can reflect on and appreciate.”

Since 1996, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund has allowed The Wall that Heals to travel across the country to local communities. The half-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial that stands in Washington D.C. was built to help heal the communities it visits as well as those affected by the Vietnam War.

Also featured is a traveling museum and information center. The museum is based on the concepts being developed by the Education Center at The Wall, which includes putting faces to each of the 58,000 names on The Wall as well as telling their stories. The information center allows onlookers to learn more about their loved ones who were lost in the war. Guests can also upload photos and remembrances of loved ones to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund Virtual Wall.

Learn more about Military Appreciation Days and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Myrtle Beach.

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation manages and markets a vacation ownership plan with more than 222,600 owners, over 54 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide. Check out the many Bluegreen Resorts and their budget-friendly timeshare rentals.

(Photo Credit - vvmf.org)

Bluegreen Resorts Expands Fee-Based Services Business With The Manhattan Club

Bluegreen Corporation has announced the expansion of its fee-based services business to The Manhattan Club, a premiere timeshare resort property located in midtown Manhattan. Bluegreen will be providing sales, marketing and title services to The Manhattan Club.

“We are very pleased to have been selected by the Manhattan Club in connection with our fee-based services business,” said Terry Dodd, Senior Vice President of Development Services at Bluegreen Corporation. “We have long admired the success of this project, its staff and senior leadership team. We believe that we can build on this success and enhance our product offering with sales efforts through the Bluegreen Vacation Club.”

The Manhattan Club is centrally located between Broadway and Seventh Avenue in the heart of midtown Manhattan near some of New York City’s most significant attractions including Central Park, Carnegie Hall, Rockefeller Center, the Broadway Theater District, and world-famous shopping on Madison and Fifth Avenues.

The property’s suites feature the space and amenities consistent with those of Bluegreen’s timeshare resorts including kitchenettes, marbled baths and other luxurious appointments. Each stylish suite gives its guests the privacy, comfort and convenience they’d find at home, but with a prime location that delivers access to the excitement and culture of New York City.

"The addition of The Manhattan Club to our growing number of fee-based service clients will provide the opportunity to our Bluegreen Vacation Club members to experience New York City. This addition will provide access to a highly sought-after location in the premier urban market in the US.”

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is the leader in providing "Colorful Places to Live and Play" through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate businesses. Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible, real estate-based vacation ownership plan with more than 160,000 owners, over 56 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Bluegreen Wins 18 Awards at ARDA Convention 2011

Bluegreen Corporation, "A leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play," has announced that it was awarded 3 Gold awards and 15 Silver awards during the 2011 American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Awards, in Orlando Florida.

This annual competition honors organizations and businesses in the timeshare and resort industry that have achieved the highest level of excellence in a variety of different categories. The ARDA Awards Program recognizes nominees based on outstanding sales and staff accomplishments, product design and advertising.

Bluegreen Corporation won Gold medals for its print edition of Colorful Places Magazine in the Magazine category, the Owner Upgrade Kit in the Brochure (More than Eight Pages category), and the interior design of Building 3000 at Bluegreen Wilderness Club at Big Cedar in the Resort Architecture category.

Silver medals were awarded to Bluegreen Corporation within the following categories:
  • ACE Innovator Award: Fee-based service business model

  • ACE Employer: Bluegreen Corporation

  • ACE Project of Excellence: Wilderness Club at Big Cedar

  • ACE Women on their Way Award: Angela Ward

  • Homeowner Association Board Member: William Mosconi

  • Administrative Manager/Team: Susan Saturday

  • Administrative Team Member: Julie Clawson

  • Owner/Customer Relations Manager/Team: Owner Relations Manager Angela Blevins

  • Food and Beverage Program Manager/Team: Miguel Soto

  • Assistant General Manager: Erna Barton

  • Maintenance Manager: Tony Liga

  • Green Sustainable Program

  • Special Event: One Hot Night Je t’aime Paris

  • Video Production: Shenandoah Crossing Resort Story

  • Website: Colorfulplaces.com

  • Amenities – Water Features: Wilderness Club, pool and water feature

  • Amenities – Other: Wilderness Club Building 3000, BBQ area/pavilion/council circle

  • Interior Design – New Resort Unit: Wilderness Club Building 3000

“We are not only proud, but honored to be recipients of 18 Gold and Silver ARDA awards,” says Ahmad Wardak, Senior Vice President of Corporate Marketing with Bluegreen. “To have been selected as a finalist in several categories of the 2011 ARDA Awards, and later awarded three Gold and 15 Silver medals, is a significant honor for Bluegreen and its associates who work hard every day to provide Bluegreen owners with unique, comfortable and cutting-edge resorts.”

Each category entered by Bluegreen included competition from other organizations and business in the timeshare and resort industry, including Marriott, Holiday Inn, Hilton, Disney, RCI and more.

Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible, real estate-based vacation ownership plan with more than 222,600 owners, over 54 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Bluegreen and the Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading provider of "Colorful Places to Live and Play," announced today that the 12th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament, held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will be held near Bluegreen resorts MountainLoft and Laurel Crest, in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, respectively. This year the festival dates are Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3, 2011.

Authorities working with the 12th Annual Smoky Trout Tournament have stocked the river with approximately 10,000 trout for the competition, varying in size from small to large. Cash prizes will be awarded to those who catch the largest and the smallest fish. Non-cash prizes will be awarded to the second and third place competitors as well. Competitors are divided into two groups, Locals versus Tourists, each with a subgroup for children and adults.

Victor Berrios, General Manager of MountainLoft in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, explains, “MountainLoft is a great location to stay during the Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament. It is a short distance from the competition, nestled amid the beauty of the Smoky Mountain landscape.”

“We have guests who return to our resort each year,” explains fellow Bluegreen associate, Dick Coyle, General Manager of Laurel Crest, in Pigeon Forge. He added, “Bluegreen owners love it here because of the Smoky Mountain Landscape, as well as its close proximity to all the events of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We are excited to welcome guests who wish to attend the 12th Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament.”

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is the leader in providing Colorful Places to Live and Play through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. More than 3,500 employees are passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences for owners and guests. Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible vacation ownership plan with more than 222,600 owners, over 54 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Timeshare rentals at the MountainLoft resort start at just $59/night. If you can't make this year's Trout Tournament, make plans to rent a timeshare next year. It's a great way to welcome Spring, especially when you consider that the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is also widely known as the Wildflower National Park, carpeted as it is in bright springtime blooms.

(Photo credit - adayinthesmokies.wordpress.com)

Bluegreen Timeshare is Finalist in ARDA Awards

Bluegreen Corporation, "A leading provider of Colorful Places to Live and Play®", today announced that it has been selected as a finalist for the 2011 American Resort Development Association (ARDA) Awards.

This annual competition honors organizations and businesses in the timeshare and resort industry that have achieved the highest level of excellence in a variety of different categories. The ARDA Awards Program recognizes nominees based on outstanding sales and staff accomplishments, product design and advertising.

Bluegreen has been selected as a finalist in sixteen categories each of which fall under a larger category including Resort Design, Management and Administration, and Advertising, Promotion and Communications. A panel of independent volunteer judges selected finalists. Each category entered by Bluegreen included competition from other organizations and business in the timeshare and resort industry.

“To have been selected as finalists in sixteen categories is a significant honor for Bluegreen Corporation and its associates who work hard every day to stay on the forefront of the timeshare and resort industry,” says Ellen Devine, Executive Assistant to Bluegreen’s President and CEO, John Maloney.

Bluegreen’s 2011 ARDA Awards finalist nominations represent many departments within the company. Specific categories included Interior Design, Resort Amenities, Resort Architecture, Green Sustainable Programs, Video Production, Special Events, Company Magazine and Website, Food & Beverage Programs, Administrative Staff Members and more.

Since 1996, Bluegreen has managed, marketed and sold a flexible vacation ownership plan with more than 222,600 owners, over 54 owned or managed resorts, and access to more than 4,000 resorts worldwide.

Bluegreen Corporation resorts include La Cabana Beach & Racquet Club in Aruba, Daytona SeaBreeze, Daytona Beach, and the Pono Kai Resort on Kauai's Coconut Coast. Take a timeshare rental vacation and see for yourself why Bluegreen Corporation is at the top of the industry.

Which Timeshare Resorts are Going Green?

Timeshare resorts are going Green, so writes Freda Stemick, a business development executive for "Resort Trades." When you plan a timeshare rental vacation, you might want to check with the resort and see what they are doing to be eco-friendly and Green. Chances are they'll have a good answer for you.

Stemick writes that many resort developers are now beginning to understand that tourists want to Stay Green. "Though it is usually a financial burden initially to convert a resort to become 'Eco Friendly', the benefits far outweigh the costs," explains Stemick. "When a consumer is eco-conscious, they will usually pay a little more to stay in an eco-friendly resort."

Stemick lists numerous resorts that have already implemented Green initiatives. In 2010 Bluegreen Corporation announced its creation of Synergy. This is a document imaging and storage system that greatly reduces paper usage with the intent of benefiting the environment.

Around the same time last year, reports Stemick, Divi Resorts also announced its own plan of implementation of green initiatives. Divi is providing 'Natura' products in all of its rooms, suites and villas. The Natura products include personal care items such as soaps, lotions, hair shampoo and conditioners. All of the products are packaged in bio-degradable containers, which even includes the lids and caps.

The installation of solar panels is one of several initiatives the Orange Tree Golf Resort has undertaken to become more sustainable. Bruce Hamm, General Manager of the Orange Tree Golf Resort, says the benefits are two fold. “The solar water heating system has decreased our overall energy costs, and guests appreciate our efforts to be more environmentally conscious.”

Many timeshare resorts in Florida work toward being a Certified Green Lodge, a prestigious designation awarded by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

The bottom line, says Stemick, is that by giving eco-conscious travelers a choice, the niche market picks up speed and the timeshare industry grows. "The eco-tourist base is increasing, as more and more people come to realize that reducing waste is not only politically correct, but a responsibility that we should all undertake as stewards of our Earth - even when we are on vacation."

Going Green is even becoming a global movement. World Green Tourism Abu Dhabi (WGT), the first global event dedicated to the investment and development of sustainable tourism, took place November 22-24, 2010, in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. A keynote speaker at the 3-day event was Suraphon Svetasreni, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Bluegreen Announces 64th Annual Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens

Bluegreen Corporation, a leading provider of "Colorful Places to Live and Play," has announced the 64th Annual Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens to be held near its Charleston, South Carolina resort, The Lodge Alley Inn, from March 17 through April 16, 2011.

The Charleston Festival of Houses and Gardens provides festival attendees with opportunities to tour the private homes and gardens that contribute to Charleston’s historic elegance. Tours vary each day, and feature 7 to 10 properties in one of eleven historic neighborhoods. Periods seen within the neighborhoods, homes and gardens include the antebellum and Victorian eras up to the early 20th century.

Often labeled “a city set in a garden,” Charleston hosts the festival during the city’s peak blooming season. Other than festival tours, the city hosts an antique show, oyster roast, period concerts, boat cruises and wine tastings.

Bluegreen’s Charleston resort, The Lodge Alley Inn, is located in the heart of the city on East Bay Street, and is a charming a collection of 18th century warehouses that have been restored to modern, comfortable vacation villas. Its downtown Charleston location makes it an ideal place to stay when vacationing in the city and attending the 64th Annual Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens.

"We here at Bluegreen welcome visitors who attend the festival each year. The Lodge Alley Inn boasts a prime location that makes walking to the festival convenient and enjoyable,” said Gregory L. Overmier, CMCA, General Manager of The Lodge Alley Inn.

Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Boca Raton, FL, Bluegreen Corporation is the leader in providing "Colorful Places to Live and Play" through its vacation ownership resort and residential real estate business segments. The company's 3,500 employees are passionate about delivering extraordinary experiences its owners and guests. Since 1996,

Rent a Charleston timeshare and experience the beauty and bounty of a South Carolina spring at the 64th Annual Spring Festival of Houses and Gardens.

(Photo credit - charlestoncvb.com)

Diamond Resorts Hires 3 Timeshare Industry Veterans

Diamond Resorts International, a global leader in the hospitality and vacation ownership industries, today announced that three timeshare industry veterans are assuming leadership roles for Sales and Marketing Operations in North America.

Derek Kanoa will maintain a key leadership role as Vice President of Sales and Marketing over his area of expertise, the Western Business Unit. Diamond would like to thank Mr. Kanoa for the integral role he has played and will continue to fulfill for Sales and Marketing Operations as he is a critical player to the success of the Western Business Unit.

Rhett Bolling, bringing more than 17 years of Sales and Marketing experience, will be leading the Eastern Business Unit. Mr. Bolling’s vacation ownership career began in 1993 with Bluegreen Corporation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The majority of his career was with Sunterra, where for 10 years Mr. Bolling was responsible for various regions including Florida, mid-West and mid-Atlantic.

With over 20 years of Sales and Marketing experience, Eric Assam will serve as Vice President of Sales and Marketing Operations, North America. Mr. Assam’s background and experience with Wyndham Vacation Ownership as the Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing provides him with an extensive knowledge of strategic sales, marketing and business development in the vacation ownership industry.

Mr. Assam will develop the three year strategic Sales and Marketing Plan, Compensation Plans, National Program Management, the Exit Sampler Program, and Sales and Marketing Reward and Recognition Program.

According to Stephen J. Cloobeck, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Diamond Resorts International, “We are looking forward to welcoming Rhett Bolling and Eric Assam to our dynamic sales and marketing team. Both individuals offer an extensive knowledge of their respective fields and regions and will bring vast vacation ownership sales and marketing experience and expertise to the Diamond community.”

Diamond Resorts International, with global headquarters in Las Vegas, Nev., is one of the largest hospitality companies in the world with more than 177 branded and affiliated resorts in 26 countries. With destinations throughout the continental United States and Hawaii, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa. Offering simplicity, choice and comfort to more than 385,000 owners and members through the branded hospitality service of more than 5,500 team members worldwide, Diamond Resorts International is dedicated to providing its guests with effortless and relaxing vacation experiences every time, for a lifetime.

Bluegreen Corp Completes Timeshare-Loan Backed Securities

Bluegreen Corp has completed a private offering of $107.6 million in timeshare-loan backed securities. The proceeds were used to pay off a receivables purchase line at Branch Banking and Trust Co., and capitalize a reserve fund. The company also retained $9.9 million for general corporate purposes.

“The attractive credit profile of our loan portfolio and a low interest rate environment allowed us to structure a transaction on favorable terms," said Tony Puleo, Bluegreen’s senior vice president, CFO and treasurer, in a news release.

The offering involved $88 million of A-rated and $19.6 million of BBB-rated notes, with coupons of 5.1 percent and 7.5 percent, respectively. BB&T Capital Markets acted as the placement agent for Boca Raton-based Bluegreen which provides vacation properties.

Bluegreen Corp. was founded in 1966 and has been publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange since 1986. The company is a leading provider of colorful places to live and play through its resorts and residential community businesses.

Bluegreen is organized into two business segments: Bluegreen Resorts and Bluegreen Communities. Bluegreen Resorts acquires, develops and markets vacation ownership interests in resorts generally located in popular high-volume, "drive-to" vacation destinations and provides various services to third-party resort owners.

Bluegreen Communities acquires, develops and subdivides property and markets residential land homesites, the majority of which are sold directly to retail customers who seek to build a home in a high quality residential setting. In some cases, the properties feature a golf course and related amenities, and also offer real estate consulting and other services to third parties.

In addition, the company is engaged in a resort management business and the financing of individual purchasers of vacation ownership interests and, to a nominal extent, homesites sold by Bluegreen Communities.

Bluegreen Resorts has more than 194,000 owners and offers an ownership plan that provides access to more than 45 resorts and an exchange network of over 3,700 resorts and other vacation experiences, such as cruises and hotel stays.