Laura Rightenburg, GRI, CNE, CSSN Phoenician Fine Properties 602.405.3030 LauraRight1@me.com
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Monday, August 30, 2010

Adopt-A-Family | Christmas 2009 | Phoenix Day

"Dear Davy…

You [Davy Yee, Realtor®, The Williams Real Estate Company] and Thuy [Designated Broker, The Williams Real Estate Company] and the rest of the good folks at The Williams Real Estate Company, were instrumental in the success of Phoenix Day’s 2009 Adopt-A- Family Program.






I took over the program in 2005, and at that time we were working with Make-a- Difference, which they are now known as HandsOn Greater Phoenix.



Their role was to get sponsors for the Adopt-a-Family Program and Phoenix Day would sign-up families in need that would benefit from being adopted for the holidays.



It was a wonderful collaboration and year after year we would have their support and many Phoenix Day and HealthLinks families benefited from this program.



Long story short, last year HandsOn told us they were unable to take on this project due to lack of staff and the demands of the project.



So what I turned to the Board Members for their assistance and support in helping me get sponsors for the 69 families that needed help. Needless to say, they were all very supportive and helped by adopting a family or recruiting their family, friends, co-workers to adopt a family.



But Davy, being the amazing person that you are, got your company [The Williams Real Estate Company] involved and hyped up this project!



Thanks to you and The Williams Real Estate Company’s support, 28 families had a wonderful Christmas!”


Bernice Medina
HealthLinks and Case Director
Phoenix Day





http://www.phoenixday.org/


At Phoenix Day, we believe that every child, no matter what their socio-economic background, deserves the highest quality early education program. Early childhood education empowers the way children think, learn and behave for the rest of their lives. Established in 1915, Phoenix Day provides a safe, nurturing and diverse environment with age-appropriate curriculum that promotes a lifetime of learning. We welcome you to explore our website and learn more about Arizona's oldest early education and childcare center.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Dan Williams Shares John Foltz's "10 Steps to Success" with TWREC Agents

STEP 1: Take Time to See the BIG PICTURE...What "Success" Means to You

STEP 2: Set Realistic Goals for THIS YEAR



STEP 3: Put Time for YOU on your Calendar

STEP 4: Look Inside Yourself for Your Greatest Asset

STEP 5: ADOPT A SYSTEM for Marketing




STEP 6: Make a List of your "Helpful Army"

STEP 7: Craft Messages of Value to THE CLIENT




STEP 8: Commit to an ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER or GROUP



STEP 9: Drop what isn't working and MOVE ON!

STEP 10: Celebrate EVERY Success.




Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Used Car Sales Tactics

I thought the sleazy used car salesman was a thing of the past, until last week that is. We went out to buy a used car and it was like walking in to a time warp! It was so bad that I have to blog about it!

We already have a great used car dealership that we LOVE dealing with. However, they didn't have the color of the car my boyfriend wanted to buy with all the bells & whistles. He found one at another dealership in Tempe (which shall remain nameless). So, on a whim we decided to at least go look at it.

First, we set up an appointment with the Internet Manager. When we arrived, we shook hands and was escorted out to test drive the car. The salesman was knowledgeable but not overly so, and not very chatty or interactive whatsoever.

When we returned to his office, he went straight in to the used car salesman tactics of hard selling. He would never give us an answer without the 'have to check with my boss' routine, which meant he had to leave the room. When he came back he just began pointing out all the reasons why the current price was so great and that it was far below what one would typically pay on the street and that there wasn't much room to move, blah, blah, blah! Oh, and that it was scheduled to go to Auction soon.

Then he asked what it would take for us to buy the car right now... and when Karl began telling him what it would take to buy the car, the salesman immediately tried arguing each point (price, windshield chip, door scratch). Karl stopped him and reminded him kindly that he was answering the man's question and to let him finish.

Then the salesman-- AGAIN-- had to go 'check with his boss.' When he came back he said he would give us the car at the price we asked, would fix the windshield but not the door. And that we had to do the deal today, and wanted to know if we were ready. At that point I told him no, that we were going to go home and discuss it and would get back in touch with him, and when he started to speak I told him I was very educated in the art of sales and sales tactics and we would not be pushed.

This is the best part: he then told us that he had another appointment an hour later for that same car--- IMAGINE THAT! Now I am not saying it isn't possible, but when a used car salesman like this one tells you to look at the white board to show that he has another appointment after us,( which is easily fabricated if one chooses to fabricate), should we believe him? NO, and neither should you! Stay away from any slick salesman who tells you the deal is only valid 'until you walk out that door.' He continued with his hard tactics for a few more minutes before relenting and saying goodbye. BTW: 10 days later-- that car is STILL available!

We left- without the car... and we were so mad at the tactics employed that we drove straight back to our friend's used car dealership and worked with him afterall. Truth be told, I would have paid more money for less bells & whistles just to deal with reputable people-- but who would have ever thought they were still teaching those sleazy tactics in 2010?

We ended up in a totally different car altogether that we are much happier with AND paid less AND enjoyed the experience!
This is the 2nd vehicle we have had to purchase in less than 3 months and very, very happy with each experience. If you ever need to buy a used car (you should really never buy any car brand new), check out LeSueur Car Company-- family owned and operated. Chris and his family are awesome and down to earth! here's the link: http://www.usedvwaudi.com/ou/tempe-auto/

Friday, August 20, 2010

Top 10 Best Views of Camelback Mountain

TOP 10 REAL ESTATE DEALS

We have analyzed the current marketplace and have selected the Top 10 Properties that offer the Greatest Value at the Best Price.

THIS WEEK'S FOCUS

The Best Views of Camelback Mountain

Paradise Valley, AZ

Homestead Ln

Homestead Ln

4 bedroom 5.5 bath 5451 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$1,595,000($293/sq.ft.)

ROMANTIC ARCHITECTURE WITH EUROPEAN DETAILS
FABULOUS GATED ESTATE perfectly positioned w/ PRIVACY & Camelback/Praying Monk VIEWS. Romantic architecture w/European details; pillars (like Molina Jeweler's), grand foyer & beamed cathedral ceiling, 3 elegant canterra blt FP's, ample & exquisite newer Fruitwd & glass cabinetry, thick amber granite, antique chandeliers & clerestory wndws. Exceptionally well-built w/top qlty standards rarely seen. 2yr detailed prjct. Wonderful flrpln; grnd frml dining & lvng, inviting brkfast rm, expansive fam/greatrm & magnificent kit, wine/drink br, gallery, coved ceilings hallways, library, lux mstr ba & ste, gst rms, baths & office/den. Extraordinary pl,terraces, gazebo & outdr kit. Extended attached 3G + MASSIVE, SEPARATE OVERHEIGHT 6-8 CAR DETACHED GAR/HOBBY/SKILL/TALENT SPACE. Quick COE ok.

MLS#4272204 Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl


5434 E Lincoln Drive 79


Colonia Miramonte

3 bedroom 3.5 bath
3440 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$1,995,000($580/sq.ft.)

NEW CONSTRUCTION

BUILT WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY MATERIALSRESORT LIVING AT ITS BEST!
This newly constructed home is perfect for the Buyer looking for greater convenience without losing that luxurious, elegant lifestyle. Ideally located in the ìColonia Miramonteî neighborhood, where residents can socialize, relax and rejuvenate at the Cambelback Inn pool, spa and restaurants or enjoy the resort's room service in their own home. With breathtaking views of the City Lights, Camelback Mountain & Mummy Mountain, the 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers an estimated 3,400 sq. feet of luxury that includes a 375 sq. ft. Guest Suite. A gourmet kitchen - with custom cabinets, Viking and Sub-Zero appliances and a pizza oven - extends to the dining/living area, flowing seamlessly to the sunny Patio..perfect for Alfresco Dining and Sunset Entertaining!



When this home is purchased, $10,000 will be donated to local Arizona Charities through the Williams Community Foundation

MLS#4353327 | The Williams Real Estate Co


5550 N Camino Del Contento


Camino Del Contento
4 bedroom 4.5 bath
4596 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$2,495,000($543/sq.ft.)

AUTHENTIC "TERRITORIAL STYLE" SIMILAR TO THE HERMOSA INN WITH A 700 SQ.FT. GUESTHOUSE
It is very rare for an authentic ìArizona Territorial Homeî of this quality to come on the market. With an architectural style similar to the Hermosa Inn, boasting magnificent views of the Praying Monk & Camelback Mountain and located in one of Paradise Valleyís most prestigious neighborhoods, this 1.2 acre residence exudes charm. Featuring a Hand-Carved Mesquite Front Door, Custom Gates, Private Courtyards, Adobe Walls, 5 fireplaces, Classic Saltillo Flooring, Cedar Latillas & Pine Vigas, this Masterpiece was highlighted in Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine for its beauty and authenticity. The quiet street, lush landscaping, pool, spa, and extraordinary views makes you feel as if you are in your own Private Sanctuary, even though you are just blocks from everything you need.



When this home is purchased, $10,000 will be donated to local Arizona Charities through the Williams Community Foundation

MLS#4392546 | The Williams Real Estate Co


Lincoln Dr


Colonia Miramonte
3 bedroom 3.5 bath
3779 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,200,000($582/sq.ft.)

SOFT CONTEMPORARY. DRAMA & DESIGNER QUALITY
DRAMA, VIEWS, DESIGNER QUALITY...ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! THIS INCREDIBLE HOME IS FOR YOUR MOST DISCRIMINATING BUYER LOOKING FOR THE FINEST FINISHES & A REAL SHOW STOPPER! 4 TELESCOPING WALLS OF GLASS OFFER TRUE INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING/ENTERTAINING. MAXIMUM CEILING HEIGHT, SPACIOUS/OPEN GREAT RM FLOOR PLAN, 4 FIREPLACES & 2 CUSTOM WATER FEATURES. TOP OF LINE KITCHEN EVERYTHING, MAPLE HARDWOOD FL, ANTIQUE DOORS, ONYX MASTER BATH, CUSTOM CLOSETS. 3 BR + DEN (INCLUDING GUEST HOUSE W/FULL KITCHEN). RM SERVICE FROM CB INN, WALK TO EL CHORRO/SPA, 24 HR GUARD GATE & 360 DEGREE VIEWS!! **FURNISHING AVAILABLE VIA SEP BILL OF SALE****A TRUE WORK OF ART!!!

MLS#4378504 | Coldwell Banker


 Nauni Valley Dr


East Nauni Valley Drive
4 bedroom 4.5 bath
4945 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,900,000($586/sq.ft.)

HISTORIC AZ HOME ON A 2.26 ACRE LOT
Great Paradise VAlley location on a large 2.26 acre lot. Historic AZ home with views of both Camelback & Mummy mountain.

MLS#4391116 | New Home Brokers


E Marlette


East Marlette

4 bedroom 5.5 bath
13556 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$2,995,000($221/sq.ft.)

SHORT SALE APPROVED. ONE OF THE BEST DEALS IN PARADISE VALLEY
*** APPROVED SHORT SALE *** Exceptional views of Camelback & Mummy Mountains! CAR LOVERS DREAM HOME!!! 2+ Acre Gated Estate, 7,100 SF Newly Remodeled Home & 6,456 SF new Garage w/workshop (16' ceiling). Private guest suites, updated security, 10 fireplaces, sport court, wine cellar, beam ceilings, etc. This is one of the nicest in P.V. This was a $10M +/- home. Docs tab coming soon for list of all amenities.

MLS#4438785 | Utterback Realty


E Arroyo Rd



East Arroyo Verde Drive

5 bedroom 6 bath
6505 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$3,299,999($293/sq.ft.)

AWARDING WINNING HOME FOR THE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
You will love this home for its interior design; its tranquil elegance and the joy of comfort it beholds. A sincere tribute to its enriched soft modern style; expertly orchestrated throughout this very functional floor plan. Savvy home buyers have always search for the right floor-plan to live a healthy active lifestyle. This award winning home offers just that. Europeans have paraphrased us as a 'distinctive classic'; we call it 'quality artistic-expression'. Offering convenience, endless outdoor amenities', oversize back yard space and including a grand swimming pool under a clean mountain-air breeze. Experience the character and warmth, the nobility and beauty seldom seen all together complimenting one another here today.

MLS#4337884 | Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl


E Valley Vista Ln

East Valley Vista Ln

6 bedroom 8 bath
8900 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$3,950,000($444/sq.ft.)

A PALACE!
A PALACE! DESIGNED AND BUILT WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY AND MOST EFFICIENT FEATURES, GRADES, AND FINISHES. FIVE BEDROOMS PLUS FULL GUEST QUARTERS, WITH A TOTAL OF EIGHT BATHROOMS, DEN, THEATRE ROOM WITH UNIQUE FIBER OPTIC STARLIGHT CEILING, EXERCISE ROOM, BUTLER PANTRY, AND WINE ROOM. WOOD CLAD PELLA WINDOWS, FAMILY ROOM WITH POWERED POCKET DOOR TO LOOK AT AMAZING VIEW OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN. DESIGNED WITH ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS OF GROIN VAULT, DOMED, SOFFITED, ROPED LIGHTING IN THE CEILINGS. STONE WORK INCLUDES COLUMNS AND FIRE PLACE MANTLES OF CANTERRA STONE. APPLIANCES BY VIKING, DACOR, AND ASKO. MARBLE AND WOOD FLOORING , WITH COUNTER TOPS OF GRANITE. ONE OF, IF NOT THE MOST AMAZING NEW HOMES IN PARADISE VALLEY.

MLS#4400986 | LoRo Realty Group


N Hogahn Dr

North Hogahn

4 bedroom 5.5 bath
8700 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$9,550,000($1,097/sq.ft.)

MANHATTAN + HOLLYWOOD + PARADISE VALLEY! = THIS RARE $14M OPPORTUNITY = PRICELESS!
DO YOU WANT SOMETHING THAT NO ONE ELSE WILL HAVE? CHIC, SOPHISTICATED, ELEGANT SOFT CONTEMPORARY MASTERPIECE (11,000 SQ. FT. UNDER ROOF) EXQUISITELY PLACED ON 3.8 ACRES OF PRIME VIEW LANDSCAPE IN THE HEART OF PARADISE VALLEY. LOOK NO FURTHER IF YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR PRIVACY, SECURITY, QUALITY, GLAMOUR AND THE UTMOST IN LUXURIOUS AMENITIES! THIS AGELESS HOME IS ARCHITECTURALLY SIGNIFICANT AND OFFERS TIMELESS SURROUNDINGS AS YOU OVERLOOK THE BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND CITY LIGHTS OF ARIZONA. THE FINEST CUSTOM FINISHES WITH NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED. $1M IN FURNISHINGS AVAILABLE. COME & ENJOY THE ROMANCE AND THE SECLUDED NATURE OF THIS LEGACY ESTATE. STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THE BEST!!! REDUCED FROM $16m

MLS#4329176 | Realty Executives


E Arroyo Rd

East Arroyo Road

7 bedroom 10 bath
16087 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$9,985,000($621/sq.ft.)

EXQUISITELY CONSTRUCTED

NEW HOME
Rare opportunity to own an exquisitely constructed new home in prime heart of Paradise Valley. Top it off with unparalled views of Camelback Mtn. and Phoenix city skyline. Enter on the main floor where grand scale great room features walls of glass to views. Master,library and 4 secondary bedrooms all on the same floor. Kitchen has everything imaginable and more. Down, game room, media room, additional office,guest quarters, housekeepers quarters. Custom cabinetry thru-out. Pool and lush landscape adds 5 Star resort luxury. Call for full fact sheet or review supplement and virtual tour.

MLS#4271490 | Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl

Buy Now and Save $577,000


"We simply attempt to be fearful when others are greedy and to be greedy only when others are fearful." Warren Buffett

With the economy in disarray, Mick and Kelly are uncertain about making a large purchase...in fact, it could be the largest purchase of their lives, a $1.5 million home.

But with the real estate market in the dumps and the persistent recession, they're not sure if now is a good time to buy.

If they follow the philosophy of Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, then now is the best time in their lives to purchase this home.

Let's break down why this is.

Mick and Kelly are selling their current home and will use the proceeds plus some savings for a $600,000 down payment.

They will need a $900,000 mortgage to complete the purchase of the $1.5 million home.

They think that rates will rise in the future, so they choose a 30 year fixed mortgage at 5.5% (current rate for a 30 year Jumbo loan, yes...Jumbo Loans are available!).

The monthly principal plus interest payment is $5,110.

If Mick and Kelly decide to wait a couple of years to see if home prices have bottomed, what might happen?

We will only know that prices have bottomed after they rise.

So a couple of years later, they can buy the same home for $1.6 million (a modest 3% annual increase).

And the economy has slowly improved so interest rates are higher as well.

Let's say interest rates have risen to 7.5% (a more average historical rate, but not bad).

Now they need a $1 million loan at a higher interest rate. The principal plus interest payment in this scenario is $6,992...up $1,882 per month!


Over the life of the mortgage, that is an extra $577,520 in extra interest alone. Who wants to pay that?

Of course I can't predict what interest rates or home prices will be in two years, but a 3% annual increase in prices and an extra 2% in interest rates are well within reason.

Many experts agree that interest rates are at their bottom right now.

My point is.....that now is an unbelievable buying opportunity, so don't let it pass you by.




Chris Mozilo | NMLS# 183726; AZ LO-0912308; BKBR-0115591; CA-DOC 183726

Luxury Sales Bounce Back


For years, Jennifer Metz and her husband John yearned for a bigger home in San Francisco. Three months ago, the couple started looking, figuring that in this shaky economy, their $3 million budget should provide them a pick of attractive homes and accommodating sellers.

..They were wrong.

Hours after seeing a 5,000-square-foot fixer-upper in Presidio Heights with an asking price around $2.7 million, the Metzes put in a bid and lost. Soon after, they made another offer on a four-bedroom in Russian Hill. Their bid was rejected.

Last week, the Metzes rushed over to a large, dilapidated home in Pacific Heights that needed a lot of work but was asking the (relatively) low price of $2.25 million. The Metzes put in their over-ask bid the next day, but lost that one too: There were nine offers; the winning bid was $2.56 million.

Associate, Linda Mras, 100 Club





Supporter Spotlight for The 100 Club
with Linda Mras of
The Williams Real Estate Company





1. How did you first get involved with the 100 Club?

I was first introduced to the 100 Club when my son was training to become a Police Officer. A volunteer spoke on his last day of training at the Police Academy after we had viewed the facility. I remember being ecstatic and proud that my son had decided to become an officer that day and also elated to see how excited he was, however I wasnít prepared for a presentation by the 100 Club.

As the presenter spoke and I watched the film my happiness was succumbed. As tears rolled down my face, reality set in and I realized the serious commitment that my son had made. He or any of his fellow officers could have their lives taken away in an instant or be injuredÖ then what? Who would help them? Who would help their families?

At the end of the presentation membership forms were passed out for anyone who might be interested in joining the 100 Club. I knew that our family had to sign up immediately.

2. What has surprised you the most about working with the 100 Club?

The dedication of the staff, volunteers and supporters. I am amazed at how quick they act when the need arises. Also, all of the creative events that they do to raise funds and how thankful they are to the volunteers and contributors.

3. What was the last 100 Club event you volunteered for? And how did that make you feel?

I volunteered for the Gambo and Ash Holiday Hero's Event that was hosted by KTAR. That day the 100 Club Staff and the volunteers had there adrenaline pumped up which was so exhilarating to me. It felt good to hear the phones ring non-stop in support of our Public Safety Workers. I was so happy to be a part of it.

4. What do you wish other people knew about the 100 Club?

I wished that they knew the 100 Club is a financial first responder for our fallen or injured public safety officers.



5. How else do you support the 100 Club and why?

After becoming a member and then a volunteer I knew that if my son or his fellow officers ever needed assistance that the 100 Club would be there for them. Helping to support the 100 Club through my Real Estate endeavors is my way of giving back.


My real estate broker (The Williams Real Estate Company) works with us to donate a portion of proceeds for every transaction that is referred by the 100 Club - a win-win to increase funding for the club and the families it serves.

6. When your friends/family find out that you volunteer at the 100 Club, what do they say or ask?

When I tell my friends and family that I am a member and volunteer of the 100 Club, they usually ask , "The 100 Club? what do they do?" Of course, I always explain and hope that they want to become involved.

7. Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work with the 100 Club?

I believe my decision was influenced and finalized by attending the Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball last Fall and also getting to know all of the amazing people who are a part of the 100 Club.

8. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering or donating to the 100 Club?

Just do it! Your support will have a huge impact.

9. What do you do when you aren't volunteering for the 100 Club?

Exercise and seek every opportunity that I can to dance the night away to Frank Sinatra tunes.

10. What might someone be surprised to know about you?

I have a passion to find solutions to help others.

Angels RE Game

Angels RE Serving our community through Real Estate
"You Refer, We Donate."







The Angels are shining examples of the Philanthropic Realtors at The Williams Real Estate Company. Combining their passion for real estate, sports and community leadership has taken the philanthropic mission to a new level.



One of the Angels, Christina Catalano (Realtor, Triathlete and Community Leader), is a board member for Phoenix Womens Sports Association. Christina and her husband recently participated in Ironman Switzerland, and will be organizing a group of women to run the first Women's Half Marathon in Phoenix.

The Phoenix Womenís Sports Association's mission it is to foster young women in sports, and to honor elite Arizona women Athletes and Award nominees.

Their annual ìGame On Event!î an exciting auction night was held at a historic school site, George Washing Carver Museum and Cultural Center with its beautiful historic gym decorated to the hilt as the setting for the event.

Angels RE has three great team members, Natasha Greenhalgh, Jennifer Noelani-Spenser and Christina.



They were fortunate to be a part of the event and invited Dan Williams, President and Founder of The Williams Real Estate Company; Thuy Pham, Designated Broker; and Barbara Bowers, Partner and President of The Williams Community Foundation, to their upbeat and fun annual evening celebration of women in sports who make a difference.

The event draws in local Arizona Olympians, Athletes and Physical Education Teachers who have served the Arizona community for their entire careers.




A tribute was paid to each of these outstanding women to acknowledge their impact on the many lives they have touched through sports. Young gals in sports and professional women athletes came together to carry on the integrity and spirit of sports.



The night was filled with a range of community donated auction items related to sports and much more. The ìAngelsî donated an iPad as the Raffle prize to help raise even more for PWSA. Raffle tickets could be purchased to play golf, throw hoops,Ö and all for a really great cause. Fundraising goals were exceeded, as well as the expectations of every attendee.

It was a fun, philanthropic evening and they were proud to be a part of the event! ìIíve made it a mission to stay connected with women in sports because itís such a powerful tool for young women.

Sports teaches so many good character qualities that continue a lifetime. This supports The Williams Real Estate Company mission of giving back! It is our pleasure to donate a sizable portion of our real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations.î states Christina Catalano.

It must be working, because Angels RE is one of the most successful real estate teams at The Williams Real Estate Company!

Thursday, August 19, 2010

100 Club of Arizona Features Linda Mras in Newsletter





Supporter Spotlight for The 100 Club
with Linda Mras of
The Williams Real Estate Company





1. How did you first get involved with the 100 Club?

I was first introduced to the 100 Club when my son was training to become a Police Officer. A volunteer spoke on his last day of training at the Police Academy after we had viewed the facility. I remember being ecstatic and proud that my son had decided to become an officer that day and also elated to see how excited he was, however I wasn’t prepared for a presentation by the 100 Club.

As the presenter spoke and I watched the film my happiness was succumbed. As tears rolled down my face, reality set in and I realized the serious commitment that my son had made. He or any of his fellow officers could have their lives taken away in an instant or be injured… then what? Who would help them? Who would help their families?

At the end of the presentation membership forms were passed out for anyone who might be interested in joining the 100 Club. … I knew that our family had to sign up immediately.

2. What has surprised you the most about working with the 100 Club?

The dedication of the staff, volunteers and supporters. I am amazed at how quick they act when the need arises. Also, all of the creative events that they do to raise funds and how thankful they are to the volunteers and contributors.

3. What was the last 100 Club event you volunteered for? And how did that make you feel?

I volunteered for the Gambo and Ash Holiday Hero’s Event that was hosted by KTAR. That day the 100 Club Staff and the volunteers had there adrenaline pumped up which was so exhilarating to me. It felt good to hear the phones ring non-stop in support of our Public Safety Workers. I was so happy to be a part of it.

4. What do you wish other people knew about the 100 Club?

I wished that they knew the 100 Club is a financial first responder for our fallen or injured public safety officers.



5. How else do you support the 100 Club and why?

After becoming a member and then a volunteer I knew that if my son or his fellow officers ever needed assistance that the 100 Club would be there for them. Helping to support the 100 Club through my Real Estate endeavors is my way of giving back.


My real estate broker (The Williams Real Estate Company) works with us to donate a portion of proceeds for every transaction that is referred by the 100 Club – a win-win to increase funding for the club and the families it serves.

6. When your friends/family find out that you volunteer at the 100 Club, what do they say or ask?

When I tell my friends and family that I am a member and volunteer of the 100 Club, they usually ask “The 100 Club…what do they do?”. Of course, I always explain and hope that they want to become involved.

7. Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work with the 100 Club?

I believe my decision was influenced and finalized by attending the Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball last Fall and also getting to know all of the amazing people who are a part of the 100 Club.

8. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering or donating to the 100 Club?

Just do it! Your support will have a huge impact.

9. What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for the 100 Club?

Exercise and seek every opportunity that I can to dance the night away to Frank Sinatra tunes.

10. What might someone be surprised to know about you?

I have a passion to find solutions to help others.


Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Angels RE | Game ON! | Phoenix Women's Sports Association

Angels RE Serving our community through Real Estate
"You Refer, We Donate."





The Angels are shining examples of the Philanthropic Realtors at The Williams Real Estate Company. Combining their passion for real estate, sports and community leadership has taken the philanthropic mission to a new level.



One of the Angels, Christina Catalano (Realtor, Triathlete and Community Leader), is a board member for Phoenix Womens Sports Association. Christina and her husband recently participated in Ironman Switzerland, and will be organizing a group of women to run the first Women's Half Marathon in Phoenix.

The Phoenix Women’s Sports Association's mission it is to foster young women in sports, and to honor elite Arizona women Athletes and Award nominees.

Their annual “Game On Event!” an exciting auction night was held at a historic school site, George Washing Carver Museum and Cultural Center with its beautiful historic gym decorated to the hilt as the setting for the event.

Angels RE has three great team members, Natasha Greenhalgh, Jennifer Noelani-Spenser and Christina.



They were fortunate to be a part of the event and invited Dan Williams, President and Founder of The Williams Real Estate Company; Thuy Pham, Designated Broker; and Barbara Bowers, Partner and President of The Williams Community Foundation, to their upbeat and fun annual evening celebration of women in sports who make a difference.

The event draws in local Arizona Olympians, Athletes and Physical Education Teachers who have served the Arizona community for their entire careers.




A tribute was paid to each of these outstanding women to acknowledge their impact on the many lives they have touched through sports. Young gals in sports and professional women athletes came together to carry on the integrity and spirit of sports.



The night was filled with a range of community donated auction items related to sports and much more. The “Angels” donated an iPad as the Raffle prize to help raise even more for PWSA. Raffle tickets could be purchased to play golf, throw hoops,… and all for a really great cause. Fundraising goals were exceeded, as well as the expectations of every attendee.

It was a fun, philanthropic evening and they were proud to be a part of the event! “I’ve made it a mission to stay connected with women in sports because it’s such a powerful tool for young women.

Sports teaches so many good character qualities that continue a lifetime. This supports The Williams Real Estate Company mission of giving back! It is our pleasure to donate a sizable portion of our real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations.” states Christina Catalano.

It must be working, because Angels RE is one of the most successful real estate teams at The Williams Real Estate Company!

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Christmas in July | Money Raised for St. Mary's Foodbank & Phoenix Children's Hospital



Only through The Williams Real Estate Company and lovely Realtor®, Jennifer Dana- Sheedy, could anyone pull off a Grand Open House in 115 degrees in July - with guests wearing Christmas Holiday wear and Santa plus his elf’s gathering for photos in full garb!

In a June 2009 brainstorming around the big conference table at TWREC, someone suggested holding a Paradise Valley listing “Celebration Home” in July, with a holiday theme and give back to Phoenix Children’s Hospital and St. Mary’s Food Bank.

That was it – toys for the kids and water for the Food Bank -as it was one of the hottest seasons’ on record.

It’s the way we roll… at The Williams Real Estate Company....a Luxury Listing deserves full attention.



The donations poured in. So did the guests! Brilliant and fun!

The word spread fast through the Real Estate Community and by invitation weeks’ end, several companies offered in-kind donations, from wine and food to professional musicians playing Christmas carols!

Rob Kanyur of NOVA Home Loans was gracious to bring lots of water and food, as well as HOPE Wines donated their wines as it was a charity event.

Even new Agents with The Williams Real Estate Company, Kevin Horikami and Mark Sumstine, jumped into the festivities and came to work in their holiday tuxedo’s.

Now that’s the special spirit at TWREC!

Guests strolled in - non-stop - for hours. Cars were parked up and down McDonald Drive in front of the luxury home, and by the count at the end of the evening, over 250 guests enjoyed music, holiday food (including home baked cookies!) and beautiful decorations throughout the magnificent home. The guests lingered in sweltering heat, and may never forget this special “Celebration Home” event.

“We had no idea how many guests, agents, friends or vendors would actually attend, but the response was enormous. And, those who didn’t attend literally sent over checks to donate to both Phoenix Children's Hospital and St. Mary’s Food Bank!” says proud realtor, Jennifer Dana-Sheedy.

The best part is saved for last. After all was said and done – that Paradise Valley luxury home sold in 3 weeks! The exposure was even more than donated water and toys for those in need.

The Williams Real Estate Company has created a way for families to move on with their lives, helping others in the process and giving their agents a philanthropic platform to feel good about their business. TWREC Karma. Win-Win-Win!